be courageous and avoid being used to exergerate the above the border line of the word of God, To "sensitize the pulpit" means to make the preaching and teaching from the pulpit more relevant, impactful, and spiritually attuned to the needs of the congregation, focusing on God's word and its application to everyday life, as reflected in verses like 1 Timothy 4:16, "Pay close attention to your teaching, be diligent in your ministry, and watch your doctrine and your life. For by doing this, you will save both yourself and your hearers."
Here's a breakdown of how to approach this:
1. Focus on God's Word:
Biblical Foundation:
Ground sermons and teachings firmly in scripture, ensuring that the message is rooted in God's truth.
Thoroughly study the biblical text, understanding its original context and meaning, to ensure accurate and relevant interpretation.
Application
Help the congregation see how the biblical truths apply to their lives, encouraging them to live out their faith in practical ways.
2. Connect with the Congregation:
Relevance:
Address the concerns, questions, and challenges that the congregation faces, demonstrating that God's word is relevant to their lives.
Empathy:
Show compassion and understanding, creating a space where people feel heard and valued.
Prayer:
Pray for the congregation and for the message to be received with open hearts, seeking God's guidance and power.
3. Strive for Excellence:
Preparation:
Dedicate time to prepare sermons and teachings, ensuring that they are well-thought-out and engaging.
Communication:
Communicate clearly and effectively, using language that is accessible to the congregation.
Spiritual Sensitivity:
Be attuned to the Holy Spirit's leading, allowing God to speak through the pulpit.
Bible Verses to Guide the Pulpit:
1 Timothy 4:16:
"Pay close attention to your teaching, be diligent in your ministry, and watch your doctrine and your life. For by doing this, you will save both yourself and your hearers."
2 Timothy 2:15:
"Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a worker who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth."
2 Timothy 4:2:
"Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage with patience and gentleness."
1 Corinthians 14:3:
"But let him who speaks in a spirit speak to edify, exhort, and comfort."
Ephesians 4:12:
"To equip his people for works of service, that the body of Christ may be built up."
1 Thessalonians 5:11:
"Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, as you are already doing."