Course Summary

Connecting truths inherent within biblical scripture with a contemporary audience in a manner that is consistent with the intent of scripture

The course is organized in three modules: (1) The Science and Art of Communicating the Gospel, (2) Preparation, and (3) Presentation. The first module provides a theoretical foundation for a variety of means appropriate for communicating the gospel. Module 2 works on crafting formal presentations. Module 3 is given to field experience. Credit may be applied to the M.Div. degree only. 3 semester hours of graduate credit.

Objectives

• Examine the theoretical foundations of religious communication

• Utilize basic principles relating to effective oral presentation of religious communication

• Engage in planned communication relative to spiritual issues 

Credit for the course requires a score of 70% or greater on two multiple choice examinations, a textbook review, submission of presentation outlines, and a satisfactory report on the delivery of a set of presentations. The five graded elements are of equal value for calculating the course grade. A sample exam problem is given below:

How can one judge whether a religious presentation is "good" or "bad"? (A) By audience response (B) By content (C) By how it is presented (D) By length

Textbook

The book is available as an e-book (see Electronic Collection) or in print.

Litfin, Duane. Paul's Theology of Preaching. Rev. exp. ed. IVP Academic, 2015. 392 pages. $25.97 ISBN: 978-0830824715