Preaching that speaks to women

Sermons with sex appeal

PREACHING THAT SPEAKS TO WOMEN
By Alice P. Matthews
IVP. 182 pages. £8.99
ISBN 0 85111 990 5

In the average congregation, over 60% are women. However, Alice Matthews asserts that many male preachers seldom refer to women in their sermons, or include illustrations and applications that apply specifically to them. She therefore offers a challenge to preachers to develop a deeper understanding of the women in their congregations so that their sermons 'speak more powerfully to the issues of women's lives and the needs of their hearts'.

In this comprehensive study, Matthews explores the various ways in which women hear, learn and process the messages they receive, according to their different life-experiences, self-perceptions and spirituality. She examines the implications of preaching that is entirely male in perspective and the challenges of leading in such a way that will empower women hearers to obey the great commandment - to love God with all their hearts, souls, minds and strength, and to love others as themselves.

In technical detail, aimed more at preachers than laypersons, the author begins by discussing the different ways in which men and women approach moral decisions, the effects of stereotyping and psychological gender differences expressed specifically in areas such as stress, self-esteem and depression.

The latter half of the book focuses primarily on understanding issues of faith, power, leadership and biblical identity from a woman's perspective. It also addresses the challenges of ministering to single and childless women in such a way as to affirm these roles within the church family. The preacher is encouraged to examine his own feelings and beliefs about the issues facing Christian women today and to present Scriptural truths before them in a way that will inspire confidence in God and obedience to his word.

I found the tone of the book overly assertive at times, but appreciated Matthews's plea for preachers to seek to understand their female listeners better and so communicate with them more effectively. She writes in great detail and much of what is written could probably be said in a more concise and straightforward way. However, each chapter concludes with an excellent summary of the important points, which would be of benefit to the busy preacher who may not have time to digest the whole book. For those willing to invest some time and work hard, this book would be a worthwhile read.

Carolyn Lacey,
Kensington Baptist Church, Bristol

© Evangelicals Now - October 2003
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