The second requirement for preaching is to apply the Scriptures in such a way that those who hear look to Jesus as their pattern and power for doing what God calls them to be and do. After hearing Ezra preach, the people responded appropriately—repenting, rejoicing, reconciling, restoring. The apostles’ preaching “turned the world upside down” (Acts 17:6). By that expression, critics meant that the application of the Scriptures changed cultural norms, worship patterns, and family dynamics. However,