Another Twist On It

One of the “topos” which can be used to help generate ideas during the preparation of a sermon or speech is called the topos of place.

Here is another twist on that “topos” — which can be used to drive home a point and/or create a BigIdea.

Let me begin by first giving an example . . . .

“Strange they should applaud the servant
in the Master’s house.”

— author unknown —
Luke 17:9

Now . . . .Go Analytical:

First of all, do you see what makes that work?

1- Emotive Evaluation:  Strange
2 – Action: Applaud
3 – Place: Master’s house

That is the pattern.  Once we understand the pattern, we can reproduce its usefulness.

1- Emotive Evaluation:  Confusing / Remarkable / Uncomfortable / Disturbing / Shocking / Convicting / Challenging / Difficult / Tempting . . . . . . .

2 – Action: Say / Repeat / Claim / Include / React / Praise / Rebuke / Heal / Speak / Sin (steal, lie, adultery, cheat, kill, etc.) / Repent / Confess / Reject / Stumble / Argue . . . . . . . .

3 – Place: Desert / Here / Now / In Samaria / At this time / In front of / When / While / In front of / Knowing that / In abundance / In want / In jail / In Egypt / After crossing the Red Sea / After / During / Before . . . . . . . . .

 

Examples:

√  Isn’t it remarkable that Jesus would talk about forgiveness while being crucified?
• BigIdea: Remarkable living includes forgiveness midst injustice.

√  Isn’t it convicting that David would respond so quickly when confronted with one of his most terrible transgressions?
• BigIdea: The response to conviction reflects the heart’s condition.

√  Isn’t it disturbing that Achan would steal during a time of great victory?
√  BigIdea: Victory does not negate temptation.

√  As odd as Paul and Silas singing in Jail.
√  Circumstance is not the origin of one’s joy.  – Gary Fultz