Introduction to Preaching: Scripture, Theology, and Sermon Preparation [Hardcover]

Coauthored by a homiletician, a theologian, and a biblical scholar, this book is a preaching primer that provides tools for crafting effective, engaging, and inspiring sermons. Using a unique workbook-style format,Introduction to Preachingequips seminarians and preachers to use appropriate theological claims informed by solid biblical interpretation while providing several sample sermons from the authors. Readers will learn how to use a three-part schemathe Central Question, the Central Claim, and the Central Purposeto provide the drive, direction, and destination for the sermon. Offering guidelines for using appropriate sermon forms, imagery, metaphors, and creativity, together with advice on how to deliver contextually relevant sermons using our bodies, presence, and voice make this a staple for both new and experienced preachers.
Introduction to Preachingincludes a chapter on exploring the space of preaching, including onsite and online sermons. In addition, it features charts and worksheets to help organize the sermon-writing process, as well as exercises for the preachers voice and body and tips for advice for guest preachers and supply preachers. A glossary of terms and an extensive bibliography make this a handy reference guide for students and all preachers.

Leah D. Schadeis the Associate Professor of Preaching and Worship at Lexington Theological Seminary in Kentucky and an ordained Lutheran minister (ELCA) for more than twenty years. She is the author of five books on topics such as preaching, environmental issues, and political polarization, includingPreaching in the Purple Zone: Ministry in the Red-Blue Divide(Rowman & Littlefield, 2019). She has pastored congregations in suburban, urban, and rural contexts. Leah will serve as the President of the Academy of Homiletics in 2024.
Jerry L. Sumneyis the Professor of Biblical Studies at Lexington Theological Seminary. He specializes in the historical-criticl&