The Power of Theological Reflection in Preaching
Laying the Foundation with Biblical Theology
Biblical theology provides a solid foundation for theological reflection, allowing preachers to discern the progressive unfolding of God’s redemption plan in Christ. By developing biblical theological skills through experience, preachers can effectively prepare for sermon delivery. However, another essential branch of theology plays a crucial role in theological reflection: systematic theology.
The Role of Systematic Theology
Systematic theology helps synthesize the entirety of Scripture into doctrines, organizing it logically and hierarchically. As D. A. Carson defines it, systematic theology “seeks to elaborate the whole and the parts of Scripture, demonstrating their logical (rather than merely historical) connections.” While caution is necessary to avoid becoming “system preachers,” incorporating systematic theology into theological reflection offers several practical benefits.
The Benefits of Systematic Theology in Preaching
One significant advantage of reflecting on systematic theology in sermon preparation is that it provides a constraint, holding preachers to orthodoxy. When faced with difficult passages, sound doctrine serves as a guide, ensuring that preachers do not unknowingly pit Scripture against Scripture. Additionally, systematic theology can be particularly helpful when working with genres that do not lend themselves to biblical theology, such as Old Testament poetry or New Testament Epistles.
Connecting with Non-Christians through Systematic Theology
Systematic theology can also provide a powerful tool for connecting with non-Christians. By addressing fundamental concepts like faith, grace, justification, sin, and redemption, preachers can speak to the questions and concerns of those outside the faith. For example, exploring the systematic category of sin can help listeners understand the concept more fully, using metaphors like weight, debt, and stain to illustrate its significance.
The Importance of Expositional Preaching
Expositional preaching is vital for the health and vitality of the church. By incorporating systematic theology into sermon preparation, preachers can ensure that their messages are grounded in sound doctrine and effectively communicate the gospel to both Christians and non-Christians alike.
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