Crafting the Sermon: A Beginner’s Guide to Preaching
A down-to-earth, practical introduction to the ins and outs of preaching.
This book is for those who are newly arrived in the pulpit: lay preachers, bivocational and local pastors, as well as recent seminary graduates. Preaching is a fundamental task of pastors. and some say it is the most important task. There is a lot riding on the Sunday sermon, because as United Methodist Bishop Bill McAlilly says, “If it doesn’t happen on Sunday, it doesn’t happen.” While many can draw on a wealth of life experience, as well as strong intuitive skills in knowing what makes a good sermon, what is often lacking are those detailed instructions on the how-tos of preaching and sermon preparation from a pastor who does it every week. That is precisely what this brief, practical guide to preaching offers.
Written for those who have a heart for preaching, author Charles Ensminger begins by emphasizing the importance of authenticity, assessing the context and needs of the congregation, and the need for preachers to hear how the text applies to their own spiritual journey. The book includes helpful suggestions for sermon planning, preparation, delivery, resources, as well as how to choose effective and memorable illustrations.
Charles D. Ensminger, DMin (MTSO) is an elder in The United Methodist Church. He currently pastors Allen Memorial United Methodist Church in Athens, TN. Ensminger serves as an adjunct professor at Tennessee Wesleyan University where he has taught courses in Bible, Christian Vocation, and Discipleship and Film. He has also served on the Holston Conference Board of Higher Education; the Cleveland District Board of Ordained Ministry, the Scenic South District Discipleship Committee and Development Team; and the Board of Directors for Camp Lookout.
Praise for Crafting the Sermon
“People yearn to hear authentic and inspired preaching and preachers yearn to offer the same. As a lover of the art of preaching, I found the author’s work practical and compelling. I heartily recommend the use of this manual for preparing and presenting the sermon. For both for the beginning and seasoned proclaimer, gain greater effectiveness and reignite
your passion.”
—Richard Looney, retired bishop, The United Methodist Church
“Preaching matters and growing as a preacher matters too. Rev. Ensminger invites all who preach God’s word on an impactful journey of preaching through humor, wisdom, guidance, storytelling, coaching, and moments of honest self-reflection. This book draws the reader to experience deep change in sharing God’s word through preaching. Crafting the Sermon is an instant classic that is packed full of deep nuggets of practical, helpful, and insightful preaching information. The book is a great preaching text for new and experienced preachers alike.”
—Susan Arnold, pastor, Blountville United Methodist Church, Holston Conference, (began her journey as a Licensed Local Pastor)
Wesley’s Foundery Books is an imprint of the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry of The United Methodist Church. These books are clearly and accessibly written by Methodist/Wesleyan experts, with an emphasis on church life and ministry. Representing the rich diversity of the church, Wesley’s Foundery Books offer a disciplined and balanced approach. GHBEM Publishing is an affiliate member of the Association of University Presses.
