Session 1 – Communication Theory and the Ministry of Christ
Communication is not a new phenomenon. It has always existed and played a part in human history. Communication has been an essential element in life and society. It is so fundamental and so necessary that we practice communication—good and bad—without even knowing we do.
Communication is so indispensable that all personal and social development is impossible without it. All social organization depends on communication. In fact, all our life is communication. All we do as family, church, village, city, etc. is influenced by communication.
The church adheres to a conception of life based upon belief in God and obedience to the Bible. Christians hold on to the idea that its message is vitally important: the Gospel of new life that one must communicate to the world.
But, how can we succeed in communicating our Message without intentional practice? As we go through the course, we will discover how to communicate better.
II. DEFINITIONS OF COMMUNICATION
III. ANALYSIS OF THE PROCESS OF COMMUNICATION
IV. TYPES OF COMMUNICATION
V. COMMUNICATION IS MORE THAN TRANSMISSION
Session 2 – Effective Communication
➢ WHAT ARE THE MEANS OF COMMUNICATION?
The means of communication are numerous. Here is a variety of methods for better communication of the Gospel.
I. WHAT ARE THE MEANS OF COMMUNICATION?
II. FIVE QUALITIES OF A GOOD COMMUNICATOR
Session 3 – Communication and Culture
The Church of the Nazarene works in many world areas, but historically began in North America. Work and Witness teams as well as other visitors from Western cultures interact with Nazarenes in Africa, but because the cultural gap is large, sometimes misunderstandings arise. By comparing Western and non-Western cultures, communication between these groups can improve. The goal is to foster better relationships and more effective cooperation for the advancement of the Kingdom
I. CULTURAL VALUE ORIENTATION
II. CULTURAL DIFFERENCES BETWEEN EAST AND WEST
Session 4 – IMPROVING ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION
We live in a rapidly changing world, and Africa is part of the technology revolution. This includes the widespread use of computers and cell phones (“smart phones”) that allow the sending of SMS text messages plus access to e-mail and social networks via the Internet. These are powerful tools for communication, but in the words of a popular film: “With great power comes great responsibility.” These can be tools to build up the Body of Christ or to tear it down.
INTRODUCTION: WHY THIS LESSON?
II. USING SOCIAL NETWORKS AND WEBLOGS TO FURTHER THE CAUSE OF CHRIST
III. TIPS FOR MORE EFFECTIVE E-MAIL COMMUNICATION
Session 5 – IMPROVING SPEECH COMMUNICATION
The study of speechmaking is called rhetoric. From the earliest times, those who have mastered this fine art have been influential in their cultures. For a minister of the Gospel, learning how to make a good speech is helpful in many ways. Many of the principles of good speechmaking apply as well to the art of homiletics (preaching). Furthermore, a minister may be asked to introduce a visiting dignitary or perhaps to represent the interests of his or her village at a government hearing. Some knowledge of rhetoric and its principles can be very useful at such a time.
There are many types of speeches that will not be addressed in this lesson. The two that are most useful will be covered, namely, the introductory speech (i.e. introducing someone else) and the persuasive speech. At the end of this lesson, you will be given time to prepare a speech. But first, let us briefly look at a handful of rhetorical devices.
II. HOW TO SPEAK USING AN INTERPRETER
III. THE SPEECH OF INTRODUCTION
IV. THE PERSUASIVE SPEECH
V. VOCAL TECHNIQUES AND OTHER TIPS