Start with the Word.

Choose your biblical passage. Read it three times: first to understand the story, again to notice what stands out, and aloud to hear its rhythm and emphasis.

Ask yourself: What catches my attention? What questions does this passage raise?

 

See how the passage unfolds.

Notice how the text moves from beginning to end. Look for changes in people, ideas, events, or emphasis.

Ask yourself: What happens first, next, and last?

Explore the passage beyond its surface.

Consider its context, keywords, people, actions, and central themes.

Ask yourself:

• What is happening in this passage?
• What comes before and after it?
• What are the key words, and what do they mean?
• What does this reveal about God and humanity?
• Why did the original audience need to hear this message?

Use a Bible commentary or study tool when something is unclear.

Find the heart of the message.

Bring your discoveries together into one central truth.

Ask yourself: What is this passage about? What does it teach us about that subject?

Give your message a direction.

Now begin turning the biblical truth into a sermon for your listeners.

Decide on four things:

1. Purpose: What should this sermon accomplish?
2. Title: What short, memorable phrase captures its message?
3. Guiding question: What question will your sermon answer?
4. Main points: What 2–3 truths will help answer it?

Bring your message to life.

Begin expressing your sermon in your own natural speaking voice.

Build three parts:

• Introduction: Capture attention and introduce the message.
• Main points: Explain the biblical truth, illustrate it, and show how it applies to everyday life.
• Conclusion: Bring everything together and invite a response

Prepare to preach with confidence.

Gather the essential ideas of your sermon into one clear outline.

Include:

• Opening statement
• Title and central message
• Main points with key explanations and applications
• Final takeaway or call to response