The Practices of Christian Preaching

Leading homiletician Jared Alcántara offers a practice-centered, collaborative, technologically innovative, next-generation introductory preaching textbook with supplementary online resources that include the perspectives of a diverse team of collaborators--Jerusha Matsen Neal, Ahmi Lee, Kenyatta R. Gilbert, and Matthew D. Kim."Great preaching involves a firm grasp of the gospel as well as a keen sense of the moment, a discernment of the crises of this day, and the hungers of particular people at specific junctures of history. Alcántara has written a timely and wise book, a book that guides preachers toward sermons born out of the electric encounter between the enduring good news and rapidly moving news of the day."--Thomas G. Long, Candler School of Theology"In the midst of all the changes to communication styles in a technological world, our vocation has not changed. We are to preach the Christian message with conviction, clarity, creativity, in context, and geared to concrete situations. Alcántara urges us in a straightforward way not to forget the roots of our calling. But he also keeps us connected to the transcultural and multilingual realities many of us face as we seek to be faithful preachers. ¡Gracias, hermano!"--Juan Francisco Martínez, Fuller Theological Seminary"Biblically and theologically grounded throughout, this book goes beyond mechanics to the practices of preaching as life-giving habits. The book speaks to preachers across cultures--with illustrations, metaphors, and stories that bring clarity and engagement with a variety of voices. Both novice and experienced preachers are invited into lifelong growth and creativity."--Elizabeth Conde-Frazier, Association for Hispanic Theological Education"Alcántara presents a clear and refreshing approach to the teaching of Christian preaching. This deliberate book brings homiletical pedagogy into the twenty-first century and sows innovative seeds that will bloom homiletical beauty in multicultural pulpits for many years to come."--Rev. Luke A. Powery, Duke University Chapel"Rather than offering a method for preaching, Alcántara promotes lifelong habits to develop through practice and over time. If every preacher would practice his Five Cs, assisted by the Spirit, the church would be stronger and the world would be a better place."--Paul Scott Wilson, Emmanuel College, University of Toronto"Preaching requires practice and the guidance of a wise and trustworthy practitioner; Alcántara is a good choice for this role. The Practices of Christian Preaching is a literate, diverse, and important addition to the field of homiletics."--Kenton C. Anderson, ACTS Seminaries of Trinity Western University"Alcántara blends perspectives from Hispanic, African American, and Anglo-European homiletic theory in a unique way. An extraordinary contribution to homiletics in the twenty-first century."--Pablo Jiménez, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary