How can you preach the good news of Easter? Bishop Timothy Clarke, Senior Pastor at First Church of God in Ohio, says you don’t have to make the Easter message relevant for people. It’s already relevant, because it’s in the Word of God.

He drew attention to Isaiah 40:8 (ESV) “The grass withers, the flower fades and the word of the Lord stands forever.”

In this episode, they discuss everything from Chicago steakhouses, to preaching failures, to how the resurrection narrative stands the test of time. Bishop Clarke offers three specific words of advice for preachers:

• Focus on your relationship with God.
• Make your family a priority.
• Find your voice, vocation, and vision.

He also said “acquaint yourself with the history of the church.” You can also watch Bishop Clarke’s sermons on YouTube.

Check out what was referenced on the podcast:

H. Beecher Hicks, Jr.’s book Preaching Through a Storm: Confirming the Power of Preaching in the Tempest of Church Conflict

Matt Woodley is the pastor of compassion ministries at Church of the Resurrection in Wheaton, Illinois.