How to Preach: Times, seasons, texts and contexts

Samuel Wells' How to Preach goes beyond the arts and disciplines of preparing, crafting, and delivering sermons to explore preaching as an act of worship and prayer. It considers the times in which we live, the seasons of the church year, the variety of biblical texts, and life's key moments, offering reflection on the demands and opportunities presented, ways of approach, sermon examples, and practical guidelines to nourish and inspire those who long to embrace the call to preach more faithfully.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 29 September 2023
Publisher: Canterbury Press Norwich

In his comprehensive work, "How to Preach," Samuel Wells delves far beyond the mere mechanics of sermon preparation, crafting, and delivery, exploring preaching as an act of profound worship and prayer. Within these pages, preachers embark on a transformative journey, uncovering the secrets to crafting a message that is both informed and inspired by a deep connection with God, Scripture, the world, their listeners, and themselves. Through this holistic approach, preachers are revitalized in their commitment to bear witness to the divine revelation in every facet of human experience, drawing upon the rich tradition of proclaiming God's word across generations.

Preaching encompasses a diverse array of forms and responds to the diverse needs and occasions of the church and society. This expansive volume addresses a wide range of topics, including:

• The times in which we live: Examining the political, social, cultural, and ethical landscapes of our contemporary world, including issues of power, justice, freedom, disability, and war.
• The seasons of the church year: Reflecting on the liturgical seasons of Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter, Ascension, and Pentecost, exploring their significance and the messages they convey.
• The variety of biblical texts: Delving into the rich tapestry of Old Testament narratives, poetry, Gospel miracles, parables, and the writings of Paul, uncovering the timeless wisdom and theological insights they contain.
• Lifes key moments: Exploring the profound significance of baptisms, weddings, and funerals, recognizing the opportunities for proclamation and pastoral care in these sacred occasions.

For each of these topics, Wells provides thoughtful reflection, offering insights into the demands and opportunities presented, as well as practical approaches and sermon examples. He also provides memorably wise and uncompromising practical guidelines that will nourish and inspire all who long to embrace the call to preach more faithfully.

By engaging with the content of "How to Preach," preachers will gain a deeper understanding of the art and craft of preaching, as well as the profound spiritual dimensions that underpin this vital ministry. This book serves as a valuable resource for pastors, priests, lay leaders, and anyone who desires to enhance their preaching skills and deepen their faith in the power of the spoken word.

Weight: 432g
Dimension: 156 x 233 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781786225214