29 August 2024

In our Larger Catechism, which was approved by the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland in 1648, one hundred and ninety-six questions are asked and answers given for members to memorise. There are  two important questions  asked about the preaching of the Word. ‘How is the word of God to be preached by those that are called thereunto?’ This answer is given.

‘They that are called to labour in the ministry of the word, are to preach sound doctrine, diligently, in season and out of season; plainly, not in the enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit, and of power; faithfully, making known the whole counsel of God; wisely, applying themselves to the necessities and capacities of the hearers; zealously, with fervent love to God and the souls of his people; sincerely, aiming at their glory, and their conversion, edification and salvation.’

The Word of God is to be preached diligently, plainly, faithfully, wisely, zealously and sincerely. The preacher is to preach widely and not just on favourite texts. He is to choose his words and illustrations with his hearers in mind. The means of his preaching is love for God and his people. And they in turn, answer the second question, ‘What is required of those that hear the word preached? This answer is given.

‘It is required of those that hear the word preached, that they attend upon it with diligence, preparation, and prayer; examine what they hear by the scriptures; receive the truth with faith, love, meekness, and readiness of mind, as the word of God; meditate, and confer of it; hide it in their hearts; and bring forth the fruit of it in their lives.’

The hearers of the preached word have work to do as well. They need to prepare for the task of a Sunday morning. They need to be attentive and examine what is said by their own knowledge of the Bible. They have to receive the word as a gift from God and think about it carefully. Most especially, they have to hide it in their hearts and nurture it like seeds in fertile soil until it brings forth  a harvest to nourish our souls and build up the Kirk.

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