There’s two different ways of looking at how we make progress in any endeavor. One is that we look for a door to success. The popularity of this approach is seen in the large number of books that have the word “key” in their title—the key to success, the key to wealth, the key to good relationships, and so on. Unfortunately, because we are such an impatient society, this is the most popular approach. But it invariably fails to deliver the sought after goal of improvement.

There is another way to achieving progress and it is the methodology found most frequently in Scripture. This approach is based on the metaphor of a path. It is much different than the search for a door to success. This methodology is not an event but rather a process, a series of defined steps toward an objective. It takes more time and patience but when faithfully applied it actually moves its practitioner toward the goal of advancement.

There are no keys, quick fixes, or “silver bullets” in getting better at preaching. There is however a pathway to progress. There are principles which, if utilized on a regular basis, help a preacher develop and deliver more impactful sermons—principles such as structure, context, melodic line, and gospel-connection. In this approach, progress is slow but sure. A preacher actually becomes more competent in his weekly work of sermon preparation and delivery.

Since 2012, Oklahoma Baptists have encouraged our pastors to pursue this pathway of progress through an annual event, The Priority of Preaching Conference. Strategically, it is the first step in a defined process through which a preacher can make progress in his preaching ministry. Practically, it is a time in which many pastors find inspiration to press on in their own pathway of progress.

This year’s event will be held at Quail Springs Baptist Church, Oklahoma City, on February 3rd, from 10 am to 4 pm. Our first instructor will be Dr. Scott Pace, who is the Provost, Dean of Graduate Studies, and Professor of Pastoral Ministry and Preaching at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. His published books include Preaching by the Book, Pastoral Theology, Colossians and Philemon: Christ-Centered Exposition Commentary Series, Calling Out the Called co-authored with Shane Pruitt and Expositional Leadership co-authored with Jim Shaddix.

We will also have as a second instructor Dr. Tony Merida, who is the founding pastor of Imago Dei Church in Raleigh, N.C, and the vice president of Planter Development for Send Network. He also serves as a Board member for The Gospel Coalition. Tony has written several books including The Christ-Centered Expositor, Love Your Church, and multiple volumes in the Christ-Centered Exposition commentary series.

The cost of the event is $40 and registration is at https://www.oklahomabaptists.org/pop25. See you on February 3rd!