Today there is need of the voice of stern rebuke; for grievous sins have separated the people from God. Infidelity is fast becoming fashionable. "We will not have this man to reign over us," is the language of thousands. Luke 19:14. The smooth sermons so often preached make no lasting impression; the trumpet does not give a certain sound. Men are not cut to the heart by the plain, sharp truths of God's word.

Der trænges også til en røst, som kan give en streng irettesættelse i dag, for menneskenes grove synder har skilt dem fra Gud. "Vi ønsker ikke, at den mand skal være konge over os," lyder det fra tusinder af røster. Luk. 19,14. De milde prædikener, der så ofte holdes, gør intet varigt indtryk. Basunen giver ikke en bestemt lyd. Guds sværds ligefremme, skarpe sandheder rammer ikke menneskene i hjertet.