In this article I will consider three ways in which Jesus was a great innovator in his preaching: theologically, hermeneutically, and rhetorically. To be completely frank, the first two are well beyond what a short article can address, but I have hope that in considering the third we might be challenged and inspired in our own preaching in the church today.
Theological innovation
Firstly, most obviously and yet also most profoundly, Jesus’ preaching of the good news was theological news: ‘Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near’ (Matthew 4:17). It must have been the best news, I can’t help adding, to those who had not heard it before; revolutionary, innovative, and even now endlessly worthy of the contemporary preacher’s closest attention
The kerygma – this good news message of salvation, of healing, of release that he promised to the poor, to the oppressed, to the prisoner – this good news message forms
