Presentation Tips for Sermons

Ethos3 prides itself on mastery of the presentation in all forms. We also realize that not all presentations happen in a corporate setting. In fact, when it comes down to the essentials, not much separates a great business pitch from an incredible sermon. Here are a few ways to bridge that gap and improve your sermon using some classic presentation techniques:

1. Streamline Your Content

A great sermon starts with great content. It doesn’t matter what the topic is, it needs to be concise in order to be powerful. Consider using three main takeaways, also known as “The Rule of Three,” which is proven to enhance memory.

Another technique that can be used to make your content more concise is (strangely) taken from Stephen King’s book “On Writing.” His rule of 10% states that “2nd Draft = 1st draft – 10%.” Don’t be afraid to cut out even more content once you’ve worked out a final outline. As with all writing, less is more.

2. Consider Visuals

Depending on the capabilities of your location, you may want to project an actual presentation along with your sermon. It doesn’t have to explain every point, but it can work nicely with your three main takeaways. Consider using bold imagery and just a single word on the slides to keep your audience focused on each section. Not sure where to begin when it comes to making presentations look great? We have a whole blog archive of design tips and tricks.

3. Use Storytelling

We love storytelling! Stories enhance our memory, engage our imaginations, and peak our interest. Consider how Jesus used parables rather than pulling out a papyrus chart covered in rules. Don’t just tell your congregation why you should or should not act, show them what happens when they do. This is a presentation technique that works in the corporate world, at the pulpit, and just about everywhere else in between.

4. Insert a Call-to-Action

This may sound like business jargon, and believe us, it is. A call-to-action usually fits at the end of a webpage and asks for an email address or contact information. However, in the sermon, a CTA stands for the practical application that the congregation can use throughout the week. Your sermon CTA won’t drive up your numbers, but it will help the audience retain what you’ve said and find a straightforward way to apply it in their upcoming week. Trust us, it’s important.

5. Gather Feedback

Presentations have the ability to incorporate live comments using smartphone apps, but for the sermon, we recommend a less-distracting way to hear what your audience has to say. Consider using comment cards, asking a few friends to review your sermon, or recording yourself in order to improve where necessary. As with any kind of public speaking, deliberate practice is the only way to improve. This remains true even if you have been delivering sermons for years.

Strengthening your presenting skills will enrich the message you deliver. Most of our presentation tips can also apply to the pulpit, which is why we recommend checking out the mountain of resources available on our blog.

Question: Where does your sermon require improvement? 

 





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