English now and then (Re. Pulpit language

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On Sun, 8 Sep 1996 22:56:02 -0500, you wrote:

>
>It doesn't matter one hoot what it means on the street toady, and it
>matters to the extent that our very salvation depends on it what it
>meant in 1611 if we are reading it in the KJV and want to obey God!

You are SO right in essence, and from the perspective that I have held
during this conversation! 

However I would disagree partly and say that it does indeed matter
what it means on the street for this is what the ignorant, hearing
congregation will receive, not the 1611 meaning. It is the duty of the
preacher to reach the heart through the ears of every individual, no
matter how confused. This takes preaching AND teaching, with a
considerable effort given to measuring the response and understanding
of the congregation.

In person to person settings it is easier, but in the pulpit with the
45-90 minutes afforded a preacher, my feeling is that polemics must be
exchanged for a definite rapport and gut level communication. I
believe that Rev. Mooney demonstrates this very, very well. He might
have preached a little different a few years ago, but has made
excellent effort to maintain contact with his audience..

That is almost AS important as the anointing of God ... WELL, how can
I say that ?... But it is of a very high priority in preaching, in my
own experience.

-mwb