Author Archives:
Primacy of Preaching
Everett Wilson states, “Preaching is the most undemocratic of routines. . . . Week in, week out, people come and listen for a half-hour at a time to someone like themselves. They do not interrupt; they do not walk out. They can’t switch channels. Sometimes the speaker scolds them, and they sit still for it. . . . Many of them, in fact, are giving sacrificially to keep the speaker’s family fed, clothed, housed, and educated. Those of us who have assumed such an undemocratic prerogative had better believe we are engaged in the ministry of the Word of God; otherwise there is no hope for us!”
Preaching seems foolish. The Bible admits as much, but claims there is power in it. 1 Corinthians 1:18 says, “God was well-pleased through the foolishness of preaching to save those who believe.”
John A. Broadus famously observed that “preaching is characteristic of Christianity.” The prophets preached to Israel, calling them to repentance and righteousness. Jesus came preaching about the kingdom of God. The apostles preached Christ’s death and resurrection to all who would hear. The task given to pastors today is “preach the word.” The full scope of Scripture insists that we keep preaching at the top our priorities, and the reason is clear: advancing God’s mission happens through preaching God’s word.
To-Do and Taboo: Tweeting with Class
Just six years after its advent, Twitter boasts nearly 500 million users and has been recognized by MLA as a citable source in academic papers. With no “friendships” to maintain, Twitter offers the ultimate in low-maintenance networking. Any user may follow or unfollow any other user. With hashtags, anyone may join any conversion on any topic at any time (using 140 characters or less, of course). Twitter is social media simplicity and freedom. Such freedom, though, brings accountability and breeds etiquette. Users who show little restraint will annoy others, resulting in fewer followers. Those who tweet carefully will build larger networks, find themselves more connected, and be able to exert more influence (see www.klout.com to explore social media styles and strategy).
Ethically, Christians must think of Twitter no differently than other forms of speech. The biblical instructions concerning one’s words broadcast from the mouth apply also to words broadcast over social media. Try reading James 3:1-12, and replace each instance of the word “tongue” with “tweet.” Really. Do it. See what I mean?
While Twitter etiquette is still at its dawn, I offer my simple seven rules for Tweeting with class:
