Preacher A-Z [Paperback]

A new, practical dip-in guide to the key elements of preaching. Packed with fresh ideas and all the essentials a preacher needs before stepping up to the lectern, this brilliant handbook contains confidence-boosting material for both the experienced preacher and the novice alike. Features an A-Z of preaching, 26 illustrations by John Paterson, tips on before, during and after preaching. A must-have companion for all worship leaders! Here is Richard's address to future preachers: "Dear Future Preacher, Since you are a merchant of truth, my best advice to you is to be true in all that you do. Be true to the Word of God. It is your friend, your source, your companion and your master. Do not stand behind it, negelecting you duty as its interpreter. Do not stand in front of it so that it is obscured from view. Stand beside it and point out its beauty, intricacy and depth to all who will hear. Be true to the people of God. Understand them, accept them, tolerate them and love them. You must interpret then at least as much as you do the scripture - and it will be a harder job, for they are ever changing! Unless you seek with all your heart to understand them, you will be unable to build a bridge from scripture into their lives which will bear the weight of eternal truth. Be true to the Spirit of God. Allow him to ruffle you, to inflate your tired soul or deflate your puffy ego. Listen to him in the quietnes of the study and heed him in the pulpit too. His way, even when unpredicatble, will always be best. Be true to yourself. God chose you to be a preacher, not some better or more glamorous version of yourself. All the dents and bashes and quirks you have picked up along the way are precious, like the patina on a piece of beautiful old furniture - they add to your value as a preacher. Preaching is a high privilege and a noble calling. Treat it with respect and you will have a ringside seat at the weekly theatre of miracles where God turns rocks into diamonds and introduces forever into today." - Richard Littledale