Sermons as an Artform

Sermons as an art form in the 18^th century seem to come from two avenues, rhetoric and satire. John Wesley's sermons are an example of the powerful rhetoric that was expressed during this time period, while Jonathan Swift is a reliable example of satire through sermons that was utilized to gain the

interest of the masses.

John Wesley introduces sermons based on biblical principles. In his sermon 125, based on

Ephesians 2:12, or living without God; he compares living without God to a frog that only exists based

on circumstance with nothing to gain out of life. He continues to say, "From hence we may clearly

perceive the wide difference there is between Christianity and morality. Indeed nothing can be more

sure than that true Christianity cannot exist without both the inward experience and outward practice

of justice, mercy, and truth; and this alone is given in morality. But it is equally certain that all morality,

all the justice, mercy, and truth which can possibly exist without Christianity, profiteth nothing at all, is

of no value in the sight of God, to those that are under the Christian dispensation. Let it be observed, I

purposely add, "to those that are under the Christian dispensation," because I have no authority from

the Word of God "to judge those that are without."

His works were powerfully effective during his time while preaching live, and is still valuable to

the truths today we believe as Christians. The rhetorical stance of John Wesley's sermons have escaped

time and still bring goose bumps to audiences.

Jonathan Swift's A Modest Proposal is an excellent example of provoking the interest of

individuals by using his satirical nature in writing. The piece reflects on Irelands struggle with poverty

and malnutrition that can develop due to poverty stricken families. His satire addresses families putting

their children to work, or eating them as a food resource. Obviously he is joking, the satirical nature of

the piece -- yet he sparks the interest of others and provides motivation for change amongst the people

of Ireland.

" I profess, in the sincerity of my heart, that I have not the least personal interest in endeavoring

to promote this necessary work, having no other motive than the public good of my country, by

advancing our trade, providing for infants, relieving the poor, and giving some pleasure to the rich. I

have no children by which I can propose to get a single penny; the youngest being nine years old, and

my wife past child-bearing." (Jonathan Swift, Modest Proposal)

Rhetoric and satire were both effective means of providing information to large groups of

people and both methods that were successful. The qualities of rhetoric and satire have provided

examples of sermons as a great art form.

Works Cited:

Swift, Jonathan. A Modest Proposal. Acquired September 29, 2009.

http://art-bin.com/art/omodest.html#hit

Wesley, John. John Wesley's Sermons. Acquired. September 29, 2009. http://gbgmumc.org/umhistory/wesley/sermons/