Teaching Tip 355 | “Plain Speaking – your speaking notes” | Malcolm Cox
Introduction
Here is your 2-minute tip based on chapter 2 of the book, “Plain speaking: How to preach and teach effectively” by David Bercot.
Different philosophies exist about the value or otherwise of using notes when you speak. What does Bercot think? He follows this process:
- Type up a detailed sermon outline
- Print it off and read it through making sure it makes sense
- Highlight key points (words) of the message
- Type a new version of the message using only the highlighted points
His goal is to get to the point where he doesn’t need his notes. This is called extemporaneous speaking. Advantages of this approach include:
- Better engagement with the congregation because we are not tied to our notes
- Better connection with the congregation because it’s more like a conversation
- Better conviction in speaking because the points have been embedded in our mind and heart
What are your thoughts on his approach? What is your method, and why do you do it that way?
Conclusion
Next time we will go on to explore how our speaking can be authentically our own.
Has today’s tip been worth two minutes of your time? I hope so.
Next week: rousing introductions and conclusions
Consider joining AIM UK&Ireland to develop your understanding of Scripture: https://aimukandireland.com/. Our next module is Spiritual Life.
Contact us here with enquiries: courses@aimukandireland.com
The website can be found here: https://aimukandireland.com
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, or 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.
Please pass the link on, subscribe, and leave a review.
Remember to keep calm, and carry on teaching.
God bless, Malcolm
