Reformed Preaching (Review)

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

​When it comes to Christian theology and the application of biblical truths, the Puritans are among my favorite to read and study. Aside from the Puritans themselves, the name that comes to mind when I think of them is Joel Beeke, a Puritan scholar of the highest order. Having been acquainted with the writings of the Puritans and the Reformers from his youth, he has read hundreds (perhaps thousands) of books filled with Puritan and reformed sermons.

When I saw that Beeke released Reformed Preaching, I knew I wanted to get my hands on it. I had already come across his lectures on reformed experiential preaching, and I wanted to get my hands on a copy of the book so I could dive into the topic even further. To say it immediately impacted my preaching is an understatement. I have begun to weave application throughout my sermons, with extra focus on helping believers live in light of the truths of Scripture.

Beeke’s premise—the opposite of the most preconceived notions of reformed preaching—is that preaching shouldn’t simply be a rehearsing of exegesis in front of a crowd of people. For preaching to follow in the footsteps of the Reformation, it needs inform the mind of a the believer, but it fails if it doesn't pierce the heart and reach into the life of the hearer. That begins with the preacher who has experienced God and His Word in such a way before he ever proclaims it to the church. Only then can he powerfully deliver God’s Word in a life-changing way.

It is important that preachers don’t unnecessarily separate the objective realities of scripture with the subjective experiences of God’s presence and the working of His Word in everyday life. As those who are called to build up the church and preach sound doctrine, we must never lose sight of the reality that in our teaching, we are also discipling people to love God and obey all that He has commanded them. This is far from dry, dead orthodoxy. It should lead to lively, obedient doxology.

Two excellent features of the books are the biographical sketches of reformed preachers and their impact on theology and preaching today. These small biographical sections highlight the emphases of these preachers, their impacts on reformed preaching, and their productivity as men of God. These are sure to inspire and spur preachers on to the glorious and weighty task of pulpit ministry. At the same time, rather than a sentimental fascination with the preachers of old, Beeke reminds us of the importance of carrying the biblical and theological emphases from the reformation preachers into the present.

Preachers and those aspiring to the proclamation of God’s word should purchase a copy of this book and study it thoroughly. Though a hefty volume indeed (512 pages), it is jam-packed with encouraging and inspiring teaching on reformed experiential preaching.

Make sure you get a copy (or maybe one for your pastor!) and devote some time to work through this excellent and much-needed volume by Dr. Beeke!