Why Johnny Can't Preach: The Media Have Shaped The Messengers (2009) - Plot & Excerpts
Gordon, a former pastor and current professor, offers a compelling thesis about the lack of solid preaching in modern churches. He advocates the developing of three key sensibilities: reading texts closely, well-crafted communication, and distinguishing the significant from the insignificant. Gordon argues each point ardently (at times bordering on aggressively) and perhaps over-emphasizes some areas. A thought-provoking premise and proposed solution, and though I do not entirely agree with his conclusions, his position demands serious consideration. This is a helpful introduction to the qualities necessary for better sermons. Gordon speaks to and critique evangelical and Reformed evangelical churches. His larger point is that preachers can't preach when because they cannot think well. The preacher who cannot organize his thoughts well and then write them down in a manner that is clear and comprehensible will not be able to communicate. One must organize thoughts clearly so that a listener can grasp the main idea of the preacher. The main idea of the preacher should be the main idea of the text he is in--this requires reading comprehension--another quality that Gordon says preachers lack. Chapter 4 -'A Few Thoughts About Content' should probably be required reading for all preachers.
What do You think about Why Johnny Can't Preach: The Media Have Shaped The Messengers (2009)?
Dead on. The chapter on Christ-centered content in preaching is a bonus.
—Mikai
