The following is a general outline of the process I follow when preparing sermons:

Sermon Preparation Process

** Prayer throughout **

• Understanding the text:
  • Read the text including its broader context.
  • Read the passage slowly, meditatively, and prayerfully – Compile notes.
  • Exegete and interpret – Look at text in original language; look at various translations; attend to text critical matters, grammar, syntax, word studies, structure, purpose, relevant parallel passages, theological analysis, etc.
  • Consider the passage’s relationship to redemptive history, the Gospel, Christ, and mission.
  • Anticipate sermon development: formulate passage’s purpose; develop initial conception of sermon structure; consider illustrations and applications.
  • Use resources (e.g., commentaries, sermons). Compile notes on key

• Sermon construction:
  • Determine main point/purpose.
  • Develop sermon structure.
  • Fill-in sermon substance: introduction, prayers, explanations, illustrations, and applications, and conclusion.

• Final matters:
  • Refine/complete sermon.
  • Practice sermon.
  • Preach the sermon to yourself.
  • Pray for sermon delivery and effect.

The following is my personal check-list I developed for consultation when preparing sermons:

Sermon Check-List

• True to the passage’s…
  • Authorial intent?
  • Passage structure or form?
  • Genre?
  • Context and book?
  • Aim (affections, belief, trust, obedience, thoughts, actions, etc.)?

• Biblical theology:
  • Redemptive-historical context considered?
  • Relationship to Christ?
  • Passage interpreted in light of the Gospel?
  • Mission-equipping?
  • Inspiring vision of God set forth?

• Sermon quality:
  • Main point—clear and frequently stated?
  • Well organized—clear and helpful structure?
  • Simple—avoids unnecessary complexity?
  • Selective—on what will you choose to focus?
  • Brief—the “less is more” principle; distinguish what is important vs. what is merely interesting?
  • Perspective—don’t miss the “forest for the trees” or the “trees for the forest.”
  • Concise—high quality to quantity ratio?
  • Use of pithy, memorable phrases?
  • Helpful illustrations, introduction, and conclusion?
  • Practical? Down to earth? Thoughtful, engaging, quality applications

• Audience consideration:
  • Sermon oriented specifically to this audience?
  • Clear, understandable language?
  • Clear explanations of theological issues?
  • Answers given to questions the average person may have of the text?
  • Audience’s translation(s) considered?
  • Conscientious of nonbelievers? Gospel presented?