Evaluating The Message

Redeemer Presbyterian Church of New York City (Pastored by Tim Keller) uses a form to evaluate a preachers message. While I think it may seem to be too formal it does have the ability for a preacher to gain a sense of his effectiveness (humanly speaking) in reaching his intended audience.

The form is divided into two main sections. First, Faithfulness to Scripture and to God - which is intended to determine the preachers theological accuracy; Second, Message Delivery and Communication - questions related to the preacher's communication abilities and connection with the intended audience - the congregation. The responses can vary from Strongly Agree to Strongly Disagree.

My thoughts are in italics.


FAITHFULNESS TO SCRIPTURE AND GOD.

1. The preaching assertions (points) were clearly rooted in the text and squared with the whole teaching of scripture. [indicating the message adheres to the context of the text and the analogy of faith]

2. The central theme was an illustration of Christ - the message was clearly all about Jesus. [after all, the Scriptures are the revelation of the Lord Jesus Christ to His people]

3. The speaker seemed aware of God, not just his sermon and the audience. [the Holy Spirit must accompany the message]

4. The speaker avoided moralizing or psychologizing, and distinguished these from the gospel.

5. The goal was to get people face-to-face with God, rather than merely instruct. [the priority is to know God]

6. Christ and His finished work were applied as the practical solution to any problem.

MESSAGE DELIVERY AND COMMUNICATION

7. It was clear where the preacher was driving - and the progression of points was traceable. [as opposed to rambling and overly repetitive]

8. The points were presented in a fresh, wise, and striking way (as opposed to boring & cliche). [if the first six questions are in the affirmative then the message will be anything but boring]

9. At the end of the preaching, the main point was both clear and persuasive. [not based only on the authority of the preacher]

10. It was clear the speaker understood the hearers’ hopes, fears, problems, concerns, etc.

11. The central metaphor or "hook" was gripping. [interesting might be a better description]

12. Jesus was made visible, not just taught about.

13. There was a balance of warmth, love and humility on the one hand and force, power and authority on the other. [the emphasis is upon balance]

14. The notes followed the message and enhanced comprehension. [not everyone provides notes or outlines to their sermons but I think it might be helpful to the hearer both during the message or afterwards for discussion]

For those more interested the form can be viewed in it's entirety here.


So, what do you think?

posted by john d.