When did preachers begin to use "Amen" as a question?
I've noticed that it has become quite popular for preachers and evangelists to use the term Amen as a question. I thought that Amen was an affirmation; A confirmation of the previous statement, such as a hear-hear: It represents a listener's agreement with the point being made by a speaker.
When did Amen become a question? It is the complete opposite.
I don't know if it's a Southern Thing, or a Black Thing? I just know it's spreading like wildfire, since everyone that preachers from Moody Radio (Evangelical Lutherans), to even SDA Pastors have jumped on the bandwagon and are currently using it.
Along with the other modern trends like making anecdotes, joking, laughter, applause, drama, and being irreverent; I wish some will recognize that we have strayed off the path, and return to the Lord's will to prepare a people to stand on The Day Of The Lord.
Amen.
Definition of Amen: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amen
For all the promises of God in him are yea, and in him Amen, unto the glory of God by us. ....
2 Corinthians 1:20 (King James Version)
It's only a sign of the times when a word that means Yes Lord, can be used as Yes Lord?
It shows that not only the world has lost its faith (if it ever had), but also the pulpit (those claiming to preach the Gospel).
Arsenio.