How does a preacher speak to a society that is possessed by materialism and self-indulgence, riddled with political corruption and a resulting disrespect for the law? If that sounds like a situation faced by American preachers in the 1980's, it was also the situation faced by one of the greatest preachers in Christian history: Chrysostom.

Even today, his sermons have an amazing relevance, since Chrysostom sought primarily to apply the Scripture to real-life situations faced by people in all ages.

Born John of Antioch in 347, the name Chrysostom ("golden mouth") was applied years after his death. He studied rhetoric as a youth and for a time practiced law, but tired of it as he became disillusioned with the corruption of society in Antioch. During the period that followed he studied the Scriptures intensely, and in 381 became a deacon of the church at Antioch. Five years later, at the age of 39, he was named preacher of the church. He quickly gained enormous popularity with the people of the city.

One reason for Chrysostom's popularity as a preacher was his speaking style. He spoke naturally, with a directness and clarity that the common people could understand (though occasionally he would get carried away with a flight of rhetorical fancy). He used vivid illustrations, and used them frequently. His sermons were primarily expository, often simply a running commentary on the Scriptures. Chrysostom's preaching reflected his deep sensitivity to the needs of the people, and a willingness to attack social evil as well as individual sin.

So popular was Chrysostom with the people of Antioch that the emperor's troops had to kidnap the preacher to bring him to Constantinople, where he was named archbishop in 397. In that great cosmopolitan city -- with its materialism, wealth and corruption -- he alienated the nobility because of his identification with the poor and alienated the clergy because of his reforms. When he was finally banished from the city by the empress, the people rioted and forced his recall. Because of the continuing tension, however, Chrysostom choose to leave the city on his own. He died in 407, while still in exile.

In the life and ministry of Chrysostom are important messages for all who proclaim the Word of God. He is evidence that any who will faithfully, clearly preach and apply the Word will have a hearing. He is also evidence that to do so in the fullest sense of the gospel will inevitably draw opposition. The selections that follow give but a small glimpse of one of the great preachers of the church's history.

From "The Importance of Preaching"

To help a man to order his life aright it is true that the life of another may excite him to emulation; but when the soul is suffering under spurious doctrines then there is great need of the Word not only for the safety of those within the fold, but also to meet the attacks of foes without. For if a man should have the sword of the Spirit and the shield of faith so powerful as to be able to work marvels, and by his mighty deeds to stop the mouths of the shameless, he would have no need of the help of the Word; or rather, I should say, that even then the Word would not be useless, but very necessary. The blessed Paul used it, although he aroused wonder on every side by the signs he wrought. And another of that company bids us take heed of this power, saying, "Be ready to give answer to every man that asketh you a reason concerning the hope that is in you." And further, with one accord they entrusted Stephen and his company with the charge of the widows, for no reason save that they might devote themselves to the ministry of the Word.