Finding the Right Sermon Illustrations

Last fall, we introduced a new book to help preachers illustrate their sermons: 300 Illustrations for Preachers. This collection of powerful illustrations, selected and edited by Jim L. Wilson, is categorized by theme and Scripture reference. It integrates seamlessly into your Logos library and is easily searchable using the Sermon Starter Guide in Logos 5.

For example, let’s say I’m preaching about the image of God, and I want to emphasize the importance of every individual. Searching through 300 Illustrations for Preachers by topic, I find this:

Undervaluing an Original

Theme: Image of God

Matthew 10:29–31; Luke 12:6–7

“Oliver Chanler of Geneseo, NY explained why no one had ever cleaned a portrait of George Washington that hung in his parents’ home. ‘Suspect that’s because no one thought it was of great value.’ The family had always supposed the portrait was a common copy. Appraisers declared it an original Gilbert Stuart portrait worth around $300,000. It eventually sold at auction for $925,000.

We treat those things of great value with more care than things we consider common. Can we remember that each person is an original with great worth in the Lord’s eyes?”

—Jim L. Wilson and Rodger Russell

I can find this illustration by searching thematically (image of God) or by Scripture (Matthew 10:29–31 or Luke 12:6–7). I even have a link to the original article in case I want to dig deeper. So however I chose to prepare my sermon, I have an easily accessible and effective way to help my audience remember that all people, no matter their appearance, are special because they are made in God’s image.

300 Illustrations for Preachers is an incredible value, and it’s very close to leaving Community Pricing at just $7. The more people bid on it, the lower the price goes—pre-order your copy today!

Then check out all the Lexham Press resources on Community Pricing.