Tim J. R. Trumper, Preaching and Politics
The middle way is destined to please and displease all involved. Naturally, advocates from the partisan and apolitical sides will find fault with much said in this book. The person in the middle is always attacked from both sides. This reviewer does agree with the author; however, he maintains this approach is easier said than done. More examples, maybe even a few from his own actual sermons, might have clarified some of the concepts discussed and served as useful models for readers to follow.
The final major chapter suggests useful ways of carrying out the biblical-political approach. The book concludes with a helpful and clear summary of the points made throughout its pages. The very prospect of preaching depends to a certain extent upon the morals of a culture and the freedom it permits for interaction within its confines. Preachers, as well as believers in general, are taught to pray, “Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven,’ and to work to see it done.
Overall, the author is fair in his assessments, clear in his examples, orderly in his organization, and balanced in his approach. His analysis should encourage the apolitical to speak up occasionally and the party-political to tone it down a note.
This reviewer especially appreciates the author’s attitude, illustrated by the following quote: “Enlisting under Christ’s banner, the biblical-political preacher understands that it matters not only what battles we choose, but how we fight, and what forces we engage” (p. 50). Discussion questions are provided at the end of each chapter and a useful bibliography on the subject from a wide variety of sources is included in the back. The author has done preachers of the gospel everywhere a genuine service. His recommended approach is worthy of emulation because it is both spiritual and impartial, biblically and politically.
Reviewed by Steve D. Eutsler
Publisher page: wipfandstock.com/store/Preaching_and_Politics_Engagement_without_Compromise
Category: Ministry, Pneuma Review, Summer 2012
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