DESCRIPTION: This course, offered as a doctoral seminar, is open to master's
level students with permission of instructor. It will examine the history of
preaching, beginning with its roots in the Jewish tradition and classical
rhetoric. The course will involve reading historical accounts of preaching
throughout the Christian eras as well as sermons and homiletical treatises by
historical figures.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Course objectives are that students will (1) grow in their
understanding of the history of preaching, its key figures, and the homiletical
theories that have given rise to present-day practices; (2) become stronger
preachers and teachers through application of a widened knowledge concerning
historical practice; and (3) feel an increased connection to and gratitude for
those who have gone before them in developing the practices of proclamation.
RELEVANCE FOR MINISTRY: Proclamation of the gospel message is at the core of
Christian practice and has historically been a central means by which the faith
is propagated and sustained. Students in this course will learn to see
themselves as part of a long line of people called and set aside for the urgent
task of proclaiming God's Word.
COURSE FORMAT: The class will meet once a week for three hours in the doctoral
seminar model. Students will read and discuss core material as well as look at
additional material relating to their research interests. They will prepare
in-class presentations on their research and write a final paper on a topic
relating to the history of preaching.
REQUIRED READING: