Pressing On!
A.W. Tozer addresses the complexities and challenges of preaching in a way that fosters genuine growth among believers.
A.W. Tozer challenges the approach of some preachers who, instead of encouraging believers to press on in their Christian journey, often undermine their faith by questioning their spiritual status or implying ignorance. He raises critical questions about the tactics used to provoke guilt or comparison among Christians, suggesting that such methods may distract from the true essence of faith and growth. Tozer emphasizes the importance of genuine encouragement and understanding in the Christian community, rather than creating division or doubt. His reflections call for a more compassionate and constructive approach to spiritual leadership.
Text
Once while listening to a man reproach, disparage and scold an assembly of Christians with whom he was only slightly acquainted and whose personal lives he had no way of appraising, I asked myself some questions, the answers to which up to this point I have not received. Since they bear directly on the matter here being discussed I want to list them. Perhaps some reader can answer them for me. Here they are:
Why do some preachers--
1. To take us on in the Christian life, begin by trying to prove that we have not started yet?
2. To emphasize a truth, assume or assert that everyone but them is ignorant of it?
3. To stir us to more praying, assume that we never pray at all?
4. To make us feel penitent, imply that we had a fierce family quarrel just before we left for church?
5. To bring conviction of sin on an audience, act wise and mysterious and subtly suggest that there is deep and grave hidden evil present somewhere?
6. Create invidious comparisons, as for example: "You can preach about the deeper life all you will; I believe in foreign missions"; or "You may run to and fro over the earth engaged in foreign missions; I believe in love as the only way to please God." This is dishonest and confusing, but it does disturb the tenderhearted saints and bring them to the altar. I wonder if that is not the real purpose of it after all.
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Introduction to the challenges in Christian preaching - The importance of understanding the audience - Questions that arise in the context of preaching
- II points: - The role of conviction in preaching - The impact of assumptions on the congregation - The need for honesty in communication
- III points: - The dangers of creating comparisons among believers - The effects of disparaging remarks on the faithful - Encouragement to focus on personal growth
- IV points: - The call to deeper understanding of faith - The necessity of prayer and its misconceptions - The importance of unity in the body of Christ
Key Quotes
“Why do some preachers... begin by trying to prove that we have not started yet?” — A.W. Tozer
“This is dishonest and confusing, but it does disturb the tenderhearted saints.” — A.W. Tozer
“I wonder if that is not the real purpose of it after all.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- Reflect on the assumptions made in preaching and their impact on your faith journey.
- Seek to engage with the truths of the faith without comparing yourself to others.
- Commit to a deeper prayer life that is authentic and personal.