How to Prepare an Introduction and a Conclusion

Hands-free narration of this study — good for the car.

Synopsis

Preachers often lavish care on the body of a sermon while leaving the introduction and conclusion to the inspiration of the moment — a mistake, since neither is likely to come by inspiration alone. The chapter lists seven qualities of a good introduction: it should be Striking, Clear, marked by Unity (one idea only), Brief, Modest in tone, Unapologetic (never excuse poor preparation or health), and Specific to the one sermon being preached. It then offers eight ways to find a proper introduction — from the text's context, a preceding sermon, a special day, a congregational need, personal experience, the theme's importance, a story, or a current event. A supplementary section from Stickland adds practical counsel: begin at the very outset, write out the opening lines, stay relaxed, and vary the approach. The conclusion is treated with equal seriousness: it must be Clear, Specific (one exhortation, not many), Brief, and Intense. Three types of conclusions are described — the Lesson conclusion, the Summary conclusion, and the Appeal conclusion calling for immediate decision — and preachers are warned never to announce that the sermon is about to end.

Key points

An introduction should be Striking, Clear, unified, Brief, Modest, Unapologetic, and Specific.
Eight sources for an introduction include the text's context, a special day, a congregational need, a story, or a current event.
A conclusion should be Clear, Specific, Brief, and marked by Intensity.
The three types of conclusion are the Lesson, the Summary (recapitulation), and the Appeal.
Never promise to close soon or apologize for lack of preparation — go ahead in dependence on God.

Key texts

1 Corinthians 14:8
Acts 7:2-53

From the course book

How to Prepare an Introduction and a Conclusion · pp. 73-80 (reader pages 73-80) · Open the reader

“There seems to be a common tendency to underestimate the value of small things.” (p. 73)
“An introduction which is so general that it can be used to introduce any sermon is not really suitable to adequately introduce any sermon.” (p. 74)
“If the trumpeter blows an un-certain sound who will prepare himself for the battle?” (p. 77)

Put it into practice

Write out your opening sentence or two word for word so you do not flounder.
Decide the one exhortation your conclusion will make, and cut every other appeal.
Never promise 'one more story and I'll close' — let the appeal follow the last point without a break.

Comprehension
1. Why do introductions and conclusions need as much preparation as the body of the sermon?
Your answer
Comprehension
2. List the seven qualities of a good introduction.
Your answer
Scripture
3. Why must an introduction have Unity?
Your answer
Scripture
4. What does the chapter say about apologizing in an introduction?
Your answer
Comprehension
5. Name three of the eight ways to find a proper introduction.
Your answer
Scripture
6. According to 1 Corinthians 14:8, why must a conclusion be Clear?
Your answer
Comprehension
7. Describe the three types of conclusions.
Your answer
Contrast
8. Contrast a conclusion that calls for one decision with one that calls for many.
Your answer
Application
9. Which of the seven introduction qualities is hardest for you personally, and why?
Your answer
Application
10. Recall a sermon you gave or heard that promised 'one more point and I'll close.' What effect did it have?
Your answer