By the Word Worked

Simple but profound: such is Fleming Rutledge’s reminder of what a sermon actually is! An action of Christ the Word, an event of human communication, an urgent summons to be the Church at the turning of the ages: appearances often notwithstanding, the sermon is all this, whether it be in a mainline or an evangelical congregation. Informed by Barth, wrestling with postmodern voices, Fleming is, more importantly, turned unflinchingly and comprehensively toward the Scriptures, and Christ dramatically revealed there. This book matters to our confused ecclesial place and time more than we realize, for with its challenge comes the encouragement of grace.

~The Rt. Rev. Dr. George Sumner, Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Dallas

In By the Word Worked, Fleming Rutledge sums up a lifetime of theological reflection on the practice of preaching with her characteristic eloquence and wit. Rutledge deftly situates the discussion in relation to deeply ingrained tendencies that have shaped preaching in many contemporary North American churches, from the way religion is taught to the legacy of modernism and postmodernism. These lectures are a gift to preachers who have lost their nerve, calling them to trust in the God who promises to speak a powerful Word through human witnesses today.

~Angela Dienhart Hancock, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dean of Faculty, and Howard C. Scharfe Associate Professor of Homiletics, Pittsburgh Theological Seminary

The distinctive voice and stalwart perspective of Fleming Rutledge provide for preachers an anchor in Scripture, bringing the 'then' into 'now' and the 'there' into 'here' with a verve, creativity, and indefatigable commitment to exposition. Not hyperbolic is it to acclaim her outlook on biblical revelation and the current human situation unique. Ever fresh, creative, and timeless, her proclamation surely stands alongside the great expositors of the Church from Chrysostom to Maclaren in its timelessness and timeliness. If Lewis spoke to his age in Mere Christianity, embracing the great truths believed by the Church throughout the ages, Rutledge brings us mere exposition that stands the test of time and circumstance.

~Joel C. Gregory, Emeritus Professor of Preaching, Truett Theological Seminary, Baylor University