Preaching the Whole Counsel of God: A Divine Responsibility

 

Summary

In our discussion today, we delved into the profound responsibility and privilege of preaching the whole counsel of God. This concept, rooted in Acts 20, emphasizes the importance of delivering all of God's truth, not just select parts. Preaching the whole counsel of God involves a comprehensive approach to Scripture, ensuring that we communicate the full spectrum of biblical doctrine. This includes both biblical theology, which unfolds the covenant of grace and the pre-eminence of Christ, and systematic theology, which organizes these truths into coherent doctrines.

We also explored the significance of "good and necessary consequence" in interpreting Scripture. This principle allows us to deduce truths that are not explicitly stated but are inherently present within the biblical text. Such an approach is crucial for understanding complex doctrines like the Trinity or infant baptism, where direct scriptural references may be absent, yet the theological implications are clear.

Furthermore, we discussed the role of preaching as a means of grace. Preaching is not merely an academic exercise or a Bible study; it is a divine conduit through which God nourishes, convicts, and edifies His people. The Word of God, empowered by the Spirit, is central to our spiritual growth and understanding. It is through the faithful exposition of Scripture that believers are reminded of God's grace, encouraged in their faith, and equipped for discipleship.

In essence, preaching the whole counsel of God requires a commitment to faithfully expound all of Scripture, addressing both the essential and the complex doctrines, while relying on the Spirit to apply these truths to the hearts of the listeners.

Key Takeaways:

1. Preaching the Whole Counsel of God: Preaching involves delivering all of God's truth, encompassing both biblical and systematic theology. This means addressing the full spectrum of doctrines, ensuring that believers receive a comprehensive understanding of Scripture. [03:47]

2. Good and Necessary Consequence: This principle is vital for interpreting Scripture, allowing us to deduce truths that are not explicitly stated but are inherently present. It is essential for understanding complex doctrines and ensuring theological coherence. [10:50]

3. Preaching as a Means of Grace: Preaching is a divine conduit through which God nourishes and edifies His people. It is not merely an academic exercise but a spiritual encounter where the Word, empowered by the Spirit, transforms lives. [19:48]

4. The Role of Doctrine in Preaching: Doctrine is central to preaching, as it provides the framework for understanding Scripture. Preachers must seek to uncover the doctrine within the text, ensuring that their messages are rooted in biblical truth. [02:07]

5. The Importance of Listening to Preaching: The type of preaching we listen to significantly impacts our spiritual growth. Believers must be discerning in their choice of preaching, ensuring it is biblically sound and Spirit-led, as it plays a crucial role in their discipleship journey. [22:03]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:28] - Introduction to Preaching
- [01:12] - Doctrine in Preaching
- [02:07] - Finding Doctrine in the Text
- [03:00] - The Whole Counsel of God
- [03:47] - Biblical and Systematic Theology
- [04:36] - Proportionality in Preaching
- [05:18] - Essentials and Non-Essentials
- [06:32] - Misconceptions About Expository Preaching
- [07:17] - Avoiding Difficult Doctrines
- [08:32] - Westminster Confession and Interpretation
- [09:16] - Good and Necessary Consequence
- [10:50] - Continuity in Doctrine
- [11:39] - Knowledge by Negation
- [13:02] - Scripture Interprets Scripture
- [17:48] - Preaching as a Means of Grace
- [19:48] - Word and Spirit in Preaching
- [22:03] - Importance of Listening to Preaching
- [24:53] - Grace in Preaching

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- Acts 20:27
- Matthew 28:19-20
- 2 Timothy 3:16

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Observation Questions:

1. In Acts 20:27, Paul mentions not shrinking back from declaring the whole counsel of God. What does this imply about the content and scope of his preaching? [00:28]

2. How does the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19-20 relate to the concept of preaching the whole counsel of God as discussed in the sermon? [03:00]

3. According to 2 Timothy 3:16, all Scripture is profitable for doctrine. How does this support the idea of preaching both biblical and systematic theology? [05:55]

4. What role does the principle of "good and necessary consequence" play in interpreting complex doctrines like the Trinity, as mentioned in the sermon? [10:50]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How might the concept of preaching the whole counsel of God challenge a preacher's approach to selecting sermon topics or passages? [06:32]

2. In what ways does the sermon suggest that preaching is more than an academic exercise, but a means of grace? How does this affect the listener's engagement with sermons? [19:48]

3. How does the sermon describe the relationship between biblical theology and systematic theology in the context of preaching? Why is it important to balance both? [03:47]

4. What are the potential dangers of avoiding difficult doctrines in preaching, as highlighted in the sermon? How can this impact a congregation's understanding of Scripture? [07:53]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on your own experience with sermons. Have you noticed a tendency to focus on certain parts of Scripture while neglecting others? How can you encourage a more comprehensive approach in your church community? [06:32]

2. The sermon emphasizes the importance of listening to biblically sound and Spirit-led preaching. How do you discern whether a sermon aligns with these criteria? What steps can you take to ensure you are being spiritually nourished? [22:03]

3. Consider a doctrine or passage of Scripture that you find challenging. How can you approach it with the principle of "good and necessary consequence" to gain a deeper understanding? [10:50]

4. How can you actively participate in your church's discipleship process, ensuring that you are both receiving and contributing to the teaching of the whole counsel of God? [03:00]

5. Preaching is described as a means of grace that nourishes and edifies believers. How can you prepare your heart and mind to receive this grace during sermons? What practical steps can you take to minimize distractions? [19:48]

6. Think about a recent sermon that challenged or convicted you. How did you respond to it? What changes, if any, did you make in your life as a result? [24:12]

7. Identify one aspect of your spiritual life that could benefit from a deeper understanding of Scripture. What resources or practices can you incorporate to explore this area further? [16:28]

Devotional

Day 1: Embracing the Fullness of God's Word
Preaching the whole counsel of God is a profound responsibility that involves delivering all of God's truth, not just select parts. This comprehensive approach ensures that believers receive a full spectrum of biblical doctrine, encompassing both biblical theology, which unfolds the covenant of grace and the pre-eminence of Christ, and systematic theology, which organizes these truths into coherent doctrines. By addressing the full range of doctrines, believers are equipped with a comprehensive understanding of Scripture, which is essential for their spiritual growth and maturity. [03:47]

Acts 20:27-28 (ESV): "For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole counsel of God. Pay careful attention to yourselves and to all the flock, in which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to care for the church of God, which he obtained with his own blood."

Reflection: Consider a doctrine or part of Scripture you tend to overlook. How can you intentionally study and embrace it this week to gain a fuller understanding of God's Word?


Day 2: Discovering Truths Through Good and Necessary Consequence
The principle of "good and necessary consequence" is vital for interpreting Scripture, allowing us to deduce truths that are not explicitly stated but are inherently present. This approach is crucial for understanding complex doctrines like the Trinity or infant baptism, where direct scriptural references may be absent, yet the theological implications are clear. By employing this principle, believers can ensure theological coherence and gain deeper insights into the mysteries of faith. [10:50]

Hebrews 5:12-14 (ESV): "For though by this time you ought to be teachers, you need someone to teach you again the basic principles of the oracles of God. You need milk, not solid food, for everyone who lives on milk is unskilled in the word of righteousness, since he is a child. But solid food is for the mature, for those who have their powers of discernment trained by constant practice to distinguish good from evil."

Reflection: Identify a complex doctrine you find challenging. How can you use the principle of "good and necessary consequence" to explore and understand it more deeply this week?


Day 3: Preaching as a Transformative Encounter
Preaching is not merely an academic exercise or a Bible study; it is a divine conduit through which God nourishes, convicts, and edifies His people. The Word of God, empowered by the Spirit, is central to our spiritual growth and understanding. Through the faithful exposition of Scripture, believers are reminded of God's grace, encouraged in their faith, and equipped for discipleship. Preaching serves as a means of grace, transforming lives and drawing believers closer to God. [19:48]

1 Thessalonians 2:13 (ESV): "And we also thank God constantly for this, that when you received the word of God, which you heard from us, you accepted it not as the word of men but as what it really is, the word of God, which is at work in you believers."

Reflection: Reflect on a recent sermon that impacted you. How can you allow the truths you heard to transform your daily life and deepen your relationship with God?


Day 4: The Centrality of Doctrine in Preaching
Doctrine is central to preaching, as it provides the framework for understanding Scripture. Preachers must seek to uncover the doctrine within the text, ensuring that their messages are rooted in biblical truth. By doing so, they help believers build a solid foundation of faith, enabling them to navigate the complexities of life with confidence and clarity. Doctrine serves as a guide, helping believers discern truth from error and grow in their knowledge of God. [02:07]

2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV): "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."

Reflection: Think about a doctrine you have learned recently. How can you apply this doctrine to a specific area of your life to strengthen your faith and witness?


Day 5: The Impact of Listening to Sound Preaching
The type of preaching we listen to significantly impacts our spiritual growth. Believers must be discerning in their choice of preaching, ensuring it is biblically sound and Spirit-led, as it plays a crucial role in their discipleship journey. Sound preaching helps believers grow in their understanding of God's Word, equips them for service, and encourages them to live out their faith in practical ways. By choosing to listen to sound preaching, believers can experience spiritual growth and transformation. [22:03]

Colossians 3:16 (ESV): "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God."

Reflection: Evaluate the preaching you regularly listen to. Is it biblically sound and Spirit-led? How can you ensure that the preaching you engage with is helping you grow in your faith and understanding of God's Word?

Quotes

"Preaching the whole counsel of God means preaching all of God's truth. At least, I think that's what it means in Acts 20." [00:03:00]

"I think preaching the whole counsel of God on the one hand, of course, is a desire in expositional preaching to unfold the Scriptures. The Scriptures unfold the covenant of grace to the pre-eminence of Christ as Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer. So, that's what we call biblical theology." [00:03:47]

"Everything in the Bible is important. As I said in the sermon, it takes a whole Bible to make a whole Christian. So, everything is important, but not everything is as important as other things. That's why he says, 'I delivered to you,' in 1 Corinthians 15, 'I delivered to you that which is of first importance.'" [00:04:36]

"I think it's also very important that we keep in mind that when we talk about preaching the whole counsel of God that we understand that it means a preacher shouldn't deliberately avoid certain passages or difficult passages, difficult doctrines that pertain to the passage from which he's preaching because he doesn't want to have to deal with it." [00:07:17]

"Chapter 1 of the Westminster Confession states that the whole counsel of God concerning man's salvation and God's glory, and so forth, is either expressly set out in Scripture or by good and necessary consequence may be deduced from Scripture." [00:08:32]

"We study the Scriptures and ... for instance, we just heard this wonderful sermon on Trinity. Now, you don't find the word 'Trinity' in the Bible. That's a term that we've developed in order to accommodate the unfolding of the doctrine of God, one God in three persons." [00:11:39]

"One of the reasons you need the whole counsel of God is because the ultimate interpreter of Scripture is Scripture itself, and knowing how to do that. And when you've got a difficult text, you go to the easier text because the Scripture can't contradict itself." [00:13:02]

"What we mean by 'means of grace' is, and especially the term 'ordinary means of grace' is church, reading the Bible, listening to sermons, praying, fellowshipping with one another. This is how God intends for us to receive salvation and understand salvation and not through extraordinary ministries of the Holy Spirit." [00:17:48]

"Jesus, dare I call Him the 'reservoir of grace' by which we are saved, has two conduits that He has ordained connecting to us. This is the way I picture it, if you all will bear with me, the Word of God and the Spirit of God— and as our brothers said, boy, what a great talk that was about Stephen, Michael gave about this, is that they work together." [00:19:48]

"The early church was conceived in a prayer meeting: Acts chapter 1, birthed in a sermon: Acts chapter 2, and matured with these four statements: 'They continually devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching: the Word proclaimed, the fellowship: the Word shared, the breaking of the bread: the sacrament, the Word displayed, and the prayers which is the Word returned." [00:22:03]

"As we sit under the ministry of the Word, we are growing, being challenged, being convicted, not by just general words of conviction, but particular words of conviction that are particular to those congregations to which those pastors are preaching." [00:24:53]

"I need to be reminded of God's grace, not just as sort of a floating entity in the air, but that God is a gracious God, that He is gracious and that He gives more grace. And when we draw near to Him, He draws near to us and He gives us that grace, and we need that grace." [00:25:53]

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Transcript
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