Preaching That Is Too Much Or Too Little

Here is one method to evaluate preaching.

When preaching the Bible, the preacher should help those listening to observe the text well, to interpret it correctly, and to apply it transformationally.

The Wrong Amount of Observation

Too much observation leads to history or culture lessons that are over-captivating or greatly boring.  This can be laborious and cause people to miss the point.

Too little observation leaves people wondering how the passage really connects with their lives, or confused as to its original setting.  This can make the Bible seem inaccessible or irrelevant.

The Wrong Amount of Interpretation

Too much interpretation leads to theological lessons that suspiciously exceed the reach of the text, or involve people in scholarly debates for which they are unprepared.  This can make people feel like the Bible is only for experts. 

Too little interpretation leaves people unsatisfied and often having more questions than when they entered.  This lack of explanation is neither faithful to the Word nor fair to the people of God.

The Wrong Amount of Application

Too much application leads to skepticism as to whether the Bible really teaches what the preacher says it does.  This often is not the preaching of the Word of God, but the preaching of the ideas of the preacher to get people to behave the way he hopes.

Too little application leaves people wondering what to do, how to think and without reliance upon the Holy Spirit for growth toward Christ-likeness.  This does not carry the true burden of the text to God’s people for consideration within their souls.

The Right Amounts of All Three

The right amount of observation will be enjoyable and helpful, illuminating the text for people in new ways.  The right amount of interpretation will explain the questions most people have and provide guidance for systematic biblical understanding.  The right amount of application will be challenging yet accessible, while at the same time bring hope for the future.

In addition, those who heard the message should be able to open their Bibles and easily re-preach the passage to themselves.  They should be able to make clear and concise observations.  They should be able to make the proper interpretive moves.  They should be able to personalize the application from the Spirit’s Word in the Spirit’s power.

Preaching this way will transform the lives of our congregations and impact the world!