Audience relevance and rhetorical argumentation in expository preaching: A historical-critical comparative analysis of selected sermons of John F. MacArthur, Jr. and Charles R. Swindoll, 1970-1990

R. Keith Willhite, Purdue University

Abstract

This study investigated expository sermons to discover what may constitute perceptions of relevant expository preaching. From a content analysis and argumentative criticism of expository sermons on the texts of Daniel and Galatians by John F. MacArthur, Jr. and Charles R. Swindoll, this thesis argued that the two preachers possess different perceptions of expository preaching and of what is relevant to their listeners. Several conclusions from the case study demonstrate the different perceptions. First, MacArthur highly values explanation of the primary passage. Second, MacArthur appears to value the relationship between the sermon's primary passage and the remainder of the biblical corpus. Third, MacArthur's use of declarative claims and warrants of authority demonstrates a rhetorical stance of proclamation. Fourth, MacArthur appears to rely heavily on audience participation because he often leaves the argument's warrant implicit. Fifth, MacArthur's sermonic arguments demonstrate a perception that the audience is highly agreeable thus, his preaching probably functions best within its own religious culture. Sixth, MacArthur makes little distinction between the exegetical process and the expositional product. What MacArthur apparently perceives as relevant to his audience is language that explains the meaning of the biblical passage so as to demonstrate fidelity to the meaning of the text. For Swindoll, first, choices of content stress audience response or application. Second Swindoll's choices of content demonstrate an esteem for personification and self-disclosure. Third, Swindoll appears to assume a rhetorical stance of exhortation, urging audience members to act or believe in a particular way. Fourth, Swindoll's sermonic arguments demonstrate his perception that the audience is agreeable but may question the significance of the sermon. Fifth, Swindoll seems to distinguish the exegetical process and the expositional product. What Swindoll apparently perceives as relevant to his audience is language that relates the meaning of the biblical passage to human experiences so as to demonstrate the sufficiency of the passage as a guide for life. It was concluded that, from a communicative perspective, relevance is an argumentative link between the interpreted meaning of the biblical passage and the interpreted needed application of belief, attitude, value, or behavioral change of affirmation.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Stewart, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Communication|Clergy

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