Communication

Definition

"The student is able to persuade others with respect to biblical and theological truth through oral, written, and electronic media."

Overall Reflection Statement

My communication competency is demonstrated in my Ministry Profile in three different ways. A sampling of a lesson communicated orally, written questions from a Bible study, and a monologue used creatively to teach are included. All of these examples were used during my internship at Stonebriar Community Church in Women's ministry. During my three years at Dallas Theological Seminary I have studied and demonstrated effective methods to communicate God's Word to people. The desire to broaden my knowledge base and acquire additional skills has helped me engage adult learners. Sound teaching methods coupled with using art in its many forms deepens the experience of worship and learning. I have learned and experienced that a multi-sensory approach to teaching enriches our corporate experience in connecting with God.

Video Link - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LYCbLwfhGFU

This is a lesson that I taught from John 3:22 - 4:45. We studied lessons learned from an encounter Jesus had with a Samaritan woman. The video was taken during the Wednesday morning or evening women's Bible study at Stonebriar Community Church. 

The Samaritan woman did not let the things she had done stop her from telling people about Jesus. With her spiritual thirst satisfied, she stopped looking for fulfillment in the deep dry wells of human relationships. Her transformation was immediate and obvious. Formerly empty, the Samaritan woman received from Jesus a well of water springing up to eternal life. Overjoyed, she shared the Good News  and gave her testimony to others. Jesus is the One! He is the Savior of the world.

Who is the Samaritan woman in your life? Have you grown weary of praying and allowed doubt to enter your mind? Recommit to praying for her. Ask the Lord to help you overcome your unbelief (Mark 9:23 - 24).

Are you willing to allow the Lord to use your scars for His glory? We are all Samaritan women. Pray now for the courage to share boldly what Jesus has done.

Learning Reflection

During my internship I have learned that active listening and careful observation are key to effective communication. Stephen Covey said to clear communication lines we must seek first to understand then be understood. I have focused this year on becoming a better listener. This has been an area of targeted growth. Good communication skills begins with listening. People feel valued when we pause patiently to hear what they have to say. It has been much more beneficial for me this year to practice not interrupting. God is glorified in our interactions with people when we listen attentively and hear also what is not being said.

Lifelong Development

Intentionally setting a goal this year to become a better listen helped me improve my communication skills overall. Since the point of communication is understanding other people, and being understood, I must continue to practice. One change that has helped is not assuming that I can finish someone else's thoughts or sentences. Shepherding seems to be more about practicing the ministry of presence, which often includes silence.   

Teaching samples:

John Bible Study Lesson 9

Mary Magdalene Monologue

Lay Institute Lesson on Discipleship