7 Old Testament Sermon Series Ideas for Pastors
- Brother Pastor
- May 15
- 13 min read

Below are 7 Old Testament sermon series ideas for pastors which will bless and disciple a congregation starving for new sermonic content.
The exciting thing about these sermon series suggestions are they provide a big overview of ideas, points, titles, and texts and each theme has summary ideas for a three (3) part series!
These series are crafted to engage congregations with the depth of the Old Testament, offering practical applications and connections to faith today. Keep in mind, these may not necessarily be in order.
Before beginning, we offer an entire year of high level, profesionally packaged, and preached (tested) sermon series originating from both the Old and New Testament here.
Old Testament Sermon Series #1
"When God Turn It All Around"
Series Abstract: "When God Turns It All Around" traces the Lord God’s redemptive power through three (3) Old Testament stories. Beginning with Joseph’s forgiveness and rise to power in Egypt, it shows God transforming betrayal into blessing.
This thematic series continues with Exodus 1:6-14, 3:6-10, 12:31-36, where the Lord God of Armies delivers Joseph’s descendants from slavery, and concludes with Nehemiah’s restoration of Jerusalem in Nehemiah 1:5-11, 2:17-20, 6:15-16, revealing His enduring faithfulness to turn suffering into triumph well past the lifetime of any individual with whom He makes a covenant.
Part 1 of 3
“How Emotional Maturity Serves the Kingdom” Text: Genesis 50:14-20
This lesson begins with the well-known story of Joseph revealing his identity to his brothers around two decades after they sold him into slavery. We are witness to not only Joseph's emotional maturity but also the divine orchestration of God's purpose through pain, betrayal, and uncertainty.
Joseph's brothers had once conspired to destroy him, selling him into slavery out of jealousy — yet years later, Joseph stands as a powerful leader in Egypt with the authority to save lives, including theirs.
When they feared retribution after their father's death, Joseph reassured them with one of the most powerful declarations of God's sovereignty: "Ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good."
This statement reminds us that even when others intend to harm us, God can repurpose the very same situation for His glory and for our elevation. Joseph's forgiveness and perspective challenge us to trust God's plan even in seasons of suffering, because He alone has the power to turn evil intentions into redemptive outcomes.
Part 2 of 3
"God’s Faithfulness to Joseph’s Descendants" Text: Exodus 1:6-14, 3:6-10, 12:31-36
This part (2 of 3) explores how Yahweh’s faithfulness extends to Joseph’s descendants through the deliverance of Israel from Egypt. Despite their 400-year sojourn in the land of Egypt, the Lord remembered His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob (Joseph’s lineage) and raises Moses to lead them out.
Joseph’s role in preserving Israel in Egypt set the stage for their growth into a nation. God’s promise to Abraham, reaffirmed through Joseph’s life, comes to fruition as He delivers Joseph’s descendants, turning their suffering into complete victory. As that song asks; “Won’t He Do It?”
God turned it around for Joseph hundreds of years prior and his descendants in the time of Moses as well! Preacher, I don’t need to tell you ‘Where’ to go with that, correct? I want to preach this right now!
Part 3 of 3
"The Restoration under Nehemiah" Text: Nehemiah 1:5-11, 2:17-20, 6:15-16
This part (3 of 3) highlights Yahweh’s continued faithfulness during the restoration of Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile.
Nehemiah, a descendant of Judah (Joseph’s brother), leads the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls despite opposition. The completion of the wall in fifty-two (52) days demonstrates the Lord’s favor, turning the shame of exile into renewed hope and security.
Joseph’s story of God turning evil into good foreshadows the restoration of Israel. The covenant promises that sustained Joseph’s family in Egypt continue to guide his descendants, as God brings them back to the Promised Land, fulfilling His word.
Long after our lifetimes, God will keep His promises.
Old Testament Sermon Series #2
"God's Faithfulness to Abraham and His Descendents"
Series Abstract: This series of discipleship focused lessons begin with Abraham’s obedient departure from Ur in Genesis 12:1-4, establishing the covenant that shapes Israel’s destiny. While most of us today would require GPS coordinates or at least want to know God’s entire plan before beginning a journey, Abraham just started walking with nothing more than a command to.
Part 1 of 3
"The Call of Abraham" Text: Genesis 12:1-4
Let’s begin with the previously mentioned obedient response to Yahweh’s command for Abram (later Abraham) to leave Ur and everything he had ever known, trusting in divine promises of nationhood and blessing.
Despite uncertainty, Abram’s obedience establishes the covenant that shapes Israel’s destiny and so much so, that country which still bear’s the name of Abraham’s grandson (Israel/Jacob) exists. God turns Abraham’s departure from the comfort of familiarity into the foundation of a nation, inspiring believers to step out in faith when their Savior calls.
Abraham’s call initiates the covenant that Joseph’s life fulfills, as his preservation of Israel in Egypt aligns with God’s promise to make Abraham’s descendants a great nation. What the Lord assigns to our lives although daunting, turns ordinary steps of faith into extraordinary outcomes, laying the groundwork for His Will to be manifest in our lives.
Part 2 of 3
"The Call of Moses" Text: Exodus 3:1-10
Few have not heard of Moses’s encounter with the Living God at the burning bush, where he is called to lead Israel out of Egyptian slavery. Despite his hesitations and feelings of inadequacy, Moses’ obedience results in God’s miraculous deliverance of Abraham’s descendants.
Yahweh, turns Moses’ fear and the Israelites’ slavery into freedom and provision, fulfilling His long-ago covenant with Abraham. Moses’ call builds on the covenant sustained through Joseph’s preservation of Israel in Egypt, as God now redeems Abraham’s descendants from bondage, advancing the promise of a nation.
Our God’s call transforms reluctant servants and oppressed people into agents of His deliverance, turning captivity into covenant fulfillment.
Part 3 of 3
"The Call of Samuel" Text: 1 Samuel 3:1-10
This sermonic content put a laser focus on a young Samuel’s call to be a prophet during a time of spiritual decline for His people. His responsiveness leads to renewed guidance for the nation, preparing the way for renewal. Yahweh turns Samuel’s youth and Israel’s waywardness into a season of spiritual restoration, affirming His commitment to Abraham’s descendants.
Samuel’s call continues the covenant legacy, as God works through a new generation to guide Abraham’s descendants, just as He used Joseph to preserve them in crisis. God’s call turns moments of spiritual drought into opportunities for revival, using faithful servants to realign His people with His promises.
Old Testament Sermon Series #3
"Nehemiah:Rebuilding Through Prayer"
Series Abstract: One of my favorite themes to preach and teach is the story of Nehemiah. "Nehemiah: Rebuilding with Prayer" follows his journey to rebuild the destroyed wall in Jerusalem although he was serving as a foreign king’s cup bearer nine hundred (900) miles away. This story begins with his heartfelt prayer revealing a leader’s integrity and dependence on God.
Part 2 highlights his strategic, faith-driven action to rally the community. Part 3 showcases his perseverance against opposition, completing the wall in fifty-two (52) days. This series inspires believers to rebuild broken areas through prayer, action, and unity, trusting God to turn challenges into triumph.
Part 1 of 3
"Nehemiah: A Cleansing Prayer Before the Work"Text: Nehemiah 1:4–11
Part 1 explores Nehemiah’s leadership in rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls, emphasizing prayer, perseverance, and community effort in the face of opposition.
This lesson, which in my humble view should emphasize prayer prior to the work, inspires congregations to tackle broken areas in their lives or communities through dependence on our God without wavering.
Among the most neglected prayer studies in the entire Holy Bible is Nehemiah’s in chapter 1. It shows the integrity, longing, and steadfastness of a leader who understand collective sin of God’s people affects all.
Part 2 of 3
"Strategic Action Through Faith"Text: Nehemiah 2:1-8, 17-18
This power-packed lesson explores Nehemiah’s bold request to King Artaxerxes and his initial steps to rally the people for rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls. His strategic planning, grounded in prayer, and his ability to inspire community effort demonstrate how faith translates into action. We live in a culture who teaches “waiting on God” when in reality “faith without works is dead.”
Despite the seemingly impossible task ahead, Nehemiah’s leadership shows that God equips those who trust Him. Properly taught, this lesson challenges congregations to move from prayer to practical steps, addressing opposition with courage and uniting for a common purpose.
God turns vision into reality when His people combine prayer with strategic, faith-driven action, overcoming obstacles through His provision. I am not suggesting “name it claim it” or “blab it grab it” prosperity messaging because prayers are only answered when our request aligns with the Lord’s will.
Part 3 of 3
"Perseverance Amid Opposition" Text: Nehemiah 4:1-9, 6:15-16
This sermon examines Nehemiah’s perseverance in the face of mockery and threats from Sanballat and Tobiah, culminating in the completion of the wall in fifty-two (52) days.
His reliance on prayer and commitment to the task, despite opposition, inspire believers to stay focused on God’s calling. This encouragement to Yah’s people exhorts them to persist in rebuilding broken areas, trusting God to bring success and silence critics through their faithfulness.
Our Lord turns opposition into triumph when we, the Bride of Christ, persevere in prayer and unity, completing His work against all odds.
Old Testament Sermon Series #4
"Psalms of the Heart"
Series Abstract: The sermon series "Psalm of the Heart" explores the raw emotions of worship, lament, and trust through three distinct Psalms, connecting the psalmist’s experiences to modern struggles.
Beginning with Psalm 23:1-6, it highlights God’s comforting presence as a shepherd. Psalm 51:1-4, 10-12 reveals David’s sorrowful repentance and worship, while Psalm 18:1-6, 16-19 celebrates his triumphant praise for God’s deliverance. This series inspires congregations to bring their joys, sorrows, and victories to God, finding strength and hope in His presence.
Part 1 of 3
"The Worshipful Heart" Text: Psalm 23:1–6
Jump into preaching this serie with both feet by exploring the raw emotions of worship, lament, and trust. This series connects the psalmist’s experiences to modern struggles, teaching congregations how to bring their joys and sorrows to God, finding comfort and strength in His presence.
God’s presence as a shepherd provides comfort and strength, guiding believers through life’s joys and sorrows with unwavering trust.
Part 2 of 3
"Sorrow in Worship" Text: Psalm 51:1-4, 10-12
Psalm 51 captures David’s deep sorrow after his sin with Bathsheba, pleading for God’s mercy and cleansing from his guilt. He acknowledges his transgressions, seeking a renewed spirit and restored joy of salvation. Despite his anguish, David’s worship shines through as he offers a broken and contrite heart to God. This Psalm encourages believers to approach God with honest repentance, finding hope in His forgiving love.
Honest repentance in worship, as David demonstrates through his contrite heart, leads to God’s mercy and restored joy despite deep sorrow.
Part 3 of 3
"Triumph in God’s Deliverance" Text: Psalm 18:1-6, 16-19
In Psalm 18, David celebrates God as his rock and deliverer, recounting how God rescued him from enemies, likely reflecting his victories over Saul or other foes. He describes crying out in distress, and God’s mighty intervention, sending help from heaven to bring him to a spacious place.
This triumph fuels David’s worship, as he praises God’s strength and faithfulness. The Psalm inspires believers to trust God for deliverance and offer worship for His victorious power.
God’s mighty deliverance fuels triumphant worship, inspiring believers to praise His strength and faithfulness.
Old Testament Sermon Series #5
"When Loyalty Drives Eternal Outcomes"
Series Abstract: The sermon series traces Ruth’s journey from loss to restoration, highlighting her steadfast faith and God’s providential plan. Through Ruth 1:16-17, 2:10-12, and 4:9-10, 13-14, it explores themes of loyalty, divine provision, and covenant redemption.
Ruth’s story inspires believers to trust God’s purposes in hardship, demonstrating how ordinary acts of love align with His greater redemptive work. This series encourages congregations to remain faithful in relationships and steadfast in faith, trusting God to transform challenges into lasting blessings.
Part 1 of 3
"Steadfast Loyalty in Crisis" Text: Ruth 1:16-17
This series kick-off lesson explores Ruth’s unwavering commitment to Naomi, declaring her resolve to stay by her side and adopt her God and people, despite personal loss and uncertainty. Ruth’s loyalty reflects a faith that trusts God’s providence in the face of hardship.
Her decision to leave Moab foreshadows God’s redemptive plan, inspiring believers to demonstrate steadfast love and trust in God during life’s challenges. This lesson encourages the Saints to embrace loyalty as a pathway to divine blessing and restoration.
Ruth’s unwavering loyalty to Naomi, rooted in faith, sets the stage for God’s redemptive plan, encouraging believers to trust God through acts of steadfast love in times of crisis.
Part 2 of 3
"Divine Provision Through Faith" Text: Ruth 2:10-12
Part 2 focuses on Ruth’s encounter with Boaz, where her humility and faithfulness in gleaning fields lead to God’s provision through Boaz’s kindness. Ruth’s trust in God’s guidance, despite being a foreigner, results in protection and favor under Boaz’s wings.
The passage highlights how God orchestrates provision for those who act in faith and loyalty. Congregations are encouraged to trust God’s unseen hand to provide in times of need, remaining faithful in small steps of obedience.
God’s provision through Boaz’s kindness rewards Ruth’s humility and faithfulness, inspiring believers to trust His unseen guidance in their faithful obedience.
Part 3 of 3
"Redemption Fulfilled in Covenant" Text: Ruth 4:9-10, 13-14
Part 3 examines Boaz’s role as Ruth’s kinsman-redeemer, securing her future and fulfilling God’s redemptive plan through their marriage and the birth of Obed. Ruth’s journey from widowhood to restoration showcases God’s ability to transform loss into legacy within His covenant promises.
These lesson texts inspire believers to trust God’s redemptive power to restore broken areas of their lives. The sermon emphasizes how loyalty and faith lead to God’s ultimate blessing, impacting generations beyond our own.
Boaz’s redemption of Ruth transforms her loss into a legacy, demonstrating how God’s covenant promises restore brokenness through faith and loyalty, impacting future generations.
Old Testament Sermon Series #6
"Faithfully Serving God's Plan"
Series Abstract: This series, "Faithfully Serving God’s Plan", follows the Levites’ journey of humble devotion, from their tabernacle duties in Numbers 3:5-10 to guarding God’s presence in Numbers 18:1-7, and leading worship in 1 Chronicles 16:4-6, 37-38. It highlights their unseen yet vital contributions to Israel’s spiritual life, reflecting faithfulness, vigilance, and worship.
This sermon series inspires believers to serve diligently in their own roles, trusting that every act of service, whether seen or unseen, advances God’s redemptive purpose. Through the Levites’ example, congregations are encouraged to leave a lasting impact through steadfast commitment to God’s kingdom.
Part 1 of 3
"Serving in the Shadows" Text: Numbers 3:5–10
In a church culture that screams "look at me," part 1 explores the Levites’ divine appointment to serve in the tabernacle, performing sacred duties in the shadows of the priests’ more visible roles. Numbers 3:5-10 highlights their call to assist in worship and maintain the holy space, reflecting humble service to God and His people.
This lesson encourages the Saints to believer in Jesus, and to embrace unnoticed acts of faithfulness, trusting that God values their quiet contributions to His kingdom. It inspires congregations to serve diligently, knowing every role advances God’s purpose.
Jeremiah’s trust in God’s unfailing love and mercies enables believers to grieve with hope, finding renewal by anchoring their hearts in God’s faithfulness.
Part 2 of 3
"Guardians of God’s Presence" Text: Numbers 18:1-7
Part two delves into the Levites’ responsibility as guardians of the tabernacle, ensuring the sanctity of God’s dwelling place. Their role required vigilance and dedication, protecting the community’s access to God’s presence through their service.
The message challenges the Saint of God to see our daily assignments as opportunities to protect spiritual spaces for others, honoring the Lord with higher level of commitment. Further, it encourages congregations to serve with integrity, recognizing their work as vital to The Father’s redemptive plan.
Part 3 of 3
"A Legacy of Worship" Text: 1 Chronicles 16:4-6, 37-38
Finally, in part 3 and to tie this series into a neat little bow, examine the Levites’ enduring role in leading worship, where they are appointed to offer praise and thanksgiving before the Ark of the Covenant.
Their legacy of musical and liturgical service shaped Israel’s worship, reflecting a heart devoted to glorifying God. The message inspires believers to cultivate a lifestyle of worship through their unique gifts, impacting their communities for generations. It emphasizes that faithful service, whether seen or unseen, leaves a lasting imprint on the Kingdom of the Most High.
Old Testament Sermon Series #7
"Lamentations: From Sorrow to Hope"
Series Abstract: The sermon series "Lamentations: From Sorrow to Restoration" journeys through the book of Lamentations, exploring Jeremiah’s grief and hope amidst Jerusalem’s ruin. It anchors believers in God’s steadfast love, moves to repentance, and culminates in a plea for renewal.
This series of sermonic lessons encourage the hearer to grieve honestly, repent sincerely, and trust God’s faithfulness to transform despair into restoration. Through Jeremiah’s example, it inspires perseverance in faith during seasons of loss.
Part 1 of 3
"Grieving with Hope" Text: Lamentations 3:22–24
Part 1 delves into the heart of Lamentations 3:22-24, where Jeremiah, amidst Jerusalem’s destruction, clings to the hope of God’s steadfast love and mercies that never fail. His lament transforms into trust, declaring God as his portion and source of renewal.
The effect of this message will be exhorting the Lord’s people to grieve honestly while anchoring their hearts in God’s faithfulness, finding hope even in despair. It inspires congregations to hold fast to God’s promises, trusting His compassion to sustain them through seasons of loss.
Jeremiah’s trust in God’s unfailing love and mercies enables believers to grieve with hope, finding renewal by anchoring their hearts in God’s faithfulness.
Part 2 of 3
"A Cry of Repentance" Text: Lamentations 1:18-20
In part 2, we delve into the exploration of the prophet Jeremiah’s lament in Lamentations, where he acknowledges Judah’s sin as the cause of their suffering and pleads for God’s mercy. His raw confession reflects a heart seeking restoration through repentance, even in the depths of grief.
The message challenges believers to confront their own shortcomings with honesty, trusting God’s justice and compassion to heal. It encourages congregations to turn to God in sorrow, finding hope in His willingness to forgive and restore.
Acknowledging sin through honest repentance, as Jeremiah does, opens the path to God’s mercy and restoration, offering hope amidst sorrow.
Part 3 of 3
"Renewed by God’s Faithfulness" Text: Lamentations 5:19-21
Part 3 dives into Lamentations 5:19-21, where Jeremiah affirms Yahweh’s eternal reign and pleads for restoration despite ongoing exile and despair. His prayer reflects unwavering faith in God’s sovereignty to renew His people.
The message inspires believers to trust God’s unchanging nature, seeking His intervention to transform brokenness into revival. It calls congregations to persevere in prayer, confident that God’s faithfulness will lead from sorrow to restoration.
Jeremiah’s faith in God’s eternal sovereignty inspires believers to persevere in prayer, trusting His faithfulness to transform brokenness into revival.
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