Christian ministry by Charles Bridges (available from Amazon or free on the internet, here for example)
Today we finish chapter four on Scriptural preaching of the gospel.
In section three we are encouraged to preach practically and not leave out man's obligations: 'Some have thought that the doctrine of Christ crucified is of far greater moment than the details of obligation - as if the one did not necessarily belong to the other.'
In section four Bridges speaks of applicatory preaching: 'The doctrine generally proposed, is occupied, as it were, in a distant object, and can never reach the soul itself; but its specific application comes in a manner into the very interior of the mind, and touches and penetrates it.'
In section five we turn attention to discriminatory preaching which means we speak to specific groups of people.
In section six Bridges emphasises that our preaching must be decided. Indecisive preaching is ineffective: 'The power even of a Scriptural exhibition of truth is often materially weakened by an indecisive manner of statement. The doctrines of the Gospel appear to be allowed and set forth; but in so feeble and hesitating a tone, as evinces either a careless investigation into their character, a doubtful opinion of their truth, or an indistinct apprehension of their value and efficacy. Such a representation awakens but little interest, and produces no effect.'
I liked the encouragement to discriminate in our preaching: 'The losing sight of the wide distinction between a credible profession and a spiritual conversion has occasioned that too frequent and most dangerous mode of accrediting all persons as Christians, upon their acknowledgment of a national creed, or external regulations. It is as if either we had no unconverted hearers among us, or had no care about their conversion. One great end of our preaching is, distinctly to trace the line of demarcation between the Church and the world. Our Lord clearly marked this line of separation at the close of his sermon on the Mount. Boldness in declaring it will give a high tone of decision to our message. As ministers of the word, we recognise but two classes among men - those that "are of God - and the whole world that lieth in wickedness."'
There are two types of people before us when we preach - Christians and non-Christians. And we should address both accordingly.
Next week's reading
Continue reading Part 4 by reading Chapter 5 (The mode of Scriptural preaching).
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.
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