Decisional Preaching

by Jim Shaddix

In His sovereignty, God mysteriously has ordained that what we do and don’t do when we preach in some way affects whether or not people decide for the truth. He has assigned us certain responsibilities as preachers that when carried out faithfully seem to foster spiritual decision-making. The supernatural power of the Gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit somehow work in partnership with certain rhetorical principles of persuasion to create a decisional emphasis in the preaching event.So, let’s explore this issue of decisional preaching, because people don’t ooze into the kingdom of God, nor do they ooze into obedience. They decide for both. And we need to give them a chance to do so.

149 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 15, 2019

Reviews

[Ian Minielly · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really wanted to like this book. I wanted a book that would have insight and methods that would impact my preaching. What I got was, "You need to preach in such a manner it calls for a decision."

This book was very much like all the church planting books who really say almost nothing except, "We need more church plants" and "It is easier to give birth than it is to raise the dead."

I listened to Shaddix on a podcast and went and bought the books he was promoting. I found very little substance other than the sentiment preaching should move the listener to a decision. The rest of the book was forgettable.

[Chris Gravning · Rating 4 out of 5]

Solid and brief book on the importance of preaching with the intention of decisions to be made. This isn't a book about altar calls (though it has a small section regarding them), but rather a defense of crafting sermons and delivering them with force to provoke decision. Highly recommended for every preacher.

[Tanner Emerson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an excellent book on why sermons should lead to calling for decisions! Shaddux provides excellent scriptural foundation for decisional preaching, which he explains is not just a typical “altar call”. If you are a pastor/youth pastor looking to grow in your sermon capabilities I recommend this book!

[Addison Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really helpful book on preaching for decisions. I especially benefited from his perspective on the invitation. Don't make the mistake of using it wrongly or of not using it at all.