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The recent homiletic discussion often sees the free sermon as the only proper way to preach. The authors of this volume take a critical look at this position and ask whether the free sermon indeed corresponds to modern rhetorical and theological demands. The free sermon is always at danger of becoming a sort of smalltalk with the congregation. Simply reading a sermon from a manuscript verbatim, however, is not a good alternative. A good sermon rather demands rhetorical skills, and failing to make contact with the audience will also fail to arouse their interest. A good sermon, according to the authors, is characterized by its resonance among the listeners. They contrast the overrated free sermon with the discredited manuscript-driven sermon and then discuss their own concept of the realized sermon – artful preaching from the pulpit that has been carefully prepared, fits homiletic standards and creates an acceptable relationship to the congregation.