Day One-I've been asked to preach-NOW WHAT!

Day Two- Rivers of Inspiration

Day Three- The Need for Focus

Day Four- Find Your Rhythm

Day Five- Power Points

Day Six- Cutting the Fat and Serving the Meat

Day Seven- Gearing Up to be a Winner!

Day Eight- Taking It to the Next Level

Day Nine- From O.K. Speaker to Dynamic Preacher

Day Ten- Understanding Scripture

Day Eleven- Key Words

Day Twelve- Tools to get Spiritual Insight

Day Thirteen- Types of Sermons

Day Fourteen- Pastors and Christian Living

Day Fifteen- He Gets the Last Word

The Life Changing Sermons Series

Final Notes

Day One

Hi [FIRSTNAME],

Thank you for signing up and welcome to day one of your online Sermon Preparation Course. 

Lesson 1: I've been asked to preach....NOW WHAT?

I know, you have so much to say but you're not sure how to say it. Slow down, let's take this step by step. First of all, the best way to prepare for a sermon is to be prepared already. What I mean by that is studying should be a part of who are and not just something you do when gearing up for a big day. Those of us who have been successful at preaching know that this does not work. Have you ever saw the guy who can get in the pulpit and preach at moment's notice? That's not the way we advise you to do it unless you have to but that's the minister that you will be by the time you finish this course!

Let's Get Started....

Scenario- Your leadership has been led to extend the pulpit to you next week (or some near future date). God has been putting words of wisdom and encouragement on your lips and your fellow Christians have noticed. That's fine in an informal setting or a Bible study. But this is the real deal and everyone will be watching. The microphone will be in your hands. Feel the pressure yet? Get this, theres something more serious about it than that. YOUR MESSAGE WILL BE YOUR OFFERING TO GOD THAT DAY. I know, you were probably concerned about falling on your face in front of the crowd of people waiting in anticipation to hear what you have to say. LISTEN... they are the least of your worries. If they enjoy your message, good. But if not, there's something much more important.

1. Is it what God told you to say. Say nothing more than what he put on your heart but be careful to say nothing less either. Many young ministers receive counsel of strong rebuke from the Lord that's hard to hear and they choke in the moment of truth because of concern for the people. It's good that you are concerned but that concern should not cause you to hide any of God's truths. We'll talk about that more later but first things first.

2. Test what you feel led to say against the Word. If it is not in harmony with the Word, then it is not from God- period. Many ministers fall into the trap of getting too comfortable in the pulpit. DON'T STRIKE THE ROCK! Right now you're cautious. Ask God to keep you that way.

SO, HOW DO I GET STARTED?

Pray. This is a spiritual matter so you need to be spiritual. Plenty of people will come to you and give their opinion on where you should go. If not this time, certainly in the future. It could even be your wife. Listen to this carefully, this is between you and the Lord alone. Take me for instance, I'll tell you step by step how to approach preaching but I will never tell you what to preach. [FIRSTNAME] PRAY. This is your secret weapon for success.

Read Psalms Chapter 1 tonight and ask God to help you be that person.

Take care [FIRSTNAME],

Stan Hood
President
Life Changing Sermons Series
http://www.sh-playhouse.com/sermons.html

Tomorrow: Rivers of Inspiration

Feel free to forward this course to a friend and save it for future use.

Day Two

Welcome back [FIRSTNAME],

Ready to get down to business?

Today, you become a Jesus freak. Take paper, pen, your Bible and a good concordance (if you don't have one, get one) with you everywhere you go. If God has called you to minister, it would be good to invest in an electronic pocket Bible and Bible software for your computer; both are inexpensive. Even at work, make sure you have pen and paper on you all the time. Get ready [FIRSTNAME] because God will speak to you today!

Lesson 2: RIVERS OF INSPIRATION

Relax. You have time to get this together. Do not rush to get a complete product. Allow yourself to go through the process.

1. Christ object lessons

Be very observant for lessons in everything around you. God can take any situation and use it to glorify Him. Say for instance, employee A and B seem to be very good friends until an announcement is made that they both are candidates for a promotion but only one will be selected. Suddenly the employees become very competitive and use what they learned about each other as friends to destroy each other. You see this happening and all kinds of similar incidents that you've studied come to mind (like Jacob and Esau). I don't advise you to use their real names but you can use the situation to illuminate an incident in the scriptures. This is called a Christ Object Lesson because it's how Jesus taught- using everyday situations that people could identify with. This will be the most comfortable approach to starting your ministry.

Say for instance that employee A or B attend your church. If that's the case, it may be a good idea to put that lesson in your hip pocket for later. Your lessons should always point to Christ and not at people. Don't worry, if you follow this process, you'll have so many illustrations that you will NEVER run out of sermon material. You can even extend this to what you read in the newspaper and what you see on the news. Watch and pray.

Okay [FIRSTNAME] [LASTNAME], lets move on.

2. Write the "VISION" upon tables

Alright, take a breath. Right off the bat, your notes don't have to make any sense right now; just write. Scribble thoughts here a little and there a little. Later, when you review before bed, a central theme will start to emerge. If it doesn't jump out right away, don't worry. We walk by faith, not by sight. When you're faithful, God will always come through. You will not stand in that pulpit without a Word from the Lord. There have been times where this writing, scribbling and jotting made no sense to me until I was in the pulpit and began to speak. Sorry, don't want to scare you. Increase your faith and increase your peace.

3. Began to research your thoughts in the Word. You won't finish tonight so don't stay up all night trying. Get some rest [FIRSTNAME]. You're doing God's business now. He doesn't operate like man. The vision is for an appointed time. At the end, it shall speak and not lie.

Read Habakkuk 2 and claim the vision.

Take care [FIRSTNAME],

Stan Hood
President
Life Changing Sermons Series
http://www.sh-playhouse.com/sermons.html

Tomorrow: The Need For Focus

Feel free to forward this course to a friend and save it for future use.

Day Three

Good morning [FIRSTNAME], did you wake up with the vision?

Let's talk for a moment about your temple. We learn in Daniel chapter one that God's people are peculiar. They don't put any old thing in their temple. How can you hear the secret things of the Lord intoxicated by mind and mood altering substances? The devil would tell you that you get really deep when you're high but you and I both know it's a lie. The Hebrew boys refused the king's wine. Are you refusing the king's wine? And also the king's meat. You probably should cut back on the greasy foods and sweets. Don't get all bent out of shape, it's just a suggestion. Preaching is a physical and spiritual workout. No sprinter ever got ready for a race on the day of the race. Once you start preaching this sermon, you will have to constantly discern what thoughts are from the Lord and which ones come from the devil. You have to do this in the blink of an eye while delivering a powerful message. When you truly preach in the Spirit, you wage war with the enemy. And for that, you need to be fit.

Okay [FIRSTNAME], let's go.

Lesson 3: The Need For Focus

Preachers often have a tough week prior to their greatest sermons. So, don't be surprised if little things here or there begin to require an unusual amount of your attention. Don't be drawn in. Explain to the people close to you that you need an upper room experience so don't be offended if you steal away for awhile. Whether they understand or not, do it anyway. Someone's salvation will be in your hands. Your priestly duties began the day you took this assignment. You need to focus.

1. Gathering your notes, look for the central thought and central text. I know, you're saying it's only day three. Again, we need to focus in on one point. That's right, one point. You may ask, "How can I preach 45 minutes to an hour on one point?" Trust me, if you use my methods, an hour will not be enough. To hear an example of how I do this click here http://www.sh-playhouse.com/sermons.html and choose any message. You will hear the central theme right away. Your title will come from this theme.

2. Now ask yourself "why." Why this text or story? Write your response in the form of a paragraph and title it "INTRODUCTION." We'll touch it up later but the main thing is that you're getting your sermon started.

3. Now think about your delivery. Continuing to use the example of Jesus, notice that He grabbed their attention right away and refrained from giving them everything. He gave them just enough to wet their appetite. Approach your introduction this way. Although your research and preparation has been spiritual, keep in mind that most of your audience may be carnal. Surprised? You shouldn't be. Put some motivated effort into a few words. Your introduction should be a well thought out 30 seconds to a minute. That's all? Yep, that's it. Hit them and pray. Put them on the edge of their seats. An exciting start won't just be good for them, it will be good for you. It will help you settle into your anointing so that you can go ahead and preach. We'll talk more about it tomorrow. You have enough to do tonight.

Review Habakkuk 2 again and make it plain.

Take care [FIRSTNAME],

Stan Hood
President
Life Changing Sermons Series
http://www.sh-playhouse.com/sermons.html

Tomorrow: Find Your Rhythm

Day Four

How are you doing so far? If you're having trouble beyond the usual lack of time, etc., email me at sermons@sh-playhouse.com. I also have quality sermons in narrative form available at http://www.sh-playhouse.com/resources.html A free example of a sermon with me using the methods I teach here is also their to assist you.

Three days left. Let's go.

Lesson 4- Finding Your Rhythm

Paul is probably the best apostle to look at when it comes to making an argument for the Lord. When you look at a book like Romans, you discover that Paul had a way of making complicated instructions sound simple. What we want to look at today is the process. Romans Chapters 6 through 8 give the most definitive explanation of how we are saved but they would not make since without Chapters 1 through 5. When we first discussed putting your sermon on paper, we talked about looking for the theme or central point you want to make. Then we said ask yourself why. If you look at Romans Chapter 1, you see Paul going through that same process. He has a point to make (the Jews aren't any better than anyone else) but he takes a carefully thought out road to get to that point. In one chapter he says that the Jews are sinful. In another, he says the gentiles are sinful. In the third, he says we all have problems. In the fourth and fifth, he proves the point that sin has separated us from God and we are in need of a savior. By the time we get to chapter six, Jews and Gentiles alike are ready to hear how Jesus bridged the gap between sinners and God. Question. How could he hold their attention long enough to get to chapter 6? Answer- He arrested their curiosity and then the momentum rose with each chapter. Once he got their attention, he maintained a certain style that carried the message throughout. Paul had his own unique method of delivery- a rhythmic voice. You must find yours. You must learn to tenderly till the soil while planting the seeds, then water the thirsty seeds with the Holy Spirit. We'll talk more about watering the seeds in Lesson 6. But for now- 

1. Why did Paul write to the church in Rome? Because there was division among them- racism in particular.

2. What did Paul do prior to writing the letter? He made sure he knew the facts concerning salvation and the Jews/Gentiles. (kind of like what you're doing right now).

3. How did Paul approach the church? With a passionate determination to tell them the truth- establish sound doctrine.

4. What goal did he have in mind from the beginning? To help them take their eyes off of each other and to point them to hope in Jesus Christ alone. They thought that there was something that they could be or do to give them an advantage in obtaining salvation. (kind of like your congregation or group).

5. Who inspired Paul to write this? God. We know this because it agreed with the scriptures that they had at that time. All of the apostles used prophecy in the old testament to make their arguments for the new.

6. Who's voice or personality comes through in the writing? Paul's. (exactly what you have to do)

God has put something on your heart that you go to bed with at night and wake up with in the morning. You are an ambassador of Christ who's been commissioned to write your church a letter to establish or re-establish sound doctrine. Men are so hard headed that you may have to do this every week. But God wants to do it in your voice. Why? because the people will listen to someone just like them with pains and struggles, but still on fire for the Lord, and they will be converted.

WHAT IS MY VOICE OR RHYTHM?

Your inspired testimony. A dead testimony equals a sinking ship. An inspired testimony equals building waves of praise that climaxes in everyone looking to Jesus to do for them what He's doing for you.

The gospel is simple if you explain it in your own words. When you're comfortable with doing that, you've found your rhythm.

Read Romans Chapter 7 and see if you can find Paul's rhythm.

Take care [FIRSTNAME],

Stan Hood
President
Life Changing Sermons Series
http://www.sh-playhouse.com/sermons.html

Tomorrow: Power Points





Day Five

Do you feel the rhythm yet? No? Actually, you won't be completely comfortable with your speaking voice until you're actually doing it live. Some people practice this out loud prior to the big day. If it works for you, good. But I don't recommend it. I believe in giving the Lord as much room for inspiration as possible when it comes to the "delivery" part of my sermons. Instead of practicing how it's going to come out, I believe we should spend our time on feasting on the Word so we'll having something to say, and then putting it on paper in a logical order. If you do this right, it will help you settle into your sermon quickly and with natural ease.

Lesson 5- Power Points

Power Points are sub-headings under your main theme or title. You should be able to glance at them and expound on what they mean. Although you've done all of this preparation, you should NOT read your sermon word for word. Your notes are there to assist you, not to preach for you. If that's what you want them to do, then make copies and pass them out to the congregation so that they can follow along. I assure you that you won't preach again for a while :>) (That was joke)

Here's a quick example of Power Points.

In one of my favorite sermons, "I Can't Come Down," there's too many juicy nuggets in the book of Nehemiah to cover it all without getting sidetracked and losing the point. So, I created a power point for each chapter to keep me on target.

-Chapter One- "A Need For Concern"
-Chapter Two- "Confession And Commitment"
-Chapter Three- "Courage And Caution"
-Chapter Four- "The Opponents of Truth"

You don't have to do this by chapter. You can break it down by verse or even by each word in a verse. It all depends on how much you're trying to cover.
You can find that sermon at http://www.sh-playhouse.com/cantcomedown.html


Under each Power Point, I listed a brief paragraph supporting that point.

To get excited or nervous and lose your place is something that is very likely to happen. Plan for this by listing power points that will reel you back in and put you back on solid ground.

When typing, some preachers run their whole sermon together as one never ending paragraph or thought. I strongly discourage this. Each time you start a new thought, you should start a new paragraph. And your font should be at least 16 point (preferably Courier New). Don't make the entire sermon all caps. Reserve features such as BOLD TEXT, CAPITAL LETTERING or ITALICS for special emphasis on certain key points. This will help the flow of your message. Lastly, write the sermon exactly the way that you talk. You don't have to turn the paper in so there won't be a grade for correct english later. Do yourself a favor and make your message natural.

Work on this tonight and we'll talk more tomorrow.

Take care [FIRSTNAME],

Stan Hood
President
Life Changing Sermons Series
http://www.sh-playhouse.com/sermons.html

Tomorrow: Cutting the Fat and Serving the Meat

Day Six

Hello [FIRSTNAME],

Are you still sitting there gazing at a bunch of notes that are supposed to be your sermon wondering if it will ever come together?

If you are, then good, because today is a workday. We're going to spend the entire day looking at the body of your message. Tomorrow, we'll finish by focusing on your INTRODUCTION and CLOSING. Then, I'll share with you how I prepare on the morning that I'm going to preach.

Without further delay [FIRSTNAME], let's work!

Okay, you've delivered an eye opening intro and prayed until fire came down from heaven.....Now what?

Let's use a courtroom today as our platform. God has been charged by the devil as being unjust. You are called by Jesus to be a part of God's all-star defense team. All of all the angels and men in high authority on God's team, this day, you've been chosen to present His case. (don't worry, I'm getting to the point) How will you approach such an awesome task?

2 Thess. says "prove all things and hold fast to that which is good."

Just as we discussed in the last lesson, lay the ground work prior to shouting Hosanna. Look at all the circumstances surrounding your text. What I mean is, if your sermon is about Mark chap. 5 (Jesus traveling to the land of the Gaderenes to cast out demons), don't just say the two men met him on the shore. Look up that area in the encyclopedia and find out what the landscape is (the graveyard is still there today and homeless people still dwell among the tombs). Find out where Jesus was coming from the night before and how far he traveled to get there. Do you get my point [FIRSTNAME]? These things, no matter how small the points are, bring your sermon to life. Just keep in mind your central theme. All roads must lead there.

Corresponding Text

Still laying the ground work for God's case, I would make a big deal out Jesus traveling all night at the end of Mark 4 just to take salvation to two men that everyone else had given up on. To further illustrate my point, I would use "like stories" or "relevant text" from other places in the Bible. Just like calling witnesses to the stand in a courtroom, these text speak on Jesus' behalf and establish a pattern of Holiness. Instead of a serial killer, you may refer to our Savior as a "serial healer." He just can't help it. Even if he wanted to stop, he couldn't do it. And you, [FIRSTNAME], are placed on this earth to prove that point to all men. This is the gospel, carry it like a fire in your bosom.

Did you notice what I just did? I got off the point. AS much as we enjoyed that gospel charge, it went away from what we were discussing. You must learn to keep this in check when you preach. It's alright to get off a little bit but it's easy to wear the Saints out before even getting to your point. It's better to leave them wanting more than to leave them mentally drained. This is how you get invited back over and over again. [FIRSTNAME], learn how to shut up while you're on the mountain. Once you've taken them to the heights of your message, there's no where else to go but down if you try to stay up longer than you should. But if you sit down while the fire's still burning, the Holy Ghost will finish the sermon in their hearts.

Review the body of your message and see if it teaches. And then see if the teaching moves toward your main point. If there is anything there that doesn't point toward your text, cut the fat and serve the meat.

God will give you fresh illustrations while you preach, there's no need in building in an excess number of these into your message. When your testimony takes over, some of what you wrote won't get said any.

Take care [FIRSTNAME],

Stan Hood
President
Life Changing Sermons Series
http://www.sh-playhouse.com/sermons.html

Tomorrow: Gearing Up to be A Winner!

Day Seven

Are you ready to be a winner [FIRSTNAME],

The final lesson: Gearing up to be a Winner!

On yesterday, we worked on the body of your message. This is basically the message you intend to leave with the people. By now, you have a general idea of how this will go so we won't rehash the process again. What I want to talk about today is sealing your sermon in your heart. Ask God to remove the doubts that you may have about where this message came from (is it [FIRSTNAME] or is it God that wants to preach this message). Tell Him that you've done your best in preparing it but acknowledge that you can't deliver what's not yours. Give your sermon and how it will affect the listeners to the Lord. Ask Him to fill in the gaps where you fall short. Ask Him for divine understanding of what you intend to preach. And last but not least, ask Him to lift the burdens of expectations off of you and focus your mind on a strong delivery of the WORD.

Part of this process is how you start and how you finish. When you begin to speak, people are listening for your subject so they can decide whether or not your sermon is worth listening to. You can approach this in two different ways. You can put them on the edge of their seats with hints of where you're going but not quite revealing it until you're ready. Or you can hit them with something to the point and powerful right from the start. I've used both ways effectively and you can to as long as you understand the pros and cons of both approaches.

You can use illustrations to set the stage for your main point and create a little mystery at the outset of your sermon but don't drag it on too long. If you do, people will get impatient and tune you out. Keep it within a couple of minutes, preferably one minute or less.

You can come out like a run away train using many short illustrations to support your theme but keep in mind that your sermon must flow. If you come out with intensity and excitement, you must find ways to hold your audience or else they will experience a let down just when you are starting to get into your message and ultimately watch the clock longing for you to finish.

Which ever approach you use, try to find a healthy balance that keeps your message stable throughout. Mix teaching, preaching, illustrations and testimonies until you produce a message that flows.

Closing the message at the end must be thought out as well. You use the same process to approach your closing thoughts but with a twist. God always should have the last word. After you've hammered your central thought home with your last power point, [FIRSTNAME], please sit down. Don't go on and on with your final thoughts. That's not your place. After you've made your point verbally, let the Holy Spirit finish the conversation in their hearts. If you have one, let the pianist play. Or let the singer sing. You, sit down and watch the Lord work. He'll tell you when to get up and make an appeal, but for now [FIRSTNAME], SIT DOWN. Why am I emphasizing this, because you can destroy all the work that you've done by babbling on about how the sermon affected you. That's nice but let it finish working on your listeners. If it stings, let it sting. If it soothes, let it sooth. Many more people will come to Christ this way than through prolonged cohersion. I know, you have to fight your nature to do this but the more you trust God, the more He will reveal to you. Sometimes I sit and pray. Sometimes I sit and watch. But in all circumstances, I let God have the last WORD.

The Final Moments Before You Preach

Once you get to the church find a quiet place to pray. It is always good to have an Elder or Pastor pray with you and for you. This is all a part of sealing the sermon in your heart. Many times, God's confirmation has come through the words of someone praying for me in that final hour.

If you can, spend some time alone going over your introduction only. At this point, it becomes the most important part of your sermon. You want to have it on auto pilot. A good intro will get you through everything from jitters to a stale audience. I know it's tempting but don't spend your time on the meat of your message during these final moments. You know it already. What you want is the anointed confidence to speak those first few words that will say much more than what comes from your lips. Your body language and your attitude coupled with your words say that I'm a soldier for Christ and I've come to establish Him in this place today- and I mean business. As you begin to talk a little more, confidence will soar and you'll be able to do God's business. You're a winner of souls.

Let me know how it goes. I would love to hear from you at mailto:sermons@sh-playhouse.com. One last tip- it's very beneficial to record your message for later use.

If you don't want the advanced course, you must unsubscribe at the bottom of this form now. Or else, the advanced lessons will start tomorrow.

As you sit in that pulpit waiting to preach, remind yourself that you are a warrior for God and you've come with a sword of love in your hands.

Take care [FIRSTNAME],

Stan Hood
President
Life Changing Sermons Series
http://www.sh-playhouse.com/sermons.html

Tomorrow: Taking It To The Next Level!

Day Eight

Congratulations [FIRSTNAME],

You made it through your first message and you've decided to continue on with more advanced lessons. I know you're probably saying "whooooo! I'm glad I made it through that one."

Believe me, I know what you mean. But you're probably also realizing that it wasn't that bad. You did O.K.

Now is the best time to get right back on your gospel bike and ride again. That is- continue honing your skills.

Today, you are actually in a much better situation than you were before your trial sermon. Now you have something to draw from and build on.

For today, I suggest that you do the very thing that most speakers hate to do, listen to your message.

Here are a few things to listen for-

1. Did you project your voice with confidence?

2. Was your material clear and understandable?

3. Were your thoughts expressed completely or were you hard to follow?

4. How was your transition from one topic to the next? Were there long silent pauses between each thought or topic?

5. Did you venture far from your topic and if you did, were you able to come back quickly?


These are just a few areas that you can identify and fine tune as you sharpen your sword.

We'll see you tomorrow when we'll discuss "From O.K. Speaker to Dynamic Preacher!"


Stan Hood
President
Life Changing Sermons Series
http://www.sh-playhouse.com

Day Nine

Alright [FIRSTNAME], you may ask what more can we add to the thorough detail of the first course. The answer- a lot. Our goal this time around is to take you from being a good speaker to being a dynamic preacher! Before we even get started, understand by faith that there is no reason for this not to happen. The Lord has no problem with using you to draw others to him. What I'm about to teach you over the next 7 days contains more information than students receive about preaching sermons at weekend seminars that ministers pay hundreds of dollars for. Why? Because I want the same thing for you that God wants. I want you to be able to bring people to Christ with confidence and sound doctrine.

O.K. [FIRSTNAME], let's get started.

Do you remember how we started the first sermon course? Most of our conversation wasn't even about preaching. It was about your lifestyle. That's because sermons naturally come from experiencing your walk with God. Look at this text from 2 Corinthians chapter 9 and consider it.

6. But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully.
7. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.
8. And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:

The problem that many of us have is that we want to reap the rewards when it's time to preach but we don't want to put the time in that's required to succeed. It's true that I will show you how to string relevant text together faster and more efficiently but I will always keep before you that great ministers are made by God, not by techniques.

Your assignment for today is to put yourself in position to hear God speak to you. From this point forward, if you aren't already doing it, sincerely start your day with the Word of God and end it with the Word of God. This carries a minimum requirement of 30 minutes to an hour of study and prayer. I challenge myself to learn one new thing about Him every night prior to bed. Eat the Word in small bites and long chews. It will stay with you longer. It does no good to read 3 chapters of Genesis before bed just to be able to say you read it. You retain nothing this way. The method I use is to accept the story the way it's told. When the situation ends, I'm finished for the day. This may consist of 20 verses or 3 verses. Whatever it is, my goal is to digest what God is saying. You're after a thought, characteristic or object lesson; not a number of pages. Do this whether you have a preaching assignment or not.

An example of this is the story of Joseph. As a whole, it's only a few chapters. But if you really take the time to listen to the Lord, it could take you months to finish it reading a few verses at a time, but considering everything about the verse. After you've read it once, read it again. But this time list the dominant factors in the verses. Then consider what is being taught.

Try this tonight and be blessed!

Stan Hood
http://www.sh-playhouse.com 

Tomorrow: Understanding Scripture 

Day Ten

Hi [FIRSTNAME], this is the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it! How are you today? Do you have a clear mind that is ready to serve God? Good.

[FIRSTNAME], today and the next several days we'll be discussing the topic of understanding scripture. After that, we'll talk about explaining scripture to your hearers.

To understand a text, you must understand the words in it. You may say that's common sense. And I would say that you're right if it weren't for the fact that I hear preachers teaching scripture out of context all the time because they don't understand it. How can you teach what you don't understand? A good example of this is Colossians 3:18 which says "Wives, submit yourselves unto your own husbands, as it is fit in the Lord."

Now, you've probably heard men quote this verse many times with great authority- out of context! What about the last part of the verse? "As it is fit in the Lord" could have prevented many spouse abuse cases. What about women forced to live in sin because they feel they have no choice. I'm not talking about encouraging people to divorce. I'm talking about having a full understanding of the scripture. Everywhere that obedience of wives to husbands is mentioned, there's always a stipulation on the man to be obedient to God. We learn that from the Old and New Testaments.

There are many people who possess the gift of speaking well but do not possess the anointing of God to preach. What I mean is, there are many preachers who hang entire doctrine or theology on one text. The scripture consistently says that there must be two or three witnesses. We declare that our doctrine is an extension of the character of God. All Christian Pastors will agree on this. Where some of us disagree is when I (and other Bible student Preachers) say that an important trait of His character will show up in more than one place in the scriptures. The Word is like a flowing river that waters the soul of those who hunger and thirsts for righteousness. You will find none of Gods truths flowing against the tide of love that is the Bible. In the end, even the wicked will get what they ask for. They demand to be disconnected and eternally separated from God. And in love, He will grant them their wish. He will not force Himself on anyone but He gave His life for everyone. This is the kind of man that God has called the husband to be; one that is willing to lay down his life for his family- yet he does not push his weight around demanding his will be done. The husband that God has called doesn't drive his family to obedience. He leads by example and his family willingly follows. When they see how righteous this man is, his wife and kids can't help but respect God's presence in his life.

How many of these type texts can you think of? In the coming days, let the Holy Spirit teach you how to understand scripture as we go into this in more detail. For some of us, it takes a whole new way of looking at the Bible to take our ministry to the next level. [FIRSTNAME], let your prayer tonight be "Lord, confirm my thoughts. Establish me in your tabernacle. Prove all things that are acceptable and good in your sight, O' Lord, my strength and my redeemer. Amen."

May God Bless You

Stan Hood
http://www.sh-playhouse.com

Tomorrow: Key Words

Day Eleven

Hi [FIRSTNAME],

In case you were wondering what my counsel is to marriages in trouble, here it is. In cases where couples don't get along or even when they don't like each other anymore, I recommend spiritual counseling both together and separately. In the most severe cases, where someone is in danger (either through physical violence or at risk because of sexual indiscretions) I recommend separation with counseling but not divorce. According to the scripture, the only appropriate time for divorce is when one of the parties has totally abandoned the process of reconciliation and is determined not to return or the victim of indiscretions has tried to move on but can not.

Now, on to our lesson.

Yesterday, we were discussing understanding scripture. In talking about such things, never forgot that the Holy Spirit is the only true teacher of Holy things. My job is simply to help you build upon what you have already. I have much respect for my fellow teachers of the Word. I just want you to get the most out of the texts.

For our platform today, we will discuss what key words mean to us versus what they meant to the patriarchs and prophets who allowed God to use them to write the Bible. This will be key in delivering meaningful sermons that stay with your members for years to come. I would be lying to you if I said my sermons weren't entertaining. There's nothing wrong with that but they must teach people how God wants them to live. We learn from our past, God helps us see the present through spiritual eyes so that we can make adjustments, and we look forward to the future with Him.

In the beginning of this course, I mentioned that you should purchase some electronic Bible software. If you've done this already, you may have noticed that some of them come with dictionaries, concordances, Greek and Hebrew. That's pretty standard these days. If you're not a computer person (which I doubt because you're taking this course), a regular paperback concordance will due. Just be sure to get something that includes the Greek and Hebrew. This will be key to understanding scripture.

I won't go through all of the translations of words from Hebrew to English because you can do that on your own. What I will do is give you an approach that works.

Let's say that you are going to preach a sermon about Jacob wrestling with God. Since this is the turning point in his life, the first way I would use my software would be to find out the meaning of the name Jacob. Then I would look for key words in the text that would reveal to me more clearly what happened that night. For instance, Genesis 32:24 says-
24. And Jacob was left alone; and there wrestled a man with him until the breaking of the day.

What does that say in the Greek or Hebrew? What is it- a man, an angel or God?

To really enhance your sermon, find out where Jacob was when this happened. What was the place called? What does that word mean? What does it mean when the text says "he touched the hollow of his thigh"? He changed his name to Israel.... what does that mean?

You could challenge yourself to ask even more questions about where Jacob was coming from and where he was going. I think you get the idea. All of these things bring your sermon to life and make it real. And understanding what the key words meant to the writer are a great starting point to a deeper, more thoughtful message.

[FIRSTNAME], I could go on and on but my wife frequently reminds me that every conversation is not an occasion to preach. So, I'll let you go and we'll continue this train of thought tomorrow.

God Bless You!

Stan Hood
President
Life Changing Sermons Series
http://www.sh-playhouse.com

Tomorrow: Tools to get Spiritual Insight

Day Twelve

Hello again [FIRSTNAME],

As we continue to discuss understanding scripture, I just want to say one more time that the Holy Spirit is the author and finisher of your faith. It's easy to lose sight of that as we get into details and methods of study. I know you knew that [FIRSTNAME]. I just want to keep it before you.

Today, I want to add another important aspect to producing great sermons. Understanding the times and environment in which people lived gives great insight that listeners love; not to mention that to study this will water your soul. If you go to the Christian Book Store or even the library in your area, they have some great material. You should always be reading a book on something pertaining to your faith. Not only will it broaden your horizon, reading will keep you in the spiritual realm.

It's sad to say but even in Christian Books stores, there's some junk that's not based on scripture. So, even within our own fold, we must be careful to try every spirit and see if it is of God. In your study, look for books that give scripture references. That's sound simple but there are plenty of things that most people accept as scripture that are in fact not scripture. 

That's plenty for now. Remember [FIRSTNAME], the best new project that we have is the one that we put into practice.

God Bless You!

Stan Hood
President
Life Changing Sermons Series
http://www.sh-playhouse.com


Tomorrow: Types of Sermons

Day Thirteen

Welcome back [FIRSTNAME],

What good book are you reading? I would love to know. If you're being blessed by it, I'm sure I will too.

Today, let's begin talking about how we will put all of these resources together. Things can get a little jumbled with me skipping all over the place telling you about what's worked for me. So, it's time to zoom in a little and put it all together.

My favorite type of sermon is called a "Narrative." In other words, it tells a story. There are two basic ways to biblically tell a story. You can either use a case study (the woman at the well, the alabaster box, Jonah and the whale etc.) or you can use a topic (the love of God, Hell is a real place, Spiritual gifts, etc.).

Either way, you can be very effective if you tap into all the resources that we discussed earlier. When you put your sermon together, try using this formula.

1. Who or what are we talking about?
2. What brought us to this point (the history can usually be found in the verses leading up to your main text)?
3. What are the current circumstances? Some examples may be the political and social environment.
4. As your listener, can you take me to the place or time? Help me see it, smell it, hear it, touch it.
5. What is the significance of the message? Why did you bring me here? Show me exactly what you want me to see in this story.
6. How does it apply to me today and what should I learn from it?
7. How do I get better? I know you're saying I should change but I need you to tell me how.
8. How can I stay in the will of the Lord when it comes to this issue in the future? Give me all the tools I need to avoid going back to that same situation.
9. Can I start right now? (Appeal. Eliminate all the misconceptions that keep me from making a step toward Jesus.)

You probably can think of more but that's basically the list of questions I try to answer with my message.

Until next time, God Bless!

Tomorrow: Final Comments on Christian Living

Day Fourteen

Well [FIRSTNAME], the time has come to wrap this series up. There's so much that hasn't been said that I'm really tempted to go on for a few more days. But that would violate the basic rules of keeping courses simple and quick enough where anyone can understand and use them. I apologize if I've frustrated you with repetitious principles that you already knew. It was truly not intentional. I just had to keep in mind that this series is available to all types of people at all levels of spiritual development.

But I am glad that you hung in there with me and to show my gratitude, I'm offering you a free message on CD concerning any topic that I've advertised in the sermon's section of my website. You can find links to them at http://www.sh-playhouse.com/sermons.html 

On to the final lesson.

Here are the basic rules that I live and minister by. I'm not inventing or providing them, I'm simply passing on lessons I've learned from Jesus.

1. Never forget that God has set you in place to SERVE your flock. It's so easy to get used to the idea of people holding you in such high regard that you can forget why you were called. If you humble yourself to be the least in His kingdom, He will exalt you to heights beyond your imagination. Joseph is the evidence of that.

2. Avoid the appearance of evil at all costs. Give no man an opportunity to speak evil of you. What does this have to do with preaching? Everything. If you allow yourself to be caught in the web of gossip or slander, you will lose your focus and your credibility.

3. Do not withhold the truth for any reason. Most of us feel like we would never do that but some sticky situations will present themselves sooner or later- especially when the truth is divisive or has to be said when you know feelings will be hurt. Speak the truth in love and stay on the Lord's side at all times.

4. Never rely on yourself to uphold or justify your ministry. Yesterdays testimony will not sustain you. You need a fresh experience with the Lord everyday. Never come out of his shadow and run with your own thinking. If the phrase "I think" or " I want" is dominating your ministry, slow down and ask God what he thinks or wants and you will find out what you need. See the story of King David for examples. As a good friend told me, the truth will always outrun a lie. See the book of Daniel. Amen.

5. Never force a sermon. What do I mean? If it hasn't come together or into focus by the time you have to preach, put it down and preach it later. Don't preach a sermon just because you're excited about a topic. If it is possible, properly prepare and ask God when to preach it.

6. Make disciples of men. Allow others to exercise their gifts. It all works together for the good of the church. Even if you want to, you can't control everything. The ministry is much bigger than you. The Lord was able to keep the church in His right hand thousands of years before you got here and if He doesn't come first, He'll continue to keep it after you're gone. A church on the move consists of members who feel like they are a valuable part of the ministry. Show me a church with no life and I'll show you a leader who refuses to include his flock in the work.

If you've enjoyed this course, we'd love to hear from you. Even if you see room for improvement, we welcome those comments as well.

May the Lord increase your territory [FIRSTNAME]. God bless you.

Stan Hood
http://www.sh-playhouse.com

If the Lord brings you to it, He'll bring you through it!

Tomorrow: He Gets the last Word 

Day Fifteen

Hi [FIRSTNAME], one thing that I've learned over the years is to let Jesus have the last word.

This little letter is just a word of encouragement as we close this series of tidbits on preaching. You can not live off of yesterday's testimony. As I've stated before, when you walk by faith, new trials and victories come all the time. If you find yourself with nothing to preach, check your gas tank. Be sure that you're not running on the fumes of yesterday's encounter with Jesus. No man knows the distance between each filling station. So, get in your prayer closet and fill up on Jesus as much as you can; because a workman puts his hand to the plow during the day, for no man knows when the night cometh. Ask Him to search your heart and if there be anything wicked in you, beg Him to take it out right now. My prayer is that the Lord washes you so that you might be made whole. And I pray that He doesn't stop there [FIRSTNAME]. I pray that He day by day makes you the person that He created you to be. Pray for me and my family as well. The one last suggestion that I want to give you is to commit as many scriptures to memory as possible. One good way of doing this is by purchasing a little index box with 3 by 5 cards in them. Create sections by subject. Write one scripture or set of scriptures on each card and file them away. If you do this on a regular basis, your file will fill up in a week or two. From there, place the little box in strategic places. While you're waiting in the car, on the bus, even in the restroom, pull out a card and read it. Place it back in a box and pull out another. Just read it once and place it back in the box. Over time, you will naturally remember the text and where it's found as soon as you see the card. When you're preaching or teaching, the subject will trigger your memory of the card and text. Try it. It only takes a few minutes a day. But the rewards of knowing God's Word will last for eternity. It's been a pleasure.

God Bless You,

Stan Hood 

The Life Changing Sermons Series

Hi [FIRSTNAME],

I want to talk to you a little today about the Life Changing Sermon Series. It started as just my wife and I responding to requests for copies of my messages but it bloomed so quickly that we couldn't handle it. We had to get organized. For one, we couldn't afford to finance such a large endeavor on our own and we didn't think it was right to ask the church for the money. One day, a couple of sweet old ladies gave us twice the amount required to pay for their tape. I told them that they were giving us too much. The cost was only a dollar to produce the tape and the label. One of them said "I know, but I want to pay for someone else who can't afford it." With her mouth, I knew the Lord was speaking to me. Although we were very uncomfortable with charging people for the Word, even a couple of dollars were a reasonable contribution to ensure that everyone gets the message.

Here's where you come in [FIRSTNAME]. You've received the course and know that our doctrine is sound. If you want to be absolutely sure, request a message on any topic you choose and check it out for free. We simply preach that Jesus saves and how He does it. Our list of memberships have grown leaps and bounds but we're still not satisfied. There are more lost souls out there who could use a word from the Lord. Perhaps you know some of them. So here's the deal, subscribe to the series and submit the name of someone else who could benefit from the sermons and they pay nothing. They won't even see a bill. All they'll know is that someone kind is sponsoring them. You both get these wonderful messages every month and you can individually unsubscribe at any time. Click on the link below and subscribe today!
http://www.sh-playhouse.com/sermons.html

Final Notes

The best way to experience this series is through email.  It's a personal daily reminder to prepare to serve your flock.  If you haven't already, sign up here.

If you've taken the course or you just want to some good sermons to start with, click here.  You can always email me with questions or comments at mailto:sermons@sh-playhouse.com