How Does a Typical Sermon Go?

Introduction to Theme

The preacher steps to the podium, pausing for a moment to draw the focus of the congregation toward the pulpit. First sentences are designed to capture the listeners' attention and prepare them for the theme of the sermon. In the first minutes listeners gain clear information about the type of sermon. A Bible study style sermon spotlights a particular set of Bible texts relating to each other. A topical style sermon concentrates on a Christian principle. The audience often acknowledges that they understand the theme with a raise of hands, a vocal "Amen!" or a more subtle nod of heads.

Bible Quotations

A quotation from the Bible is announced. The book chapter and verse is stated and repeated. The congregation is encouraged to use this reference to look up the passage in their own Bible and read along. The text is interpreted by reference to Greek or Hebrew translations of key words in the text or other modern language Bible versions. Context for texts is established with historical facts about when the scripture was written, who the author was and their circumstances at the time. Quotations from other current or historical Christian books are used to expand on the text meaning. Additional Bible quotes are interspersed throughout the sermon.

Storytelling

The sermon includes narratives and stories to illustrate the sermon theme and Biblical quotations. A personal experience story is also known as a testimonial. It is a vignette from the life of the speaker that tells truthfully about a problem and how it was solved. A Bible story will tell of characters in the Scriptures. Bible stories allow certain creative license to paint a visual picture of ancient times and interesting lives. Parables are stories based on actions of fictional characters to make a point about ethical behavior. Parables in a sermon may be sourced from the Bible or derived from modern authors. Stories from the news headlines are included in a sermon for more contemporary interest. Storytelling emphasizes godly intervention or guidance in individual lives and group dynamics. The moral to the story is used to illuminate and re-emphasize the sermon theme in a listener-friendly way.

Call to Action

The sermon closes with a call to action. The congregation is asked to accept the lesson taught during the sermon. Members are encouraged to commit that the lesson will be incorporated into the each of their lives. This commitment is often acknowledged with a physical action of raised hands or speaking the word "Amen" out loud.

Resources

• Sermon Resource Center