Between Two Worlds: The Art of Preaching in the Twentieth Century

In his preface to this major study on preaching by John Stott, Michael Green writes, "Much of the current uncertainty about the gospel and the mission of the church must be due to a generation of preachers which has lost confidence in the Word of God." Perhaps no one is more eminently qualified to address this concern than John Stott whose scholarship and personality have shown generations of believers that he has total confidence in the Word of God and in preaching. "I believe that nothing is better calculated to restore health and vitality to the Church or to its members into maturity in Christ" reflects Stott, “than a recovery of true, biblical, contemporary preaching." His book provides precisely those practical guidelines and experienced perspectives needed for such a recovery. After beginning with a historical sketch of preaching, Stott examines contemporary objections to preaching, looking in particular at the Cybernetics Revolution and the influence of television. He then moves on to the theological foundations for preaching after which he examines how preaching can serve to build bridges across chasms of political, social, and ethical controversies. His study then takes on a more practical slant as he discusses how to cultivate and overcome the obstacles to Bible study as well as how to prepare sermons. He ends with a frank yet thoughtful reflection on the preacher's responsibility to live his message through sincerity, earnestness, courage, and humility. Addressed to the head as well as to the heart, this book will encourage and challenge both ministers and laypersons to give themselves more wholeheartedly to their calling -- to make known God’s message of salvation to a world in dire need of hearing it.