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Effectual Sermons

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Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jan 18, 1912

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 89, No. 3.

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Effectual Sermons

By R. A. Underwood

A SERMON must be drawn from the Word of God and must be full of human sympathy, backed up by the power of the Holy Spirit, to be effectual. A sermon making a display of the man, may cause a sensation, but it disappoints and does not feed the church nor convict of sin. A minister must be possessed with his message; for he can not give to others what he does not have. He must know by experience the way and the power of saving grace, which he offers to his listeners. A successful minister will mingle with the people, that he may know their needs and be able to reach their hearts. The pastor must tread the pathway of innocent childhood and youth, as well as walk in the sterner paths of life; and he must also enter into the infirmities of old age, if he feeds the flock, giving to young and old “meat in due season.”
He must know the burdens and the temptations of his people, and the source of power he recommends to those to whom he would bring help. If the servant of God would serve men through his sermons, he must start somewhere and go somewhere, and not wobble about like a dancing toy. The sermon must enlighten and edify the people with truths that will continue to feed the souls in years to come. A man with a message from God will present it in humility and tears, in fearlessness, and with power. Such ministry will bring light and convincing power, and will reach the consciences of men. It is only such a minister of God's Word that the Holy Spirit can use to feed and build up the church of Christ.
R. A. UNDERWOOD.