Who Is Preaching For?
Ahmi Lee
Episode Five of Preaching and the Pastor Theologian –
Joel Lawrence and Matt Kim talk with Ahmi Lee about her vision for preaching as participation in God’s “grand drama.” Drawing from her global upbringing, pastoral experience, and theological training, Lee explains how preaching should bridge text-centered and reader-centered approaches by rooting sermons in the sweeping biblical narrative while remaining attentive to the lived experiences of listeners. She argues that preaching is ultimately a doxological act—first for God, then for the church, and still welcoming to those exploring faith. The hosts and Lee discuss the purpose of preaching, the role of the congregation as active listeners, the need for holistic and integrated biblical formation, and how preachers can engage diverse audiences. Lee closes by reflecting on how God is teaching her to trust Him more deeply amid a restless and chaotic world.
Ahmi Lee is an author, speaker, and consultant for ministries and nonprofits. She has served as Chief Partnership Officer at Resource Global and as Assistant Professor of Preaching at Fuller Theological Seminary. She holds a PhD from Fuller Seminary and an MDiv from TEDS. She is the author of Preaching God's Grand Drama (Baker Academic, 2019).
