It is this that ruins churches, that you do not seek to…
““It is this that ruins churches, that you do not seek to hear sermons that touch the heart, but sermons that will delight your ears with their intonation and the structure of their phrases, just as if you were listening to singers and lute-players. And we preachers humor your fancies, instead of trying to crush them. We act like a father who gives a sick child a cake or an ice, or something else that is merely nice to eat--just because he asks for it; and takes no pains to give him what is good for him; and then when the doctors blame him says, 'I could not bear to hear my child cry.' . . . That is what we do when we elaborate beautiful sentences, fine combinations and harmonies, to please and not to profit, to be admired and not to instruct, to delight and not to touch you, to go away with your applause in our ears, and not to better your conduct.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote criticizes preaching that prioritizes style over substance, pleasing listeners rather than guiding them toward moral improvement.
In simple terms: Preachers focus on pleasing words, not true teaching.
Key Takeaway
Seek truth, not applause.
Themes
religion
ethics
communication
leadership
education
Mood
reflective
critical
serious
Type
advice
philosophical
ethical
When to use this quote
- church services
- public speaking
- teaching
- leadership training
- personal development
Key Concepts
oral instruction
spiritual guidance
authenticity
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we balance eloquence with ethical instruction?
- What responsibilities do speakers have to their audience?
A Different Perspective
Overemphasis on eloquence can mask lack of real moral guidance.