Preachers certainly must do their homework in preparation for Sunday. Paul urges Timothy to be diligent so that he may rightly divide the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15). Yet, I believe if we are to preach with authority, then we must preach confident of the text before us. If we do like this fictional preacher does in this cartoon, we erode our people's confidence in the Scriptures --- something entirely contrary to our calling.

So do your homework, yes! But if you want to send your congregations reeling, step into the pulpit without confidence in the authority of God's Word and shroud it in the clouds of diplomacy by saying, "But there may be other interpretations!" But I submit to you brothers that we are to do exactly what the Apostle Paul urged Timothy: "Preach the Word!"

Preach, O Preach the Word!

This is a charge we are to keep!
To tell it loud before His sheep!
To rouse the lost out of their sleep!
O preach, O preach the Word of God!

Be ready, shepherds, to reprove
Exhort the church so it may move
To spread the truth, embraced with love!
O Preach, O preach the Word of God.

The world moves out with itching ears
That long to hear what they hold dear
And mute the Word that’s all too clear!
O preach, O preach the Word of God!

With sober minds and patient hearts
We persevere as from the start
Fulfill your calling --- do your part!
O preach, O preach the Word of God!

(By Matthew Perry. Written November 1, 2005. Based on 2 Timothy 4:2-5. 8.8.8.8.)