I can answer anyone who taunts me, for I trust in your word. (Psalm 119:42) Preparing People for Eternity Helmut Thielicke (1908-1986) was a German pastor who served during World War II. In Hilter’s last days, Allied bombs rained down on Stuttgart. Thielicke preached sermons on the Lord’s Prayer in these times of uncertainty and death. His ministry seemed to …
Teaching and Preaching the Bible (Part 4)
My soul faints with longing for your salvation, but I have put my hope in your word. (Psalm 119:81) Advice from Martin Luther Martin Luther (1483-1546), the German Reformer, reminds us that it’s not necessary for us to express all our thoughts in one sermon or lesson. He gives us three principles: 1. make a good introduction and don’t spend …
Teaching and Preaching the Bible (Part 3)
Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word. (Psalm 119:37) God Used a “Dead in the Water” Sermon James Smith approached Pastor Hugh Litchfield and asked, “Do you remember me?” James explained that 10 years earlier he had visited the church where Litchfield was serving. James was facing jail time over tax violations, that …
Teaching and Preaching the Bible (Part 2)
Be good to your servant while I live, that I may obey your word. (Psalm 119:17) Not Just Pointing at People Pastor David Roseberry went to see a doctor for pain in his shoulder. It hurt whenever he moved it. The doctor diagnosed it as “frozen shoulder” and said it comes with age and over-use. The doctor prescribed physical therapy …
Teaching and Preaching the Bible (Part 1)
How can a person stay on the path of purity? By living according to the Lord’s word. (Psalm 119:9) A God-blessed Message Stuart Briscoe, author and long-time pastor tells this story: In the 1990s, I traveled to Poland for itinerant ministry while Poland was occupied by Russia (USSR). One winter day my sponsors drove me in the dead of night …