PREACHING 1 CORINTHIANS

PREACHING 1 CORINTHIANS

A Homiletical Treatment of Selected Passages

From the 1 Corinthians, 1st Revised Edition

State Preaching Conference

Mississippi Baptist Convention Board

May 6, 2021

Ronald T. Meeks

Jim Futral Professor of Biblical Studies and Proclamation

Blue Mountain College P. O. Box 160

Blue Mountain, MS 38610 662.685.4771 ext. 179

[email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

1 | Preaching 1 Corinthians

Preaching 1 Corinthians

General Purposes for Preaching ................................................................................................. 3

Guide to Using This Resource .................................................................................................... 3

Helpful Resources for Preparing to Preach from 1 Corinthians ................................................... 4

Overview of 1 Corinthians ........................................................................................................... 5

Resources on 1 Corinthians ........................................................................................................ 6

Sermon Ideas from 1 Corinthians ................................................................................................ 7

1. Giving Thanks for the Church (1:1-17) ............................................................................. 7

2. Make Us One (1:10) ........................................................................................................ 7

3. The Healing of a Fractured Church (1:10) ....................................................................... 8

4. The Message of the Cross (1:18-2:5) .............................................................................. 8

5. Let’s Get Spiritual (2:6-3:4) .............................................................................................. 9

6. The Wisdom of God (2:9-16) ........................................................................................... 9

7. What You Should Know about the Minister (3:5-23) ...................................................... 10

8. Extreme Servanthood (4:1-12) ...................................................................................... 10

9. Get a Handle on the Scandal (5:1-13) ........................................................................... 11

10. Courting Disaster (6:1-11) ............................................................................................. 12

11. Lord, Prepare Me to be a Sanctuary (6:9-20)................................................................. 12

12. Marriage is a Choice (7:1-16) ........................................................................................ 13

13. The Limitations of Liberty—I Will Not Make My Brother to Offend (8:1-13) .................... 13

14. All Things to All Men (9:1-27) ........................................................................................ 14

15. Overcoming Temptation (10:1-13) ................................................................................. 14

16. Is It Right or Wrong? (10:23-11:1) ................................................................................. 15

17. What is Proper in Worship? (11:1-16) ............................................................................ 15

18. Our Preparation for the Lord’s Supper (11:17-34) .......................................................... 16

19. Setting the Table for the Lord’s Supper (11:17-34) ........................................................ 16

20. A Meal to Remember (11:17-34) ................................................................................... 17


21. Getting a Gift You Can Really Use (12:1-31) ................................................................. 17

22. Unwrapping Your Spiritual Gift (12:1-31) ....................................................................... 18

23. What Does the Church Need Most? (12:31-13:13) ....................................................... 19

24. Using the Gifts in Worship (14:1-40) .............................................................................. 19

25. The Grand Opening (15:1-11) ....................................................................................... 20

26. The Gospel (15:1-11) .................................................................................................... 20

27. Christ the Lord is Risen (15:1-58) .................................................................................. 21

28. Guidelines for Giving (16:1-4) ........................................................................................ 22

29. The Giving Church (16:1-4) ........................................................................................... 22

30. How to Become a Better Giver (16:1-4) ......................................................................... 23

31. Surviving Difficult Times in the Church (16:5-24) ........................................................... 23

Strategies for Preaching from 1 Corinthians .............................................................................. 24

How to Prepare Better Sermons with Limited Time ................................................................... 26

Sample Sermon Preparation Page ............................................................................................ 29

Three Month Preaching Calendar 2022 (Sample) ..................................................................... 30

Three Month Preaching Calendar 2022 (Blank) ........................................................................ 31

Helpful Resources for the Pastor............................................................................................... 32

Helpful Resources for Preaching ............................................................................................... 33

Appendix: List of Unifying or Classifying Words ....................................................................... 34


General Purposes for Preaching

Dr. H. C. Brown, Jr., in his book, A Quest for Reformation in Preaching, identified six general

objectives for preaching. Each of these objectives can be addressed by sermons from

Jeremiah.

1.The evangelistic objective. When the preacher is using this objective, he is seeking the salvation of sinners. “The Gospel” is a sermon with the evangelistic objective.

2.The doctrinal objective. When the preacher is using the doctrinal objective, he is seeking to help the hearers know God better through a proper understanding of the facts and teachings of the Bible. “Unwrapping Your Spiritual Gift” is an example of a doctrinal sermon.

3.The ethical objective. When the preacher is using the ethical objective, he is seeking to strengthen the conduct of Christians. “What Does the Church Need Most” is an example of a sermon with the ethical objective.

4.The consecrative objective. When the preacher is using the consecrative objective, he is seeking to enlist Christians in God’s service. “Extreme Servanthood” is an example of a sermon with the consecrative objective.

5.The supportive objective. When the preacher is using the supportive objective, he is seeking to help people with troubles, problems and difficulties. “Surviving Difficult Times in the Church” is an example of a sermon with the supportive objective.

6.The devotional objective. When the preacher is using the devotional objective, he is seeking to encourage Christians to love and worship God. The sermon “Our Preparation for the Lord’s Supper” is an example of a sermon with the devotional objective.

Guide to Using This Resource

The homiletical method used, for the most part, in the preparation of these sermons is described

in the book Building Sermons to Meet People’s Needs by Harold T. Bryson and James Taylor.

Several key concepts from that book are used throughout this resource.

ETS. The ETS is the essence of the text in a sentence. This is a summarization of a key idea

of the text in a simple sentence stated in past tense. This insures that the one idea of the

sermon is rooted in the biblical text.

ESS. The ESS is the essence of the sermon in a sentence. This is a summarization of the one

idea of the sermon in a simple sentence. This statement is essentially a restatement of the

ETS, but expressed in the present tense.

OSS. The OSS is the objective of the sermon in a sentence. This is a statement of what the

preacher wants the hearers to do in response to the sermon.

PQ. The PQ is the probing question. In the preparation of the one idea sermon, the preacher

selects one question which will be used in the development of the sermon idea. There are


seven possible probing questions. Each of these questions will point the sermon in a different

direction. The three most frequently asked questions are “what,” “why,” and “how.” The other

four questions are helpful, but are used less often. Several probing questions may be tried to

see which suits a particular need best, but only one will be chosen. The question may be

determined by the needs of the people, the goal of the sermon, or the natural unfolding of the

text. The seven possible probing questions are:

1. What? (The answer is information.) Probing the ESS with “what” would introduce a

sequence of meanings, truths, facts, implications, definitions, particulars, characteristics,

inclusions, or exclusions.

2. Why? (The answer is motivations or reasons.) Probing the ESS with “why” would

introduce reasons or objectives for the main divisions.

3. How? (The answer is instruction.) Interrogating the ESS with “how” would introduce a sequence of ways.

4. Who? or Whom? (The answer reflects personalities.) Inquiry with these forms of interrogatives yields answers of persons to be enumerated, identified, classified, or included.

5. Which? (The answer is alternatives or choices.) Asking this question suggests a series of choices, objects, or alternatives.

6. When? (The answer is times or conditions.) Using this phrase as a probing question suggests times, phases, or conditions.

7. Where? (The answer is places or sources.) Asking this question introduces a sequence of places or sources. (See Bryson and Taylor, 83-84.)

UW. The UW is the unifying word. It is a plural noun or plural noun form of a verb which is

used to tie together the points (or major divisions) of the sermon.

Overview of 1 Corinthians

Basic Background Information Author: The claim of the book is that it is from Paul (1:1). The acceptance of Paul’s authorship of 1 Corinthians is almost universal. In addition, external evidence indicates that the book is genuinely Pauline. Clement of Rome wrote to the church of Corinth in A.D. 95 and encouraged them to “take up the epistle of the blessed Apostle Paul.” This is the first example of a New Testament document being cited with the name of the author. Recipients: The epistle is addressed to “the church of God which is at Corinth.” Paul had established the church on the second missionary journey (Acts 18:1-18). As was his custom, he initiated his ministry in the synagogue, but later left the synagogue and organized a church. Along with several ministry companions He ministered there for at least eighteen months (Acts 18). His three longest epistles were associated with Corinth. First and Second Corinthians were addressed to the church in Corinth, and Romans was written from Corinth. The city of Corinth was one of the chief commercial cities of the Roman empire. It was located on the southwest end of the isthmus that joined the southern part of the Greek peninsula with the mainland to the north. Thus, it was a crossroads for travelers and traders. Culturally, Corinth was characterized by typical Greek culture with its emphasis on Greek philosophy and


wisdom. It was located near the site of the Isthmian games which were held every two years. The Corinthians enjoyed both pleasures of the games and the wealth the games brought. Religiously, the people of Corinth were devoted to the worship of the Greek gods. As many as twelve temples were located in Corinth. One of the most famous was the temple of Aphrodite, the goddess of love. Another significant temple was dedicated to Asclepius, the god of healing. Morally, the city of Corinth was characterized by immorality. Because of the location, the nature of its visitors, and the religious prostitution carried on by the temple prostitutes of Aphrodite, Corinth was a center for open and unbridled immorality. Eventually, the Greek verb “to Corinthianize” came to mean “to practice sexual immorality.” Date: First Corinthians is dated ca. A.D. 53-55, toward the close of Paul’s three-year ministry in Ephesus. Occasion: Paul had received information from several sources concerning the conditions that existed in the church. According to 1 Cor. 1:11, he had received a disturbing report from some of Chloe’s household. He also had received a letter (7:1) from the church which requested his advice concerning several matters. Apparently, Paul wrote 1 Corinthians in response to the reports and the letter he had received. Purpose: Paul wrote to give instructions and admonitions for dealing with the problems in the church at Corinth. Some of the issues addressed were: divisions in the church, immorality, lawsuits among believers, marriage, eating idol meat, public worship, spiritual gifts, the resurrection of believers, and the relief offering. Outline: Introduction (1:1-9) I. Oral Report About the Church (1:10-6:20)

A. Concerning Divisions (1:10-3:4) B. Concerning Leadership (3:5-4:21) C. Concerning Sexual Immorality (5:13) D. Concerning Civil Lawsuits (6:1-20)

II. Written Requests from the Church (7:1-16:24)

A. Concerning Marriage (7:1-40) B. Concerning Food Offered to Idols (8:1-11:1) C. Concerning Orderly Worship (11:2-34) D. Concerning Spiritual Gifts (12:12-14:40) E. Concerning the Resurrection (15:1-58) F. Concerning the Collection and Closing Remarks (16:1-24)

[The outline is an adaptation of the class notes from Dr. James L. Travis, Professor of Bible at Blue Mountain College from 1960-1996 and the Holman Bible Handbook (Nashville: Holman Bible Publishers, 1996.)]


Resources on 1 Corinthians Barrett, C. K. Commentary to the First Epistle to the Corinthians. Harper’s New Testament

Commentaries. New York: Harper and Row, 1968. Blomberg, Craig. 1 Corinthians. The NIV Application Commentary. Grand Rapids: Zondervan,

1994. Bruce, F. F. 1 and 2 Corinthians. New Century Bible. London: Oliphants, 1971. Fee, Gordon D. The First Epistle to the Corinthians. New International Commentary on the

New Testament. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1987. Morris, Leon. The First Epistle of Paul to the Corinthians. Rev. ed. Tyndale New Testament

Commentaries. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1985. Robertson, Archibald and Alfred Plummer. A Critical and Exegetical Commentary on the First

Epistle of St. Paul to the Corinthians. International Critical Commentary. 2d ed. Edinburgh: T & T Clark, 1914.

Vaughn, Curtis and Thomas D. Lea. 1 Corinthians. Bible Study Commentary. Grand Rapids:

Zondervan, 1983.


Sermon Ideas from 1 Corinthians

Text: 1 Cor. 1:1-17 Title: “Giving Thanks for the Church” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul gave thanks for the church even with its current difficulties. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: We can give thanks for the church. I. We can give thanks for the church in light of its beginning. (Act 18:1-18; 1 Cor. 1:26-28;

1 Cor. 6:9-12) A. The church starts with people who need the Lord. (1 Cor. 6:9-12)

1. Their lives were characterized by immorality. 2. Their lives were characterized by idolatry.

B. The church starts in a place which needs a church.

II. We can give thanks for the church in light of God’s blessings. (1:1-9) A. God blesses the church with grace. B. God blesses the church with spiritual benefits. C. God blesses the church with hope. D. God blesses the church with the promise of His faithfulness.

III. We can give thanks for the church in spite of its burdens. (1:10-17)

A. A church may be weighed down (burdened) by controversy and conflict. B. A church may be weighed down by carnality. C. A church may be weighed down charismania (the misuse of spiritual gifts).

Text: 1 Cor. 1:10 Title: “Make Us One” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul urged the church to be perfectly joined together. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible instructs the church to be unified. I. Let us consider the Benefits of unity. (Why we desire unity.)

A. We have a single purpose. B. We have an increased power. C. We have a discernable peace. D. We have a participation in His praise.

II. Let us consider the Barriers to unity. (Why we may not have unity.)

A. A barrier may be the loyalties we are promoting. B. A barrier may be differences we are emphasizing. C. A barrier may be changes we are experiencing. D. A barrier may be the challenges we are facing. E. A barrier may be the sin we are tolerating.

III. Let us consider the Building Blocks of unity. (What we can do to restore unity.)

A. Praying together builds unity. B. Obeying God’s Word builds unity. C. Worshiping in the Spirit builds unity.


D. Loving one another builds unity. E. Celebrating our identity in Christ builds unity. F. Forgiving one another builds unity.

Text: 1 Cor. 1:10 Title: “The Healing of a Fractured Church” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul wrote to help the fractured church at Corinth heal. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: God can give healing to a fractured church. I. The Reality of Fractures in the Church

A. Fractures happen when there is misplaced loyalty. B. Fractures happen when there is unchecked immorality. C. Fractures happen when there is unconfessed vanity. D. Fractures happen when there is doctrinal infidelity.

II. The Results of Fractures in a Church A. Fractures can be painful to you. B. Fractures can hinder your progress. C. Fractures can cripple you. D. Fractures can kill you.

III. The Remedy for Fractures in the Church A. A humility that leads to forgiveness. B. A purity that leads to holiness. C. A unity that leads to genuine togetherness. D. A fidelity to truth that leads to single-mindedness.

Text: 1 Cor. 1:18-2:5 Title: “The Message of the Cross” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul demonstrated that the message of the cross was truly the wisdom and power of God. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The message of the cross is the wisdom and power of God. I. The message of the cross is the wisdom of God. (1:18-28)

A. God’s wisdom is misunderstood by those who do not believe. (1:18-25) B. God’s wisdom is demonstrated in the salvation of those who have believed.

(1:26-28)

II. The message of the cross is the power of God. (2:1-4) A. God’s power is manifest in the preaching of the cross. (2:1-4) B. God’s power is the foundation of our faith. (2:5)


Text: 1 Cor. 2:6-3:4 Title: “Let’s Get Spiritual” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul indicated that their spiritual immaturity was a reason for the factions in the church at Corinth. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible indicates that spiritual living is necessary for growth. I. Look at the possibilities of the spiritual person. (2:6-13)

A. The spiritual person is one who has the Spirit and one in whom the Spirit is in charge.

B. The spiritual man can know the mind of God because he possesses the Spirit of God.

II. Look at the impossibilities of the natural person. (2:14-16) A. The natural person is the person who does not have the Spirit of God in his or

her life. B. The natural person cannot know the mind of Christ through the Spirit.

III. Look at the limitations of the carnal person. (3:1-4)

A. The carnal person has been converted, but lives according to the flesh. B. The carnal person is limited because he or she is

Text: 1 Cor. 2:9-16 Title: “The Wisdom of God” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul provided insights concerning the wisdom of God. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible gives us insights concerning the wisdom of God. I. One insight is that the wisdom of the gospel is not the wisdom of the world. II. A second insight is that the wisdom of God is revealed by the work of the Spirit. III. A third insight is that the spiritual person can receive the things of the Spirit. IV. A fourth insight is that the worldly person cannot receive the things of the Spirit. V. A fifth insight is that the carnal person resists the things of the spirit.


Text: 1 Cor. 3:5-23 Title: “What You Should Know about the Minister” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul corrected their misunderstanding about God’s ministers. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible gives us a proper understanding of the place of the minister. I. Ministers of God are assigned tasks by God. (3:5)

II. Ministers of God are used in various ways. (3:6)

III. Ministers of God are useless without God. (3:7)

IV. Ministers of God are rewarded for their labor. (3:8)

V. Ministers of God are co-laborers under God. (3:9) Text: 1 Cor. 4:1-21 Title: “Extreme Servanthood” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul indicated that the ministry he had among the Corinthians was authentic. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible tells us what authentic ministry involves. Summary Introduction: One of the buzz words in advertising is “extreme.” It seems that almost everything is being promoted as “extreme.” A radio station in Knoxville plays extreme music. New and on-the-edge sports are called “Xtreme” sports. Even Jell-O has a brand of “x-treme” Jell-O. In 1 Cor. 4:1-21, Paul wrote about extreme servanthood. Let us examine the characteristics of extreme servanthood. I. Extreme servanthood involves faithful stewardship. (4:1-5)

A. Paul indicated that in stewardship it is required that a person be faithful. B. We should be faithful stewards of everything Christ has committed to us.

II. Extreme servanthood involves humble ministry. (4:6-8)

A. Paul indicated that one who lives for Christ should be humble, not “puffed up”. B. We should be humble servants of Christ.

III. Extreme servanthood involves willing sacrifice. (4:9-13)

A. Paul indicated that his sufferings reflected his willing sacrifice for Christ. B. We should we willing to live sacrificially for Christ.

IV. Extreme servanthood involves fatherly concern. (4:14-15)

A. Paul indicated that he had a genuine fatherly concern for the Corinthians. He was their spiritual father.

B. We should have a fatherly concern for other believers.


V. Extreme servanthood involves exemplary living. (4:16-17) A. Paul indicated that believers should follow him, imitating his example. B. We should live the kind of lives that other believers would follow.

VI. Extreme servanthood involves spiritual power. (4:18-21)

A. Paul indicated that his ministry was one of genuine spiritual power. B. We should live lives through which the power of God can work.

Text: 1 Cor. 5:1-13 Title: “Get a Handle on the Scandal” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul charged the church to handle the problem of immorality. Essence of the Sermon in the Sentence: The Bible charges us to deal the problem of immorality which scandalizes the church. I. The Reasons for Exercising Church Discipline (5:1)

A. The Severity of the Sin B. The Scandalous nature of the Sin

II. The Reluctance in Exercising Church Discipline (5:2)

A. Pride B. Misguided Toleration

III. The Rationale for Exercising Church Disciple (5:3-8)

A. To honor Christ B. To witness to the World C. To save the offender D. To sanctify the church

IV. The Risks of Exercising Church Discipline

A. The risk if the church does–alienation B. The risk if the church does not–corruption


Text: 1 Cor. 6:1-11 Title: “Courting Disaster” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul provided insight into dealing with problems among believers. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible provides insight into dealing with problems among believers. I. Believers are to be willing to avoid going to court. (6:1, 6, 7)

A. Going to court reveals a fault among believers. (6:7) B. Going to court gives unbelievers a poor testimony of the church. (6:6)

II. Believers are to be willing to trust the saints with the right decision. (6:1-5)

A. The saints will be called upon to judge the world. (6:1-4) B. The saints should have the wisdom to judge in matters between believers. (6:5)

III. Believers are to be willing to suffer an injustice. (6:7-12)

A. The world’s way is to exact retribution. (6:9-11) B. Christ’s way may involve taking injustice for the witness of the church. (6:7-8)

Text: 1 Cor. 6:9-20 Title: “Lord, Prepare Me to be a Sanctuary” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul reminded believers that their bodies were the temple of the Lord. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Word of God illuminates what it means that believers are a sanctuary of God. Probing Question: What does it take to be a fit sanctuary for God? I. Being a sanctuary requires an initial conversion. (6:9-11)

A. The Corinthians had been saved from their unrighteous living. B. All believers become sanctuaries when the spirit of God come to indwell their

lives.

II. Being a sanctuary requires an ongoing dedication. (6:12-20) A. A. The Corinthians struggled with temptations regarding the use of their bodies

(temples). B. Believers today in a permissive society may struggle with temptations regarding

their bodies

III. Being a sanctuary results in a future glorification. (6:14) A. The Corinthians learned, contrary to their thinking, that the body was important. B. Believers today need to realize that their bodies are important for one day they

will be raised to be with Christ.


Text: 1 Cor. 7:1-16 Title: “Marriage is a Choice” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul provided advice to those who were married and to those who were not. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible gives guidance for those seeking to understand the place of marriage for the Christian. I. Guidance for the Married (7:1-7)

A. Maintain proper sexual relationships, lest you be tempted.

II. Guidance for the Unmarried and Widows (7:8-9) A. Remain single if you are able. B. Marry rather than live immorally.

III. Guidance for those Married to Believers (7:10-11)

A. Do not depart. B. If one departs remain unmarried

IV. Guidance for those Married to Unbelievers (7:12-16)

A. Do not depart. B. If the spouse departs, live in peace.

V. Guidance for the Never-Before Married (7:25-40)

A. Singleness allows for unhindered service to God. B. Marriage is also God’s plan.

Text: 1 Cor. 8:1-13 Title: “The Limitations of Liberty” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul said that he would limit his personal liberty in order not to offend a fellow believer. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: Believers can limit their own personal liberties in order not to offer fellow believers. I. Mature believers may have knowledge with gives them liberty in a matter.

A. Paul had knowledge (about their being only one true God) that gave him liberty in the matter of eating meat offered to idols.

B. Believers today may have knowledge that gives us liberty in a particular matter.

II. Not every person has the same knowledge of spiritual matters. A. Paul reminded the believers at Corinth that no every persons has the same level of

knowledge about spiritual matters. B. Believers today should realize that not all believers have the same level of

understanding in spiritual matters.

III. Believers should be cautious not to offend their fellow believers. A. Paul indicated that he would limit his actions which would cause fellow believers to

offend or stumble. B. Believers today should be willing to limit our actions to keep from causing fellow

believers to offend or stumble.


Text: 1 Cor. 9:1-27 Title: “All Things to All Men” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul indicated that he had limited his rights as a Christian worker in order to spread the gospel. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible indicates that service to Christ may mean limiting one’s personal rights. I. The Christian Worker’s Right (9:1-14)

A. Paul indicated that he had a right to the support of the church. B. Christian workers can expect rightly the support of the church.

II. The Christian Worker’s Resolve (9:15-23)

A. Paul resolved to become all things to all men that he might save some, regardless of his right.

B. Christian workers can resolve to become all things to all men to save some.

III. The Christian Worker’s Race (9:24-27) A. Paul indicated that strict discipline is required in the race for the eternal prize. B. Christian workers can practice strict discipline in order to obtain the eternal prize.

Text: 1 Cor. 10:1-13 Title: “Overcoming Temptations” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul assured the Christians in Corinth that they could overcome temptation. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible assures Christians today that we can overcome temptation.

I. Believers have been supplied with great spiritual provisions for facing temptations. (10:1-4) Using spiritual typology, Paul showed believers that like Israel they have been given great spiritual provisions. a. The Old Testaments saints passed under the cloud and passed through the sea. b. They were all baptized into Moses. c. They ate the same spiritual food. d. The drank from the spiritual Rock—which is Christ.

II. However, believers can fall to temptations.(10:5-12) a. The temptations to God’s people in the Old Testament are an example to us. (10:6a) b. Some fell to temptations in the wilderness.

i. Some lusted after evil things. (10:6b) ii. Some committed idolatry. (10:7) iii. Some committed sexual sins. (10:8) iv. Some put the Lord to the test. (10:9) v. Some murmured. (10:10)

c. We should be watchful lest while we think we can stand, we will fall. (10:11-12)

III. Yet, believers can overcome temptations. (10:13) a. All believers face common temptations. b. God will not allow us to be tempted above our ability to resist. c. God will provide for us a way to escape temptation that we may be able to bear it.


Text: 1 Cor. 10:23-11:1 Title: “Is It Right or Wrong?” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul gave instructions related to eating meat offered to idols. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible gives instructions for making decisions concerning questionable activities. I. Living as a believer involves accepting our New Rights. (10:23)

II. Living as a believer involves acknowledging our New Responsibilities. (10:24-33)

III. Living as a believer involves applying our New Rule. (10:31) The exercise of our rights, should result in the edification of the Body, which results in the exaltation of our God. Text: 1 Cor. 11:1-16 Topic: “What is Proper in Worship?” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul gave some general guidelines regarding the sticky issue of propriety in public worship. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible gives some general guidelines regarding propriety in worship. I. The Bible counsels us to accept our liberty. (11:5)

A. The Corinthians, particularly the women, found new liberty in Christ. B. We have new found liberty in Christ.

II. The Bible compels us to admit some limitations. (11:13)

A. The women in the Corinthian church were in danger of rejecting their biblical roles. B. The women in the Corinthian church were treading on accepted customs. C. While we may have liberty, we need to acknowledge limits to preserve our testimony.

III. The Bible commands us to acknowledge the Lord. (11:1, 2)

A. The Corinthians were to keep in mind that following the Lord remained the highest priority.

B. We must remember that acknowledging the Lord is the highest priority in life.


1 Cor. 11:17-34 “Our Preparation for the Lord’s Supper” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul gave needed corrections for properly observing the Lord’s Supper. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible gives instructions for observing the Lord’s Supper. Probing Question: What are the scriptural instructions for observing the Lord’s Supper? I. Eliminate our attitudes and actions that are disrupting the supper. (11:17-22)

A. Paul identified actions and attitudes that were disrupting the supper. B. Let us identify attitudes and actions that indicate that we our out of fellowship with

Christ or with one another. II. Emulate our Lord’s example for celebrating the supper. (11:23-26)

A. Paul’s account recalled the symbolic nature of the supper. B. Paul’s account highlighted the serious nature of the supper. C. Let us observe the Lord’s Supper with the seriousness highlighted in the Bible.

III. Examine our lives before receiving the supper. (11:27-33)

A. Paul called upon the Corinthians to examine themselves before taking the supper. B. Let us examine our lives so that we honor the body of Christ.

1 Cor. 11:17-34 “Setting the Table for the Lord’s Supper” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul gave corrections for properly observing the Lord’s Supper. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible gives needed instructions for observing the Lord’s Supper. Probing Question: What do we need to do to set the table for the Lord’s supper? I. Remove the Sinful Obstructions. (11:17-22)

A. The believers at Corinth brought some sinful attitudes and actions to the supper. 1. The believers at Corinth were characterized by divisions or “clicks”. 2. The believers at Corinth were characterized by selfishness—arriving early to

eat before others. 3. The believers at Corinth were characterized by drunkenness.

B. Believers today can bring sinful attitudes and actions to the supper.

II. Remember the Savior’s Ordinance. (11:23-26) A. When believers ate the bread and drank from the cup they remembered the death of

Jesus which provides salvation. 1. The cup reminded them of Christ’s body which was broken for them. 2. The cup reminded them of Christ’s blood which was shed for them and which

established a new covenant. B. Believers today can remember Christ broken body and shed blood.

III. Review your Spiritual Objective. (11:27-33)

A. When believer observed the Lord’s Supper they were to examine their lives so that they would honor Christ.

B. Believers today are to examine our spiritual objective of honoring Christ in our lives when we observe the Lord’s Supper.


Text: 1 Cor. 11:17-34 Title: “A Meal to Remember” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul told the Corinthians how to regain the meaning of the Lord’s Supper in the church. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible tell that the Lord’s Supper should be observed so as to highlight its meaning. I. The Broken Body of Christ reveals the meaning of the Supper. (11:23-26)

A. Paul indicated that the broken body and shed blood of Jesus is the meaning of the supper. 1. Jesus suffered in his body bearing our sins. 2. Jesus shed his blood to provide forgiveness for our sins.

B. We need to understand that the sacrificial death of Jesus—the shed blood of Jesus—is at the heart of the Lord’s Supper.

II. The Broken Fellowship in the church ruins the mood of the Supper. (11:17-22)

A. Paul indicated that the broken fellowship at the Lord’s Supper was ruining the celebration of the supper.

B. We can ruin the celebration of the Lord’s Supper by our broken fellowship.

III. The Broken Hearts of the believers restores the meaning to the Supper. (11:27-33) A. Paul urged the believers to examine themselves and respond to the Lord’s discipline

so that they could have a proper fellowship at the Lord’s Supper. B. When we examine ourselves with broken hearts we will repent and experience the

true meaning of the Lord’s Supper.

Text: 1 Cor. 12:1-31 Title: “Getting a Gift You Can Really Use” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul gave basic instructions concerning the use of spiritual gifts in the church. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible gives us basic instructions about the use of spiritual gifts in the church. I. The delineation of the gifts. (12:4-11)

II. The dispersal of the gifts. (12:4, 11)

III. The diversity of the gifts. (12:4, 28)

IV. The distortion of the gifts. (12:15-23)

V. The design of the gifts. (12:11-14, 25)


Text: 1 Cor. 12:1-31 Title: “Unwrapping Your Spiritual Gift” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: God has given a variety of gifts to edify the church. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: God wants us to identify and use our spiritual gifts. Probing Question: What are the spiritual gifts God has given to the church? I. Speaking Gifts–Gifts which involve speaking.

A. Apostolicity–Those sent out by Jesus. B. Prophecy–To tell forth the truth of God. C. Evangelism–To tell the good news. D. Teaching–To perceive the truths of God and explain them. E. Pastoring–To feed and care for God’s flock F. Wisdom–To apply knowledge in a wise manner. G. Knowledge–To have insight into the truth. H. Exhortation–To encourage others.

II. Serving Gifts–Gifts which relate to serving the body.

A. Governing (administration)–To organize effectively. B. Chastity–To remain celibate to render service to Christ. C. Discernment–To discern the work of the spirit or the truth in a situation. D. Faith–To understand what God wishes and to trust that He will accomplish it. E. Giving–To give or to share for building God’s kingdom. F. Helps–To provide, relief, help, or support. G. Hospitality–To extend kind treatment to others. H. Mercy–To have and show compassion through word or deed. I. Leadership–To rule or motivate. J. Ministry–To serve in a special capacity.

III. Sign Gifts–Gifts which signify the supernatural in an unusual manner.

A. Healing–To provide a channel for healing. B. Miracles–To do miraculous works of power. C. Tongues–To speak in a language which reveals God’s message. D. Interpretation of tongues–To interpret God-given tongues. (The above categorization of gifts is drawn from Building Blocks for the Believer by Jim Knight.)


Text: 1 Cor. 12:31-13:13 “What Does the Church Need Most?” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul told the church at Corinth that Christian love was the thing most needed in that church. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible tells us that Christian love is what is most needed in the church. Introduction: What a does the church today need most? This church or any church? According to the Bible, what the church needs most is to love. What the church needs most is love. Let us explore the reasons the church needs love most. I. The church needs love most because love counts. (13:1-3)

A. What kind of love is this? This is agape love. 1. It is not an if love. I love you if . . . . 2. It is not a because of love. I love you because . . . . 3. This is an anyhow love. I love you anyhow. It is not merely based on feelings. 4. This love is based upon the will. It seeks the highest good for the one loved. 5. It is a love that is both tough and tender. It says I will not give in to you and I

will not give up on you. B. This kind of love was more important than the things the Corinthians valued. C. It is more important than the things we value.

II. The church needs love most because love triumphs. (13:4-8)

A. The two primary characteristics is that love is patient and love is kind. B. There are other things that love is not or does not do. C. There are some things that love is or does. D. God is love and Christ is the personification of love. E. If we love we might be mistaken for Christ. F. We can’t have too much love.

III. The church needs love most because love lasts. (13:9-13)

A. The things we value now, may be temporary. B. We are moving toward a fulfillment. C. Love endures when faith and hope change.

Text: 1 Cor. 14:1-40 Title: Using the Gifts in Worship Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul gave inspired counsel on the use of the gifts in the church. Essence of the Sentence in a Sentence: The Bible gives us inspired counsel on the use of the gifts in the church. I. The Desired Use of the Gifts in Worship.

II. The Distorted Use of the Gifts in Worship.

III. The Disciplined Use of the Gifts in Worship.


1 Cor. 15:1-11 Title: “The Grand Opening” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul reminded the Corinthians of the life-changing reality of the resurrection. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The opening of the empty tomb of the resurrected Christ was a grand opening for the church. I. It is the grand opening of the gospel.

A. The word “gospel” means “good news.” And according to Paul it is the good news of the death, burial and resurrection of Jesus.

B. There had been preaching before, but this preaching is good news–grand news. God has accepted the work of his Son and given it the divine stamp of approval in the resurrection. (15:12-15)

C. There are all kinds of good news that at first, seems more relevant, but in the grand scheme of things–this good news is the grandest news of all. This is news that says: You may be a slave to sin now, but you can be liberated. You may be spiritually dead today, but you can be born again, born anew. You may be spiritually sick, sin sick, but you can be made spiritually whole. You may be guilt of wrong doing of all kinds, but through the risen Christ you can be justified, declared and made righteous. You may be living in darkness, with you mind depressed by lies and untruth, but you can be enlightened by the truth of Christ. You may be alone in this world, but you can become adopted into a new family, the family of God. You may be estranged from God, even at war with God, but you can be reconciled, made right, you can be friends again with God. You may be living with a broken relationship with God because of sin, but you can be forgiven.

II. It is the grand opening for a new power. A. The resurrection was a grand demonstration of the power of God. B. The resurrected Christ gave His disciples the power to live and to die for Him. C. We find power for living through the resurrected Christ.

III. It is the grand opening of hope of eternal life.

A. We have the assurance the Christ is the first fruits from the dead. B. We have the assurance that Christ will raise up believers and transform us.

Text: 1 Cor. 15:1-11 Title: “The Gospel” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul clarified the importance of the gospel which they had believed. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible clarifies the importance of the gospel. Introductory thought: In the past few years a number of “high profile” professed believers have announced that they are no longer believers. In essence they have denied the truth of the gospel. Therefore, it is vital to reaffirm the foundational truth of the gospel in Christian preaching and teaching today.


I. Paul affirmed that it was the gospel, which included the resurrection of Jesus, which was the foundation of the faith of the church at Corinth. A. It was the gospel which he preached. B. It was the gospel which they had received. C. It was the gospel upon which they stood.

II. Paul identified the essential elements of the gospel, highlighting the importance of the resurrection of Jesus. A. One element of the gospel is that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures.

1. Paul stated that the death of Jesus for sins is fundamental to the gospel. In 1 Corinthians 1:18 he had already written that Christ sent him to preach the gospel which featured the cross of Christ. In the death of Christ, God has dealt with our sins. Through the preaching of the cross, God’s wisdom and power are demonstrated.

2. Paul stated that the death of Jesus for sins was according to the Scriptures. While no specific references are noted, he may have had in mind Isaiah 53.

B. A second element of the gospel is that Christ was buried. 1. The burial points to the fact of his death. The reason that Christ was buried is

that he was really dead. 2. The burial precedes the resurrection. If Christ were truly dead and buried, the

resurrection is an authentic work of God. C. A third key element of the gospel is that Christ “rose again” or “was raised” the third

day, according to the scriptures. 1. The use of the passive voice, “was raised”, indicates that an active God raised

him form the dead (Barrett 341). 2. The New Testament writers and preachers affirmed that the resurrection of

Jesus was predicted and prefigured in the scriptures of the Old Testament. 3. Paul cited the appearances of Jesus as evidence of the resurrection.

a) He appeared to Cephas. b) He appeared to the twelve. c) He appeared to above five hundred, some who were still living at the

time of Paul. d) He appeared to James. e) He appeared to all of the apostles. f) He appeared to Paul, as one born out of due time.

Text: 1 Cor. 15:1-58 Title: “Christ the Lord is Risen!” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul sought to correct false thinking about the resurrection. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible declares that Jesus is alive. I. The Reality of the Resurrection Explained (15:1-11)

II. The Reasons for the Resurrection Explored (15:12-34)

III. The Results of the Resurrection Enjoyed (15:35-58)


Text: 1 Cor. 16:1-4 Title: “Guidelines for Giving” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul gave instructions for the offering to the saints in Jerusalem. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible gives us God’s guidelines for generous giving. I. Christian giving responds to genuine need. (16:1)

A. Paul urged the church at Corinth to give based on the genuine needs of those in Jerusalem.

B. Believers should give because there are others in genuine need.

II. Christian giving recognizes God’s generous blessings. (16:2-3) A. Paul urged the believers to give based upon the fact that God had “prospered” them. B. Believers should give today recognizing God’s blessings on our lives.

III. Christian giving requires guarded accountability. (16:3-4)

A. Paul urged the church at Corinth to take steps to guarantee the integrity of the giving. B. Believers today should take steps to insure that there is appropriate accountability for

the offerings. Text: 1 Cor. 16:1-4 Title: “The Giving Church” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul gave instructions for the offering to the saints in Jerusalem. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible helps us to understand how churches should give. Probing Question? What are the characteristics of a giving church? I. A church that gives contributes cooperatively. (16:1)

A. Paul urged the members to give together along with other churches. B. We can give cooperatively in the great causes of benevolence and missions.

II. A church that gives contributes consistently. (16:2)

A. Paul urged the believers to give consistently on the 1st day of the week. B. We can give consistently.

III. A church that gives contributes proportionately. (16:2)

A. Paul urged the members to give as the Lord has prospered them. B. We can give proportionately, as the Lord has prospered us.

IV. A church that gives contributes liberally. (16:3)

A. Paul urged the members to give with liberality. B. We can give with liberality.

V. A church that gives provides accountability. (16:3-4)

A. Paul urged the members to approve some faithful people who would be entrusted with the offering.

B. We should approve faithful people to whom we entrust the offering.


Text: 1 Cor. 16:1-4 Title: “How to Become a Better Giver” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul gave instructions for the offering to the saints in Jerusalem. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: The Bible tells us how we can become better givers. Probing Question: How can you become a better giver? Here are some ways. I. By giving as wisely as you can. (16:1)

II. By giving as regularly as you can. (16:2)

III. By giving as proportionately as you can. (16:2)

IV. By giving as liberally as you can. (16:3) Text: 1 Cor. 16:5-24 Title: “Surviving Difficult Times in the Church” Essence of the Text in a Sentence: Paul gave final exhortations and closing remarks to the church which was having a difficult time. Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: God instructs us how to serve and live through difficult times. Probing Question: What are God’s instructions for surviving difficult times in the church? I. Let the servant-leaders of God guide you in your serving. (16:5-16)

A. Being guided means acknowledging that God gives servant-leaders to guide His work. (16:15-16)

B. Being guided means cooperating with God’s leaders to do the work. (16:6, 11, 16)

II. Let the love of the Lord guide you in your living. (16:14-24) A. Loving others in all things is reinforcing. (16:14) B. Loving God above all things is rewarding. (16:22) C. Sharing the love of others is refreshing. (16:17) D. Receiving the love of others in difficult times is reassuring. (16:24)


Strategies for Preaching 1 Corinthians

Steps for Preparing to Preach from a Bible Book

I. Through prayer, select the Bible book from which you will preach.

II. Read and re-read the book until you have a grasp of its contents.

III. Research the historical and literary context of the book by examining the matters of

authorship, audience, date, place, occasion, purpose, and literary genre of the book.

IV. Divide the book into sections or paragraphs and summarize each section in a sentence of 15

words or less.

V. Prepare the individual sermons on each section.

Approaches to Preaching 1 Corinthians

I. Preach consecutively through the book. The materials in the previous section of this

homiletical treatment represent this approach.

II. Preach a single sermon 1 Corinthians.

A. You could preach on the need for unity.

B. You could preach on the need for love.

C. You could preach on the gospel.

III. Preach a short series of sermons on one of the great themes of the book.

A. A series on God.

B. A series on Jesus.

C. A series on love.

D. A series on the church.

E. A series of the gifts.

F. A series on the gospel.

G. A series on giving.

IV. Preach a series on the great theological doctrines of the book.

A. A sermon on God.

B. A sermon on the Son.

C. A sermon on the Spirit.

D. A sermon on Sin.

E. A sermon on Salvation.

F. A sermon on the Christian Life.

G. A sermon on the Resurrection.

V. Preach a series on the notable verses or passages. Consider the following.

A. Unity—no divisions (1:10)

B. The Cross of Christ (1:18)

C. Christ our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption (1:31)

D. Christ and him crucified (2:2)


E. Received the things of the Spirit (2:12)

F. Babes in Christ (3:1)

G. God gives the increase (3:6, 7)

H. Laborers together with God (3:9)

I. No other foundation (3:11)

J. Revealed by fire (3:13)

K. The Temple of God (3:16; 6:19)

L. And ye are Christ’s (3:23)

M. Found faithful (4:2)

N. I have begotten you through the gospel (4:15)

O. Be ye followers of me (4:16)

P. Purge out, therefore, the old leaven (5:7)

Q. Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? (6:9)

R. And such were some of you (6:10)

S. All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient (6:12)

T. It is better to marry than to burn (7:9)

U. But unto us there is but one God (8:6)

V. But take heed lest this liberty . . . become a stumbling block (8:9)

W. Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the grain (9:9)

X. Woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel (9:16)

Y. I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some (9:22)

Z. So run, that ye may obtain (9:24)

AA. There hath no temptation taken you . . . (10:13)

BB. Do all to the glory of God (10:31)

CC. This cup is the new testament in my blood (11:25)

DD. But let a man examine himself (11:28)

EE. For by one Spirit were we all baptized into one body (12:13)

FF. Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular (12:27)

GG. Love suffereth long and is kind (13:4)

HH. And now abideth faith, hope, love . . . but the greatest of these is love (13:13)

II. For God is not the author of confusion (14:33)

JJ. For I delivered unto you first of that that which I received . . . (15:3-4)

KK. But by the grace of God I am what I am (15:10)

LL. But now is Christ risen . . . and become the first fruits of them that sleep (15:20)

MM. For as in Adam all die, even so in Christ shall all be made alive (15:22)

NN. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed (15:51)

OO. O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? (15:55)

PP. But thanks be to God, who giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (15:57)

QQ. Let everyone lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him (16:2)

RR. For a great door, and effectual, is opened unto me (16:9)

SS. Watch, stand fast in the faith, quit you like men, be strong. (16:13)

TT. Let all your things be done with love (16:14)

UU. If nay man love not the Lord let him be Anathema Marnatha.(16:22)


How to Prepare Better Sermons with Limited Time

I. Get some good Bible study tools. People in all professions need the right tools. We should use the best tools we can. (I have listed only printed resources, but many tools for the computer are available.)

A. Study Bible (NIV Study Bible) B. Bible Dictionary (Holman Bible Dictionary) C. Concordance (Strongest Strong’s Exhaustive Concordance) D. Bible Handbook (Holman Bible Handbook) E. OT Survey and NT Survey (Survey of the Old Testament by Hill and Walton and The New

Testament: Its Background and Message by Lea and Black) F. Bible Atlas (Holman Bible Atlas) G. While you are at it, get a few good books on preaching like:

1. Expository Preaching by Harold T. Bryson 2. Biblical Preaching by Haddon Robinson 3. The Art and Craft of Biblical Preaching edited by Haddon Robinson and Craig Brian

Larson

II. Plan your preaching. (Try making a plan for at least one quarter of the year.) A. Consider the benefits of planning your preaching. In the book, Planning Your Preaching, Dr.

Stephen Rummage identified ten benefits of planning (23-32). 1. It allows for greater leadership of the Holy Spirit. 2. It creates greater diversity in your preaching. 3. It allows you to teach your congregation systematically. 4. It aids in developing meaningful and cohesive worship services. 5. It saves time. 6. It helps protect your time. 7. It enables you to address timely subjects. 8. It helps you to build your library. 9. It reduces stress. 10. It heightens your creativity.

B. Develop a method for planning your preaching. Start out by trying these general guidelines. 1. Select the general topic. (See some of the topics listed in the next section.) 2. Make a preliminary plan. (Outline a book) 3. Study the Bible passages and gather other supporting or illustrative information. (If

you plan in advance you can plan your study and gather material as you go along.) “Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways and be wise, Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her food in summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest.” (Pro. 6:6-8)

C. Consider the Topics for a Preaching Plan 1. Consider preaching on books of the Bible. (You will need to prepare an outline of the

book.) a) One method is to preach through a book of the Bible. You should select the

book and begin planning the sermons well in advance of announcing your plan to the congregation, if you do announce it.

b) One method is to do a survey of each book. This takes much time to do each book so you should allow plenty of preparation time.

2. Examine possibility of preaching on the life of Christ. Christmas is a great time to begin and you can plan to finish at Easter. (You will need to sketch out the major events of the life of Christ.)

3. Think about preaching on the great characters of the Bible. This is also known as biographical preaching. (You will need to make a list of significant persons and key teachings which might be highlighted by their lives.)


a) You can preach a series on a single Bible character like Abraham, Moses, David, or Paul.

b) You could also preach a series on different characters like “Here is Your life: Great People of the Old Testament” or “Let Me Introduce You to Christians You Should Know: Great People of the New Testament.” Consider a series on the disciples of Jesus.

4. Preach on the Great Doctrines of the Bible. Think about “Convictions We Hold” or “Truths that will Change Your Life.” (You will need to make a list of key doctrines or teachings.)

5. Select some great passages from the Bible. Expound the Ten Commandments, the Sermon on the Mount, or the parables of Jesus.

6. The Mission of the Church. (You will need to compile a list of the components of the mission of the church.)

7. The Christian Family. (You will need to identify key teachings or issues related to the family.)

III. Develop the Individual Sermons.

A. Select the text. Identify the text, or sometimes texts, you will be using. B. Summarize the essence (heart) of the text. State the heart of the text in a simple sentence

worded in the past tense. C. Summarize the essence of the sermon in a sentence–the one idea of the sermon. State the

idea of the sermon in a simple sentence in the present or future tense. D. Summarize the objective of the sermon in a sentence. State what you want the hearers to do

in response to the sermon. E. Write the points or major divisions of the sermon. F. Expand the points by adding substance material or functional elements. Expansion may be

described as putting content into the sermon. Expansion means to spread out, to enlarge, to work out in full detail. Consider using the following methods of Expansion. 1. The Textual Analysis Method. This is a method which derives substance material

from the text itself. The analysis of the text will help you expand the major divisions. You will select the matters which amplify the major divisions, and you will also eliminate some of the analysis. Some texts lend themselves to the textual analysis method more readily than any other method of fashioning substance. (Bryson 97) a) The method may be sequential. b) The method may be selective.

2. The Text/Today Method. Under each major division you will explain the meaning of the text, and then you will apply this meaning to the needs of people in today’s world. Think of each major division supported by “then” material and “now” material.

3. The Facet Method. The major divisions will be expanded with various elements in mind. This will be looking at every possible angle of each major division. Of course, you will not use everything you think about but only those facets which will help to expand the major divisions and to relate to people’s needs.

4. The Combined Rhetorical Method. This method uses the various “functional elements” to expand the major divisions of the sermon. a) Explanation. Explanation means "to make clear," "to explain," or "to make

understandable." Preachers need to clarify what the hearers do not understand (Bryson 375).

b) Argumentation. Argumentation has to do with persuading, proving, convincing, or refuting. Argument includes reason and discussion as well as controversy and dispute (Bryson 379).

c) Application. Application includes relating, involving, and moving people to action. Application involves relating the biblical truth to the contemporary hearers (Bryson 383).


d) Illustration. Illustration seeks to illumine biblical truth in some way. Illustrations are to make the foreign familiar and to make abstract real (Bryson, 391).

e) Imagination. Imagination incarnates facts with living scenes and situations to present hidden truth. It identifies the unknown and the known and creates fresh images so hearers can understand and experience truth in a new way (Bryson 397).

f) Narration. Narration is the telling of the biblical story or the telling of a contemporary story which is analogous to some biblical truth (Bryson 403).

G. Add the introduction, conclusion, illustrations, and transitions. 1. The introduction should seek to gain the interest of the hearers and introduce the

sermon idea as skillfully and quickly as possible. 2. The conclusion should bring the sermon to an appropriate end and exhort the people

to respond according to the objective of the sermon. 3. The illustrations help to engage the hearers by allowing them to see the Bible truth

illuminated. 4. The transitions should help move the sermon from one point to the next.


Sample Sermon Preparation Page

Date: (When will the sermon be preached?)

Text: (What is the Biblical basis for the sermon?”)

Title: (What appropriate and interesting name can be given to the sermon?)

Essence of the Text a Sentence: (What is this text about?)

Essence of the Sermon in a Sentence: (What is the sermon, based on the text, about?)

Objective of the Sermon in a Sentence: (What do I want the hearers to do?)

Probing Question: (Which question will I use to develop the outline or points for this sermon?

What? Why? How? Who? Which? When? or Where?)

Unifying Word: (Which word will unify the major divisions or points of the outline? See pp. 35-36

for a list.)

Introduction: (What information will I use to gain the interest of the hearers and introduce the

sermon idea as skillfully and quickly as possible?)

Major Division One: (What will be the first major division or point of the sermon?)

Expansion of Division One: (How will I expand or add substance to this point?)

Major Division Two: (What will be the next major division or point of the sermon?)

Expansion of Division Two: (How will I expand or add substance to this point?)

Major Division Three: (What will be the next major division or point of the sermon?)

Expansion of Division Three: (How will I expand or add substance to this point?)

Conclusion: (What information will I use to bring the sermon to an appropriate end and exhort the

people to respond according to the objective of the sermon?)

Illustrations: (What illustrations are needed to help the people see the truths in action?)


3 Month Preaching Calendar for 2022 (Sample)

2022 Dates Sunday AM

(1 Corinthians)

Sunday PM

(1 John)

Sunday PM

(Romans)

Sunday, January 2 Wednesday, January 5

Text: 1 Cor. 1:1-17 Title: Giving Thanks for the Church

Text: 1 John 1:4, 2:1, 2:26; 5:13 Title: Proper Concerns of the Christian Life

Text: Rom. 1:c-6 Title: The Gospel in Miniature


Text: 1 Cor. 1:10 Title: The Healing of a Fractured Church

Text: 1 John 1:5-10 Title: What a Fellowship

Text: Rom. 1:8-15 Title: When ministry is on your Mind


Text: 1 Cor. 4:1-12 Title: Extreme Servanthood

Text: 1 John 2:1-2 Title: Jesus, the Advocate

Text: Rom. 1:16-17 Title: The Power of the Gospel


Text: 1 Cor. 5:1-13 Title: Get a Handle on the Scandal

Text: 1 John 2:7-11 Title: Getting Back to the Basics

Text: Rom. 1:18-32 Title: The Wrath of God

Sunday, January 30 Wednesday, February 2

Text: 1 Cor. 6:9-20 Title: Lord, Prepare Me to be a Sanctuary

Text: 1 John 3:1-8 Title: The Transforming Power of Christ

Text: Rom. 1:18-3:20 Title: The Verdict is In–Guilty

Sunday, February 6 Wednesday, February 9

Text: 1 Cor. 7:1-16 Title: Marriage is a Choice

Text: 1 John 3:1-10 Title: I Want to Live Right

Text: Rom. 3:21-31 Title: The Righteousness of God


Text: 1 Cor. 10:1-13 Title: Overcoming Temptation

Text: 1 John 3:11-18 Title: Loving the Family

Text: Rom. 4:1-25 Title: The Example of Abraham


Text: 1 Cor. 11:17-34 Title: Our Preparation for the Lord’s Supper

Text: 1 John 4:1-6 Title: Danger: False Prophets Ahead

Text: Rom. 5:1-11 Title: The Results of Justification

Sunday, February 27 Wednesday, March 2

Text: 1 Cor. 12:1-31 Title: Unwrapping Your Spiritual Gift

Text: 1 John 4:4-11 Title: The God Kind of Love

Text: Rom. 5:12-21 Title: Adam and Christ

Sunday, March 6 Wednesday, March 9

Text: 1 Cor. 12;31-13:13 Title: What Does the Church Need Most?

Text: 1 John 5:1-5 Title: Overcomers

Text: Rom. 6:1-14 Title: Dead to Sin, But Alive in Christ


Text: 1 Cor. 15:1-11 Title: The Gospel

Text: 1John 5:13 Title: Do You Know for Certain that You Have Eternal Life?

Text: Rom. 6:15-23 Title: Whose Slave Are You?


Text: 1 Cor. 16:1-4 Title: The Giving Church

Text: 2 John Title: Commendation and Correction

Text: Rom. 7:1-6 Title: Free From the Law–The Marriage Analogy


Text: 1 Cor. 16:5-24 Title: Surviving Difficult Times in the Church

Text: 3 John Title: Walking in the Truth

Text: Rom 7:7-25 Title: The Problem of Indwelling Sin


3 Month Preaching Calendar for 2022 (Blank)

2022 Dates Sunday AM Sunday PM Wednesday





Sunday, January 30 Wednesday, February 2




Sunday, February 27 Wednesday, March 2






Helpful Resources for the Pastor

Preaching

Bryson, Harold T. Expository Preaching: The Art of Preaching Through a Book of the Bible. Nashville:

Broadman, 1995.

Rummage, Stephen. Planning Your Preaching: A Step-by-Step Guide for Developing a One-Year Preaching

Calendar. Grand Rapids: Kregel, 2002.

Personal Growth

Foster, Richard J. Celebration of Discipline: A Path to Spiritual Growth. San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1978.

Moore, Bobby. Your Personal Devotional Life. Southaven, MS: The King’s Press, 2001.

Whitney, Donald S. Spiritual Disciplines for the Christian Life. Foreword by J. I. Packer. Colorado Springs:

NavPress, 1991.

Pastoral Work

Callahan, Kennon L. A New Beginning for Pastors and Congregations: Building an

Excellent Match upon Your Shared Strengths. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass, 1999.

Campbell, Barry. Toolbox for [Busy] Pastors. Nashville: Convention Press, 1998.

Cothen, Joe H. Equipped for Good Work. Rev. by Joe H. Cothen and Jerry N. Barlow. Gretna, LA: Pelican

Publishing Co., 1981, 2002.

Criswell, W. A. Criswell's Guidebook for Pastors. Nashville: Broadman Press, 1980.

Dorr, Luther. The Bi-vocational Pastor. Nashville: Broadman Press, 1988.

Falkner, Brooks R. Getting on Top of Your Work: A Manual for the 21st-Century Minister. Nashville:

Convention Press, 1999.

London, H. B. and Neil B. Wiseman. Pastors at Greater Risk: Real Help from Pastors Who’ve Been There.

Rev. ed. Foreword by James Dobson. Ventura, CA: Regal, 2003.

Sugden, Howard F. and Warren W. Wiersbe. Answers to Pastors FAQs. Colorado Springs: Nexgen, 2005.

Relationship Skills

Bozeman, Jeanine Cannon and Argile Smith, Eds. Interpersonal Relationship Skills for

Ministers. Gretna, LA: Pelican Publishers, 2004.

Diehm, William H. Sharpening Your People Skills: Ten Tools for Success in any Relationship. Nashville:

Broadman and Holman Publishers, 1996.

Maxwell, John C. Be a People Person. Colorado Springs: Chariot Victor Publishing, 1994.


Helpful Resources on Preaching

Bryson, Harold T. and James C. Taylor. Building Sermons to Meet People's Needs. Nashville: Broadman

Press, 1980.

. Expository Preaching: The Art of Preaching from a Book of the Bible. Nashville: Broadman and Holman

Publishers, 1995.

Cothen, Joe H. The Pulpit is Waiting: A Guide for Pastoral Preaching. Gretna, LA: Pelican Publishing Co.,

1998.

Craddock, Fred B. Craddock on the Craft of Preaching. Edited by Lee Sparks & Kathryn Sparks. St. Louis,

Chalice Press, 2011.

. Preaching. Abingdon Press, 1985.

McDill, Wayne. The Moment of Truth: A Guide to Effective Sermon Delivery. Nashville: Broadman and

Holman, 1999.

. The 12 Essential Skills for Great Preaching. Nashville: Broadman and Holman, 1994.

Miller, Calvin. The Empowered Communicator: 7 Keys to Unlocking an Audience. Nashville: Broadman and

Holman Publishers, 1994.

Overdorf, Daniel. One Year to Better Preaching: 52 Exercises to Hone Your Skills. Grand Rapids: Kregel

Publications, 2013.

Pollard, Frank. The Preaching Pastor: The Craft of Creating Sermons Week by Week. 2003.

Robinson, Haddon W. Biblical Preaching: The Development and Delivery of Expository Messages. 2nd ed.

Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1980; 2001.

Robinson, Haddon W. and Craig Brain Larson, eds. The Art and Craft of Biblical Preaching: A Comprehensive

Resource for Today’s Communicators. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 2005.

Rummage, Stephen Nelson. Planning Your Preaching: A Step-by-Step Guide for Developing A

One-Year Preaching Calendar. Grand Rapids: Kregel, 2002.

Smith, Robert, Jr. Doctrine that Dances: Bringing Doctrinal Preaching and Teaching to Life. Nashville: B & H

Publishing Group, 2008.

Stanley, Andy and Lane Jones. Communicating for a Change. Colorado Springs, CO: Multnomah Books,

2006.

Stone, Dave. Refining Your Style: Learning from Respected Communicators. Loveland, CO: Group, 2004.

Wilson, Jim, R. Gregg Watson, Michael Kuykendall, and David Johnson. Impact Preaching: A Case for One-

Point Expository Preaching. Bellingham, WA: Lexham Press, 2018.


List of Unifying or Classifying Words

(Harold Bryson calls them “Unifying” words and Rick Warren calls them “classifying” words.)

abuses causes directions generalizations

accusations challenges disasters gifts

actions chances disciplines graces

acts changes disclosures groups

actualities charges discoveries guidelines

admonitions characteristics distinctions guarantees

advantages characteristics distinctions

affairs claims doctrines habits

affirmations clues dreams handicaps

agreements classes duties hazards

aims commands hopes

alternatives commitments elements hungers

ambitions comparisons encouragements

ambushes compensations errors ideas

angles compromises essentials ideals

answers compulsions estimates imperatives

applications conceptions events implications

approaches concessions evidences impressions

areas conclusions evils improvements

arguments conditions examples impulses

aspects conflicts exchanges incentives

aspirations consequences exclamations incidents

assertions contrasts exhortations indications

assumptions corrections expectations indictments

credentials experiences inferences

assurances criteria explanations ingredients

attainments criticisms expressions injunctions

attitudes customs injuries

attributes facets insights

dangers factors instances

bargains deals facts instructions

barriers decisions failures instruments

basics defenses faults interpretations

beginnings deficiencies favors intimations

beliefs definitions fears invitations

benefits degrees features issues

blessings demands finalities items

blunders denials flaws

boundaries designs forces jobs

burdens desires forms joys

details formulas judgments

calls devices functions justifications

catastrophes differences fundamentals


keys particulars remarks tactics

kinds parts remedies targets

kings paths reminders tasks

patterns replies techniques

laws peculiarities requirements temptations

labels penalties reservations tendencies

legends perils resources testimonials

lessons perspectives responses tests

levels phases restraints theories

liabilities pieces results thieves

limits plans revelations thoughts

limitations pledges rewards threats

links points risks tickets

losses policies roles tips

loves possibilities routines tools

loyalties positions rules topics

practices totalities

manifestations premises safeguards tracks

marks presents satisfactions traps

masks prerogatives schemes treasures

messages principles secrets trials

methods priorities sides tricks

mistakes probabilities signs triumphs

misunderstandings procedures sins truths

models processes situations types

moments promises solutions

morals promptings sources urges

motives pronouncements specifications uses

mysteries proofs stages

myths properties standards values

prophecies statements victories

needs proposals steps views

notions provisions stipulations viewpoints

purposes strategies violations

objections puzzles strengths virtues

obligations struggles visions

observations qualifications substitutes voices

obstacles qualities successes

offers quarrels suggestions walls

omissions questions superlatives warfares

opinions supports warnings

options realities suppositions wars

opportunities realizations surprises weaknesses

outlets reasons symbols witnesses

refusals symptoms

paradoxes regrets

Documents

PREACHING 1 CORINTHIANS