Why Gospel Should be the Focus of Your Sermons

Yes, The Bible is the guidebook by which we shape our lives, conduct our actions and relate to one another, ourselves, and – of course – the Lord Himself. This cannot be done solely through teaching the contents of our scripture. The Lord’s word is most powerfully delivered from the head of a congregation that enlightens the flock to the works of God that were achieved through Christ.

To understand why gospel is so important, it is vital that you first understand what the purpose of preaching is. To preach is the most serving of our Lord when done with the intention to transform lives. So, it is simply not enough to educate others on the contents of The Bible and its story. It is not solely about persuasion, either. Without transformation as its purpose, preaching is made less effective within the context of the Lord’s intentions.

What About Bible-Centered Preaching?

Of course, The Bible is what compels us to Christ and to work in the glory of Him. It is the essential narrative that guides our lives, so it’s word should be at the center of our every sermon. But the teaching of The Bible is only a part of delivering the message to one’s listeners as a preacher. The Gospel is what compels belief and confidence in those very words.

So yes, do deliver the words of The Bible. But do it in a way that is centered around the Gospel.

How to Center Your Sermon Around the Gospel

Are you not sure how you can achieve a more powerful sermon and become a more effective preacher through a gospel-centered approach to the Word? Here are some tips that you can put to your and your congregation’s benefit when preaching the word of the Bible and – most importantly – the Gospel.

• Your sermon should address the innate broken nature of humankind. How does the chosen passage speak to the sinfulness that we all live with before God? How can we work to become whole through Christ despite this nature? Your sermon should answer these questions.
• Understand the purpose of the passage within The Bible’s narrative. The Gospel is a story, and each passage fits within a greater context. Go “big picture” with your approach to retelling a portion of this story. Have a solid understanding of the events that happen before and after your chosen passage.
• Your congregation should understand where they fit into God’s story. How the events speak to modern living and what it means to serve the Lord in this day and age. When listeners understand these things, they will feel more confidence of their importance in God’s eyes as believers in Him.