53-2. The subject of a sermon should be some verse or verses of Scripture, and its object, to explain, defend and apply some part of the system of divine truth; or to point out the nature, and state the bounds and obligation, of some duty. A text should not be merely a motto, but should fairly contain the doctrine proposed to be handled. It is proper also that large portions of Scripture be sometimes expounded, and particularly improved, for the instruction of the people in the meaning and use of the sacred Scriptures.

DIGEST: The current text provides a rare example in which the PCA has, after the initial adoption of a paragraph text in 1973, revisited the subject and decided that an earlier wording was more or lesser superior. Said change was adopted in 1975 (M3GA, 3-70, p. 83.) The resulting PCA text, still in effect today, is also closely similar to that of the second draft of the PCUSA Directory (1786).

BACKGROUND AND COMPARISONS :
1. PCA 1973, Adopted text, DfW 6-2 [M1GA, Appendix, p. 156]
2. Continuing Presbyterian Church 1973, DfW Proposed text,
3. PCUS 1933, DfW, VI, §323.
4. PCUS 1929, DfW, VI, §323.
The purpose of a sermon is to set forth the teachings of Scripture, and their proper application to the needs of the people. The text may consist of a longer or shorter passage of the Bible, as the judgment of the preacher may dictate. A text of Scripture should not be used merely as a motto.

1. PCUS 1927, DfW VI-2, §323.
2. PCUS 1894, DfW VI-2
3. PCUSA 1789, DfW VI-2
The subject of a sermon should be some verse or verses of Scripture, and its object, to explain, defend and apply some part of the system of divine truth; or to point out the nature, and state the bounds and obligation, of some duty. A text should not be merely a motto, but should fairly contain the doctrine proposed to be handled. It is proper also that large portions of Scripture be sometimes expounded, and particularly improved, for the instruction of the people in the meaning and use of the Sacred Oracles.

PCUSA 1786, DfW 2d draft
The subject of his Sermon should be some verse or verses of Scripture, holding forth some principle of religion, inculcating some duty, or reproving some sin. Let him not use a text merely as a motto, but be careful that the doctrine proposed be fairly contained in it. It is proper also, that large portions of Scripture be sometimes expounded, and particularly improved, for the instruction of the People in the meaning and use of the Sacred Oracles.

COMMENTARY:
Morton H. Smith, Commentary on the Book of Church Order, 6th edition, 2007, p. 423.
Here we have practical guidelines as to the selection of texts suitable for a sermon. A warning is given against using a text only as a motto. Rather it should state a doctrine or a duty. A larger portion of Scripture may also be expounded. Thus there is a great deal of liberty granted to the minister as to how he will preach the Word. The main requirement is that sermons should be based upon the Word alone.