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Preaching is a powerful, God-given tool for inspiring, motivating, convicting, and comforting people. But preaching can also be dangerous. We can hurt people, lead them astray, and cause them much confusion.
Here are ten mistakes every preacher should avoid while preaching:
1. Using offensive language or engaging in hate speech: Preachers should avoid using language that is discriminatory against or harmful to a particular group of people. We can say what needs to be said without offending people. Some people strive to shock people when they preach. Only a foolish person is controversial, for controversy’s sake.
2. Being too political: While addressing social issues from the pulpit is essential, preachers should avoid endorsing specific political parties or candidates.
3. Ignoring the audience: Preachers should try to connect with their audience and avoid speaking condescendingly or dismissively. Make eye contact. Address them with respect.
4. Lacking preparation: Preachers should take the time to prepare their sermons thoroughly so they can deliver a clear and concise message.
5. Being insensitive to the congregation’s needs: Preachers should be mindful that members of their congregation may be dealing with personal issues and should avoid making insensitive comments.
6. Being judgmental: Preachers should avoid making sweeping judgments about people based on their beliefs or actions.
7. Using too much humor: While humor can effectively engage an audience, preachers should avoid using it excessively or inappropriately.
8. Preaching for too long: Long sermons can be tiring and may cause the audience to lose focus. Preachers should aim to keep their sermons to a reasonable length.
9. Focusing too much on money: While discussing financial matters with the congregation is essential, preachers should avoid making money the sole focus of their sermons.
10. Lacking authenticity: Preachers should avoid being insincere or disingenuous: Preachers should avoid being insincere or disingenuous.
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Contact me at: alancarr@gmail.com.
The podcast is a ministry of Dr. Alan Carr and The Sermon Notebook (http://www.sermonnotebook.org)
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Oct 3 202430 mins