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by Howard Bennett, Captain –
DELEGATES attend a session during the preaching seminar at Crestmont College. |
Score one for the congregation! Flat, predictable three point sermons addressed: “to whom it may concern” are out. Messages that are culturally relevant, diverse in style and tailored to the needs of the congregation are in.
A Passion For The Pulpit was the title of Crestmont’s four-day preaching seminar—a part of the School for Continuing Education’s new SOAR series; 24 officers attended the seminar held at the newly-refurbished conference center.
Karl D. Edwards, an instructor at Pasadena’s Fuller Theological Seminary, taught the delegates using his own unique, interactive style. His PowerPoint driven lecture was underscored with video, pop music, and film. Edwards states, “In successful preaching, the needs of the people connect with the timeless truths of Scripture.” He challenged attendees to “listen to your listeners” while seeking to understand and engage the culture of our times.
Another basic cornerstone of preaching involves careful study of God’s Word. Using the book of Philippians, the class broke into groups and studied the text from several different perspectives. Later, as each group shared their findings, the participants could discern the depth and variety of insight to be derived from any given passage. Officers were encouraged to make time in their busy schedules for regular, uninterrupted study.
Edwards wrapped up the seminar with a focus on sermon preparation and delivery. Communication should be relevant, effective and personal. “It is important that the preacher find his own voice,” he states, adding, “There are no boundaries to effective communication.” Challenging the concept of “conventional sermons,” each participant was encouraged to experiment with form and develop a style that worked for them.
Captain Brian Saunders, director for continuing education, expressed the goal of the seminar: “to rekindle the passion for pulpit ministry.” The enthusiastic response from the attending officers indicates that goal was achieved indeed.
