Brother Winkler emphasized the invaluable good a sermon’s introduction served for the overall effectiveness of the sermon (see “The Introduction,” Part One). After issues warnings of “what not to do” in an introduction, he emphasized two other, valuable components of the sermon introduction.

The Purposes Of The Introduction

  • To arouse the interest of the hearers. We are fighting the varying attention spans of those present to hear preaching each week. We have a finite period of time to “grab” their attention. An effective introduction does this.
  • To make clear the purpose of the sermon. The introduction helps the listener know your intention in the sermon. This is the part of the sermon where you validate your right and ability to ask their time.
  • To create an empathy and rapport between the preacher and the congregation. Thus, the introduction must assume the right tone. You must avoid condescension or a holier-than-thou attitude. Like Paul, you do not begin with a rebuke even if there is one in store. You will avoid an antagonistic tone, remembering that these are friends, brothers, and sisters. You are on the same side, and you desire their best and do not wish to make them your enemy in telling the truth (Gal. 4:16). The Word will offend some, but it doesn’t need our “help.”
  • To break down barriers. Paul did this at the beginning of his sermon on Mar’s Hill (Acts 17:11-12). There are ways to do that in other sermons, particularly difficult subjects. In introducing a sermon on why I am a member of the church of Christ in the 21st century, I would imitate the spirit Peter called for in 1 Peter 3:15, giving a ready answer but doing so in meekness and fear. Whenever I preach on a given sin or vice, I would do so keeping Romans 3:23 in mind. I am after an empathetic bridge rather than an antagonistic barrier.

The introduction serves such a valuable purpose. As you exhort them on any given week, remember that you are “coming alongside them.” 2 Timothy 2:24-26 pictures the preacher as one who is gentle, able, patient, humble, and wise. This should be reflecting from the very beginning of each sermon.

Next week, we’ll conclude our look at the introduction of the sermon.