There are two conspicuous practices that appear in the ministry of certain of our workers. I have reference to extremely loud and very rapid speaking. It is true that many are displeased with a slow delivery, and it is possible that some do not find it unpleasant to listen to extremely loud preaching. But however that may be, it is better for us to be governed by what we know to be right than by the tastes or tolerances of certain hearers, as there are many things that a large number of auditors might demand and approve in the way of conducting public services' that would be altogether improper.
A public speaker will do well to bear in mind always the fact that his audience is composed of people of all types, tastes, and temperaments. There are the young and the old, the learned and the illiterate, the refined and the uncultured, the calm and the nervous, and those quick to comprehend as well as those who are slow. The necessity for avoiding extremes in addressing these many classes cannot be ignored by one who hopes to succeed. Even in small congregations it is important for a speaker to have in mind these varied groups.
Surely it is unwise for us to adopt extreme ways of presenting the truth at any time. It is a mistaken idea that loudness gives strength, or that a frenzied, hurried presentation proves more effective.
None are warranted in the conclusion that such expressions as "the loud cry," "cry aloud and spare not," and "lift up your voice like a trumpet," require that we employ the forced tones used by some in their sermons. There are ministers who speak no louder than they do only because it would be impossible for them to do so. Seemingly the very limit of their vocal power is brought into exercise. While this is not the general practice, yet it is sufficiently common to make a word of counsel in this line appropriate and timely. Especially should young men who are just beginning their ministerial career, learn how to present the truth in a clear, simple, effective, and inoffensive way.
The following counsel relative to these common errors in public speaking should be helpful:
"Some ministers have fallen into the error that they cannot have liberty in speaking unless they raise their voices to a high pitch, and talk loud and fast. Such should understand that noise, and loud, hurried speaking, are not evidence of the presence of the power of God. It is not the power of the voice that makes the lasting impression. Ministers should be Bible students, and should thoroughly furnish themselves with the reasons of our faith and hope, and then, with full control of the voice and feelings, they should present these in such a manner that the people can calmly weigh them, and decide upon the evidences given."—"Testimonies," Vol. I, pp. 644, 645. (See also Vol. IV, p. 405.)
There are ministers who could heed such counsel with great profit. Not only is the speaker harming himself by extreme shouting and forced delivery, but his hearers are the greater sufferers. I have many times been requested by congregations to talk with certain preachers, requesting them to discontinue such methods of speaking. I have known instances where strangers, who have been invited to attend our meetings, went away from the service disgusted and prejudiced from having heard a frenzied and offensively noisy presentation of our message. I feel certain that more power will accompany our public presentation of the truth, and it will prove more effectual, if we will adhere closely to a calm, clear and inoffensive manner of speaking.
Walla Walla, Wash.
