Anatomy of a Sermon
In this edition of the Preaching Coach Podcast, Dr. David Allen discusses the various aspects and functions of a sermon, comparing it to the anatomical design and study of the body.Episode notes:Anatomy is the branch of science that studies the physical structure of the human body. It focuses on the physical arrangement of body parts, including cells, tissues, organs, and systems. Anatomy can be broadly divided into two types: gross anatomy (macroscopic) and microscopic anatomy.Key aspects of anatomy:Gross anatomy: Examines structures visible to the naked eye, including bones, muscles, organs, and organ systems.Microscopic anatomy: Studies the microscopic structures of the body, including cells and tissues, using instruments like microscopes.Subdivisions of gross anatomy: Include surface anatomy (examining the surface of the body), regional anatomy (focusing on specific regions), and systemic anatomy (studying the body systems). Importance: Anatomy is essential. It provides a foundational understanding of the human body for healthcare professionals, artists, and scientists.Human Anatomy: Human anatomy involves the study of the physical structure of the human body. It focuses on numerous systems, including circulatory, digestive, endocrine, skeletal, lymphatic, nervous, respiratory, urinary, reproductive and muscular systems.Sermon Anatomy – Effective Sermons:INTERPRETATION - What is the meaning of the text? Determining textual meaning is the essential first step.TRANSLATION - The job of the preacher is to transfer the meaning of the text to the audience in terms and contexts they understand. This is a kind of “translation,” reproducing textual meaning via the sermon. ORGANIZATION - In order to accomplish #2, every sermon should be structured for maximum effect. Thus, a sermon should contain the following 7 elements: Exposition – Explaining the meaning of the textIllustration – Elucidating the meaning of the textApplication – Applying the warranted meaning of the textImagination – Helping people penetrate realityArgumentation – Proving the point of the text via its logicMotivation – Moving the will to obey - (via rhetoric, passion, exhortation, etc.)Exhortation – Telling them what to believe and practice; to do and not to do COMMUNICATION - Connecting with people via content and stylePASSION - Passion for Christ, the Word, and people expressed in deliveryPERSUASION - Preaching to convince people to think & act biblically. Behavior is based on belief. Change how people think, and you will change how they behave. (James 1:22)TRANSFORMATION – Information is not transformation. Life transformation is the goal of preaching. Salvation of the lost; edification of the saved.
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