Malcolm Cox

Teaching Tip 354 | “Plain Speaking - rousing introductions and conclusions” | Malcolm Cox Introduction Here is your 2-minute tip based on chapter 2 of the book, “Plain speaking: How to preach and teach effectively" by David Bercot.  "The introduction and conclusion of your sermon are like the appetiser and dessert of a meal.” Although a starter and a pudding are optional, they certainly add something special to a meal! A good introduction needs to accomplish two purposes according to Bercot: Capture your hearer’s interest -  Let your hearers know the subject of your message -  “The introduction should provide listeners with a reason to listen. Your introduction should raise the question you are going to answer, create the tension you are going to resolve, or point to the mystery you are going to solve.” Andy Stanley, ‘Communicating for a change’ A helpful conclusion accomplishes two things according to Bercot: Provide a brief summary of what has been said -  Stir your listeners to acti