Recognition as the Spark in the Exchange of Ownership of a Sermon

Abstract

Homiletics research indicates that worshippers must contend with a process of recognition during preaching. This article identifies two possible impediments to the listening process, namely schemata and inner speech. The research question is: To what extent can a clear understanding of recognition entail mindful (active) listening and how would such listening influence the ownership of a sermon? A listener’s recognition has to do with remembering or recollecting familiar things, events and words. Remembering brings new meaning and understanding. Recognition is the spark that ignites listeners’ ability to participate in the listening process so that there can be an exchange of sermon ownership. This investigation was done from a practical-theological vantage point with intra-disciplinary engagement with social psychology and communication sciences. Anamnesis is examined from the perspective of recognition viewed philosophically as well as via Hebrews 5:11–16 and James 1:19–22. After a hermeneutic consolidation of the different insights, the article closes with homiletic perspectives on the creative functioning of recognition as part of active listening.