Expositional preaching is a style of preaching that focuses on explaining and applying Scripture passage by passage. The preacher works through a biblical text verse-by-verse and explains the meaning of the text in its original context. The goal is to faithfully convey the intended meaning of the biblical authors. Expositional preaching seeks to uncover the theological truths contained in Scripture and apply them to the lives of the listeners.
There are several key elements that characterize expositional preaching:
- It is rooted in a biblical text – Typically an expository sermon will take a focused passage of Scripture as its basis rather than using biblical texts as launching pads for other topics.
- It seeks to understand the historical context – Expositional preaching considers the historical and cultural setting of the biblical text in order to discern the author’s original intent.
- It explains the meaning of the text – The preacher unpacks and clarifies the meaning of words, phrases, theological truths, and the flow of thought contained in the passage.
- It has a clear thematic unity – A properly crafted expository sermon will have a single, dominant theme or big idea derived from the text.
- It applies the meaning of the text – An expository sermon goes beyond explanation to demonstrate how the meaning of the biblical passage applies to contemporary listeners.
Expositional preaching contrasts with topical preaching – where the preacher chooses a topic and finds related biblical texts to support it. It also contrasts with textual preaching – where a short verse or passage is used as a springboard to launch into a loosely-related topic. The expositor is chiefly concerned with bringing out of the text what the author intended, not using it as a pretext for topics.
Theological Basis for Expositional Preaching
Expositional preaching has roots in the Protestant Reformation, when the Reformers stressed the need to let Scripture interpret itself (scriptura sui ipsius interpres) rather than coming to it with preconceived interpretive frameworks. The Reformers emphasized the need to go ad fontes (“to the sources”) and access Scripture in its original languages to best discern authorial intent. Expositional preaching takes this approach: looking carefully at a text of Scripture on its own terms to determine what it meant before asking how it applies.
This theological commitment is grounded in a high view of the inspiration and authority of Scripture. 2 Timothy 3:16 declares, “All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness”. Because the Bible is God’s inspired Word, handling it accurately is of utmost importance.
Expositional preaching takes this divine authorization seriously by seeking to preach texts according to their original meaning. It seeks to correctly handle “the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15). A commitment to expositional preaching reflects a submission to the authority of Scripture as God’s Word written and a desire to teach what Scripture itself teaches.
The Expositional Preaching Process
Developing an expositional sermon requires careful attention to the biblical text. Here are key steps in the process:
- Select a biblical text. Typically, expositors preach consecutively through books or sections of Scripture. This enables addressing texts in their broader context. Sometimes a specific passage may be chosen based on the needs of the congregation.
- Study the text in depth. Examine the literary structure, key words, grammar, historical-cultural background, genre and theological context of the passage to discern the author’s intended meaning.
- Identify the central idea of the text. Summarize the key theme or major thrust of the passage in a concise, memorable statement.
- Outline the structure of the text. Trace the flow of thought through the passage in outline form to guide the sermon structure.
- Fill in supporting material. Draw from commentaries, Bible dictionaries, word studies, and works on the historical-cultural context to flesh out details.
- Consider contemporary application. Explore ways the theological and moral truths of the passage can be applied to modern listeners.
- Compose the sermon. Use introductions and conclusions sparingly. Focus on working through the outline, explaining verses and drawing out implications.
This careful approach yields substantive, textually-grounded, theologically-rich preaching that maximizes faithful communication of the biblical authors’ message.
Benefits of Expositional Preaching
There are many benefits that come from the practice of expositional preaching:
- It prevents preachers from relying on their own opinions or hobby horses for sermon topics. The text sets the agenda.
- It exposes the congregation to the full counsel of God’s Word as books or sections of Scripture are preached consecutively.
- It enables the hearers to track with the biblical writers’ line of thought.
- It equips Christians with biblical and theological knowledge as passages are thoroughly explained.
- It fosters confidence in God’s Word as believers see how relevant Scripture still is when handled accurately.
- It models how to correctly interpret and apply biblical texts – equipping hearers to study the Bible for themselves.
- It guards against mishandling or abusing the Bible by tying interpretations to authorial intent.
- It proclaims the message the divine Author intended rather than relying on human imagination or ingenuity.
For these reasons, many evangelical pastors and theologians emphasize the critical importance of commitment to the regular practice of expositional preaching.
Challenges of Expositional Preaching
Despite its many benefits, expositional preaching also poses some challenges including:
- Time investment. The study required takes extensive time – potentially 10+ hours to prepare a sermon.
- Difficult texts. Some biblical texts are highly complex or detail intricate theological arguments that are challenging to simplify and apply.
- Topic constraints. The preacher is limited to speaking on the topic addressed in the passage rather than choosing freely.
- Length. Sermons may extend to 40+ minutes to cover all the material.
- Boring delivery. Preachers must work hard to avoid “lecture” mode since exposition involves heavy explanation.
- Lack of cultural contact points. Some biblical practices and customs are hard for modern people to connect with.
- Applicability. Drawing timely applications across centuries and cultures can be difficult in some texts.
However, skilled expositors learn to work around these limitations to deliver sermons that are both biblically faithful and engaging. With proper gifts and training, expositional preaching’s advantages far outweigh its drawbacks.
Expositional Preaching & Reformed Theology
Expositional preaching has historically been emphasized among pastors in the Reformed tradition. Reformed theology meshes very naturally with an expositional approach for several reasons:
- It has a very high view of Scripture’s authority and sufficiency as God’s inspired Word.
- It stresses the need to interpret Scripture with Scripture – comparing passages rather than imposing meaning.
- It advocates using grammatical-historical interpretation focused on authorial intent.
- It trains preachers rigorously in biblical languages and exegetical skills at its seminaries.
- It aims for preaching that emphasizes teaching and application of doctrine rather than rhetorical style.
- It values preaching through full books of the Bible sequentially.
So while expositional preaching is used in other Christian traditions, it finds its fullest expression among those with a high view of Scripture coupled with an emphasis on theologically substantive preaching – hallmarks of the Reformed faith.
Examples of Expositional Preaching
Many accomplished expositors have modeled exemplary expositional preaching over the centuries and decades. Here are a few notable examples:
- John Calvin – Preached sequentially through books of the Bible, masterfully integrating biblical exegesis with theological exposition accessible to laypeople.
- Martyn Lloyd-Jones – Pastored Westminster Chapel in London for 30 years, preaching through books of the Bible from Romans to Revelation and beyond.
- John MacArthur – Pastor of Grace Community Church in California since 1969, preaching verse-by-verse through the entire New Testament over his decades of ministry.
- R.C. Sproul – Founder of Ligonier Ministries, widely known for his “Renewing Your Mind” radio program featuring clear, Reformed exposition of Scripture.
- Tim Keller – Led Redeemer Presbyterian in NYC for 30 years and founded The Gospel Coalition, adeptly blending academically-informed biblical exposition with cultural engagement.
These preachers and many more have modeled the spirit of the Protestant reformers in their commitment to let Scripture speak for itself through authoritative expositional preaching aimed at transforming minds and lives.
How to Grow as an Expositional Preacher
Those seeking to improve their expositional preaching abilities should focus on growth in the following areas:
- Biblical languages – Build competency in Greek and Hebrew to better analyze grammatical and syntactical features of texts.
- Biblical theology – Deepen understanding of the Bible’s overarching narrative redemptive storyline and the contexts and meanings of individual passages.
- History – Expand knowledge of key biblical backgrounds including ancient Near Eastern culture, Second Temple Judaism, Greco-Roman contexts, and the early church.
- Commentaries – Regularly consult scholarly exegetical commentaries to see how experts analyze texts and draw out meaning.
- Hermeneutics – Learn principles for sound biblical interpretation, considering genre, context, word use and more.
- Homiletics – Read books and listen to presentations on excellent sermon structure, delivery, and application.
- Preaching – Get experience preaching in settings with mentors who can provide coaching and feedback.
A disciplined program of lifelong learning in these areas will enable growth as an expositor who can handle God’s Word faithfully and powerfully.
Tips for Preaching Expositionally
Here are some key tips to keep in mind for developing and delivering effective expositional sermons:
- Stick close to the text – let the passage set the sermon agenda rather than using it as a springboard.
- Avoid getting bogged down in minutiae – focus on the key ideas and flow of the text.
- Include enough background to orient listeners but don’t overdo the history lesson.
- Summarize complex theological arguments in clear, simple terms.
- Have a narrow homiletical focus – keep to one main preaching idea.
- Craft memorable, pithy sermon highlights people can recall.
- Give listeners a sense of the tone and feel of the text – don’t drain out the emotions.
- Apply the text personally before broadening to contemporary implications.
- Draw out gospel connections to show how all Scripture points to Christ.
- Invite response to obey and act on Scripture, not just admire or discuss it.
Master these elements of handling texts skillfully and the clarity of expositional preaching will greatly benefit hearers.
Objections to Expositional Preaching
Some common objections raised about expositional preaching include:
- “It’s boring.” This criticism often arises from poor delivery, lack of application orFailure to highlight the text’s drama. Good exposition need not be dull.
- “It’s irrelevant.” This charge comes when preachers fail to draw out timely implications. Wise application, however, can show how all Scripture powerfully addresses contemporary listeners.
- “It’s too academic.” At times, expositors bog down in bibliographical minutiae. Explanation should be accurate yet accessible, scholarly yet simple.
- “It takes too long.” Preaching meaningfully through large chunks of text does require time. Expositors need to balance thoroughness with pacing that maintains interest.
- “It’s not practical enough.” Good expositional preaching always aims for life change, though some do fall short here. Spirit-empowered application should be woven throughout.
In the end, most perceived drawbacks stem from poor execution rather than deficiencies inherent to the practice itself. Expositional preaching done well can captivate, convicted, equip, and inspire.
Expositional Preaching in Contrast to Other Models
Expositional preaching stands in contrast to other common models and methods of preaching in the following ways:
Topical Preaching
- Topic chosen based on preacher’s discretion rather than a specific text.
- Various passages cited in support of topic.
- Primary goal is to inform about a subject using Bible as support.
- Tends to lack some constraints imposed by close attention to a single text.
Textual Preaching
- Short verse or passage used as a springboard rather than basis.
- Wider roaming through Bible passages loosely related to text.
- Main ideas come from preacher’s agenda more than author’s intent in passage.
- Delivery and stories often get more emphasis than careful biblical exegesis.
Narrative Preaching
- Primary content comes from extended storytelling rather than focused passage explanation.
- Delivery and drama around story take center stage over exegesis.
- Biblical support generally comes from various passages peppered throughout.
- Aims to generate emotional impact through identification with story.
Each method has varying strengths. But expositional preaching has unique advantages in deeply mining the rich truths of Scripture and firmly anchoring preaching in biblical texts carefully handled. For preachers devoted to biblical fidelity, exposition is hard to surpass.
Tips for Listening to Expositional Preaching
For congregants to get the most out of expositional sermons, these tips can help:
- Pray for the Holy Spirit’s illumination to understand and apply the message.
- Read the passage ahead and meditate on it to prepare your heart.
- Take notes on key concepts, verses and application points.
- Listen actively by engaging mind and heart, not passively.
- Think through personal applications to your life situations.
- Jot down questions that arise for further personal study.
- Discuss sermon messages with others who were present.
- Review your notes and follow up on further study during the week.
- Pray over opportunities to live out the passage’s teachings.
Approaching expositional sermons in these ways will help you become a doer of the Word, not just a hearer (James 1:22).
The Imperative of Relying on Scripture
Why is expositional preaching so vital? Because God’s Word alone brings eternal life and leads to salvation. As Romans 10:17 declares, “Faith comes from hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ”. People will not know Christ unless they hear the message of Scripture faithfully proclaimed. That is why preachers must handle and deliver God’s Word accurately rather than presenting human wisdom (1 Corinthians 2:1-5). The high calling of expositional preaching is faithfully stewarding and sharing the inspired Scripture that God uses to convert sinners and grow saints into the image of Christ.