When Phil Sanders was here in Sullivan IL…
When Phil Sanders was here in Sullivan IL, there were many opportunities for us to have both small talk and discussions of substance. How valuable I thought those were! One of those points of discussion was on preaching; I can’t remember what prompted it, but what he said stayed with me, so now I am engaged in doing so.
As a preacher for a number of years I have grown in the “craft” of preaching. That does not, necessarily, translate into me being a good preacher, but there is education taking place in my mind with regard to preaching. I have always regarded myself as but an average preacher, and I refuse to think of myself as anything more.
Average preachers, no matter the years of experience, can learn much from others (regardless of age) and from reading books on preaching. These were the “talking points” between Phil and me. I have been fortunate to attend CBI (a preacher’s retreat in Columbia TN) for the last number of years. Two men who were continually before us were Tom Holland and William Woodson (brother Woodson recently passed away); as I looked upon the accumulated years of experience of the two men, took knowledge of their different styles of teaching (preaching), I grew to really like brother Woodson’s approach. Though I liked the style and substance of brother Woodson’s, it was brother Holland’s books I purchased. One such book is called “The Work of The Preacher Is Working.” I am currently reading this book, and I am better for it.
Phil was sharing with me a challenge and exhortation he received a number of years ago from (I believe) Raymond Kelcy. Raymond told Phil to make it a habit to read a book on preaching continually. I have heard such advice before, but it was when Phil mentioned to me that it took hold.
I think I will.
J. Randal Matheny 4:22 am on October 7, 2012 Permalink |
Ah, so you were chatting with Phil instead of posting to TFR, eh? I’m glad you had that good opportunity to visit together. I pray much good was done in the gospel meeting. I used to read a good deal on missions and evangelism, but in recent years not so much. Your post reminded me it is important to keep one’s task fresh in mind and grow in service.
Ron Thomas 5:00 am on October 7, 2012 Permalink |
Yes, I agree, Randal. I know I have not posted much, but hope to alter that a bit in the coming days.
J. Randal Matheny 6:33 am on October 7, 2012 Permalink
I’ve missed your posts! Will be glad to see you contributing again. I know there are times when we need to take time away. I do myself, usually from the pressure of other tasks. Blessings today!