Insider Tips
How do I prepare for an experience that uses video teaching?
Watch the entire message you’ve downloaded – all the way through. Even though you might have previewed the majority of it when you chose it, watching it again is important for several reasons:
- 1. You’ll be sure the file downloaded completely and that there are no problems with the file.
- 2. You can be watching for any cultural points that may need to be explained ahead of time so they make sense in your setting.
- 3. You’ll be better prepared to introduce the message to your church.
- 4. You’ll know if there is a call to commitment at the end so you can decide if you’d like to fade out the message beforehand and handle that part yourself.
- 5. You can pray specifically for God to use the message at your church.
How can I create smooth transitions between the live worship service and the video teaching?
One of the ways to transition from your live worship service to the video teaching is to use pre-recorded or live music that can play during a live introduction and prayer as you transition into the video teaching. To transition out from the video teaching, try bringing your lighting up slowly, and fading out your video sound while the microphone for your live pastor fades up. Also, you can use an instrumental song (played via CD, iPod or using your computer presentation software) that can be played during the final moments of the video teaching: begin playing this instrumental music during the final minute(s) of the video and allow it to continue playing as your live pastor does a wrap up in prayer or worship.
How can I lead into the message?
It’s a good idea to set up the theme of the message—not articulating what is in the message but sharing something that highlights the problem or issue the message is about to address. You’ll also want to quickly recap each week if you’re in a series, highlighting the major points.
How can I lead out of the message?
As mentioned above, invest time and thought in the transition from video to live. Also, it is helpful for the live pastor to match the emotional intensity of how the video message ends as he leads out of it. Reinforce the main point of the message and make any calls to action that feel are appropriate for your setting.
How do I avert video playback failure?
If at all possible, use a backup resource for showing the video. If you use one of the popular video presentation software programs, you might consider using another computer for backup, or you can switch to a DVD player. Once you start your main source, begin your backup video source about 5-10 seconds afterwards. Then, if you have to use your backup, it will create little to no loss of the video teaching time. Also, it never hurts to have at least one extra video message for backup beyond the message you are showing that week. In case of massive technical failure (like a power outage), it’s a good idea to have a message outline in your Bible ready to preach at a moments notice.
How can VideoTeaching help me plan my message calendar?
Have fun choosing the messages on VideoTeaching.com that will best match the needs of your church. Some ideas: Plan a 4-week series on one topic using messages from several different speakers. During one of your series, bring in a guest speaker via video to teach one weekend of the series. Pick an entire series from one teacher that you’d especially like your church to hear.
If I don’t want to use these messages in my weekend services, are there other ways they can help me?
Absolutely! Consider using these videos in small group settings, in your youth experiences, at leadership events with your key volunteers, or for inspiration as you sharpen your speaking skills.