This book review examines Scott M. Gibson's edited collection Preaching to a Shifting Culture: 12 Perspectives on Communicating that Connects (Baker Books, 2004), which brings together essays by prominent preachers including Haddon Robinson and Bryan Chapell. The review highlights Gibson's central thesis — that cultural shifts have gone largely unnoticed by the church — and evaluates how the book's organizational structure, from Old Testament interpretation through contemporary cultural analysis, supports that argument. The reviewer also notes Gibson's balance in including contributors who do not share identical worldviews, lending the collection credibility and breadth within the discourse on evangelical preaching.
In his informative and intriguing compilation titled Preaching to a Shifting Culture: 12 Perspectives on Communicating that Connects, editor Scott M. Gibson deftly assembles the writing of many renowned preachers, including Haddon Robinson and Bryan Chapell, into a practical framework designed to guide both current church leaders and the next generation of clergy. Employing a direct yet accessible style, Gibson addresses readers personally through the book's Introduction. When he states unequivocally that "the purpose of this collection of essays is to explore some of the issues confronting evangelical preaching at the turn of the millennium,"1 he provides a clear statement of his fundamental thesis.
The concept that gradual cultural shifts have occurred while escaping the notice of preachers and churches is not novel by any means, but the way in which Gibson captures this sentiment is entirely unique, as he seeks to motivate his readers with a direct challenge. Gibson's assertion that "preachers have choices to make: engage the culture, ignore the culture, capitulate to the culture, or even challenge it"2 is a clarion call to those who have pursued the higher calling of evangelism, because unless preachers are capable of understanding and empathizing with their flock, genuine spiritual development is difficult to attain.
One of Gibson's central premises is evidenced by the book's organizational structure. The editor has elected to begin with modern interpretations of the Old Testament in a chapter authored by Ray Lubeck, before moving on to the New Testament in Vic Gordon's second chapter. It is the book's fourth chapter, however, that first touches on the phenomenon of cultural change. When Gibson states in his Introduction that "the present era has been a sea change of ideas, morals, and practice… and the sea change can be seen in the congregations in which we preach,"3 he appears to echo the sentiments offered by Haddon Robinson's contribution to the overall work.
The previously audacious idea that preachers should work to reflect the evolving nature of their congregation — rather than expecting worshippers to shape themselves to a preacher's singular vision — is quite compelling, and Gibson strives to include relevant essays on the subject without becoming ideologically intrusive. This approach reflects broader contemporary discussions about homiletics and the relationship between preacher and congregation in a changing social landscape.
By providing Preaching to a Shifting Culture with a sense of balance and clarity — through his inclusion of essayists who do not necessarily espouse the same worldview as himself — Gibson has crafted a meaningful contribution to the broader literary discussion of evangelistic spirituality. His final message to fellow preachers encapsulates his modern approach to evangelism. When he expresses the hope that "when preachers read this book they will be encouraged, challenged and instructed,"4 his optimism is rewarded by the thoughtful and courageous contributions made by his colleagues.
"Editorial balance and Gibson's closing encouragement to preachers"
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