Here in the second installment of the Hobbs College Library series aimed at those in the ministry we have help with developing and delivering text-driven sermons. It’s another small, attractive hardback of quite-manageable length that is well done. It gives a grand overview that covers preaching from picking the text to giving the invitation.

As I read, it struck me that this book would especially appeal to two groups: 1) those starting out in the ministry, and 2) bi-vocational pastors. Still, even as one who has been a pastor for several years, I would catch myself thinking as I read– I need to remind myself to quit being sloppy here!

The book begins with a great chapter on inspiration for preaching and what preaching really is, as well as why textual preaching is so valuable. The next chapter shows a process of sermon development that begins with prayer and the first work of study. Part II includes chapters 3 and 4 on the framework that includes how to study and draw out what’s needed for the sermon from the text. Part III gives four chapters on what he calls the finishing touches. These touches include the importance of a good introduction to draw people in, the effective use of illustrations to captivate attention, and the crucial aspect of giving a good invitation. There’s a short, challenging conclusion to conclude the book.

If this book is an indication of what’s to come in this series, we have a tool to look forward to. This book is helpful, encouraging in the places where it’s most needed, and should be a boon for preaching to those who read it.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.