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PETRUS VAN MASTRICHT

In this appendix to his Theoretical and Practical Theology, Petrus van Mastricht presents pastors with the best method of preaching available. Dividing the task of preaching into four basic aspects (planning, arrangement, parts of a sermon, and delivery), he gives analysis to show how each is meant to work, gives rules for working through each one, and discusses how each part is to aim at and interact with the affections of the hearers. Throughout the piece, he uses Colossians 3:1 as an example to show his student how to progress through this method of preaching. Van Mastricht’s work on preaching demonstrates the concern of sixteenth- and seventeenth-century Reformed theologians that even the most precise and technical theology is meant to aid preachers in addressing the church with God’s Word. It also provides preachers today with encouragement to treat the biblical text faithfully and in a way that most benefits those listening to their sermons.

Table of Contents:

Introduction: Petrus van Mastricht

Preface: The Advantages of Using aTheoretical-Practical Method of Preaching

The Basics of Sermon Arrangement

Preaching Sermon Introductions

Exegeting and Explaining the Text

Preaching Doctrinally

Preaching to Comfort Believers

Preaching against Sin

Preaching for Self-examination

Exhorting unto Good Works

Cautions, Handling Lengthy Texts, and Delivery

Why This Is the Best Method of Preaching

Appendix

Petrus van Mastricht (1630–1706) was a Dutch theologian who studied at Utrecht under Gisbertus Voetius. He pastored churches in the Netherlands and taught at the universities of Franeker and Utrecht. His Theoretical and Practical Theology was praised by many as one of the great works of systematic theology and is noted for treating Christian doctrine comprehensively from its exegetical foundations to its practical use for one’s soul.