The Enduring Power of Luther’s Preaching
In an era where individual uniqueness is deeply ingrained in the Christian mind, Martin Luther’s approach to preaching offers a refreshing respite from the narcissistic tendencies that often plague modern Christianity. For Luther, the purpose of preaching was not to pander to individual needs or concerns, but to crush the self-righteous and point them to the promise of God in Christ.
A Radical Departure from Modern Christianity
Luther’s sermons were not designed to provide personalized answers to specific problems or challenges. Instead, they were rooted in the timeless categories of law and gospel, which capture the universal human experience before God. According to Luther, there are only two ways to approach God: by law or by gospel. This fundamental truth is often lost in modern Christianity, where preaching can become sidetracked by attempts to address individual needs and problems in a specific fashion.
The Centrality of the Word
Luther’s theology of preaching emphasizes the power of the Word itself, rather than the techniques or charisma of the preacher. The Word has moral force, exposing the heart of every human being as either a theologian of glory or of the cross. When preached, the Spirit uses the Word to work mighty miracles, rendering technique and showmanship unnecessary.
Preaching as a Means of Grace
For Luther, preaching is a supernatural act that is done by preachers, but only in a proximate sense. The real Word comes from God, via his servant, and it is not the servant who gives it its power. This understanding of preaching as a means of grace should give great confidence and assurance to every preacher tasked with the public exposition of God’s Word.
The Christian Life and the Power of the Preached Word
Luther’s view of the Christian life is rooted in the overwhelming power of the preached Word. In the sermon, the fundamental struggle of the Christian is played out every time the preacher ascends the pulpit. The Christian is torn down by the law and built up in the gospel, a supernatural process that is both terrifying and liberating.
A Timely Reminder for Modern Preachers
Luther’s approach to preaching offers a timely reminder for modern preachers, who often struggle to balance the demands of individualized ministry with the need to proclaim the timeless truths of the gospel. By emphasizing the power of the Word and the centrality of the preached Word, Luther’s theology provides a much-needed corrective to the narcissistic tendencies that often plague modern Christianity.
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