DESCRIPTION: This course is designed to introduce students to the theology of
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 spoken witness to the Gospel of Jesus
Christ has always been a primary means of communicating the faith. It continues
to be a powerful tool for planting, teaching, and nurturing faith in Christ.
Biblical preaching is the principal public form of this witness, and skill in
biblical interpretation, sermon preparation, and proclamation is expected of
those who are called to serve as ministers of the Gospel.
LEARNING OUTCOMES: Students who have successfully completed 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 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
(both recorded), on which they will receive feedback from group members and the
instructor. Each student will receive personal feedback by the professor on the
two preached sermons. The class will meet twice a week for two-hour session.
REQUIRED READING:
Nieman, James and Thomas Rogers, Preaching to Every Pew: Cross-Cultural
Strategies. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2001. ISBN: 0800632435. Price:
$18.00. Alternatively, you may read
LaRue, Cleophus. The Heart of Black
Preaching, Westminster John Knox Press, 2000. ISBN: 9780664258474. Price:
23.00.
Long, Thomas G. The Witness of Preaching. Westminster/John Knox, 2005.
ISBN: 0664229433. Price: $24.95.
Pitt-Watson, Ian. A Primer on Preaching. Baker, 1986. ISBN: 0801070961.
(Out of print; if not available cheaply online, order from Fuller Bookstore
Pasadena for about $8.00.)
Taylor, Barbara Brown. The Preaching Life. Cowley Publications, 1993.
ISBN: 156101074X. Price: $17.95.
Several written sermons that you will be directed to find online, in
syllabus.
Commentaries as needed to do thorough exegesis for two sermons.
RECOMMENDED READING: A list of recommended reading will be available in the
syllabus.
ASSIGNMENTS: (200 points total)