The sermon - A cure for insomniacs?

A typical church service is a medley of singing, praying, ceremony and sermon so over the next few months these magazine articles are going to explore why they are part of our worship. So this month we start with the sermon, perhaps one of the most feared “I do hope he don’t go on too long” or revered “She’s very entertaining” parts of the service. For some it will conjure up an image of Mr Bean trying but failing to stay awake whilst the vicar mumbles on the background.

Sermons can be an encouragement, or a challenge, they can be inspirational or they can be for teaching. Many of our centre on teaching, examining a Bible passage in more detail and looking for the application to our own lives. However they often encourage, inspire and challenge us as well. For example this month we are going to go through some Bible stories that are well known and taught to children, but ones which deserve a deeper analysis. How could God use a murderer like Moses? Is there more to Joseph than his coat? How stupid was Samson to give in to his girlfirend’s constant nagging? And most importantly “What does it mean for me?”

Traditionally sermons have been monologues delivered by the trained minister to the rest of the congregation. We like to do things differently though. They are often not given by a trained preacher but more often by an “ordinary” person. Many preachers will also make use of audio-visual equipment that is available, in fact a good sermon will have elements that appeal to the three main learning styles; hearing, seeing and doing. After all we try and imitate Jesus, He used all methods available to take “Good News” to those around him. He drew in the sand, used children for illustration, and spoke with inspiration. Sometimes we don’t have a sermon atall, but more of a discussion over coffee. Either way we pray that everyone who comes will find the messages inspirational.

All the best

Andy Boston
Long Whatton Baptist Church Leader