Tag Archives: preaching

PRACTICES THAT HARM THE LORD’S CHURCH: Preachers Who Do Not Preach the Word of God by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another harmful practice that can be added to the list, and one that has seriously affected the Lord’s church, is that ofpreachers who do not faithfully proclaim the Word of God. This problem has hindered the Lord’s work for many years. In many places, the church suffers because of preachers who fail to present God’s divine message. They are experts in telling stories, sharing anecdotes, discussing politics, sports, and jokes, but not in expounding the Holy Scriptures. Some have forgotten that the power to transform and edify people’s lives is found only in the preaching of God’s message, not in entertainment or human wisdom.

Time and again, we find clear exhortations in Scripture to preach the Word of God. For example, the apostle Paul commanded the evangelist Timothy to hold fast the pattern of sound doctrine (2 Tim. 1:13) and to “preach the word” (2 Tim. 4:2). Likewise, he exhorted Titus to teach the things that are consistent with sound doctrine (Tit. 2:1). The apostle Peter, who left us an outstanding example of Scripture-filled preaching on the Day of Pentecost, wrote, “If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God” (1 Pet. 4:11). Only in this way will God be glorified, as Peter affirms in the latter part of this same verse.

The Son of God, Jesus Christ, also emphasized that one of the primary reasons He traveled from place to place was to preach the Word of God (Mark 1:38). In the Old Testament, we clearly observe how the prophets understood the necessity and importance of proclaiming only God’s message (1 Kings 22:14). God commanded them to preach exclusively the Words He gave them (Jonah 3:2; Jer. 26:1-2). The expression, “Thus says the Lord,” appears repeatedly throughout the writings of the prophets and reminds us of our responsibility to proclaim only what God has revealed in His Word. These and many other passages should be memorized by those preachers who are failing to edify the church through the faithful proclamation of the Scriptures. One preacher once said, “Jokes, long illustrations, and stories should occupy an important place in preaching because people enjoy them and they make them laugh.” Such a statement clearly contradicts what God’s Word teaches concerning the kind of preaching He requires from His servants (cf. 2 Tim. 4:1-2; 1 Pet. 4:11).

How is the Lord’s church harmed when the Word of God is not preached? Consider the following consequences:

  1. The Lord’s church is not edified when the Word of God is not preached (Acts 20:32).
  2. Preachers disobey God’s command to faithfully proclaim His Word (2 Tim. 4:2; Jonah 3:2; 1 Pet. 4:11; Tit. 2:1).
  3. The church is deprived of the knowledge of God’s Word (Hos. 4:6).
  4. The church remains in Biblical ignorance, making it vulnerable to spiritual captivity and false doctrine (Isa. 5:13; Eph. 4:14).
  5. The members are not equipped for the work of ministry (Eph. 4:11-16).
  6. The church may lose its respect for the authority of the Holy Scriptures (Col. 3:17).
  7. The church ceases to grow in the knowledge of God’s Word (2 Pet. 3:18; Col. 3:16; 1 Pet. 2:2).

The Lord’s church has both the right and the responsibility to expect that the Word of God be faithfully preached from the pulpit. The elders, who watch over the spiritual welfare of the flock (Heb. 13:17), must ensure that the preacher proclaims the Word of God rather than his own personal opinions. Now more than ever, it is imperative that we return to the thoroughly Biblical preaching found in the pages of the Holy Scriptures.

PRACTICES THAT HARM THE LORD’S CHURCH: Preachers Who Do Not Practice What They Preach by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another harmful practice that can be added to the list, and one that has seriously affected the Lord’s church, is that of preachers who do not practice what they preach. Throughout the centuries, this inconsistency between teaching and conduct has caused stumbling, discouragement, and a loss of credibility both within and outside the church. God has always expected those who proclaim His Word to be examples worthy of imitation.

The Bible clearly exhorts preachers and teachers to live in harmony with the message they proclaim. The apostle Paul urged Timothy to be “an example to the believers in word, in conduct, in love, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Tim. 4:12, NKJV). He later added, “Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you” (1 Tim. 4:16, NKJV). Notice that Paul first mentions the preacher’s life (“take heed to yourself”) and then his teaching (“and to the doctrine”), indicating that the two are inseparable.

Likewise, Titus was exhorted to present himself “in all things showing yourself to be a pattern of good works; in doctrine showing integrity, reverence, incorruptibility, sound speech that cannot be condemned” (Titus 2:6–8, NKJV). A preacher must not only communicate sound doctrine correctly but also adorn it with a holy life (Titus 2:10). His actions should confirm the truthfulness of the message he proclaims.

Someone once said, “I would rather see a sermon than hear one.” Although this statement is not inspired, it conveys a profound truth: people carefully observe the preacher’s life before accepting his message. Personal example is one of the most powerful sermons a servant of God can preach.

Our supreme example is Jesus Christ. Luke wrote concerning “all that Jesus began both to do and teach” (Acts 1:1, NKJV). The order of those words is not accidental. Jesus first did and then taught. There was never any contradiction between His words and His conduct. He could challenge His opponents by asking, “Which of you convicts Me of sin?” (John 8:46, NKJV). His life perfectly supported His teaching.

In the Old Testament we find another outstanding example in Ezra. Scripture declares that “Ezra had prepared his heart to seek the Law of the Lord, and to do it, and to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel” (Ezra 7:10, NKJV). Here again, the order is significant: first he studied God’s Word, then he practiced it, and finally he taught it to the people. This continues to be the divine model for every preacher of the gospel.

Sadly, some preachers focus on exhorting others while failing to practice what they preach themselves. Such an attitude should never characterize a servant of God. Jesus strongly condemned the scribes and Pharisees because “they say, and do not do” (Matt. 23:3, NKJV). Religious hypocrisy has always been offensive to God because it discredits the truth and drives people away from the gospel.

The church can clearly recognize when a preacher contradicts himself by failing to live according to God’s will. Although the truth remains true regardless of the character of the messenger, a preacher’s lack of integrity produces unfortunate consequences for the Lord’s work. How can the church be affected?

(1) The church may become discouraged. Although Christians are to fix their eyes on Christ (Heb. 12:1–2), the poor example of a preacher can discourage believers, especially those who are weak in the faith. Instead of strengthening the members, he may become a stumbling block (Rom. 14:13).

(2) Non-Christians may reject the gospel. Many people evaluate Christianity by observing the conduct of those who preach it. When they encounter hypocrisy, they wrongly conclude that the gospel lacks transforming power. As a result, the name of God is blasphemed among unbelievers (Rom. 2:21–24).

(3) The preacher’s credibility is seriously damaged. When there is an obvious contradiction between the preacher’s message and his life, his exhortations lose moral authority. The congregation’s trust diminishes, and his spiritual influence is weakened (Titus 2:7–8).

(4) There is the danger of unfair generalization. Some people conclude that all preachers are the same, thereby discrediting faithful men who sincerely and honorably serve the Lord.

(5) A bad example may become an excuse for sin. Some justify their own disobedience by saying, “If the preacher does it, why shouldn’t I?” Although each person will give an account of himself before God (Rom. 14:12), bad examples can negatively influence others (Matt. 18:6–7).

(6) The reputation of the church is harmed. A preacher’s conduct is often associated with the entire congregation. Therefore, an inconsistent life can damage the church’s good reputation in the community and diminish its influence for good (2 Cor. 6:3).

(7) Evangelistic efforts are weakened. It is much more difficult to convince others of the truth when the one proclaiming it does not live according to it. Effective evangelism requires both faithful proclamation and an honorable testimony (Matt. 5:16; Phil. 2:15).

(8) Weaker Christians may fall away from the Lord. Some immature believers place too much confidence in men. When a preacher experiences moral failure, their faith may be shaken, and in some cases they may abandon the congregation. This highlights the tremendous responsibility borne by those who teach God’s Word (James 3:1).

(9) The name of Christ is dishonored. A preacher publicly represents the cause of Christ. When he lives in contradiction to the gospel, the Lord’s name is disgraced, and the glory that belongs to God is diminished (Col. 3:17; Titus 2:10).

Every preacher should strive to be an example of integrity, faithfulness, humility, purity, consistency, and perseverance before all who observe his life. He should be able to say, as the apostle Paul did, “Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ” (1 Cor. 11:1, NKJV). The goal is not to attain absolute perfection but to live a life characterized by repentance, obedience, and a sincere determination to please God in all things.

The preacher’s light must shine before men so that, seeing his good works, they may glorify the Father who is in heaven (Matt. 5:16). The church needs men who not only know how to preach sermons but who also live them every day. When the message proclaimed and the preacher’s life are in perfect harmony, the church is strengthened, believers are edified, unbelievers are impacted, and God receives all the glory.

CHALLENGES FACING YOUNG PEOPLE: Paying Close Attention to the Preaching in the Church by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another important challenge facing young people today is paying close attention to the preaching in the church. Every week, sermons are presented with the purpose of helping us grow spiritually and presenting us mature in Christ Jesus (Col. 1:28). The faithful preaching of God’s Word strengthens our faith, increases our knowledge of God, and equips us to live according to His will (Rom. 10:17; 2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Pet. 3:18). God has established preaching as one of the primary means of instructing, exhorting, correcting, and edifying His people.

Nevertheless, although this is the purpose of preaching, many young people do not give proper attention to the lessons presented from the pulpit. This lack of attention is evident when some become distracted by their cell phones, send messages to those sitting beside them, read material unrelated to the sermon, carry on conversations during the preaching, or simply allow their minds to wander while God’s message is being proclaimed. These distractions prevent them from benefiting from the spiritual nourishment that God has prepared for them.

I mention these things because I have observed them repeatedly while preaching my own sermons, and also because I personally made these same mistakes when I was young. As the years passed, I came to realize how much I had missed by not listening more carefully to the teaching of God’s Word. Many young people reach adulthood regretting that they did not take full advantage of the opportunities they had to learn the Scriptures from an early age.

The Bible provides excellent examples of people who listened attentively to the Word of God. In the days of Nehemiah, the people remained attentive while Ezra read and explained the Scriptures (Neh. 8:3, 8). In Troas, the disciples assembled to hear the apostle Paul preach (Acts 20:7). Jesus Himself repeatedly taught, “He who has ears to hear, let him hear” (Matt. 11:15), emphasizing the importance of listening with a heart that is willing to obey.

For this reason, we encourage all young people not to open the door to distractions. Before the worship service begins, pray that God will give you a receptive heart. Keep your Bible open, carefully follow the passages the preacher presents, take notes whenever possible, and seek to identify practical lessons that you can apply to your daily life. These simple habits will help you concentrate more effectively and remember the truths you have learned.

It is also important to remember that listening alone is not enough; we must obey what we have learned. James wrote, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). The true blessing is found not merely in attending the worship services, but in allowing God’s Word to transform the way we think, speak, and live.

God’s Word has the power to save our souls (James 1:21), strengthen our faith (Rom. 10:17), make us wise for salvation (2 Tim. 3:15), and guide us in the path of righteousness (Ps. 119:105). However, if we fail to pay attention to the message, we will not fully enjoy these great blessings. Every sermon provides an opportunity to learn something new, correct an error, strengthen our faith, or receive the encouragement we so desperately need.

Young person, remember that the preaching of God’s Word is not a time for distractions, but a sacred moment in which God instructs us through the Scriptures. Listen with respect, attentiveness, and reverence. Make the sermon a priority rather than an opportunity to check your phone or think about other things. If you develop the habit of listening carefully to God’s Word during your youth, you will be building a solid spiritual foundation that will remain with you throughout your life and help you stay faithful to the Lord. When we listen with hearts that are willing to obey, we grow spiritually and God is glorified.

PRACTICES THAT HARM THE LORD’S CHURCH: Preachers Who Do Not Adequately Prepare to Preach the Word of God by Willie A. Alvarenga

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Another harmful practice that can be added to the list, and one that has seriously affected the Lord’s church, is that of preachers who do not adequately prepare themselves to preach the Word of God. This deficiency is not a recent problem but a reality that has hindered the Lord’s work throughout the centuries. When a preacher neglects his spiritual and Biblical preparation, the church is deprived of the spiritual nourishment that God desires to communicate through His Word.

The Bible establishes a high standard for those who bear the responsibility of teaching. Paul exhorted Timothy, saying, “Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Tim. 2:15, NKJV). The preacher must study diligently in order to interpret the Scriptures correctly and faithfully communicate God’s inspired message. It is not enough merely to speak about the Bible; it is essential to preach the Bible.

Furthermore, the evangelist must give careful attention both to his life and to the doctrine he teaches. Paul wrote, “Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you” (1 Tim. 4:16). The preacher’s life and the purity of his teaching have a direct influence upon the church. Sound preaching supported by a godly life strengthens the congregation, whereas careless teaching or an inconsistent life produces confusion and discouragement.

The apostle Paul also reminded Timothy that preaching is a responsibility carried out before God and Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead (2 Tim. 4:1-5). This solemn charge reminds us that the pulpit is not a place for expressing personal opinions, entertaining an audience, or promoting human ideas, but for faithfully proclaiming the will of God. The command is clear: “Preach the Word.”

Preaching the Word of God requires great diligence, preparation, and care because we are dealing with the souls of men. The goal of preaching is to present every person complete in Christ Jesus (Col. 1:28). Therefore, the preacher who regularly proclaims the Word of God must devote sufficient time to study, prayer, and meditation. Ezra provides an excellent example, for he “had prepared his heart to seek the Law of the LORD, and to do it, and to teach statutes and ordinances in Israel” (Ezra 7:10). The order is significant: first he studied, then he obeyed, and finally he taught.

Such diligent preparation requires the preacher to do, among other things, the following:

  1. He must continually pray for wisdom and divine guidance before preparing and delivering his message (James 1:5; Col. 4:2-4).
  2. He must strive to preach only the Word of God and not his personal opinions (1 Pet. 4:11).
  3. He must ensure that every sermon is in complete harmony with sound doctrine (2 Tim. 1:13; Titus 2:1).
  4. He must carefully examine the Biblical text, meditating upon it day and night (Ps. 1:2; Josh. 1:8).
  5. He must pursue sound exegesis, explaining the true meaning of the text according to its historical, grammatical, and literary context (Neh. 8:8; 2 Tim. 2:15).
  6. He must avoid imposing preconceived ideas or personal preferences upon the text, allowing God’s Word to speak for itself (2 Pet. 1:20-21).
  7. He must declare the whole counsel of God rather than limiting himself to subjects that are comfortable or popular (Acts 20:27).
  8. He must prepare relevant messages that edify, exhort, comfort, and spiritually strengthen the church (Rom. 15:4; 2 Tim. 3:16-17).
  9. He must preach with conviction, love, humility, and profound respect for the authority of the Scriptures (1 Thess. 2:13).
  10. He must cultivate a deep love for the Word of God (Ps. 119:97).

In what ways is the Lord’s church harmed when a preacher fails to prepare adequately for preaching? Consider some of the consequences:

  1. The church may fail to receive the message God intended because the Biblical text was not properly studied.
  2. Poor preparation can lead to incorrect interpretations and, consequently, the spread of doctrinal error (2 Pet. 3:15-16).
  3. The congregation may remain spiritually immature because it is deprived of the solid food of God’s Word (Heb. 5:12-14).
  4. The preacher may fail to declare the whole counsel of God, depriving the church of essential Biblical instruction (Acts 20:27).
  5. Christians will be less prepared to identify and refute false doctrine (Eph. 4:11-14; Titus 1:9).
  6. The faith of some may be weakened by sermons that are superficial, poorly organized, or lacking a solid Biblical foundation (Rom. 10:17).
  7. The preacher wastes valuable opportunities to exhort, convict, and restore those who need spiritual correction (2 Tim. 4:2).
  8. The church may lose its enthusiasm for serious Bible study when it observes a lack of diligence in the pulpit.
  9. The evangelistic work and the spiritual growth of the congregation may be seriously hindered, for a well-instructed church is a stronger church, better equipped to serve the Lord.

Like the elders, the preacher bears the responsibility of caring for the spiritual well-being of the Lord’s church. Although the elders serve as shepherds of the flock (Acts 20:28; 1 Pet. 5:1-4), the evangelist fulfills an indispensable role by feeding God’s people through the preaching and teaching of His Word. Therefore, he must never take lightly the preparation of his lessons.

May every preacher always remember that the pulpit demands reverence, diligence, and faithfulness. Time invested in prayer, study, and preparation is never wasted. On the contrary, it is an eternal investment in the edification of the church, the salvation of souls, and the glory of God. As Paul wrote, “Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all” (1 Tim. 4:15). May God grant us diligent preachers who are deeply committed to the truth and determined to proclaim faithfully “the whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27).