^llBi
REV. J. G. WATKINS.
The Preacher
HIS PREPARATION and DELIVERY
O F
SERMONS
B Y
John C. Watkins
SUMTER, S. C.
NASHVI^E, TENN.:
A. M. E. Church Sunday School Union,
1906.
Entered, according to
Act of Congress, in the year
1906.
PREFACE.
After an experience covering twenty years or more
of preaching and hearing preachers, it is the candid
observation of the author, that there is a great deal
of so called eloquence in the pulpit of our day. To
use familiar every day expressions, there is much
"trash-moving" "thunder" "blunder-buss" and
"rousement"; but only here and there effective
preaching.
The rules of sacred rhetoric and of pulpit speaking
are too often entirely neglected. Such carelessness
and ignorance would not be tolerated in a lawyer, or
any other public speaker. The work of preaching
being the highest calling on earth, the highest style
and order of speaking are demanded. The themes
discussed take hold upon two worlds—God and man's
relation to Him—Salvation and the great beyond
should call forth the highest order of discourse.
The author of this little work, seeing the deficiency
and feeling his own in this respect, humbly and
prayerfully enters upon the task of giving some ideas
on the Preacher, his preparation, his material,
its arrangement, his style and his delivery.
This work is not designed to be an exhaustive treatise
on the important subject of Homiletics. Its object is
to help those who have had limited opportunities,
yet feel called of God, to the work of preaching the
(v)
vi
PREFACE.
Gospel. It is hoped that some hints and helpful sug¬
gestions may be received by those who may take the
time to peruse these pages. Those who have the
time to pursue the subject further; are referred to
such writers as Whately, Broad us and Palmer: on
reading sermons, Shedd; on style, Buffon and Jona¬
than Edwards. It may also be helpful to those
who have been blessed with training in this branch of
theology, by way of suggestion and recalling things
once learned but for the time forgotten.
Sunday school workers and la}'men may find some
helpful suggestions in chapter iv on "Preparation"
where Bible training is strongly urged, and in part v,
chapter I, Public Worship, where some hints are
given on prayer, etc.
If any should think the book worthy to be used as
a text book, it is divided into independent parts and
chapters so that either of which may be used first, as
it may occur to the teacher. Some may prefer to
begin with materials for Preaching, part iii and iv,
chapters i, ii and iii in order to help the student in
preparing sketches of sermons at once, or others may
begin with style and delivery, parts iii and iv, feeling
that it is of paramount importance to have correct
style and good delivery to begin with. It occurred
to the author that the plan adapted here is the most
natural and orderly, and the one best suited to the
needs of those hoped to be reached.
With these explanations we send forth this humble
yet pleasant effort, praying for God's blessing and
in reliance upon the Holy Ghost, to use it towards
enlightening and uplifting fallen humanity, by stim-
PREFACE.
vii
ulating my brethren of the Ministry to higher ideals
and better and more scientific work in calling sinners
out of darkness into the light and liberty of our Re¬
deemer. In edifying the saints, (the body of Christ,)
and spreading salvation to the end of the earth. The
author feels that he has only just touched here
and there the subject of Homiletics. As stated
above, this effort aims to give some hints and helpful
suggestions.
The author knows there is difference of opinion, as
to the preparation and delivery of sermons. The
author does not here claim perfection, neither infal¬
libility. Others would perhaps have treated the
subjects herein differently; but the object that
prompted this work has been helpfulness. Criticism,
adverse or favorable, is welcomed. Where the
author has erred he would be glad to know it.
Where the views are just they become more helpful
by discussion.
To preach the Gospel is solemn business, and he who
attempts to instruct others on this subject ass umes a
terrible responsibility. The author, because cf this
fact, has at every step, prayed the guidance of the
Holy Spirit.
July, 1904,
INTRODUCTION.
" Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman
that needeth not to be ashamed, tightly dividing the word
of truth" II Tim.2:15.
The importance of Bible study can not be over¬
estimated. Without method, literature and science
cannot be disseminated.
The Christian religion is a system of doctrine to be
received and of truths to be believed. All helps to
the study of the sacred Scriptures, should claim our
highest consideration and appreciation as a proper
understanding of them, is indispensable to the forma¬
tion of that character in man, which produces his
full duty to God and to his fellowman.
As a means of preparation, for the Ministry and the
arduous duties consequent thereupon, in this age of
severe criticisms, toocnuch stress can not be laid upon
the necessity of a careful study, and consultation of
the best writers on theology. Whatever legitimate
means, therefore can be produced for increasing an
interest in Bible knowledge among our young people
ought to be hailed with delight.
Doctrine and discipline are of paramount impor¬
tance to the establishment of the Christian church.
We heartily recommend this carefully prepared work.
The plan is unique and effective—Specially adapted
to students for the Ministry.
(viii)
INTRODUCTION.
ix
As a pulpit assistant, its style is easy, plain and
comprehensive. We earnestly desire that this very
helpful book will be extensively circulated and care¬
fully read in order that great and lasting good may
be accomplished everywhere as the result of the in¬
tention of its author.
J. G. Sampson, D. D.,P. E., Orangeburg District,
North East Conference, A. M. E. Church,
July 4, 1904.
Sumter, S. C.
CONTENTS.
PART I.
CHAPTER I.
Homiletics
What? Its Important
CHAPTER II.
Preaching
What? The Hightest Calling-.—Characteristic of the
Christian Church. Nothing can take its Place. The
Printing Press, the Lecture Platform, Religious Ceremonies,
Sacred Pictures, nor Pastoral Work
CHAPTER III.
The Preacher
The Call and the Evidences:—Piety. Knowledge.
Gifts. Skill
CHAPTER IV.
Preparation
BibleTraining-.—Systematic Theology. Church History.
Pastoral Theology. Mission Work, current Topics and
Rhetoric and Language. Caution:—Think i ng too much
of form of Discourse. Imitation. Avoid Affection
(x)
CONTENTS.
xi
PART IL
CHAPTER I.
The Text
What? Advantages:—Gives Authority. Awakens In¬
terest. Assist the Memory. Keeps the Preacher from
Wandering. Gives Variety. Gives Opportunity to Ex¬
plain different portions of the Bible. Objections:—Lax¬
ity of Interpretation. Not Sticking to the Text, too
Confining. Rules for Selecting Texts:—Simple Text.
Not too Grander Text. Familiar Texts. Not Odd Text.
Appropiate Texts. Interesting Texts 24
CHAPTER II.
Interpretation of Text
Sources of Errot. Rules for Interpreting:—Sources of
Misunderstanding the Language, Disregarding the Con¬
nection. Improper Spiritualizing. Rules for Intetpre-
ting Texts. Grammatically. Lodgically. Historically.
Interpret According to the General Scope of Scripture.
Figuratively 31
CHAPTER III.
The Sermon—The several Parts
Introduction:—Three Reason Pot:—It gives an Air
of Authority. Greatest Interest. Calms and Collects
the Preacher. Sources From the Text. From the Subject.
From the Occasion. Good Introduction. A Related
Thought to the Subject. Not too Long. Not Stereo¬
typed. Plan and Division:—Plan Necessary. Divisions.
Simple. Related to Subject and to each other. Have Order.
Should be Stated. May be Preannounced. Transition.
xii
CONTENTS.
Easy. Conclusion:—Recapitulation. Application. Les¬
son. Suggestions. Persuasion 36
CHAPTER IV.
Kinds of Sermons
Subject—Sermon:—Advantages. Unity. Train the
Preacher to be Logical and Analytical. Pleasing.
Text—Sermons. Expository—Sermons:—Advantages.
Primitive Method. Requires a Knowledge of the Script¬
ures. Hear God in Speaking. Keeps in the Word
of God 43
PART EL
CHAPTER I.
Style
Whatf Style, How Improved?:—By Studying our
own Language. Literature. Writing and Speaking. 46
CHAPTER II.
Style—Characteristics
Clearness:—Depends on l Clear Subject. 2 Clear
Thinking. 3 Right Terms. 4 Construction. 5 Brev¬
ity. Enery. Elegance:—Depends on 1 Simple Terms.
2 Arrangement. 3 Imagery 50
PART IV.
CHAPTER I.
Delivery of Sermons—Three Methods
Reading. Advantage:—Helps, Preparation. Com¬
pleteness of Preparation. Improves the Style. Con¬
trols Delivery. Sermons used the Second Time.
Sermons may be Published. Forms Literary Taste.
Disadvantage:—Renders one Dependent in Preparation.
CONTENTS.
xiii
Not always Mere Thought. Consumes Time. Prevents
Originality. Hinders the Inspiration of Facing the Audi¬
ence. Less Effective. Unfits the Preacher for Preaching
Without his Crutch—The Manuscript—Caution. Recita¬
tion-.—Advantages the Same as in Reading. Disadvan¬
tage-.—Can't Correct Errors. Appears Artificial. Pre¬
vents new Thoughts at Delivery. Extemporaneous:—
Speaking. Advantages—Helps on Think on His Feet.
Permifs more Time. Occasion Inspires. Admits the
Help of the Holy Spirit at Delivery. Disadvantages—May
Lead to Lack of Preparation. Difficult to fix the Mind
in Preparation. Prevents Quotation. The Success of the
Sermon Depends on the Preacher's Health. Sermon Lack
Finish. Sermon may not be used Again. Some General
Rules for Extemporaneous Preaching. Keep Body
Sound. Readiness. Care in Language. Care in Arrange¬
ment. Begin and Keep at it 56
CHAPTER II.
Delivery as Regards Voice and Action
Voice Cultme Important:—Three or Four Things to
be Considered: Compass. Volume. Penetration. Mel¬
ody. Rules for Management of Voice. Don't Begin too
High. Don't Drop the Words too Low. Variety of Pitch,
Force and Speech. Reach the Most Distant Hearers.
Delivery as Regards A ctions:—Three Things to be Ob¬
served—Countenance, Posture, Gesture. Caution 67
PART V.
CHAPTER I.
Public Worship—Pulpit Decorum
Its Importance. Hymns. Reading the Scrirtures. Pub¬
lic Prayer. Length of Service and Pulpit Decorum 75
PART I.
HOMILETICS OR PREACHING.
CHAPTER I.
HOMILETICS. WHAT? ITS IMPORTANCE.
"Homiletics is the science of homilies or sermons and the
best method of preparing and delivering them."—Webster.
OMILEXTICS or sermonizing is
therefore essential to successful
preaching. Kvery eminent suc¬
cessful preacher uses the princi¬
ples of homiletics, whether he is conscious
of it at the time or not. Here is room
for the young preacher to make im¬
provement. In every avocation the highest
excellence is reached by persistent effort.
Judicious work is its own reward. -The"
work of preaching is no exception. Hence
the importance of homiletics. The motto
of every preacher should be excelsior. The
highest ideals, the best preachers, the best
sermon models and the most successful
heralds of the cross, should be the young
(i)
2 The Preacher—His Preparations.
preacher's examples; not as an imitator, but
as an absorber. The preacher should get
help from all sources, yet be himself. The
world is calling for trained men to fill its
important places. The Church is doing the
same. It has always had trained leaders—
Moses, David, Solomon, Isaiah, the apostles
and church fathers all along the ages have
been its leaders and trained teachers. Bven
in JDli-jah's day there were schools of the
prophets. Many good men have done and
are doing excellent service, who have had
no special training, yet the church of today
needs and is calling for specially trained
men to fill her pulpits. IDrror in all forms,
abounds and must be successfully com-
batted and eradicated. General intelli¬
gence is broadcast. Secular learning is on
the increase. The pulpit should not lag
behind in the march of progress. Hence
the absolute necessity of homiletical studies.
The man of God must be able scien¬
tifically t o prepare and present the
whole counsel of God. The rules which
govern the preparation and delivery of
Bible truth should sacredly be followed.
Sacred rhetoric therefore becomes a neces¬
sity.
CHAPTER II.
PREACHING. WHAT? HIGHEST CALLING.
# i. Preaching. What? Highest calling.
REACHING is to pronounce a pub¬
lic discourse from a text or some
portion of God's Word. Preach¬
ing is indeed a fine art. An em¬
inent successful minister once remarked as
he arose from his couch to prepare
an evening sermon, "I can't preach—J
never did preach-—O, I never heard any
body preach.'' And the great apostle to
the Gentiles, said, "Who is sufficient for
these things." Preaching is characteristic
of Christianity.
False religions assemble the people, but
have no instruction nor exhortation.
Judaism had something like it in the
prophets and afterwards in the readers and
speakers in the synagogue worship, but
Judaism was a true religion—the stalk de¬
signed to be developed into Christianity—
the fruit. God's appointed means then
for spreading the good tidings of salvation
4 The Preacher—His Preparations.
through Christ is by preaching, spoken
words, whether to an individual or to an
assembly. Nothing can take its place. It
is the sine quo non.
The printing press has become a mighty
power for good or evil, and Christianity
should employ it with the utmost diligence
in all possible ways for spreading the truth.
The lecture platform is also a mighty
agency for disseminating truth and dis¬
sipating error.
Religious ceremonies may be instructive
and impressive. The old dispensation made
much use of these in teaching the people.
Pictures have also been used to impress
and instruct and may be helpful when
properly employed.
Pastorial work is of immense importance,
and every preacher who has a charge should
diligently perform it. This will give his
preaching added power and interest.
Now all these are helps when judiciously
employed, but they can never take the place
of preaching. As it is said in Romans 10
Chapter 14, 15: "How then shall they call
on him in whom they have not believed? and
how shall they believe in him of whom they
The Preacher—His Preparations. 5
have not heard? and how shall they hear
without a preacher?" "And how shall
they preach, except they be sent ? as it is
written, How beautiful are the feet of them
that preach the gospel of peace, and bring"
glad tidings of good things." Preaching
is indispensable. When a. man who is apt
to teach and whose soul is on fire with the
truth which saved him, and which he trusts
will save others, speaks to his fellowmen,
face to face, eye to eye and electric sym¬
pathies flash between him and his hearers,
till they lift each other up, higher and high¬
er into the interest thought, and the most
impassioned emotion- higher yet till they
are borne above the world as it were on
chariots of fire; this is a power to influence
character and life, and to determine destiny
which no printed page can possess. The
sympathizing pastor the true friend and
trusted counsellor of old and young, of rich
and poor, who preaches the truth of God's
Word has increased power for good, and he
wields an influence which no other can.
There has never been any great religious
movement, nor restoration of scripture truth,
nor any genuine piety and reformation with-
,f> The Preacher - His Preparations.
out the power of preaching. It follows
then that preaching will always be a neces¬
sity, and good preaching a mighty power.
Preaching should convince the judgment,
kindle the imagination, move the feelings and
give a powerful impulse to the will. This
last is absolutely important. The fancy
may be charmed by a poem or a novel. The
feelings may be stirred by a pathetic des¬
cription or a harrowing tale. The judg¬
ment may be convinced and instructed by
argument but no movement of the will.
The Savior said: "Ye will not come to me
that ye might have life." The trouble
largely is in the will of the sinner. Good
preaching then must move the wills of men.
As St. Augustine says, "Veritas pateat,
Veritas placeat, Veritas move at." "Make
the truth plain, make the truth pleasing,
make the truth moving.'' This is preaching.
Again, preaching should be practical. Paul
said, he did beat the air. He preached to
accomplish something. Preaching should
be serious. Sparks of wit may please for a
time, but preaching keeps close to the old
paths.
Nothing should take the place of the truth.
It is the truth which enlightens, sanctifies
The Preacher—His Preparations. 7
and saves. Preaching- then is not only a fine
art it is a virtue. The dearest ideas are
mother, child, friend, home, country, heav¬
en and such like. All familiar and common
place ideas. Successful preaching is where
the preacher takes these familiar topics and
by grouping illustrating, and by the preach¬
er's own contagious emotion, he invests
these every day topics with fresh interest
until they reassert themselves with power
and influence in the hearts and lives of the
hearers.
Old truths clothed with new interest and
power moving men to actions. This is
preaching. This is proclaiming the glad
tidings of great joy to all people. Christi¬
anity is the only religious system in the
world that offers such a power. Jesus Christ
was the only teacher who lived and taught
his doctrines. "He taught them as one
having authority and not as the scribes.''
Matt. 7:29.
CHAPTER III.
THE PREACHER. THE CAIvL AND EVI¬
DENCES.
§i. Piety. \2. Knowledge. #3. Gifts. #4. Skill.
|||p||| PRKACHIDR is one called of God
fliigVp t° exercise the office of the Min-
Ipjgg&ij istry. He is a herald—a proclaimer
of the heavenly good news to dying
men. He must be called as was Aaron to
this sacred ministry. The call consists in
being induced by the Holy Spirit to enter
upon this work. This call is distinct and
separate from all other callings i n that the
subject of it is set apart by the Spirit of
God as Samuel or Saul of Tarsus. It is
therefore the highest calling, because of its
author and the work to be done.
One dare not take to himself this high and
holy work, for any reasons which may oc¬
cur to him, unless they come from above.
There may not be an audible voice as of old,
nor any sign given, but the evidences must
. (3)
The Preacher—His Preparations. 9
be present and unmistakable. The evi¬
dences of a call to the Ministry should em¬
brace the following:
1st Piety, 2nd Knowledge, 3rd Gifts, 4th
Skill. These prerequisites may not all be
manifest when one first feels that he is call¬
ed to preach. The elements are there wait¬
ing for development. The absence of these
after proper preparation indicates that the
subject is not called of God to the Chris¬
tian ministry. "I will be with thy mouth
and with his mouth, and will teach you
what ye shall do." JDx. 4:15. God never
calls without giving the ability to answer.
The four requisites named above are neces¬
sary in every gospel preacher.
§1. PIETY.
Requisites:—1st Piety. Men destitute of
goodness sometimes do much good in the
world. For example, Cyrus; but these are
exceptions to the rule. Where men devoid
of piety do good by preaching, is one of
the ways in which God wonderfully brings
good out of evil and causes the wrath of
man to praise Him. The prime pre-requi-
site to effective preaching is earnest piety,
goodness, the life and salvation of God shed
abroad in the heart of him who becomes the
10 The Preacher—His Preparations.
mouth-piece of God to men; for how can he
tell others of the unsearchable riches of his
grace when he has never felt or experienc¬
ed it in his own soul and life ? How can a
man warn others of the wrath of God and
the exceeding sinfulness of sin when he has
never felt it himself ? Paul could say:
"Knowing the terror of the Lord we per¬
suade men." II. Cor.5:11. Again piety in¬
spires the preacher with zeal and keeps the
flame of divine grace alive in his own soul,
although there may be icy indifference
around him. It gains for him the respect,
the good will and sympathy of his hearers.
The most wicked look up to, and feel that
goodness is becoming to the man who
speaks to them of spiritual things. How
much harm is often done by wicked
men, destitute of piety, and for base pur¬
poses entering the holy ministry. ' 'Be y e
clean who bear the vessels of the Lord.''
Then again, "Like priests, like people."
There is little hope for genuine reformation
in the people where the Ministry is wicked
and corrupt. The Reformation under Luth¬
er is an example—The pious man can hope
and expect the blessings of God upon his la¬
bors. How can the impious expect this ?
The Preacher—His Preparations. 11
We put piety first because it is first. We
are commanded to "Seek first the kingdom."
The beginning of wisdom is to fear God
and keep his commandments. Natural Gifts
—Knowledge and Skill cannot compensate
for godliness.
The unsaved cannot point the loss to a
Savior he knows not himself. The highest
consideration for the preacher himself and
for those to whom he preaches imperatively
demands that the preacher cultivate person¬
al piety. Goodness before knowledge or
knowledge in order to goodness should be
the rule.
§2. KNOWLEDGE.
The preacher must have experimental
knowledge. "I know whom I have
believed." II. Tim. 1 :12, was Paul's
Confession. This knowledge must in the
first instance not be second hand. The
preacher must know in his own soul his bles¬
sed Savior and Redeemer. This implies an
experimental knowledge of regeneration,
conversion and all the doctrines of the
new birth. One cannot introduce others to
a person who he knows not himself, nor to
experiences he has never felt. Then there
12 The Preacher—His Preparations.
must be knowledge of the Bible, the
preachers' book. Knowledge of religious
truth and whatever throws light upon it.
The preacher must possess a knowledge
of human nature aiid its relation to reli¬
gious truth and the conditions which sur¬
round us. The preacher will find men in¬
tensely human and he should be able to as¬
sist in quickening their humanity with the
truth by the Spirit's aid. All knowledge
may be used by the preacher. He has two
great books—the Bible and the book of na¬
ture—store houses from which he may
gather material for his sacred work.
Iyet him enter devoutly and select discreetly,
for here he will find and inexhaustible
store for all time and for all conditions.
The preacher may be excused if he be not
an adept in philosoph}r, science and art.
He may not be versed in the science of agri¬
culture, manufacturing, or commerce; but
above all men he should know his Bible.
Ignorance here is inexcusable. And in pro¬
portion as he shows himself to be a master-
workman, wise in his calling, so in propor¬
tion will he gain the respect and confidence
of his hearers. Jesus the great teacher,
The Preacher—His Preparations. 13
i 'taught them as one having authority and
not as the scribes."
§3. GIFTS.
The preacher should be able to think
clearly, to feel strongly, be possessed with a
vigorous imagination and have the capac¬
ity of forcible utterance or expression.
These gifts are well nigh indispensable to
successful preaching. These can be de¬
veloped and improved where they are poor,
but they must exist. Preparation cannot
create these gifts. They must be born with
the subject. The artificial is out of place
in the minister. Acquired ability is al¬
right but the basic principles are born with
every successful preacher. God never call¬
ed a dumb man to preach. If so, He gave
him the necessary requisites, and He rarely
calls a tongue tied or lisping man to the
Ministry. Aaron was made Moses' spokes¬
man because the latter was not eloquent of
speech. Symbol at penticost were tongues
of fire which symbolized that the church
was to be a talking church in all subse¬
quent ages. The preacher was to be the
most conspicuous personage in the Church.
Nothing can take the place of the living
14 The Preacher—His Preparations.
moving preacher. He must therefore have
natural gifts.
§4. SKIIvL.
"Be ye wise as serpents but harmless as
uoves." Matthew 10 : 16, were the
words of Jesus to his twelve apostles.
Skill as used here does not refer to style and
delivery, but to the choice collection and
arrangement of the material which the
preacher uses. It refers to his personal
habits and his manner of dealing with oth¬
ers. The preacher should be a discreet
man, his delicate duties demand pru¬
dence and wisdom. There have been
preachers with very limited attainments,
yet by skill, they have been very use¬
ful. They were careful in the choosing, col¬
lecting and arrangement of their meager at¬
tainments. They guarded well their De¬
portment and thus saved themselves from
suspicious criticism. They not only had the
power of clear and precise expression and of
forcible and attractive delivery, but sharp
and critical attention was given in the use
of their small stock of learning. They kept
watch over themselves and thereby were
able to detect and correct their own errors.
The Preacher—His Preparations. 15
The difference in workmen is largely due to
skill or the absence of it, in the handling of
tools. The same is true with preachers.
The successful preacher must be heedful,
thoughtful and have close observation of
others and keep a keen watch over himself.
He must possess good sense and good taste.
Quick to discern yet strong enough to cor¬
rect his own mistakes; thus it is seen that
for the high vocation of the ministry of re¬
conciliation, the preacher must possess
these requisites, Piety, Knowledge, Nat¬
ural Gifts and Skill.
Piety furnishes motive power. Knowl¬
edge, gives material. Gifts, supply the
means for successful work, and skill gives
keen discretion. He who is in possession of
these with the blessing of God, (which must
always be sought), may hope assuredly for a
degree of efficiency and success in preaching
the gospel of peace to lost men.
CHAPTER IV.
PREPARATION.
§i. Bible Training. §2. Systematic Theology. $3. Church.
History. §4. Pastoral Theology. £5. Mission Work. §6.
Current Topics. §7. Rhetoric and Language.
CAUTION.
(a) Thinking too much of tlie form of
discourse.
(b) Imitation.
(c) Avoid Affectation.
The foregoing Piety, Knowledge, Gifts
and Skill are pre-requisites. These may¬
be embryonic. Preparation is absolutely
necessary to their full development. Hence
the importance of theological training. The
embryo preacher must be developed, prepar¬
ed. Training is necessary to this end. What
then are some of the essential things in
this preparation ? §1. Bible training. So
many preachers are ignorant of the English
Bible. This is the preacher's book above all
other books. He is inexcusable if he does
not know it. So man should know the Bi-
(16)
The Preacher—His Preparations. 17
ble better than the preacher. He should be
acquainted with the Historical books, for a
large part of the Bible is history. The
most ancient historical facts are to be found
in the Bible. The Bible is the oldest book
now extant with a few exceptions. The
preacher should know the poetic books,
much of the Bible is poetry. The Psalms of
David are poetry, and highly devotional, and
every preacher should acquaint himself with
these for his own spiritual good. Then
there are the prophetic books, the Gospels
and the Kpistles, all of which should be stud¬
ied by the man who speaks for God to men.
The Bible is God's revelation of his will to
men. The preacher is God's spokesman.
He must therefore acquaint himself with
this revelation. He should understand the
relation which the Old Testament sustains
to the New and vice versa in order to a
right interpretation of the Bible. He
should then know his Bible. Should he be so
fortunate as to be able to read it in the origi¬
nal, so much the better. The Hebrew and
Greek will help the devout man of God
much in understanding and interpreting
the mind of God in his work.
(b)
18 The Preacher—His Preparations.
§2. SYSTEMATIC THEOLOGY.
This branch of divinity is important and
should not be omitted in the preacher's prep¬
aration. He is a teacher. Doctrine is
teaching*. Theology is the queen of
sciences, and should constitute an impor¬
tant part of the preacher's preparation.
The preacher should be able to scien¬
tifically defend the truth he preaches.
Scepticism and many other forms of errors
are abroad in the land and all these are mar¬
shalled against the truth, the preacher there¬
fore needs to be able to logically and syste¬
matically present the truths of God's Word
against these errors. Mere assertions or
exhortations are not always sufficient. He
must be able to bring to bear the ripest
scholarship, and the most convincing argu¬
ments against error seeking to undermine
the temple of truth. He also needs the dis¬
cipline which systematic Theology gives.
The preacher should think logically and
systematically. Hence the importance of
systematic theology.
§3. CHURCH HISTORY.
The Church has a history, a glorious rec¬
ord of suffering, humiliation, combat and tri-
The Preacher—His Preparations. 19
umph, replete with facts which bespeak the
conflicts and victories of the future. The
preacher for his own usefulness should
have an acquaintance with Church History
in general, and the history of his own
church in particular.
§4. PASTORAL* THEOLOGY.
How tender, delicate, important, and yet
how necessary is the office of pastor. He
is the shepherd of the flock, of old and young-,
of rich and poor, of the learned and igno¬
rant. He is the truest friend and wise
counsellor of rich and poor, high and low,
young and old, saint and sinner of those un¬
der his charge. His success depends largely
upon how he discharges his delicate duties.
Many a failure has resulted from lack of
special training in the duties of pastors.
The young preacher needs preparation for
this work.
§5. MISSION WORK.
The preacher is a missionary, as was his
blessed Master. He should therefore have
some training for this work. The greatest
problem of this age is Modern Missions.
Nothing has so changed the face of the
20 The Preacher—His Preparations.
earth as missionary work. Old and long
established customs have given way to a
new order of things upon the introduction of
Missions. Nothing so inspires the Chris¬
tian as to the future triumph of the Church
as Missions. The young preacher's prepara¬
tion is sadly deficient where this subject is
neglected. Nothing else can supply the
place of an ardent love for lost men every¬
where. The great commission to preach
the Gospel "to every creature," embraced
all mankind. The study of Missions, em¬
braces the utter need of them, without the
Gospel, and the means, as presented in the
Gospel, and the victories being achieved in
all lands where missionary operation is be¬
ing carried forward. The young preacher
needs to acquaint himself with these that
he may ever be loyal to Christ and this
great work.
§6. CURRENT TOPICS.
The doings of men and nations of today
should receive attention in the preparation
of the preacher. Life according to Drum-
mond is being and keeping in touch with our
environments. Death is when we fall out of
our surroundings. The preacher is dead—
The Preacher—His Preparations. 21
a back number who fails to keep in touch
with the things taking place about him. Our
Savior taught much from the things taking
place about him. He drew lessons from the
vine, the fig tree, the children in the market
place, the birds and the lily of the valley.
Hence the importance of being abreast of
the time in which we live. Applying the
old truth with new meaning and to new
conditions as they present themselves.
§7. RHETORIC AND LANGUAGE.
The preacher should be possessed with a
good vocabulary, diction and knowing the
meaning of words and the proper construc¬
tion of sentences. If he is acquainted with
the original languages of the Scriptures, so
much the better, but if not let him fully
familiarize himself with the best Bnglish
version. Let him also learn rhetoric and
study well the Knglish Language. Let him
be master of his own tongue. Many of the
controversies which have arisen among
Christians have grown out of a misunder¬
standing of words.
CAUTION.
Let the young preacher avoid the follow¬
ing errors:
22 The Preacher—His Preparations.
(a) Thinking too much of the form of
discourse.—And not enough of the matter and
its presentation. Let preaching be polished—
in good taste, but remember the message
is from God to dying men about eternal
things.
(b) Imitation.—Let the preacher be him¬
self. All cannot be big preachers. Besides
it is easier to imitate a single glaring fault
than it is a combination of excellences. Re¬
member the same gown will not fit every
preacher. Because the bishop or some other
noted preacher walks around in the
pulpit when preaching or shakes himself,
or reads closely his written sermon, or
sings some appropriate hymn in the midst
of his sermon does not warrant every other
preacher to try these things during his ser¬
mon. Be yourself in all things under the
guidance of the Holy Spirit.
(c) Avoid. Affectation.—Beware of the
ministerial twang, be natural, genuine if
awkward. Some one has said: "It is the
highest art to conceal art." Men will know
you are a preacher without the clergyman's
coat, collar or hat. David understood and used
effectively his sling and stones, but the king's
The Preacher—His Preparations. 23
amour unfitted him to grapple with the giant
champion. Artificiality is out of place in
the minister of Jesus Christ. His business is
too serious. The preacher guarding against
the errors, having the requisites named
prepared in heart and head, and blessed with
the gift of the Holy Spirit and common sense,
must succeed. With such gifts and prepa¬
ration the preacher only needs according to
Dr. J. G. Butler* to enter his pulpit, "Begin
low, go slow, rise higher, and take.fire."
*Pastor First Lutheran Church, "Washington, D. C., and my
instructor in Homiletics and Pastoral Theology when at
Howard University, Washington, D. C.
PART II.
MATERIALS OF PREACHING.
CHAPTER I.
THE TEXT.
gi. What? §2. Advantages of having a Text. $3. Objections.
§4. Rules for selecting Texts.
§1. What?
§2. Advantages: (a) Gives authority. (b) Awakens
interest, (c) Assists the memory, (d) Keeps the preacher
from wandering, (e) Gives variety, (f) Gives opportunity
to explain different portions of the Bible.
§3. Objections: (a) Laxity of Interpretation, (b) Not
sticking to the Text, (c) Too Confining.
§4* Rules for selecting texts: (a) Simple Texts, (b)
Not too grand Texts, (c) Familiar Texts. (d) Not Odd
Texts, (e) Appropriate Texts, (f) Interesting Texts.
§1. WHAT.
AVING set forth what preaching
is, the Preacher, his Preparation,
we come nowto consider the ma¬
terials of preaching. What is a
The word text is from the Lat
which means
text ?
in "Textus or Textum,
something woven. Hence the text is the
web of discourse. It was first used to de¬
note convicted discourse upon which commen¬
tary was written, successive portions of the
(24)
The Preacher—His Preparations. 25
whole. Then it was employed in connection
with a particular book, paragraph, or sen¬
tence. It is to be remembered that the early
Christian preachers often spoke upon long
passages of Scripture. Their preaching
was largely expository. This enabled them
to teach much of the Bible, which had the
advantage of enlightening the people, giving
them a more comprehensive knowledge of
the Scriptures. But the modern way of
preaching is largely confined to the selection
of a text of a few words or lines and weav¬
ing a sermon from this. Short texts are now
the rule but long texts still have their
advantages.
§2. ADVANTAGES OF HAVING A TEXT.
(a) To have a text gives authority to the
preacher's words. The object being to
develop some portion of God's word by
explanation, illustration and application.
(b) It awakens interest at once. Men are
generally eager to listen to words of author¬
ity, words coming from the upper world.
Men wish to hear what God has to say to
them and so when the preacher announces a
text they prepare to hear.
%6 The Preacher—His Preparations.
(c) It helps the people to remember the
Sermon.
(d) The text keeps the preacher from wan¬
dering or straying from the subject. If he
is imbued with a true sense of his high call¬
ing and the object he has undertaken, the
text will help him to keep close to the teach¬
ings in the words under consideration.
(e) The selection of a text gives variety
which is "the spice of life." Hardly any
two texts present the same line of truth, and
by discussing different texts, a variety is had
which is helpful to the preacher and inter¬
esting and instructive to the people. The
text keeps the preacher out of the rut, for
even with a text too many preachers preach
the same sermon whatever be the text.
(f) The selection of texts gives opportu¬
nity to explain different portions of the Scrip¬
tures. Here is the glory of the Bible. It
is a book for all times—peoples and condi¬
tions. The subjects it contains are multitudi¬
nous. Thus the selection of different texts
enables the preacher to reach different
moods, and conditions of his hearers.
§3. OBJECTIONS.
(a) Laxity of interpretation.—The fact
that many use the text as a sort of motto,
The Preacher—His Preparations. 27
disregarding the connection and the line of
truth designed to be taught from it, has led
some to discredit the selection of texts.
Some preachers take a text and leave it so
far they never return to it again and the les¬
sons drawn are so far fetched that some say
better have no text.
(b) The lack o f adhering t o the
text.—The lawyer before the bar and his
jury must stick to the evidence. Too
many ministers never get back to their text
after they repeat it to their hearers.
(c) Too Confining.—Preachers of a phil¬
osophical and speculative turn of mind com¬
plain that a text is too restrictive. They
wish to present their theories and specula¬
tions and to be faithful to God's truth
hampers them. They wish a wide range
but loyalty to the word forbids roaming.
None of the above objections hold good
where the text is properly chosen and judi¬
ciously used.
§4. RULES FOR SELECTING TEXT.
The proper selection of a text is very im¬
portant. It helps the preacher throughout
28
The Preacher—His Preparations.
his preparation and delivery. It also lielps
to secure the attention of the hearers.
Preachers differ widely in selecting texts.
Talent and skill have much to do with this
difference but diligence and systematic effort
in this direction will be richly rewarded.
The preacher should keep a scrap book
and in his reading and studying, even in his
observation, jot down text and outline of ser¬
mons. His golden thoughts should be har¬
vested ere they escape him. Sometimes, the
preacher is cold and lifeless and cannot
think, then reference to his scrap book
where he has jotted down some precious
gems of thought in his better moods will
set him aflame. It thus becomes a spark
to kindle his deadness and set his forge
aglow.
SELECTION OP TEXT.
The following rules are given to help in
the selection of texts:
(a) Let the text be simple.—The people
will more readily see the meaning and be¬
come interested. If the text be obscure the
people will feel an idle curiosity to see what
the preacher is going to make out of such a
text. Where the preacher is able to handle
The Preacher—His Preparations. 29
a difficult text and make the meaning of an
obscure passage clear bringing out useful
and instructive lessons, such texts may be
e mployed.
(b) Avoid taking texts marked by gran¬
deur of expression.—They may seem to
promise too great an effort. The expecta¬
tion of the people may be aroused too high
at the outset and the preacher may not be
able to meet it in his sermon. Avoid display
even in the selection of a text.
(c) Select familiar texts.—Our Savior
used every day illustrations. He drew many
of his lessons from things as he saw them
taking place around Him. Do not neglect
familiar texts. Do not neglect the Old
Testament. Preach also from the New.
Preach the doctrines of grace.
(d) Be careful about selecting odd
texts.—Too great levity is out of place in
the pulpit. Remember you are not preaching
to amuse, but to save men's souls. Do not
use such words as the following for a text:
"Top-not come down." This is disregard¬
ing the Connection in which the words are
found. Or, "Take it by the tail." This
borders on the ridiculous. Matt. 24:17, and
30 The Preacher—His Preparations.
Kxodus 4:4. Observe Faithfulness, to the
Word. You can make the Bible teach al¬
most any absurdity by disregarding the
proper connection. Klegance and good
taste should be practiced by the preacher.
Odd texts may divert the minds of the peo¬
ple from the Word of God and set them to
thinking of foolish and may be hurtful
things.
(e) Take a text suitable to the occas¬
ion.—Always have an eye to the condi¬
tions existing in your own congregation
remembering what has been the subject of
recent discussion.
(f) Select a text you yourself can take
an interest in at the time, otherwise you
fail to interest your hearers.
CHAPTER II.
INTERPRETATION OF TEXT.
P^^JO interpret and aply his text with
m K|| the real meaning thereof is the
III fill Preacher's duty. He stands before
the people for the purpose of teach¬
ing them from the Word of God. (He an¬
nounces a particular passage of Scripture
with the implied understanding that from this
his sermon is to be drawn. If he be not will¬
ing to stick to his text and search out and pre¬
sent its teachings then he should abandon
the text and preach without it. We are
solemnly bound to present the text as mean¬
ing precisely what it does mean. The text is
not a mere motto and should not be so used.
It is the web and from it the sermon is to
be made. The earnest desire of the preach¬
er should always be to find out the mind of
God in the text and earnestly and correctly
present its real meaning and no other. This
is his chart, his compass and by it he is to
do his sailing. This is the web, the warp
(31)
32 The Preacher—His Preparations.
of discourse and from it the sermon is to be
woven.
§1. SOURCES OF ERROR IN INTERPRET¬
ING TEXTS.
(a) Misunderstanding the language of the
text.—Language does not always convey
the direct meaning of an idea. The lan¬
guage of the Bible was originally Hebrew
and Greek. It is not strange that in
translation slight errors and imperfections
should have crept in. It is hard to express
the ideas of one language in that of an¬
other. The exact meaning of peculiar
phrases and idiomatic expressions must be
considered in order to correct interpreta¬
tion. The English Language is very
changeable. Some words which once passed
for good or correct English are now ob¬
solete. Oriental modes of expression must
be understood. The idioms learned. The
language of the Scriptures is not generally
philosophical but popular, not scientific, but
poetic and abounds in concrete terms, which
represent facts of actual occurrence and ex¬
perience. lYorn these considerations, it is
not to be wondered at that errors should
The Preacher—His Preparations. 33
rise from a misunderstanding of the lan¬
guage of the Scriptures. The first thing
then which should claim the attention
of the preacher after selecting his text is
the language of the text. Learn the
meaning of the words and the construction
of the sentence or sentences.
(b) Disregarding the connection. In some
cases, sentences taken out of their proper
connection may be made to teach almost any
doctrine. Disregarding the true connection
has led to much caviling and error. Men
get an idea pleasing to their own fancy, then
go to the Bible and twist certain por¬
tions to back up their own theories and claim
warrant from the word of God. Here has
been the fruitful field of controversy and
polemic divinity.
(c) Improper Spiritualizing. We are so
constituted that we must take temporal
things to convey spiritual truths. We are
only children of larger growth and so we
love pictures. We must employ metaphors
drawn from earthly things to represent heav¬
enly things. The man Christ Jesus was son
of God, yet son of man, there is much figur-
(c)
34 The Preacher—His Preparations.
ative language in the Bible. Jesus taught
by parables. This mode of preaching was
necessary and is now helpful both to the
preacher and to his hearers. The imagina¬
tion is kindled, the fancy is pleased and the
popular mind is borne along with imagina¬
tive flights delighted and charmed to find
every where types of Christ and spiritual
things. In using figurative texts the best
way of interpreting them, is to bring out or
get at, first, the plain every day meaning of
the text, and then the spiritual lessons. Be
careful not to overdraw the figures of scrip¬
ture.
§2. RULES FOR INTERPRETING A TEXT.
(a) Interpret grammatically. Get the
meaning of the words and phrases used in
a text. Find the right construction of
sentences.
(b) Interpret logically. Find and bring
out the proper connection of thought con¬
tained in the text. To do this often neces¬
sitates the consideration of the context—
which may include the whole book, several
chapters, or several verses which come be¬
fore or after the text.
The Preacher—His Preparations. 35
(c) Interpret Historically. The Geog¬
raphy, the manners and customs of the
Jews and other nations, must often be con¬
sidered. The times, actions and the state
of mind of the people under review must
not be overlooked.
(d) Interpret according to the general
teachings of the Scripture. The lessons
drawn from a particular text should not
run counter to the general scope of the
Holy Scriptures. It is erroneous to select
a text and draw from it conclusions which
contradict the major portion of the Bible.
God has not contradicted himself in His
own Book. When this appears to be true,
the fault is ours—either it is our lack of
knowledge or a desire to make the Bible
teach some theory pleasing to us.
(e) Interpret figuratively. As certain
the meaning of the lessons drawn from it
are as true as though stated in literal
words.
CHAPTER III.
THE SEVERAL PARTS OF A SERMON.
§i. Introduction. §2„ Plan and Divisions. §3. Conclu¬
sion.
§1. THE} INTRODUCTION.
writers usually give a theme,
and also make exposition a dis-
gS$J||k1|] tinct part of a sermon, but the in-
troduction may and often does in¬
clude the theme and the exposition. The
most natural divisions then of a sermon
would seem to be the three already given.
Then again, some writers make application
a distinct division, but it would seem most
natural and more in keeping with effective
preaching to apply the lessons, the practical
teachings of the sermon as the discourse pro¬
ceeds. Men generally have an aversion to
abruptness and delight in a gradual ap¬
proach to the subject in hand. A house
without a porch looks awkward. The
shining light of dawn that shineth more and
more till the perfect day teaches us a lesson.
Any composition or address without an in-
(36)
The Preacher—His Preparations. 37
troduction appears incomplete. Music
usually has a prelude or some introductory
notes. In poems, histories, etc., there is
always an introduction. The same is true
with many books of the Bible. There are
at least three reasons for an introduction
to a sermon.
(a) It gives an air of authority.
(b) It creates interest on the part of the
congregation and prepares the hearers for
following and understanding the sermon.
(c) It enables the preacher to calm and
collect himself. At the beginning many
preachers are a little nervous, and by the
time he presents his introduction he is
calm and collected.
WHAT ARE THE SOURCES OF AN IN¬
TRODUCTION?
(a) Prom the text. The text may need
explanation. This often furnishes a splen¬
did introduction.
(b) The subject under consideration may
supply an introduction.
(c) The occasion. The sermon may have
reference to some special season of the
year, to the times, to the religious
condition of the country or to some
growing error or evil practices in the
3S The Preacher—His Preparations.
congregation. To call attention to these
may furnish a good introduction.
WHAT IS A GOOD INTRODUCTION?
(a) It should present some thought close¬
ly related to the subject.
(b) It should not be too long nor too elab¬
orate. This latter may promise too much.
(c) It should not be stereotyped. The
people will soon discover 'this and hence
lose interest.
§2. PIvAN AND DIVISIONS.
(a) The body of a discourse must have a
plan. The carpenter or any workman has
his plan. A sermon must have two things—
a plan and movement—progress. These
should harmonize. The movement should
not be wild or irregular like undisciplined
cavalry. The plan should be simple—no
straining after, effect. The plan ought to
be fresh and striking yet not gaudy. Too
many preachers follow the old beaten track
and so become dull and common place from
the beginning to the end of a sermon.
(b) The divisions should be simple and
vivid, and have variety. The number de¬
pends much on the preacher, but custom has
The Preacher—His Preparations. 39
long* since narrowed down the number of
divisions to three. Three divisions give
good variety, without distracting attention
and burdening the memory. Discourse us¬
ually falls under these three logical inquires.
"What?" "Why?" "What Then?"
Explanation, proof, application. Some¬
times we may have a When? Three divi¬
sions give the idea of completeness. The
beginning, the middle and the end. In
a race it is generally said "One, two,
three." The Scriptures often use a three¬
fold repetition. 1 'Holy, holy, holy.'' Ask,
seek, knock, etc."
(c) The character of , the divisions must
be determined by their relation to the sub¬
ject and their relation to each other. They
should, by all means be distinct and sym¬
metrical.
(d) There should be order. The divi¬
sions which precede must help to the un¬
derstanding of the succeeding ones. The
abstract must precede the concrete, the
general, the particular and instruction must
precede appeal.
(e) The statement of the divisions; like
the proposition or subject, this ought to
40 The Preacher—His Preparations.
be clear and as suggestive as possible. This
will insure interest.
PREANNOUNCEMENT.
This must be determined by the judg¬
ment of the preacher. If the train of
thought be difficult or when it is desired to
have the succesive steps remembered or to
awaken interest and attention: the divisions
may be announced beforehand and also when
considering each.
THE TRANSITION.
This is easy when the subject has been
thoroughly studied, and the thoughts well
arranged. No transition is possible between
divisions unless there is a real and natural
relation of topics. Transition may be
marked by such expressions as further,
moreover, again, in addition, besides,
another point, in the next place, on
the other hand, once more, finally, etc.
Another method is to repeat the divisions
as 1st, 2nd, etc.
§3. THE CONCLUSION.
The introduction and body of the sermon
is often prepared with great care but the
conclusion is neglected. This is too often
The Preacher—His Preparations. 41
left to the exegesis of the hour—To the end
of the sermon the preacher no longer knows
the way. Like a ship at the mercy of the
waves, he lets her drift, hoping to land
somewhere. The conclusion should be
thoroughly prepared. There should be
some comprehensive statement or final ap¬
peal at the conclusion. The whole sermon
should begin and progress with some def¬
inite aim which should be reached in the
conclusion.
(a) The conclusion may be by recapitu¬
lation. A gathering up of all the thoughts
and concentrating them for one final effort
of conviction or persuasion.
(b) By application. In the strict sense,
this has reference to how the sermon ap¬
plies to the persons addressed—What prac¬
tical instruction it offers them, and what
practical duties it enjoins upon them. As
already stated the truth may be applied as
the sermon progresses leaving appeal and
enforcement for the conclusion.
BY LESSONS.
This term refers to the practical teachings
of the sermon. No sermon should ever end
without some lesson or lessons.
42
The Preacher—His Preparations.
BY SUGGESTION.
This has reference to the best means
for performing some or all of the duties
enjoined in the sermons.
BY PERSUASION.
This is natural. Having instructed and
convinced the hearers; persuasion and en¬
treaty should close the sermon. Here is the
most delicate and critical part of the ser¬
mon. Let the preacher be natural. It 'is
of bad effect when he nor his people are
prepared for the conclusion. An effort to
work oneself into feeling will usually fail.
Let the conclusion be in keeping with the
body of the sermon. To aim at excitement
for excitement's sake is out of place and
usually fails. The object of preaching is
to save men not to excite them for the
time and afterwards leave them in a worse
state than the}'' were before.
The selection of a text, the plan and di¬
visions, the delivery of the discourse and
the conclusion should keep this end in view.
There should be unity and progress from
beginning to end, culminating in the salva¬
tion of the lost. The great apostle to the
Gentiles besought men with tears to be re¬
conciled to G-od.
CHAPTER IV.
KINDS OF SERMONS.
# i. Subject. \ 2. Text and \ 3. Expository Sermons.
§1. SUBJECT—SERMONS.
HE} subject-sermon is where a text
is taken and from that you select
a subject. Then the divisions are
derived from the subject indepen¬
dently of the text. This kind of sermon¬
izing is very helpful as is seen from the
following:
(a) It insures unity.
(b) It trains the preacher's mind to logi¬
cal analysis which is very valuable to him.
(c) It is pleasing to certain classes of
his hearers especially the more cultured
as such preaching is more logical and has the
air of completeness.
§2- TEXT—SERMONS.
A text-sermon is where the subject or
subjects, (for there may be several), is de¬
veloped from the text itself. The text
(43)
44 The Preacher—His Preparations.
furnishes the subject and often the divisions
of the sermon. Examples—Rom. 5 chapter
1, 2. Subject: The believer's happy
state. 1st. He has peace with God. 2nd.
He Stands Fast in the Grace of God. 3rd.
He Rejoices in the Hope of the Glory of
God. Luke 13 chapter, 3. Subject: Re¬
pentance. 1st. The Nature of Repentance.
2nd. The Necessity of Repentance. 3rd.
The Benefits of Repentance. These are
examples.
§3. EXPOSITORY—SERMONS.
Expository preaching is where long pas¬
sages'of God's word are selected, explained
and commented upon—ending in the conclu¬
sion with an application.
Whole paragraphs are often used in this
way. This method of preaching is said to
be hard, because most preachers have
adopted and followed so long the topical
method.
Then again they find so much in the
selection taken, that it is difficult to con¬
dense. Expository preaching has its advan¬
tages though unpopular.
(a) This was very largely the primitive
The Preacher—His Preparations. 45
of preaching. It has the advantage of the
age.
(b) It insures a better acquaintance with
the Scriptures on the part of the preacher
and the hearers. This is one object of
preaching, to "Know the truth and the
truth shall make you free."
(c) It causes sermons to be filled with more
scripture-truth and the scriptural way of
viewing things. It gives authority to the
word, as it is; God speaking in His own
words and not the preacher's.
(d) It saves misinterpretation. Here the
preacher must bring out the truth con¬
tained in the passage before him. Ex¬
pository preaching saves rambling, which is
very essential in any public speaker, but
especially so in the preacher. He should
stick to his text.
PART III.
STYLE.
CHAPTER I.
§1. WHAT IS STYLE?
(a) By studying our own language.
(b) By literature.
(c) Bj7 writing and speaking.
HE) word style comes from "Sty¬
lus," the pointed iron instrument
used by the Romans to write upon
tablets with wax. Then style came
to represent the manner of writing or the
manner of expressing one's thoughts in
writing but at a latter period it was used
to denote the manner of speaking. In our
day the use has been still further broadened
so that now by analogy we use the word
style in reference to the fine arts, to dress,
and a number of other things. A man's
style is his way of expressing himself in
writing or speaking. A man's style is his
(46)
The Preacher—His Preparations. 47
way of doing things. livery man has his
own style—his own hand writing. He may
begin with a copy—This beginning may
be an imitation, which soon becomes his
own style.
Buffon says, "The style is the man." The
preacher should have something to say
order in which to say it, but the most
important thing is HOW to say it. The
difference in the success of two preachers in
pulpit administration is largely due to dif¬
ference in their style. Style then is one
great essential. A man's style cannot well
be separated from himself—from his way of
thinking, and from his entire mental charac¬
ter. It is more than his dress of thought.
It is his incarnation of thought. Let it
not be entertained that a good style may be
had at the expense of a fund of interesting
ideas; nor must it be thought that style
will come of itself if an abundant and inter¬
esting supply of ideas are had. The
preacher to have a good style must give
much attention to the improvement of his
style. Here incessant toil is indispensible.
The preacher by earnest effort should say
what he has to say forcibly and what he
48 The Preacher—His Preparations.
feels deeply should be clothed in a garb of
at least homely neatness.
§2. HOW To IMPROVE STYLE.
(a) By the study of our own language. As
has been said, the study of Greek and He¬
brew will be found very helpful. Greek,
for precision and neatness. Hebrew for
poetic fancy. French and German are
kindred languages to our own and an ac¬
quaintance with them adds much to the
preacher's style, but if he has not access to
other languages, he should at least mas¬
ter his own.
(b) The preacher should know the history,
the changes and capacity of words. He
should acquaint himself with the syntax, the
different forms and processes of thought.
The study of analysis, English grammar
and language is very essential and can hard¬
ly be overestimated in the improvement of
style.
LITERATURE.
The study of literature contributes to the
improvement of the style more than the
study of language. "Reading makes a
ready man." By reading we receive a
The Preacher—His Preparations. 49
richness of vocabulary and fullness of ex¬
pression. By reading the taste grows
healthy and we receive a positive benefit
which counteracts certain evil-influences.
Reading helps the memory and stimulates
the imagination. Judicious reading develops
the thinking faculty. It makes a man grow
mentally. Our mother-tongue is often very
broken, so by reading, it will be improved.
The preacher should not only read the great
masters of English Literature, but he should
read the sermons of great preachers and his
English Bible. He may read with profit
the best works on fiction. Here he will
find the best thought and style and the
sublimest expressions in their best form.
(c) The chief means for improving the
style is by careful writing and speaking.
Many able and learned men spell badly and
punctuate poorly, both of which are im¬
portant in writing. To obviate these defects
the young preacher must practice writing
and speaking. The great orators did much
rehersing. ' 'Practice alone makes per¬
fect."
(d)
CHAPTER II.
CHARACTERISTICS OF STYLE.
gi. Clearness. §2. Energy. §3. Elegance.
$ clearness.—depends on, (a) Clear subject, (b) Clear
thinking, (c) Right terms, (d) Construction, (e) Brevity.
§2. Energy.—Depends on the use of the Figure of Speech.
§3. Elegance—Depends on, (a) Simplicity of terms, (b)
Arrangement, (c) Imagery.
§1 CLEARNESS.
LBARNESS is one of the most
essential characteristics of style.
Style is excellent when, like the
atmosphere it shows the thought;
but itself is hidden from view. Good
style is like stereoscopic glasses, which
give form and distinctness to that
which they exhibit. Some seem to think it
a sign of great learning—of profundity to
preach above the comprehension of their
hearers. Paul exhorts against speaking in
unknown tongues. The preacher is solemnly
bound to make the language of his sermons
prespicuous. If in law, deeds, contracts and
(So)
The Preacher—His Preparations.
51
other legal documents are to be plainly worded
or if in practice, the physician's prescription
should contain only that which is necessary,
how much more important it is to proclaim
the word of God so that the message shall
be understood by the people. There should
be no juggling. He who runs should be able
to read. The preacher's great difficulty
lies in making his style clear to all of his
hearers, for no other speaks to audiences so
heterogeneous, including persons of both
sexes and of every age and grade of intelli¬
gence and culture. It is a mistaken belief
that persons of great learning are too in¬
tricate and profound for a miscellaneous
audience. The learned above all men should
be able to simplify and thus reach the low¬
est—Clearness of style depends upon at
least three or four things.
(a) Clear subject.
(b) Clear thinking.
(c) Right terms. The preacher should
use words and phrases which his hearers
understand.
(d) Right Construction. The construc¬
tion, clauses, paragraphs and the arrange¬
ment of phrases should be so clear that
52 The Preacher—His Preparations.
the meaning may be readily seen. Guard
against too long sentences. Cultivate the
conversational style.
(e) Brevity. Clearness of style is due in
some instances to brevity. In others, to dif-
fuseness of style. There should be neither
too much conciseness, nor too extreme
prolixity—The golden mean is the ideal.
§2. ENERGY OF STYLE.
Energy of style includes all we mean by
animation, force and passion. Animation
or liveliness stimulates attention. A dry,
dead sermon cannot arrest and hold the
attention of a miscellaneous audience. It is
not enough to make the hearers understand,
the object should be to arouse, to put life
into an audience and thus make attention
easy and pleasant. The message should be
fresh and magnetic. The word force refers
to augument, which carries with it power
in order to conviction.
Passion is a milder and more tender term.
We call it pathos. It works through the
feelings, reaching the will to move to
action the hearers. As has already been
The Preacher—His Preparations. 53
said the great object of preaching is to so
move the will of men, that they will
turn from sin to Christ their Savior. For
this we depend much upon the energy of
style—hence its importance. The chief
element of energy of style is the use of the
figures of speech; such as the metaphor,
synecdoche, hyperbole,personification,
apostrophe, exclamation, interrogation
and dramatism. Anyone of these may be
used with great effect in preaching or they
may be over used and thus do much harm.
In all pulpit efforts good taste and common
sense must be exercised. Convulsion, energy,
skyscraping, turgid or inflated style is harm¬
ful and the pulpit is no place for display.
§3. ELEGANCE) OF STYLE.
Blegance of style is a product of the im¬
agination in combination with passion
controlled by good taste. He who would
attain elegance of style must cultivate the
imagination and the sensibility and seek
to improve his taste. Dlegance of style
is dependent upon three things, viz: the
terms used, proper arrangements and im¬
agery.
54 The Preacher—His Preparations.
(a) Use simple terms. Use good Anglo-
Saxon words. Avoid slang. Be careful in
the use of technical theological terms in
preaching to a heterogeneous audience;
avoid the use of words too grand for the
subject under consideration. Our Savior
used common every day illustrations. His
words were simple. The thoughts express¬
ed were readily understood.
(b) Arrangement. We should avoid
harsh or disagreeable combinations. The
Dnglish language has many hissing sounds
and too many of these brought together
becomes unpleasant to the ear. Then
again the sentences should be smooth
and elegant. The phrases and clauses
are so arranged that the meaning of the
expression will be clear and agreeable, but
more time and strength must not be expend¬
ed on the rhetoric of the sermon than on
the minds and hearts of men. In the words
of another: "You may break your grammar
if you break hearts," is a good suggestion.
(c) Imagery. A man whose mind has
no pictures will make a poor preacher.
Most of the figures of speech contribute
to imagery of style, but especially the
The Preacher—His Preparations. 55
simile, the metaphor and personification.
The picturesque soul will be able to draw
and paint so as to lead souls in darkness
back to Christ, the light of life. The
object of preaching is attained when
the preaching is made instructive, pleas¬
ing and. moving, and style has much to
do in securing this end. Let the young
preacher give special attention to his
style. Let that style be clear, energetic
and elegant.
PART IV.
DELIVERY OF SERMONS.
CHAPTER I.
THREE METHODS.
§i. Reading. §2. Reciting. §3 Extemporaneous Speaking.
READING. FIRST, ADVANTAGES.
IT the three methods of preaching
it is hard to say which is the
best. We can only inquire which
method is generally best and
which most used. No one of the three can
claim exclusive pre-eminence. Some men
have spoken with great power who could
not write a word, others have shown
ability and power only when reading what
they have previously prepared. The only
thing to be done is to set forth the advan¬
tages and disadvantages of each method
and let the reader decide for himself which
is to be preferred by him.
(56)
1.
The Preacher—His Preparations. 57
§1. READING.
To write sermons and read them has
some important advantages as to prepara¬
tion, delivery and the preacher's usefulness
in other respects. Let us notice a few.
(a) Writing assists much in the work of
preparation. It helps to fix the mind on the
subject. Extemporaneous speakers have
been known to walk the floor for hours to
collect and control their thoughts. Others
have had to resort to different methods to
fix the mind, such as sitting in one position
for sometime, or hanging the head out of
the window, or covering the eyes for some
length of time. Writing keeps one from
wandering. It helps concentration.
(b) Writing compels to greater complete¬
ness in preparation. He who prepares with¬
out writing out his thoughts should follow
out all the developments and expansion of
his thoughts; but he who writes to read
must actually do this. The preparation
must be complete. You cannot read what
is not written.
(c) Writing improves the style. Un¬
written speech does not equal that which
is written in grammatical correctness, con-
58 The Preacher—His Preparations.
ciseness, smoothness and rhetorical finish.
This is especially necessray in controversal
discussion of points of doctrine. Here
technical terms must be used. Then again
some hearers are very fastidious as to a
preacher's style. They admire the classical
and polished manners of pulpit address.
The preacher is often called upon to preach
academical sermons to highly cultured and
refined audiences and by writing he may the
better discharge this important duty. He
should not neglect or evade the whole truth
as he finds it in the Bible, but he should
clothe his words with grace and beaut}^.
(c) As regards delivery, the preacher
who writes may be more at ease with his
manuscript before him, during the delivery
of his sermon. He can sleep Saturday
night without worry. Some preachers find
that reading saves them from uncontrolla¬
ble excitement, and excessive volubility.
It saves many a break down and many
words—which may mean very little.
(d) Written sermons may be used on
subsequent occasions without a new prepara¬
tion, and thus it saves the preacher's time
and labor.
The Preacher—His Preparations. 59
(e) The sermon may be saved for publi¬
cation which is important in this literary
age.
(f) The practice of writing gives facility
in writing which is highly essential in our
day. The successful preacher now has the
opportunity of publishing his views on
many subjects and unless he has literary
taste and does some writing for publication
his usefulness and success may be impaired
and his influence diminished. The age
demands that the preacher be heard from
through the press, and writing develops the
ability and the taste for literature. Thus
advantages of writing have been given.
DISADVANTAGES.
(a) If writing helps, (as has been said),
one to control his thoughts in preparation,
if it aids in thinking, it may render one
dependant upon such assistance—and hence
a disadvantage.
(b) If writing compels one to go over his
preparation more completely it is not always
done more thoroughly.
(c) Writing consumes much valuable
time which might be used in pastoral work,
or as a member of important committee
60 The Preacher—His Preparations.
and boards for philanthropic and charitable
purposes. It takes time that the preacher
might give in helping to push forward all
manner of benevolent or public enterprises.
It is hard to write two or three sermons a
week, and attend to many other duties.
(d) Writing prevents originality. Keeps
the preacher from employing new thoughts
which come to him during delivery, and
prevents him from correcting faults in the
plan of the sermon undiscovered in prepara¬
tion.
(e) It hinders that mental quickening
which comes from the presence of the living
congregation. It checks that inspiration
which arises from an interested and enthu¬
siastic crowd.
(f) Reading is less effective, greater
coldness of manner is displayed. The tones
of voice (which are so helpful), are monot¬
onous. The gestures are clumsy and un¬
natural, the turning of the leaves of the
manuscript breaks the continuity of
delivery. It is hard to keep the congrega¬
tion from feeling that after all, the preacher
is reading his sermon. They lose the ex-
The Preacher—His Preparations. 61
pressiveness of the eye—a great power in
public speaking.
(g) The manuscript is likely to make the
preacher afraid to attempt to preach with¬
out it. It acts as a prop. The preacher
should be able to walk without crutches.
The above are some of the advantages and
disadvantages of writing and reading ser¬
mons.
CAUTION.
(a) Do not try to disguise the fact of
reading.
(b) Do not attempt to read as though
speaking. One cannot read as he talks.
(c) Make it the chief object to read
well.
§2 RECITING.
To write and then recite from memory is
another method of delivery.
This method has all the advantages
of the first, with one or two others. It is
superior to reading, but not to free speak¬
ing.
The speaker who recites has the advantage
of reciting his own composition. Again it
cultivates the memory. This is very im¬
portant, for he who has a good memory is
doubly blessed.
62 The Preacher—His Preparations.
DISADVANTAGES.
(a) No chance for correcting errors dis¬
covered after preparation.
(b) It is likely to appear artificial.
(c) No new thoughts can be introduced
during delivery without breaking the con¬
nection,
(d) One may write and then speak from
memory without attempting to recall the
very words; but the thoughts, he may at
times recall the words but is intent more
to give the thought, than the words of his
manuscript. This is a kind of extem¬
poraneous speaking and should be so
designated.
§3 EXTEMPORANEOUS.
The primary idea here is discourse with¬
out any preparation. It implies speaking
from the promptings of the moment: A
kind of "off hand" speaking. The image¬
ry being to shoot without a rest or as the
gunners would say, "speaking from the
stirrups." Now what are some of the
advantages and disadvantages of this kind
of speaking.
The Preacher—His Preparations. 63
ADVANTAGES.
(a) This method accustoms one to
thinking more rapidly and makes him less
dependent on outside helps. It enables the
preacher to think on his feet.
(b) Admits of more time for the subject
and body of the sermon. The pastor's time
is an important item as there are so many
calls upon his time.
(c) The occasion furnishes inspiration
and enthusiasm, new thoughts may be used
as they occur in course of the delivery.
(d) He has the help of the Holy Spirit at
the time when His presence is indispensable.
If there is a time when the preacher needs the
Holy Spirit it is during the delivery of his
sermon—The man who has to blaze his way
through an intricate forest, needs a guide;
the Holy Spirit is the preacher's guide in
preaching.
(e) This method of preaching is popular.
The people like it, it has an air of indepen¬
dence which inspires both preacher and
people. He who cannot speak without
notes may miss some splendid opportunities
for doing good. A train is wrecked and
men, women and children are bruised, man-
64 The Preacher—His Preparations.
gled and bones broken; a physician is called
but he has to go and consult his books and
get his notes while the unfortunate sufferer
is waiting. The preacher should be a ready
off-hand speaker.
DISADVANTAGES.
(a) This method may lead to the neglect
of preparation, it may cause one to rely
upon the suggestions of the moment. The
pulpit is no place for laziness.
(b) There is a difficulty of fixing the
mind upon the work of preparation. To
begin with, the young preacher may write
out copious notes; have the 'lawyer's brief"
or speak the matter over in private if he
fears he may not be able to recall at the
time of preaching.
(c) The extemporaneous speaker finds it
difficult to quote extensively from the Bible
and other works—unless he has a good
memory. To assist in this respect one may
take his Bible and other works with him
into the pulpit and read such parts as he
desires, as does the lawyer to the court and
jury.
(d) The success depends much upon the
The Preacher—His Preparations. 65
preacher's health and feelings, and the state
of his mind at the time of delivery.
(e) The sermon may not be as complete
and finished as if written.
(f) If it be desired to use the sermon
again it cannot be so easily reproduced.
Some general remarks and special principles
for extemporaneous preaching. Nearly all
of the disadvantages of extemporaneous
preaching may be overcome. The young
preacher should write much and rewrite
and make thorough preparation but not take
his manuscript into the pulpit with him.
The most popular and possibly the most
useful method of preaching is extemporane¬
ous, it has advantages which neither of the
other methods have. It has freedom and
popularity in its favor. But whichever
method is adopted, let it be remembered that
nothing can take the place of preparation of
head, heart and material.
SPECIAL PRINCIPLES.
(a) Care of the health.—Keep a sound
body; this helps the mind and heart. Good
speaking demands a high degree of nervous
energy and physical endurance.
(e)
66 The Preacher—His Preparations.
(b) Readiness. — The extemporaneous
speaker should have his material at tongue's
end. Let him cultivate accuracy and rapid¬
ity in thinking and speaking.
(c) Care in language.—The grammar
should be correct and the diction smooth.
To secure this one should speak well at all
times.
(d) Care in arrangement.—Let the
order be natural; this will help the speaker
and the hearers.
(e) Let the young preacher who intends
to extemporize commence at once and keep
at it.—Some advise to begin reading or re¬
citing and then gradually come to extempo¬
rizing, but this only prolongs the trial and
success of extemporaneous preaching.
CHAPTER II.
DELIVERY AS IT REGARDS VOICE AND
ACTION,
gi. Voice. §2. Actions.
Igg^g^jOO much cannot be said as to the
|||] importance of delivery. The rea-
111 111 son s0 many preachers fail is because
■^L^§a| many of their thoughts are borrow¬
ed and they do not take time to thoroughly
digest them by reflection and thus incorporate
them into their own thinking; again they fail
because they do not feel as they ought to
feel; they are in poor health, or poor spirits*
Another reason is, they try to utter the
product of a former mental activity viz:
preparation.
Another reason why many fail is, the
voice and action are at fault. These have
much to do with successful delivery.
§1. VOICE.
The voice in a very practical sense is the
preacher's prime instrument. He may not
possess a commanding personal appearance.
(67)
68 The Preacher—His Preparations.
He may have a defective voice, yet by hard
and persistent effort he may do much to
remedy these defects. The faults which
arise from natural organization such as
drawling, fineness, feebleness, jerki-
ness, or defective articulation, may to
a very large degree be overcome.
Vocalization and gesticulation are very
helpful, yet to speak well one must have a
subject with which he is completely in sym¬
pathy. He must be able to feel what he
says. He must be alive to its importance.
The message should be the living offspring
of his own mind and heart. The things
necessary to effective delivery therefore, are,
have something to say, have the treatment
well arranged, think it all over before it is
said, let the mind be as quiet as possible
before speaking, cultivate a devotional frame
of spirit, keep in good health and spirits,
sleep well the night before, be moderate in
diet before preaching, avoid exciting dis¬
cussion, keep the voice well controlled be
yourself and trust God for the Holy
Spirit.
Now there are three or four things to be
considered with respect to the voice.
The Preacher—His Preparations. 69
(a) Compass.—By compass is meant the
range of pitch over which the voice extends.
The preacher should know this, that he may
beware of the strength and power of the
voice.
(b) Volume.—The preacher should know
the quality of sound his voice is able to
make.
(c) Penetration.—How important it is
to know the distance one may be heard when
speaking. It is often very difficult to hear
some speakers.
(d) Melody.—Some naturally have a
harsh voice, which might be greatly im¬
proved. Melody is the sweetness and flexi¬
bility of the voice. This can be increased
by practice.
The compass of the voice may be enlarged
by singing or by taking a short sentence
and repeating it many times taking care not
to sing it, but speak it. Volume may be
increased by such exercises as will expand the
lungs. Gymnastics, horse back riding,
cutting wood and taking breathing
exercises will increase the volume of the
voice. Penetrating power will be helped by
vowel sounds, or by speaking to a person
70 The Preacher—His Preparations.
-on the opposite side of a hill, or selecting
some person in a crowd and speaking- so
as to make him hear you. Aim to make
pure tones. Practice clear articulation.
Give the "d's" "t's" and "r's" their
proper sounds.
As has been said, melody depends upon
the sweetness and flexibility of voice. Sing¬
ing and conversation will help this. The
voice is so essential and important in preach¬
ing that too much pains and effort cannot be
expended to bring it to a degree of perfec¬
tion.
MANAGEMENT OF THE VOICE.
(a) Do not begin on too high a key.—This
is liable in the open air, or in an unfa¬
miliar church or hall. It is hard to lower
the pitch when once too high. It is pain¬
fully disagreeble to listen to a screaming
speaker. Remember the already repeated
saying: "Begin low, go slow, rise higher
and take fire.
(b) Do not drop the last words of a
sentence too low. It is often inaudible.
(c) Do not take breath till the lungs are
exhausted of air. There should be nothing
The Preacher—His Preparations. 71
too tight around the throat or anywhere
else.
(d) Let there be variety of pitch of voice
of force and of speed. Avoid monotony.
(e) Look often at the most distant hear¬
ers and see if you have their attention; for
the rest, think only of your subject and
those you hope to benefit.
§2. ACTION.
Delivery as regards action. The preacher
should be a live man in the pulpit but
natural. Observe children at play, with
them there is an absence of stupidness
and aifectation, there is no awkwardness
about them—they move according to na¬
ture, free and unhampered.
DELIVERY AS REGARDS ACTION CONTEM¬
PLATES THREE THINGS.
(a) Expression of countenance.—This
has great power for good or harm according
co the expression seen there. "The eyes
are windows of the soul" in the words of
another. So when a man is thoroughly into
his subject the countenance will express
every appropriate thought. It is said the
glambler studies and watches the eye, the
72 The Preacher—His Preparations.
countenance of his opponent in order to keep
up with the state of the game. The dog
watches the face of his master and thus
comprehend whether he is to be caressed or
chastised. It is further said, a lion cannot
attack a man if the man looks him steadily
in the eyes. Look well to your countenance.
Men read your soul there. They know when
you are in earnest about their souls. They
read the throbbings of your heart in your
face.
(b) Posture.—In walking, riding or sit¬
ting one should acquire habitual uprightness
and ease. Don't lean on the pulpit, it has
the appearance of laziness or weakness.
Stand erect—Don't get in the habit of fold¬
ing the hands. Keep them out of the
pockets in the pulpit. Remember the feet
were given to stand upon. Blegance and
grace should characterize the preacher in
the pulpit.
(c) Gesture.—This is perhaps the most
difficult part of Homiletics. To give rules
as to how, when, and where to make ges¬
tures is a most difficult task. No two
writers on the subject agree. Klocutionists
differ. The occasion and subject in hand,
The Preacher—His Preparations. 73
especially if inspiring will more likely fur¬
nish appropriate gestures. Again we see
the necessity of being natural, otherwise the
gestures will be awkward. Avoid imitation.
A few simple rules may be added as sug¬
gestive.
(a) Action should be suggestive not im¬
itative.
(b) Action should not be excessive.
(c) Gesture should never follow the em¬
phatic parts of a sentence, because it is nec¬
essary.
(d) Avoid monotony. In preaching there
should be life, freedom and power. Do not
repress nature. Be governed by Judgment,
good taste and common sense. In preach¬
ing, it is well to seek the advice and criti¬
cism of a dear friend—your wife may often
be helpful in painting out defects and occa¬
sionally giving praise when you do well.
Rely much on the guidance of the Holy
Spirit. He is the preacher's guide, life and
power. "He will guide you into all truth."
etc. John 16:13. Yet the kindly criticisms
and suggestions of friends may not be able
to correct all of your faults. Some are a
74 The Preacher—His Preparations.
part of your being. Better have them than
to be tame or artificial yet, when known
care and watchfulness together with earnest
and faithful effort will do much towards im¬
proving them.
PART V.
PUBLIC WORSHIP.
CHAPTER I.
#i. Its Importance. #2. Hymns. #3. Reading the Scriptures.
§4. Public Prayer. §5. L,ength of Service and
Pulpit Decorum.
§1. ITS IMPORTANCE.
importance of public worship
lH 111 *s aPParent- It is to be noticed
fell frail that there is a painful lack of rev-
jlglJif erence for public worship. Many
seem to go to church, not to worship God
but to be entertained, much as they go to
the theatre or playhouse. To many no
longer regard the sacredness of the place of
worship, but laugh and talk and speak to
the new coiners and stare and inspect
the fashions and new suits, as though
that was their business at church. Whether
this idleness and irreverence has grown out
of the materialistic tendencies of this age
or from a lack of true and reverent devo-
(75)
76 The Preacher—His Preparations.
tion to God may be debated; but this is a
painful fact, that men no longer regard the
house and worship of God with the holy
reverence and veneration of former days.
They need to be reminded again and again
to "put off thy shoes from thy feet for the
place whereon thou standest is holy
ground." Kx. 3:5, and that "Holiness be
cometh thine house O Lord forever.'' Psa.
93:5.
With all, there seems to be a tendency to
magnify one thing at the expense of another.
In Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterian and
some other denominations the preaching
or sermon is the principal thing. In the
Kpiscopal and Liturgical churches the ser¬
vice only receives prominence. But we
must by all means maintain the simplicity
and spiritually of the New Testament wor¬
ship. The natural bent of the human mind
is to introduce many new devices. To
bring in human forms and ceremonies to
keep up interest, but nothing can supply the
place of soul stirring worship—heart
worship. We bemourn the lack of inter¬
est on the part of men and the young gener¬
ally in public worship. There is a want of
The Preacher—His Preparations. 77
freedom and spontaneity on the part of all.
May it not be our fault? May it not be
a lack of interest and animation in them
who lead the devotion? May it not be slov¬
enliness and a lack of preparedness in those
who conduct public worship?
Let the worship be simple, but full of in¬
terest, devoutness, animation and full of a
sweet solemnity. Let there be movement
no hitch from start to finish. Beware of
formality and stiffness. The preacher
being the principal in the conduct of public
worship its success very largely is depend¬
ant upon him. He should seek to possess
a spirit of devotion. Let him read much
the Psalms, that he may imbibe the spirit of
a devout soul. Here he will find the Psalm¬
ist longing for the house of God and his
heart and flesh crying out for the living
God. The importance of Public Worship
is such that a whole book might be written
setting forth its nature requirements and
how to perform it, but here space will per¬
mit us to give only a few hints in closing.
§2. HYMNS.
Singing is a very essential part of divine
worship—warrant for it being found both
78 The Preacher—His Preparations.
in the Scriptures and also in the history of
the customs of the early Christian church.
E)ven in the Old Testament singing formed
an important part of the worship. David
the sweet singer of Israel did more than
any other to bring music to a place of prom¬
inence in the worship of God's house.
The preacher should make himself famil¬
iar with the best hymns and hymn writers.
Let him read them over again and again
till he drinks in their spirit and sentiment.
He should know the history of hymn writ¬
ers and where possible, the history of
hymns. This will better able him to pre¬
sent the truths and sentiments intended to
be conveyed by the writers. We often hear
very very poor reading of hymns. Some
preachers can not read correctly the most
familiar hymns. Don't read in a singsong
tone, avoid monotony.
In selecting h}'mns regard should be had
to the thought of the writer; select devo¬
tional hymns, for remember we praise God
in song.
The hymn should be read aloud in the
hearing of the congregation. This helps
the people to catch the sentiments of the
The Preacher—His Preparations. 79
writer and prepares them to heartily take
part in the singing-. Sometimes it is well
to line the hymn after it is read, as a whole.
This will enable those in the audience who
cannot read or who have no hymn book be¬
fore them, to take some part in the worship
Don't overlook the most humble worshiper.
If possible, the minister should know
music—Be able to read music at sight.
He may be called to lead the congregation in
singing as well as in the other parts of wor¬
ship. The preacher should carefully
study his own hymn book that he may
readily find suitable hymns for any occa¬
sion. He might also familiarize himself with
the hymn books of others in order that he
may know where to find the best hymns.
The preacher should be the personal
counsellor of his choir—especially the leader.
He is the medium between the choir and the
congregation and if he knows music and can
play an instrument, he may be very helpful
in arranging this part of worship so all can
take part.
Don't discard the old hymns, because
they are old—They contain doctrine and
true worship.
80 The Preacher—His Preparations.
§3. READING THE SCRIPTURES.
(a) In selecting passages to be read
to the congregations, care should be had
to select those which are highly devo¬
tional, such as are found in Psalms, the
Prophets, the Gospels, the Bpistles and the
Revelation. The scripture lesson should be
in harmony with the sermon. It would be
out of place to read a solemn scripture
lesson and then preach a joyful sermon
or vice versa.
It is not necessary always to read a whole
chapter. The chapters in some instances
are arbitrary and often breaks the true con¬
nection. Use good judgment about read¬
ing indelicate passages, or those which have
indelicate expressions in them—or those
which border on the the ridiculous. Some¬
times such expressions ma}^ be omitted in
the reading provided such omission does not
attract too much attention or loss, but
where such passages are to be read let it be
done without the slightest hesitanc}r or man¬
ifestation of feeling.
(b) To read well is a rare accomplish¬
ment. Good singing and good singers are
many, those who speak well are numerous,
The Preacher—His Preparations. 81
but few are those who excel in reading.
Quickness of apprehension is essential to
good reading. One should be able to take
in at a glance the meaning of a sentence.
The sentence to be read intelligently must
be understood. "Understandeth what thou
readest?" This is absolutely necessary.
The best readers are those who enter into
the spirit of the writer and seek to repro¬
duce him. To be a good reader one must
be master of correct pronunciation and em¬
phasis. This requires great care and much
practice, but success is worth all the effort
put forth. John in Revelation declares,
"Blessed is he that readeth and they
that hear the words of this prophesy."
So the reader and the hearer of the
Bible are blessed. It is really difficult to
publicly read well the Bible because much of
it is historical narrative—didactic and poeti¬
cal. To enter into the spirit of the various
passages is hard—In order to do this the
scripture lesson should be thoroughly gone
over -just before reading it in public.
Sometimes a word or two of comment or
explanation may be given during the read-
(0
82 The Preacher—His Preparations.
Jng. It awakens interest and calls attention
to the scripture passage perhaps in which
some in the audience are personally inter¬
ested.
Let the reading be in a devotional spirit.
It is an act of worship.
§4. PUBLIC PRAYER.
Prayer is the most important part of di¬
vine worship, because it is the most solemn.
He who assumes to lead the great congre¬
gation in prayer, who attempts to express
their desires, needs and what they feel or
should feel, before the throne of the Great
God; he who attempts to express their ado¬
ration, confession, supplication and thanks¬
giving takes upon himself a weighty respon¬
sibility.
Alas! how few realize the solemnity
of speaking to God for others. For so
solemn a service as this preparation is nec¬
essary.
§1. GENERAL PREPARATION.
(a) Piety.—Fervent piety is a necessitv.
Keep the heart warm. Pray much in pri¬
vate. Observe the spirit of prayer always.
Hold communion with God at all times. In
The Preacher—His Preparations. 83
prayer human, sinful heart speaks to God,
the great and loving Father, through Christ
the mediator, between God and man—This
is the most solemn act of worship.
"I love to steal awhile, away
From every cumbering care,
And spend the hours of setting day,
In humble, grateful prayer.
This is the spirit of true devotion and he
who leads in public worship should come to
his pulpit in this frame of mind.
(b) Be conversant with the Scriptures.
The best forms of prayer are found in the
Bible. The most appropriate wording is
found there. Devotional expressions abound
throughout the Bible, but especially in the
Psalms, the Prophets, the Gospels, the
Kpistles and the Revelations.
(c) Study of the best specimens of pray¬
ers as found in the Bible and other approved
prayer books.
§2. Special preparation as to matter,
arrangement, language and utterance is nec¬
essary.
Prayer should not be too general nor too
specific. There should be variety in public
prayer. Some pray the same prayer on all
84 The Preacher—His Preparations.
occasions, whatever the time and place or
circumstances; they use the same expression,
the same phrases and exclamations and pe¬
tition. The arrangement of prayer should
not be formal, but orderly. The order
usually given is:
(a) Invocation.
(b) Confession.
(c) Supplication, thanksgiving and re¬
newed dedication.
(d) Intercession.
The language of prayer should if possible
be grammatical, free from vulgarity and
oddness. Free from pet phrases and
borrowed expressions, such as "choose
all our changes and righten all our
wrongs," "Touch and tender their hearts,"
Ultimately save us," when, "at last,"
means the same thing and wrould be better
understood. "Oh!" "Ah!" "O, Lord,"
"We pray thee," "We beseech thee" and
the often repeated "Have mercy" etc.
Jesus Christ cautioned against, "vain repe¬
titions" when he taught His disciples to
pray
As to utterance in prayer, care should be
The Preacher—His Preparations. 85
exercised to use soft level and subdued tones,,
which breathe tenderness of supplication..
All violence, boisterousness, clamor, contor¬
tion of countenance and mild gesticulations
should be avoided. Don't beat the pulpit in
prayer. Remember God hears the groans of
His saints and is acquainted with every
desire. Remember, that:
"Prayer is the soul's sincere desire,
Unuttered or expressed,
The motion of a hidden fire,
That trembles in the breast.
"Prayer is the burden of a sigh,
The falling of a tear,
The upward glancing of an eye,
When none but God is near.
"Prayer is the simplest form;of speech
That infant lips can try;
Prayer, the sublimest strains that reach
The Majesty on high."
§5. LENGTH OF SERVICE AND™PULPIT
DECORUM.
Length of services. — The time to
give to a service depends upon circumstances
Many years ago a service lasted from two
to six hours. The order now is shorter.
86 The Preacher—His Preparations.
In the country where people walk or ride
for miles and have only one service a day, it
may be longer than in towns or cities. No
rule can be laid down governing the length
of a service. The preacher should not be
bound by statutes nor custom. Here there
should be freedom and variety. This is the
only remedy against a dead formality which
is alike injurious to preacher and people.
(a) The length of a service depends upon
several things.—On how much time is allow¬
ed for the different parts of a service.
(b) On the preacher—Sometimes a long
sermon, because of its interest seems short
and a short sermon long for lack of interest;
because of its dullness. The usual length
now is anywhere between thirty and forty-
five minutes for the sermon. With the other
parts, an hour or an hour and a half is long
enough, unless on some special occasion.
Prayers are usually too long. Better
have three prayers during a service than to
have one two long. Long prayers wear}'
the people, and are rarely profitable.
Let an anthem be sung, then invocation.
Then give out the opening h}Tmn which
should be sung by the whole congregation
The Preacher—His Preparations. 87
standing. After this the scripture lesson
should be read, followed by the principal
prayer. This pra)rer should not be too long.
Then the second hvmn may be sung-, and
after this the sermon followed by a short
prayer or anthem.
The time for the offering or collection
varies in different churches. This is an im¬
portant act of worship. Giving to the
Lord's cause is worship and should be con¬
ducted reverently and devoutly. Too much
noise and displa}^ should be avoided. Let
it be remembered that God sees, the gift
and the giver. He also sees the motive
which prompts the gifts and rewards accor¬
dingly. Have a place in the order of ser¬
vice for the collection and allow so much
time for this part of the service and then
quit. The time and ado made over lifting a
collection in many of our congregations
really destroys the reverence of the house
of God, detracts from the solemnity of
the service; and sometime destroys
good impressions made by the sermon and
other parts of the service. Let the minis¬
ter lead and set the example here as in all
the acts of public worship.
88 The Preacher—His Preparations.
Public Decorum.—The preacher should
guard his manner in the pulpit. How much
harm is often done by some trifling act of
indecorum in the pulpit. If a young
preacher is seen arranging his neck-tie, or
playing with his watch-chain in the pulpit,
it will surely prejudice some persons against
him. He will be accused of pedantnr of
vanity. If his dress is too showy or too
sloven he will surely be the subject of criti¬
cism. If the preacher is seen taking a drink
of water, a chew of tobacco, or hunting up
hymns while another is praying, we can
hardly complain of their irreverance of the
people. Two preachers should not engage
in conversation during the singing unless it
is necessary.
To be gazing all over the audience as
though trying to make out who are present
or who are coming in is bad pulpit manners.
The preacher should be calm and collected.
To exhibit irritation in the pulpit at any
inattention or misconduct is bad decorum.
Sometimes it may become necessary to re¬
buke openly from the pulpit, but it should
be in a case where no personal slight is in¬
tended. Remember everyone in your con-
The Preacher—His Preparations. 89
gregation has his friends, so in rebuking one
you may offend many. A kind but decided
word in private will more likely accomplish
the needed result. Do not exhibit the
"big I" but "little you" in the pulpit.
Don't magnify yourself unduly. Men know
who you are without display. 'Tis well to
associate yourself with your congregation
and say "we" sometimes.
We have now come to the end out task. We
have tried to set forth what a true gospel
preacher is, his necessary preparation and
how he should do his work and now we shall
give two pictures from the immortal Cowper
on pulpit proprieties.
"Would I describe a picture, such as Paul,
Were he on earth, would hear, approve, and
own—
Paul should himself direct me.
I would trace his master strokes, and draw from
his design.
I would express him simple, grave, sincere:
"In doctrine uncorrupt: in language plain,
And plain in manner; decent, solemn, chaste,
And natural in gesture; much impressed himself,
As conscious of his awful charge,
And anxious mainly that the flock he feeds;
90 The Preacher—His Preparations.
May feel it too; affectionate in looks
And tender in address, as well becomes
A messenger of grace to guilty men—
Behold the picture. Is it like?
Like whom?
"The things that mount the rostrum with a ship,
And then skip down again; pronounce a text;
Cry—hem: and reading what they never wrote,
Just fifteen minutes, huddle up their work,
*And with a well-bred whisper close the scene.''
Which picture would you choose?
CONCLUSION:
After all our preparation general and
special for the conduct of public worship
and for the great work of preaching Christ
Jesus to lost men, our real success depends
upon the presence and power of the Holly
Spirit.
*cowper on pulpit proprieties:—He who has the Spirit's presence in
his preaching cannot wholly fail. The sermon intended for the uncon¬
verted will almost invariably help Christians, and vice versa.
We may not always harvest our sowing. A sermon preached to-day
may not be heard from in a long time, perhaps only in eternity. A
wretched failure may help the preacher himself and all who may after¬
wards hear him. ' The word will not return unto him void but will prosper in
the thing where to God hath sent it! But remember above all things else
that what the preacher is in his own life and character seen, forces his
sermon. Character, Ministerial character is the principal thing. The
preacher's life out weighs his words. So in the words of another we con¬
clude this humble effort. "If a man's words be thunder, his life is light¬
ning."