Send us a textEpisode 9: Key Tips for Beginners with Dave MartinEvery preacher has a first sermon. But what makes the difference between stumbling through and stepping up with confidence?In this episode, we sit down with Dave Martin — experienced pastor and preaching trainer — to hear his most practical advice for those just starting out. Dave shares lessons learned the hard way, what he wishes he knew earlier, and the habits that can set new preachers on a path of steady growth.We cover:How to overcome nerves and prepare with clarityThe essential building blocks of a faithful sermonCommon mistakes beginners make and how to avoid themIf you’re a beginner preacher, or walking alongside someone who is, this episode offers wisdom that’s both realistic and deeply encouraging.
--------
47:52
--------
47:52
Storytelling in Preaching with Mike Raiter
Send us a textEpisode 8: Storytelling in Preaching with Mike RaiterWhy do some sermons stick in the mind and not just for days, but for years? Often, it’s because they connect truth to story.In this episode, we’re joined by Mike Raiter, preacher, author, and director of the Centre for Biblical Preaching. We explore the role of storytelling in gospel proclamation. Mike unpacks how stories can illuminate, persuade, and reach the heart without distracting from the text.We discuss:How Jesus used storytelling to engage and confrontPractical tips for finding, crafting, and delivering storiesHow to make your stories serve the text, not steal the spotlightIf you’ve ever struggled to keep your listeners leaning in, or wondered how to make truth land with lasting impact, this episode will help you tell stories that preach.Centre for Biblical Preaching: cbp.org.au
--------
57:17
--------
57:17
Preaching With Women in Mind with Jenny Salt
Send us a textEpisode 7: Preaching With Women in Mind with Jenny SaltWhat do preachers need to keep in mind when they’re preaching to women? How can we communicate the truth of God's word in a way that resonates with the whole church?In this episode, we’re joined by Jenny Salt, lecturer, speaker, and long-time gospel communicator, to reflect on how preaching can honour and engage the women in our congregations.Jenny shares insights on:Common blind spots male preachers may not realiseHow to avoid stereotypes while addressing real experiencesWhat women listen for and what they wish preachers knewWhether you’re preaching to a mixed church, a women’s event, or just want to grow in speaking across the whole body of Christ, Jenny brings wisdom, warmth, and clarity to a conversation every preacher should hear.Hear more from Jenny on her podcast: smbc.edu.au/resources/salt-conversations
--------
54:25
--------
54:25
Advanced Rhetoric in Preaching with Darren Middleton
Send us a textEpisode 6: Advanced Rhetoric with Darren MiddletonWhat takes a sermon from faithful to powerful? From clear to compelling?In this episode, we’re joined by Darren Middleton, pastor, preacher, and preaching trainer, to explore the role of rhetoric in gospel preaching. Not empty persuasion, but the thoughtful, Spirit-filled use of language to engage hearts and minds with God’s word.Darren unpacks:How rhetorical devices can serve the text, not overshadow itWhy repetition, rhythm, and contrast matter in oral communicationThe difference between being clever and being clearHow to grow as a communicator without becoming performativeThis isn’t about hype it’s about preaching with conviction, clarity, and imagination. If you want to sharpen your delivery and better move people toward Christ, this episode will stretch and inspire you.Darren's Podcast on Reformed Teaching is available here as well: https://discipleshipunplugged.buzzsprout.com/
--------
58:44
--------
58:44
Preaching Christ from the Old Testament with Jared Hood
Send us a textEpisode 5: Preaching Christ from the Old Testament with Jared HoodHow do we preach Christ from passages where His name is never mentioned? And how do we avoid either forcing Him into the text or missing Him altogether?In this episode, we’re joined by Dr Jared Hood, Principal of the Presbyterian Theological College and long-time Old Testament preacher and lecturer. Jared helps us think carefully and faithfully about how to preach Christ from the Old Testament not as a preaching trick, but as a theological and biblical necessity.We explore:Why Christ-centred preaching matters for the whole BibleDifferent ways Christ genuinely emerges from Old Testament textsPitfalls to avoid when connecting the TestamentsWhether you’re preaching from Exodus, Proverbs, or the Prophets, this conversation will equip you to preach the Old Testament with depth, care, and gospel clarity.
About Starting Strong: Thriving in the First Years of Preaching
Preaching is hard, especially in your first years. Starting Strong: Thriving in the First Years of Preaching brings you wisdom from experienced preachers to help you stay faithful, encouraged, and growing. We’re not the experts but we’re bringing them to you, with real conversations, practical tips, and hard-hitting truths to sharpen and sustain you for the road ahead.Start strong. Preach well. Stay true.
Listen to Starting Strong: Thriving in the First Years of Preaching, The Mel Robbins Podcast and many other podcasts from around the world with the radio.net app
Australia