In defense of local preaching

Out of Ur looks at plagiarism in preaching. Causes include availability of online sermons and a culturally influenced "papacy of celebrity":

With a celebrity church culture is it any surprise that less celebrated pastors may lack self-esteem? With parishioners consuming excellent preaching Monday thru Saturday, it’s understandable why their expectations for Sunday are high. I can also understand why churches are happily adopting video venues to keep quality high and religious consumers satisfied. Some churches are even forgoing a preaching pastor altogether. Opting instead to use the previously recorded video messages of a celebrity pastor from across the country.

It's tempting to rely on technology to do our work for us. But video preachers aren't the ones living, working, and suffering with members of the congregation. A church isn't a gathering of consumers being entertained by the latest video. It's where the saints commune with God and one another. A video can't do that.