John 17:33: So Paul departed from among them

They promised him again to hear
The message he declared,
But God's neglected messenger
Again they never heard;
So short his stay in learning's seats,
So soon their time is o'er!
And Christ's ambassador retreats,
And Paul returns no more!

What numbers like the' Athenians, mean,
And vow to turn at last,
But linger to forsake their sin,
Till all their trial's pass'd!
The man of God is call'd away
Who preach'd salvation nigh,
And souls outstand their gracious day,
And unconverted die.