The Components of a Well designed Bible Lesson
Monday, January 26th, 2009While great sermons and speeches can occur extemporaneously, most of the time quiet a bit of intentional thought and study is placed into it. I spend time very regularly building free sermons online for bible lessons. The focus of this article is what does s good solid sermon or speech structure look like. Of course, there is no one set form for all people and all sermons and speeches. I will share one that I believe is basic but very solid with you.
1. The Title
The title of the speech is very vital. It is the speaker’s opportunity to prepare the audience and at times even excite them. The title can be used to build an immediate sense of anticipation. It answers the question, What is this about? An example of a title, “The High Cost of Adultery”
For a preacher, the decision is made where to announce the biblical text. It can be at any time but is usually before or after the title. For a speech outside the realm of the church, a text is not needed.
2. The Introduction
The introduction is the speakers opportunity to build a bridge from where the mind of the audience is to where the speaker wants to take them. A quote, story, illustration or startling statement can all be effectively used to build the bridge. A simple question can be used as well. For example, What does it cost a man to commit adultery? Hmmm, that one will cause ears to perk up.
3. The Transition
Keep transition in mind throughout the speech or sermon. This makes the ride more seamless for the listener. The transition is mostly a well crafted sentence that moves the listener from what you have just presented to what you are about to presented. For example, “The cost of adultery is high, I want to share with you five things it will cost you. First it will cost you…”
4. The Main Points
The main points are the big bones of the speech or sermon. They are the foundational statements you want to make. They are those points that will be on everyone’s notes. Make sure the audience knows what they are. To continue with our example, “First, Adultery will cost you the trust you have built with others.” You should have at least two main points but don’t have so many the audience loses focus. There are a lot of examples of outlines. I have a site focusing on free online bible study, please check it out.
5. The Sub Points
Sub-points are simple points you place under a main point. An example, “You lose trust with others. First of which is your spouse….” and so forth.
6. The Conclusion
Beyond the obvious meaning of bringing things to a close, the conclusion is the place to quickly summarize what you have shared. This restatement is helpful to insure that you pull all the threads together tightly.
7. The Call to Action
This last component is so important. It is necessary to do this in order to move the audience from just receiving mental information to experiencing true life change. Since they have heard what you have shared, what do you want them to do? Tell them! This is the call to action.
I hope this basic overview proves helpful to you. Print it out and keep it handy as a resource.
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