Dying to Preach: Embracing the Cross in the Pulpit

by Steven Smith

Drawing inspiration from the seminal preacher, Paul, Steven Smith has taken a fresh look at the why's of preaching in Dying to Preach . In 2 Corinthians 4:12, Paul describes the philosophy of his ministry as "death in us, but life in you." Building on this scriptural framework, Steve Smith illustrates the theology of preaching through the metaphor of vicarious suffering, dying so that others might live. As he elaborates the intersection of the cross and the pulpit, Smith shows why the preacher must die to self, die for others, and die in Christ so that congregations may live.

Genres: Theology

176 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2009

About the author

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Steven Smith - Fantasy, History

Reviews

[Wyatt Millikin · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book totally transformed my theology of, approach to, and practice of preaching the Word of God. Smith challenged me and forced me to check my heart multiple times. As someone who has felt God’s call to ministry and is developing my own approaches, I am thankful to have this book guide my thoughts, beliefs, and practices surrounding preaching. All those feeling led to preach and teach within the church of Jesus Christ should give it a read. It is saturated with Biblical references and principles. I think this book would also be a benefit to those sitting under Bible teaching as to ensure what they are being taught is of God. Dying to Preach is a benefit to the Church and has been a benefit to me.

[John Majors · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best book I've read on preaching in a while. But it's not just for preachers. Any Christian will benefit from the central message: serving others requires death to self.

[David Rathel · Rating 3 out of 5]

In a nutshell, Smith argues that the preacher should work to exalt Christ and not himself while in the pulpit. In order to exalt Christ, the preacher should carefully present the text of Scripture and does not seek to entertain or impress. Smith analyzes several key texts from Paul's life and ministry in order demonstrate this 'cross centered' focus.

Every preacher (and even every Christian) already knows about the type of cross-centered life that Smith extols here. However, in our honest moments we must all admit that we struggle to put into practice the type of ministry that Smith (and the NT) calls for. Smith's book is a great reminder that God will only reward a man's ministry if he is first willing to die to himself. It is a quick, easy read that is a good 'heart-check' for pastors.

[Bob Wolniak · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short treatise on philosophy of ministry of the Apostle Paul (suffering cruciformity) as applied to preaching. It also deals with being surrenderd to the text, audience and to the task of preaching.

[Josh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent! Every man preaching or desiring to preach should read this book.

[Zach Fischer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Celebrity pastors are the cultural fad. Smith calls us to remember that the man is not the message only the means to which the message gets out

[Justin Heck · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every pastor should read this book.