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Hobbs College Library
Preaching by the Book: Developing and Delivering Text-Driven Sermons
Preachers communicate God’s word by fully considering their context and their congregation.
Preaching by the Book is a practical handbook offering fundamental guidance for preachers beginning to explore their gifts, and fresh insights for seasoned veterans desiring to refine their craft. R. Scott Pace challenges preachers to develop their style and their substance by considering their unique personality and gifts, the work of the Spirit, and the particular audience on a given occasion.
Preaching by the Book is a practical handbook offering fundamental guidance for preachers beginning to explore their gifts, and fresh insights for seasoned veterans desiring to refine their craft. R. Scott Pace challenges preachers to develop their style and their substance by considering their unique personality and gifts, the work of the Spirit, and the particular audience on a given occasion.
144 pages, Paperback
Published March 15, 2018
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44 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
March 30, 2021
This book is a helpful introduction to the basics of expository preaching. It lays the theological, biblical, and spiritual nature of preach as a foundation. Then the author overviews the steps from the text to the sermon. Written is a clear and concise fashion, this brief volume is very readable. A new preacher would find this work must useful to help in learning to preach. The more seasoned preacher will find nuggets to sharpen his preaching. I plan to recommend this book often.
March 20, 2018
Here in the second installment of the Hobbs College Library series aimed at those in the ministry we have help with developing and delivering text-driven sermons. It’s another small, attractive hardback of quite-manageable length that is well done. It gives a grand overview that covers preaching from picking the text to giving the invitation.
As I read, it struck me that this book would especially appeal to two groups: 1) those starting out in the ministry, and 2) bi-vocational pastors. Still, even as one who has been a pastor for several years, I would catch myself thinking as I read– I need to remind myself to quit being sloppy here!
The book begins with a great chapter on inspiration for preaching and what preaching really is, as well as why textual preaching is so valuable. The next chapter shows a process of sermon development that begins with prayer and the first work of study. Part II includes chapters 3 and 4 on the framework that includes how to study and draw out what’s needed for the sermon from the text. Part III gives four chapters on what he calls the finishing touches. These touches include the importance of a good introduction to draw people in, the effective use of illustrations to captivate attention, and the crucial aspect of giving a good invitation. There’s a short, challenging conclusion to conclude the book.
If this book is an indication of what’s to come in this series, we have a tool to look forward to. This book is helpful, encouraging in the places where it’s most needed, and should be a boon for preaching to those who read it.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
As I read, it struck me that this book would especially appeal to two groups: 1) those starting out in the ministry, and 2) bi-vocational pastors. Still, even as one who has been a pastor for several years, I would catch myself thinking as I read– I need to remind myself to quit being sloppy here!
The book begins with a great chapter on inspiration for preaching and what preaching really is, as well as why textual preaching is so valuable. The next chapter shows a process of sermon development that begins with prayer and the first work of study. Part II includes chapters 3 and 4 on the framework that includes how to study and draw out what’s needed for the sermon from the text. Part III gives four chapters on what he calls the finishing touches. These touches include the importance of a good introduction to draw people in, the effective use of illustrations to captivate attention, and the crucial aspect of giving a good invitation. There’s a short, challenging conclusion to conclude the book.
If this book is an indication of what’s to come in this series, we have a tool to look forward to. This book is helpful, encouraging in the places where it’s most needed, and should be a boon for preaching to those who read it.
I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
June 5, 2018
Summary: A step by step guide to preparing and giving messages rooted in biblical texts in a slim volume.
There are numerous guides to preaching, most which are both inspiring and perhaps a little daunting. What caught my attention is the straightforward character of this little book. I could see a person, perhaps faced with his or her first sermon, working through this book in preparing to preach.
First of all, the author outlines his theology of preaching that affirms that the purpose of preaching is that the Word of God, expounded faithfully by ministers of God trusting in the work of the Spirit of God results in the people of God hearing, worshiping, and obeying God. Critical in this process is that sermons arise from and be based in the text of scripture. The remainder of the book unpacks a process by which this is done, which is outlined in seven steps:
1. Begin with prayer.
Prepare your heart.
Pray for help.
2. Read the passage.
Read it casually.
Read it carefully.
3. Discover the point.
Summarize the main idea
Simplify the main idea.
4. Study the parts.
Study the supporting concepts.
Study the significant words.
5. Identify the precepts.
Discern the theological truths.
Discern the doctrinal truths.
Discern the spiritual truths.
6. Apply the principles.
Evaluate our personal condition.
Formulate our practical response.
7. Develop our plan.
Construct our sermon outline.
Craft our sermon points.
Chapters 2 through 4 elaborate these seven steps. Then Chapters 5 through 7 help with fleshing out the sermon outline into a message that may be preached. It begins with Introductions and emphasizes brevity and clarity that whets people's appetites, as well as providing a varying diet. Chapter 6 on Illustrations proposes the various kinds of illustrations that might be used and pitfalls to avoid including the overuse of illustrations, and using yourself or your family excessively in illustrations. Chapter 7, reflecting the Baptist origins of this work, discusses Invitations. This is often neglected in other traditions, where a passage is taught, but no response to it is invited in the context of the service.
One subject that I would have liked to seen addressed in this section would be the question of whether one ought write out sermons, preach from notes, or work from memory. It seems that it would be helpful for many to talk about how not to be tied to a text or written notes and yet avoid the wandering and rabbit trails that may accompany extemporaneous preaching. Perhaps the author assumed that preachers figure out what works best for them over time, which seems to be the case, but this is little help for the person starting out.
That aside, what Pace offers in a handy format is a guide that really can serve as a guide throughout the process of preparing a message from a biblical text. He distills a life of preaching wisdom into a concise, slim volume easily taken along with one's Bible, study tools, and laptop into the study, or coffee shop. Much like a travel guide organized with the traveler in mind, this little guide can be pulled out throughout one's preparation to preach to inspire and to give sound direction.
____________________________
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
There are numerous guides to preaching, most which are both inspiring and perhaps a little daunting. What caught my attention is the straightforward character of this little book. I could see a person, perhaps faced with his or her first sermon, working through this book in preparing to preach.
First of all, the author outlines his theology of preaching that affirms that the purpose of preaching is that the Word of God, expounded faithfully by ministers of God trusting in the work of the Spirit of God results in the people of God hearing, worshiping, and obeying God. Critical in this process is that sermons arise from and be based in the text of scripture. The remainder of the book unpacks a process by which this is done, which is outlined in seven steps:
1. Begin with prayer.
Prepare your heart.
Pray for help.
2. Read the passage.
Read it casually.
Read it carefully.
3. Discover the point.
Summarize the main idea
Simplify the main idea.
4. Study the parts.
Study the supporting concepts.
Study the significant words.
5. Identify the precepts.
Discern the theological truths.
Discern the doctrinal truths.
Discern the spiritual truths.
6. Apply the principles.
Evaluate our personal condition.
Formulate our practical response.
7. Develop our plan.
Construct our sermon outline.
Craft our sermon points.
Chapters 2 through 4 elaborate these seven steps. Then Chapters 5 through 7 help with fleshing out the sermon outline into a message that may be preached. It begins with Introductions and emphasizes brevity and clarity that whets people's appetites, as well as providing a varying diet. Chapter 6 on Illustrations proposes the various kinds of illustrations that might be used and pitfalls to avoid including the overuse of illustrations, and using yourself or your family excessively in illustrations. Chapter 7, reflecting the Baptist origins of this work, discusses Invitations. This is often neglected in other traditions, where a passage is taught, but no response to it is invited in the context of the service.
One subject that I would have liked to seen addressed in this section would be the question of whether one ought write out sermons, preach from notes, or work from memory. It seems that it would be helpful for many to talk about how not to be tied to a text or written notes and yet avoid the wandering and rabbit trails that may accompany extemporaneous preaching. Perhaps the author assumed that preachers figure out what works best for them over time, which seems to be the case, but this is little help for the person starting out.
That aside, what Pace offers in a handy format is a guide that really can serve as a guide throughout the process of preparing a message from a biblical text. He distills a life of preaching wisdom into a concise, slim volume easily taken along with one's Bible, study tools, and laptop into the study, or coffee shop. Much like a travel guide organized with the traveler in mind, this little guide can be pulled out throughout one's preparation to preach to inspire and to give sound direction.
____________________________
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
July 27, 2018
I really do like a good book on how to do expository preaching. I have read quite a few of them now and each one provides either a slightly different approach to the subject or even some different tools or ideas that I appreciate and try out on my own.
"Preaching By the Book: Developing and Delivering Text-Driven Sermons" by R. Scott Pace is another one that I am glad to have. This book is part of the Hobbs College Library Series from the Herschel H. Hobbs College of Theology and Ministry at Oklahoma Baptist University.
As I mentioned that I have read many expository preaching books, this one came from a slightly different approach from the others that I have read. This book spent more time on the development and delivery of the expository sermon where those other more lengthy books on expository preaching spent a majority of the book tackles the portion about studying the Word to prepare for an expository sermon.
Yes, this book is shorter at around 115 reading pages (not including index pages and such) compared to other expository preaching books that I have read that are 300 to 400 pages long. "Preaching By the Book" is geared slightly different than the other ones because it focuses more on the points of creating the sermon and delivery of the sermon. The other longer books focus more on the specific details and tools of the study portion that is required prior to the writing and delivery of the sermon.
Think of a practical guide or handbook related to creating and delivering expository sermons and that is what you have in this book. It is concise yet full of excellent wisdom and guidance and very easy to follow. It is written very well.
I don't feel that I could make a choice between this one and the other longer ones that I previously mentioned because, in my opinion, they each offer something slightly different. I honestly think that it would be good to get this one in addition to the other books. The other books are excellent especially for the tools and methods of the study portion of expository preaching, but "Preaching By the Book" is one of the best one for developing and delivering that I have read to date. Some of those other books would be "Anointed Expository Preaching" by Stephen F. Olford, "12 Essential Skills for Great Preaching" by Wayne McDill, "Engaging Exposition" by Akin, Curtis and Rummage, and "Power in the Pulpit" by Vines and Shaddix. Each one gives slightly different ideas and tools that you would find beneficial.
I would strongly recommend "Preaching By the Book" and will be using it quite often as a reference tool for when I am developing and delivering my sermons. This would be on my "must buy" list for anyone that is preaching in any venue.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
"Preaching By the Book: Developing and Delivering Text-Driven Sermons" by R. Scott Pace is another one that I am glad to have. This book is part of the Hobbs College Library Series from the Herschel H. Hobbs College of Theology and Ministry at Oklahoma Baptist University.
As I mentioned that I have read many expository preaching books, this one came from a slightly different approach from the others that I have read. This book spent more time on the development and delivery of the expository sermon where those other more lengthy books on expository preaching spent a majority of the book tackles the portion about studying the Word to prepare for an expository sermon.
Yes, this book is shorter at around 115 reading pages (not including index pages and such) compared to other expository preaching books that I have read that are 300 to 400 pages long. "Preaching By the Book" is geared slightly different than the other ones because it focuses more on the points of creating the sermon and delivery of the sermon. The other longer books focus more on the specific details and tools of the study portion that is required prior to the writing and delivery of the sermon.
Think of a practical guide or handbook related to creating and delivering expository sermons and that is what you have in this book. It is concise yet full of excellent wisdom and guidance and very easy to follow. It is written very well.
I don't feel that I could make a choice between this one and the other longer ones that I previously mentioned because, in my opinion, they each offer something slightly different. I honestly think that it would be good to get this one in addition to the other books. The other books are excellent especially for the tools and methods of the study portion of expository preaching, but "Preaching By the Book" is one of the best one for developing and delivering that I have read to date. Some of those other books would be "Anointed Expository Preaching" by Stephen F. Olford, "12 Essential Skills for Great Preaching" by Wayne McDill, "Engaging Exposition" by Akin, Curtis and Rummage, and "Power in the Pulpit" by Vines and Shaddix. Each one gives slightly different ideas and tools that you would find beneficial.
I would strongly recommend "Preaching By the Book" and will be using it quite often as a reference tool for when I am developing and delivering my sermons. This would be on my "must buy" list for anyone that is preaching in any venue.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review.
July 5, 2018
R. Scott Pace, professor of preaching at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary, has written this concise, but thorough, manual on how to preach expository sermons.
The chapters are structured -- like many sermons-- with alliterated titles, under three main parts (The Foundation, The Framework, The Finishing Touches), and chapters under those parts (Inspiration, Investigation, Interpretation, Implementation, Introductions, Illustrations, Invitations, Conclusion). However, a better way to understand this book is found on page 18, where he gives a chart of a seven-step process of sermon development. The rest of the book fleshes out the skeleton of these seven steps. As an experienced preacher myself, I can testify that this is a very helpful, balanced, and Biblical approach. It is helpful because it is practical and applicable. It is balanced between theory and practice, and balanced in cautioning against extremes (such as not using too few or too many illustrations). It is consistently affirmed with Biblical reasons and quotations. The only major omission I noticed was no discussion whatsoever of Bible translations, which is a dilemma for many preachers.
Given the brevity of this book (115 pages of text), I was surprised at how much it covered. He does not go into great detail, yet he covers every important topic in the sermon process. He gives sufficient information and examples where needed, such as on page 62, where he gives a sample outline of a text. He frequently gives practical advice, as on page 15 where he advises the rule of thumb that the preacher dress one degree more formal than his listeners, and on page 106 where he suggests a preacher give those responding to the invitation one word to say as they come forward, to cope with their nervousness.
Overall, this can be an excellent textbook for a class on preaching (supplemented by a professor's assignments of practicing sermon writing and delivery), a primer for a new preacher, and a tune-up for the seasoned preacher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from B & H Bloggers. I was not obligated to write a positive review.
The chapters are structured -- like many sermons-- with alliterated titles, under three main parts (The Foundation, The Framework, The Finishing Touches), and chapters under those parts (Inspiration, Investigation, Interpretation, Implementation, Introductions, Illustrations, Invitations, Conclusion). However, a better way to understand this book is found on page 18, where he gives a chart of a seven-step process of sermon development. The rest of the book fleshes out the skeleton of these seven steps. As an experienced preacher myself, I can testify that this is a very helpful, balanced, and Biblical approach. It is helpful because it is practical and applicable. It is balanced between theory and practice, and balanced in cautioning against extremes (such as not using too few or too many illustrations). It is consistently affirmed with Biblical reasons and quotations. The only major omission I noticed was no discussion whatsoever of Bible translations, which is a dilemma for many preachers.
Given the brevity of this book (115 pages of text), I was surprised at how much it covered. He does not go into great detail, yet he covers every important topic in the sermon process. He gives sufficient information and examples where needed, such as on page 62, where he gives a sample outline of a text. He frequently gives practical advice, as on page 15 where he advises the rule of thumb that the preacher dress one degree more formal than his listeners, and on page 106 where he suggests a preacher give those responding to the invitation one word to say as they come forward, to cope with their nervousness.
Overall, this can be an excellent textbook for a class on preaching (supplemented by a professor's assignments of practicing sermon writing and delivery), a primer for a new preacher, and a tune-up for the seasoned preacher.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from B & H Bloggers. I was not obligated to write a positive review.
July 4, 2018
Regardless of what you might have heard, there’s a lot more to preaching than waking up on Sunday morning, flipping open your Bible, and then talking non-stop about whatever passage you might have landed on for the next 15-75 minutes. Although I’ve been preaching for the last 10+ years, I know that there’s always room for improvement, so I was excited when I first heard about Preaching by the Book: Developing and Delivering Text-Driven Sermons by R. Scott Pace (B&H Academic, 2018)
The Table of Contents, including sections on the foundation, framework and finishing touches sounded like just what I was looking for, so I was anxious to dive into the text. Although there are a lot of good points, I found this book to more theoretical than practical. I would have preferred a few more examples, and even though it’s published by an Academic publishing house, I think the style is too academic for what should be a primary audience: those pastors, deacons, and members of a pulpit committee who may not have had the seminary experience, and are struggling to find a resource that will help them prepare and preach a sermon based on scripture, rather than their own opinions and a world which is increasingly antagonistic to the Gospel.
As a member of the B&H/Lifeway blogging program, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review.
3/5
The Table of Contents, including sections on the foundation, framework and finishing touches sounded like just what I was looking for, so I was anxious to dive into the text. Although there are a lot of good points, I found this book to more theoretical than practical. I would have preferred a few more examples, and even though it’s published by an Academic publishing house, I think the style is too academic for what should be a primary audience: those pastors, deacons, and members of a pulpit committee who may not have had the seminary experience, and are struggling to find a resource that will help them prepare and preach a sermon based on scripture, rather than their own opinions and a world which is increasingly antagonistic to the Gospel.
As a member of the B&H/Lifeway blogging program, I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review.
3/5
June 25, 2018
While Preaching By The Book is written specifically for pastors who are preaching the Word of God from the pulpit, this book also deserves a place on the shelves of any Christian writer, teacher, speaker or leader who handles the Word of God as part of their ministry!
As you might expect, Preaching By The Book provides you with an outline and a framework for developing sermons, but more importantly, it provides you with spiritual guidance on how to approach God’s Word. While practical tips for sermon preparation are nice, I’m glad to see that this book is less of a technical treatise on how to preach well and more of a spiritual handbook of how-to prepare your heart and mind as you read God’s Word and prepare your message.
Preaching By The Book is concise and easy to read. If you take the time to dig into the biblical illustrations, you can use the book as a personal Bible Study.
Preaching By The Book is a wonderful book that I highly recommend to you!
This excerpt is based on the original review that is published on my blog at Create With Joy.
As you might expect, Preaching By The Book provides you with an outline and a framework for developing sermons, but more importantly, it provides you with spiritual guidance on how to approach God’s Word. While practical tips for sermon preparation are nice, I’m glad to see that this book is less of a technical treatise on how to preach well and more of a spiritual handbook of how-to prepare your heart and mind as you read God’s Word and prepare your message.
Preaching By The Book is concise and easy to read. If you take the time to dig into the biblical illustrations, you can use the book as a personal Bible Study.
Preaching By The Book is a wonderful book that I highly recommend to you!
This excerpt is based on the original review that is published on my blog at Create With Joy.
June 20, 2019
Preaching by the Book is a practical book written to serve as a succinct primer on text-driven preaching-- that is, preaching that sets out to embody the substance, structure, and style of the text. Though the book is of a practical nature, Pace often departs from this style to provide theological justifications for both the writing of the book and for each of the seven major processes which equip the pastor for text-driven preaching. These justifications betray the reliance of Pace's system on the work of the Spirit in both preparation and delivery and the centrality of God's word in every part of sermon preparation. I applaud Dr. Pace for this blending of practical and theological/theoretical knowledge while keeping the book to 115 pages. This book is useful as a concise reminder of the text-driven preaching essentials for seasoned pastors as well as a solid foundation for seminary students or young pastors who are looking for a Christ-exalting method of preaching which is faithful to the word of God.
August 24, 2025
This is a nice, short, book giving guidelines and warnings on preaching. the power of illustrations, stories, etc. I am certainly not qualified to rate the advice from a position of experience (yet) I do know many people who do follow many things I read in this book. I definitely don't agree with Scott Pace on everything, especially on the role of the invitation as I think the sermon is about feeding believers not Unbelievers (though an invitation should be offered).
June 2, 2019
Short & Concise Introduction
The book gives a great overview of basic sermon outlining. I do not believe the author intended for the resource to be an exhaustive one. Therefore, it is lacking in some areas of exploring interpretation, observation, etc.
The book gives a great overview of basic sermon outlining. I do not believe the author intended for the resource to be an exhaustive one. Therefore, it is lacking in some areas of exploring interpretation, observation, etc.
January 31, 2020
This book is a brief (and good) introduction to the formulation of sermons. It is aimed primarily at the preacher, but it could be used to help the congregation better understand what makes a good sermon.
December 13, 2018
Easy and accesible (and useful reminders) guidelines for on point homilies. Love how it emphasises the importance of Scripture and how to pray the homily before you draft it. Nice edition as well.
March 22, 2020
An outstanding book for the responsibility and basics of handling the preaching of God’s Word.
July 14, 2023
A very good plan on how to develop your sermon and make sure you get the message across. Great resource for anyone looking to preach. Only gave it 4 stars because I found multiple spelling errors.
January 15, 2020
“A sermon is the communication of divine and eternal truth.” This is the sacred basis for preaching.
This compact, concise volume will be a valuable resource for rookies and seasoned professionals. It is detailed enough to establish new preachers in the pattern of biblical preaching and broad enough to challenge older pastors to sharpen their focus on the fundamentals.
Pace believes “we should follow a guided process that humbly yields to the Spirit, faithfully interprets the scriptures, and grateful honors our Savior.” The book outlines seven strategic steps to accomplish that.
Three sections underpin the process- the foundation, the framework, the finishing touches. (I have often thought the trademark of a well-prepared preacher is unforced alliteration. This book does not disappoint.) I am in the category of older pastor, but I want my preaching to stay fresh. Two subsections are especially relevant.
Chapter 3 discourses on Interpretation. Pace’s discussion of authorial intent, page 34, was a confirmation of the need for a contextual presentation of every biblical passage. “The meaning of the text (is) an objective reality.” “Every text has a primary, fixed meaning, and a passage can never mean what it never meant.” Contextualization becomes more relevant as the church moves further into the “fast food” model of preaching.
Sermon introductions have not been my strong suit. The author has listed some helpful points in Chapter 5 that I plan to review regularly.
This compact, concise volume will be a valuable resource for rookies and seasoned professionals. It is detailed enough to establish new preachers in the pattern of biblical preaching and broad enough to challenge older pastors to sharpen their focus on the fundamentals.
Pace believes “we should follow a guided process that humbly yields to the Spirit, faithfully interprets the scriptures, and grateful honors our Savior.” The book outlines seven strategic steps to accomplish that.
Three sections underpin the process- the foundation, the framework, the finishing touches. (I have often thought the trademark of a well-prepared preacher is unforced alliteration. This book does not disappoint.) I am in the category of older pastor, but I want my preaching to stay fresh. Two subsections are especially relevant.
Chapter 3 discourses on Interpretation. Pace’s discussion of authorial intent, page 34, was a confirmation of the need for a contextual presentation of every biblical passage. “The meaning of the text (is) an objective reality.” “Every text has a primary, fixed meaning, and a passage can never mean what it never meant.” Contextualization becomes more relevant as the church moves further into the “fast food” model of preaching.
Sermon introductions have not been my strong suit. The author has listed some helpful points in Chapter 5 that I plan to review regularly.
Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews