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In this episode, Smith and Southerland walk backward to the beginning point for creating powerful, high-impact illustrations. We give 2 audio examples of our own attempts from live sermons.
An illustration (as used in a sermon) is "a concrete analogy of an abstract spiritual truth." An illustration appeals to the imagination of the listener because it, by its very nature, contains imagery. That’s why illustrations are often given in the form of a story — a favorite technique of Jesus Himself.
A good illustration has a high "correlation factor" to the abstract principle that it illustrates. We discuss how to insure that the picture you paint in the concrete analogizes well (man, we hope that’s a real word) with the principle that you’re illustrating. It has to correlate as much as possible.
Mentioned in this show:
- 12 Essential Skills For Great Preaching by Dr. Wayne McDill
Responses to “The Sermonators Ep 1 - The Starting Point for Powerful Illustrations”
February 27th, 2008 at 3:57 pm
Really enjoyed the reminder of the significance of clear illustrations. Actually the story Scott tells of his daughter, Gianna, simply by way of introduction was so engaging that it illustrated the effectiveness of illustrations. They can even be used before the explanation (See McDill’s book) to engage the post-modern listener, yet without sacrificing solid exposition. Thanks sermonators!! I look forward to adding your web site to my list of resources for staying fresh in the pulpit.
February 29th, 2008 at 4:56 pm
Great job guys! The Lord is going to truly bless you and your families. Thank you for caring enough to go the extra mile to promote The Kingdom Work.
March 7th, 2008 at 7:15 pm
Scott and Joel, what a great work you both have launched. I believe that the vision and direction of this ministry will prove to be priceless to pastors, youth pastors, and others serving in ministry. I have to agree that McDill’s book is invaluable. Scott recommended it to me during a revival at our church and I swallowed it whole…not literally. The chapter on illustrations itself is well worth the purchase of the book. Keep up the great work guys. Looking forward to your next podcast.
March 18th, 2008 at 10:13 am
Hey guys! I know that you are getting ready for your Sunday Easter sermon. And, I know you are looking for great material. I thought I would pass along an illustration I am using. I am speaking in my first point about our hopelessness apart from the resurrection of Christ. I know that many of you may be using a similar point for your sermon as well. If you are, and if you are looking for a good illustration, I used the most lopsided football game in college football history as in illustration [Georgia Tech vs Cumberland - 222-0]. I am going to drop in a wikipedia link that tells you about the game. You can really build an effective illustration around the idea of hopelessness…
I hope Sunday is a great day!! If you use the illustration in any way, come back and let me know…
Here is the link:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1916_Cumberland_vs._Georgia_Tech_football_game
March 18th, 2008 at 11:30 am
I HATE sports illustrations… but this is a good one.
Usually, if a preacher is an avid sports fan (not guilty here), sports illustrations tend to be over-used because they are the first ones to come to mind. This one really works, though.
The key to using good sports illustrations is to use them in a way that will appeal even to the non-sports fans.
A good test: Can I tell it without technical sports language and make it clear enough to make my point?
If you have to be a big X-ball fan [basket, foot, or otherwise] to understand it, then, unless your speaking to a team that plays that sport or a group like FCA, pare down the jargon or just don’t use it.
Thanks for the link, Joel. Useful stuff.
February 26th, 2008 at 7:45 pm
Congradulations Scott and Joel! What a turning point for you both. I know that many will be impacted by this great work. People of ministry and leadership, don’t skip this material. Ingest it, you won’t regret it. I don’t spell check so “excuse me!” Jouney on..Peace of Christ.