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Introduction

In this initial lecture, Dr. Lutzer proposes a simple solution to the unnecessarily complex process of sermon writing.

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Key Words

In his initial lecture, Pastor Lutzer stressed that the key word chosen for a particular passage depends upon the direction of the passage. He offered a number of key words that he has used over the years to develop sermons with unity, order, and progress.

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Reviewing Key Words

Identifying the sort of passage…what the passage is trying to accomplish in broad terms will help guide you toward a key word appropriate to the text. For example, Genesis 1:1-2:3 might be identified as a “what” passage describing God’s acts in the creation of the world. As such, there might be some flexibility as to what key word might be used consistent with the flow of the passage. Perhaps the word characteristics can be used; or the word attributes. Whatever key word is chosen will of course be mentioned when you get to the transitional sentence.

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Creating Strong Introductions

Since most of us want our audience to be interested in the topic we will be covering, we want to be able to capture their attention from the very beginning. So, what are the keys to an effective introduction? How might you go about delivering a compelling introduction?

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Creating Strong Conclusions

You can use a number of the same techniques for starting a sermon to end your sermon. As Pastor Lutzer notes in his lecture on introductions and conclusions, a great conclusion can pull a mediocre sermon from the metaphorical jaws of defeat. The conclusion, because it is at the end of your sermon, will be highly memorable (more so, often, than what comes between the introduction and conclusion).

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Why Use Illustrations

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Illustrations Have Power

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Using Humor

As Pastor Lutzer notes, humor can be an effective way to loosen up an audience and to bond with them as a speaker. The jokes that Pastor Lutzer uses to illustrate his use of humor in the video may or may not work for you.