Preaching demands creative study, but creative study week after week is draining, if not impossible. Studies in creativity clearly indicate that the best creativity is a collective effort.

Preachers who excel in creativity often involve several people in the preparation of their sermon. That two minds are better than one is hardly novel. Many preachers get feedback from their congregations -- some even ask for it! Many preacher's give thanks for a loving spouse or a close confidant or two who can provide honest evaluation. They're the Monday quarterbacks of the weekend's game.

While these evaluators play a valuable role over the long haul of preaching, they cannot edit the sermon tape. It's too late to hear "I didn't get it... If only you had an example ... But does life really work like that?" Too many times, also, I've learned on Tuesday how a relatively minor point in Sunday's sermon struck someone the wrong way. I wish someone had warned me. Any such influence on the sermon must come before the weekend ministry.

Recognizing the value of creative input as well as feedback, the following procedure suggests a plan for maximizing resources for sermon preparation. In addition to meeting the objective of better preaching, this pattern also develops pastor-parish relationships and invaluable interaction with the audience of the one who is to "speak for God." Instead of talking to people about the Bible, you'll find yourself talking with people about themselves, from the Bible.

Procedure

The Huddle: Several days before the sermon is to be preached (hopefully no later than Wednesday for a weekend ministry) gather a "huddle." The huddle should be a representative sample of your audience. Involve people of diverse occupations and interests, both men and women, people with a "nose for ministry" and people on the fringe. The group should number five to eight people. For accountability and consistent communication, it may be helpful to involve one or two church leaders or staff members.

Explain to the huddle what you think is the basic truth or thesis of the passage for the sermon. This assumes that most of your exegetical study is completed. If you're preaching topically, set forth the thesis of the topic and why you want to address this topic. If you want to give a little feel for what direction the sermon will take, do so; but it may be more profitable to start "closer to scratch." Ask the group questions such as:

- Where does this truth "touch" you?

- Is this relevant to you or was there a time that such a truth was relevant?

- Do you believe this truth or does it need some proof? What would help you accept it?

- Do you understand this truth or does it need explanation? What would help you understand it?

- Do you know how to respond to or apply this truth? Does it need to be visualized?

- Does this passage make sense to you? What needs explaining? What is self-evident?

- If you understand this truth cognitively, how does it make you feel? Do you feel it? What would help you feel it?