"Do not suppose, dearest Sir, that I am so short-sighted as to destroy my life by English preaching, or any other preaching. St. Paul did much good by his preaching, but how much more by his writings"

In this quote, Henry Martyn, a popular missionary and scholar, reveals a nuanced view on the approaches of disseminating religious teachings and affecting others. Martyn addresses somebody he respects ("dearest Sir") and refutes the concept that he may misuse his life through "English preaching" or any preaching, suggesting he is aware of more impactful methods to add to his religious mission.

Martyn acknowledges the significance of preaching by referencing St. Paul, a pivotal figure in Christianity, revered for his missionary journeys and oral mentors. However, Martyn asserts that St. Paul's writings had an even more extensive and long-lasting influence. This contrast highlights Martyn's belief in the power of the composed word as an automobile for encapsulating and spreading out complex theological ideas across time and location, far lasting longer than the short lived nature of spoken words.

By pointing out "English preaching", Martyn might be contemplating the constraints he views in preaching entirely in English, particularly in his context as a missionary to non-English-speaking communities. It might show a practical acknowledgment of the obstacles in reaching a varied audience with one language or approach. Alternatively, it might denote a broader acknowledgment that written texts have an extraordinary capability to cross cultural and temporal borders, facilitating deeper reflection and understanding.

Martyn's statement suggests an intellectual humbleness and strategic vision for his work, where he means to utilize his skills effectively to serve his objective. Emphasizing editing preaching displays a forward-thinking attitude, aiming for enduring impact rather than instant but ephemeral impacts. This choice reveals Martyn's understanding of the enduring power of composed texts in forming thoughts, spreading faiths, and impacting social change, a belief that underpins his technique as a missionary and scholar.