1. INTRODUCTION

The introduction should be prepared after the message is completed so that you know what it is that you are introducing.

a. Definition:
1) The introduction is the process by which the preacher endeavors to prepare the minds and secure the interest of his hearers in the message he has to proclaim (Braga).

2) The introduction should answer the question: "Why should this audience listen to me discuss this theme or this text?"

Therefore the introduction is a brief (5-10% of sermon), sincere, friendly, clear, appropriate, direct, interesting, simple, informal and purposeful "attention grabber."

b. Function:

1) The purpose for an introduction is to establish an interrelationship between the speaker (and his message) and the audience.

2) It should be designed to meet the listeners where they are and bring them to a place of comprehending God's message as the preacher leads them along.

3) The introduction should also naturally lead to the proposition.

4) The introduction should be brief and interesting so that the people can relate to what you are about to say. It should grab them from where they are. Generally a good introduction will include an illustration of some type.

The key is: It must create interest.

* Especially in expository preaching - historical background, the context, and other data related to the passage should not come first. It must come after interest has been attained.

c. Benefits:

1) The introduction is a vital part of a sermon because it secures the good will (rapport) of the hearers, resulting in favorable attentiveness, and it arouses or captures interest in the theme to be presented.

2) The introduction can help the listeners overcome:

a) Indifference (Any feelings of indifference toward the speaker and/or his message).

b) Preoccupation

c) Prejudices

d) Circumstances

3) The introduction will also put the speaker and listener at ease - to make the theme pertinent and to make a smooth transition from the natural to the spiritual.

2. CONCLUSION

a. Definition:
1) The conclusion is the climax of the entire sermon, in which the preacher's one constant aim reaches its goal in the form of a forceful impression (Braga).

2) In the conclusion, all that was previously stated is concentrated in force or intensity to produce a vigorous impact upon the listeners.

b. Function:

1) The conclusion functions as a summary of the main ideas to refresh the mind and to refocus upon the main thrust of the Scripture.

2) It calls for a decision, secures a verdict and suggests a practical course of action whereby the truths might be put into life (without introducing new supporting material).

3) The conclusion should be:

a) Short (not prolonged so as to weary the listeners)

b) Clear

c) Impressive (yet natural)

d) Real (not forced emotionalism) - Have it memorized so you can look the people right in the eye.

e) Appropriate (true to the theme)

f) Unannounced (Don't say, "Now, in conclusion..." If you do, your people will "check out" mentally and tune you out)

4) It may take the form of:

a) Recapitulation (summary of main points)

b) Illustration

c) Application

(1) Warning or admonition

(2) An earnest appeal or exhortation (to the intellect, emotion and will)

* However, the conclusion should always end by offering hope.

c. Benefits:

1) The conclusion helps to emphasize, reaffirm, establish, or finalize that which has already been declared.

2) It contributes in tying loose ends together and in making the unity of the sermon evident.

3) A well-prepared conclusion fixes the truth of God's Word indelibly in the mind and conscience of the hearers so as to motivate the will to right attitude (internal) and subsequently to right action (an external manifestation).

The conclusion is profitable when it is: personal, pointed, and hopeful.

3. TITLE

a. Definition:
1) The title is an expression (statement) of the specific feature (theme or proposition) to be presented in the sermon.

2) It is a statement that would be suitable for advertising the message.

3) Basically, a title is an embellishment of the theme stated in the form
either of:

a) An arresting question
b) A common phrase (cliche')
c) An interesting statement of a topic
d) A brief imperative
e) An affirmation
f) An exclamation

b. Function:

1) The primary purpose of a title is that of advertising.

2) An effective title is one that is:

a) Pertinent to the message

b) Brief

c) In keeping with the dignity of the pulpit (not bizarre, fantastical, or ultra sensational)

And yet -

d) One that arouses interest (which is its function)

3) The title actually functions as a promise.

It "describes the contents" in an abbreviated form. Therefore, it should not promise more than can be delivered in the message. Because a title promised something, the message must not fail to fulfill what it promised (or else it lied).

c. Benefits:

1) The title is an "eye catcher." It arouses the curiosity and awakens a desire to hear the message.

2) It is helpful in that because of its brevity, it is somewhat memorable.

3) An effective title favorably advertises the message so as to attract interest.

It can be verbally announced without taking up much time and printed in the weekly bulletin or area newspaper without taking up much space.

The title can also be profitably employed on cassette tapes (in a tape ministry) or as subject headings of sermons in print.