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Nothing is text but what is spoken of in the Bible and…

“Nothing is text but what is spoken of in the Bible and meant there for person and place; the rest is application; which a discreet man may do well; but it is his scripture, not the Holy Ghost's. First, in your sermons use your logic, and then your rhetoric; rhetoric without logic is like a tree…” quote by John Selden
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“Nothing is text but what is spoken of in the Bible and meant there for person and place; the rest is application; which a discreet man may do well; but it is his scripture, not the Holy Ghost's. First, in your sermons use your logic, and then your rhetoric; rhetoric without logic is like a tree with leaves and blossoms, but no root.”

John Selden

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

True meaning lies in Scripture; sermons need logic before rhetoric, else they lack foundation.

In simple terms: Logic precedes rhetoric in preaching.

Key Takeaway

Ground speeches in reason first.

Themes

religion logic communication

Mood

thoughtful serious

Type

philosophical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • preaching
  • teaching
  • public speaking
  • debate preparation

Key Concepts

theology rhetoric interpretation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do you balance emotion and reason?
  • What risks arise from over‑logic?
A Different Perspective

Rhetoric can still inspire without strict logic.

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