The Book Readers Guild: Orthodox Convictions of Ethereal Thinkers

Below is an article submitted by Dr. Garry E. Milley. Former Professor of Church History and Theology and currently lead Pastor at Church in the Oaks. Enjoy. A PURITAN PERSPECTIVE ON PREACHING BY Garry E. Milley Preaching is the chief task of the minister for it is the supreme method of awakening faith in those who hear. Preaching is a timeless technique. It is never out of date. Even in our digital age the spoken word still has the power to change lives. Those who aspire to the pulpit be humble and wise enough to learn from the learned how rightly to use such power. RICHARD BAXTER: OLD MOLD FOR NEW MODELS One such learned preacher was Richard Baxter, that seventeenth- century Puritan, who had many profound things to say to prospective pastors. He was a master preacher and provides a pattern and philosophy of preaching worthy of note. The popular preaching of his day consisted of...

This posting incorporates a lot for the reader to digest. The final chapter of the book is extensive. However it is well worth the read if one wishes a sampling of this book. The chapter continues to endorse the duties of personal catechism and discipleship while addressing many responsibilities facing the Lord’s servant as under-shepherd to His flock. Titled “Application”, it begins with an examination of attitudes of the heart and ends with the same as it relates to the work of a shepherd and the needs of the flock. Consistent and fruitful ‘Application’ is of course fueled by the hearts' affections and godly convictions. This chapter leaves no stone unturned, or so it seems, as it attempts to qualify a passionate argument the Church's leaders, in Baxter’s mind, need to hear. Of the many arguments this chapter presents I have chosen to focus primarily on two: pride and unity. Grab your coffee and prepare to be challenged. Lets begin with Baxter’s admonishment towards hu...