What is expository preaching?

Answer

Expository preaching involves the exposition, or comprehensive explanation, of the Scripture. In other words, expository preaching aims to present the meaning and intent of a biblical text by providing commentary and examples to clarify and make the passage understandable. The term “exposition” is closely linked to “expose,” as the expository preacher’s objective is simply to reveal the Bible’s meaning, verse by verse.

As a practice, expository preaching differs from both topical preaching and textual preaching. When preparing a topical sermon, the preacher selects a topic first and then locates a relevant passage in the Bible. For instance, if the topic is “Laziness,” the preacher may reference Proverbs 15:19 and 18:9, along with touching on Romans 12:11 and 2 Thessalonians 3:10. These passages are not deeply explored; instead, they are used to support the theme of laziness.

In a textual sermon, the preacher uses a specific text as a starting point to discuss a particular point. For example, Isaiah 66:7-13 could be used to preach about motherhood, even though motherhood is not the central focus of that text but rather an illustration of the true theme, which is the restoration of Israel during the Millennial Kingdom.

Both topical and textual sermons use the Bible passage as supporting material for the topic at hand. In contrast, expository sermons take the Bible passage as the central theme, with supporting materials utilized to explain and elucidate it.

When preparing an expository sermon, the preacher begins with a Scripture passage and then delves into studying the grammar, context, and historical background of that passage to grasp the author’s intent. Essentially, the expositor also functions as an exegete, carefully and objectively analyzing the text. (For more on this, see our article “What is the difference between exegesis and eisegesis?”) Once the preacher comprehends the passage’s meaning, they proceed to craft a sermon that elucidates and applies it.The result is expository preaching.

G. Campbell Morgan, the pastor of London’s Westminster Chapel and known as “the prince of expositors,” taught that a sermon is limited by the text it is covering. Every word from the pulpit should amplify, elaborate on, or illustrate the text at hand, with a view towards clarity. He wrote, “The sermon is the text repeated more fully.” The primary function of a sermon is to present the text.

While exposition is not the only valid mode of preaching, it is the best for teaching the plain sense of the Bible. Expositors usually approach Scripture with these assumptions:

1) The Bible is God’s Word. If every word of God is pure and true (Psalm 12:6;Psalm 19:9;Psalm 119:140), then every word deserves to be examined and understood.

2) Men need divine wisdom to understand the Word (1 Corinthians 2:12-16).

3) The preacher is subject to the text, not the other way around. Scripture is the authority, and its message must be presented honestly, apart from personal bias.

4) The preacher’s job is to clarify the text and call for a corresponding response from his hearers.

An expositor cares little if his audience says, “What a great sermon” or “What an entertaining speaker.” What he truly wants them to say is, “Now I know what that passage means,” or “I better understand who God is and what He requires of me.”