basic sermon design: the sermon outline

Basic Sermon DesignPablo A. Jiménezwww.drpablojimenez.net

Structure

The structure of the basic sermon is:

IntroductionBodyConclusion

Introduction: Structure

The structure of the introduction is:

Opening paragraphsStatement of the main idea or sermon-in-a-sentence (in deductive sermons)

Transition

Introduction: Function

Maintain the attention of the listeners, motivating them to pay attention to the sermon.

Introduction: Characteristic Traits

The introduction should be: Brief Clear and Concise Interesting Closely related to the main idea Well prepared

Introduction: Form (I)

You may use one of the following elements in the introduction:An engaging questionAn illustrationA true story

Introduction: Form (II)

An allusion to a relevant historical event of the past

A reference to a current issue

A challenge to the congregation

A dilemma or a choiceA hyperbole

Introduction: Form (III)

A quotation from a literary work

A reference to a play, a movie or TV program

A theological statementA reference to the historical and social setting of the biblical text

Introduction: Practical adviceDo not introduce all your

sermons in the same fashion; avoid falling into a routine.

Avoid generalities and banal statements.

Do not flatter your congregation.Avoid unnecessary excuses.Shun technical language.

Transition

You may use one of the following elements in the transition: A question. A summary statement. A dilemma or choice. An invitation to explore further the main idea.

Body

The body of the sermon is where the main idea is discussed and developed.

Usually, the main idea is divided in several points that explore its different aspects.

A sermon should not have less than 2 or more than 5 points.

Suite

The time allotted to the exposition of a point should be proportional to the time dedicated to the rest of the sermon.

The more points you have, the shorter should be the discussion of each point.

Body: Preparation

The points of the sermon should follow:

The form or literary structure of the biblical text, in expository sermons.

The division of the story, in narrative and storytelling sermons.

A clear line of thought, in topical and thematic sermons.

Body: Form (I)

The main points of the sermon may employ some of the following rhetorical processes: Narration Interrogation Illustration Application

Body: Form (II)

Argumentation Exhortation Definition Interpretation Exemplification Comparison

Conclusion (I)

The aim of the conclusion is to restate the “sermon-in-a-sentence” and to stress the aim of the sermon.

It is an exploration of the practical implications of a main idea for the congregation.

Conclusion (II)

The conclusion should be positive, conveying the“good news” of the Gospel.

Given that it is the last section that the congregation will listen to, the conclusion should be properly prepared.

Conclusion: Aim

A conclusion may have one of the following aims:ApplicationExhortationAffirmation

Conclusion: Forms (I)

You may use one of the following elements in the conclusion:A summary of the main ideas of the sermon

An invitationQuestions

Conclusion: Forms (II)

An illustration.A real-life story A lesson from general history or from the history of the church

Conclusion: Forms (III)

A quotation from a literary work

A reference to a play, a movie or a TV program

Issue a challenge to the congregation

Conclusion: Forms (III)

Develop a hypothetical scenario that may exemplify your ideas and challenge the congregation

Raise an issue

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