Preparing A Sermon

A Five Step Approach

5 Steps for Preparing a Sermon

• Step 1: Preparing for the Sermon

• Step 2: Writing the Sermon

• Step 3: Practicing the Sermon

• Step 4: Delivering the Sermon

• Step 5: Evaluating the Sermon

Step 1: Preparing for the Sermon

• Reading the lessons• Personal Reflection &

Prayer• Commentaries • Stories, illustrations &

anecdotes

Biblical Commentaries

• Online Resources: – The Working Preacher– http://www.workingpreacher.org/?lect_date=05

/05/2013&lectionary=rcl

Logos Productions – Lectern Resource– Pulpit Resource– http://www.logosproductions.com/content/pulpi

t-resource-online-subscription

Step 2: Writing the Sermon

• Decide how long

• Learn your personal style

• The three parts of your sermon:– The Beginning (handout)– The Body – The Ending

Step 3: Practicing the Sermon

• Full manuscript vs. notes

• Practice out loud

• Consider a re-write after you practice out loud

• Tips for Practice Session

– Be mindful of …ToneSpeed of speechprojection of

voicebody languagetics

Step 4: Delivering the Sermon

• Concentration• Good eye contact• Be mindful of time …

and straying too far from manuscript

• Try to relax

Step 5: Evaluating the Sermon

• Consider videotaping the Sermon

• Ask some people to do a written evaluation

• Personal reflection: How did it feel?

Activity

• Choose a scripture text, and begin to write your own sermon.

• 1:00 pm -- 3:15 pm

• Begin with text, read, re-read, prayer, research (Biblical and modern day)

• Write– Opening – Body– Conclusion