Digital Logos Edition
“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.”—James 1:22 In many people’s mind, if they don’t get anything out of the sermon, it’s the preacher’s fault. But that’s only half true. The Bible teaches that listeners must partner with the preacher so that the Word of God accomplishes its intended purpose of transforming their life. Expository Listening is your handbook on biblical listening. It is designed to equip you not only to understand what true, biblical preaching sounds like, but also how to receive it, and ultimately, what to do about it. You need to know how to look for the Word of God, to love the Word of God, and to live the Word of God. In this way, God and His Word will be honored and glorified through your life.
“Whenever we are exposed to the Word of God we are in essence being exposed to God Himself (1 Cor. 14:24–25)” (Page 12)
“Augustine urged his congregation to attend preaching with ‘burning thirst and fervent hearts.’5” (Page 6)
“One of the clearest evidences that a person truly has been born again is a love for God’s Word. Before the Spirit regenerates us, we are baffled and bored by preaching. But once we are saved, it suddenly makes sense to us and becomes interesting and begins to have a transforming effect on our lives.” (Page 19)
“And at end of your life you will stand before God and give an account for every sermon you heard. On that day, God will essentially ask you, ‘How has your life changed as a result of the thousands of times you have heard My Word preached?’” (Page 5)
“Preaching is not a one-sided endeavor. It is a joint venture between the preacher and the listener.” (Pages 3–4)
Ken Ramey's book should be distributed far and wide. It meets a neglected need in the life of the church. I highly recommend it to every preacher, who would do himself and his congregation a huge favor by making it available. Get it today!
—Jay Adams, author, Be Careful How You Listen: How to Get the Most Out of a Sermon
As Christians we have high expectations of our pastors as they preach the Word of God. In this book Ken Ramey shows that we ought to have equally high expectations of ourselves. Expository preaching demands expository listening. If you struggle to listen, prayerfully read this book and heed its lessons.
—Tim Challies, blogger, author, www.discerningreader.com, Ontario, Canada