Teaching Pastors of the Atlantic District of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod to Utilize Apologetic Illustrations in Preaching

Abstract

This project sought to train pastors of the Atlantic District of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod to use apologetic illustrations in their sermons. Chapter 1 presents the need for apologetics within the region of the Atlantic District, and the lack of pastoral training in using apologetics within the sermon and the goals of this project. Chapter 2 provides an exegesis of Acts 17:16-34, where Paul employs apologetic arguments in Athens. Chapter 3 presents the blessings given to the listeners through apologetic illustrations in preaching. Chapter 4 describes the project itself, recounting the content and teaching methodology of the specific course curriculum. Chapter 5 evaluates the efficacy of the project based on completion of the specified goals. This project sought to train pastors to regularly employ apologetic illustrations in their sermons so that their listeners are strengthened in faith and witness.