When it comes to preaching, there are several styles, but two of the most common are topical and expositional. Here’s a simple breakdown of each and why we are of the opinion that expositional preaching is often considered especially effective as our primary style.

1. Topical Sermons

Topical preaching is probably the style most are familiar with. In this approach, the preacher starts with a specific topic, like forgiveness, faith, or prayer, tithing, etc. They then find Bible verses and passages that relate to that topic to support their points. This method is useful for addressing specific issues or themes and can be engaging and relevant. However, it has many pitfalls, especially when used as the primary or exclusive teaching style.

2. Expositional Sermons

Expositional preaching takes a different approach. Instead of picking a topic first, the preacher begins with the text of scripture and over many weeks, months, or even years, teaches through a passage or book of the Bible. Each week, they build on the last, carefully unpacking the text and considering its historical and grammatical context while showing how it applies to our lives today. This method is effective for several reasons:

• Commitment to Scripture’s Authority: By tethering the message to the text, expositional preaching minimizes the risk of misinterpretation and keeps the preacher accountable to what the Bible truly says. This approach helps prevent the introduction of personal biases or unfounded ideas.

• Providing the Full Counsel of God: Expositional preaching provides a complete view of scripture. It helps the congregation understand the New Testament more fully by explaining it in the context of the Old Testament. It reveals how New Testament teachings fulfill and build upon Old Testament prophecies, laws, and themes. This connection is crucial because it provides a fuller understanding of God’s redemptive plan and the continuity of His covenants. Recognizing these links deepens our understanding of the New Testament’s message as well as the congregation’s grasp of biblical theology. It also demonstrates how all of Scripture is unified and how Jesus’ life and work in the New Covenant is the fulfillment of the Old.

• Guarding Against False Doctrine: Expositional preaching helps prevent theological error. By focusing on Scripture verse by verse, this approach reduces the risk of misinterpretation. It makes it far more difficult for the preacher to misapply a passage since the congregation is actively being encouraged to look closely at the broader context and all the verses before and after.

• Encouraging Spiritual Maturity: Expositional preaching stimulates spiritual growth by producing “complete followers of Christ who are equipped for every Good Work” and by preaching “the whole council of God”. By exploring all facets of Scripture and apologizing for none of it, expositional preaching helps congregants understand God’s entire message. This exposure to all of scripture helps believers to avoid developing an incomplete or lopsided view of the person of Jesus Christ.

• Demonstrating the Relevance of Scripture: Expositional preaching shows how the Bible is relevant today. As preachers work through passages, they draw connections to modern life, showing that the Bible addresses all kinds of current issues. This approach helps believers see that the Bible’s teachings are still applicable to today’s world.

In summary, while topical preaching has its place, expositional preaching has a proven track record of building strong churches that are not focused on the personality of the pastor, but the authority of Gods Word.

If you would like to learn more about expositional preaching, click HERE