17. Hauge's Edification Speeches

HAUGE’S EDIFICATION SPEECHES

Were flowing freely from his deep and fervent life in God, not according to scientific rules, but there were in them the abundance of such faith and love which rendered effect. Hauge never studied his sermons, for if he had there would have been less warmth and fervency in them, but not more light and serenity, as it was the power of life that worked. He himself tells that when he had figured out how he should preach in order to convince the wicked and edify the faithful, it nearly came to a stop for him; but when be resigned himself unto God and asked Him to control his tongue, it always came easy for him to talk about the walks of life. That is why he held to the promise: “It shall be given you in that same hour what ye shall speak.”

One of his listeners says: “His word and speech were over my heart as a double-edged sword. As he began to speak the Word of God, my heart became so agitated with astonishment over his love and gentle mind, as I had never heard anyone speak as he did.” His speeches were very vivid and well suited to fascinate the listeners’ hearts.

Hauge’s edifications were attended by many people; often large crowds gathered on the highways to follow him to the place where he had appointed edification. Old people have said that when such processions went by, one would almost be moved to go along.

Too Be Continued...