Show Don't Tell: Luke 12:1-12
Vivid sensory description for preaching Luke 12:1-12
This is a show dont tell prompt on homiletics and preaching technique for adults.
Instead of saying "Jesus warned about hypocrisy and fear," count the sparrows. A crowd of many thousands gathers—so many they are trampling on one another. Jesus speaks first to his disciples: "Be on your guard against the yeast of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy. There is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed." What you whisper in inner rooms will be proclaimed from rooftops. "Don't be afraid of those who kill the body and after that can do no more." There's something worse: "Fear him who, after your body has been killed, has authority to throw you into hell." Then the comfort: "Are not five sparrows sold for two pennies? Yet not one of them is forgotten by God. Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don't be afraid; you are worth more than many sparrows." Whoever acknowledges Jesus before others will be acknowledged before the angels. Whoever disowns him will be disowned. "And everyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven." When brought before authorities, don't worry—the Holy Spirit will teach you what to say.
Sign up to unlock premium illustrations
Join fellow pastors who prep smarter — free account, no credit card.
Sign Up & SubscribeYou'll be taken to checkout ($9.95/mo) after confirming your email
Topics & Themes
Audience
adultsPowered by ChurchWiseAI
IllustrateTheWord is part of the ChurchWiseAI family — AI tools built for pastors, churches, and ministry leaders.
PewSearch
Find Your Church Home
The most complete church directory in the US and Canada. 218,000+ churches searchable by location, denomination, and tradition.
Search ChurchesChurchWiseAI
Voice Agent & Church Chatbot
24/7 AI phone receptionist and website chatbot for churches — answers calls, handles questions, and follows up with visitors automatically.