hearer as close as humanly possible to the very brink—and then, trusting, leaves the person in God’s hands. Since it is God’s part to grant the gift of faith, the preacher can preach with confidence. Even though the preacher doesn’t have to close the deal, so to speak, the preacher’s task is not easy. No doubt every preacher has wished on some days that God would choose an easier venue as the means to His grace. Other venues exist—Bible reading, baptism, the Eucharist. Why are those not sufficient?