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Greg Smith

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What is the Purpose of a Sermon? (#0010)

2009/07/06 By Greg

Scot McKnight’s latest blog entry invites discussion: What is the Purpose of a Sermon?  McKnight, a New Testament scholar as well as a prolific author and blogger, asks the question as he follows those who are live blogging about a preaching conference at Mars Hill with Rob Bell, Pete Rollins, and Shane Hipps.

So What?

Share your answer to the question: What is the purpose of a sermon? 

For me a part of the answer must be in the so what.  If I hear what sounded like a great sermon, but find it has no answer when I apply my so what questions I must quickly reassess my view of the sermon.  On some level a sermon must be more than merely well presented information.  A good sermon always challenges the hearer to respond. 

Think of the last sermon you heard.  When you ask the so what questions where do they take you? 

  • Do you find yourself struggling with the topic and seeking to engage it further? 
  • Are you compelled to act in response to what you heard?
  • Has God’s Word become more real in some way?

A sermon should never end when the preacher or congregation says amen.

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Greg Smith

Greg is a follower of the Way of Jesus who strives to make the world a better place for all people. Currently, he serves as Chief Executive Officer of White Rock Center of Hope and as Interim Senior Pastor of Advent Lutheran Church. He has served ten congregations, taught religion to undergraduates for eight years, and helped three organizations provide quality healthcare to underserved populations. (Read More)

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