Introduction: Course Syllabus

Proclamation For Church Growth: This course is complementary to the course, Life For Church Growth. It asks the students to study, evaluate, prepare, and give biblical messages on evangelistic or spiritually edifying themes. Various pastor- evangelists are examined, their messages analyzed, their strengths imitated, their weaknesses avoided. The different classifications of sermons are examined: Method, contents, text, treatment, and structure. The structural classification is analyzed in detail: Topical, textual, expository, and topical-textual. In the second half of the course, the students will study course notes on the manual, Evangelistic Preaching, with the goal of preaching to non-believers. Students will speak in various contexts: Worship services, prayer meetings, Bible studies, lectures, seminars, classrooms, and school assemblies.

Unit	Lesson	Assignment Due
1. Introduction	Course Syllabus (1st day)
2. Introduction	Summary Report (1st day)
3. Preacher	The Preacher’s Priorities
4. Preacher	The Preacher’s Portrait
5. Class	Sermon classifications
6. Class	Topical sermons
7. Class	A topical sermon: Christ’s Return 1
8. Class	A topical sermon: Christ’s Return 2
9. Class	Textual sermons	Topical sermon on Christ’s disciple
10. Class	A textual sermon: Reconciliation 1
11. Class	A textual sermon: Reconciliation 2
12. Class	A textual sermon: A Visionary’s Prayer
13. Class	Expository sermons	Textual sermon on Christ’s return
14. Class	Preparation of an Expository Sermon
15. Class	Expository: Multiple Approach Sermons
16. Class	An Expository Sermon: Offering
17. Components	The Biblical Text of the Sermon	Expository sermon on holiness
18. Components	The Illustrations of a Sermon
19. Components	The Conclusion of the Sermon
20. Components	The Invitation 1
21. Components	The Invitation 2
22. Components	The Introduction of the Sermon	Final version of 3 edification sermons
23. Introduction	Orientation: Evangelistic preaching
24. What?	The Sermon Aim: Salvation of sinners
25. What?	The Sermon Appeal: Love for the Lost
26. What?	The Sermon Content: Gospel of Christ
27. What?	The Sermon Form: Telling and Inviting
28. How?	The Value of the Bible
29. How?	The Necessity of the Bible
30. How?	The Organization of Materials
31. How?	The Patterns of Preaching
32. Who?	The Preacher
33. Who?	The Listeners
34. Who?	The Counselors
35. Who?	The Holy Spirit	Choose a pastor / mentor
36. Evaluation	Worksheets 1-3 (pages 36-38)	Form teams of two
37. Evaluation	Student / Mentor Agreement (page 39)	Outings in churches for each message
38. Evaluation	Report forms 1-3 (pages 40-42)	Final version of 3 evangelistic messages

Acknowledgements: These notes for the first half of the course were prepared for I.S.E and taught by Reverend David Klinsing in 1986. They were rearranged and completed by Dr. Dale Garside. The section on the invitation was included from notes by Reverend Ravi Zacharias, given at the Amsterdam Conference for Itinerant Evangelists in July, 1983. The second half of the course is an outline of the Evangelistic Preaching Course, prepared in 1990 by the Institute on Evangelism of the Billy Graham Center, edited by Dr. Robert Coleman, and translated by Dr. John E. Miles. The notes on Evangelistic Preaching were arranged by Dr. Dale Garside.

The Preacher’s Portrait

I. A steward: The preacher's message and authority

A. He is not a prophet or an apostle.

B. The source of the preacher's incentive is related to the content of his message, the nature of his authority, and the necessity of his discipline.

II. A herald: The preacher's proclamation and appeal

A. Differences between the steward and the herald

1. Stewards feed the household; heralds proclaim to the whole world.

2. Stewards expound the words of Christ; heralds proclaim the deeds of Christ.

3. Stewards accent faithfulness in dispensing goods; heralds expect a response.

B. Apostolic kerygma: Responsibility as ambassador for Christ

C. Proclamation

1. God is the author of reconciliation. 2 Cor. 5:19

2. Christ is the agent of reconciliation. 2 Cor. 5:19

3. Non-imputed sins & God-imputed righteousness are results of reconciliation. He. 2:17

D. Appeal

1. "We beseech you on behalf of Christ."2 Cor. 5:20

2. God makes His appeal through us.

3. There is no appeal without proclamation and no proclamation without appeal.

III. A witness: The preacher's experience and humility

A. The Christian witness is borne before the world.

B. The Christian is borne by the Father.

C. The Christian witness is borne to the Son.

D. The Christian witness is borne through the Holy Spirit.

1. He is parakletos.

2. He is the Spirit of Truth.

3. He is the Spirit of Christ.

E. The Christian witness is borne through the Church.

F. The Christian witness is borne before the world by the Father to the Son through the Holy Spirit and the Church.

IV. A father: The preacher's love and gentleness

A. A father's authority is forbidden.

B. A father's relationship and affection is needed.

1. It is often the means of another's conversion.

2. It is often the means of an intimate relationship.

C. A father's understanding is needed.

1. A father's love will make us understood in our approach.

2. A father's love will make us gentle in our manner.

3. A father's love will make us simple in our teaching.

4. A father's love will make us earnest in our appeal.

5. A father's love will make us consistent in our example.

6. A father's love will make us conscientious in our prayers.

V. A servant: The preacher's power and motive.

A. Servant means: “Servant, bondslave, under-oarsman, deacon or minister.”

B. We need for power in our preaching and in our living.

C. We serve the Word of God, the Cross of Christ, the Holy Spirit, as pure vessels

Topical Sermons

I. Description

A. The topical sermon is one which rises out of the them or topic suggested by the text, or which is selected apart from any text.

B. It is not structured by the words of the text and can be discussed independently of the text.

C. The content of the sermon depends for its development on the topic, so that the preacher feels no obligation to the text.

D. This type of preaching was popular in the past & may be effective to a degree.

II. Advantages

A. It allows for excellence of composition. If one is concerned with producing a literary masterpiece, then this type is best suited for that purpose.

B. It allows for a thorough discussion of a particular theme.

C. It generally makes a definite appeal to the intellect.

D. It is, perhaps, the easiest method to employ, since it does not require the same depth of biblical research and passage analysis.

E. It is easy to obtain unity in the sermon, since it is not restricted by the words of the text.

III. Disadvantages

A. It tends to obscure and neglect the Bible itself. Attention is diverted from the Scriptures to the preacher.

B. It allows for more room for human opinions about the Bible, since a clear exposition of the text is not required. It fails to safeguard the text.

C. It limits the acquisition of biblical knowledge by the congregation.

D. It does not, in the best manner, lend itself to evangelistic and revival preaching.

E. It is not the best type for promoting spiritual growth in the lives of Christians, who need to feed on the Word of God itself in order to mature and become responsible, witnessing servants of Jesus Christ.

F. On the whole, topical sermons tend to do the preacher more good than the congregation. he develops powers of logic and analysis, but these are not passed on to the hearers.

IV. Examples

A. Greene. Selected Sermons. "Unpopular Preachers," pp. 9-28.

B. Greene. Selected Sermons. "Bible Gardens," pp. 103-116.

C. Graham. The Seven Deadly Sins.

A Topical Sermon: Christ’s Return 1

I. The importance of Christ’s return 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18

A. His return is mentioned 318 times in 260 chapters of the N.T.

B. On the average, one verse in 25 speaks of His return.

C. The number of believers in Thessalonica were dwindling; questions were asked

D. Paul reminds them of three superlatives.

1. It is the greatest consolation in our suffering. Isaiah. 40:1, 9-10

2. It is the greatest hope for our future. Titus 2:13

3. It is the greatest motive for living a holy life. 1 Thessalonians 3:13, 2 Peter. 3:11

a) Ex: A woman who flirts with other men while her husband is away.

b) Ex: A woman who waits patiently for the return of her husband.

II. The certainty of Christ’s return John 14:1-3

A. Jesus is preparing a place for us. John 14:2

B. Jesus will come back. 1 Thessalonians. 4:16

C. Jesus will take us with Him. 1 Thessalonians 4:17

D. We will remain with Him. Philippians 3:20-21

E. His coming is future.

1. Not the physical death. 1 Thessalonians 4:16

2. Not the coming of the Holy Spirit Ph. 3:20-21; 1 Thessalonians 4:17

3. Not the destruction of Jerusalem Revelation 22:20

III. The manner of Christ[‘s return

A. In person Matthew 24:23-31, 36-44; Acts 1:10-11

B. Bodily and visibly Hebrews 9:28

C. In three stages

1. The meeting with the Lord in the air 1 Thessalonians 4:17

2. Christ’s return on Earth. Za. 14:4-5; Matthew 25:31-32; 1 Thessalonians 3:13

3. The tribulation - to be avoided if possible Luke 21:36

D. With power and glory Luke 21:27

E. In a cloud Exodus 19:9; 34:5; Psalm 97:1-2; Ps. 104:3; Matthew 17:5

F. With angels Matthew 16:27; Mark 8:38; 2 Thessalonians 1:17

G. Suddenly, unexpectedly Luke 21:34-36; 1 Thessalonians 5:2-3; Revelation 16:15

IV. The date of Christ’s return

A. It is unknown Matthew 13:32; 24:35, 42

B. The date belongs to God Acts 1:6-7

C. Disciples can be caught off guard. Matthew 24:46-47

D. The world will be about its business, as normal. Luke 17:26-30

E. It will after the coming of the “Son of Perdition.” 2 Thessalonians2:2-4

F. It will characterized by apostasy. 1 Timothy 4:1; 2 Timothy 5:1-3

G. It can come at any moment. Mark 13:34-36

H. It can come before the conversion of everyone. Mt. 24:14; 2 Th.:2-4, 8; 2 Ti. 3:1-5

V. Our attitude about Christ’s return

A. Vigilant - always ready Matthew 24:42; Luke 21:36-37

B. Saint - separated from the world Matthew 25:1-30

C. Convinced - steadfast in Him 1 John 2:28

D. Longing - longing for His return 2 Timothy 4:8; 2 Peter 3:12

A Topical Sermon: Christ’s Return 2

VI. The results of His return

A. God

1. God’s glory will be full revealed. Isaiah 40:5

2. Jesus will reign as King. Jeremiah. 23:5-6; Matthew 25:31

B. The Church

1. Those who are sleeping will be raised with Him. 2 Cor. 5:4-8; 1 Th. 4:15-16

2. Our bodies will transformed like that of Christ. Ph. 3:21; Rm. 8:23

3. Our bodies will shine like stars. Dan. 12:3; Matthew 13:43

4. The faithful, dead and alive, will be taken up. 1 Thessalonians4:17

5. We will be like Jesus. Col. 3:4; 2 Thessalonians1:10; 1 Jn. 3:2

6. We will be united in marriage to Jesus. Ephesians 5:31-32; Revelation 19:6-9

7. We will receive the crown of righteousness. Matthew 16:27; 2 Tim. 4:7-8

8. The elders will receive the crown of glory. 2 Cor. 5:10; 1 Peter 5:2-4

9. The people of God will reign with Him. Revelation 5:9-10; 20:4

C. Israel

1. They will weep for the one they have pierced. Zachariah 12:10

2. A remnant will be restored. Zachariah 13:1, 7

3. Jerusalem will be safe. Zachariah 14:11

4. The dispersed will gather together. Zeph. 3:20; Is. 11:12; Ezech. 36:24; 37:21

5. Israel and Judah will be saved. Jeremiah. 23:5-6; Romains 11:26-32

6. They will be united. Ezechiel 37:23

7. They will have their hearts transformed. Jeremiah 31:33-34; Ezechiel 37:26

8. They will declare the glory of God to the nations (like Paul). Isaiah 66:19

D. Society

1. They will weep for the one they have pierced. Matthew 24:24:30; Revelation 1:7

2. All nations will be judged. Matthew 25:31-32; Revelation 20:12

3. A remnant of all the nations will be saved. Isaiah 2:2-3; Za. 8:22; Acts 15:16-20

4. Rebels will be judged and condemned eternally. Ps. 2:9; Jude 15; 2 Th.:8-9

5. The world will return to its rightful owner. Revelation 11:15

6. Ceux qui restent se prosterneront et adoreront. Is.11:11; Za.9:10; 14:16; Rev.15:4

7. Wars will cease and peace will reign. Isaiah 2:2,4; Micah 4:3-4

8. The whole Earth will be filled with the knowledge of the Lord. Isaiah 11:2-5, 9

E. The Antichrist 2 Thessalonians 2:3-4; 7-8

1. He will be taken away. Revelation 19:20

2. Satan will be thrown in the abyss, released after 1000 years, finally thrown into the Lake of Fire. Rev. 20:1-3, 7, 10

F. L'Univers Rm. 8:19-22

1. It will be delivered from corruption. Is. 32:15; 35:1-2; 55:12-13; 65:25

2. There will be a new heaven and a new earth. 2 Peter 3:12-13; Revelation 21:1-5

Conclusion

1. His return is important, certain, and evident.

2. The results will be catastrophique for those who do not know Jesus.

3. The date is not a guessing game to replace work.

4. We must have an attitude of preparation, watchfulness, persuasion, holiness, and longing.

5. "Amen. Come, Jesus, come." Revelation 22:20

Textual Sermons

I. Description of the textual sermon

A. The textual sermon is one in which the text is most prominent.

B. It furnishes the subject and the divisions of the sermon.

C. It varies in length from one to three verses.

D. The basic thought on the text will be sensed throughout the sermon.

E. Divisions are suggested naturally by important words & phrases in the text.

F. They are drawn from the text and constitute a complete analysis of the text.

G. They should be so inter-related that they demonstrate unity in the sermon.

II. Characteristics of the textual sermon

A. The basic ideas found in the text determine the content of the divisions.

B. The several divisions of content do not go beyond the truth taught in the text.

C. It lends authority to the message since it is based on the words of Scripture.

D. Skill is required on the selection of the text to make sure it can be used as a textual sermon: Is there sufficient substance for a rich unfolding of truth?

E. The textual sermon is based upon a careful exegesis of the text, which makes for the clearest possible presentation of truth without personal prejudice.

F. The text should be expressed in the outline by the preacher’s parallel thoughts

III. Advantages

A. Every important biblical subject is possible with this method.

B. Both the preacher and the people profit from this type of biblical preaching.

C. Since the textual sermon should only use about one of three verses at most, there can be a concentration on one phase of truth which will aid the people.

D. This type of preaching saves the preacher from being repetitious.

E. It allows the congregation to follow with Bibles open to the passage.

F. It is easier to follow one passion than several different portions of Scripture.

G. It makes possible a more pointed type of application.

H. Textual sermons lead hearers into the text and not away from it.

IV. Examples of textual sermons

A. Receiving Christ John 1:12

1. Individual reception

2. Consequence of reception

3. Mode of reception

B. The Grace of God Acts 11:23

1. The situation: What he saw

2. The reaction: What he felt

3. The admonition: What he said

C. God's pattern of life Heb. 12:14

1. His peace: through God's guidance: path

2. His holiness: in God's presence: fullness

3. His promise: at God's side: eternal life

D. The requisite for seeing God Heb. 12:14

1. A glorious hope: patience (goal, gift, glory)

2. A glorious provision: holiness (possible, practical, profitable)

3. A grave peril: without holiness (lacking what God demands, limiting what God would do, losing what God has offered)

A Textual Sermon: Reconciliation 1

Introduction Col. 1:21-22

1. The theme of the epistle is that all the son’s glory is at the disposition of the Church.

2. Title: If so, you need to come and apply for “a passport to heaven”.

3. Goal: I invite any of you who are illegally with God’s family to become legal.

V. The need for reconciliation

A. A Foreigner (stranger, outsider)

1. Man has lost his citizenship in heaven; man is out of communion with God.

a) Man did not start out as a foreigner.

b) Man was made a foreigner by God.

c) Man tried to be independent of God.

2. Alienation was a necessary judicial act.

a) God separated us from Him.

b) Our sin provoked Him.

(1) The sin of our will

(2) The sin of our choice

3. Reconciliation is thus a necessary judicial act.

a) God is sovereign.

b) He gives us priviledges if the preestablished conditions are met.

c) He takes away our priviledges if the preestablished conditions are broken.

4. Man cannot restore the communion that God has broken.

a) Bible reading

b) Prayer

c) Going to church

d) Good deeds (kindness, service)

e) Financial gifts

5. Alienation is the initial act resulting from sin.

B. The Ennemy

1. The consequence of alienation

2. God is at war against man's failure.

a) No discussion

b) No peace

c) No excuse

3. And man is at war against God; man's attitude is one of rebellion.

a) God's ban is offensive.

b) God's intervention is offensive.

c) God's anger is offensive.

d) God's holiness beside man's corruption is offensive.

e) God's righteousness beside man's unrighteousness is offensive.

f) God's purity beside man's impurity is offensive.

g) Man hates God because God hates sin.

4. Two different standards

a) Man divides activities into two evolving categories:

(1) Respectable

(2) Vulgar

b) God divides activities into two unchanging categories:

(1) All activity in and for Him is good.

(2) All activity outside Him is evil.

5. Enmity is continuation of sin: Man is God’s creation, but he has no right to exist.

A Textual Sermon: Reconciliation 2

VI. The Provision for Reconciliation

A. The State of Man

1. Man knew a life of perfect fellowship with God.

2. Man was alienated from God because of his rebellion.

3. Man has thus become the ennemy of God.

4. Man can only do bad works on his own.

B. The State of Jesus Christ

1. Jesus knows a life of perfect fellowship with God.

2. Jesus is closely linked to His Father: Jesus is the Son of God.

3. Jesus only does good works.

C. What the provision is not: The life of Jesus

1. The incarnation of Jesus: Christmas

2. The teachings of Jesus: The Sermon on the Mount

3. The works of Jesus: Jesus holding the little children

D. What the provision is: The death of Jesus

1. Infinite: The death has infinite value because the person is infinite.

a) Past value: I was saved.

b) Present value: I am being saved.

c) Future value: I will be saved.

2. Divinely human: The grace and glory of the Father were revealed in the flesh.

3. Substitutionary: The punishement of the sinner fell on Him who was without sin.

4. Restorative: The restoration of the original condition of man is possible.

5. Personal: A proof of the restoration is our conversation with God and about God.

VII.The Goal of Reconciliation

A. Two aspects

1. Our justification: 1 Jn. 1:9

a) Our forgiveness

b) Our being made righteousness

c) Our acceptance

2. Our sanctification: Man will not see God without holiness. Heb. 12:14

a) Our purification

b) Our renunciation of sin

c) Our separation from worldly values and practices

d) Our perfection: "blameless" Illus: The child’s letter to father Phil. 2:15

B. Two results

1. Judicial (legal): Our position in Christ is different.

2. Experiential: Our character in Christ is transformed

Conclusion

1. Three promises: God's responsability 2 Cor. 6:16

· God will reside with you: "I will live with them."

· God will act for you: "I will walk among them."

· God will govern you: "I will be their God."

2. Three conditions: Man's responsability 2 Cor. 6:17

· Submission "They will be my people."

· Departure "Come out from them ..."

· Separation "And be separate."

· Man cannot be reconciled to God in sin; man must be reconciled in holiness.

A Textual Sermon: A Visionary’s Prayer to God

Introduction 1 Chronicles 4:9,10

1. Jabetz founded a school for disciples (tradition)

2. There was a city named after him.

3. The key to this passage is a proper understanding of prayer.

4. Jabetz' name means "He who causes suffering."

5. Jabetz had his priorities in place.

6. He was known for His prayer.

I. Personal Blessing

A. Bless - Nothing wrong

B. Me- Nothing selfish

II. Expansion of his boundaries

A. Enlarge My working area is too small.

B. My territories These are my limits, not yours.

III. Divine presence

A. Your hand I cannot do it by my efforts.

B. With me If God is with me, who can be against me?

IV. Protection

A. Keep me I cannot survive without you.

B. From harm

1. Physical Good health assures a better ministry

2. Spiritual Jabetz wants to be holy like his God

Conclusion

1. God will bless this prayer

2. The battle is won with this prayer

3. His army of disciples is the result of that prayer.

4. His reputation is the result of that prayer.

5. What is your prayer today?

Expository Sermons

I. Description

A. Expository sermons are based on extended passages (about 3 to 12 verses).

B. They seek to illuminate by a concise, comprehensive theme & sermon points.

C. They can be applied to the lives of the people.

II. Characteristics

A. The theme must incorporate the main thrust of the whole text.

B. All the main points must rise out of the text.

C. The passage must have unity of thought, and that unity is kept in the outline.

D. The sermon has a single aim; it should be expressed by the theme.

E. The outline should be characterized by progression, and this may call for a rearrangement of the material found in the text.

F. This type differs from the textual sermon, in that it is composed of three or more verses, which can be marked off as a paragraph; it contains one principle idea, which lends itself to a logical development of the divisions of the outline.

III. Advantages

A. It is the most normal way of setting forth the truth: Spurgeon said, "We cannot expect to deliver much of the teachings of the Holy Scriptures by pitching out verse by verse and holding these up at random. The process resembles too closely that of showing a house by exhibiting separate bricks."

B. It furnishes the audience with a broad knowledge of the Word of God that makes it understandable. This encourages the hearers in personal Bible study.

C. It aids the preacher in dealing with delicate themes which might be offensive if they were not set in Scripture. Such themes are declared by divine authority.

D. Genuine exposition, which is an objective study, delivers the preacher from personal prejudices with regard to truth.

IV. Types

A. Paragraph - several verses which fit together

B. Book

1. A brief survey of the whole book in one sermon or a series of sermons based on it.

2. In the latter, each sermon should constitute a whole, independent of other parts.

3. It should not be necessary for the people to have heard the previous message in order to understand the next message.

4. Each sermon should be a unit, yet related to the before and after sermons.

C. Biography

1. A sermon on a person like Moses, David, or Paul.

2. We need to dig out expository sermons on the more obscure Bible characters

D. Parable

1. A heavenly story with an earthly meaning

E. Miracle

1. A biblical story that cannot be humanly or scientifically explained.

F. Event

1. special events such as "the temptation of Jesus" or "the conversion of Paul."

2. Old Testament miracles must be related to the total truth of the Bible.

G. Doctrine

1. Doctrinal themes such as the deity of Christ, the atonement, the resurrection, justification, sanctification, ministry of the Holy Spirit, and the second coming of Christ make excellent sermons when the right passage is chosen to go with them.

The Preparation of an Expository Sermon

I. Advice for preparing the expository sermon

A. In beginning this type of preaching, select texts which are easily understood.

B. Later, handle those which require greater depth in exegesis.

C. If possible, read the entire book in which the text is found in order to comprehend fully the significance of the context.

D. Do not think that every word & phrase must be used.

E. Care in selection is made; read again and again the text until your mind is saturated with its context.

F. Let this be accompanied by prayer and seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

G. A half hour or more of this type of involvement will produce fruitful results.

H. You will be surprised what comes to mind without the aid of commentaries.

I. Consider the text as a whole.

J. Afterwards, search for its natural divisions which will become, by refinement, the main points of the outline.

K. As you engage in preparation more and more, without other aids, your findings will be your own and will supply freshness and vitality to your message.

L. Now it is time to employ exegetical helps to support your own studies.

M. Arrange material in good homiletical form, not a running verse-by-verse commentary.

N. Check for progression in unfolding the main points of the sermon.

O. Gear expository preaching to the spiritual, moral, and ethical needs of your congregation. The truth must always be applied.

II. Example

A. Theme: Made alive to God Ephesians 2:1-10

B. Goal: Show the way of salvation

C. Outline

1. The sinful state of man

a) Dead in sins

b) Walking after the world

2. The way of deliverance

a) Negative approach

b) Positive approach

3. The Blessing of salvation

a) Fellowship with Christ

b) Life of good works

c) Future glory

III. Another outline for an expository sermon

A. A charge to the Church today Revelation 3:14-22

1. The condemnation “I know your works.”

2. The cure “I counsel you to buy from me ...”

3. The invitation “Be earnest and repent.”

4. The reward “To him who overcomes, I will give the right to sit at my throne.”

Expository: Multiple approach Sermons

I. A Description of a multiple approach sermon

A. This type of sermon has been a turning point for many pastors.

B. The passage is approached first from the standpoint of the reader.

C. The passage is then approached from the standpoint of each person or group.

D. What does the passage say about each one? What do they think, feel, believe?

II. Examples

A. Four sermons Acts 8:26-40

1. Philip: Conditions of effective witnessing

a) He must respond to the Spirit's leading 26,27,29,30

b) He must proceed tactfully. 30

c) He must use the Scriptures. 32-35

d) He must present Jesus. 35

e) He must follow through to completion 37-38

2. The Ethiopian: Steps to salvation

a) He must be open to the truth 28,31

b) He must understand 30

c) He must believe 37

d) He must obey 38

3. The Holy Spirit: Leading of the Holy Spirit

a) He led Philip to the place 26,29

b) He led Philip to the man 29,30

c) He led Philip to the Scripture 35

d) He led Philip to a happy result 39

4. The seeker after salvation: Aids along the way

a) The Holy Spirit 29

b) The Holy Scriptures 28-33

c) The soul winner 30,35,37,38

B. Four more sermons 1 Samuel 12

1. Samuel: His spiritual qualities 4

a) His integrity 7

b) His faithfulness to his call: he reasons, corrects, exhorts, warns, and comforts the people 7, 17, 20, 25

c) His devotion to the people 23

2. Saul: Three meditations for a leader

a) The man he follows: pious and fervent in prayer 5,18

b) The people he leads: negligent, stubborn, and punished 9,12,19

c) The God he serves: just, merciful, faithful 7,8,22

3. God: Four manifestations of His grace

a) He allows us to have what He does not want us to have. 13

b) He delivers us from danger 11

c) He warns us when we stray. 18

d) He encourages us even when he disciplines us. 23

4. The people: Four ways God uses to lead His people to salvation.

a) The example of a holy life 3

b) The instruction of a faithful teacher 7

c) The warning of a divine visit 18

d) The intercession of a believer burdened for the lost 23

An Expository Sermon : Offering

Introduction Deuteronomy 26

1. Text:Dt. 26

2. Theme: Offering

3. Title: Free to give

4. Goal: Obedience of the saints to give what God is asking for.

I. Who? Deuteronomy 26:1

A. You Dt. 26:1

II. When? Deuteronomy 26:1

A. When you accept your inheritance Dt. 26:1

III. What? Deuteronomy 26:2,10,12

A. The first fruits of what God gives you Dt. 26:2

B. Your tithe Dt.26:12; Ge.14:20; Mal.3:7-10

IV. How? Deuteronomy 26:2,11,13,14

A. With advance preparation Dt. 26:2

B. With joy Dt. 26:11; II Cor. 9:7

C. With discipline Dt. 26:13

D. With integrity Dt. 26:14; Mal. 1:6-14

V. Where? Deutéronome. 26:2

A. In the sanctuary Dt. 26:2

VI. To whom? Deuteronomy 26:3,4,10,12

A. To the priest Dt. 26:3

B. To God Dt. 26:4,10

C. To the stranger, the orphan, the widow Dt. 26:12

VII.Why? Deuteronomy 26:3,7-9

A. Because of our deliverance Dt. 26:3,7-7

B. Because it’s a commandment Dt. 26:16; Lu. 6:38

C. Because you have a contract Dt. 26:17-19

VIII.Afterwards?

A. After having presented your offering, ask for blessings Dt. 26:15

B. O.T. - emphasis on the exterior

C. N.T. - emphasis on the interior

Conclusion

1. Do not give because God has required it.

2. Give to God because He has freed you from sin.

3. Do not give your tithe because you have to.

4. Give beyond the tithe because you want to.

The Biblical Text of the Sermon

I. A Description of the Text

A. The word is derived from the Latin, "textus," which means to weave.

B. The text is woven into the fabric of the sermon.

C. It is that portion of Scripture upon which the sermon is structured.

II. The Usage of the Text

A. It may supply a subject for the sermon or the key thought.

B. It may be used as a springboard in which the text is not prominent in the sermon.

C. It may be the very heart of the sermon so that every word is carefully analyzed.

D. It may be composed of several verses or parts thereof.

E. A text is essential since we are to preach the Word. 2 Tim. 2:15, 2 Tim. 4:2

III. The Reasons for the Text

A. We are commanded to preach the Word.

B. It is the one source of Christian truth.

C. It insures reference to the Scriptures.

D. It presents the element of authority to the audience.

E. It constitutes a framework and keeps the preacher from skipping around.

F. It saves the message from becoming a mere lecture.

G. It helps to unify the whole sermon.

H. The text makes the language of the Bible real and personal to the hearers.

I. The text is of value in preaching offensive doctrines, as the teaching on hell.

IV. The choice of the text

A. Choose the great texts for great themes.

B. Avoid those in which the meaning is not clear.

C. Select texts which set forth the important doctrines of the Bible.

D. Select texts which have a bearing on practical Christian living.

E. Preach from texts which have a strong emphasis on moral and ethical thrusts as well as those that seem to apply only to spiritual life.

F. Beware of accommodating texts to situations when the context does not permit it.

G. Be loyal to the text in the development of the sermon. Try to find lesser known texts for the setting of familiar truths, where the application is clear.

H. Records should be kept of preaching events to assure the whole Bible is preached.

V. The theme of the text

A. The theme must be suitable to the text.

B. The theme should give unity to the sermon.

C. The theme should enlighten the audience as to what the sermon is all about.

D. The purpose of the sermon should be suggested by both text and theme.

VI. The study of the text

A. Pray about the text: Understanding requires divine guidance, as well as formal study.

B. Appropriate the text: It must have meaning for the preacher himself.

C. Do a methodical study of all the leading phrases of the text to arrive at its meaning.

D. Check figures of speech for proper interpretation. Give the text its natural meaning.

E. Consider the text by the questions: Who, what, why, when, how, and where.

F. Check parallel passages for added thoughts.

G. Note also how it relates to the total truth of the Scriptures.

H. Base the application on the fundamental meaning of the text & not upon what the preacher thinks it implies. How can the text be applied to hearers today?

The Illustrations of a Sermon

I. Description of an illustration

A. It is a means of implementing biblical truth by some form of clarification.

B. It is a window allowing the light to enter.

C. It is imagery, a pictorial approach in words; it seeks to enhance truth.

D. It makes the truth vivid and impressive.

E. Psychology informs us that knowledge is obtained through our five senses in these ratios: sight-85%, hearing-10%, touch-1.5%, smell-1.5%, and taste-1.5%.

F. Sermon illustrations are mental pictures, bringing knowledge through sight.

II. Purposes of illustrations

A. They illuminate the subject and make facts shine.

B. They hold interest: A listless audience can be quickly aroused by them.

C. Illustrations establish rapport with the audience.

D. Illustrations tend to rest the audience from close attention and relax them if the speaker is intense or abstract: Average listeners need a break every 5 minutes.

E. Illustrations clarify the subject: Of all public speakers, the preacher must be committed to clear presentations for he deals with matters of life & death.

F. Illustrations make truth vivid & vividness is a most desirable quality of speech.

G. Illustrations strengthen argument:. Hebrews 11 strengthens argument of faith.

H. Good illustrations bring conviction of sin into the life of the hearer: Preaching against greed, one would hardly omit the stories of Achan in Joshua or Ananias in Acts.

I. Illustrations can be used to persuade: A striking illustration shows the benefit of action, near the conclusion, followed by an earnest exhortation and appeal.

J. Illustrations aid the memory: People are more likely to remember the illustration longer than they will anything else in the sermon. Pictures are more likely to be remembered than abstract ideas, and good illustrations are verbal pictures.

K. Illustrations can ornament a sermon, giving dress, balance, vigor, and vividness.

L. Touches of humor can be injected by illustrations.

M. Illustrations stimulate the hearers' imagination.

N. A speaker can preach indirectly through an illustration.

O. Illustrations tend to make the sermon practical, joining truth and life.

III. Sources of illustrations

A. The Bible is the main source of illustrations.

B. Personal observation of the world of nature, including phenomena of earth & space.

C. Descriptive language, word pictures, parables, and figures of speech

D. History: events of the past compared to the present day situations.

E. News media, through the radio, television, and newspapers.

F. Quotations from hymns, poetry, proverbs, stories, and anecdotes

G. Contemporary life situations, associated with the audience

H. Discovery: The best illustrations are those which the preacher secures for himself

IV. Techniques of presentation: There is no one single technique

A. Vary the length

B. Vary the method of emphasis

C. State the lesson sometimes, and make an application.

D. Omit stating the lesson at other times, and let the hearer make the application.

E. Vary the terminology in introducing: Dr. Jowett tells the story ...; John said ...

F. Vary the emotional tone: Go from sad to cheerful, from light to heavy

G. Vary the age appeal

The Conclusion of the Sermon

I. A Description of the Conclusion

"The conclusion is the summarization of the sermon showing its relevance to the daily living of the listeners. It will challenge the listeners to make some decision regarding the content of the message" (L. M. Perry).

II. Characteristics of the Conclusion

A. It should be personal to the hearers.

B. It should be consistent with the theme of the sermon.

C. It should apply to the whole sermon.

D. It is likely to be ineffective if the sermon is without clear purpose.

E. It is likely to be weak and lacking enthusiasm if there is inadequate preparation.

F. It is likely to be ineffective it there is much repetition, using the same phrases that were employed in the body of the sermon.

G. It should not introduce some new thought which is unrelated to the content of the sermon. It should appeal to the emotions, without making it emotional. It is valid to warm the heart and guide the affections according to a scriptural teaching.

H. It should appeal to the will as it often determines the destiny of the hearer.

I. It should be marked with variety, as the congregation tires of hearing the same type of appeal week after week.

J. It should give the final word as to what has gone before it in the message. It calls for action on the basis of the whole message.

K. It should be obvious that the sermon is finished before the preacher launches into an invitation.

III. Advice for giving the conclusion

A. If there is a lag in the latter part of the message, do not try to overcome it with loudness and repetition.

B. Do not apologize when you know you have not done your best.

C. Do not get worked up about it.

D. Close the sermon in the spirit of sincerity, humility, and prayer.

E. In the conclusion, do not try to recover that one good point you forgot. Let it go.

F. Stop when finished.

A troubled vicar asked a farmer why he came to church only when the assistant preached. Well sir, said the farmer, young Mr. Smith says, "In conclusion," and he do conclude. But you say, "Lastly," and you do last. -- R.E. White

The Invitation 1

I. A description of the invitation

"This is the last part of the message that issues a challenge to the congregation to act positively and publicly upon what the preacher has proclaimed as the Word of God." -- Ravi Zacharias

"The invitation is not a gimmick to catch souls. It is not a fetish to insure results. It is not a ritual to confirm orthodoxy. It is simply the call of Christ to confront persons with the offer of His redemption, the demands of his Lordship, the privilege of His service." -- Clifton J. Allen

II. Reasons for the invitation

A. Biblical

1. 1 Kings 18:21: The prophets were very much what modern day evangelists stylistically are called to be. The prophets challenge the people to respond to the true God and to turn away from false ones. Elijah on Matthew Carmel says, "How long halt ye between two opinions? If the Lord be God, follow him, but if Baal, then follow him." In like fashion, the evangelist of today makes the choices clear and accordingly issues the invitation.

2. Matthew 11:28-29: He constantly issued the invitation to publicly acknowledge Him and follow Him.

3. Revelation 22:27: The New Testament closes with a great invitation.

B. Reinforcing

"Emotions aroused and desires stirred will soon pass away unless acted upon at once; good impulses are harder to generate the second time than they were the first time, if the first resulted in no action." Faris D. Whitesell, 65 Ways to Give Evangelistic Invitations

C. Monumental

1. It serves as a "milestone" reminder to the man in the pew.

2. Many times in the Old Testament, God told His people to build a monument to remind them and their children of what happened there.

3. In the conversion experience, coming to an altar can serve symbolically as the monument to be looked backed upon.

D. Historical: One of the best illustrations of this is Billy Graham himself.

E. Practical: It helps in the goal of winning the lost and/or edifying the body.

III. Types of invitation

A. By age group

B. By need

C. By responding publicly at the altar

D. By a show of hands

E. By praying silently where you are

F. By filling out a card

G. To contact the pastor during the week

H. Through a discussion and dialogue in an adjoining room

I. Others?

IV. People involved

A. It is important to point out that a pastor may opt for one of many different types by virtue of the fact that he has a sustained ministry.

B. The evangelist is in another category. He is only there for a short period of time, and the invitation is best extended by him.

C. There should be counselors prepared to meet with any who come forward. Billy Graham states that over 80% of those who respond to an invitation to receive Christ do so after the public altar call, during the counseling sessions.

The Invitation 2

V. Location

A. The evangelistic sermon, by nature, is geared to be more persuasive than the average pastoral sermon, and the invitation is best extended there and then.

B. Whether the gathering be in an adjoining room or up front depends on culture.

C. It works anywhere. Dr. Graham uses invitations cross-culturally.

VI. Time

A. The invitation must be preceded by prayer and preparation, just as the sermon.

B. An immediate casting of the net after the sermon is highly favored.

C. God always wants people to be reconciled with Him now.

VII.Needs

A. A sense of sin

B. Dread of impersonal forces

C. Lost assurance

D. Anxiety

E. Boredom

F. Self-perplexity

G. Death

H. Loneliness

I. Something lacking

J. Hunger for truth

K. Missing significance of God

L. Mistrust of life and people

M. Conflict in the home

N. Resentment of material domination

O. Eagerness for change

P. Appeal of the heroic

Q. Craving for motherhood

R. Appeal of the life of Christ

S. Power of the cross

VIII.Dispensation -- Lloyd Perry

A. Give it with clarity.

B. Give it with caution.

C. Give it with compassion

D. Give it with conviction.

E. Give it with courtesy.

F. Give it with confidence.

IX. Issues

A. Theological - A question could be raised on the theological validity of the invitation and whether or not it usurps the role of the Holy Spirit. This can be easily diffused by reminding them that some method has to be used, and as Augustine has reminded us, no system should be judged by its abuse. If the invitation is given well, without pressure, it is a very legitimate process.

B. Emotional - The evangelist can easily be manipulative and build an excessively emotional state of mind to draw in the net. This should be seriously warned against. However, it should be noted that there is a difference between emotion and emotionalism; there is a proper and improper place for emotions.

C. Practical - The danger of getting people to think that an altar call is the only way to come is to be discouraged. The evangelist should always remind his audience that some could still be struggling with the choice and that as they make their way home to think about it, the side of the bed is just as proper a place, but that a public confession will soon follow.

Conclusion

1. The invitation should not be viewed with fear. Rather, it should be taken as a privilege we have to offer Christ to the people.

2. It is the special calling of the evangelist.

The Introduction of the Sermon

I. Advice

A. Be brief: "No where are compactness, rapidity of approach, directness, and singleness of aim more admirable than in introducing the subject.”

B. Know your sermon before preparing the introduction: There are diverse opinions about when the introduction should be prepared. It ought to be written when the sermon is complete. It is difficult to introduce a subject before the theme, purpose, and the body of the sermon have been outlined.

C. State your reason for the message: The introduction should set forth the reason for preaching the sermon. The opening sentences should be written with great care and in such a way as to arrest the attention of the audience.

D. Begin well: A poor beginning may well sabotage a good sermon.

II. Characteristics

A. It should be pertinent to the sermon: Ruskin said, "The first half dozen strokes determine the portrait." Do not discuss anything which is not related to the theme or the subject.

B. It should not give the whole sermon away in the opening sentences: The element of surprise is not to be overlooked.

C. It should be a bridge leading the audience from where they are in their thinking to the biblical setting of the sermon.

D. It should be natural: Do not introduce the spectacular, except on rare occasions, as it may outshine the rest of the sermon.

E. It should include the introduction and the reading of the text: This will help place the sermon in the right perspective for what follows.

F. It should be factual, simple, appealing, and impressive: Avoid hyperbole. Let the introduction flow into the body of the message.

G. It should be short and balanced: "Failure may arise from being too long (straying too much and too far), being too wide (roaming the contemporary scene), and from being too obvious (becoming consequently dull). -- R.E. White

H. It should be non-provoking: Do not introduce the sermon by stating your viewpoint, when it may be controversial or differ from the message of the text.

I. It should be constantly varied: It may be contextual or have a local meaning. At times, you may use something of a current or scientific interest. Finally, it could be personal in certain cases.

III. Delivery

A. Be careful to produce the right emphatic response on the part of the audience. Avoid peculiar mannerisms and unnatural tones in using the voice. Gestures should be limited to avoid attraction to your person.

B. Do not make apologies or excuses because of ill health. Avoid flattery and the use of technical language which might hinder good communication.

C. Avoid anything that savors of arrogance, conceit, and contention. Be sincere and endeavor to gain the confidence of the audience.

D. Use the introduction to introduce, not to explain or expound: The introduction is not an end in itself; it points to that which is to come.

I. Information

A. What is your name?

B. Where and when did you preach this message?

II. The Introduction

A. What is the first sentence of your sermon? (An interesting and striking one)

1.

B. What is the sentence which contains the biblical passage?

1.

C. What is the thematic sentence?

1.

D. What is the sentence which contains the title?

1.

E. What is the sentence which contains the goal?

1.

F. What is the summary of the introduction?

1.

III. The Body (Write your answers to this section on the other side of the page)

A. What are the major and minor points of your sermon (what is your outline?)

B. What is the first sentence of each major paragraph?

C. What are the Bible verses which correspond with each paragraph?

D. What are the titles of the illustrations which correspond to each paragraph?

E. What is the transitional sentence which underlines your goal?

IV. The Conclusion

A. What is the sentence which highlights your goal?

1.

B. What is the summary of your conclusion?

1.

2.

3.

C. What is the transitional sentence between your conclusion and the invitation?

1.

V. The Invitation

A. What type of invitation will you give? (Altar call, Adjoining room, Hands raised, Standing, Remain in the sanctuary after everyone leaves, etc)

1.

B. What needs and what types of listeners are you targeting in the invitation?

1.

C. What is the first sentence of your invitation?

1.

D. What is the last sentence of your invitation?

1.

I. Guard yourself. Acts 20:28

A. In your conduct

B. Be humble. Acts 20:19

C. Be compassionate. Acts 20:19,31

D. Be steadfast. Acts 20:19

E. Be content. Acts 20:33-35

F. In your conscience Acts 20:26

II. Shepherd the flock. Acts 20:28

A. Esteem it. Philippians 2:3

B. Feed it. John 21:15-17, 1 Peter 5:2

C. Lead it. Psalm 77:20

D. Watch and warn it Hebrews 13:17

1. About doctrinal winds and waves. Ephesians 4:14

2. About emotional footholds. Ephesians 4:27

3. About material snares. 1 Timothy 6:6-10

4. About spiritual arrows. Ephesians 6:16-18

5. About mental strongholds. 2 Corinthians 10:4

III. Train the flock. 2 Timothy 2:2

A. Entrust others.

B. Choose faithful and teachable people.

IV. Feed the flock

A. Study and pray. Acts 20:32

B. Preach and teach. Acts 20:20,27

I. A steward: The preacher's message and authority

A. He is not a prophet or an apostle.

B. The source of the preacher's incentive is related to the content of his message, the nature of his authority, and the necessity of his discipline.

II. A herald: The preacher's proclamation and appeal

A. Differences between the steward and the herald

1. Stewards feed the household; heralds proclaim to the whole world.

2. Stewards expound the words of Christ; heralds proclaim the deeds of Christ.

3. Stewards accent faithfulness in dispensing goods; heralds expect a response.

B. Apostolic kerygma: Responsibility as ambassador for Christ

C. Proclamation

1. God is the author of reconciliation. 2 Cor. 5:19

2. Christ is the agent of reconciliation. 2 Cor. 5:19

3. Non-imputed sins & God-imputed righteousness are results of reconciliation. He. 2:17

D. Appeal

1. "We beseech you on behalf of Christ."2 Cor. 5:20

2. God makes His appeal through us.

3. There is no appeal without proclamation and no proclamation without appeal.