One of the distinctive features of Seventh-day Adventist evangelists is their pictorial use of the symbols of prophecy. This, together with their rather universal knowledge of the Scriptures, particularly of the prophecies, produces deep impressions. But how much more of an impression is made when they are also able to make these symbols appear from their very finger tips in the presence of a congregation—"first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear."
The illustrations found in Smith's "Daniel and the Revelation" are really not difficult to simplify and adapt for use in prophetic sermons, if you follow the methods described in previous numbers of this series. The accompanying drawings of the symbols of Daniel 8 were prepared in this manner. Strive to eliminate unessential lines and shadings. Make the drawing as simple as possible. For, after all, one does not have time to go much into detail in drawing under these circumstances. Draw the two-horned ram (at right below) first, then the notable horned he-goat which smites the ram.
Compare these simplified drawings with the illustrations from which they were taken on page 199 of "Daniel and the Revelation." Besides the economy of lines and shading, you will notice a definite change in illustrating the "horn, which waxed exceeding great." (Steps 1 and 2.) It has been adapted so as to develop it right out of the Macedonian horn. This seems more logical than to show it disconnected from the head of the goat as it is in the book. Some may argue that this does not make it so "exceeding great," but it will be sufficient to serve your purpose. What your drawing lacks, your words can supply.
This is the concluding number of the series of articles on chalk talks. If you have become interested in this form of presentation, and have carried out the instructions of the previous articles, you have now learned enough to go ahead for yourself, and should now be able to prepare illustrations for almost any kind of sermon in which you might find it advantageous to use this means of holding interest. Be on the watch for drawings and illustrations in our denominational literature and in newspapers and magazines, which you can work up and adapt for later use. it should not be difficult to find striking illustrations for such subjects as tithing, the Sabbath, the second advent. It might be well to make a file of these as you do of other sermon material. This collection, along with the material found in the books you may have upon the subject of chalk talking, should give you enough ideas to make interesting sermons for young and old until the Lord comes.
