Understanding our needs

Here are some interesting thoughts from Brad Braxton about understanding our needs:

With the appropriate emphasis on God, responsible preaching [and teaching] seeks to address the needs and questions of listeners. But a degree of theological sophistication is required. Some pastors occasionally poll their congregants, inquiring about sermon topics that might interest and assist their congregants. This approach is enterly appropriate and demonstrates respect for the congregation. Nevertheless, the gospel reminds us that we often miscalculate our needs. Recognizing our tendency for miscalculation, Thomas Frank insists, 'I don't really understand what most of my "needs" are anyway--that's part of why I continue to listen to Jesus.'

Thus the assessment of individual and congregational needs must be in conversation with the gospel. Paul Scott Wilson thinks that such a conversation will distinguish the "expressed need" from the "actual need." The expressed need is 'the need the congregation identifies for itself, in its own words.' The actual need is 'the need of the congregation as discerned scripturally and theologically.' When making such distinctions preachers [and teachers] should avoid a patronizing attitude. Often parishioners are excellent spiritual diagnosticians, and their expressed need reflects their actual need.

Brad R. Braxton, Preaching Paul (Nashville: Abingdon, 2004): 40.