Unlocking the Bible: Mastering the Art of Communication

Crafting Life-Changing Messages: Learn to Explain, Illustrate, and Apply God's Word with Clarity and Conviction

What you'll learn
- Define the discipline of homiletics and explain its role as the art and science of biblical communication.
- Develop homiletical outlines that reflect sound interpretation and theological accuracy.
- Prepare and deliver effective Bible studies and sermons aimed at the edification of the church (Eph 4:12).
- Demonstrate growing competence in sermon delivery through preaching and teaching workshops.
- Apply the three pillars of homiletics—Logos (content), Ethos (credibility), and Pathos (passion)—in sermon construction and delivery.
- Incorporate the goals of explanation, exhortation, and edification in biblical messages.
- Articulate the principles of Christ-centered, expository preaching and teaching as a foundation for lifelong ministry.

Requirements
- Students should have a foundational understanding of how to interpret Scripture within its historical, literary, and theological context. Check out our "How to Understand the Bible Correctly" course.
- Students should have a basic knowledge of the overall storyline and key doctrines of Scripture (Old and New Testament Surveys, Basic Christian Doctrine) will provide necessary content for sermon preparation.
- Students should demonstrate a commitment to personal spiritual growth with regular Bible reading and study

Description
This course introduces students to the discipline ofhomiletics, the art and science of biblical communication. Rooted in Scripture and the historic Christian tradition, the course aims to equip students with the tools needed to prepare and deliver effective sermons and Bible studies that edify the church and glorify Christ (Eph. 4:12).

Students will begin by exploring thegoals and methods of biblical homiletics, examining the purpose of preaching, the role of the preacher, and the spiritual and theological foundations of the task.

In the next phase, students will learn toidentify and outline main points and subpoints, constructing messages that are faithful to the biblical text and structured for clarity and retention.

The course will then survey a variety ofsermon and study formats, including full manuscripts, outlines, and teaching notes, as well as tools for organizing content effectively.

A major emphasis will be placed onexplanation, illustration, application, and exhortation, ensuring that messages are both rooted in truth and responsive to the needs of the hearers.

Students will also be trained in the use oftargeted illustrations and experiential applications, learning to engage both the mind and the heart.

Finally, students will hone their message through the classical pillars of homiletics:Logos (reason), Ethos (character), and Pathos (emotion).

By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the foundational skills ofChrist-centered expository preaching.

Who this course is for:
- Aspiring Pastors and Preachers: Those preparing for vocational ministry roles where regular preaching and teaching are expected.
- Lay Leaders and Elders: Church members who teach Bible studies, lead small groups, or preach occasionally in local congregations.
- Missionaries and Church Planters: Those serving in cross-cultural contexts who need to communicate Scripture effectively in both formal and informal settings.
- Christian Educators and Teachers: Those teaching in Christian schools or discipleship settings who want to sharpen their ability to explain and apply biblical truths.
More Info