What does it mean to truly listen to a sermon? In this episode of afterWord, Pastor Kent Dresdow sits down with Executive Pastors Matt Rehrer and Jeremy Pray to explore the biblical concept of expository listening—a vital spiritual discipline often overlooked in modern church life. This is part one of a two-part conversation equipping believers to hear the Word of God with reverence, attention, and transformation.
Drawing from passages like Acts 17:11 and Revelation 2–3, the discussion covers the difference between hearing and listening, why the posture of our hearts matters when we sit under preaching, and how sermon listening is part of our worship and sanctification. They also emphasize the importance of preparing to hear the Word—through prayer, minimizing distractions, and coming regularly to gather with the body of Christ.
Whether you’re a pastor, longtime believer, or new to church life, this episode will deepen your understanding of why God calls us to be hearers of His Word—and how doing so can shape our faith, families, and church community.
Topics Covered:
What is expository listening?
How to prepare your heart before a sermon
Why hearing Scripture is a spiritual act of worship
How regular Sunday attendance shapes your walk with Christ
Why live preaching matters more than passive content consumption
How the Holy Spirit works through faithful listening