3) For a consecutive expository sermon
Introduction
James W. Alexander, Thoughts on Preaching, (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 1975), p. 242;
James W. Alexander, Thoughts on Preaching, (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 1975), p. 228.
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a) The goals envisioned in the discussion or argument of an expository sermon.
1- To explicate the passage which constitutes the text of the particular sermon
2- To demonstrate the passage’s connection with the whole argument, message, or emphasis of the larger context of the book that contains it.
3- To articulate the passage’s principles of truth.
4- To make an application of the passage’s abiding message to your listeners
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b) The means to attain these goals
1- Initial disciplines
(a) Plead earnestly for the present assistance of the Holy Spirit.
Jas. 4:2
Jer. 17:5-7
(b) Make a thorough overall preliminary investigation of the book or biblical character to be expounded.
– Read the text which you intend to expound carefully and repeatedly.
– Consult proven orthodox introductions, commentaries, Bible dictionaries and histories, notes from your formal theological training, etc.
John W. Etter, The Preacher and His Sermon, (Dayton, OH: United Brethren Publishing House, 1883), pp. 292-293.
(c) Wisely establish and select the boundaries of your specific text for each sermonic exercise.
– Consider the paragraph divisions as a starting point for workable boundaries.
– Consider the inherent richness or density of thought in establishing boundaries.
James W. Alexander, Thoughts on Preaching, (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 1975), p. 248;
James W. Alexander, Thoughts on Preaching, (Edinburgh: Banner of Truth Trust, 1975), pp. 250-251;
John W. Etter, The Preacher and His Sermon, (Dayton, OH: United Brethren Publishing House, 1883), p. 293.
– Consider the thoughts of the text in relationship to the present circumstances of the congregation in establishing boundaries.
– Consider your present understanding and experience in determining the boundaries of the text.
– Consider the grammatical constructions in determining the boundaries of the text.
– Consider the necessity of the unity of discourse.
– Consider the general edification of the rank and file Christians of your congregation in determining the boundaries of your text.
– Consider your present ability to preach in determining the boundaries of your text.
(d) Carefully analyze the language of the text.
(e) Prayerfully seek to understand the burden of your text.
(f) Consult the more “pastoral” commentaries.