How to Prepare a Topical Sermon

Preaching reaches the entire congregation.

Topical sermons focus on one specific topic in the congregation's life. This differs from a textural sermon that focuses on reading and explaining the text of the scripture. It also differs from an expository sermon, which expands on one small part of scripture and relates the scripture to modern life. Topical sermons focus on a particular topic in ministry such as sacraments, liturgy, ministries or a specific age in the congregation such as church youth, or elders.

Things You'll Need

• Bible
• Research materials

Instructions

1. Choose your topic. Narrow your topic as much as possible. For example, the topic "Youth" is too big for a single sermon. Refine the topic to something like "The importance of youth ministry," or "Threats to our youth."

2. Expand your topic with sermon points. Choose three or four main points that expand upon your topic. For example, if your sermon is "The Importance of Youth Ministry," three sub points might be "Children are a part of our church,""Jesus called the children to him," and "training future leaders."

3. Explain each point with sub points. Use two or three examples from news, or scripture to back up each point.

4. Write the outline with the topic, points and sub points.

5. Research each sub point. Use scripture, pertinent magazines and newspapers, and other research materials. Write the sermon from the outline.

6. Practice the sermon four or five times. Read the sermon in a loud, conversational tone. As you read the sermon, listen to your words. Pause after you make your points to allow your words to sink into the congregation.

Tips & Warnings

• Choose your topics from the life of your congregation. Think about using topics about hope and promise during the spring.

References

• Four Lake Church of Christ: How to Prepare a Sermon,Raymond T. Exum, March 16, 2008
• Online Sermons for Busy Pastors: Topical Sermon