The Working Preacher is a web-based resource created by Luther Seminary in Saint Paul, Minnesota. This platform provides a wealth of resources for pastors and preachers, including commentaries, sermon planning tools, and other helpful resources. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of the Working Preacher and how it can be a valuable resource for pastors and preachers.
Overview of the Working Preacher
The Working Preacher website is a collaborative effort of Luther Seminary faculty and staff, who work together to create and curate resources that support the work of pastors and preachers. One of the most significant resources on the website is the Working Preacher Commentary. This resource provides free, online commentaries on biblical texts that are updated regularly. The commentary is written by scholars and experienced pastors who offer insights into the meaning of the text, as well as suggestions for how it can be preached in today's context.
Features of the Working Preacher
The Working Preacher website has many useful features, including the following:
Sermon Planning Tools
The Working Preacher website provides several helpful tools to support sermon preparation, including sermon illustrations, sermon starters, and worship resources. These resources can help pastors and preachers in the process of sermon development, including ideas for how to structure sermons, what themes to highlight, and what illustrations to use.
Revised Common Lectionary (RCL) Resources
The Working Preacher is particularly useful for those who follow the Revised Common Lectionary (RCL), which is a three-year cycle of biblical readings used by many churches. The website provides RCL resources, including commentary and sermon ideas for each week's lectionary texts.
Working Preacher App
The Working Preacher also has a mobile app, available for both iOS and Android devices. The app provides access to the same resources as the website, making it easy to use on-the-go. This feature allows pastors and preachers to access commentaries and other resources while preparing sermons and leading worship services.
Preaching Podcasts
The Working Preacher website also offers a preaching podcast that features conversations with scholars and pastors on the art and practice of preaching. The podcast covers a range of topics related to preaching, including biblical interpretation, sermon structure, and delivery.
Benefits of the Working Preacher
The Working Preacher website and resources offer many benefits to pastors and preachers, including:
High-quality Commentaries
The Working Preacher Commentaries are written by scholars and experienced pastors, ensuring that they offer insightful and practical perspectives on biblical texts. These commentaries are updated regularly, providing pastors and preachers with fresh insights and ideas.
Comprehensive Resources
The Working Preacher website provides a range of resources that support sermon preparation and worship planning. These resources include sermon illustrations, worship planning tools, and other resources that can save time and help pastors and preachers in their ministry.
Easy-to-Use Platform
The Working Preacher website and app are user-friendly and easy to navigate. The resources are well-organized, making it easy to find what you need quickly.
Free Resources
The Working Preacher website provides all of its resources for free. This is particularly helpful for smaller congregations and pastors who may not have the budget to purchase expensive resources.
Conclusion
The Working Preacher is an excellent resource for pastors and preachers who want to deepen their understanding of biblical texts and improve their preaching. The website provides high-quality commentaries, sermon planning tools, and other resources that support the work of pastors and preachers. The Working Preacher app also makes it easy to access these resources on-the-go. Overall, the Working Preacher is an invaluable resource.