Tuesday Teaching Tips, Episode 209

Introduction
“There are three types of preachers: those to whom you cannot listen; those to whom you can listen; and those to whom you must listen. During the introduction the congregation usually decides the kind of speaker addressing them that morning.” Expository Preaching, Haddon W Robinson, page 167

Tuesday Teaching Tip 9 – “Interesting Introductions”

Usually written last – because by now we know what we are trying to achieve!
Do you want people to listen carefully?
Then prepare introduction well

1. Context
Formal/Informal
Church members only/Guests
Jargon!
Long/short – usually short

2. Create tension
Boring intro leads to assumption of boring lesson.
Random introduction leads to assumption of incoherent lesson.
Ask yourself: “Why should these people listen to me today?”
Put that into words

Questions – that you then answer
Surprise statements – that you then unpack
Tell a story

3. Connect
With main point & summary statement
With audience – relevant to them; make them realise you are talking to them and about them

4. Conduct
Confident walk to podium
Prepare Bible/Papers
Look up and smile
Prepare first few words

Conclusion
Question: What makes for an interesting introduction?

Next time: How to end your lesson

“One generation commends your works to another; they tell of your mighty acts.” (Psalm 145:4 NIV11)

This video is part of the series: “They tell of the glory of your kingdom and speak of your might” (Psalm 145:11)

Basic preaching and teaching course for men and women

In this course we will cover some of the basics of the preparation and presentation of biblical lessons.
The aim is to provide helpful examples and teaching for both the older and younger Christian.
One a week
We will cover the following topics:

Extra class: An introduction to the privilege of speaking God’s word
How to choose what to speak on.
How to explore the passage for yourself.
How to use other resources like commentaries.
How to select your point.
How to choose a structure for your lesson.
How to start your lesson.
How to end your lesson.
How to make your lesson memorable.
How to make the most of congregational involvement.
How to prepare yourself to speak.
Extra class: A summary of the course and suggestions for ongoing learning.

Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.

Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org.

If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org.

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“Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)

God bless, Malcolm

PS: You might also be interested in my book: “An elephant’s swimming pool”, a devotional look at the Gospel of John