Template
Sermon outline template
An outline that helps preachers move from a biblical text to a faithful, Christ-centered, application-driven sermon. Walks through the six moves every expositional sermon needs — text, context, main idea, structure, illustration, application — with prompts, examples, and a template you can copy for weekly preparation. Especially useful for bi-vocational pastors with limited prep time, lay preachers learning the craft, small-group leaders teaching from Scripture, and seminarians building a study rhythm they can carry into ministry. Pairs with our Greek and Hebrew word-study guide for deeper text work.
1. The text
Write out the passage in your own words. Note the genre and context.
2. The big idea
State the main point of the passage in one sentence.
3. The main movements
Identify 2 – 4 sub-points that unfold the big idea.
4. Christ connection
How does this passage point to or flow from the gospel?
5. Application
What does it look like for your specific congregation to live this out this week?
6. Introduction & conclusion
Write these last. The introduction should make the people want to hear the big idea; the conclusion should send them into the week with it.
Use this for
- Preachers
- Teachers
- Small group teachers preparing a talk
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