There can surely be no question as to the tremendous importance and paramount need for the prayerful preparation and effective presentation of the gospel message. This is a matter of concern, not only to the Church of God in general, but to each Christian in particular. To each believer comes the unmistakably clear command of his Lord and Go ye into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15). With the object of aiding young Christians to fulfill this divinely given task, this book has been written. This books brings A. P. Gibb s encyclopedic knowledge of preaching within our reach. His seriousness, thoroughness, energy, and urgency are evident throughout this book. As is the case with all of Mr. Gibbs books, much material is packed into this book, and each chapter contains a wealth of helpful suggestions. The illustrations of the various types of sermons are especially helpful.
Alfred P. Gibbs (1890-1967) was a man born to preach. At an early age Gibbs came to know, love, and serve the Lord Jesus Christ. He studied at Moody Bible Institute in Chicago and thereafter carried on an itinerant Bible teaching and writing ministry, chiefly in the United States and Canada. Gibbs published his first book, The Marvelous City of Mansoul in 1926. In all he wrote fourteen books and booklets, including Christian Baptism, The Lord s Supper, Scriptural Principles of Gathering, and Worship, all published by ECS Ministries. All his books have intensity like the man who wrote them. He was full of his subject. He also composed poetry and wrote Christian hymns. Gibbs never married, considering himself a eunuch for the kingdom of God. He was a model of the advice he gave, a spiritual man, a practical man, and fun to be with besides. For Gibbs, to hold forth the Word of life was a lifetime passion.
Wow! What I thought was 'just' an introduction to Homiletics turned out to be a complete course in pulpit ministry. Little wonder A.P.Gibbs excelled in ministry. It glaring from the pages of this great work that Gibbs' life and ministry where in no small way affected by the teaching ministry of the 'Prince of Preachers' - Charles Haddon Spurgeon. The book is simply a treasure trove!