172 THE DUTY OF GOD'S PEOPLE of their sins, because they are great men ; and some, because they are godly ; as if none but the poor and the wicked should be dealt plainly with. Yet labour to be skilful and discreet, that the manner may an- swer to the excellency of the matter. Every reasona- ble soul hath both judgment and affection; and every rational, spiritual sermon, must have both. Study and pray, and pray and study, till you are become workmen that need not be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth ; that your people may not be ashamed, nor weary in hearing you. Let your con- versation be teaching, as well as your doctrine. Be as forward in a holy and heavenly life as you are in pressing others to it. Let your discourse be edifying and spiritual. Suffer any thing, rather than the gos- pel and men's souls should suffer. Let men see that you use not the ministry only for a trade to live by ; but that your hearts are set upon the welfare of souls. Whatsoever meekness, humility, condescension, or self-denial, you teach them from the gospel, teach it them also by your undissembled example. Study and strive after unity and peace. If ever you would pro- mote the kingdom of Christ, and your people's salva- tion, do it in the way of peace and love. It is as hard a thing to maintain in your people a sound under- standing, a tender conscience, a lively, gracious, hea- venly frame of spirit, and an upright life, amidst con- tention, as to keep your candle lighted in the greatest storms. Blessed is that servant, whom his Lord, when he cometh, shall find so doing. § 19. All you whom God hath intrusted with the care of children and ,servants, I would also persuade to this great work of helping others to the heavenly rest. Consider, what plain and pressing commands of God require this at your hands. " These words thou shalt teach diligently unto thy children ; and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in the house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thon risest up." (q) " Train up a child in the way (q) Deut. vi. 6, 7.
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