We’ve looked at the dangers of topical preaching.  Today I want to look at what I consider to be the superior method of preaching.  This is the method that is most loyal to the biblical text.  I am referring to expository preaching.  Before we go any further I think it is necessary to define what I mean when I use the term “expository preaching.”  Here is a definition that I found on gotquestions.org that I think does a good job of explaining this style of preaching.

Expository preaching involves the exposition, or comprehensive explanation, of the Scripture; that is, expository preaching presents the meaning and intent of a biblical text, making the passage clear and understandable. The word exposition is related to the word expose — the expository preacher’s goal is simply to expose the meaning of the Bible, verse by verse.

Expository preaching differs from topical preaching, in fact they are in direct contradiction to each other.  In topical sermons, the Bible passage is used as support material for the topic. In expository sermons, the Bible passage is the topic, and support materials are used to explain and clarify it.   Expository preaching solves all the problems that are created by topical preaching.

In expository preaching context is a primary focus,  all the Bible is taught, and personal biases are negated.  The focus is on the Word of God and on nothing else.  Bryan Chapell, author of Christ-Centered Preaching says, “An expositor is solemnly bound to say what God says.   In an expository message we relate precisely what a text of Scripture says. An expository message gets its main points and its sub-points directly from the text.”

To sum it up, expository preaching tends to lead the pastor to preach the true message of Scripture.  Topical preaching tends to lead the pastor to use Scripture to preach his own message.  Clearly expository preaching is the method of preaching in which pastors should be committed.