The Preached Word: Heard and Seen

The uniqueness of the universe of images that surrounds us is the sheer number of them. Says Jacques Ellul, “this proliferation has become the spiritual question of our day.” Ministers of the Word know they have their hands full preaching in an image-centered and saturated culture.

This volume takes on the complicated, visual dimension of the Preached Word—so easily and frequently botched in willy-nilly usage by those not thinking they need training in this mode of communications. Building a solid Biblical foundation, Schuringa meticulously shows the way for the effective use of illustrations, metaphors and similes, electronic media, portrayals and particular objects. Truth is, if homiletic optics are out of sync with our communications environment, a preacher risks that little, if any, of the intended message will get through.

The Preached Word scopes out in theological, historical, and scientific terms the contours of truly hearing the Word— the heart-beat of the covenant relationship. For, according to Calvin, “God does not wish to be heard but by the voice of His ministers.”