Quiet Talks with Earnest People in My Study

The author writes in a conversational style, fulfilling the role of spiritual counselor to a lay person who seeks counsel. Initially he seeks to clarify the position of clergy in society; misconceptions exist, which Jefferson eloquently dispels with clear and determined eloquence. We progress to definitions of the positive traits which ministers and believers should strive for: a sympathetic nature which results in cooperation with others. Where liberty is concerned, we must value and use our freedoms, but be mindful of their limitations - when speaking, a minister should not stray into frivolity, or deviate from God's wisdom.

Further cautioning readers, Jefferson explains how the valuable lessons of a typical sermon can be undermined by wrongheaded thinking habits. One must be earnest when attending church; a genuine desire to learn or to refresh one's knowledge is crucial. Likewise a minister must refrain from vapid questions - simply asking whether the congregation liked a sermon is insufficient. A good sermon is not a mere item on display; it is a deep and piercing guidance, a warning of wrongdoing, and an illumination of eternal truths.