The pulpit is less than half of the mystery of preaching. If we attempt to separate it from what is happening on the listening side, it can be an empty gong or a clanging cymbal. Sermons are one-dimensional until a warming current begins to flow along the fragile wiring of the heart.

One Sunday at 10:55 a.m. I was stopped in the hallway by a young church member who appeared in great distress. He asked me, as the preacher who would be leading the service, if it would be all right if I asked the congregation to remain a few minutes after the benediction so he might speak to them. His request unnerved me a little. I had no idea what it was he wanted to say. There were only two minutes left before the chimes would ring and start the Introit and Call to Worship. But this was obviously most impor…