With Ears to Hear: Preaching as Self-Persuasion

What makes good sermons? And how do they come to be? Appropriating insights from the history of rhetoric and modern communications theory Robin Meyers proposes that truly effective sermons involve more than moralistic proselytizing or three points and a joke. Rather the preacher must enter into dialogue--not only with Scripture and the congregation but creatively with him- or herself as well. This willingness to listen to ones own sermon this willingess to be freshly persuaded will help enable the preacher to communicate with greater passion insight poetry and clarity. An original piece of work . . . The author brings to the field of homiletics his knowledge of the history of rhetoric and contemporary theories of communication in a way that will enrich the discipline considerably. . . Meyers is quite well focused in his approach to what has been a continuing problem in preaching the assumption by both clergy and laity that the preacher delivers prepaid that of which he or she is unreservedly convinced a package for the congregations acceptance or rejection. Meyerss proposal moves toward being radical in that he suggests that even in the act of preaching the preacher is being persuaded. . . . As a continuation of the current discussion in homiletics this [is] a valuable book. --Charles L. Rice Drew University Emeritus A clearly written well-researched book. . . . Meyers writes with a flair. His style is graphic conversational and balanced. . . . His own conviction that an ear for ones own language makes for listenable sermons applies to his writing style as well. He can hear himself writing and the result is an engaging dialogical text that will find a wide and appreciative readership. --Thomas G. Long Candler School of Theology Emory University Robin R. Meyers is Professor of Speech and Rhetoric at Oklahoma City University and the senior minister at Mayflower Congregational Church Oklahoma City.