There’s an old story about a young man who recently graduated with a degree in Bible who was interviewing for his first job. In one of his interviews, he was asked by the elders about his views on the Holy Spirit. His alleged response was, “I can preach it both ways.” Now I’m not sure if it actually ever happened or not, but it makes for a great story.
However, there is some gold in that statement when properly applied. I remember through the years hearing great gospel preachers talk about the need for balanced preaching.
Our brother Paul challenged us to preach the truth in love. Some seem to think those two concepts are in opposition to one another. Yet, in our proclamation of the Good News, we must make certain that we are preaching the truth, and that we are preaching it out of a heart of love.
This struggle to find the proper balance between preaching the truth and preaching it in love has caused some preachers to ignore preaching biblically. It has led others to become angry and ugly in their preaching. The tension between the two unfortunately has caused some to throw up their hands in despair and quit.
In reality, this kind of balance is beautiful. It is our Maker’s desire that we preach it both ways. He wants us, He requires us to preach it both ways.
We are to preach the proper relationship between Grace and faith, faith and works, God’s mercy and God’s wrath, doctrinal and practical, as well as truth and love. This approach to preaching will not only be a powerful blessing to your church family, but it will also give you peace in your heart and stir you on to greater work for the Lord. So go ahead, dear brothers, preach it both ways!
