DESCRIPTION: This course is designed to introduce students to the theology of
Christian preaching and to the art and craft of sermon design and delivery. We
will discuss the character and spiritual formation of the preacher, the nature
and theology of preaching, and the principles of sermon construction. The
course will include two opportunities to preach sermons in a supportive
environment, with feedback from peers and experienced preaching group leaders.
This course is specifically designed for MA students. It does not require the
specific coursework in biblical languages and exegetical method that are
prerequisites for the PR500 Homiletics class.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR LIFE AND MINISTRY: The proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus
Christ has always been the primary means of communicating the faith. It
continues to be the most powerful tool for making, developing, and bringing to
maturity Christ's disciples. Biblical preaching is the principal public form to
achieve this goal. Thus, skills in biblical exegesis, sermon preparation, and
proclamation are expected of those who are called to serve as ministers of the
gospel.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students who successfully complete this course will have
demonstrated (1) their knowledge of the biblical understanding of
Christian communication; (2) their ability to interpret, apply, and proclaim
the biblical text using both solid exegetical methods and disciplined
reflection to craft sermons; (3) their ability to express biblical truth
relevantly and clearly to a contemporary Latino audience, and will appreciate
more deeply the need to preach out of genuine love for their listeners; (4)
their ability to deliver spoken biblical messages with confidence, creativity,
clarity, and power; (5) their ability to assess both their own preaching and
that of others.
COURSE FORMAT: The course has both lecture and practicum components. The
practica are small groups of students led by teaching assistants under the
direction of the professor. In these groups students will preach two sermons on
which they will receive feedback from group members. Each student will also
receive personal feedback by the professor on the two preached sermons. The
class will meet on five Saturdays: Sept. 29, Oct. 13, 27, Nov. 10, and Dec. 1,
2012.
REQUIRED READING: