An Encyclopedia of Humor

Book Preface

Noted evangelist J o h n Franklin was speaking at two different churches in a large city in the same week. A reporter was present at the first service. After the sermon the evangelist pleaded with the reporter not to publish in the local paper any of the jokes he had used that night since he was going to use the same stories the following night at the other church. The next morning the reporter published an excellent review of the evangelist’s message and concluded with these words: “The Reverend Mr. Franklin also told many stories that cannot be published.”

What follows is a collection of stories that definitely can be published! Here are nearly three thousand of my all-time favorite anecdotes, jokes, and witty comments about virtually every topic under the sun. I trust that they will be of value to you as you meet and communicate with others—whatever your vocation may be. Laughter is a powerful force, and it is yours to use whether you are a minister, a public speaker, a teacher, a salesman, an office worker, a psychologist, or a plumber!

The laughter encouraged by this collection is supportive of human dignity. It is life-affirming and life-giving. And it is, to borrow a word from religion, prophetic. It comforts the afflicted and afflicts the comfortable. It ennobles our spirits and extends our love to others.

And, above all, it’s fun!
So remember four simple words:
Live. Love. Laugh. Bloom!