Template Library Guide
Discover and use PreachPilot's template library to jumpstart your sermon creation with proven structures and formats.
Understanding Templates
Templates are pre-built sermon structures that provide:
- Proven organizational frameworks
- Time-tested sermon outlines
- Professional formatting and flow
- Starting points for various sermon types
Accessing the Template Library
- Navigate to "Templates" from your dashboard sidebar
- Browse available templates by category
- Use filters to find specific types:
- My Templates: Templates you've created
- PreachPilot Templates: Built-in professional templates
- Categories: Topical, expository, evangelistic, etc.
Template Categories
Sermon Structure Templates
Three-Point Traditional
- Classic sermon format with three main points
- Introduction, three points, and conclusion
- Perfect for traditional congregations
Hook, Book, Look, Took
- Hook: Attention-grabbing opening
- Book: Scripture examination
- Look: Application and meaning
- Took: Personal takeaway and action
Problem-Solution
- Identify a common life challenge
- Present biblical solution
- Provide practical steps
Narrative Expository
- Tell the Bible story
- Extract key principles
- Apply to modern life
Special Occasion Templates
Holiday Sermons
- Christmas and Easter messages
- Thanksgiving and New Year themes
- Special celebration formats
Life Events
- Wedding ceremony messages
- Funeral and memorial services
- Dedication and commissioning
Seasonal Themes
- Back-to-school series
- Summer and vacation messages
- Year-end reflection formats
Using Templates
Creating from Template
- Browse the template library
- Click on a template that fits your needs
- Click "Create Sermon from Template"
- Fill in the sermon details:
- Title
- Scripture
- Big idea
- Category
- Click "Create Sermon"
The sermon editor opens with the template structure pre-loaded, ready for your content.
Customizing Template Content
Once created from a template:
- All blocks are fully editable
- Add, remove, or reorder sections as needed
- Customize block titles and content
- Maintain the structure or modify completely
Template Block Structure
Templates typically include:
- Introduction block: Opening and context
- Multiple main point blocks: Key teaching sections
- Illustration blocks: Stories and examples
- Application blocks: Practical life connections
- Conclusion block: Summary and call to action
Creating Your Own Templates
From Existing Sermons
- Open a sermon you want to turn into a template
- Click "Save as Template" in the editor
- Provide template details:
- Template name
- Description
- Category
- Choose what content to include:
- Structure only (recommended)
- Structure with sample content
- Full content as example
Building Custom Templates
- Create a new sermon with your desired structure
- Add placeholder content or instructions
- Save as template for future use
- Share with team members if desired
Template Management
Organizing Your Templates
Personal Template Library
- Templates you've created
- Saved from your best sermons
- Customized for your preaching style
Filtering and Search
- Search by keyword or topic
- Filter by category or type
- Sort by date created or popularity
Template Maintenance
- Edit existing templates
- Update content and structure
- Remove outdated templates
Best Practices
Template Creation
- Focus on structure over specific content
- Include helpful prompts and suggestions
- Test templates before sharing
- Keep templates flexible and adaptable
Template Usage
- Choose templates that match your message
- Don't force content into wrong structure
- Customize extensively for your voice
- Use as starting point, not rigid framework
Advanced Template Features
Template Variables
Some templates include placeholder variables:
[Scripture Reference]: Insert your Bible passage[Main Topic]: Your sermon theme[Application Example]: Relevant life illustration[Call to Action]: Specific response invitation
Conditional Content
Templates may include optional sections:
- Youth-specific applications
- Different illustration options
- Varying conclusion styles
- Alternative introduction approaches
Template Sharing
Team Templates
- Share templates with ministry team
- Maintain consistency across speakers
- Collaborate on template development
- Version control for updates
Guest Speaker Resources
- Provide templates for visiting speakers
- Include church-specific guidelines
- Maintain preaching style consistency
- Simplify preparation for guests
Subscription Plan Features
Free Plan Template Access
- Limited selection of basic templates
- Three-point and simple structures
- No custom template creation
Paid Plan Benefits
- Full template library access
- Custom template creation and saving
- Advanced template features
- Template sharing capabilities
Troubleshooting Templates
Template Not Loading
- Check internet connection
- Refresh browser page
- Clear browser cache if needed
- Try different template
Content Not Fitting Template
- Choose different template structure
- Modify template blocks as needed
- Create custom template for unique content
- Use manual sermon creation instead
Template Missing Features
- Customize by adding needed blocks
- Save modifications as new template
- Provide feedback for template improvements
- Create your own enhanced version
Sharing Issues
- Verify team member access levels
- Check template permissions
- Ensure template is saved properly
- Contact support for technical problems
Template Library Updates
New Template Releases
- Regular additions to template library
- Seasonal and topical templates
- User-requested structures
- Contemporary preaching formats
Template Improvements
- User feedback incorporated
- Updated for modern audiences
- Enhanced mobile compatibility
- Better accessibility features
Next Steps
- Explore Pulpit Mode for presentation
- Learn about AI content assistance
- Discover export and sharing options
- Master advanced sermon editor features