Illustrating Well
Are sermon illustrations important? Do they really make an impact? In Illustrating Well, Jim L. Wilson shares his wisdom on preaching sermons that connect.
Effective Illustrations
Section 1 is all about using sermon illustrations effectively. To begin, Wilson gives four metaphors for sermon illustrations. Sermons are bridges that connect the people to the message. Sermon illustrations are windows that provide light and insight. Sermon illustrations are lights that highlight the text and enlighten the minds of the hearers. Finally, sermon illustrations are pictures that give a representation to how a concept plays out in reality.
In chapter 2, Wilson states that the four characteristics of effective sermon illustrations are that they are familiar, clear, interesting, and appropriate. In chapter 3, I learned that illustrations can do different things and serve different purposes whether they are used in the beginning, middle, or end of the sermon. The wise preacher will place them well. Wilson has much to share from his own experience and observations.
Illustration Types
Section 2 is about using a variety of illustration types well. Wilson makes use of a red light, yellow light, green light approach to evaluating illustrations, seeing if they bring or take away attention and focus to the point. In regards to personal illustrations, Wilson concludes they should be authentic, ethical, proportionate, and suitable.
The greatest challenge that comes with fresh illustrations is that they must not overpower the text and must be appropriate for the occasion. Biblical illustrations should be clear, especially in making sure that they actually illustrate the point. Wilson is convincing, making illustrations hard work but a worthwhile endeavor.
Secondary Functions
Interestingly, Wilson speaks on hypothetical and historical illustrations closely together, showing how they may require more work but have real benefits. Historical illustrations can be further narrowed to include church history, and this gives newfound connections to our faith. Wilson would not promote much use of classic, fictional, or object lessons as they often confuse in terms of accuracy and clarity.
What I found most interesting were the secondary functions of each illustration type. Personal illustrations make the preacher relatable. Fresh illustrations intersect faith and culture. Biblical illustrations expose the hearers to the whole counsel of God. Hypothetical illustrations stimulate the imagination. Historical illustrations provide proven facts for our faith.
Hear to See
Wilson ultimately ends with a warning, saying that illustrations can confuse our hearers and take away from our preaching. After reading this book, I am motivated to make use of illustrations well. I am challenged to be smarter about my sermon prep. I am encouraged to help my congregation better hear so that they may clearly see and believe.
I received a media copy of Illustrating Well and this is my honest review. Find more of my book reviews and follow Dive In, Dig Deep on Instagram - my account dedicated to Bibles and books to see the beauty of the Bible and the role of reading in the Christian life. To read all of my book reviews and to receive all of the free eBooks I find on the web, subscribe to my free newsletter.