Both exegesis and exposition are essential in biblical study, as they provide a comprehensive approach to understanding scripture, but they serve different purposes in this intricate process. Exegesis involves the critical interpretation of texts, focusing on the original meaning intended by the authors in their historical and cultural contexts, thereby uncovering layers of meaning that might not be immediately apparent. On the other hand, exposition takes this foundational understanding and expands upon it, often presenting the ideas in a way that is accessible to a modern audience, emphasizing practical applications and theological insights.
Together, these two disciplines enrich the study of the Bible, allowing scholars and laypeople alike to grasp its messages deeply and apply them meaningfully to contemporary life.
1. Exegesis (from Greek exēgeomai, meaning “to lead out”)
Definition: Exegesis is the detailed and critical interpretation of a biblical text. It seeks to uncover the original meaning of the passage in its historical, cultural, and linguistic context, often involving an analysis of the text’s grammar, syntax, and semantics. This process requires careful consideration of the socio-political circumstances surrounding the text’s composition, as well as the theological implications it holds for both the original audience and contemporary readers. By examining cross-references, variations in manuscript tradition, and the influence of historical figures on biblical interpretation, exegesis aims to provide a deeper understanding not only of what the text says but also of the myriad ways it has been understood across centuries.
Focus:
- Understanding what the text meant to its original audience.
- Examining the grammar, syntax, and structure of the passage.
- Considering historical and cultural background.
- Analyzing the literary context within the book and the Bible as a whole.
2. Exposition (from Latin exponere, meaning “to set forth”)
Definition: Exposition is the process of explaining and applying a biblical text, making it understandable and relevant to a modern audience. This involves careful analysis of the text’s historical context, literary style, and theological significance. Expositors strive to bridge the gap between ancient scripture and contemporary life, ensuring that the timeless truths conveyed in the Bible resonate with today’s readers. By unpacking complex ideas and providing practical applications, exposition not only enhances one’s understanding of the material but also encourages individuals to apply these teachings in meaningful ways to their daily lives. Ultimately, a well-executed exposition serves as a vital tool for spiritual growth and transformation within the community of faith.
Focus:
- What the text means for believers today.
- Drawing out spiritual lessons, applications, and theological truths.
- Preaching and teaching the passage in a way that is practical and transformative.
Summary: The Key Difference
- Exegesis = Discovering the original meaning of the text.
- Exposition = Explaining and applying the text to today’s life.
A good sermon or Bible study usually includes both—exegesis to ensure accuracy, and exposition to provide clear teaching and application.
Conclusion:
| Term | Definition | Focus | Example Question |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exegesis | A critical and detailed interpretation of a biblical text, drawing out its original meaning. | What did the passage mean to the original audience? | What does “blessed are the poor in spirit” mean in its historical and linguistic context? |
| Exposition | Explaining and applying the text to a modern audience in a clear and relevant way. | What does the passage mean for us today? | How can “blessed are the poor in spirit” be applied to Christian life today? |
EXAMPLE: Exegesis and Exposition of Matthew 5:11
Matthew 5:11 (NKJV)
“Blessed are you when they revile and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely for My sake.”
I. Exegesis (Unpacking the Original Meaning)
1. Context in the Sermon on the Mount
- Matthew 5:11 is part of the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12), where Jesus describes the values of the Kingdom of God, which are countercultural to the world’s values.
- It follows Matthew 5:10, which speaks of those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake. Here, Jesus personalizes it: “Blessed are you…”
2. Key Greek Words and Their Meaning
- “Blessed” (μακάριοι, makarioi) – This word means more than just happiness; it refers to deep spiritual joy and divine favor from God.
- “Revile” (ὀνειδίζω, oneidízō) – To insult, mock, or slander someone with words.
- “Persecute” (διώκω, diṓkō) – To actively pursue or oppress someone, often with violence or injustice.
- “Falsely” (ψευδόμενοι, pseudomenoi) – Speaking lies and making false accusations.
- “For My sake” (ἕνεκεν ἐμοῦ, heneken emou) – This persecution is not due to wrongdoing but because of allegiance to Jesus.
3. Historical and Cultural Context
- In Jesus’ time, both Jewish and Roman authorities persecuted His followers.
- Early Christians faced slander (accused of cannibalism due to the Lord’s Supper, being rebels against Rome, etc.).
- Jesus prepares His disciples to expect opposition because following Him means standing against the world’s system.
II. Exposition (Applying the Text to Life)
1. Expect Persecution as a Disciple of Christ
- Jesus shifts from general persecution (v.10) to personal (“Blessed are you…“).
- True disciples should expect opposition when they live out the values of the Kingdom.
- Application: If we live faithfully, opposition will come—through mockery, false accusations, or even direct persecution.
2. True Blessing Comes from God’s Approval, Not the World’s
- The world may reject believers, but God’s blessing is what matters.
- Application: Instead of seeking human approval, we should focus on God’s favor.
- Example: The apostles rejoiced when they suffered for Christ (Acts 5:41).
3. Responding to Persecution with Faith and Love
- Jesus calls us not to retaliate but to rejoice (Matthew 5:12).
- Application: We must respond to insults with grace and continue standing for truth.
- Example: Stephen, when persecuted, prayed for his enemies (Acts 7:59-60).
Conclusion: Key Takeaways
| Exegesis (Original Meaning) | Exposition (Life Application) |
|---|---|
| Jesus teaches that persecution for His sake is a mark of true discipleship. | Expect opposition when living for Christ. |
| “Blessed” means deep joy, not worldly happiness. | True joy comes from God’s approval, not people’s praise. |
| The persecution includes verbal insults, slander, and false accusations. | We should stand firm in faith and respond with love. |
| This persecution is “for My sake,” meaning it is for following Jesus, not personal wrongdoing. | We should rejoice and trust that God will reward faithfulness. |
Jesus redefines what it means to be blessed—not in comfort, but in being counted worthy to suffer for His name.
What Is Expository Preaching?
Expository preaching is a style of preaching that explains the meaning of a biblical passage in its original context and applies it to contemporary life. It seeks to “expose” or bring out the full message of the Scripture by carefully interpreting and explaining it.
1. Definition of Expository Preaching
📖 Expository preaching is the systematic teaching and application of Scripture, where the preacher:
- Reads the passage in its context.
- Explains its meaning using biblical exegesis (original language, historical context, theology).
- Applies its truths to daily life.
📌 John Stott (Christian preacher and theologian) defined it as:
“To expound Scripture is to open up the inspired text with such faithfulness and sensitivity that God’s voice is heard, and His people obey Him.”
2. Key Characteristics of Expository Preaching
Text-Driven, Not Topic-Driven
- The main idea of the sermon comes from the passage itself rather than from the preacher’s ideas.
- Example: Instead of preaching on “Overcoming Fear” with random verses, an expository preacher might preach on Psalm 23, explaining how God’s shepherding presence removes fear.
Verse-by-Verse or Passage-Based
- Expository preaching usually works through entire books of the Bible or large passages, rather than isolated topics.
- Example: Preaching through the Gospel of John chapter by chapter instead of just selecting favorite verses.
Faithful to the Original Context
- It explains what the passage meant to the original audience before applying it today.
- Example: When preaching on Jeremiah 29:11 (“For I know the plans I have for you”), an expository sermon first explains that it was written to exiled Israelites before applying it to Christians.
Application to Life
- True expository preaching doesn’t just teach theology—it calls people to action.
- Example: A sermon on Ephesians 4:32 (“Be kind and compassionate to one another”) might include practical ways to practice kindness in family and workplace relationships.
3. Expository Preaching vs. Other Types of Preaching
| Preaching Style | Description | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Expository Preaching | Systematic, verse-by-verse teaching that explains and applies a specific biblical passage. | A sermon on John 15:1-8, explaining Jesus’ teaching on abiding in the Vine. |
| Topical Preaching | Selects a topic (e.g., prayer, faith) and gathers various Bible verses to support it. | A sermon on “How to Have Stronger Faith” using verses from Hebrews, James, and Matthew. |
| Narrative Preaching | Tells a biblical story in a creative and engaging way to highlight its main message. | A sermon retelling the Parable of the Prodigal Son with a focus on God’s love. |
💡 Expository preaching is often considered the most faithful way to preach Scripture because it ensures that God’s Word, not human opinions, shapes the message.
4. Biblical Examples of Expository Preaching
📖 Nehemiah 8:8 – “They read from the Book of the Law of God, making it clear and giving the meaning so that the people understood what was being read.”
- Ezra and the Levites explained the Scripture carefully, ensuring people understood God’s Word.
📖 Luke 24:27 – “And beginning with Moses and all the Prophets, He explained to them what was said in all the Scriptures concerning Himself.”
- Jesus Himself taught His disciples by explaining the meaning of Scripture.
📖 Acts 17:2-3 – “Paul, as his custom was, went into them, and for three Sabbaths reasoned with them from the Scriptures, explaining and demonstrating that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead.”
- Paul reasoned and explained the Scriptures to teach the truth about Christ.
5. Why Is Expository Preaching Important?
✅ Keeps the focus on God’s Word – The preacher is a messenger, not a motivational speaker.
✅ Guards against misinterpretation – Forces the preacher to deal with difficult texts instead of avoiding them.
✅ Provides a balanced diet of Scripture – The whole Bible is taught, not just favorite topics.
✅ Deepens spiritual growth – Helps believers understand and apply God’s truth systematically.
Conclusion: The Goal of Expository Preaching
- Expository preaching is about letting the Bible speak for itself.
- It is faithful to the text, explains it clearly, and applies it effectively.
- A strong expository preacher studies deeply, prays earnestly, and teaches passionately—so that the congregation hears not the preacher’s voice, but God’s voice through His Word.
📖 2 Timothy 4:2 – “Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke, and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.”
💡 Expository preaching ensures that the church is fed with God’s truth, one passage at a time!
Example of an Expository Sermon on Psalm 23
Title: The Lord is My Shepherd: A Life of Trust and Provision
📖 Text: Psalm 23:1-6
Introduction
Psalm 23 is one of the most beloved passages in Scripture. Written by David, it presents God as the Good Shepherd who cares for His people. Through this expository sermon, we will examine each verse, understand its original meaning, and apply it to our lives today.
📖 John 10:11 – “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.”
In this psalm, we see a beautiful picture of God’s relationship with us, His sheep.
I. The Lord is Our Shepherd – Provision & Relationship (Psalm 23:1)
📖 “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.”
Exegesis (Original Meaning)
- “The Lord” (Yahweh) – This is God’s covenant name, emphasizing His faithfulness.
- “Shepherd” (רֹעִי, rō‘î) – A shepherd in biblical times was responsible for leading, feeding, and protecting sheep.
- “I shall not want” – This means lacking nothing because the Shepherd provides.
Exposition (Life Application)
✅ If God is our Shepherd, we must trust His guidance, provision, and care.
✅ We may not always have everything we want, but He gives us everything we need.
✅ Question for Reflection: Are we allowing God to lead us, or are we trying to control our own lives?
📖 Matthew 6:33 – “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”
II. The Shepherd Provides Rest & Refreshment (Psalm 23:2-3a)
📖 “He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside still waters. He restores my soul.”
Exegesis (Original Meaning)
- “Green pastures” – Symbolizes nourishment, peace, and spiritual well-being.
- “Still waters” – Sheep fear rushing water; still waters symbolize safety and refreshment.
- “He restores my soul” – “Restore” in Hebrew (shuv) means to renew and bring back to life.
Exposition (Life Application)
✅ God leads us to places of rest and spiritual renewal, but we must be willing to follow.
✅ Many are restless and exhausted because they don’t allow God to refresh them.
✅ Question for Reflection: Are we taking time to rest in God’s presence through prayer and His Word?
📖 Matthew 11:28 – “Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”
III. The Shepherd Guides in Righteous Paths (Psalm 23:3b)
📖 “He leads me in paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.”
Exegesis (Original Meaning)
- “Paths of righteousness” – A shepherd leads the sheep on the correct paths; God directs us in righteous living.
- “For His name’s sake” – God’s leadership is based on His character and faithfulness, not our merit.
Exposition (Life Application)
✅ God doesn’t just lead us anywhere—He leads us to righteousness and truth.
✅ God’s guidance is not just for our benefit but for His glory and purposes.
✅ Question for Reflection: Are we following God’s direction in every area of life—work, relationships, and daily decisions?
📖 Proverbs 3:5-6 – “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
IV. The Shepherd Protects in Dark Valleys (Psalm 23:4)
📖 “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.”
Exegesis (Original Meaning)
- “Valley of the shadow of death” – A metaphor for deep suffering, trials, or danger.
- “I will fear no evil” – Confidence in God’s presence removes fear.
- “Rod and staff” – The rod (for protection) and staff (for guidance) symbolize God’s discipline and care.
Exposition (Life Application)
✅ We will face hardships, but God promises to walk through them with us.
✅ Instead of removing trials, God equips us to endure them with His presence.
✅ Question for Reflection: Are we trusting God’s presence even in the darkest times?
📖 Isaiah 41:10 – “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God.”
V. The Shepherd Blesses and Anoints (Psalm 23:5)
📖 “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; my cup runs over.”
Exegesis (Original Meaning)
- “Prepare a table” – In biblical culture, a banquet symbolized honor and blessing.
- “In the presence of my enemies” – God blesses His people even in the face of opposition.
- “Anoint my head with oil” – Symbolizes consecration, healing, and joy.
- “My cup runs over” – Represents abundant blessings from God.
Exposition (Life Application)
✅ God’s blessings are not limited by circumstances or opposition.
✅ We are anointed for His purposes and called to overflow with His goodness.
✅ Question for Reflection: Are we recognizing and thanking God for the blessings He has already provided?
📖 John 10:10 – “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.”
VI. The Shepherd’s Goodness and Eternal Promise (Psalm 23:6)
📖 “Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.”
Exegesis (Original Meaning)
- “Goodness and mercy shall follow” – God’s kindness and covenant love will never leave us.
- “Dwell in the house of the Lord forever” – Eternal security in God’s presence.
Exposition (Life Application)
✅ God’s goodness pursues us every day of our lives.
✅ Eternal life is the ultimate promise for believers.
✅ Question for Reflection: Are we living with confidence in God’s eternal promises?
📖 John 14:2-3 – “In My Father’s house are many mansions… I go to prepare a place for you.”
Conclusion: Living Under the Shepherd’s Care
Key Takeaways from Psalm 23
| Verse | Main Truth | Application |
|---|---|---|
| Verse 1 | God is my Shepherd | Trust Him to provide |
| Verses 2-3 | God gives rest and guidance | Follow His leading |
| Verse 4 | God walks with us in trials | Fear no evil, trust His presence |
| Verse 5 | God blesses abundantly | Be thankful for His provision |
| Verse 6 | God’s goodness is eternal | Live with confidence in His promises |
📖 Closing Scripture: John 10:14 – “I am the good shepherd; I know My sheep and My sheep know Me.”
💡 Expository preaching reveals the deep truths of Scripture while making it applicable for daily living. Psalm 23 reminds us that no matter where we are in life, we are always under the care of our Good Shepherd!
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