Power in images

In a conversation tonight with a few of my classmates I was brought to my attention that the Homiletics professor at Trinity is opposed to the use of things like Powerpoint and other visual aides in delivering a sermon. It is his position that God speaks through the words that come from the preacher's mouth, and that alone is sufficient and all that is necessary in delivering a sermon. Anything else simply distracts from the words being spoken.

As I think back on memorable experiences of my life, I see them in images. I do not often remember the words being spoken at the time. I can see the colors, I recall the lights. Sometimes I can even recall the smells. But words just don't hang with me. I don't think that this is particular to me. It seems to be a common sentiment with people my age.

I don't know if this holds for people of all generations. I have only heard people close to my age articulate the power of images in this way. This may signal a fundamental shift in the way we approach corporate worship.

I plan to discuss this with the professor soon. I am understand to hear what he has to say.