On the Preparation and Delivery Of Sermons

This work has been turned to by generations of preachers as an authoritative guide to the art of homiletics. It remains the most complete text on the subject, combining a full range of topics with a thorough discussion of homiletic principles and an abundance of practical rules and suggestions.

From the back cover:

Preaching is characteristic of Christianity. No other religion has ever made the regular and frequent assembling of groups of people, to hear religious instruction and exhortation, an integral part of divine worship. As a basic service of the church in its history and significance, preaching is a peculiarly Christian institution. It follows that preaching is always a necessity, for preaching is inextricably linked to the life of the church. It was the proclamation of the good news that brought the church into being. Only the same proclamation can keep life in the church. The very nature of the Christian faith demands effective preaching. Preaching is essential to Christianity. Take away this witness, and Christianity dies. The essence of Christianity is preaching. When the redemptive acts of God in Christ are proclaimed, Christ himself is present to act redemptively. Through proclamation, Christ is present to free mankind from sin.

Hardcover, 331 pages