Homiletics and Pastoral Theology: With an Appendix

by William Greenough Thayer Shedd

Publisher:

Scribner, Armstrong & Co.

, 1872

Overview

Although Shedd is often remembered as a theologian and historian, he also devoted his writing to the theory and practice of preaching. He forcefully argues that rhetorical elegance—the kind required for good preaching—is not merely a matter of aesthetics, but of ethics. He describes the relationship between eloquence and exegesis, the process of choosing a text and crafting a sermon, and the nature of extemporaneous preaching. The second half of this volume defines and explains the relationship between preaching and pastoral theology. Shedd explores not only the intellectual responsibilities of clergy, but also the pastoral function of leadership.

Product Details

• Title: Homiletics and Pastoral Theology: With an Appendix
• Author: William G.T. Shedd
• Publisher: Charles Scribner & Co.
• Publication Date: 1891
• Pages: 445

About William Greenough Thayer Shedd

William Shedd (1820–1894) is considered one of the greatest theologians of the American Presbyterian church. He studied at the University of Vermont under James Marsh, where he encountered the writings of Samuel Taylor. Shedd graduated from Andover Theological Seminary in 1843 and, soon after, became a minister for a congregational church in Vermont for two years.

Shedd taught at many universities, including University of Vermont, Auburn Theological Seminary, Andover Theological Seminary, and Union Theological Seminary. While at Union, Shedd defended the Reformed theology of Old School Presbyterian against the increasing influence of modernism and higher criticism.

One of Shedd’s better-known titles is Dogmatic Theology. Other titles include A History of Christian Doctrine and The Doctrine of Endless Punishment, which can be found in the William G. T. Shedd Collection.