Learning to Lead In Worship

07/29/08

Lesson Six

Introduction:

A. Theme scripture, bookmark: Ephesians 3:20-21

1. Distribute.

2. Discuss.

I.  Scripture Reading

A. Think about who does a noticeable job.

1. Watch for a skill that you would like to develop.

2. Be a "good finder."

3. Be ready to vote for a winner.

B. Evaluate, reinforce, compliment after each speaker.

C. Vote for winner to be presented at conclusion of class.

1. Hand out voting cards.

2. Vote for one person.

3. Former winner not eligible.

II. How to Prepare a Sermon

A. Organization and arrangement.

1. The parts of a sermon.

a. Title.

b. Text.

c. Theme.

d. Introduction.

f. Body.

g. Conclusion.

B. Developing a Topical Sermon. (A Topical Sermon is one in which the text provides only the subject, that is the central theme or idea.)

1. Select a subject that you like and that is appropriate to the audience.

2. Consult a concordance and read all passages connected with the subject.

3. Read each passage in its context.

4. While reading the scriptures, find three or four main points on the subject.

5. Write a theme sentence, stating the purpose, and see if each point backs it up.

a. Look up and write down notes on meanings of words.

b. Read commentaries and other books available on the subject and take notes.

c. All this will be adding supporting material.

6. Perhaps during this study, new points will come to mind.

7. Test these points in view of the theme sentence.

8. Look for ways of bringing out the meaning of the scriptures and making them practical.

9. Try to think of good illustrations to clarify or emphasize your points.

10. Make a final outline.

11. Leave out excess and unwanted material.

12. State the main points in the fewest possible words.

13. Make a final outline.

C. Developing a Textual Sermon.  (A textual sermon is one in which the text provides both the subject and the main point of the discussion.)

1. Be sure you take time to familiarize yourself with the theme of the book in which this text is located.

2. Carefully read the text and note the subject under consideration. What is the writer talking about?

3. Read the passage again and make notes of possible points in the sermon to be taken from the text.

4. Ask concerning each point, "Is this important to the subject because it:

a. Explains?"

b. Defines?"

c. Broadens?"

5. Do the verses before and after give any additional material?

a. Read the passage again and write down important words.

b. Look up the meaning of these words in English and, if possible, in the original language.

6. Read parallel passages.

7. Begin extensive commentary reading and note-taking.

8. See if the commentators agree with your analysis of the passage.

9. If a pattern or sermon outline has not developed thus far, it probably will now.

10. With the sermon outline or plan in view, continue to build the sermon.

11. Incorporate related passages that emphasize some aspect of the subject.

12. Try to think of good illustrations to clarify or emphasize your points.

13. Refine you rough draft by elimination of all materials that will not really make the subject live in the mind of the hearers.

14. Make a final outline.

Conclusion:

A. Next Weeks Class: Be prepared to give a two minute Sermon

B. Next week we will discuss Leading Singing.

            C. Award prize.