Churched
There are tons of resources available to help you determine the meaning of a text. There are a choice few – maybe only you – who know your congregation. Therefore, you MUST work hard at – not just knowing the meaning of the text – but knowing how your people will hear and apply what you say. A preacher who just exegetes a text misses the point. The preacher must do the extra difficult work of exegeting his congregation.
How?
Spend time with them. Be their pastor. Be their shepherd. Be with them. Listen to them. Pay attention to what gets their attention.
How?
- Never eat lunch alone.
- Get out of your office before people begin to gather on Sundays and Wednesdays.
- Take initiative in scheduling coffee.
- Listen to them pray.
- Listen to them talk in the hospital.
- Friend them on Facebook.
- Respond to emails and phone calls.
- Learn their names and their stories.
- Pay attention to the pastoring side of your calendar – is anything happening?
Of course, this takes time. A lot of time over several years. This will earn their trust from you, which makes a great pastor. But it is also required for you to be a great preacher. Good preachers expound a text of Scripture in a meaningful way. Great preachers know how to make the text meaningful in a specific way to the people he leads. You cannot do that unless you know your people.
What are some ways you are intentionally getting to know your people?
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