Justin Thompson from Manawarū Bible Chapel and Nick Goodwin from Raleigh Street Christian Centre recently led a preaching development course attended by 16–18 participants from churches around Waikato, including Whitiora Bible Church, Hillcrest Chapel, Chapel Hill Community Church, Hukanui Bible Church, Northgate Community Church, and Agora Church.
Over several weeks, they guided the group through key aspects of preparing, developing, and delivering a sermon, grounding each session in practical skills and biblical conviction.
The cohort represented a wide mix of ages and ministry experience. Some were seasoned preachers, while others had never preached before. This diversity created a rich learning environment where participants could learn from one another and immediately apply new insights to their ministries.
Jason McKinnon from Hillcrest noted that the process was engaging, well presented with open conversations and practical exercises. Although the course focused on preaching, many of the principles—such as handling Scripture carefully, communicating clearly, and shaping a message with purpose—were transferable to a wide range of ministry contexts. Jason noted he found it helpful not just for preaching but personal study as well as preparing studies for the home group he leads with his wife.
One of the most encouraging features of the course was the number of younger participants and first time preachers who stepped forward with a willingness to be used by God. As the group worked through Psalm 80—developing main ideas, shaping an outline, and exploring delivery approaches—many discovered that preaching was not an impossible task but a calling they could faithfully grow into. What began as something daunting soon became achievable, as principles moved from theory into practice.
The course not only strengthened individual confidence but also deepened a shared commitment to handling God’s Word well. It was a joy to see participants supporting one another, sharpening each other’s thinking, and recognising that God continues to raise up new voices to serve His people.
