"Professor Karoline Lewis is a sagely guide for lay preachers and all preachers. This gem of a book provides homiletical tools for those who might sense some trepidation in the ministry of preaching, but it also proclaims the homiletical wisdom that preaching is truly a way of life. Lewis reminds every reader, novice, or seasoned preacher of the gospel, that the goal of preaching is to be faithful and the most significant sermon one will ever preach is the one you proclaim with your life." --Luke Powery, Dean of Duke University Chapel; Associate Professor of Homiletics, Duke Divinity School
"This book is a rare combination of refreshing practicality and profound wisdom. Karoline Lewis know that preaching involves an intricate interplay of scripture, theology, personal expression, and awareness of the world. In clear and compelling language, she guides us, step-by-step, through the process of crafting a faithful sermon. We have needed a book like this, and it is indeed a fine gift." --Thomas G. Long, Brady Professor Emeritus of Preaching, Candler School of Theology, Emory University
"This book teems with wise reflection based on lived experience and great appreciation for the preaching enterprise. While the book instructs, it does so in a way that affirms, encourages, and empowers its readers. This book invites fresh thinking and faithful focus on the work of preaching. It communicates the conviction that faithful preaching is the most urgent of all pastoral opportunities--one that merits disciplined attention." --Walter Brueggemann, William Marcellus McPheeters Professor Emeritus of Old Testament, Columbia Theological Seminary
"This is the best resource I've seen for helping lay preachers begin the exciting but often daunting task of proclaiming the Word. Karoline Lewis reminds us that good sermons aren't the goal; faithful sermons are! And she leads us through the process, step by step, with clear and helpful language that's inspiring to reach and easy to follow. I will be recommending this guide to the lay preachers I teach." --Anna Carter Florence, Peter Marshall Professor of Preaching, Columbia Theological Seminary
"In your hands is a practical, comprehensive resource to help you master the craft and the art of preaching. I will recommend it to aspiring and seasoned preachers alike, both lay and ordained." --The Rt. Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, Bishop, Episcopal Diocese of Washington
"In this extraordinarily practical and concise guide, Karoline Lewis once again does her magic to empower and inspire anyone who is tasked with the holy work of preaching. She provides signposts here for faithful preaching, offering preachers everywhere the tools they need to become effective voices pointing God's people toward life-affirming truths." --Amy Butler, Former Senior Minister, The Riverside Church
"Like a well cut diamond, A Lay Preacher's Guide fits beautifully in a variety of settings. Although the stated audience is lay preachers, this book is an excellent resource for any preacher who may not have the benefit of formal training, but is still tasked with delivering a sermon. Since Lewis' focus is on creating faithful sermons, she helps the preacher navigate the liminal space between the human and divine work of preaching by clearly explicating the steps that fall squarely within the purview of the preacher. By doing so, Lewis has written an indispensable primer for lay preachers and a compact refresher for seasoned preachers who want to visit the foundational practices of their sermon prep." --Rev. Raquel S. Lettsome, Associate Minister, Union AME Church, Warwick, NY; Ownder, RSL Ministries
