Dr. Carisa R. Champion

When I was in seminary, one of the constant refrains in preaching classes was: “Don’t just explain the text—apply it!” The assumption was that every sermon needed to end with a to-do list. We were trained to believe that the real power of the Bible is unlocked when we put it to work in our lives. “Application,” they told us, is where the rubber meets the road. But here’s what I’ve learned: the Bible is first and foremost about what God has already applied to us. It’s not a toolbox for self-improvement—it’s a testimony to divine accomplishment. God is the Applier. We are the applied. The holiness you need isn’t something you have to go out and get—it’s already been credited to you. The righteousness you lack isn’t a project to work on—it’s a gift you’ve already been given in full. The love and acceptance we long for has already been finally secured for us. The overarching message of the Bible isn’t about our work; it’s about His. And because His work is finished, we can rest. That’s the point. Freedom. Spiritual growth doesn’t start with “What do I need to do now?” It starts with “What has He already done for me?” The gospel is not a call to get busy; it’s an announcement that we can finally breathe. Seminary told me the end goal of preaching was application leading to “holier” behavior. The gospel tells me the end goal is rest. Theologian Gerhard Forde asked the only real post-sermon question worth asking: “So, what are you going to do now that you don’t have to do anything?