Craig Brian Larson

An overview of the historical background and theology of 1 Samuel to help you develop your sermon series and apply it to your hearers.

There’s only one way to stand before our Holy God—through the merits of Jesus Christ.

John 3:16 is the best known Bible reference in the Western world. What’s the big deal?

How zoom and contrast can make a message more uplifting

Life-giving light comes from God, and we must live in light of that reality.

One-upmanship can seduce leaders and bring them down.

To be with God is to be with the one who never stops giving, never stops loving, never stops providing blessings through Jesus Christ.

Could I speak for 35 minutes without ever writing notes?

Could I speak for 35 minutes without ever writing notes?

Listening to a sermon is a spiritual discipline that needs to be learned.

Wise investors always take the long view—that over time, the stock market will rise.

The world val­ues instant success and ready solutions, but God takes a much longer view.

As Christians, we can be confident in the truth of the gospel and in the Holy Spirit’s ability to take what we say and change a life.

The roots of a joyful spirit.

How to take full advantage of the unique strengths of series preaching

Seven skills for finding daily life examples for preaching

When God gives us a push.

People are remembered for how they finish—their lives, their relationships, their ministry. When life gets tough, God helps us run the race before us.

How to speak so listeners can’t forget

Why some illustrations work better than others.

How a sermon gives worth to the soul

How to avoid stirring up the wrong motives.

The why and when of giving credit

Everyday boldness

How to introduce sermon elements in ways that increase their impact

Respected pastors from a variety of traditions answer questions and address misconceptions about the Lord’s Supper.

Dad’s pencil

How to make illustrations that do not come from your own experience into an organic part of the sermon.

How to make illustrations that do not come from your own experience into an organic part of the sermon.

What is the difference between a collection of sermons on the same subject and a strong series? How do we take full advantage of those unique strengths?

What is the difference between a collection of sermons on the same subject and a strong series? How do we take full advantage of those unique strengths?

How to use positive and negative sermon elements with purpose.

You want people to obey God’s commands. Are you giving them faith to do so?

Your life’s race requires help from above

Parallel Points vs. Sequential Points

The priceless lesson I learned about perseverance.

Three things that make it hard for listeners to escape a sermon.

Six recipes for changing ready-made illustrations to fit your Style and purpose.

The purposes of the beginning, middle, and end

What kind of examples influence hearers most?

How to maintain interest throughout a sermon

Why stories from your experience are not always the best way to illustrate

Why your brightest ideas aren’t always warmly embraced.

These days it takes something extra to get a building permit.

Why some illustrations work better than others.

A Leadership survey uncovers the (sometimes surprising) beliefs and opinions people and their pastors have about evangelism.

How to make do when your church has less than enough.

How can you help chronically needy people without them draining all your time, money, and energy?

How to earn the congregation’s esteem–and what to do when you don’t get it.

The well-told tale may be the preacher’s best tool.