Reformed Presbyterian Minutes of Synod 1995 - Rparchives.org

REFORMED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH 1_7523. Those who can read ought to have Bibles of their own and carry themto worship services, prayer meetings, and small group meetings. They arealso expected to read the Scriptures privately.Preaching the Word of God24. The preaching of the Word is an essential element of public worship.Sinceitis the power of God unto salvation and one of the greatest works ofthe ministry of the gospel,it should done in such a way the workman neednot be ashamed, but may save both himself and those who hear him. Theminister is to prepare for the preaching by much study of the Word of Godand prayer. He should seek the aid of the Holy Spirit that he may declare thewhole counsel of God. He should read widely and keep abreast of thescholarship and the social and doctrinal issues of the times. His messagesshould be adapted to his audience, both in content and delivery.25. Sermons will be either expository or topical. Expository preachintake up a whole book of the Bible, or perhaps a chapter or a Psalm. Topicalpreaching considers a text of Scripture, because ofits particular doctrinal orpractical teaching, or because it speaks clearly to the events andcircumstances of the occasion. In any case, the explicit teaching of the Bible,the Word of God written, and the clear proclamation of Christ, the Word ofGod incarnate, must invariably be the constant focus ofall faithful preaching.26. The servant of Christ, whatever his method of sermon preparation ostyle of preaching,is to perform his whole ministry:(a) Diligently, not doing the work of the Lord negligently, as a workneed not be ashamed, correctly handling the word of truth (2 Tim. 2:15).(b) Plainly, so that the simplest may understand; delivering the trutthe enticing words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit andof power, in case the cross of Christ be made of no effect (1 Corinthians2:4; 1:17); also abstaining from an unprofitable use of unknown tongues,strange phrases, and cadences of sounds or words; and sparingly citingquotations from ecclesiastical or other human writers, ancient or modern,however elegant.(c) Faithfully, for the honor of Christ, the conversion, edification,salvation of the people, and not his own gain or glory; keeping nothing backthat may promote these goals, giving to everyone what he or she needs tohear, and having impartial respect to everyone, without neglecting the mostvulnerable, or sparing the most influential, in their sins.(d) Wisely, framing all his teaching, exhortations, and especially hisreproofs, in such a manner as may be most likely to be effective; showingalldue respect to each individual's person and place, and not mixing his ownpassion and bitterness.