Pithy Puritan gems for pastors

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"Be an example to all believers . . .
 in what you teach,
 in the way you live,
 in your love,
 your faith,
 and your purity." 1 Timothy 4:12

Thomas Brooks:
"A preacher's life should be a commentary on his doctrine;
 his practice should be a counterpart of his sermons.
 Heavenly doctrines should always be adorned with a heavenly life."

1 Timothy 4:16, "Watch your life and doctrine closely."

John Newton:
"The chief means for attaining wisdom and suitable gifts and graces for the Christian ministry, are the Holy Scriptures and prayer."

Charles Spurgeon:
"A faithful preacher is a rare creature.
 Like a diamond, he is as precious as he is rare."

John Preston, puritan:
"There is not a sermon which is heard, but it sets us nearer to Heaven or Hell."

Richard Sibbes:
"Preaching is that ordinance of God for . . .
 the begetting of faith,
 for the opening of the understanding,
 and for the drawing of the will and affections to Christ."

J.C. Ryle:
"Sound doctrine and holy living are the marks of true pastors."

Thomas Brooks:
"The lives of ministers oftentimes convince more strongly than their words.
 Their tongues may persuade, but their lives command."

Quesnel, puritan
"A man ought to preach only that which he has learned from God—in the secret exercise of prayer, and in meditation on the Scriptures."

John Berridge:
"Much reading and thinking may make a popular minister.
 But it takes much secret prayer to make a powerful preacher."

John Henry Jowett:
"Preaching that costs nothing, accomplishes nothing."

"In the presence of God and of Christ Jesus, who will judge the living and the dead, and in view of His appearing and His kingdom, I give you this charge: Preach the Word! Be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage, with great patience and careful instruction." 2 Timothy 4:1-2