Preaching as Reminding: Stirring Memory in an Age of Forgetfulness

Christianity Today 2019 Book of the Year Award, The Church/Pastoral Leadership

We know of the preacher’s roles as both teacher and proclaimer, but Jeffrey Arthurs adds another assignment: the Lord’s remembrancer. The remembrancer stirs the memory of Christ-followers, reminding them of the truths they once heard and fanning the flames of faith.

We live in an age of forgetfulness, so when knowledge fades and conviction cools, the church needs to be reminded of the great truths of the faith. When done well, preaching as reminding is not empty, perfunctory repetition. Rather, it is the work of soul-watchers. Preaching as Reminding describes the dynamic role of the remembrancer, who prompts thankfulness and repentance, raises hope, fosters humility and wisdom, exhorts obedience, and encourages community.

With decades of preaching experience, Arthurs explains how to stir memory through vivid language, story, delivery, and ceremony. He urges preachers to take up this task with buoyancy and hope because the Lord God has commissioned and equipped them to serve as the Lord’s remembrancers.

John Ortberg is teaching pastor of Menlo Park Presbyterian Church and author of many books, including God Is Closer Than You Think.
Jeffrey D. Arthurs (PhD, Purdue) is professor of preaching and communication at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary. A past president of the Evangelical Homiletics Society, Arthurs has taught preaching and communication at a dozen colleges and seminaries, served as a teaching pastor, and continues an active ministry of pulpit supply and conference speaking. He is the author of Preaching with Variety and Devote Yourself to the Public Reading of Scripture.