Homiletics and pastoral theology - Shedd - X - Chapter 8 commenced

Required reading
Homiletics and pastoral theology by William G T Shedd (Available from Amazon or free here) - Commence Chapter 8 (The plan of a sermon) by reading up to the paragraph beginning: '4. The Conclusion is that part of the sermon which vigorously applies the truth which has been established in the proof, or developed in the treatment or discussion.'

My summary
Today we begin Shedd's chapter on the four components of a sermon:
(i) the introduction;
(ii) the proposition;
(iii) the proof;
(iv) the conclusion.

The conclusion is the component that we'll reserve for next week's reading.

So firstly, this week, we learn about the introduction: 'The introduction, in its nature, is preparatory. It does not lay down any truth ; it does not establish any doctrine ; it simply prepares the way for the fundamental parts, and necessary matter, of the discourse.'

Secondly Shedd teaches us about the proposition (which these days would probably go by the popular name, 'the big idea'): 'The Proposition is the enunciation of the particular truth which is to be established, and applied, in the sermon. It is, therefore, of a positive and affirmative nature.'

Thirdly Shedd discusses the proof which is the substance of the sermon.  The proof divides into parts which are sometimes denominated 'divisions'.  And these divisions should exhibit the following qualities:
(i) true logical force;
(ii) distinctive character by itself.

What grabbed me
I always like the encouragement to be logical in my sermons: 'First, they [the divisions] must possess a true logical force. By this is meant, that they must one and all go to establish the proposition. It is not enough, that they bear some affinity to the theme of the discourse, that they are not heterogeneous. They must be of the nature of demonstration, and carry conviction, as far as they extend, to the hearer's mind. At the conclusion of each head or division of proof, the auditor should feel that the proposition has received an additional, and real support.'

Three very different divisions in one sermon is either one confused big sermon or three mini sermons. 

Either way, such a discourse is probably not going to be much of a blessing to anyone.

Next week's reading
Conclude Chapter 8 (The plan of a sermon).

Now it's your turn
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.