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This brief guide explains how listening well during sermons energizes spiritual growth and local church life.

While biblical preaching is vital for spiritual growth, it’s also essential that churchgoers “take care then how you hear” (Luke 8:18), being attentive to God’s precious word. A few simple habits will prepare you to hear from the Lord each week and get the most from your pastor’s teaching.

In this addition to the 9Marks Church Questions series, Gunner Gundersen explains that listening in church isn’t a passive experience but an urgent activity. Drawing from Scripture and personal examples, he shares practical advice for preparing for church, addressing distractions, interpreting Scripture, discussing sermons as a community, and more. This short, approachable guide will encourage your church to treasure God’s word by listening faithfully during sermons.

• For Individual or Small-Group Study: An excellent resource for local churches, this brief guide shows readers how they can profit from their local pastor’s preaching  
• Accessible: Written for laypeople, students, and church leaders of all levels

Part of the 9Marks Church Questions Series: Other titles include What Should I Look for in a Church?; How Can I Find Someone to Disciple Me?; and What If I’ve Been Hurt by My Church?