Pitfalls of Using Extrabiblical Examples in Preaching
Pitfalls of Using Extrabiblical Examples in Preaching
Preachers often face the challenge of using extrabiblical examples to illustrate biblical truths. However, this practice can be fraught with pitfalls. One of the primary concerns is that extrabiblical examples may not accurately convey the intended message, potentially leading to misinterpretation or confusion [1].
The Bible itself warns against using flattery or deceitful speech, which can be a pitfall when using extrabiblical examples. For instance, Torrey's Topical Textbook cites Job 32:21-22 and 1 Thessalonians 2:5, emphasizing that ministers should avoid using flattery [1]. Similarly, the use of false or misleading examples can be seen as a form of deceit, which is condemned in Scripture (Psalm 5:9; 12:2).
Another potential pitfall is that extrabiblical examples may not be grounded in biblical truth. For example, using examples from secular sources without proper discernment can lead to the promotion of unbiblical values or ideas. The apostle Paul warns against receiving a "different gospel" or "different spirit" (2 Corinthians 11:4) [3].
Furthermore, the use of extrabiblical examples can also lead to a lack of emphasis on biblical teachings. As Calvin notes, "men always form their estimate of God from themselves, and think that he is satisfied with outward display, but cannot without the greatest difficulty be brought to offer to him the integrity of their heart" [4]. This highlights the importance of ensuring that extrabiblical examples serve to illustrate and reinforce biblical teachings, rather than overshadowing them.
The Bible provides guidance on the use of examples in preaching, emphasizing the importance of using biblical examples to illustrate spiritual truths. For instance, Easton's Bible Dictionary notes that Christ is an example to believers (1 Peter 2:21; John 13:15), and pastors should be examples to their flocks (Philippians 3:17; 2 Thessalonians 3:9) [2].
Sources
- Torrey's Topical Textbook “Torrey's Topical Textbook: Flattery — Saints should not used -- Job 32:21,22. Ministers should not use -- 1Th 2:5. The wicked use, to Others. -- Ps 5:9; 12:2. Themselves. -- Ps 36:2. Hypocrites use, to God. -- Ps 78:36. Those in authority. -- Da 11:34. False prophets and teachers use -- Eze 12:24; Ro 16:18. Wisdom, a preservative against -- Pr 4:5. Worldly advantage obtained by -- Da 11:21,22. Seldom gains respect -- Pr 28:23. Avoid those given to -- Pr 20:19. Danger of -- Pr 7:21-23; 20:5. Punishment of -- Job 17:5; Ps 12:3. Exemplified Woman of Tekoah. -- 2Sa 14:17,20. Absalom. -- 2Sa 15:2-6”
- Easton's Bible Dictionary “Easton's Bible Dictionary: Example — Of Christ (1 Pet. 2:21; John 13:15); of pastors to their flocks (Phil. 3:17; 2 Thess. 3:9; 1 Tim. 4:12; 1 Pet. 5:3); of the Jews as a warning (Heb. 4:11); of the prophets as suffering affliction (James 5:10).”
- II Corinthians “II Corinthians 11:4 (BSB) — For if someone comes and proclaims a Jesus other than the One we proclaimed, or if you receive a different spirit than the One you received, or a different gospel than the one you accepted, you put up with it way too easily.”
- CCEL (Reformed) “Calvin, Commentary on Isaiah, Vol. 1, section 7.26: with merely outward worship, and cannot be appeased by ceremonies. In all places godly ministers have experience of the same kind of conflicts; for men always form their estimate of God from themselves, and think that he is satisfied with outward display, but cannot without the greatest difficulty be brought to offer to him the integrity of their heart. All the perplexity of this passage will be easily removed by Jeremiah, who says, When I redeemed your fathers out of Egypt, I did not order them to offer sacrifices to me; I only enjoined them”