I really had fun trying to get more out of the sermon from Chat GPT in my last post. I had so much fun in fact that I decided to engage Chat GPT further on the topic of Homiletics in general. After my disappointment in its continuing rigid 3 point structuring of the sermons it provides, I decided to see if it even knew about the narrative homiletics movement.

Me: Do you understand narrativity as a Homiletical strategy?

Chat GPT: 

Yes, I understand narrativity as a homiletical strategy. Narrativity refers to the use of storytelling techniques and narrative elements in preaching. It involves structuring the sermon in a way that engages the congregation through the power of storytelling, connecting with their emotions and experiences.

By incorporating narrativity into a sermon, the preacher can create a compelling narrative arc that captures the attention of the listeners and helps them connect with the biblical text on a deeper level. It allows the congregation to enter into the story being presented, making the sermon more relatable and impactful.

Narrativity can be utilized in various ways, such as:

1. Introducing a narrative element at the beginning of the sermon to draw the listeners in and set the stage for the message.
2. Using stories, anecdotes, or personal experiences to illustrate key points and connect them to the biblical text.
3. Weaving a narrative thread throughout the sermon, connecting different parts of the message and creating a cohesive storyline.
4. Incorporating dialogue or dramatic elements to bring characters and events to life and make the sermon more engaging.
5. Employing suspense, tension, or resolution to keep the listeners engaged and eager to hear the unfolding story.

The use of narrativity in preaching can help communicate complex theological concepts in a more accessible and memorable way. It allows the congregation to see themselves as part of the biblical narrative and invites them to consider how the truths presented in the sermon relate to their own lives.

Overall, narrativity is a valuable homiletical strategy that adds depth, relatability, and emotional connection to the preaching experience, enabling the congregation to encounter God’s truth in a compelling and transformative manner.

Me: That is a good explanation. Thank you. I would like you to use more of a narrative Homiletic strategy the next time I request a sermon.

Chat GPT: Certainly! I’ll keep that in mind for future sermon requests. When you provide a specific text or topic for the sermon, I’ll aim to incorporate a narrative homiletic strategy that engages the congregation through storytelling, character development, and a cohesive narrative arc. This approach can help to create a more immersive and relatable experience for the listeners as they journey through the message being conveyed. Thank you for your feedback, and I look forward to crafting a narrative-based sermon for you in the future.

Ok so now I am excited to see how it thinks through offering a narratival sermon outline for next Sunday’s sermon. But I also wanted to be sure it understood I did not like the three points:

Me: Be sure also not to do three points. I really don’t like three point sermons. They are cliche.

Chat GPT: Understood. I’ll make sure to avoid using a three-point structure in the sermons I provide. I appreciate your preference for a sermon format that deviates from the traditional three-point outline. I’ll strive to offer sermons with a more unique and engaging structure that aligns with your preferences. Thank you for clarifying your request, and I’ll do my best to meet your expectations in future sermon responses.

Again, I will have to just see what it can come up with when I ask it about my next sermon. We shall see!