How to Preach without Notes

by Charles W. Koller

This is a classic that has stood the test of time. For forty-five years, seminary students and pastors have benefited from the principles found in this book. Two of Koller's popular texts, Expository Preaching without Notes and Sermons Preached without Notes, are combined in a single volume that allows preachers to prepare and deliver sermons without being tied to a manuscript or even outlines or notes. Among the eighteen topics discussed are the biblical conception of preaching, the advantages of preaching without notes, homiletical devices, the importance of structure, and the systematic filing of materials. Now repackaged for the next generation of preachers, with a foreword by current Northern Seminary preaching professor Michael J. Quicke, How to Preach without Notes is poised to continue its history of strong and steady sales.

Genres: Christianity, Theology, Religion, Nonfiction

286 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1997

Reviews

[Brett · Rating 2 out of 5]

The title is misleading and many of the practices are outdated (i.e. pre-computer). Koller's work here is more of an introduction to sermon preparation in general than preaching without notes - and as a general introduction, there are several other texts that I would recommend to a young preacher before Koller's. Ironically, nearly half of the book consists of sermon texts (not outlines, but full texts!) that Koller preached without notes.

[Joel Opificius · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was hoping for more from this book. This is in fact not a book on how to preach without notes. Rather, Koller teaches the reader how to develop a good sermon outline, then he simply tells the reader to memorize that outline. Nevertheless, Koller's thoughts on developing an outline are really valuable, and I will see myself using many of his elements.

The book itself is very logically laid out, making it easy for someone to skim or to reference. The second half of this book is simply a collection of short sermons to read which seem to follow his method.

[Adam Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very clear and easy to read. Has helped and will greatly help in the future of my sermon preparation.

[Joshua Costello · Rating 3 out of 5]

A helpful book on preaching. Covers a number of pertinent topics in the life and practice of a preacher such as their personal study and library, basic homiletics, and preparing to preach “note free”.

My main criticism is the occasional over-emphasis on the practical efforts of the preacher and church services in the response and spiritual state of the congregation.

[Andrew · Rating 3 out of 5]

"While the acknowledged ideal is to preach without notes, a carefully prepared outline is essential in preparation and might be needed in delivery." p.92

Contained much helpful, general information, but I was expecting more specifically about "how to preach without notes."

[Stephen Neal · Rating 3 out of 5]

The first chapter on the “Scriptural Conception of Preaching” was fantastic and gripping. I wanted more, but his approach was more formulaic after that. There are helpful ideas throughout, but some concepts are outdated, due to modern technology. Jump around and read for interest.

[Glyn Williams · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not the best book on preaching I have read, but some very good practical advice in here. Not sure if I want to preach without notes though? Don't trust myself that I will include everything I should and may add things I shouldn't. The rest of the advice is pretty good. One or two slight errors in interpretation in his sermon outline examples, but the process he describes is good.

All preachers should refer to this book at least once in their careers.

Another good read in this category is Preach by Dever.

[Timothy Fluegge · Rating 3 out of 5]

I generally preach without notes and was pretty stoked about this book. It really doesn't developed the "without notes" idea, and what it does say on the subject is largely common sense. Because of its billing as a "classic" I expected more. It does break down the mechanics of sermon preparation into very practical info and has challenged me to be sharper in my study habits.

[Garrett · Rating 1 out of 5]

Not a recommended book. Simple summary: prepare your whole life and trust the Holy Spirit every time you get up and tell people the gospel!

[Troy Holt · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book gave me some new points & insights for sermon prep

[Milton Louie · Rating 3 out of 5]

All I have to say is you have to prepare, prepare, and prepare. B

[Nat · Rating 2 out of 5]

Doesn't cover the topic found in the title, really. More like entry-level sermon prep with half the book being example sermons.

[Jonathan Mcleod · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was disappointed that there were only a couple of chapters about preaching without notes. The title doesn't fit the content of the book.

[Edward Pemba · Rating 3 out of 5]

a good piece of advice for preachers

[Chris]

Great book and on the practice of preaching without notes. Written from the 1950's, yet still very relevant. Some things never change.