These changes in job expectations have created changes in how pastors preach, whether or not the changes are articulated or even understood. Much is being written and said about the new roles for pastors, while little is being said about how such changes impact the preaching task. A second factor contributing to the problem is the changing expectations of congregations. Younger people want leaders who communicate relevantly to their current life needs and demands. Sermons must contain far more by way of application than in the past.
People expect a greater use of story.
As a result more pastors are investigating inductive preaching methods over deductive. They are researching the art of story telling and the use of narrative elements in their sermons. Once again, in many settings, the worship service has become a classroom during the sermon time with the use of PowerPoint and handouts. The difference from the past however, is in the content. I would contend that some of these changes have come from the new expectations facing pastors.