by good proportion, that he that declares this
eternal life to others should be well acquainted with it himself. He that
preaches Jesus Christ, should first be conversant with him, and become his
disciple and follower, before he can with any fruit become a teacher of
others. Therefore the apostles, (Acts 1) chose out one that had been with
them from the beginning, gone in and out with them, seen and heard all. O
how incongruous is it for many of us, to take upon us to declare this unto
others, which I fear, few can say they have heard and seen in a spiritual
manner, and handled by experience! No question, it prevails usually most
with the heart, that comes from the heart. Affection is the fire that is
most suitable to set affection on flame. It is a great addition to a man's
power and virtue in persuading others, to have a full persuasion settled
in his own heart concerning these things. Now it is much to be lamented,
that there is so little of this, and so few carry the evidence on their
hearts and ways that they have been with Jesus conversant in his company.
I cannot say but the ordinances that carry their worth and dignity from
God, and not from men, should be notwithstanding precious to your hearts,
and that word of life, however, and by whomsoever sent, if to you it be
spoken, it should be suitably received with gladness of heart. But I
confess, there is much of the success disappointed, by the unsuitable
carriage and disposition of instruments, which ought to be mourned under,
as the greatest judgment of this nation.

Two principles hath acted this divine apostle, the exceeding love of his
Master, for he loved much as he was much beloved. And this carries him on
all occasions to give so hearty a testimony to him, as you see, John xxi.
24, he characterised himself, or circumscribes his own name thus "This is
the disciple that testifieth these things, and wrote these things, and we
know his testimony is true." Where that divine love which is but the
result and overflowing of the love Christ carries to us, fills the heart,
this makes the sweetest vent and most fragrant opening of the mouth,
whether in discourse, or in prayer, or preaching, that can be. O how it
perfumes all the commendation of Christ! "Peter, lovest thou me? Feed my
sheep." These have a natural connection together,--the love of Christ in
the heart, and the affectionate, hearty, serious declaration of him to
others. And then, another principle hath m