Simply stated, Talbot preaching professor, Don Sunukjian, defines the "biblical preacher" as someone who declares from the pulpit, "Look, at what God is saying..to us". By this he means: 1) that the true and exact meaning of the text must be explained, and 2) that it must be communicated in a way that is applicable to the listener here and now. Following this 2-part outline, Dr. Sunukjian guides the reader from text to finished sermon.
You will find a step-by-step guide to preparing and presenting a biblical message---from studying a passage with skill and integrity to delivering a sermon with persuasion, accuracy, passion, and relevance. His conversational style and use of illustrations to clarify concepts make the learning process memorable for beginners and mature ministers. 384 pages, hardcover from Kregel.
Average Rating: 5 out of 5 stars(5 out of 5 stars)
3 of 3 Reviews Showing:
4.5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Denis Arcand (Hawkesbury, On,), February 01, 2008
For pastors that wants to enrich preaching, it is necessary to purchase good tools to guide them and this is one.
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Jose R. Figueroa (Chicago, IL), January 10, 2008
Dr. Sunukjian's text has been a breath of fresh air. This book challenges beginners and seasoned ministers to life in Godliness when preparing to expound on scripture. This text is a definite "must have" for all those who are serious in teaching the Word of God.
5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by biblicalpreaching.wordpress.com (London, UK), August 10, 2007
Sunukjian has an ability to think through elements of preaching in minute detail, yet has a communication style that is clear and accessible – both in person and in his writing. These qualities have combined to make this a great book.
This book is in the Robinson school of thought. Similar process, delivery without notes encouraged, purpose and big idea emphasized. Incidentally, the reader should not be intimidated by the “zigzag” big idea – if Sunukjian came up with such effective preaching ideas regularly, surely more would be included in the book! He admits that you go with what you have, and only sometimes is the preaching idea a real humdinger.
He defines biblical preaching simply as “Look at what God is saying to us!” Throughout this 370 page book, numerous biblical examples are given to make clear the point being taught. Sunukjian has a large bank of example sermons that show up throughout the book so that the variety is not random and overwhelming, but reinforcing and familiar.
Sunukjian’s speciality is the subject of oral clarity – preaching so listeners can follow. His six elements of oral clarity are detailed in a chapter, but exemplified throughout the book. Sunukjian demonstrates a real awareness of what works for the listener, a concern sometimes missing in other “how to” preaching texts.
In a book of 370 pages, it seems strange to point to a section being too short, but the delivery chapter is very short. However, it is fair to say that if a preacher follows the teaching throughout the book, then delivery will be improved. If there were any other negatives, it would be a slight discomfort with one or two of the biblical examples. Again, this is a small point since most are handled very effectively.
Overall this is a very strong book, perhaps even a great book. This definitely makes my list of top preaching books.
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