In this episode, we continue our series on "Lessons from a Life of Ministry" with Pastor Bruce Aubrey. In the seventh lesson, we have a conversation about what it looks like to prepare a sermon. Join us for the discussion.

Lesson #7 Preparing to Preach

Biblical Backdrop

I charge you in the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who is to judge the living and the dead, and by his appearing and is kingdom: preach the word; be ready in season and out of season; reprove, rebuke, and exhort, with complete patience and teaching. 2 Timothy 4:1-2, ESV

Prepare the Message

Step 1. Select the text.
Step 2. Read it and pray through it.
Step 3. Put together a brainstorming (first thoughts page).

• - Two columns – left side just scripture – right side – overview – thoughts – outline.

• - Make a second page with just scripture to return to later after you have worked on it and

  read it like it was the first time again for what God points out most to you now.

Step 4. Distribute to research team.

• - Enlist those who have good understanding of scripture and application

• - This may be other staff, people within the church, or ministry friends from other places.

Step 5. Put together study pages.

• - Put together a single page for each verse in the passage.

• - Go through multiple translations

o Start with original language
o More literal translations – ESV, NASB, NKJV
o More readable translations – CSB, NIV,
o More modern paraphrases – NLT, GNT, MSG
o On occasion have read The Voice, and The Passion translation (though I find

they take a lot of liberty with the text

• - Write the verse out in each translation (I typically do 8) – with original at the top

• - Leave space at the bottom for notes on language or from commentaries

Step 6. Outline first draft and edit.

• - Think of clarity and connectivity.

• - Accurately and adequately teach then apply the text.

Step 7. Complete outline

Step 8. Write manuscript

Step 9. ‘Sleep on it’ – revisit and edit – listen to messages by others on the passage Jim Cymbala, James Merritt, Alistair Begg, Adrian Rogers

Step 10. Reread pray and deliver. Know your sermon in a sentence.

Prepare the Messenger

Having prepared the message, make sure you have prepared your heart.

Prepare for the Moment

Worship service? Special event? Funeral? Wedding? Context?
Key Reminder: It will not be our speaking ability that makes the difference, but the power of God.

My speech and my preaching were not with persuasive words of wisdom but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not be based on human wisdom but on God’s power. 1 Corinthians 2:4-5, CSB

Theological Truth

The call to preach is a call to prepare. Prepare your mind, soul, body and spirit.