Advice from an Older Preacher

A few years ago, I was asked to write an article about some advice I received from an older preacher.

Here is what I wrote.

The first advice from an older preacher that came to my mind happened in 1964. Marvin Rainey was preaching in Corinth, Mississippi. I preached for another congregation in town. We often visited their home after services for popcorn and Tang. He was very encouraging.

One night, he told me, “Jerrie, when you write your sermon outlines and include an illustration, be sure and write complete details. If you write the word ‘dog,’ you will know what you mean next Sunday when you preach. But when you review that sermon thirty years from now, you won’t remember which dog you were talking about.”

I have tried to follow that advice. September 16-20, 2013, I spent a week scanning thirty years of old sermons. As I watched the sermons being copied to be stored on the internet and to be passed to my children, grandchildren, and anyone else who would be interested, I thought of Marvin Rainey and his invaluable advice.

Some thoughts from this reflection:

• Some people do remember what we say.

• Popcorn, Tang, and conversations can last a lifetime.

• Dead people still talk (Hebrews 11:4).

• What am I passing on to others that will last much longer than a half a century?

Interim Ministry and Other Ministry Workshop

Next workshop at Heritage led by Jerrie Barber: Interim Ministry and Other Ministry Workshop

Location: Heritage Christian University (Housing available in campus dorms upon request)
Lunch is provided daily by Heritage Christian University
Included: Books, materials, mentoring atmosphere

Limited spaces available. Spouses are invited and encouraged to participate. Reserve your place today: Interim Ministry and Other Ministry Workshop