The Nibbler's Banquet and Other Parables

THIS BOOK is the outgrowth of a variety of unforeseen circumstances. In 1951, the Ministerial Assembly of the Church of God, Western Canada, asked me to accept the editorship of the field paper, THE GOSPEL CONTACT. This responsibility demanded a considerable amount of concentration on writing. The idea of writing spiritual truths in parable form developed very gradually. The first attempt was a short skit of about ten lines; the second was only about a score. The ideas continued to formulate, however, often during a sleepless night on some lurching train while it ground out the miles to some appointment or other. Sometimes an apt title would suddenly be impressed upon me although the story to go with it would not unfold for several months. Nevertheless a certain amount of pleasure has attended the actual writing itself as various characterizations and applications presented themselves from time to time.

Originally it was only intended to circulate the stories in the columns of THE GOSPEL CONTACT. But the interest and the stories grew beyond the limits of the field paper. Putting them in book form not only assures them of more permanent value but offers a wider circulation and usefulness, as well as the possibility of raising funds for other worthy gospel work such as spreading literature and paying off church debts.

The author wishes to acknowledge a debt of gratitude to Mr. Stanley Fleming of Chicago, Illinois, who has very generously contributed his skill and imagination to illustrating this book. Mr. Fleming is a Christian artist with a genuine love for the cause of Christ. His work is widely used in many of the leading Sunday School and Christian periodicals of America, and we appreciate his kindness in taking time to make these illustrations a part of the contents of this book.

I have thought of my friends in writing this book, as has been the case in making available the other publications of THE BIBLE LOVERS’ CORRESPONDENCE SCHOOL COURSES. The fact that our own children like stories suggests that other children like them too, and that through this medium both young and old might apply many valuable lessons of Scripture in a practical and enjoyable manner. In it I have sought to uplift Christ by portraying the advantages of the Christian life through a series of contrasts and alternatives. As you read it I hope you will discover a new appreciation for the ordinary Christian believer, for the average congregation or church group and above all for Christ.

Yours to Exalt HIM,

H. C. Heffren. (From the Introduction)