Papers by David T Averill
This paper discusses concepts from the scientific field of information theory to describe the mec... more This paper discusses concepts from the scientific field of information theory to describe the mechanics of collaborative preaching, which provides a feedback loop to overcome the communication gap between preacher and congregation. Connecting information theory to scripture, I utilized Jesus’ “Parable of the Sower” in Matthew 13 to provide scriptural support for information theory and the use of collaborative preaching.
Pittsburgh Theological Seminary Barbour Library, 2019
A prior study of a congregation in Winter Haven, Florida revealed an overlap in perceived, ideal ... more A prior study of a congregation in Winter Haven, Florida revealed an overlap in perceived, ideal qualities of clergy and lay leaders of the church. However, these qualities were limited to exclusively shepherding and teaching roles. Through preaching a 5-week sermon series, this project began to shape a vision of shared ministry and leadership in this local church among clergy and laity alike. The series used the APEST model of Ephesians 4, taken from the missional hermeneutic of Alan Hirsch. The project assessed the emergence of an inchoate understanding of the missional imperative through ethnographic data, gathered in a sermon roundtable, and surveys collected congregationally.
Drafts by David T Averill
Drawing on research from Duke Divinity's Pulpit and Pew Research Initiative, the author sought to... more Drawing on research from Duke Divinity's Pulpit and Pew Research Initiative, the author sought to discover from his own congregation what qualities they desire in lay leadership of the church. Then, using those findings, the author aligned 10 essential qualities with Biblical qualities presented in Ephesians 4 and I Timothy 3, along with contemporary models of leadership presented in other works to create a rubric bridging the gap between clergy and lay leadership within the local church.
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Papers by David T Averill
Drafts by David T Averill