What does Ellen White write about...
Adventistische Schriften über: "Tension between authoritarian form and substantive truth in preaching"
Answer
The tension in preaching is revealed in that divine authority cannot be replaced by human volume or authoritarian demeanor, but works through the clear, solemn presentation of biblical truth. An authoritarian form that manifests in long‑winded speeches or artificial pathos can even weaken the substantive power of the truth and tend to confuse listeners rather than convince them. True authority in preaching springs from a close connection of the preacher to Christ and a humble adherence to the fundamental principles of the Word of God.
Divine Authority versus Human Volume
»Some preachers have fallen into the error that they cannot have freedom in speaking unless they raise their voice to a high pitch and speak loudly and quickly. Such individuals should understand that noise and loud, hurried speech are not evidence of the presence of God's power. It is not the force of the voice that leaves a lasting impression. Preachers should be investigators of the Bible and become thoroughly familiar with the reasons for our faith and hope, and then, with full control over voice and emotions, present them so that people can calmly weigh them and decide based on the given evidence.«
Danger of Overwhelming with Too Much Material
»One of dignity and authority came before you as you stood at the pulpit and said: You have given the people a great amount of material to contemplate; half of what you have given would be of far greater benefit than the whole. When it is enlivened by the Holy Spirit, it must make an impression on the human listener. ... However, if decisive points are to be presented that the listener must certainly take away, a flood of words erases this strong impression by pouring more into the vessel than it can hold, and thus much effort is lost.«
True Authority through Consistency of Life and Teaching
»You stand at the lectern and handle the holiest, most exalted truths in a capable manner; but when you address the most solemn topics, you often introduce something comical to generate a smile, and this frequently destroys the power of your entire discourse. You handle solemn truths with ease, but you do not live them, and that is why heavenly affirmation is lacking. ... It was the preacher they liked, not the truths he uttered.«
The Authority of Divine Law in Preaching
»Suppose prominent clergy publicly taught that the laws governing their country and protecting the rights of its citizens were not binding—that they restrict the people's freedoms and therefore should not be obeyed; how long would such men be tolerated on the pulpit? But is it a graver offense to disregard the laws of states and nations than to trample those divine regulations that are the foundation of all government?«
Original Sources (English)
Stephan Krol
Founder of EGW Vision
Why I built EGW Vision
Hello, I am Stephan Krol. I started this Ellen White website to make the writings of Ellen G. White and the Adventist pioneers easier to access for everyone.
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