Brief Answer

Expository preaching is a style of preaching that seeks to explain and apply the meaning of a biblical text, verse by verse, in its original context. It focuses on drawing the message directly from Scripture, helping the congregation understand the passage’s meaning and its relevance for their lives. While expository preaching is a powerful and faithful way to communicate God’s Word, it is one of several valid styles of preaching that can edify the church.

Understanding Expository Preaching from a Biblical Perspective

Expository preaching focuses on revealing what the Bible says and means in a particular passage. The term “expository” comes from the word “expose,” emphasizing the preacher’s role in unveiling the truth of God’s Word rather than imposing their own ideas onto the text. This approach reflects a high regard for Scripture as the inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16–17) and acknowledges its authority for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness.

Key Characteristics of Expository Preaching:

• Scripture-Centered: The passage being preached is the foundation for the message, guiding its structure and content.
• Contextual Understanding: It considers the historical, cultural, and literary context of the passage to interpret its meaning accurately.
• Application-Focused: The sermon includes practical insights, helping listeners apply the truths of Scripture to their lives.

Biblical Basis for Expository Preaching

Throughout the Bible, we see examples of expository teaching:

• Ezra the Scribe: In Nehemiah 8:8, Ezra and the Levites “read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people understood what was being read.”
• Jesus’ Ministry: Jesus often expounded on Scripture, such as when He explained the meaning of Old Testament prophecies to the disciples on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:27).
• Paul’s Preaching: Paul’s letters are filled with expository teaching, where he carefully explains Scripture and its implications for believers (e.g., Romans 1–11).

Historical Context

Expository preaching has deep roots in church history. The Reformers, such as Martin Luther and John Calvin, championed this approach, emphasizing the authority of Scripture over human tradition. Their preaching often involved detailed explanations of biblical texts to guide believers in understanding God’s Word.

In more recent history, influential preachers like Charles Spurgeon, John Stott, and Martyn Lloyd-Jones have exemplified the power of expository preaching to feed and grow the church. While other styles of preaching have emerged, expository preaching remains a cornerstone of many evangelical traditions due to its emphasis on faithfulness to Scripture.

Practical Implications of Expository Preaching

Expository preaching equips both preachers and congregations with a deeper understanding of God’s Word and its transformative power. Here are some key benefits:

• For Preachers:
  • Keeps the focus on God’s Word rather than personal opinions.
  • Provides clear boundaries, ensuring sermons are rooted in Scripture rather than cultural trends.
  • Encourages thorough study, leading to spiritual growth for the preacher.
• For Congregations:
  • Builds biblical literacy by systematically working through Scripture.
  • Equips believers to interpret Scripture faithfully in their own study.
  • Offers a well-rounded understanding of God’s redemptive story over time.

Theological Depth and Insight

Expository preaching highlights the sufficiency and authority of Scripture. By carefully explaining and applying the Bible, this style acknowledges that God’s Word is not only inspired but also completely sufficient for addressing the spiritual needs of His people.

• The Authority of God’s Word: Expository preaching affirms that Scripture, not the preacher, carries the ultimate authority. As Isaiah 40:8 declares, “The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God endures forever.”
• The Holy Spirit’s Role: The Spirit works through the faithful proclamation of Scripture to convict, encourage, and transform hearts. Preachers are instruments, but the Spirit is the one who makes the Word effective.

Broader Biblical Themes

Expository preaching connects to several overarching biblical themes:

• God’s Revelation: Through Scripture, God reveals Himself to His people, making His will and character known (Psalm 119:105).
• The Centrality of the Gospel: Faithful expository preaching always points to Jesus, showing how every part of Scripture leads to Him (John 5:39).
• Spiritual Nourishment: Just as believers need physical food, they need the Word of God to sustain them spiritually (Matthew 4:4).

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is essential in expository preaching:

• Empowering the Preacher: The Spirit enables the preacher to understand and communicate Scripture clearly and faithfully (1 Corinthians 2:12–13).
• Illuminating Scripture for Listeners: The Spirit helps listeners grasp the meaning and significance of God’s Word, bringing conviction, encouragement, and transformation (John 16:13).

Without the Spirit’s work, even the most well-prepared sermon cannot bear fruit.

Relevance for Today’s Christian

Expository preaching remains highly relevant for Christians today, providing:

• Clarity Amid Cultural Confusion: It anchors believers in God’s unchanging truth, offering guidance in an ever-changing world.
• Deep Spiritual Growth: By systematically teaching Scripture, expository preaching nurtures maturity and equips Christians to stand firm in their faith (Ephesians 4:14–15).
• Christ-Centered Focus: Expository sermons consistently point to the gospel, reminding believers of their need for Christ and His grace.

Connection to Jesus Christ and God’s Love

At its best, expository preaching is Christ-centered, showing how every passage of Scripture points to Jesus and the gospel. Just as Jesus explained how the Scriptures testified about Him (Luke 24:27), expository preaching reveals God’s love and redemptive plan through His Son.

Whether teaching from the Old Testament or the New, expository preaching consistently highlights the centrality of Christ’s sacrifice and resurrection, offering hope and encouragement to believers.

Bible Characters Who Exemplify Expository Preaching

• Ezra: His careful reading and explanation of the Law in Nehemiah 8 inspired worship and repentance among the people.
• Paul: His letters, filled with detailed exposition of Scripture, offer timeless lessons on theology, ethics, and practical Christian living.
• Jesus: As the ultimate expositor, Jesus often taught by explaining the Scriptures, revealing their deeper meaning and application (Luke 4:16–21).

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. How has expository preaching deepened your understanding of God’s Word?
2. What role does the Holy Spirit play in helping you apply Scripture to your life?
3. Why is it important for preaching to remain rooted in Scripture rather than personal opinion?
4. How can you encourage your pastor or church to prioritize faithful teaching of God’s Word?

Expository preaching is a rich and effective way to communicate God’s truth, helping believers grow in their understanding of Scripture and their relationship with Christ. While it is only one of many valid preaching styles, its commitment to faithfully expounding God’s Word makes it a vital tool for equipping the church and glorifying God.