unday the second, began to expound the
Gospel of Matthew. It is easy to imagine, that, when he first came out
in this unwonted manner, a large number of hearers would be collected
to-gether; but to retain them, demanded an inward call, combined with a
vast range of knowledge. The applause, which he drew forth, continually
increased, for he knew how to attract both the high and the low. His
sermons were life-pictures; and this gave them their charm, their
power, their practical effect. The doctrine of Christ, designed for all
nations and all ages, is so simple, and can be traced back to such a
few principles, that by a mere repetition, paraphrase, or exclusive
explanation of these only, the most dexterous orator, obliged to appear
so often, must become dull and cold; but infinitely rich, and ever new,
is life surveyed in the light of this same doctrine. The appearance of
Zwingli, not only every week, but almost every day, was, for this
reason, always welcome. Now, when the occasion called for it, there
were representations of the fate of Jesus and of the apostles; and then
again, narratives or pictures from Christian or Jewish, and sometimes
even heathen history, events of the day, and praise or blame, which,
without fear of offence, he wove into his discourses. "Take it not to
yourself, O pious man!" he was accustomed to say. Indeed this mode of
preaching raised an excitement nearly like the press in our times. Yet
one difference between the old and the new teachers of the people is
not to be overlooked. The former employed throughout the rule of the
Gospel, and was concerned for the advancement of religious truth and
not mere party views.

In proportion, meanwhile, as his knowledge of the people of Zurich and
their circumstances increased, his sermons became more direct and
pointed. If any one found fault with them, and it came to the ears of
the preacher, he might be sure of an answer at the first opportunity.
He did not hesitate to speak of them by name, and sometimes gave free
play to his wit. Whatever was done, in convent-walls, bar-rooms, and
even in the hall of the council, contrary to truth, reason and sound
morals, was exposed without mercy from the pulpit. Just then, 1519, the
throne of the German Empire became vacant by the death of Maximilian I.
Intrigues in regard to the choice of a successor kept the diet
assembled in Zurich, in constant employment. Envoys were repeatedly
sent to Italy in the service of th