More Than "Meek & Mild": Three New Ways to Preach About Mary
When Mary gazes gently at us from statues, paintings, and icons, what do we see? How do we understand her? Perhaps there's more to Mary than her "meek and mild" representations suggest.
Three Sermons in Two Days? No Sweat! How to Plan for Your Christmas Weekend Preaching Marathon
With three sermons to preach in two days, Christmas weekend will demand a lot this year. By starting now, you can ensure you finish without the scramble of last-minute preparations. Check out our guide to find practical ideas to plan and preach creatively for less stress this preaching-intensive season.
The Ten Most Inspiring Gifts for Preachers (2017 Edition)
Wondering what to give the preacher in your life? Not sure what to put on your own Christmas list? Check out BsP's round-up of the most inspiring gifts for preachers—created by preachers (so you know they're items preachers really want!).
Three Sermon Themes for Advent
How do we make the well-known story of Christ's birth new again? How do we nurture the sense of longing and anticipation the advent season suggests? Consider these three themes to help your listeners (and yourself!) connect to the store anew.
What Not to Preach on All Saints' Day
How do we harness the example of the Saints' stories without leaving our listeners feeling washed up and hopeless? There's one key element that takes the Saints off their proverbial pedestal so they can be a healthy model for our listeners.
How to Avoid Compassion Fatigue when Preaching About Crises
When natural disasters, political crises, and social injustices occur week after week, compassion fatigue can set in. What are we to do in the face of overwhelming need?
Preachers can help their listeners avoid becoming numb, irritated or unresponsive, though. Read on to find out how.
Preaching in the Storm
As Hurricane Harvey approaches, we consider how to preach when facing a natural disaster. What is the role of a preacher? How do we comfort and encourage when life and livelihood are threatened?
An Easter Reflection for Preachers
Thank you, Preachers, for sharing the Good News of Easter.
From all of us at Backstory Preaching,
Micah, Cathie, Shaundra, Mary, Jessica, Taira, & Lisa
Breathe: An Easter Prayer & Survival Guide for Preachers
Ask the Spirit what one thing you are to do right now.
- If it's to work on your sermon, work on your sermon and your sermon alone.
- If it's to proofread bulletins, then focus on each line, each word, each number, one...at...a...time.
- If it's to stand in the pulpit and preach, then preach with your whole being.
Do the one thing you are to do. And find the peace of Christ waiting for you therein.
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I participated in the Lectio study today with a complicated and double-speak Gospel (John 17:6-19) and WOW! I received so much great insight and am headed in a direction I feel really good about. Thank you to all my colleagues! If you are wondering if this is worth it, wonder no more. It is.
—Donna G.
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The Gospel People Don't Want to Hear: Preaching Challenging Messages was written to aid preacher’s in understanding what’s at stake for their listeners so they can craft sermons their audience can receive, even if they challenge cherished beliefs.
I just have to say WOW. I'm so grateful that I made the investment and joined The Collective. These Thursday [workshops] are a game-changer for me.
—Andrea M.