First Line Friday #17: Lectures to My Students by C. H. Spurgeon

Thanks to Carrie at
Reading is My Superpower
for the Link-up

 

 

Title:  Lectures to My Students
Author:  C. H. Spurgeon
Genre:  Theology/Ministry

  〰First Line〰

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Every workman knows the necessity of keeping his tools in a good state of repair, for "if the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edges, then must he put to more strength."

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Synopsis:  (From Amazon) 

A preacher and tutor of great renown, C. H. Spurgeon led an eventful life. Gaining prominence while still a young man, Spurgeon captivated audiences with his charismatic preaching - he had a unique ability to meld sometimes complex scholarship of the Bible with his speeches, in a way that let audiences understand clearly the spiritual wisdom. This quality is amply demonstrated in Spurgeon's lectures, which are plainly written but contain much practical knowledge for students.

Where other editions of these lectures have omitted or truncate some of the author's words, this printing does not. All twenty-eight of Spurgeon's original talks, which concern topics such as joining the Christian ministry; how a minister should converse; how one should gesture and behave upon the podium; and the message the preacher should convey to his audience.

Together, these lectures constitute a preaching masterclass from one of Christianity's most iconic ministers. Spurgeon's charismatic personality, keen wit and oratorical ability transcended Christian denominations, and his lessons on engaging an audience and imparting the wisdom of God to listeners are for all time.

NOTE:  This references a newer paperback edition.  I have an older hardcover edition.

  〰First Thoughts〰

Spurgeon's writings have been both an encouragement and a challenge to me since I first read his devotionals Morning by Morning and Evening by Evening.  Like A Year With C. S. Lewis, this selection should not be rushed through, but slowly absorbed in prayerful contemplation.  I look forward to reading this during the Lenten season.

So, what's the first line of the book you're currently reading?