Preaching
199
of the gospel that he will present these truths to the people in love and
[192]
deep earnestness. The minister will then be lost sight of and Jesus
magnified. The people will be so impressed with these all-absorbing
subjects that they will talk of them and praise them, instead of praising
the minister, the mere instrument.—
Testimonies for the Church 4:399
.
Christ-centered sermons come from Christ-centered preach-
ers—Will my brethren take heed that no glory is given to men? Will
they acknowledge that Christ does the work upon the human heart,
and not they themselves? Will my ministering brethren plead with
God alone in secret prayer for his presence and his power? Dare not
to preach another discourse until you know, by your own experience,
what Christ is to you.—
Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers,
154, 155
.
Relating Faith to Life
Through visitation, ministers learn how to feed the flock—It is
in the labor out of the pulpit, among families, that the richest and most
valuable experience is gained, and that the minister learns how he can
feed the flock of God, giving to each his portion of meat in due season.
If there is a backslider, the shepherd knows how to present the truth in
such a manner that the soul will be convicted. He will leave the ninety
and nine, and seek the lost sheep. But if the shepherd does not visit
his flock, he knows not their condition, he knows not what truths to
set before them, nor what is appropriate to their case.—
Appeal and
Suggestions to Conference Officers, 18
(Ph 2).
Practical Application
Practical religion should have a place in every discourse—A
constant effort to promote personal piety should be seen in the min-
ister’s public labors. Sermon after sermon should not be given on
the prophecies alone. Practical religion should have a place in every
discourse.—
The Signs of the Times, March 16, 1882
.
Sermons should fortify hearers for the daily battles of life—
Paul was an eloquent speaker. Before his conversion he had often
sought to impress his hearers by flights of oratory. But now he set all
this aside. Instead of indulging in poetic descriptions and fanciful rep-