Then he showed what was contained in the sentence, to wit, repentance or utter desolation.

He then showed also by whose authority this sentence was pronounced.

And, lastly, he showed the reasons of the point, and then concluded his sermon.

But he was very pertinent in the application, insomuch that he made all the elders and all their people in Mansoul to tremble.

Sidney Smith says that whatever else a sermon may be or may not be, it must be interesting if it is to do any good.