Biblical Text Used: Luke 18:35-43
Outline Purpose: The purpose of this preaching outline is to explore the story of the blind man of Jericho as recorded in Luke 18:35-43, highlighting spiritual lessons and practical application for the Christian life. The central theme is the transformation that occurs when we seek Jesus with faith, perseverance and humility.
Introduction:
Start the sermon with a brief introduction that contextualizes the setting of Jericho at the time of Jesus. Talk about the situation of blind Bartimaeus, his physical and spiritual blindness, and the turmoil he caused by crying out to Jesus.
Central Theme:
The central theme of this outline is “Recovering Spiritual Vision.” It’s about how encountering Jesus can open our spiritual eyes and transform our lives.
Topic 1: The Condition of the Blind
- Subtopic 1: Physical and spiritual blindness
- Subtopic 2: Limitations that blindness imposes
- Subtopic 3: Parallel between physical and spiritual blindness
Topic 2: The Persistence of Faith
- Subtopic 1: Bartimaeus’ determination
- Subtopic 2: Dealing with distractions and criticism
- Subtopic 3: The importance of persevering faith
Topic 3: The Call of Jesus
- Subtopic 1: Jesus hears the cry of the blind man
- Subtopic 2: Jesus’ willingness to listen to us
- Subtopic 3: Jesus’ invitation to personal encounter
Topic 4: Transformation and Restoration
- Subtopic 1: The restoration of physical vision
- Subtopic 2: Spiritual restoration
- Subtopic 3: Bartimaeus’ joy and gratitude
Topic 5: Following Jesus with Gratitude and Devotion
- Subtopic 1: Bartimaeus Follows Jesus
- Subtopic 2: Commitment to following Jesus
- Subtopic 3: The benefits of following Jesus
Topic 6: The Effect on the Community
- Subtopic 1: People’s reaction to the miracle
- Subtopic 2: The impact on the Jericho community
- Subtopic 3: How our testimony can influence others
Topic 7: The Power of God’s Grace
- Subtopic 1: The grace of Jesus in action
- Subtopic 2: Grace as a transformative factor
- Subtopic 3: How to Experience God’s Grace
Topic 8: The Call to a Transformed Life
- Subtopic 1: From blind to disciple
- Subtopic 2: Living with renewed spiritual vision
- Subtopic 3: Bartimaeus’ mission and purpose
Additional Verses:
As you preach, add verses that complement the outline, such as John 9:25 (“I was blind and now I see”) and 2 Corinthians 5:17 (“If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation”).
Conclusion:
End the sermon by highlighting the importance of seeking Jesus with faith, persistence and humility, allowing Him to restore our spiritual vision. Conclude with a plea for listeners to turn to Jesus and experience transformation in their lives.
Best Time to Use this Outline:
This outline is suitable for worship services, evangelistic services, spiritual retreats, and Bible study programs. It can be used at any time when you want to emphasize the importance of seeking Jesus with faith and allowing Him to transform lives. It is especially relevant for addressing issues of faith, spiritual healing, and commitment to Christ.
