Preaching
207
attitudes and expressions calculated for effect. They do not occupy the
sacred desk as actors, but as teachers of solemn truths. There are also
fanatical ministers, who, in attempting to preach Christ, storm, halloo,
jump up and down, and pound the desk before them, as if this bodily
exercise profited anything. Such antics lend no force to the truths ut-
tered, but, on the contrary, disgust men and women of calm judgment
and elevated views. It is the duty of men who give themselves to the
ministry to leave all coarseness and boisterous conduct outside the
desk at least.—
Evangelism, 640
.
Refine your pulpit decorum—The man of God, the minister of
Christ, is required to be thoroughly furnished unto all good works. A
pompous minister, all dignity, is not needed for this good work. But
decorum is necessary in the desk. A minister of the gospel should not
be regardless of his attitude. If he is the representative of Christ, his
deportment, his attitude, his gestures, should be of such a character
as will not strike the beholder with disgust. Ministers should pos-
sess refinement. They should discard all uncouth manners, attitudes,
and gestures, and should encourage in themselves humble dignity of
bearing.—
Testimonies for the Church 1:648, 649
.
Delivery—Voice and Diction
The unnatural strain of a forced voice in an unnatural tone
wearies both preacher and people—A mistake has been made by
many in their religious exercises in long praying and long preaching,
upon a high key, with a forced voice, in an unnatural strain and an
unnatural tone. The minister has needlessly wearied himself and
really distressed the people by hard, labored exercise, which is all
unnecessary. Ministers should speak in a manner to reach and impress
the people. The teachings of Christ were impressive and solemn; His
[199]
voice was melodious. And should not we, as well as Christ, study to
have melody in our voices?—
Testimonies for the Church 2:617
.
Preserve your usefulness by following the rules of proper
speaking—Some of our most talented ministers are doing themselves
great injury by their defective manner of speaking. While teaching
the people their duty to obey God’s moral law, they should not be
found violating the laws of God in regard to health and life. Ministers
should stand erect, and speak slowly, firmly, and distinctly, taking a