Bryan Chapell, Using Illustrations to Preach With Power. (Revised Edition) Wheaton: Crossway Books, 2001. ISBN 1-58134-264-0. Paper, 208 pages.

Let's be clear up front: this is not a book of sermon illustrations (although it does contain some good ones). Rather, it is a guide to help preachers learn how to find and use illustrations more effectively.

Any preacher who has been at the task for awhile recognizes the absolutely critical nature of illustrations in the preaching process. Good illustrations not only offer our listeners an interesting break from more abstract thought; they are often the most effective part of the sermon in driving home a concept or principle. Thus, it behooves every preacher to take time to better understand how to harness the power of illustrations. And Bryan Chapell offers us valuable insights in that process.

Chapell, who serves as President of Covenant Theological Seminary in St. Louis, as well as teaching preaching there, first published this volume in 1992, but this new publication has been revised and updated. In response to those who criticize the use of illustrations, he observes: "Illustrations are not supplemental to good exposition; they are a necessary form of exposition in which biblical truths are explained to the emotions and the will as well as the intellect." Although acknowledging that illustrations can be misused, he argues forcefully that they provide an essential tool for the task of communicating God's truth.

This book may be more important now than when first published a decade ago due to the growing emphasis on narrative in preaching. (Just consult the interview with Haddon Robinson to see how the place of narrative has grown in the homiletical conversation.) "The shift from illustrating propositions in expository messages to substituting narrative for propositional truth in entire messages has been pronounced and pervasive," Chapell notes. He address this issue, including consideration on "The Limits of Narrative."

Chapell offers a brief overview of the historical use of illustrations in preaching of previous generations, and offers a consideration of the current homiletical landscape and the place of illustration in it. He also considers evidence from current learning and communication theory which helps us understand why and how illustrations are so important. Always focused on faithfulness to scripture, Chapell argues the case for the wise use of illustration, then discusses at length the process of constructing and presenting them effectively.

He also offers some cautions about illustrations, noting, "Illustrations that are not carefully crafted may inadvertently undermine the pastor's character or erode a congregation's trust." Here is a chapter every preacher (particularly young and inexperienced ones) should consider a "must read."

Using Illustrations to Preach With Power is a practical, helpful guide to one of the most important tasks preachers face. It deserves a place on every preacher's bookshelf.