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The Voice in Speech and Song
comical to create a laugh over his opponent, or when he is sarcastic
and sharp, and rails upon him, he does that which the Saviour of the
world did not dare to do; for he places himself upon the enemy’s
ground.—
Testimonies for the Church 3:220
.
Pure Provender With No Chaff—The preaching of the Word
should appeal to the intellect, and should impart knowledge, but it
should do more than this. The words of the minister should reach the
hearts of the hearers. Neither is it the object of preaching to amuse.
Some ministers have adopted a style of preaching that has not the best
influence. It has become a habit with them to weave anecdotes into
their discourses. The impression thus made upon the hearers is not
a savor of life unto life. Ministers should not bring amusing stories
into their preaching. The people need pure provender, thoroughly
winnowed from the chaff. “Preach the Word,” was the charge that Paul
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gave to Timothy, and this is our commission also.
The minister who mixes storytelling with his discourses is using
strange fire. God is offended, and the cause of truth is dishonored,
when His representatives descend to the use of cheap, trifling words.
My brethren, you are required by our Saviour to take heed how
you witness for Him. You need to go deeper and still deeper in the
study of the Word. You have all classes of minds to meet, and as you
teach the truths of the sacred Word, you are to manifest earnestness,
respect, and reverence. Weed out storytelling from your discourses,
and preach the Word. You will then have more sheaves to bring to
the Master. Remember that in your audience there are those who are
constantly harassed by temptation. Some are wrestling with doubt,
almost in despair, almost hopeless. Ask God to help you to speak
words that will strengthen them for the conflict.—
The Review and
Herald, December 22, 1904
.
Irrelevant Anecdotes—Ministers should not make a practice of
relating irrelevant anecdotes in connection with their sermons; for
this detracts from the force of the truth presented. The relation of
anecdotes or incidents that create a laugh or a light thought in the
minds of the hearers is severely censurable. The truth should be
clothed in chaste, dignified language; and the illustrations used should
be of a like character.—
Gospel Workers, 166
.
Comic Illustrations—A minister of the gospel should not be re-
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gardless of his attitude. If he is the representative of Christ, his deport-