Letters
Letters offer a unique means of private communication, drawing forth the inmost experiences of the writer's heart.
J.C. Philpot emphasizes the intimate and heartfelt nature of letters, particularly those exchanged between beloved friends in the Lord, as they reveal the writer's deepest experiences and emotions. These letters, not meant for public consumption, offer a unique sweetness and power in their freedom of communication and sincerity. Philpot highlights how letters by saints and servants of God are specially crafted for private reading, allowing readers to engage with them at their own pace and convenience, providing comfort and encouragement.
Text
Letters
by J. C. Philpot
Letters, especially when written to beloved friends in the Lord, draw forth much of the inmost experience of the writer's heart. The very freeness of correspondence unlocks those bosom secrets which are often almost necessarily held back from a public congregation. You know that your friend will not abuse your confidence, betray your secrets, or make you an offender for a word. As you write, your friend comes before your mental eye, affection softens your heart towards him, the springs of inward feeling gradually rise, and they flow forth, according to the gift bestowed, in streams upon your paper. It is this freedom of communication and this writing out of the fullness of the heart which give letters by the saints and servants of God such a peculiar sweetness and power. Not being intended for the public eye, they are specially adapted for private reading.
We can take up the book of letters, or lay it down, read a long letter or a short one, without straining the mind or distracting the attention. If it suits us, we go reading on, letter after letter, as we have often done with Mr. Huntington's Letters. If it does not suit heart, time, or place, we can but lay the book down. It is a patient visitor, not jealous of a rival or sensitive of neglect, but bearing any amount of rebuff, coldness, or silence, and ready to speak again only when asked to do so.
Sermon Outline
- The Freedom of Correspondence
- The Power of Letters
- The Convenience of Letters
- Letters can be read at one's own pace
- Letters are not demanding or distracting
Key Quotes
“Letters, especially when written to beloved friends in the Lord, draw forth much of the inmost experience of the writer's heart.” — J.C. Philpot
“The very freeness of correspondence unlocks those bosom secrets which are often almost necessarily held back from a public congregation.” — J.C. Philpot
“Letters are specially adapted for private reading.” — J.C. Philpot
Application Points
- Letters can be a powerful means of sharing one's experiences and emotions with others.
- The freedom of correspondence can be a blessing, allowing us to express ourselves openly and honestly.
- Letters can be a convenient and patient means of communication, suitable for private reading.