While many in evangelicalism are calling for the demise of the sermon, and many others have forgotten what a biblical sermon is to be, others are making a passionate plea for a return to exposition of the Scriptures. Steven Lawson is one of those, opening Famine in the Land with a quote from D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, “The most urgent need in the Christian Church today is true preaching; and as it is the greatest and most urgent need in the Church, it is the greatest need of the world also.”
Lawson is serious about preaching. What follows Lloyd-Jones’ quote is biblical support for preaching, numerous examples of great preaching and a treasure chest of quotes and illustrations designed to encourage preaching.
While there is much illumination in Famine in the Land, its purpose is more in line with inspiration. Lawson desperately wants his readers to understand that true doctrinal, expositional preaching is essential for the life of the church. To replace preaching with drama, programs, entertainment and “feel-good” sermonettes is to hollow-out the heart of the church. We must return to preaching with a vengeance.
Every preacher and teacher of the Word needs to periodically read a book such as this one.