In the discussion about manuscripting a sermon or preaching from notes, there is little question as to which side will win in the long run. Modern technology has already determined that.
When the president gives a key speech, he’s reading it from a teleprompter. He’s very good at what he does, but he’s not talking from notes, or memory, or off the top of his head. His words have been carefully crafted, and they are all right there in front of him.
One of Sarah Palin’s great skills is her ability to read a teleprompter in a natural and convincing way. Can she give a good stump speech when she has to? Yes, and so can most people in the political world. But, when it’s time to deliver a real “blockbuster,” they’re back to the teleprompter.
There is a technique to doing this so your eyes are not locked on the screen. Some speakers are good at this; others, not so much. Like anything else, it is an acquired skill.
“What does that have to do with preaching?” you ask.
Mark my words, in the days to come, the leading churches will have teleprompters and their pastors will put them to use. Why? Because there are so many advantages to using them if you are interested in clear content and powerful words.
In the case of the President, someone else may write the original copy, but that comes out of a brainstorm session in which he has been involved. He will also put his finishing touches on the script.
For years Christian leaders have written books this same way. Don’t tell me they won’t use this technique when it comes to preparing sermons.
Like everything else electronic, in the future teleprompters will also be more and more affordable.
So don’t write off manuscripting sermons just yet. I believe the day is coming when this will be thought as the only way to go!
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No matter what type of Sunday sermon you need to create, David Mains and Mainstay Ministries can help. We offer a wide variety of Sermon Starters and Full Sermons that will give you Sermon Ideas to help you prepare for regular Sunday sermons, Mid-week Bible Sermons, and Sermons for special occasions. We also offer assistance as you create Topical Sermons, Sermons Series, and sermons for special times of the year. We have resources available to help you with Advent Celebrations, Advent Sermons, Christmas Sermons, Easter Sunday Sermons, Patriotic Sermons, and more.
For more information on how to create better Bible Sermons and how to turn Sermon Ideas into Sermon Outlines, and then into effective, meaningful Sunday Sermons, please click here to visit David Mains’ website.
You will also find a variety of resources for pastors and congregations at the Mainstay Ministries website. Just click here.
