“Prepare and preach properly or perish” – D. Broughton Knox
One of Moore College’s enduring commitments is to the importance of effective biblical preaching. For many decades this has centred on developing our students and graduates as disciples who are able to expound the Bible with care, conviction and with appropriate and insightful application to the life of the preacher first of all, but also to the particular congregation of God’s people who are listening. Within the College program, a deep, broad and sustained immersion in the text of Scripture, in the context of a vibrant Christian learning community, and with specific guidance in the task of preaching, is critical in this development. After graduation, the College has continued to provide opportunities for preachers to learn from each other and to improve their skills.
The John Chapman Preaching Initiative (JCPI) has been created from the legacy of the Australian preacher, Bible teacher and evangelist John Charles Chapman (‘Chappo’). It is a network of activities intended to assist the ongoing development of preachers, one of Chappo’s characteristic passions.
John Chapman believed that the clear and persuasive preaching of the word of God was essential to the life of the church. He was instrumental, alongside Dudley Foord, in the establishment of the College of Preachers in Sydney. He took the time to teach and critique preaching at Moore College over many years. All of this was done alongside a hectic schedule of evangelistic preaching, writing, and pastoral care. As many have remarked, it really is impossible to understand the core commitments of the Anglican Diocese of Sydney without reference to Chappo and his legacy.
The Director
“My aim is to preach the gospel by prayerfully expounding the Bible to the people God has given me to love.” — Phillip D. Jensen
Dr Chase Kuhn, lecturer in Christian Doctrine and Ethics, and Director of the Centre for Christian Living (CCL) is Director of the John Chapman Preaching Initiative. Like Chappo, who Chase never met, Chase is passionate about preaching. He has even co-edited a book on the subject. He is keen to see all our students develop as teachers and preachers of the word of God, and to help our graduates grow from being good preachers to being better preachers to the glory of God and for the benefit of the churches.
Chase is responsible for the strategic direction and effective operations of the Initiative. Amongst other things the Initiative is involved in:
- Mentoring Moore College students in preaching;
- John Chapman Preaching Retreats which involve both input from seasoned preachers and workshopping the preaching of those who attend; and
- John Chapman Preaching Conferences, which provide opportunities for a wider audience to think through the theology and practice of preaching, to learn from each other and guest speakers who have considerable experience as preachers.
Supporting this initiative
We are so very thankful to God for the generosity of John Chapman, whose gift established this initiative, and for the ongoing support we receive through prayer and financial giving to this cause.
If you would like to contribute to the John Chapman Preaching Initiative and its various programs, you can do so below.
Note that gifts $2 and over are tax deductible.
You can donate via card using the secure form below, and you can also donate via Direct Deposit. If donating via Direct Deposit, please include your name and “JCPI” in the description box, and please also advise the College by contacting the Financial Controller Leanne Veitch on +61 (0)2 9577 9864 or by email at finance@moore.edu.au so a receipt for your donation can be issued:
- Bank: Westpac
- Name: Moore Theological College
- BSB: 032 016
- Account: 293828
