Choosing to Preach Discussion
#17 - The Limits of Argument
Posted by Kent Anderson on August 26, 2006 19:17
Some would say that the appeal of argument is limited in these postmodern times. People today seem content with contradiction. They are adept at slipping out of the logical traps that apologetic preachers like to set for them. Given this phenomenon, is there a limit to the usefulness of argument in preaching today? What are the pros and cons of using argument?
(from page 138)
Replies
re: #17 - The Limits of Argument
Posted by HeeJin Kim on Feb. 01, 2007 at 00:48
Even though those metaphors are not entirely appropriate, comparing lawyers to preachers and judges to listeners can be very suggestive to those who preach. All preachers should keep in mind that the sermon is dialogical, to which people will argue back in their hearts. Indeed, postmoderners believe that reality or truth is always subjective, in contrast to moderns’ belief of discernable and knowable absolute truth and objective reality. However, postmoderns’ peculiarity, such as the emotional and intellectual openness to truth, might rather be a merit to make them have a desire for ‘black’ or ‘white’ truth than a ‘gray’ compromise.
re: #17 - The Limits of Argument
Posted by Melissa Lane on Jan. 16, 2007 at 15:04
I wonder if the so-called postmodern phenomenon is as pervasive as people often argue. While there is less room for absolutes and people are more comfortable with contradiction, people still want to know why something is true. Argumentation and debate are still highly valued, but there needs to be room for conversation. If someone simply proclaims a truth, follows it with a line of argumentation and then refuses to engage in conversation on that line of argumentation, the person can be dismissed as being high and mighty, or a self-appointed know-it-all. Is there room for arguments in sermons? Yes, but they need to be approached in a manner that is appropriate manner, taking into account different points of view. This will open lines for further conversation, rather than closing them down.