Books - 1 Tim. 4:13
The sermon emphasizes the importance of reading, choosing the right books, and the significance of the Holy Bible as a guide for our lives.
Bernard Fell emphasizes the importance of reading and cherishing books that enrich the soul and mind, urging the congregation to prioritize works that leave a lasting impact and inspire spiritual growth. He warns against indulging in worthless and harmful literature that can corrupt the mind and spirit, advocating for the Holy Bible as the ultimate source of wisdom and guidance, revered by many throughout history for its divine inspiration and timeless truths.
Text
Till I come, give attendance to reading,
to exhortation, to doctrine
I Timothy 4:13
Books that live are dear companions
To the heart and mind at rest;
Close at hand to help and succour,
Choose the richest and the best.
Time is short with life's commitments
To enjoy, alas, but few
Of the countless, useful volumes,
Safe, uplifting, classic, true.
Works that leave a marked impression,
Passing through this world of strife;
Gems of thought, poetic treasures
To enrich the inner life.
Read with care the lives of great men
Now embalmed in printed page;
Their brave spirit still inspiring
Other souls from age to age.
Shun the worthless, trashy novel
Steeped in thoughts of sordid kind,
Leaving careless, shallow readers
Dwarfed in culture, stained in mind.
Often draped with harmless titles,
Subtle, vapid, full of vice,
These dark pages lure the masses:
Cheap in matter, cheap in price.
Prize with joy the Holy Bible,
In a thousand tongues now read;
Secret of an Empire's greatness--
So its gracious Queen once said.
God inspired the gifted writers,
All the best who trod this earth,
Prophet, priest, apostle, monarch,
Penned this book of priceless worth.
On its first page 'tis well written,
When acquainted with the author
God's command, "Let there be light."
Ev'ry promise throbs with love
Thus illumed, none need to stumble,
And each page reflects His wisdom,
Though the path be dark as night.
Guiding us to heav'n above.
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of Reading
- The Value of Classic Literature
- The Dangers of Worthless Novels
- The Holy Bible as a Guide
- The Bible is a book of priceless worth
- It is a source of guidance and wisdom
Key Quotes
“Books that live are dear companions To the heart and mind at rest;” — Bernard Fell
“God inspired the gifted writers, All the best who trod this earth, Prophet, priest, apostle, monarch, Penned this book of priceless worth.” — Bernard Fell
“Thus illumed, none need to stumble, And each page reflects His wisdom,” — Bernard Fell
Application Points
- Choose books that are classic, uplifting, and true to enrich your inner life.
- Avoid worthless and shallow novels that can be detrimental to your mind.
- The Holy Bible is a source of guidance and wisdom for our lives, and should be prized and cherished.