Week Eleven - Humor

Question 1

According to Dr. Bland, what functions does humor serve?

Answer 1

1. Puts life and mistakes in perspective. Being able to laugh at self is an indication one accepts self.
2. Reminds us of our fragile nature. Preparation phase for faith. I’m not God. I don’t run the world
3. It enables to transcend the moment. Helps us to connect with others.
4. Humor serves as a coping mechanism
5. Humor is a Christian virtue

Question 2

According to Dr. Bland, what are some inappropriate uses of humor in the sermon?

Answer 2

1. Beginning the sermon with a joke to warm up the audience.
2. Joke for the sake of getting a laugh has no place in the sermon
3. Humor that demeans another person
4. Off colored humor
5. Sarcasm (Buttrick)
6. Getting a laugh only for the sake of an ego stroke

Question 3

List appropriate uses of humor in the pulpit

Answer 3

Natural unfolding of the sermon or of a sermon

Sarcasm can be appropriate when directed to self (the preacher)

Question 4

Humor is the WD40 of life

Answer 4

Like WD40, it helps us to analyze and dissect life. Humor helps us to think outside the box (analogy of cremation). Sometimes we forget where we fit in life. Humor helps us to regain perspective.

Question 5

Humor is the duct tape of life

Answer 5

Like duct tape, it helps us to reassemble and see things in a new light. It brings people together.

Question 6

According to Susan Sparks how can humor empower us to live our faith in everyday life?

Answer 6

If we can laugh at ourselves, we can forgive ourselves. If we can forgive ourselves, we can forgive others

Question 7

What is Craddock’s view on using jokes in sermons?

Answer 7

Most jokes have already been heard, so avoid them.

A joke is a complete piece of material with no loose ends to tie into the sermon

Question 8

What’s Craddock’s view on displaying emotions in the sermon?

Answer 8

Don’t want to laugh or cry about the wrong thing

Don’t want to violate people by hurting their feelings.