Preaching Through Podcast

Send us a textIs controversy something to avoid in the pulpit? Not necessarily. In a world increasingly hostile to biblical truth, pastors must learn to navigate countercultural convictions with both grace and clarity.This episode unpacks a seven-week series addressing core Christian beliefs that challenge modern cultural assumptions. The series covers seven key countercultural convictions:Love - Redefining biblical love as self-sacrifice rather than self-fulfillmentJesus - Affirming His excl...

Send us a textNot all vulnerability from the pulpit serves the same purpose - while some builds authentic connections, other forms can subtly manipulate or damage pastoral relationships. For pastors seeking to be genuine without crossing crucial boundaries, knowing the difference is essential.When does vulnerability cross the line from helpful to harmful?In this episode of Preaching Through Podcast, we explore the delicate balance of pastoral vulnerability, examining both its potential benefi...

Send us a textThe Book of Judges might seem like an unlikely candidate for a powerful sermon series, but within its ancient pages lies a mirror reflecting our modern struggle with faith, leadership, and moral direction. While some may shy away from its raw content and challenging narratives, this biblical text offers profound insights into human nature and God's unwavering faithfulness.But what makes Judges uniquely relevant for today's church?In this episode of Preaching Through Podcast, we ...

Send us a textBuilding an effective preaching team is more complex than simply sharing the Sunday morning workload. It's about developing multiple voices, creating cohesive messages, and strategically investing in the next generation of communicators.But how do you build a preaching team that maintains quality while developing new voices? The answer requires careful consideration and intentional planning.In this episode of Preaching Through Podcast, we explore the essential elements of creati...

Send us a textEfficient sermon preparation is crucial for pastors, but it's often a struggle to balance thorough study with time constraints. This episode of Preaching Through Podcast dives into practical strategies for streamlining the sermon prep process without sacrificing quality.Key topics covered include:The importance of developing a systematic approach to sermon preparationCreating a schedule that protects dedicated prep timeUtilizing tools and resources to enhance efficiencyLeveragin...

Send us a textPreaching through the book of Revelation can be both challenging and rewarding. While the imagery and symbolism may seem daunting, the core message is clear and relevant for today's believers.This episode of Preaching Through Podcast explores key insights and takeaways from tackling this often misunderstood book of the Bible:Revelation is both an attractional and discipleship series, drawing in curious seekers while deepening the faith of believers. It teaches people how to read...

Send us a textVocal dynamics and body language are crucial elements of effective preaching that often go overlooked. While the Holy Spirit is ultimately responsible for conviction, these communication tools help keep listeners engaged so they can hear and receive the message.This episode dives into practical tips for improving vocal dynamics and body language, drawing from content used in the Preaching Lab:Using different "gears" of vocal delivery, from quiet and tender (first gear) to urgent...

Send us a textFeedback can be a valuable tool for preachers who want to refine their craft and continually improve their sermons, but the reality is, many pastors aren’t receiving it. Why is that?In this episode of Preaching Through Podcast, we unpack the critical role of feedback for preachers and address common barriers that keep pastors from seeking or receiving meaningful feedback. We explore the different kinds of feedback—before the sermon, between services, and after the fact—and how e...

Send us a textApplication in preaching goes beyond just explaining what a biblical passage means - it explores why it matters for people's lives today. While some argue the Holy Spirit alone should apply God's Word, Scripture shows God often uses preachers as a means of grace to help people understand how to obey and live out biblical truth.Effective application avoids common pitfalls like legalism, moralism, or shaming. Instead, it invites people to see how the gospel empowers obedience. Pra...

Send us a textA sabbatical can be a game-changer for high capacity, high vision lead pastors, offering an opportunity for deep rest and renewal. Those who have the chance to take one often find it to be an invaluable investment in their short-term ministry, long-term ministry, and overall spiritual well-being.But do lead pastors deserve a sabbatical? The answer might surprise you.In this episode of Preaching Through Podcast we dive deep into the most pressing and frequently asked questions ab...

Send us a textMars Hill planted a location in Phoenix, Arizona. Six months later the church collapsed. Instead of shutting down the church and returning home, Tim Birdwell launched a new church the very next Sunday. Not only did Tim transition from preaching occasionally to every week, he was following in the footsteps of a leader who built a large movement on the back of his communication skills. Several years after Phoenix Bible Church established itself as its own unique congregation, the ...

Send us a textAre you struggling to keep your sermons concise yet powerful? Preaching is an art form that you can improve in over time and the practice of shaving down your sermon lengths while striving to maintain impact is a discipline that will help you continue to preach with a punch over the long-haul.Maintaining audience engagement, effortless transition into response time, and integrating the sermon better with the overall flow of the service is often an overflow of a sermon that is th...

Send us a textSermon illustrations are vital for making biblical truths come alive in a way that will stick with listeners over the long-haul. Yet, illustration ideas is an ongoing struggle for many preachers. Uncovering an illustration that effectively shines a light on the text and seasons the message is not just a key discipline of message prep, but it is an art form.If all an illustration was good for was to help make key truths real, tangible, and applicable to modern life, it would be e...

Send us a textA killer introduction is critical for getting people to not just listen to your sermon... but actually care about the message you're about to share. A rookie preacher can captivate attention with a strong introduction as easily as a veteran preacher can lose people without a thoughtful and thought provoking introduction.In this episode, we listen to and analyze examples of five different types of introductions, from incorporating humor to asking engaging questions. We'll also an...

Send us a textWe all tend to shrink God down to size in our minds, crafting Him into a more comfortable and understandable being. But in today's episode, the focus is on expanding the vision of who God truly is in all His greatness, glory, goodness, and grace. We will unpack the profound implications wrapped up in what we call “the 4 Gs.” Even if you don’t preach an entire series on them, these God-centered truths can revolutionize how you communicate the gospel.The main points of the 4 ...

Send us a textWhether you're a seasoned preacher or just starting out, a clear sermon structure is crucial for effectively communicating biblical truth. In today's episode, we'll be breaking down the essential architecture of an impactful sermon point. You'll discover the key elements that must be included to captivate your listeners' attention, convince them of the truth, inspire life change, and pave a smooth path from start to finish. We all know the difference between a disjoint...

Send us a textDo you sometimes feel like an imposter when you step into the pulpit? Like you're trying to imitate other preachers rather than preaching as your authentic self? Finding your unique preaching voice can free you up to genuinely pastor your flock. Yes, the sound of your voice has something to do with it... but it's really much more than that! It is your personality, passions, delivery style, and other nuances about you that come together to form the authentic you in the pulpi...

Send us a textPreaching through an entire book of the Bible can seem daunting. How do you keep people engaged week after week? What if you hit confusing passages or genealogies? And how slow should you take it - verse by verse or breezing through larger sections?In this episode of Preaching Through Podcast we tackle all of the key decisions preachers face when planning a sermon series for preaching through books of the Bible:Why teach sequentially and what benefits does it offer congregations...

Send us a textGod's biggest rival isn't Satan, it's money.Money is already sensitive topic for so many. When the church starts talking about money it ticks the boxes of culturally and emotionally difficult topics. Lead pastors should talk about money — Jesus did and even when he wasn't talking about finances, much of his stories and example involved the concept of money.If you never talk about it, that sends a message.If you always talk about it, that sends a message, too.The needle we w...

Send us a textNew lead pastor? Merging with another congregation? Sharing some disappointing news that impacts everyone? Changing the name of your church? Most preachers will experience the responsibility of preaching through a big change that impacts everyone in their congregation and leading change is rarely easy and seamless.But doing it well it's essential if you hope to thrive on the other side of change.As leaders, we're called to help our people navigate change and to see the opportuni...

Send us a textPreaching through summer months is a different experience for every church. For churches in Phoenix, Arizona summer includes 31 consecutive days 110 degrees... for churches in Toledo, Ohio the summers represent the best months of the year. But no matter what unique challenges you face each summer, the opportunity for ministry impact is real and it's the responsibility of preachers to make the most of it.In this episode of Preaching Through Podcast we talk about what it is t...

Send us a textYou're at a new church...Maybe you planted it.Or, maybe you're stepping into a new role at an already established church.What should that first year of preaching look like? Are there principles to help you navigate building your preaching calendar, naming your sermon series, or setting up your weekly sermon?We think there are!In this episode of Preaching Through Podcast we talk about keys to preaching well during your first year at a new church. You only get one chance to make a...

Send us a textThere are two questions you should ask people in your newcomers class. The first one is a no-brainer. "What made you decide to visit our church."The second question... "Why did you decide to come back?"How great would it be if everyone who visited on Easter Sunday would return for the next week? You actually have more influence on the return visit than you may realize and that's what we discuss in this episode of Preaching Through Podcast.Yes, there are things you can do du...

Send us a textYou frequently find yourself navigating the nuanced worlds of praise, criticism, and most palpably, silence when it comes to your preaching. How serious do you take the criticism? How meaningful is the praise? How do you continue to invest and give your best when it feels like no one is listening... good or bad?In this episode of Preaching Through Podcast we dive into these three reactions to preaching and deliver insights for processing criticism, receiving, praise, and handlin...

Send us a textAre you preaching from a manuscript? Do you have a bullet point list that serves as your sermon notes? Are you stepping into the pulpit with no notes with your entire message memorized and ready to deliver?Very few pastors ever start out, completely satisfied with how they handle their sermon notes for every sermon — maybe over time you get a bit more comfortable, but in the end many preachers aspire to handle the notes part of preaching with a greater level of effectiveness.In ...

Send us a textHow fun would it be to use your best stories, best illustrations, best jokes, and best sermon content for two, three, even four sermons straight?What's more... everyone shows up for every message!This is the opportunity afforded when you are invited to preach at camps and conferences and that's exactly what we're talking about in this episode of Preaching Through Podcast.Discover practical tips for preparing your messages, getting feedback from event directors, and how to incorp...

Send us a textGet used to preaching in front of a camera — it's not going away. In fact, it may become more and more common for pastors to teach and preach through a lens to supplement the live weekend preaching. In this episode of Preaching Through Podcast you'll discover some of the insights and instruction you can lean on as you seek to become a more effective communicator through the camera. Learn more about the Lead Pastor Leadership Intensive: https://faithfruit.link/m84xlxfDi...

Send us a textThere is a 'right way' to preach through a wedding and funeral... 'get out of the way, its not about you.' It's true, no one is there to see you, yet, you have such an important part.From storytelling, to sharing the Gospel, to ministering to the people involved, there is an opportunity to use the preaching moment to remind people of what's important, why it matters, and how to respond. Receiving an invitation to celebrate or mourn with a family comes with opportunity and i...

Send us a textWhat do you believe your sermons have the power to do? What do you believe about the weekly preaching moment? Who or what should have influence over your preaching? What are your Assumptions, Beliefs, and Convictions about preaching? Every preacher has them but very few write them down and if you have never written them down, it is worth your time.In this episode of Preaching Through Podcast we discuss the 10 ABCs of Preaching developed by Luke to stay accountable to t...

Send us a textPreaching is most effective at leading congregational change when aligned with and supporting other discipleship environments in the church. The annual calendar provides natural seasons of momentum and choosing one core emphasis or initiative to "disproportionately" promote throughout the fall allows for maximum focus and impact without overwhelming people.Imagine showing up every Sunday to a congregation energized, excited, and ready to get involved. Isn't it awesome when there...

Send us a textIf you're unhappy with your sermon prep process, you're not alone. When surveying pastors and asking them to share an area where they would like to become stronger in related to their preaching an overwhelming amount say things like:A better sermon prep processMore organized preparation processBetter rhythm for my sermon prepA prep process that doesn't bleed into the weekendThere isn't a right way to do sermon prep but there are definitely ways to make your process easier and mo...

Send us a text Concubines, slavery, the murder of women and children, adultery, and conspiracy are just a few of the topics in Old Testament books that can discourage pastors from embracing the Hebrew Scriptures and stick with the New Testament books. It's understandable. On top of that, we are living in the New Covenant and much of what we find in Old Testament books is not really meant for modern day Christians.Well, if you care what Jesus has to say, the answer would be a lot. Jesus d...

Send us a textPreaching through a non-fiction book sermon series. There are many benefits to incorporating the work of other authors, pastors, and writers into your sermons, even doing entire studies around their works... but should you do it? Is it wise? There are benefits to preaching through non-fiction books but there are also many cautions and do the cautions outweigh the benefits?Preachers have more teaching content available to them today than any time in history and with that com...

Send us a textYou will be responsible for preaching through tough texts. Whether the texts are tough theologically speaking or tough culturally speaking, your people will be watching how you handle yourself and the scriptures. As important as it is to handle God's Word with care and intentionality, it is equally important to communicate the beauty of why God's way is best. How do you gracefully acknowledge emotions your people may have regarding a text while still delivering the truth with au...

Send us a textHave you ever wondered why after preaching for 30 or 40 minutes on a Sunday you are wiped that afternoon (when you could easily speak for an hour at the Rotary Club and not think twice)? Preaching is not the conveying of information but a call to transformation and a huge part of that call is your experience. The greatest gift you bring to the preaching moment is your entire self. And if you're bringing your entire self that means you will encounter seasons when you must pr...

Send us a textOver 600 pastors were asked, "How many Sundays do you teach a year." Nearly 45% responded that they teach 45 to 52 Sundays. Pastors are preaching too much and whether that is by default or design, having a sermon calendar will not only help you schedule in the time off you need to make it through the long-haul of ministry, you will also discover the added planning will empower you to increase study, extract more insights from scripture, and overall elevate your abilit...

Send us a textIf Easter Sunday is the Super Bowl of preaching, Christmas is the college football national championship. There's a lot of hype, excitement, and planning to make the most of these two events, yet they represent just two moments in your larger ministry.How much priority should be placed on each one?What is the true evangelism opportunity that exists?Where should we set our expectations for short-term and long-term impact?In this episode of Preaching Through Podcast we examine how...

Send us a textIf you preach to people who are in pain you will always have an audience. This is especially true during many big cultural events that we have become accustomed to seeing flash on our screens as a part of the 24/7 news cycle.At the most trivial level these cultural events are controversial... but often they are tragedy. There is a soberness to it and our hope is that this conversation will help preachers and pastors figure out how to address these big cultural events. There is a...

Send us a textWhich Gospel should you preach through? When you make the decision to do a deep dive on the life of Jesus, which Gospel narrative should you select? Moreover, how long should you dedicate to preaching that text? Do you want to preach the entire Gospel? Do you want to focus in on just the Sermon On the Mount? Would it be better to preach through all of the parallel passages?While there is no right way to preach through one, several, or all of the the Gospels, there are several co...

Send us a textImagine that there is an election season approaching, and there is political unrest around the country over a large number of issues.Now, imagine that the church that you are leading is full of people of differing views on many issues, each coming from unique life experiences.Finally, you have 30 to 40 minutes to paint a picture of who God is, what He is like, and how Jesus would have His people live out in the current circumstances of the upcoming election.Do you find common gr...

Send us a textWhen you think about doing a vision series, does that excite you or fill you with dread? Wherever you land, one of the most rewarding moments in ministry is hearing your people speak your vision back to you. That’s when you know they’re starting to “get it”!You know preaching is so much more than casting a vision! It’s about building a culture and a church where lives are changed and people come to know Christ.In this episode of Preaching Through Podcast, Luke and Dave discuss h...

Send us a textPastors are working crazy hours, wearing multiple hats, and filling multiple job descriptions, and not complaining (or trying not to complain). On top of everything you still have to find time to plan, prepare, and preach a compelling message every week.Preaching is like having an oral exam every week and they're bringing their friends to watch. You put that with all the pressures preaching pastors are already experiencing and it's a heavy burden, and it's a hard thing to manage...