Why Is Preaching Not Good Enough?

Preaching is being replaced in the churches of Christ with many other things. Preaching has been set aside for programs, entertainment, and a variety of other things.

Why is this? Well, at the heart of the matter is the fact that preaching no longer changes people. Have you thought about that? As Americans we are very pragmatic. We want to see results, and if there are no results- then why continue with a practice? Preaching is being replaced.

My question though is "Why is preaching not changing lives?" The Scriptures teach us that the preached Word is God's normal way for converting sinners and sanctifying them. Since it is God's normal means of conversion and change (See Romans 10)- then preaching should be good enough. Preaching should change lives. Preaching should be restored to the center of evangelical and reformed worship.

I believe that Sinclair Ferguson has answered the question well. He states that "One of the reasons that preaching doesn't do it anymore is that people have not heard preaching that humbles their hearts and fills them with the glory of Christ." Well said.

May the Lord Jesus Christ cause his ambassadors to fill their chapels and auditoriums with preaching that is powerful, bold, humbling, and richly filled with the glory of the Lord Jesus Christ. This will make preaching "good enough."

The Westminster Larger Catechism says it best. Here is the way in which preaching can again be "good enough":

Q. 159. How is the Word of God to be preached by those that are called thereunto?

A. They that are called to labour in the ministry of the Word, are to preach sound doctrine, diligently, in season and out of season; plainly, not in the enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit, and of power; faithfully, making known the whole counsel of God; wisely, applying themselves to the necessities and capacities of the hearers; zealously, with fervent love to God and the souls of his people; sincerely, aiming at his glory, and their conversion, edification, and salvation.