A defense of Christian idealism

This purpose of this dissertation is to evaluate the influence of Jean Claude on homiletics. This objective will be accomplished by answering two questions; first, what were the factors of influence that helped formulate Claude's theology of preaching resulting in his sermon structure? Second, is his approach to sermon structure a viable tool for effective exposition?;One's individual approach to preaching is contingent upon a number of elements. These elements impact one's philosophy of ministry. The resulting philosophy will determine how an individual approaches sermon preparation in order to fulfill the task required for effective communication.;Effective preachers reflect a high view of Scripture and a passion to present the message of the text from proper biblical interpretation. The initial interest for this study was Charles Simeon. It was determined that the source for Simeon's inspiration for his sermon structure stemmed from the work of Jean Claude. Claude's An Essay on the Composition of a Sermon links the changing face of exposition from the method used by the early church fathers through the Reformers and into the current era of expository preaching. Argument is presented that Claude modified the seventeenth-century expression of exposition.;The development of this thesis will reveal an evolution in the expository method and its effectiveness. Claude's method brought greater clarity to the exposition of a text. Claude's approach to sermon structure altered the art of exposition, producing a more focused method of expressing a subject. Expressing the main idea of the text, Claude's perspective, enhanced by the use of an introduction and conclusion, produced a unified theme for preaching. Often labeled textual exposition, this method is still used effectively today. Beginning with the seventeenth century, a historical analysis clearly demonstrates Claude's influence today.