Wise Counsel to a Young Preacher - by Mr. Brewer
Pastoral Theology and Expository Preaching ArticlesToday, many Christians are turning back to the puritans to, “walk in the old paths,” of God’s word, and to continue to proclaim old truth that glorifies Jesus Christ. There is no new theology. In our electronic age, more and more people are looking to add electronic books (ePubs, mobi and PDF formats) to their library – books from the Reformers and Puritans – in order to become a “digital puritan” themselves. Take a moment to visit Puritan Publications (click the banner below) to find the biggest selection of rare puritan works updated in modern English in both print form and in multiple electronic forms. There are new books published every month. All proceeds go to support A Puritan’s Mind.
In 1768, Augustus Toplady (being 28 years old), spent the afternoon in London with Mr. Brewer — an older seasoned Gospel preacher whom he greatly admired and from whom he learned much. This is what Mr. Brewer said to the young Toplady (this is recorded in Toplady’s diary).
I cannot conclude without reminding you, my young brother, of some things that may be of use to you in the course of your ministry:
1. Preach Christ crucified, and dwell chiefly on the blessings resulting from His righteousness, atonement, and intercession.
2. Avoid all needless controversies in the pulpit; except it be when your subject necessarily requires it; or when the truths of God are likely to suffer by your silence.
3. When you ascend the pulpit, leave your learning behind you. Endeavor to preach more to the hearts of your people — than to their heads.
4. Do not affect too much oratory. Seek rather to profit your hearers — than to be admired by them.