26 June 2026

In ‘Studies in the History of Worship in Scotland’, there is a delightful chapter written by  David Reid entitled, ‘The Scottish Tradition of Preaching’. He begins by declaring that it was Biblical and sacramental in the sense that through the work of the Holy Spirit, God’s living Word is heard in the ordinary words of the preacher.

Reid makes four points about Scottish preaching. Firstly, he says, ‘It has been the strength of the Scottish pulpit that scholarship and passion have often been dynamically fused.’ He looks to St. Paul in whom the powers of the mind were harnessed to a burning desire to share the gospel.

Secondly, the discipline of sermon preparation. In a busy week, it can be compromised but there’s work to be done in exegesis, in finding ordinary words to express deep theological insights, in keeping abreast of an intelligent congregation and their assorted questions. ‘It simply means taking the preaching task seriously.’

Thirdly, the pastoral concern in Scottish preaching. ‘This stems from the fact that preaching was never divorced from the care of a parish and sensitivity to the needs of its people, whether church-goers or not.’ says Reid. Keeping in touch with the people of the parish is crucial in shaping the sermon.

Lastly, the freedom to address social and national questions. Reid describes this as the prophetic note inherent in speaking out. ‘The Church of Scotland has resolutely held to the belief that a preacher is not deviating from his Christian ministry when he speaks his conscience in the name of the Lord.’

The chapter was written in 1984, over forty years ago. Things have certainly changed. Is preaching still a distinctive part of the Kirk? Is it taken as seriously as it was in 1984? Is there time in a busy schedule to devote to the serious study which must be undertaken week by week? Is the poverty of preaching part of our decline?