You Are the Preacher First

Paul Thomas

When I first came to try-out at this congregation for the summer, I was warmly welcomed by the brethren. The first sermon preached that Sunday was not by me but by you.

· You preach a message of good cheer when you say “Good Morning” to those you meet as you are parking, or as you greet them in the meeting house.

· You preach a message of hope and joy when you enthusiastically sing during our worship in song.

· You preach a message about the power of prayer and unity when you fervently enter into our time of prayer together.

· You preach a message about faith when you give of your means in the contribution.

· You preach a message about the importance of the Scriptures when you open your Bible in class or during the sermon.

· You preach a message of love when you smile, say hello and introduce yourselves to visitors.

· You preach a message about priorities as you strive to attend the all the services that you possibly can.

Not everyone can serve as “the preacher” in a local congregation. However, the message that you send to visitors can but just as powerful as the message preached behind the pulpit.

We, as Christians, are “walking billboards” that proclaim Christ living in us (Galatians 2:20). We are the “sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place,” whether it be in the worship services or at the workplace (2 Corinthians 2:14). Remember that we are being watched in how we act and treat one another, both by our brethren and those who have not obeyed the gospel. There are many who are searching for the truth in how to be obedient to God (Acts 17:27; 1 Pet 2:12).

And so, let us with one mind preach the same message so that many “may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 15:5-6).”