The Pastor's Page

helpful websites for pastors of small churches:
http://www.churchsolutionsmag.com/articles/a-small-church-presence-on-the-internet.html (copy and paste to your web browser)

THE SEVEN DON'TS IN SERMON PREPARATION AND DELIVERY by John Bisagno

1. Don't try to get cute with your outline -
> alliteration and double alliteration aren't appreciated, today as they once were
> don't repeat your outline after each point - it just lengthens the sermon
> Remember! It is the "meat" in the message that impacts a life

2. Don't use out of date illustrations -
> use current, relevant and personal stories

3. Don't use many notes -
> know your text and subject well
> few notes communicate a sense of authority and confidence by the preacher
> better eye contact is possible with fewer notes
> fewer notes allows for more spontaneity and Holy Spirit direction

4. Don't shout -
> shouting at people makes them think you are angry at them
> emphasize without becoming loud
> talk to people - be conversational

5. Don't preach so long -
> make it short / 26 to 28 minutes is sufficient
> people think in short segments

6. Don't overlook the apologetic -
> tell the "why"
> argue your case like a good lawyer
> there is power in apologetics

7. Don't hide your application -
> use application and make it clear
> don't assume the audience will make the application

note: above taken by permission from a message by John Bisagno at the CBC Pastor's Conference in Pueblo in October 2006.

book by John Bisagno - Principle Preaching