DESCRIPTION:

This course is designed to offer the maximum possible practical experience in preaching and sermon preparation with an emphasis on communicating the timeless truths of Scripture to the postmodern mindset.

Each person will prepare and preach two original sermons from two different biblical genres. Sermon texts will be assigned and represent a variety of texts that are commonly subjected to oversimplified interpretations. The practicum will focus on preparing a biblically sound message that communicates effectively to an increasingly experience-oriented culture.

Preaching is an essential element in the ministry of the church. Proclamation of biblical truth must be able to address the prevailing culture's resistance to authoritarian calls to conformity as well as recognize and engage its openness to authentic opportunities to live fully and make a difference. The potential for more effective evangelism and deeper faith development is enormous.

The class will twice weekly for two-hour sessions for five weeks. The first part of each meeting will be spent in worship where two sermons will be preached by members of the class. The class will then move to informal surroundings, where the sermons will be evaluated and discussed by class members under the direction of the instructor. PLEASE NOTE: Class attendance is mandatory. If the class is over-subscribed, the first two persons on the waiting list should attend the first class session. All sermons will be recorded on video tape.

Weekly exegetical reading relating to the texts to be preached upon.

Students are expected to be familiar with texts assigned in PR500, or with equivalent standard works on preaching.

Two sermons preached during the quarter, with outlines and complete bibliography submitted in writing. Regular class attendance, preparation for class, and participation in discussions are required.

PR500.

Meets M.Div. core requirement in Preaching and Communication (MIN 2).

None.