Essentials for Biblical Preaching

Book excerpt: Learning a new art requires a knowledge of the fundamentals, and the art of preaching is no exception. In Essentials for Biblical Preaching veteran homiletician Al Fasol covers every aspect the aspiring preacher needs to know. “This volume introduces the preacher to the whole field of biblical preaching,” writes the author. “It takes the novitiate pulpiteer through an understanding of the nature of the preacher, to a grasp of the proclamation task, and on into the mystery of basic sermon preparation.” It can be used effectively on either the graduate or the undergraduate level. After surveying the history of preaching, Fasol offers practical guidelines, peppered with examples, for preparing and delivering effective sermons. Topics include collecting sermon ideas, interpreting the biblical text, organizing the sermon, using illustrations, making applications, varying sermon methods, and employing communication principles.