We often preach the gospel to Christians. This is an understandable as most Sunday gatherings include an invitation to Christ. The unintended consequence of “preaching to the choir” is that we begin to take shortcuts in our communicating with the unchurched. These shortcuts, or assumptions, include important ideas about sin and forgiveness. If we are not careful, we can deliver the good news without all of the facts.

I once heard a call to salvation that sounded like this, “If you are in need of a savior today, I want you to raise your hand and accept the cleansing blood of Jesus over your life.” That’s good stuff unless you have no idea what savior, cleansing blood, or Jesus is referring to.

When you preach, know who you are speaking to. Use creative deduction and know what they don’t know. Identify your audience as you prepare your message and offer something to everyone in the room. What terms need to be explained? What concepts need illustration? And what biblical truths should be unpacked? Your sermon should explain the scriptures in a way that is helpful for new and experienced Christians alike. Never tire of teaching the basics. Terms like sin, sacrifice, and salvation can become common place but they may never become common. The gospel is for the unchurched and we need to make sure that everyone has a chance to understand what the good news really is.