The Ethics of Persuasive Preaching

Abstract

"Preaching generally has been considered a noble task. Looking at the past one sees such glittering descriptions of preachers as the "Heralds of God,"1 or the "Royalty of the Pulpit."2 In a similar vein proclamation of the gospel has been described as "the Divine Art of Preaching,"3 "the Integrity of Preaching,"4 and "the Romance of Preaching." This does not mean that preaching has been without its critics. In ancient times enraged auditors stoned the prophets ( Matt 23:27); turned deaf ears to the words of Christ ( Matt. 13:57, 58); and persecuted the apostles (Acts 4:6, 7; II Cor. 21-28; Rev. 1:9). In modern times preaching has been charged with lack of effectiveness. Critics urge that it be supplanted by, or at least supplemented with dialogue"