Course Description  

An introduction to the processes and skills necessary for effective communication, the transactional process of public speaking, and a variety of communication methods.

Students will learn how to focus a topic by using question / response / discussion formats for communication rather than simply stating an idea. Students will also learn writing and speaking skills. They will be taught the principles of understanding and adapting to the audience, identifying the communication purpose, organizing discourse to accomplish that purpose, developing and supporting the main idea with specific data, and revising, practicing, and preparing multi-media communication to various audiences.

This course is a learn-by-doing experience. Students will receive feedback throughout the composing process and the planning-to-speak process, and then will deliver and publish final products. All the assignments are sequential and developmental, growing out of typical ministry opportunities. The course serves in the important task of training others to communicate the word of God faithfully. The course will offer the steps to follow in order to prepare and present various types of sermons.

Course Rationale

Effective communication is one of the most important tasks of pastoral ministry in delivering God’s Word. This task is considered foundational to fulfilling the calling of God to the ordained ministry. The Apostle Paul illustrated the importance of proclamation in his charge to Timothy: “Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage, with great patience and careful instruction” (2 Tim 4:2).

Intended Course Outcomes through Engagements

Students will show growth in the following ways:

  1. Character formation: Ability to express humility, a teachable spirit, honesty and integrity in personal relationships as well as in the communicate process.
  2. Content processing with peers: Understand the process in developing focused and contextual presentations, whether they be sermons, teaching sessions or informal conversations.
  3. Ministry Capability Development: Prepare sermons that are relevant to a particular context and follow sound communicative theory.
  4. Ministry in Mission and Community: Be able to prepare and deliver sermons or lessons in a variety of contexts.

Resources 

  • Syllabus
  • Asia-Pacific Module Handbook