:^? ' ■/'.- #'/B • Thee 1 Case,,.. Shelf, Book,.,, OF THK )logieal Seminary, . PRINCETON, N. J. Divi.K 1 Sec:..-. N». \- 2Y% T, v ♦*• r-.j^ *^ . \ .'."^ . ..^'■•..:'. /y/>/^^ ' ^y^^^^J"'' COMPENDIUM O F Social Religion, o R T H E NATURE and CONSTITUTION O F CHRISTIAN CHURCHES, W I T H T H E Refpe6tive Qualifications and Duties of their OFFICERS and MEMBERS Reprefented in fhort Propofitions, confirm*d by Scripture, AND Illuftrated with OccafionaJ Notes. DESIGNED As an ESSAY towards reviving the primitive Spirit of EvangeHcal Purity^ Liberty^ and Charity^ in the Churches of the prefent Times. "S^y DANIEL TURNER. Sed fapius annis A vojlrh ocuIqs^ ad facula prifca ret or que Cum riidis i^ Jimplex, nondum Je fecerat art em Religio •- ■' Grot, ad Thuan. -And they that belie'ved tvere together ^ and continued in the ApofJes DoSirinej and breaking of Breads and Prayers. Acl. ii. 42. 44. LONDON: Printed for Jchn Ward, at the Kings Anm in Cornhill -^ and foJd alio by C. Henderson, under the Royal Exchange. MDCCLVIII. T H ^^^V.O^.t^V.. MA N, IS very juftly filled 2ijocidth'eing^ —he is fiich by original conftitution ; he was declared fuch when he firft came out of the hands of his Maker "*"; and he now comes into the world, with a difpojition for fociety^ and in a conditio?! that requires it.— - The firft fenfations we feel, arife from our wants 3 our firft propenfities and defires, tend to the fupply of thofe wants , whence we are led, by a kind of natural inftinEi^ into fome of the nearejl focial connections, and thofe interchanges of offices and benefits that arife from them. And as we improve in rational notions^ and are capable of refledting upon the nature and ends of our exiftence ; as o\xx Jelf-love comes under the influence of benevolence, and is di- rected and moderated by it, we find our felves prompted to enlarge our focial relations and A 1 duties, * Gen, ii. 18. 11 The IntroduBory Preface. duties, from more generous and worthy motives. And much of the wifdom and goodnefs of providence appears, in giving us this facial capacity and difpofitiofi : — w^ithout it — our nobleft faculties wou'd be of little or no ufe to us, for want of proper occafions for their exercife, and proper affiftance in it. — Self- love alone wou'd be the governing principle; which by blindly miftaking the nature and means of our happinefs, and cherifhing our malevolent afFeftions, wou*d make us hate- ful, and hate one another; and fo, either expofe us to the miferies of the moft arbitra- ry oppreffions, and cruel hoftilities ; or oblige us to hide our fejves in the gloomy receflfes of friendlefs folitude.— Whereas, by following the diftates of the facial principle^ we open to ourfelves a way, for the abundant employ- ment of all our various geniufes and abili- ties ; and by reciprocal aids and encourage- ments, render them the moft effeftually and extcnfively ukful."'Benevole7icey cheriflied and fupported by the pleafures always attendant on its proper exercife, maintains its fliare of governing influence in the hearty teaches I'he IntroduClory Preface, \{\ teaches us to confider the happinefs of others, as infeparably connefted with our own, and a principal ingredient in it ; and thereby ex- tends our views, warms our delires, and ani- mates our labours for the public good. — Hence domeftic and patriot love, order, peace, friendfhip, and many other public and private virtues and blelTings, of the greateft importance to mankind. But then, this difpofilion, muft be properly cultivated^ in order to produce thefe happy effed:s; and here Religion juftly claims OMXJirJl ^Vi^ principal regards. By Religion I mean the acknowledgment^ fear^ love^ and worjhip of the Deity ^ with a difpofition to obey all his known will ^ founded in the lively beliej of his perfections^ and a future fate of retribution. — Of this^ man as a ra- tional immortal creature, endowed with a moral fenfe^ or a capacity of perceiving the moral nature and differences, good or evil of things, and feeling a pecuhar pleafure or pain from them, is a proper fubjed:. This is the glory of his nature, 2,% prijicipally diflin- guifliing him from all other creatures upon A 3 earth; iv The Introdu^on Preface. earth J and abfolutely necejfary to him as the chief medium of his happinefs, temporal and eternals — neceflary, no\. only in\ii% Jingle ca- pacity, but alfoy and eminently m his fociaL For, Such is the degeneracy of human naturef, that without the influence of religion ; reafon and benevolence^ which are abfolute requifites to the forming the truly focial charafter, wou d (by degrees at leaft) be fo weakened and impaired, that the bulk of mankind would become grofsly ignorant, felfifh, for- did, ungovernable, pernicious creatures ; mi- ferable flaves to their vicious appetites and paflions 5 without honour^ without confcience^ or any effeBual motive to true public fpirit ; and confequently liable, upon the flighteft temptations, to facrifice the grcateft and moft important public good, to their own private intereft, or even the loweft fcnfual gratifications ; and thus muft prove the pert and ruin of foclety *. — Religion, be it only • Since I wrote this, I have met with a paflage in Dr. Brown' ^ ejitmate of the manners and principles of the times y to the fame purpofe : " The modern fpirit of ir- " religion I'he Introdii^ory Preface. v only that oi nature ^ will prevent us at leaft from finking fo low, and doing fuch preju-. dice to t\-\Qfocial intereft of mankind; but if that of Jesus, fincerely embraced and followed, it will do infinitely more, — The light the gofpel throws upon our under- Handings; and the views it gives us of vir- tue and vice -, the perfeftiogs of God ; the true felicity of man ; the certainty and aw- fulnefs of the eternal world $ have a pecu- liar fitnefs and tendency to pierce and quick- en the confcience; preferve its tendernefs and fenfibility ; reftrain the inordinate af- fections of felf-love ; expand and cheriili our benevolence -, unite us to each other in the bonds of facred r/6^r//y **; and infpire A 4 us " religion (fays that ingenious writer) leads to rafcally *' and abandon'd cowardice ; it quenches every generous " hope that can enlarge the foul, and levels mankind " wrlth the beafts that perifh." The chriftian reader may receive ftill fuller latisfailion on this head from Gen. vi. ii, 12. Pfal. i. 14, &c. Rom. u 21, &c. ** It may poflibly be obje<5led here, — who fo uncha- rltabky cenforious and full of perfccuting rancour^ as fome of your zealous chrijiiam^ moji di/linguifl)'d for the ortho- doxy of their faith, and the jiridmfs of their devotion f I anfwer, nothing can be more evident, than that the chriili'Ari vi The Introduclory Preface. us with the hope, and even aflurance, that all the facrifices we make, of private advan- tage, to the honour and intereft of the pu- blic (confiftent with our duty) fliall be in- finitely, tho' gracioufly rewarded in the life to come 'y and confequently, muft every way moft efFc6tually promote and fecure, the happinefs oifo^ety. The exalted perfeftion oi focial unity and joyy which prevails in the heavenly world, and felicitates the general ajfembly and church of chrlflian religion ranks thofe vices, amongft the greateft fins ; condemns all that are guilty of them, to the fe- vereft punifhments ; and by docSlrine, precept, exam- ple, and every motive that can affe6t the human heart, inculcates upon all its profefTors, the oppofite virtues ; fo that it muft be the higheft injuftice, to charge any part, of what is obje6led, upon that religion. And, that any of its profefTed believers are chargeable w^ith it, is owing, either to their afTuming that character, in order to conceal their wicked defigns, or juftify the vi- olences by which they carry them on ; or to fuperfti- tion, enthufiafm, and the like falfe notions of religion, join'd with a natural morofenefs, and malignity of tem- per ; or in a word, to the want of being under the go- verning influence of the genuine principles of the gof- pel. — To the truth of this, every fober confcience muft witnefs. The IntnduBory Preface. vii ofthejirjl born^ is owing to the pcrfeftion of their religion. — They fee the adorable ex- cellencies of the divine nature, in the light of that world. — They feel their obligations to their redeemer, in the moft fenfible man- ner i reverence, love, worfhip and obey the great God, in the perfedion of holinefs, — and therefore they enjoy their focial relations with fuch high fatisfadlion, and know all the pleafures of the moft pure benevolence and friendfliip, without any ofthofe aliena- tions of heart, contentions, and jealoufies, that attend the happieft focieties here below. And as religion^ is thus necelTary and be- neficial to man, in his focial capacity ; it i« alfo neceflary that his religion (hou'd ho, fo- cial \ i. e. the duties of it, particularly thofe refpeding the worpnp of the Deity ^ Oiou'd be publickly perjormed, as the common con- cern and imited adt of many. — To this, the focial conftitution.we are under, naturally obliges us. — We are all the offspring of one eternal parent, all under the fame general obligations to him, and dependance upon him, interefted in common, in many of the fame wants and neceflities, benefits and mercies ; viil ^he IntroduBory Preface. mercies; and therefore ought to offer up our prayers and praifes unitedly to him, as the one common head of the focial fyftem; the one common objed of our religious reverence, .hope, and joy.-— And upon this focial piety ^ the very exiftence of reli- gion and virtue, in our world, and the pre- fervation of the many benefits to fociety, connefted therev^ith, eminently depend. — Were religious duties to be pradtis'd by us tnly in private ; vs^ere there no ajfembling of mirfehes together ; to proclaim its excellen- cies and ufefulnefs, and bear an open tefti- mony by common confent in its favour; its public eftimation wou d very foon decline; the leaft appearances of it be mark'd with difgrace, and treated with contempt and ri- dicule, by the bulk of mankind ; and un- der fuch difcouragements, even the private pradtice of it by degrees, wou'd be fadly negledled, and very probably at laft, intire- ly fo ; by which means, all its influence muft foon be loft in the world.-— The natu- ral confequence of which, wou'd be, the uncontroulable prevalence of infidelity, and prophanefs, injuftice, and opprefiion ; 'till the bonds even of civil fociety were diffolved, and The IntrodiiBory Preface. ix and mankind let loofe with all their vicious paffions, upon one another to the deftruc- tion of human virtue and happlnefs: — The religion of man therefore, I fay even in this world muft hcfociaI» This will appear with ftill clearer and more certain evidence, if we confult the fa- cred records ; for there we jfhall find, that focial religion is the will of God \ and has al- ways been \ht practice of his /^^//^.— When he feparated the feed o£ Abraham as a pecu- liar and holy nation, to bear his name, and preferve his worfhip, in oppofition to the general idolatry ; he commanded all the males thrice a year to make their appearance before him^ and worfhip him in one national afTembly. And to all that had a true fenfe of religion, his public worjhipy was peculiar- ly defirable ; as the 84th Pfalm in particu- lar witnefTes, where in the fpirit of truly fublime poetry, the Pfalmifl flrongly ex- prefTes, his pious fenfe of the excellency and importance oi fecial religion, — And elfe- where he fays, that dwelling in the houfe of God, appearing before him in his public wor- fhip, and beholding his beauty arid glory in his fanBuary^ X The IfitroduSfory Preface. fanStuaryy was the one thing he deftred, and fought after, with the greatefi ardency of affec- tion *. ^ And under the New Teftament difpenfa- tlon we are charged, not to forfake the af fembling of our f elves together, as the man- ner of fome then was.— But with one heart, and with one mouth to glorify God, — And 'tis faid by way of encomium on the firft con- verts to the chriftian religion, that they were together with one accord in prayer and praife. Our Lord himfelf alfo has diredied us to addrefs the throne of grace, in the language oi focial religion, and fay. Our father who art in heaven, &c. And has made great and precious promifes to the duties of piety ^^v- iovra&'m fecial unity,— From fuch confide- rations as thefe, and the more efFedually to anfwer the ends of fecial religion, the apo- ftles of Chrift, under the direilion of his fpirit, formed their converts into diftind: re- gulated * Pfal, xxvii. 4. Pfal. Ixlii. I, 2, 3. Heb. x. 25. Rom, XV. 6. A^s i. 14. chap. ii. i, 41. chap. ix. 31. chap. xi. 26. 2 6V. viii. i. GaL u i. Tfje Introdu^ory Preface, xi gulated focieties, called Churches ; hence we read of the Churches of Jude a, Galilee, Sa?naria, Macedonia, Galatiay Afia, &c. And of the apoftles aflembling with the church at Antioch^ and of people being added to the church. Thus it is abundantly evident, thztfocial religion in general, and the con/litution of chrijlian churches in particular, as neceflary to the fupport and praftice of it, are of divine appointment * ; — Or a wife and gracious in- ftitution of God, deftgiidfor the prefervation of true religion^ and fecuring happijiefs to mankind. Every ferious chriftlan therefore, if he wou'd follow the diftates of his focial nature, the directions of the word of God, and the example of the beft of men, — If he wou*d improve himfelf in the power and comforts of the divine life, — contribute moft efFeftu- ally to the fupport and propagation of true religion, — do the higheil honour to God, and * I don't mean to afTert, hgw far any of the particu- lar forms of church government amongft \\%, are of di- vine appointment. xii lloe IntroduBory Preface, and the greateft good to the world, — mufl conned: himfelf (as he has opportunity) with fome regular chriftian fociety, and unite with them, in all the ordinances and duties that God has promifed to blefs to thofe im- portant ends. But then he fhoia'd take particular care, to be acquainted with the nature^ and de- fign of inch focieties ; and the refpedlive du- ties of their officer Sy and members ; and do what he does, from a principle of love to God, and religion,™ that he may oiFer tQ him zreafonable fervice^ and fill up his place with propriety and honour , with advantage to himfelf and the community. — Here it is that too many fail. — They enter into the facred and interefting relation of church fellowfhip, without knowing, at leaft with- out duly confidering, the reafons why, or the ends for which they do fo. An affec- tation of extraordinary fandity, and defire of the applaufe of men;— the gratifying an ignorant enthufiaftic zeal ; — or the engag- ing deep in the little intereft of a party—are, 'tis to be feared, too often the ruling motives in this cafe : at beft they look upon it, as little The IntroduSfory Preface. xiii !itde more than entitling them to the Lord's Table ; and not as engaging them in znyfpe^ cial relation and duty to the fociety they com- munc with, in particular, and all other truly chriftian focieties in general, and laying them under many peculiar obligations to exem- plary purity in heart and life, as it moft certainly does. And when this happens to be the cafe, of the greateft and moft confi- derable part of any religious fociety, either a coldnefs and inattention to their common intereft, will bring upon them an infenfi* ble, yet fure difTolution ; or fpiritual pride, envious emulations, angry contentions, and uncharitable feparatlons tear them to pieces, to the great diihonour of the chriftian name; and the ruin of that chriftian charity, which it is the particular delign of fuch inftitutions to promote. The intention of thefe papers therefore, is not to cenfure zny particular form of church government, which obtains amongft pro- teJiantSy but to contribute, if poffible, to- wards the cure of the above mention'd evils, where they are^ the preventing tJiem where they are not -, and the advancement of xiv The IntrodiiSlory Preface. of real piety and goodnefs amongft all : — for tho* I have endeavoured to give my reader ^sfcriptural a view as I cou'd, of the nature^ form and order of a gofpel churchy as neceffary to my defign in general ; yet w^hat I have more largely and particularly infifted on, is, the ends and duties of the chriflian profefjion in general^ and church relation in particular y (which are in the main the fame in all forms) — That if poffible I might en- gage his attention, to things ejfential to the being and growth of folid religion ; mode- rate his zeal for meer modes and opinions ; cherifh his benevolence and charity with re- fpeft to other chriftians. And if need be, convince him of the utter inconfiftency of a bigotted narrownefs of fpirit, with the de- fign of providence in making religion 2ifocial intereft and concern. I hope therefore, inftead of making what I here lay before him, an occafion of wrang- ling difputes about church government and power y &c. (which have too much troubled the church already) He will confider it rather as a cotJtpendious fyjlem of chriflian duties acknowledged by all ^ the principal of 'The Introdu5lory Preface. xv of which, he will find, under the feveral propofitions relating to the work and bufi- nefs of a church, its officers and members 5 their refpedtive qualifications, and what they owe to one another, to other churches, and to the world -, and which I have given him from the fcriptures, in words at length, not to prevent his looking into the bible, but to encourage hini in that important duty, by convincing him, from thefe fpe- cimens, of the excellency and ufefulnefs of tbat divifie hooky as gracioufly given us, for reprooj^ and corrediion^ and inJlriLClioyi^ in aU righteoujnejs. As to difputable matters, not efl^ential to religion, f have endeavoured to treat them with moderation, and defire he would read them without prejudice, be open to conviftion, and when he differs from me, do it with the fame candour and charity with which I differ from him ; and make the beft of his 01m plan^ in the fupport and propagation of real piety and virtue, 'till he is convinced he has found z better. « ft I am xvi The IntroduBory Preface, T am fenfible the more ftudious and in- telligent reader, is acquainted with many better treatifes on this fubjeft ; but they are either fo large^ as not to come within the compafs of the time and capacity, or fo wtvyfiort, as not to anfwer the expedatlon or neceflity, of the common chriliian^ for whom, principally^ I write. — I have there- fore endeavoured at a fuitable medium, in a method iiitirely new ; which I hope, though lefs entertaining to fome, will not be found lefs adapted to the folld information, and realfervice of thofe, who are defirous of be- ing ufeful and ornamental members of any particular church of Chrift, and are fen- fible of the want of fuch help as is here in- tended them. — For, though I have not en- tered into the fubjeft argumentatively, ex- cept here and there briefly in the notes, (as indeed my method and compafs would not allow me to do) yet, if any plain chriftian, will but properly exercife his own reflec- tions upon the materials he here finds ; and when neceflary, take in the affiftance of his more I'be Introductory Preface. xvil more judicious friends, he will be able, not only to fupply that deficiency, but anfwer the end of his enquiries, perhaps more to his fatisfaftion upon the whole, as he will be thereby led to his conclufions, not fo much by meer human argument, as divine autho- rity. To conclude, as the civil, fpiritual, tem- poral, and eternal happinefs of mankind, and the credit of our holy religion in the world, depend^o much upon the good order ^ real holinefs^ fine ere and fervent charity^ of chriftian churches , I moft heartily wiih they could, by any means> be prevail'd upon to attend to thefe important things, with more ferious and cordial concern. — We our felves complain (and that juftly) of coldnefs, for- mality, diforder, and declenfions in vital religion, as prevailing amongft us -, the free thiiikers^ and infideh of the age, look upon all our churches, witli the utmoll: contempt : and reprefent them as meer creatures of crafty priefts, the idoh of their infatuated a 2 mobs, ^\iii 7be Introductory Preface. mobs, the fupports of their tyranny and ambition 3 or little nurferies of fenfelefs en- thufiafm, bigotry, fuperftition, and mad zeal. — Would to God we had never given any occafion for fuch reprefentations ! But, could we but once be brought to think, and aft, agreeable to the true fpirit and genius of the gofpel y to place religipp, not in the little nojirums and peculiarities of a party ; but ill fn cere repent ajice towards God, lively faith in our Lord fefusy and thejolid genuine fruits thereof in the works of piety y righteouf nefsy befievolencCy charity ^ — Inftead of vio- lently compelling one another to unifonnity in leffer matters, could we learn to differ in cpinionSy without dividing in qffe5iiony op- pofe one another in meeknefsy forbear one aji^ other in love, and receive with chriftian ten- dernefs the weak in faith 5 or, inftead of fpending our religious zeal upon modes and formSy and things indifferent y unite and eni- ploy It in promoting real chrijiian knowledgey and following after that peace and holinefsy ivithout which no man fiallfee the Lord,-^ " Weri^ ^he Introductory Preface. xijr' Were our churches all formed upon fuch principles, and aftuated by fuch a fpirit^ they would foon find (even though in other refjpe<3:s they continued ftill in their different forms) the God of holinefs and peace dwel- ling amongft them-— religion revive — the gofpel miniftry honoured and blefs'd. And. thus, to their unfpeakable fatisfaftion and comfort, and the utter, confufion of the ig^ mrance of thofefoolifh men^ who delight to reprpach them — they wou*d indeed appear to be, what they were originally defign'd to, be *, feminaries of divine knowledge, truth, love, piety, and every virtue — Living wit- neffes of the great mercy and love of God to men. — The brighteft ornaments of the world, and the greatefl bleffings to it. Abingdon (Berks) 26 Jan. 1758. * Pfal. xlv, 9, &c. Pfal. xlviii. 3. Pfal. Ixxxvli. 2, 3, Ephef. ii. 21. Phil. ii. 15, 16. Rev. i. 10, Ghap. xxi. 2. to the end, will abundantly iHuftrate ajid -conlirm thefe fentiments. p. s. xi Ti)0: Introductory Prefacei P. S. The reader is defire^ to obferye — That feveral of the texts produced, are not intended as direSf prtofs of their refpedtive propofitions, but rather as illujirations orAy^ — And that the few things quoted from Ctemensy and, Xgnattus^ &c. i^re defign'd juft to hint the fimplicity of thofe times, ^nd how nearly the conftitution o^ their churches agreed with that which we find in the holy fcriptures, and which in the following pages is (I think) delineated ixovcv them. (They that wou'd fee more, of this may confult hord Kings Enquiry.) And laftly, though argument was not my defign, yet I have been oblig d to add a few things in that form here and there by way of note, as neceffary to explain and defend my meaning ; which I haye done with a fmcere defign of promoting the interejt of truths and the honour of religion^ without regard to ^.ny party whatfoever ;— and which therefore I would have underftood, as illu- cidating ^he Introductory Preface. xxi cidating hints, rather than peremptory dic- tates 5 or as propofals of my prefent fenti- ments, to the confideration of the more ju- dicious and candid reader. A COM X ^he meaning of the word church. Chap. I. general fenfe ; as ABs xix. 32, 39, 41. where it is tranflated ajfembly^ and denotes jiot only a lawful court of judicature, as ver. 39. but alfo the diforderly multitude brought together by Demetrius, ver. 32. and 41. Tho' for the moft part the facred writers intend by it a religious fociety c5v congrega- tion. And thus fometimes it ftands — I. For the whole number of real faints^ and peculiar people of God, who fincerely love and obey him, which is properly and emi- nently THE CHURCH, the myftical Body of Chrift, given him by the Father before the world began — purchafed with his own blood; called, fanftified, preferved by his word and fpirit in time, and glorified with him in eternity — Which may be called the real or invifble catholic or univerfal church"^ part of which is triumphant in heaven, and part militant on earth *. Heb. xii. in that fenfe in the New Teftament as I remember, ex- cept I Cor. xi. \%.he fo underJiood,"Tht People are called t\iQ houfe znd church oi Godi, i Tim. iii. i$.''^Vitringa, de fynag. vet. part. I. chap. \. l^c. has a long and elabo- rate diflertation on the word «xxA>5cr»«. See alfo Spanhem. Dub. Evan. vol. 2d. Dub. 77. * We have reafon to believe that there are many true and proper members of the church, taken in this fenfe, that are not actually join'd in church-fellowniip^ tfi any particular chriftian fgciety. Chap. I . ^he meanifig of the nvord church. 3 Heb. xii. 13. ^he gejieral ajfcinbly ajid church of the fir ji born, — • Col. i. 18. And he is the head of the body, the church. John xvli. 2. 'That he Jlooidd give eter^ nal life to as many as then haft given, him, Ehef. i. 4. Chcfen us in him he- fore the foundation of the ivoi^ld.- — Ad:s XX. 28. The church of God "which he hath pur chafed with his own blood, 2 Thef. ii. 13. God hath from the be- ginning chofen you to Jalvation^ through fan5lification of the fpirit^ and belief of the truth, i Pet. i. 5. Kept by the power of God through faith unto Jalva- tion, John xvii. 2,4. 1 will that they alfo whom thou had given me be with me where I am^ that they may behold my glory, Heb. xiii. 2:5. The fpirits of ' jiijl men made perfe[l, Ephef. iii. 1 1;, Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, II. K\, other times the word churchy de- notes the whole body of thofe that make any vifible profefjio7i of a religious regard to the revealed will of God, and fubjedl:ion to his more fpecial authority, and government; whereof fomc have the real power, odiers only the form of godlinefs : and which may B 2 be 4 The meaning of the ivord church. Chap, i . be called the apparent or n)ijtble catholic^ church. Heb. ii. II. In the midjl of the church will I fing praife, i Cor. xii. 12, 28^ I'he body is one — the church, Ephef. iii. 10, xi'.' Known by the church — Glory ifi the church. Mat. xxv. i, 2. T'he king" dom of heaven is like unto ten virgins^ fve of them were wife^ and five were foolijld. Mat. XX. 16. Many be called but jew chofen. Mat. xxii. 1 1. A?id when the king came in to fee the gueflsy he faw there a man that had not on a wedding garmetit. See alfo Mat. xiii» 24. 30. But, III. Sometimes the word church denotes only one particular fociety of chvittianSy pro- feffedly devoted to God, according to the rules of the g.ofpel, ufually meeting for divine worfhip in one place; or to fpeak more exadly and fully " A company of *' perfons profefledly feparating themfelves " from the fmful ways of the world, in " obedience to the call of the gofpel ; be- " lieving in Chrift as their Saviour, fub- " jedting themfelves to him as their fpiri- " tual * By Fi^bk Is here meant, what falls under humsui cognizance and judgment, as before by inviJibUy the contrary. vAion in, and converfion to the faith and holiness of the gofpcl. 24 Advajtf ages of church fellowJJnp, Chap, i my word Jimll not depart out of thee : — Mat. xviii. lo, For "where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the mid ft of them, Pfal. cxxxii. 1 5. 1 will abundantly blefs her provifonSy and fatisfy her poor with bread, Pfal. xcii. 13, 14. 'thofe that be planted in the hoiije of the Lord Jhall fouripj in the courts of our God -y-— -they Jhall bring forth fruit in old age y — they JJjall be fat and flour iJJjing, Jer. xxiii. 4. I willfet fljepherds over them that fljallfeed them ; ?ieither ftoall they be lacking, faith the Lord, Pf. cxxxii. 13. For the Lord hath chofen Zion, he hath defired it for his habitation, 2 Cor. vi. 16. For ye are the temple of the living God, as God hath faid, I will dwell in them, and walk in them, &c. Ephef, ii. ii, 22. 3. Special obligations to holinefs. I Cor.iii. 16, \j. Know ye not that ye are the temple of Go d"? —if any man defile the temple of God, hmfloall God defiroy : for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are. chap. vi. 19. 4. From their own folemn vows and pro- miles. Judges xi. 35^. I have opened my 7nouth to the Lord, and cannot go back, — Pf. Ivi. II '^hy vows are upon me O God : 1 will render praifes unto thee. See Deut. xxiii. Chap. 2. Advantages of church felloivfiip, z^ xxiii. 21, 22. Pf. Ixxvi. ii. — 2 Tim. ii. 19. Let him that nameth the naiiie of Jefus depart from iniquity, Rom. vi. 3>4- 5. The fpiritual afliftance of their mini- fters and fellow members. Jer. iii. 15. And I will give you pa/lor s which Jhall feed you with knowledge and underjlanding, James v. 16. Pray for one another -^--the effeBual fervent prayer of a righteous ?nan aval leth much,, Heb. X. 24. Conjider one another to provoke unto love and good works, Pf. cxli. 5. Let the righteous fmite 77ie it fmll he a kindnefs ; — let him reprove me it foallbe an excelleiit oil, 6. Joint intereft in the churches poiTef- fions, and charitable relief when needed. Adls ii. 44, 45. All that believed were together and had all things in commouy ^ and fold their goods and poJfeJJionSy and parted them to all men^ as every man had need. Mat. xxvi. w. Te have the poor always with you. Gal. ii. 10. We re- member the poor, VIII. The * This common intereft 7iow mufl: not be undcrftood of private property, but only of luch eftatcs, and pof- feffions as belong to the church, as a bodv or focicty. See note chap. v. prop. i. and that no fiuther than the 'public ufes and advantages arifing therefrom. 26 Bujlnefs of a church. Chap. 2.' VIII. The chief work and bufinefs of a church, lies in a due regard to the ordinan- ces of divine worfhip, and godly difcipline. Rev. xxii. 9. Worjhip God. Ephef. iii. 2.1. "To him be glory in the church, \ Cor. xiv. 165 40. Let all things be done . to edifying^ — decently and in order. I. Divine wor/hip in the church confift- eth, — in prayer with thankfgiving, — fing- ing the praifes of God, — due adminiftration of, and attendance upon the word and fa- craments,— and contributions to the necef- fity of the faints. — 1. Prayer with thankfgiving.—- I Tim. i. I. TChat Jirfl of all ftipplica^ tions^ prayers and giving of thanks be made for all men. iTim. ii. 8. 1 will that men pray every where. A6ts i. 14. T^hefe all continued with one accord^ with prayer and fuppli cation. Phil. iv. 6. By prayer and fupplication^ with thankfgiving^ let your requejl be known unto God. Pf. L 14. Offer mito God thankfgiving. Ad:s xii. 5. But prayer was made of the churchy a. Singing the praifes of God. — Pf. xcv. I . O come let us fmg unto the Lord. Pf cxlix. i. Sing unto the Lord a new fong^ in the congregation of faints. Ephef. V. 19. Speaking to your f elves in pfalms and hymns ^ and fpiritual fongSy fnging and making melody in your hearts to Chap. 1. Bufmefsof a church. 17 to the Lord. So Col. ili. 16. Mat. xxvi. 30. u4?2d when they hadfung an hymn. 3. Attendance upon the due adminiftra- tion of the word and facraments *. Mat. * That bapiifm and the LorcVs Supper^ are divine in- flitutions defigned to continue through all the ages of the church in this wo-rld, ?nujl, one would think, plain- ly appear to every confiderate unprejudiced reader of the fcriptures. I. As to haptifm. This rite was pra(5tifed by John the Baptiji at the iirft opening of the gofpel difpenfation, to fignify the free remijjion of fins^ to ail true penitents through faith in the Meffiah ; compare Mat. iii. 6, 7. with A^s ii. 38. ChriJ} himfelf fubmitted to this rite, as adminiftred by fohn \ not indeed with the fame views, or to' the fame ends, with others ; but as point- ing out by his example, the duty of chriftians in gene- ral :— -He ajfp gave his minifters, a commiifion and or- der, to baptt%» oil the nations they taught^ Mat. xxviii. 19. and from John iii. 5. compared with Ai^s ii. 38, 41. chap. viii. 12. Heb, x. 22. i Cor. vi. 11. It appears that being baptized was the common token of fubjection to Chrift, and neceli'ary to a regular entrance into his -z;/- fible church : — -And that this was underftood o^ water baptifm, is plain from the pradice of the apoftles and primitive*minifters. See ASfs viii. 36, 37, 38. and Acis X. 47, 48. where ivater baptif?n is fpoken of, as appli- cable to thofe who had received (or been baptized with) the Holy Ghoji before, and for that reafon. And if this was to be praclifed in all nations where the gofpel was received, as our Lord declares ; it muft neceifarily be a ftanding inftitution in the church. — And this will farther appear if we confider that its reajons^ftgnifica- tions and ujes^ are in the main always xhe fame ; fuch as pardon znA purification^ Ails ii. 38. At^ls xx\\. 16. l Pet. iii, 20, 21. Heb. X. 22. Union and conmiunion with Chrifl, ^.vAparUcipauQnoiWi^ fpirit. 1 6V. xii. 13, 14. our .8 Bti/inefs of a church. Chap. 2. Mat. xvi. 15. Go preach the gofpel to every creature. Mat. xxviii. ig,Go teach all nations^ baptizing them in the name of the father^ &CC, Mat. xiii. 43. Who bath ears to hear let him hear, Ad;s xiii. 15, 16, 38, 44, After the reading the our fuhjcBion to him GaL iil. 27. the Ukenefs o^ his death and refurre£iion^ and our intereft therein. Rom, vi. 4, 8. 2d. As to the Lord's Supper, — he himlelf intimates that our eating and drinking therein is to be confidered as an act of religious worfhip, being performed with prayer and thankfgiving, and a particular remembrance of him, and efpecially his death. Luke xxii. 19. And this the apoftle fays he received of the Lord to deliver to the churches, and defcribes the management of it. i Cor, xi. 23. — calls it the Lord's Supper^ v. 20. fays it is defigned to fliew forth^ i. e. preferve the lively remem- brance of the Lord's death amongft his people '//// he come J V. 26. — That the communion of the bread and vAvi^fignifies^ our participation of the benefits of his death, confidered as a facrifice offered to God once for all, to take away our fms, and give life to our fouls; and that we are devoted to the fervice, and made partakers of the favour of that God to whom it was offered, i Cor. x. 16, 18. He commands the Corin- thians to keep the ordinances^ particularly this^ of which he was then fpeaking, I Cor. xi. 2. as he had delivered them. And 'tis evident that the reafons, ends, and benefits of this appointment, as much concern chrifti- ans in one, as in another age of the church ; efpecially the latter ages, as being more remote from the great tranfa£tion therein remembered and celebrated. — And it does alfo as particularly concern one church as ano- ther, for the apoftle wrote not only to the Corinthians, but to all that call upon the name of the Lordjefus. i Cor. i. 2. Chap. 2. Buji7iefs of a church. 19 the law and the prophets, — Taiil flood up and/aid, — through this man is preached unto you forgivenefs of fins y—and the next fahbath day came almo/i the ^whole city together^ to hear the word of God,— Luke xxii. 19. I'his do in remembrance of me, 1 Cor. xi. 26. As oft as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye dojhew the Lord's death 'till he come, 4. And contributions to the neceffities of the faints. Heb. xiii. 16. To communicate forget nofy for with fuch facrifices God is well pleafed, i Cor. xvi. 1,2. Now concern- ing the collection for the faints, —upon the firjl day of the week let every one of you lay by him in fore. — Ads x. 4. Thy prayers and thy alms are come up J or a memorial before God. 11. Godly difcipHne, confifleth in due execution of the laws of Chrift, given to the church, relative to the appointment of its officers. — The reception, government, and exclulion of its members, and the decent management of all its affairs to its edifi-- cation. — All which, with feveral other particulars, will be confidered in the next chapter. C H A P. ( 50) CHAP. IIL Some obferva^'ons and rules relative to the power ^ officers and duties of a chrijiian church, i.'TT^HAT every particular church, \^ rightly conftituted, hath within it felf full power and authority from the Lord Jefus Chrift, for the exercifing all ccclefiaftical difcipline, rule and govern- ment, and putting in execution all the laws of Chrift, neceftary to its own edification *. Heb. * I. This right and pov/er of particular churches arifes from the very nature of their conftitution, or their being free and voluntary focieties. — And this power is neceflary to every particular church for its prefervation, and continuance in the form of a fo- ciety. 2. No church power, or authority, can ^bfolve or excufe any from the obedience due to magiftrates, and the juft laws of their country, nor any way interfere with the fame. Though when thofe magiftrates and Jaws incroach upon the natural rights of confcience, we ought to ohe^ God rather than man^ Rom. xiii. i. Ads iv. 19. 3. No church has any power from Chrift, to pu- nifli the bodies, feize the property, or imprifon the perfons of offenders j or to impofe any thing upon the Chap. III. Of the power of a church, 3 1 Heb. ili. 6. Chrifl as a fan in his own houfe, Ephef. i. ic, 21. T^he head of all things to the church. Mat. xviii. 15, 16, &c. the confclences of any of it*s members. The autho- rity of fuch focieties confifting only in brotherly ad- monition, and reproof, or at moft feparation from the fpecial privileges of church fellowfhip with them- felves ; — as is evident from the whole tenor of the rules and laws Chrift has given them, and from the practice of the primitive chriltians. Yet, 4. As there are feveral circumftantial and inciden- tal things, concerning the time, place, manner, &c. of worfhip, and the management of the meer externals of religion, not exprefsly provided for by Jefus Chrift, but left to human determination, and the prudential application of the general rule. — Let all things be done decently and in order ^ to edificatioH ; it neceflarily fol- lows, that churches have a power of prefcribing ta themfelves fuch particular methods, forms and rules, refpe:i In the cafe and circumffances before us. — *l"hat it is very improbable Chrift fhould give his difciples a rule in relpeci: of ail cecononiy that was juff going to ceafe. But that it v/as no unuilial thing with him to fpcak proleptically, or by way of anticipation, or give rules for the after conduct of his difciples, as he evidently does in the i8th and following verlcs. — Thut the pov/er of the church here is at moll: lejedicn from their communion or brotherly relation, which does not agree with the nature of a civil court of judicit- ture : And that as this paffage is fo evidently conned- ed with the i8th and following verfes, the whole ap- pears a very clear, conHilent and important declara- tion of the power and authority given to a chnllian D church. 34 Power and ajfociation of churches. Chap. 3. by agreement ; provided they afiume no arbitrary jurifdidtion, or decifive power and authority over any particular churches, or perfons, nor attempt any thing prejudicial to, or inconfiftent w^ith, their juft rights and liberties. Ai yi.\^o{om'y(xv\ic, au'oy, i. e. nei- ther the fenate nor the people chufinghim. St. Ignat. ep. ad Phil ad, fays, nt^iixo-i £,-*> vwn/, w? exH^rjcri^ Say, yj.\.Qo[o\-fi- ci» huKoyov £i; % 'cj^iaQivccci lyA Sea TT^EoCeiav, i. e. // be- comes you, as a church of God, to chufe a minijler to per ^ form divi?ie fervice there (at Antioch). And thus the word yiio^cnuiy A6t. xiv. 23. Though it is properly render'd ordain'd, as more particularly refpe6ting the a<5^ of Barnabas and Saul; yet it rnay alfo include the .choice and confent of the people. 3. Even '^t. Cyprian, who lived in the middle of the third century, and had no mean opinion of the power of Chap. 3 . Who are the officers of a church, 3 9 V. That the ordinary officers of a church are (atleaft) bijhops (fometlmes called pnf- tors and elders) and deacons *. D 4 I Tim. of the clergy, fpeaks in the plalncft terms of the peo- ples power in the eledlions of their bifhops, Ep. 68^ SeSJ. I. of the Bp. of Oxford's edit. Epifcopo de Da judicioy & cleri & plehis fuffragio ordinate, i. e. Or- dained bijhcp by the will of God, and the fi^ffragc of the the clergy, and the people. Ep. 38. (qcX. I. In ordina- iionibus cleri cis, fratres car'ijftmi, folemus vos ante confu- lere, i. e. In our tninijlerial ordinations, vje ufed, dear brethren, firft to confult you. See alfo epifl. 67. fcdt. 2. * I. As to the teachers mentioned Ephef. iv. 10. See alfo Rom. xii. 7. whether they were the fame with t\\Q pajhrs, or of a different order, and if fo wherein the difference lies, is hard to determine; but 1 rather think the Apoftle intends either the tutors and cafe- chills in private fchools, or elfe the meer preachers of the word, or perhaps both : but neither of which had any ppfloral, or ruling power or authority, in any par- ticular church as fuch, but were mijiiftcrs to the church at large. 1, As to ruling elders, not pajiors or miniflers of the word, it appears to me doubtful whether they are ne- ceffary by divine appointment, at leaft to all churches ; for, we find the word elder and bijhop (or over jeer) ufed promifcuoufly to denote one and the fame office in feveral places, as A(51:s xx. 17. They who are call- ed elders, are verfe 28. called overfeers (or hifnops.) So Tit, i. 5, 6. compared with i Pet. i. 2. (where j-nrto-- xoTravlE? refers to the epijcopal office.) And the epiftle to the Philipic-ns, is addreiled to the faints there, with the bifoops and deacons, without any mention of elders. The like may be obfervcd, in the apoftles direction to Timothy about church officers ; and it is evident thitc there are many churches that have no occufion for 40 Who are the officers of a church » Chap. 3. iTim.iii. i, lo.l'be office of a hifiop—cf a deacon, Phil. i. i. 'lo the faints at Phi- lippij with the bifiops and deacons. Adls XX. ij. He called the elders of the churchy for fuch an office^ as dlftincSl froin that of the paftoral. Yet on the other hand it may be urged, that in the nature of things, there feems to be as r^al an occafion for fuch an office in the larger churches, to affift the paftc;r in government, as that of deacons^ to affift him in the care of the poor. And we read of helps-governr- rnents- — as diftin^i: [rom pajiors and teachers^ i Cor. xii. 28. Rom. xii. 7, 8. Elders 2X^0 are mentioned A£lsxv. 2. 4. 6. 22. as concerned with the apoftles in mana- ging the affairs of the church. And i Tim. v. 12. will bear an interpretation to the fame purpofe. Though after all, I muft confefs it is my prefent opi- nion that the office of ^ meer ruling elder^ has no cer- tain foundation in fcripture -— And as to an epifcopal order, or junfdi61ion, fuperior to that of elders, I can- not find any thing like it in xh^ fcripture account of the matter. Ads xx. 17. 28. i Pet. v. i, 2. Phil. i. i. are, to me, demonftrations to the contrary. See alfo T) r. Whitby's not^s on thofe texts. And I may here add, that CkmensRom. fpcaks of hiffjops ?.nd elders, as one and the fame fort of perfons, and of the fame office and order. For in his firfl: £p. ad Cor. chap. 42. fpeak- ing of the ordination of church officers, he mentions only hiO.OpS and deacons, xaOtra^oy ra? a^Trxq-xccq av\uy—-ii!i i-jTicry.o'nycic y^ AiUKovHc, i. e. They (i. c. the apoftics) or' dained the firji fruits of their ininijiry, for bifnops and deacons, whom, chap. 57. he calls elders, fTrola^nle tos; cT^fcrCJJE^oK, i.e. Be yc fubjc^ to the prefbytcrs or elders. And chap. I. of that epift. y^olaircro/zEvoi tok ryy/AHvot? v:;m. Be ye fuhjc^i to thofe %vho have the rule over you. Like that of the apoftle Heb, xiii. 7. 17. which fecms to Chap. 3 . Who arc the officers of a church. 4 1 church J and {'Ad. to them — I'ake heed to the flock over which the Holy Ghojl has made you overfeers (^jrhifliops) and feed the church, i Pet. v. i, i. 'The elders I exhort to imply, they had more rulers In their church than one, and that they were what he elfewhere calls hi- foops and elders. And chap. 54. he fpeaks o{ prejlyiers let over the flock of Chrift — to 'Zctoijuhov — /^tlo. twv ^aSira- ^A-jw\i m^Bo-Qvlt^uv — It muft be acknowledg'd indeed that St. Igtiatius^ who lived in the aj)oftolick times, and prefided in the church of Antioch^ mentions b'tjhops and elders as dlftin£i:; Epift. ad Ephef. chap. 2. vTuola-cra-cc- fxevoi e'syiuKO'VTo x^ 'or^saQvli^ia , i. e. Be fubje^ to the bJ/Jjops andprejbytery — And chap. 4. >v7^ia-Qv\i^iQv — iiTo(; crvmfi^ofa.% ru it^ic-y.o'nro ojq y.o^lca xi9«^a, i. e. the prcfbytcry fo fitted to the hijhops^ as the firings to the harp. — The like he fays in many otljier places. — But even from him we cannot learn, of a certainty y any more than that fome of the larger churches (fuch as Ephefus) had feveral prefby- ters or bifhops. — That one of them ufually prefided, and was therefore called, by way of diftindlion, the BISHOP, (and lometimes 'sr^ogro;?, praefes, prcfident^ vid, Jufl:. Mart. Apol. 2. p. 97. — ) But that the other prefbyters were ftill his equals, as to order and office, and his collcgues or joint paftors and rulers of the church with him (called TB;g^u|^EioJ, i Thef. v. 12.) And that this bifhop and his presbyters had the care and charge but of ^77^ chrijlian fociety^ who ufually met in one place of public worfliip, and received the Lord's Supper at one table. Vid. his Ep. ad. Philiad. chap. 3. &c. &c. And it may be farther obferved, 3. That the firft mention we have of cldnsmthQ chriftian church, is Acts xi. 30. who (as thofe men- tioned A6ls XV. 4.) might not be fo entitled from any fpecial 42 Who are the officers of a church. Chap, j . exhort — Feed the fiock of God — taking ' the over fight thereof ^ BTna-KOTravleg) wil- lingl)\ Tit. i. 5-, 6, 7. Ordain elders — ij any be blamelefs—'for a bijhop muH be hlafiielefs, VL The fpecial office they had In the church, but from, their Gge^ or as to fome of them, becaufe of their being wit^ nejfes chofen by Chrifl, to fee and teftify his fufFerings and glory, i Pet. v. i. And as to others of them, becaufe of their being thQ firji fruits of the gofpel- miniftry, and therefore of fpecial eftlmation in the church, as is intimated i Cor. xvi. 15, 16, Thefe elders, under the apoftles and evangelifts, and in their abfence, would naturally have the affairs of the churches to which they belonged, fubmitted to their mana^^ement and care, until fome more particular re- gulation3 could be thought on, and particular officers appointed, fuch as bijhops and deacons ; and who would naturally be chofen from amongft thefe elders — which agrees with what the apoftle hints, i Cor. xvi. 15, 16. and with what Clemens declares, i Ep. ad Cor. ch. 42. before quoted. So that it is by fome very much quef- tionpd whether, in the apoftolic times, there were any oro:iined to be elders^ or inverted with any office under that name. 'Tis faid indeed, Atfls xiv. 23. that the apoitles ordained elders Imiiife. — But then it may be underftood of thofe who were elders before, in^the fenfe above ; whom they ordained to be bijhops .or deacons as the cafe required. So Tit. i. 5, 6. is ex- plained. I Tim. iii. j. 6. and chap. v. 17. See Dr. Benfon^s ejpiy on the fettlement of the primitive churches^ part i. To the perufal of which I (princi- pally) owe this note. 4. I will here add a note, which fhou'd have beerr introduced a httle before, viz. that (it appears to me) the Chap. 3. T'he officers of a church, &c. 4} VI. The officers of a church fhould be qualified for— called and appointed unto — and fignify their willing acceptance of their office, before they enter upon the cxercife of it. I. They are to be duly qualified for their office. I Tim. i. 7. The apoftle condemns {om^jjor defining lo be teachers — un- derflanding neither %vhat they fay, nor whereof they affirm. Pfal. 1. 16. But unto the wicked God faith. What haji thou to do to declare my Jiatutes ? . I Tim. V. 2 2. Lay haiids fuddenly on no mdn. The the original of all official powcx'- In the church is in Chrift the fupreme head, and only hno-giver to it.— - That feme fpecial particular qualifications, (befides common natural or acquired abilities and grace) are ne- cefTary to all fuch power in the church. — That a re- gular call and appointment to office is alio necefl'ary to the orderly and atith-^ritatlve exercife of thofe qua- lifications, to the edification of the church, which is the end of their being beftowed, Ephef. iv. ii, 12. That Chrifl hlmfelf will take care to bellow thofe qualifications as long as he has a church in the world, more or lefs, as he fees proper. And that the out- ward call, or choice of qualified perfons, he has left to his chureh, and their invcftiture, to paflors or el- ders. This note contains the fum and fublfance of all I have faid concerning the nature, derivation, fuc- ccffion, and ufe of ecclefialllcal power in tiie church and its officers. 44 ^aUficaUons of Officers. Chap. \. The qualification of a bifhop or elder. I Tim. iii. 2, 8. Tit. i. 6, 9. Abifiop. muft be blamekfsy the hujbaiid of one wife ^ juff^ holy^ temperate ^ vigilant^ fober^ well behaved, hofpitable, apt to teach, not given to wine, Jio Jlriker^pa- tient, not a brawler, not foon angry, not felf-wilTd, 7iot greedy of filthy liicre^ or covetous', but 07ie that ruleth well his own houfe -, — havi?ig faithful children i?i fubje^ion, and not accufed of riot or un- ruly \ not a novice, [in religion, or a new convert^ having a good report 0} thofe with" * The husband of one wife, i. e. neither guilty of polygamy (i. e. having feveral wives at once) nor of divorce, or the taking a fecond wife before the death of the firft i evils too common in thofe times, both with Jews and Gentiles ; and however borne with before the eftablifhment of Chriflianity, were never- thelefs fim againft the divine inftitution of marriage ; and therefore eminently culpable, and fcandalous, in a perfon who claimed fo facred and exe?nplary a charac- ter, as that of a bijho^ ox preftdent of a chriftian church. And as this is fo natural and eafy an interpretation of the words, fuppoited by critics and expofitors of the greateft abilities, 'tis furprizing that fuch ingenious and learned writers as JVhi/hn, Hallett, and others^ fhould conclude from hence, that the apoftle made the marrying z. fecond wife, after the death o^ \.\\q firji, inconfiftent with the character and office of a chriftian bifliop ; efpecially as the apoftle elfewhere allows of fecond marriages, Rom. vii. 2. I Cor. vii. 8, 9, 17, 27, 28s 29. And there may be as manyjuft and good rcafons for a fecond marriage as the firil:. See Drs. Doddridge and Benfon on the place. Chap, 3. ^taVificatiom of officers. 45 without (i. e. the world) a lover of good ^ [men] holdhigfa/i the faithful word, as he hath been taught, that he jnay be able by found do&rine, both to exhort, and to convifice gainfayers. The qualifications of a deacon. I Tim. iii. 8, il. T^he deacons mujl be grave, not double tongued ]JioCkoy\iq, i. e. deceitful, faying and imfaying] not given to much wine, not greedy oj filthy lucre y holding f aft the myftery of faith in a pure €onfcience ', and let thefe alfo firfi be f roved, and then let them ufe the office of a deacon, being found blamelefs — evenfo mufl their wives be grave, not ftanderers-^ fiber, faithful in all things -, let the deacons be the hufiand of one wife, ruling their children and their own hoifes well. Ads vi. 3. Men of hone ft report yfidl of the Holy Ghoft and wifdom, 2. They are to be * called to their work, by the grace and providence of God, and the election and approbation of the church. Heb- * ift. In what follows, the reader will eafily diftln- gulfh what is applicable to the pajhr, v/hat to the deacon, and what to both in common. 2. In order to a regular call to the miniflry, there (hould be a due meafure of thofe gUts and graces, phrilt has prefcribcd, and bellows, as qualifications for it; a fincere and voluntary inclination, and fclf-dedi- cation to it; thofc qualiiications, and that inclination, , fhou^d ^6 ^lalificattons of officers. Chatp. 3^ Heb. V, ^. No man taketh this honour to himjelf, but he that is called of God, as njoas Aaron. Rom. x. \ ^."And ho'^jj JJjall they preach except they be fent ? Ad^s vi. 3, 5. Look ye out /even men-y — and they Stephen, &c. 2 Tim. ii. ^, What things thou hajl heard the fame commit to fait h^ fulmen, who fhall teach others. 3. They are to accept of their charge, not from worldly views, but of afincere and will- ing mind. I Pet. V. 1. staking the overfght thereof not by confiraint, but 'willingly j not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind, 4. * They are to be ordained, or fo- lemnly fet apart and appointed to their work, (ufually) ** by the affiftance of other officers, of chief power and authority in the churches, Rom. fhou'dbe examined and approved by competent judges; and the candidate recommended to God, and his blefs- ing, by folemn prayer,— -which perhaps may be all that is neceflary to the pulJic preaching of the word ;— but a farther trial, and more particular appointment muft I \!vi\\^\i^ generally necelTary to the regular aflli- ming and executing the paftoral office, if we would do all things decently, and in order, to the due edification of the church, the credit of religion, and the proper fup- port of the minifterial character, and influence. ■* See article 23 of the church of England. ** I ft. I fay ufually becaufe I think it evident from the nature of things ; that though ineer popular ordina- tions are not fo regular and agreeable to the apof- tolic Chap. 3 • Ordinattomcf officers. 47 Rom. X. 15. How Jfmil they preach ex^ cept they he fenf ? Tit. i. 5. / Uft thee in Crete that thou fmul deft ordain elders /;; every city. A<5t^ Teftament, we find the deacons ordained by laying on of hand?. Jets vi. 5, 6. And that Barnabas and Saul^ were feparated to particu- lar occafional fervice, this way. Jets xiii. 2, 3. It is objected that " as the ufe of this rite in the primitive *' times, was accompanied v/ith extraordinary gifts of " the fpirit, thofe gifts being now ceaied, the rite *' ought to ceafealfo, as being a meer empty unmean- ^' ing ceremony.'* But it fhould be obferved, that this rite was often ufed, where no extraordinary gifts m con- fequence are mentioned. — As in all the places before quoted, except perhaps in the cafe of Jojhua^ and even of him it is faid in him was the fpirit ^ before Mofes laid his hands on him. And of the dceicons it is faid, before their ordination, they were men fidl of the Holy Ghofi y lior do we fmd any new gifts imparted to them by liiy- ing on of hands : the like may be obferved of Barnabas and Saul. Acts. xiii. 3. So that it appcais plain to me, that the chief defign of this practice was, to fi;:[;nify a folemn feparation to fom^e particular oflice, or^ork, and as iuch, properly continued in the church, even to E th is 50 Ordination of officers. Chap. 3* VIL The officers of a church have their re- this day, as, if not effmiial to th^ validity, yet to the dearnejs, fclemnity arid regularity of an ordination. 4. It may poffibly be objedled, " that what I have '* alledg'd, and taken for proof ^gzm(k meer popular or- ^' dinations, wi!l carry me into another extream, and " prove the/ok right of diocefan prelates to that work ; '' feeing the ordainers here YQfcx'd to, were not preshy- '* ters but apojlles^ or evangelijlsy or (as Acts xiii. 3.) *' prophets, who were of 2.fuperior order J*^ To which I wou'd anfwer, (ift) That it was abfo- lutely necefTary that fuch extraordinary or fuperior offi^ CiTs, as apojlles, he. fhould be the ordainers, until there were others appointed in the church ; or elfe there could have been no ordinations at all (unlefs by the people, which I have proved was not the cafe) and therefore, nothing can be fairly inferred from that cir- cumftancc, in favour of the objer^/>/?^/;2^, n\Q2ins prayings ftnging^ teaching or exhorting, or the like, it always carries in it the idea of immediate infallible- infpiration^ or {omQ extraordinary influence ofthefpi- rit, as well as when it denotes the pj-edicting future events ; and therefore diftinguifhes thofe ads from what is common and ordinary in them. * As preaching is, properly, publifhing, or pro- claiming, it includes in it, I apprehend, not only fer- moni-zing, and expounding, but even readiyig the fcriptures to the people. — For that it is a part of the minilierial office to read the fcriptures to the people, may be con- cluded from Deut. xxxi. 9, 12. Nehe?n. viii. i, 2, 5. Luke'w. 16. {Ifa. Ixvi. 21. Maf. xxiii. 34.) ^-:/j xiil. J5, 27. Col. iv. 16. I Cor, xiv. 37. i Thef xv. 27. 2 Thef, Chap, 3. Duty of church officers, 5-3 2 Tim. ii. ^. No man that warreth^ en- ta^igleth hmjdf with the affairs of this life, I Tim. iv. 13, 15. Give attendance to readings to exhoi^tation^ to doilrine^ meditate on thcfe things, give thyjelf wholly to them, 2 Tim. iv. 2. Preach the wordy be in/lant in feafon and out of feafon^ — reprove^ — rebuke — exhort with all long fiiffering and doctrine. 2 Tim. ii. 15. Study to /Jjew thy f elf a workman^ that 72eedeth not to be ajljamed, rightly dividi72g the word of truth, i Tim. v. 17. The elders that labour in the word and doBrines, Ad:s vi. 4 . And we will give our felves continually to — the mi- nifry of theword. — Mat. xxviii. 19. Go teach all nations. — Mark xvi. 15.—- -i Tim. iii. x,'—A biJJ:op muji be apt to teach. 2. Adminiftration of facraments, Mat. xxviii. i^. -—Baptizing the?n in the na?ne of the Father, &cc, I Cor. X. 16. — The cup we blefs,-— the bread vs^e break,— i Cor. iv. i .— t/j, Jiewards of the myjieries of God. E 3 3 . Prayers 2 TJjef. iii. 14. Cat-'chixing may alfo be included iji teaching [Heb. v. 12.) as being one way of teaching the principles of the chriflian reli[jion, and perhaps moft efFcclual for fecuring and promoting regular knowledge,- and a folid judgment in divine thin^.- i the' now too much negledled. 5*4 -D^^/)' of church officers* Chap. 3; 3. Prayers for, and with the people publickly . Afts vi. 4. And 'we will give ourf elves continually to prayer and the minijlry of the word. Ads xx. 36. — He kneeled down and prayed with them all Col. i. 9. We dont ceafe to pray for you, (11.) They are to prefide, watch over, rule and * feed, the flock of Chrift, with fpiritual food. I Thef. V. 12^. I'hem that are oyqv you in the Lord, i Tim. v. 17. T^he eU ders -that rule welL Heb. xiii. 17. T!hem thai have the rule over you^ for they watch for your fouls^ as they that mud give an account.— hOi^ xx. 28. T^ake heed to the flocks over which the Holy Ghofl has made you Overfeers, to feed the flock of , * I. Tho^'tlie principal part of \}pi\^ feeding o^ xho, flock, is doubtlefs included m preaching, — yet private inftrudipns, and exhortations are included alfo. 2. Toprifide is to fit as chief, guide, dire£l:or ancf moderator in the affairs of the church. 3. As to rulingy it confifts, I apprehend, not in a power of uidkhig n^v laws, but in an orderly and right execution of thofe already made by Chrift himfelf, the fole law-giver in ,his church ; and thus the obedience paid to paitors, is not a blind, implicite, abfolute fub- mi/lion'tbtficir diclates ; but a rational, reverent, con- feiciicious/^egaid to the laws of Chrift, by them duly explained, inculcated, 4nd addre/Ted to the heart. See chap. iij. prop. i. note 4. and prop. viii. chap. iy. prop, iji. notti there. Chap. 3. T>uty of church officers, 55 of God, — I. Pet. V. 1. Feed the Jiock.-- - Jer. iii. 15. — Feed you with knowledge and undcrjianding. $ee cilfo Ezek. xxxiv. ^. (III.) They are to fet a hcly example to the people, in all things. Tit. ii. 7. In all things pew thyfclf a pattern of good works, i Tim. iv. 12. Be thou an example of the believers in word, in co7iverJation, in charit)\ in fyirity in faith y in purity. 1 Pet. v. 3. Being examples to the jlock. (IV.) They are toblefs the people in the name of the Lord, I Cor. xiv. 16. Fife when thou fait blefs with the fpirit, how f ball he which occupieth the room of the imlearned fay amen? Numb. vi. 6, 11^. Te prietis fall blefs the children of IfracL—vtv, 27. Shall put my name upon [them) and I will blefs them. Deut. x. %,—~'The Lord feparated the tribe of Levi to blefs in his name. — 2 Cor. xiii. 14. T^he grace of the Lordjefus Chrift^ and love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghof, be with ^wu all. Amen. (V.) They are to vifit, and pray with the fick in private, when defired -, upon \\ hich a divine bleffing is promifed. E 4 Jawies 56 Duty of church officers. Chap. 3. James v. 14. Is any fick ? let him fend for the elders of the church, and let them pray oiierhitn. — ver. 15'. And the prayer of faith fiallfave thefick *. (VI.) They are to afiift the churches in the crdination of their officers, and adminiftra- tion of all divine ordinances, when occa- fipnally or properly called thereunto. A(3:s xiv. 13. And when they {Paul and Barnabas) had ordained (with t]pe peo^ pies fuffrage) elders in every church. — Ad:s vi. 3. Men whom we [apofles) may (ippoint. Tit, i. 5. For this caufe left I thee iftitus) in CretCy- that thou fJjould'fi ordain * If by fikh here, we underfland the Gommon faith of chriftians, we muft not fuppofe the fick perfon fhould be always reftored and preierved from death, by the prayers of the elders, for that would have been contrary to the divine appointment, and matter of faft ; —but the meaning is, that in this way of humble and fervent prayer, with a believing hope and truil in the mercy of God, a fifitable bleiiing might be expected, and the affliction either removed or fancSlified ; as beft anfwered the ends of infinite wifdom and goodnefs, as concern'd in the government of the world in general, and the propagation of the gofpel in particular.-—^ Though I rather think by faith here, we muft under- ftand the faith of miracles ; z. e. a particular, and ex- traordinary perfwapon of, and truft in, the miraculous power of God. A faith pecuhar to thofe times, ancj produced by fome fpccial extraordinary impulfe of the (h"vine fpirit. — See Alat. xvii, 20. chap. xxi. 21. Mark xj. 22. Acts iii. It), I Cor. xiii. 2. Chap. 3- -D«/y of church officers. 57 ordain elders in evej-y city, — ^^chap. iii. prop. vi. fedl. iv. aiid note there, idly. Of the duty of Deacons. (I.) It appertains to the deacons to take the care and management of the fecular * affairs of the church, that the bifhop or paftor mcy b.e more at leifure to attend the fpiritual. Ad:svi. 2, 3, 4. Then the twe/vefaid — it is ?20t reafo7iable that we fiould leave the word of God a?2d{cYwe tables, — Look ye out men whom we may appoint over this bi{/inefs^—"but we will give oiirfelves continually to prayer^ and the mimjlry of the word. (II.) TJius of courfe it belongs to the dea- cons, to provide fit materials for the decent adminiftration of baptifm, and the flipper of the Lord 3 that the apoftles rule might be kept*% I Cor. * The care of the poor originally and primarily, be- longed to the elder or bifhop, — as appears from Acts xi. 30. Acts iv. 37. ActsMi. 2, 4.-— I Cor. xvi. i. 3. ** It is generally allowed by enquirers into thefe fubje(3:s, that in the primitive church there were dcncon- ejjcs \ i. e. pious women, whofe particular bufinefs it was to aflift in the entertainment and care of the itine- rant preachers ; vifit the fick and imprifon'd, inftruct female catechumens, and aififl at their baptifm ; then more particularly neceffary from the peculiar cuftoms of thofe countries, the perfecuted irate of the church, antl the 58 Duty of church officers. Chap* 3; I Cor. xiv. 40. — Let all things be done decently and in order. (III.) They are to acquaint themfelves,as cxaftly as poffible, with the neceffities of the f)oor, and fupply them according to the church's ability. Adls iv. 35". And dijlribution was made to every man^ according as he had need. xi» 29, 30. T^hen the difciples^ every man according to his ability^ determined to fend relief unto the brethren in fudea j which alfo they didy and fent it to the el- ders by the hands of Barnabas and SauL^ Compare Adts vi. i. &c. N. B, T'o the elders, as principals^ the deacons being their ajjijlajits in this cafe, (IV.) They tlie Tpeedier fpreadi'ng of the gofpel. — Such a one 'tis rcafonable to think Phehe. was, mentioned Kom, xvi. i. Who is exprefsjy called (Ataxo»o») a deaconefsy or ftated fervant^ as Dr, Doddridge renders it. — They were ufually widows^ and to prevent fcandal, generally jn years, i T'un. v. 9. See alfo Spanhan, hiji, Chrijh Sead. i. page 554. — The apoftolick conftitutions (as' they are called) mention the ordination of a deaconefs^ and the form of prayer ufed on that occafion ; lib, viii. chap. 19, 20. — Pliny alfo in his celebrated epiftle (xcvii) to Trajan^ is thought to refer to them, when fpeaking of two female chriitians, whom he put to the torture, he fays, qua minijhce dicehantur ; i. e. who were called deaconefibs. — But as the primitive chrif- tians feem to be led to this practice, from the peculiari- ty of their circumftances ; and as the fcripture is intire- Jy filent, as to any appointment to this fuppofed of- iice, or any rules about it, it is I think very juftly laid afidc, at Icail as an office. Chap. 3. Power of officers of a church, G?c. 59 (IV.) They are to fupply the bifliops, eiders, or paftors feafonably, with what is allotted by the church for their fupport *. I Cor. ix. 1 4 Eve7i fo hath the Lord ordained that they that preach the grfpel Jhould live of the go [pel. 2 Tim. i. 4. No man that warreth cjitangleth himfelf with the affairs of this life. VIII. Though the officers of a particular church are, as fuch, the only p7^oper regular executors of its power and authority, yet they cannot rightfully exercife their office therein, without the knowledge and confent of the church ; nor have they any compul- fary power over the confciences of any, or authority to decide in matters of faith, tho* united in a general council *'^. Gal. * I. It follows, that the deacons are to receive the contributions of the church, in charge for the purpofes above mentioned ; and that they are accountable to the church for their management. 2. That it muft pertain to their office to admonifh, reprove, and bring to the cognizance of the church, fuch as negle£l their duty in contribution. And 3. That they fhould vifit the poor, and acquaint themfelves with their necelTities, as fully as pofTible. ** I. The reafon is — numbers cannot makcy?////- hle mtn infallible — nor can thofe who are themfelves fallible^ have authority to decide in matters of confci- ence ; of which the word of God is the only guide to both miniftcrs and people, fince extraordinary infpi- ration 6o Salifications of church members: Choi^.i. Gal. i. 8. But though we^ or an an^ from heaven^ JJjould preach any other go/pel unto you than that we have preach- ed — let him be accurfed. 2 Cor. i. 24. Not that we have dominion over your faith, I Pet. v. 3. Neither as being lords over God's heritage, i Cor. v. 4, 5. When ye, the churchy are gathered toge- ther — to deliver fuch a one to fat an — which X Cor. ii. 6. Is called there- fore, the reproof of xn^ny. Ads xv. 2x. Then it pleafed the apojlles and elders with the whole church, j John ix. But Diotrephes who loveth to have the pre- heminence receiveth us not, IX. Every ratrlon has ceafed. And for this Reafon, on the other hand, no particular church (or body of men) has a- power over the confcience of its minifter. 2. Though the minifter of a particular church is un- der fome peculiar obligations to inftru6l and guide them ; yet, as he is a minifter of the church in ge- neral, (fo far as is confiftent with his duty to that f articular church) he may occafionally preach and ad- minifter the facraments, and aflift at ordinations elfe- ivhere. — -And may eyen rernove to any other congre- gation, when he believes in his confcience he has a call of providence fo to do, though not upon every trifling occafion ; — and that without re-ordination, of which there are no inftances in fcripture as I can find, and for which there is no countenance from reafon :■ — Tho' upon fuch new fettlement, the fetting apart fome time Chajp. 3' ^^lifcations of church members, 6 x IX. Every particular church hath a right within itfelf, of judging of the iitnefs and qualifications * of its members ; i.e. of accept- ing or refufing fuch as offer themfelves to its communion y and of continuing or fepara- ting from it, thofe that are already in it, provided they exercife that right only in a way agreeable to the exprefs laws of Chrift, and confiftent with their own peace and edification ; and that charity they ought to cultivate with all the people of God. Adls ix. 26. When Saul ejfayed to join himfelf to the difciples^ they %vere afraid of time for folemn prayer, and Imploring the divine blef- ling, is doubtlefs very expedient. 3. As every minifter of Chrift, properly receives his office from Chrift himfelf, at leaft as to the efientials of it ; fo he cannot be, ipfofa^o^ deprived of it by mecr hu- man authority : though by being guilty of fuch errors in do(5lrine, or immoralities in pradice, as are incon- fiftent with it, he may forfeit it, and indeed really di- veft himfelf of it ; and in that cafe may, and ought to be prohibited the exercife of it, by every chriftian fo- cicty where he may attempt it (they knowing his cafe) and for that purpofe they have a right and power in themfelves, as the guardians of the honour of Chrift, and the purity of the faith and morality of his church. * I Thefe qualifications (which follow) are necef- fary to the chriftian character in general, and defcrip- tive of it, but more particularly applicable to church- members, as what they ought to be in fome good mea- fure- 62 Salifications of church members. Chap. 3. ofhimy and believed not that he was a difciple. I. As to the qualifications of thofe that are to be received into communion. I. They fhould appear to have fome competent knowledge of the chief and dif- tinguifhing dodrines of the chriftian reli- gion. Mat. xxviii. 19. Go teach all nations. John vi. 45'. Uheyjhallall be taught of God. Heb. viii. 11. All know me from the leaf to the great ef, 1 Cor. iv. 3. If fure, even before they take upon them that character in fo public a manner. 2. As it is one principal end and defign of the infti- tution of gofpel-churches, to fecure and promote the purity and morality of the chriftian religion, great care ought to be taken by them, to keep up a due difcipline in admitting perfonsto communion with them, and continuing them in. it ; left holy things be given to dogs ; immoralities countenanced ; and no difference made between the godly and the wicked : yet on the other hand, great tendernefs is to be ufed towards the weak in faith, who appear upon the whole to be fincere believers in Jefus Chriji^ and defirous of living in obe- dience to his commands j that they may not be dif- couraged, or deprived of the means of their fpirituai edification and comfort. The extream nicenefs and feverity therefore of fome churches in this matter, is rather to be deplored than imitated \ who, to fupport the affectation of extraordinary holinefs, or the credit of their own inventions and peculiarities, too often make a voluntary wifcrupkd facriiice of chriftian cha- rity, the rights and privileges of their chriftian bre- thren, and the hgjtour qf religion itfelf. See conduf. Chap; ]. Salifications of church members. 63 Ifourgofpel he hid, it is hid to them that are loll. John xvii. 3. Tihat they might know thee^ the only true Gody andjefus Chrijl whom thou hajifent, X. They (hould be acquainted, with the chief defign of the rites and pofitive inflitu- tions of chriftianity, and reverently ufe them, viz. Baptifmy and the Lords Supper. Mat. xxviii. 19. Go teach all nations^ baptizing them. Heb. x. 22. Havitig our bodies wajhed with pure water. Rom. vi. 4. We are buried with him by baptifm into his death, that as Cbri/i was raifedfrom the dead, evenfo we alfo Jldould walk in newnefs of life. Ads ii. 38.5^ baptized for the remijjion of your fins. ver. 41. T\itn:th€y that gladly re- ceived the word were baptized — and added to the church, i Pet. iii. 2 1 . Bap- tifm doth now fave us (jiot the putti?ig away the filth ofthefe/l.\ but the anfwer of a good confidence) by the refiurredliojz cf Cbrifi Jrom the dead. Ads viii. 12. And when they believed — they were bap- tized. Luke xxii. ic). "This do in re- membrance of me, I Cor. xi. 23, 19, I received of the Lord that which I de- livered unto you — as oft as you eat this breads and diiiik this cup, ye dofi:ew the Lords death until he come. Wherefore ^bfh- 64 Salifications of church member L Chap.- 5 . whofoever JJjall eat ^ this breads and * drink this cup of the Lord unworthily, fjall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord *. But let a man examiiie himfelf andfo let him eat. 3. They fhould appear to repent of, and forfake their fins, and believe in the Lord Jefus Chrift for falvation, according to his gofpel. Mark i. i j. Repent ye and believe the gofpel. Mat. iii. 6. And were baptized in Jordan conf effing their fins. John iii. 36. He that believeth on the Son hath everlafting life% and he that believeth not the Sonf:}all not fee life^ but the wrath of God abideth on him. Acts xvii. 30. But now comma7ideth all men every where to repent. Adls v. 14* And be- lievers were added to the Lord. AcSs i. 47. To the church. 4. They fhould manifeft a fincere and fervent love to the Lord Jefus Chrift, as their Lord God and Redeemer, and v^orfliip him accordingly. John XX. i8. And Thomas faid untd him J My Lord and my God ! John v, a^. That all menfiould honour the Son^ eve?2 as they honour the Father. 1 Pet. ii. 7. Unto * I. e. He that partakes of the Lord's Supper as a common meal, and not with a religious reverence, and particular regard to the death of Chriii, is fo guilty. Chap. 3. Salifications of church members, 65 7. Unfo you that believe, he is precious, 1 Cor. xvi. 22. If any man love not oltr Lord Jejus Chrili, let him be anathema maranatha. Rev. i. 5, 6. JJntohi?n that loved us and ivapoed us from our fins in his own blood — be glory and dominion for ever fnd ever. Amen . 5. They fliould make fome exprefs de- claration or con fell ion of tlieir faith and re- pentance, their hope in the promifes, aiid hibjedion to the authority of Chriil, and the order and difciphne of his church, according to his word *. F I. That * It may be afk'd perhaps, to v/hom is this decla- ration of faith, repentance, &:c. to be made, in order to give fatisfa^lion to the church ? 1 anfwer ; as there is no particular direction given in this cafe by Ch'ijl in his word, it mufl be left to the judgment of every particular church to chufe their own way, fo it be not inconfiftent with any known rule of duty. — But, as to the candidates giving an account of their experiences in thefe matters, in a mmute and circumJlantialvsxTirxnzx^ before the whole hod^\ which is the method in fome churches, as it has no foundation in fcripture (as I can find) Is putting them upon an unncceflary piece of mortification, — hurts the modefty of the more diin- dent and humble — gratifies the fpiritual vanity and pride of fuch as value themfelves upon their religious knowledge and attainments, — and is the occafion of preventing many worthy perfons from the church- communion. — It feems to me not alvv^ays fo eligible as their doing it to the paftor, and two or three others of the moft folid and judicious amongft them, who may make a report thereof to the church ; liberty be- 66 ^alijicaUom of church members. Chap, j, I . That they fhould make a declaration of faith, &c. Mat. X. "jx. iVIjofoever Jljall confejs me before men^ him will I confefs before 7ny Father, Rom. x. lo. And with the mouth cojifeffon is made to falvation, I Pet. iii. 15. Be always ready to give an anfwer to every man^ that afketh you a reafon of the hope that is in you, AcSs xix. 18. And many of them that believed y came a?id confefjed^ and fJoewed their deeds, Ad:s viii. j8. J/^W/V^'^that Jefus is the Son of God. Rom. x. 9. If thou Jhalt confefs with the mouth the Lord Jefus, and believe in thy hearty that God raifed him from the dead — i John iv. 3. Rvery ing alfo given, for any particular perfons, to fatis- iy thcmielves, if they defire it, by private confe- rence. [And I fay not always, becaufe in foine cafes fuch a particular declaration of faith, and the gracious work of God, may be inftru£live and edify- ing to others and anfwer many valuable ends.] But the making fuch a public declaration, a term of com- munion, which it is very evident, the great Law- giver has not made fo, is carrying the matter beyond all reafonable and warrantable bounds, and not at all confiftent with the liberty oi the gofpel. As to a more general profefTion of repentance towards God, and faith in our Lord Jefus Chrift, as the only Sa- viour, a renunciation of the world, and devotion to the fervice of God ; I fee not but this may be made before all, not only the church but others, upon any proper occafion, and particularly upon fuch a one as taking up a public profeffion of religion. See the fcriptures quoted under the proportion. Ghap.3. Salifications of church memkrs, 6^/ Every fpirit that confejjeth not that yefas Chrifi: is come in the flcfhy is not of God. I John iv. i '^ . Whofoever fialt confefs that Jefus is the Son of God^ God dwelleth in him. John i. 49. Thou art the Son of God -y Thou art the king of IfraeL John vi. 68, 69. Lord to whom JJjouldwe go ?—'^JVe believe and are fare y thou art the Chrifi^ the Son of the living God, I John v. 20. This is the true God and eternal life. Col. i. 14. In ivhom we have redemption through his bloody the for give nefs offms, 2. Their hope in the promifes. Heb. xi. 14. Thefe were perfwaded of the promifes and cinbrdccd them^ and confejjed that they were ftr angers and pil- grims on earthy declaring plainly ^ they feek a better country. Col. i. 27. Ckrifi. in you the hope of glory, Ver. ^. The hope laid up for you in heaven. Ephef .ii. 12.2^^ wej'-e without hope, i Pet.i. ]. Begotten again to a lively hope. 3. Of their fubje6lion to the authority of Chrift, and the order of his church *. F 2 2 Cor. * This fubjec^lon muft be confiilent with the right of private judgment, in matters of confcience, and with all the natural and civil obligations of life ; and can only relate to the rules and orders Chrift hai ex- prefsly '^iverii 68 Salifications of church members. Chap. j. a Cor. ix. 13. Tour profejfed fubjediion to the go/pel of Chri ft, 1 Cor. xiv. 40. Let all things be do7ie decently^ and in order, 2 Thef. iii, 6. Withdraw jrom ev^ry brother that walketh diforderly. I Cor. X. 3x, Give no offence to the church of God, 4. The lincerlty of their profeffion fhould be evidenced by good works. James ii. 18. I will few thee my faith by 7ny works, i John iii. 3. He that hath this hope in hi7nfelf purifeth himfelf even as he is pure. Tit. i. 16. They prof efs to know Gody but in works deny himy bei?2g abominable^ and difobedient^ a7id to every good work reprobate. Particularly, ift, They fliould appear to be free from all grofs and fcandalous fins. Gal. ii. 24. They that are Chriffs^ have crucified the flefh with its affeBions and lufts — fuch as I Cor. v. 1 1 . chap. vi. 9. Fornication^ covetoufnefs, idolatry ^ raiU ing, drunkennefsy extortion^ adultery^ Theft, Gal. V. 19,10. Lafcivioufiiefsy witchcraft, [or malicious combinations with invifible wicked fpirits] * hatred^ fedition^ * Witchcraft^ or malicious comVmatlons, ^c"] What- ever there might, or might not be in fuch combina- tions, it is well known many of the heathens were the Chap. 3 . ^alijicatiom of church members. 6 9 feditiofiy herefy [or fadlioufly dividing the church] e?ivyy murder y and fuch like. 2. They fliould be ready to deny tliem- felves, and fufFer for Chrifl's fake, when called thereunto. Mat. xvi. 21. If any fnan will cafne after me let him deny himfelf and take up his crofs and follow me. i Pet. iv. 13. But rejoice, inafmuch as ye are made parta- kers of Chriff s fufferings, 2 Titus iii. i z. All that will live godly in Cbrijl fefus fdallfuffer perf edition. Rev. ii/io. Fear none of thofe things, which thou Jhalt fuffer — Be thou faithful unto deaths and I will give thee a crown of life. ^. They fhould bejuft and faithful to all men. Mark x. 19. Defraud not. i Cor. vi. 8, ^. Ye do wrong and defraud, and that your brethren. Know ye not that the un- righteous JJdall not inherit the kingdom of God? F 3 4. They then (and are to this day) very much addlded to what they at leaft imagine to be Tuch. But as the word ((pa^aoxEux) fignifies alfo poifons^ It may fignify here, that more private and malicious ibrt of murder, pc> petrated by means of fome poifonous compofition, ad- minifter'd for that purpofe. See Dr. Doddridge and Dr. IVhithy on the place. *7o ^{allficafions of church members. Chap. 3, 4. They fliould be difpofed to cultivate the fpirit of univerfal benevolence, and evi- dence it in their whole condud:. 1 Cor. xiii. 2. And have no charity I am nothing. Mat. v. 44. Love your ene-^ Viies — do good to them, that hate yoUf .Gal. vi. 10. Le^ us do good unto all men^ efpe daily to the houfehold of faith, i John iii. 16. And we ought to lay down our lives Jor the brethren, [i. e. fhould pro- vidence call us to it.] 5. They fhould love and pradlife the du- ties of piety and devotion, in their fecret re- tirements, families, (if any) and the church of God, conftantly, 2 Thef. V. i 7. 7ray without ceafmg. Mat. vi. 6. When thou pr aye ft enter into thy clofet—'fiut thy door arid pray to thy Father, Tit. ii. 12. The grace of God teaches us^ that denying ungodliriejs^ and wordly lufs^ wefoo'uld live godly in this prcfent world, Jofh. xxiv. 15. As for me and my houfe we will ferve the Lord, Jer. X. 25. Four out thy fury upon the families that call not upon thy name, Pfal. xxvi. 8 . Lord 1 have loved the ha- bit ation of thy houfe ^ the place where thy honour dwelleth. Pfal. xxvii. 4. That I ?nay dwell in the houfe of the Lord, all the days cf my life, Heb. x. 25. Not forfaking; Chap. J. Salifications of church members, yi for faking the ajfembliiig your f elves toge- ther, 6. They fliould have a due government of their tongues. Ephef. iv. 51. het all clamour and evil fpeaking be put away from you. Jam. i. 26. If a?iy bridleth not his tongue^ his re^ ligion is vain, 7. They fliould live above all undue in- fluence from this prefent world, and have their hearts and aftedtions prevailingly fixed upon a better. I John v. 4. Whatfoever is born of God over Cometh the world, \ John ii. if. If any man love the worlds the love of the Father is not in him. Col. iii. 2. Set your affe5iions on things above, Phil. iii. 20. Our converfation is in heaven. Heb. xi. 13, t6. Strangers and pilgrims on earth — they defire a better country^ &c. 8. They fliould be fober, and temperate in all things. I Cor. ix. 15. I'emperate in all thi?2gs. I Pet. i. 13. Be fiber, i Thefl*. iv. 4. 'That every one know how to fojjefs his vejfely in fandtif cation and honour, (II.) As to the reparation, or excommuni- cation ofthofe that are already members. Obferve, F 4 ift. The 72 Reparation of church members. Chap. 3, I ft. The occafjon. I. Fadioufly oppofing, or abfokitely de- nying 'myj "^eilential article of the chriftiaii faith, cbfdnately perfifting in the fame. Tit. 3. 10. A man that is an heretick^ {a,i^fliKov ^* a ivickcd feBarian) after the firjl and Jecond admonition rejcB. 2 Tim. ii. 17, 18. Of "whom is Hyme- neus and Pbiletus^ who concerning the truth have erred^ fay^^^^y the reJurreSlion is * I. What thefe£^«//^/ articles are, every particular church (as well as perfon) will, I fuppofe, claim a right of judging for themfelves. — But furely, they ihould be yery tender and cautious, left they rank any other doi£lrines under that title, than what are clearlyy znd plainly ajferted ?iS fuch in the word of God , and thp belief of which is there ?72ade necejfary to the true love of God, fincere worfhip of him, obedience to his will, and the hope of eternal life, as the free gift of God through Jefus Chrift. (See note 2. chap. i. prop. 3.) and particularly confult Mat. v. 6, 7. chap.. John xvii. 3. John xly. 10, 23. Rom. x. 8, 9. John iii. 3. 14, 36. i John iv. i, 3, 10, 14, 15. ** i he word (aj^^o-K) which we tranflate herefy^ properly figniijes ofunon^ /t\7, divifio?i^ &c. and is lometimes uled in' thp new tcftament in a. good (or at leaft in an innocent*) fenfe ; and fometimes in a l?ad one. In a good (enl'c, A^s xxvi. 5. In s.l>ad, A61. v. 17. 2 Pet. il. I. And here (Tit. iii. lO.) ccip'^kov^ muft mean, I conceive, one who wilfully andohfiiytaie- ly oppofes the effemial articles of ihe chriflian faith; and that' contrary to the co7nnSfions of his own mind^ and with the wicked intention of dividing the chriflian churchy to make a party for himfelf. For that the ideas of inimo- ;-Ldliy^ Chap. :}. Separation from a church, 75 is pali already^ and overthrown the jaith of fome — whom I delivered to J at an. I Tim. i. 20. I Tim. vi. 3, 4, 5. If any man teacheth otherwife^ and confent not to the words of Chrifi^ andfoimd doc-- - trine y according to godlifiefs^ doting about qiieftions (from whence cometh pcrverfe difputings) from fuch withdraw thy- felf\ 2. Any raUty^ and fplf- condemnation^ are implied in the herefy here mentioned, is, I think, very evident from ver. 11. where 'tis faid, that fuch a one is Juhverted^ Jlnneth^ and is jelf-condemn d. — As well as that of oppofing the ejfential articles of the chriftian faith ; which was the cafe of thofe mentioned, Titus ii. 17, 18. And therefore the v/ord heretic^ cannot without breach of charity be apply'd to -any ftncere hiunhle enquirer after truths who peaceably and confcleniioufly differs from other chriftians, in points not declared in fcripture to be ne- ceifary to falvation. * If this withdrawing be underftood as refpe6^ing the Lord's table, it can mean no more than an orderly procedure towards the juft fufpenfion of offenders, and not withdrawing ourfelves from our place and duty there, upon the apprehenfion of their unworthinefs ; for this would be to neglett one duty for the fake of another ; to excommunicate our felves, inflead of them; and to pluck up the wheat with the tares. — It is therefore a miftaken zeal for the purity of religion, that leads fome people, upon the knowledge of the milbehaviour nf their fellow members, immediately to fufpend themfelves from the fupper. — Their duty is to keep on ftill doing that in remembrance of Chrift, ^hich he has commanded ^ and in the mean time to take 74 Reparation from a church. Chap. 3; 2. Any fcandalous vices or immoralities perfifted in without repentance. Rev. ii. 2. / know thy works, and how thou canjl not bear with them that are evil Heb. xii. 15, 16. Leji there be any profane perf 071, — i Cor. v. ii, 13. JVc/ to keep company (i. e. intimately) if any man that is called a brother be ajor^ nicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner^ with fuch a one no not to eat, [perhaps at a common, much lefs at the Lord*s table'] — put away from yourfelves that wicked perfon [^mentioned verfe ly/.] * 3.Dif- take all juft, reafonable, and orderly methods, to bjing the offenders to repentance, or the church to her duty in the adminiftration of difcipline ; and if this cannot be done, to bear and wait 'till it can ; as I diink is very evident from the parable of the tares — ' — ? from the flatc of the Corinthian church, and the advice the apoftle gives them. — And from this confideration, that the unworthinefs of others, cannot hurt me, any further than I criminally countenance it. * I ft. In the vi^hole bufmefs of excommunication the church fliould a6l w^ith great caution and ferioufnefs ; humble regard to the honour of Chrift, the ends of church fellowfhip, and tender concern for the offen- der's good ; ftri6tly guarding againft wrath, malice, party fplrit, perfonal refentment, and the like ; or elfe they muft not expeci: the prefence and bleiling of Chrift in what they do, who in the midft of jujiice re- members mercy. 2d. That it is the offender's owyifin^ and not the fen- tence of any particular church, or ccclcfiaftical power whatever. Chap, "J. Separation from a church. 75 3. Difturbing the peace of the church, in any remarkable or dangerous degree, by ob- ftinate and violent contentions *. Gal. V. 1^. / woud they were cutoff that trouble you, Rom. xvi. 17. Mark them which caufe divijions — and avoid them. — 1 Thef. iii. 6. JVe comma7id yoM brethren in the name of our Lord Jefus Chrifiy that ye withdraw yourf elves fro7n ever^ brother that walks diforderly^ and not after the traditions he receivd of us. See alfo i Tim. vi. :;. 45-. 4. Suffering near relatives to v^ant the neceffary fupports and comforts of life, when ^bje to relieve them. I Tim. whatever, that feparates him from the body of the faithful, or the real catholic church. The fentence of a particular church can only aftedt his particular relation to them ; and therefore one particular fociety may very lawfully and confijlently receive thofe, vi^hom another un- charitably or rajhly reje£i. 3dl^ When any perfon appears to be rejeded, in an orderPP, ferious, and folemn manner, for real iminorali- ties^ his charader vi^ill appear fo much the more noto- rioufly bad to all good men, and be treated accordingly ; which is itfelf no fmall punifhnifent. * Churches fhould be very careful, how they make the little bickerings, and contentions of their members, occafions of church cenfures, and fufpenfions frOm the table ; — but rather, with proper admonitions of the re- conciling and peaceable kind, leave the matter with the confcicnces of the contenders. — For want of this caution, the me(r fms of infirmity have fometimes been treated with the moft folemn fcverities due only togrofs immo- ralities. *j6 Separation from a church. Chap. 3. I Tim. V. 8. — If a?iy provide not for his own houfe he hath denied the faithy and is worfe than an infidel, 2. The manner of proceeding in exclu- ding members. I . The crime being known ; admonitions, exhortations, reproofs and prayers, and fuch like gentle means are to be firft ufed, * for the reftoration of the offender; at firft more privately, and then more publickly as the cafe requires. Gal. vi. 7. If a man be overtaken in a faulty ye that are fpiritual trfi ore fuch a one in the fpirit ofmeeknefs^^-yi'dX. xviii. 16, 17. If thy brother trefpafs againfi thee^ tell him his fault between thee and hi 7n alone, but if he will not hear -thee take one or two tnore^-^.-and ij he will not hear them^ tell it to the church *. I Tim. V. xo. I^hem that fin rebuke be- fore all, 2 Tim. ii. 25-. In meeknefsin- fruiting thofe that oppofe themfelves — if God J]:all give them repentancf^^-- 1 Thef V. 14. — Warn them that are un^ ruly. 2 But * But perhaps in fome cafes, where the crime is highly fcandalous, it may be more neceflary for the ho- nour of religion, the good of the offender, and awaken- ing the caution of the too carelefs, to proceed immediate- ly to excommunication, as foon as the fa6t is clearly proved. Compare, i Cor. v. 13. with 2 Cor. vii. ii. ** See chap. iii. prop. i. and note there. Chap, 3# Separation from a church, 7^ 1. But If fuch offender appear to be cb- ftinate, and perlift in his fin after due en- deavours for his repentance, the church fhould proceed to feparate him from her communion. Mat. xviii. 17. But if he will not hear the churchy let him be unto thee as an heathen man *. Tit. iii. 10. After the frjl andfecond admonition reject — 7X/i is done, 1. By withdrawing from him (1. e.)re-. fufmg that intimate correfpondence with him as at other times ('unlefs to admonifh him of his duty) and perhaps fufpending him from the Lord's table, till his repent tance, or obftinacy, more fully appear **. 2 Thef. iii. 14, 15. If any man obey not our wordy note that tnan, and have no company with him^ that he may be a-- framed \— yet count him ?iot as an enemy ^ but admo?iifi him as a brother. 2. But in cafe of fcandalous fins, or thofe lefs fcandalous, yet intirely inconfiflent with the * See blfliop Burnett on the articles. Art. xxi. page 205. See ulfochap. iii. prop. i. and note there. ** This fufpenfion from the table, is by fome called the leffer excommunication ; a mcafure that has no acpyefs warrant, that I know of, from the word of God ; but may perhaps implicitly come under the general rule, af . doing all things ^ decently and in order, and the text here cited for V.^Q^\nY.T'ajlor's J7idicious note en Rom. xvi. i. at the end of his paraphrafe. 3. I object againft worhens Noting in the church, ift. Becaiife we have no account of their any way a6ling, or even of their being prefent^ at church-meetings of bu- fmefs.— -At the church-meeting, Adfs vi. 2, &c. For the choice of deacons, the direction is, brethren look ye out aviongji you Jeven men^ &c.— At another church-meeting upon a point of confcience, A^s xv. 4, 22, 23. The apojiks^ elders and brethren are ftiled, the v/HOLE CHURCH; and debate, and determine the bu- finefs they me%t upon, without any notice taken of the women. 2. Becaufe their voting in the church, appears to me inconfiftent with their ftate of fubjection ; and contrary to the exprefs fcripture rule, concerning their behaviour in general, and in the church in particular; vi%. that they (hould be in ftlence not f peak in the churchy hg vnder ohedienccy not ujurp authority over the man^ but learn in ftlence zvith all fubjet^ion,—]Lxpre{rions that appear to me quite incompatible with the power o{ voting in the church ; which feems to imply rule, government, at leaft a judicial d'ecillon : and fuppcfmg their votes to be given by the filent fign of holding up the hand, or the like, yet if a majority, as might be the cafe, they would then apparently determine and decide againft the men, and confequently exercife authority over them, and not be in any fenfe in fubjeftion. 3. Becaufe tho' women ought to enjoy the rights of confcience and private judgment, as fully as the men ; yet this may be done in the way the apofUe points out to us ; viz. by their enquiring^ 5cc. of their husbands^ oi (which is the fame thing, where that cannot be) of their parents, brothers, or lome proper friends, at home; by which means their fentimcnts may be known, and a regard Chap. 3. Womens privilege in the church. 85 (XII.) But if any woman in church com- munion, be diffatisfy'd with the church's proceeding, in any cafe of confcience, flae may acquaint the paflor, or any of the bre- thren with her unealinefs ; who may, if ne~ ceflary, acquaint the church therewith^ which is bound to give her fatisfadion if pofTible 5 if not, file has power of removing her com- munion elfe where.— See chap. iv. prop. iii. fecS. 5. note. I Cor. xiv. 35. If they [the ^JDomeri) will learn a?iy thing let them ask their hnf- hands at home ; for it is a Jhame for a woma?! to fpeak in the churaj, 1 Cor. i, X4. Not that "we hai:e dofninion over your faith, Befides the general duties of worfhip and difciphne, before mentioned, there ,are feve- j'al particular, and important ones, belonging G J to regard paid to them, conMent with their duty of fub- je^Hon, and the prelervation of the rights of confcience alfo. — As for inflaiice in the choice of a.miniftcr, they have doubtlefs a right to be fuislied as weli as tlie men, and therefore (houid be confulted by a proper deputa- tion from the church, and their fentiments fhould have their proper weight, and be duly regarded, which for all reafonahle purpofes would be juft the fame, as \{ given by vote in the church ; and fo of other matters of conl'ci- ence and right. — -For it is not the givmg their Tenti- ments, but the manner of doing it, i^c. that I object to.~ 86 IVomcjts privilege in the church. Chap. 5. to church members as fuch *, which may be noted under the following heads, the con- tents of CHAP. IV. * Moft of thefe duties indeed belong to them as chriftians, whether in fpecial communion with any particular church or not ; but in cafe they ate, they ought to look upon themfelves under more and far greater obligations thereunto, from their more public profeffion and folemn vows as before hinted, chap. ii. prop. vii. feci. iv. Duties of church members, 87 CHAP. IV. Of the ditties of church 7?tembers^ I. To their hijhops^ elders ^ or mi- nijiers of the word. II. JTo one aitother 171^ particular. III. 7^ the church in general to which they belong. IV. In refpeEl of the world. V. Refpecting their age— fex— con- dition. VI. T'o magiftrates. VII. To their do77ieflics or fa7nilies. I. / I ^ O their bifhops, elders or minifters J[ of the word. The duties of church members are, (I.) To treat them with diflinguifliing honour, efteem, and love. I Cor. iv. I ft. Let a man fo account of us as the mimjlers of Chrift^ and ftcwards of the viyjleries of God, i Tim. v. 17. Let the elders that rule ivell^ be accounted G 4 ivorthy 8 8 T)uties of church members Cli ap . 4 ; worthy of double honour ; efpecially they that labour in the word and dot^rme. I Thef. V. II, IX. Know them that have the ride over you, and ejleem them very highly in love for their works Jake. (II.) Cordially to receive and fubmit to their adminifLrations, in dcdrine and difci- pline,fofaras is confiftent with true chrlftian liberty, and the due prefervation of the rights of confcience, and private judgment*. I Pet. ii. 1, 2. Layi72g afide all malice^ guile, hypocrify, envy, evil fpeakings, as new born babes defire the fincere milk of the word, James i. 21, 21, Lay afde allfilthinefs, and fuperfuity of naughti- nefs, and receive with meeknefs the in^ grafted word. Be doers of the word and not hearers only, Heb. xiii. 17. Obey them that have the rule over you, v. 7. And have fpokcn unto you the word of God, ^ Thus In a gofpel churph rightly conftltuteJ, there IS no robm for the moft detellable of all tyranny (viz.) the arbitrary cxercife of ecclefiafllcal power, or prieftly dominion over the confciences and civil rights of man- kind ; and yet that there is a governing authority, and ruling power entrufted with, and inverted in the pro- per officers of a church, is evident to me from the fcrip- tures here quoted, and many others : thp' that power is ftrongly limited by the laws of Chrift ; and appears to be directory, declarative and executive only, and not iegiflatlve, or properly coercive. — See chap. " iii. prop. midnoti.i there. Chap. 4. to their pajlors. 89 God, V. 17. Andjubmit yoiirfehes for they watch for your folds, 1 Cor. xvi. 15, 16. Addicted themfehes to the iiii- nijiry ^—fiibmit your f elves iintofuch, (III ) To follow their example in par^ ticular, fo far as they are followers of Chrifl. I Cor xi. I. Be ye followers of me ^ even as I a?n ofChriJi. Heb. xiii. 7. JVhofe jaitb follow y conf deling the e?id of their converfation, (IV.) To pray heartily for them. I Thef. V. 25. Col. iv. 3. Heb. xiii. 18. Pray for us, x Thef iii. i, 1. Pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free courfe, ajid be glorifed-, and that we niay be delivered from unreafonable and wicked men, (V.) To provide for their temporal fup- port and maintenance, in the moft effedlual manner they can. Gal. vi. 6. Let him that is taught in the word communicate to him that teach- eth in all good things, i Cor. ix. 7, 13, 14. Who goeth to warfare of his own charge ? the Lord hath ordained that they that preach the gojpel, Jhould live oj the gofpel. Mat. x. 10. T^he workman is worthy of his meat. — And $0 T>iities of church members Chap. 4^^ And this fhould be done with fuch libe- rality as, (i) May fet them above contempt in their ftation. 2 Cor. viii. 2r. Providing for honejl [rcocXoiy decent and honourable] thingSy not only in the ftght of the Lord hut of men. i Tim. v. 17, 18. Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of dou- ble honour, efpecially they that labour in the word and doctrine : For the fcrip- ture faith^ thou flmlt not muzzle the ox that treadeth out the corn : a?id the la- bourer is worthy of his reward. , (2) Free them frorn the entanglements and cares of this life, fo that they may de- vote themfelves intirely to their miniftry. 2 Tim. ii. 4. No man that i^arreth en- tangleth hi?nfelf with the affairs of this life. Rom. xii. 7. Or minijlry let us wait on our miniftry ^ or he that teacheth on teaching, i Tim. iv. 13, 15. Give attendance to readings to exhortation^ to doctrine — Meditate on thefe things y giv^ thyfelfwnoLLY to them. (3J Enable them to provide decently for their families: — For, I Tim. V. 8. If any provide not for his own hcufe he has denied the faith ^ and is worfe than an infideL Rom. xii. 17. Provide Ghap. 4* to their paflors, ' 9 1 Provide things honejl [or decent, ;caXa] in the [ight of all men, 4. Put them into a capacity of entertain- ing their friends, and affifting the diftrefr fed*. For, I Tim. iii. i. A bijhop mufi be given /^ hoffitality. (VI.) To endeavour to fupport and en- courage them under their afflidlions and trials. 2 Tim. * It is clear from all the fcriptures above refer'd to, as well as the reafon of things, that minifters of the gofpel fliould, if poflible, devote themfelves to the work of the miniftry. — That in that cafe, they have a right to maintenance from their people. — And that not as matter o( charity^ as fome are ready to imagine, but oijuftice, — And alfo that this maintenance ought to be proportioned (as far as the peoples abilities will admit) to the fervices expe61:ed of them, the circumftances of their families, the nature of the places where they re- fide — So that they may be, not barely defended from the miferies of hunger and nakednefs, (as is too often the cafe) but enabled to pra^ice as well as preach lihe^ rallty and charity ; and fupport their facrcd chara61:er, v/ith a fuitable decorum and reputation in the eye of the world.— -It by no means follows, as fome people feem willing to think it does, viz. that becaufe there zrefome inftances of one fort of chriifian minifters, exccffively enriching themfelves by the revenues of the church, (fometimes to the prejudice of religion) there- fore others fhould be deny'd what in the nature of things, is ahfolutely necejfary for their decent and com- lortable maintenance, and the enabling them to purfue their 92 Duties of church members Chap. 4; i I'im. iv. 16. At my firjl anfwer^ no manfiood with mCy but all men forfook me', AGs xii. 5. Prayer was made by the church for (Peter in Prifon.) (VII.) To aflfemble at their invitation at any fit time on due notice, for any particu- lar duties of devotion and difcipline. A6ts xiv. zy. And when -they (Paul and Barnabas) were come^ and had gathered the church together ^ they rehearfed all that God had done. (Vin.) They Ihould alfo prudently acr quaint their minifters with their afflictions, and defire their prayers for and with them. James v. 13. Is any affiiBed? let him fray. Is any fick among you let him fend for the elders of the churchy and let them prav over hi?n. (IX.) If their fludies with that freedom and attention neceflary for the due improvement of their minds, and the more efFe6lual fupport of the credit and intereft of religion ; or that becaufe their minifter may have fome fub- ftanceofhis own, that therefore the people fhould be excufed, and leave him to fpend that fubftance in fup- porting a charader, which they are by the laws of Chrift and common jiiftice to fupport themfelves, jf able. See Mr. Rees's fermon, entitled, A mockjl plea for the maintenance of the chnJlUin mimjlry. Chap. 4. to their paflors, 9 j (IX.) If they have more paftors or teach- ers than one, they fhou'd take heed of un- due diftin<5tionSj and dividing into parties in favour of one to the prejudice of the other. I Cor. i. X. 12. 'That there be no divi- fions — every one faying^ I am of Paiil^ and I oj Apotlos, and I of Cephas. Ch.iii. 4 . For while one faith I am of Pauly and a?20ther I am of ApoUos^ are ye not carnal f II. The duties of all chriftians, and par- ticularly of church members o?2e towai^is are — (I.) To love one another with a fincere fpiritual affecSlion. John XV. 12, T^his is my commandment^ that ye love one another ^ with a pure heart fervently. Which love ought to be particularly ma- nifeftcd. (i) By bearing one anothers burdens. Gal. vi. 2. (2) By praying one for another, James v* /6. Eph.vi. 18, (3) By vifiting one another, efpecially in afflidion, Jam. i. 27. Mat. xxv. 36. (/}) By diflributing to each others xiecef- fities, Rom. xii. 13. (5) By 94 £>uties of church members. Chap. 4* ( 5 ) By feeking every one another's wealth, I Cor. X. 14. (6) By rejoicing with thofe that rejoice, weeping with thofe that weep, Rom. xii. 15. (7) By ufing hofpitality to each other without gi'udging, i Pet. iv. 9, 10. (II.) They {hould fometimes meet toge- ther for focial prayer, and free converfe on religious fubjedls *. Heb. X. X4, 25. Let us confider one aii- other ^ to provoke unto love and to good works ', not fo7'faki?2g the ajfembling of oitrfelves together — But exhorting one another, Mai. iii. 16. Th.n they that feared the Lord fpoke often one to an- other J and the Lord hearkened and heardy and a bock of remembrance was written before him for them. Mat. xviii. i 9, 20. If two of you fhall agree on earthy a-s touching any thing ye jhall afk, it f jail be done J or them — For where two or three are * 5"/^^ religious conferences in particular, fhouJd be managed with great caution and prudence ; or clfe inftead of anfwering any valuable ends, they will ferve only to expofe the weaknefs of fome, cherifh the fpi- ritual pride of others, bring ftrife and contention into the church, and thereby religion itfelf into contempt. And even [oc'ial prayer^ though a more manifeft and neceflary duty, and what fliould be encouraged more than it is, is not without its inconveniencies and dangers, if not properly conduced. Chap. 4. Duties of church members, 95 are gathered together in my name^ there am I in the midfl of them. Col. iv* 2. Co7iti7iue in prayer. Adts xii. 5, iz. Prayer was made of the church — man^^ fraying ( for Peter ) . Ad:s i . r 4 . — all thefi continued with one accord in prayer. (III.) They fliould endeavour to feafoa their more accidental and occalional con- verfe with good things. Col. iv. 6. Let your fpeech be always with gracCyfeafoned with fait. Ephef. iv. 29* Let 720 corrupt commu7iication pro- ceed out of your mouthy but that which is good for edifying^ that it 7nay minifler grace unto the hearers, (IV.) They fhould cultivate peace and harmony one v/ith another. Ephef. iv. 3. Keep the unity of the fpirit in the bo72d of peace, 2 Cor. iii. 1 1. Be of one 77iind^ live in peace, Rom. xiv. 19.^ Follow after the things that 7nake for peace. To this end, (i) They fhould be fiibjed: to one, an- other in humility, i Pet. v. 5. (z) Not provoke, or envy one another. Gal. V. 16. (3) Do nothing through ftrife or vain- glory, Phih ii. 3. 4. In g6 Duties of church members. Chap 4; C4) In honour prefer one another, Rom^ xii. 10. (5) Forbear one another in love, Rom, XV. I. (6) Forgive ofie another if any have a quarrel, Col. iii. 13. (7) Not avenge themfelves, but give place unto wrath, Rom. xii. 19. (8) Not rafhly judge one another, Rom. xiv. 13. Mat. vii. i. (()) Speak not evil one of anotherj Jam. iv. II. (10) Avoid whifpcrings and backbi tings, 1 Cor. xii. lo. (11) Terminate, as far as poflible, all differences amongft themfelves, % Cor. vi. (ix) Mutually give and take reproof in tKe fpirit of meeknefs. Mat. xviii. 15. If thy brother trefpafs— tell him his fault. Gal. vi. i. Rejlore fuch a one in the fpirit of meeknefs, III. Church members in particular, have duties incumbent on them to the church in general, viz. ( I ) To fubmit cordially to the order and difcipline of the church, fo far as they can Confcientioufly, Ephef. V. 2 1. Submitting yoiirfelves to one another in the fear of God, i Cor. xi. 22. Or Chap. 4* to the church, 97 22. Or defpife ye the church of God? Mat. xviii. 17. If he negle6i to hear the church, {2) To devote their gifts, graces and abilities, to the fervice of the church in a proper and confiftent manner. I Pet. iv. 10. ^s every man hath re- ceived the gijt^ fo let him minifler the fame, Rom. xii. 6, 7. Whether prophecy^ let him prophefy — or minifiry^ let him wait on his miniflry — He that gi'veth^ with liberality, (^) To take care of their poor relatives, as far as they are able, that the church be not burdened. I. Tim. V. 4, 8j 16. But if any widow have children^ or nephews^ [ezyovtz, grand-children] let them, i. e. the chil- dren ^ &c. learn firjl to foew piety at home, and to requite their parents. If any provide not for his own hoiife he hath denied the faith, and is worfe tha7i an i?ifdel—If any that believe have wi^ dows, let them relieve them, and let not the church be charged, 4. To pay a particular regard to the in- tereft of the church, and keep their places in it, as long as a good confcience, and as far as providential circumftances, will per- mit "" * I. In cities and great towns where there are feveral cliurches, and where the members of thofe H churches 98 Duties of church members Chap. 4. Aftsii. 41. And they C07itinuedjledfaft^ in the apojiles dudlrinCy a7id breaking of bready and prayers. Ver. 44, And all they that believed, were together. —Hch, x. x 3 , %^. Let us hold f aft the profejjion of our faith y without wavering, not forfaking the ajfembling of our felves together, as the manner offome is, 5. If they withdraw from the church's communion on any account, fuch as great diftance from the church, better edification, or the preferving a good confcience, they fhould do it as peaceably and orderly as poffible^*. Rom. churches may happen to live at a confida-able diftance, from the place where the church to which they be- long ufually meets, it cannot be unlawful for them to attend the common duties of publick worfhip occa- lionally at leaft, nearer home : though a diftinguifh- ing regard fhould be paid to" that particular fociety with which they have connected themfelves, in order to keep up a due decorum in religion, and prevent that anarchy and confufion, and even ruin to the very exiflencc of particular churches, which muft be the confequence of indifcriminate and unconneded aiTem- bJies. ** 2. Where a church out of prejudice, and an uncharitable fpirit of refentment, or the like, denies a member a regular difmiilion, upon his peaceable re- queft ; fuch member may remove his communion without it ; for as every particular church is a voliin" tary fociety, it can have no right to detain any of its members, againll their confcnt, or voluntary choice. 2 Cor, Chap. 4» to the church. 9^ Rom. XIV. 5*5 33. het every man he per- fwaded in his own mind-— -for what is not of faith isfn. i Tim. iii. 3, 4, 5. If any teach otherwife-from fuch withdraw thyfelf z Tim. iii. 2. i Cor. x. 32. Give none offence to the church of God. I Cor. xii. 25'. T^hat there be nofchifm in the body, 6. To ftiidy the church's peace, purity, and edification. Rom. xiv. 19. Follow after the thi?2gs that make for peace ^ and wherewith one may edify another. Col. iii. 1 5* 5l? which you are called in one body, Heb. xii, 14* Follow after holinefs — To which ends particularly, ( I ) They fliould carefully ftudy, and pradlife the duties of love, and peace be-« fore mentioned. Ephef. iii. 17. Being rooted and ground- ed in love. 2. They fhould endeavour to improve their acquaintance with the principles of H 2 their 2 Cor. i. 24. Not that we have dominion over your faith 4 — Let evety man he prfwaded in his own inind. Rom. xiv. 5. And let it be always remember'd, as a funda- mental principle in this cale, that Chrift has delegated to no man^ or body of men ^ not even to his church, (in whatever fenfe the word be taken) any power, in- confijient with his prerogative, or Juhverfive of the natural rights of confcience and private judgment, in fpiritual matters. See chap, iiii prop. viii. note there, and elfe- where. I oo Duties of church members. Chap. 4. their holy religion, as they are found in the holy fcriptures. Heb. V. IX. When for the time ye ought to have been teachers of others^ ye have needy that one teach you again — the firfl principles of the oracles of God, Col. iii. • 16. Let the word of Chriji dwell richly in you in all wifdom. Afts xvii. 1 1 . And fearched the fcriptures daily ^ whether thefe things were fo^ John v. 39. 3. They fliould endeavour to maintain the liberty of the gofpel, and the facred rights of confcience, againft all impoli- tions. Gal. V. I, 13. Stand fafl in the liberty wherewith Chrifl hath made you free—-^ for ye have been called unto liberty. See the conclufion. 4. They fliould endeavour to maintain the doBrines of the gofpel, in their purity, againft all falfe teachers, and their plaufible reafonings "*. Jude * Thefe endeavours fhould be governM by pru- dence, meeknefs, charity — and not fuffered to break out into angry contentions, and party ftrife, about little circumftances, and meer modes of faith, &c. Nor into a furious zeal and perfecuting rage againft the perfons, or the natural and civil rights and poiTeflions, of even infidels themf elves. — For the weapons of our warfare , are not carnal^ 2 Cor. x. 4. — In meeknefs inJlruSiing them that oppofe themf elves ^ 2 Tim ii. 25. — All contention for the faith, in the way of rage and violence, is utterly inconfiftent vi^ith the genius of the gofpel. See the conclufion, fed. 8. Chap. 4. Duties of church members. 10 1 Jude 3. Contend eariieftly for the faith. I John iv. I . Believe ?iot every fpirit^ but try the fpirits whether they be of God -^ hecaufe ma?iy falfe prophets are gone forth into the world. Col. ii. 4, 8. Left any man beguile you^ thro' philofophy^ and vain de- ceit ^ after the traditions of 77jen. Phil. i. 27. Strivijig together for the faith of the gofpel (f.) They /hould pray heartily for the church's profperity. Pfal. cxi. 6. — Fray for the peace ofje- rufalem, Ifa. Ixil. 7. — Give him noref. 'till he hath made ferufalem a praife, (IV.) There are duties, which all chrif- tians, and efpecially church members, fhould attend to in refpedt of the world *, as a di- ftindt body frorn them, viz. (i.) To bear a prudent teftimony againft the evil practices of the world. Rev. xviii. 4. Come out of her my people, that ye be not partakers of her Sins. Eph . V. 7, II. Be ye not partakers therefore with them^ — have no fellowflnp with the unfruitful works ofdarknefs^ but rather H 3 reprove * By the world here, is meant all prophane and vi- cious perfons, who appear void of Tcrious chriftiaiiity, and the fear of God, of what party fo3ver they may nominaUy be; and not 2.\\y particular pirty as fiich, as fome too often uncharitably apply the v/ord. 102 Duties of church members Chap, 4, reprove them, James i. 17. Keep himfelf unjpottedfrom the world,— 'And therefore (x.) Not to intermarry with infidels, and prophane perfons ^. /L Cor. vi» 14. — Be ye not unequally yoked together with u ft believers, 1 Cor. 7. 39* Be married to whomjloe will only in the Lord. (].) But to converfe with them in all other refpedls freely, as fellow creatures, and members of the fame civil and political com-? munity. Mat. V. 47. If y^ falute your brethren only^ what do ye more than others ? i Cor, X. 27. — If' any that believe not, bid you to afeajiy and ye be difpofed to go, what^ foever isfet before you, eat, i Cor. v. 9, 10. I wrote unto you 7iot to keep company with jornicators, &cc.'—yet not altogether —for then mull ye needs go out of the world. N. B. But if any man that is called a brother be guilty of thofe fins, we are not to J^eep company with him, Verfe 11. (4-) To * This rule do^BS not confine church members, from marrying with thofe that happen not to be in a6l:ual com.m.union with any particular church, while in other refpe^ts they appear to fear God ; or pay a decent re- gard to the duties of morality, and fuicerely afTent to thechriftian religion as true: much lefs from marrying with the members of any other church. — Tho' what piay Jje expedient in thefe cafes, prudence muft diiflate. Chap. 4* ^^ if^^ ivorlJ, 103 (4.) To endeavour to live in a peaceable and reputable manner amongfl them, pro- viding for themfelveSj the neceffaries and de- cencies of life, as far as poffible. Rom. xii. 1 7. provide all things honeji [decent] in the fight oj all men. — 1 Cor. viii. 21 . Heb. xii. i^.-^Folloiv peace with all men. i Thef. iv. ii, 12. Study to be quiet J and to do your own bufinefs^ that ye may walk honejlly. [6u