Hints to Preachers

In language, be simple. In illustration, familiar and striking, that the most unlearned may understand. The learning of a minister should be exhibited in thoughts, not in words and phrases.

Language and illustrations should be plain to children; the thoughts such as may fill the most capacious mind. The minister's object should be to secure fixed and interested attention, and to make a deep and lasting impression on the mind. In order to this:

1. Avoid common-place remarks in the introduction. The first sentences uttered should contain fresh and valuable thoughts. It is of the utmost importance to set every hearer to thinking within the first five minutes.

2. Get into the subject quickly. Avoid every thing extraneous in the introduction. The exposition of the text is often the best introduction.

3. Avoid speaking slowly and with hesitation at the commencement. A slow, hesitating utterance makes the impression that the preacher does not understand his subject, or that he feels but little at home in it.—Dr. Rice