Preaching Today: Summing It Up

Preaching today draws from a deeply rooted and newly flourishing tradition brimming with possibility and alive to the changing shape of the postmodern church and culture. Attention in preaching to the current social and ecclesial situation is not a matter of "political correctness." It is simply a fact that the church of today must, as always, be honest about and responsive to the very culture in which it is located.

Preachers today are especially challenged to proclaim the gospel with enough clarity and engaging conviction to be heard as voices counter to all the other truth claims that squawk for attention.¹⁵ This calls for steady homiletical focus upon biblical text, theology, congregational reality, and the varieties of forms that give flesh to sermons. The preacher who wishes to faithfully proclaim the gospel in the twenty-first century will have to learn more than toleration of others. Rather, we will learn to delight in the presence of others who, like ourselves, come to sanctuary and pulpit bearing gifts, eager and prepared to continue the task of preaching the gospel.

Granted, preaching within a culture marked by religious pluralism and cultural diversity stretches the conscientious pastor almost to the homiletical breaking point. But what else can the caring preacher do but attempt to find a way to preach with open arms to all who might hear while remaining centered in Jesus Christ?

15. See Martin B. Copenhaver, Anthony B. Robinson, and William H. Willimon, Good News in Exile: Three Pastors Offer a Hopeful Vision for the Church (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1999).