God in ordinances, and for his power that will make a change among
Secondly, He makes them fishers as to success; that is, he makes them catch men to himself by the power of his spirit accompanying the word they preach, and the discipline they administer, 1 Cor. 1:18, "The preaching of the cross — unto us which are saved, is the power of God." 1 Thess. 1:5, " Our gospel came not unto you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance." He it is that brings sinners into the net which ministers spread; and if he be not with them to drive the fish into the net, they may toil all the night, and day too, and catch nothing.
1. O my soul, then see that gifts will not do the business. A man may preach as an angel, and yet be useless. If Christ withdraw his presence, all will be to no purpose. If the Master of the house be away, the household will loath their food, though it be dropping down about their tent-doors.
2. Why should you then on the one hand, as sometimes you art, be lifted up when you preach a good and solid discourse, wherein gifts do appear, and you get the applause of men? Why, you may do all this, and yet be no fisher of men. The fish may see the bait, and play about it as pleasant, but this is not enough to catch them. On the other hand, why should you be so much discouraged (as many times is the case), because your gifts are so small, and you are but as a child in comparison of others? Why, if Christ will, he can make you a fisher of men, as well as the most learned rabbi in the church, Ps. 8:2. Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings have you ordained strength. Yea, have you not observed how God owned a man very weak in gifts and made him more successful than others that were far beyond him in parts? Has not God put this treasure in earthen vessels, that the power might be seen to be of him? Lift up yourself then, O my soul, Christ can make you a fisher of men, however weak you are. Follow him. My soul desires to follow hard after you, O God!
3. Be concerned then, in the first place, O my soul, for the presence of God in ordinances, and for his power that will make a change among