Chapter 51—Refinement and Solemnity of Demeanor
No Need for Sensationalism—The Lord calls upon you to make
decided improvement in your manner of presenting the truth. You
need not be sensational. Preach the Word, as Christ, the Son of God,
preached the Word. Violent gesticulations detract greatly from the
impressions the truth would make upon human hearts, and lessen the
force of the demonstrations of the Spirit of God. They efface the
solemn impressions regarding God’s Word that holy angels desire
shall be made upon minds.—
Evangelism, 184
.
Awkward and Uncouth Gestures—Awkward and uncouth ges-
tures are not to be tolerated in the common walks of life; how much
less, then, are they to be endured in the most sacred work of the gospel
ministry. The minister should cultivate grace, courtesy, and refinement
of manner. He should carry himself with a quiet dignity becoming his
elevated calling. Solemnity, a certain godly authority, mingled with
meekness, should characterize the demeanor of him who is a teacher
of God’s truth.—
Evangelism, 640
.
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