Spiritual Intelligence
As you know, Jesus' parable of the seed and soils is one of the most preached passages in Scripture. Yet beyond its deep spiritual meaning, it serves as a powerful metaphor for why our preaching often yields little fruit. For the savvy pastor, this parable provides more than anesthesia, easing our pain by explaining the reason of lean preaching harvest. It also can serve as a stewardship insight that propels us to focus more on soil preparation in order for the seeds we sow to bear significant fruit.
‘Unction’ Is Missing Ingredient in Much Preaching
In his book Sound Biblical Preaching, Franklin L. Kirksey writes, "Unquestionably, unction is a result of the preacher's private life of devotion and prayer. This is what makes the preacher powerful in the pulpit."
Men Respond to Images More than Words
In his fascinating book Why Men Hate Going to Church (Nelson Books), David Murrow discusses a variety of ways in which today's worship is oriented toward the way women learn, not men. He explains that it's a problem rooted in the brain.
Illustration: Eternity, Serious Issues
In a recent sermon called "Would a Loving God Send People to Hell?" John Ortberg began with this illustration:
Illustration: Parents
Melvin Newland tells the story about comedian Jerry Clower, whose son was the field goal kicker for his high school football team. One day, his son had a chance to kick the goal that would give his team the lead and perhaps win the game, but the kick went wide of the goal.
Illustration: Mothers, Sacrifice
The schoolteacher asked a boy this question: "Suppose your mother baked a pie and there were six of you -- your mother, your father and four children. What percentage of the pie would you get?"
Illustration: Service
An Orlando, Fla., newspaper carried the story of a woman named Irene Johnston who was particularly dedicated to the "Meals on Wheels" program.
Illustration: Sacrifice
The Salvation Army received an unusual gift last Christmas. A couple who wished to remain anonymous donated a wedding ring-their own-worth several thousand dollars.
Illustration: Pastoral Care
The news recently carried a story about a Memphis delivery person who probably saved a customer's life. Jean Wilson had ordered pizza every day for three years. We might debate the health ramifications of that; but in this case, her habit alerted people to her condition. For three days, there were no orders from Jean. Susan Guy said her boss told her about the change in habit.