On Preaching with H.B. Charles Jr.

51 Questions to Ask in Observations May 26, 2026 00:24:32 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. discusses fifty-one questions you should ask in the observations phase of your sermon preparation. The questions are as follow: 1. Who wrote this passage? 2. Who is the intended audience? 3. What is the book about? 4. What style of writing is th

When NOT To Go To The Pulpit May 20, 2026 00:30:00 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode of the podcast, H.B. discusses ten times you should not go to the pulpit. Those times are as follows...1. Don't go to the pulpit unprepared. 2. Don't go to the pulpit prayerlessly. 3. Don't go to the pulpit angry. 4. Don't go to the pulpit presumptuou

11 Factors of Effective Sermon Delivery May 13, 2026 00:20:48 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode of the podcast, H.B. discusses eleven (11) factors of effective sermon delivery. The eleven factors are as follows: 1. Your Character 2. Your Heart 3. Your Preparation 4. Your Sermon 5. Your Audience 6. Your Speech 7. Your Voice 8. Your Body 9. Your Setting 10. Your

#229 | On Preaching with Doug Logan May 4, 2026 00:46:55 A conversation with Doug Logan, a seasoned pastor and church planter who serves as the President of Grimké Seminary, where he focuses on urban ministry and theological training.Check out Doug Logan's new book: The Weightiness of Preaching: Applying Francis Grimké’s Enduring Wisdom To Your Preaching Connect with Doug at https://www.instagram.com/pastordeelowg/Connect with H.B. and access more r

#228 | What Do I Carry to the Pulpit? Apr 27, 2026 00:06:17 In this brief episode, H.B. Charles Jr. discusses what kinds of notes he takes from the pulpit when he preaches and why.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with H.B. and access more resources at https://HBCharlesJr.comThe On Preaching

#227 | On Pastoring with George E. Hurtt Apr 20, 2026 00:26:17 Continuing the conversation with George E. Hurtt, who serves as the pastor of both Mt. Sinai Church and New Revelation Church.Connect with George at https://www.instagram.com/gehurttGet a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with H.B. and acc

#226 | On Preaching with George E. Hurtt Apr 13, 2026 00:21:48 A conversation with George E. Hurtt, who serves as the pastor of both Mt. Sinai Church and New Revelation Church.Connect with George at https://www.instagram.com/gehurttGet a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with H.B. and access more reso

#225 | How Expository Preaching Transforms Your Ministry Apr 6, 2026 00:34:09 A conversation with Douglas Sean O'Donnell, the Senior Vice President of Bible Editorial and Church Resources at Crossway in Wheaton, Illinois. Learn how disciplined study and a focus on the text can revolutionize your pulpit ministry as Doug shares his journey from pastoral ministry to Bible publishing and offers practical advice for preaching difficult books like Ecclesiastes.Connect with Doug a

#224 | Preaching Midweek with Ryan Hayden Mar 30, 2026 00:29:41 A conversation with Ryan Hayden, who serves as Lead pastor of Bible Baptist Church in Matoon, Illinois. Ryan shares helpful insight on AI in preaching, bivocational pastoring, and a valuable hack for midweek preaching.Connect with Ryan at https://congregationhub.comGet a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscrib

#223 | On Preaching with Frank E. Ray Sr. Mar 23, 2026 00:36:35 In this throwback episode, we revisit a conversation with Frank E. Ray Sr., longtime pastor of the New Salem Missionary Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee, affectionately known as "The Walking Bible."Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConne

#222 | On Preaching with Clinton D. McFarland, Part 2 Mar 16, 2026 00:36:51 In this throwback episode, we continue our revisit of H.B.’s 2023 conversation with Clinton D. McFarland, founding Pastor of the Grace Bible Church in Stockbridge, Georgia.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with H.B. and access more r

#221 | On Preaching with Clinton D. McFarland Mar 9, 2026 00:27:27 In this throwback episode, we revisit H.B.’s 2023 conversation with Clinton D. McFarland, founding Pastor of the Grace Bible Church in Stockbridge, Georgia.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with H.B. and access more resources at http

#220 | On Pastoring with Steve Gaines Mar 2, 2026 00:32:41 In this throwback episode, we continue our revisit of H.B.’s 2023 conversation with Steve Gaines, Pastor Emeritus of Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee. After serving as Senior Pastor for 19 years, Dr. Gaines transitioned to his emeritus role in 2024. He also served as the President of the Southern Baptist Convention from 2016 to 2018. He continues to be a widely respected voice in the

#219 | On Preaching with Steve Gaines Feb 23, 2026 00:28:29 In this throwback episode, we revisit H.B.’s 2023 conversation with Steve Gaines, Pastor Emeritus of Bellevue Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee. After serving as Senior Pastor for 19 years, Dr. Gaines transitioned to his emeritus role in 2024. He also served as the President of the Southern Baptist Convention from 2016 to 2018. He continues to be a widely respected voice in the areas of prayer,

#218 | 10 Questions w/H.B. Charles Jr. | Wheaton College Preaching Lab Feb 16, 2026 00:56:02 H.B. Charles Jr. answers ten (10) questions about expositional preaching and pastoral ministry during a Preaching Lab led by Chaplain Angulus Wilson at Wheaton College - President Phillip Graham Ryken.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnec

#217 | Simple Ways to Preach Better Feb 2, 2026 00:26:07 Improving your preaching isn't an overnight fix; it requires consistent practice, much like going to the gym. Here are 12 simple ways to preach better, from "hugging the text" to "landing the plane" safely, to help you grow in your ministry.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe

#216 | Am I Called? Jan 26, 2026 00:24:26 Wrestling with the question, "Am I called to preach?" Here are 10 biblical signs, from godly character to a consuming burden, to help you discern God's call on your life.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with H.B. and a

#215 | Bad Preaching Habits to Leave in 2025 Jan 19, 2026 00:28:50 Stop bringing old mistakes into a new year of ministry. This episode identifies 10 bad preaching habits to leave behind so you can preach the Word with more clarity and power in 2026 and beyond.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with

#214 | Why I Use Study Bibles for Sermon Preparation Jan 12, 2026 00:22:54 Discover why a study Bible is a vital tool for the pulpit. Learn how integrating these resources can strengthen your sermon preparation by providing essential historical and literary context.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with H.B

#213 | Why Visiting Israel Will Help Your Preaching Jan 5, 2026 00:33:01 Experience how visiting the Holy Land transforms your Bible study from black and white to HD. Discover the spiritual and practical value of seeing the historical settings of Scripture firsthand.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with

#212 | The Essential Pastoral Reading List Dec 29, 2025 00:17:48 Leaders are readers! I’m sharing my essential Pastoral Reading List—12 key books to read in 2026 to help you preach faithfully, clearly, and better.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with H.B. and access more resources at https://HBCh

#211 | 2026 Preaching Goals Dec 22, 2025 00:21:18 It ought to be evident that you are growing. The New Year is the perfect time for reflection and setting 2026 Preaching Goals to ensure you are making progress in preaching.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with H.B. and access more

#210 | Preaching Pet Peeves Dec 15, 2025 00:25:26 From long introductions to imitating others, I’m sharing my biggest Preaching Pet Peeves. We must get back to serious Expositional Preaching and heed these Sermon Delivery Tips to avoid turning people off to the Word.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://

#209 | Preaching Christmas Dec 8, 2025 00:20:56 My advice for Preaching Christmas is simple: aim for the head pin, tell the story, and preach to broken hearts.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with H.B. and access more resources at https://HBCharlesJr.comThe On Preaching Podcast i

#208 | After the Sermon Nov 10, 2025 00:23:38 We spend so much time on sermon preparation, but what comes after is just as vital. Learn what to do after the sermon to guard against pride and spiritual warfare, and ensure the preached Word bears fruit.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgCo

#207 | Effective Sermon Illustrations Nov 3, 2025 00:26:18 A good sermon has explanation, application, and illustration. If you want to preach faithfully, you must work hard at illustration. Here are 9 essential places to look to improve your sermon preparation and ensure clear communication.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight mag

#206 | How the Pew Can Be a Blessing to the Pulpit Oct 27, 2025 00:26:26 The pulpit is a blessing to the pew, but how can the pew be a blessing to the pulpit? I share a few simple yet profound ways to encourage and appreciate your pastor.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with H.B. and access more resource

#205 | Pastors I Appreciate Oct 20, 2025 00:30:29 You're a leader, but who leads you? During Pastors' Appreciation Month, I reflect on the men who were pastors to me and share why pastors need pastors to thrive.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.org Connect with H.B. and access more res

#204 | Formal and Ongoing Preparation Oct 6, 2025 00:25:51 A passionate preacher without a commitment to prepare is just a desire to perform. The call to preach comes with a call to prepare, and there are three ways a preacher must prepare himself.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with H.B.

#203 | Overcoming Writer's Block Sep 29, 2025 00:26:54 We’ve all been there: a deadline is looming, and the words just won’t come. What do you do when you’re facing that resistance in your sermon preparation?Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with H.B. and access more resources at https:/

#202 | The Lonely Preacher Sep 22, 2025 00:25:39 Most of a pastor’s work is spent among the people—counseling, planning, and leading. But the most critical part of pastoral ministry is the work done in solitude.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with H.B. and access more resources a

#201 | Planning Your Preaching Sep 15, 2025 00:29:52 As a pastor, I've learned the power of planning. Don't let the pressures of ministry get the best of you. I want to tell you why every preacher should have a preaching calendar.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBRegister for the Cutting It Straight Conference at https://HBCharlesJr.comSubscribe to the Cuttin

#200 | Preaching To Different Audiences Sep 8, 2025 00:27:51 Ever wonder why a sermon falls flat for some but not others? It's not the message, it's the audience. Discover how to connect with every person in the pews, from the biblically illiterate to the hardened unbeliever.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBRegister for the Cutting It Straight Conference at https://

#199 | Avoiding Preaching Assumptions Sep 1, 2025 00:31:30 Unlock the secrets to impactful sermons by steering clear of common assumptions. Explore dynamic strategies to connect deeply with your audience and deliver messages that truly resonate. Transform your preaching approach with insights that inspire and engage.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBRegister for th

#198 | Preaching the Parables Aug 25, 2025 00:31:29 H.B. shares his favorite commentaries, books, and more resources for preaching the parables of Jesus faithfully, clearly, and better.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBRegister for the Cutting It Straight Conference at https://HBCharlesJr.comSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.org

#197 | Back to the Mailbag Aug 18, 2025 00:31:18 H.B. dives back into the On Preaching Mailbag to answer your questions! Drop yours in the comments, and it might be featured on a future episode.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBRegister for the Cutting It Straight Conference at https://HBCharlesJr.comSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https:

#196 | Selecting a Text Aug 11, 2025 00:29:30 A sermon text should be like a street lamp for illumination, not a crutch to lean on. Explore seven key principles for selecting a text for preaching, including why you should always start with the Scripture and not a topic. Preach faithfully and powerfully by letting the Word of God lead the way.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https:

#195 | Preparing to Preach Through a Book Aug 4, 2025 00:31:03 Imagine standing at the edge of a vast, unexplored territory, ready to embark on a journey that promises both challenge and reward. This is what it feels like to prepare for preaching through a book of the Bible. In this episode, we'll explore the essential steps to equip yourself for this spiritual expedition.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production

#194 | Remembering John MacArthur Jul 28, 2025 00:25:18 Honoring the memory and legacy of John F. MacArthur, Jr.Read the full tribute here – https://ncrs.cc/4y1g-----------Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBRegister for the Cutting It Straight Conference at https://HBCharlesJr.comSubscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CISmag.orgConnect with H.B.

#193 | My Top Psalm Commentaries Jul 21, 2025 00:33:02 SHARE YOUR QUESTIONS, AND IT MAY BE FEATURED IN A FUTURE EPISODE. Drop a comment or go to https://ncrs.cc/opqa to ask your questions.Explore a curated list of favorite commentaries on the Psalms with insights into their theological depth and practical application. These resources can enrich your study and teaching of the PsalmsGet a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcas

#192 | The Ten Commandments of Preaching Jul 14, 2025 00:32:05 SHARE YOUR QUESTIONS, AND IT MAY BE FEATURED IN A FUTURE EPISODE. Drop a comment or go to https://ncrs.cc/opqa to ask your questions.Discover a set of guiding principles designed to elevate your ministry and enhance your delivery of God's Word by making Christ the center of every sermon, living authentically in alignment with your message, and avoiding pitfalls like plagiarism and more.Get a n

#191 | The Preacher's Process Jul 7, 2025 00:31:15 SHARE YOUR QUESTION IN THE COMMENTS AND IT MAY BE FEATURED IN A FUTURE EPISODE.Master the art of diligent research, insightful reflection, and meticulous note-taking to preach with confidence and depth.Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBRegister for the Cutting It Straight Conference at https://HBCharlesJr.c

#190 | The Preacher's Schedule Jun 30, 2025 00:33:23 Unlock the secrets to effective time management for ministry and beyond, mastering sermon preparation and life's demands with these nine proven strategies. Discover how to prioritize, schedule strategically, and cultivate a disciplined approach that fuels both productivity and spiritual well-being. Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://

# 189 | My Favorite Commentaries on Mark's Gospel Jun 23, 2025 00:26:08 After preaching nearly 90 sermons through the Gospel of Mark, H.B. shares the invaluable handful of resources that proved most faithful, providing the clearest insight and richest spiritual sustenance for the journey. Get a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HB Register for the Cutting It Straight Conference at https://

#188 | The On Preaching Mailbag Jun 16, 2025 00:30:56 H.B. dives into the On Preaching Mailbag to answer your questions! Drop yours in the comments, and it might be featured on a future episode.Subscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CutStraight.orgGet a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBConnect with H.B. and access more resources at https://HBCharl

#187 | More Questions, More Answers Jun 9, 2025 00:22:18 H.B. dives into the On Preaching Mailbag to answer your questions! Drop yours in the comments, and it might be featured on a future episode.Subscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CutStraight.orgGet a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBConnect with H.B. and access more resources at https://HBCharl

#186 | Answering Questions On Preaching Jun 2, 2025 00:26:51 H.B. dives into the On Preaching Mailbag to answer your questions! Drop yours in the comments, and it might be featured on a future episode.Subscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CutStraight.orgGet a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBConnect with H.B. and access more resources at https://HBCharl

#185 | Preaching Through a Storm May 26, 2025 00:26:31 Ministry can feel like navigating a downpour, but how do you continue to lead and inspire when the storms of life hit? Discover timeless wisdom and practical guidance on maintaining your message and your faith while weathering personal and congregational challenges.Subscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CutStraight.orgGet a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-servi

#184 | The Devotional Life of the Preacher May 19, 2025 00:25:50 Is a vibrant personal relationship with God the secret weapon of powerful preaching? Explore why a thriving devotional life, distinct from sermon prep, is foundational for a preacher's heart, spiritual growth, and impactful ministry.Subscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CutStraight.orgGet a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production service

#183 | Sermon Prep Hacks May 12, 2025 00:26:04 Ever wonder how powerful preachers prepare? Discover 10 hacks, including a colorful secret and the power of listening, that will transform your sermon prep from frantic to focused.Subscribe to the Cutting It Straight magazine at https://CutStraight.orgGet a new website, unlimited custom graphics, & full-service podcast production services at https://IncreaseCreative.Co/HBConnect with H.B. and

#182 | Principles of Evangelistic Preaching May 5, 2025 00:17:29 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. 2 Timothy 4:5 exhorts the one who preaches the word (2 Timothy 4:2) to "do the work of an evangelist." W What are the principles of evangelistic preaching? The messenger of evangelistic preaching is the preacher The place of evangelistic preaching is the church. The authority of

#181 | Studying To Preach Apr 28, 2025 00:16:27 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. Why should you prioritize your study time in sermon preparation? Study is a practical necessity. Study is a sacred duty. Study is a wonderful privilege. Study is a strategic opportunity. Study is a faithful stewardship. Study is a spiritual therapy. Study is an ongoing proces

#180 | The Prayer-Saturated Sermon Apr 24, 2025 00:21:33 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. discusses seven marks of a prayer-saturated sermon. Pray for wisdom as you plan the sermon. Pray for illumination as you study the text. Pray for obedience as you learn the truth. Pray for clarity as you craft the sermon. Pray for consecration as you prep

#179 | Preaching Easter Apr 14, 2025 00:22:36 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. How should you approach preaching Easter? Preach a sermon. Preach a well-prepared sermon. Preach Jesus. Preach the old, old story. Preach the gospel. Preach for a verdict. Preach as a witness. For contact, information, or resources, visit hbcharlesjr.com.

#178 | 25 Books on Preaching You Should Read Apr 8, 2025 00:31:25 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. discusses 25 books on preaching you should read. Preaching by Michael Reeves 12 Essentials for Great Preaching by Wayne McDill Preaching & Preachers by D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones Anointed Expository Preaching by Steven Olford & David Olford Small Preaching by Johna

#177 | 4 Targets of Gospel Application Feb 18, 2025 00:21:49 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. discusses four targets of gospel application in your preaching. A sermon should include explanation, application, and illustration. For many, effective application is difficult to develop. But this principle might be helpful: Think about the who before you think

#176 | Biblical Convictions for Expository Preaching Nov 14, 2024 00:19:48 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. discusses biblical convictions for expository preaching. If you do not believe the Bible, you should not be in the pulpit! If you are to be a faithful preacher, you must know where you stand and why. What must you believe about scripture to preach faithfully

#175 | 10 Ways to Conclude a Sermon Nov 8, 2024 00:20:35 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. discusses ten ways to conclude a sermon. An effective sermon conclusion is brief, singular, and persuasive. What are the ten ways to conclude a sermon effectively? Summary Climax Application Challenge Solution Vision-Casting Testimony Illustration Cel

#174 | Pitfalls of Sermon Preparation Oct 31, 2024 00:33:26 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. discusses the pitfalls of sermon preparation. Having no sermon plan. Busyness. Ministerial sloth. Not eliminating distractions. Starting too late. Neglecting the biblical text. Not allowing the text to speak to you personally. Consulting too many resource

#173 | Collecting Tools for Biblical Preaching Oct 8, 2024 00:28:59 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. discusses collecting study tools for biblical preaching. Build your library strategically. Start with the basics. Ask the help. Get the best works. Make friends with authors. Date before you marry. Buy individual commentaries. Find used copies. Decide

#172 | A Tribute to John A. Reed Jr. Sep 3, 2024 00:21:54 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. gives a brief tribute to the late John A. Reed Jr., who recently passed away. Dr. Reed was dear friends with H.B.'s father, and a father figure to H.B. after his Dad passed away. For more than six decades, John Reed led the Fairview Missionary Baptist Church

#171 | My First Sermon. 40 Years Ago! Aug 26, 2024 00:22:08 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. reflects on the first sermon he preached - forty years ago - August 26, 2024. The sermon was preached at a youth choir musical at the Mt. Sinai Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles, where H.B.'s dad - H.B. Charles Sr. - was the pastor. For contact, inform

#170 | Words to Study in the Text Aug 12, 2024 00:21:53 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. discusses the words you should consider in your sermon text for further study. You should note these words in your observation of the text and study them in the interpretation phase of your word work. What words should you study in the text? Unfamiliar Words F

#169 | Derek W.H. Thomas Interview Jul 15, 2024 00:46:55 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode of the podcast, H.B. interviews Derek W.H. Thomas, recently retired Pastor of First Presbyterian Church in Columbia, South Carolina. The author of numerous books, Thomas is a professor at Reformed Theological Seminary and a teaching fellow at Ligonier Ministries. Enjo

#168 | A System of Sermon Preparation Jul 8, 2024 00:24:32 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. discusses a system of sermon preparation. Although the principles of sermon preparation are common, each preacher must develop, practice, and refine his own process for moving from text to sermon. What does a system of sermon preparation involve? Study the tex

#167 | The Hard Work of Preaching Jul 1, 2024 00:26:57 Welcome to The On Preaching podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode of the podcast, H.B. discusses the hard work of preaching. Effective preaching is text-driven, has a clear message, and involves hard work. Many congregations feel their pastors only work on Sunday, if then. That should not be the case. We should strive to give God ou

#166 | Bible Reading for Sermon Preparation Jun 24, 2024 00:17:19 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. talks about how to read the Bible effectively in the sermon preparation process. Read the Bible casually. Read the Bible continually. Read the Bible committedly. Read the Bible carefully. Read the Bible correctly. Read the Bible contextually. Read the

#165 | The Objectives of the Sermon Jun 17, 2024 00:22:03 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. discusses the objectives of the sermon. What is the difference between teaching and preaching? A sermon is characterized by proclamation, purpose, and persuasion. Regarding persuasion, you should consider three objectives as you craft your sermon... What s

#164 | The Circles of Context Jun 3, 2024 00:24:17 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. The three laws of real estate are location, location, location. Similarly, the three laws of proper Bible interpretation are context, context, context. A text without a context is a pretext. Context in biblical interpretation falls into two categories: historical context and liter

#163 | What Commentaries Should I Use? May 27, 2024 00:25:01 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. answers the question, What commentaries should I use? Biblical Commentaries Best Commentaries Helpful Commentaries Critical Commentaries Expository Commentaries Homiletical Commentaries Old Commentaries New Commentaries Devotional Commentaries Recomm

#162 | What to Look for in Observations May 20, 2024 00:36:18 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. The sermon preparation is a twofold process of getting the text right and getting the truth across. In terms of biblical exegesis (getting the text across), I commend to you the inductive Bible study process: Observation: What does the text say? Interpretation: What does the te

#161 | Theological Disciplines for Expository Preaching May 13, 2024 00:29:39 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. discusses theological disciplines for expository preaching. As a student and advocate of expository preaching, I believe that it is the most faithful way to handle God's word. The bottom line of this episode is that faithful exposition is theologically informed

#161 | 4 Persons to Use in Your Illustrations May 6, 2024 00:29:06 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. talks about how to find sermon illustrations. We preachers often look for illustrative material by subject (prayer, love, forgiveness, etc). But there is another way. You can also look for illustrations by focusing on four persons or groups. You. Somebody. No

#160 | 4 Sentences That Will Improve Your Preaching Apr 29, 2024 00:23:09 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode of the podcast, H.B. discusses four sentences that will improve your preaching. That may seem to be a big promise. But carefully crafting these sentences will truly help you to get the text right and get the truth across. What are the four sentences that will improve

#159 | Overcoming Sermon Writer's Block Apr 23, 2024 00:25:09 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. discusses how to overcome sermon writer's block. Writer's block typically refers to authors, composers, or artists. But it can also happen to preachers, with the accompanying spiritual implications. You can struggle to understand the text, craft the message, or

#158 | Grant R. Castleberry Interview Apr 15, 2024 00:39:58 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you to preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. interviews a new friend, Grant R. Castleberry, Pastor of the Capital Community Church in Raleigh, North Carolina. Grant is also the President and featured speaker/writer at Unashamed Truth. For contact, information, or resources, visit hbcharlesjr.com.

#157 | How to State Your Sermon Online Apr 1, 2024 00:25:34 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. gives several tips for stating the points, headings, or movements of the main body of your sermon. Effective sermons have clear structure. The structure of the sermon does not have to be explicit. But a good sermon outline benefits both the preacher and the heare

#156 | Impactful Sermons I've Heard Mar 18, 2024 00:41:12 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. discusses impactful sermons he has personally heard over the years. The sermons affirm the power of hearing the word of God preached. They remind us that the Holy Spirit is at work through our preaching. They also show us that the Lord uses people with different

#155 | Key Questions for Proper Interpretation Mar 12, 2024 00:31:57 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the Podcast dedicated to helping you preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. discusses eleven questions you should ask to properly interpret your sermon text. What is the book about? What is the literary genre? What are the word meanings? What is the literal reading? What is the immediate context? What is the grammatical structure?

#154 | How to Learn to Preach Mar 4, 2024 00:21:25 Welcome to The On Preaching Podcast, the podcast dedicated to helping you preach faithfully, clearly, and better. In this episode, H.B. talks about practical ways to learn to preach - or to preach better. How can I learn to preach better? By studying the Bible. Through prayer to God. By listening to good preaching. By preaching. By studying preaching. In conversation with other preachers.

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