Preaching and the Liturgy
Chapter 6 turns to the immediate setting of the sermon, its place within a corporate act of worship. Although a number of studies have drawn attention to the possibilities sermons present for learning about the contemporary liturgy, very few approach the sermon itself as a liturgical event. This chapter argues that the sermon was not an interlude in the liturgy, as implied by studies which treat the sermon only as a window onto the liturgy, but an integral part of it, and of vital importance for fully appreciating what kind of activity preaching was. It was not merely the communication of knowledge and ideas, but formed part of a liturgy of worship. Furthermore, when seen in that context, Chrysostom’s critical and fear-inspiring language can be readily understood as arousing feelings of awe and contrition that were considered appropriate at a moment when the believer entered the presence of God.