word militant, The

Name: word militant, The
ISBN: 9780800662776

Preaching a Decentering Word

By Walter Brueggemann

Walter Brueggemann challenges preachers and spiritual seekers to rediscover the transformative power of Scripture's most unsettling truths. In this collection of previously published essays, now enhanced with new introductory material, the renowned biblical scholar argues that authentic preaching must embrace the "decentering, destabilizing, always risky Word" found in biblical texts.

Brueggemann contends that too much contemporary religious discourse has become domesticated, serving merely as an echo of prevailing cultural values rather than offering a prophetic alternative. He calls for a return to what he terms "subversive preaching" that dares to challenge existing power structures and reimagine reality through God's perspective, particularly as revealed through the prophetic tradition.

The author presents preaching as both a "foolish and dangerous" endeavor in a world where those in authority remain vigilant against messages that might disrupt established arrangements. Yet he maintains profound hope that the church can remain a sanctuary where alternative understandings of truth continue to find expression.

Through passionate and critical reflection, Brueggemann explores how biblical proclamation can resist cultural accommodation while remaining faithful to Scripture's radical vision. He envisions preachers as "Spirit-filled, evangelical" voices made "militant" by their encounter with God's Word, offering communities something the world desperately needs to hear.

This work serves as both critique and inspiration for anyone seeking to understand how ancient texts can speak prophetically to contemporary spiritual and social challenges.

What You'll Discover