Using Extrabiblical Examples in Preaching Without Distracting
Using Extrabiblical Examples in Preaching
Preachers often draw on extrabiblical examples to illustrate biblical teachings and make them more relatable to their audience. This practice is rooted in the biblical tradition itself, where writers like Paul used examples from Greek culture and philosophy to communicate the gospel [5].
The Bible provides numerous examples of using extrabiblical references to convey spiritual truths. For instance, Jesus used everyday examples like farming and household chores to teach about the kingdom of God. Similarly, Paul referenced Greek poets and philosophers in his sermons, such as when he quoted Aratus in Acts 17:28.
When using extrabiblical examples in preaching, it's essential to ensure they serve to illuminate the biblical text rather than distract from it. The preacher's goal is to "declare the testimony of God" in a way that is clear and compelling, without relying on "excellency of speech" or "arts of rhetoric" [5].
One way to achieve this is by using examples that are relevant to the audience's everyday lives. For example, a preacher might use an illustration from contemporary culture to explain a biblical concept like self-denial or diligence. Torrey's Topical Textbook provides numerous examples of biblical teachings on these topics, such as Christ's example of self-denial and the importance of diligence in seeking God [1, 2].
However, preachers must be cautious not to use extrabiblical examples that might confuse or alienate their audience. The use of such examples should always be grounded in a deep understanding of the biblical text and a clear commitment to its authority. As the apostle Paul wrote, "Let no one despise your youth, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity" [4].
The early Christian preachers, as recorded in Acts, demonstrated a bold and unhindered approach to preaching the kingdom of God, teaching about the Lord Jesus Christ without being swayed by external influences [3]. Their example encourages preachers to remain focused on the biblical message, using extrabiblical illustrations judiciously to support their teaching.
Sources
- Torrey's Topical Textbook “Torrey's Topical Textbook: Self-Denial — Christ set an example of -- Mt 4:8-10; 8:20; Joh 6:38; Ro 15:3; Php 2:6-8. A test of devotedness to Christ -- Mt 10:37,38; Lu 9:23,24. Necessary In following Christ. -- Lu 14:27-33. In the warfare of saints. -- 2Ti 2:4. To the triumph of saints. -- 1Co 9:25-27. Ministers especially called to exercise -- 2Co 6:4,5. Should be exercised in Denying ungodliness and worldly lusts. -- Ro 6:12; Tit 2:12. Controlling the appetite. -- Pr 23:2. Abstaining from fleshly lusts. -- 1Pe 2:11. No longer living to lusts of men. -- 1Pe 4:2. Mortifying sinful lusts. -- Mr ”
- Torrey's Topical Textbook “Torrey's Topical Textbook: Diligence — Christ, an example -- Mr 1:35; Lu 2:49. Required by God in Seeking him. -- 1Ch 22:19; Heb 11:6. Obeying him. -- De 6:17; 11:13. Hearkening to him. -- Isa 55:2. Striving after perfection. -- Php 3:13,14. Cultivating Christian graces. -- 2Pe 1:5. Keeping the souls. -- De 4:9. Keeping the heart. -- Pr 4:23. Labours of love. -- Heb 6:10-12. Following every good work. -- 1Ti 5:10. Guarding against defilement. -- Heb 12:15. Seeking to be found spotless. -- 2Pe 3:14. Making our call, &c, sure. -- 2Pe 1:10. Self-examination. -- Ps 77:6. Lawful business. -- Pr 27:”
- Acts “preaching the Kingdom of God, and teaching the things concerning the Lord Jesus Christ with all boldness, without hindrance. -- Acts 28:31”
- I Timothy “I Timothy 4:12 (BSB) — Let no one despise your youth, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.”
- 1 Corinthians (Methodist/Wesleyan) “Adam Clarke on 1 Corinthians 2:1: When I came to you - Acting suitably to my mission, which was to preach the Gospel, but not with human eloquence, Co1 1:17. I declared to you the testimony, the Gospel, of God, not with excellency of speech, not with arts of rhetoric, used by your own philosophers, where the excellence of the speech recommends the matter, and compensates for the want of solidity and truth: on the contrary, the testimony concerning Christ and his salvation is so supremely excellent, as to dignify any kind of language by which it may be conveyed. See the Introduction, Section 2.”