- 1). Get to know your congregation. Although your own personal personality certainly needs to be considered, you need to remember that you should design the sermon for the people who will hear it. Take a moment to analyze the core people who attend your church or place of worship. If they're more charismatic, you may want to use a more excited preaching style; if they're more reserved, you may want to try a more traditional approach.
- 2). Respect your denomination. Many denominations will require you to act in a certain way, and preach a certain type of sermon. For example, the Roman Catholic Church doesn't give you as much "preaching freedom" as, say, more evangelical churches do, and Orthodox Jews have a much different style than do those in the reformed tradition. Because of certain church and synagogue traditions, you may be required to say specific prayers, dress a certain way, and adhere to a certain comportment. Each of these factors greatly contributes to your preaching style.
- 3). Take some time to reflect on your personality. Your own way of approaching things -- your sensibilities, your humility, and your sense of humor -- is a fundamental aspect of your preaching style. After all, the preaching is your task, and your task alone. If you have a bubbly personality, don't be afraid to let it show. People will be more receptive if you are yourself, instead of trying to be someone you're not. If you're more shy, don't be afraid to conduct a reserved sermon. Remember that your primary job is to teach -- not to entertain.
- 4). Experiment with various styles. See what feels "right" for you. Remember, there isn't a "correct" way to conduct a sermon. Try different styles and see how the audience responds. Don't be afraid to add in some humor if the situation allows for it. The most important thing is that you develop your own preaching style -- it's not necessary to fully emulate a set "style" or "flavor." Instead, concentrate on becoming the preacher that you feel called to be.