The Experience of Studying Hebrew as a Student Who is Blind
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Claiming Theology in the Pulpit, written by Burton Cooper and John McClure, is a resource to help preachers use their own theological profiles as resources for sermon-building. The authors point out that the church must relate to people of diverse theological backgrounds. The pastor exemplifies this diversity, having both grown up in an environment of diversity and been exposed to it in the seminary. In preparing the sermon, the preacher must address a congregation which is theologically diverse while also taking into account his or her own theological profile.
The first half of the book provides an in-depth discussion of various aspects of the theological profile, including issues of method, authority, worldview, and doctrine. Each of these areas includes additional categories where a person’s individual profile may vary based on several factors. The in-depth discussion explains the various premises and how each differs from the other.
The second half of the book provides illustrations of how the theological profile can be used in developing sermons. Many examples include snippets from brainstorming discussions held in a classroom. Two sermons are also included with discussion of how the preachers’ profiles influenced various points. An appendix provides questions to help define the theological profile.
The theological profile can be a useful resource; however, it is vulnerable to some abuses. Strict reliance on the assessment tool may lead to pigeonholing sermons into a typological category and lack of sensitivity to the Holy Spirit’s leading. Too much reliance on one’s own theological profile can also lead to failure to dialogue with the congregation. Since the sermon is directed to the congregation, it seems important to be aware of the theological positions of the hearers and to know how to dialogue effectively in light of these positions. Cooper and McClure do not discuss these issues at all.
Some difficulties may arise in defining the “theological profile.” Cooper and McClure briefly mention that sometimes areas of the profile may conflict. What they do not mention is the potential of theological convictions to conflict or interact with personality traits to impact sermon development. A preacher may hold a theological conviction but decide to lay it aside because of an interfering personality factor and instead focus on an aspect of theology that is relevant but is not necessarily a part of their own personal profile in order to increase the effectiveness of the message for the particular audience. On the other hand, a particular combination of theological profile and personality trait may significantly enhance the message for a different audience.
In light of my critiques, I am hesitant to simply fill out the assessment in the appendix and be content that I have a resource to use in preparing my sermons. However, I do think that the areas discussed in the first half of the book can provide me some excellent starters for personal reflection. I find that reflection is extremely helpful in my writing and speaking processes. It allows me to dialogue with myself as well as think about what my views are. I often find that my views are not very simple. I often find myself thinking about how I would think theologically in particular circumstances; and I find it very difficult to define my own personal theology. I am always in the process of clarifying my thoughts.
This book will be a resource that I use often in various situations. I find it helpful in preparing for teaching as well as preaching; and I find that it draws me to think about the perspectives that other people bring to theological discussions. This understanding helps me to shape my responses instead of reacting emotionally.
Cooper, Burton and John S. McClure. Claiming Theology in the Pulpit. Louisville, KY: Westminster John Knox, 2003.
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Sarah Blake graduated from Anderson University with an M.Div., professional distinction in Hebrew, in August, 2009. She was the 2009 recipient of the Donald Courtney fellowship in Christian Education at Anderson University; and her paper is published online. She provides biblical teaching for retreats, church services, and other special events; music ministry; and education for churches and community groups seeking to develop strategies for including people with disabilities. For more information about booking Sarah to speak at your church or community event, visit her services page.
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Sarah J. Blake