Dr. Chalmers on Preaching.
In conversation with an American clergyman, Dr. Chalmers said, A sermon, properly considered, consists of two parts, exposition and application. The truth lies in the text, like a sword in its scabbard. The business of the minister is first to draw the sword, that is exposition; and next to cut and thrust with it on the right and on the left, that is application. The hearers, first of all, must see what is the mind of God in the text, and then that mind of God is to be used for their reformation. It is not enough that the preacher preach the truth; the hearers must know for themselves that it is the very truth of God. The power does not lie simply in the truth, but in the truth perceived to be of God. When this point has been gained, then the power of preaching is the power of God. Hence careful exposition, showing beyond all question what is the mind of God in the text, is the indispensable first thing in every sermon. Without this, the sword of the Spirit is, practically, not there. The sword sheathed is of no avail. Let it be first drawn by exposition, and then let it be wielded with a will.