I’d like to begin with an observation that is based in a question. Who, not where, is the ‘audience’ that Paul is writing to in Romans? Follow up questions: Are they learned and educated people? Or are they the average type? [I define ‘average’ as knowing enough scripture and theology to be dangerous.] Will they have gone to seminary? Would they know and understand deep theological thought?
No. And sometimes that’s the problem. We give deep theological definitions when Jesus walked and taught simple concepts so that His ‘audience’ would understand and be changed. Yes He spoke in parables, but He also explained it to His disciples so that they would understand and be able to apply the teaching. Remember that His disciples were ordinary people who would be able to explain and apply His teachings to others.
We know that the Father wants to teach us and impart understanding not keep us from learning. Quick example: the he word ‘sanctification. Sound incredibly churcheseish but… when you study it, it means ‘set apart’. That’s one of the gifts we’re given. Remember 1 Peter 2:9, AMP?
“But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a consecrated nation, a [special] people for God’s own possession, so that you may proclaim the excellencies [the wonderful deeds and virtues and perfections] of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.”
When you teach, preach, share, discuss you should always have the person or people you are speaking to in mind. You should always have your antenna zeroed in on who you are speaking with so you can assess if they are understanding what your point is and your authority so that you can effectively communicate. But while you can’t ‘read their minds’ you can ask them what they think as you continue your ‘presentation’. Never underestimate the maturity of your audience, never speak down to them, but also don’t assume they do understand and that they define words the same as you.
Actually, all this is just common sense. We aren’t the message, we are the messengers and in order for our ‘listeners’ to understand and grow we need to be certain that they are understanding what we say. That’s why our testimony is so very important. Rarely are testimonies flavored with deep theological thought. They are presented in terms of the speaker’s encounters with the Lord. That’s what others need to see, to hear. They need to know that your encounter with the Lord is the single most defining moment in your life. That will bring others to seek who this Jesus is. We introduce, we share our experiences… The Lord causes the increase [1 Corinthians 3:7]. We seed… we water… but it is the Lord who causes the increase.. Lovely partnership.
