When preachers veer into homiletic ruts, their sermons can get out of alignment. Predictability of message, inasmuch as truth does not change, is vital. Predictability of method, inasmuch as style and approach can and must at least occasionally change, can be fatal. At least, it can be fatal to effectiveness. Beginning this week, let us explore a few ways to avoid the same old routine in sermon methodology. We begin with object lessons, tangible items or actions that accentuate the sermon outline. These can add vibrancy to well-written, well-studied and well-pleasing (to God) sermons.
 Allen Webster once preached a sermon on eternity in which he gave everyone present a ticket and used that as the climax of he lesson. Sermons on accountability where a certain number of chairs are placed on the rostrum and the listener is asked which seat they should take (innocent, non-Christian, faithful Christian, or unfaithful Christian) grabs and keeps attention. Preach on Hebrews 12:1 while holding suitcases. Preach on the crucifixion with arms extended the entire time. Preach a sermon on excuses, having a trash can and wadding up common excuses people give for not committing themselves to Christ as you preach on them (Matt. 8:19-22). My father once preached a sermon on faithful attendance, particularly how conspicuous being absent is. He was two minutes late to stand up to preach, having hidden in a room near the auditorium. Members were convicted and the lesson stuck in their mind. My father-in-law once preached on influence, letting his suit jacket come open enough for a package of cigarettes (he didn’t smoke) to be exposed. He noted it near the end of his sermon and it stuck with he audience.
Beware! These can be overly done or overly dramatic. They can be poorly conceived and poorly executed. Have a trusted critic or mentor vet your idea. Yet, as an occasional variety, they can add spice and life to your material. The sermon is always about the Lord being “center stage,” but be thoughtful like He was and use objects–He used birds and flowers (Matt. 6:26,28), fields (John 4:35), and little children (Mark 10:14). Tastefully and artfully, break out of routine through object lessons!