Points to Consider When Delivering a Message (English) (Japanese)
This page is a simplified version with only three points. If you want to read the full article, click here
1) Basic Message Length
The basic length of the message should be 20 minutes in total.
That means your words will be 10 minutes, and the interpreter will take 10 minutes.
Therefore, for those who speak a message, please prepare a 10-minute message.
The reason for setting this limitation is to ensure that you can speak accurately and efficiently without losing focus on what you want to convey.
Of course"Normally, there is possiblity that you can speak for about 15 minutes (30 minutes with an interpreter). If time allows, I can speak even longer, sometimes around 20 minutes (40 minutes with an interpreter).
However, these time limits are in place because, if there might has another speaker like testimonies or reports or like that, severely restrict the message time.
If you're prepared to deliver your message in 10 minutes, you won't need to rush even if you're told suddenly, 'Please limit today's presentation to 25 minutes, including interpretation.'"
(ECC12:11) The words of the wise are like goads, and well edited are like driven nails;
2) Message Structure
a) One Key Scripture Verse
Depending on the message, there may be times when you want to read several chapters or even longer sections of the Bible. However, the basic rule is to focus on one key scripture.
Of course, I am not denying the use of several Bible passages in a regular message, or the use of several verses in a sermon, but this is possible only when there is more than 10 minutes (more than 20 minutes including an interpreter). One verse is enough as the basis for a message.
b) One Parable, Testimony, or Visual Example
c) Explanation (Exposition of Scripture and Life Application)
d) One Conclusion or Challenge to the Congregation
e) The reason for setting these time limits is to make the content of the message better.
In Ecclesiastes 12:11, it says, "The words of the wise are like well-driven nails."
I hope that the messages delivered in the church will be strategically crafted.
3) Actual Length of the Message
a) It is unlikely that the message will be exactly 20 minutes. (This is because it is rare for the message to start after 11:30.)
b) Cases where it is possible to speak for more than 20 minutes:
1) When requested in advance
For example, if you are a guest speaker, you may be asked to deliver a 40-minute message with interpretation.
2) When you can finish the message by 11:50
If you start the message at 11:10, you can speak for 40 minutes.
3) When the content of the message is good
The criteria for what constitutes "good" are vague, but it means that exceeding the time limit is permissible if the content is so clearly engaging that you feel it's acceptable to alter the subsequent schedule (church school end time, fellowship, lunch, foundational studies, and other activities).
c) Confirming the Length of the Message
The time allowed for the speaker is constantly changing depending on the flow of the service. Therefore, it is necessary to confirm this with the meeting manager (pastor).
This page is a simplified version with only three points. If you want to read the full article, click here