Preaching the Topical Sermon

by Ronald J. Allen

This book offers a practical model for developing sermons for occasions when the Bible offers little specific guidance for interpreting an issue, need, or situation. Ronald Allen describes why and how topical sermons should be used, discusses special occasions when they are appropriate, and outlines strategies for developing topical sermons, giving particular attention to controversial issues. The last chapter includes sample sermons by other preachers.

180 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1992

About the author

Rev. Dr. Ronald J. Allen, is Professor of Preaching and Gospels and Letters at Christian Theological Seminary (CTU) in Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.

A native of Poplar Bluff Missouri and ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Allen has taught at CTU since 1982. He received his PhD from Drew University (1977), MDiv from Union Theological Seminary in New York (1974), and the AB from Phillips University (1971). From 1977 to 1982 he and his spouse, the Reverend Linda McKiernan-Allen, were co-ministers of First Christian Church, Grand Island, Nebraska. Rev. McKiernan-Allen is currently Minister at West Street Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in Tipton, Indiana.

In addition to over 100 articles and chapters in books, Allen is the author of more than thirty books.

Reviews

[Desi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Although it is dated in some respects, such as the examples used, it is still a very good introduction to how to prepare for and deliver a topical sermon. Topical preaching is not an approach I am particularly familiar with, although it is one with which I am attempting to become more adept. I particularly admire Allen's ability to take a complex process and break it down into clear, manageable steps. He has the similar gift of clearly stating theological principles and just as clearly making them accessible to everyone, which I believe to be one of the hallmarks of good communication. I appreciate the inclusion of "sample sermons" so that the reader can see the theories discussed put into practice. I think the best sermons are ones that are understood by everyone and that offer clear, concrete relate-ability to one's daily life. This book offers a way to achieve that goal. If one is looking for a step-by-step guide for practical topical sermon preparation and delivery, this is it.