Abstract

KRUGER, Ferdi P. Creative preaching as visualisation of old and new things with particular reference to ecclesiastical discourses as enrichment of the act of listening. In Skriflig (Online) [online]. 2014, vol.48, n.1, pp.01-11. ISSN 2305-0853.

Ecclesiastical praxis indicates that preaching faces obstacles caused by the dreariness of sermons, regardless of the good intentions of preachers. There is a vast difference between hearing sermons and listening to sermons in a creative manner. Preachers should equip themselves to be more creative in the preparation and delivery of sermons. Creative preaching opens up new perspectives to hearers. In the light of this problematic praxis, the following research question has been formulated: To what extent do preachers equip their listeners in a dialogue situation to listen creatively in a profound manner with the objective to see clearly what the Word of God demands of them? In order to address this research question, the problem is investigated by taking into account the present Practical Theological vantage points concerning this field and by trying to get a grasp on metatheoretical perspectives from the fields of Social Psychology and the History of Art. The author investigates the challenging process of creative preaching as well as the importance of equipping hearers in becoming participants in the preparation of sermons through the process of ecclesiastical and sermon discussions. Perspectives from 2 Samuel 17 and Matthew 13:13-15, 52 will be explored with regard to the role of creativity in preaching. The conclusion is reached that a lack in creative preaching and commitment to the act of preaching are indeed endangering this ecclesiastical praxis. It may even be the cause of listeners leaving the church. Preachers should utilise creativity in preparing their sermons and should also focus on the custom of sermon discussions before and after delivering their sermons. In addition, preachers should endeavour to stimulate feedback of the sermons, for in this way fallacious views of reality could be rectified. Congregations should become discussant communities nurtured through profound communication.

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