“Do not fear.” That biblical mandate is clear. And yet, for a variety of reasons, preachers, and the churches they lead, have developed spiritual amnesia in fearlessly proclaiming a prophetic word and demonstrating prophetic witness to the world. To recapture that bold spirit, rekindle the passion once held by the congregation, provide permission to dream and be unbound, and demonstrate that proclamation from the pulpit can make a difference and translate into action, this thesis project consisted of a month-long sermon series preached based on words from Old Testament prophets, and suggested specific social-justice issues in which to invest time and talents. Congregants were asked to fill out questionnaires which sought to gauge increased knowledge of prophecy and commitment to social projects. Though results were incomplete in such a short time frame, the project provided a learning opportunity for all: A preacher to authentically declare inward passion, and the congregation to rediscover a “can-do” spirit. In the end, it became an object lesson in leadership from the pulpit, out of the pews and out the door, following Jesus Christ, that can serve as a lesson to all churches and ministers.
