Open Daily: 10am - 10pm | Alley door pickup 10am - 7pm 3038 Hennepin Ave Minneapolis, MN
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  • Open Daily: 10am - 10pm
    Alley-side Pickup: 10am - 7pm

    3038 Hennepin Ave Minneapolis, MN
    612-822-4611

Open Daily: 10am - 10pm | Alley-side Pickup: 10am - 7pm
3038 Hennepin Ave Minneapolis, MN
612-822-4611
Preaching a Word of Exhortation: The Rhetoric of the Early Christian Sermon

Preaching a Word of Exhortation: The Rhetoric of the Early Christian Sermon

Reid, Robert Stephen
Sharp, Carolyn J.

Hardcover

Series: T&t Clark Library of Homiletics

Religion General Bible Studies

PREORDER - Expected ship date June 24, 2027

ISBN10: 0567728749
ISBN13: 9780567728746
Publisher: T&T Clark
Published: Jun 24 2027
Pages: 308
Weight: 1.00
Height: 1.00 Width: 6.14 Depth: 9.21
Language: English

A ground-breaking exploration of the rhetorical structure behind early Christian sermons, revealing a form of preaching designed not to argue but to inspire. Robert Stephen Reid draws on the classical rhetorical tradition, especially the Rhetorica ad Herennium, to uncover the thesis-based strategy of expolitio, a method of topical reasoning used to elaborate themes and move listeners toward moral and spiritual transformation.

Through detailed analysis of sermons in Acts, Hebrews, James, and 2 Clement, Reid demonstrates how early Christian preaching borrowed and adapted the Hellenistic synagogue's Word of Exhortation format. Rather than relying on rational proofs, these sermons employed refined moral reasoning to stir faith and action. This volume challenges modern assumptions about sermon design and invites readers to reconsider the purpose and power of preaching.

Ideal for scholars of homiletics, New Testament studies, and classical rhetoric, this volume also speaks to clergy and theological educators seeking deeper insight into the historical foundations of Christian proclamation. With its compelling argument and rich textual demonstrations, Preaching a Word of Exhortation reclaims the sermon's original intent: to move hearts, not merely to prove doctrines. It is a vital resource for anyone interested in the intersection of rhetoric, theology, and the enduring art of preaching.

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