If images are that powerful in their imprinting abilities, and if pastors are called to communicate in an "image-thinking" culture, why are we so determined to exegete words and so reluctant to exegete images?
Make you think article from Len Sweet.
9.13.2004
Exegeting images
Make you think article from Len Sweet.
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3 comments:
It probably relates to the truth that God choose "the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe" and that "faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God". Add to that, God did not inspire images but words and you will probably come to the conclusion that pastors who exegete words are communicating what God gave them to communicate.
"Heaven and earth shall pass away but my word will not pass away.
Hi Charles-
Thanks for the thoughts. I also believe that God inspired his word and that it is profitable to exegete it, else I would not be a pastor! But I do think the manner in which we present God's word is changing and that we are going to need to be more mindful in using images, metaphors, and the like for helping people understand God's word. Jesus did this all the time. The kingdom of heaven is like... He created wonderful images for his audience and I think any good teacher should and will do this.
Grace and peace,
Steve
In my father's generation churches used flannelgraphs and maps to serve as visual aids in their teaching. These devices increased interest and comprehension among those that heard. Clarence Larkin was somewhat of a pioneer in using images to explain his prophetic teachings. Jack Hamm and other illustrators found drawings an excellent medium to promote Christian thought. We ought to examine ways to use visual aids and do the same today.
Today, digital projectors and Powerpoint provide a whole new realm for teachers to illustrate and emphasize their lessons. The internet allows us to gather images of the beaches Jesus taught at.
http://www.bibleplaces.com/
As long as these aids are not exalted to the lofty position God's Word occupies then I see no harm in using them.
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