High Tables instead of Big Pulpits

I prefer this set up.

We have a contemporary, acrylic pulpit but use it rarely. When I'm preaching I prefer the high-top table and stool set up. For our context it makes a better connection with our people and it makes movement on the platform easier.

Since I keep my notes on an iPad I make sure I have a bit of a lift to raise them up so I can see them. The Bible I use, I still use a physical text, can sit open and ready alongside the iPad on a table eaiser than a pulpit or other lectern.

I don't stand still while I preach. Drives me crazy to be forced to do it by some churches and I really try to get out of any situation where I'm forced to stand in one place and preach. Our camera guys tell me that they have to constantly stay locked in on what I'm doing because I can move from one side of the platform to the next pretty quickly. Helps people stay alert and attentive too.

 

I switched to a table a few years ago and have found it has served to change my delivery.

I went from high up on the "sacred desk" preaching down to the flock, to having communication with fellow believers.

As our church has transitioned in style, the things some people have chosen to leave the church over has been comical. The pulpit being one of those issues.

VaDon

 

We use one of those lockable position music stands.

 

Either one is fine with me. What gets me is when a someone insists that a pulpit must be present. Or they insist that I must wear a suit and a tie. Some have even insisted that I stand still in "a dignified manner" rather than moving around. (Thank God that He removed me from that place of service.) And, I found it sad but humorous when I asked them for the Bible reference and they got angry at me.
I also found it humorous when I heard a guy preach a sermon on how to tell if your church if going "Purpose Driven." And, God forbid, one of the ways was the removal of the traditional pulpit. What a crock!! (He wasn't preaching. He was presenting a diatribe. And, I bet he was standing behind a pulpit.) He made it sound as if the removal of the pulpit diminished the power and authority of preaching (as if there was some kind of mystical power coming from a box that one props his Bible on). Hey, I've heard some pretty dismal stuff come from someone standing behind a pulpit. And, I heard some preaching that was doctrinally correct and powerful and guess what, the man wasn't standing behind a pulpit. (I have also heard it the other way around too.) We love our traditions at the expense of sound Biblical reasoning.

 

The church I attend, the sermonizers use one of those metal music stands if needed.