Knowing the context: frames, tools, and signs for preaching

Abstract

Editor's foreword Introduction 1. How context matters in preaching How preaching relates to context Preaching is occasional (therefore timely), situational (therefore grounded), social (therefore personal), and cultural (therefore symbolic) (9-12). Historical views of contextual preaching Augustine: rhetoric; Gregory the Great: pastoral; Guibert of Nogent (12th century): teaching; Henry Mitchell: justice. 2. Frames for approaching contexts Topic - question - significance (20) Context identified but not isolated Different ways to frame context Frame as border; frame as support; frame as mind-set (26-30) Using frames in a congregation 3. Tools for exploring contexts Tools that focus on practices Participant observation; semi-structured interviews (37-43) Tools that focus on products Artifact and place study; document analysis (43-48) Using tools in a congregation 4. Signs for interpreting contexts Signs and what they mean Three components to a sign: the signifier, signified, and how they are linked (signification) (54). Difference between indexed signs (marks conceptual value) and iconic signs (participates in conceptual value) (55) Strong signs as the focus Strong signs: unusual level of significance; this is what contextual preaching tries to engage (57). Suggests universal realities of existence. Indentify indexical signs in your congregational research, then press on to identify iconic signs, and determine which are especially strong signs (58-59). Telling the truth through signs Signs as mirror (telling a truth we may not yet realize): partial, contrasting, or reacquainting (59-61) Signs as window (what might be): gestures (basic human acts/experiences, a la Berger), reconnection, or alternatives (62-63) Using signs in a congregation 5. How preaching works with context Contextual preaching and other ministries A study of contextual preaching Guidelines for contextual preaching practice 1. Scripture should be studied with local listeners (81) 2. Scripture should be interpreted for its signs (82) 3. Sermons should be integrated with worship 4. Sermons should aim at participatory encounter 5. Preachers should evaluate sermons cumulatively (83) 6. Preachers should begin locally toward a wider horizon