A. You have mentioned two main types of preaching. A third is textu al. In a topical sermon the minister takes a specific subject and devel ops it by using Biblical references, rather than one general passage. Such topical addresses are often doctrinal in nature. There is really no other way to treat them. The textual message has as its basis a single verse, sentence or phrase. As some sermons are de veloped there is far too much to be covered so this method is adopted. Frequently, one of the most en lightening ways of dealing with Biblical truth is through exposition. It is really a verse-by-verse com mentary on a portion of Scripture. This is one of the best ways to un derstand God's truth. Other forms of preaching include survey and book studies. This calls for deal ing only with highlights or salient points to be considered. In any case, each type has its place and good points. The main thing is to remain true to the Word, seeking the Holy Spirit's power in delivery. Q. San Francisco, Calif. "Why do not churches and Christian col leges deal more with the purer teachings of our Saviour rather than those of Paul, Peter, and the others?" A. There is certainly no discordant note between the teachings of Je sus and those of the Apostles. All of God's Word is totally and iner- rantly inspired. The doctrines Christ put forth in the Gospels are taught in depth throughout the Epistles. We endeavor not to forget any portion of God's Word. It is all totally for us although certain pas sages may not be directed to us.
Q. Denver, Colo. "In terms of our current money system, for how much did Judas sell Jesus?" A. The thirty pieces of silver would each represent about sixteen cents. Other Biblical scholars feel that each coin could be worth as much as 64 cents at the very most. Judas could not have gotten more than $19.20 for his deed of infamy. Such was about the customary price to purchase an ordinary slave in those days. Q. Phoenix, Ariz. "Why did God separate clean from unclean ani mals? Why is there a difference between the two?" A. First of all, it is important to note that there was a distinction God definitely presented between clean and unclean long before the Mo saic law. Exodus lists ten beasts which are described as clean. Gen esis 7 points out seven of them. "Clean" simply meant that they were acceptable for sacrifice. Abel knew that the lamb could be used for this purpose. We consider the habits of certain animals to gain the information. If they are unus ually unclean in themselves, espe cially if they are predatory, they are not "clean" animals. The Spirit of God, in the Mosaic law, makes a number of distinctions when it comes to birds and beasts. A hawk, as an example, could not be used. It is a bird of prey. Not so with a dove or pigeon. With beasts, the clean animal must part the hoof and chew the cud. If it does one but not the other, it is unclean. This is true of a pig. In the case of fish, God again made distinctions. Only fish with fins and scales were considered clean. Note the degree of importance He places on purity. Page 25
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