I feel for members of search committees who go to hear a possible candidate for their pulpit preach. Seldom are they briefed as to what they should be looking for.
Here are the key questions I would try to get the committee members to discuss after listening to someone.
#1: What would you say was the subject of this person’s sermon? That’s not the same as asking what was the chosen text, the sermon title, or outline. Instead, does everyone agree as to what his/her basic subject was?
If committee members, who supposedly were listening quite carefully, have widely differing opinions, I would question the wisdom of extending a call to such an individual to candidate. However, if there’s rapid agreement, that’s a great plus and you can move on to question two.
#2: What specifically was asked for in the sermon by way of response? I’m assuming that a good sermon will make very plain how hearers should respond.
If the committee is confused regarding the sermon subject or the response, they would be wise to start looking for another candidate. Why? Because you’re not dealing with a leader who can express clearly what is being preached, and the resultant expectation is regarding behavior. And believe me, this lack of clarity will show itself time and again and in countless ways.
———————————————
Sunday’s coming. Do you have your sermon ready? Is it relevant? Will it effectively motivate your congregation to walk more in step with the Master? What about that Sermon Series you’ve been thinking about?
Or, if you’re someone who plans well ahead, have you asked yourself what you will preach for your Easter Sermon, your Advent Sermon, your Christmas Sermon?
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 Saturday or 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.
