Effective preaching, according to Robert Little’s work, ‘Re-imagining Preaching and Leading Worship’ (https://theendlessbookcase.com/books/re-imagining-preaching-and-leading-worship/), positions the preacher as a vital link between God and the congregation, the ancient biblical world and today, and biblical languages and modern ones, thus facilitating a two-way communication. Paul’s instruction to Timothy highlights that Scripture provides a pattern for teaching that requires ongoing application, demanding faithfulness to established interpretations rather than arbitrary ones. Developing expertise involves moving through stages of competence and acquiring skills in sermon research, structuring, shaping and delivery, summarised by the mnemonic CHRISST (Challenge, Hermeneutics, Relevance, Interest, Shape and Substance, True). Furthermore, sermons serve various objectives, such as to announce, evangelise, teach, encourage, or chat, each influencing their character and the preacher’s style, while the shaping process necessitates a clear central point, careful attention to language, as well as thorough rehearsal to ensure impactful and memorable communication.

Other relevant links:

Robert Little

Also by Robert Little: “Bob’s Exploratory Theological Adventures”

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