Reading: “But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.” Acts 6:4

It might be looked upon as old fashioned, but Christ’s great commission to the church is to preach the gospel. Preaching is not really in vogue and part of the reason is that this is a generation of quick-moving images. Information is accessed more by the eye gate than by the ear gate.

Little concentration is required and therefore not much concentration given. As a result, a devoted and dedicated preaching ministry is sometimes frowned upon. But this is the means that Christ has appointed: “repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name” (Luke 24:47; cf. Mark 16:15).

The word preach means to herald. It pictures someone like the a town crier—a person who goes out to get the attention of the people, lifts his voice, and then proclaims his message. He could be said to be preaching. This is the pattern that is seen throughout the New Testament. Peter preached at Pentecost. Paul preached the gospel. Timothy was exhorted to preach the Word, and throughout the New Testament era preaching was the primary mode of declaring the gospel of Christ.

This method is still God’s appointed method of proclaiming the gospel. It is the method He has specifically approved and is pleased to use. He has blessed it: This world needs preachers—men who are prepared to “give [themselves] continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word”—men who can preach! Ask yourself, “Is that me?”