The Preachers’ Handbook

THE PREACHERS’ HANDBOOK

THE

PREACHERS’ HANDBOOK

A Guide to the Bible, Sermon Preparation & Services For Preachers and Pastors

THE

PREACHERS’ HANDBOOK

A Guide to the Bible, Sermon Preparation & Services For Preachers and Pastors

Chapter 2

Table of Contents Chapter 1

How to Conduct a Church Service

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Chapter 2

The Importance and Format of the Sermon

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Chapter 3

Outlines and Scriptures for Special Services

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Chapter 4

Scriptures and Key Notes for Special Events

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Chapter 5

Preaching following the Church Calendar Year

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Chapter 6

Important Topics to Preach on Every Year

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Chapter 7

Example of a Full Year Plan for Sermons

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Chapter 8

Know the Books of the Bible and Preach Book by Book

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101

Chapter 9

Useful Tools to Enhance Your Sermons

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Chapter 10

The 48 Most Important Stories in the Old Testament

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Chapter 11

The 42 Most Important Stories in the New Testament

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Chapter 12

The 25 Parables that Jesus Told His Listeners

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Chapter 13

The 35 Miracles that Jesus Performed

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Chapter 14

The Names of God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit

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Chapter 15

Useful Tools for Use in the Church Service

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Chapter 16

How to Conduct Special Services

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Chapter 17

Scripture Passages for Use in Specific Situations

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Topical Reference

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Chapter 2

Chapter 1

How to Conduct a Church Service Elements of a Church Service 1. Welcome 2. Household matters 3. Benediction 4. Worship 5. Sermon

6. Ministry 7. Response 8. Offering 9. Worship 10. Benediction

A church service is a dialogue (conversation) between Almighty God and the members of his church.

God speaks to his children through his Word and blessings.

The members answer by singing his praises, praying to him, bringing offerings and by confessing their sins and their belief in him.

You are the person standing in the middle between God and his church: you bring the Word of God to the people and you speak to God on behalf of the members.

You should give proper attention to every aspect of this dialogue and be sure that the members experience the presence of God in their midst in every part of the church service.

The following elements can be part of the dialogue between God and his church. It is not necessary to include every element in every service, and the sequence of elements can be changed.

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The Preachers’ Handbook Conduct a Church Service

The preacher makes a solemn statement that the service is a meeting between the living God and his church. You could use different Bible verses here. One that is often used, is Psalm 124:8: “Our help is in the name of the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth.” This solemn statement is called the votum.

God speaks first in the conversation and gives his blessings to the church. Different Bible verses can be used, for example 1 Timothy 1:2: “Grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and Jesus Christ our Lord.” This is the blessing or benediction.

This is followed by hymns of praise to glorify the Lord.

Now the members listen to the will of God for their lives.

You can read the Ten Commandments (Exodus 20) or the summary in the words of Jesus (Matthew 22:34-40). 1 John 1:8 tells us: “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.” Therefore, we confess our sins before the Lord and ask for his forgiveness. Then we accept the promise of God in 1 John 1:9 in our lives: “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.”

Now follows the sermon with the introduction, scripture reading, content, application, commissioning and conclusion (see “The Sermon Format” in chapter 2).

Do a prayer and pray for the church, for your country and for all the difficulties and challenges that your people are experiencing. Praise the name of the Lord.

Take the offerings. It is a way to express love and gratitude to the Lord. The offerings are also a symbol of the dedication of your lives to the service of the Lord.

Take more time to praise the Lord with your hymns of praise.

Send the people away with the benediction of the Lord.

You could use several fitting Bible verses, for example 2 Corinthians 13:14: “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with you all.”

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Chapter 2

Chapter 2

The Importance and Format of the Sermon The sermon is one of the most important parts of the church service. During the sermon you read the Word of God, you explain the meaning of the passage, you apply the message to the daily lives of the members and you urge them to live according to the will of the Lord in future.

Remember: it is the Word of the living God. You act as the mouthpiece of God and bring the message to his people in his name.

You should spend ample time in your preparation for the sermon. To prepare for the sermon, you should pray for guidance, do the necessary research, put your thoughts on paper in an orderly fashion and practise delivering the sermon clearly and with enthusiasm.

The sermon can be in one of many different formats. We are going to give you an example of a format that has been proven to be very effective. Make use of it as you set out. When you become more experienced, you can make the necessary alterations to adapt the format to your own preaching style and natural gifts.

The Sermon Format 1. Introduction

When you begin the sermon, it is vitally important to catch the attention of the listeners. You must find a hook to draw them in.

One way of doing it, is to tell a story. Jesus often made use

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The Preachers’ Handbook

Sermon Format

of this method. He told stories (the popular parables) that gripped the attention of the hearers. Your story can come from your personal life or your contact with other people. It can also be a story that someone has told you or that you have read in a book or heard elsewhere. Be sure that the story has to do with events that are well known to the people listening to you. And ascertain that the story summarises the central theme of the message that you want to convey.

You can also make use of stories from the Bible. The Bible tells many interesting stories that will make an unforgettable impression on your hearers. Take for instance the wonderful story about Zacchaeus, the tax collector, who wanted to see Jesus. He was too short to see over the heads of the other people and climbed into a fig tree to see the Lord (Luke 19:110). This could be a very useful introduction if your sermon has to do with the desire to meet Jesus Christ.

It is also very powerful to give attention to a specific need of the people of which you are aware. You could ask: “How many of you really have a need that a family member would forgive you?” Or: “How many of you really want to be sure that your sins are forgiven?” This could be followed by a short story pertaining to that specific need.

At the end of the introduction you should tell the listeners what the theme or main message of your sermon will be. This will help them to know what to expect and will build a bridge between your introduction and the Scripture reading and main message that will follow.

2. Scripture reading

Before you read the passage from the Bible, it is a good habit to say a prayer. Ask the Lord to open his Word, open the ears and hearts of the listeners, speak clearly to the people so that they can understand what he has to say and make everybody willing and able to live according to his will.

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Read the passage of Scripture from which your sermon will flow. It should preferably be between ten and twenty verses – not too short and not too long.

Practise the reading beforehand so that you can read it fluently and with enthusiasm. Remember: it is the Lord himself speaking to his people.

Remind the hearers of the theme or main message of your sermon. Each sermon should have one goal or one theme. Then arrange the content of your message around a number of points – three points will usually be sufficient.

The points (or main ideas of your sermon) will usually flow from the content of the Scripture passage and from the theme of your sermon. It opens up the message contained in the Bible verses. These points will help you to give useful structure to what you have to say. It will also help the audience to remember the message of your sermon. The points must be related to and in support of the theme or central message.

EXAMPLE

Look at the following example of the points of a sermon formatted in the above-mentioned style:

Scripture reading: John 14:1-4 Theme: Believers have a promised future in heaven Point 1: Jesus gives a vivid description of heaven Heaven is the house of God, our Father (verse 2).

There is room for all the believers in heaven (verse 2).

In heaven we will be in the company of God and of Jesus (verse 3).

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Sermon Format

3. Content

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Point 2: Jesus is our guide on our way to heaven Jesus prepares a place for us in the house of our Father (verse 2).

He did that by giving his life on the cross to overcome Satan and to free us from our sin and make us children of God. When Jesus comes again, He will take us to our heavenly abode in the Father’s house (verse 3).

Point 3: If you know Jesus as Saviour, you also know the way to heaven

Sermon Format

Jesus urges us not to let our hearts be troubled (verse 1).

We have to believe in God and believe in Jesus (verse 1).

Our belief in Jesus as our Saviour is the key that opens heaven for us.

When we know Jesus, we also know the way to heaven and we will be in his presence for ever after (verse 4).

4. Apply the message to the daily lives of the listeners (application)

You know the daily lives of the members of your church. You know what they experience, what their needs are and what your sermon can do for them. Build bridges from the truths of your sermon to their daily lives.

Tell them as clearly as possible what the Biblical truths can do for them when they go back to their homes and to their workplaces, their schools, their sports grounds and their friends and family.

5. Give practical instructions to the members for the days to come (commissioning) Make the sermon even more practical by spelling out what they can do in the days to come to live according to the will of God for their lives.

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Give practical examples of what other believers experienced when they became obedient to the Lord.

Be sure that every person knows how his or her life is going to change as a result of what they have heard. And help them to apply the sermon in their lives in the following week.

6. Conclusion

Sermon Format

Conclude your sermon by summing up the theme or main message in a sentence or two.

Many pastors use the word “Amen” at the end of their sermon.

It means: “What I have said, is true and has authority.” And it can also mean: “May God make this all come true.”

You can then say a short prayer. Thank the Lord for his Word.

Ask him to help all of you to become obedient to his Word in the days to come.

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Chapter 3

Outlines and Scriptures for Special Services In this chapter, we provide some examples of sermon outlines and scriptures that you can use for various special church services. Make your own notes in the space provided to make this material work in your church. Also refer to chapter 16, which gives more information about how to conduct specific special services.

Outline for a Wedding EXAMPLE

Keep in mind: 1.

2.

The wedding day is a very important day in the lives of the bride, the groom, the parents and all the people present. Make it a wonderful day that they will all remember.

Marriage between two people was instituted by God himself (Genesis 2:22-24; Matthew 19:3-6). Be sure that the people understand the holiness of marriage and experience the presence of Almighty God himself at the wedding.

Introduction Tell a positive and interesting story about marriage. You could use the Bible story found in John 2:1-11. Jesus chose a marriage ceremony to perform his first miracle.

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Make the service very personal. Say positive things about the bride and groom. And wish them all the best for their very important journey as a couple.

Scripture reading: Ephesians 5:21-33 Theme: The love of Jesus is the foundation of every happy marriage

Point 1: What the love of Jesus is and what it does The love of Jesus is a Godly love. Jesus loves us not because of what we are or what we do. He loves us in spite of what we are (sinners) and what we do (sin).

Christ loved his church fully and in an unselfish way. He gave his life on the cross to save us from sin and make us holy and without blemish (verse 25-27).

Paul says the love of Christ is a profound mystery (verse 32-33).

We are called to follow his example and love each other fully and in an unselfish way.

The husband is called in so many words to love his wife in the same manner that Jesus loved his church (verse 25-26). He should love his wife as his own body and care for her in the same way (verse 28-29).

Husband and wife are equals and they complete one another.

But the Bible says the husband is the head of the wife. Let’s say they are equal players in the same team, but the husband is the captain of the team (verse 23).

Point 3: What the Bible commands the wife to do The wife also has to live the love of Jesus in her relationship with her husband.

She has to submit herself to her husband, just as he submits himself to her (verse 21-24).

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Special Services | Sermons

Point 2: What the responsibility of the husband is

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Application To make a success of your marriage, you will have to commit yourselves to Jesus Christ and live the love that He had for his church.

Commissioning Make Jesus Christ the foundation of your marriage and enjoy his presence and his blessings for the rest of your lives.

Make a list of things that you can do to make a success of your marriage.

Scripture passages for sermons at weddings: Genesis 2:20-24 (God instituted marriage himself as part of his plan with us.)

John 2:1-10 (Jesus honoured the marriage ceremony by performing his first miracle at a wedding.)

1 Corinthians 7:1-11 (Practical guidelines concerning marriage.)

Notes Special Services | Sermons

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Chapter 3

Outline for the Funeral of a Child EXAMPLE

Keep in mind: 1.

2.

3.

When a child dies, it brings so much sorrow to the parents and other family members. Take the time to visit them often, bring messages of consolation and assure them of the loving kindness and presence of the Holy Spirit.

Even if the child died at a very young age and did not have the opportunity to accept Jesus Christ as his or her Saviour, assure the parents that God is a God of love and that He will not allow such a little one to be lost.

Spend time at the funeral to talk to the parents and family personally and minister the love and consolation of the Lord to them.

Introduction Today is a sorrowful day for all of us, especially for the parent(s) and family.

I remind you of the words of the apostle Paul to the Thessalonians in 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14: “We do not grieve like the rest of mankind who have no hope. We believe that Jesus died and rose again, and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus all those who have fallen asleep in him.”

Theme: Jesus loves little children and blesses them Point 1: Jesus wants little children to come to him freely When people tried to bring children to Jesus, the disciples rebuked them – they were probably afraid that it would be too tiring for Jesus.

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Scripture reading: Mark 10:13-16

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Jesus was indignant and said: “Let them come to Me.” And He put his arms around them and blessed them.

Little children are always welcome to come to Jesus. We believe that this little child also went to Jesus and is safe in his arms.

Point 2: All of us should receive the kingdom of God like a little child (verse 15)

A child believes without questioning and without prejudice.

That is why Jesus said that we have to receive the kingdom of God like a child.

Point 3: Jesus blesses the children with eternal life (verse 14) Jesus gives the assurance that the children will receive the kingdom of God. It gives us so much consolation that this child also inherited the kingdom of God.

Application The strongest power in our lives is the love of Jesus.

We can be very thankful that Jesus also gives attention to little children.

Commissioning Special Services | Sermons

We should be sure that all of us receive Jesus as our Saviour.

We should do our utmost to lead our children to Christ while we still can.

Scripture passages for sermons at funerals of children: Psalm 127:1-5 (Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him).

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Chapter 3 Isaiah 43:1-9 (When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned.)

John 14:1-4 (Our hearts should not be troubled. There is room for all in heaven.)

Notes

EXAMPLE

Outline for a Funeral following a Tragic Death

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2.

3.

A tragic death is a death following a prolonged or a short illness, an accident or some form of crime.

Such a death causes shock, confusion and sorrow to all concerned. You should spend much time to minister counselling and consolation to these people.

Be sure that they understand and believe that God has a plan for every person’s life. Romans 8:28 says: “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”

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Special Services | Sermons

Keep in mind:

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Introduction Tell a story characterising the life of the deceased. Offer your condolences to the family, relatives and friends.

Scripture reading: John 11:17-44 Theme: Earthly sorrow and uncertainty overcome by eternal life Point 1: It is OK to cry after a tragic death Lazarus was a dear friend of Jesus. What did Jesus do when he arrived at the tomb? John 11:35 (the shortest verse in the Bible) says: Jesus wept.

We read that Mary and her friends (verse 33) also wept. It is good to allow your tears to flow. It helps you to work through the tragic death and eventually accept the reality.

Point 2: People may hold God responsible for a tragic death Both Martha (verse 21) and Mary (verse 32) seemed to hold Jesus responsible for Lazarus’ death. “Lord, if you had been here ...”

There are many questions and uncertainties when a loved one dies a tragic death. It is good to think these things through and talk to the Lord about it.

Point 3: Jesus brings eternal life to all who believe in him Special Services | Sermons

Eventually this was not a funeral. Lazarus was raised from the dead. This does not happen today at every funeral. Jesus did this there and then “… for God’s glory so that the Son of God may be glorified through it” (verse 4).

Listen to Jesus’ words in verse 25: “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me, will never die.” Jesus brings eternal life to believers.

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Application Do you have questions about the love of God because of this tragic event? Know that God has a plan with our lives and He never makes a mistake.

Commissioning Be sure that you and all the members of your family and community believe in Jesus as Saviour. That is how you can know that you will inherit eternal life.

Scripture passages for sermons at funerals following a tragic death: Isaiah 25:6-8 (The Lord will swallow up death and wipe away tears.)

Matthew 11:28-30 (Jesus gives the weary and burdened rest for their souls.)

1 Corinthians 15:50-58 (Death has been swallowed up in victory.)

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Notes

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Outline for the Funeral of an Old Person EXAMPLE

Keep in mind: 1.

2.

An old person has had a long and mostly fruitful life. There is much to be thankful about. But the relatives still experience sorrow. Minister condolences to them.

Gather information about the life and achievements of the deceased and say positive things about him or her in your sermon.

Introduction Tell some things about the life and achievements of the deceased.

Thank the Lord with the relatives for a long and fruitful life.

Scripture reading: 2 Timothy 4:6-8 Theme: Our past, present and future is in the safe hands of the Lord

Point 1: Paul looks at the present and knows that his time has come (verse 6)

Special Services | Sermons

Paul says he is being poured out as a drink offering to the Lord.

His life was offered in the service of the Lord.

Paul says he knows that the time for his departure has come. He feels that he is near the end of his earthly life.

Point 2: Paul looks at the past and thanks the Lord for a fruitful life (verse 7)

Paul has fought the good fight to promote the kingdom of God and to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Paul has kept on running the race up to the very end and 20

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reached the goal post that God has set out for him.

Paul has continued believing in Jesus Christ up to the end of his life.

Point 3: Paul looks at the future and knows that eternal life is waiting (verse 8)

Paul looks forward to the crown of righteousness that he will receive from the Lord as the righteous Judge.

All the people that worked with him and longed for the appearance of Jesus Christ will also receive this crown of righteousness.

Application What do you see when you look at your own present, past and future?

Have you been obedient to the calling of the Lord every day of your life?

Commissioning Be sure that Jesus is your Saviour, that you understand the calling that the Lord has for you and that you stay obedient to him until your last day.

Job 19:25-27 (I know that my Redeemer lives.)

Jeremiah 29:11-14 (The Lord has plans to prosper us and give us hope.)

2 Corinthians 4:16-5:10 (We wish to be clothed with our heavenly dwelling.)

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Scripture passages for sermons at funerals of old people:

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Outline of a Funeral of someone who Died from a Dreaded Disease EXAMPLE

Keep in mind: 1.

2.

3.

A dreaded disease in our days can be cancer, AIDS, heart attack, Alzheimer’s disease or any disease or epidemic viral infection that can appear suddenly and eventually bring about death.

A funeral of a person who has died from a dreaded disease can be very difficult because the bereavement is severe and the death is shocking.

Spend lots of time on the consolation of the family members and answering their many questions about the will of God in the life of the deceased.

Introduction Dreaded diseases in the time of the Bible were blindness, lameness, leprosy, demon-possession and other infirmities.

Jesus gave attention to many of these people and cured most of them.

It is therefore difficult to find a Scripture passage for the funeral of someone who died from a dreaded disease, because Jesus cured them before they died.

We are going to talk about the person at the pool of Bethesda.

Special Services | Sermons

Scripture reading: John 5:1-9 Theme: Jesus gives us hope even if we suffer and die Point 1: A long journey with a dreaded disease (verse 5) The man at the pool of Bethesda was sick for 38 years.

So many others were cured, but he had a long struggle with his illness.

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Point 2: Recovery is available for some people, but not for all (verse 7)

In those years many sick people were healed, but he had to suffer.

In the end Jesus said: “Pick up your mat and walk.” And he did.

In our days there are many sick people who are not as fortunate to have a personal encounter with Jesus himself. They have to suffer until death.

Point 3: Jesus cured this man but gives hope for all others (verse 8-9)

Even if you are not cured from your dreaded disease, Jesus gives you hope.

You can believe that Jesus is the resurrection and the life. In John 11:25-26 he says: “The one who believes in me will live, even though they die; and whoever lives by believing in me, will never die.”

Application Our brother/sister did not win the battle against the dreaded disease. But we believe that he/she is with Jesus in eternal life.

What a consolation!

Give your life to Jesus and make the new hope that He brings, your own.

Bring the gospel of Jesus Christ to every person in your community.

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Special Services | Sermons

Commissioning

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Scripture passages for use at funerals of people with a dreaded disease: Exodus 4:1-17 (Moses and his dreaded disease in the service of the Lord).

Mark 1:40-45 (Jesus brings hope to people with a dreaded disease).

Notes

Special Services | Sermons

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Chapter 3

Outline for a Baby Dedication Service EXAMPLE

Keep in mind: 1.

2.

3.

4.

A new-born child is a wonderful gift from God himself.

The purpose of baby dedication is really to be found in the purpose of the parents. By bringing their children to dedication, parents signify their faith in God. They also indicate their desire that their children come to know Jesus Christ as their personal Saviour, and to serve the Lord all of their lives.

The act of dedication will not make this young boy/girl a Christian but is only a starting point from which to teach him or her about Christ.

Introduction Make use of the thoughts mentioned above and congratulate the families on the birth of their babies.

Scripture reading: 1 Samuel 1:21-28 Theme: Hannah accepts the baby Samuel as a gift from God and dedicates him to the service of the Lord

Tell the story of Hannah the childless woman (verses 1-20).

When Samuel was born, she realised that it was God answering her urgent prayers. (The name Samuel means “God has heard”.)

Point 2: Hannah’s desire was to dedicate her baby to the service of the Lord

When the baby was old enough, Hannah took Samuel to the temple for his dedication.

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Point 1: Hannah knew that Samuel was a special gift from God

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Eli the priest took responsibility to raise young Samuel as a servant of God.

Point 3: After his dedication Samuel spent a long lifetime in the Lord’s service

Mention a number of highlights from the life of the prophet Samuel as related in the rest of the books 1 and 2 Samuel.

Where did this all begin? From a willingness of an overjoyed mother to dedicate her son to the full-time service of the Lord.

Application Take the first baby from his or her parents (this is a symbolic dedication of the child).

Introduce the baby to the church members giving details of his or her birth.

Give the baby back to the parents with the instruction to raise the child in the fear of the Lord.

Do likewise with all the other babies.

Commissioning We as parents should give our lives to Jesus. We also have the obligation to lead our children to Jesus and to teach them how to serve the Lord. May the Lord give us the strength and wisdom.

Special Services | Sermons

Scripture passages for sermons at dedication services: Joshua 24:14-15 (As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.)

Psalms 127:1-5 (Sons are a heritage from the Lord.)

Isaiah 44:1-5 (The Lord who formed you in the womb and who will help you.)

Ephesians 6:1-4 (Bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord.)

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Outline for a Baptism Service EXAMPLE

Keep in mind: 1.

2.

3.

Baptism is one of two sacraments (the holy communion is the other) that the Bible instructs us to observe (Matthew 28:19-20; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26).

A sacrament is a visible and tangible token and seal that reminds us and assures us that Jesus saved us from sin by giving his life on the cross.

For those who will be baptised, it is a very special occasion.

Make it a personal experience that they will remember forever.

Introduction Why, do you think, do we use water when we baptise? We are following the example of Jesus Christ himself. He was baptised in the Jordan River.

The water symbolises the cleansing power of the blood of Jesus.

Today we are going to talk about a metaphor for baptism that Paul uses.

Scripture reading: Romans 6:1-14

Point 1: Those baptised in Christ were baptised into his death Just as a baptised person is submerged in water, he/she is “buried with Christ into his death” (verse 3-4).

This means that he/she is dead for sin, crucified with Jesus so that the body of sin may be done away with (verse 5, 6, 11).

This also means that we have been freed from sin. Sin cannot have mastery over our body. And sin cannot reign in our mortal bodies (verse 7, 11, 12).

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Theme: Those baptised in Christ are dead for sin but alive for God

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Point 2: Those baptised in Christ were raised from the death into a new life

Just as a baptised person comes out of the water, he/she is raised with Jesus into a new life (verse 8, 9).

The new life we live, we live to God (verse 10).

Point 3: Those baptised in Christ have to offer themselves to God Baptised persons should not offer themselves to sin, but they have to offer themselves to God (verse 13).

This means that you should offer all the parts of your body to God as instruments of righteousness (verse 13).

Application Consider every aspect of your earthly life. Can you honestly say that you are fully offered to God?

Commissioning Give your life to Jesus. Live as a person who is free from sin.

Surrender your whole life in the service of God.

Scripture passages for sermons at baptism services:

Special Services | Sermons

Matthew 28:18-20 (Jesus instructs his disciples to baptise.)

Acts 2:38-39 (Peter said: “Repent and be baptised, every one of you”.)

Acts 22:12-16 (Paul tells how he was baptised.)

Practical advice: Use a river, the sea, pool or bath to submerge the person as a sign of burial of the old person and rising of the new person in Christ.

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Outline for an Ordination EXAMPLE

Keep in mind: 1.

2.

God calls people to serve in his kingdom. They are ordained in their office to do their work in an official capacity.

An ordination service is very important for those concerned. Be sure that you make it a personal experience for all of them.

Introduction The Lord calls people to do his work on earth.

We thank the Lord for people who are willing to obey and serve Him with their whole life.

Scripture reading: Acts 6:1-6 Theme: Fill a need by appointing suitable officials in the church Point 1: A need was discovered in the ministry of the church A group of members complained because their widows were being overlooked.

The apostles decided that they needed help. Let us ordain seven people to serve in an office (they later became known as deacons).

This would mean that the apostles could concentrate on their important tasks: to pray and minister the Word of God. That is why we still ordain officials to serve the Lord in a specific capacity.

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(verse 1-2)

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Point 2: The officials had to meet certain very stringent requirements (verse 3)

These persons had to be full of the Spirit – God living in their lives (verse 3).

They had to be full of wisdom (verse 3).

They had to have faith in Jesus Christ as their Saviour (verse 5)

Point 3: Their ordination was a solemn occasion (verse 6) The seven were chosen and presented to the apostles (verse 5-6).

The apostles prayed – asking the guidance of the Lord and his blessing on those elected to serve.

The apostles laid their hands on them – a token of the solemnness of the occasion and of the power of the Holy Spirit being transferred to them.

The ordination had a very positive influence on the work of the church: the Word of God spread and the numbers of the disciples in Jerusalem increased rapidly (verse 7).

Application We have here before us people who have been chosen to serve the Lord in specific offices. Remember that a great responsibility rests on your shoulders.

Commissioning Special Services | Sermons

You have been called by God himself to serve him in this church. Go out and do fruitful work in our church. May God bless you!

As members of the church we should embrace them and honour them and support them as workers in the kingdom of God.

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Scripture passages for sermons at ordination services: Luke 5:1-11 (Jesus calls his disciples and give them instructions.)

2 Corinthians 4:1-12 (Paul tells how he sees and experiences his own work.)

1 Timothy 3:1-13 (Paul explains the qualities and work of the officials.)

1 Timothy 4:11-16 (Paul instructs Timothy on his life and work.)

2 Timothy 4:1-5 (More instructions from Paul to Timothy.)

1 Peter 5:1-5 (Peter talks about the work of the elders and the young men.)

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Notes

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Chapter 4

Scriptures and Key Notes for Special Events

KEY NOTES

Opening of Leadership Meetings

Scripture reading: Ephesians 4:11-16 Key notes The leaders in the church are gifts from God – each with a specific responsibility (verse 11).

The main task of the leaders is to prepare God’s people for works of service – it is not their service that is important, but the service of the members under their guidance (verse 12).

In this way the whole church will reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature (verse 13).

Then the church and all its members will reach stability in Christ and grow and build itself up in love, as each part does its work (verse 14-16).

Scripture passages for the opening of leadership meetings: Matthew 10:1-15 (Jesus’ directions when he sent out the twelve.)

Matthew 25:31-46 (Service to your fellow man amounts to service to Jesus.)

Ephesians 2:1-10 (God gives us a new life of service in his kingdom.)

Ephesians 2:19-22 (We are all part of the temple of God being built.)

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Scripture reading: Titus 2:11-15 Key notes Back to school! Remember that God is our ultimate teacher (verse 11).

God teaches us to say “no” to ungodliness and worldly passions (verse 12).

He teaches us to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives (verse 12).

The true aim of all teaching is to know Jesus Christ as our Saviour (verse 13).

What we learn from God, we should also teach other people (verse 14-15).

Scripture passages for opening ceremonies of schools: Deuteronomy 6:4-7 (There is only one God. We must do our utmost to introduce our children to him.)

Psalm 127:1-5 (Whatever you want to achieve in your youth, can only have value if you do it in the name of the Lord.)

1 Corinthians 3:9-14 (In school, a building is erected. We are that building. Jesus laid the foundation and we have to build using gold, silver, costly stones.)

1 Peter 1:13-19 (God is our Father. We are called to be obedient children and to live a holy life, because Jesus gave his life to grant us the new, eternal life.)

1 John 1:8-2:2 (The greatest teaching is that Jesus freed us from sin. We must repent and accept him as our Saviour and Lord.)

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KEY NOTES

Opening of a New Building

Scripture reading: 1 Kings 8: 22-24, 46-53, 57-58, 62-63, 65-66 (It is hardly possible to read the whole chapter. We have chosen the most important parts. If you have more time, you can read more verses.)

Key notes The dedication of the new temple was a wonderful experience for Solomon and for Israel as a whole. They have been waiting for this for ages. It opened up a new chapter in the history of the nation and brought them closer to God. The same could happen when a new building is inaugurated anywhere.

Solomon praises the name of the Lord and thanks him that he kept his promises.

He confesses the sins of the nation and asks God for forgiveness.

He asks the Lord to be with them always and help them to be obedient to him.

He brought offerings as a token of the devotion of the whole nation to God. When bringing a message from the Old Testament, it is necessary to draw lines to the New Testament in order to bring the gospel of Jesus Christ to the listeners. Here you can mention 1 Corinthians 6:19-20: “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit?” Dedicate yourself to God.

Scripture passages for the opening of new buildings: Joshua 1:1-9 (Joshua begins a new chapter in the history of the nation and receives his instructions from God.) Nehemiah 2:17-18; 4:6 (The rebuilding of the walls of 34

Jerusalem was very necessary and the people worked with all their heart.)

2 Corinthians 5:1-10 (The earthly tent is being replaced by an eternal house in heaven. The dedication of this building reminds us of all the blessings of the Lord that are waiting for us.)

Notes

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KEY NOTES

Opening of Government Meetings

Scripture reading: Romans 13:1-6 Key notes Paul emphasizes that God established every authority (verse 1).

Therefore everyone must submit to the authorities. If you do not do that, you will bring judgement on yourself (verse 1, 2).

If you do what is right, you have no fear for authority (verse 3).

The authorities are God’s servants. You have to respect them and pay what you owe (verse 6-7).

Speak to the hearts of the government officials and say: God called every one of you to your office. He expects that you govern in righteousness, justice and fairness. You should put the interest of the country first and not your own. If you do that, the Lord will help you and the people will support you.

Scripture passages for the opening of government meetings Matthew 18:15-19 (Practical instructions to people working with others.)

Mark 12:13-17 (Jesus acknowledges the power of government.)

1 Peter 2:13-17 (Peter urges: Submit yourselves to rulers and masters.)

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Opening of a Police Station

Scripture reading: 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10 Key notes God is everywhere – he is also there where you do your work every day.

God’s judgement is right. Keep his Word in mind when you do your work.

God’s vengeance is just. He will pay back trouble to those who trouble you.

God will appear when the Lord Jesus is revealed from heaven and all the believers will be glorified.

You have a very big responsibility to the community that you serve. They expect you to be honest and helpful. Do your work in such a way that the love of Jesus will be seen in your conduct.

Scripture passages for the opening of police stations: Romans 3:19-24 (Even police officers work on a mission field, telling people about the grace of God in Jesus Christ.)

Romans 8:35-39 (Remember your sacrifice in the service of the people.)

Colossians 2:16-23 (A list of dos and don’ts for Christians.

How do we live in freedom? And what does this say about our relationship with the police?)

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KEY NOTES

Opening of Men’s Meetings

Scripture reading: 2 Timothy 2:1-2 Key notes God needs faithful men – faithful to the Lord, to the Word and to the church.

God needs teachable men – willing to be taught by others and themselves.

God needs teaching men – willing to teach others according to their abilities.

Scripture passages for the opening of men’s meetings: Judges 7:13-21 (“Watch me. Follow my lead.”)

Isaiah 6:1-8 (“Here am I. Send me!”)

Jeremiah 1:5-10 (“I have put my words in your mouth.”)

1 Corinthians 16:13-14 (“Stand firm in the faith, be a man of courage.”)

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Opening of Gala Events or Dinners

Scripture reading: John 7:37-44 Key notes Jesus attends the Feast of Tabernacles – the Jews gather in Jerusalem to remember God’s provision in the wilderness and to look forward to the promised messianic age.

On the last day Jesus brings a wonderful message: “Whoever believes in me, streams of living water will flow from within him.” Jesus announces that he is the messiah – the one that the whole nation was expecting. He will change peoples’ lives and give them the fulness of the Holy Spirit.

What is your reaction to this message? Some people believed and said: “He is the Christ.” Others were full of disbelief and said: “How is this possible?”

Make this a real gala event in your life by accepting Jesus as your Saviour.

Scripture passages for the opening of gala events or dinners: Leviticus 23:9-14 (The feast of the first fruits as an offering of thanks to God.) Psalm 29:1-11 (Our God is a mighty God, he blesses his people with peace.)

Psalm 91:1-16 (The Lord will protect you if you acknowledge his name.)

Luke 14:15-23 (Jesus told the parable of the great banquet.)

Luke 17:11-19 (So much to have festivities about, but so little thankfulness.)

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KEY NOTES

Opening of Youth Events

Scripture reading: 1 Timothy 4:9-16 Key notes Paul urges the young leader Timothy to remember that God has chosen, called and equipped him to serve the Lord with all his heart.

He instructs Timothy to not let anyone look down on him because he is young, but to be an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity (verse 12).

He also encourages Timothy to be diligent in everything and to watch his life and doctrine closely (verse 15-16).

Young people can play an important role in the kingdom of God if they adhere to the words of the apostle Paul in these verses. Are you ready for it?

Scripture passages for the opening of youth events: Psalm 119:9-16 (How a young person can keep his or her life pure.)

Isaiah 41:10-20 (How great is your fear? God will help and support you.)

Matthew 19:16-30 (A young man with a full life, but no room for Christ.)

John 3:1-10 (A new life is possible in Jesus Christ.)

2 Peter 1:3-11 (Fill your life with all the good gifts that God provides.)

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Preaching following the Church Calendar Year The church year (or church calendar) is a series of events that follows the life and work of Jesus Christ our Lord and of the first Christian church every year.

It is customary to follow these events and preach according to the message of the different stadiums as we proceed through the year.

There are two main cycles: the first has to do with the birth of Jesus Christ (Advent and Christmastide), and the second revolves around the crucifixion, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ (Passiontide and Eastertide).

These two cycles are followed by Kingdomtide when we give attention to the extension of the kingdom of God.

Advent and Christmastide

Let us first give attention to Advent and Christmastide: Advent: It begins four weeks before the 25th of December (traditionally the date of Christmas accepted worldwide) with advent (a word referring to “coming”) when we begin preaching about the coming of Christ to earth. It is a period of devout and joyful expectation.

Christmastide: This begins on Christmas Eve (the evening before Christmas Day) and lasts for twelve days up to the Feast of Epiphany (the name means the “appearing” of Christ).

It can also be extended to include the Feast of the Baptism of Jesus.

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Passiontide and Eastertide

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Then follows the cycle of Passiontide and Eastertide: The dates of Good Friday and Easter Sunday differ from year to year. Easter Sunday is traditionally the first Sunday after the first full moon after 21 March.

The suffering of Jesus Christ (Easter period): This period is called “Lent” (a word that refers to “suffering”) and it extends over seven weeks anticipating Easter. It starts with “Ash Wednesday” just more than seven weeks before Good Friday – a day of prayer, fasting and repentance. For the next seven weeks the preaching is centred on the earthly suffering of Jesus Christ.

The crucifixion of Jesus Christ: On Good Friday we commemorate the nailing of Jesus to the cross. It is a solemn occasion because of the death of Jesus, but it is called “Good” Friday because the crucifixion brings a hopeful message of salvation to all Christians.

The resurrection of Jesus Christ: The Saturday following Good Friday is called “still” Saturday or “holy” Saturday, because Jesus spent that day in the grave. The next day (Easter Sunday) is a joyous day as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus from the grave. It should be celebrated with much singing and praising and thankfulness.

Ascension Day: Ten days before the day of the Pentecost we celebrate the ascension of the risen Lord, Jesus Christ, to heaven (Acts 1:1-11).

Pentecost: The name means 50 – it refers to the fiftieth day after the resurrection on Easter Sunday. We celebrate the coming of the Holy Spirit as a fulfilment of the promise of Jesus Christ after his resurrection (Acts 1:8; 2:1-4).

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Kingdomtide is when we celebrate the coming of the kingdom of God Kingdomtide follows directly after the Feast of the Pentecost and continues until we start the whole cycle all over again with Advent.

Trinity Sunday (the first Sunday after Pentecost): Kingdomtide starts with Trinity Sunday when attention is given to the way in which the triune God has revealed Himself in three persons: God the Father, the Son Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit.

Reformation Sunday: On the last Sunday of October some Christian traditions celebrate the Reformation when Martin Luther led the church of his time back to the Word of God as the foundation of our faith.

During this time attention is given to the growth of the church of Christ: We follow the growth of the first Christian church in Jerusalem and the spreading of the gospel message throughout the known world.

The second coming of Jesus Christ: Near the end of Kingdomtide an eschatological theme receives attention: the expectation of the second coming of the Lord.

Kingdomtide ends with The Feast of Christ the King (the last Sunday before the beginning of Advent).

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Outline for a Sermon at Christmas Time EXAMPLE

Keep in mind: 1.

2.

3.

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4.

Christmas is the one festivity that most people in traditional Christian countries observe.

The vast majority do not take part in Christmas festivities for the right reasons, because they do not reserve the central stage for Jesus Christ whose birth we are commemorating and celebrating.

It is our responsibility as Christians to explain to the people around us what the real meaning and message of Christmas is.

Christmas is preceded by four weeks called advent (the coming). In these weeks you should already begin preaching about Christmas and prepare the people for the most joyous time in the calendar of the church.

Introduction Make use of the information given above and get the people into a joyous mood. We are celebrating the coming of our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ!

Scripture reading: Luke 2:1-20 Theme: The Son of the living God is being born as our Saviour!

Point 1: When Jesus was born, many prophecies came true Retell the story of the birth of Jesus with lively enthusiasm.

For many centuries people were expecting the coming of the Messiah who would save them from sin.

There were many prophecies that kept the expectations alive. Have a look at Genesis 3:15, Isaiah 7:14, 9:2-7, 11:1-9, 44

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Jeremiah 23:5-6, 33:15, Micah 5:2 and Zechariah 9:9-10, 12:10.

All of these were fulfilled when Jesus was born.

We can imagine how thankful and proud Joseph and Mary were after the birth of a healthy baby in difficult circumstances.

The first visitors were the shepherds. They had a wonderful experience with the angel appearing to them and the whole chorus of angels singing the praises of Jesus. They realised that the birth of Jesus was a very important event.

No wonder they immediately went to see Jesus and then went out to tell everybody about what they experienced. This made a lasting impression on all the people around.

Point 3: Because Jesus was born, we are saved and live as children of God

On Christmas Day we celebrate the biggest event in history.

Our Saviour came into this world. This means that the words of John 3:16 became the most important message of all and changed our lives forever.

Do you know Jesus as your Lord and Saviour? Then you can celebrate Christmas as the most important event in your life.

We should do as the shepherds did: we must tell everyone that they should accept Jesus as their Lord and Saviour.

Application The birth of Jesus isn’t just an historic event that is written down in history books. It is the greatest happening of all time. It can influence our lives today!

Commissioning Accept Jesus for the first time or again as your Lord and 45

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Point 2: When Jesus was born, heaven and earth celebrated

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Saviour. Treasure the fact that you are a child of God (John 1:12) and serve him in obedience.

Go out and bring the good news of Christmas to everybody you meet: Jesus is the Saviour of the world!

Scripture passages for use during advent and for the Christmas service:

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Isaiah 7:1-14 (The Lord will give you a sign: the virgin will be with child.)

Isaiah 9:2-7 (Wonderful Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.)

Matthew 1:18-25 (Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.)

Matthew 2:1-12 (Wise men found Jesus, bowed down and worshiped him.)

Luke 1:26-38 (The holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.) John 1:1-18 (The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us.)

Galatians 4:1-7 (When the time had come, God sent his Son to redeem us.)

1 John 1:1-4 (The Word of life appeared. We proclaim to you the eternal life.)

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Outline on the Suffering of Jesus Christ EXAMPLE

Keep in mind:

2.

3.

Lent is a very important season in the calendar of the church. It reminds us of what the Lord Jesus had to suffer to free us from sin.

When we realise what his suffering meant to Jesus, we stand before the cross in humility while we weep over our sins and confess them.

Lent is at the same time an occasion of joy because Jesus saved us from our sin and made us children of God.

Introduction Make use of the above information and help the listeners to experience sorrow and joy simultaneously in the shadow of the cross.

We are following Jesus to the garden of Gethsemane where he had to prepare for his death on the cross.

Tell an applicable story to catch the attention of the listeners and lead their thoughts into the sermon.

Scripture reading: Mark 14:32-42 Theme: Jesus moves forward to the cross in spite of his own distress

Point 1: Jesus prays while his disciples fall asleep Jesus needed urgent prayer because he was deeply distressed and troubled in the face of the imminent suffering.

He asked some of his disciples to stay close and keep watch with him. They did not realise the urgency of what was 47

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happening and fell asleep three times, disappointing their Lord.

Point 2: Jesus pleads that the suffering would be taken away from him

In his prayers Jesus pleaded that he would not have to go to the cross.

His struggle was repeated until he accepted that his death on the cross was part of his Father’s will and part of the plan of salvation.

Luke tells us that an angel appeared to strengthen him and his sweat was like drops of blood falling on the ground. It shows how deep his distress was. And it all happened so that we as sinners could be saved from damnation.

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Point 3: Jesus moves forward steadfastly to complete his task After the third spell of prayer Jesus decided that his hour had come and moved forward. He urged his disciples to follow him to where his arrest took place.

Then followed his trial and his crucifixion. In all of this Jesus was obedient to his Father and completed his task as Saviour of the world.

Application What an astonishing event! The Son of the living God is treated like a criminal and had to die on a cross.

Commissioning Confess your sins and accept Jesus as your Saviour and Lord.

Go out and tell others what Jesus has done for them so that they can be saved.

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Isaiah 53:4-10 (An Old Testament prophecy about the suffering of Christ.)

Matthew 26:14-16, 47-56 (How the betrayal of Judas added to the suffering of Jesus.)

Matthew 26:31-35, 69-75 (Peter was warned, but he went right ahead and disowned Jesus.)

Mark 15:1-20 (Jesus’ hearing before Pontius Pilate added to his suffering.)

Luke 20:9-18 (The parable of the tenants helps us to understand Christ’s suffering.)

1 Peter 2:19-25 (Jesus set the example of how we should also bear our suffering.)

Galatians 2:15-21 (How Paul explains the effect of the crucifixion of Jesus in his own life and the lives of every believer.)

Jesus spoke seven times while he was on the cross. You can use his words one by one in different sermons, or you can combine some of them in the same sermon.

Find them in these passages: Luke 23:34; Luke 23:43; John 19:26-27; Matthew 27:46; John 19:28; John 19:30; Luke 23:46.

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Scripture passages for sermons on the suffering of Jesus Christ:

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Outline on the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ EXAMPLE

Keep in mind: 1.

2.

On Good Friday we commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.

We should be heartbroken because of the fact that it is for our sins that he died. But we should also be thankful that God loved us so much that he sent his only Son to free us from sin.

Introduction Church Calendar Year

Tell the story of the crucifixion of Jesus with enthusiasm. Help your listeners to experience the crucifixion of Jesus as if they were standing in the shadow of the cross themselves.

Everyone that receives the message of the cross of Jesus has to be deeply touched by it. It changes the whole way of thinking and living of every person that accepts Jesus as his or her Saviour.

Scripture reading: Galatians 2:15-21 Theme: The effect of the crucifixion of Jesus in the lives of all the believers

Point 1: We cannot be justified by observing the law and doing good deeds.

Some believers still held on to the old Jewish belief that one had to observe the law and follow certain Jewish customs (like circumcision) to be justified.

Paul emphasizes that the crucifixion of Jesus changed all that.

No one can earn justification by doing good deeds (verse 16).

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Point 2: We are only justified by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ We are justified by faith in Jesus alone. He has done what is necessary to save us from sin and we only have to believe in him to be saved.

Jesus loved us and gave himself for us (verse 20). In that way he took the punishment for our sins on himself and he paid the debt for our sins when he gave his life on the cross. All that we need to do is to put our faith in him.

Paul explains this outcome by saying that we have in reality been crucified with Christ. It is as if we were hanging on the cross on Calgary.

This means that we are no longer living personally (verse 20), but Christ lives in us. The life that we live in our body, we live by faith in the Son of God.

Application We as believers do not live for ourselves any longer. We belong to God. Christ lives in us. And the reason for our living is that we glorify God and serve the Lord Jesus every day of our lives.

Commissioning Give your whole life to God. Live as if Christ is living in you every day. Serve the Lord with all your heart.

Scripture passages for sermons on the crucifixion of Jesus Christ: Matthew 27: 32-44 (How the crucifixion was performed and added to the suffering of Jesus.)

Matthew 27:45-56 (The reactions of the people standing at the cross as Jesus dies.)

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Point 3: We have been crucified with Christ and Christ lives in us

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Jesus spoke seven times while he was on the cross. You can use his words one by one in sermons, or you can combine some of them in the same sermon. Find them in these passages: Luke 23:34; Luke 23:43; John 19:26-27; Matthew 27:46; John 19:28; John 19:30; Luke 23:46.

John 19:38-42 (The burial of Jesus and the love of Nicodemus and his helper.)

Romans 5:6-11 (So great is God’s love for us: Christ died for us while we were still sinners.)

Galatians 5:17-25 (Those who belong to Jesus have crucified their sinful nature.)

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Outline on the Resurrection of Jesus Christ EXAMPLE

Keep in mind: 1.

2.

We commemorate the resurrection of Christ on Easter Sunday.

It is a joyous occasion. Jesus proved that he is the Son of God and that he could overcome sin and death. He gave us new life!

Briefly recap the events that took place in the life of Jesus during the last three days before his resurrection: how he struggled in Gethsemane, was arrested and tried by different officials, died on the cross and was buried.

His disciples and other followers were heartbroken and confused. They still could not understand why this should have happened to their Lord. And then it was Sunday morning ...

Scripture reading: John 20:1-23 Theme: A joyful message: Jesus has overcome death!

Point 1: He is risen!

What, do you think, were the two disciples thinking when they entered the empty tomb? Scripture says they still did not understand that Jesus had to rise from the dead (verse 9).

Only later, when Jesus appeared to the disciples, were they overjoyed to see him alive (verse 20).

What a wonderful message on Easter Sunday: Jesus is risen!

He has overcome death and appeared to his disciples alive as he promised them.

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It became a custom in the early church – the believers greeted each other in the words, “He is risen!” And the joyful response would be, “He is risen indeed!”

Point 2: In the shoes of Mary Magdalene

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Imagine standing in the shoes of Mary Magdalene crying at the tomb. First the angels and then Jesus himself put a question to her, “Woman, why are you crying?” Eventually she realises that it is Jesus himself talking to her.

She cried out in joy, “My Master!” Her first reaction was to reach out for him, but he did not allow it. Think of all the mixed emotions that she had to deal with.

Then Jesus said, “Go tell them …” And she did so with joy in her heart.

Point 3: Jesus brings new life and new hope to all That same evening Jesus appeared to his disciples. Finally they understood that he rose from the grave and their joy had no limits.

But Jesus had a plan for his disciples. He gave them his peace (verse 19). He gave them certainty by showing them his wounds (verse 20). He sent them out to bring this message of new life and hope to all the world (verse 21). And he promised them the power of the Holy Spirit (verse 22).

Application Yes, the resurrection of Jesus has a direct influence in our lives today.

As the living Lord, he gives us new and everlasting life, he gives us certainty, he sends us out into this world to bring the message of salvation to all and he gives us the power of the Holy Spirit.

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Commissioning Rejoice in the resurrection of Jesus! And go out to tell everyone you come across that Jesus is the living Saviour who can give them new life and new hope!

Matthew 28:1-10 (Jesus, who was crucified: he is not here, he is risen.)

Luke 24:13-35 (Jesus appears to the travellers to Emmaus.)

Luke 24:36-40 (Jesus appears to his disciples.)

John 20:24-31 (Jesus appears to Thomas.)

John 21:1-14 (Jesus and the miraculous catch of fish.)

John 21:15-25 (Jesus gives Peter a second chance and reinstates him.)

1 Corinthians 15:1-11 (The message of the resurrection of Christ.)

1 Corinthians 15:35-58 (Paul explains how the resurrection of Jesus ensures our own resurrection from death.)

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Scripture passages for sermons on the resurrection of Jesus Christ:

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Outline for a Sermon on Ascension Day EXAMPLE

Keep in mind: 1.

2.

Ascension Day is celebrated on a Thursday – ten days before the Pentecost.

We commemorate the triumphant return of Jesus to his heavenly home after completing his work on earth.

Introduction

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Briefly recap the events in the life of Jesus during the past forty days. He was arrested, tried, crucified and buried. He rose from the dead and appeared to his followers on numerous occasions. And then he was taken away from them.

Today we celebrate the triumphant return of Jesus to his heavenly home. Jesus is alive and he reigns over his church and all of our lives through the work of his Holy Spirit.

Tell an applicable story to catch the attention of your listeners and lead their thoughts into your sermon.

Scripture reading: Acts 1:1-11 Theme: How the ascension of Jesus influences your life today Point 1: Jesus prepares his disciples for his ascension What a wonderful time the disciples had for forty days with the risen Christ! He appeared to them on numerous occasions and they could once again enjoy his wonderful presence.

They could listen to his teachings about the kingdom of God (verse 3). He was preparing them to become workers in his kingdom after his departure.

He repeated the promise that they would be baptised with the 56

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Holy Spirit (verse 5). This would give them the power to be witnesses for Jesus all over the world (verse 8).

Point 2: Jesus is taken up in heaven before their eyes

Point 3: Jesus is coming back to us in the same way Suddenly two heavenly messengers stood beside the disciples (verse 10). They had a very important message, “Jesus is coming again!”

This message gave new hope and encouragement to the disciples. They had something to look forward to. They had work to do. They had to tell the whole world about Jesus, his salvation and his kingdom.

Application Ascension Day tells us about the triumphant return of Jesus to his heavenly home. It makes the work of the Holy Spirit a reality in our lives. And it sends us out to tell the world about Jesus.

Commissioning Celebrate the ascension of Jesus. Give your life to Jesus. Open your heart for the work of the Holy Spirit. And be an obedient witness for Jesus in this world.

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And then suddenly he was taken up before their very eyes, and a cloud hid him from their sight (verse 9).

Just think of the emotions that they experienced. At first they must have been shocked and disappointed. Then they were thankful and filled with expectation of what is to come.

The ascension of Jesus concludes his earthly life. In the short period of 33 years, he achieved more than any other leader on earth. He brought salvation and new life to millions of people in many centuries to come.

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Scripture passages for sermons on Ascension Day: Psalm 47:1-9 (A song of praise to the risen king.)

Luke 24:44-53 (Jesus explains to his disciples what takes place before their eyes.)

Romans 8:31-39 (Christ is at the right hand of God and is also interceding for us.)

Revelation 4:1-11 (The throne of God in heaven – where Christ took his seat.)

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Outline for a Sermon at Pentecost EXAMPLE

Keep in mind:

2.

3.

We celebrate Pentecost (the name means “fifty”) on the fiftieth day following Easter Sunday.

In the Old Testament Pentecost was the Feast of Harvest (Exodus 23:16; Leviticus 23:15-22).

In the New Testament it became the Feast of the Outpouring of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-12) when the first harvest for the Christian church was brought in (Acts 2:40-41).

Introduction It was promised in the Old Testament. The prophet Joel announced in the name of God that the Spirit of God would be poured out (Joel 2:28-32).

It was promised in the New Testament. Jesus said, “I will ask my Father, and he will give you another Counsellor to be with you forever – the Spirit of truth” (John 14:16-17). Just before his ascension Jesus said, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you” (Acts 1:8).

The disciples gathered together in Jerusalem. They were full of expectation. And then it happened …

Scripture reading: Acts 2:1-21, 40-41 Theme: The coming of the Holy Spirit changed everything on earth

Point 1: The coming of the Holy Spirit affected the disciples The Holy Spirit is the third Person in the Trinity. He is the 59

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living God present in our lives and in the whole world.

The outpouring of the Holy Spirit was accompanied by a number of signs. The first was the sound like the blowing of a violent wind. It was a sign of the power of the Spirit that filled all the disciples.

The second sign was that of tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. It was a sign of the spreading ability and power of the Spirit of God. The third sign was the ability of the disciples to begin speaking in different languages. This prepared them to bring the message of Christ to all the people gathered in Jerusalem.

Immediately the apostle Peter addressed the crowd and explained what was happening. The presence of the Holy Spirit changed the lives of the disciples.

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Point 2: The coming of the Holy Spirit affected all the people in Jerusalem

The crowds that gathered in Jerusalem for the Feast of Harvest, came together in bewilderment after hearing the sounds of different languages being spoken.

The reaction was twofold: some listened intently to the wonders of God being explained by the apostles, but others made fun of them (verse 7-13).

After the sermon of the apostle Peter the Holy Spirit led three thousand of them to faith in Jesus Christ. Their lives changed completely and they became the first members of the Christian church.

Point 3: The coming of the Holy Spirit affects all of our lives In the same way the Holy Spirit continued working through the ages. Millions of people were led to put their faith in Jesus Christ and to serve him with all their hearts in all countries of the world.

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our lives. We can celebrate Pentecost and thank the Lord for his presence in our lives through the work of his Spirit. Think of everything that the Spirit gives to you and does for you every day of your life.

Application The outpouring of the Holy Spirit was and is a very important event that can change your life and the lives of everybody around you.

The Holy Spirit leads us to faith in Jesus Christ as our Saviour and gives us the power to serve the Lord wherever we go.

Celebrate Pentecost by experiencing the presence of God in your life. Receive the power of the Spirit and serve the Lord as a witness proclaiming the gospel of Jesus Christ.

Scripture passages for sermons at Pentecost: Ezekiel 37:1-14 (An Old Testament vision of the new life that the Holy Spirit brings.)

Joel 2:28-32 (The word of God, “I will pour out my Spirit on all people”.)

John 14:15-31 (The Father will give you a Counsellor – the Spirit of truth.)

John 16:5-16 (The Spirit of truth will guide you into all truth.)

Romans 8:1-17 (God will give life to you through the Spirit who lives in you.)

Galatians 5:16-26 (Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.)

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Commissioning

The Preachers’ Handbook

Outline on the Coming of the Kingdom of God EXAMPLE

Keep in mind: 1.

2.

The period after Pentecost is called Kingdomtide. It lasts for the rest of the church calendar year up to the beginning of advent and Christmastide. We examine the characteristics and the expansion of the kingdom of God. The kingdom of God has many facets and extends across our whole life.

Introduction Church Calendar Year

Who is the king of your life? When you are a follower of Jesus Christ, then God himself should be the king. Jesus is the king and head of his church.

Tell an applicable story to catch the attention of your listeners.

Scripture reading: Acts 2:41-47 Theme: The first church shows what the kingdom of God should be like

Point 1: The kingdom has an impact on our relationship to God. The new believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching.

Where God is king, we must spend much time studying the Word of God and listening to the teaching of our spiritual leaders. In that way we learn to know the will of God for our lives and are able to serve him better.

The new believers devoted themselves to the breaking of the bread. They celebrated the holy communion together.

Participation in this sacrament is very important, because we commemorate the life of Christ and thank God for his salvation.

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The new believers devoted themselves to prayer. Prayer is a very important way to build a personal relationship with God our king.

The new believers were filled with awe as they witnessed the many miraculous signs and wonders that God was doing in their midst. God is working in his kingdom and we are the witnesses of his power.

Point 2: The kingdom has an impact on our relationship to The new believers devoted themselves to fellowship. They ate together in their homes with glad and sincere hearts. It is good to spend time with fellow believers and be strengthened by their faith and example.

The new believers cared for each other. They shared their possessions so that everybody could have enough. In God’s kingdom we should care about each other.

Point 3: The kingdom has an impact on our relationship to the world

The believers praised God together. By doing so they enjoyed the favour of all the people.

In this way they were bearing witness before the outside world of what God has done for them. And through their witness the Holy Spirit brought new believers into the church every day.

Application Where God is king, people live in harmony, praising God for his love and grace. This will also happen in your life if you let God be king. And God will use your example to bring others to faith in Jesus Christ.

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fellow believers

The Preachers’ Handbook

Commissioning Go home, give your life to Christ, let God be king in your heart and serve him with all your power.

Scripture passages for sermons on the coming of the kingdom of God:

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Matthew 4:12-17 (Jesus begins his ministry by saying that the kingdom of heaven is near.)

Matthew 6:28-34 (But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness.)

Mark 1:14-19 (Jesus shows what happens when the kingdom of God is near.)

Acts 3:1-26 (A practical illustration of what the Spirit can do through believers.)

Acts 4:1-31 (Peter and John experience the power of the Holy Spirit in their work.)

Acts 10:19-46 (The Spirit convinces Peter to bring the gospel to other nations.)

Romans 14:13-18 (The kingdom of God is a matter of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.)

Notes

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Outline on the Second Coming of Jesus Christ EXAMPLE

Keep in mind:

2.

The second coming of Jesus is an important subject in the New Testament. We should preach about it at least once a year.

The Feast of Christ the King on the last Sunday of Kingdomtide (just before advent begins) is a good opportunity to do so.

Introduction Jesus promised that he will come again to this earth (John 14:1-4). The messengers on the Mount of Olives gave the same promise (Acts 1:11).

The believers in the early Christian church expected that this second coming would take place in their lifetime. However, it is not in our hands to decide when this will happen. We should be patient while we expect his coming every day and be sure that we are ready for it.

Scripture reading: 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11 Theme: Jesus is coming again!

Point 1: This expectation gives us hope during our life on earth We are still living in a broken reality here on earth. People die every day. The promise of the second coming of the Lord gives us hope and the certainty of everlasting life (verse 14).

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1.

The Preachers’ Handbook

loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God. Everybody will see it and the believers will be in the presence of the Lord (verse 16-17).

Point 2: This expectation should make us patient and ready The day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. Nobody knows when it will be. It will come like labour pains on a pregnant woman.

While we are waiting, we should be patient and never cease to be eagerly expectant. This event will happen when God so decides.

Point 3: This expectation helps us promote a certain lifestyle Church Calendar Year

while we wait

We should be alert and self-controlled while we wait. We are “sons of the light” and we live in the light of the Lord (verse 5).

Therefore we should encourage one another and build each other up in our faith and in the service of the Lord (verse 10).

Application What a wonderful expectation! We are going to see and meet the Lord Jesus Christ. We should be eagerly looking forward to it, but at the same time doing our work in the kingdom of God and making use of every opportunity.

Commissioning Live with the certainty that Jesus Christ is your Saviour. Do your work in the kingdom of God as well as you are able to.

And inspire everyone around you with your living and eager expectation of the second coming of our Lord!

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Matthew 24:30-35 (Jesus teaches about the signs of the end times and said, “Be ready!”)

Matthew 24:36-51 (The day of his coming is unknown. We should keep watch.)

John 14:1-4 (Jesus gives the assurance that he will come and take us with him.)

Acts 1:7-11 (The witnesses on the Mount of Olives gave the assurance that Jesus will come back in the same way that he went into heaven.)

1 Corinthians 15:20-28 (The coming of Christ will be the beginning of the final victory.)

2 Thessalonians 2:1-8 (The day of the Lord will certainly come, but there are a number of things that must happen first.)

Titus 2:11-15 (The glorious appearance of our great God and Saviour, Jesus Christ, should be taught to all.)

Notes

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Scripture passages for sermons on the second coming of Christ:

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Chapter 6

Important Topics to Preach on Every Year Discipleship Scriptural passages to use for your sermons: Deuteronomy 30:15-20 (Love the Lord your God, walk in his ways.)

Matthew 6:25-34 (Seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.)

Matthew 13:1-23 (The parable of the sower reminds us of what we as witnesses can expect.)

Matthew 28:18-20 (Go and make disciples of all nations, teach them to obey.)

Mark 8:34-38 (Deny yourself, take up your cross and follow Jesus.)

Mark 10:35-45 (The request of James and John teaches us helpful truths about discipleship.)

Luke 5:1-11 (The calling of the first disciples.)

Luke 9:57-62 (The cost of following Jesus.)

Luke 10:1-24 (Jesus’ instructions to the 72 help us to understand his plan for discipleship.)

Luke 14:25-33 (Any of you who does not give up everything he has, cannot be my disciple.)

John 8:31-41 (If you hold my teaching, you are really my disciples.)

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Chapter 6 John 17:6-19 (Jesus prays for his disciples.)

Romans 10:12-18 (Faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.)

1 Thessalonians 3:1-13 (A continuous interest in the wellbeing of your disciples is of the greatest importance.)

In the times of the Bible teachers walked around while teaching. Their learners followed them and listened to what they had to say. That is exactly what Jesus did. He called a number of disciples to follow him and learn from him. Now you know what a disciple is: a follower and a learner.

Jesus did not only teach truths. He taught his disciples how they should imitate him and spread the gospel wherever they go.

The first and foremost object of a disciple is to seek the kingdom of God and his righteousness.

Before his ascension Jesus instructed his disciples to go out all over the world and make disciples of all nations.

If you want to be a disciple of Jesus Christ, you have to deny yourself, take up your cross and follow Jesus every moment.

Jesus said the test for your discipleship is the question whether you hold fast to his teaching.

Jesus called you personally to be his disciple. You have to reply by consecrating your whole life to his service.

Once you have made disciples of other people, you should have a continuous interest in their well-being and spiritual growth.

It is very important that you teach new disciples to make disciples of other people.

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Biblical truths to emphasize in your sermons:

The Preachers’ Handbook

Missions Scriptural passages to use for your sermons:

Important Preaching Topics

Matthew 10:1-42 (Jesus sends out the twelve and gives instructions to them that we will do well to follow in our mission outreach.)

Matthew 28:16-20 (Jesus’ great commission to his followers: Go and make disciples of all nations.)

Luke 4:14-30 (Jesus is rejected at Nazareth, but he is still able to bring the gospel to the people.)

Luke 10:1-22 (Jesus sends out the 72. His instructions to them teach us a lot about what he expects from us when we spread the gospel.)

John 4:1-42 (Jesus talks with a Samaritan woman. We can learn a lot from this passage about how we should go about spreading the gospel.)

Acts 1:1-11 (Before his ascension Jesus repeats his great commission: You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses.)

Acts 4:1-13 (Even unschooled and ordinary men can make a difference when the Holy Spirit gives them strength.)

Acts 13:1-12 (The Holy Spirit said: “Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them”.)

1 Corinthians 16:5-24 (Paul shows us that he was continually planning to have more opportunities to bring the gospel to all people.)

2 Corinthians 5:17-21 (We are Christ’s ambassadors and we implore everyone on Christ’s behalf: Be reconciled to God.) Philippians 1:12-30 (Paul made use of his time in jail to bring the gospel to every person who came in contact with him.)

Colossians 1:18-28 (Paul explains the message of the gospel 70

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to his readers. It has been proclaimed to every creature under heaven, and he has become a servant of it.)

James 1:1-4 (The testing of your faith develops perseverance.

Perseverance must finish its work so that you may be mature and complete.)

James 5:19-20 (Bring a sinner back from the error of his way and you will save him from death and cover up a multitude of sins.)

The word “mission” means “to be sent out”. The primary task of the church is that it is “sent out” into this world to bring the gospel message of salvation in Jesus Christ to all the people.

Jesus called his disciples by name and told them that he will make them “fishers of men”. He sent out the twelve and later a larger group of 72. Before his ascension he sent out every believer with the instruction to be his witnesses.

The apostles (the name means “sent out people”) received the promise that the power of the Holy Spirit will come on them and give them the strength to do the work of the Lord (Acts 1:8).

In the history of the first church we learn that even unschooled and ordinary people can be effective witnesses for the Lord (Acts 4:1-13).

Paul set an example as an apostle who was always on the lookout for opportunities to spread the gospel wherever he went.

Even today missionary work is the primary task of the church of Jesus Christ in this world and every believer has to join in.

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Biblical truths to emphasize in your sermons

The Preachers’ Handbook

Tithing Scriptural passages to use for your sermons: Deuteronomy 14:22-29; 26:1-15 (The laws about tithing given to the Israelites. Thank the Lord for all his blessings by giving a tenth of your income.)

Malachi 3:8-10 (Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse that there may be food in my house. Test me in this, says the Lord Almighty.)

Mark 12:41-44 (Jesus makes an example of the widow’s offering. She did not give much, but she gave all she had.)

Luke 16:10-13 (Be trustworthy when you work with property – your own and that of others. You cannot serve both God and Money.)

2 Corinthians 8:1-15 (Giving is a gift of grace from the Lord.

We must excel in it and serve the Lord with our offerings.)

2 Corinthians 9:6-10 (Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.)

Biblical truths to emphasize in your sermons:

Important Preaching Topics

In the times of the Old Testament God instructed his people to bring one tenth of their income to his house. It was an offering to the Lord and the work of God was being sustained by the income.

When Jesus came, the new covenant came into being. Jesus brought the final offering on the cross. This saves us from our sin and makes us children of God. As thankful children of God we no longer have to earn something from God by what we bring or do. As redeemed children of God we serve him by offering our whole life as an offering in his service. This is our way of thanking the 72

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Lord for all he has done for us.

We also offer part of our income to the service of the Lord. The tithing is no longer a legal requirement, but our thankfulness should be so great that we offer at least one tenth of our income to the work of the Lord according to the example that was set in Old Testament times.

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Notes

The Preachers’ Handbook

Marriage Scriptural passages to use for your sermons:

Important Preaching Topics

Genesis 2:20-24 (God instituted marriage when he made a woman and brought her to the man. For this reason, a man will be united to his wife and they will become one flesh.)

Genesis 3:1-20 (Quite early in the history of the first marriage Satan appeared and lead the first couple into sin and disobedience to the Lord. This was the beginning of all problems with marriage through all the ages.)

Matthew 5:27-32 (As part of the sermon on a mountainside Jesus speaks about how the people of his time thought about adultery and divorce. That does not comply to God’s plan.)

Matthew 19:1-12; Mark 10:1-10 (The Pharisees ask Jesus about divorce. His answer emphasizes the fact that marriage is holy. What God has joined together, let man not separate.)

John 2:1-11 (Jesus attends a marriage ceremony and chooses to perform his first miracle by changing water to wine.)

1 Corinthians 7:1-16 (Paul answers the questions of the church about marriage. Marriage is important, but the second coming of the Lord is of even greater importance.)

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (Marriage is built on the love of God. Paul tells us what the characteristics of this heavenly love are.)

Ephesians 5:22-33 (Paul gives instructions for the behaviour of a man and a woman toward each other in marriage. The secret lies in the love of Christ for his church.)

Colossians 3:18-19 (Paul gives a summary of his instructions about the behaviour of a man and a woman in marriage.

Love and respect are very important.)

1 Peter 3:1-7 (Peter gives practical advice to married couples.

How you live your life as a married couple has a great impact on your spiritual life.)

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Biblical truths to emphasize in your sermons: Marriage was instituted by God as a life-long union between a man and a woman.

The Bible makes it very clear that God does not tolerate adultery and divorce. The seventh commandment forbids adultery.

The relationship between a man and a woman should be one of mutual love, respect, honesty and faithfulness.

Marriage is a metaphor of the relationship between Christ and the church as his bride.

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Notes

The Preachers’ Handbook

Love Scriptural passages to use for your sermons:

Important Preaching Topics

Matthew 22:34-46 (Love God and love your neighbour – that is the essence of the law of God in the words of Jesus himself.)

John 3:16-17 (This is the verse that contains the essence of the gospel of Jesus Christ, and it revolves around the love that God has for us.)

John 13:31-38 (By this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another. A new command I give you: Love one another.)

John 21:15-19 (Jesus asks Peter three times if he loves him and gives him an instruction every time he answers positively.)

Acts 2:42-47 (Love for the Lord and for one another was the main characteristic of the members of the first church in Jerusalem. We should also live in the same love.)

Romans 8:38-39 (Nothing on this earth can separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.)

Romans 13:8-14 (Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another. Clothe yourself with the Lord Jesus Christ.)

1 Corinthians 13:1-13 (Love is a gift of the Holy Spirit. Paul describes what love is and how it affects your life as a follower of Jesus Christ.)

Galatians 5:22-23 (Love is the first fruit of the Spirit that is mentioned, and all the other fruits flow from the love of God. We should keep in step with the Spirit.)

1 John 2:7-17 (Whoever loves his brother lives in the light.

Therefore we should not love the world or anything in the world.)

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Chapter 6 1 John 4:7-12 (God is love. He loved us so much that he gave his only Son to save us. We should love one another with the same love God has for us.)

1 John 4:16-21 (Whoever lives in love lives in God and God in him. If you love God, you should also love your brother.)

Biblical truths to emphasize in your sermons: God is the source of love. As the apostle John put it, “God is love.”

The love of God is the reason he sent his Son, Jesus Christ, to this world to save the lost from their sin (John 3:16).

Jesus summarised the law of God as follows, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. And love your neighbour as yourself ” (Matthew 22:37-39).

Love is a gift of the Holy Spirit. All Christians should love God and everybody else with the love of God.

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Finding your Ministry in the Kingdom of God Scriptural passages to use for your sermons: Isaiah 58:6-12 (Serving the needs of others.)

Mark 16:15-20 (Bring the gospel with the power that God gives.)

Luke 7:36-50 (The ministry of tears.)

Luke 10:30-35 (The ministry that strives to meet the needs of others.)

Acts 3:1-10 (Ministering to people by providing in their deepest needs.)

Acts 11:19-30 (The ministry of leading different people groups to Christ.)

Acts 16:1-4 (Supporting the ministry of the Lord.)

Galatians 6:1-5 (Ministering by being humble and serving others.)

1 Corinthians 12:1-31 (There are different spiritual gifts.

Which are yours?)

2 Corinthians 12:6-10 (The ministry of thorns to keep one humble and strong.)

Ephesians 4:1-16 (Serve Christ as a member of his body on earth.)

Titus 1:5-9 (The ministry of the elders.)

Titus 2:1-10 (Ministering to different age groups.)

1 Peter 4:1-11 (Use your gifts in the service of the Lord.)

Important Preaching Topics

Biblical truths to emphasize in your sermons: All Christians are called to serve the Lord and build his kingdom on earth.

All Christians have received specific gifts and abilities from the Lord. It is our responsibility to ascertain which gifts we are endowed with and to find one or more ministries in which we can serve the Lord to the best of our ability.

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Hearing the Voice of God Scriptural passages to use for your sermons: Exodus 3:1-22 (The Lord appears to Moses and speaks to him.)

1 Samuel 3:1-10 (Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.)

Psalm 29:1-11 (When we hear the voice of God, we need to act.)

Isaiah 6:1-13 (Isaiah is being called by the Lord to be his prophet.)

Isaiah 55:1-9 (Tune in and hear the voice of God.) Jeremiah 1:1-19 (The word of the Lord came to Jeremiah.)

Ezekiel 1:1-10 (Son of man, stand up on your feet and I will speak to you.)

Jonah 1:1-17 (Jonah is called by the Lord, but he did not obey.)

John 8:42-47 (He who belongs to God, hears what God says.)

John 10:1-5, 22-30 (The sheep listen to the voice of the shepherd.)

Acts 16:5-10 (The commission of God in a vision.)

Hebrews 3:7-13 (Hear the voice of God and respond in obedience.)

Throughout the Bible we find proof that the Lord spoke to biblical characters in a clear and comprehensible way. He called them for service, guided them according to his will and comforted them in difficult times.

God is still speaking to believers today through the work of his Holy Spirit.

All believers should be tuned in to listen to the voice of God and we should be obedient to him.

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Biblical truths to emphasize in your sermons:

The Preachers’ Handbook

Giving your Life as a Sacrifice Scriptural passages to use for your sermons: Mark 12:41-44 (The widow put in everything she had to live on.)

Luke 18:18-30 (“We had left all we had to follow you”.)

John 21:15-25 (The sacrifice of love and obedience.)

Acts 4:34-37 (The ministry of an encourager.)

Romans 12:1-8 (Offer your body as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.) Philippians 2:12-18 (Being poured out like a drink sacrifice.)

1 John 2:1-6 (Whoever claims to live in Christ must walk as Jesus did.)

Biblical truths to emphasize in your sermons: Jesus Christ was the final sacrifice to redeem us from sin.

We are called to give our lives as living sacrifices in the service of the Lord.

These sacrifices should be holy and pleasing to the Lord.

Notes Important Preaching Topics

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Doing Personal Relational Evangelism Scriptural passages to use for your sermons: Matthew 28:16-20 (Evangelism as the mission of the church.)

Mark 2:13-17 (Levi leaves everything behind to follow Jesus.)

Luke 5:1-11 (The first disciples enter into a personal relationship with Christ.)

Luke 14:15-23 (Make them come in, so that my house will be full.)

John 1:43-51 (Philip leads Nathanael to Christ.)

Acts 2:41-47 (Personal example in evangelism.)

Acts 8:26-40 (Philip leads the Ethiopian to Christ.)

Acts 19:1-10 (Paul’s personal work as evangelist in Ephesus.)

2 Corinthians 5:11-21 (Christ’s ambassadors to lead people to God.) Ephesians 3:7-13 (Paul and the privilege to introduce all people to God.) 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12 (A dynamic model for evangelism today.)

Jesus gave his church and all believers the great commission and said, “Go and make disciples of all nations.”

Evangelism is the action of the church to obey Christ and bring the gospel of salvation to all people.

The best way to lead a person to Christ is to establish a personal relationship with such a person and lead him or her to Christ as a friend.

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Biblical truths to emphasize in your sermons:

The Preachers’ Handbook

Doing Discipleship Scriptural passages to use for your sermons: Matthew 16:24-28 (Following Jesus by denying yourself.)

Luke 14:25-34 (The cost of being a disciple.)

John 15:5-17 (Discipleship requires a living relationship with Jesus.)

Romans 15:14-21 (Paul’s commission to make disciples of all men.)

2 Corinthians 3:1-3 (The proof of effective ministry is changed lives.)

2 Corinthians 5:11-6:2 (We are Christ’s ambassadors.)

Hebrews 6:1-12 (The road to spiritual maturity.)

1 Peter 2:18-25 (The suffering of Jesus helps us to serve him in our suffering.)

Biblical truths to emphasize in your sermons:

Important Preaching Topics

After leading a person to Christ, he or she must be helped to establish a personal relationship with Christ and to become a lifelong disciple (follower) of the Lord. This is called discipleship.

Guiding a person to live as a disciple of Christ is an ongoing action. The aim of discipling is to bring these people to spiritual maturity and to teach them how to be witnesses for Jesus themselves and disciple other people.

Notes

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Discipleship: Living a Fulfilled Life Scriptural passages to use for your sermons: Matthew 5:1-12 (The key to a fulfilled life.)

John 4:5-14 (Living water and a fulfilled life.)

John 13:1-17 (Finding fulfilment in servanthood.)

Romans 5:1-11 (Progressive steps to a fulfilled life.)

Philippians 3:7-16 (Pressing on toward the goal.)

Colossians 1:3-14 (The characteristics of a fulfilled life.)

Hebrews 7:11-28 (Jesus as high priest meets our needs for a fulfilled life.)

1 John 1:1-2:3 (Things to do to live a fulfilled life.)

Biblical truths to emphasize in your sermons: When you are a follower of Jesus Christ, you should grow in spiritual maturity.

Spiritual maturity brings a fulfilled life as the Holy Spirit leads you to experience all the spiritual gifts that the Lord wants you to enjoy and use in his kingdom.

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Notes

The Preachers’ Handbook

The Holy Spirit Scriptural passages to use for your sermons: Genesis 1:1-31 (The Holy Spirit was at work during the creation.)

Joel 2:28-32 (The Lord will pour out his Spirit on all people.)

John 14:15-31 (Jesus promises the coming of the Holy Spirit.)

John 16:5-16 (Jesus describes the work of the Holy Spirit.)

Acts 1:1-11 (The promise of the power of the Holy Spirit.)

Acts 2:1-13 (The Holy Spirit comes at Pentecost.)

Acts 13:1-4 (The Holy Spirit sends people out to ministry.)

Romans 8:1-17 (The Holy Spirit lives in the lives of the believers.)

1 Corinthians 2:6-16 (The wisdom of the Holy Spirit.)

1 Corinthians 12:1-11 (Different gifts of the Holy Spirit.)

1 Corinthians 14:1-25 (Prophecy and tongues as gifts of the Holy Spirit.)

Ephesians 1:3-14 (The blessings of the Holy Spirit in Christ.)

Biblical truths to emphasize in your sermons:

Important Preaching Topics

The Holy Spirit is the third Person in the holy Trinity of God, together with God the Father and God the Son, Jesus Christ.

The Holy Spirit was at work during the creation of heaven and earth (Genesis 1:2). He was and is also present and active throughout the history of mankind.

In the Old Testament (Joel 2) and in the time of Jesus (John 14) the promise was given that the Holy Spirit will be poured out after the ascension of Jesus Christ. This happened at Pentecost (Acts 2).

The Holy Spirit is working in the life of every believer. He leads us, helps us to pray and makes the gifts of the Spirit a reality in our lives.

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God as Three Persons Scriptural passages to use for your sermons: Matthew 28:16-20 (Baptise them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.)

John 14:16-26 (Jesus prays that the Father send the Holy Spirit.)

John 16:5-16 (The Spirit will bring glory to Jesus to whom belongs everything that comes from the Father.)

Acts 2:14-36 (Jesus was a man accredited to you by God. Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit.)

Romans 8:12-17 (The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. We are heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ.)

2 Corinthians 13:11-14 (The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit.)

1 John 5:6-12 (Only he that believes that Jesus is the Son of God ... and it is the Spirit who testifies.)

We believe that there is only one true and living God. God revealed Himself to us in the Bible as the triune (three in one) God. He revealed Himself in three Persons: God the Father, God the Son (Jesus Christ, our Saviour) and God the Holy Spirit.

God the Father is Almighty God, the Creator of heaven and earth.

God the Son is Jesus Christ, who came into this world as our Saviour. He died on the cross to redeem us from sin, He was resurrected from the dead and He ascended into heaven to reign as the head of his church.

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Biblical truths to emphasize in your sermons:

The Preachers’ Handbook

God the Holy Spirit was present throughout the history of this world, but he appeared in person at Pentecost (Acts 2). He lives and works in the lives of all believers.

God is Almighty and Everlasting. We as limited human beings will never on earth be able to know him as he really is. Nor will we be able to understand how one can be three or how three can be one. It is something that we have to believe, because God in his wisdom has decided to reveal himself to us in this way.

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Living with and Accommodating other Religions Scriptural passages to use for your sermons: Mark 9:38-41 (Whoever is not against us is for us.)

John 8:31-41 (Jesus speaks to the Jews about their religion.)

John 10:1-21 (The good shepherd also has other sheep that do not belong to this pen.)

John 14:1-6 (Jesus is the only way to the Father.)

Acts 4:12 (Salvation is found only in Jesus.)

Revelation 2:18-29 (The message to a church that tolerated a false doctrine.)

Biblical truths to emphasize in your sermons:

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There are more than 4000 different religions on earth today.

Christianity is the largest of all the religions on earth. But there are other religions that have millions of adherents, for example Islam, Hinduism, Judaism and Buddhism.

Although Christians believe that Christianity is the only true religion and the only way to the true God (John 14:1-6; Acts 4:12), we have to respect other people and their religions.

The best way to lead adherents of other religions to Christ, is to establish a personal relationship and a friendship with them in order to show them what Christianity is all about.

The Preachers’ Handbook

Leadership Scriptural passages to use for your sermons: Exodus 3:1-14 (Called to leadership.)

Exodus 17:1-7 (Moses learns about leadership from God.) Exodus 18:13-26 (Moses is instructed about leadership by his father-in-law.)

Mark 10:35-45 (Leadership by being like a servant.)

Romans 12:1-8 (Lead according to the gifts that you received from God.) 1 Timothy 3:1-10 (Requirements for faithful leaders in God’s kingdom.)

2 Timothy 2:1-7 (An effective leader teaches others to lead.)

Titus 1:5-9 (A leader is entrusted with God’s work.)

1 Peter 5:1-4 (Lead by being an example to the flock.)

Biblical truths to emphasize in your sermons: God calls people to be leaders in his church.

God gives special gifts of leadership to those that he needs to make use of in his kingdom.

Young leaders need to be trained to be effective in the service of the Lord.

Leadership in the church is not a position of power – it is an opportunity to serve others in humility.

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How to Receive God’s Blessing Scriptural passages to use for your sermons: Genesis 12:1-4 (Receive God’s blessing by being obedient to his call.)

Psalm 1:1-6 (Receive God’s blessing by living according to his will.)

Matthew 5:1-12 (Blessed in every circumstance.)

Romans 8:31-39 (Nothing can separate us from the love of God.) Ephesians 1:15-23 (Pray to receive God’s blessing.)

Philippians 4:4-9 (Receiving God’s blessing by rejoicing in the Lord.)

James 1:2-8 (Receive God’s blessing when your faith is tested.)

God bestows good things (blessings) on every believer who follows him.

These blessings are not to be earned. God gives them as gifts according to his grace and love.

These blessings are to be used to promote the glorification of the Lord and the coming of his kingdom.

These blessings enrich the lives of the believers and help them to serve the Lord in dedication and thankfulness.

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Biblical truths to emphasize in your sermons:

The Preachers’ Handbook

Receiving God’s Healing Scriptural passages to use for your sermons: Exodus 15:22-27 (Yahweh Rapha is the Lord who heals.)

2 Kings 5:1-19 (The Lord heals Naaman, commander of a foreign army.)

2 Kings 20:1-11 (The Lord heals King Hezekiah from illness.)

Psalm 30:1-12 (The healing that God gives to his faithful servants.)

Mark 1:29-39 (Healing as a way to bring the Word of God to people.)

Mark 10:46-52 (Receiving God’s healing by practising your faith.)

Luke 13:10-17 (Jesus heals a crippled woman.)

Acts 9:32-43 (Prayer unlocks God’s healing.)

Philippians 2:25-30 (Healing by God’s mercy.)

James 5:13-18 (The prayer of faith brings healing.)

Biblical truths to emphasize in your sermons:

Important Preaching Topics

Illness is a result of sin coming into this world.

Because Jesus overcame the power of sin, he could heal many sick people.

God does not use illness as a punishment for sin in people’s lives.

Believers are urged to pray earnestly for the healing of the sick.

It is not the will of God that people should be ill, but he also does not heal every sick person upon the prayers of believers.

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Contemporary Subjects of the Day in Your Community The sin of adultery Exodus 20:14 (You shall not commit adultery.)

Proverbs 6:24-7:27 (Do not lust in your heart.)

Matthew 5:27-30 (Anyone who looks at a woman lustfully ...)

John 8:1-11 (A woman caught in adultery.)

Romans 8:1-11 (Life according to the sinful nature.)

1 Thessalonians 4:1-8 (You should avoid sexual immorality.)

Hebrews 13:4 (God will judge the adulterer.)

James 4:1-10 (You adulterous people.)

Revelation 2:18-29 (Mislead into sexual immorality.)

The sin of addiction Proverbs 20:1 (Wine is a mocker.)

Proverbs 23:19-28 (Do not join those who drink too much wine.)

Isaiah 65:11-12 (Those who fill bowls of mixed wine for Destiny.)

Matthew 6:19-35 (No one can serve two masters.)

Ephesians 5:15-18 (Do not get drunk on wine.)

Matthew 22:15-22 (Give to Caesar what is Caesar’s.)

Romans 13:1-10 (Submit to the authorities.)

1 Timothy 2:1-8 (Pray for those in authority.)

1 Peter 2:13-17 (Submit to every authority.)

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Political disobedience

The Preachers’ Handbook

The sin of greed 2 Kings 5:20-27 (Gehazi and greed.)

Proverbs 16:8 (Better a little with righteousness.)

Luke 12:13-21 (The rich fool.)

Romans 1:29-32 (Filled with greed.)

1 Timothy 6:6-10 (The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.)

The sin of hatred Matthew 5:43-48 (Love your enemies.)

Matthew 22:34-40 (Love your neighbour as yourself.)

Galatians 5:19-26 (An act of the sinful nature is hatred.)

Titus 3:3-8 (Being hated and hating one another.)

1 Peter 1:22-2:3 (Love one another deeply.)

1 John 2:9-10 (Whoever hates his brother is in the darkness.)

The sin of anger or wrath Matthew 5:21-26 (Anyone who is angry with his brother, will be judged.)

Ephesians 4:26 (In your anger do not sin.)

Colossians 3:5-14 (Rid yourselves of anger.)

James 1:20-21 (Slow to become angry.)

The sin of pride Important Preaching Topics

Matthew 6:1-4 (Do not act to be seen by others.)

Luke 18:9-14 (The Pharisee and the tax collector.)

Philippians 2:1-11 (Do nothing out of selfish ambition.)

James 4:1-10 (God opposes the proud.)

1 Peter 5:5-6 (Clothe yourself with humility.)

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The sin of envy Genesis 4:1-18 (The envy of Cain.)

Matthew 20:1-16 (The envy of the workers in the vineyard.)

Titus 3:1-8 (We lived in malice and envy.)

James 3:13-18 (Do not harbour bitter envy in your heart.)

The sin of gluttony Proverbs 23:19-21 (Do not join the gluttons.)

Luke 12:22-26 (Do not worry about your life.)

Philippians 3:12-21 (Their god is their stomach.)

2 Timothy 3:1-9 (People will be lovers of themselves.)

The sin of sloth or laziness Proverbs 6:6-11 (Go to the ant, you sluggard.)

Matthew 25:14-26 (You wicked, lazy servant.)

1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 (Work with your hands.)

2 Thessalonians 3:6-16 (Keep away from every brother who is idle.)

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Chapter 7

Example of a Full Year Plan for Sermons The Importance of Planning your Sermons in Advance

It is advisable and very important to plan your sermons well in advance.

By planning your preaching for a whole year in advance you can be sure that you adhere to the church calendar year, that you give attention to all the important themes necessary for a successful ministry, and that you allow yourself ample time to prepare your sermons.

What follows is an example of the planning of sermons for a full year in advance. You can follow this example for the first year and then do your own planning for the next and following years.

Use chapter 8 to help you where this example planner suggests that you teach “book by book” through the Bible.

For the purpose of this planner we will assume that March, May, August and November will have five Sundays. The year for which you are planning may be different.

The dates of Good Friday and Easter Sunday differ from year to year. For the purpose of this planner we will assume that Easter Sunday will fall on the second Sunday of April. This means that the first week of Lent will be the last week of February. Be certain of the dates in the year you are planning for.

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JANUARY In January people get started with the work of the new year. It is important to direct the attention to the work of the church in the year to come. Therefore you should fit in a VISION WEEKEND as early as possible in the new year. For the last two Sundays we start preaching book by book. We begin with the first five books of the Bible – the Pentateuch or the books of Moses.

WEEK 1: The new year – a gift from God. Matthew 6:31-33 (Seek first His kingdom and all will be given to you.)

WEEK 2: VISION WEEKEND. What is God’s plan for your church? Acts 2:41-47 (The fellowship of believers in the first Christian church.)

WEEK 3: Book by book: GENESIS. Genesis 3:1-28 (Satan misled Adam and Eve to fall into sin. It corrupted human nature and made us sinners before God.) WEEK 4: Book by book: EXODUS. Exodus 3:1-22 (Moses meets God at the burning bush and receives his instructions to free Israel from bondage.)

FEBRUARY In February we deal with the last three books of the Pentateuch.

And then the first week of Lent sets in.

WEEK 1: Book by book: LEVITICUS. Leviticus 16:1-34 (The Day of Atonement and the offerings involved. Jesus fulfilled this with his final offering – read Hebrews 9:1-28.)

WEEK 2: Book by book: NUMBERS. Numbers 6:22-27 (The priestly blessing given by God to Aaron and his sons. It gives us a wonderful idea of the vision God had for his people.)

WEEK 3: Book by book: DEUTERONOMY. Deuteronomy 6:1-9 (Israel is reminded that there is only one God and that they should love him and be sure that their children also serve the Lord.)

ASH WEDNESDAY: The Wednesday before the first Sunday of Lent marks the beginning of Passiontide. It is a day of 95

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penitence, prayer and fasting. Psalm 51:1-19 (David confesses his sin and prays for forgiveness.)

WEEK 4: FIRST WEEK OF LENT. Isaiah 52:13-53:12 (The New Testament freely applies this song to Jesus. Read Acts 8:30-40 and 1 Peter 2:21-25. What do we learn from this passage in Isaiah about the suffering of Jesus Christ?)

MARCH In March we continue with the seven weeks of Lent. The passion and crucifixion of Jesus stand at the centre of our attention.

WEEK 1: SECOND WEEK OF LENT. Luke 22:1-6 (Judas agrees to betray Jesus.)

WEEK 2: THIRD WEEK OF LENT. Mark 14:12-26 (The last supper of Jesus and his disciples.)

WEEK 3: FOURTH WEEK OF LENT. Mark 14:32-42 (Jesus in Gethsemane.)

WEEK 4: FIFTH WEEK OF LENT. Luke 22:47-53 (Jesus is arrested.)

WEEK 5: SIXTH WEEK OF LENT. Luke 22:54-62 (Peter disowns Jesus.)

APRIL In April we continue with Passiontide up to Good Friday and Easter Sunday. Thereafter we give attention to important subjects concerning the personal spiritual life of believers.

WEEK 1: SEVENTH WEEK OF LENT. Matthew 26:57-68 (Jesus before the Sanhedrin.)

FRIDAY: GOOD FRIDAY. Luke 23:26-49 (The crucifixion of Jesus.)

WEEK 2: EASTER SUNDAY. Matthew 28:1-20 (Jesus is risen. The great commission.)

WEEK 3: DISCIPLESHIP. Luke 14:25-33 (Any of you who does not give up everything he has, cannot be my disciple.)

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WEEK 4: LOVE. 1 John 4:7-12 (God is love. He loved us so much that he gave his only son to save us. We should love one another with the same love God has for us.)

MAY In May we continue with subjects concerning the personal spiritual life of believers. Then follows the Day of Ascension and the festivities of Pentecost.

WEEK 1: HEARING GOD’S VOICE. Isaiah 55:1-9 (Tune in and hear the voice of God.) WEEK 2: YOUR LIFE AS A SACRIFICE. Romans 12:1-8 (Offer your body as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.) WEEK 3: A FULFILLED LIFE. Colossians 1:3-14 (The characteristics of a fulfilled life.)

THURSDAY: DAY OF ASCENSION. Acts 1:1-11 (Jesus taken up into heaven.)

WEEK 4: THE HOLY SPIRIT PROMISED. John 14:15-31 (Jesus promises the Holy Spirit.)

WEEK 5: DAY OF PENTECOST. Acts 2:1-13 (The Holy Spirit comes at Pentecost.)

JUNE In June we start off with Trinity Sunday and then we give attention to the coming of the kingdom of God. WEEK 1: TRINITY SUNDAY. Romans 8:12-17 (The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God’s children. We are heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ.)

WEEK 2: FINDING YOUR MINISTRY. 1 Corinthians 12:1-31 (There are different spiritual gifts. Which are yours?)

WEEK 3: MISSIONS. Matthew 28:16-20 (Jesus’ great commission to his followers: Go and make disciples of all nations.)

WEEK 4: PERSONAL EVANGELISM. Acts 8:26-40 (Philip leads the Ethiopian to Christ.)

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JULY In July we look at different promises in the Bible.

WEEK 1: GOD WITH US. Joshua 1:9 (Be strong and courageous, for the Lord will be with you.)

WEEK 2: REST FOR THE WEARY. Matthew 11:28-29 (Christ will give rest to the weary and burdened.)

WEEK 3: CHILD OF GOD. John 1:12 (Those who receive Jesus as Lord will become children of God.) WEEK 4: FREE INDEED. John 8:36 (If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.)

AUGUST In August we listen to a number of parables that Jesus told.

WEEK 1: Matthew 13:1-23 (The parable of the sower.)

WEEK 2: Matthew 18:10-14 (The parable of the lost sheep.)

WEEK 3: Luke 10:25-37 (The parable of the good Samaritan.)

WEEK 4: Luke 15:11-31 (The parable of the lost son.)

WEEK 5: Matthew 25:1-13 (The parable of the ten virgins.)

SEPTEMBER In September we give attention to what the Bible teaches about marriage and family life.

WEEK 1: MARRIAGE. Ephesians 5:22-33 (Paul gives instructions for the behaviour of a man and a woman toward each other in marriage. The secret lies in the love of Christ for his church.)

WEEK 2: LOVE IN MARRIAGE. 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 (Marriage is built on the love of God. Paul tells us what the characteristics of this heavenly love are.)

WEEK 3: A WIFE OF NOBLE CHARACTER. Proverbs 31:10-31 (A poem about the wife of noble character.)

WEEK 4: FAMILY LIFE. Colossians 3:18-4:1 (Rules for Christian households.)

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OCTOBER In October we take a look at three names of God in the Bible. And on Reformation Sunday we celebrate our salvation through grace alone.

WEEK 1: GOD, OUR FATHER. 1 John 3:1-3 (We should be called children of God.) WEEK 2: JESUS CHRIST, THE LAMB OF GOD. John 1:29-34 (There is the Lamb of God.) WEEK 3: THE HOLY SPIRIT, OUR COUNSELLOR. John 15:2616:16 (The Spirit will guide you into all truth.)

WEEK 4: REFORMATION SUNDAY. Romans 1:8-17 (In the gospel a righteousness from God is revealed.)

NOVEMBER In November we study a New Testament book. It is the letter of Paul to Titus. Before the first week of Christmastide we celebrate the feast of Christ the King.

WEEK 1: Titus 1:5-16 (Instructions on Titus’ ministry in Crete.)

WEEK 2: Titus 2:1-15 (Instructions on teachings to various groups.)

WEEK 3: Titus 3:1-11 (Instructions on the practical side of Christian life.)

WEEK 4: THE FEAST OF CHRIST THE KING. 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11 (The second coming of Jesus Christ.)

WEEK 5: FIRST WEEK OF ADVENT. Micah 5:1-9 (A promised ruler from Bethlehem – a prophecy which is connected to the birth of Jesus in Matthew 2:5-6.)

DECEMBER In December we are looking forward to the festive event on Christmas Day. Then follows the feast of “epiphany” or the “appearance of our Saviour”.

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WEEK 1: SECOND WEEK OF ADVENT. Luke 1:26-38 (The birth of Jesus foretold.)

WEEK 2: THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT. Luke 1:39-56 (Mary glorifies the Lord in her song of praise.)

WEEK 3: FOURTH WEEK OF ADVENT. Matthew 2:1-12 (The Magi visit the Messiah.)

CHRISTMAS DAY: Luke 2:1-20 (The birth of our Saviour, Jesus Christ.)

WEEK 4: THE FEAST OF EPIPHANY. Luke 2:21-40 (Jesus presented in the temple.)

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Know the Books of the Bible and Preach Book by Book Introduction Why the Bible has 2 Testaments and 66 Books: The Word of God comes to us in 66 different books written by many different authors over the course of many centuries.

And yet we believe in the words of Paul that “… all Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

The Word of God is divided into two testaments. The Old Testament consists of 39 books and it tells us about the creation of heaven and earth, the old covenant that God made with Abram and about the history of the Israelites, the chosen people of God. It also contains many prophecies and promises about the coming of the Messiah, the Saviour of the world.

The New Testament tells us that these prophecies have become a reality when Jesus Christ, the Son of God and the Saviour of the world, was born. We read about his birth, his ministry, his death on the cross (to bring salvation to the believers) and his resurrection and ascension into heaven. Jesus gave his disciples the great commission to bring the good message of salvation to all the peoples of the earth and to teach them to accept him as their Saviour and to serve him for the rest of their lives. We also read how this commission was executed and how the early Christian church was formed and played an important part to establish the kingdom of God on earth.

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The Preachers’ Handbook

The Books of the Old Testament The Old Testament consists of 39 books. It is divided into four different sections.

The first five books are called the “Pentateuch” or the “books of the law” or the “books of Moses”.

They are followed by the twelve historical books.

The following five books are called the poetic books.

The last seventeen books are called prophetic books. The four greater prophets were the authors of five books. The last twelve books are called the minor prophets.

The Pentateuch (the five books of Moses) Preaching Book By Book

The first five books in the Old Testament are traditionally ascribed to Moses as author. It is likely that he handed down most of the content. There are also parts that must have been added by other authors, for example the description of the death of Moses in Deuteronomy 34. The text has most likely been transmitted orally from generation to generation and probably finalised in script during the thirteenth century before Christ.

The name “Pentateuch” is never used in the Bible itself. It was first used to describe these books in 160 AD. The name means “the book in five parts”. These books tell the history of mankind since the creation and the history of the chosen people of God up to just before the Israelites entered into the promised land.

Genesis What you should know about Genesis: The name “Genesis” means “beginnings” or “birth”. The book tells us that everything began with God and that he elected a people of his own.

The main themes are the creation (Genesis 1-2), the fall of mankind in sin (6), the flood (6-8), the tower of Babel (11), the calling of Abram (12), the covenant with Abram (17), the 102

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testing of Abraham (22), Isaac’s blessing (27), the wanderings of Jacob (29-35) and Joseph in Egypt (37-50).

Genesis 1:1-31 (How God created heaven and earth according to his plan.)

Genesis 3:1-28 (Satan misled Adam and Eve to fall into sin.

It corrupted human nature and made us sinners before God.) Genesis 6:9-8:22 (God decided to punish mankind by sending a flood. Noah and his family survived.)

Genesis 12:1-9 (God called Abram to venture abroad. He obeyed and became the father of the new nation of God.) Genesis 15:1-21 (God made a covenant with Abram and promised to be his God and protect him.)

Genesis 17:1-27 (God gave promises to Abram and sealed them with the token of circumcision.)

Genesis 22:1-19 (God tested Abraham’s faith and obedience by ordering him to bring his only son as an offering.)

Genesis 27:1-46 (Esau is deceived by Jacob and Jacob receives the blessing of Isaac. Jacob flees to avoid Esau’s wrath.)

Genesis 28:13-30:43 (Jacob stays with Laban, marries Leah and Rachel and becomes very prosperous.)

Genesis 37:1-36 (Joseph makes himself hated by his brothers by having extravagant dreams. They sell him as a slave into Egypt.)

Genesis 39:1-23 (Joseph serves in the home of Potiphar and withstands the sexual seduction planned by Potiphar’s wife.)

Genesis 41:41-45:28 (Joseph becomes second in command in Egypt. His brothers arrive looking for food. Joseph is gracious toward them.)

Genesis 49:1-33 (Jacob gives his sons wonderful blessings and dies.)

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Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Genesis:

The Preachers’ Handbook

Exodus What you should know about Exodus: Exodus is the second book of the Pentateuch (the five books of Moses).

The name means “exit” or “the road out of ” (Egypt, in this case).

The main themes are the deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 1-15), the giving of the law (Exodus 19-20) and the building of the tabernacle (Exodus 25-31).

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Exodus: Preaching Book By Book

Exodus 2:1-24 (The birth of Moses and his flight to Midian.)

Exodus 3:1-22 (Moses meets God at the burning bush and receives his instructions to free Israel from bondage.)

Exodus 7:1-11:10 (The ten plagues on Egypt and the Pharaoh’s consent that Israel may leave Egypt.)

Exodus 13:17-14:31 (The crossing of the sea and the demise of the Egyptians.)

Exodus 16:1-36 (God provides for Israel by giving them manna and quails.)

Exodus 17:8-16 (The Amalekites defeated as long as Moses could hold his arms high and pray to God.) Exodus 19:1-20:21 (Israel camp at Mount Sinai and receive the Ten Commandments.)

Exodus 26:1-31:11 (The tabernacle is being built according to the plans God gave Israel.)

Leviticus What you should know about Leviticus: The name points to the fact that the book contains laws concerning the work of the priests and Levites.

The main theme is “Reconciliation and sanctification” and 104

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the book contains the following divisions: laws on offerings (Leviticus 1-7), the service at the tabernacle (Leviticus 8-10), laws on cleanliness and pureness (Leviticus 11-15), the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16), laws on holiness and unholiness (Leviticus 17-26) and laws on redeeming what belongs to the Lord (Leviticus 27).

Leviticus 1-7 (Different offerings are being described. You could take any one of them and explain what role those offerings played in the religion of Israel. Remember to tell the listeners that Jesus came as the final offering to free us from our sin (Hebrews 10:1-18).)

Leviticus 10:1-20 (The sin of Aaron’s sons Nadab and Abihu while offering to the Lord and the punishment for their disobedience.)

Leviticus 16:1-34 (The Day of Atonement and the offerings involved. Jesus fulfilled this with his final offering – read Hebrews 9:1-28.)

Numbers What you should know about Numbers: The name of the book refers to the lists of numbers of men fit for military duty in Numbers 1-2 and 26.

Numbers tells the story of the forty years during which Israel journeyed from Mount Sinai to the edge of Canaan. This was a time of great turmoil in which the people rebelled against God. The main character is Moses who, with his many talents and humble spirit, acted as intermediary between his God and his people.

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Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Leviticus:

The Preachers’ Handbook

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Numbers: Numbers 6:22-27 (The priestly blessing given by God to Aaron and his sons. It gives us a wonderful idea of the vision God had for his people.)

Numbers 13:1-33 (Twelve scouts are sent out to inspect the promised land. Only two bring back a positive report.)

Numbers 21:4-9 (Israel rebelled against God and he sent venomous snakes to punish them. Moses had to put up a bronze snake on a pole to save his people. Jesus applies this in John 3:14-15 to his own death on the cross to save his people.)

Numbers 22:1-41 (How Balaam was forced to do the will of God, even after his donkey had to speak to him.)

Preaching Book By Book

Deuteronomy What you should know about Deuteronomy: The name of the book means “the second set of laws”.

The events described in this book took place on the plains of Moab as the Israelites are making ready to enter the promised land.

Moses gives attention to transferring his leadership to Joshua and gives his final instructions to the people. The book ends with an account of his death.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Deuteronomy: Deuteronomy 4:44-5:27 (The Ten Commandments are reiterated. Moses emphasizes the holiness of God and the necessity of obedience to him.)

Deuteronomy 6:1-9 (Israel is reminded that there is only one God and that they should love him and be sure that their children also serve the Lord.)

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Chapter 8 Deuteronomy 29:1-29 (Moses renews the covenant between the Lord and his people. Israel is instructed anew to love and serve the Lord.)

Deuteronomy 31:30-32:47 (Moses recites a song about the relationship between God and his people. He encourages them to keep every word of the law, which brings life to them and their children.)

Deuteronomy 34:1-12 (The death of Moses, and a wonderful description of the relationship between God and Moses.)

There are twelve historical books in the Old Testament. They contain the history of Israel from the entry of Israel into the promised land (about in 1400 bc) up to the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem after the exile of Israel by Nehemiah in around 430 bc.

Joshua What you should know about Joshua: This book was named after Joshua, the leader of Israel who succeeded Moses. His name means “The Lord is Salvation”.

The book Joshua tells about the conquest of the promised land by the Israelites and the division of the land between the different tribes.

Just like Moses Joshua encouraged the chosen people of God before his death to remain faithful to the Lord and to refrain from serving idols.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Joshua: Joshua 1:1-9 (Joshua installed as leader. He receives his instructions from the Lord.)

Joshua 3:1-5:1 (The Israelites cross over the Jordan River and take possession of the land.)

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The Historical Books

The Preachers’ Handbook Joshua 5:13-6:27 (The fall of Jericho, the first city being conquered.)

Joshua 7:1-26 (The sin of Achan and how he was punished.)

Joshua 10:1-15 (The sun stands still while the Amorites are being conquered.)

Joshua 24:1-28 (The covenant renewed at Shechem. Joshua’s undertaking that he and his family will always serve the Lord faithfully.)

Judges

Preaching Book By Book

What you should know about Judges: The judges were the leaders of Israel during the first years of life in the promised land and before the first king was appointed.

The book tells about the repeated disobedience and unfaithfulness of God’s people. Every time the people were punished and called for help. And every time the Lord appointed a leader to rescue them from their enemies.

The last chapters describe the total disorder that prevailed in the religious and moral aspects of their lives.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Judges: Judges 4:1-25 (The calling of Deborah and the efficient way in which she and Barak delivered Israel from the Canaanites.)

Judges 6:1-39 (The calling of Gideon and how the Lord helped him to become obedient.)

Judges 11:1-40 (The thoughtless vow that Jephthah made to the Lord and how it changed his life.)

Judges 14:1-31 (How Samson was deceived by Delilah and how it led to his death.)

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Ruth What you should know about Ruth: The book Ruth tells the wonderful story of the Moabite daughter-in-law of Naomi and how she was taken up in the genealogy of Jesus Christ.

The book tells about the responsibilities of the guardianredeemer in Israel and how it happened that a Moabite became one of the ancestors of King David in spite of Deuteronomy 23:3-6.

Ruth 1:1-22 (The faithfulness of the widow Ruth towards her mother-in-law and how it changed her life.)

Ruth 4:1-17 (How Boaz became the husband of Ruth and how it had an influence in the genealogy of King David and Jesus Christ.)

1 and 2 Samuel What you should know about 1 and 2 Samuel: Samuel (his name means “The Lord has heard”) played an important role in both these books as leader and prophet of Israel.

1 Samuel describes the transition from the period of the judges to that of the vested kingdom of David.

2 Samuel describes the period after the death of Samuel, but he still plays an important indirect role as he anointed David as king. David reigned at first as king of Judah, but after a civil war he became king of all twelve tribes. He strengthened the kingdom and extended its territory, but his kingdom nearly disintegrated due to his sin with Bathsheba.

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Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Ruth:

The Preachers’ Handbook

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on 1 and 2 Samuel:

Preaching Book By Book

1 Samuel 3:1-21 (How Samuel was called by the Lord, obeyed his calling and became an important prophet of Israel.)

1 Samuel 9:1-10:27 (Samuel anoints Saul as the first king of Israel and gives him his instructions from the Lord.)

1 Samuel 17:1-58 (David slays the mighty Goliath and saves the people of God from their enemies.)

2 Samuel 6:1-23 (David brings the ark of God to Jerusalem and sacrifices offerings before the Lord.)

2 Samuel 9:1-13 (David shows kindness to Mephibosheth.)

2 Samuel 11:1-26 (David yields to temptation and becomes a murderer and an adulterer.)

2 Samuel 12:1-25 (The prophet Nathan rebukes David and he confesses his sins.)

1 and 2 Kings What you should know about 1 and 2 Kings: The books of Kings continues the history told in the books of Samuel.

In 1 Kings we read of the anointing of Solomon as king, the building and dedication of the temple, the rupture of the kingdom into two parts and the way in which different kings of Israel and Judah became disobedient to God. 2 Kings tells us about the reign of more kings of Israel and Judah and focuses on the role that the prophets Elijah and Elisha played. After the demise of the kingdom of Israel (chapter 17) we follow the history of the kingdom of Judah up to the fall of Jerusalem in 586 bc (chapter 25).

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1 Kings 3:1-28 (Solomon asks the Lord to give him wisdom and he becomes the wisest king of all.)

1 Kings 10:1-29 (The queen of Sheba pays Solomon a visit to acquaint herself of his wisdom and riches.)

1 Kings 11:41-12:25 (After Solomon’s death the kingdom is divided into the kingdoms of Israel and Judah and much of its former splendour was lost.)

1 Kings 18:1-46 (The rivalry between Elijah and the prophets of Baal.)

1 Kings 21:1-29 (Ahab and the vineyard of Naboth.)

2 Kings 2:1-22 (Elijah is taken up in heaven and Elisha takes over as prophet in Israel.)

2 Kings 5:1-26 (Naaman is healed of leprosy and Gehazi suffers owing to his disobedience.)

2 Kings 20:1-11 (Hezekiah is healed from illness.)

1 and 2 Chronicles What you should know about 1 and 2 Chronicles: In 1 and 2 Chronicles much of the history related in Samuel and Kings is reported again. The main theme is “God cares for his people through the leadership of King David and his descendants”.

The first nine chapters of 1 Chronicles is taken up with genealogies. Thereafter the focus is on what David has done to promote the worship of God in Jerusalem.

In 2 Chronicles the emphasis is on the building and dedication of the temple of Solomon, the religious reformations of a number of kings, the bad influence of Ahab and his priests of the idol Baal and the eventual destruction of the kingdoms of Israel and Judah.

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Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on 1 and 2 Kings:

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Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on 1 and 2 Chronicles:

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1 Chronicles 17:16-27 (David humbles himself before the Lord and promises to be obedient to the Lord and serve him for the rest of his life.)

1 Chronicles 29:16-20 (A wonderful prayer of David where he consecrates his life to the service of the Lord and urges the people to do the same.)

2 Chronicles 5:1-6:42 (Solomon brings the ark of the Lord to the temple and prays to the Lord magnifying his name.)

2 Chronicles 34:1-33 (In Josiah’s time as king of Judah he eradicated idolatry and restored the temple. When the forgotten Book of the Law of the Lord was found, Josiah called all his people together, read the contents to them and urged them to pledge themselves to it.)

Ezra What you should know about Ezra: The book Ezra tells about the return of the exiles to Jerusalem and the rebuilding of the temple.

The first six chapters gives a summary of what happened between 538 (the return of the exiles) and 511 bc (the dedication of the rebuilt temple).

Ezra, “a teacher well versed in the Law of Moses” (Ezra 7:6), appears on the scene in chapter 7. He was sent by King Artaxerxes of Persia in 458 bc as an envoy to restore law and order in Jerusalem. His work was of great importance for the future of the Jews who returned from exile. He urged the people to be obedient to the law of God, to confess their sins and to serve the Lord according to his will.

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Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Ezra: Ezra 3:1-13 (The rebuilding of the altar and the temple of the Lord.)

Ezra 10:1-17 (The confession of sins and the dedication to the service of the Lord.)

What you should know about Nehemiah: Nehemiah was a former cupbearer of Artaxerxes, the king of Persia. When he heard about the trouble and disgrace of those Jews who returned from exile, he asked permission from the king to return to Jerusalem in 445 bc.

Nehemiah became governor of the province for a period of thirteen years. Together with Ezra he inspired the exiles to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem amidst great opposition from the enemies. They also made a great contribution to restore the temple service.

Nehemiah was a devout leader. His prayers bear witness of his dedication to the service of the Lord.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Nehemiah: Nehemiah 1:1-2:10 (Nehemiah’s prayer after hearing of the critical state of affairs in Jerusalem – and the way in which his prayers were answered.)

Nehemiah 4:1-23 (How Nehemiah inspired the people to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem in spite of the opposition coming from the enemies.)

Nehemiah 8:1-18 (After the completion of the rebuilding of the walls, the people humbled themselves before the Lord, confessed their sins, read the Book of the Law, prayed to the Lord and glorified his name.)

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Nehemiah

The Preachers’ Handbook

Esther

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What you should know about Esther: The book Esther tells about the origin of the Purim festival.

Even today this festival is celebrated by the Jews as a remembrance of how the people of God were saved during the reign of King Xerxes of Persia (485-465 bc).

Esther was a young Jewish orphan who lived with her foster father Mordecai in the citadel of Susa, where the royal throne of Xerxes was at that time. The Lord ensured that she became the queen of Persia. Amid great danger she took the opportunity to step into the breach for her people when they were threatened with extinction.

The name of God does not appear anywhere in the book Esther. It becomes clear throughout the book though that the history of God’s people is still in his hands.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Esther: Esther 2:1-18 (How the Lord ensured that Esther became the queen of Persia and be in a position to save his people at a later stage.)

Esther 4:1-5:8 (Mordecai urges Esther to speak to the king amid great danger in order to save the people of God.) Esther 9:1-32 (How the Jewish people were saved from the wrath of their enemies and how the Purim festival was established.)

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The Poetic Books

There are five poetic books in the Old Testament. The contents were written in the form of poems. In most Bible translations the text is printed in poetic form.

What you should know about Job: We are not certain where and when Job lived and who the author of this book is. A probability is that Job lived in the patriarchal age, but that the book in its present form was written much later, possibly 600-400 bc.

The book has to do with a pious and wealthy man, reputed to be very wise. When he loses herds, house and family and is struck down with a terrible disease, his friends try to explain it by saying that his suffering is the result of sin. Job persists in responding that he did not deserve the suffering. God shows Job the works of his creation, his omnipotence and his wisdom and Job finds peace. In the end Job again becomes a wealthy man.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Job: Job 1:1-2:13 (The dialogue between God and Satan about the pious Job. Job is struck with many sufferings and his friends try to console him.)

Job 27:1-23 (Job’s final words to his friends: To live in the presence of God is what this life is all about.)

Job 38-41 (The words of the Lord to Job. He shows him the works of his creation, his omnipotence and his wisdom.)

Job 42:1-17 (The final words of Job to God, followed by the words of God to Job’s friends and the final blessings that God bestowed on Job.)

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Job

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Psalms

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What you should know about Psalms: This book contains 150 psalms. Traditionally they are divided into five collections, namely Psalms 1-41, Psalms 42-72, Psalms 73-89, Psalms 90-106 and Psalms 107-150.

A number of the psalms are ascribed to certain authors or poets. We read about Moses (Psalm 90), David (73 of the 150 psalms), Solomon (Psalms 72, 127), Asaph (Psalms 50, 73-83), Heman (Psalm 88), Ethan (Psalm 89) and the sons of Korah (Psalms 42, 44-49, 84, 85, 87, 88). Many are anonymous.

There are different kinds of psalms or songs, for example songs of praise, songs of lamentations and songs of thanksgiving.

Psalms 120-134 are called “songs of ascents” because they were sung during the journey to Jerusalem to praise and serve God in the temple.

The different psalms came into being over many centuries. They may well have been collected and arranged in the present form as the “hymn book” of Israel in the fourth or third century bc.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Psalms: You could preach one or more sermons based on every one of the psalms. The examples given here are meant to draw your attention to the most well-known psalms.

Psalm 8 (Praise be the Creator of heaven and earth.)

Psalm 23 (The Lord is our shepherd.)

Psalm 51 (David confesses his sins before the Lord.)

Psalm 78 (Lessons from history to confirm that God is faithful.)

Psalm 84 (Love for the dwelling-place of the Lord.)

Psalm 90 (The importance of human life in the eyes of Almighty God.) Psalm 100 (A well-known song of thanksgiving and praise to the Lord.)

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Chapter 8 Psalm 119 (A song of praise for the privilege of having the word of God.) Psalm 146 (I will sing praise to my God as long as I live.)

What you should know about Proverbs: The book Proverbs consists of a collection of poems or proverbs that aims to instruct the readers about the correct view of life and the appropriate art of living. The basis is repeatedly stressed: “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:7).

Proverbs has multiple authors and compilers. King Solomon is the most prominent of these (Proverbs 1:1-22:16; 25:129:27). The group of authors entitled “the wise” (Proverbs 22:17-24:34) may have been royal scribes. The sayings of Agur (Proverbs 30) and Lemuel (Proverbs 31) conclude the book.

King Solomon reigned in Israel around 970-930 bc. During that time he wrote thousands of proverbs and songs (1 Kings 4:32). The final compilation occurred after the time of Hezekiah (Proverbs 25:1), possibly as late as 500 bc.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Proverbs: You could preach one or more sermons based on every chapter of Proverbs. The examples given here are meant to draw your attention to the most well-known passages.

Proverbs 1:20-33 (Warnings against rejecting wisdom.)

Proverbs 6:20-7:27 (Warnings against adultery and the adulteress.)

Proverbs 23:29-35 (Warnings against the dangers of drinking.)

Proverbs 31:10-31 (A poem about the wife of noble character.)

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Proverbs

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Ecclesiastes

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What you should know about Ecclesiastes: The book Ecclesiastes is traditionally attributed to King Solomon, but no writer is named in the book.

The theme of the book is “The significance of human life”.

It searches for answers to the most important questions concerning the meaning of life on earth, especially where human wisdom cannot provide any. It is best described in the words of Proverbs 1:13-14. “I devoted myself to study and to explore by wisdom all that is done under heaven. What a heavy burden God has laid on men! I have seen all the things that are done under the sun; all of them are meaningless, a chasing after the wind.”

The conclusion of the matter is found in Ecclesiastes 12:13-14.

“Fear God and keep his commandments, for this is the whole duty of man. For God will bring every deed into judgment, including every hidden thing, whether it is good or evil.”

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Ecclesiastes: Ecclesiastes 1-12 (A sermon on Ecclesiastes could take the whole book into account. Scripture reading should include the two passages quoted above. Explain the theme and the conclusion of the book.)

Ecclesiastes 3:1-22 (Use your time wisely and make proper use of every opportunity.)

Ecclesiastes 5:8-20 (Riches are meaningless unless you use and enjoy them wisely.)

Ecclesiastes 11:7-12:7 (Remember your Creator in the days of your youth.)

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Song of Songs

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Song of Songs Song of Songs 1-8 (A sermon on Song of Songs could take the whole book into account as a celebration of the love between a man and a woman.)

The Books of the Four Greater Prophets

The four “greater prophets” are Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel and Daniel. They wrote five books, as the Lamentations of Jeremiah is also included here. The name “greater prophets” does not only refer to the length of their books, but also to the importance of their work.

Isaiah What you should know about Isaiah: In the opening verse of the book the author is named Isaiah, son of Amoz. Isaiah ministered in Judah around 740-680 bc.

Assyria, the invincible power of the day, was threatening Jerusalem with conquest (2 Kings 15-20). Isaiah saw in this the culmination of God’s judgment against the widespread apostasy of Judah under King Ahaz. He predicted the fall of 119

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What you should know about Song of Songs: The book contains a compilation of love songs celebrating the love between a man and a woman which is akin to God’s love for his people.

It is traditionally ascribed to King Solomon. His dynasty, his unsurpassed wisdom and wealth and his many wives and concubines stand in contrast to the simple rustic purity of Song of Songs.

Some scholars interpret the contents as an allegory depicting either God’s love for Israel or Christ’s love for his church.

The Preachers’ Handbook

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Jerusalem (which happened in 586 bc). The only hope for escape, Isaiah declared, was God’s intervention, not political alliances, material wealth or religious pretence.

The book of Isaiah is divided into two distinct parts: Isaiah 1-39 (“The Book of Judgment”), reflects for the most part the kingdoms of Isaiah’s day, and Isaiah 40-66 (“The Book of Comfort”) envisions the return from exile (536 bc) and the coming of the kingdom of God. Some believe that these visionary chapters may have been written later by others following in Isaiah’s footsteps.

As a prophet, poet and politician Isaiah was a giant in his day, respected in royal circles despite his unpopular message.

Known for his beautiful images and profound insights into the nature of God, the prophet Isaiah is quoted in the New Testament more than all other prophets combined.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Isaiah: Isaiah 6:1-13 (The calling of Isaiah as prophet.)

Isaiah 9:1-6 (The New Testament interprets this prophecy as referring to the coming of Jesus Christ. Read Matthew 4:1217. Also refer to Luke 1:32 and John 8:12.)

Isaiah 38:1-22 (The power of intercession to heal illness.)

Isaiah 40:1-14 (The New Testament interprets the prophecy in verse 3 as referring to the work of John the Baptist. What does this passage then say about the work of Jesus Christ?)

Isaiah 43:1-7 (The loving care of Almighty God for his people.)

Isaiah 52:13-53:12 (The New Testament freely applies this song to Jesus. Read Acts 8:30-40 and 1 Peter 2:21-25. What do we learn from this passage in Isaiah about the suffering of Jesus Christ?)

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What you should know about Jeremiah: The author of this book was Jeremiah, who was both a prophet and a priest. Events recorded here span the years 626-585 bc.

The theme of the book is “God is just and must punish sin.

But God in his grace promises Israel restoration and covenant renewal”.

The prophet Jeremiah ministered in the context of three major kings. Under King Josiah (640-609 bc) Jeremiah was free to preach and join in Josiah’s reform movement. Under King Jehoiakim (609-598 bc) Jeremiah fell out of royal favour and experienced frequent imprisonments. Under King Zedekiah (597-586 bc) Jeremiah was treated more kindly but still had to fear for his life.

The judgment that Jeremiah announced was brought about by king Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. He besieged Jerusalem three times, culminating in the sacking of Jerusalem in 586 bc and a full-scale exile of Jews to Babylon.

The book is constructed thematically, not chronologically.

Jeremiah complains to God about the job allotted to him more than any other prophet. Jeremiah denounces Judah’s kings for their folly and weakness and the people for going their own way. Equally a part of his message, however, is a God of love who is determined to make a people worthy of his name.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Jeremiah: Jeremiah 1:4-19 (Jeremiah is called as prophet and begins with his work.)

Jeremiah 10:1-16 (The difference between the God of Israel and the idols.)

Jeremiah 18:1-23 (Jeremiah learns at the potter’s house what the Lord wants to do to his people.)

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Jeremiah

The Preachers’ Handbook Jeremiah 24:1-10 (The vision of the two baskets of figs and what they symbolised.)

Jeremiah 38:1-28 (Jeremiah is thrown into a cistern and rescued by Ebed-Melech. The king Zedekiah comes to his senses.)

Jeremiah 52:1-30 (The fall of Jerusalem.)

Lamentations

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What you should know about Lamentations: This book is traditionally ascribed to Jeremiah as author, although his name is never mentioned in the book itself.

The book was probably written between 586 bc (the fall of Jerusalem) and 516 bc (the dedication of the rebuilt temple).

The book laments the fall of Jerusalem and Judah’s forced exile to Babylon. The city has lain under siege by Babylon for eighteen months. Outside the city the Babylonians have captured and slain the people of Judah. Inside the city disease and famine have claimed many more.

These songs of lamentation stress that God punished his people in this way owing to their sins. There is a mood of deep sorrow and grief, but also of hope and a call to repentance.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Lamentations: Lamentations 1:1-22 (The author laments the terrible events in Jerusalem and asks why the Lord allowed it.)

Lamentations 3:1-66 (Amid all the suffering there is still hope that God will show mercy to his people.)

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What you should know about Ezekiel: Ezekiel was a Jewish priest-prophet exiled in Babylon. His work is dated between 593 bc (seven years before the fall of Jerusalem) and 573 bc.

After the kingdom of Israel was destroyed by the Assyrians in 722 bc only the southern kingdom of Judah was left. Assyria was replaced as a world power by Babylon in 612 bc. Judah was a vassal state of Babylon, but rebelled, hoping for support from Egypt. King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon subdued Judah in 605 bc and again in 598-597 bc. He took thousands of Jews captive each time. Among those in the second wave of exiles was Ezekiel.

The theme of Ezekiel’s book is “God acts in the events of human history so that everyone may come to know Him and find new life in Him”.

Ezekiel is a book of unearthly visions, poems, parables and comic street-theatre. However, to get the people’s attention, God uses more than Ezekiel’s vivid images and symbolic actions. He allows the people to suffer. But Ezekiel’s message of imminent doom turns to ultimate hope in the end.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Ezekiel: Ezekiel 1:1-3:27 (How the Lord called Ezekiel as prophet and sent him to the people in exile with a message from God.) Ezekiel 34:1-31 (A warning to the leaders of the people of God. They are the shepherds of the people and should care for them with love.)

Ezekiel 37:1-14 (The vision of the valley of dry bones. The Lord will give his people new life and hope.)

Ezekiel 43:1-12 (The vision of the glory of the Lord in the temple.)

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Ezekiel

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Daniel

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What you should know about Daniel: Daniel (whose name means “God is my Judge”) was a statesman in the alien court of Babylon. The book may have been written near the end of Daniel’s life around 530 bc.

In 605 bc Nebuchadnezzar took Daniel and other captives to Babylon. Daniel rose quickly to prominence under Nebuchadnezzar. After the king’s death, Daniel seems to have fallen from favour, only to regain it by interpreting the handwriting on the wall at Belshazzar’s feast (Daniel 5:13-29).

With the capture of Babylon by Darius, Daniel maintained his official position, serving under both Darius and Cyrus, kings of Persia.

Daniel is written in the context of the exile. It seeks to evoke a commitment to God’s law among the people of God who are suffering persecution (even unto death). Daniel beckons them to awaken and prepare for the unexpected intervention of God into world affairs.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Daniel: Daniel 1:1-21 (How Daniel rose to prominence in the court of the king.)

Daniel 2:1-49 (Daniel interprets the dream of the king.)

Daniel 3:1-30 (Daniel and his friends refuse to bow before the image of gold and are saved from the fiery furnace.)

Daniel 5:1-31 (Daniel interprets the handwriting on the wall at Belshazzar’s feast.)

Daniel 6:1-28 (Daniel refuses to obey the decree of King Darius and is saved from the den of lions.)

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What you should know about Hosea: Hosea was a prophet to the northern kingdom of Israel. His career spanned four decades, from the prosperous latter years of Jeroboam the Second (793-753 bc) to the 720’s shortly before the fall of Samaria and the exile of Israel. His message was “God’s undying love for his people”.

The dominant faith of Israel during Hosea’s time was not Mosaic Judaism, but a mixture of the worship of the God of Israel and the local polytheistic Baal religions. Israel was prosperous and complacent under Jeroboam the Second, but after his death, and during a succession of six kings in thirty years, life became increasingly insecure and the nation’s resources weakened. Israel stubbornly sought help from other nations instead of from the Lord.

Hosea’s language relies heavily upon the covenant stipulations of blessings and curses (see Leviticus 26 and Deuteronomy 28-32). While reciting the case against Israel and the consequential curses the nation will face, Hosea interjects God’s promise ultimately to restore the nation to the land and to himself in covenant faithfulness.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Hosea: Hosea 1-3 (The prophet enacts God’s love in his marriage to an adulterous wife. In word and deed Hosea says that, despite Israel’s faithlessness, God remains faithful.)

Hosea 4:1-14 (The charge against Israel and its religious leaders.)

Hosea 11:1-11 (The love of God for his people remains strong even in the face of the unfaithfulness of Israel.)

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The Twelve Minor Prophets Hosea

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Joel What you should know about Joel: The author is Joel, son of Pethuel. The date of Joel’s term as prophet is uncertain. It may well have been during the Persian period (530-331 bc).

The occasion for Joel’s prophetic ministry was a plague of locusts which was consuming Judah. The focus of the book is two-fold. Firstly the ever-present practical problem of what to do about the locust plague. Secondly, he speaks about the future Day of the Lord of which the current plague is a sign.

In Acts 2:16-21 the apostle Peter expounds the meaning of Joel’s prophecy.

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Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Joel: Joel 1:1-20 (The terrible consequences of the locust plague and the way in which the nation is urged to return to the Lord.)

Joel 2:1-17 (The Lord is faithful and he will save the nation.

Therefore the people are urged to return to the Lord their God.) Joel 2:18-32 (The Lord answers and gives the promise that he will pour out his Spirit on all people.)

Amos What you should know about Amos: The author was Amos from the small town of Tekoa. He was a citizen of the southern state of Judah but ministered in the northern state of Israel alongside the prophet Hosea and during the reigns of Uzziah, king of Judah (783-742 bc) and Jeroboam the Second (786-746 bc). Amos was a shepherd, a cattleman and a fruit farmer.

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Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Amos: Amos 3:1-4:5 (The Lord has spoken and all the perpetrators of injustice must listen.)

Amos 4:6-13 (Be ready to appear before the Lord God.) Amos 7-9 (Seven different visions that Amos describes, each with a specific message to the people of God.)

Obadiah What you should know about Obadiah: The author is the prophet Obadiah, whose name means “servant of the Lord”. The date of the composition is uncertain.

It may well be that the events described in verses 11-14 refer to the Babylonian campaign against Jerusalem (605-586 bc).

The theme of the book is “God’s judgment of proud Edom and the restoration of Israel”. The Edomites apparently took advantage of the fall of Jerusalem. They plundered the land and pillaged the homes of survivors. Obadiah speaks God’s judgment on Edom for the way they took advantage of their “brother nation Jacob” in his moment of weakness. (Edom denotes the descendants of Esau, the brother of Jacob.)

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had reached new political and military heights. Peace reigned and business was booming. Even religion was on the rise.

However, the exterior calm belied Israel’s inner disease.

Idolatry, extravagant indulgence and a corrupt judicial system ran beneath the surface. In this context Amos calls for social justice as the foundation of true piety.

Amos focuses on the righteousness of God and social injustice.

The book of Amos is constantly shadowed by clouds of judgment as the Lord reacts to the cruel social events in the land. Amos challenges his readers to examine themselves and their society and to confront injustice wherever it is found.

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Obadiah is the shortest book in the Old Testament. Nearly the whole of Obadiah consists of the words of a Jewish prophet to another country. The language of this book is characterised by vivid and striking metaphors.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Obadiah: Obadiah 1:1-14 (The wrath of the Lord against Edom.)

Obadiah 1:15-21 (The coming of the Day of the Lord and what it will mean to the people of Edom.)

Jonah Preaching Book By Book

What you should know about Jonah: The story of the book Jonah was originally told by Jonah, though others may have written it down. Jonah’s ministry was around 800-750 bc, before the destruction of Nineveh (612 bc) and the fall of Samaria (722-721 bc).

Israel had just restored its northern borders under King Jeroboam the Second (793-753 bc) as Jonah had prophesied (2 Kings 14:25). At this time Israel was politically secure, spiritually self-complacent and morally corrupt. Nineveh, the city to which Jonah was sent by God, was the capital of Assyria, a ruthless empire which threatened tiny Israel and eventually conquered it in 722 bc.

Unlike most other Old Testament prophetic books, Jonah gives an account of a single incident in the life of the prophet.

The theme of the book is God’s love for the Gentiles, even Nineveh.

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Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Jonah: Jonah 1:1-16 (Jonah is being sent to Nineveh by the Lord, but he decides to be disobedient.)

Jonah 1:17-2:10 (Jonah prays for his life and is being saved by the Lord.)

Jonah 3:1-10 (Jonah brings the message of the Lord to Nineveh and the king repents.)

Jonah 4:1-10 (Jonah’s anger at the compassion of the Lord.)

What you should know about Micah: The prophet was a contemporary of Isaiah and Hosea. His prophecies were given during the time of Jotham, Ahaz and Hezekiah, kings of Judah who reigned around 750-686 BC. Since Micah predicted the fall of Samaria (Micah 1:6), these prophesies would date before then.

The theme of the book is “A just and merciful God delivers his people from darkness”. The lives of God’s covenant people should reflect God’s standards.

During this dark time when the sins of the northern kingdom of Israel were being punished by Assyrian invaders, Micah could see that these same activities (idolatry, Baal worship, child sacrifice and sorcery) were creeping south to Judah and Jerusalem. This led to an increasing gap between the rich and the poor. The poor were oppressed and had no recourse to the courts because of corrupt judges, so Micah champions their cause. Religious life flourished but had little depth. Micah draws a sharp contrast between this “popular religion” and true faith, which involves justice, mercy and walking with God (Micah 6:8).

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Micah

The Preachers’ Handbook

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Micah: Micah 3:1-12 (The religious leaders and prophets rebuked.)

Micah 5:1-9 (A promised ruler from Bethlehem – a prophecy which is connected to the birth of Jesus in Matthew 2:5-6.)

Micah 6:1-8 (The Lord’s case against his people and what he expects from them.)

Nahum

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What you should know about Nahum: The author was Nahum “the Elkoshite” who was probably from Judah. Nahum’s oracle is dated between the overthrow of Thebes (663 bc, see Nahum 3:8-10) and the fall of Nineveh (612 bc).

Samaria had fallen at the hands of the Assyrians in 722 bc.

Around 700 bc the Assyrian king Sennacherib made Nineveh, the greatest city of its day, the capital of his empire. The people repented after Jonah’s visit, but soon returned to their evil ways. Nineveh’s destruction is the focus of Nahum’s prophecy.

Within a few years his prophecies came true. Proud Nineveh fell so hard that it never rose again. Its site was obliterated. It was only rediscovered some 2 500 years later.

Like Obadiah, Nahum does not address his homeland at all, but the foreign city Nineveh. Still, the book was intended for Jewish readers. It contains many metaphors and similes, as well as other vivid images. Nahum shows that the God of Israel is, in fact, the God who controls the fate of all nations.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Nahum: Nahum 1:1-15 (Nahum declares the judgment that is to come.)

Nahum 2:1-13 (The siege and subsequent sack of Nineveh is described.)

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Chapter 8 Nahum 3:1-19 (Nineveh is compared to Thebes in Egypt – it will suffer the same fate.)

What you should know about Habakkuk: The author was a prophet (probably at the temple) named Habakkuk, a contemporary of Jeremiah and Nahum. It can be dated during the latter part of the seventh century bc, probably 610-605 bc.

The theme of the book is “Faith triumphs over doubt”.

Habakkuk wrestles with a problem that faces every age: Why does God seem inactive in the face of evil and injustice?

In Habakkuk’s day, the rulers of the southern kingdom of Judah were known to “do evil in the eyes of the Lord”. As an agent of judgment in God’s hand the Chaldeans invaded Judah in 605 bc. The king of Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar made the Judean king Jehoiakim his vassal.

The book Habakkuk is a dialogue between the prophet and God. Complaint and petition are followed by the divine perspective on the problem.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Habakkuk: Habakkuk 1:1-2:20 (The complaints of the prophet and the answers of the Lord.)

Habakkuk 3:1-19 (This hymn stirred up vivid memories in Israel of God’s might and mercy.)

Zephaniah What you should know about Zephaniah: Zephaniah was an aristocrat, a great great grandson of Hezekiah, the king of Judah. He prophesied during the reign of Josiah (640-609 bc). His preaching as recorded here may 131

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have contributed to Josiah’s reforms, which took place in 621 bc. This makes Zephaniah an older contemporary and kindred spirit of Jeremiah.

Zephaniah had a two-fold message – gloom and doom for Judah and its neighbours (Zephaniah 1:1-3:8) and then the Lord’s purging and purifying of a faithful remnant (Zephaniah 3:9-20). The immediate occasion for Zephaniah’s prophecy may have been a century-long invasion of Canaan by the Scythians (a fierce nomadic people from the highlands of Asia). But the ultimate fulfilment of Zephaniah’s prophecy (the destruction of Judah) came at the hands of King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon. He defeated the Assyrians in 612 bc, thus establishing Babylonian supremacy in the Near East.

The prophet foresaw a world-wide catastrophe, but he also saw beyond it so that he could sing an ecstatic song of joy as well.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Zephaniah: Zephaniah 1:1-2:3 (The prophet warns against the coming destruction and announces the coming of the Great Day of the Lord.)

Zephaniah 3:1-20 (A call to repentance and a time of restoration – a beautiful picture of a God who delights in his people.)

Haggai What you should know about Haggai: This book does not identify the author, but it does tell the story of Haggai’s ministry and records some of his oracles. It can specifically be dated as between August and December of 520 bc.

The book is set in the context of the return of the Jews from the Babylonian exile and the subsequent rebuilding of 132

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Jerusalem and the temple. Haggai’s aim was to get the people moving on the project.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Haggai: Haggai 1:1-15 (The commission to rebuild the temple.)

Haggai 2:1-23 (Messages of encouragement and hope.)

What you should know about Zechariah: The author was Zechariah, the prophet and priest who was born in exile and returned from Babylon to Judah in 538 bc.

Zechariah 1-8 span the years from 520 to 518 bc, but the date of his final prophecy (chapters 9-14) is uncertain, probably around forty years later.

The theme of the book is “Rebuilding the temple and the nation of Judah; the Lord’s return”.

It was through the ministry of Zechariah that the rebuilding of the temple began (Ezra 5:1-2). The temple was completed and dedicated some four years later.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Zechariah: Zechariah 1-6 (In these chapters there are eight visions each with a specific message about the relationship between the Lord and his people.)

Zechariah 9:9-17 (A king is coming to save the people of God. In Matthew 21:4 this prophetic word is applied to the triumphant entry of Jesus into Jerusalem.)

Zechariah 13:1-9 (The transformation of the people of God into a holy nation.)

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Malachi

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What you should know about Malachi: The author of the book is the prophet Malachi, a contemporary of Ezra and Nehemiah. The sins denounced by Nehemiah (see Nehemiah 13:6-31) correspond closely to the denunciation of Malachi (see Malachi 1:6-14; 2:14-16; 3:8-11).

The prophecy of Malachi could therefore be dated any time after Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem the second time, that is later than 433 bc.

The theme of the book is “Repentance and reformation is prescribed to cure the spirit of scepticism and indifference”.

After the rebuilding of the walls and the temple of Jerusalem, the people relapsed into religious indifference. Malachi addressed the sins of a people “just going through the motions” of their faith, doubting the love and justice of God. Malachi uses a question-and-answer form of dialogue to develop his themes. Seven questions or complaints by the people are recorded. However, the book is dominated by God’s voice, the voice of an effective Father (Malachi 1:6) having to dish out “tough love” to his children.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Malachi: Malachi 1:6-14 (God demands to be honoured by his people.)

Malachi 2:17-3:5 (The Day of Judgment is coming.)

Malachi 3:6-18 (God demands that his people bring tithes and offerings to honour him.)

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The Books of the New Testament The New Testament has 27 books. They are divided into the following groups: The gospels An historical book The letters of the apostle Paul Letters by other authors A prophetic book

There are four gospels written by Matthew, Mark, Luke and John respectively. A gospel brings the good news about the life and work of Jesus Christ as the coming Messiah and the Saviour of this world.

The first three gospels (those of Matthew, Mark and Luke) are called the “synoptic” gospels. The word “synoptic” means “from the same viewpoint”. They cover many of the same events in the life of Jesus in the same way. Of these Mark is considered the oldest gospel. Matthew and Luke probably had the text of Mark available while writing their own gospels. They used some of the content from Mark and added other content to suit the aim they had when writing their own gospels.

The Gospel of John has a character of its own and tells the story of the life and work of Jesus in a unique way.

The Gospel of Matthew What you should know about Matthew: Although the author is not named in the book itself, a long tradition has assigned it to Matthew, the tax collector who became an apostle (Matthew 9:9-13).

The theme of the gospel is “Jesus, the long-promised Messiah and authoritative teacher”. Matthew slants his material to a Jewish readership as he cites numerous Old Testament 135

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prophecies that were fulfilled in the life and ministry of Jesus.

His purpose is to show that Jesus is the promised Son of David, the Messiah, come to establish the kingdom of God. The Gospel of Matthew is built around five teaching sections (chapters 5-7; 10; 13; 18; 24-25) which illustrate what life in the kingdom of heaven is all about. While strongly oriented to be a witness to the Jews, Matthew also makes it clear that the Messiah has come for all people.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Matthew:

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Matthew 1:18-25 (The birth of Jesus Christ.)

Matthew 2:1-12 (The Magi visit the Messiah.)

Matthew 5-7 (The sermon on the mount – every section of this sermon lends itself to the development of a complete sermon.)

Matthew 9:9-13 (The calling of Matthew as disciple.)

Matthew 13:24-43 (The parable of the weeds explained.)

Matthew 15:21-28 (The faith of the Canaanite woman.)

Matthew 16:13-20 (Peter declares that Jesus is the Messiah.)

Matthew 18:21-35 (The parable of the unmerciful servant.)

Matthew 20:1-16 (The parable of the workers in the vineyard.)

Matthew 21:12-17 (Jesus at the temple in Jerusalem.)

Matthew 25:1-13 (The parable of the ten virgins.)

Matthew 26:57-68 (Jesus before the Sanhedrin.)

Matthew 27:32-56 (The crucifixion and death of Jesus.)

Matthew 28:1-20 (Jesus is risen. The great commission.)

The Gospel of Mark What you should know about Mark: No author is named in the text itself, but an old tradition ascribes this gospel to Mark, the son of Mary (Acts 12:12) 136

and the companion of both Paul (Acts 12:25; Colossians 4:10; Philemon 1:24) and Peter (1 Peter 5:13). It is possible that this is in reality the Gospel of Peter and that Mark wrote down the memories of the apostle Peter when he visited him while Peter was in prison in Rome (1 Peter 5:13).

The theme of the book is “Jesus the Messiah, the Son of God”. Mark was written for a Gentile audience, traditionally the church at Rome where the believers were persecuted severely. This book would encourage these suffering believers by showing them Jesus’ authority over all types of opposing forces.

Mark is not so much a biography of Jesus as it is a character sketch. Without any introduction or infancy narrative, Jesus bursts onto the scene as a fully grown man. Three years of ministry are packed into chapters 1-10, while Jesus’ final week stretches out through chapters 11-16.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Mark: Mark 1:16-20 (The calling of the first disciples.)

Mark 5:1-20 (Jesus restores a demon-possessed man.)

Mark 6:7-13 (Jesus sends the twelve.)

Mark 6:45-56 (Jesus walks on the water.)

Mark 9:2-13 (The transfiguration of Jesus on the mountain.)

Mark 10:1-12 (Jesus teaches about marriage and divorce.)

Mark 12:1-12 (The parable of the tenants.)

Mark 14:12-26 (The last supper of Jesus and his disciples.)

Mark 14:32-42 (Jesus prays in Gethsemane.)

Mark 15:42-47 (The burial of Jesus.)

Mark 16:9-20 (Jesus appears to his disciples.)

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The Gospel of Luke

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What you should know about Luke: While the book itself is anonymous, traditionally it is thought to be the work of Luke the physician, Paul’s co-worker and companion (Colossians 4:14; 2 Timothy 4:11). Luke is the only non-Jewish author in the New Testament. The Gospel of Luke is Volume 1 (“The story of Jesus”) in Luke’s two-part account. The Acts of the Apostles is Volume 2 (“The story of the church”).

The theme of the book is “Jesus is the Saviour of the whole world”. Luke wrote this record of Jesus’ life for a Gentile audience. In Luke 1:3 he addresses the book to Theophilus, an unknown, but probably wealthy, Roman aristocrat.

Luke is the longest book in the New Testament. While using much of the same material as Matthew and Mark, Luke adds his own distinctive flavour to the story. The gospel is marked by joy, songs of praise and an interest in the relationship of Jesus with people considered outcasts by his fellow countrymen (for example women, children, the poor, tax collectors and Samaritans). This is a book that tells how the promised Jewish Messiah is indeed the Saviour of the whole world.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Luke: Luke 1:26-38 (The birth of Jesus foretold.)

Luke 2:8-20 (The shepherds and the angels and the birth of Jesus.)

Luke 2:22-40 (Jesus presented at the temple.)

Luke 2:41-52 (The boy Jesus at the temple.)

Luke 4:1-13 (Jesus is tested in the wilderness.)

Luke 7:1-10 (The faith of the centurion whose slave was healed.)

Luke 7:11-17 (Jesus raises a widow’s son.)

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Luke 7:36-50 (Jesus anointed by a sinful woman.)

Luke 8:4-15 (The parable of the sower.)

Luke 9: 57-62 (The cost of following Jesus.)

Luke 10:25-37 (The parable of the good Samaritan.)

Luke 15:11-32 (The parable of the lost son.)

Luke 16:1-13 (The parable of the shrewd manager.)

Luke 16:19-31 (The rich man and Lazarus.)

Luke 18:9-14 (The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector.)

Luke 18:18-30 (The rich and the kingdom of God.) Luke 19:1-10 (Jesus and Zacchaeus the tax collector.)

Luke 22:47-53 (Jesus is arrested.)

Luke 22:54-62 (Peter disowns Jesus.)

Luke 23:26-49 (The crucifixion of Jesus.)

Luke 24:13-35 (Jesus talks to travellers on the road to Emmaus.)

The Gospel of John What you should know about John: The author is traditionally John “the beloved disciple” (John 21:20-24), who is also credited with writing three epistles and the book of Revelation.

The theme of this gospel is “Jesus is the giver of life”. Of all the gospels John is clearly not meant to be a chronological account of Jesus’ life. Instead it is a meditation on the significance of his death – a reality which is present right from the beginning of the gospel.

In many ways this gospel is very different from the others.

For example: The action centres in Jerusalem rather than in Galilee. Jesus’ teaching is given in long discourses rather than in pithy parables. The call to faith and the promise of eternal life are repeatedly stressed. The “I am” statements as well as the beautiful prologue (John 1:1-18) are unique. And in John 13-21 Jesus is practically alone with his disciples teaching 139

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them about his mission, the Holy Spirit and his command to love.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on John:

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John 1:1-18 (The Word became flesh.)

John 1:19-34 (The ministry of John the Baptist and the baptism of Jesus.)

John 2:1-12 (Jesus turns water into wine.)

John 3:1-21 (Jesus teaches Nicodemus.)

John 4:1-42 (Jesus talks with a Samaritan woman.)

John 6:1-14 (Jesus feeds the five thousand.)

John 6:16-24 (Jesus walks on the water.)

John 10:1-21 (Jesus is the good shepherd.)

John 11:1-44 (Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead.)

John 12:1-8 (Jesus anointed at Bethany.)

John 12:12-19 (Jesus comes to Jerusalem as king.)

John 13:1-17 (Jesus washes his disciples’ feet.)

John 14:1-14 (Jesus comforts his disciples.)

John 14:15-31 (Jesus promises the Holy Spirit.)

John 15:1-17 (The vine and the branches.)

John 17:1-26 (Jesus prays for his disciples and for all believers.)

John 18:39-19:37 (Jesus is crucified and dies on the cross.)

John 20:11-18 (Jesus appears to Mary Magdalene.)

John 20:19-29 (Jesus appears to his disciples and later to Thomas.)

John 21:1-14 (Jesus and the miraculous catch of fish.)

John 21:15-25 (Jesus reinstates Peter.)

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What you should know about Acts: This book, like the Gospel of Luke, is anonymous. However, because of the “we” passages (for example Acts 16:10-17), it seems likely that the author is Luke the physician who accompanied Paul on some of his journeys.

The theme of the book is “The spread of the gospel to all the known world”. In 30 short years the church grew from what was considered an insignificant Jewish sect to a major force in the Roman empire.

Luke wrote Acts as a companion piece to his gospel to show how Christianity was not a political threat to Rome, but rather the work of God’s Spirit in building up a spiritual “kingdom”, one comprised of all who live by faith in Jesus. Luke does this by focusing on the two leading figures in the church: Peter, the apostle to the Jews (Acts 1-10) and Paul, the apostle to the Gentiles (Acts 13-28).

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Acts: Acts 1:1-11 (Jesus taken up into heaven.)

Acts 2:1-13 (The Holy Spirit comes at Pentecost.)

Acts 2:41-47 (The fellowship of believers in the first Christian church.)

Acts 3:1-26 (Peter heals a crippled beggar and speaks to the onlookers.)

Acts 5:1-11 (Ananias and Sapphira lie to the Holy Spirit.)

Acts 6:1-7 (The choosing of the seven deacons.)

Acts 8:26-40 (Philip leads the Ethiopian to Christ.)

Acts 9:1-19 (Saul’s conversion.)

Acts 10:1-48 (Peter leads Cornelius and his family to Christ.)

Acts 12:1-19 (Peter’s miraculous escape from prison.)

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An Historical Book Acts

The Preachers’ Handbook Acts 13:1-20:38 (These chapters tell about the three missionary journeys of Paul with different companions.

Many passages can form the basis of powerful sermons on evangelism.)

Acts 15:1-35 (The council at Jerusalem.)

Acts 22:1-21 (Paul defends himself and tells about his conversion.)

Acts 24:1-23 (Paul’s trial before Felix.)

Acts 27:1-44 (Paul journey to Rome and the shipwreck.)

Acts 28:1-15 (Paul on the island Malta.)

Acts 28:16-31 (Paul’s ministry as a prisoner in Rome.)

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The Letters of the Apostle Paul Romans What you should know about Romans: The apostle Paul wrote this letter to the church at Rome probably around ad 56-57 but not later than ad 59. The theme of this letter is “Being right with God through faith in Christ”.

Paul wrote this letter to introduce himself to the church at Rome. He was eager to assure the Roman Christians that, in spite of any rumours they might have heard, his message was indeed the gospel of grace of God in Christ Jesus. The church at Rome had not been planted by Paul. The church was a mixture of Jewish and Gentile believers. At that point in time they were experiencing some tensions between these two groups of believers.

The big issue in this letter is how anyone can be right with God on the final day of judgment. In his most precise theological statement in the New Testament, Paul asserts that right standing comes only through faith in Jesus Christ who died for us as a sacrifice for sin.

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Romans 1:1-17 (Paul introduces himself and summarises the main message of his letter.)

Romans 2:1-16 (God’s righteous judgment.)

Romans 5:12-21 (Death through Adam, life through Christ.)

Romans 6:1-14 (Dead to sin, alive in Christ.)

Romans 7:7-25 (Struggling with sin.)

Romans 8:1-17 (Life through the Spirit.)

Romans 8:28-39 (More than conquerors through Christ who loves us.)

Romans 12:1-8 (Our bodies should be living sacrifices to God.) Romans 12:9-21 (Our responsibility to show Christian love.)

Romans 13:1-14 (Submission to the authorities.)

1 and 2 Corinthians What you should know about 1 and 2 Corinthians: The apostle Paul wrote both these letters to the church at Corinth between ad 53 and 57. The theme of 1 Corinthians is “Christian lifestyle in a pagan society”, and the theme of 2 Corinthians is “The strength of weakness”.

Corinth was a large, bustling and wealthy city in Greece.

Because of its location, goods and people from around the world flowed in and out of its ports. It was a centre for art, philosophy and religion. It contained a number of pagan temples. The city had a reputation for vice, immorality and debauchery. Paul spent 18 months establishing a church in Corinth during his second missionary journey (Acts 18:1-18).

The first letter to the church was composed three or four years later in response to reports Paul received concerning problems in the church.

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Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Romans:

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gospel, his deep love for his churches, the pain he felt over misunderstanding, rejection and attack, and the cost of his sufferings.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on 1 and 2 Corinthians:

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1 Corinthians 1:18-2:5 (Christ the wisdom and power of God.) 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 (Flee from sexual immorality.)

1 Corinthians 7:1-40 (Paul’s teaching on marriage.)

1 Corinthians 11:17-34 (The Lord’s supper.)

1 Corinthians 12:1-31 (Paul’s teaching on spiritual gifts.)

1 Corinthians 13:1-13 (The importance and character of Christian love.)

1 Corinthians 14:1-25 (The spiritual gifts of prophecy and tongues.)

1 Corinthians 15:1-58 (The resurrection of the dead.)

2 Corinthians 4:1-18 (The treasures of God in jars of clay.)

2 Corinthians 5:11-6:2 (The ministry of reconciliation.)

2 Corinthians 8:1-9:15 (The responsibility of Christians to be generous.)

2 Corinthians 11:16-12:10 (God’s power is made perfect in weakness.)

Galatians What you should know about Galatians: Galatia was a region in the central parts of present-day Turkey. Paul established a number of churches in cities in that area during his first missionary journey and he revisited them during his second and third journeys (Acts 13-20). The letter to the Galatians may well be the earliest of all of Paul’s letters.

The theme of the letter is “Justification by faith alone”. After Paul left the area during his first missionary journey some 144

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Jewish Christians arrived. Accusing Paul of omitting crucial parts of the gospel, they said that the Galatians needed to submit to Jewish law and customs (such as circumcision) in order to be truly Christian (see also Acts 15).

Although Paul was willing to accommodate Jewish sensitivities (Acts 16:3), he vehemently opposed this as a requirement. This letter is a ringing declaration that salvation is God’s free gift, and a hard-hitting rejection of any hint that it must – or can – be earned.

Galatians 3:1-14 (The choice between faith and the observance of the law.)

Galatians 3:26-4:7 (Sons of God through faith in Jesus Christ.)

Galatians 5:1-15 (Stand firm in the freedom of Christ.)

Galatians 5:16-26 (Live by the Spirit and bear the fruit of the Spirit.)

Galatians 6:1-10 (Christians should carry each other’s burdens.)

Ephesians What you should know about Ephesians: The theme of this letter is “God’s new society”.

Paul’s letter to the Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians and Philemon were all written from prison at the same time. It is unclear which imprisonment produced these letters, but most likely Paul was in Rome (Acts 28:16-31).

In this letter Paul takes us to the mountaintops of Christianity and invites us to look at the breath-taking view! When we do so, we see that it is Jesus Christ who dominates that view. We see him breaking down the wall between God and humanity.

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Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Galatians:

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We see him subduing the hostile cosmic powers. We see him creating the church, a new social order of love and unity that transcends the racial, ethnic and social distinctions between people.

In conveying this vision Paul reaches into eternity past and eternity future to demonstrate how God, out of his love and glory, calls people to be reconciled to himself and to one another by the cross of Jesus Christ. The cross provides forgiveness of sins, a new life and a new people.

The letter is divided into two parts. Part one (chapters 1-3) focuses on doctrine, specifically the new life and the new society God has created through Jesus. Part two (chapters 4-6) focuses on ethics, specifically the new standards and new relationships expected of believers.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Ephesians: Ephesians 2:1-10 (We are created in Jesus Christ to do good works.)

Ephesians 2:11-22 (In Christ the believers become a holy temple.)

Ephesians 4:1-16 (The unity in the body of Christ.)

Ephesians 4:17-5:21 (How Christians live as children of the light.)

Ephesians 5:22-33 (How husbands and wives should live in marriage.)

Ephesians 6:10-20 (Christians should wear the armour of God.)

Philippians What you should know about Philippians: Paul wrote this letter to the church in Philippi probably around ad 61-63, a dozen or so years after Paul had founded 146

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Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Philippians: Philippians 1:12-30 (How Paul’s chains have advanced the gospel.)

Philippians 2:1-18 (Imitate Christ’s humility and shine as stars.)

Philippians 3:1-11 (Profit and loss for the sake of Christ.)

Philippians 3:12-21 (Pressing on toward the goal.)

Colossians What you should know about Colossians: This letter was also written while Paul was in prison. The theme is “Fullness and freedom in Christ”.

Paul has never visited Colossae. The church there was probably established as a result of his extended ministry in Ephesus (Acts 19:8-10). Although it had once been a prosperous commercial centre, by Paul’s day its prominence had diminished.

Paul was visited in prison by Epaphras, a native of Colossae 147

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it (the first church in Europe, see Acts 16). The theme of the letter is “The joy of knowing Jesus”.

Paul was in prison when Epaphroditus arrived with a gift from the church in Philippi, an important Roman colony in northern Greece. Paul wrote this letter to thank them for the gift, to report on his own position, to warn the believers against the damaging doctrines of false teachers and to voice his concern about a serious clash between two women in the church whose disagreement was affecting the unity of the whole body.

The letter radiates with joy in the Lord and with love for the members of the church who were old friends and warm supporters.

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who may have founded the church there. He reported a developing problem in the church as a result of the influence of certain false teachers. The problem seems to have been that of syncretism (combining various teachings from different religions to come up with something new). In contrast Paul presents Jesus as the true Lord of the universe (Colossians 1:1518; 2:9-10) and highlights love, thankfulness and forgiveness as the marks of true spirituality (Colossians 3:12-17).

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Colossians:

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Colossians 1:15-23 (The supremacy of Christ over all creation.)

Colossians 2:6-23 (Freedom from human regulations through life with Christ.)

Colossians 3:1-17 (Rules for holy living.)

Colossians 3:18-4:1 (Rules for Christian households.)

1 and 2 Thessalonians What you should know about 1 and 2 Thessalonians: Paul wrote these letters around ad 51. Either 1 or 2 Thessalonians or Galatians are the earliest letters of Paul in the New Testament. The theme of both letters is “Living in light of the coming of Christ”.

Paul visited Thessalonica, an important city in northern Greece, during his second missionary journey (Acts 17:1-9).

After preaching for only three weeks he was forced to leave due to mob violence stirred up against him by certain Jewish leaders. Concerned about the welfare of the new converts, Paul sent Timothy back to Thessalonica to encourage them.

He found that there was a fundamental misunderstanding about the second coming of Christ. Timothy later re-joined Paul in Corinth where 1 and 2 Thessalonians were written.

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Paul instructs the Thessalonians about the life of holiness they ought to be leading as they await the return of Jesus. We also catch a glimpse of Paul’s approach to ministry (1 Thessalonians 2:1-12; 2:17-3:10). Paul’s prayers in these two letters provide beautiful summaries of what Christian living is all about (1 Thessalonians 3:11-13; 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12; 2:16-17).

1 Thessalonians 1:1-10 (Thanksgiving for the faith of the Thessalonians.)

1 Thessalonians 4:1-12 (Living to please God.) 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11 (The coming of the Lord.)

2 Thessalonians 2:1-12 (The man of lawlessness.)

2 Thessalonians 3:6-15 (Warning against idleness.)

1 and 2 Timothy What you should know about 1 and 2 Timothy: 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus are called the “pastoral letters” and are typically viewed as manuals for church structure and order.

The two letters to Timothy were written between ad 63 and 64.

Timothy, a young man from Lystra, was probably converted during Paul’s first missionary journey. When Paul returned to the area a year or two later, Timothy was recommended to him as a faithful disciple of Christ who would make a good travelling companion (Acts 16). From that time on Timothy is associated with Paul.

After Paul was released from his imprisonment in Rome (Acts 28), he, Titus and Timothy went on a preaching tour.

At Ephesus Paul discovered that a heresy was rotting away the church. The false teachers were characterised as proud, arrogant, contentious and greedy. Paul excommunicated two of the erring elders and put Timothy in charge of helping 149

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Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on 1 and 2 Thessalonians:

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the church recover from its problems. Paul then went on to Macedonia from where he wrote 1 Timothy to encourage Timothy in his restorative work.

2 Timothy is probably the last letter Paul ever wrote. In the spring following the writing of 1 Timothy, Paul was on his way to Ephesus when he was arrested, taken back to Rome and thrown into prison. According to tradition Paul was beheaded shortly after this letter was written. The letter is the deeply intimate testimony of a man who, having invested his life in the cause of Jesus Christ, wishes to pass on that commitment to a younger man who will carry the torch further. Timothy was the logical choice for this new responsibility.

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Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on 1 and 2 Timothy: 1 Timothy 1:12-20 (The Lord’s grace to Paul.)

1 Timothy 2:1-15 (Instructions on worship.)

1 Timothy 3:1-16 (Instructions on overseers and deacons.)

1 Timothy 4:1-16 (Instructions on Timothy’s ministry.)

1 Timothy 6:3-21 (Instructions on the spiritual life.)

2 Timothy 1:1-2:13 (Instructions to be faithful in ministry.)

2 Timothy 3:10-17 (The Scriptures are able to make you wise.)

2 Timothy 4:1-8 (Practical instructions on the ministry.)

Titus What you should know about Titus: Paul wrote this letter around ad 63, more or less the same time 1 Timothy was written. The theme of the letter is “Be devoted to what is good”.

Titus was a Gentile who was probably converted through Paul’s ministry. He accompanied Paul on his crucial second visit to Jerusalem where the inflammatory question was raised about whether Gentiles had to follow Jewish customs in order 150

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to be genuine Christians (Galatians 2:1-10). Titus was Paul’s trusted friend and one of his special envoys sent on difficult assignments.

After Paul was released from prison in Rome, Titus and Timothy travelled with him to Crete as part of a preaching tour. Titus was left behind to establish the church they founded there. This letter was written from Macedonia as an encouragement to Titus in that task.

Titus 1:5-16 (Instructions on Titus’ ministry in Crete.)

Titus 2:1-15 (Instructions on teachings to various groups.)

Titus 3:1-11 (Instructions on the practical side of Christian life.)

Philemon What you should know about Philemon: Paul wrote this letter to Philemon, a member of the church in Colossae. He was the owner of a slave (Onesimus) who had run away from him. Somehow Onesimus got to Rome, met Paul in prison and became a Christian. He and Paul then faced the dilemma about what he should do.

This letter is Paul’s attempt to persuade Philemon to forgive the crime and receive Onesimus as he would receive Paul himself. It is not mentioned in Scripture what the outcome was when Onesimus carried the letter back to his owner.

Philemon is the shortest of Paul’s letters, and it is his only private letter preserved in the New Testament. The letter gives us a valuable glimpse into Paul’s personality. He is deeply sympathetic to the plight of Onesimus. So much so that he is willing to deprive himself of Onesimus’ help as well as to pay Philemon for any loss Onesimus has caused him. This is Christian compassion in action.

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Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Titus:

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Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Philemon: Philemon 1:4-7 (Prayer for a brother in Christ.)

Philemon 1:8-22 (Paul’s plea for Onesimus.)

Letters by Other Authors Hebrews

Preaching Book By Book

What you should know about Hebrews: The author of the letter is nowhere named. The date is uncertain, but it was written before the destruction of the temple in ad 70, since the author consistently refers to it in the present tense.

The theme of the book is “The superiority of Jesus”. It appears to be a written sermon directed to Jewish Christians who were considering whether or not it was worth holding on to Christ any longer.

Hebrews is a marvellous portrait of Jesus Christ seen through the lens of the Old Testament. The author’s intent is to show the superiority of Jesus over the prophets, angels, Moses, priests and the whole Old Testament system. Jesus is the new priest with the new sacrifice that establishes a new covenant between people and God.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Hebrews: Hebrews 1:1-14 (The Son of God is superior to the angels.)

Hebrews 4:14-5:10 (Jesus is the great high priest.)

Hebrews 8:1-13 (Jesus is the high priest of a new covenant.)

Hebrews 11:1-40 (Faith is being certain of what we do not see.)

Hebrews 12:1-13 (God disciplines his sons.)

Hebrews 13:1-21 (Exhortations on the practical Christian life.)

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What you should know about James: Traditionally it was assumed that the James who wrote this epistle was the brother of Jesus (Mark 6:3), and the leader of the church in Jerusalem (Acts 12:17; Galatians 1:19). The date is uncertain. Some scholars regard this as the first book of the New Testament that was written. The theme of the book is “Christianity in action”.

It is not clear to whom James is writing. The inscription “to the twelve tribes” (James 1:1) could refer to Jewish Christians.

However, elsewhere in the New Testament this term is used for Gentile believers who by faith have become the new Israel.

James reflects the sermonic style of both Greek philosophers and Jewish rabbis in that it is loosely structured, there is conversation with a hypothetical opponent (James 2:18-24; 5:13-16), it uses questions to introduce new topics (James 2:14; 4:1), there are frequent commands and it proves points by quotes and examples.

James has little doctrine. It says surprisingly little about Jesus (it does not mention his atonement or resurrection), nor is the Holy Spirit mentioned. James’ focus is not on doctrine, but on how the Christian faith is to be lived on a day-to-day basis.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on James: James 1:2-18 (Consider it pure joy whenever you face trials.)

James 1:19-27 (The importance of listening and doing.)

James 2:14-26 (The relationship between faith and deeds.)

James 3:1-12 (The importance of taming the tongue.)

James 4:1-12 (Resist the devil and submit yourself to God.) James 5:7-20 (The prayer of faith in times of suffering.)

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James

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1 and 2 Peter

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What you should know about 1 and 2 Peter: Traditionally it is assumed that the apostle Peter is the author.

In 1 Peter 5:12 we read that Silas helped him draft the letter.

The date is between the great fire in Rome (ad 64) and Peter’s death (ad 68). The theme of 1 Peter is “Hope in the midst of suffering”, and that of 2 Peter is “Be eager and be on your guard”.

In the summer of ad 64 a great fire destroyed much of Rome.

It was widely believed the emperor Nero was responsible for this. Needing a scapegoat to blame, he selected the Christians for this dubious honour. Suddenly, to be a Christian was a criminal offence. Waves of oppression and persecution, beginning in Rome, washed over the empire. It was during this period that Paul was beheaded and Peter was crucified upside down.

Peter wrote his letters as circular letters to the Christians in the Roman provinces in what is now modern Turkey. They were at that time beginning to experience persecution. The presence of hope in the midst of suffering is the theme that runs through 1 Peter. In 2 Peter he also refers to false teachers.

He urges the believers not to be “carried away by the error of lawless men”, but to keep growing in “the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on 1 and 2 Peter: 1 Peter 1:13-2:3 (You were redeemed with the precious blood of Christ.)

1 Peter 2:13-25 (You were called to suffer – Christ has suffered for you.)

1 Peter 4:1-11 (Be clear minded and self-controlled so that you can pray.)

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Chapter 8 2 Peter 1:12-21 (Pay attention to the words of the prophets.)

2 Peter 3:1-18 (The coming of the Day of the Lord.)

What you should know about 1, 2 and 3 John: These three letters are traditionally ascribed to the apostle John. The date is uncertain, but probably in the beginning of the tenth decade when the heresy which is rebuked here (an early form of Gnosticism) began to flourish.

Since in his later years John resided in Ephesus, these letters were probably addressed to the church there.

1 John does not have a neat and logical outline as found in many New Testament books. John seems to have written one paragraph and then he would be reminded of a related idea which became the topic of the next paragraph. The structure is, therefore, more spiral than linear. This epistle is a distillation of all that John, now an old man, wants people to remember about the faith.

2 and 3 John are the shortest letters in the New Testament.

These two letters provide a glimpse into the life of the early church, and insight into how we should respond to Christian workers.

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on 1, 2 and 3 John: 1 John 1:5-10 (The blood of Jesus purifies us from all sin.)

1 John 2:28-3:10 (How to live the life of a child of God.) 1 John 3:11-24 (The importance of loving one another.)

1 John 5:1-12 (The love for God is to obey his commands.)

2 John 1:1-13 (The importance of hospitality to itinerant teachers.)

3 John 1:1-14 (The difference between Gaius and Diotrephes as servants of the Lord.)

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1, 2 and 3 John

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Jude What you should know about Jude: The author is traditionally seen as Jude, the brother of Jesus (Matthew 13:55). After the resurrection Jesus’ brothers came to believe in him and they became itinerant missionaries (1 Corinthians 9:5).

This is a letter or sermon meant to be read in a congregation, warning them against false teachers. In this case the teachers were antinomians. They rejected all moral standards and indulged in immoral behaviour, particularly of a sexual kind.

The letter of Jude is a fiery call to defend the faith against these heretics who had wormed their way into the church.

Preaching Book By Book

Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Jude: Jude 1:3-16 (The sin and doom of godless men.)

Jude 1:17-25 (Build yourself up in your most holy faith.)

A Prophetic Book Revelation What you should know about Revelation: This book is traditionally credited to the apostle John. The theme of the book is “Christ shall overcome!”

Near the end of the first century Caesar-worship became a major component of Roman civil religion. Christians refusing to adulterate their conviction that Jesus is Lord, were persecuted. John the apostle was a victim of this oppression.

He was exiled to the island Patmos in the Aegean Sea where he wrote this book.

Apocalyptic writing (which involves the unveiling of future events) was commonly used by Jewish authors at this time in history. Revelation uses this style of writing but anchors its 156

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hope in Jesus’ authority as King of kings.

Revelation has been interpreted in a variety of ways over the centuries. However, the book’s central purpose is not to arouse speculation about the future. Rather, it is meant to encourage Christians in every age to maintain their faith despite opposition, and to do so in the confidence that they will share in Jesus’ ultimate victory over all forces that oppose him and his people. Revelation consists of a series of scenes, culminating in the triumph of God.

Revelation 1:9-18 (The Lord Jesus Christ appears to John in all his glory.)

Revelation 2-3 (The letters to the seven churches. Each letter can be the subject of a very effective sermon.)

Revelation 4:1-11 (John’s vision of the throne of God in heaven.)

Revelation 5:1-14 (Only the Lamb is worthy of opening the seven seals.)

Revelation 6:1-16 (The first six seals are opened and explained.)

Revelation 7:9-17 (The great multitude in white robes in heaven.)

Revelation 8:1-5 (The seventh seal is opened.)

Revelation 12:1-13:1 (The vision of the woman and the dragon.)

Revelation 21:1-27 (The new Jerusalem.)

Revelation 22:7-21 (The coming of the Lord Jesus Christ.)

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Examples of Scripture passages for your sermons on Revelation:

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Chapter 9

Useful Tools to Enhance Your Sermons Make use of Humour

Humour in a sermon means that you express a truth or thought in such a way that it puts your listeners in a good mood, makes them smile or even laugh. The use of humour is a clever way to catch the attention of your audience and help them to follow your line of thought throughout your sermon.

Humour can be built into a single word, an expression, a whole sentence or a complete story. Always be on the lookout for opportunities to make use of humour.

Some people are born with a good sense of humour. It comes naturally for them to be funny and to make people laugh. If you are one of these lucky ones, you will find it easy to make use of humour in your sermons and in your conversations with others.

Be sure that your humour does not offend anyone and that it helps to drive the message home. Your first concern should not be to make people laugh, but to bring your message home and help people to remember what you said.

Humour differs from culture to culture. Something that is humorous or funny for people of a certain culture, may not even bring a smile to the faces of people from another cultural background. You know the culture and the lifestyle of the people in your church, and you should best be able to cater for their needs.

Here is an example of a funny story to be used in a sermon on parenting: One day, a little girl is sitting and watching her 158

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mother do the dishes at the kitchen sink. She suddenly notices that her mother has several strands of white hair sticking out in contrast to her brunette hair. She looks at her mother and inquisitively asks, “Why are some of your hairs white, Mum?” Her mother replied, “Well, every time that you do something wrong and make me cry or unhappy, one of my hairs turns white.” The little girl thought about this revelation for a while and then asked, “Mum, how come all of grandma’s hairs are white?”

The use of humour can also be studied. If you have access to the internet, use the “search” facility and type in “humour” or “rules for humour”. You will find thousands of pages that will help you to grow in your ability to make use of humour in your sermons and ministry. Also try “humour in sermons” or “jokes for sermons” and you will be surprised by the amount of material available to help you.

Make use of humour in your sermons and ministry. People will love it!

People love to listen to stories. Therefore it is a very good strategy to tell stories as you go along in your sermons. It will help people to remember your sermons and take the message home with them.

Telling stories was a strategy that Jesus used in his ministry.

He told a large number of stories (also called parables) in his sermons. As many as 25 of them were included in the gospels.

A list of all these parables can be found in chapter 12 further on.

The rest of the Bible is full of interesting stories that you can retell in your sermons. A list of 48 of the best stories in the Old Testament and a list of 42 of the best stories in the New Testament can be found in chapters 10 and 11 further on.

Also make use of stories about people with whom you have 159

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Tell Stories to Anchor Your Message

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had contact in your ministry. People love to hear real life stories of what happened to real people, especially if it tells something about the spiritual experiences of those affected. Be sure that you do not offend anybody and that your story helps to anchor your message.

Use Illustrations to Drive your Message Home

You can also make use of illustrations in your sermons. An illustration is an interpretation or visual explanation of a text, concept or message. Apart from stories you can use objects, pictures, other forms of art and many other ways to make your message clear and help your audience to grasp and remember what you want to convey to them.

When you are preparing a sermon for children, it is a good strategy to plan to have the necessary objects and accessories at hand to catch the attention of the children.

If you have access to the internet, use the search facility and type in “stories for sermons” or “illustrations for sermons” or “sermons for children”. You will find many pages that will help you to grow in your ability to make use of stories, illustrations and objects in your sermons and ministry. You can even enter the verse that you are preaching about, and very useful stories and illustrations will be at your fingertips.

Make use of Quotes – let the People Listen to what Others have said Tools to Enhance Sermons

Another way of capturing the attention of your audience is by including quotes of what other Christians have said on the subject. When you mention that the quote comes from a wellknown Christian leader, it will add to the value of what you are saying.

There are many sources that you can use to acquire these quotes. Use your own books or the library in your town. If you have access to the internet, it is easy to reach thousands of 160

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quotes on any subject that you can think of. Type in “quotes for sermons” and you will be amazed at the response. Add the verse or subject of your sermon and a large number of quotes will appear and you will be able to find what you want to use.

Use Videos and Visuals

These days many people are so used to TV screens and cell phone screens that they have problems understanding a concept if they cannot see it visually in front of their eyes. Therefore it is a good strategy to use videos and other visuals to catch and hold their attention and drive your message home.

You could do this by using drawings, paintings, placards and other self-made visual material. If you do not have the necessary artistic ability, ask someone to help you.

If you want to do this in the modern way, you will have to have access to electronic equipment. With a personal computer, a data projector and internet access you will be able to make use of a wealth of available material to enhance your sermons.

Use the search facility on the internet and type in “videos for sermons”.

Another way of enlivening your sermons is to quote statistics to help your audience to get a grip on your message.

By just quoting the statistics verbally it could be difficult for the listeners to comprehend what you are saying. If at all possible, it would be desirable to give them a visual representation of the statistics by using graphs and other visual means.

One example of the use of statistics in a sermon on the work of the Holy Spirit could be: If an average sermon lasts about 30 minutes, and if roughly 56 million people attend church services in America on an average Sunday, then church attenders spend 23,000,000 man hours, which equals 958,000 161

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Quote Statistics to help people to Understand

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days, which equals 136,904 weeks, which equals 2,632 years listening to the sermons each week. This confirms that God’s Spirit is really working wonders in our world!

The internet is a great source of statistics on different subjects.

Make use of the search facility and type in what you need.

Keep your Sermon to a Time Limit

People can only concentrate for a limited period of time. Then they lose contact and stop listening.

The general consensus is that adults can concentrate for fifteen to twenty minutes. Children can concentrate for one minute for every year that they are old.

Keep your sermons short. Say your say, make your message as clear as possible. But do not keep talking after your audience has lost interest.

Internet Tools to help you Develop Sermons

In the paragraphs above we gave you hints on the use of the internet to acquire what you need to enhance your sermons. If you have access to the internet, play around using your search facility. You will soon be able to access whatever you need.

Useful Websites

Tools to Enhance Sermons

Here are the names of a number of useful web pages to help you build your sermons: www.sermoncentral.com www.zapmeta.co.za www.biblestudytools.com www.sermonsearch.com www.preaching.com www.preachingtoday.com www.illustrationsforsermons.com www.sermonillustrations.com 162

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www.sermonsearch.com www.christianglobe.com www.bible.org www.sermonspice.com www.worshiphousemedia.com www.wingclips.com

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Chapter 10

The 48 Most Important Stories in the Old Testament 1.

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God creates heaven and earth (Genesis 1:1-2:3) Adam and Eve (Genesis 2:15-25) The fall in sin (Genesis 3:1-24) God’s grief and the great flood (Genesis 6-8) The tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9) The calling of Abram (Genesis 11:27-12:7) Abraham pleads for Sodom (Genesis 18:16-33) Abraham tested to sacrifice Isaac (Genesis 22:1-19) Isaac blesses Jacob instead of Esau (Genesis 25:19-34; 27:1-33) Jacob wrestles with God (Genesis 32:9-32) Joseph sold by his brothers (Genesis 37:12-36) Joseph and Potiphar’s wife (Genesis 39:1-23) Joseph makes himself known to his brothers (Genesis 43-45) The birth of Moses (Exodus 2:1-10) Moses and the burning bush (Exodus 3:1-15) Israel crossing the sea (Exodus 14:21-31) Manna and quail (Exodus 16:1-31) The ten commandments (Exodus 20:3-17) The golden calf (Exodus 32:1-35) Balaam’s donkey and the angel (Numbers 22:21-35)

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Rahab and the spies (Joshua 2:1-21) Joshua renews the covenant (Joshua 24:1-27) Deborah the judge (Judges 4:1-16) Gideon’s fear, faith and fleece (Judges 6:1-1-40) Gideon defeats the Midianites (Judges 7:1-25) Samson and Delilah (Judges 16:4-22) Birth and dedication of Samuel (1 Samuel 1:1-28) The Lord calls Samuel (1 Samuel 3:1-21) Israel asks for a king (1 Samuel 8:1-22) Samuel anoints David (1 Samuel 16:1-23) David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17:1-58) David spares Saul’s life (1 Samuel 24:1-22) David and Bathsheba (2 Samuel 11:1-27) Nathan rebukes David (2 Samuel 12:1-14) Solomon’s wisdom and ruling (1 Kings 3:1-28) Solomon’s wealth and women (1 Kings 10:23-11:6) Elijah and the priests of Baal (1 Kings 18:16-45) Elisha heals the Shunammite’s son (2 Kings 4:8-37) Josiah renews the covenant (2 Kings 23:1-25) Nehemiah ask a favour from the king (Nehemiah 1:1-2:9) Job tested (Job 1:1-22) Isaiah’s vision (Isaiah 6:1-13) Valley of the dry bones (Ezekiel 37:1-14) Daniel refuses the king’s food (Daniel 1:1-21) Three men in a fiery furnace (Daniel 3:13-30) Daniel in the lion’s den (Daniel 6:1-24) Jonah runs away from God’s call (Jonah 1:1-17) Jonah’s anger at the Lord’s compassion (Jonah 4:1-11)

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Chapter 11

The 42 Most Important Stories in the New Testament 1. The birth of Jesus foretold (Luke 1:26-38) 2. The birth of Jesus, the shepherds and the angels (Luke 2:1-20) 3. The wise men from the East come to worship Jesus (Matthew 2:1-12) 4. Jesus presented in the temple (Luke 2:21-51) 5. The temptation of Jesus (Luke 4:1-13) 6. The calling of the first disciples (Luke 5:1-11) 7. Jesus teaches Nicodemus (John 3:1-21) 8. Jesus’ sermon on a mountainside (Matthew 5:1-7:29) 9. Jesus talks to a Samaritan woman (John 4:1-42) 10. John the Baptist inquire about Jesus (Luke 7:18-28) 11. Jesus anointed by a sinful woman (Luke 7:36-50) 12. Jesus assures the crowd that he is the good shepherd (John 10:1-21) 13. Jesus sends out the seventy-two (Luke 10:1-24) 14. Jesus at a Pharisee’s house (Luke 14:1-14) 15. The rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19-31) 16. Jesus and the rich ruler (Luke 18:18-30) 17. Jesus and Zacchaeus, the tax collector (Luke 19:1-10) 18. Jesus washes his disciples’ feet (John 13:1-17) 19. Jesus promises the Holy Spirit (John 14:15-31; 16:5-16) 20. Jesus prays for himself, for his disciples and for all believers (John 17:1-26) 166

21. Jesus and his disciples at the last supper (Luke 22:7-38) 22. Jesus’ agonising struggle in Gethsemane (Mark 14:32-42) 23. Judas and his betrayal of Jesus (Matthew 26:14-16, 47-56; 27:1-10) 24. Peter disowns Jesus (Matthew 26:31-35, 69-75) 25. The crucifixion and death of Jesus (Matthew 27:32-56) 26. The resurrection of Jesus (Luke 24:1-12) 27. Jesus talks to two people on the road to Emmaus (Luke 24:13-35) 28. Jesus appears to Mary Magdalene and to his disciples (John 20:10-31) 29. Jesus taken up into heaven (Acts 1:1-11) 30. The Holy Spirit comes at Pentecost (Acts 2:1-47) 31. Believers share their possessions; Annanias and Sapphira (Acts 4:32-5:11) 32. Philip and the Ethiopian (Acts 8:26-40) 33. Saul’s conversion on the road to Damascus (Acts 9:1-31) 34. Peter’s visit to the house of Cornelius (Acts 10:1-48) 35. Peter’s miraculous escape from prison (Acts 12:1-19) 36. Paul’s first missionary journey (Acts 13:1-14:28) 37. Paul’s second missionary journey (Acts 16:1-18:23) 38. Paul’s third missionary journey (Acts 18:24-21:16) 39. Paul’s defence before the crowd in Jerusalem (Acts 21:37-22:29) 40. Paul’s journey to Rome: the storm and shipwreck (Acts 27:1-28:16) 41. Paul pleads for the slave Onesimus, his friend (Philemon 1:1-25) 42. Jesus appears to John on the island of Patmos (Revelation 1:1-20)

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Chapter 12

The 25 Parables that Jesus Told His Listeners 1. The parable of the Sower (Matthew 13:1-23; Mark 4:1-20; Luke 8:1-15) 2. The parable of the weeds (Matthew 13:24-30, 36-43) 3. The parable of the mustard seed (Matthew 13:31-32; Mark 4:30-34) 4. The parable of the yeast (Matthew 13:33; Luke 13:20) 5. The parable of the hidden treasure (Matthew 13:44) 6. The parable of the pearl (Matthew 13:45) 7. The parable of the net (Matthew 13:47-50) 8. The parable of the lost sheep (Matthew 18:10-14; Luke 15:1-7) 9. The parable of the unmerciful servant (Matthew 18:21-35) 10. The parable of the workers in the vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16) 11. The parable of the two sons (Matthew 21:28-32) 12. The parable of the tenants (Matthew 21:33-41; Mark 12:1-12; Luke 20:9-16) 13. The parable of the wedding banquet (Matthew 22:1-14) 14. The parable of the ten virgins (Matthew 25:1-13) 15. The parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30) 16. The parable of the growing seed (Mark 4:26-29) 17. The parable of the good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) 18. The parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:13-21) 168

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19.

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The parable of the great banquet (Luke 14:15-23) The parable of the lost coin (Luke 15:8-10) The parable of the lost son (Luke 15:11-31) The parable of the shrewd manager (Luke 16:1-15) The parable of the persistent widow (Luke 18:1-8) The parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 18:9-14) 25. The parable of the ten minas (Luke 19:11-27)

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Chapter 13

The 35 Miracles that Jesus Performed 1. Jesus changes water into wine at a wedding in Cana (John 2:1-12) 2. Jesus gives his disciples a miraculous catch of fish (Luke 5:1-11) 3. Jesus heals the sick throughout Galilee (Matthew 4:23-25; Luke 6:17-19) 4. Jesus heals the disabled man at the pool of Bethesda (John 5:1-15) 5. Jesus drives out an evil spirit in Capernaum (Mark 1:21-28; Luke 4:31-37) 6. Jesus heals the man with leprosy (Matthew 8:1-4; Mark 1:40-45; Luke 5:12-16) 7. Jesus heals the servant of the centurion (Matthew 8:5-13; Luke 7:1-10; see also John 4:43-54) 8. Jesus heals Peter’s mother-in-law and others (Matthew 8:14-17; Mark 1:29-34; Luke 4:38-41) 9. Jesus calms the storm (Matthew 8:23-27; Mark 4:35-41; Luke 8:22-25) 10. Jesus heals two demon-possessed men (Matthew 8:28-34; Mark 5:1-20; Luke 8:26-39) 11. Jesus heals a man born blind (John 9:1-34) 12. Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead (John 11:1-44) 13. Jesus raises a widow’s son in Nain (Luke 7:11-17)

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14. Jesus heals a paralytic (Matthew 9:1-8; Mark 2:1-12; Luke 5:17-26) 15. Jesus raises the daughter of the ruler Jairus (Matthew 9 :1826; Mark 5:21-43; Luke 8:40-56) 16. Jesus heals a woman who had been subject to bleeding (Matthew 9:20-22; Mark 5:25-34; Luke 8:43-48) 17. Jesus heals two blind people (Matthew 9:27-31) 18. Jesus heals a man who was demon-possessed and could not speak (Matthew 9:32-34) 19. Jesus heals a man with a shrivelled hand (Matthew 12:9-14; Mark 3:1-5; Luke 6:6-11) 20. Jesus feeds the five thousand (Matthew 14:13-21; Mark 6:30-44; Luke 9:10-17; John 6:1-14) 21. Jesus walks on the water (Matthew 14:22-33; Mark 6:45-52; John 6:15-21) 22. Jesus heals the daughter of the Canaanite woman (Matthew 15:21-28; Mark 7:24-30) 23. Jesus feeds the four thousand (Matthew 15:29-39; Mark 8:1-10) 24. Jesus heals a blind man at Bethsaida (Mark 8:22-26) 25. Jesus heals a boy with a demon (Matthew 17:14-23; Mark 9 :14-29; Luke 9:37-43) 26. Jesus heals a crippled woman on a Sabbath (Luke 13:10-17) 27. Jesus heals a man suffering from dropsy (Luke 14:1-6) 28. Jesus heals ten men of leprosy (Luke 17:11-19) 29. Jesus heals two blind men (Matthew 20:29-34; Mark 10:46-52; Luke 18:35-43) 30. Jesus makes a fig tree whither (Matthew 21:18-22; Mark 11:12-14, 20-24)

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Miracles

31. Jesus heals the ear of the servant of the high priest (Matthew 26:50-54; Mark 14:47; Luke 22:50-51; John 18:10-11) 32. Jesus is raised from the dead (Matthew 28:1-7; Mark 16:1-8; Luke 24:1-12; John 20:1-8) 33. Jesus appears to his disciples although the doors were locked (John 20:19-23) 34. Jesus and the second miraculous catch of fish (John 21:1-14) 35. Jesus ascends into heaven (Mark 16:19; Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:9-11)

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Chapter 14

The Names of God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit

The Names of God

Many names are used for God in the Bible. This is because he, as a supernatural being, has such a rich and many-faceted person.

There are names by which God revealed himself to his people, and there are names that the people used when they speak of him, pray to him or sing his praises. It is useful to study the different names of God in the Bible. It helps us to learn to know him more personally and enter more deeply into a personal relationship with him. What follows, is a number of the most important names of God in the Bible with an explanation of the meaning and use of each.

YHWH (pronounced Yahweh) This is the proper name of God. We read in Exodus 3:14 that Moses asked God what his name was. He answered: “I AM WHO I AM”. This may refer to God as the ultimate being. In the next verse God used the name JHWH, which sounds like and is most likely a derivative of the phrase “I AM”. The Jews in those days had such a reverence for the name YHWH that they never pronounced it. When they come to it, they would say “Adonaj” (which means “my Lord”). That is where the wrong name “Jehovah” comes from. People use the consonants of YHWH and the vowels of Adonaj and say Jehovah – a name that never really existed. When YHWH is translated into English in the NIV, it is rendered with LORD – the proper name of God (see for example 173

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Exodus 3:16). This name specifies an immediacy, a presence.

YHWH is present, accessible, near to those who call on him for deliverance (Psalm 107:13), forgiveness (Psalm 25:11) and guidance (Psalm 31:3).

Elohim (translated with “God”) This is the plural of the Hebrew word “El”, which means “God”.

The plural is used as a form of reverence to the only, real and living God – the God of Israel. This is the most commonly used name of God in the Old Testament, and it is translated as “God” (see for example the story of creation in Genesis 1).

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God Almighty There are two names of God in the Hebrew Old Testament that are translated as “God Almighty” in the NIV. The first one is YHWH Sabaoth (LORD of the hosts). It means “he who is sovereign over all the hosts (powers) in heaven and on earth, especially over the hosts (armies) of Israel” (see for example Psalm 46:7; Isaiah 1:24). The other name is El-Shaddai which also means “God Almighty” but it occurs infrequently. The name is expressive of the majesty, power, and authority of God and shows that he is able to accomplish what he determines to do. No other god or creature can compare with our God (see for example Genesis 49:24; Psalm 135:2, 5).

The Holy One of Israel Holy means “being put asunder”. God is holy because he is totally put asunder from the rest of his creation. He is the only God. When he takes up his abode on earth, it is in the Most Holy Place in the tabernacle (Exodus 26:33-34) and in the Most Holy Place in the temple (1 Kings 8:6). All the nations should know: The God of Israel is the Holy One, the only true God who will protect them and should be praised (see for example 174

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2 Kings 19:22; Psalm 78:41; Psalm 89:18; Isaiah 1:4).

YHWH-Jireh “The Lord will provide” (Genesis 22:14), the name memorialised

by Abraham when God provided the ram to be sacrificed in place of Isaac.

YHWH-Rapha

YHWH-Nissi “The Lord our banner” (Exodus 17:15), where banner is understood to be a rallying place. This name commemorates the desert victory over the Amalekites in Exodus 17.

YHWH-M’Kaddesh “The Lord who sanctifies, makes holy” (Leviticus 20:8; Ezekiel 37:28). God makes it clear that he alone, not the law, can cleanse his people and make them holy.

YHWH-Shalom “The Lord our peace” (Judges 6:24), the name given by Gideon to the altar he built after the angel of the Lord assured him he would not die as he thought he would after seeing the Lord.

YHWH-Elohim “LORD God” (Genesis 2:4; Psalm 59:5), a combination of God’s unique name YHWH and the generic “LORD”, signifying that he is the Lord of lords.

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“The Lord who heals” (Exodus 15:26). “I am YHWH who heals you” both in body and soul. In body, by preserving from and curing diseases, and in soul, by pardoning iniquities.

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YHWH-Tsidkenu “The Lord our righteousness” (Jeremiah 33:16). As with YHWHM’Kaddesh, it is God alone who provides righteousness to man, ultimately in the person of his Son, Jesus Christ, who became sin for us “so that in him we might become the righteousness of God” (2 Corinthians 5:21).

YHWH-Rohi

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“The Lord our shepherd” (Psalm 23:1). After David pondered his relationship as a shepherd to his sheep, he realised that this was exactly the relationship God had with him, and so he declares, “Yahweh-Rohi is my shepherd. I shall not want” (Psalm 23:1).

YHWH-Shammah “The Lord is there” (Ezekiel 48:35), the name ascribed to Jerusalem and the temple there, indicating that the oncedeparted glory of the Lord (Ezekiel 8-11) had returned (Ezekiel 44:1-4).

El-Elyon “Most High” (Deuteronomy 26:19). The name is derived from the Hebrew root for “go up” or “ascend”, so the implication is of that which is the very highest. El-Elyon denotes exaltation and speaks of absolute right to lordship.

El-Roi “God of seeing” (Genesis 16:13). This name is ascribed to God by Hagar, alone and desperate in the wilderness after being driven out by Sarah (Genesis 16:1-14). When Hagar met the angel of the Lord, she realised she had seen God himself in a theophany. She also realised that El-Roi saw her in her distress and testified that he is a God who lives and sees all.

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El-Olam “Everlasting God” (Psalm 90:1-2). God’s nature is without beginning or end, free from all constraints of time, and he contains within himself the very cause of time itself. “From everlasting to everlasting, you are God.”

This is his proper name. It was given to him because the angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph and said, “You are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). The name Jesus is the Greek form of the Old Testament name Joshua, which means “saviour, redeemer”.

Christ Christ is the Greek form of “Messiah” in the Old Testament. It means “anointed”. This is the official title of Jesus Christ. Peter confessed that Jesus is the long-awaited Messiah (Matthew 16:16).

Messiah The long-awaited “anointed one” who would deliver Israel. Jesus came to deliver mankind from sin and death (John 4:25-26).

Redeemer “One who frees or delivers another from difficulty, danger, or bondage, usually by the payment of a ransom price.” In the New Testament Jesus is viewed as the ultimate Redeemer who gave his life as a ransom (Mark 10:45; Titus 2:14).

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sinless life, miracles and resurrection from the dead, his claims to be God stand firm (John 20:28).

Lord In the New Testament this term is used as a salutation to honour a man of distinction. The disciples used this term to salute Jesus as their teacher and master (Matthew 22:43-44).

Word

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This title was used by the apostle John to describe the mission of Jesus. The title states Jesus’ Godhead and eternal and absolute deity (John 1:1, 14).

Saviour Jesus is the person who rescues mankind from an eternity in hell (Matthew 1:21).

Light of the world Jesus is the person who brings true knowledge of God. Those who reject this light bring judgment upon themselves (John 3:1921; 8:12).

Lamb of God This title refers to the Old Testament sacrificial system where God accepted the blood of animals as atonement for sin. Jesus’ blood made atonement for sin! That is why John the Baptist pointed to Jesus and named him the Lamb of God (John 1:29, 36).

Ruler over creation Christ existed before the creation of the world and he is sovereign over it (Revelation 3:14).

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Mediator Because Jesus is fully God, he can represent God to man. Because he is fully man, Jesus can represent man to God. Reconciliation is possible in him alone (1 Timothy 2:5).

Bread of Life Jesus is the one and only supplier of true spiritual nourishment (John 6:35).

Jesus is the only way to heaven, the only source of truth and the foundation of all life (John 14:6).

The Son of David Jesus is called the “son of David” 18 times in the New Testament.

In the first verse of the genealogy of Jesus he is called “the son of David” (Matthew 1:1) and the angel told Mary that her son will be given the throne of his father David (Luke 1:32-33). Elsewhere this name is mainly used by ordinary people asking Jesus to help them by performing a miracle (for example Matthew 15:22; Matthew 20:29-31). This name emphasizes that Jesus is indeed the fulfilling of the Old Testament prophecies that the Messiah would be born from the genealogy of King David (Psalm 110:1-7). Jesus applied these words to his own life in his conversation with the Pharisees (Matthew 22:41-46).

The Son of God Jesus is called the “Son of God” 53 times in the New Testament.

The angel who appeared to Mary before the birth of Jesus, said to her, “The holy one to be born will be called the Son of God” (Luke 1:35). The name emphasizes that Jesus is truly God and the second person of the Trinity.

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The Son of Man This name is mostly used by Jesus himself. He preferred to use this name and not the name Messiah for himself, probably because there were so many false and earthly views of the awaited Messiah in circulation. This name is mainly used where the power and majesty of Jesus needed to be emphasized (Matthew 9:6; 12:8; 13:41).

Alpha and Omega

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These two characters were the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet. This descriptive title expresses the eternal nature of God and Jesus Christ – the beginning and the end (Revelation 1:8; 22:13).

Immanuel This name means “God is with us”. We read in Matthew 1:2223 that Jesus would be called Immanuel as a fulfilment of the prophecy of Isaiah 7:14, “The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel.” The full meaning is expressed in John 1:14, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the One and Only who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.”

Wonderful Counsellor In the prophetic Isaiah 9:6 we have four names describing the Messiah, Christ Jesus. Christ’s position as our Wonderful Counsellor means we can trust him to listen to our problems and guide us in the right direction. We can be certain he has our best interests at heart because he loves us (1 John 4:19). And his love is so wide and deep (and wonderful) that we cannot fully understand it (Romans 5:8).

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Mighty God As a powerful and mighty warrior, the Messiah, the Mighty God (Isaiah 9:6), will accomplish the destruction of God’s enemies and rule with a rod of iron (Revelation 19:15).

In ancient times, the “father of the nation” was viewed in much the same way as the father of a family. It was the father who was to protect and provide for his children. In the same way, this Child to be born will become a king who will be a father to the children of Israel. He will protect and provide for them. And his role as protector and provider will not be limited by ageing or death. His role as father (protector and provider) will continue in perpetuity (Isaiah 9:6).

Prince of Peace Jesus is the Prince of Peace (Isaiah 9:6). By his birth, death and resurrection, he offers the world peace with God. How to keep peace in our lives regardless of what is happening around us is found in Philippians 4:7. Here Paul writes about the peace of God that transcends understanding. It is ours if we bring every situation in prayer and thanksgiving to God.

The Names of the Holy Spirit Author of Scripture (2 Peter 1:21; 2 Timothy 3:16). The Bible is inspired, literally “God-breathed”, by the Holy Spirit, the third person of the Trinity. The Spirit moved the authors of all 66 books to record exactly what he breathed into their hearts and minds.

Comforter / Counsellor / Advocate (Isaiah 11:2; John 14:16; 15:26; 16:7). All three words are translations of the Greek word “parakletos”, from which we 181

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get “Paraclete”, another name for the Spirit. When Jesus went away, his disciples were greatly distressed because they had lost his comforting presence. But he promised to send the Spirit to comfort, console and guide those who belong to Christ. The Spirit also “bears witness” with our spirits that we belong to him and thereby assures us of salvation.

Convicter of Sin

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(John 16:7-11). The Spirit applies the truths of God to men’s own minds in order to convince them by fair and sufficient arguments that they are sinners. He does this through the conviction in our hearts that we are not worthy to stand before a holy God, that we need his righteousness and that judgment is certain and will come to all men one day. Those who deny these truths rebel against the conviction of the Spirit.

Deposit / Seal / Down payment (2 Corinthians 1:22; 5:5; Ephesians 1:13-14). The Holy Spirit is God’s seal on his people, his claim on us as his very own. The gift of the Spirit to believers is a down payment on our heavenly inheritance, which Christ has promised us and secured for us at the cross. It is because the Spirit has sealed us that we are assured of our salvation. No one can break the seal of God.

Guide (John 16:13). Just as the Spirit guided the writers of Scripture to record truth, so does he promise to guide believers to know and understand that truth. God’s truth is “foolishness” to the world, because it is “spiritually discerned” (1 Corinthians 2:14). Those who belong to Christ have the indwelling Spirit who guides us into all we need to know in regard to spiritual matters. Those who do not belong to Christ have no “interpreter” to guide them to know and understand God’s Word.

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Indweller of Believers (Romans 8:9-11; Ephesians 2:21-22; 1 Corinthians 6:19). The Holy Spirit resides in the hearts of God’s people, and that indwelling is the distinguishing characteristic of the regenerated person. From within believers, he directs, guides, comforts, and influences us, as well as producing in us the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23). He provides the intimate connection between God and his children. All true believers in Christ have the Spirit residing in their hearts.

(Romans 8:26). One of the most encouraging and comforting aspects of the Holy Spirit is his ministry of intercession on behalf of those he inhabits. Because we often don’t know what or how to pray when we approach God, the Spirit intercedes and prays for us. He intercedes for us “with wordless groans”, so that when we are oppressed and overwhelmed by trials and the cares of life, he comes alongside to lend assistance as he sustains us before the throne of grace.

Revealer / Spirit of Truth (John 14:17; 16:13; 1 Corinthians 2:12-16). Jesus promised that, after the resurrection, the Holy Spirit would come to “guide you into all truth”. Because of the Spirit in our hearts, we are able to understand truth, especially in spiritual matters, in a way that non-Christians cannot. In fact, the truth the Spirit reveals to us is “foolishness” to them, and they cannot understand it. But we have the mind of Christ in the person of his Spirit within us.

Spirit of God / the Lord / Christ (Matthew 3:16; 2 Corinthians 3:17; 1 Peter 1:11). These names remind us that the Spirit of God is indeed part of the triune godhead and that he is just as much God as the Father and 183

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the Son. He is first revealed to us at the creation, when he was “hovering over the waters”, denoting his part in creation, along with that of Jesus who “made all things” (John 1:1-3). We see this same Trinity of God again at Jesus’ baptism, when the Spirit descends on Jesus and the voice of the Father is heard (Luke 3:2122).

Spirit of Life

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(Romans 8:2). The phrase “Spirit of life” means the Holy Spirit is the one who produces or gives life, not that he initiates salvation, but rather that he imparts newness of life. When we receive eternal life through Christ, the Spirit provides the spiritual food that is the sustenance of the spiritual life. Here again, we see the triune God at work. We are saved by the Father through the work of the Son, and that salvation is sustained by the Holy Spirit.

Teacher (John 14:26; 1 Corinthians 2:13). Jesus promised that the Spirit would teach his disciples “all things” and bring to their remembrance the things he said while he was with them. The writers of the New Testament were moved by the Spirit to remember and understand the instructions Jesus gave for the building and organising of the church, the doctrines regarding himself, the directives for holy living and the revelation of things to come.

Witness (Romans 8:16; Hebrews 2:4; 10:15). The Spirit is called “witness” because he verifies and testifies to the fact that we are children of God, that Jesus and the disciples who performed miracles were sent by God, and that the books of the Bible are divinely inspired.

Further, by giving the gifts of the Spirit to believers, he witnesses to us and the world that we belong to God. 184

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Useful Tools for Use in the Church Service There are three further tools that you can make use of in a church service: Spiritual creeds Prayers from the Bible and Biblical Promises

The Spiritual Creed

In most churches a creed is used to confess the truths of our belief as Christians. Usually it is performed by saying it together loudly while standing up. It is a privilege to know that you are confessing your faith together with Christians all over the world and over twenty centuries.

The most well-known spiritual creed has the name “The Apostles’ Creed” or “The Twelve Articles”. It contains a summary of the teachings of the apostles. In its present form it is of no later date than the fourth century ad.

It can be divided into three sections that coincide with the three persons of the Trinity: what we believe about God the Father (article 1), what we believe about Jesus Christ and his work on earth (articles 2-7) and what we believe about the Holy Spirit and the gifts that he brings to the church (articles 8-12).

This creed can be used weekly or once a month or occasionally when necessary.

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The Apostles’ Creed 1.

I believe in God the Father, Almighty, Maker of heaven and earth.

2. And in Jesus Christ, his only begotten Son, our Lord; 3. who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary; 4. suffered under Pontius Pilate; was crucified, dead and buried; he descended into hell; 5. the third day he rose again from the dead; 6. he ascended into heaven, and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; 7. from thence he shall come to judge the living and the dead.

8. I believe in the Holy Spirit.

9. I believe a holy, catholic church, the communion of saints; 10. the forgiveness of sins; 11. the resurrection of the body; 12. and the life everlasting. AMEN.

Prayers in the Bible and How to Use Them

We read about several prayers in the Bible. It is good to read them in your own quiet time and use them to express your own thoughts while praying. It is also useful to quote from these prayers when you are praying during the church services or when you are praying personally for the members of your church.

You could also use these prayers as subjects for your sermons on prayer.

Prayers found in the Old Testament: Tools for Services

Exodus 32:9-14, 30-34 (Prayers of Moses on behalf of Israel.)

Exodus 33:12-23 (Moses prays to be shown the glory of the Lord.)

Numbers 6:24-27 (Prayer as a benediction.)

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Chapter 15 Numbers 11:10-30 (The conversation between Moses and the Lord.)

Judges 10:10-16 (Israel confess their sins and ask for help.)

Judges 16:25-30 (Prayer in the face of death.)

2 Samuel 7:18-29 (Prayer for blessing upon house and kingdom.)

1 Kings 8:22-53 (Solomon’s prayer of dedication.)

2 Kings 19:14-19 (Prayer for deliverance from defiant foes.)

1 Chronicles 29:10-20 (David’s prayer of praise and humility.)

Nehemiah 1:4-11 (Nehemiah’s prayer born of distress.)

Job 40:3-5; 42:1-6 (Prayer as confession.)

Psalm 8 (Prayer of praise for divine action.)

Psalm 19 (Prayer and affinity to Scripture.)

Psalm 40 (Prayer for mercy and divine help.)

Psalm 51 (Prayer of a broken heart.)

Psalm 139 (Prayer for searching of heart.)

Isaiah 26:1-21 (Prayer for peace.)

Jeremiah 14:7-22 (Prayer for relief from sin and drought.)

Amos 7:1-9 (Prayer for respite and forgiveness.)

Jonah 2:1-10 (Prayer from the depth of the grave.)

Habakkuk 1:1-4; 12-17 (Prayer of complaint and vindication.)

Matthew 6:5-15 (Prayer as taught by Christ.)

Matthew 11:25-30 (Prayer of Christ’s gratitude to God.) Matthew 26:36-46 (Jesus prays in Gethsemane.)

Luke 1:46-55 (Mary’s song of glorification.)

Luke 2:29-32 (Simeon’s song of praise.)

Luke 11:1-13 (Prayer in parable form.)

Luke 18:9-14 (Prayers of the Pharisee and the tax collector.)

John 17:1-26 (Jesus prays for himself, for his disciples and for all believers.)

Acts 4:23-31 (Prayer for boldness of witness.)

Acts 7:55-60 (Prayer of the first martyr.)

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Prayers found in the New Testament:

The Preachers’ Handbook Romans 8:26-27 (Prayer inspired by the Spirit.)

2 Corinthians 12:7-10 (Prayer for the removal of the thorn.)

Ephesians 1:3-10 (Prayer and the believer’s position.)

Ephesians 1:15-23 (Thanksgiving and prayer.)

Ephesians 3:14-21 (Paul’s prayer for the Ephesians.)

Philippians 1:2-7 (Paul’s prayer for the Philippians.)

Colossians 1:9-14 (Prayer for a seven-fold blessing.)

James 1:5-8, 17 (Prayer for wisdom.)

James 5:13-18 (The prayer that prevails.)

Revelation 11:15-19 (Prayer of the elders.)

Revelation 19:1-10 (Prayer of the glorified saints.)

Bible Promises and How to Use Them

The Bible tells of many wonderful promises that God gave to believers. Read them in your Bible study time to grow in your own faith.

Use these promises in your sermons and in your conversations with the members of your church to encourage and inspire them.

Promises found in the Old Testament:

Tools for Services

Exodus 20:12 (A long and prosperous life for obedient believers.)

Joshua 1:9 (Be strong and courageous, for the Lord will be with you.)

2 Chronicles 7:14 (God will forgive our sins and heal our land.)

Psalm 9:9-10 (The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed.)

Psalm 23:4 (The Lord is with us even in the darkest moments.)

Psalm 50:14-15 (Call on the Lord in the day of trouble, he will deliver you.)

Proverbs 3:5-6 (Trust in the Lord and he will make your paths straight.)

Isaiah 40:29-31 (Strength to the weary and power to the weak.)

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Chapter 15 Isaiah 41:10-13 (The presence of the Lord expels fear.)

Isaiah 43:2 (The Lord will protect those that put their trust in him.)

Jeremiah 29:11 (The Lord plans to prosper us and to give us hope and a future.)

Malachi 3:10 (The Lord will throw open the floodgates of heaven and bless those that obey him.)

Matthew 6:31-33 (Seek first his kingdom and all will be given to you.)

Matthew 11:28-29 (Christ will give rest to the weary and burdened.)

Mark 11:24 (Believe what you ask in prayer, and it will be given to you.)

John 1:12 (Those who receive Jesus as Lord will become children of God.) John 3:16 (Whoever believes in Jesus, shall not perish but have eternal life.)

John 3:36 (Whoever believes in Jesus has eternal life.)

John 8:36 (If the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.)

John 11:25-26 (He who believes in Christ will live even though he dies.)

John 14:13-16 (Jesus will do whatever you ask in his name.)

Romans 6:23 (The free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus.)

Romans 8:28 (In all things God works for the good of those who love him.)

Romans 8:37-39 (Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ.)

Ephesians 3:16-19 (Christ will dwell in your heart through faith.)

Philippians 4:6-7 (The peace of God will guard your hearts and minds.)

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Promises found in the New Testament:

The Preachers’ Handbook Philippians 4:19 (God will meet all your needs according to his riches.)

Hebrews 10:23 (God is faithful, he will do what he promises.)

James 1:5 (God gives wisdom generously to those who ask for it.)

James 4:7 (The devil will flee from you when you resist him.)

James 5:14-15 (The prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well.)

2 Peter 3:9 (The Lord is patient, wanting everyone to come to repentance.)

1 John 1:9 (God is faithful and will forgive us our sins.)

1 John 3:2-3 (When Christ appears, we shall be like him.)

Revelation 3:5 (The Lord will keep your name in the book of life.)

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How to Conduct Special Services You have become familiar with the structure of church services as we have explained earlier. The structure of any church service can of course be adapted to the needs of a particular group of people or a particular occasion.

What follows here are some guidelines for a number of special services. The basic structure of the services remains the same. The guidelines will help you to plan and execute the extra elements of these special services.

These services and guidelines can be adapted to fit into the requirements of the culture or customs of the people you are ministering to. Your main concern will be that the glorification of the Lord and the message of salvation receives the necessary attention.

How to Conduct a Wedding Service

The wedding day is a very important day in the lives of the bride, the groom, the parents and all the people present. Make it a wonderful day that they will all remember.

Marriage between two people was instituted by God himself (Genesis 2:22-24; Matthew 19:3-6). Be sure that the people understand the holiness of marriage and experience the presence of Almighty God himself at the wedding.

Be sure that you are an appointed official marriage officer in your country. In some countries these officers are appointed by the government. Check with the Department of Home Affairs of your country.

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At some stage, a day or two before the wedding, you should have a meeting with the bridal couple. It is an opportunity to get the legal forms in order, discuss the order of the ceremony, talk about their future responsibilities as husband and wife, and discuss their personal relationship to the Lord Jesus Christ.

In some cultures the father of the bride (or somebody else who acts in his stead) would escort the bride down the aisle when the ceremony begins. The groom receives her from her father and they take their places in front of the pulpit.

You welcome those present and pray that the Lord will bless the proceedings. Then follows the Scripture reading and a short sermon. An example of an appropriate sermon is included in chapter 3.

The actual solemnization of the marriage consists of the reading of the Form for the Solemnization of a Marriage (which can be found on the internet). The bridal couple give positive answers to the questions put to them. They get the opportunity to exchange their bridal vows in their own words if they want to. And then they exchange wedding rings and kiss. You could bind their hands together for a moment using a suitable ribbon as a visual symbol of the union between them.

The bridal couple could kneel together (if they so wish) while you do a prayer for them and say the benediction. Then follow the congratulations and the signing of the legal forms.

Afterwards their parents and other family members get the opportunity to be the first to congratulate them.

How to Conduct a Funeral

The structure of a funeral service differs from culture to culture.

You know the cultural customs of the people group to which you are ministering. Adapt the following guidelines to suit your situation.

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In some cultures more than one service is held for every funeral. This could include one service in the home of the deceased and another in the church building. We will give attention to the actual burial service in the church.

In some communities the coffin is placed in front of the pulpit by the bearers. In other cases the coffin remains in the hearse. The attendees could be asked to stand when the family members enter the church as a group. When all the people are seated, you could say a word of welcome and do a prayer.

Then follow words of consolation to the family, the Scripture reading and the sermon. (Examples of appropriate sermons for funerals in different situations are included in chapter 3.)

A friend or family member could be given the opportunity to do homage to the deceased in a short address. And another could thank those involved. The service is closed by a hymn and/or a prayer followed by the benediction. In some cultures the attendees get the opportunity to pay a last visit to the (opened) coffin and say a few words to the deceased.

In the case of a burial a short ceremony is held at the grave.

While the coffin is being lowered into the grave, you could give a short summary of the gospel truths about life, death and everlasting life in a few sentences. You could read 1 Corinthians 15:50-58 or you could read the Apostles’ Creed.

In the case of cremation a similar short ceremony could be held at the door of the church before the hearse takes off.

And later, when the ashes are placed in a memorial wall or dispersed of in any other way, a short ceremony could be held to thank the Lord for the life of the deceased.

How to Dedicate a Child

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their children come to know Jesus Christ as their personal Saviour, and to serve the Lord all their lives.

The act of baby dedication takes place as part of a normal church service. The Scripture reading and sermon should be in conjunction with the theme of the day. An example of an appropriate sermon is included in chapter 3.

At a certain stage in the service the parents are called forward and the babies brought in. Take the first baby from his or her parents (this is a symbolic dedication of the child). Introduce the baby to the church members giving details of his or her birth. Give the baby back to the parents with the instruction to raise the child in the fear of the Lord. Do likewise with all the other babies.

Congratulate the parents and pray that the Lord may give them the strength to bring these children up in the fear of the Lord. Address the congregation stressing their responsibility to help the parents in leading their children to the Lord Jesus Christ.

The parents can make vows before God and the assembly. They commit to teaching the child the Christian principles and to raise the child according to Biblical guidelines. The parents can promise to be examples of how to follow Christ.

How to Conduct a Baptismal Service

Baptism is one of two sacraments (the holy communion is the other) that the Bible instructs us to observe (Matthew 28:19-20; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26). A sacrament is a visible and tangible token and seal that reminds us and ensures us that Jesus saved us from sin by giving his life on the cross.

Some churches do infant baptism. They believe that the covenant between God and Abram is still binding today. The offspring of the faithful Abram were included in the covenant and received circumcision as a token (Genesis 17:9-10). When Jesus came to earth, the covenant was renewed and baptism 194

replaced circumcision as the new token (Colossians 2:6-15).

Therefore, the children of believing parents are included in the covenant of God and should receive baptism as tangible token and seal of the covenant. These churches also do adult baptism in cases where people did not receive the token as babies.

Other churches do adult baptism. They believe that a person can only be baptised after he or she has confessed Jesus Christ as his or her Saviour (Matthew 28:19; Acts 2:37-38).

The act of baptism takes place as part of a normal church service. In the case of baby baptism, the parents are called forward at a certain stage in the service and the babies are brought in. The Form for the Baptism of Infants is read (available on the internet) and the parents answer positively when the questions are put to them. The grandparents and other family members could be invited to come forward as witnesses of the baptism if there is enough space to accommodate all. At the baptismal font every baby is in turn brough forward and baptised three times with water sprinkled on the forehead “... in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”, according to the commission of Jesus (Matthew 28:19). Afterwards the families are congratulated and the congregation could sing a hymn of benediction.

In the case of adult baptism those involved are called forward at a certain stage in the service. The Form for the Baptism of Adults is read (available on the internet). By answering positively to the questions, they confess their faith in Jesus Christ as their Saviour and then they are baptised one by one, every person three times with water sprinkled on the forehead “... in the Name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”, according to the commission of Jesus (Matthew 28:19). Afterwards the adults and their family members are congratulated and the congregation could sing a hymn of benediction.

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of water on the forehead, but by submerging the whole body under water and raising it up again. This is in accordance with the metaphor that the apostle Paul uses in Colossians 2:1113. It symbolises that the old sinful self is being buried and the person is raised up to a new life in Jesus Christ (see also Galatians 2:20).

The Scripture reading and sermon could be in conjunction with the theme of the day. Examples of appropriate sermons are included in chapter 3.

How to Conduct a Communion Service

The holy communion is the other sacrament – a visible and tangible token and seal that reminds us and assures us that Jesus saved us from sin by giving his life on the cross. The tokens are bread and wine according to the example that Jesus gave us (Matthew 26:26-30; 1 Corinthians 11:23-26). The bread is a communion of the body of Christ that was broken unto a complete remission of our sins. The wine is a communion of the blood of Christ that was shed unto a complete remission of our sins.

The holy communion is performed as part of a normal church service. Be sure that enough bread and wine is prepared beforehand for use during the communion.

The wine can be substituted with grape juice if it is in the interest of the community. People should also have the opportunity to choose which token (wine or grape juice) they would prefer to use.

The Scripture reading and the sermon of the day should highlight the holy communion. Examples of appropriate sermons can be found on the internet.

At a certain stage of the service the Form for the Lord’s Supper (available on the internet) is read and the members of the congregation are invited to join in. The tokens are distributed to all partakers of the communion. Some churches allow children to partake provided that they are old enough to 196

understand what the message of the sacrament is.

In breaking and distributing the bread you as the minister could say, “The bread which we break is a communion of the body of Christ. Take, eat, remember and believe that the body of our Lord Jesus Christ was broken unto a complete remission of our sins.” And when you give the cup, “The cup of blessing which we bless is a communion of the blood of Christ. Take, drink all of it, remember and believe that the precious blood of our Lord Jesus Christ was shed unto a complete remission of our sins.”

After the communion, Scripture passages can be read to express the thankfulness and dedication of the participants.

Examples of these are Psalm 103:1-14, Romans 5:8-10 and 8:31-32, 37-39.

How to Conduct an Ordination Service

God calls people to serve in his kingdom. They are ordained in their office to do their work in an official capacity. An ordination service is very important for those concerned. Be sure that you make it a personal experience for all of them.

Different church office-bearers can be ordained and sent out for a specific ministry in the kingdom of God. You can ordain pastors, elders, deacons, missionaries or other office-bearers.

The Scripture reading and sermon should complement the ordination. An example of an appropriate sermon is included in chapter 3.

Call the office-bearers to be ordained to take their places in front of the pulpit. Explain to them and to the congregation what their work will entail. You could use the Form for the Ordination of this specific office (available on the internet) to do this. The office-bearers give positive answers to the questions put to them. In doing so they undertake to be faithful and reliable in their office. You could call on other office-bearers in the same office to come forward and take part 197

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in the ordination by the laying on of hands.

Congratulate the office-bearers and encourage the members of the congregation to support them and pray for them. It is a good idea that the congregation sing a hymn of benediction.

Notes

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Scripture Passages for Use in Specific Situations Personal Relationship to God God’s will for your life: Psalm 1:1-6 Psalm 25:1-22 Matthew 5:3-12 Luke 9:57-62 John 17:1-26 Philippians 1:15-26

Praise God as the Creator of heaven and earth: Genesis 1:1-31 Job 28:1-28 Psalm 8:1-9 Psalm 33:1-22 Psalm 89:1-52

God reigns over the whole of creation: Psalm 24:1-10 Psalm 29:1-11 Psalm 48:1-14 Psalm 66:1-20 Psalm 68:1-35 Psalm 90:1-17 Psalm 100:1-5 Colossians 1:15-20 Revelation 4:1-11 199

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God is holy: Exodus 3:1-15 Exodus 19:1-25 Isaiah 6:1-13 Revelation 1:9-20

God cares for us:

Scriptures to Use

Psalm 23:1-6 Psalm 91:1-16 Psalm 103:1-22 Psalm 104:1-35 Psalm 118:1-29 Psalm 125:1-5 Psalm 147:1-20 Matthew 6:25-34 Romans 8:31-39

The power of the Word of God: Psalm 119:1-40 2 Timothy 3:10-17 2 Peter 1:20-21

God calls people to serve him: Joshua 1:1-9 Isaiah 6:1-13 Isaiah 55:1-6 Matthew 28:16-20 Luke 5:1-11 Acts 9:1-19

Confession of sins: Psalm 51:1-19 Psalm 85:4-7 200

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Matthew 6:5-15 1 John 1:5-10

Know that you are a child of God: John 1:12 John 3:16 John 5:24 1 John 5:1-5

Jesus accepts sinners: Romans 3:21-31 Ephesians 2:1-10 1 Peter 1:17-21 Scriptures to Use

Hearing the voice of God: Exodus 3:1-22 1 Samuel 3:1-10 Isaiah 6:1-13 Jeremiah 1:1-19 Ezekiel 1:1-10 John 8:42-47 John 10:1-5, 22-30 Hebrews 3:7-13

Living a fulfilled life: Matthew 5:1-12 John 4:5-14 Romans 5:1-11 Colossians 1:3-14 1 John 1:1-2:3

Love for God and our neighbour: Matthew 22:34-46 201

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John 3:16-17 John 13:31-38 John 21:15-19 Acts 2:42-47 Romans 8:38-39 Romans 13:8-14 1 Corinthians 13:1-13 1 John 2:7-17 1 John 4:7-12, 16-21

Receive God’s blessing:

Scriptures to Use

Psalm 1:1-6 Matthew 5:1-12 Romans 8:31-39 Ephesians 1:15-23 Philippians 4:4-9 James 1:2-8

Receive God’s healing: 2 Kings 5:1-19 2 Kings 20:1-11 Psalm 30:1-12 Mark 10:46-52 Luke 13:10-17 Acts 9:32-43 Philippians 2:25-30 James 5:13-18

The Teachings and Work of the Church The suffering of Jesus Christ: Isaiah 53:1-12 Matthew 26:1-27:66 John 18:1-19:42 Philippians 2:5-11 202

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The resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ: Luke 24:1-53 Acts 1:1-11 1 Corinthians 15:1-58

The meaning of Pentecost: Joel 2:28-32 John 14:15-31 John 16:5-15 Acts 2:1-47

Matthew 3:17 Matthew 28:16-20 John 1:19-34 Acts 2:37-42 Colossians 2:6-15

The meaning of the holy communion: Luke 22:14-23 1 Corinthians 11:17-34

The second coming of Christ: John 14:1-6 1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:11 2 Thessalonians 2:1-12 Revelation 7:9-17

The Holy Spirit: Joel 2:28-32 John 14:15-31 John 16:5-16 Acts 1:1-11 203

Scriptures to Use

The meaning of baptism:

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Acts 2:1-13 Romans 8:1-17 1 Corinthians 12:1-11 1 Corinthians 14:1-25 Ephesians 1:3-14

God as three persons:

Scriptures to Use

Matthew 28:16-20 Luke 3:21-22 John 14:16-26 John 16:5-16 Acts 2:14-36 Romans 8:12-17 2 Corinthians 13:11-14 1 John 5:6-12

Discipleship: Matthew 28:18-20 Mark 8:34-38 Luke 5:1-11 Luke 9:57-62 Luke 10:1-24 Luke 14:25-33 John 8:31-41 John 17:6-19

Evangelism: Matthew 28:16-20 John 1:43-51 Acts 8:26-40 Acts 19:1-10 2 Corinthians 5:11-21 Ephesians 3:7-13 1 Thessalonians 2:1-12 204

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Missions: Matthew 10:1-42 Matthew 28:16-20 Luke 10:1-22 Acts 1:1-11 2 Corinthians 5:17-21

Tithing:

Scriptures to Use

Deuteronomy 14:22-29; 26:1-15 Malachi 3:8-10 Mark 12:41-44 Luke 16:10-13 2 Corinthians 8:1-15 2 Corinthians 9:6-11

Marriage: Genesis 2:20-24 Genesis 3:1-20 Matthew 5:27-32 Matthew 19:1-12 1 Corinthians 7:1-16 Ephesians 5:22-23 Colossians 3:18-19 1 Peter 3:1-7

Family life: Psalm 128:1-6 Proverbs 31:10-31 Ephesians 5:22-6:4 Colossians 3:15-25 1 Thessalonians 5:12-28

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Finding your ministry: Luke 10:30-35 Acts 3:1-10 1 Corinthians 12:1-31 Ephesians 4:1-16 1 Peter 4:1-11

Leadership:

Scriptures to Use

Exodus 3:1-14 Exodus 17:1-7 Mark 10:35-45 Romans 12:1-8 1 Timothy 3:1-10 2 Timothy 2:1-7 Titus 1:5-9 1 Peter 5:1-4

Consolation in bereavement: Psalm 23:1-6 Isaiah 40:1-11 John 10:11-18 John 11:17-27 John 14:1-7 1 Corinthians 15:12-26, 50-58 Philippians 1:22-23

Spiritual and personal problems The sin of addiction: Proverbs 20:1 Proverbs 23:19-28 Isaiah 65:11-12 Matthew 6:19-35 Ephesians 5:15-18 206

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The sin of adultery: Exodus 20:14 Proverbs 6:24-7:27 Matthew 5:27-30 John 8:1-11 Romans 8:1-11 1 Thessalonians 4:1-8 Hebrews 13:4 James 4:1-10 Revelation 2:18-29

Political disobedience:

Scriptures to Use

Matthew 22:15-22 Romans 13:1-10 1 Timothy 2:1-8 1 Peter 2:13-17

The sin of greed: 2 Kings 5:20-27 Proverbs 16:8 Luke 12:13-21 Romans 1:29-32 1 Timothy 6:6-10

The sin of hatred: Matthew 5:43-48 Matthew 22:34-40 Galatians 5:19-26 Titus 3:3-8 1 Peter 1:22-2:3 1 John 2:9-10

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The sin of anger or wrath: Matthew 5:21-26 Ephesians 4:26 Colossians 3:5-14 James 1:20-21

The sin of pride: Matthew 6:1-4 Luke 18:9-14 Philippians 2:1-11 James 4:1-10 1 Peter 5:5-6

The sin of envy: Scriptures to Use

Genesis 4:1-18 Matthew 20:1-16 Titus 3:1-8 James 3:13-18

The sin of gluttony: Proverbs 23:19-21 Luke 12:22-26 Philippians 3:12-21 2 Timothy 3:1-9

The sin of sloth or laziness: Proverbs 6:6-11 Matthew 25:14-26 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 2 Thessalonians 3:6-16

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Topical Reference 1. Complete Outlines for Sermons by Scripture Text 1 Samuel 1:21-28 Accepting a baby as a gift from God Mark 10:13-16 Jesus loves little children and blesses them Mark 14:32-42 Jesus moves forward to the cross Luke 2:1-20 The Son of God is born as our Saviour John 11:17-44 Sorrow on earth overcome by eternal life John 5:1-9 Jesus gives us hope in life and death John 14:1-4 A promised future in heaven John 20:1-23 A joyful message: Jesus has overcome death!

Acts 1:1-11 How the ascension of Christ influences your life Acts 2:1-21, 40-41 The coming of the Holy Spirit changed everything Acts 2:41-47 The first church and the Kingdom of God Acts 6:1-6 Fill a need by appointing officials in the church Romans 6:1-14 Those baptized in Christ are alive for God Galatians 2:15-21

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25 15 47 44 18 22 9 53 56 59 62 29 27

The Preachers’ Handbook The effect of the crucifixion of Christ on believers Ephesians 5:21-33 The foundation of a happy marriage 1 Thessalonians 4:13 Jesus is coming again!

2 Timothy 4:6-8 Our whole life is in the safe hands of the Lord

50 13 65 20

2. Complete Outlines for Sermons by Theme Ascension of Jesus Christ Acts 1:1-11 Baptism: dead for sin but alive for God Romans 6:1-14 Children: accepting a baby as a gift from God 1 Samuel 1:21-28 Children: Jesus loves and blesses little children Mark 10:13-16 Christmas: Jesus is born as our Saviour Luke 2:1-20 Church: fill a need by appointing officials Acts 6:1-6 Crucifixion of Christ: the effect on believers Galatians 2:15-21 Death: sorrow overcome by eternal life John 11:17-44 Heaven: a future promised John 14:1-4 Hope: Jesus gives us hope in life and death John 5:1-9 Kingdom of God, the coming of Acts 2:41-47 Life: our whole life is in the hands of the Lord 2 Timothy 4:6-8 Marriage: the foundation for happiness Ephesians 5:21-33 Pentecost Acts 2:1-21, 40-41

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56 27 25 15 44 29 50 18 9 22 62 20 13 59

Topical Reference Resurrection of Christ John 20:1-23 Second coming of Jesus Christ 1 Thessalonians 4:13 Suffering of Christ Mark 14:32-42

53 65 47

3. Guidelines and Scripture Texts for Specific Services Ascension Day Acts 1:1-11 Baby dedication 1 Samuel 1:21-28 Baptism Romans 6:1-14 Christmas Luke 2:1-20 Crucifixion Galatians 2:15-21 Funeral following dreaded disease John 5:1-9 Funeral following tragic death John 11:17-44 Funeral of an old person 2 Timothy 4:6-8 Funeral of a child Mark 10:13-16 Good Friday Galatians 2:15-2 Kingdom of God, Kingdomtide Acts 2:41-47 Lent Mark 14:32-42 Ordination of officials Acts 6:1-6 Pentecost Acts 2:1-21, 40-41

56 25, 193 27, 194 44 50 22, 192 18, 192 20, 192 15, 192 150 62 47 29, 197 59

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The Preachers’ Handbook Resurrection day John 20:1-23 Second coming of Jesus Christ 1 Thessalonians 4:13 Wedding service Ephesians 5:21-33

53 65 13

4. Proposed Scripture Passages for Specific Services and Events Adultery, the sin of Advent, the four weeks of Addiction, the sin of Anger, the sin of Ascension of Jesus Christ Baby dedication Baptism Blessing, how to receive God’s Building, opening of a new Christmas Crucifixion of Christ Discipleship Discipleship, doing Discipleship, living a fulfilled life Envy, the sin of Evangelism, personal relational Funeral following dreaded disease Funeral following tragic death Funeral of a child Funeral of an old person Gala events, dinners Gluttony, the sin of God as Three Persons Government meetings, opening of

91 6, 99-100 91 92 56 26 28 89 34-35 46 51-52 68-69 82 83 93 81 24 19 16-17 21 39 93 85 36

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Topical Reference Greed, the sin of Hatred, the sin of Healing, receiving God’s Holy Spirit Kingdom of God, Kingdomtide Laziness, the sin of Leadership Leadership meetings, opening of Lent, the seven weeks of Love Marriage Men’s meetings, opening of Ministry in the Kingdom of God Missions Ordination of officials Pentecost Police station, opening of Political disobedience Pride, the sin of Religions, living with and accommodating other Resurrection of Christ Sacrifice your life to God Second coming of Jesus Christ School, opening of Suffering of Christ Tithing Voice of God Wedding service Wrath, the sin of Youth events

92 92 90 84 64 93 88 32 96 76 74 38 78 70 31 61 37 91 92 87 55 80 67 33 49 72 79 14 92 40

5. Scripture Passages and Key Notes for Special Events Building, opening of 1 Kings 8:22-66

34

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The Preachers’ Handbook Gala events, dinners John 7:37-44 Government meetings, opening of Romans 13:1-6 Leadership meetings, opening of Ephesians 4:11-16 Men’s meetings, opening of 2 Timothy 2:1-2 Police station, opening of 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10 School, opening of Titus 2:11-15 Youth events 1 Timothy 4:9-16

39 36 32 38 37 33 40

6. Background of the Books of the Bible and suggested Passages for Sermons THE OLD TESTAMENT Genesis Exodus Leviticus Numbers Deuteronomy Joshua Judges Ruth 1 and 2 Samuel 1 and 2 Kings 1 and 2 Chronicles Ezra Nehemiah Esther Job

102 104 104 105 106 107 108 109 109 110 111 112 113 114 115

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Topical Reference Psalms Proverbs Ecclesiastes Song of songs Isaiah Jeremiah Lamentations Ezekiel Daniel Hosea Joel Amos Obadiah Jonah Micah Nahum Habakkuk Zephaniah Haggai Zechariah Malachi

116 117 118 119 119 121 122 123 124 125 126 126 127 128 129 130 131 131 132 133 134

THE NEW TESTAMENT Matthew Mark Luke John Acts Romans 1 and 2 Corinthians Galatians Ephesians Philippians

135 136 138 139 141 142 143 144 145 146

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The Preachers’ Handbook Colossians 1 and 2 Thessalonians 1 and 2 Timothy Titus Philemon Hebrews James 1 and 2 Peter 1, 2 and 3 John Jude Revelation

147 148 149 150 151 152 153 154 155 156 156

7. Useful Tools for your Bible Study and Preparations of Sermons Creed, also called the Apostles’ Creed Miracles, the 35 miracles that Jesus performed Names, the names of God and their meaning Names, the names of Jesus and their meaning Names, the names of the Holy Spirit and their meaning Parables, the 25 parables that Jesus told Prayers in the Bible and how to use them Promises in the Bible and how to use them Sermons, useful tools to enhance Stories, the 48 most important stories in the Old Testament Stories, the 42 most important stories in the New Testament

185 170 173 177 181 168 186 188 158 164 166

8. Special Services and how to Conduct them Baptismal service Communion service Dedication of a child Funeral Ordination service Wedding service

194 196 193 192 197 191

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PREACHERS’ HANDBOOK

A Guide to the Bible, Sermon Preparation & Services For Preachers and Pastors