Translating Biblical Truth Into the Language of the Pew
Effective communication of biblical truth requires simple language and clear doctrine, not academic jargon.
A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of communicating biblical truths in a simple and clear manner, contrasting the straightforward language of historical figures like Moses and Jesus with the complex jargon used by modern evangelical-rationalists. He argues that while these contemporary teachers may be knowledgeable, their academic language creates a barrier for the average believer, making it difficult for them to grasp essential doctrines. Tozer suggests that this disconnect may ultimately serve a purpose, allowing time for deeper understanding to develop among congregants. He advocates for a return to simplicity in teaching, ensuring that the message of the Gospel remains accessible to all.
Text
. . . Invariably the newly learned, like the newly rich, overdo everything, and that is just what the evangelical-rationalists are doing. They forget that Moses, David, our blessed Lord Himself, John, Luther, Wesley, Bunyan, Schopenhauer, William James (to bring together a few very different but very effective teachers), could state their doctrines in language as simple as childhood talk and as clear as distilled water. These modern teachers aren't so easy to comprehend. They write in an academic jargon that only another of them can understand. At the rate they are going it will take at least one generation for their teaching to filter down to the man on the street and the worshiper in the pew. And maybe that is good after all.
Sermon Outline
- The Problem of Translating Biblical Truth
- The Example of Effective Communicators
- The Impact of Modern Teaching Methods
- Simple Language and Clear Doctrine
- The Importance of Accessibility
Key Quotes
“They forget that Moses, David, our blessed Lord Himself, John, Luther, Wesley, Bunyan, Schopenhauer, William James (to bring together a few very different but very effective teachers), could state their doctrines in language as simple as childhood talk and as clear as distilled water.” — A.W. Tozer
Application Points
- We should strive to communicate biblical truth in a way that is easy to understand for everyone.
- Using simple language and clear doctrine is more effective in conveying biblical teachings.
- We should be careful not to overcomplicate biblical truth with academic jargon.