Tuesday Teaching Tip 221

5 Lesser-Known Public Speaking Rules Every Young Professional Needs To Know – Part 3

Introduction

“Existing literature on the art of public speaking is extensive: ranging from preparation and confidence to body language and tonality, the list of ‘golden rules’ is abundant — but mechanical. The following five rules are lesser-known approaches to public speaking and will insert dynamism, nuance, and distinction to your communication toolbox.” Forbes Magasine: Ali Shahbaz

  • Let’s have a look at the third of these ‘lesser-known’ approaches and see if it might help our preaching and teaching of God’s word.

Use tactical silence

  • “…the strategic use of silence nurtures this relationship as it provides space for absorption, and more importantly, reflection on your core message.”
  • “Jesus said to the man with the shriveled hand, “Stand up in front of everyone.” Then Jesus asked them, “Which is lawful on the Sabbath: to do good or to do evil, to save life or to kill?” But they remained silent. He looked around at them in anger and, deeply distressed at their stubborn hearts, said to the man, “Stretch out your hand.” He stretched it out, and his hand was completely restored.” (Mark 3:3–5 NIV11)
  • Silence give people time to think, to absorb what they have heard
  • Silence gives people time to let their feelings catch up with their thinking, or their thinking catch up with their feelings
  • Silence gives you time to gauge the reaction of your audience and how you should proceed

Conclusion

  • A lack of pausing prevents your audience from absorbing the information, gives the impression you are afraid of being contradicted, and reduces your listeners’ ability to concentrate.

Question: “What practical steps can you take to add silence into your next lesson?”

Please add your comments on this week’s topic. We learn best when we learn in community.

Do you have a question about teaching the Bible? Is it theological, technical, practical? Send me your questions or suggestions. Here’s the email: malcolm@malcolmcox.org.

If you’d like a copy of my free eBook on spiritual disciplines, “How God grows His people”, sign up at my website: http://www.malcolmcox.org.

Please pass the link on, subscribe, leave a review.

“Worship the LORD with gladness; come before him with joyful songs.” (Psalms 100:2 NIV11)

God bless, Malcolm

PS: You might also be interested in my book: “An elephant’s swimming pool”, a devotional look at the Gospel of John

Music: Purpose by Jonny Easton; https://youtube.com/channel/UCHJVYelCXpsV8P4EVWBgj0A Creative Commons Attribution license; Free Download / Stream: http://bit.ly/al-purpose; Music promoted by Audio Library https://youtu.be/TT2PftKt1P4