How to preach the perfect sermon every single time
“Who does he think he is?! There is no ‘perfect’ sermon! Only God determines that. And besides, who does he think he is?!” If that’s what you’re thinking, then maybe I can’t convince you. But, here’s to trying. I’ve sat through and studied thousands of Christian sermons, speeches, and talks. I’ve given hundreds myself. I’ve had a Master’s-level class on how to prepare and deliver a sermon. I’ve studied how people in the New Testament delivered sermons during my three degrees. I’ve sat under great preachers and horrible preachers. I’m learned from them all. Through all of that, what I come back to over and over again are some basic “Movements” and “Features” that make really outstanding sermons. One might call them “perfect.” Why? Because they do exactly what a Christian sermon is supposed to do (which is different from a lecture or inspirational talk). The perfect sermon has three “Movements”: (1) exegesis (= ancient context), (2) hermeneutics (= modern applicat...
