Using External Examples in Preaching and Teaching: Common Pitfalls
Using External Examples in Preaching and Teaching: Common Pitfalls
Preachers and teachers often use external examples to illustrate their points, but this practice can be fraught with pitfalls. One common issue is the risk of hypocrisy, where the teacher or preacher fails to practice what they preach [3]. For instance, Paul warns against this in Romans 2:21, saying, "But thou which teachest another teachest not thy selfe. Thou preachest a man shuld not steale: and yet thou stealest" [3].
Another pitfall is the use of flattery to gain acceptance or advantage. The Bible warns against the dangers of flattery, noting that it can be used to manipulate others (Psalm 5:9; 12:2) [2]. Preachers and teachers should be cautious not to use flattery to win people over, as this can lead to a lack of authenticity and trust.
The use of external examples can also be problematic if they are not relevant or applicable to the audience. For example, using examples from a different cultural or historical context can be confusing or misleading. It is essential to consider the audience and tailor the examples accordingly.
Furthermore, preachers and teachers must be mindful of their own character and behavior, as they set an example for their audience. The Bible emphasizes the importance of being an example to others, particularly for leaders (1 Timothy 4:12; 1 Peter 5:3) [1]. Paul exhorts Timothy to "be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity" [4].
The early church fathers also warned against the dangers of false teachers who use external examples to deceive others. For instance, John Chrysostom notes that some individuals may use their youth or position to gain influence, rather than relying on their character and teaching [4].
To avoid these pitfalls, preachers and teachers should focus on using biblical examples and illustrations that are relevant to their audience. They should also be mindful of their own character and behavior, striving to be examples of godliness and integrity. By doing so, they can effectively communicate their message and avoid misleading their audience.
Sources
- 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).”
- 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”
- Romans “Romans 2:21 (Tyndale) — But thou which teachest another teachest not thy selfe. Thou preachest a man shuld not steale: and yet thou stealest.”
- CCEL/NPNF (Eastern Orthodox) “John Chrysostom, Homilies on Galatians–Colossians–Thessalonians: 449 Homily XIII. 1 Timothy iv. 11–14 “These things command and teach. Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.” In some cases it is necessary to command, in others to teach; if therefore you command in those cases where teaching is required, ”