2
After reading, The Hardest Sermons You'll Ever Have to Preach: Help from Trusted
Preachers for Tragic Times written by Bryan Chapell, I have learned much about how sermons
can impact the preacher. This was the first book I read about preaching sermons during tragic
moments. This book is a collection of 25 sermons that address various topics of suffering, grief,
and loss, such as suicide, abortion, abuse, divorce, cancer, and natural disasters. The book also
provides practical guidance on preparing and delivering such sermons and how to minister to the
bereaved and the hurting. Bryan Chappell understood that people desire words of encouragement
when they experience good and bad life-changing events. Bryan Chapell is currently head of the
Administrative Committee of the Presbyterian Church in America. He is also the Pastor Emeritus
of the historic Grace Presbyterian Church in Peoria, Illinois. The many years Bryan Chapell has
spent as a faculty member of numerous seminaries and Bible colleges in different parts of the
world allow him to obtain a level of skill in preaching that many do not achieve in their lifetime.
Bryan Chapell has authored several influential books on preaching and theology. His most well-
known book is "Christ-Centered Preaching: Redeeming the Expository Sermon." This book has
become a widely used resource for preachers seeking to craft sermons that emphasize the
centrality of Christ in the Scriptures. Chapell's approach to preaching is known for its emphasis
on expository preaching, which involves explaining the biblical text in its historical and literary
context and making relevant applications to the listeners' lives.
Strengths and Weaknesses
I praise the book for its biblical and Christ-centered approach, as well as its pastoral
sensitivity and relevance. Chapell mention in the book that his church is one of many evangelical
bodies that have sought to inform its members of the Bible’s defense of the sanctity of human
3
life.1 I also appreciate the diversity of the contributors, who come from different denominations,
backgrounds, and experiences. The situation, concern, and approach method displayed at the
beginning of the chapter enabled the readers to gain a deeper understating of the author, and the
situation discussed this the rest of the chapter. The author mentioned in the “approach” section of
chapter one, emphasizes that he intended to be a representative of the gospel, which encourages
him to base his words on a biblical text, and he is speaking primarily as a Christian.2
However, this book does have some weaknesses of the book, such as the lack of attention
to the role of the Holy Spirit in preaching and counseling, the uneven quality of some of the
sermons, the inclusion of more sermons that deal with personal sin and repentance, the use of
more illustrations and stories that connect with the listeners, and the need for more examples of
sermons that address non-death-related tragedies. I commend the book for its theological depth
and clarity, as well as its honesty and realism. The book is helpful for preachers and anyone who
wants to learn how to comfort others with the gospel.
Value
The book brought value to its readers based on the authors’ ability to engage their
readers. The book is organized and presents a clear and coherent structure that is concise and
easy to understand. The contributions of the many authors with their writing styles enhanced the
book's overall message. The book is relevant to the field of preaching because there is no book
like it in the market. Most authors stray from difficult topics and focus on preaching that glorifies
the name of God to its audience, but this book has given me the confidence to preach about
complex life events.
1 Bryan Chapell, The Hardest Sermons You’ll Ever Have to Preach: Help from Trusted Preachers for Tragic Times
(Grand Rapids, MI: Zondervan, 2011), 19.
2 Ibid, 20
4
Before reading the book, I thought the book was going to focus on what we should do or
not do when giving a sermon after a tragic event. I was mistaken because the book detailed all
aspects of tragic events. The book did not change my perspective and beliefs but filled noticeable
gaps in areas I lacked knowledge. Bryan Chapell’s teachings on preaching have significantly
impacted my understanding and practice of preaching. Reading this book has taught me that it is
right to lament the sins of others and that it is also suitable to lament and repent our sins.3 We
must understand, learn, and forgive one another just as the Lord has forgiven us (Col. 3:13).
Forgiveness is something that I struggle with to this day. After reading the section on
forgiveness, I understand that offenders can receive complete forgiveness or full restoration if
and only if they repent before God and the people they harmed.4
Conclusion
I would recommend this book to anyone looking to become a preacher. This book offers
indisputable benefits that extend far beyond religious practice. Engaging with this book deepens
one's understanding of spiritual and moral principles, hones valuable communication skills,
nurtures empathy, and assists critical thinking. By immersing oneself in the perceptions and
experiences of the author of this book, it will enhance one’s ability to connect with others,
inspire positive change, and navigate life's challenges with wisdom and grace.
3 Ibid 48.
4 Ibid, 51
