Homiletics (12): Bringing it all together

You have grappled with understanding the message and discerning the needs of the congregation. You have given thought to the goal of the sermon. Now it is time to construct the main body of the sermon.  

As the name Divine Service Guide suggests, it is a tool meant to assist in sermon preparation. At this stage, the “authority, blessing, and sanctification” for ministry, received through ordination, comes into full effect—because what has been written down must now be appropriated and transformed into a Spirit-inspired sermon that addresses the needs of the congregation. 

The main points of the sermon

The main points form the body of the sermon. This is where you develop and explain the points that elaborate on the message. Identify those points in the Divine Service Guide that are essential or speak directly to the needs of the congregation. (It is not necessary to mention or cover every paragraph or bullet point.) Give the Holy Spirit room to awaken thoughts. Pray. Read the Catechism. Familiarise yourself with the Bible references in the text.

Remember, members do not want to listen to a complicated sermon with numerous points. What a congregation needs is a simple sermon that communicates deep truths. Keep your points to a minimum. Most importantly, ensure that your points build upon one another and lead naturally toward the goal of the sermon.

Old vs. new

As Matthew says, a scribe “instructed concerning the kingdom of heaven is like a householder who brings out of his treasure things new and old” (Matthew 13: 52). The same is true for ministers of the word.

Our preaching is rooted in our theology, so traditional language and theological terms create a sense of continuity and reinforce identity. After all, it is the Apostle’s doctrine that must be preached. 

At the same time, there can and must also be newness in our preaching. Newness comes from bringing new skills and knowledge to the members, or presenting familiar truths in new and thought-provoking ways—making the gospel relevant and applicable to contemporary circumstances.  

It is equally important to keep up to date with our literature. Has the Chief Apostle shared any new insights on the subject of our preaching? Let us also take full cognizance of recent doctrinal developments as well. Finally, avoid relying on old and repetitive clichés or outdated words and phrases. 

The introduction

Once you have established the main points of the sermon, think about the introduction. Is there an interesting way the sermon can be introduced? Is there a “hook” to capture the congregation’s attention? Perhaps one can begin by asking a question and deliberately unfolding the answer in the course of the sermon. How does the sermon tie in with the previous one? What is the main theme for the month, as given in the Divine Service Guide? 

The introduction is also an opportune time to briefly reflect on the Bible text more clearly and how it illuminates the main message. One thing to consider is that quite often the Bible text is read only once and never referred to again. Yet, it is the basis of the sermon and can be revisited as we expound the word. 

It is also a good idea to introduce the main message of the sermon. Do not leave the congregation wondering what the sermon is about. Explain it to them. Give hints or explain briefly the “destination” of the sermon. Invite members to join you on this journey. In doing so, the congregation has a mental map to follow. 

Let the Holy Spirit guide you

As it was said at the very beginning, the Holy Spirit is active before and during sermon preparation—and, of course, throughout the divine service as well. A Spirit-inspired sermon is not about mechanical delivery or simply giving a well-prepared speech. Rather, it is the proclamation of God’s universal offer of salvation in Christ. It is powerful and life-giving! 

A Spirit-inspired sermon is rooted both in the mission and activity of the Apostle ministry, as well as in the personal conviction and faith of the preacher. It is rooted in authenticity and commitment to the mission and teaching of the Church. And its ultimate goal is to prepare the bridal congregation for the Lord’s return.

Photo: Natalia – stock.adobe.com

About the author

Markus Cromhout (born 1972) is a theologian at the New Apostolic Church Southern Africa. He is active in his congregation as an Evangelist. He studied at the Faculty of Theology and Religion at the University of Pretoria and obtained his doctorate in New Testament Studies. In addition to scientific publications, he also writes popular science. He conducted seminars on the subject of “Homiletics” and provides weekly background videos.