Tag: sermons

Preaching is one of the most effective ways of drawing people by faith to Jesus Christ. (Mk. 16:15). Historically, preaching has become the principle means of leading, teaching, and feeding the flock of God. (Jn. 21:15-17).

So what, are we not suppose to use those terms at all? That’s not what I am saying. Using “insider language” is only of benefit to those who believe.

What happens if you bomb the sermon introduction? Lean in. Are you ready for this? Nothing, absolutely nothing, good happens if you bomb the sermon introduction.

We preach to congregations who are influenced as much by what they read during the week as by what they hear on Sunday. We preach to guests who were not raised with a Christian worldview. We preach to people who are close to being “done” with church once and for all.

Before you preach your next sermon, take the time to answer these six questions. If you do, you’ll have greater clarity for the content of the message and the congregation will have greater clarity for the expected action from the message.

I am not saying that you should slack on sermon prep. Write and preach the best sermon you possibly can. However, many pastors get stuck because they are spending too much time preparing the sermon and other ministry areas suffer.