A Peculiar Act of Worship
John Piper teaches that true preaching is 'expository exaltation,' where the preacher passionately explains and rejoices in the beauty and truth of Scripture to glorify God in worship.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of expository exaltation in preaching, where the preacher's heart exalts over the truths found in the Bible, making much of God's greatness and beauty. The sermon highlights the need for preaching to be a faithful declaration of the Word, explaining the meaning of Scripture and exalting over its beauty. It stresses the connection between teaching and preaching, where teaching is essential in helping the congregation understand the truths being proclaimed. Ultimately, the goal of preaching is to glorify God by rightly knowing His truth and cherishing His worth in both mind and heart.
Sermon Outline
-
I
- Definition of preaching as expository exaltation
- Difference between exaltation spelled with 'a' and 'u'
- Preacher's heart must rejoice in the truth of Scripture
-
II
- Expository preaching explains the original meaning of biblical text
- Authority lies in Scripture, not the preacher's ideas
- Good preaching shows how meaning is derived from the text
-
III
- Preaching must combine accurate interpretation with heartfelt exaltation
- Preaching sin, death, and hell serves to magnify the gospel's beauty
- Preaching without joy or without truth is either lying or performance
-
IV
- Ultimate purpose of everything is the glory of God
- God's love is giving Himself for our enjoyment
- Preaching uniquely glorifies God in worship among believers
Key Quotes
“Preaching cannot just be accurate interpretation. It's not preaching. It's lying.” — John Piper
“The ultimate purpose of everything, everything, no exceptions, Satan included, is the glory of God in Christ.” — John Piper
“God's communication of the greatness, the beauty, and the worth of his glory to us for our everlasting enjoyment is what love is.” — John Piper
Application Points
- Approach preaching with both a commitment to biblical accuracy and heartfelt joy in God's truth.
- Live every aspect of life—thinking, feeling, and acting—to glorify God above all else.
- Understand God's love as His giving of Himself for our enjoyment, shaping how we relate to Him and others.