Plain preaching is profitable. [ 301]
IN the building of Solomon's Temple,* 1.1 there was no noise heard, either of axes or hammers; all the stones were prepared, squared, and fitted in the Quarry, 1 King. 6. 7. And thus the Minister, in the building up of the mysticall body of Christ, should make all the noise in his study, there he must turn his books, and beat his brains;* 1.2 but when it comes to Church-work, to the Pulpit, then it must be in plainnesse, not with intricacy, and tying of knots, but with all easinesse that may be. It is confessed, that painted glasse in Churches is more glorious, but plain glasse is more perspicuous:* 1.3 Oratory may tickle the brain, but plain doctrine will sooner in∣form the judgment;* 1.4 that Sermon hath most learning in it, that hath most plainnesse. Hence it is, that a great Schollar was wont to say, Lord, give me learning enough, that I may preach plain enough. For people are very apt to admire that they under∣stand not, but to preach plainly is that which is required.