CXLV expository sermons upon the whole 17th chapter of the Gospel according to St.…

The Order is, These words spake Jesus, that is, after Christ had finished those admirable and comfortable Instructions, then he betakes himself to prayer, From whence observe,

The Order is, These words spake Jesus, that is, after Christ had finished those admirable and comfortable Instructions, then he betakes himself to praier, From whence observe,

¹That to all Instructions and Consolations Prayer is necessary for their good effect. Christ himself doth not think it enough to plant, but he prays there may be a watering from above; Thus all Ministers and all hearers are to take Christs way; Even as at other times we read that Christ spent the day in Preaching, and the night in Praying; For if the Apostle 1 Tim. 3.5. say of every creature for nourishment, it is sanctified by Prayer, when yet the creatures have in themselves a natural strength to nourish, how much more is this to be seen in the means of grace, which work not by inherent but instituted efficacy altogether? If therefore we would have our preaching and your hearing do any good, be powerful to an heavenly alteration and change, then look up with your eyes to heaven; It's from God that this must do me good, It's from God that this must teach my heart; In vain is a Teacher without if there be not also a Teacher within, 1 Cor. 3. You see the Apostle there taking believers off from all Ministers and Instruments, and to rest on Jesus Christ; They are necessary but as Ministers by whom we do believe, not as authors of our faith.

¹That to all Instructions and Consolations Praier is necessary for their good effect. Christ himself doth not think it enough to plant, but he prays there may be a watering from above; Thus all Ministers and all hearers are to take Christs way; Even as at other times we reade that Christ spent the day in Preaching, and the night in Praying; For if the Apostle