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In my last post I talked about the real problem with multimedia in worship.  In this post, I want to explore the use of multimedia in preaching.

As we discussed in the last post, multimedia is nothing more than communicating through more than one form of media.  Since preaching is all about communicating, the two go hand in hand.

In addition, a properly placed video clip can do the “heavy lifting” for you.  For example: using a humorous, yet poignant clip on tithing is a great way to breakdown mental and emotional barriers.

However, there are some basic ground rules to consider when blending current multimedia technology and preaching:

First: Multimedia is not a magic bullet!  All it can do is enhance what is already there.  In other words: multimedia is not a substitute for solid preparation and sermon development. 

If you have a well organized and clearly thought out message, multimedia can make it better.  If your message is sub-par, using multimedia will only amplify the lack of preparation.

Second: Practice diligent theme integrity.  Basically there are two kinds of multimedia preachers; those that have struggled with the temptation to use non-theme related media and those that are going to struggle with it.

At the end of the day, Multimedia is all about communicating.  Just as an ill placed sermon illustration can kill the moment, an ill placed video clip will kill the moment faster and more completely!

Theme integrity also means, don’t over do it.  A little media goes a long way.

Third: Time, Time, Time!  Did I mention time?  Integrating multimedia into a message requires time.  It requires searching for the proper theme-related media.  It requires working with your tech staff to help them capture your vision for the message.  It requires adequate lead time.

I recently asked a group of church media directors for their top ten list of things they wish every pastor knew about multimedia.  Without hesitation and almost in unison, they said, “It takes time!”  One of them went so far as to say, “However long you think it is going to take, triple it!”

Fourth: Strive for excellence. Don't settle for mediocrity. Effectively implementing multimedia into preaching demands it be done with quality.  In other words, it can’t be thrown together at the last minute.

Fifth: Count the cost.  Striving for excellence means you will need to spend some money.  Computer systems, software, the right projector for your application, and the right sized screen are imperative.

Plan also on the regular purchase of professionally produced video clips.  Popular online sources include Sermon Spice, Worship House Media, and Blue Fish TV.

Finally: Consider the use of an outside consultant.  Navigating the jump to multimedia integration is tricky.  Working with a church media consultant is essential.  Not only will a good consultant save you money in the long run, they will also help you accomplish your multimedia goals. 

More importantly, a good consultant will also identify potential worldview conflicts (See the real problem with multimedia) and insulate church leaders from the more difficult recommendations.

What are the lessons you have learned about effectively integrating multimedia and preaching?



Alan Chandler is a Consultant Partner with Church Doctor Ministries, a full-service church consultation ministry dedicated to helping Christians and churches become more effective for the Great Commission, to make disciples of all people.  Alan can be reached at alanchandler@churchdoctor.org