July 2012
Improve your Preaching by Using another Preacher’s Sermons
I’ve been thinking about the very first church-wide campaign we did at New Song. It was Rick Warren’s 40 Days of Purpose.
Rick recommended I adapt his sermons rather than create my own.
Initially, I wasn’t too keen on that idea. Then I thought, “Why not try some of his phrasing and see how it works on my audience?”
I adapted the first sermon and was surprised how well people responded. Rick’s a great preacher, but our styles are different. He rarely uses a long story. He uses lots of humor. And he packs his sermons with pithy statements. I tried some of the pith and discovered I need to practice more pith when I preach!
Without realizing it, I was walking in Rick Warren’s footwear, if only for a minute. I’m a better communicator because of trying on his sandals.
They say imitation is the highest form of flattery. It’s also a significant way to improve your preaching skills!
Last week, half a dozen pastors signed on for The Bible Questions Campaign. I’m praying that the sermons will bear fruit for them, but also bear fruit in them as they learn whatever can be gleaned from my New Song style.
I can’t wait for the Bible Reading Revolution to begin!
What’s Next?
Ready to reap the benefits of a church campaign and improve as a preacher? Here’s your deal.
Further Reading
Hal Seed is the founding and Lead Pastor of New Song Community Church in Oceanside, CA. He mentors pastors who want to lead healthy, growing churches with resources at www.pastormentor.com.
Start Here to learn more about the resources available for you at PastorMentor.