25 - Preparation - Choosing A Keyword

The keyword is a homiletical device used to identify the main points of the sermon. As mentioned previously, the main points of a Keyword sermon are based on parallel ideas in the text discovered by developing a mechanical layout of the passage. Such a layout will indicate whether actual parallel ideas exist. These may be a series (two or more) of independent clauses, dependent clauses, or modifying phrases. Parallel ideas will always be in the same category. For example, one independent clause and two dependent clauses should not be seen as parallel ideas, for they are not, in fact, parallel in the thrust and meaning of the text.

If the ideas being considered as main points are truly parallel, they will be capable of being identified collectively by a keyword. This keyword will always be a plural noun, for it is used to identify two or more ideas or main points. There can be no exceptions to this.

The keyword may or may not actually be found in the text. The text may mention “three lies,” “five woes,” or “two promises,” but most of the time this will not be the case. Instead, the preacher will need to discover and label the parallel ideas himself. If, for example, the text has a series of “because” statements, the preacher may justifiably choose a keyword like reasons. A text may list several instructions without ever using that word. The Greek word hina (“in order that”) may be used two or more times to introduce a purpose clause. In such an instance, the keyword purposes, or something similar, could be used. 

The keyword is a direct response to the propositional interrogative. If the question asked is “how?” the response would be “by [state the action] the [keyword] in [the text].” If the question asked is “why?” the expected response will be “because of the [keyword) in [the text].”

Examples
PROPOSITION: Every Christian can experience effective daily prayer.
INTERROGATIVE: How can every Christian experience effective daily prayer?
RESPONSE: By following the guidelines set forth in [the text], every Christian can experience effective daily prayer.

PROPOSITION: Every Christian should pray daily.
INTERROGATIVE: Why should every Christian pray daily?
RESPONSE: Because of the benefits seen in [the text], every Christian should pray daily.

Specific, rather than general, words should be chosen. While technically meeting the requirements of a keyword, the word "things" communicates virtually nothing. The keyword should match the parallel concepts in the preaching text as closely as possible. This will give each sermon a sense of freshness rather than making it sound familiar.

The exact meaning of the keyword should be clear in the preacher’s mind. If he is uncertain, he should consult a dictionary. The overall quality of the finished sermon outline will be greatly enhanced if precision is maintained at this point.

Each sermon will have only one keyword, and each main point of the sermon will be one of whatever the keyword is.

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