ve neither much
strength of memory nor capacity of comprehension. 4. The _expounding_ of
large portions of the word as the whole of a gospel or an epistle,
besides leading the _hearer_ to see the connection of the whole, has
also this particular benefit for the _teacher_, that it leads him, with
God's blessing, to the consideration of portions of the word which
otherwise he might not have considered, and keeps him from speaking too
much on favorite subjects, and leaning too much to particular parts of
truth, which tendency must surely sooner or later injure both himself
and his hearers. Expounding the word of God brings little honor to the
preacher from the _unenlightened_ or _careless_ hearer, but it tends
much to the benefit of the hearers in general.

Simplicity in expression, whilst the truth is set forth, is, in
connection with what has been said, of the utmost importance. It should
be the aim of the teacher to speak so that children, servants, and
people who cannot read may be able to understand him, so far as the
natural mind can comprehend the things of God. It ought also to be
remembered that there is, perhaps, not a single congregation in which
there are not persons of the above classes present, and that if _they_
can understand, the well-educated or literary persons will understand
likewise; but the reverse does not hold good. It ought further to be
remembered that the expounder of the truth of God speaks for God, for
eternity, and that it is not in the least likely that he will benefit
the hearers, except he use plainness of speech, which nevertheless
needs not to be vulgar or rude. It should also be considered that if the
preacher strive to speak according to the rules of this world, he may
please many, particularly those who have a literary taste; but, in the
same proportion, he is less likely to become an instrument in the hands
of God for the conversion of sinners, or for the building-up of the
saints. For neither eloquence nor depth of thought makes the truly great
preacher, but such a life of prayer and meditation and spirituality as
may render him a vessel meet for the Master's use, and fit to be
employed both in the conversion of sinners and in the edification of the
saints.

Becoming convinced, after a prayerful examination of the
Scriptures, that baptism should be administered only by
immersion, Mr. Mueller was then baptized in the spring of 1830.

It was so usual for me to preach wi