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

Leading Saints Podcast

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 You Think Share your thoughts in the Leading Saints community Transcript coming soon Get 14-day access to the Core Leader Library 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,