The very lifting of such a prayer bears witness to a work already begun, for it is God who writes intercession upon men’s hearts. Yet you must press beyond this broad desire and examine the foundation. The Holy Spirit’s intercession belongs to the saints alone; He makes intercession for us and in us when we are made new creatures in Christ. Until a soul comes to Jesus, it remains shut out from that inward groaning which is according to the will of God. Therefore, while you plead for others, take firm hold yourself of the only salvation that is sure. There is no salvation to be obtained from priests, or forms and ceremonies. Come, then, escape from that refuge of lies and go to Jesus, wait upon God because you cannot go anywhere else for salvation! Faith must be urged upon you, for without it there is no salvation. The way is plain: “Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth.” No glance of the eye could be more swift, and no act could be more simple. It is not a long pilgrimage, nor a costly sacrifice; it is a look to the Crucified One, who gave His life a ransom for many. That look brings instant pardon, salvation in full through His blood. This is a divine salvation, planned by infinite wisdom and carried out by plenteous redemption. Whatever Adam lost, Christ has found, and infinitely more.
But what of these souls you name? It is a great advance upon anxiety for our own salvation when we have risen out of the narrowness of dread about ourselves into the broader region of care for a brother’s soul. Yet Samuel, that mighty intercessor, not only prayed but also taught the people the good and the right way. If you desire the salvation of anyone, you must tell them, as best you can, what their condition is and what the way of salvation is. All men are approachable at some time or in some way. However feebly you speak, you will set before them enough for their salvation, if they are willing and obedient. I can bring the horse to water, but I cannot make him drink; yet the Lord can, by His drawing, make them willing in the day of His power. Persevere, then, in this holy office. Though they may slight you as they slighted the prophet, make this your resolve: “God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you.” Be not content merely to utter names; go further. Tell them plainly that there is no salvation anywhere but in Christ Jesus, and bid them look and live. It is possible that ere their foot treads the threshold of their door, they will have lost the burden that has been on their back, and will go on their way singing, “I am forgiven; I am a miracle of grace.” To this end I labour, and to this end I charge you, pray, yes, but also speak, for how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? The Lord bless you and make you a winner of souls.