So, another Sunday is approaching, and you are getting ready to write your next sermon. This is quite a daunting task sometimes, isn't it? Where do you start? Should you first select your scripture and then choose the topic to preach from it, or do you start with the message you want to get across and then find bible passages to support it? At times it can be a bit like the chicken and the egg quandary.
Well, if you're starting your next sermon and you find yourself wracking your brain once again, I have three tips that may help you.
In my experience, it is usually best to choose your scripture passage first. Many times this will bring your topic into focus. For example, if you choose bible verses from the Sermon on the Mount, it's highly unlikely that you will end up preaching about the Last Supper. If you start with a specific scripture in mind, then writing the sermon itself will proceed much more smoothly, and in some cases it will practically write itself.
Another technique that works well for me is to start the message with a personal anecdote or a story that can tie in to the lesson I will be teaching. If you can come up with something a bit humorous, that's even better. If you've ever noticed your congregation nodding off a bit during your sermons, this is a good way to get their attention right away and help them stay attentive. If you jump right in to any heavy theological lessons, you are likely to lose most of them right from the start.
Finally, try to keep your sermon brief. I realize that "brief" can mean different things depending on the tradition and habits of your church, but keep in mind that the practice of "less is more" usually will apply here. A very wise friend of mine used to say that if you can't get your point across in under 10 minutes then it's not worth getting across in the first place. One technique that will help you with this is to make a bullet-point list of the main ideas you want to focus on, and limit this list to three topics, or four at the most.
These are just a few things you can do if you'd like to improve your sermons. I will address more in a future article. For right now, if you can follow the tips I've outlined above: choose your scripture first, start with a personal, humorous story, and limit the length of your message, you will find that your sermon-writing process will improve and your congregation will retain more of your lessons.
Paul Davis has over 20 years of experience in church ministry as an associate and senior pastor, preacher, bible teacher, and youth leader. He enjoys mentoring other ministry leaders and seeing them grow through their spiritual journey. His blog, Bible Sermons Online offers more resources to help you preach dynamic, relevant, and biblical sermons. Visit it at biblesermonsonline.info
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