In Session 2, “Characteristics of a Godly Pastor,” by Brick Cliff, aspiring pastors delve into the dual messages conveyed by pastors — spoken words and exemplary lives. Focusing on 1 Timothy 3:1-7, the session outlines key qualities of a godly pastor, emphasizing moral character, balanced living, and family management. It explores disqualifying factors, including drunkenness, violence, love of money, and recent conversion. The importance of fire, passion, and effective communication is highlighted, emphasizing the need for a respectable appearance, varied vocal dynamics, and the use of illustrations. The session stresses the synergy of prepared sermons and the Holy Spirit’s anointing, urging pastors to use compelling stories and illustrations for impactful preaching.

In Session 3 “Illustrations and Sermon Topics,” by Brick Cliff, students explore the art of using illustrations to enhance preaching effectiveness. The session emphasizes principles over legalistic rules, focusing on the importance of illustrations in emphasizing truths, aiding understanding, and keeping the audience engaged. Highlighting the multifaceted role of illustrations, from creating word pictures to fostering favorable reception, the class delves into the memory-enhancing power of illustrations. Practical insights on incorporating stories, parables, and cultural references are provided, encouraging creativity in delivering impactful sermons. The session also addresses common misconceptions about illustrations and offers guidance on effective utilization, emphasizing the need for interesting and relatable stories to captivate the audience. 

In Session 4, “Organizing and Writing a Dynamic Sermon” by Brick Cliff emphasizes the importance of relatable illustrations. He guides aspiring preachers to choose stories that resonate with their audience and encourages the use of humor, clarity, and avoiding exaggeration in storytelling. Brick then imparts general principles for choosing sermon topics, stressing the significance of a daily connection with God, studying the Bible diligently, and understanding the common needs of people. The session has valuable insights on finding the right scriptures, organizing sermons, and, most importantly, the art of impactful application. In this enriching session, Brick Cliff equips future preachers to craft sermons that resonate, connect, and inspire positive change in the lives of their congregations. 

In Session 5, “Altar Calls and Outlines,” Brick Cliff directs attention to the practical aspects of written sermons. He highlights the significance of altar calls as moments of response, allowing individuals to embrace salvation, rededication, or commitments for change. Brick emphasizes the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere during altar calls, utilizing music and providing specific and general invitations. The session stresses the role of pastors and leaders in ministering during these calls and the necessity of having counselors for those receiving salvation. Additionally, Brick introduces the value of a sermon outline, guiding students on constructing a well-organized sermon with a compelling title, engaging introduction, informative body, and impactful conclusion.