How to Write Sermon Notes

One of the most frustrating feelings is stepping out of church and not being able to remember what the sermon was about. If you are going to take the time to attend a church service, it is only logical that you would do what was necessary to retain the information you receive. In order to keep the information for later review, you need to have a way to record the information. The best way to retain information from a sermon is to keep sermon notes. Read on to learn how to write sermon notes.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Pencil/pen
• Paper
• Notebook (optional)
• Bible

1. Listen to the introduction. Normally, ministers will start with an illustration or some questions to get the audience thinking. Pay special attention to this. Introductions are often thought provoking and insightful.
2. Write a two or three sentence summary of the introduction. Be sure to include the main Scripture reference.
3. Outline the sermon. Often, a minister will emphasize his main points by creating short parallel phrases. For example: 'Pray for Friends', 'Pray for Yourself' and 'Pray for Enemies.' He will often repeat these main points throughout the sermon. Write these points down in the form of an outline.
4. Summarize each main point. Write a quick two or three sentence summary of each of his main points. Be sure to include any additional Scripture passages referenced.
5. Ask yourself how you can use this sermon in your everyday life. Write the answer as a two or three sentence summary at the bottom of your sermon notes.

Tips & Warnings

• Do remember to review your notes later for the best retention of the information.
• Don’t use your sermon notes paper as a brainstorming sheet for shopping lists, to do lists. This will defeat the purpose of keeping notes on the sermon.