Congregations are “less biblically literate” than in the past, [Fergus] Butler-Gallie argues. For this reason, modern churchgoers require “more extrapolation and more zoning in on what the readings actually mean” in order for the Bible to be brought alive. But this, he says, is something “fewer and fewer clergy are prepared to do”.
Bishop North is pragmatic about what people take away from a sermon. “People remember very little about the content of the sermon: all that they remember is what a sermon makes them feel,” he says.’
When preaching, he is “trying to create an environment in which I make the scriptures speak to today, such that there is a genuine encounter with the God of Jesus Christ.”“The last thing I’m looking for is originality. I’m not trying to say something new: it’s all been said.”
An interesting read on the art of preaching. Made me think that perhaps reading sermons by others can be quite helpful. I like @flemingrut @gerrylynch @DeHartBenjaminR and heard a great one by @RevThomasSander this year.https://t.co/22xqA6w5ng
— Madeleine Davies (@MadsDavies) November 1, 2026
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