Ichabod Spencer’s work A Pastor’s Sketches is a remarkable look into his principles and approach to sharing the gospel and ministering to unbelievers. Spencer (1798-1854), nicknamed The [John] Bunyan of Brooklyn, took seriously his call to minister to each and every member of his congregations as he made it a point to visit every member of his church at least once a year (What an amazing example of pastoral ministry!). 
Through these encounters with his church and other unbelievers he meticulously documented in almost word for word detail these “sketches” in sharing the gospel and leading people to faith in Christ. I recently had the pleasure of reading his first volume for a class, and I wanted to share a taste of it here.
When asked how he knew what to say to each person in every situation and how he understood the thoughts and feelings of people, Spencer replied, “I have only one rule on that subject… I aim to conspire with the Holy Spirit.” Spencer goes on to explain how he aims to make truth impressions deeper, because it is of the Holy Spirit, and to remove any error, because it is of sin.
Spencer firmly believed in letting the Holy Spirit do his work and to not interfere. He often left people rather abruptly to let the Holy Spirit do his work of conviction. One example is when he was conversing with a young woman and explained to her how she must do nothing, but let Christ save her. Upon saying this, he left abruptly, without letting the woman even reply to his statement. Spencer had a remarkable gift of discernment to know when to speak, to know when to remain silent and to know when to leave the situation all together.
This book is an amazing resource for anyone wanting insight on how to share the Gospel with unbelievers. If you have the time, I strongly recommend you checking it out.
2 Comments
That looks like a good book ab. I’ll try to find me a copy to read.
(although I’m not too crazy about the name “Ichabod” which means “Where is the glory?”)
That is an odd name. :) But, still a good book.