Any preacher should go and read J.C. Ryle’s Simplicity in Preaching. I have become more convinced over the years for the need for simplicity from the pulpit. I have also become aware of how hard it is to attain simplicity. To be simple requires hard work. This little pamphlet by Ryle can be read in one sitting and bought for .99 on Kindle. Here are his five main points.

And now bear in mind that my five points are these:

First: If you want to attain simplicity in preaching, you must have a clear knowledge of what you are going to preach.

Secondly: If you would attain simplicity in preaching, you must use simple words.

Thirdly: If you would attain simplicity in preaching, you must seek to acquire a simple style of composition, with short sentences and as few colons and semi-colons as possible.

Fourthly: If you would attain simplicity in preaching, aim at directness.

Lastly: If you would attain simplicity in preaching, make abundant use of illustration and anecdote.