It is that time of year for me again. The time of year when I try to put together a preaching calendar for at least the next 12 months. I like to have a plan far enough in advance that I am not preaching just on hot topics. I also like to plan far enough out that I feel I give a good mix of sermons. If I am not careful I can run the risk of preaching on just a few of my favorite topics week after week, year after year. This is an annual ritual I go through every summer so that I am ready for the coming year.
I have often been asked if I am an “expository” preacher or do I preach through a book of the Bible (usually chapter by chapter). The I am also asked the opposite question as to whether I am a topical preacher. To be honest, I never know how to answer these questions.
First, I like to preach through books of the Bible each year. I especially like taking a chapter or two and preaching on those for several weeks. Second, I like to preach on certain topics on a regular basis. I picture it this way. Sometimes I have people who come to me and say, “Explain this passage to me.” They have been reading their Bible and they need to some insight into a passage that is hard to understand. But I also have people who come to me and ask something like, “What does the Bible say about divorce?” That person also wants to know what the Bible says and they need to know key passages and issues.
My approach to planning a preaching calendar is to include both types of sermons. I think it is very short-sighted to buy into one type of preaching as being the best. The scripture understands this – some of it is history, some of it is teaching, some of it is parable and some of it is poetry and prophecy. The Bible has many forms and presentations and so should the preacher.
That is my approach to planning my sermons. I would love to other people’s thoughts. What can a preacher do to help you grow in your walk with Jesus? Are they any topics or passages you would like addressed? I would love to heat your insights.