SCORNED OR CELEBRATED?
Throughout the church's history until today, apostles, prophets, pastors, and teachers have employed a wide variety of oratory styles, each carefully crafted to deliver God’s message with profound impact. The diversity of these oratory styles—from fiery proclamations to gentle admonitions—reflects the breadth of God's character: His majesty, love, justice, and mercy. Some employed poetic elegance, while others preached with a sense of urgent conviction, their tone underscoring the gravity of their message. Their words convict hearts, challenge the complacent, comfort the weary, and inspire the faithful.
In recent times, it has become fashionable to criticize certain oratory styles used in the church. Some argue that any style other than a conversational tone diminishes the pulpit, suggesting a lack of intelligence or an outdated approach. However, this dismissive view overlooks that God has uniquely designed each of us with distinct attributes and gifts.
"Public speaking in the church setting, as demonstrated by the prophets, Jesus, and the apostles, serves a much higher purpose than simply disseminating information."
I offer the following for reflection:
The Preachers' Voice as an Instrument for God's Glory
Etymology and Meaning: The Greek verb kērússō (κηρύσσω) refers to the act of a herald proclaiming a message on behalf of a ruler or a king. In ancient Greece, a kērux was employed to announce important decrees or messages publicly. Thus, kērússō means publicly announcing or proclaiming with a strong voice and authority.
Usage in the New Testament: kērússō refers to proclaiming the Good News or the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It suggests that the preacher acts as a kērux of God, delivering His message with authority, much like a royal decree. Matthew 4:17 states, "From that time Jesus began to preach (kērússō), saying, ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.’” Here, Jesus is heralding the coming of God's kingdom with divine authority. Again, the New Testament repeatedly describes preachers filled with the Holy Spirit delivering messages with boldness and power. Peter’s sermon at Pentecost (Acts 2:14-41) is a prime example of a Spirit-filled, intense proclamation.
Biblical Precedent: Scripture highlights numerous instances where God's servants used their voices in powerful ways. Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezekiel are known for their bold proclamations of God’s message. The Apostle Paul, when speaking in Athens or before kings, likely used a voice that carried authority. Following these footsteps, preachers are called to communicate with authority and conviction (2 Timothy 4:2). John the Baptist is described as "a voice crying out in the wilderness" (Matthew 3:1- 3), indicating a passionate and forceful delivery.
Jesus’ Public Teaching: Jesus likely used a different tone when addressing large crowds than He did in private conversations. The Sermon on the Mount, His calls for repentance, and His passionate lament over Jerusalem (Matthew 23:37) all suggest varied vocal expressions according to the setting and the message. Jesus adapted His voice to match the gravity of His message without losing authenticity.
Voice as a Vessel for the Holy Spirit: When preachers enter the pulpit, they stand as vessels for the Holy Spirit to speak through. The unique ‘preacher’s voice’ can be viewed not as artificial but as an embodiment of the urgency and divine authority behind the message (Romans 10:14-15). An elevated voice can reflect the weight of the message, reinforcing the idea that the sermon is an encounter with God.
The Preacher's Voice as a Cultural and Historical Tradition
Historical Continuity of Passionate Proclamation: Throughout church history, preaching has often been associated with passionate, elevated speaking. Figures like George Whitefield, Charles Spurgeon, and Martin Luther King Jr. are remembered for their words and how they delivered them. Criticizing the preacher’s voice is to critique a time-honored tradition that has historically captivated audiences and drawn them into a deeper engagement with the Gospel.
Cultural Expression of Worship: Just as different cultures express worship through various musical styles, dance, or art forms, vocal expression in preaching is a form of worship and prayer. When it shifts in tone or emphasis, the preacher's voice mirrors the passion with which the preacher approaches communicating God’s Word. Rather than being "performative," the preacher gives their whole self—voice, body, and mind. Our Canadian churches are a mosaic of cultures; any attempt to force upon our pulpits a particular mode of speaking marginalizes and divides.
Psychological Power of Oratory
Oratory as a Time-Tested Method: Great orators, whether in religious or secular settings, understand the psychological impact of voice modulation, tone, and passion. For example, Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech would not have been as impactful without rhythm and passion. Similarly, in a preaching context, a powerful voice helps emphasize critical points and connects emotionally with the congregation.
People Respond to Passion: Life experience shows that people respond to passion and conviction. Those who speak passionately often move people to action, whether in sports, politics, or other public arenas. A preacher who modulates their voice to reflect the gravity of the message is engaging the audience’s emotions and intellect holistically, not merely performing.
Respect for the Occasion: Just as public speaking in any important context often demands a specific vocal tone—whether in the courtroom, a wedding, or a motivational seminar—preaching also holds a unique place. When preachers step into the pulpit, they do something profoundly important. The elevated tone and style reflect the seriousness of the occasion: communicating the very words of God.
Addressing the Critics’ Insecurities
Intimidation or Insecurity: Critics of the preacher’s voice may feel intimidated because they do not possess the same qualities in their preaching or teaching style. Rather than viewing the preacher’s voice as artificial, they might consider their approach to the task. Perhaps their critique is rooted in a discomfort with passionate delivery because they have yet to embrace the intensity that preaching sometimes requires.
Misunderstanding Authenticity: Critics might argue that the preacher’s voice is too “performative.” However, authenticity in preaching does not mean always maintaining the same conversational tone. Authenticity comes from aligning one’s message, calling, and delivery. If a preacher feels genuinely called to elevate their voice for the sake of the presentation, it is a demonstration of their conviction, not artifice.
Preacher’s Voice as a Gift of God
Vocal Talents as a Spiritual Gift: Just as some are gifted in music, teaching, or leadership, the preacher’s voice can be understood as part of God’s gifting to specific individuals. Preachers who can project, modulate, and inspire with their voices are using the natural talents God has given them for His glory. Criticism of this gift may reflect a failure to appreciate the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:4-6).
The Role of the Voice in Engaging Hearts: Some people are moved not just by the content of the message but by the passion with which it is delivered. An elevated, passionate voice is often the vehicle through which God stirs hearts, convicts people of sin, or encourages them in faith. For this reason, it is unwise to downplay or discourage preachers from using their voices entirely.
“The preacher’s voice, charged with authority and urgency, is not a relic of the past but a gift intended to awaken souls and inspire faith.”
Some advocate for a 'TED' Talk approach to the pulpit. While 'TED' speakers might excel in engagingly conveying information, the purpose of preaching is far more profound—it is the proclamation of divine truth, often charged with a sense of urgency, repentance, or conviction. Public speaking in the church setting, as demonstrated by the prophets, Jesus, and the apostles, serves a much higher purpose than simply disseminating information. It moves people toward transformation, conviction, and often, repentance—tasks that sometimes call for more than a calm, conversational tone.
Embrace the voice God has uniquely crafted within you, for it holds the power to reach those only you can touch. Stand boldly in your calling, knowing that each word you speak in His name contributes to the ever-expanding Kingdom of God.
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