We Thank You!
Preach the Word
in season and out of season
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From Paul's Second Epistle to Timothy
Chapter 4, Verse 2
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VISITING PREACHERS
Each week at Brandywine Baptist, we hear God’s Word through a variety of preachers. Jesus chose many disciples. His Holy Spirit inspired more than 40 authors to pen Scripture. The Bible is clear that the public proclamation and explanation of The Word of God is to be shared. This is a key component in identifying a healthy Church with the purpose of equipping the saints.
Ephesians 4:4-6 tells us: “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all.” As one in the Spirit, we enjoy and welcome Bible-believing Christians of a variety of doctrinal perspectives. We value and enjoy our relationships with visiting pastors.
While the gospel remains unchanging, our local congregation has specific teachings, practices, and doctrinal emphases. As servants of God, we ask that visiting preachers approach this role with humility, sensitivity, and respect for those things specific to Brandywine Baptist. Below are some guidelines for our ministering guests:
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PURSUE PEACE AND EDIFICATION
Therefore let us pursue the things which
make for peace and the things by
which one may edify another.
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Romans 14:19 (NKJV)
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​The role of the preacher is to build up, not break down. If a minister teaches something that contradicts the doctrine of the local church, confusion or division may result. There is far more upon which we agree than disagree, so let us focus on those and avoid tertiary topics that are open to interpretation but vary from church to church / denomination to denomination.
ADAPT WITHOUT COMPROMISING
For though I am free from all men, I have
made myself a servant to all,
that I might win the more..
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1 Corinthians 9:19 (NKJV)
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Paul’s flexibility in approach never compromised truth but demonstrated wisdom in ministering effectively across diverse groups. In the same spirit, visiting preachers should be discerning — adapting to the spiritual culture of the church they are serving while staying true to the gospel.
HONOR LOCAL AUTHORITY
Obey those who rule over you,
and be submissive ...
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Hebrews 13:17 (NKJV)
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God has placed spiritual leaders over each congregation. A guest minister should recognize and submit to that authority. This means not only avoiding doctrinal conflict but also seeking guidance or clarification when uncertain. Even Paul and Barnabas submitted their questions to the council at Jerusalem (Acts 15), demonstrating respect for collective spiritual authority.
CHILDREN IN CHURCH
… Jesus said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them;
for of such is the kingdom of heaven.​​
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Matthew 19:14 (NKJV)
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Visiting preachers will discover that we are an intergenerational Church where families and people of all ages worship side by side. We love having our children and youth remain with us during the service, sharing in the life of our community. While young ones may sometimes bring a little extra energy (and the occasional distraction), we see this as part of the joy of worshiping together. Preachers are warmly encouraged to interact with or acknowledge children — and anyone else — who responds or offers feedback during the service.
IN CONCLUSION
A visiting preacher must remember that they are not only delivering a message, but representing Christ with wisdom and grace. The goal is never to prove a personal point or advance a personal view of scripture, but to strengthen the body of Christ in unity and truth.
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As Paul taught, let everything be done “for the edification of the Church” (1 Corinthians 14:26). Respect for the host church's doctrine is not weakness — it is maturity, humility, and spiritual wisdom.