Jack of All Trades, Master of None

When looking at using PowerPoint in preaching it can be overwhelming. There are so many things necessary to well at incorporating visuals into your preaching: hardware, software, graphic design, etc. It is very easy to feel like a beginner, all over again. Preaching feels awkward and forced when visuals are first introduced.

So, what's the solution? I have a few pointers that I hope might help.

As much as possible let other people be the experts. If you have people at your church who are great with technology, use them to set up the hardware and software system and to train you on how to use them. Hire a graphic designer to create some logos for your church so that you can create some brand recognition. If you have a photographer at your church, see if they will help out with some images for you.

Add things a bit at a time. One of the things that makes it feel overwhelming is to feel like you have to be an expert at all of it right away. You don't and you can't. Start simple and then build on that. Maybe the first time you use visual you just have one slide or one video clip in your sermon. That's fine. Do that until it's comfortable and natural, then start adding other elements.

Observe people who do it well. The best way to learn is to see what other people are doing. Visuals are an extention of the sermon and as such should reflect your personal style. Watch others and then incorporate what they do into your own style. Don't forget to ask questions. Most preachers will be happy to share with you about how the use visuals.

What tips do you have?