I hope it is obvious that the title is far from the most important part of a sermon. Having said that, I do think there is benefit in using good sermon titles. I think it is worth a little time and effort, especially if the listeners will be exposed to it before the preaching event. A good title can create interest, and that is a good thing. I'm no expert on sermon titles, but I do have a few suggestions. I've listed four "Don'ts" with their corresponding "Dos."
1) Don't sacrifice clarity for cuteness. If your title has to be explained it is no good. "Between the Punches" may be a cute title for a sermon about being a Christian on the job, but apart from an explanation it doesn't tell you anything.
2) Do aim for absolute clarity. "Honoring Jesus on the Job" may not be as cute. But, it's clear and compelling.
3) Don't promise what you can't deliver. The title "Erasing all Doubt" would certainly create interest, But can you really do that, in one sermon?
4) Do make sure the title accurately describes the sermon and what it will deliver. "What to Do When You Doubt" is a realistic sermon title and will still generate much interest.
5) Don't use the $2 theological words you learned in seminary. It doesn't make you look smart, prideful maybe, but not smart. For instance, "Preterism as an Eschatalogical Option." Just don't, ever!
6) Do put theological themes in laymen's terms. "Has all Biblical Prophecy Been Fulfilled?" is a much better option.
7) Don't waste your title. Don't throw a title on a sermon just for the sake of giving it a title. "The Lord's Prayer" as a sermon title is certainly not wrong. But it doesn't grab the listener and say, "Hey, this is something you need to hear."
8) Do try to create a sense of need with your title. I'm not talking about addressing felt needs in your preaching. I'm talking about using your title to tell people why they need to hear the sermon. Instead of, "The Lord's Prayer," why not use this title, "Letting God Teach You to Pray."
I hope you find these suggestions helpful.
