One of the books that shaped my preaching ministry was Partners in Preaching: Clergy and Laity in Dialogue by Reuel L. Howe (1967, The Seabury Press). Howe was convinced that good preaching was determined to a large degree by meaningful feedback on the part of the congregation. Here’s an example of the kind of questions he felt preachers should encourage the people to answer:
- What did the preacher say to you? (Do not try to reproduce what the preacher said; this question asks for what you heard.)
- What difference do you think the sermon will make in your life, or was it of only passing and theoretical interest?
- In what ways were you challenged or drawn to greater devotion to your areas of responsibility?
- Do you think the preacher received any assistance from the congregation in the preparation and delivery of his sermon? If so, describe; if not, why not?
These, or any other questions carefully formulated, are the best means I know of to evoke an honest discussion. Usually, much more is discussed than what the questions ask for.
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You will also find a variety of resources for pastors and congregations at the Mainstay Ministries website. Please click here.
