Preach For a Year

Roger Campbell, Kregel Publications, Grand Rapids, Michigan, 1988, 224 pages, $9.95, paper.

Reviewed by John L. Casteel, professor of practical theology, retired, Union Theological Seminary, New York.

This volume offers 104 brief sermon outlines (two for each week) grouped ac cording to seasons and topics. Each out line has an introduction, body, and conclusion, but the divisions appear arbitrary. The pattern of outlines does not make use of recent developments in homiletical theory or the current emphasis on "telling our story."

Biblical texts and illustrations are scattered randomly throughout the outlines in a way that exhibits more biblicism than responsible use of the material.

A compilation such as this can be helpful to the preacher as a means of "priming the pump" or suggesting development of a sermon. It can say "here is something to begin with" or "here is a possible way of dealing with this text." But used in entirety, or depended upon regularly, it can destroy a preaching ministry. Phillips Brooks called a sermon "truth through personality." It must be the preacher's witness to the truth modest, or even poor, as the sermon may be. No one can fulfill the calling for him or her. The preacher who is too busy to make the sermon a personal witness to the gospel is too busy.

Reviewed by John L. Casteel, professor of practical theology, retired, Union Theological Seminary, New York.

October 1988

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More Articles In This Issue

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The best way to increase fruit production is to plant more trees. The best way to increase soul-winning results is to plant more churches.

Why Minneapolis in 1988?

In commemoration of what happened in Minneapolis in 1888 the North American Division will hold its year-end meeting there from October 30 to November 5 of this year. Ministry editor J. Robert Spangler interviewed Charles Bradford about the meeting's significance.

Toward the culmination of Harvest 90

Phenomenal success has attended many divisions' Harvest 90 efforts. Let's plan for a victorious culmination.

When someone you love doesn't love your Lord

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Now and Not Yet

John Brunt, Review and Herald Publishing Assn., Hagerstown, Maryland, 1987, 96 pages, paper, US$6.95, Cdn$9.75.

The King James Version Debate: A Plea for Realism

D. A. Carson, Baker Book House, Grand Rapids, 1985 (reprinted), 128 pages, paper, $4.50.

Sing a New Song

C. Raymond Holmes, Andrews University Press, Berrien Springs, Michigan 49104, 1984, 202 pages, paper, $9.95.

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