Soap box time! This particular post has nothing to do with preaching, evangelism, or theology per se. However, I do believe that pursuing excellence in everything comes from a God-centered worldview. Most of us strive for excellence in our preaching. We spend time being careful to exegete; we are careful to present the gospel clearly; we seek to understand the whole of scripture and not just one isolated text. We pursue excellence in these areas. But what about the small things? Do you pursue excellence in your speech? I am not talking about profanity, but grammar. Do you speak correctly, or do you perpetuate the stereotype of a southern preacher (Ain't God good!)? Why is it important to edit your bulletins and handouts to make sure there are as few mistakes as possible? It is important because those things reflect upon you. They are also an extension of your church to your community. It is important because if you are a believer then you believe there is a right and wrong, a correct and incorrect way. Two plus two always equals four; it is not left up to a group consensus as is being subtly taught in schools. Correct spelling is important because communication is important. I wonder if Edwards would be appalled at the way we talk, write, and teach. Let us learn from the ones who have gone before us who believed that God was a God of precision, and sought Him out in science, math, and english. You will probably never receieve a compliment for speaking correctly or having faultless bulletins, but people will definitely notice if you do not. Pursue excellence for the glory of God!
