Personal stories allow the congregation to connect with the preacher. They allow the congregation to see the preacher as a human being; that despite their place of privilege they are no more perfect than they are. If the congregation are able to see the vulnerabilities, the struggles and the celebrations of a preachers life, they are able to connect with the preacher on a deeper more personal level.
The Christian narrative is one of redemption and transformation; if as preachers we are unable to convey our experiences of being transformed by the love of God we miss a vital opportunity to present a living faith in action. A big part of discipling people is modeling the right ways of handling life.
There however are caveats to the sharing of personal stories. The sermon is there to lead, inspire, educate, give vision to, provide hope for the congregation not as an outlet for the preacher to seek sympathy or help with there troubles. It is important that the congregation are left with the feeling that they are able to approach the minister with their concerns and not feel burdened by the need to support or comfort the preacher. In this case it is best to speak of stories that have happened in the past; not issues the preacher is currently working on. If the preacher has issues these are best dealt with through a professional supervision situation.
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