Wesley Corpus

But, (4.) If you can do. but one, let your studies alone. I would throw by all the libra ries in the world, rather than be guilty of the loss of one soul. I allow, in some of the country circuits, where you have only a day to spend in each place, you have not time for this excellent work. But you have, wherever you spend several days together in one town. It is objected, (2.) “The people will not submit to it.” If some will not, others will. And the success with them will repay all your labour. O let us herein follow the example of St. Paul | (1.) For our general business, “Serving the Lord with all humility of mind.” (2.) Our special work, “Take heed to your selves, and to all the flock.” (3.) Our doctrine, “Repentance toward God, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.” (4.) The place, “I have taught you publicly, and from house to house.” The object and manner of teaching: “I ceased not to warn every one, night and day, with tears.” (5.) His innocence and self-denial herein: “I have coveted no man’s silver or gold.” (6.) His patience: “Neither count Imy life dear unto myself.” And among all our motives, let these be ever before our eyes: (1) “The Church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood.” (2.) “Grievous wolves shall enter in ; yea, of yourselves shall men arise, speaking perverse things.” Write this upon your hearts, and it will do you more good than twenty years’ study. Let every Preacher, having a catalogue of those in each society, go to each house. Deal gently with them, that the report of it may move others to desire your coming. Give the children the “Instructions for Children,” and encourage them to get them by heart. Indeed, you will find it no easy matter to teach the ignorant the principles of religion. So true is the remark of Archbishop Usher: “Great scholars may think this work beneath them. But they should consider, the laying the foundation skilfully, as it is of the greatest importance, so it is the masterpiece of the wisest builder.