Acts 10:42 - Homilies By R.a. Redford

The Savior's charge to his ministers.

"He commanded us to preach unto the people." No secrets in the Christian religion. Apostles witnesses for the sake of others. The key opened the door, and then was flung away. Baptism of the Holy Ghost preceded the universal message.

I. THE DIVINEST WORK OF GOD 'S PEOPLE — TO PREACH .

1. The greatness of the work rests upon the greatness of the necessity. Teaching can never be dispensed with. The root of a true faith is knowledge. Popular ignorance immeasurable.

2. No ritualistic display can supersede preaching. Nor is devotion the whole of worship. As a moral force, Christianity must be preached to men, both conscience and heart.

3. Preaching is the most simple and pure channel of connection from soul to soul. The Spirit flows through the Word.

II. THE CHIEF AIM OF GOD 'S MINISTERS MUST BE TO REACH THE PEOPLE .

1. No sophistry should blind us to the fact that the proclamation of gospel truth is the first duty of Christians.

2. The Word preached must be the Word which is adapted to the people, life power like that of evangelical truth.

3. Churches must guard against being "at ease in Zion." Edification is best aimed at through aggressive efforts on the surrounding population. Intellectual preaching must be subordinated to popular wants. An educated ministry is the want of the times, but the education, like all other means employed, must be full of the Holy Ghost.

III. THE MASTER 'S COMMISSION THE SUPPORT OF THE CHURCH 'S HOPES .

1. Direct charge must silence all questioning and all speculation.

2. Jesus Christ reads the future. Let the commander give the orders. Then his predictions of victory will be fulfilled.

3. The reflex action of zealous fulfillment of the charge on the Church's own faith and experience. These who do much for the people the happiest Christians, the most assured believers. The triumphs of practical Christianity will be its best evidence. What are we doing, both as individuals and as Churches, to preach to the people?—R.