According to Wikipedia, “expository preaching is a form of preaching that details the meaning of a particular text or passage of Scripture. It explains what the Bible means by what it says. Exegesis is technical and grammatical exposition, a careful drawing out of the exact meaning of a passage in its original context.” The counterpart to expository preaching is topical preaching which concentrates on a specific topic and references texts covering the topic. In our recent past, I have preached expository messages through the Gospel of Mark and the Torah (the first five books of the Bible). Other times, I have preached expository messages on a single verse or a set of verses. I recently read an article titled “9 Benefits of Expository Preaching” based upon the book Faithful Preaching by Tony Merida. In the article, Tony suggests nine benefits for expository preaching.
The first five benefits are:
- First, exposition calls for attention to be given to biblical doctrine. Every doctrinal issue is covered as the complete text is covered.
- Second, exposition is good for both believers and non-believers. When preaching the Scriptures in way that points to Jesus, the gospel is presented, the believer is encouraged, and the unbeliever is confronted.
- Third, exposition gives authority to the message. Authority comes from God’s Word and not from fluffy stories. Stories are great to make a point, but God’s Word has authority.
- Fourth, exposition magnifies Scripture. Expository preaching teaches what the Bible says and how to use it.
- Fifth, exposition is God-centered not man-centered. Instead of starting with a popular idea or perceived need, expository preaching starts with God’s Word. Expository preaching doesn’t begin with us, it begins with God and His Word.
-Bro. David