An Extension of the Pulpit
Jarrod M. Jacobs
A good friend of mine once talked with me about teaching bulletins such as the one he was writing. As we talked about the value of such teaching tools, he said, "I consider teaching bulletins an extension of the pulpit." I thought that was a fair assessment, for I feel the same way about the bulletin published here. I hope our dear readers see that this teaching tool is but an extension of the pulpit.
What is meant by that statement? First, let us understand that one of the definitions for "extend" is: "to enlarge the scope of, or make more comprehensive..." (Webster's). The point is that this bulletin is written to enlarge the scope, or make more comprehensive, what is being taught in the pulpit. It is my prayer that this bulletin will always do this.
As I thought about my brother's statement, I realized that the bulletin is just one extension of the pulpit. What are some other "extensions of the pulpit"? Let us find out.
Bible Study at Home
When we hear preaching which stresses the need for studying our Bible and "handling aright the word of truth" (II Tim. 2:15), do we take this home with us? Personal Bible study is necessary to grow and mature spiritually (Heb. 5:12-14; II Pet. 3:18). This is why it is stressed often from the pulpit. The preacher cannot study for others (II Tim. 2:15). He tries to teach and instruct (II Tim. 4:2) because he cannot learn "for" anyone, either! Learning involves a personal commitment, and it demands we spend personal time studying God's will. Have we "extended" the pulpit to include spending time in God's book at home?
Private Talks with Friends
When we are encouraged to take God's message to our friends, neighbors, and family who are lost (Mk. 16:15; II Tim. 2:2), do we make the application to ourselves? Sometimes, it is because we have earned the confidence and respect of certain ones that we have an open door for teaching them the gospel. Others may not be able to enter this "door," but the one who knows them often can!
Think about it: Who brought Simon Peter to Christ (Jn. 1:40-42)? Who was it that brought Nathaniel to the Lord (Jn. 1:45-46)? When Peter came to Cornelius' house, who was there, and how did they know Peter was coming (Acts 10:24)? These examples stress, among other things, the spiritual good that can be done when one shows an interest in another's soul. Are we "extending (i.e., enlarging the scope of) the pulpit" in this way?
Raising Your Children
The man in the pulpit can only do so much for you and your children. This stems from the fact that the preacher sees your children (perhaps) 2-3 hours per week at most. Yet parents, you have your children the rest of the time. What are they taught at home? Shouldn't they see godliness in our lives and influence? Paul said, "Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord." (Eph. 6:4). Parents, isn't reminding your children of a sermon or lesson learned in class just one way you could be "teaching and admonishing"? Another way to teach our children is simply by applying what has been taught so that our children see us changing to make our lives fit into Christ's mold (Matt. 5:16; Jas. 1:22-25).
Radio Programs, Published Material, Websites, Etc.
Our radio program continues to do well, I believe. We consistently have folks call or communicate by e-mail about the programs. (We have archived our programs on our website so others can benefit from the Bible programs.) Since some would not "darken the door" of this church building, the radio program helps send the gospel message into the community. Indeed, this type of effort enables us to "enlarge the scope of, or make more comprehensive" the preaching from the pulpit.
Such efforts as websites that teach the truth or published articles (in the newspaper, bulletins, etc.), only extend the type of teaching we're trying to do from the pulpit. Christ told His apostles to go and teach all nations (Matt. 28:19), and so long as there is sin in the world, people will need to be taught the truth that they might be made free (Jn. 8:31-32). In an effort to preach the gospel to every creature, we ought to remember that things such as radio programs, websites, newspaper articles, bulletins, etc., allow many the opportunity to hear, believe, and obey the truth. Indeed, these things are an extension of the pulpit.
Conclusion
There are other "extensions" we could add to this list. Yet, these ought to be enough to remind us that as Christians, our primary responsibility is to make sure that the teaching in the pulpit is extended to those who need to hear it! Sometimes, we "hoard up" the teaching and do not take the time to let others learn what we have learned. Such an attitude is selfish, not to mention negligent, when we know part of our duty as Christians is to teach others (II Tim. 2:2)! Let us not be selfish toward others or negligent in our work but interested in the truth and saving lost souls. Let us be about our Father's business, not slack in our responsibilities (Lk. 19:10; Jn. 9:4; I Pet. 2:21).
"Who knows whether you have come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" (Est. 4:14) Could it be because of your invitation to our worship services that someone is saved? Could it be because you handed someone a bulletin or told someone about the radio program or the website that one's faith was strengthened? Therefore, the actual "extension of the pulpit" is none other than the Christian who is willing to leave sin and self and live for Christ all his life! This person is a living "extension of the pulpit" and is a far greater threat to Satan than we realize! "Let us not be weary in well doing" (Gal. 6:9; II Thess. 3:13)! Let us extend the borders of God's kingdom from this place. Let us be all God wants us to be, shining as lights in a world of darkness (Matt. 5:16; Phil. 2:15).
(Reprinted from "The Old Paths," Vol. 30:29.)
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