Homiletics: The Art of Expository Preaching

By Dr. Rick Griffith – Expanded Teaching Outline

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I. THE NATURE AND NECESSITY OF HOMILETICS

A. Definition of Homiletics

1. Homiletics is the science and art of preaching the Word of God.

2. The term derives from the Greek homilia meaning “conversation” or “discourse.”

B. Importance of Homiletics

1. Equips the preacher to interpret and communicate the Bible accurately (2 Tim. 2:15).

2. Preserves the integrity of the biblical message.

3. Meets the spiritual needs of the congregation through sound doctrine (Titus 1:9).

C. Goal of Homiletics

1. To glorify God through faithful exposition of His Word.

2. To transform lives through the application of biblical truth.

3. To build a biblical worldview in the Church.

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II. CHARACTERISTICS OF EXPOSITORY PREACHING

A. Scripture-Centered

• The message arises directly from the biblical text.

B. Exegetically Faithful

• The sermon reflects the original intent of the author.

C. Theologically Grounded

• The sermon aligns with sound doctrine.

D. Application-Oriented

• Clear implications and applications are made for the contemporary audience.

E. Spirit-Empowered

• The preacher depends on the Holy Spirit in preparation and delivery.

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III. THE TEN-STEP PROCESS OF SERMON PREPARATION

(Adapted from Ramesh Richard's model and used in Griffith’s training)

Step 1: Select the Passage

• Choose a unit of Scripture with a complete idea (pericope).

Step 2: Study the Passage Deeply

• Analyze the grammar, context, structure, and key terms.

Step 3: Create the Exegetical Outline

• Identify the flow of thought and structure within the text.

Step 4: Determine the Exegetical Idea

• Write the main theological idea in one sentence.

Step 5: Define the Purpose of the Text

• Discover what the author intended to accomplish.

Step 6: Build the Bridge

• Relate the original context to modern life.

Step 7: Develop the Homiletical Idea

• Reformulate the exegetical idea into a message for today.

Step 8: Construct the Homiletical Outline

• Organize sermon points that develop the Big Idea.

Step 9: Write the Introduction and Conclusion

• Prepare an engaging introduction and a purposeful conclusion.

Step 10: Preach the Sermon

• Deliver with clarity, passion, and reliance on the Spirit.

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IV. COMPONENTS OF AN EXPOSITORY SERMON

A. Introduction

1. Gathers attention

2. Presents the Big Idea

3. Creates a need for the message

B. Body

1. Organized main points drawn from the text

2. Subpoints support each main idea

3. Illustrations clarify the truth

4. Application provides personal relevance

C. Conclusion

1. Summarizes key truths

2. Calls for response or action

3. Ends with power and direction

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V. TYPES OF SERMONS

A. Expository

• Verse-by-verse explanation of Scripture

B. Textual

• One main passage with supporting outline

C. Topical

• Subject-oriented message using various texts

D. Narrative

• Sermon based on a biblical story with unfolding plot and spiritual truths

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VI. QUALITIES OF A GOOD SERMON

1. Biblical fidelity

2. Theological soundness

3. Logical organization

4. Clear transitions

5. Practical applications

6. Spirit-led delivery

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VII. COMMON MISTAKES IN PREACHING

1. Neglecting context and original meaning

2. Overuse of personal stories without textual support

3. Failing to provide application

4. Weak transitions and confusing outlines

5. Lack of passion or clarity in delivery

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VIII. THE LIFE OF THE PREACHER

A. Personal Holiness

• The preacher must be an example in life and doctrine (1 Tim. 4:12–16).

B. Dependence on the Holy Spirit

• Both preparation and preaching must be guided by the Spirit.

C. Continual Growth

• Ongoing study, feedback, and prayer are essential.

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IX. FINAL PREACHING CHECKLIST

• Is the sermon faithful to the biblical text?

• Is the Big Idea clear and developed?

• Are the points and transitions smooth and logical?

• Is the application relevant and specific?

• Have I prayed and surrendered to the Spirit's leading?

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Overview of the Homiletics Teaching Outline

Dr. Rick Griffith's teaching on Homiletics, particularly his course "Homiletics: The Art of Expository Preaching," provides a structured approach to sermon preparation and delivery. This course is designed to guide preachers in crafting sermons that faithfully expound biblical texts.​

1. Understanding Expository Preaching

• Definition: Expository preaching involves explaining a passage in such a way that leads the congregation to a true and practical application of that passage.​

• Purpose: To direct attention to the Bible, ensuring that sermons are grounded in Scripture rather than personal opinions.​SlideToDoc

• Benefits: Expository preaching meets people's true needs for spiritual nourishment and protects against misinterpretation of Scripture. ​

2. Ten-Step Process for Preparing Expository Sermons

Adapted from Ramesh Richard's "Preparing Expository Sermons," the process includes:​

1. Choose the Text: Select a passage for the sermon.​

2. Analyze the Text: Study the passage in its context.​

3. Exegetical Outline: Develop an outline based on the text's structure.​

4. Exegetical Idea: Summarize the main idea of the passage.​

5. Purpose Bridge: Connect the text's purpose to the audience.​

6. Homiletical Idea: Formulate the sermon’s main idea.​

7. Homiletical Outline: Organize the sermon structure.​

8. Clarity: Ensure the message is clear and understandable.​

9. Introduction and Conclusion: Craft engaging openings and strong closings.​

10. Manuscript and Preach: Write out the sermon and deliver it. ​

3. Characteristics of Effective Expository Sermons

• Faithfulness to the Author's Intention: Ensure the sermon aligns with the original message of the text.​

• Cohesion: Maintain a unified theme throughout the sermon.​

• Movement and Direction: Guide the audience through the sermon logically.​

• Application: Provide practical applications for the audience.

4. Advanced Homiletics: Homiletics 2

This course builds upon the foundational principles of Homiletics 1, focusing on:​

• Developing Sermon Outlines: Enhancing skills in creating both exegetical and homiletical outlines.​

• Preaching Various Types of Sermons: Including narrative, topical, evangelistic, wedding, funeral, and controversial sermons.​

• Effective Delivery: Improving confidence and clarity in sermon delivery. ​

5. Homiletical Outline Checklist

Before finalizing a sermon, Dr. Griffith recommends reviewing a checklist to ensure:​

• Engaging Introduction: Captures attention and introduces the topic.​

• Clear Main Points: Each point is distinct and supports the main idea.

• Logical Transitions: Smooth flow between points.​

• Strong Conclusion: Reinforces the message and calls for application.