Everybody knows how to preach. Even non-Christians will tell what should be said and how it should be said. Several years ago, one of my overseers said that I should preach more on love and grace. He implied that all preaching should be on those themes. This came after I had just preached on the love of God. Indeed, if one preaches the “whole counsel of God” (cf. Acts 20:27), he will deal with all such topics in due time. Still, the advice caused me to do some soul searching and Scripture searching. I wondered, “What did the inspired preachers of the New Testament say?” In addition to what was given last week, here is what I found.
Peter in the house of Cornelius (Acts 10)
He said that people of every nation must do what is right in the sight of God (vv. 34, 35), and that Jesus of Nazareth is Lord of all (v. 36). He added that after Jesus went about doing good (v. 38), He was crucified but raised from the dead (vv. 39, 40). Jesus commanded us to preach that He is the Judge (v. 42). Peter said that faith is necessary for forgiveness (v. 43), “and he commanded them to be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ” (v. 48).
Paul in Antioch of Pisidia (Acts 13)
Paul told of Israel’s history and God’s interaction (vv. 17-24). He mentioned the coming of Jesus, the Messiah, and John’s preparation for His coming (vv. 23-25). The Jews had Him crucified, which must have been their greatest sin as Paul emphasized it. God raised Him (vv. 30, 31). By raising Jesus, the promise of God concerning sonship is fulfilled. That is “good news” (vv. 32, 33). The forgiveness of sins is in Jesus, he said (vv. 38, 39). Then, at this point in his lesson, Paul issued this warning: “Beware, therefore, lest what is said in the Prophets should come about…” (v. 40). The reaction of the hearers to this message was, “Please preach this again next week” (cf. v. 42).
Paul on Mars Hill in Athens, Greece (Acts 17)
“You are ignorant people” he began (cf. v. 23). There is only one God (i.e. “the God,” v. 24). God is not dependent upon men (vv. 24, 25). We are dependent upon Him since we are from Him (vv. 26-28). Seek God (vv. 27, 28). We are from God. He is not from us (v. 29). Repent! (v. 30), for judgment is coming (v. 31).
–Andy