After Charles Spurgeon died Joseph Parker became the most famous preacher in England. People came from all over to hear him preach. His advice to young preachers was this–preach to comfort the afflicted and you will never lack for a congregation. Here is an example of what he meant:
Said Dr. Joseph A. Parker: “Some have found fault with me. They say I am old-fashioned and out of date; I am always quoting the Bible; why not turn to science this morning?
“There is a poor widow here who has lost her only son. She wants to know if she will see him again. Science shall give the answer, and I will put the Book away.” So he took the Book and put it on the seat behind. “Will this woman see her son again? Where is he? Does death end all? What has science to say?” Here a long pause. “We are waiting for an answer, the woman is anxious.” Another long pause. “The woman’s heart is breaking. Science must speak. Nothing to say? Then we must take the Book,” and here he reverently replaced it, and with great deliberation opened it and read: “I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me … The dead shall arise … for this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality. O death, where is thy sting? … I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God.”
Then, closing the Book, and patting it affectionately, he said, “We will stick to the Book!”
“The Bible, like a bank, is most helpful when it is open”
