From the very beginning, religious leaders have influenced the course of American history-sometimes for better, sometimes for worse. This book examines those Christian sermons that set or changed the course of the nation. What did 18th-century preacher Jonathan Edwards really mean to convey with is "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God" sermon? What Southern minister did most to encourage secession of the Southern states from the Union? And why does Martin Luther King Jr. need to be remembered for more than his "I Have a Dream" speech? This book examines the sermons that have shaped American history from the Massachusetts Bay Colony to the Obama administration. It provides extended biographical treatments of those who preached them, thereby providing readers with the historical context of the sermon, an explanation of what made these orations so effective, and an understanding of the role of religion in American history. Author O.C. Edwards Jr. supplies insightful and interesting coverage of Christian preachers and sermons that will engage anyone interested in America's religious or social history. The book addresses the religious philosophies and speeches of individuals such as William Sloan Coffin Jr., Russell Conwell, Charles Coughlin, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Billy Graham, Anne Hutchinson, Martin Luther King Jr., Patricia Merchant, John Winthrop, and Jeremiah Wright. Provides approachable information that helps any reader understand the role of religion in American history Supplies insights from the author of the award-winning A History of Preaching hailed as a definitive work by critics Presents accurate and scholarly yet lively and engaging coverage of important preachers and sermons throughout American history

This companion volume to "Elements of Rite" offers a methodical approach to the homily. It gives step-by-step instructions for preparing, constructing, and delivering a homily that not merely instructs but evangelizes.