Review

Topical Message – Take your idea, good thought, scriptural truth and then find scriptural references to support the theme and points.

Structure of Message –

Introduction

Point

Explanation
Illustration
Application

Repeat Several Times

Conclusion (Summary/Review and Call to Action)

The structure above fits any sermon unless you break from a solid traditional sermon style and go for something that is completely unique or different. Breaking from this mold is dangerous as your opportunity for not effectively communicating increases drastically.

Textual Message – a sermon that refers often to a particular Biblical text for a subject and the main divisions. The main points are clearly inferred by the passage; however the subdivisions are invented as in the same construction of a topical sermon.

Two keys of Textual and Expository Messages

Analysis, or ‘taking apart,’ involves an explanation of the parts of a particular text, along with their relationships to one another.
Synthesis, or ‘putting together,’ involves a rearrangement of points or the construction of an outline from points supplied by the text. (rearranging framework, majoring on a minor theme or superimposing design to create vividness)

Questions to ask in analysis:

Who is the speaker?
Why is this said?
Who is addressed?
What is required / What are the conditions of success?
What lessons are taught?
What promises are made?
What ideas are expressed?
What doctrines are taught?
What qualities are displayed?

The questions in Analysis serve all forms of sermons, as it is a good idea to review these ideas when developing your message. Often you get an idea for a topical sermon from one key scripture verse or short passage.

Romans 13:11-14.

Romans 8:12-17.

John’s “I AM” Statements:

John 6:35 – Bread of Life.
John 8:12 – Light of the World.
John 10:9 – Door.
John 10:11 – Good Shepherd.
John 11:25 – Resurrection and Life.
John 14:6 – Way, Truth, Life.
John 15:1 – True Vine.
John 8:58 – I AM that I AM.