Preaching the Prophets

The Old Testament readings after Pentecost present both a challenge and an opportunity. Unlike years A and B where the Revised Common Lectionary texts followed the lives of several of the Old Testament Patriarchs, the year C readings will hopscotch through the prophets. Among their many functions, the Old Testament prophets reminded the people of Israel of their covenant with God, spoke words of comfort when they were in exile, and called them to repentance when they were wayward. Their methods were varied, their messages were often difficult to receive; in an "I'm OK, you're OK" world, they often appear harsh and radical — inspiring many of us to take our thoughts from the gospel text or the epistle during this season. Yet, from time to time, the church could benefit from the jolting message of the prophets that compels us to reflect and repent. How do we incorporate the correctives of the prophets into modern life and modern worship settings?

Suggestions for Preaching From the Prophets

• Understand the context of the message. What was the social, political, and spiritual climate at the time when the prophet in question spoke? If we allow the message of the prophets to remain trapped in their culture and context, we risk missing today's applications.

  For example, Amos' confrontation with Amaziah is better understood in context. The nation of Israel had divided into the Northern and the Southern Kingdoms. In the Northern Kingdom, Jeroboam the king had set up two alternate places of worship at Dan and Bethel and had placed golden calves in their sanctuaries. Amaziah was a priest of the golden calves. This definitely colored Amos' rebuke when Amaziah attempted to silence him.

• Look for dynamic equivalents in our own culture and context.
  • To continue with Amos' example, have we deviated from God's original purpose for us as a people?
  • Have we attempted to silence every voice that does not agree with ours?
  • (Have we taken up with golden calves?)
  
  
• Finally, what timeless message does God continue to speak through the prophets? This is where you (in grace-filled ways) help members of the congregation recognize their own waywardness and prayerfully find new ways to embrace God's righteousness.

We need the challenging and inspiring message of the prophets. May God inspire you to speak their words with courage and prophetic wisdom.

Helpful Articles and Books

Piety and Preparation for New Life-- A lesson on prophetic boldness for modern pastors from Delores Williams

Preaching on Ethical Issues by Thomas Troeger and D. W. Wilbanks

Speaking the Truth to our Children by Olin Robinson-- If we do not speak truth to our children, who will?

Testimony to Otherwise: The Witness of Elijah and Elisha-- Thought-provoking words from Walter Brueggemann

Finally Comes the Poet — A Brueggemann classic!

The Witness of Preaching, 2nd Edition, by Thomas G. Long

Where Have All the Prophets Gone? by Marvin McMickle