 | Jones Very : The Complete Poems |  |
Be Not Many Teachers
James 3:1.
“Be ye not many teachers; for we all,”The Apostle wrote, “in many things offend;”
His admonition let us oft recall,
As words of wisest teacher, and of friend.
“Be ye not many teachers”. First receive
The gift of Wisdom, ere ye claim to teach;
And first the Gospel's glorious truths believe,
Before that Gospel ye to others preach.
We all offend. Confession humble, meek,
To those who would instruct their fellow men;
That they may ever grace, and wisdom seek
To guide their speech; whether of tongue, or pen;
Lest they, as teachers, labor but in vain,
And but the greater condemnation gain!
Poem No. 62; c. 6 August 1870
| Jones Very : The Complete Poems | |