A Mirror for the Church: Preaching in the First Five Centuries

It might be assumed that Christian preachers have always proclaimed the same message in the same way to similarly comprised and receptive congregations. But this assumption is far from accurate. As "A Mirror for the Church" reveals, the style and subject matter of sermons have repeatedly changed throughout history to meet the shifting needs of congregations molded by contemporary events.

David Dunn-Wilson examines the dynamic relationship between preachers and congregations as it developed in the early church. In turning to sermons preached during the first five centuries of church history, he answers some important questions: Who were the first preachers? What did they preach about, and what methods did they use? What kinds of people made up the first congregations, and how did they relate to the world around them?

In the process, Dunn-Wilson uncovers both the constant themes of early church preaching and the ways that the church adapted to waves of social change. He also suggests ways in which the priorities of the early church might inform preaching and Christian practice today.

David Dunn-Wilson, who has worked as a Methodist minister for over forty years in churches in Britain, Central America, and East Africa, is professor emeritus of theology at Kenya Methodist University.