Craft

Eight Tips to Preach Across the Divide

Eight Tips to Preach Across the Divide

If your experience is like mine, you’ve never preached in a political and cultural climate as volatile and unpredictable as the one we face in the U.S. right now. How do we preach the unifying love of Christ when many are divided? How do we preach peace in the face of vitriol? How do we preach dignity when displays of disrespect are paraded as badges of honor?

I Do Not Think "Amen" Means What You Think it Means: 5 Ways to Better End Your Sermon

I Do Not Think "Amen" Means What You Think it Means: 5 Ways to Better End Your Sermon

Ending a sermon with “Amen” is both redundant and ill-fitting with the purpose of a sermon. In truth, though, most preachers aren’t worried about these technicalities when they finish with “Amen.” They simply don’t know how else to conclude. Consider these five types of conclusions for a more effective close instead.

Was Your Easter Sermon Effective? 6 Elements to Help You Evaluate and Know

Was Your Easter Sermon Effective? 6 Elements to Help You Evaluate and Know

Now that the the candy's eaten, the dishes are washed, and the schedule has settled back into something resembling normalcy, take a few minutes to reflect on your Easter sermon. Was it effective? How would you know? Using BsP's 6-elements of an effective sermon, see where you excelled and where you can grow for your next sermon.

How to Reach Hearts on Both Sides of an Issue

How to Reach Hearts on Both Sides of an Issue

Not since the Civil Rights era have preachers been so called upon to discern and proclaim what it means to follow Jesus Christ and love one’s neighbor as oneself.

With so many competing viewpoints, so many people unwilling to dialogue, and so much fear driving people apart, how can preachers proclaim the dignity of every human being in a way it can be heard by people on both sides of the divide?

When a Good Sermon Isn't Enough: Overcoming 3 Obstacles to Experiencing the Gospel

When a Good Sermon Isn't Enough: Overcoming 3 Obstacles to Experiencing the Gospel

As preachers, we all strive for:

  • a compelling introduction
  • a clear message
  • great stories that help our listeners connect abstract concepts to lived experience
  • and a message that leaves the building with them

Why?

Because these elements help move the listener toward an encounter with the Living Word.

But sometimes, good sermon practices aren't enough. 

As preachers, we may also need to remove obstacles that cast a shadow on people's experience of grace, truth, and love. 

7 Ways to Become a Better Preacher

7 Ways to Become a Better Preacher

In an increasingly unchurched and biblically illiterate society, preaching is the only biblical education many ever get.

Preaching is also a primary factor in many newcomers' decision about whether to return for a second visit.

As a result, the quality of your sermons matters both to your congregation's spiritual growth and to your church's ability to become a spiritual home for those seeking one.

That sounds like a lot of pressure, particularly when preaching is only one part of the job. Fortunately, it is possible to improve and grow in your craft.