Date

8-6-2025

Department

Rawlings School of Divinity

Degree

Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Chair

Jacob Dunlow

Keywords

Biblical Exegesis, Biblical Hermeneutics, Preaching, Lectio Divina, Holy Spirit, Youth Pastor

Disciplines

Practical Theology | Religion

Abstract

Powerful preaching results from honoring the Word and Spirit as active participants in the sermon preparation process. However, the influence of postmodernism and the lack of resources clarifying this convergence point have led to a polarization of perspectives in biblical exegesis. Therefore, this DMIN action research project designed, implemented, and evaluated a Pneuma and Logos Approach to biblical exegesis based on five essential pillars of hermeneutics, derived from William Oliverio’s Pentecostal Hermeneutics in the Late Modern World. By integrating inductive skills of biblical exegesis with holistic habits of Lectio Divina, this project proposes that stronger sermon preparation skills can be fostered, thereby equipping a community of ministers to conduct biblical exegesis according to once-polarized perspectives. Fourteen youth pastors were equipped with the approach through a workshop designed for relational community engagement. A mixed-methods approach guided the collection of quantitative data from pre- and post-workshop surveys, as well as qualitative data from a written questionnaire, interviews, and a focus group. The project resulted in an evident increase in sermon preparation skills and habits alongside a decrease in polarized perspectives, affirming the efficacy of the approach. Preachers, therefore, are encouraged to undergo intentional training in biblical exegesis that integrates pneuma habits with logos elements and engage with this approach consistently in a small group community. In doing so, a Spirit and Word perspective can emerge, enabling preachers to exegete Scripture while deepening their study.

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