CHRIS - Centered
Expository Preaching CENTRAL LUZON CONFERENCE and LL7 SOLA SCRIPTURA MINISTRIES Evangelistic Boot Camp Preaching Syllabus
Club Filipino Greenhills, San Juan, Metro Manila ___________________________________
venue
July 12-16, 2010 __________________
date
CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching
The word is near you, on your lips and in your heart”(that is, the word of faith that we proclaim); because if you CONFESS with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be SAVED. For . . . “Everyone who CALLS on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” But how are they to call on one in whom they have not BELIEVED? And how are they to believe in one of whom they have never HEARD? And how are they to hear without someone to PROCLAIM him? And how are they to proclaim him unless they are SENT ? . . . So faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the word of Christ. (Romans 10:8-17 NRSV)
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching TABLE
OF CONTENTS
Topic of Discussion
Page
The CALL to Christ-Centered Expository Preaching The Eclipse of Biblical Preaching The Purpose of Preaching The Definition of the Sermon The Types of Sermons The Three Processes of Exposition The Centrality Centralit y of Christ in Preaching
4 5 6 7 8 13
The COMPONENTS of Christ-Centered Expository Preaching The Basic Elements of an Expository Sermon The Selection and Analysis of a Text Theological Emphases of the New Testament Books The Fallen Condition Focus The Subject and Theme The Proposition The Propositional Trio The Main Points and Sub-points
14 15 17 18 19 20 21 22
The CONSTRUCTION of Christ-Centered Sermons A Model for Sermon Construction The Process of Sermon Construction Constructio n The Support Materials The Conclusion The Introduction Transitions
25 26 27 30 32 33
The COMMUNICATION of Christ-Centered Sermons The Title The Methods of Presentation The Methods of Preparation Preaching Communication Flow
34 36 38 39
BIBLIOGRAPHY
40
APPENDIX A List of Key Words Expository Sermon Outline Components Pitfalls To Avoid
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42 44 46
CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE ECLIPSE OF BIBLICAL PREACHING
Westminster Chapel’s pulpit giant Campbell Morgan is credited with the epigram, “Sermonettes breed Christianettes.” Undeniably, contemporary preaching pays little attention to the Bible, is self-focused, and consequently is capable of only the most superficial impact on the lives of listeners. In our day the expositor of Scripture has been eclipsed by a host of unfit substitutes. Consider a few: (1)
THE CHEERLEADER is a motivational speaker who commonly leaves the teaching of the Bible to small groups. The preacher’s task, in his opinion, is to “pump his audience up” and make them feel good. Sadly, hearers leave stirred but without being strengthened and the “sugar fix” provided by the “sermon turned into motivational talk” wears off easily into a craving of more substantial food for the soul.
(2)
THE SENSATIONALIST conjures up fantastic personal opinions on a text at the expense of wrestling with the Scriptures. When diligent study and sound interpretation is divorced from application, just about anything can be conveyed --- and often is!
(3)
THE STORYTELLER sharpens his storytelling storytelli ng skills to the neglect of Biblical analysis. True, stories were part of the teachings of Christ but the fact that His parables were “earthly stories with heavenly meaning” does not grant the preacher the license to tell stories devoid of heavenly meaning that are of no earthly use!”
(4)
THE ENTERTAINER is similar to a guest on a TV talk show who waits “backstage” until it is time for him “to do his thing.” The people come to sit back, relax, and assess the performance of the preacher based on the entertainment value of his talk.
(5)
THE ENDOCTRINATOR ENDOCTRINATOR views the text merely as a backdrop for a doctrinal lecture with no relevant application of the Biblical passage. Though his message is truthful, it is often dry and lacks passion.
(6)
THE PSYCHOLOGIST is a purveyor of helpful psychological psychologic al pointers most of which have very little, if any, reference to the Bible. Among his common topics are “The Principles of Effective Fathering” or “The Top Ten Challenges Facing Couples Today.”
Respected British author and preacher John Stott comments: “Preaching is indispensable to Christianity... I believe in preaching, and I further believe that nothing is better calculated to restore health and vitality to the Church...than a recovery of true, Biblical, contemporary preaching.”
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE PURPOSE OF PREACHING
Romans 10:8-17 (NRSV) “The word is near you, on your lips and in your heart”(that is, the word of faith that we proclaim); because if you CONFESS with your lips that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be SAVED . For . . . “Everyone who CALLS on the name of the Lord shall be saved.” But how are they to call on one in whom they have not BELIEVED ? And how are they to believe in one of whom they have never HEARD ? And how are they to hear without someone to PROCLAIM him? And how are they to proclaim him unless they are SENT ? . . . So faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the word of Christ. Observe seven key words in the passage from the capitalized verbs. Connected together, they reveal logical progression of thought. Notice that the words occur in reverse chronological order, and proceed from effect to cause: (1)
A person CONFESSES Christ as his Lord. Why?
(2)
Because he is SAVED. How was he saved?
(3)
By CALLING on the name of the Lord. How did he come to call on the name of the Lord?
(4)
Because he BELIEVED a message. How did he come to believe this message?
(5)
Because he HEARD the word of truth. How did he hear?
(6)
Because a preacher PROCLAIMED the gospel. Why did the preacher proclaim the message?
(7)
Because he was SENT by God to preach.
Inverting the event sequence, let us trace the passage from cause to effect: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)
A preacher is SENT by God. He PROCLAIMS the Word. Someone HEARS the Word. This person BELIEVES the message. He then CALLS on the name of the Lord. As a consequence, he is SAVED by the grace of God. This saved person then CONFESSES Christ as his Lord.
Therefore, viewed from either direction, preaching completes the divine cycle of grace. The preacher is sent forth by God and the sinner is brought to God.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE DEFINITION OF THE SERMON
In the book The Preacher and His Preaching , Dr. Phelps outlines five elements in defining a sermon: (1) AN ORAL, OR SPOKEN ADDRESS – It is not to be read but heard. This implies that it is spoken sufficiently loud and enunciated clearly. In Nehemiah 8:8 we are told that those who addressed the people: “read in the book of the law of God DISTINCTLY, and GAVE THE SENSE, and caused them to understand the reading.” (2) TO THE POPULAR MIND – It should be couched in language which can be understood by all present. Paul says in I Corinthians 4:19, “…I would rather speak five words that can be understood, in order to teach others, than speak thousands of words in strange tongues.” (TEV) (3) UPON SCRIPTURAL TRUTH – It is not a discourse on the most recent science discovery, or a discussion of the latest sensational news, or a summary of the current political situation, or the setting forth of the virtues or the follies of some famous personage or place. Remember Romans 10:17, “…the message is heard through the word of Christ.” (4) ELABORATELY TREATED – The scripture truth is closely examined in relation to its context, the passage is carefully analyzed, the real meaning of its word explained, its truth illustrated and the lesson applied in a logical, intelligent and edifying manner. This elaborate treatment requires: a.
RHETORIC – the art of discourse and skill in the use of language; the use made of the material, its choice, adaptation, arrangement and expression.
b.
GRAMMAR – choice and use made of the words that form the medium by which the sermon is preached using their correct construction and enunciation.
c.
LOGIC – the right use of thought, indicating good and sound sound reasoning.
(5) A VIEW TO PERSUASION – Preaching’s supreme goal is to gain the attention and win the hearer to an acceptance of, and obedience to the truth proclaimed. However eloquent, logical, and orderly the sermon may be, it has missed its mark if it fails to move the listeners to God.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE TYPES OF SERMONS
Sermons are most commonly classified as: (1)
TOPICAL – consists of choosing a certain topic, and then searching the entire Bible to discover what light can be thrown on the subject being considered. The division are invented by the preacher according to the rhetorical possibilities of the subject and the preacher’s Biblical knowledge about it.
(2)
TEXTUAL – selects verses, a verse, or even a part of a verse as a text. The subject and divisions are derived from the text. However, the interpretation of the main points is based on the preacher’s general Biblical view.
(3)
EXPOSITORY – takes a subject, the main divisions, and their interpretation from the text. It is usually based on a longer passage than a textual sermon. The preacher introduces no idea that does not come from the passage of scripture upon which it is based.
The EXPOSITORY class is most faithful to the Bible. It calls for a thorough study of the Scripture based on sound interpretation and structured to bring out the salient features of a Biblical passage to be applied to the needs of the hearers.
ADVANTAGES OF EXPOSITORY PREACHING: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
Leads to a deeper Biblical knowledge for the preacher and hearers Makes sermon Biblically sound. Demonstrates the relevance of the Bible. Promotes a greater appreciation of the Bible. Assures the preacher he is proclaiming God’s word.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE THREE PROCESSES OF EXPOSITION
Expository messages that remain faithful to the text and that contain applications clear and relevant to listeners result from an expositional path. It includes three processes: exegesis, theology, and homiletics. Although this overview of the expositional process comes as a sequence, the actual path from text to sermon may include “U-turns” to check and balance theology (doctrine) and exegesis (textual interpretation): (1)
EXEGETICAL – consists in the historical-contextual literary analysis of the Biblical passage. Two questions help in the exegetical process: “What is the text talking about (narrowed subject)?” and “What is the text saying about what it is talking about (complement)?”
(2)
THEOLOGICAL – overtakes the time-bound interpretation of exegesis to arrive at timeless truths and principles revealed by the Scriptural passage for any audience at any time.
(3)
HOMILETICAL – moves the universal perspective of theology to specific applications to a particular audience.
EXEGETICAL
THEOLOGICAL
HOMILETICAL
Biblical language
Timeless language
Contemporary language
Time bound to Biblical author and audience
Covers all time and has no specific audience in view
Applied to a contemporary preacher and audience
Technical wording
Non-technical wording
Applicational wording
Information and meaning oriented
Systematic organization oriented
Application ad motivation oriented
Analytical detail
Integrated truth
Relevant interest
Textual order of the passage
Logical order of the doctrine
Communication order of developed proposition
Concrete and specific
Abstract and general
Relevant and particular
Declarative
Declarative
Imperative
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching
THEOLOGY ASSIMILATE
A N CIEN T
PRESEN T
HOMILETICS APPLY EXEGESIS ANALYZE
The Three Stories of the Text His Story
Their Story
Our Story
The DO’s and DON’T’s of Textual Study DON’T
DO
1. Misinterpret the message 2. Compete with the message 3. Tarnish the message
1. Realize the message 2. Reckon with the message 3. Endorse the message
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching
SAMPLE TOPICAL OUTLINES
“FAITH” I. II. III. IV.
“THE PRICE OF A NATION’S HEALING” (II Chronicles 7:14)
What is Faith? Why Is It Needed? How Is It Received What Will It Accomplish
“EVIDENCES OF GOD’S LOVE” I. II. III.
SAMPLE TEXTUAL OUTLINES
I. II. III.
“THE CHRISTIAN, AN EXAMPLE” (I Timothy 4:12)
As Seen in the Bible As Seen in Nature As Seen in Providence
I. II. III. IV. V. VI.
“THE COURTROOM OF LIFE” I. The Judge – God, the Father II. The Accuser – Satan III. The Advocate – Jesus IV. The Verdict – Not Guilty
An Example in Word. An Example in Conduct. An Example in Love. An Example in Spirit. An Example in Faith. An Example in Purity.
“THREE RED LETTER DAYS ON THE CHRISTIAN CALENDAR” (Philippians 1:5-6) I. The First Day of Conversion II. The Present Day of Opportunity III. The Last Day of Christ’s Coming
“HUSBANDRY OF THE CHRISTIAN LIFE” I. Sowing – Working for God II. Cultivating – Prayer, Bible Study III. Reaping – Blessing, Life Eternal
A Humbling of Self. A Return to Prayer. A Seeking after God.
“THE LADDER OF GOD’S ABILITY” (Ephesians 3:20) I. II. III. IV. V.
God Is Able To Do What We Ask. What We Think. All We Ask Or Think. Above All We Ask Or Think. Abundantly Above All We Ask Or Think VI. Exceeding Abundantly Above All We Ask Or Think.
“THE DISCIPLINARY VALUE OF DELAY” I. As Seen in the Case of Moses II. As Seen in the Case of Elijah III. As Seen in the Case of Paul
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching
SAMPLE EXPOSITORY OUTLINES
DOCTRINAL
INFERENTIAL
“JUSTIFICATION” (Romans 5:1-9)
“SIN RUINS A YOUNG MAN” (II Kings 5:20-27)
I. The Need of Justification a. Man is without strength (v. 6) b. Man is a sinner (v. 8)
I. II. III. IV. V.
II. The Provision for Justification a. God’s love (v. 8) b. Christ’s death (v. 6)
Begins with Covetousness (vv. 20-21) Allures through Deceptions (v. 26) Leads to Other Sins (vv. 22-25) Hides behind Lies (vv. 25-26) Receives Sure Punishment (v. 27)
BIOGRAPHICAL III. The Appropriation of Justification a. By Faith (vv. 1-2) IV. The a. b. c. d. e.
“WHY GOD USED CORNELIUS” (Acts 10:1-8)
Results of Justification Access to Grace (v. 2) Peace with God (v. 1) Salvation from Wrath (v. 9) Victory in Tribulation (v. 3) Development of Character (vv. 3-5) 1. Patience to experience 2. Experience to hope 3. Hope to shamelessness
I. Man of Character (vv. 1, 2) a. morally strong (soldier) b. devout c. generous d. influential II. Man of Prayer (vv. 2-4) a. consistency b. faith c. yieldedness
ETHICAL III. Man of Action (vv. 5-8) a. listened b. witnessed c. obeyed
“A CHRISTIAN RESPONSIBILITY AS A CITIZEN” (Romans 13:1-10) I. Regarding Civil Obedience (vv. 1-5) a. Implicit obedience (v. 2) b. Fearless obedience (vv. 3, 4)
ANALOGICAL
II. Regarding Financial Obligation (vv. 6-8) a. To the State (vv. 6-7) b. To every Creditor (v. 8) III. Regarding Social Morals (vv. 9-10) a. In accordance with Bible ethics ethics (v. 9) b. In accordance with the law of Love (v. 10)
“THE CHRISTIAN’S RACE OF LIFE” (Hebrews 12:1-2) I. II. III. IV. V.
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The Spectators at the Race (v. 1a) The Training for the Race (v. 1b) The Gait of the Race (v. 1c) The Judge of the Race (v. 2a) The Reward for the Race (v. 2b)
CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching
SAMPLE EXPOSITORY OUTLINES
PROPOSITIONAL
“THE RESURRECTION OF CHRIST’” (I Corinthians 15:3-23) I.
Its Credibility (vv. 3-11) a. Peter (v. 5a) b. The Twelve (v. 5) c. Five Hundred Bretheren at Once (v. 6) d. Paul by revelation (v.8)
II.
Its Sensibility (vv. 12-19) a. Preaching would be in vain (vv. 12-19) b. Faith would be in vain (vv. 14, 17) c. Holy Men would be false witnesses (v. 15) d. Believers would be deluded sinners (v. 19) e. All the righteous dead would have perished (v. 18)
III. Its Necessity (vv. 20-23) a. There must be a second Adam to nullify sin and death imputed through the fall of the first Adam.
“TEMPTATION” (James 1:12-15) I.
The Requisite of Tracing Temptation (vv. 13-14) a. Not from God (v. 13) b. From Inward desire (v. 14)
II.
The Results of Yielding to Temptation a. First Sin (v. 15) b. Then Death (v. 15)
III. The Reward of Enduring Temptation (v. 12) a. Blessedness (v. 12) b. A Crown of Life (v. 12)
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE CENTRALITY OF CHRIST IN PREACHING
Biblical preaching must be Christ-centered if it is to fulfill its divine purpose: “For I determined not to know anything among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified.” (1 Cor. 2:2) “Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved." (Acts 4:12) “By this gospel you are saved, if you hold firmly to the word I preached to you…For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to Scriptures, that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day according to Scriptures...” (1 Cor. 15:2-4) “And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself. “ (Luke 24:27) “You diligently study the Scriptures because you think that by them you possess eternal life. These are the Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life.” (John 5:39, 40) “But now a righteousness from God, apart from law, has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. This righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe.” (Rom. 3:21, 22) True preaching must be gospel preaching as Dr. Jay Adams points out: “If you preach a sermon that would be acceptable to the member of a Jewish synagogue or a Unitarian congregation, there is something radically wrong with it. Preaching, when truly Christian, is distinctive because of the all-pervading presence of a saving and sanctifying Christ. He must be at the heart of every sermon you preach, edificational or evangelistic.” Thus, another type of sermon emerges, i.e. CHRIST-CENTERED EXPOSITORY sermons. Failure to center a sermon in the gospel defeats the very purpose of preaching. In the same token, an attempt to preach the gospel without sound Scriptural grounding results in the proclamation of a different gospel --- a gospel that cannot save! Christ-centered expository preaching lifts up Christ as He is revealed in the Word of God.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE BASIC ELEMENTS OF AN EXPOSITORY SERMON (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8)
TEXT – Biblical passage on which the sermon is based. SUBJECT – the broad idea contained in the text. THEME – the particular aspect of the subject which is developed or elaborated. PROPOSITION – the theme expressed in relevant terms. INTERROGATIVE ADVERB – this is a question asked about the proposition. PROPOSITIONAL TRANSITION – a sentence which incorporates the proposition, the key word and the interrogative adverb. KEY WORD – a plural noun reflected in the main points. MAIN POINTS – the divisions of the sermon.
SUMMARY OF THE STRUCTURE OF AN EXPOSITORY SERMON (1) (2) (3) (4)
The THEME expands the SUBJECT into a clause. The PROPOSITION incorporates the THEME in a simple sentence. The INTERROGATIVE ADVERB appends a question to the PROPOSITION. The PROPOSITIONAL TRANSITION links the PROPOSITION to the MAIN POINTS by using a KEY WORD which answers the INTERROGATIVE ADVERB.
EXAMPLE TEXT: SUBJECT: THEME: PROPOSITION: INTERROGATIVE ADVERB: PROPOSITIONAL TRANSITION: KEY WORD: OUTLINE: I. II. III.
Hebrews 4:12-16 Security Security in Christ The believer has security in Christ. Why can we find security in Christ? We can rest secure in Christ because of three provisions we have in the gospel. Provisions
The Powerful WORD of God (v. 12) The Pervasive WATCH of God (v. 13) The Precise WAY to God. a. Through Christ’s IDENTIFICATION with us (v. 15) b. Through Christ’s INTERCESSION for us (vv. 14, 16)
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE SELECTION AND ANALYSIS OF A TEXT The word “text” comes from the Latin, “textus,” which means something woven (e.g. texture). Thus, it denotes the foundational Biblical passage around which the preacher weaves his sermon. A text is necessary because: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
It gives authority to the message. It confines the preacher to his subject. It gives unity to the sermon. It prepares the hearers for the ensuing discussion. It promotes variety in preaching.
Principles governing the selection of texts: (1) (2) (3) (4)
Beware of texts, the sentiment of which is not inspired. Texts should express a complete thought. Texts should be reasonably preachable. Avoid using texts the reading of which is not clear to the preacher.
Factual data to look for in ANALYZING THE BACKGROUND of a text: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7)
SPEAKER OR WRITER: Who spoke the words of the text? ADDRESSEE: The intended original audience. TIME: The approximate time it was written and its significance to contemporaneous events. PLACE: The significance attached to the location. OCCASION: The circumstances surrounding the text. AIM: The intent of the writer or speaker of the text. WRITER’S STYLE. The approach and perspective the author uses in treating the subject.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching Methods in ANALYZING THE CONTENT of a text: (1) (2) (3)
(4) (5)
Read the passage in different versions. Make a rough outline of the ideas presented taking special note of conjunctions and punctuation marks. Insert transitional words or phrases to carry a unified meaning throughout the text, like: THEN, THEREFORE, BECAUSE, HOWEVER, MOREOVER (e.g. Psalm 23:1, “The Lord is my shepherd, THEREFORE I shall not want.”) Consult a Bible Dictionary and Commentary to check the meaning of difficult words and phrases. Use a concordance to look for parallel texts. DEPENDENCE
TEACHABLE
ON GOD
SPIRIT Context of Immediate Setting
l f a o n o s t i h t t x e a t d u r n n T o u C o F
KNOWLEDGE
TEXT
C U N o n s o t e a r g m x e a t l o f
Context of the Whole Bible
OF GIFTED
SELF
TEACHERS
STUDY
Fundamental principles in Biblical interpretation: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
The New Testament interprets the Old Testament. The Epistles interprets the Gospels. The Universal interprets the Particular. The Literal interprets the Figurative. The CHRIST-EVENT is foundational to all interpretations.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE THEOLOGICAL EMPHASES OF THE NEW TESTAMENT BOOKS
LITERARY CLASS
NEW TESTAMENT BOOK
THEOLOGICAL CATEGORY
Matthew Mark Gospels
History
Pauline Epistles
Christology
Jesus as Servant Jesus as Son of Man
John
Theology Christology
Jesus as Son of God
Acts
Ecclesiology
Birth and Building of the church
Romans
Explanation of the doctrine of salvation
1 Corinthians
Discussion of various aspects of Christian conduct
Soteriology
2 Corinthians
Portrayal of the Christian ministry
Galatians
Implications of justification by faith
Ephesians
Believer's position "in Christ"
Philippians
Ecclesiology
Colossians
2 Thessalonians 1 Timothy 2 Timothy
Believers attitude "in Christ" Believer's completeness in Christ
Eschatology Ecclesiology
Second Coming described Second Coming clarified Conduct in the house of God elucidated Final charge to servant of God given
Titus
Bibliology Ecclesiology
Philemon
Soteriology
Favor requested for a Christian Brother
Hebrews
Christology
Superiority of Christ
James
Prophecy Apocalypse
Jesus as King
Luke
1 Thessalonians
General Epistles
THEOLOGICAL EMPHASIS
1 Peter
Anthropology Soteriology
Need for sound doctrine and good works stated
Need for good works as evidence of genuine faith Conduct and joy of believers in suffering Gospel's certainty and the Day of the Lord
2 Peter
Eschatology
1, 2, 3 John
Soteriology
Way of fellowship and genuine faith
Jude
Eschatology
Warning concerning false teachers
Revelation
Theology Eschatology
Capstone of God's kingdom and redemptive programs
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE FALLEN CONDITION FOCUS In his exceptional book "Christ-Centered Preaching," Dr. Bryan Chappell points out a critical focus in Christ-centered exposition. The concept is based on God's clear intention in giving us the Scriptures: “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the man of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” (2 Tim. 3:16-17) A better reading of verse 17 is “so that the man of God may be complete.” Since God designed the Bible to complete us, its contents necessarily indicate that in some sense we are incomplete. Our lack of wholeness is a consequence of the fallen condition in which we live. It is to remedy this fallen condition that the Scriptures were given. Proper understanding of a passage and formation of a Christ-centered sermon require a clear Fallen Condition Focus (FCF) which reveals the Holy Spirit’s own purpose for the text. Specific sins are frequently the FCF of a passage but a sin need not be the FCF of a sermon. Just as greed, rebellion, lust, irresponsibility, poor stewardship, and pride are proper subjects for a sermon, so also are the desire to raise godly children, determining God’s will, and understanding one’s spiritual gifts. An FCF is simply an aspect of the human condition that requires the instruction, admonition, and / or comfort of Scripture. A message remains pre-sermon until the preacher organizes its ideas and text’s features to apply to a single, major FCF. The following represents this concept: Textual Information (pre-sermon)
Organize ideas of text to
Address FCF + Relevant Application = CHRIST-CENTERED SERMON Since Scripture as a whole is God’s revelation of His redeeming activity in Christ, preaching needs to unveil where and how a particular text functions in the overall redemptive plan to have a Christ-centered focus. A Christ-centered exposition captures the redemptive truths of a sermon text. A three-step procedure can be used to trace a passage’s gospel connections: (1)
Identify the redemptive aspects evident in the text by the revealed aspects of the divine nature that provides redemption and / or the revealed aspects of human nature that requires salvation.
(2)
Determine what application these redemptive principles were to have in the lives of the believers in the original Biblical context.
(3)
In the light of common human characteristics and / or conditions contemporary believers share with persons in the original Biblical context, apply the redemptive principles to current times.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE SUBJECT The SUBJECT is the general idea of the sermon. It represents the broad area out of which a number of specific themes may be chosen and is normally expressed in one word. To eliminate ambiguity, “topic” and “subject” should not be used interchangeably because it is often spoken of identically with the words “theme,” “title,” and “subject.”
THE THEME The THEME indicates the particular aspect of the subject which will be most useful for presentation to the people. It is the dominant and persistent description of the subject under consideration. Whereas the subject is usually stated in one word, the theme has usually three or more words. The theme should be clear, brief, and comprehensive. It divides the subject, or suggests relationships, or infers an affirmation about the subject. The theme brings definiteness of aim and unity of thought.
PASSAGE
SUBJECT
THEME
Eph. 1
The Gospel
The gospel’s exaltation of Christ
Eph. 2
The Gospel
The change the gospel brings
Eph. 3
The Gospel
The gospel’s call for proclamation
Eph. 4:1-17
The Gospel
The gospel’s challenge
Eph. 4:17-32
The Gospel
The gospel’s demands
Col. 1:3-8
Prayer
Thanksgiving in Prayer
Col. 1:9-14
Prayer
Intercession in Prayer
Matt. 6:5-15
Prayer
A Model of Prayer
Matt. 7:7-12
Prayer
Persistence in Prayer
Phil. 1:3-11
Christian Living
Living with joy
Phil. 1:12-30
Christian Living
Living with perspective
Phil. 2:1-12
Christian Living
Living with humility
Phil. 3:12-30
Christian Living
Living with dedication
Phil. 3:2-11
Christian Living
Living with insight
Phil. 3:12-21
Christian Living
Living with determination
Phil. 4:1-13
Christian Living
Living with power
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE PROPOSITION The PROPOSITION is that part of the sermon by which the truth to be established and applied is presented. Declaring the intent of The Biblical passage, it states the theme in the form of a sentence. Characteristics of a good proposition: (1)
IT MUST BE IN THE FORM OF A SIMPLE SENTENCE – the sentence may be grammatically complex but not the thought. Conjunctions should be avoided allowing only one subject and one predicate.
(2)
IT MUST BE STATED IN CLEAR LANGUAGE – this will be realized by the right arrangements of the fewest possible, short, accurate words. All technical and figurative terminology, all synonyms and dangling phrases should be avoided.
(3)
IT MUST BE TIMELESS OR UNIVERSAL – by expressing the reason or the cause for the text’s treatment of the subject in words relevant and gripping to the contemporary mind.
(4)
IT MUST BE APPLICATIONAL IN NATURE – the listener’s attention can be immediately grasped if personal pronouns are used for the purpose of drawing a response.
(5)
IT MUST BE CONNECTED TO THE GOSPEL – it must address a main Fallen Condition Focus (FCF), the mutual condition that contemporary believers share with those to or for whom the text was written that requires God’s grace in its Biblical context.
Structure of propositions: (1)
DECLARATIVE – a simple statement of the theme in a declarative form (e.g. “To worship God is the chief end of man”).
(2)
INTERROGATIVE – the theme in question form (e.g. “Is worship the primary objective of our lives as believers?”)
(3)
HYPOTHETICAL – a supposition hinging on the theme raised for the sake of engaging the hearers in an investigation (e.g. "Think of what will happen to our church if we don’t worship”).
(4)
HORTATORY – an exhortation (e.g. “As believers, let us consider our attitude toward worship”).
(5)
EXCLAMATORY – emphasizes the theme by means of an exclamation (e.g. “How vain our Christian lives would be without worship!”).
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE PROPOSITIONAL TRIO Once the theme has been stated in propositional form, it has to be divided into main points. Moreover, the proposition must smoothly and naturally lead into the main body of the sermon. Three interrelated steps handle this requirement: (1) State the PROPOSITION. (2) Ask an INTERROGATIVE ADVERB. (3) Answer through a PROPOSITIONAL TRANSITION making use of a KEY WORD.
THE INTERROGATIVE ADVERB The INTERROGATIVE ADVERB puts the proposition in the form of a question by appending one of the following adverbs to it: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6)
WHO? – persons WHAT? – things WHERE? – places WHEN? – instances WHY? – reasons HOW – methods
It is very important that only one interrogative should be used in a given sermon. Otherwise, a single key word will not be possible, coherence will be blurred, and more material will be covered than is wisely possible in a single message.
THE PROPOSITIONAL TRANSITION The PROPOSITIONAL TRANSITION answers the INTERROGATIVE ADVERB linking the PROPOSITION to the main points. It is the sermon in a nutshell. Note that the propositional transition must reveal how the gospel deals with the main Fallen Condition Focus (FCF). This is a must if the sermon is to be a Christcentered exposition.
THE KEY WORD The KEY WORD is used by the propositional transition to make a smooth transition from the introduction to the main points. It is a plural noun reflected in each major division of the sermon. (See Appendix A for a list of possible key words).
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE MAIN POINTS
The MAIN POINTS expands the KEY WORD into a phrase. It arranges the textual materials into a logical whole analytically or synthetically. The outlining of the sermon into main points unifies the thoughts in the text to the proposition. Good main points are important: (1)
To the preacher: • • •
(2)
gives him a sense of direction keeps him in that direction helps him in remembering his sermon
To the hearers: • • •
gives them confidence that the sermon is Biblical makes the sermon more understandable assists them in remembering the sermon
Guidelines in setting down main points: (1)
They should be parallel as much as possible. (e.g. Marks of a Good Minister [2 Tim 2:15] I. II. III.
He pleases his Master most. He performs his duty well. He handles God’s Word right. should be
III. (2)
He proclaims his message rightly.)
Memory aids such as alliteration, rhyme or acrostics should be used whenever possible. (e.g. Call to the Ministry [Isa. 6:1-13] I. II. III. IV. V. VI. VII.
Contemplation, vv. 1-4 Conviction, v. 5a Confession, v. 5b Cleansing, vv. 6-7 Challenge, v. 8a Consecration, v. 8b Commission, vv. 9-13
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching (3)
Main points should be mutually exclusive. (e.g. The Renewed Mind [Rom. 12:2] I. II. III.
Power to Concentrate Power to Think Power to Meditate
The outline fails because each point is saying the same thing.) (4)
Main points should be unified. (e.g. Paul’s Mars Hill Address [Acts 17] I. II. III.
The Foolishness of Man The Fatherhood of God The Future of the World
The above divisions show no coherence.) (5)
Main points should be progressive or sequential. (e.g. Obtaining Wisdom [James 1:5-8] I. II. III.
By recognizing your lack of it, v.5 By requesting God for it, v. 6 By receiving it through faith, vv. 6-8)
(6)
Main points should be based on Scripture.
(7)
Main points should be Christ-centered.
Main principles of division for good arrangement: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12) (13) (14)
CHRONOLOGICAL – in time order as in narrating events. DIRECTIONAL – according to an orderly sequence, such as from Mt. Sinai to Mt. Calvary to Mt. Zion. QUANTITATIVE – refer to varying amounts. DEDUCTIVE – from general truth to specific instances. INDUCTIVE – from specific cases to general truth. CLASSIFICATION – classify insights based on a system. CAUSAL – trace a cause to its effects or vice versa. NEGATION – sets up an emphatic positive conclusion by invalidating contradictions to the text. CONTRAST – outline differences. ANALYTICAL – divide a proposition into parts. SYNTHETIC – build a conclusion from logical elements. PROBLEM-SOLVING – suggest various solutions to a problem leading to the best answer. PROCESS METHOD – deal with a series of actions progressing to a natural result. QUALITATIVE – according to intensifying qualities.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE SUB-POINTS As the main points elaborate the proposition, sub-points expand their related main points. As an interrogative break apart the proposition into several main points, so can it subdivide a main point into one or more sub-points. A key word need not be used as long as the sub-points cohere with their corresponding main point. Accordingly, good sub-points should adhere to the same guidelines followed by good main points. Reminders in making sub-points: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
Sub-points are derived from the passage. Not all main points may require sub-points, Some sub-points need to be more emphasized than others. The actual places in the passage from which the sub-points are taken, like the main points, should be pointed out. Sub-points are not support materials. EXAMPLE TEXT: SUBJECT: THEME: FCF: PROPOSITION: INTERROGATIVE ADVERB:
Matthew 14:22-33 Peace Incredible Peace in Christ Learning to trust Christ in life’s storms We can have incredible peace in Christ. What can assure us of peace in Christ when life seems unbearable? PROPOSITIONAL TRANSITION: We can surely find peace in Christ even when life seems unbearable by dwelling on 3 provisions we have in Him. KEY WORD: Provisions OUTLINE: I.
The DIVINITY of Christ. a. b. c.
II.
The GOD of our SUPPLY (v. 22a) The GOD of our SUCCESS (vv. 22b-23) The GOD of our STORMS (vv. 24-27)
The DIRECTION from Christ. a. b. c.
Obey Regardless of ADVERSITY (v. 28) Obey Regardless of IMPOSSIBILITY (v. 29) Obey Regardless of FRAILTY (v. 30)
III. The DELIVERANCE by Christ a. b. c.
Results in STRONGER FAITH (v. 31) Results in SUDDEN PEACE (v. 32) Results in SPONTANEOUS PRAISE (v. 33)
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching A MODEL OF SERMON CONSTRUCTION In his book, Preaching With Conviction , Dr. Kenton Anderson uses a persuasive communication approach model as his basis for sermon construction.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching SUPPORT MATERIALS Adding support materials to the sermon outline is the process of developing the sermon. It is the process of constructing the body of the sermon. There are four types of support materials: (1)
EXPLANATION – making the text understandable. Some methods are: a. b. c. d.
(2)
VERBAL – define words of the text that are unclear. CONTEXTUAL – use adjoining text to throw light on the text. HISTORICAL – relate historical conditions and events to illuminate the background of the passage. PARALLEL PASSAGES – quoting related texts allowing Scripture to explain itself.
ARGUMENT – proving the truth or falsehood of a point. Following are the practical forms of argument: a. b. c. d. e. f.
DEDUCTION – reasoning from general to specific. INDUCTION – reasoning from specific to general. A PRIORI – reasoning from cause to effect. A POSTERIORI – reasoning from effect to cause. A FORTIORI – reasoning from lesser to greater. ANALOGY – reasoning to prove that what is true in one realm is also true in another. g. TRADITION – reasoning from established practice. h. TESTIMONY – reasoning based on witness. i. EXPERIENCE – reasoning from personal experience. j. CONSENSUS – reasoning from general agreement. k. AUTHORITY – reasoning based on a reliable source. l. REDUCTIO AD ABSURDUM – making an opposite view absurd. m. ELIMINATION – disposing of all invalid alternatives to arrive at a viable one. (3)
APPLICATION – relating a point in the following perspectives: a. b. c.
(4)
UNIVERSAL – to all places and situations. LOCAL – to an environment or circumstance. PERSONAL – to an individual experience.
ILLUSTRATION – clarifying a point through verbal or visual material. a. b. c. d. e.
STORY – a connective narrative of some experience ANECDOTE – brief, pointed and interesting true incident. OBJECT LESSONS – visible objects representing truth. POEMS – language using meter, rhythm and rhyme. QUOTATIONS – direct and catchy saying.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching f.
FIGURATIVE LANGUAGE – figures of speech like: 1.
SIMILE – likening of two essentially different things, e.g. “That man is like a fox.”
2.
METAPHOR – indirect comparison of two different things establishing an identity (objects of a simile are distinct in thought and expression, whereas metaphor --- only in thought), e.g. “That man is a fox.”
3.
ALLEGORY – an extended metaphor forming a real or fictitious story, e.g. “The Pilgrim’s Progress” (cf. Ps. 80:8-15)
4.
EPIGRAM – wittily enshrining an interesting thought in a few well chosen words, e.g. “The conscious water saw its God and blushed” (Christ’s miracle of turning water into wine).
5.
ANTITHESIS – strong contrast of ideas, often through parallel, e.g. explaining the meaning of grace by showing it in contrast to its opposite which is law or human merit.
6.
HYPERBOLE – understood exaggeration for emphasis, e.g. “They strain at a gnat and shallow a camel.”
7.
IRONY – subtle form of sarcasm, e.g. See I Corinthians 4:810; II Corinthians 11:16-20.
8.
METONYMY – substitution of one term for another closely associated with it or suggested by it, e.g. “Go thy way in the footsteps of the flock.”
9.
SYNECDOCHE – putting the part for the whole, e.g. “All flesh is grass.” In I Corinthians 14:9 the phrase, “Five words,” is an exact number that is put for a general quantity.
10.
APOSTROPHE – a direct address to a person absent, e.g. Isaiah 14:12-20.
11.
PERSONIFICATION – crediting inanimate things with life, e.g. “The voice of your brother’s blood cries.”
12.
PARADOX – a seeming contradiction, e.g. Quite a number of these are listed in II Corinthians 6:8-10.
The root meaning of the verb “to illustrate” is “to shed light upon” or “to illumine.” Until the story, the statistic, the quotation, or the example shed light on a point, it fails to illustrate. An illustration must answer the question “What is the illustration designed to illustrate?” A good rule of thumb to use in expanding main points and sub-points is the acrostic: E – xplain the text V – alidate the text, and then A – pply the text.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching The basic goal of an illustration falls into one of three categories: explanation, validation, or application. The following table shows the more specific objectives that fall under the three larger categories:
EXPLAIN
VALIDATE
APPLY
Purpose: Understanding
Purpose: Agreement
Purpose: Obedience
Expand
Gain Agreement
Provide “How To”
Clarify
Prove
Show the Significance
Elucidate
Show as Realistic
Make the Impact Felt
Simplify
Make Believable
Touch a Need
Specify
Convince
Relate Truth to Practice
An illustration visualizes for people what the application looks like in their lives or the lives of others. The following hierarchy of illustrations correlates the purposes of illustrations with the connection to the audience. The hierarchy is based on the “identification” communication theory formulated by Kenneth Burke.
ILLUSTRATION CONNECTION HIERARCHY HIGH AUDIENCE CONNECTION
From the experience of the speaker and listener From the listener’s experience From the speaker’s experience From the experience of known persons From the experience of unknown persons From second-hand experience
LOW AUDIENCE CONNECTION
From hearsay experience From a hypothetical experience
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE CONCLUSION “If a safe landing is the most important part of an airplane trip, the harvest the most important part of farming, the concluding chapter the most important part of a book, we may also say the conclusion is the most important part of a sermon.” The characteristics of a good conclusion are: (1)
RELATED TO THE BODY – tied in with the proposition and consistent with the main points. It must fit the given message.
(2)
PERSONAL – involves the hearers toward the pursuit of achieving the sermon aim. “A wise minister never indulgences in personalities, but neither does he close with impersonalities.”
(3)
FORCEFUL – “Deep passion, thoughts that burn, strong words are the instruments required, whether the conclusion be a direct drive on the will or an appeal to the heart.” Volume and force are not synonymous. In fact, force is best displayed by lowering of the voice and assuming a contemplative mood.
(4)
BRIEF – ranges from two to five minutes. The first rule of preaching is: “Have something to say.” The second rule is: “Say it well.” The third is: “Be quiet and sit down.”
Four general types of conclusions: (1)
SUMMARY CONCLUSION: •
•
•
•
Formal Summary - repeats the main points without changing their terminology. Paraphrased Summary - repeats the main points in words arousing new interest. Common Sense Summary – rephrases the main points in colloquial or common language. Epigrammatic Summary – reduces each main point to a single catchy word or phrase (e.g. STOP, LOOK, LISTEN)
(2)
APPLICATION CONCLUSION – in which the applications of the text is sharply focalized on a specific contemporary context.
(3)
MOTIVATION CONCLUSION – in which appeals is made to lofty incentives.
(4)
ANTICIPATORY CONCLUSION – in which objections are foreseen and answered.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching The component parts of a conclusion are: (1)
TRANSITION STATEMENT – links the main points to the conclusion moving the hearers from discussion to final words.
(2)
RECAPITULATION – repeats the proposition and main points.
(3)
REQUIREMENTS OF THE HEARERS – brings the listeners to a place where they must respond. May be structured as:
(4)
•
APPLICATION establishing relevance with people’s needs.
•
CHALLENGE OR APPEAL to take a course of action.
•
INVITATION to a public response.
•
PERSONAL INTENTION to obey the message.
FINAL STATEMENT – leaves the hearers with a sense of finality. Possible forms are: •
Restatement of the text.
•
Prayer where main points are repeated.
•
Hymn or song.
•
Illustration.
•
Surprise or twist.
Errors to avoid in conclusions: (1) (2) (3) (4) (5) (6) (7) (8) (9) (10) (11) (12)
Avoid letting interest lag. Avoid making the conclusion too long. Avoid giving the impression that you are about to conclude, when you are not. Avoid introducing new material unrelated to the theme. Avoid concluding a serious message with a joke. Avoid monotony. Avoid apologizing. Avoid trite, hackneyed conclusions. Avoid a formal announcement of your conclusion. Avoid going beyond the quitting time. Avoid making an anti-climax. Avoid artificiality.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE INTRODUCTION The introduction is the first part of the sermon that leads up to the discussion preparing the hearers for the main points. Qualities of a good introduction are: (1)
STRIKING – goes straight to a point of interest “starting a fire.”
(2)
CLEAR – makes concrete abstract or involved concepts.
(3)
BRIEF – usually no more than five minutes.
(4)
MODEST – not too pretentious or eloquent.
(5)
UNAPOLOGETIC – avoids rationalizing for unpreparedness.
(6)
SPECIFIC – makes no room for stereotyped remarks.
(7)
UNIFIED – contains only one idea.
Basic components of an introduction: (1)
ATTENTION-GAINER grabs the attention of the congregation which can be in the form of: • • • • • • • • • • •
(2) (3)
anecdote latest news appreciation of introduction or special music greetings prayer visual aid announcement of something significant commendation personal observation reference to a special season or holiday startling statement
CREATION OF A NEED normally incorporated into a prayer. PROPOSITIONAL TRIO
Types of introduction for different attitudes of hearers: (1) (2) (3) (4)
SYMPATHETIC – introduction should be dramatized. APATHETIC – introduction should be thought-provoking. HOSTILE – introduction should be based on common ground. DOUBTFUL – introduction should be factually corroborated.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching TRANSITIONS Transitions provide a sense of march to the sermon, help to supply the connective tissue which holds the whole sermon together and furnish an opportunity to emphasize the genuine concerns of the exposition. Marks of good transitions: (1)
CONVEYERS NOT FILLERS – transitions are to act as sign posts so that as the message progresses, the hearers can follow the train of thought. Unlike a written message, spoken sermons cannot be divided by paragraph indentations. Transitions accomplish this for the exposition by connecting points of discussion rather than just serve as filler words.
(2)
MUST BE VARIED – vary the typical: “First, Second, Third, and IN CONCLUSION” by using the following transitional phrases: Not only . . . but also . . . In addition to . . . notice that . . . More important than all of these is . . . In contrast to . . . Similar to this . . . Now look at it from this angle . . . This idea leads us to . . .
(3)
PLANNED – connective phrases between main points should be written in pulpit notes.
Suggestions in making transitions: (1)
PAUSE AT A STRATEGIC MOMENT – planned pauses can convey shifts in ideas.
(2)
VARY VOCAL TONE AND SPEECH RATE – it is during low tone and slow rate that transitions can most effectively be made.
(3)
CHANGE THE POSITION OF THE BODY – by moving forward or backward or shifting the weight from one foot to another.
(4)
SUMMARIZE – to reinforce memory by repetition.
(5)
USE A LIBERAL SUPPLY OF BRIDGE WORDS – such as: but, and again, also, moreover, furthermore, however, besides, on the other hand, once again, nevertheless, therefore, consequently, ultimately.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE TITLE The title is an imaginative, suggestive word or phrase used to advertise the sermon so people would want to hear. Dwight L. Moody wittingly said, “Some preachers think it undignified to advertise their services. I think it is a great deal more undignified to preach to empty pews.” Clarifications on the role of a title: (1) (2)
(3) (4)
It is not the subject. It is not the theme (e.g. for the theme “Hindrances to Prayer” the possible titles are “Supplication Sabotage” or “Interference in Celestial Communication”) It is not a guide for preparation or selection of materials. It is not generally used in delivery.
The place of the title: (1) (2) (3) (4)
During announcement time. In the printed bulletin. On the bulletin board. In the church newsletter or website.
Categories of sermon titles: (1)
Catchy titles: • • • •
(2)
Biblical – “Spiritual Hygiene in Podiatry” Paradox – “Descending into Greatness” Mystery – “Waking Up to Yesterday” New Twist to an old cliché “Life after Birth” “Succeed and Succeed Until You Try” “Jesus is ready, Are You Coming Soon?”
Applied to Biblical passages: •
•
•
•
Textual – “The Tragedy of Sin” (Isaiah 59:1, 2) “When God’s Hands are Tied” Passage – “This Troubled World” (James 1:2-8) “Capitalizing on Our Calamities” Chapter – “A Muzzled Mouth” (James 3) “A Tongue’s Movement” Book – “Prophet of Faith” (Habakkuk) “Headaches, Heartaches, Habakkuk”
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching Characteristics of strong titles: (1)
They must create interest. (e.g. “Seven Ducks in a Muddy Pond” 2 Kings 5:1-14)
(2)
They must be brief, ranging from one to seven words. (e.g. “Seven Ducks of a Contaminated Man in a Muddy, Murky Pond” is too long)
(3)
They must be relevant. (e.g. “Destroying Weapons of Mass Destruction”, “Deadlier than SARS!”)
Characteristics of weak titles: (1)
General, value, bland and say nothing. (e.g. “On Being Good” “Living By Principles” “Our Fast-Paced Days’)
(2)
Removed from the experience of the hearers. (e.g. “The Abrahamic Covenant”, “The Babylonian Captivity” sound more like titles to dissertations than titles to sermons.
(3)
Overstates the case. (e.g. “The Last Word on the Sanctuary Doctrine” Why not “The Sanctuary Doctrine Revisited”? or “Does God Really Care?” for “Why God Permits Evil?”
(4)
Too sensational. (e.g. “Sex and the Single Girl” for the virgin birth; “Sight-seeing in Hell”; “Baptist Preacher Loses Head at a Disco”)
Final observations on sermon titles: (1)
Ideally, the title should be prepared last, but it may emerge during the early stages of sermon construction.
(2)
If sermon titles are announced a week in advance, then titles will be made before the sermon is finalized. This is especially true when preaching a sermon series.
(3)
One should not spend an inordinate amount of time working on “cute” or overly “catchy” titles. Time could be better spent in sermon preparation. Often, sound preparation proves to be a more effective advertisement than the title.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE METHODS OF PRESENTATION
There are at least four options for presenting sermons: (1) reading; (2) reciting; (3) extemporizing; and (4) combination(s) of the first three options. The following comparisons can help in determining what will best fit a particular preacher: (1)
Options for Fully Written Sermons: a.
b.
c.
(2)
Full manuscript read. Advantages:
Ensures preparation Precision of expression
Disadvantages:
Loses eye contact Limits spontaneity and freedom of expression Tendency to speak in a “written” style Extensive preparation time
Full manuscript memorized and recited in pulpit. Advantages:
Promotes eye contact Precision of expression
Disadvantages:
Difficulty of memorizing materials Very little passion Extensive preparation time
Full manuscript converted to an outline with the sermon preached from the written outline. Advantages:
Ensures complete preparation of thought Maintains eye contact Lends itself to spontaneity in expression
Disadvantages:
Extensive preparation time
Options for Partially Written Sermons: a.
Largely written manuscript. Advantages:
Same as (1c) above If well prepared, ensures accuracy of thought Provides time for eye contact
Disadvantages:
Extensive but reduced preparation time
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching b.
Types of outlined messages: I.
II.
(3)
Extended Outline – with all expositional components, including transitions written out or significantly indicated. Advantages:
The more extensive, the more complete the preparation of thought. The more practiced, the more precise the expression of thought.
Disadvantages:
More dependence results in less passion.
Bare-bones Outline – with key expositional components only with short descriptive phrases. Advantages:
Spontaneous expression Enforced eye contact Quick preparation
Disadvantages:
Likely imprecise expression May encourage ill-prepared thoughts May be too long or too short
Options for Unwritten Sermons: a. Mental Outline. Advantages:
Forces eye contact Increased passion in expression
Disadvantages:
Danger of neglecting preparation Often has poor transitions Commonly result in inaccurate views Reduces Biblical soundness
b. Impromptu Presentation. Advantages:
Heightened spontaneity High visual connection with listeners
Disadvantages:
Customarily has disorganized points Frequently lacks cohesion in delivery Likely inaccurate or incomplete interpretation Inclined to focus on preacher’s thoughts May cause extreme brevity or duration
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching THE METHODS OF PREPARATION
The approaches preachers take in preparing their sermons are as varied as the backgrounds and personalities of the preachers. Some have a unique facility of memory. Others are experts in the use of technology and many are still working with pen and paper. Probably the only factor that preachers must share is to come to the text on our knees “talking to God about people before talking to people about God.” The well-liked contemporary Scottish Bible expositor Alistair Begg summarized his method of preparation in the following points which he learned from a pastormentor when he was a ministerial student: (1)
Think Yourself Empty . It is helpful to avoid the assumption that we know everything that the text says. In fact, it is often beneficial to approach the passage with the spirit of initial interpretation and the willingness not only to learn but also to unlearn. This will open up new avenues of thought and create angles of approach never seen before.
(2)
Read Yourself Full . The expositor should regularly read widely to build up a repository of interpretive and applicational materials. It is impossible to arrive at sound exegesis and strikingly relevant applications without extensive research on the related materials. It is quite effective for the preacher to maintain a personal library.
(3)
Write Yourself Clear . An aspect of sermon preparation that is most closely tied to fluency of speech and impact in delivery is clearly putting thoughts in writing. Writing thoughts, sentences, paragraphs and linking phrases on paper will allow corrections to be made before the sermon is presented in public.
(4)
Pray Yourself Hot . There is no chance of fire in the pews if there is an iceberg in the pulpit; and without personal prayer and communion with God during the preparation stages of the sermon, the pulpit will be cold. Preaching and prayer are inseparable. We can do more than pray, after we have prayed, but not until.
(5)
Be Yourself But Don’t Preach Yourself . While we can and must learn from those whom God has used to great effect in the pulpit, our admiration dare not lead to imitation. After finding our own style of exposition, we should practice self-forgetfulness as we cannot make much of ourselves and much of the Lord Jesus Christ simultaneously. A good preacher clears the way, declares the way, and then gets out of the way.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching
Preaching Communication Flow
GOD
GOD
Message (words/gestures) SOURCE
RECEPTOR
Message Response (feedback)
Profile of Preaching Style 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
Artificial
Natural
Stiff
Informal
Monotonous
Varied
Halting
Fluent
Timid
Confident
Harsh
Sympathetic
Flippant
Earnest
Obscure
Clear
Feeble
Energetic
Prosaic
Poetic
Less Effective
More Effective
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching BIBLIOGRAPHY Adams, Jay. Preaching with Purpose . Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker, 1982. Anderson, Kenton. Preaching With Conviction . Grand Rapids, Michigan: Kregel Publications, 2001. Begg, Alistair. Preaching for God’s Glory . Wheaton, Illinois: Crossway Books, 1999. Braga, James. How to Prepare BIBLE Messages . Portland, Oregon: Multinomah Press, 1981. Chapell, Bryan. Christ-Centered Preaching . Grand Rapids, Michigan: Baker, 1994. Gibbs, Alfred. The Preacher and His Preaching . Kansas City, Kansas: Walterwick Publishers, 1978. Mcdill, Wayne. The Moment of Truth (A Guide to Effective Sermon Delivery), Nashville, Tennessee: Broadman and Holman Publishers, 1999. Olford, Steven and David. Anointed Expository Preaching . Nashville, Tennessee: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1998. Olford, Steven and David. Anointed Expository Preaching . Nashville, Tennessee: Broadman & Holman Publishers, 1998. ___. “Preaching---God’s Method.” Evangelical Thrust (February, 1977): 26-28. ___. “On Your Mark, Get Set, Ready, PREACH!” Evangelical Thrust (April, 1977): 25-27. ___. “What’s the Big Idea?” Evangelical Thrust (May, 1977): 27-29. ___. “On Sermon Titles.” Evangelical Thrust (June, 1977): 24-25. ___. “Proceeding According to Plan.” Evangelical Thrust (August, 1977): 24-25. ___. “Getting the Skeleton Out of the Closet (Part 1)” Evangelical Thrust (October, 1977): 20-21. ___. “Getting the Skeleton Out of the Closet (Part 2)” Evangelical Thrust (November, 1977): 20-21. ___. “Getting the Skeleton Out of the Closet (Part 3)” Evangelical Thrust (December, 1977): 27. ___. “Getting the Skeleton Out of the Closet (Part 4)” Evangelical Thrust (January, 1978): 25-26. ___. “Getting the Skeleton Out of the Closet (Part 5)” Evangelical Thrust (February, 1978): 25-26.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching B I B L I O G R A P H Y (Continued) ___. “Getting the Skeleton Out of the Closet (Part 6)” Evangelical Thrust (March, 1978): 28-29. ___. “Getting the Skeleton Out of the Closet (Part 7)” Evangelical Thrust (April, 1978): 25-26. ___. “Shall These Bones Live? (Part 1)” Evangelical Thrust (May, 1978): 25-27. ___. “Shall These Bones Live? (Part 2)” Evangelical Thrust (June, 1978): 25-27. ___. “Mixing Traditional and Concrete.” Evangelical Thrust (August, 1978): 25-26. ___. “Characteristics of Good Transitions.” Evangelical Thrust (September, 1978): 25-26. ___. “Windows in the Walls (Part 1)” Evangelical Thrust (October, 1978): 24-25. ___. “Windows in the Walls (Part 2)” Evangelical Thrust (November, 1978): 22-23. ___. “Windows in the Walls (Part 3)” Evangelical Thrust (December, 1978): 22-23. ___. “Windows in the Walls (Part 4)” Evangelical Thrust (January, 1979): 22. ___. “No Summons---No Sermon (Part 1)” Evangelical Thrust (February, 1979): 20. ___. “No Summons---No Sermon (Part 2)” Evangelical Thrust (March, 1979): 24. ___. “All’s Well that Ends Well (Part 1)” Evangelical Thrust (October, 1979): 24. ___. “All’s Well that Ends Well (Part 2)” Evangelical Thrust (November, 1979): 20-21. ___. “All’s Well that Ends Well (Part 3)” Evangelical Thrust (December, 1979): 22-23. ___. “All’s Well that Ends Well (Part 4)” Evangelical Thrust (January, 1980): 21, 26. Smith, Gary. The Prophets as Preachers. Nashville, Tennessee: Broadman and Holman Publishers, 1994. Stott, John. The Art of Preaching in the Twentieth Century . Grand Rapids, Michigan: Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., 1982. Van Cleave, Nathaniel. Handbook of Preaching . Los Angeles, California: Life Bible College, 1943. Whitesell, Faris and Lloyd M. Perry. Variety in Your Preaching. Westwood, New Jersey: Fleming H. Revell Company, 1954. Willhite, Keith. Preaching With Relevance . Grand Rapids, Michigan: Kregel Publications, 2001.
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching APPENDIX I (A List of Key Words)
abuses actualities accusations admonitions affairs affirmations agreements alternatives angles answers applications approaches areas arguments aspects aspirations assertions assurances assumptions attitudes attributes avocations axioms barriers beginnings beliefs benefits bequests bestowments blemishes blessings blows blockades blots blunders boasts bonds books boundaries breaches burdens calls categories causes certainties cessations chains
challenges changes charges circumstances commands commitments comparisons concepts contrasts corrections criteria criticisms crowns cults cultures customs
explanations exponents exposures expositions expostulation expressions extremes facets facts factors faculties failures falls families faults fears feelings fields finalities flaws forces forms formalities foundations functions fundamentals
dangers debts decisions declarations deeds deficiencies definitions degrees departments details differences directives disciplines disclosures discoveries divisions doctrines doubts doors dreams duties
gains generalizations gifts graces groups guarantees guides
effects elements encouragements examples excesses exchanges exclamations experiments expediencies expirations
habits handicaps honors hopes hungers hurts ideas ideals idols ills illuminations illusions
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illustrations imitations impacts impediments imperatives imperfections implements implications impossibilities impressions improvements inadequacies incentives incidents injunctions invitations irritations issues items joys judgments justifications keys kinds labors lapses laws leads lessons levels liabilities liberties lifts lights limits links lists loads locations looks losses loyalties maladies manifestations manners
CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching A List of Key Words (Continued)
marks materials means measures meetings members memories mentions mercies methods ministries miseries misfortunes mistakes models moods motives mountains movements mysteries names narratives natures necessities needs nights norms notes numbers objects objectives obligations observances observations obstacles occasions occurrences offenses offers offices omissions operations opinions opponents options orders
organizations origins panaceas parables paradoxes paragraphs particulars parties parts paths patterns peaks peculiarities penalties perceptions perfections performances perils periods perplexities persons personalities petitions phases philosophies phrases pictures pieces places plagues plans pleas pledges plots points positions possibilities powers practices prayers precautions predicaments predictions preferences prejudices premises premonitions
preparations prescriptions pressures pretentions principles privileges prizes problems processes products profits prohibitions proofs prophecies propositions prospects provisions punishments purposes pursuits qualifications qualities quantities queries quests questions quotas quotations ranks ratings reactions reasons recommendations records recruits references regions regulations rejections relapses relations reminders responses responsibilities restorations restraints
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results revelations rewards roads roles roots routes rules sacrifices satisfactions sayings scales scars schools schemes seals seasons secrets selections sentiments sequences services shields situations skills solicitations solutions sources spheres states statements steps stimuli stipulations stresses strokes styles subjects sufferings superlatives suppositions superiorities supplications supports symptoms syndromes systems
CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching A List of Key Words (Continued)
tactics talents tasks teachings techniques temperaments temptations tendencies territories tests theories theses things thoughts thrivings ties times titles tokens tones tools topics traces traditions traits traumas travesties treasures treaties treatments trends trepidations trials tribulations triumphs troubles troops truths types ultimatums uncertainties undertakings unknowns unions uniformities universalities units
unrests upheavals uproars upshots urgencies utterances values variations varieties ventures verities vestiges victories views virtues visions vocations voices wants warnings wars warriors ways weaknesses weapons weddings whims wills wins winds wonders wooings words works worries wreckages wrongs years yearnings yieldings yokes zeniths zests zones
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching APPENDIX II
EXPOSITORY SERMON OUTLINE COMPONENTS
INTRODUCTION
gain attention create the need state proposition ask the interrogative make propositional transition FIRST MAIN POINT
E-xplain V-alidate A-pply TRANSITION...
*
*
OR SUB-POINTS FIRST SUB-POINT
OTHER MAIN POINT(s)
E-xplain V-alidate A-pply
TRANSITION...
TRANSITION...
*
OTHER SUB-POINT(s)
E-xplain V-alidate A-pply
LAST MAIN POINT
E-xplain V-alidate A-pply TRANSITION...
E-xplain V-alidate A-pply
TRANSITION... *
CONCLUSION
Transition To Conclusion repeat proposition Recap repeat main points gospel connection Draw A Response Make The Final Statement
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching APPENDIX III
PITFALLS TO AVOID by Dr. Bryan Chappell
The goal of Christ-centered expository preaching is to decipher redemptive signals so listeners can understand the full meaning of a biblical passage in the context of its gospel intent.
RECOGNIZING NON-REDEMPTIVE MESSAGES Messages that are not Christ-centered (i.e., not redemptively focused) inevitably become human-centered even though the drift most frequently occurs unintentionally. They present godliness as a product of human endeavor. Although they mean well, this focus on actuating divine blessing through human works carries the message, “Doing these things will get you right with God.” No message is more damaging to true faith. By making our efforts the measure and cause of godliness we fall victim to the twin assaults of legalism and liberalism, which make our relationship with God dependent on human goodness. Can we not as preachers confess that even we feel more holy than when our devotions last longer, when we parent well, when we pastor wisely, when we do justly? While there is certainly nothing wrong with these actions, we deny the basis of our own faith when we begin to believe or act as though our words and actions by their own merit, win God’s favor. Were this true, the instruction to “take yourself by your bootstraps and pick yourself up so that God will love and bless you more,” would not be wrong. But it is very wrong, and faithful preachers must not merely avoid this error the human heart so readily accepts, they must war against it.
THE DEADLY BE’S Messages that strike at the heart of faith rather than support it often have an identifying theme. They exhort believers to “be” something in order to be blessed. Whether this equation is stated or implied, inadvertent or intentional, overt or subtle, the result is the same: an undermining of biblical faith. We can recognize such messages by the “be” categories into which they frequently fall.
“BE LIKE” MESSAGES “Be like” messages focus the attention of listeners on a particular biblical character while the preacher exhorts them to be like that person or some aspect of his or her personality in what is often called biographical preaching. But such
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching APPENDIX III (continued)
preaching typically fails to honor the care that the Bible takes to tarnish almost every patriarch or saint within its pages, so that we do not expect to find, within any fallen form, the model for divine approval. Neither do we greatly help others by encouraging them to be like Jesus if we do not commensurately remind them that His standards are always beyond them, apart from Him. Some passages unquestionably encourage us to use persons in the Bible as examples (e.g., 1 Cor. 11:1; Heb. 11:39). Still, before we preach on such passages we must be sure to identify grace as the source of the character quality and echo the biblical caution, “Where then is boasting?” We must also make it plain that grace cannot be self-stimulated nor self-sustained, since it is of God and thus, offers no personal merit (cf. Rom. 3:27; 1 Cor. 3:5-23). Simply telling people to imitate godliness without reminding them of God’s enabling grace forces them either to despair of spiritual transformation or to deny its need.
“BE GOOD” MESSAGES These messages focus on behaviors telling people to be good or holy. God expects holiness. He commands it. So, what could be wrong with exhorting people to be good? Again the problem lies not in what the preacher says, but in what the sermon may fail to present. When the message becomes largely moralistic, listeners will most likely assume that they can secure their relationship with God through proper behaviors. Even when the behaviors advocated are biblically correct, a sermon that never moves from expounding standards of obedience to explaining the source, the motives, and the results of obedience, places people’s hopes in their own actions. Ringing through such preaching is the implied promise, “Obey God because He will love you if you do, and get you if you don’t.” Preaching that suggests we are saved by grace but held by our obedience not only undermines the work of God in sanctification but it ultimately casts doubt on the nature of God, making salvation itself suspect.
“BE DISCIPLINED” MESSAGES These sermons encourage believers to improve their relationships with God by more regularly, sincerely, lengthily, or methodically practicing disciplines that allegedly will lift them up to higher planes of divine approval or if left undone, will reap divine displeasure. Such preaching intone, “Pray more, read the Bible more, go to church more, or have longer personal devotions.”
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CHRIST-Centered Expository Preaching APPENDIX III (continued)
If devotion to Christian disciplines procures our position or privileges with God, then grace becomes meaningless. Since no degree of human diligence can compensate our Lord for all we truly owe Him, bare insistence on the disciplines only makes those most honest about their merits least sure of their standing. Brownie points count little in an economy where absolute holiness remains the only acceptable currency.
THE BOTTOM LINE “Be” messages are not wrong in themselves; they are wrong messages by themselves. Instruction in biblical behavior barren of redemptive truth only wounds, and though it is offered as an antidote to sin such preaching either promotes pharisaism or prompts despair. Christ-centered preaching does not fail to present the moral imperatives of Christ, but neither does it deny Him the position of honor in all that His Word says or in all that His creatures do. The success of this endeavor can be assessed by a question at the end of each sermon: “When my listeners walk out the doors of this sanctuary to perform God’s will, with whom do they walk? If they march to battle the world, the flesh, and the devil with only me, myself, and I, then each parades to despair. However, if the sermon has led all persons within the sight of the Savior and they now walk into their world with His aid firmly in their grasp, then hope and victory brighten the horizon. Whether people depart alone or in the Savior’s hand will mark the difference between futility and faith, legalism and true obedience, dogoodism and real godliness.
EMPLOYING THE MEANS OF GRACE Commanding people to do what is right without explaining why or how inevitably hurts them because they are left to consider their works and abilities as the cause of God’s acceptance and affection. As a result, much well-intended instruction, dispensed with the motive of helping people, hurts them. If all they hear are “shoulds”, believers either will face despair or feign self-righteousness. Healing begins with the message that God graciously accepts our works offered to Him in gratitude for our salvation, but our acceptance and our sanctification are never a result of anything but grace. Christians cannot gain or earn any more of God’s love since grace already granted and secured all the love there is to have. We are saved by grace alone. We are sanctified by grace alone. We are secured by grace alone.
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