In "The more you know, the more you see", Lester comments about the importance of being able to connect using images, however images need to be more than merely making services more interesting or entertaining. It is easy today with modern technology to go to Google images, download an image and project it using PowerPoint to enhance a presentation.
"More often than not, images that are remembered are the ones that combine
aesthetically pleasing design elements with content that matters. However, works
that combine both beauty and meaning are enormously difficult to produce."
Paul Martin Lester, Visual Communication: Images with Messages
Today we have so little time in comparison to other influences to make an impact on our congregation and we feel the need to compete with Hollywood and their massive budgets in communicating our message. We must always remember that we are there to proclaim the gospel and that message shouldn't be confused or subverted by a pretty picture, images need to support the theme not merely exist as part of presentation that shows the preacher can use PowerPoint.
It is a skill to use images well, last week I observed my pastor within 30 seconds searching, selecting, and presenting an image to support the theme of the message, this approach misses the opportunity to connect fully the message and the imagery so as to create synergy where by the sum of the parts (spoken word, and visual imagery) work together to create a message that is more memorable, and transformative than the constituent parts would on there own.
Andrew I must admit and agree that it is sometimes very tempting to hit the search button in google images in an effort to "spice up" my "dull looking" powerpoint full of verses and words! Then I always try to remind myself that the Word should always stay the center.
ReplyDeleteI also believe it is VERY important to find that fine balance in the right use of images in sermons. Images is for sure very important, but needs to be used with caution and wisdom!
Images are very good if properly used and in the correct dosages. If put in the wrong place they are like a fly in the soup. They can also compete with the message for the attention of the hearer. the attention itself is not the problem but the memory and retention must give advantage to the message of the text not the image used. Images must help clarify the text.
ReplyDeleteAndrew, Thanks for your very thoughtful blog posts. You have put significant thought into these posts, and I'm grateful for the depth of your thinking. Blessings on your ministry, Lynne
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