by Chris Kramer
Synopsis: The gospel challenges us all to change. Chris reminds us that evangelists should internalize this principle: reflecting, retooling, restoring, and renewing their approach to teaching.
The need for change and repentance is the underlying message of most of our sermons. Sometimes we also need to consider making changes in our preaching styles and techniques, particularly if our habits detract from the gospel message. I want to share with you some changes I've tried to make as a preacher that have helped me be more effective in my presentations.
When I began preaching almost thirty years ago, my father warned me to be careful of the habits I developed early on in speaking because they will stick with me for the rest of my life. He was right. It has been said, "It is better to build a child than to repair a man," because breaking any habit after doing the same thing for so long is difficult.
God said, "I do not change" (Mal. 3:6). If you are teaching the sound doctrine of Christ, do not change that doctrine. Our knowledge and understanding will change with time, circumstance, and experience. Our characteristics develop from the lessons in life that we either apply or reject. A preacher will experience various stages in his development—some good, some daunting, some that may engender pride, and others that are humbling. The latter is the one that has helped me examine myself through the eyes of others, and most importantly, through the eyes of God (2 Cor. 13:5).
I have personally seen the need for changes in my preaching because of age and experience, but sometimes, a recognition of needed changes came from the encouragement of others. The suggestions were never about compromising the doctrine of Christ; they were solely about me. Like many, I developed habits and styles that I considered to be adequate or good enough. If pride gets in the way, we may even think of ourselves as great. We may become complacent and convince ourselves that, since we are preaching the truth, everyone should accept how we deliver the message and not hinder "God's work." We may not easily receive rebuke and criticism (Eccl. 7:5; Prov. 9:8). How often do you see a preacher who recognizes that he needs to make some changes, and is willing to do so for the benefit of his hearers?
Some may be fine with your preaching, but expecting everyone to accept your style may create dissension, leading to division (Prov. 6:19), and eventually, a departure. More than likely, that departure will be the preacher. Yet, at what cost? Did anyone weaken or lose their faith because a preacher was too stubborn to change? There is no reason to be divisive over changing a few techniques in public speaking.
Here are a few changes that have helped me. Keep in mind, these ideas work for me, but I had to find the meaning of these experiences for myself. I'm not saying, "Do such and such, and this will fix your problem." Therefore, how you pursue to change will be of your own accord.
I listened to myself (Jas. 1:19). I listened to the recordings of my lessons. I had to put myself in the shoes of my brethren. What are they subjected to week after week? I had to ask myself, "Would I grow tired of hearing me?" I then began recording my sermons on video. There, I saw many habits and idiosyncrasies that I didn't even realize I possessed. Self-critique was needed and useful. Once I was conscious of my habits, it did not take long to begin adjusting them.
I listened to others (Prov. 19:20). Last summer, I attended a "preacher training class." Ministers of the gospel do well to learn from one another. (Prov. 27:17). I needed time and thought-provoking discussion with brethren who shared in the "profession" I have chosen and in which the Lord has entrusted me (1 Thess. 2:4).
Occasionally, it is helpful to be a student rather than always teaching—whether you are just starting your work as an evangelist, or have been preaching for some time. Observing how other preachers carry out their work can help refresh my ideas regarding teaching and relating to the audience.
I redeveloped my study habits (Josh.1:8). Everyone has different techniques in Bible study. How you do this is up to you. Changing things from time to time will refresh you, build up your creativity, and overcome the possible dangers of discouragement or burnout in personal study and lesson preparation (Eccl. 12:12). I keep a schedule of my studies and evangelism. Time management has helped in every facet of my life, and I have greater satisfaction in making the best use of my time. As a result, I study more.
I involve my brethren. I've been preaching for years to the brethren to "Get involved in the work," but since I'm supported financially by the church, I put the responsibility to evangelize primarily upon my shoulders. But guess what? People like a personal invitation to get involved. I find it useful to personally ask a brother to work with me with visiting, encouraging the weak, and sitting in on Bible studies. As a result, I've grown closer to my brethren, and they witness for themselves the work that I do. I ask brethren to help me with choices for sermons, Bible classes, and evangelizing. We are changing together.
I invite input from my brethren. Soliciting input from others helps overcome the sting of rebuke; therefore, they are comforted that I receive their help in a spirit of godliness (Prov. 3:11). Merely asking someone what type of sermon they would like to hear, or what I can do to make a better lesson encourages them and enhances the reception of my presentation (1 Thess. 2:13). They trust that I can receive their ideas without concerns over hurt feelings.
I am writing more. For far too long, I let others give me their commentary on God's word. For instance, I could always rely on finding articles on any given subject by searching the archives of Truth Magazine. I have always felt that so much has already been written, why do they need my thoughts?
While I significantly profit from reading the work of other brethren, I realize the benefit of writing for my studies. I keep journals to organize my thoughts and outlines. They help me increase my knowledge of the Bible and research topics more efficiently.
The more I write, the more I can account for my words and beliefs (Matt. 12:36). I do this for my learning (2 Tim. 3:16-17), and so that others may see my love for the gospel and better comprehend my teaching (1 Tim. 4:15-16).
God saw the importance of the written word in helping us to know His will. Israel's kings were commanded to write their own copy of the law (Deut. 17:18). The ancients reveal their wisdom in the written word (Rom. 15:4; 1 Cor. 10:11; Ps. 119:100). Inspired apostles wrote the doctrine of Christ (John 20:31; Eph. 3:3-4). We should "take a page" from their examples.
As I continue to learn and apply these lessons, my happiness has grown in my work as a preacher, and as a Christian (Prov. 13:13-18). As I see the work that I do influence my brethren, it encourages me to continue preaching (Phil. 3:12-13); it also builds confidence in a growing congregation (Jas. 4:15), and greater hope for a crown of righteousness (2 Tim. 4:8).
Not only do I see opportunities to change my style of teaching and better relate to the hearers, but also I've found greater spiritual fulfillment in my relationship with God. The word I am preaching has become more personal to me than ever before (Rom. 10:8). I pray that the joy we share in Christ never changes.
Author Bio: Chris has labored with the Northside church of Christ in Russellville, KY since 2005. He and his wife, Jeanette, have three grown children and two grandchildren. The church website is churchofchristnorthside.weebly.com. He can be reached at chriskramer@hotmail.com.
