If you want to preach great sermons, you'll have to practice a lot... and then evaluate what worked and what failed. Try using Aristotle's Rhetorical Triangle as a framework.
Talking Points:
- Ethos speaks to the credibility of the speaker. Are you believable? What qualifies you to preach in the first place?
- Pathos speaks to the emotions of the audience. Why should they listen? Have you prepared the message in a way that connects to them?
- Logos speaks to the logic of the message. Does it make sense? Have you connected the big idea to the talking points with simplicity in mind?
Discussion:
- Initial reactions to this topic? What jumped out at you?
- Explain ethos, pathos, and logos in your own words. Name a preacher who is excellent in one or more of these elements.
- Evaluate the video above according to ethos, pathos, and logos. Where did Bryan establish his credibility? How did he establish the value of the content for his listeners? What was his framework for the message itself?
- Which of these three items will be hardest for you as a preacher? Which will be easiest? Why?
- How can you grow in ethos, pathos, and logos? Make a list for each element.
