Once in private conversation with A.B. Simpson, R.R. Brown, then a young student, ventured to ask about the qualifications of a soul winner. “To be a great soul winner,” Simpson replied, “a man must first be a great lover.” It was only an impulsive sentence tossed off without too much thought, but it contains a world of spiritual philosophy. Spurgeon had a saying that a minister’s congregation would always be the size of his heart. In at least one particular all spiritual leaders have been alike—they have all had large hearts. Nothing can take the place of affection. Those who have it in generous measure possess a magic power over men. Intellect will not do; Bible knowledge is not enough; even an upright life will be found wanting without this greatest of all gifts.
Psalm 126:5–6; Romans 9:1–3; 1 Corinthians 13:1–3
Let My People Go: The Life of Robert A. Jaffray, 32, 33.