This volume is not an attempt to present a complete and exhaustive treatment on homiletics—the science and art of preaching—for there are already on the market larger and more comprehensive works on the subject. This book is prepared not only for theological students, but also to supply the need of such as find themselves denied the privileges of a regular ministerial training, but who, nevertheless, feel themselves called upon to preach or proclaim the gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. Indeed, the lectures herein are in substance the same as delivered to young men and women preparing themselves for Christian service in a Bible training school. This fact accounts for their conversational style, which the author has not deemed wise to change. 

Christian laymen, even though not preachers in the accepted sense of that term, desiring to be able to prepare brief gospel addresses and Bible readings, will find the help they need in this volume. Those seeking help in the preparation of "talks" for young peoples' societies, conventions, leagues, etc., may receive hints and suggestions in this work.  

The book contains theory and practice. Part one deals with the method of constructing various kinds of sermons and Bible addresses. Part two is composed of outlines illustrating part one. 

The closing chapter on "Illustrations and Their Use" has been found so helpful wherever delivered that it is thought advisable to give it a place in this volume.