The Exploratory Function of Metaphors

Have you ever metaphor that you didn’t like? Or, tried to describe the inexplicable Other? We know that we speak metaphorically, but how do metaphors function? What’s at stake in the use and neglect of our religious language? How can we create better metaphors for interpreting the world and exploring the Christian life? This three-part series focuses on metaphorical theory as a theological tool. It has direct application for preaching, Bible study, pastoral care and congregational formation.

Session 1: Juliet is the Sun: The Incremental Theory of Metaphor
Session 2: The Inexplicable Other: Metaphors and Religious Language
Session 3: Life is a Journey: Conceptual Metaphors

View course information, including recommended readings and session descriptions

Cost: $30

Limit: 30 participants course option

About Thinking Theologically

Thinking Theologically offers concepts, tools and theories for accompanying people on their journey to God. Showcasing practical resources that have been largely overlooked in theological formation, these courses provision church leaders in relevant approaches to everyday faith. Consisting of teachings, exercises and small group discussions, each of the courses has practical applications to personal faith, church leadership and congregational development, including preaching and pastoral care. Thinking Theologically invites church leaders on a sojourn of personal renewal and professional development.

All courses are held via Zoom.

Meet the Course Leader

Courses will be led by Rev. Rodney Aist, PhD. Rodney grew up in the First UMC of Warrensburg, Missouri, where he received his call to ministry as a teenager. An ordained elder in the New Mexico Annual Conference, he has served Christian communities in Arkansas, Scotland, Jerusalem, Italy and the Navajo Nation. A Holy Land scholar with a focus on Christian pilgrimage, past and present, Rodney directs a Doctor of Ministry program in pilgrimage and spirituality at Drew Theological School in New Jersey. His recent publications include Jerusalem Bound: How to be a Pilgrim in the Holy Land (2020) and Pilgrim Spirituality: Defining Pilgrimage Again for the First Time (forthcoming).