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Craft & Character

The Art of Rhetoric in Preaching with Theon Hill

Aug 22, 2023
Dr. Theon Hill, Associate Professor of Communication at Wheaton College, discusses the art of rhetoric in preaching. He explains the three primary ways to reach an audience, how to anticipate diverse perspectives, and why preaching is about transformation. He also highlights the role of hip hop in preaching and walks through Dr. King's 'I Have a Dream' speech, offering practical principles for preachers.
45:35

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Engaging with diverse cultural art forms, such as hip hop, is crucial for effective preaching in today's pluralistic society, as it allows preachers to speak the language of their listeners and address their lived experiences.
  • Effective preaching requires a polyphonic approach that speaks to the various perspectives within a congregation, recognizing the diversity within the audience and crafting messages that bridge cultural divides and resonate with different individuals.

Deep dives

The Importance of Rhetoric in Preaching

Rhetoric is the strategic use of symbols, and it plays a crucial role in preaching. Jesus Himself used rhetoric to skillfully dismantle arguments and connect with His audience. Preachers should understand the power of rhetoric in reading and interpreting the text, delivering messages in a way that connects with the audience's emotions, and facilitating personal application. By embracing rhetoric, preachers can craft messages that resonate with the experiences and cultural contexts of their listeners, making the gospel message relevant and impactful.

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