Abstract:
This article begins with a theological argument, then proceeds to practical
application. Its thesis is that there is an inherent link between the character of the preacher, the
character of the congregation, and the character of the gospel proclaimed. They mirror one another.
Many congregations are not equipped to deal with change, growth, or evangelism because they have
become entrenched in one style of leadership or structured life; thus, before congregations can
change, before a congregation can take a new direction in gospel living, the character of the
preacher must be converted. This contribution to the topic proposes that the character of the
preacher and the preacher's congregation can draw closer to the character of the gospel through the
practice and teaching of homiletics.