From September 10 to October 29, 2024, a group of seven pastors gathered weekly for eight weeks to participate in workshops covering different themes each week. Through short papers written by six authors, the group explored key topics such as biblical exegesis, sermon styles, audience analysis and application, the role of the preacher, theology of preaching, and sermon delivery, thereby broadening their understanding of preaching. They also studied various sermon styles, including four-scene sermons, sermons moving from surprise to discovery, plot- and movement-driven sermons, sermons with critical reflection, and Wesley’s quadrilateral method of preaching.
Participants read and discussed Andy Stanley’s book, Communicating for a Change, and shared their thoughts on practical suggestions such as setting goals, identifying the main idea, mapping out the sermon, internalizing the message, engaging with the audience, developing a unique voice, and starting fresh. Each week, the participants wrote sermon manuscripts based on selected passages and engaged in peer evaluations, challenging and encouraging one another.
A survey conducted after the workshop revealed that 100% of respondents found the workshop to be very helpful in studying sermon styles. Additionally, 83.3% reported that it was highly beneficial for application and audience analysis. However, opinions on biblical exegesis were more divided. While 66.7% indicated that the workshop was very helpful for biblical exegesis, 33.3% felt it was only somewhat helpful.
