Theological and Rhetorical Perspectives on Self-Disclosure in Preaching -- By: Jeffrey Arthurs
Journal: Bibliotheca Sacra
Volume: BSAC 157:626 (Apr 2000)
Article: Theological and Rhetorical Perspectives on Self-Disclosure in Preaching
Author: Jeffrey Arthurs
BSac 157:626 (Apr 00) p. 215
Theological and Rhetorical Perspectives on Self-Disclosure in Preaching
This article arises from the conviction that preaching from the Bible is “standing between two worlds,” a communication between the ancient biblical text and modern listeners.1 Preachers are bridges for the truth of the Word. The bridge-building metaphor leads to the fact that preaching involves self-disclosure. The speaker and the message are inseparable. As Arnold states, in oral rhetoric the speaker “stand[s] with his symbolic acts.”2 God has ordained that His truth be communicated through human agents. His treasure is in earthen vessels (2 Cor. 4:7). Paul knew this and was glad to share with the Thessalonians not only the gospel but also his life (1 Thess. 2:8).
The term “self-disclosure” means verbal or nonverbal revelation of the speaker’s feelings, values, and/or personal experiences.3 Powell lists four levels of disclosure.4
BSac 157:626 (Apr 00) p. 216
Level |
Content of Disclosure |
Example |
1. |
Cliché conversation |
“Nice weather, huh?” |
2. |
Factual conversation |
“I went to Troas to preach the gospel of Christ and found that the Lord had opened a door for me” (2 Cor. 2:12).5 |
3. |
Revealing personal judgments |
“Our conscience testifies that we have conducted ourselves in the world, and especially in our relations with you, in the holiness and sincerity that are from God” (1:12). |
4. |
Revealing feelings |
“I still had no peace of mind, because I did not find my brother Titus there” (2:13). ... You must have a subscription and be logged in to read the entire article. visitor : : uid: ()
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