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This dissertation was inspired by David Larsen’s critique of Robert Greene Lee in The Company of the Preachers, which characterized Lee as a good example from an earlier period, but not one that should serve as a model for future generations. To evaluate Larsen’s claim, this study analyzes Lee’s life and preaching. Beginning with an overview of rhetoric and its complex history, the study argues that a sermon’s efficacy can, in part, be assessed through rhetorical methods proven effective over generations—devices that demonstrate both eloquence and durability, when properly employed. A framework was developed to evaluate Lee’s sermons through the lens of selected rhetorical devices, concluding that his preaching exemplifies a durability that serves as a model for effectively communicating the gospel across generations.
Drawing from Farnsworth’s Classical English Rhetoric, this study analyzed 101 of Lee’s sermons using the twenty-two rhetorical devices identified by Ward Farnsworth. Each device was cataloged in a database, ranked by frequency of use, and assessed for its purpose and effectiveness. Distinct patterns emerged, highlighting Lee’s consistent and intentional application of rhetorical techniques. Chapters four and five explore these patterns in detail, offering examples and evaluations of Lee’s use of these devices within his sermons.
While some criticisms of Lee are valid, this dissertation concludes that his preaching and ministry remain a valuable model for contemporary ministry—not for the specific style of his sermons, but for his disciplined approach to preparation, emphasis on rhetorical skill, and commitment to continuous growth through reading. The conclusion presents two key findings. First, Lee deliberately prioritized language in his sermons, mastering the English language to deliver messages with both power and precision. Second, he immersed himself in the writings of skilled communicators, which allowed him to learn how to communicate effectively. Proficiency in rhetorical devices, as Lee demonstrated, requires more than theoretical understanding; it develops through sustained exposure to their use by masters of the craft. In these ways, Lee provides a compelling model for future generations of preachers.