The Science of Speaking in Sacrament Meeting | An Interview with Stephan Taeger

Stephan Taeger is an assistant professor in Ancient Scripture at
Brigham Young University. He received a PhD from BYU in
Instructional Design and Technology in 2018. Stephan's research
focuses on homiletics (the study of preaching), narrative
instruction, and ancient scripture. He is also an author and
co-host of the RVVL podcast with David Butler. Links Religious
Educator: "Using Elements of Narrative to Engage Students"
StephanTaeger.com RVVL Podcast Ears to Hear: Mini Sermons That Make
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Highlights Stephan shares insights into the art of giving talks (or
sermons) within the Latter-day Saint tradition, from his academic
background and teaching experience. He highlights the unique
aspects of Latter-day Saint preaching, contrasting it with the more
formal sermon traditions found in other Christian denominations.
Stephan emphasizes the importance of storytelling in effective
preaching, noting that narratives can create experiential learning
opportunities for the audience, allowing them to connect with the
message on a deeper level. He encourages speakers to focus on a
central question and a clear message, suggesting that personal
stories and scriptural examples can enhance the impact of their
talks. Throughout the episode, Stephan discusses the significance
of understanding the audience's needs and the role of the Holy
Spirit in facilitating change. He advocates for a balance between
using scripture and personal experiences, urging speakers to be
authentic and relatable while also drawing on the teachings of
living prophets. The conversation culminates in practical advice
for church leaders on how to set speakers up for success, including
providing clear guidance on topics and encouraging a focus on Jesus
Christ. Overall, this episode serves as a valuable resource for
anyone looking to improve their speaking skills and effectively
communicate gospel principles in a way that resonates with their
audience. 02:12 - Teaching at BYU and Engaging Non-Latter-day
Saints 04:41 - Understanding Non-Latter-day Saint Classes 06:07 -
PhD in Instructional Psychology and Homiletics 07:30 - The
Importance of Storytelling in Teaching 08:51 - Differences in
Preaching Traditions 10:12 - The Unique Nature of Latter-day Saint
Talks 11:34 - Purpose of Sermons and Building Faith 12:45 - The
Role of the Holy Spirit in Change 14:13 - Focus on Jesus Christ in
Messages 15:11 - Analyzing Unmet Needs in the Congregation 16:49 -
The Importance of Scripture and Prophetic Quotes 18:45 -
Discernment vs. Compliance in Teaching 19:48 - The Role of Personal
Interpretation of Scripture 22:09 - The Power of Story in Teaching
23:25 - Balancing Personal and Scriptural Stories 24:17 - The
Importance of Context in Scripture 25:31 - Encouraging Personal
Interpretation of Scripture 28:07 - Crafting a Clear Message for
Talks 30:24 - The Role of Emotion in Effective Speaking 31:16 -
Setting Up Speakers for Success 32:30 - Starting a Talk Effectively
41:00 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Effective Communication
The award-winning Leading Saints Podcast is one of the top
independent Latter-day Saints podcasts as part of nonprofit Leading
Saints' mission to help Latter-day Saints be better prepared to
lead. Learn more and listen to any of the past episodes for free at
LeadingSaints.org. Past guests include Emily Belle Freeman, David
Butler, Hank Smith, John Bytheway, Reyna and Elena Aburto, Liz
Wiseman, Stephen M. R. Covey, Elder Alvin F. Meredith III, Julie
Beck, Brad Wilcox, Jody Moore, Tony Overbay, John H. Groberg,
Elaine Dalton, Tad R. Callister, Lynn G. Robbins, J. Devn Cornish,
Bonnie Oscarson, Dennis B. Neuenschwander, Kirby Heyborne, Taysom
Hill Anthony Sweat, John Hilton III, Barbara Morgan Gardner, Blair
Hodges, Whitney Johnson, Ryan Gottfredson, Greg McKeown, Ganel-Lyn
Condie,