Sacred Rhetoric: A Course of Lectures on Preaching

Sacred Rhetoric: A Course of Lectures on Preaching by Robert L. Dabney is a classic, as relevant today as the day it was first published in 1870. Dabney, a nineteenth century Presbyterian theologian wrote, "The assumption that the preacher's sacred attitude is above rhetoric reveals ignorance of the nature of true art." That Dabney believed each pastor has a duty to be diligent in preparation and presentation of the Gospel, is clearly seen. "It is sacred rhetoric which teaches you to apply to the lips of perishing man the expressed wine of all other acquisitions." he emphasizes. In this book Dabney discusses, among other topics, the preacher's commission, cardinal requisites of the sermon, sources and rules of arguments, persuasion, style, modes of preparation, and public prayer. This book will challenge, bless and encourage the reader to faithfully present the Gospel.

Robert Lewis Dabney was a nineteenth century American pastor and a noted Southern Presbyterian theologian. He was a professor of ecclesiastical history and systematic theology at Union Theological Seminary from 1853 to1869. He later taught at the University of Texas. During the Civil War he served first as a chaplain of the 18th Virginia Infantry and later as chief of staff for Jonathan "Stonewall" Jackson. Though he wrote a number of books on theological and Biblical topics, he might be best remembered for his biography of Jackson.