A Reader on Preaching

Those whose theology avoids the sharp edges of Calvary and Easter don't want to give the sermon more than grudging admission;  those who have made Christianity comfortable allow the sermon to decline into a spiritual pep talk or a vaguely Christianised comment on current affairs. But those who take seriously their calling to listen with every fabric of their being to the living God, and to speak with all their skill of his love and grace in the gospel, find it exhausting but exhilarating. My hope and prayer is that this book will be of real help in challenging the first two approaches, and in encouraging and directing the third.' From the Foreword by the Bishop of Durham, the Rt Revd Dr N. T. Wright 'One of the things that both fascinates and terrifies preachers is advice from other preachers. The fascination comes from the recognition of a common call. The fear comes from our sense of inadequacy in the face of great responsibility. This reader is an outstanding and unique collection from preachers and theologians, which is both fascinating and liberating in showing how the call to preach can be developed in astonishing diversity. It is both practically and theologically stimulating for all who are called to preach good news'. Dr David Wilkinson, Fellow in Christian Apologetics and Associate Director of the Centre for Christian Communication, St Johns College, University of Durham 'This volume skillfully samples seminal resources offered to preachers in the last several years for  vocational discernment and renewal.  Nourished by insights from distinguished colleagues, homileticians and pastors alike will gain strength for the journey.' Revd Dr David J. Schlafer, Homiletical Formation, Washington, DC. ’At last! Distilled wisdom about preaching today by ’A’ list writers and practitioners.’ Martyn Atkins, Director of Postgraduate Studies, Cliff College, UK '... a welcome addition to my bookshelf and, I expect, several other preachers and homi