Sermon Preparation (LW 554)
Prerequesites
Successful completion of LW 550, IF 552, & IS 560
Date
Tuesday, Jan. 13th – Thursday, Jan. 15th
Credit
2.0
Block
2
Course Description
This course will introduce students to the basic content, elements, methods, and forms of preaching, with the goal of moving from biblical exegesis to theological public proclamation. Students will learn how to write Central Question, Central Claim, and Central Purpose statements to guide their sermon process. We will also attend to the performance of preaching, including the use of one’s body, presence, and voice in order to deliver effective, engaging, and inspiring sermons.
Professor
Leah Schade
Associate Professor of Preaching and Worship
Education
M.Div., Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia
Ph.D., Lutheran Theological Seminary at Philadelphia
Bio
Additional information can be read by clicking HERE.
Course Information
Course Goals & Learning Outcomes
- Intellectual: (1) Students will critically listen to and evaluate sermons. (2) Students will demonstrate their knowledge of basic terms, concepts, and vocabulary
related to the task of preaching. (3) Students will write Central Question, Central Claim, and Central Purpose statements to guide their sermon process. - Practical: (1) Students will write and preach a sermon manuscript that demonstrates competence with interpreting a scriptural passage and making a theological claim for preaching in a particular time and ministry context. (2) Students will demonstrate beginning competence with using the Four Pages form for the sermon. (3) Students will demonstrate developing skills in the incarnational and performative aspect of preaching, including the use of body, voice, and presence within the preaching event to effectively engage the listeners.
- Spiritual: (1) Students will preach a homily that reflects how they understand their own call to preach. (2) Students will prayerfully consider how the process of reading scripture, interpreting faith, and writing and preaching a sermon informs and shapes their own faith and relationship with the Triune God as well as with the congregation. (3) Students will cultivate collegiality with their peer group and the instructor around the task of preaching in a way that provides both spiritual support and appreciative challenge.
Required Textbooks
Introduction to Preaching: Scripture, Theology, and Sermon Preparation co-written by Leah D. Schade, Jerry Sumney, and Emily Askew
Here’s the link: https://rowman.com/ISBN/9781538138595/Introduction-to-Preaching-Scripture-Theology-and-Sermon-Preparation
Is there pre-course work?
Yes. Before you arrive on campus for your time in class, you must complete the pre-class assignments consisting of reading, writing, and lectures. The written assignments must be submitted prior to our first class meeting so that we may discuss them.
What technology is required?
Students should bring with them their laptops, tablets, or device with which they use to access the course materials and complete assignments.
What will I need to bring to class?
Laptop, notebook, pens/pencils, jacket or blanket, water bottle, assistive devices, etc. Any assignments or other needed materials will be listed in the course syllabus via Canvas.
Should I bring snacks?
You are welcome to bring snacks or drinks.
What do I do if I have technical issues?
Contact your course professor and the LTS IT team as soon as possible.
Other Intensives Course Offerings
LC Block: LC 550, LC 552, and LC 554
LM Block: LM 561 & LM 562
IF Block: IF 556 & IF 558
A Liberation Biblical Hermeneutics for Lent (IS 680/880)
Exegesis for the Church (IS 560)
Thomas Merton: His Life, Spirituality, and Social Consciousness (LF 673/873)
