Brevity
159
a reserve of physical and mental power to meet inquiring minds, and
patiently seek to remove their doubts, and to establish their faith. Make
it manifest that we are handling weighty argument which you know
cannot be controverted. Teach by precept and example that the truth is
precious; that it brings light to your understanding and courage to your
heart. Keep a cheerful countenance. You will do this if you present the
truth in love. Ever bear in mind that eternal interests are at stake, and
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be prepared to engage in personal labor for those who desire help....
In plain, simple language, tell every soul what he must do to be
saved.—SpT Series A, No. 7, Page 8.
Long Sermons a Trial to Speaker and Hearers—Those who
shall be mouthpieces for God should know that their lips have been
touched with a live coal from off the altar, and present the truth in the
demonstration of the Spirit. But lengthy discourses are a taxation to
the speaker and a taxation to the hearers who have to sit so long. One
half the matter presented would be of more benefit to the hearer than
the large mass poured forth by the speaker. That which is spoken in
the first hour is of far more value if the sermon closes then than the
words that are spoken in an added half hour. There is a burying up of
the matter that has been presented.
This subject has been opened to me again and again that our min-
isters were making mistakes in talking so long as to wear away the
first forcible impression made upon the hearers. So large a mass of
matter is presented, which they cannot possibly retain and digest, that
all seems confused.—
Testimonies to Ministers and Gospel Workers,
256
.
Short Sermon, Testimony Service—The preaching service
should generally be short so that an opportunity may be given to
those who love God to express their gratitude and adoration. Prayer
and praise offered to God by His believing children honor and glorify
His name.—
Manuscript 32a, 1894
.
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Short Messages, Often Repeated—Let the message for this time
be presented, not in long, labored discourses, but in short talks, right
to the point. Lengthy sermons tax the strength of the speaker and the
patience of his hearers. If the speaker is one who feels the importance
of his message, he will need to be especially careful lest he overtax his
physical powers, and give the people more than they can remember.