Content

This unit introduces students to the purpose, practice, and theology of Christian preaching within the gathered worshipping community. It explores the history and shape of preaching in the Church, the role of Scripture in proclamation, and the relationship between biblical interpretation, theological reflection, and pastoral awareness. Students are guided through foundational skills in engaging the biblical text, crafting a coherent sermon, and attending to voice, presence, and communication in the preaching moment. The unit aims to cultivate confidence, curiosity, and a reflective approach to the ministry of preaching.

Unit code: DL1001Z

Unit status: Approved (New unit)

Points: 18.0

Unit level: Undergraduate Level 1

Unit discipline: Liturgy

Proposing College: St Francis College

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Learning outcomes

1.

Identify the theological, historical, and pastoral foundations that shape Christian preaching.

2.

Interpret biblical texts using introductory exegetical and theological reflection skills relevant to preaching

3.

Apply foundational principles of sermon construction and communication when shaping a message for a congregational context.

Unit sequence

One foundational unit in Biblical Studies

Pedagogy

Synchronous and asynchronous lectures and text-based tutorials

Indicative Bibliography

Loader, William. Following Matthew: A Commentary for People on the Road. Cascade Books, 2025.

Cooling, Margaret. Preaching That Shows. SCM Press, 2022.

Shercliff, Liz. Preaching Women: Gender, Power and the Pulpit. SCM Press, 2019.

Florence, Anna Carter. Rehearsing Scripture: Discovering God’s Word in Community. William B. Eerdmans, 2018.

Stevenson, Peter K. SCM Study Guide to Preaching. SCM Press, 2017.

Long, Thomas G. The Witness of Preaching. Westminster John Knox Press, 2016.

Bruce, Kate. Igniting the Heart: Preaching and the Imagination. SCM Press, 2015.

Brown, Rosalind. Can Words Express Our Wonder?: Preaching in the Church Today. Canterbury Press, 2009.

Whiteley, Raewynne J. Steeped in the Holy: Preaching as Spiritual Practice. Cowley Publications, 2008.

Wilson, Paul Scott. The Practice of Preaching. Rev. ed. Abingdon Press, 2007.

Assessment

Type Description Word count Weight (%)
Portfolio 0 100.0
Approvals

Unit approved for the University of Divinity by Prof Albert Haddad on 15 Apr, 2026

Unit record last updated: 2026-04-15 09:47:37 +1000