Preaching in Black and White: What We Can Learn from Each Other

By Warren W. Wiersbe and E.K. Bailey

Book Overview

Preaching in Black and White offers a unique look at two distinct preaching traditions and the wisdom they have to offer each other. But this book goes much deeper than mere stylistic nuances, for authors E. K. Bailey and Warren Wiersbe are far more than prominent pastors and preachers. They are men with a penetrating understanding of history, culture, and church tradition--and they are friends who genuinely enjoy and respect each other. The warmth of their relationship shines in this book, matched by a depth of honesty and humility as they address topics of vital interest to pastors, speakers, and church leaders of all ethnic backgrounds.In a winsome dialog format, Drs. Bailey and Wiersbe look at the preparation not only of the sermon but also of the preacher's heart. They discuss sermon content and delivery and how it all comes together in practice. Taking a well-known Bible story, the authors demonstrate and then discuss their distinctive preaching styles and what it takes to learn from others (sermon transcriptions included). A section containing brief biographies of black preachers concludes this engaging and illuminating book.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0310240999
• ISBN13: 9780310240990
• Release Date: March 2003
• Publisher: Zondervan
• Length: 184 Pages
• Weight: 0.59 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 6.0" x 9.2"
• Age Range: 18 years and up

Customer Reviews

Good book, but imbalanced

Preaching in Black and White is a quick and meaningful read. Essentially, it's a transcript of a dialoge between a white preacher and a black preacher. As a white man, I found it very helpful in understanding black churches - cultural, social, and theological elements. In addition to discussing race, the book discusses sermon prep, delivery, techniques, etc. that would be helpful for any pastor. The only flaw in this books is it's onesidedness - that whites have a lot to learn from blacks, but not vice-versa. On many occassions Wiersbe admits faults of white churches and how black churhes do things better, but Bailey never admits ways for black churches to improve. There is a biography of black preachers in the back, but not of white ones. The included sermon is of Bailey only, excluding Wiersbe. This imbalance is not a major fault, but a bit disappointing given the subtitle. Notwithstanding the minor criticism, I think many veteran Christians would be helped by reading this book, whether in the pastorate or not.

Great insights from two master craftsmen

Reading this book is like sitting in on a fascinating conversation between two great preachers. They cover a wide-ranging set of topics. Anyone interested in preaching will enjoy this book. A special treat included is a CD containing one of Bailey's sermons.