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.
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.
Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" Speech
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s historic "I Have a Dream" speech exemplifies the power of rhetoric. King strategically incorporated references to Abraham Lincoln and biblical language to build credibility and appeal to the moral conscience of the nation. He moved beyond his prepared remarks and embraced the moment, connecting with the emotions and experiences of his audience. King's speech demonstrates the importance of being present to the needs and aspirations of the people and adapting one's message to effectively communicate the gospel in a way that inspires and brings about positive change.
Engaging with Cultural Art Forms
Engaging with diverse cultural art forms, such as hip hop and country music, is essential for effective preaching in today's pluralistic society. Preachers should be knowledgeable about the art forms that resonate with their audience, allowing them to speak the language of their listeners and address their lived experiences. Just as Jesus engaged with the tax collectors and prostitutes of His time, preachers should seek to understand and connect with the art forms that reflect the joys, struggles, and perspectives of their congregation. By doing so, they can bring the gospel into relevant, relatable, and transformative contexts.
Polyphonic Preaching and Audience Awareness
Effective preaching requires a polyphonic approach that speaks to the various perspectives and experiences within a congregation. Preachers must be aware of the different needs and cultural backgrounds of their listeners, recognizing that their words may be understood and received differently by different individuals. This understanding helps preachers craft messages that are sensitive to the diversity within the audience and bridge cultural divides. By balancing credibility, logic, and emotional appeal, preachers can create messages that resonate with diverse audiences and preach the gospel in a way that is both faithful and inclusive.
Want to become a better preacher? Listen to hip hop.
That’s the advice of Dr. Theon Hill一an enthusiastic hip hop fan who serves as Associate Professor of Communication at Wheaton College. As an expert in rhetoric, Dr. Hill explains to Steve Carter:
The three primary ways to reach an audience
How to anticipate and teach to diverse perspectives in your audience
Why preaching is about transformation, not just information
Why hip hop is a great primer for preaching in our cultural moment
Throughout this episode, Dr. Hill walks Steve Carter through Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech, highlighting simple principles every preacher can put into immediate practice. As the 60th anniversary of King’s famous address arrives on August 28th, Preaching Today invites you to celebrate “Share the Dream Sunday.”