The Preeminence of Preaching

When writing his young protégé, Timothy, Paul referred to himself first as a preacher, then as an apostle and teacher (1Tim.2:7; 2Tim.1:11). Paul, like his Lord, was preeminently a preacher (Lk.4:18). It seems to me that preaching is basically a calling, whereas teaching has to do with the gifts (Eph.4:11). I tend to believe God calls men to preach, then gifts them for the particular ministry he has for them, evangelist, pastor, teacher, etc. For example, in the latter’s case, he was called first to preach, then gifted as a teacher.

How sad it is today that there are so few real old-fashioned preachers. Yet, at the same time, we seem to have an over-abundance of teachers. This could account for the woeful condition of the Church in our time. I have a little saying: “Preaching gets you right; teaching keeps you right.” I’ve seen few get right with God under a teaching ministry. And I’ve observed there is very little spiritual growth under preaching. The order is preaching, then comes the teaching. To reverse this order is to fill a church with educated sinners.

I remember when the saints used to say to one another, “Let’s go  to preaching.” But now they heap to themselves teachers. Paul admonished young Timothy, “Preach the word.” If you’re a preacher reading this today, then I adjure you by the living God, “PREACH! PREACH! PREACH”! And you, who have been blessed to sit under a real old-time type of preacher, bow your heads and thank God for him. You’re not apt to see his kind again.