4.

Delivering Your Sermon

(How you say what you say is vital)

A fundamental rule of communications is “Presentation trumps information when it comes to engaging the
audience.” How you say what you say is as important as what you say, because your presentation of the message
will determine your audience’s attention span.

Here are some guidelines for the delivery your message.

A. Gestures.

It is said that only 7% of the preacher's impact comes through his words. 38% through his voice, 55% through his
facial expressions. Modern research has proven that "listeners" are more likely to believe the silent language of
the preacher rather than the spoken language. If one contradicts the other, they will likely believe silent language
for it is harder to lie with the whole body than with just the lips.

Here are some pointers to help us match our words and actions.

1. Make eye contact.

2. Watch your facial expression.

3. Control your hands.

4. Have good posture.

5. Be yourself in the Pulpit.

B. Language.

1. The language should be simple.

2. The language should be carefully pronounced.

3. The language should be expressive.

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C. Voice

To be an effective communicator you must learn to control and use your voice. Here are some pointers.

1. Check your volume.

2. Control your speed.

3. Vary your delivery.

4. Adjust your loudness.

5. Use purposed pauses.

6. Precautions when speaking.

6 things to avoid when speaking

• Avoid mumbling. Speak clearly so all can hear.

• Avoid yelling. You can raise your voice but do not yell at the people.
• Avoid dropping your voice. Do not drop your voice at the end of each sentence.
• Avoid repeating every other sentence.
• Avoid throat clearing after each main point.
• Avoid meandering. Make sure your sermon has connecting thoughts.

7. Rehearse your message.

D. Time

1. Plan the service so there is ample time for the preaching of God's word.

2. Start the meeting on time.

3. Conclude the sermon on time.

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4. It is better to leave the audience wanting more than having given them too much.

5. Keep your promise to the audience