From The Christian Index, January 29, 1841, attributed to "Dr. Doddridge"
Five things to be avoided, when called upon to preach in strange churches.
- Do not choose texts which appear odd, the choice of which vanity may be supposed to dictate.
- Nor a text of censure: this is assuming.
- Nor a text leading to curious and knotty questions: then it would be said you preached yourself.
- Do not aim to eclipse the minister of the place by an extraordinary display of talent: this is unkind. But,
- Choose a text of an extraordinary edifying nature, connecting doctrine and practice together, still not a doctrine in respect to which there may be at that time much division among the people: this, I think, does not belong to a stranger. Deliver the discourse with urbanity and Christian feeling; you will then be welcome a second time.
