Expository Bible preaching is a method of preaching that focuses on explaining and applying a specific passage of Scripture, verse by verse, in its original context. This approach aims to faithfully communicate the intended meaning of the biblical text, allowing the structure and content of the passage to shape the sermon’s main points and subpoints. By systematically working through books of the Bible, expository preaching ensures that the full counsel of God is proclaimed, helping congregations to understand and apply the entirety of Scripture to their lives.

While there is a need for topical preaching from time-to-time, real Bible preaching is made up of the consistent exposition of the text of the Bible. Here’s five reasons why that’s SO important.

Faithfulness to Scripture

Expository preaching is deeply rooted in the belief that the Bible is the inspired Word of God, and as such, it should be handled with reverence and respect. This method of preaching emphasizes the importance of understanding the original context and meaning of the text, rather than imposing personal interpretations or agendas. By being faithful to Scripture, expository preachers ensure that their messages are grounded in the truth of God’s Word, rather than human opinion or tradition.

In 2 Timothy 4:2, the Apostle Paul instructs Timothy to “Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.” This verse underscores the importance of preaching the Word of God, rather than relying on personal anecdotes or clever rhetoric. By prioritizing the exposition of Scripture, preachers can be confident that their messages are aligned with God’s will and purpose.

Clarity and Understanding

Expository preaching is designed to bring clarity and understanding to the congregation, rather than confusion or ambiguity. By carefully examining the text and explaining its meaning in a clear and concise manner, expository preachers help their listeners to grasp the truth of God’s Word. This approach also encourages preachers to avoid using jargon or technical terms that might be unfamiliar to their audience, ensuring that the message is accessible to all.

In Nehemiah 8:8, we read that “So they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading.” This verse highlights the importance of clear and understandable preaching, where the preacher takes the time to explain the meaning of the text in a way that is easy to grasp. By doing so, expository preachers can help their congregations to grow in their understanding of God’s Word and to apply its teachings to their lives.

Authority and Power

Expository preaching is based on the conviction that the Bible is the ultimate authority in all matters of faith and practice. By preaching the Word of God, expository preachers are able to speak with authority and power, rather than relying on personal charisma or persuasive techniques. This approach also recognizes that the power of preaching lies not in the preacher themselves, but in the Word of God that they proclaim.

In Hebrews 4:12, we read that “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.” This verse emphasizes the power and authority of God’s Word, which is able to pierce the heart and bring about transformation in the lives of those who hear it. By preaching the Word of God, expository preachers can be confident that their messages will have a lasting impact on their congregations.

By preaching the Word of God, expository preachers are able to speak with authority and power, rather than relying on personal charisma or persuasive techniques.

Relevance and Application

Expository preaching is not just about explaining the meaning of the text, but also about applying its teachings to everyday life. By showing how the Bible speaks to contemporary issues and concerns, expository preachers can help their congregations to see the relevance of God’s Word to their own lives. This approach also encourages preachers to be sensitive to the needs and concerns of their audience, and to tailor their messages accordingly.

In 2 Timothy 3:16–17, we read that “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: That the man of God may be perfect, thoroughly furnished unto all good works.” This verse highlights the practical relevance of Scripture, which is able to equip believers for every good work. By applying the teachings of the Bible to everyday life, expository preachers can help their congregations to grow in their faith and to live out their Christian values in a practical way.

Accountability and Humility

Expository preaching is a humble and accountable approach to preaching, which recognizes that the preacher is not the ultimate authority, but rather a servant of the Word of God. By being faithful to Scripture and avoiding personal opinions or agendas, expository preachers can be confident that their messages are grounded in the truth of God’s Word, rather than human pride or arrogance. This approach also encourages preachers to be open to correction and feedback, and to be willing to adapt their messages in response to the needs and concerns of their audience.

In 1 Corinthians 2:1–2, the Apostle Paul writes that “And I, brethren, when I came to you, came not with excellency of speech or of wisdom, declaring unto you the testimony of God. For I determined not to know any thing among you, save Jesus Christ, and him crucified.” This verse highlights the humility and accountability of the preacher, who recognizes that their role is not to impress or entertain, but to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a clear and faithful manner. By adopting this approach, expository preachers can be confident that their messages will be a blessing to their congregations, and will bring glory to God.

Conclusion

Expository preaching is a biblical approach to preaching that is grounded in the conviction that the Bible is the inspired Word of God. By being faithful to Scripture, emphasizing clarity and understanding, speaking with authority and power, applying the teachings of the Bible to everyday life, and adopting a humble and accountable approach, expository preachers can be confident that their messages will be a blessing to their congregations and will bring glory to God. As the church seeks to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a world that is increasingly hostile to biblical truth, the importance of expository preaching cannot be overstated. By returning to the Scriptures and allowing them to shape our preaching, we can be confident that our messages will be guided by the Spirit of God and will have a lasting impact on the lives of those who hear them.