December 2007 Sermon Tip --
Crafting an Outstanding Sermon – Part Two (of Three)

In November 2007, we introduced the basic formula for any solid sermon, and discussed the Introduction, which constitutes approximately 5% of the talk. This month, we explore the Body and the Conclusion of a sermon. Next month, transitions and SOS (Source of Support) techniques will be covered.

Say It (aka The Body) – 90% of the Sermon

As a general guideline, the Body of the sermon should contain 2 – 3 major, distinguishable points. By having clearly articulated points, you stay on track and your congregation can more easily follow along and, by keeping the Body to 2-3 major points, you can explore each one with depth.

Narrowing a sermon down to just major 3 points may be a challenge, so make a distinction between the “need to knows” and the “nice to knows” and focus on the “need to knows.” Refer back to your purpose statement, and make sure your points fit your purpose (See the October 2007 sermon tip for a discussion of purpose).

Having said that, there may be times when 2 – 3 major points simply won’t work. Perhaps the topic just doesn’t lend itself to that kind of breakdown and seems to need to be organized as one continuous flow of ideas. This is perfectly acceptable and can be very powerful if you stay on track

Or, perhaps you choose to use an acronym of more than 3 letters as the structure for your points, such as “G-R-O-W-T-H” is used to discuss 5 major points in one of the November 2007 sermons. Bear in mind, you can’t get much depth under each point, so it is really important that you get the most “bang for your buck” by articulating only the most valuable, growth-provoking ideas. In this case, you’ll definitely want to stick to the “need to know” thoughts.

Say What You Said (aka The Conclusion) – 5% of the Sermon

This is your final opportunity to make an impression/leave an impact. It should be brief yet strong. It should:

• Summarize/review – BRIEFLY
• Focus on what you want your congregation to take with them
• Leave them with a challenge/plan of action
• Be “Famous Last Words”
• Leave on an Up Note!

NEVER conclude a presentation with, “…well, that’s all we’ve got time for” or “That’s all I have to say.”

If you focus on the components of a solid Introduction, a focused Body, a powerful
Conclusion, you will have a solid and acceptable talk. But, you are going for more than “acceptable.” To make your talk impactful and transformative, you need glue to hold it all together and you need pictures to bring color to your points. We will discuss those components in January 2008.

Archived Sermon Tip
June 2008

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May 2008

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March/April 2008

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February 2008

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January 2008

Archived Sermon Tip
December 2007

Archived Sermon Tip
November 2007

Archived Sermon Tip
October 2007