The three Greek words that are translated as “preach” appear in the New Testament 128 times (kerusso, kerugma, and euangelizomai). Can you send me one instance in the NT of any of these words referring to a speaking activity that is clearly happening inside a church gathering, such as a sermon? Almost always, these words refer to evangelism. What most Christians refer to as "preaching", I believe the Bible refers to as "teaching". Solid teaching during the church gathering is important but according to 1 Corinthians 14:26 (didache=teaching), that teaching should be open to participation by others attending. I don’t promote “house” church but I do promote “participatory” church. Can you think of one verse in the New Testament that describes, much less prescribes, only one person teaching? If so, please send it to me.
My missionary friends are on all points of the missions spectrum. On one end of that spectrum, I have my gospel-centered, reformed friends. They emphasize clear gospel presentation, expository preaching, and biblical eldership. On the other end, I have my movement (CPM, DMM) friends. They emphasize abundant gospel sharing, house churches, and rapid reproduction of disciples. Being in the middle of the spectrum, I feel like I am constantly telling one side what we can learn from the other side. Would you pray for me as I engage in these conversations almost daily?
No comments:
Post a Comment