Humor in Preaching: Its Effects and Guidelines for its Beneficial Use

This project examined the effects that humor in sermons has on hearers, particularly how humor affects their understanding and retention of Biblical truths. After exploring humor\u27s effects on listeners and which types of humor are more beneficial in the task of preaching through theoretical research, the data was investigated through the use of questionnaires, personal interviews with church members, and a focus group. After analyzing the participants\u27 responses, the researcher developed a list of guidelines for the beneficial use of humor in his preaching. These guidelines offer suggestions that other preachers may find helpful in using humor in their sermons