I recently took a short course about “missional preaching.” Susan Bell, the Anglican Bishop of Niagara, taught it. In our last class together, she talked about Easter preaching. Here’s the gist of what she said.

Easter! We celebrate that God is making all things new in Christ Jesus. We also celebrate guests whom God might be bringing among us. How can we tell the Resurrection story to them?

Fewer people in our culture know basic things about Christianity. Easter Sunday gives a great chance to introduce and reintroduce the basic story, celebrating within the chaos and wonder of the Gospel accounts.

Still, many have some knowledge of the Good Friday—Easter stories of Jesus. This residual familiarity can be its own challenge too. Many Easter attendees know the “What” of the story. But it doesn’t move them anymore. Some will enjoy the service and even be deeply moved, but it leaves them unchanged. Some will believe the story, but not know why it matters. Some won’t believe it but have come because someone (parent, spouse, etc.) brought them along.

We must tell and celebrate the “What” of the story! But that’s not enough.

We need to tell the “Why.” We are affected by relevance. We care about things that impact us, so talk about why Jesus’ Resurrection is relevant to our lives. We are motivated by things that matter, so explore why the Resurrection makes a difference. We connect with things that are personal to us, so bear witness to why the Resurrection has mattered to you. As preachers, dig into why Jesus’ Resurrection matters to you. Then, tell that! When people get the “why,” they will respond to the “what.”

Want to talk more about strengthening your invitation? Please be in touch.

Christ’s peace and joy,

Greg

Greg Smith-Young (he/him)

Growth Animator | Southwest Ontario