In today’s episode, Dr. David Allen discusses how to write articles for journals and the church newsletter.

In today’s episode, Dr. David Allen discusses how to write a book from the writing process to the publishing process.

In today’s episode from the Preaching Coach Podcast archives, Dr. David Allen discusses the subject of preaching to the next generation with special guest Shane Pruitt.

In this edition of the Preaching Coach Podcast, Dr. David L. Allen shares top 10 things to avoid when using sermon illustrations. Drawing on his 45+ years of experience, Dr. Allen emphasizes the importance of well-placed illustrations in preaching while cautioning against common mistakes. Key points include avoiding the failure to use illustrations, not using them excessively, ensuring variety, and making sure illustrations don't overshadow the central message. He highlights the danger of using bland or disconnected illustrations and emphasizes the importance of brevity. Dr. Allen provides practical advice for collecting and effectively employing diverse illustrations in sermons.

In this edition of the Preaching Coach Podcast, Dr. David Allen gives guidance and direction in how to develop effective sermon illustrations.

In this edition of the Preaching Coach Podcast, Dr. David Allen discusses the various aspects and functions of a sermon, comparing it to the anatomical design and study of the body.

Episode notes:

Anatomy is the branch of science that studies the physical structure of the human body. It focuses on the physical arrangement of body parts, including cells, tissues, organs, and systems. Anatomy can be broadly divided into two types: gross anatomy (macroscopic) and microscopic anatomy.
Key aspects of anatomy:

Gross anatomy: Examines structures visible to the naked eye, including bones, muscles, organs, and organ systems.
Microscopic anatomy: Studies the microscopic structures of the body, including cells and tissues, using instruments like microscopes.
Subdivisions of gross anatomy: Include surface anatomy (examining the surface of the body), regional anatomy (focusing on specific regions), and systemic anatomy (studying the body systems). Importance: Anatomy is essential. It provides a foundational understanding of the human body for healthcare professionals, artists, and scientists.

Human Anatomy: Human anatomy involves the study of the physical structure of the human body. It focuses on numerous systems, including circulatory, digestive, endocrine, skeletal, lymphatic, nervous, respiratory, urinary, reproductive and muscular systems.

Sermon Anatomy – Effective Sermons:

1. INTERPRETATION - What is the meaning of the text? Determining textual meaning is the essential first step.
2. TRANSLATION - The job of the preacher is to transfer the meaning of the text to the audience in terms and contexts they understand. This is a kind of “translation,” reproducing textual meaning via the sermon. 
3. ORGANIZATION - In order to accomplish #2, every sermon should be structured for maximum effect. Thus, a sermon should contain the following 7 elements: 
   1. Exposition – Explaining the meaning of the text
   2. Illustration – Elucidating the meaning of the text
   3. Application – Applying the warranted meaning of the text
   4. Imagination – Helping people penetrate reality
   5. Argumentation – Proving the point of the text via its logic
   6. Motivation – Moving the will to obey - (via rhetoric, passion, exhortation, etc.)
   7. Exhortation – Telling them what to believe and practice; to do and not to do 
4. COMMUNICATION - Connecting with people via content and style
5. PASSION - Passion for Christ, the Word, and people expressed in delivery
6. PERSUASION - Preaching to convince people to think & act biblically. Behavior is based on belief. Change how people think, and you will change how they behave. (James 1:22)
7. TRANSFORMATION – Information is not transformation. Life transformation is the goal of preaching. Salvation of the lost; edification of the saved. 

In this edition of the Preaching Coach Podcast, Dr. David Allen discusses both positive actions to take and pitfalls to avoid in the first 100 days of any new ministry assignment.

In this edition of the Preaching Coach Podcast, Dr. David Allen discusses the best practices and pitfalls in hiring a new pastor. This episode provides relevant discussion for both pastors and church members and gives insight into seeking God’s guidance and direction in moving a church forward in its next chapter.

In this edition of the Preaching Coach Podcast, Dr. David Allen discusses preaching Easter Sunday, helping pastors to primarily place the focus upon God rather than putting the emphasis on the holiday itself.

In this edition of the Preaching Coach Podcast, Dr. David Allen discusses preaching Good Friday – the day that Jesus Christ died on the cross for the sins of the world – ahead of Easter and the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection.