Free Sermon Outline Template
Structure your message with clarity. Choose from 4 proven templates—each with example content—and customize for your sermon. Print, copy, or download when you're done.
4 Proven Templates
Classic 3-point, expository, topical, and narrative structures
Easy Editing
Intuitive editor with real-time preview
Print-Ready
Clean formatted output for the pulpit
One-Click Export
Copy or download your outline instantly
Choose a Template
Select a sermon structure to get started. Each template includes example content you can customize.
How to Write a Sermon Outline
A well-structured sermon outline is the backbone of effective preaching. Whether you're a seasoned pastor or preparing your first message, these principles will help you communicate with clarity and impact.
Start with Prayer and the Text
Before you outline, spend time in prayer and deep study of your Scripture passage. Read it in multiple translations. Understand the original context, audience, and purpose.
Identify the Big Idea
What is the one thing you want people to remember? This "big idea" should be expressible in one sentence and should directly reflect the heart of your text. Everything in your outline serves this central truth.
Choose Your Structure
Different texts call for different approaches. A Pauline epistle might suit verse-by-verse exposition, while a narrative passage might work better as a story arc. The templates above give you four proven options.
Develop Each Point
For each main point, include: (1) Explanation—what does the text say? (2) Illustration—a story or example that makes it concrete. (3) Application—how should the listener respond? This "EIA" pattern keeps sermons balanced and practical.
Craft Strong Transitions
The best sermons flow naturally from one point to the next. Write explicit transitions that help your audience follow your logic. "Now that we've seen X, let's consider Y..."
Quick Tips for Better Outlines
Start with the Big Idea
Every sermon should have one clear, memorable takeaway. Write this down first, then build your outline around it.
Let Scripture Drive Structure
For expository preaching, let the text determine your points. For topical sermons, ensure every point has strong scriptural support.
Plan Your Application
Don't leave application until the end. Each point should include a 'so what?' element that helps listeners apply the truth.
Write for the Ear, Not the Eye
Spoken communication is different from written. Use shorter sentences, clear transitions, and memorable phrases.
Understanding Sermon Structures
Classic 3-Point Outline
The most widely used sermon structure. Start with an introduction that hooks attention, present three main points (each with explanation, illustration, and application), then conclude with a summary and call to action. Best for: teaching passages, character studies, practical topics.
Expository (Verse-by-Verse)
Walk through a Scripture passage systematically, explaining each section in order. The text's structure becomes your outline's structure. Best for: epistles, detailed passages, teaching series through books of the Bible.
Topical Outline
Start with a theme or topic, then gather multiple Scripture passages that address it. Each point is supported by different texts united by the central theme. Best for: addressing current issues, apologetics, foundational doctrines.
Narrative (Story-Driven)
Follow the natural story arc of a biblical narrative: setting, conflict, turning point, resolution. Draw out timeless principles from the story's movement. Best for: Old Testament narratives, parables, biographical passages.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sermon outline structures are included?
We include four proven templates: Classic 3-Point (the most common structure), Expository (verse-by-verse), Topical (theme-centered with supporting scriptures), and Narrative (story-driven approach). Each template comes with real example content to help you get started.
How do I print just the outline, not the whole page?
Click the 'Print' button and a new window will open with just your formatted sermon outline—no sidebars, no editing tools, just a clean document ready for printing.
Is this tool completely free?
Yes! This tool is 100% free to use with no signup required. It's our gift to pastors and ministry leaders who want to prepare more effective sermons.
Can I save my sermon outline?
Currently, the tool works in your browser for single sessions. Click 'Download' to save your outline as a text file, or 'Copy to Clipboard' to paste into your preferred document editor like Word or Google Docs.
What's the best sermon outline structure for beginners?
The Classic 3-Point structure is ideal for beginners. It's time-tested, easy to follow, and helps keep both you and your audience focused. Start with an engaging introduction, develop three main points with supporting content, and end with a clear conclusion and application.
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