DESCRIPTION:

The aim of this course is to look at evangelism from the point of view of those who are being evangelized. In order to do this it is necessary to engage in audience analysis: who is it we are trying to reach and what do we need to know about them and their personal environments? Then it is important to know how to express the gospel in words, images, and actions that will communicate that gospel accurately to such sub-cultures. A special emphasis in this course will be on reaching Baby Boomers and the X-Generation. Also, C. S. Lewis will be considered as an example of a culturally sensitive communicator.

Evangelism is a species of communication. So, it is necessary to understand something about communication theory in order to engage in evangelism. Within the communication process, the emphasis must be on the receiver, including understanding of his/her world view and social environment. This kind of audience sensitivity and applied communication theory is a vital skill in evangelism and useful in other forms of ministry.

The class will meet daily for four hours September 3-13. Class time will be a mixture of lecture, discussion, media, case studies, and interactive dialogue.

Kraft, Charles H. Communication Theory for Christian Witness. Orbis Books, 1991.

Lewis, C. S. The Weight of Glory and Other Addresses. Macmillan, 1980.

_________. Mere Christianity. Macmillan, 1943.

Newbigin, Lesslie. Foolishness to the Greeks. Eerdmans, 1986.

Roxburgh, Alan. Reaching a New Generation. InterVarsity, 1989.

Sample, Tex. Lifestyle and Mainline Churches. Westminster, 1990.

Collection of Readings.

Dyrness, William. How Does America Hear the Gospel? Eerdmans, 1989.

Tannen, Deborah. You Just Don't Understand: Talk Between the Sexes. Wm. Morrow, 1990.

It is expected that students will read the materials and be prepared to participate in the classroom discussion and exercises. In addition, the student will write several short papers (a total of 12 pages):

1. Reflection papers: 1) personal communication style; 2) personal sub-cultures.

2. Research papers: 1) translate a gospel term into contemporary images; 2) assess a sub-culture in terms of evangelism; 3) C. S. Lewis's communication style.

None.

Meets M. Div. core requirement in Evangelism (MIN 3).

None.