The Witness of Preaching

by Thomas G. Long

I. Upsetting the equilibrium (Conflict). In this opening stage, which we have already described, the preacher poses the “problem” of the sermon in a way that can be felt by the hearers. II. Analyzing the discrepancy (Complication). In this stage the preacher diagnoses the problem by exploring it in detail and articulating the reasons that it exists in human experience. III. Disclosing the clue to resolution (Sudden Shift). Here is where the “Aha!” comes in Lowry’s form. In this stage the preacher supplies the clue from the gospel that provides the resolution for the problem. Lowry is quick to point out, though, that since the resolution comes from the gospel and not from “worldly wisdom,” this moment in the sermon has the air of surprise about it. There is a “reversal” of the hearers’ expectations, and this clue comes “by means of sudden illumination.”13 IV. Experiencing the gospel. In this stage, the clue disclosed in the previous stage is fleshed out in terms of its fuller meaning, a stage in which the good news grasps the minds and hearts of the hearers. V. Anticipating the consequences (Unfolding). In this final stage, the new discovery of the gospel is projected onto the future. “What—in the light of this intersection of human condition with the gospel—can be expected, should be done, or is now possible?”