Imagistic Structures

Overview

Image-based structures seek to use the cultural power of images in service to the homiletical task.  While some homileticians broadly use the term image (e.g., to describe a refrain, a theme, or rhetorical trope), the following sermon structures assume that the preacher will work with actual visual artifacts (e.g., paintings, sculptures, banners, stained glass windows, architectural features, art installations, photographs . . . anything that can be displayed for the hearers).  The sermon may use one or more images and these images may be visually displayed or only verbally depicted.

While it is necessary for the preacher to know what the image is, the image does not need to be displayed.  The preacher can simply describe it.  Visual display of the image is more powerful for the hearers but harder for the preacher to control.  Verbal description is less powerful for the hearers but easier for the preacher to control.

The nature of the image, the congregational context, and the relationship of the image to the content and the function of the sermon help the preacher determine not only which structure to use but also whether the image should be only verbally depicted or also visually displayed.

Imagistic structures include:

© 2011 David Schmitt. All rights reserved.

Related posts

Lectionary at Lunch+


Lectionary at Lunch+

We are working to make our Lectionary @ Lunch resource a better tool for you. We’ll be back online soon with a refreshed look and better access to lectionary resources. Meanwhile, you can find homiletical helps on our site by clicking the magnifying glass to search. To search by the...

Privacy Policy


Privacy Policy

Thank you for visiting our website and for reviewing our Privacy Policy. In summary, our policy is: We collect no information about you, other than information automatically collected and stored (see below), when you visit our website or information that you choose to provide to...

Centers

Centers


Centers

  Concordia Seminary, St. Louis hosts a number of centers led by individual faculty members to provide theological leadership and expertise to Church and world. Center for the Care of Creation The Center for the Care of Creation seeks to articulate and promote a deep Christian...

Leave a comment