Ronald Allen and Gilbert Bartholomew introduce preachers to verse-by-verse preaching, in which the preacher interprets the passage unit by unit and the sermon unfolds much like a commentary on the Bible. They note its applicability in a variety of settings and occasions, and offer practical suggestions for preparing a sermon in this style, including sample sermons from different genres and tips for keeping verse-by-verse sermons fresh, vital, and engaging.
Rev. Dr. Ronald J. Allen, is Professor of Preaching and Gospels and Letters at Christian Theological Seminary (CTU) in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.
A native of Poplar Bluff Missouri and ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Allen has taught at CTU since 1982. He received his PhD from Drew University (1977), MDiv from Union Theological Seminary in New York (1974), and the AB from Phillips University (1971). From 1977 to 1982 he and his spouse, the Reverend Linda McKiernan-Allen, were co-ministers of First Christian Church, Grand Island, Nebraska. Rev. McKiernan-Allen is currently Minister at West Street Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Tipton, Indiana.
In addition to over 100 articles and chapters in books, Allen is the author of more than thirty books.
I was recommended this book by a friend, surprisingly. The author(s) take a Liberal Protestant perspective and so while their goal, the increase of "expository" or "Bible-based" preaching is laudable and one I fully share, their ideological commitments show throughout the book. Their example sermons are telling, as environmental degradation and the fate of modern (?) humanity are the object of the homilies. The intent is commendable, but if you want to learn more about how to do expository preaching, this book won't help you.