How to preach a good sermon

Most people can recognize a good sermon when they hear one, thought they might have difficulty articulating why. For those of us who try to preach those “good sermons” it is useful to understand what it takes to get those positive responses from our listeners.

Of course, listeners vary and have different things that they are looking for in a preacher. A listener’s theology will determine his or her sense of the sermon. Those who are committed to a high view of Scripture might expect something different than one committed to a more active view of the work of the Holy Spirit. Learning style is a factor in considering the effectiveness of a sermon. Some listeners learn best through reflection and others prefer a more active and participatory approach. Culture will affect one’s evaluation of a sermon. Where we come from, what generation, we belong to, our denomination, our economic situation, and our gender all play a part in determining the kind of preacher we best respond to.

http://www.preaching.org/how-to-preach-a-good-sermon/