The preacher is the most visible, listened-to spokesperson in the black community. Unlike other professionals, the preacher has a large number of persons gathered in one place on a weekly basis for the express purpose of hearing “what thus saith the Lord.” The opportunity to address those persons’ needs in a biblically relevant and serious way is a challenge to all who dare to preach the gospel. My theology and preaching have been influenced by several pastors and teachers. The Rev. Miles Jones,