Old Testament narrative provides us with much of the Biblical teaching about the character of God, revealed in his activity in history. But often it seems remote from the lives of contemporary Christians, and when it is preached, it is often moralised or spiritualised. How can we begin to hear its authentic voice for today's church and use it responsibly as Christian Scripture? What are the valid lines of application to us? How can we preach or teach this part of God's revelation with confidence and relevance?
1. Finding the "Melodic Line"
(a) Original recipients
(b) Topping and tailing
(c) Internal evidence
(d) Repeated emphases
2. Analysis of the Unit
(a) Flow diagrams
(b) The big idea(s)
(c) Questions of content
context
(d) Vocabulary and structure
(e) Understanding the argument
3. Identifying the "Message"
(a) Structure
(b) Theme and Aim
(c) Biblical theological reflection
(d) Systematic theological reflection
(e) Promises and Commands
(f) Practical applications (looking for principles / corporate reference)
4. Preaching Doctrine from the Epistles
(a) Dangers
(b) Gains
(c) Topical outlines
Example
"Don’t Give Up On Gospel Ministry" - 2 Cor 4:1-18
1. Analysis
(a) vv1, 16 We do not lose heart (enkakein)
(b) 2 Cor ministry context. Paul's apostolic defence
(c) Structure of chapter - reasons for not losing heart become
perspective to cultivate, so that we do not.
2. Outline
Why Christians do not give up on gospel work.
(a) Because we have confidence in the gospel's content (v1-6)
- the more glorious ministry of Ch 3 - the Word of God - the glory of God -
in Jesus as Lord.
(b) Because we recognise the gospel's dynamic (v7-12)
- dying to live (v10) mirrored in experience (v8-9)
- cross to resurrection; jars of clay (v7) - proof of reality.
(c) Because we practise the gospel's life-style (v13-15)
- faith that speaks - death conquered
- grace and gratitude
(d) Because we apply the gospel's perspectives (v16-18)
- resurrection life more wonderful than this world's
- outward and inward (v16), momentary and eternal (v17),
seen & unseen (v18)
The things that really last must be the things that really matter.
© David Jackman 2005 Source: Link: http://www.euroleadershipresources.org/resource.php?ID=435