Further comments

First on evangelistic preaching: it seems to me that today we ought, in general, to make evangelism separate from worship. In fact, I'm not sure that it should ever really have become so much a part of worship as it did. However that may be, evangelism today needs to make space for people to ask questions and for answers to be given. It is much better to have small groups, perhaps following a course - though most that are available are too short - where it is possible for people to get to know each other as well as simply hearing a message. Evangelism in the open-air often leads to questions which can be answered either by the speaker or by others who are ready and available for the purpose. It is also worthy of notice that the sermon on the mount addresses the disciples early on - 'you are the light of the world' etc. whereas later on our Lord applied what he had to say to those who are not disciples. This looks like an interesting precedent for making an evangelistic application in a sermon which is not directly addressed to unbelievers.

On quite another subject I was struck in a way I never have been before by the way that the fact that mothers brought their little children to Jesus for him to bless them casts a remarkable light on his character. What sort of person would you, your wife or mother want to bring small children to, for him to lift them up and pray over them? Especially what sort of bachelor? Surely, one who is gentle and kind, one who can be trusted absolutely, one who clearly loves children and is concerned for their welfare. It is surely an indictment of our society that it would be almost impossible for such a thing to happen in modern Britain!