preaching

preaching. Preaching has always been regarded as an essential part of Christian ministry, though the emphasis placed on it in different traditions has varied. In the Anglican view of ministry preaching has taken an equal place with the administration of the sacraments. In the Calvinist tradition it has been accepted as the principal work of a minister, and in Calvinist churches the pulpit has been given pride of place in the centre of the building. The RC Church has at times subordinated preaching to the administration of the sacraments, but the Second Vatican Council (1962–5) declared that the homily (or sermon) was an integral part not only of the Eucharist but also of the other sacraments, and that preaching was central to the ministry of priests and bishops.

Preaching is speech under the authority of God, and the communication of that authority is as important to preaching as speech itself. The Prophets of the OT saw themselves as God's spokesmen, and through their work the idea of God relating to His people through His word became an important part of the OT tradition. In the NT Jn. used that tradition when the birth of Jesus Christ was described as ‘the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us’ (1: 14). Christ is depicted in the Gospels as one who spoke with authority; after His death and resurrection the Apostles are shown exercising a similar but dependent ministry: dependent in that the content of their preaching is witness to Him.

Since the 1st cent. the work of preaching has been mainly, though not exclusively, directed to the Church, and its purpose to strengthen the Christian community. It is closely related to Scripture and often takes the form of an exposition of a Biblical passage. Its effective performance is usually seen as demanding an educated clergy. The influence of preachers often extends far beyond their immediate hearers.