Sermons on National Subjects   By: Charles Kingsley (1819-1875)

Sermons on National Subjects by Charles Kingsley offers an insightful exploration of socio-political issues during the Victorian era. In this collection of sermons, Kingsley showcases his remarkable ability to blend moral teaching with historical analysis, providing readers with a unique perspective on the pressing topics of his time.

One notable aspect of Kingsley's sermons is his passion for social justice and his commitment to improving the conditions of the working class. This shines through in his discussions on poverty, labor rights, and the detrimental consequences of industrialization. Kingsley's fervor for change acts as a catalyst, urging readers to reflect on the inequalities and injustices prevalent in their own society.

The author's eloquent writing style and depth of knowledge are evident throughout the book. He effortlessly weaves historical anecdotes and biblical references into his sermons, ensuring that his messages resonate with his audience. Through powerful storytelling, Kingsley elevates these sermons beyond mere religious teachings, transforming them into thought-provoking narratives that challenge the status quo.

Moreover, Kingsley's sermons are not limited to national issues alone. He also brings attention to wider global concerns, such as colonization and the plight of indigenous peoples. His reflections on imperialism and the responsibilities of powerful nations towards their subjects reveal his nuanced understanding of international affairs, further enriching the book's content.

While the sermons were initially delivered during the 19th century, their relevance transcends time. Kingsley's astute observations and critiques of social structures remain applicable to contemporary societies grappling with similar challenges. Consequently, readers are prompted to consider the parallels between the past and the present, provoking discussions on the current state of affairs in their own nation.

However, one potential drawback of the book is its occasional reliance on biblical language and allusions, which may alienate readers who are not familiar with Christian teachings. While these references are integral to Kingsley's theological arguments, they might prove difficult for some readers to grasp, obstructing their overall understanding and engagement with certain chapters.

In conclusion, Sermons on National Subjects is an enlightening collection of sermons that address the socio-political issues of Charles Kingsley's time with remarkable insight and passion. His skilful combination of historical analysis, moral preaching, and captivating storytelling creates a thought-provoking reading experience. Despite its occasional reliance on biblical language, this book remains pertinent in challenging readers to critically examine the complexities of their own society and take action towards a more just future.

First Page:

This Sunday is the first of the four Sundays in Advent. During those four Sundays, our forefathers have advised us to think seriously of the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ not that we should neglect to think of it at all times. As some of you know, I have preached to you about it often lately. Perhaps before the end of Advent you will all of you, more or less, understand what all that I have said about the cholera, and public distress, and the sins of this nation, and the sins of the labouring people has to do with the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. But I intend, especially in my next four sermons, to speak my whole mind to you about this matter as far as God has shown it to me; taking the Collect, Epistle, and Gospels, for each Sunday in Advent, and explaining them. I am sure I cannot do better; for the more I see of those Collects, Epistles, and Gospels, and the way in which they are arranged, the more I am astonished and delighted at the wisdom with which they are chosen, the wise order in which they follow each other, and fit into each other. It is very fit, too, that we should think of our Lord's coming at this season of the year above all others; because it is the hardest season the season of most want, and misery, and discontent, when wages are low, and work is scarce, and fuel is dear, and frosts are bitter, and farmers and tradesmen, and gentlemen, too, are at their wits' end to square their accounts, and pay their way... Continue reading book >>