Biblical Preaching by Haddon Robinson: A Book Review

Overview and Structure of Biblical Preaching

Haddon W. Robinson first published Biblical Preaching in 1980. The book quickly became a classic in its field because of Robinson's straightforward writing style and his ability to synthesize the necessary ingredients for an effective, scripturally grounded yet emotionally resonant sermon. The seminal text to guide, instruct, and inspire existing and aspiring preachers, Biblical Preaching is currently in its third edition. Most of the original material has been preserved, and the author has added additional prefaces to update the message and reach a new generation of spiritual advisors, leaders, and communicators.

With few if any overt flaws, Biblical Preaching contains an unparalleled wealth of wisdom that can easily be blended with other approaches to sermon development and exegesis. Although certainly not the first book on expository preaching, Robinson's (2014) work is essential reading for pastors, Bible instructors, and Christian community leaders. The book is divided into ten chapters, plus prefaces, a concluding "final word," several appendices, and two indexes. The text's substantive nature and its reliance on primary source material from the Bible ensure its enduring credibility and appreciation among both scholarly and practicing audiences. Biblical Preaching offers concrete tools and techniques to distill and disseminate Biblical wisdom in relevant and meaningful ways.

The prefaces to the third edition are written in a first-person voice using a familiar tone. Introducing the reader to the concept of expository preaching in a personalized way breaks the ice, putting the reader's mind at ease when tackling potentially challenging material. Many readers will approach the text with some trepidation, knowing only that they have a calling to preach or teach the Bible but not knowing exactly how to bring that calling to fruition. Some readers will be mystified by the concept of preaching, believing it implies a degree of magic or special skills. While Robinson does speak of the skill development required to become an effective expository preacher, the author also helps to demystify the art of preaching. Material is immediately presented in a way that is understandable even to a complete newcomer to public speaking or to leadership in a spiritual community.

The prefaces remind readers that pastors and preachers are people too, with faults, foibles, and failings. There is no such thing as a perfect preacher, but there is a way for each individual to perfectly hone their skills so that they can effectively communicate Biblical messages. The prefaces also address issues like self-doubt and fear, and the responsibility that preaching entails.