Preaching Course

Lesson 1 • Authority and the Preached Word

Explores the source of preaching authority in Scripture and the Holy Spirit. Students understand why biblical fidelity is non-negotiable in sermon preparation.

Lesson 2 • Overview of Sermon Types

Introduces expository, topical, and narrative sermon forms at a foundational level. Prepares students to study each type in depth in later chapters.

Lesson 3 • The Nature and Purpose of Preaching

Defines preaching as Spirit-empowered proclamation rooted in Scripture. Anchors all subsequent skill development in a clear theological rationale.

Lesson 1 • Principles of Hermeneutics

Introduces the rules governing sound biblical interpretation. Establishes the interpretive framework students apply throughout the course.

Lesson 2 • Using Study Tools and Resources

Surveys commentaries, lexicons, concordances, and digital tools that support exegesis. Students build a reliable personal study toolkit.

Lesson 3 • Bridging Testaments in Preaching

Guides students in moving responsibly between Old and New Testament texts. Prevents misapplication and enriches theological depth in sermons.

Lesson 4 • Exegesis: From Text to Meaning

Teaches a step-by-step exegetical process for extracting the author's intended meaning. This process feeds directly into sermon idea development.

Lesson 1 • Audience Analysis for Idea Relevance

Introduces demographic and spiritual profiling of the congregation. Students learn to shape the central idea so it resonates with a specific audience.

Lesson 2 • Determining the Sermon's Purpose

Distinguishes between the central idea and the behavioral or spiritual aim of the sermon. Students align content and application to a single intended outcome.

Lesson 3 • From Exegesis to Sermon Concept

Bridges the gap between raw exegetical data and a preachable idea. Students practice converting technical findings into accessible sermon concepts.

Lesson 1 • Expository Sermon Outlining

Teaches outlining methods that keep the sermon anchored to the biblical text. Students produce outlines where main points emerge from the passage itself.

Lesson 2 • Introductions and Conclusions

Focuses on crafting openings that capture attention and closings that drive response. Students practice the most strategically important moments of any sermon.

Lesson 3 • Narrative Sermon Structures

Introduces plot-based and inductive narrative frameworks for sermon design. Students explore how story logic creates tension, movement, and resolution.

Lesson 4 • Topical and Thematic Structures

Covers organizing sermons around a theological theme supported by multiple texts. Students learn to maintain biblical integrity in topical formats.

Lesson 1 • The Role of Illustrations in Preaching

Explains how illustrations clarify abstract truth and sustain listener engagement. Students understand when and why to use illustrative material.

Lesson 2 • Developing Meaningful Application

Teaches how to move from biblical principle to specific, actionable life response. Students learn to write application that is concrete, not generic.

Lesson 3 • Crafting and Telling Stories

Develops narrative skill for constructing compelling sermon stories. Students practice story arc, sensory detail, and emotional resonance.

Lesson 4 • Calls to Action and Invitation

Covers designing clear, appropriate responses at the sermon's close. Students craft invitations that are theologically sound and practically actionable.

Lesson 1 • Manuscript, Outline, and Memory Methods

Compares delivery modes and helps students select the approach that fits their style. Students practice transitioning from notes toward natural, engaged delivery.

Lesson 2 • Rate, Pitch, Volume, and Pause

Teaches the four primary vocal variables and their expressive functions. Students practice deliberate variation to sustain attention and convey emphasis.

Lesson 3 • Voice as a Preaching Instrument

Explores the mechanics of vocal production and how voice conveys meaning. Students understand the relationship between breath, resonance, and authority.

Lesson 4 • Articulation and Pronunciation

Addresses clarity of speech through proper articulation and accurate pronunciation. Students identify and correct personal diction habits that impede comprehension.

Lesson 1 • Inclusive Language and Accessibility

Guides students in using language that welcomes rather than excludes listeners. Students balance theological precision with communicative accessibility.

Lesson 2 • Preaching in Special Contexts

Covers funerals, weddings, evangelistic services, and crisis situations. Students develop flexibility to adapt sermon form and tone to high-stakes occasions.

Lesson 3 • Preaching Across Generations

Explores how different generational cohorts process information and respond to authority. Students craft messages that bridge generational communication gaps.

Lesson 4 • Cross-Cultural Preaching Principles

Addresses how cultural values shape how listeners receive and interpret messages. Students learn to adapt communication style without compromising biblical content.

Lesson 1 • Building a Long-Term Preaching Ministry

Addresses sermon planning, reading habits, mentorship, and sustainable preaching rhythms. Students design a personal growth plan for the first year of active ministry.

Lesson 2 • Receiving and Using Feedback

Develops the emotional and professional skills needed to receive critique constructively. Students learn to filter, prioritize, and act on feedback from multiple sources.

Lesson 3 • Peer Review and Preaching Labs

Structures collaborative critique sessions that simulate real preaching environments. Students develop the ability to give specific, actionable feedback to peers.

Lesson 4 • Self-Evaluation Techniques

Teaches students to review recordings and written notes with disciplined objectivity. Regular self-critique accelerates skill development between formal feedback sessions.