Let those also who have the care of children1 endeavour to get their own minds impressed with the thought, that their office is not so much to convey instruction in worldly know- ledge, as to lead the souls of the children to Christ, that they may be partakers of his salvation : and let them engage in their work with hearts full of tender compassion to their scholars, and of zeal for God.
And, my dear children, let me address also a few words to you. Think me not unkind if I remind you of what you are by nature. If I speak to you as children of wrath, it is not to wound your feelings, but to stir you up to improve the oppor- tunities that are afforded you for attaining a better and a happier state. What would you do, my dear children, if you were shut up In a house that was on fire, and a number of benevolent persons were exerting themselves to rescue you from the devouring element? would you not strive which should first be partakers of the benefit? Know then, that this is a just representation of your state : you are children of wrath, and are in danger of dwelling with everlasting burnings : and the object of your instructors is, to shew you how you may flee from the wrath to come. O listen to their instructions with all possible care ; treasure up in your minds all their exhortations and advice ; and beg of God, that through those Scriptures which they explain to you, you may be made wise unto salvation by faith in Christ Jesus.]
8 ver. 4, 5, 11 — 13.
t If this be the subject of a Sermon for Sunday Schools or Charity Schools, the Instructors in particular may be here addressed.