Homiletics (DL2002W)

Content

The unit offers an introduction to the theology and practice of Christian preaching. It examines the nature of preaching in the context of Christian community and gives attention to such issues as adult pedagogy, speaker authority, listener response, gender and culture awareness, processes of creativity and public speech communication theory. The course will explore the process of sermon preparation and the dynamics of sermon delivery. This will include context analysis, selection and responsible interpretation of biblical texts and themes, the use of appropriate language, images, narrative and structures and attention to the particulars of voice, non-verbals and style expressed in presentation. In addition to interactive lectures and small group work, the presentation of sermons and short talks in class will give practical opportunity for learning through preaching and listening.

Learning outcomes

Unit sequence

Prerequisite BN1001W and CT1001W (or equivalent)

Pedagogy

Lecture, Seminar, Group work, Online collaboration (class blog).

Indicative Bibliography

• Alcántara, Jared E. The Practices of Christian Preaching: Essentials for Effective Proclamation. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2019.
• Carrell, Lori J. Preaching That Matters: Reflective Practices for Transforming Sermons. Lanham, MD: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers, 2013.
• Childers, Jana (ed.). Birthing the Sermon: Women Preachers on the Creative Process. St Louis, MO: Chalice Press, 2001.
• Clader, Linda L. Voicing the Vision: Imagination and Prophetic Preaching. Harrisburg, PA: Morehouse Publishing, 2003.
• Florence, Anna Carter. Preaching as Testimony. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2007.
• Johnson, Patrick W. T. The Mission of Preaching: Equipping the Community for Faithful Witness. Downers Grove IL: IVP Academic, 2015.
• Kim, Eunjoo Mary. Preaching in an Age of Globalization. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox Press, 2010.
• Lucas, Stephen E.The Art of Public Speaking. 12th ed. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill, 2014.
• Quicke, Michael J. 360 Degree Preaching: Hearing, Speaking and Living the Word. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Academic, 2003
• Stanley, Andy, and Ronald Lane Jones. Communicating for a Change: Seven Keys to Irresistible Communication. Colorado Springs, CO: Multnomah Books, 2006.
• Wilson, Paul Scott. Preaching as Poetry: Beauty, Goodness and Truth in Every Sermon. Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press, 2014.

Assessment