One of the disciples answered, “Sir, we don’t think anything that happened 2,000 years ago has any meaning for us today.” I answered, “Oh. So Truth doesn’t mean anything to you.” (Not the best answer, but all I could come up with at the moment.)
Today, I want to answer that question: What does the resurrection of Jesus mean two thousand years later? (And with that, I’m into the sermon.)
Your people need your assistance in getting into the sermon. So, start at the shallow end of the pool.
No silliness. Nothing trite and nothing about last Friday night’s ball game. The introduction to the sermon should be well thought out. It should be a lead-in to the points you’re going to be making in the sermon.
Throughout your preparation, keep this before the Lord. He has heard all the illustrations and introductions ever given. He even inspired a goodly portion of them! (smile please) So, ask Him. And keep your antenna out, looking for them.
And, if preaching time approaches and you have not been able to find a good introductory story or illustration—something!—leave the matter open-ended until a few minutes before the worship service begins. If nothing has presented itself to you by then, then, sending up a prayer for His help and the congregation’s response, do the best you can.
No one hits it out of the park every time.
This article originally appeared here.
