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When Not To Use Humor PDF Print E-mail
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Friday, 23 March 2007
     There are many times when a minister should use humor in his sermon. In fact, too many ministers do not use humor enough. They forget the importance of using humor - such as building congregation rapport and helping to deliver an effective sermon message.
     However, there are times when humor should not be used. When humor makes fun of something serious - a sacred cow - humor should not be used.
But a minister has more guidelines that he must follow. He must never use humor that:
- is insensitive or offensive
- reinforces stereotypes
- is slanderous
- is cruel.
Never use humor as a weapon.
    You may be asking yourself- who would be foolish enough to make one of these mistakes?  All humor contains elements of aggression; it highlights the flaws of people and of the human condition. It is inherent in anecdotes. So a friend tells you a funny joke, and it would make a good point in a sermon; you assume that your congregation will understand that you were in the "just joking" mode. Before you realize it, you made one of these public speaking mistakes.
     So how do you know when a joke is appropriate? Use your common sense. Before using an anecdote in a sermon, ask yourself the following question: "Will any congregational members be offended by this anecdote?" If the answer is "yes," do not use it. Put yourself in the place of your congregation. If you are unsure follow the general rule: if in doubt, leave it out. There are plenty of anecdotes around that are appropriate and funny.
    Humor should be used as an effective tool in sermons. A laugh can go a long way in making a minister look charismatic. So for your next sermon, pick that perfect and appropriate anecdote that every member in your congregation will enjoy.

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