Be an example to all believers
in what you teach, in the way you live, in your love, your
faith and your purity. A preacher's life should be a
commentary on his doctrine. His practice should be a counterpart
of his sermons. Heavenly doctrines should always
be adorned with a heavenly life. Watch your life and doctrine
closely. The chief means for attaining
wisdom and suitable gifts and graces for the Christian ministry
are the holy scriptures and prayer. A faithful preacher is a rare
creature. Like a diamond, he is as precious as he is rare. There is not a sermon which is
heard, but it sets us nearer to heaven or hell. Preaching is that ordinance of
God for the begetting of faith, the opening of the understanding,
and the drawing of the will and affections to Christ. Sound doctrine and holy living
are the marks of true pastors. The lives of ministers oftentimes
convince more strongly than their words. Their tongues may persuade,
but their lives command. A man ought to preach only that
which he has learned from God in the secret exercise of prayer
and in meditation on the scriptures. Much reading and thinking may
make a popular minister, but it takes much secret prayer to
make a powerful preacher. Preaching that costs nothing,
accomplishes nothing. In the presence of God and of
Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and
in view of his appearing and his kingdom, I give you this
charge. Preach the word. Be prepared in season and out
of season. Correct, rebuke and encourage
with great patience and careful instruction.