Gates of the City

 

“For so is the will of God, that with well doing you may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men.” (1 Peter 2:15)

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This is an excellent book written by John Owen with scriptural precepts, or as Owen calls them, rules for church fellowship. It has so blessed me, that I edited it and attached the scriptures reference herein for the convenience of those who have a desire to help their church grow scripturally, and would also like to learn how to minister to each other effectually to the glory of their Father and our Lord Jesus Christ. 

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Contents

Brief biography of John Owen

Foreword – by William Males

To the Reader – by John Owen

Eshcol: A Cluster of The Fruit of Canaan

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Brief Biography of John Owen (1616-1683)

John Owen was a theologian who was born of Puritan parents at Stadham in Oxfordshire in 1616. At twelve years of age, he was admitted at Queen’s College, Oxford, where he took his B.A. degree in 1632 and M.A. in 1635. During these years he worked with such diligence that he allowed himself but four hours sleep a night, and this excessive labor resulted in damaged to his health.

In 1637 he was driven from Oxford by his refusal to comply with the requirements of Laud’s new statutes. Having taken orders shortly before, he became chaplain and tutor in the family of Sir Robert Dormer of Ascot in Oxfordshire. At the outbreak of the civil troubles he adopted Parliamentary principles, and thus lost both his place and the prospects of succeeding to his uncle’s fortune.

For a while he lived in Charterhouse Yard, being in a great unsettlement of mind on religious questions, which was removed at length by a sermon which he accidently heard at St Michael’s in Wood Street.

His first publication, in 1642, “The Display of Arminianism,” dedicated to the committee of religion, had gained him the living of Fordham in Essex; from which a “scandalous minister” had been ejected. Here he was married and by his marriage had eleven children.

Although he was thus formally united to Presbyterianism, Owen’s views were originally inclined to those of the Independents, and as he acquainted himself more fully with the controversy, he became more resolved in that direction, though later he would return to Presbyterianism (as seen in his writings). He represented, in fact, that large class of persons who falling away from Episcopacy, had attached themselves to the very moderate form of Presbyterianism which obtained in England as being that which came first in their way. His views at this time are shown by his  writing “Duty of Pastors and People Distin­guished.” He remained at Fordham until 1646, when the old incumbent dying, the presentation lapsed to the patron, who gave it to someone else.

However, he was now coming into notice, for on April 29 he preached before the Parliament. In this sermon, and still more in his “Thoughts on Church Government,” which he appended to it, his tendency to break away from Presbyterianism is displayed.

The people of Coggeshall in Essex invited him to become their pastor, were he declared his change by founding a church on Congrega­tional principles, and in 1647 published “Eshcol,” the book here being submitted to the general church of Jesus Christ.

( The above was taken in part from The Encyclopedia Britannica Ninth Edition, New York: Charles Scribner’s Sons, 1885)

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Foreword

By William Males

This book, originally titled by John Owen as “Eshcol,” has before been presented under the title of “Duties of Christian Fellowship.” Yet once again, it is being presented under the same title, as it was designed to present the whole Christian family those sound scriptural precepts from God’s word , or “rules” as Owen’s refers to them, on the subject of ecclesiastical fellowship and discipline. .

The first part contains seven rules, which address the duties of members of a church towards their pastor. In the second part there are fifteen rules presented to the people of God on their duties to one another. It is of such a nature as to be applicable and useful under any form of ecclesiastical polity or denomination; as each rule is established from a body of evidence taken from Scripture, and followed with a general explanation attended by reasonable motives whereby the people of God ought to so live thereby.

The fact that there exist several editions of Owen’s “Eshcol” under many formats,  one cannot but wonder at its favorable reception with the religious public. Truly, it is a remark­able work of Owen which reveals his deep piety and sound judgment, which is presented to the reader in a simple rational arrangement, supported by a comprehensive knowledge of Scripture. Unquestionably, due to its sound foundation from God’s word, “Duties of Christian Fellowship” constructs a much-needed manual on church-fellowship, which to this day has yet to be surpassed.

This presentation of “Eshcol” under the title of “Duties of Christian Fellowship,” which I am now presenting to the general Church of Jesus Christ, has been edited focusing upon the antiquated English, in hopes to present it in a more easily readable contemporary format. Partly due to the undeniably complexity of thought often found with the Puritan fathers, which is made evident by what we would today call “run-on sentences,” of which many of them often filled half a page. Sadly, nowadays many cannot follow along with a thought that far anymore, but require such long thoughts to be presented in smaller fragments which lead to the same conclusion.

Therefore, the labor in presenting Owens’ work in this present format required considerable restructuring in various aspects; as the utilizing of modern words and terms which could still adequately convey the intent of the antiquated words and phrases, many of which are no longer popular or utilized nowadays and would leave many uncertain of what was presented to them. This was carefully done with the prayerful intent and earnest desire that I might adequately allow the same conveyance of thought which Owen desired to express in his day.

Additionally, all the scriptural references which John Owen only alluded to in the book, have been included in a more basic English rendering very similar to the format of the New King James or Modern King James Versions, as well as other verses which I perceived were profitable and supportive of the author’s intent. This was not only for those Christians today who have difficulty with the King James Version’s undeniable archaic English, but also to present every reader with God’s own words which are the foundation of John Owen’s book. For it would profit all of us in our walk of faith to learn the spirit and precepts of these verses, and endeavor to memorize them so as to hide them in our hearts. For why would we not do this, if we truly wish to serve our Lord Jesus Christ according to the foundation given to the Church by both the prophets and the apostles?

Psalm 37:30 – The mouth of the righteous speaks wisdom, and his tongue talks of judgment. 31 The law of his God is in his heart; therefore none of his steps shall slide.

Psalm 119:11 – Your word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against You.

Sadly, though there are many nowadays saying “Lord Lord,” I personally fear that sum of believers may not be much greater than all those of whom Jesus attested He would one day reprove and reject, saying “Why do you call Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ and yet do not the things which I say?” along with, “I tell you I do not know you, or where you are from? Depart from Me, all you workers of iniquity.”

For many have failed to properly use the grace of God according to the purpose for which it was given; that “by grace through faith” the believer might both come to God and please Him. Instead, many are but practicing a religion of convenience created from their own imagination, (or taught to them by another who knows not God), and have forsaken the “old paths.” Many professing Christians live under a pseudo-liberty, carelessly going about on their own with only a profession of faith, and perhaps even attending a “Church” which serves men more than God. Such are doing exactly what Israel was too often reproved of by the prophets, doing no more than that which was right in their own eyes. What can possibly be the end of such a religion, even if in vain they do hang a banner above their doors calling itself “Christian?”

Ephesians 2:8  – For by grace are you saved through faith; and that [faith] not of yourselves, rather it is the gift of God.

Romans 10:16 – But they have not all obeyed the gospel. For Esaias asked, “Lord, who has believed our report?” 17 So then faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.”

Matthew 13:13 – I speak to them in para­bles, because seeing they see not, and hearing they hear not, nor do they understand. 14 For in such as these is fulfilled the prophecy of Esaias, which says, “By hearing you shall hear, and yet not understand; and seeing you shall see, and yet not perceive. 15 For the  heart of these people is waxed gross, and therefore their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes have they closed; for if at any time they should see with their eyes, and hear with their ears, they might understand with their heart and should be converted, and I should heal them.

Hebrews 11:6  – But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

Jeremiah 6:16 – So says the LORD, “Stand in the ways and see, and ask for the old paths where the good way is, and walk in it, and you shall find rest for your souls.” But they said, “We will not walk in it.” 17 Also I set watch­men over you, saying, “Listen to the sound of the ram’s horn!” But they said, “We will not listen.” 18 Therefore hear you nations, and know O congregation, what is among them. 19 Hear, O earth! Behold, I will bring evil on this people, the fruit of their thoughts, because they have not listened to My words, nor to My law, but have rejected it.”

Dear reader, there is a “law of faith,” and a “law of righteousness,” which is the heart of “the law of God,” and a “law of the spirit of life in Christ Jesus,” which is “the law of liberty.” These laws, though connected to, are still distinct from what was  given by Moses, a “law of a carnal commandments,” which pertained to the prophetic actions, types, and shadows within the Levitical Law. Those laws only typified Christ in the various offerings and perfor­mances, but the keeping and doing of them could not do what God did through Christ; they could not free men from “the law of sin and death.”

The benefits of the “law of God” can only be obtained by “grace through faith.” And that faith, if it is true faith, is a full persuasion that “the law of the spirit of life in Christ Jesus” is the only way for a believer to walk in “the law of liberty,” and to be freed from their sins. Once freed, they can come to God and  serve and worship Him in Spirit and truth and thereby please Him.

Romans 3:23 – For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; 24 Being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: 25 Whom God has set forth to be a propitiation through faith in His blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God. 26 To declare, I say at this time His righteousness: that He might be just, and the justifier of him which believes in Jesus. 27 Where is boasting then? It is exclud­ed. By what law? of works? Nay: but by the law of faith. 28 Therefore we conclude that a man is justified by faith without the deeds of the [Mosaic/Levitical/Ceremonial] law.

Romans 7:22 – For I delight in the law of God after the inward man: 23 But I see another law in my members, warring against the law of my mind, and bringing me into captivity to the law of sin which is in my members.

Romans 8:1 – There is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit.  2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the [Mosaic-Levitical-Ceremonial] law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, He condemned sin in the flesh; 4 so that the righteousness of the Law [of God] might be fulfilled in us, who walk not according to the flesh but according to the Spirit. 5 For they who are according to the flesh mind the things of flesh, but they who are according to the Spirit the things of the Spirit. 6 For to be carnally minded is death, but to be spiritually minded is life and peace 7 because the carnal mind is enmity against God, for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can it be.  8 So then they who are in the flesh cannot please God.

Hebrews 7:16 – Who is made, not after the law of a carnal commandment, but after the power of an endless life.

Roman 9:31 – But Israel, which followed after the law of righteousness [via by the law of a carnal commandment], has not attained to the law of righteousness.

Galatians 6:2 – Bear you one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

James 2:12 – So speak and so do, as they that shall be judged by the law of liberty.

John 8:34 – Jesus answered them, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, “Whosoever commits sin is the servant of sin. 35 And the servant abides not in the house forever: but the Son abides forever. 36 Therefore, if the Son therefore shall make you free, you shall be free indeed.”

Perhaps, the most concise presentation of the “law of the spirit of life in Christ Jesus,” is given to us by the Apostle John in his first epistle:

1^st John 1:7 – For if we walk [by faith] in the light [of His word], as He is in the light, [then] we [us, the Father, and Jesus Christ] have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin.

I will simply add here that the “law of faith” rests upon the promises written within “the law of God,” which “is perfect, converting the soul.” Faith is believing all God has promised to do, and that He will do it. Thus, faith compels the believer into faithfulness. For faith rests upon the promises of God, and that through Christ, and by His faith and Spirit within us, we can do all things whatsoever He asks of us.

Galatians 2:20 –  For I am crucified with Christ, nevertheless I live. Yet not I, but Christ lives in me, and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me. 21 I do not frustrate the grace of God: for if righteousness come by the law, then Christ is dead in vain.

The Gospel message is not “Do this and live,” rather it instructs us to look to Christ and “live,” and then, and only then, are we empowered by His grace to do the things which we could never do as slaves when we were sold under the bondage of sin.

1^st Peter 1:22 – Seeing you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that you love one another with a pure heart fervently.23 Being born again, not of corrupti­ble seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God which lives and abides forever.

Therefore, let us look at the spirit of these precepts which are given to us to work the righteousness of God, that we all might have fruit unto holiness, the end of which is eternal life. For without holiness we are told that “No man shall see God,” for there is both imputed righteousness and holiness, as well as the necessary practical righteousness and holiness which God, via His grace, expects not only to have, but also to perfect.

John 8:31 – Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on Him, “If you continue in My word, then are you My disciples indeed.  32 Then you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

Romans 6:18 – Being then made free from sin, you have become slaves of righteousness. 19 I speak after the manner of men because of the weakness of your flesh: for just as you have yielded your members slaves to uncleanness and to iniquity unto iniquity, even so now you must yield your members as slaves to right­eousness to have fruit unto holiness. 20 For when you were the slaves of sin, you were without righteousness. 21 And what fruit had you then in those things whereof you are now ashamed, for the end of those things is death? 22 But now, having been made free from sin, we are become slaves to God whereby you now have your fruit unto holiness, and the end ever­lasting life. 23 For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

2^nd Corinthians 7:1 –  Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

Hebrews 12:14 – Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord.

2^nd Peter 1:2 – Grace and peace be multi­plied to you through your acknowledge-ment of God and of Jesus our Lord, 3 Who according as His divine power has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of Him who has called us to glory and virtue, 4 through which He has given to us exceedingly great and precious promises. For it is by these that you might become partakers of the divine nature, having now escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. 5 For this very reason, give all diligence to add to your faith virtue, and to virtue knowledge, 6  and to knowledge self-control, and to self-control perseverance, and to perseverance godliness, 7 and to godliness brotherly kind­ness, and to brotherly kindness love. 8 For if these by grace you  make these things yours, and they abound in you, then you will be neither barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ. 9 For now he who lacks these things is shortsighted [able to focus only on life in this world], even to the point of blind­ness, and has forgotten why he was cleansed and freed from his old sins. 10 Therefore brethren, be all the more diligent to make your calling and election sure, for if you do these things you will never stumble; 11 for so an abundant entrance will be supplied to you into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Therefore, I now leave you with a few paragraphs from the near conclusion of Owens’ work:

“Holiness becomes the house of the Lord forever; without it none shall see God. Christ died to wash His church and to present it before His Father without spot or blemish; that He might purchase unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. It is the kingdom of God within us, and by which it appears unto all that we are the children of the kingdom.

“Let this be the great discriminating character of the church from the world, that they are a holy, humble, self-denying people. Because our Master is holy, His doctrine and worship are holy, let us therefore strive that our hearts may also be holy.

“This is our wisdom towards them that are without, whereby they may be guided or convinced; this is the means whereby we build up one another most effectually. Examples are an even sharper way of instruction than precepts.”

I pray this both blesses and motivates many to serve the Lord acceptably, as holy living sacrifices which alone can be our reasonable response to so great a love whereby God sought to redeem a  peculiar people unto Himself.

Exodus 19:5  – Now therefore, if you will obey My voice in truth and keep My covenant, then you shall be a peculiar treasure unto Me above all people: for all the earth is Mine.

 Deuteronomy 14:2  – For you are to be a holy people unto the LORD your God, for the LORD has chosen you to be a peculiar people unto Himself, above all the nations that are upon the earth.

Titus 2:11 – For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, 12 teaching us that by denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in the present age, 13 looking for the blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ, 14 who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from every lawless deed and purify for Himself His own special people who are zealous for good works.

1^st Peter 2:9 – But you are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, His own special people, that you may proclaim the praises of Him who called you out of dark­ness into His marvelous light; 10 You who once were not a people are now the people of God, who once had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. 11 Therefore beloved, I beg you as sojourners and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts which war against the soul, 12 and have your conduct honorable among the Gentiles, so that when they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works which they observe, repent, and glorify God in the day of visitation.

Ephesians 3:14 – For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, 16 That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; 17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that you being rooted and grounded in love, 18 May be able to compre­hend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; 19 And to know the love of Christ, which passes knowledge, so that you might be filled with all the fulness of God. 20 Now unto Him that is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, 21 Unto Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.

 Father, I pray, help us to build Your church. For if You don’t build the house, we are laboring in vain.

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 TO THE READER

By John Owen

Dear Christian reader, there are certain principles in regards to the church that pertain to reformation, and the furtherance of the power of godliness therein, and that regardless how diversified men may be by particular persuasions, or distinguished one from another by assigned or assumed names and titlesaffairs, they are principles which remain generally consented unto by all. Some of these, though not here mentioned, are the foundation of this following collection of rules for the walking in the holy fellowship of the gospel. Below are four such principals:

First: That particular congregations or assemblies of believers, are to gather into one body for a mutual participation of the ordinances of Jesus Christ; and that under officers of their own, which in truth are of divine institution.

Ephesians 4:12 – For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ.

Secondly: That every faithful believer is bound by virtue of these holy precepts to endeavor to “fitly join” himself to such body of believers that has the fruits and marks whereby a true church may be known and discerned.

Thirdly: That every man’s own deliberate consent and submission to the ordinances of Christ is required in whatever church where­unto he is to be joined if there is to be a true holy union and fellowship therein.

Fourthly: That it is convenient that all believers of one place should join themselves in one congregation, unless being too numerous. Then,  by common consent they might form additional assemblies, which order for assembling cannot be altered of disturbed without exposing all to needless danger, strife, emulation, or possible breach of love.

These principles are evident in the word to any honest reader, being clear in themselves. They are not liable to any colorable exception apart from the Scripture, or biblical history from which were taken the collection of these subsequent rules.

The apostolical direction and precept for each assembly is that “whereunto we have attained, we should walk according to the same rule;” unto whose performance the promise appropriated that “if anyone be otherwise minded, God will also reveal that unto him.”

There have arisen many differences about church order and discipline, and the disputes made of men have become so involved and intricate, that parties at variance likewise have become so prejudiced and thus often disengaged. So much so,  that even though all the things listed here of concernment appear to me clear in the Scriptures, I nonetheless have little hopes of the accomplishment of the promise in revelation, or acceptance of the truth as yet still being contested about in men differently minded; no, not until the obedience of walking suitably and answerably to the same rules can be agreed on will they be more sincerely accomplished.

This persuasion for the Church of Jesus Christ is the more firmly fixed on me every day; because I see believers, for the most part, spending their strength and time more in the opposing of those things wherein others differ from them than they do in the practice of those which themselves and their counterparts seem to acknowledge as of the most necessary concernment, yet often fail in their practicality.

As I recall the minds of men, at least of those who having not much light to judge of things under debate (especially considering their way of handling this in this disputing age), I note how they may yet profess much heat and love towards the ways of gospel obedience. Yet they remain in entanglements of controversies over church discipline and other duties, and linger in a failure to whole­heartedly engage them into a serious, humble performance of those duties which are, by the express command of Jesus Christ, incumbent on them in what way of order they walk.

I shall only add, that though the ensuing rules or directions may be observed, and the duties prescribed performed with much beauty and many advantages by those who are engaged in some reformed church society; yet they are for the most part, if not all of them, such as should be the constant practice of all Christians in their daily conversation.

Thus, I am herein fully resolved that the practice of any one duty herein mentioned by any one soul which was before neglected, shall be an abundant recompense for the publishing  of my name with these papers, savoring so little of those ornaments of art or learning, which in things that come to public view, men desire to hold out for others that they may see and learn.

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 ESHCOL

A Cluster of The Fruit of Canaan

PART I

Rules of walking in fellowship, with reference to the pastor or minister that watches for our souls.

RULE I

THE word and all ordinances dispensed in the administration to him committed, by virtue of his ministerial authority, are to be diligently attended and submitted unto, with ready obedience in the Lord.

1^st Corinthians 4:1 – Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.

2^nd Corinthians 5:18 – God has given to us the ministry of reconciliation. 20 Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us.

2^nd Corinthians 4:7 – We have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

Galatians 4:14 – You received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.

2^nd Thessalonians 3:14 – If any man obey not our word, note that man, and have no company with him.

Hebrews 13:7 – Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God. 17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls as they that must give an account, that they may do it with joy and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

CLARIFICATION I. There is a twofold power for the dispensing of God’s word given to ministers:

1. Ability.
2. Authority.

The first, with the attending qualifications mentioned and recounted 1^st Timothy 3:2–7, Titus 1:6–9, and many other places, is required to be previously in those, as bestowed on them who are to be called to office of ministration. These powers may be, in several degrees and measures, in others within the church who are never set apart thereunto; such who thereby are warranted to declare the gospel, when called by the providence of God thereunto. For the work of preaching for the conversion of souls is a moral duty, comprised under that general precept of every Christian doing good unto all. For the appointment of some to the performance of this work, by the way of office, does not limit preaching only to those holding official positions in the church; for all should be ready always to give an answer to every man that askes them a reason of the hope that is in them.

1^st Timothy 3:2 – The bishop therefore must be without reproach, the husband of one wife, temperate, sober-minded, orderly, given to hospitality, apt to teach; 3 no brawler, no striker; but gentle, not contentious, no lover of money; 4 one that rules well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; 5 (but if a man knows not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) 6 not a novice, lest being puffed up he fall into the condemnation of the devil. 7 Moreover he must have good testimony from them that are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

Titus 1:6 – if any man is blameless, the husband of one wife, having children that believe, who are not accused of riot or unruly. 7 For the bishop must be blameless, as God’s steward; not self-willed, not soon angry, no brawler, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; 8 but given to hospitality, a lover of good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled. 9 holding to the faithful word, which is according to the teaching, that he may be able to exhort in the sound doctrine, and to convict the gainsayers.

Romans 10:14 – How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? 15 and how shall they preach, except they be sent? even as it is written, “How beautiful are the feet of them that bring glad tidings of good things!”

1^st Peter 3:15  – But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asks you the reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.

The second power for the dispensing of God’s word given to ministers, their ministerial authority, is proper to them who are orderly set apart thereunto, and  arises from the following:

1. Christ’s institution of the office.

 Ephesians 4:11 – And He gave some to be apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors, and teachers.

2. God’s providential designation of the persons.

Matthew 9:38 – Pray you therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He will send forth laborers into His harvest.

3. The church’s call, election, appointment, acceptation, submission.

Galatians 4:14 – And my temptation which was in my flesh you despised not, nor rejected; but you received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.

Acts 14:23 – And when they had ordained them elders in every church, and had prayed with fasting, they commended them to the Lord, on whom they believed.

1^st Thessalonians 5:12 – And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; 13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.

Acts 6:3 – Wherefore, brethren, look you out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.

2^nd  Corinthians 8:5 – And this they did, not as we hoped, but first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God.

But these offices do not give them dominion over the faith of believers.

 2 Corinthians 1:24 – Not for that we have dominion over your faith, but are helpers of your joy: for by faith you stand.

Nor does their ability or authority make them lords over God’s heritage.

1^st Peter 5:3 – Neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.

But an entrusting them with a stewardly power in the house of God.

1^st Corinthians 4:1 – Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.

That is, authority over that specific flock over which they have been made overseers in particular.

 Acts 20:28 – Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost has made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which He has purchased with His own blood.

The word of the minister is to be received by the flock:

1. As the truth of God; as also from all others speaking according to the gospel order in His name.
2. As the truth held out with ministerial authority to them according to the institution of Christ.

Want of a due consideration of these things is the cause of all the negli­gence, careless­ness, sloth, and wantonness in hearing, which have possessed many professors in these days. There is nothing, but a reverence to the truth and authority of God in the administration of the word, that will establish the minds of men in a sober and profitable attending unto it. Neither are men weary of hearing until they are weary of practicing.

Motives to the observance of this rule are:—

1. The name wherein they speak and administer.

2^nd Corinthians 5:20 – Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be you reconciled to God.

2. The work which they do.

1^st Corinthians 3:9 – For we are laborers together with God: you are God’s husbandry; you are God’s building.

2^nd Corinthians 6:1 – We then, as workers together with Him, beseech you also that you receive not the grace of God in vain.

1^st Timothy 4:16 – If you put the brethren in remembrance of these things, you shall be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine, whereunto you have attained.

3. The return that they make.

Hebrews 13:17 – Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

4. The regard that the Lord has of them in His employment.

Matthew 10:40 – He that receives you receives Me, and he that receives Me receives Him that sent Me. 41 He that receives a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward; and he that receives a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward.

Luke 10:16 – He that hears you hears Me; and he that despises you despises Me; and he that despises Me despises Him that sent Me.

5. The account that hearers must make of the word dispensed by them.

2^nd Chronicles 36:15 – And the LORD God of their fathers sent to them by His messengers, rising up betimes, and sending; because He had compassion on His people, and on His dwelling place: 16 But they mocked the messengers of God, and despised His words, and misused His prophets, until the wrath of the LORD arose against His people, till there was no remedy.

Proverbs 1:22 – How long, you simple ones, will you love simplicity? and the scorners delight in their scorning, and fools hate knowledge? 23 Turn you at My reproof: behold, I will pour out My spirit unto you, I will make known My words unto you. 24 Because I have called, and you refused; I have stretched out My hand, and no man regarded. 25 But you have set at naught all My counsel, and would none of My reproof: 26 I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your fear comes. 27 When your fear comes as desolation, and your destruction comes as a whirlwind, when distress and anguish come upon you. 28 Then shall they call upon Me, but I will not answer; they shall seek Me early, but they shall not find Me: 29 For that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the LORD.

Proverbs 13:13 – Whoso despises the word shall be destroyed: but he that fears the commandment shall be rewarded.

Luke 10:16 – He that hears you hears Me; and he that despises you despises Me; and he that despises Me despises Him that sent Me.

Mark 4:24 – And He said unto them, “Take heed what you hear: with what measure you mete, it shall be measured to you: and unto you that hear shall more be given.  25 For he that has, to him shall be given: and he that has not, from him shall be taken even that which he has.”

 Hebrews 2:1 – Therefore we ought to give the more earnest heed to the things which we have heard, lest at any time we should let them slip.  2 For if the word spoken by angels was steadfast, and every transgression and disobedience received a just recompence of reward;  3 How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by the Lord, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard Him?

Hebrews 4:2 – For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.

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RULE II

His conversation is to be observed and diligently followed, so far as he walks in the steps of Jesus Christ.

1^st Corinthians 4:16 – I beseech you, be you followers of me.

1^st Corinthians 11:1 – Be you followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.

Hebrews 13:7 – Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.

2^nd Thessalonians 3:7 – Yourselves know how you ought to follow us: for we behaved not ourselves disorderly among you.

Philippians 3:17 – “Brethren, be followers together of me, and mark them which walk so as you have us for an ensample.”

1^st Timothy 4:12 –  Be you an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

1^st Peter 5:3 – Be ensamples to the flock.

CLARIFICATION II. That an exemplary conversation, or manner of life, was always required in those called of God to be the dispensers of holy things, both under the Old Testament and New, is apparent. The glorious vestments of the old ministering priests, the soundness and integrity of their person, without damage, imperfection, or blemish, with the Urim and Thummim and many other ornaments, though all primitively typical of Jesus Christ, yet did not obscure the purity and holiness required in the administrators themselves.

 Zechariah 3:4 – And He answered and spake unto those that stood before him, saying, “Take away the filthy garments from him.” And unto him He said, “Behold, I have caused your iniquity to pass from you, and I will clothe you with change of raiment.”

In the New Testament, the shining of their light in all good works is eminently exacted.

Matthew 5:16 – Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

This purity and holiness is required, not only that no offence should be taken at the ways of God, and His worship by them administered (as has been revealed in the Old Testament and in the New), but also that those who are without the church may similarly be convinced, and the churches themselves be properly directed in the practice of all the will and mind of God by them to whom it is revealed, as in the places cited.

1^st Samuel 2:17 – Wherefore the sin of the young men was very great before the LORD: for the men abhorred the offering of the LORD.

Philippians 3:18,  – (For many walk, of whom I have told you often, and now tell you even weeping, that they are the enemies of the cross of Christ: 19 Whose end is destruction, whose God is their belly, and whose glory is in their shame, who mind earthly things.)

1^st Timothy 3:7 – Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil.

A pastor’s life should be vocal; sermons must be practiced as well as preached. Though Noah’s workmen built the ark, yet they themselves were drowned. God will not accept of the tongue where the devil has the soul. Jesus did both “do and teach.”

Acts 1:1 – The former treatise have I made, O Theophilus, of all that Jesus began both to do and teach…

If a man teaches uprightly and walk crookedly, more will fall down in the night of his life than he built in the day of his doctrine.

Now, as to the completing of the exemplary life of a minister, it is required that the principle of it be that of the life of Christ in him.

Galatians 2:20 – I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless, I live; yet not I, but Christ lives in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.

This must be so that when he has taught others, he be not himself “a castaway.”

1^st Corinthians 9:27 – But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway.

The minister, because of his calling by God, is given spiritual understanding, and light is given him into the counsel of God, by God’s Holy Spirit whereby he is enabled to communicate both for, and of God.

1^st John 5:20 – And we know that the Son of God is come, and has given us an under­standing, that we may know Him that is true, and we are in Him that is true, even in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.

1^st Corinthians 2:12 – Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God… 16 For who has known the mind of the Lord, that he may instruct Him? But we have the mind of Christ.

2^nd Corinthians 4:6 – For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, has shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. 7 But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.

The course of ministry must be singular, a labor of love.

Matthew 5:46 – For if you love them which love you, what reward have you? Do not even the publicans the same?

Luke 6:32 – For if you love them which love you, what thank have you? For sinners also love those that love them.

Also, the aim of the minister is to be exemplar to the glory of God. So is their general course and the end of their faith to be eyed.

1^st Timothy 4:12 – Let no man despise your youth; but be you an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

Hebrews 13:7 –  Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.

Moreover, the minister’s infirmities appearing through the manifold temptations where­unto they are in these days exposed, or imposed on them through the zeal of their adversaries that contend against them, are to be covered by the congregation with love, and not despised nor rejected.

Galatians 4:13 – You know how through infirmity of the flesh I preached the gospel unto you at the first. 14 And my temptation which was in my flesh you despised not, nor rejected; but received me as an angel of God, even as Christ Jesus.

And this will men do when they con­scientiously consider that even the lives of their teachers are an ordinance of God which are given for the church’s own relief under temptations, and for the provocation unto holiness, zeal, meekness, and self-denial. For it may be reasoned whether the gifts are particular callings given to men, or if leaders with such callings themselves be the gifts given unto the churches, for their example, instruc­tion, guidance, reproof, and admonition for their perfection.

Ephesians 4:8 – Wherefore he said, “When He ascended up on high, He led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.” 11 …And He gave some apostles; and some prophets; and some evangelists; and some pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: 14 That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro and carried about with every wind of doctrine by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness whereby they lie in wait to deceive; 15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ

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RULE III

Prayer and supplications are to be contin­ually made on behalf of the pastor, and others in leadership, for assistance and success in the work committed unto them.

Ephesians 6:18 – Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

2^nd Thessalonians 3:1 – Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: 2 And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for not all men have faith.

1^st Thessalonians 5:25 – Brethren, pray for us.

 Colossians 4:3 – Pray also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ.

Hebrews 13:18 – Pray for us: for we trust we have a good conscience, in all things willing to live honestly.

Acts 12:5 – Prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.

Hebrew 13:7 – Remember them [in prayer] which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation.

CLARIFICATION III. Take account of the greatness of the minister’s work, and which among you is sufficient for their given task?

2^nd Corinthians 2:16 – To the one we are the savor of death unto death, and to the other the savor of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?

Consider the strength of the constant oppo­sition as well, which always presses against the work of the minister.

 1^st Corinthians 16:9 – For a great door and effectual is opened unto me, and there are many adversaries.

Revelation 12:12 – Therefore rejoice, you heavens, and you that dwell in them. Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! for the devil is come down unto you having great wrath, because he knows that he has but a short time.

2^nd Timothy 4:3 – For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. 5 But watch you in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of your ministry.

Members must not forget the burden of the concernment of men’s souls that God lays upon pastors and leaders.

Acts 20:26 – Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. 27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God. 28 Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock over the which the Holy Ghost has made you overseers, to feed the church of God which He has purchased with His own blood.

1^st Timothy 4:16 – Take heed unto your­self and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this you shall both save yourself and them that hear you.

Pray for the conviction which is to be brought upon the world by God’s ministers, as well as the turning of many hearts to Christ Jesus.

Ezekiel 2:5 – And they, whether they will hear or whether they will forbear, (for they are a rebellious house,) yet shall they know that there has been a prophet among them.

1^st Corinthians 1:23 –  But we preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling­block, and unto the Greeks foolishness; 24 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ is the power of God and the wisdom of God.

2^nd Corinthians 3:15 – But even unto this day when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. 16 Nevertheless, when the heart shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away.

The saints prayers aim and tendency are to the glory of God in Christ, the daily calling aloud for the most effectual agreement among the saints in their supplications for support of the minister. Prayers for assistance, encouragement, increased abilities, successes, deliverance, and protection is proved in the rule; for the ministers’ temptations are multiplied, and so then ought prayers to ever be made on their behalf. For they have many critics and curses of men always opposing them.

Jeremiah 15:10 – Woe is me my mother, that you have borne me, a man of strife and a man of contention to the whole earth! I have neither lent on usury, nor men have lent to me on usury; yet every one of them does curse me.

It is hoped that God hears some prayers of the righteous for them. For when many are not ashamed to revile them in public, some ought to be ashamed not to remember them so before God in private.

Motives for praying for God’s ministers:

1. The word which is ministered will doubtless be effectual when ability for its administration is granted as a return of the saints prayers.

Acts 10:1 – There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band, 2 A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God always. 3 He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming into him, and saying unto him, “Cornelius.” 4 And when he looked on him, he was afraid and said, “What is it, Lord?” And he said unto him, “Your prayers and your alms are come up for a memorial before God. 5 And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter: 6 He lodges with one Simon a tanner whose house is by the seaside: he shall tell you what you ought to do. ”

2. Do you not know that the minister’s failing is the people’s punishment? That failure to hear often leads to failure to preach?

Amos 8:11 – Behold, the days come, says the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD:  12 And they shall wander from sea to sea, and from the north even to the east, they shall run to and fro to seek the word of the LORD, and shall not find it.

Isaiah 30:20 – And though the Lord give you the bread of adversity, and the water of affliction, yet shall not your teachers be removed into a corner anymore, but your eyes shall see your teachers: 21 And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk you in it,” when you turn to the right hand, and when you turn to the left.

3. The pastor’s and ministers’ prayers are continually for the church.

Isaiah. 62:6  – I have set watchmen upon your walls, O Jerusalem, which shall never hold their peace day nor night: you that make mention of the LORD [in your prayers], keep not silence, 7 And give Him no rest till He establish and till He make Jerusalem a praise in the earth.

Romans 1:9 – For God is my witness, whom I serve with my spirit in the gospel of His Son, that without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers.

4. That for which the pastor stands in so much need of prayers is for the saints’ good, and not peculiarly his own. If saints faithfully love their pastor, should not they help him then who carries their burden. If saints cherish God’s word, should not they His ministers?

Ephesians 6:18 – Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; 19 And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, 20 For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.

Philippians 2:17 – Yea, and if I be offered upon the sacrifice and service of your faith, I joy, and rejoice with you all.

Colossians 1:2 – To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.

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RULE IV

Maintain a reverential estimation of him, coupled with submission unto him for his work’s sake.

1^st Corinthians 4:1 – Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.

1^st Thessalonians 5:12 – And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; 13 And to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake. And be at peace among yourselves.

1^st Timothy 5:17 – Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine.

1^st Peter 5:5 – Submit yourselves unto the elders.

Hebrews 13:17 – Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves.

 CLARIFICATION IV. The respect and estimation here required is civil, the motive sacred; whence the honor of the minister is the grace of the church, and proper regard to him a gospel duty that is acceptable to God in Christ.

1^st Timothy 5:17 – And these things give in charge, that they may be blameless.

Honor and reverence are due only to elevated positions among men in some kind or other; that this is given to pastors by their employment is proved by their titles. They are called “angels.”

Revelation 1:20 – The mystery of the seven stars which you saw in My right hand, and the seven golden candlesticks. The seven stars are the angels of the seven churches: and the seven candlesticks which you saw are the seven churches.

Hebrews. 12:22 – But you are come unto mount Sion, and unto the city of the living God, the heavenly Jerusalem, and to an innumerable company of angels, 23 To the general assembly and church of the firstborn, which are written in heaven, and to God the Judge of all, and to the spirits of just men made perfect.

They are called “bishops,” or overseers, and are set in their place by God

Ezekiel 3:17 – Son of man, I have made you a watchman unto the house of Israel: therefore, hear the word at My mouth, and give them warning from Me.

Acts 20:28 – Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost has made you over­seers, to feed the church of God, which He has purchased with His own blood.

Titus 1:7 – For a bishop must be blame­less, as the steward of God; not self-willed, not soon angry, not given to wine, no striker, not given to filthy lucre.

They are called “ambassadors.”

2^nd Corinthians 5:20 – Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be you reconciled to God.

They are called “stewards.”

1^st Corinthians 4:1 – Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God.

They are called “men of God.”

1^st Samuel 2:27 – And there came a man of God unto Eli, and said unto him, “Thus says the LORD, ‘Did I plainly appear unto the house of your father, when they were in Egypt in Pharaoh’s house?’”

1^st Timothy 6:11 – But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after right­eousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.

They are called “rulers.”

Hebrews. 13:7 – Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation… 17 Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.

They are called “lights.”

Matthew 5:14 – You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hid.

They are called “salt.”

Matthew 5:13 – You are the salt of the earth: but if the salt has lost its savor, wherewith shall it be salted? It is thenceforth good for nothing, but to be cast out and to be trodden under foot of men.

They are called “fathers.”

1^st Corinthians 4:15 – For though you have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet have you not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus, I have begotten you through the gospel.

And by many more such-like terms are they described. If under these notions they honor God as they ought, God will also honor them as He has promised; and His people are in conscience to esteem them highly for their work’s sake.

But if any of them be fallen angels, thrown-down stars, negligent bishops, treacherous ambassadors, lordly reveling stewards, tyrannical or foolish rulers, blind guides, unsavory salt, insatiate dogs, the Lord and His people shall abhor them and cut them off in a month.

Zechariah 11:8 – Three shepherds also I cut off in one month; and My soul loathed them, and their soul also abhorred Me.

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RULE V

Maintenance for them and their families, by the administration of earthly things suitable to the state and condition of the churches, is required by God from their flocks.

1^st Timothy 5:17 – Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honor, especially they who labor in the word and doctrine. 18 For the Scripture says, “You shall not muzzle the ox that treads out the corn,” and “The laborer is worthy of his reward.”

Galatians 6:6 – Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teaches in all good things. 7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man sow, that shall he also reap.

1^st Corinthians 9:7 – Who goes a warfare any time at his own charges? Who plants a vineyard, and eats not of the fruit thereof? Or who feeds a flock, and eats not of the milk of the flock? 8 Say I these things as a man? Or does not the law say the same also? 9 For it is written in the law of Moses, “You shall not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treads out the corn.” Does God only take care for oxen? 10 Or said He it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt this was written: that he that plows should plow in hope; and that he that threshes in hope should be partaker of his hope. 11 If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things? 12 If others be partakers of this power over you, are not we rather? Nevertheless, we have not used this power; but suffer all things, lest we should hinder the gospel of Christ. 13 Do you not know that they which minister about holy things live of the things of the temple? and they which wait at the altar are partakers with the altar? 14 Even so has the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.

Matthew 10:9 – Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses,  10 Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat.

Add to all these, and the like places, the analogy of the primitive allowance required in the synagogues  of the Jews.

CLARIFICATION V. It is a promise to the church under the gospel, that “kings should be her nursing fathers, and queens her nursing mothers,”

Isaiah 49:23 – And kings shall be your nursing fathers, and their queens your nursing mothers: they shall bow down to you with their face toward the earth, and lick up the dust of your feet; and you shall know that I am the LORD: for they shall not be ashamed that wait for Me.

To such it belongs principally to provide food and protection for those committed to them. The fruit of this promise the churches in many ages have enjoyed; laws by supreme and kingly power have been enacted, giving portions, and granting privileges to churches and their pastors. It is so in many places in the days wherein we live.

On this ground, where equitable and righteous laws have allowed a supportment in earthly things to the pastors of churches, arising from such as may receive spiritual benefit by their labor in the gospel, it is thankfully to be accepted and embraced, as an issue of God’s providence for the good of His ministers. Besides, our Saviour warrants His disciples to take and eat of their things, by their consent, to whomsoever the word is preached,

Luke. 10:8 – And into whatsoever city you enter, and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you.

But it is not always this way, these things may sometimes fail. Wherefore, the continual care and frequently the burden, or rather labor of love in providing for the pastors, as a rule rests upon the churches themselves, which they are to do in such a manner as is suitable to the condition wherein they are, and of the increase given them of God.

Thus, the whole church in general, and each member in particular, is obliged unto the maintenance for their pastors and their families; for which they have as motives the following.

1. God’s appointment, as in the texts cited.
2. The necessity of it. How shall he go on warfare if he be troubled about the necessities of this life? When possible, they ought to be enable to give themselves wholly to the work of the ministry.

1^st Timothy 4:15 – Meditate upon these things; give yourself wholly to them; that your profiting may appear to all.

3. The equity of the duty. Our Saviour and the apostles plead it out from grounds of equity and justice. Furthermore, all kinds of laws and rules of righteousness among all sorts of men allow proportionable decency in the way of recompense of a just wage for the laborer, which to detain from such is a crying sin.

Matthew 10:9 – Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, 10 Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat. 11 And into whatsoever city or town you shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy and there abide till you go thence.

1^st Corinthians 9:10 – For it is written in the law of Moses, “You shall not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treads out the corn.” Does God take care only for oxen?

James 5:4 – Behold, the hire of the laborers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, cries out: and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth. 5 You have lived in pleasure on the earth, and been wanton; you have nourished your hearts, as in a day of slaughter.

It is but the wretched endeavors of men of corrupt minds to neglect, rob, or spoil them of all the providence of God, which on any other account, is in truth that which they are right­eously to possess.

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RULE VI

Adhering to the minister and abiding by him in all trials and persecutions for the sake of the Gospel.

2^nd Timothy 4:16 – At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge.

2^nd Timothy 1:16 – The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for often he refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain: 17 But, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me. 18 The Lord grant unto him that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day: and in how many things he ministered unto me at Ephesus, you know very well.

CLARIFICATION VI. A common cause should be carried on by common assistance, and that which concerns all, should be supported by all. When persecution arises for the word’s sake, generally it begins with the leaders.

 1^st Peter 4:16 – Yet if any man suffers as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf. 17 For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begins at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? 18 And if the righteous scarcely be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?

The common way to scatter the sheep is by smiting their shepherds.

Zechariah 13:7 – “Awake O sword against My shepherd, and against the man that is My fellow,” says the LORD of hosts, “Smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered: and I will turn Mine hand upon the little ones. 8 And it shall come to pass, that in all the land,” says the LORD, “Two parts therein shall be cut off and die, but the third shall be left therein.”

It is for the church’s sake he is at times reviled and persecuted.

 Zechariah 13:9 – And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried. They shall call on My name and I will hear them. I will say, “It is My people” and they shall say, “The LORD is my God.”

2^nd Timothy 2:10 – Therefore I endure all things for the elect’s sakes, that they may also obtain the salvation which is in Christ Jesus with eternal glory.

Colossians 1:24 – Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for His body’s sake, which is the church.

Therefore, it is the church’s duty to bear all things with him, and to share his burdens. All the fault in scattering congregations has not been in ministers; the people stood not by them in their trial. The Lord lay it not to their charge! The captain is betrayed, and forced to mean conditions with his enemy, who going on with the assurance of being followed by his soldiers, looking back in the entrance of danger finds them all running away.

In England, usually no sooner persecution has laid hold of a minister, that the people forsook him and willingly received another, and perhaps a wolf instead of a shepherd. Should a wife forsake her husband because he is come into trouble for her sake? When a known duty in such a relation is incumbent upon a man, is the crime of backsliders in these spiritual things less?

While a pastor lives, if he suffers for the truth the church cannot desert him, nor cease their performance of all their required duties without showing horrid contempt for these ordinances of Jesus Christ. This is a burden that is too commonly laid solely on the shoulders of ministers, that for no cause whatsoever they are forced from their charge, when those that laid it on them will oftentimes leave them and their ministry without any just cause at all.

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RULE VII

Gathering together in the assembly upon his appointment, acknowledging their being adjoined with him by the Lord, as he has of the Lord with them.

Acts 14:27 – When they were come, and had gathered the church together.

These are some of the heads wherein the church’s duty exists towards the minister, or them that are set over it in the Lord, by all means giving them encouragement to the work; saying also unto them, “Take heed to the ministry you have received in the Lord, that you fulfil it,” (Colossians 4:17). What concerns other officers in the church may easily be deduced from hence by analogy and proportion.

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PART II

Rules to be observed by those who walk in fellowship, and to be considered always to stir up their remembrance to the things pertaining to their mutual duty one towards another, which are clearly assigned to all by God’s word.

RULE I

Maintain affectionate and sincere love in all things, without dissim­ulation towards one another, like that which Christ bare to His church.

John 15:12 – This is My commandment, “That you love one another, as I have loved you.”

John 13:34 – A new commandment I give unto you, “That you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this shall all men know that you are My disciples, if you have love one to another.”

Romans 13:8 – Owe no man anything, but to love one another: for he that loves another has fulfilled the law.

Ephesians 5:2 – Walk in love, as Christ also has loved us.

1^st Thessalonians 3:12 – The Lord make you to increase and abound in love one toward another.

1^st Thessalonians 4:9 – Yourselves are taught of God to love one another.

1^st Peter 1:22 – Seeing you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that you love one another with a pure heart fervently.

1^st John 4:21 – This commandment have we from Him, “That he who loves God love his brother also.”

Romans 12:10 – Be kindly affectionate one to another with brotherly love.

CLARIFICATION I. Love is the fountain of all duties towards God and man.

Matthew 22:37 – Jesus said unto him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.”

A holy love is the substance of all rules that concerns the saints, the bond of communion, and is “the fulfilling of the law.”

Romans 13:8 – Owe no man anything, but to love one another: for he that loves another has fulfilled the law. 9 For this, “You shall not commit adultery. You shall not kill. You shall not steal. You shall not bear false witness. You shall not covet.” And if there be any other commandment, it is briefly comprehended in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” 10 Love works no ill to his neighbour: therefore, love is the fulfilling of the law.

A holy love is the advancement of the honor  of the Lord Jesus, and is an evident glory of the gospel. The primitive Christians had a proverbial speech, received as they said from Christ, “Never rejoice but when you see your brother in love;” and it was commonly heard among the heathens concerning them, “See how they love one another!” marked most in their readiness for the accomplishment of that royal precept of laying down their lives for their brethren.

Love is the fountain, rule, scope, aim, and fruit of gospel communion. And of no one thing of present performance is the doctrine of the Lord Jesus more excellent and eminent above all other directions than in this of mutual, intense, affectionate love amongst His followers; for which He gives them innumerable precepts, exhortations, and motives, but above all, His own heavenly example.

To ignore love in its causes, nature, subject, fruits, effects, tendency, eminency, and exaltation, or to merely repeat the places of Scripture wherein these things are mentioned, would not help our present intention. It may only be plainly affirmed, that if there were no cause besides reformation and walking in fellowship but this one, and that thereby the power and practice of this grace might be recovered, which shamefully to the dishonor of Christ and His gospel has been lost among many who call themselves Christians, should be abundantly enough cause to give encour­agement for the undertaking of it, notwith­standing any oppositions.

Now, this love is a spiritual grace wrought by the Holy Ghost in the hearts of believers, whereby their souls are carried out to seek the good of the children of God; uniting hearts unto the object so beloved, attended with joy, delight, and complacency in their good.

Galatians 5:22 – But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith.

1^st Peter 1:22 – Seeing you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that you love one another with a pure heart fervently.

1^st Thessalonians 2:8 – So being affec­tionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because you were dear unto us.

Philemon 5 – Hearing of your love and faith, which you have toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints.

Ephesians 1:15 – Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus and love unto all the saints.

Hebrews 13:1 – Let brotherly love continue.

The motives unto love, and the grounds of its enforcement can be seen in the following eight points.

1. The command of God, and nature of the whole law, whereof love is the accom­plishment.

Leviticus 19:34 – But the stranger that dwells with you shall be unto you as one born among you, and you shall love him as your­self; for you were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God.

Matthew 19:19 – Honor your father and your mother: and you shall love your neighbour as yourself.

Romans 13:9 – For this, “You shall not commit adultery. You shall not kill. You shall not steal. You shall not bear false witness. You shall not covet.” And if there be any other commandment, it is briefly compre­hended in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” 10 Love works no ill to his neighbour: therefore, love is the fulfilling of the law.

2. Because we know the eternal, peculiar, distinguishing, faithful love which God has towards His saints, and the end aimed at therein by Him.

Ezekiel 16:8 – Now when I passed by you, and looked upon you, behold your time was the time of love; and I spread My skirt over you, and covered your nakedness: yes, I swore unto you and entered into a covenant with you, said the Lord GOD, and you became Mine.

Deuteronomy 7:8 – But because the LORD loved you, and because He would keep the oath which He had sworn unto your fathers, has the LORD brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh king of Egypt.

Deuteronomy 33:3 – Yes, He loved the people; all His saints are in Your hand: and they sat down at Your feet; everyone shall receive of Your words.

Ephesians 3:17 – That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that you being rooted and grounded in love, 18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; 19 And to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge, that you might be filled with all the fulness of God.

Romans 5:8 – But God commended His love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Ephesians 1:4 – According as He has chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before Him in love.

3. The intense, inexpressible love of Jesus Christ, in his whole humiliation and laying down His life for us, is clearly and expressly proposed as an example unto us.

John 15:13 – If you keep My command­ments, you shall abide in My love; even as I have kept My Father’s commandments, and abide in His love.

Ephesians 5:2 – And walk in love as Christ also has loved us, and has given Himself for us as an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savor.

4. Because of the eminent renewal of the old command of love, with such new enforce­ments that it is called “A new commandment,” and is peculiarly the law of Christ.

John 13:34 – A new commandment I give unto you, “That you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another.”

John 15:12 – This is My commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you.

1^st Thessalonians 4:9 – But as touching brotherly love, you need not that I write unto you, for you yourselves are taught of God to love one another.

2^nd John 5 – And now I beseech you, lady, not as though I wrote a new commandment unto you, but that which we had from the beginning, that we love one another.

5. The state and condition of those persons between whom this duty is naturally to be exercised:

We are children of one Father.

Malachi  2:10 – Have we not all one Father, has not one God created us? Why do we deal treacherously every man against his brother, by profaning the covenant of our fathers?

We are members of one body.

1^st Corinthians 12:12 – For as the body is one, and has many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. 13 For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.

We are partakers of the same hope.

Ephesians 4:4 – There is one body, and one Spirit, even as you are called in one hope of your calling.

We are objects of the same hate of the world.

1 John 3:13 – Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you.

6. The eminency of this grace: both in itself, and its divine nature.

Colossians 2:2 – That their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of under­standing, to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ.

1^st John 4:7 – Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loves is born of God, and knows God.

1^st Corinthians Chapter 13 – [[Without love we are nothing, and nothing done without love is of any profit.]

• In its usefulness.

Proverbs 10:12 – Hatred stirs up strife, but love covers all sins

Proverbs 15:17 – Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.

Galatians 5:13 – For brethren, you have been called unto liberty; only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh, but by love serve one another.

Hebrews 13:1 – Let brotherly love continue.

• In its acceptance with the saints.

Ephesians 1:15 – Wherefore I also, after I heard of your faith in the Lord Jesus, and love unto all the saints,  16 Cease not to give thanks for you, making mention of you in my prayers.

Psalm 5:11 – But let all those that put their trust in You rejoice. Let them ever shout for joy because You defend them. Let them also that love Your name be joyful in You.

7. The impossibility of performing any other duty without it.

Galatians5:6 – For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision avails anything, nor uncircumcision; but faith which works by love.

1^st Thessalonians 1:3 – Remember without ceasing your work of faith, and labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ, in the sight of God and our Father.

1^st John 4:20 – If a man says, “I love God,” and hates his brother, he is a liar: for he that loves not his brother whom he has seen, how can he love God whom he has not seen?

8. The great sin of the lack of love, with all its aggravations and the like, are so many and of such various consideration, as not now to be insisted on.

Matthew 24:12 – And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.  

1 John 3:14 – We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loves not his brother abides in death. 15 Whosoever hates his brother is a murderer: and you know that no murderer has eternal life abiding in him.

Love, which is the bond of communion, makes out itself and is peculiarly exercised in the rules following…

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RULE II

Continual prayer for the prosperous state of the church, in God’s protection towards it.

Psalm 122:6 – Pray for the peace of Jeru­salem: they shall prosper that love you.

Philippians 1:4 – Always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, 5 For your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now.

Romans 1:9 – Without ceasing I make mention of you always in my prayers.

Acts 12:5 – Peter was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.

Isaiah 62:6 – I have set watchmen upon your walls, O Jerusalem, which shall never hold their peace day nor night: you that make mention of the LORD, keep not silent, 7 And give Him no rest till He establish, and till He make Jerusalem a praise in the earth.

Ephesians 6:18 – Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints.

Colossians 4:12 – Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, salutes you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.

CLARIFICATION II. Prayer, as it is the great engine whereby we are all to prevail with the Almighty, so it is the sure refuge of the saints at all times, both in their own behalf and also of others.

Isaiah 45:11 – Thus says the LORD, the Holy One of Israel, and his Maker, Ask Me of things to come concerning My sons, and concerning the work of My hands, command you Me.

Psalm 61:2 – From the end of the earth will I cry unto You, when my heart is over­whelmed, lead me to the rock that is higher than I.

Acts 12:5 – Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing of the church unto God for him.

It is a benefit which the poorest believer may give, and the greatest potentate has no power to deny. This is the beaten way of the soul’s communion with God, for which the saints have many gracious promises of assistance.

Zechariah 12:10 – And I will pour upon the house of David, and upon the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the spirit of grace and of supplications: and they shall look upon Me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for Him, as one mourns for his only son, and shall be in bitterness for Him, as one that is in bitterness for his firstborn.

Romans 8:26 – Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

There are innumerable precepts for prayer’s performance.

Matthew 7:7 – Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: 8 For every one that asks, receives; and he that seeks, finds; and to him that knocks, it shall be opened.

1^st Thessalonians 5:17 – Pray without ceasing.

1^st Timothy 2:8 – I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, with­out wrath and doubting.

Exhortations to pray with encouragements thereunto.

James 1:5 – If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that gives to all men liberally and upbraids not; and it shall be given him.

Luke 11:9 – And I say unto you, ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you.

Jesus has given us precious promises of acceptance if we pray aright.

Matthew 21:22 – And all things, whatso­ever you shall ask in prayer, believing, you shall receive.

John 16:24 – Hitherto have you asked nothing in My name: ask and you shall receive, that your joy may be full.

Psalm 50:15 – And call upon Me in the day of trouble, and I will deliver you, and you shall glorify Me.

Prayer, by many ways has the Lord abundantly testified of His delight in this sacrifice of His people. For the saints are bound to pray for all men, of what sort soever, unless they are such as sin unto death.

1^st Timothy 2:1 – I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, interces­sions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.

1^st John 5:16 – If any man sees his brother sin a sin which is not unto death, he shall ask, and He shall give him life for them that sin not unto death. There is a sin unto death: I do not say that he shall pray for it.

 Christians are to pray for their persecutors, and them that hold them in bondage.

Matthew 5:44 – But I say unto you, “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.”

Jeremiah. 29:7 – And seek the peace of the city whither I have caused you to be carried away captives, and pray unto the LORD for it: for in the peace thereof shall you have peace.

Christians are to pray especially for all saints, and specifically for those with whom they are in fellowship.   

Philippians 1:4 – Always in every prayer of mine for you all, making requests with joy.

Colossians 4:12 – Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, salutes you, and is always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.

The Lord having promised that “upon every dwelling-place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies” there shall be “a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night,” thus, it is every one’s duty to pray for its accomplishment.

Isaiah 4:5 – And the LORD will create upon every dwelling place of mount Zion, and upon her assemblies, a cloud and smoke by day, and the shining of a flaming fire by night: for upon all the glory shall be a defense.

He is not worthy of the privileges of the church who continues not in prayer for a defense upon that glory. Prayer then, for the good, prosperity, flourishing, peace, increase, edification, and protection of the church, is a solemn duty every day required of all the members thereof. 

Motives for prayer:

1. Proper consideration of the ordinances there to.
2. Concernment for God’s glory.
3. The honor of Jesus Christ.
4. Our own benefit and spiritual interest with,
5. The expressness of the command, are sufficient motives hereunto.

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RULE III

Earnest striving and con­tending in all lawful ways, by both a faithfulness in doing and willingness to suffer, for the purity of the ordi­nances, honor, liberty, and privileges of the congregation, standing jointly together against opposers and com­mon adversaries.

Jude 3 – And exhort you that you should earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.

Hebrews 12:3 – Consider Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest you be wearied and faint in your minds. 4 For you have not yet resisted unto blood in your striving against sin.

1 John 3:16 – Hereby perceive we the love of God, because He laid down His life for us: so ought we to lay down our lives for the brethren.

Galatians 5:1 – Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ has made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage… 13 For you brethren have been called unto liberty.

1^st Corinthians 7:23 – For you are bought with a price; be you not the servants of men.

Song of Solomon 6:4 – You are beautiful, O my love, as Tirzah, comely as Jerusalem, terrible as an army with banners.

1^st Peter 3:15 – Be ready always to give an answer to every man that askes you a reason of the hope that is in you with meek­ness and fear.

CLARIFICATION III. The former rule concerned our dealing with God on the behalf of the church; this being our dealing with men, which necessitates the right performance of many things which are required us in scripture.

First: Believers are to diligently labor in the word with fervent prayer, to acquaint themselves with the mind and will of God concerning the way of worship which we profess, and the rules of walking which we desire to practice; so that we may be able to give an account to all humble inquirers, as well as stop the mouths of stubborn opposers. For accord­ing to our knowledge, such will be our valuation of the ordinances we enjoy. For a man will not contend for what he does not know he is entitled to.

Secondly:    A proper appraisal of all accusations cast upon the church, and the injuries done to her as a whole; for as they be injuries to Christ, they are equally our own. For Christ is wounded through the sides of His servants, and reproached for His ways. And if we are of His, we are not without pain although the blow might not immediately fall on us; for all such reproaches and rebukes fall on us all as His servants.

Thirdly:      Prayer for the just vindication of the church, against misrepresentations and false imputations. Who can endure to hear his parents in the flesh falsely vilified? Should we be senseless or untouched by attacks of slander and reproaches against any born unto Christ?

Fourthly:    With all the righteous opposition of the Gospel, the joint refusal of subjection to any persons or things contrary to, or apart from the word, under what name soever, which do attempt to gain power over the church to the deprive it of any of those liberties and privileges, which it rightly claims her own being part of the purchase of Christ. Those that would seek to mesmerize with seductive vain theology contrary to holy scripture, we are not to give place, no not for an hour.

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RULE IV

Zealous and painstaking care ought be ever made for peace, endeavoring for the preservation of unity, both for each part as well as the whole; in particular and in general.

Philippians 2:1 – If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, 2 Fulfil you my joy, that you be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord of one mind. 3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in low­liness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Ephesians 4:3 – Endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. 4 There is one body, and one Spirit, even as you are called in one hope of your calling.

1^st Corinthians 1:10 – Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.

2^nd Corinthians 13:11 – Be perfect, be of good comfort, be of one mind, live in peace; and the God of love and peace shall be with you.

Romans 14:19 – Let us therefore follow after the things which make for peace, and things wherewith one may edify another.

Romans 15:5 – Now may the God of patience and consolation grant you to be likeminded one toward another according to Christ Jesus:  6 That you may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.

1^st Corinthians 6:5 – I speak to your shame. Is it so that there is not a wise man among you? No, not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren? 6 So that brother now goes to law with brother, and that before the unbelievers. 7 Now therefore there is utterly a fault among you, because you go to law one with another. Why do you not rather take wrong? Why do you not rather suffer yourselves to be defrauded?

Acts 4:32 – The multitude of them that believed were of one heart and of one soul.

CLARIFICATION IV.

Unity is the main aim and most proper fruit of love; neither is there any duty of the saints in the gospel which ought to be pressed upon our hearts with more earnest enthusiasm of exhortation than this.

Now, unity is threefold.  First, being purely spiritual, it is wrought in all by the faithful participation of each through yielding to the same Spirit of grace; each thereby keeping communication in the same Christ, who is the one head of each and of all. For through the Spirit of Grace brings His body to share one mind and one heart, if their affection truly be set on things above. This we have with all the saints in the world, in what condition soever they be; yes, even with those that are now departed, sitting down in the kingdom of heaven with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.

Secondly, unity is Ecclesiastical, or a church communion preserved through the mutual reverence for, and participation of ordinances according to the order of the gospel. This communion of the saints is a fruit and branch of the former, our communion with Christ; which is opposed to schism, divisions, rents, evil-surmisings, self-practices, causeless differences in judgment in spiritual things concerning the kingdom of Christ, or with whatsoever else causes a departure from closeness of affection, oneness of mind, consent in judgment to the form of wholesome words, or conformity of practice to the rule.

This unity is that which is earnestly pressed, commanded, and desired of God in the churches among all its members, as it is utmost to partaking of the glory of Christ, exhibiting the honor of the gospel, and is the very joy and crown of the saints.

Thirdly, unity is also civil, a unity or an agree­ment in vain things of this life; no longer striving or contend­ing with each other over earthly things, nor about carnal matters. Rather, everyone preferring one another, seeking the welfare of each other. For strife over such temporal things is unseemly for brethren. Why should they, who jointly shall one day together judge the world, contend about this world and over temporal things which will perish in the fire of His coming?

Motives to the preservation of unity in all three of its aspects are as follow:

1. The remarkable earnestness of Christ and His apostles in their prayers for unity, and precepts of this duty of daily seeking and preserving it.
2. The certain dishonor of the Lord Jesus that disunity brings; scandal to the gospel, ruin to the churches, shame, and sorrow to the saints. For disunity is accompanied with much evil which affects all.

Galatians 5:15 – But if you bite and devour one another, take heed that you be not consumed one of another.

3. The gracious issues and sweet heavenly consolation which attends a right observance of the principles of unity.
4. The many fearful aggravations, wherewith the sin of disunity rends the body of Christ apart, is obvious in both the bible and church history.
5. The sad contempt for, discard of, and deviation from Gospel ordinances, which were given to the church graciously for communion and holy unity, the want of which never fails to bring death to any faithless church which tolerates disobedience and discord.

Revelation 3:1 – And unto the angel of the church in Sardis write, “These things say He that has the seven Spirits of God, and the seven stars; I know your works, that you have a name that you are alive, and yet you are dead. 2 Be watchful, and strengthen the things which remain which are ready to die: for I have not found your works to be perfect before God. 3. Remember therefore what you had once received and heard, and repent and hold fast. For if you shall not watch, I will come on you as a thief, and you will not know what hour I will come upon you.”

For a right performance of this duty, we must give attention to do the following –   

1. Labor, by prayer and faith, to have our hearts and spirits thoroughly seasoned with that affectionate love which our first rule requires.

Ephesians 3:14 – For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, 16 That He would grant you according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man; 17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; so that you being rooted and grounded in love, 18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; 19 And to know the love of Christ, which passes knowledge, that you might be filled with all the fulness of God.”

2. Carefully observe in ourselves or others, the first beginnings of strife, which are as the letting out of water, and if not prevented will make a breach like the sea.
3. Be vigilant and diligent to apply ourselves to the removal of the first appearance of divisions; and in case of not prevailing, to consult the church.

1^st Corinthians 1:10 – Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.

Philippians 2:2  – Fulfil you my joy, that you be likeminded, having the same love, being of one accord, of one mind. 3 Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.

Philippians 4:2 – I beseech Euodias, and beseech Syntyche, that they be of the same mind in the Lord.

4. Be ready daily to strike at the root of all dissension, and daily laboring for universal conformity to Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 4:22  – That you put off concerning the former conversation of the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be you renewed in the spirit of your mind; 24 And put on the new man, which after God is created in right­eousness and true holiness.

Colossians 3:8 – But now you also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. 9 Lie not one to another, seeing that you have put off the old man with his deeds; 10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of Him that created him.

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RULE V

Separation and sequestration from the world and men of the world, with all its ways of worship and false gods; until we be apparently a people dwelling alone with God in His Kingdom, not reckoned among the nations.

Numbers 23:9 – Lo, the people shall dwell alone, and shall not be reckoned among the nations.

John 15:19 – You are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, there­fore the world hates you.

2^nd Corinthians 6:14 – Be you not unequally yoked together with unbelievers: for what fellowship has righteousness with unrighteousness? And what communion has light with darkness? 15 And what concord has Christ with Belial? Or what part has he that believes with an infidel? 16 And what agreement has the temple of God with idols? for you are the temple of the living God; as God has said, “I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be My people.” 17 “Wherefore come out from among them, and be you separate,” says the Lord, “and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, 18 And will be a Father unto you, and you shall be My sons and daughters,” says the Lord Almighty.

Ephesians 5:8 – For you were sometimes darkness, but now are you light in the Lord: walk as children of light: 11 And have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of dark­ness, but rather reprove them.

2^nd Timothy 3:5 – Having a form of godli­ness, but denying the power thereof; from such turn away.

Hosea 4:15 – Though you Israel play the harlot, yet let not Judah offend; and come not you unto Gilgal, neither go you up to Bethaven, nor swear, “The LORD lives.”

Revelation 18:4 – Come out of her My people, that you be not partakers of her sins, and that you receive not of her plagues.

Proverbs 14:7 – Go from the presence of a foolish man, when you perceive not in him the lips of knowledge.

CLARIFICATION V. Separation is generally heard ill in the world, and yet there is a sepa­ration suitable to the mind of God. He that will not separate from the world and false worship is a separate from Christ

Now, the separation commanded here from any person or persons is not partial, owing a respect of others because of a natural affection towards them.

Romans 9:1 – I say the truth in Christ, I lie not, my conscience also bearing me witness in the Holy Ghost, 2 That I have great heaviness and continual sorrow in my heart. 3 For I could wish that myself were accursed from Christ for my brethren, my kinsmen according to the flesh.

Nor is the separation here a type of spiritual care for the good of their souls:

1^st Corinthians 7:13 – And the woman which has a husband that believes not, for if he be pleased to dwell with her, let her not leave him.

Nor yet in respect of duties of relation, nor yet in offices of love and civil converse.

1^st Corinthians 5:9 – I wrote unto you in an epistle not to company with fornicators: 10 Yet not altogether with the fornicators of this world, or with the covetous, or extor­tioners, or with idolaters; for then you must need go out of the world.

1^st Thessalonians 4:12 – That you may walk honestly toward them that are without, and that you may have lack of nothing.

Much less, the separation here commanded from any persons is not a disregard for their good and prosperity, or a refusal to communicate good things unto them, or not seeking to live profitably and peaceably with them.

1^st Timothy 2:1 – I exhort therefore, that first of all, supplications, prayers, inter­cessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3 For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour.

Galatians 6:10 – As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the house­hold of faith.

Romans 12:18 – … He that gives, let him do it with simplicity; he that rules, with dili­gence; he that shows mercy, with cheer­fulness.

The Christian is to be separate in the follow­ing ways:

1. Manner of walking and conversation,

Romans 12:2 – And be not conformed to this world: but be you transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.

Ephesians 4:17 – This I say therefore, and testify in the Lord, that you henceforth walk not as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, 18 Having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God through the ignorance that is in them, because of the blindness of their heart: 19 Who being past feeling have given themselves over unto lasciviousness, to work all uncleanness with greediness.

2.  Pursue goodness, delightful converse, and hospitality when enmity and opposition arises, yet soon depart from such who are persistent, obstinate and contrary.

Ephesians 5:3 – But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you as saints; 4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks. 5 For this you know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God. 6 Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things comes the wrath of God upon the children of dis­obedience. 7 Therefore, be you not partakers with them. 8 For though you were sometimes in darkness, now are you light in the Lord: walk as children of light: 9 (For the fruit of the Spirit is in all goodness and righteousness and truth;) 10 Proving what is acceptable unto the Lord. 11 And have no fel­lowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.

3. Continue in the ways of worship and ordinances of fellowship, not running out into the same compass of excess and riot with them in any­thing.

Revelation 18:4 – And I heard another voice from heaven, saying, “Come out of her My people, that you be not partakers of her sins, and that you receive not of her plagues.”

For these, and all such commands and reve­lations of the will of God, by necessity are abundantly urgent, spiritually profitable, and serve for everyone’s edification.

Thus, any causeless separation from established churches which are walking according to the order of the gospel, (though perhaps failing in the practice of some things of small con­cernment), is no small sin; while separation from the sinful practices, and disorderly walkings, and false unwarranted ways of worship in any, is to fulfil the precept of not partaking in other men’s sins. For to delight in the company, fellowship, society, and converse with unsavory, disorderly persons, proclaims a spirit not endeared to Christ.

Let the motives for separation be as follows:

1. God’s command.
2. Our own preservation from sin and pro­tection from its punishment, and that with others we be not infected and thereby plagued.
3. Christ’s delight in the purity of His ordinances.
4. His distinguishing love to His saints; provided that, in the practice of this rule, abundance of meekness, patience, gentleness, wisdom, and tenderness be exercised. Let no offence be given justly to any.

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RULE VI

Practice frequent and purposeful spiritual commu­nication amongst the saints for edification, according to gifts received.

Malachi 3:16 – Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another; and the LORD listening heard it, and so a book of remembrance was written before Him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon His name.

Job 2:11 – Now when Job’s three friends heard of all this evil that was come upon him, they came everyone from his own place; for they had made an appointment together to come to mourn with him and to comfort him.

Ephesians 4:29 – Let no corrupt commu­nication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

Colossians 4:6 – Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that you may know how you ought to answer every man.

Ephesians 5:4 – Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.

1^st Thessalonians 5:11 – Wherefore com­fort yourselves together, and edify one an­other, even as you also do.

Hebrews 3:13 – Exhort one another daily, while it is called Today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

Jude 20 – Building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost.

Hebrews 10:24 – Let us consider one another to provoke unto love and good works: 25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as you see the day approaching.

Acts 18:26 – Whom when Aquila and Priscilla had heard, they took him unto them, and expounded unto him the way of God more perfectly.

1^st Corinthians 12:7 – For the manifes­tation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.

CLARIFICATION 6. The truth that some men who are not solemnly called and set apart to the office of public teaching, may yet be endued with useful gifts for others’ edification ought to be acknowledged. For the prohibition and neglecting of such gifts as being disorderly according to the binding rules and customs of some churches, sadly robs the church its potent benefit and such men of exercising of their gifts, that all might grow thereby. Such legalistic prohibition is unwise, and is no less but to napkin up the talent given by God expressly for both trade and use; and a forfeiting of the profit withal. That every man ought to so labor that he may walk and dwell in knowledge with his family, none doubts. That we should also labor to do so in the church or family of God should be no less apparent to all.

1^st Corinthians 12:7 – But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. 8 For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; 10 . . . to to another prophecy . . .

1^st Corinthians 14:29 – Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the other judge.

This the Scriptures appropriated to the rule declare, which in a special manner hold out prayer, exhortation, instruction from the word, and consolation. Therefore the performance of this duty of mutual edification is incumbent with all saints.

1. Consequently, believers in their ordinary daily converse with those within the fellowship of saints, as well as with those without, ought to be continually making mention of the Lord with savory discourses tending to edification, and should not waste such opportunities with foolish, light, frothy speeches that are not con­venient.

Ephesians 4:29 –  Let no corrupt commu­nication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers.

Ephesians 5:3 – But fornication, and all uncleanness, or covetousness, let it not be once named among you as saints. 4 Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, which are not convenient: but rather giving of thanks.  

Hebrews 3:13 – But exhort one another daily, while it is called Today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

2. Occasionally, if anything of weight and concernment to the church be brought forth by Divine Providence, a prayerful and thorough consideration of such amongst believers is not only prudent, but also expected and required; that a spiritual improvement of it thereby might be obtained to the benefit of all.

Luke 24:14 – And they talked together of all these things which had happened.

Malachi 3:16 – Then they that feared the LORD spake often one to another: and the LORD listening heard it, and a book of remembrance was written before Him for them that feared the LORD, and that thought upon His name.

Indifference in such matters is sin, demonstrating a lack of faith, lack of vigilant watchfulness, coldness of heart, and spiritual blindness, exposing an ungodly focus resting more upon things of this world than God’s Kingdom.

Luke 11:34 – The light of the body is the eye: therefore, when your eye is single, your whole body also is full of light. But when your eye is evil, your body also is full of darkness. 35 Take heed therefore that the light which is in you be not darkness.

James 1:8 – A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.

3. By assembling together for prayer and instruction from the word at appointed times, and this being a special ordinance and appointment of God, is profitable for the joint increasing of knowledge, love, charity, experience, and the improving of gifts received; whereby everyone contributing to the building of the tabernacle gives an increase to the whole.

Acts 10:24 – And the morrow after they entered into Caesarea. And Cornelius waited for them, and had called together his kinsmen and near friends.

Acts 12:12 – And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark, where many were gathered together praying.

Job 2:11 – Now when Job’s three friends heard of all this evil that was come upon him, they came everyone from his own place; Eliphaz the Temanite, and Bildad the Shuhite, and Zophar the Naamathite: for they had made an appointment together to come to mourn with him and to comfort him.

Ephesians 5:19 – Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; 20 Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

James 5:16 –  Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another that you may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man avails much.

Jude 20 – But you beloved, are building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost,

1^st Thessalonians 5:14 – Now we exhort you brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort the feebleminded, support the weak, be patient toward all men.

Let then, all vain communication be put far away from us as the saints of the Lord. Be mindful that the time is short, and that the days are evil. Let it suffice us that we have already neglected too many precious oppor­tunities of growing in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ, and for doing good to one another; and thus, let the remainder of our few and evil days be spent living for Him who died for us. Be not conformed to this world, nor like unto the men thereof.

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RULE VII

Mutually, we are to bear with each other’s infirmities, weak­nesses, sensitivities, failings, with all meek­ness, patience, pity, and willing and ready assistance.

Ephesians 4:32 – Be kind one to another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake has forgiven you.

Matthew 18:21 – Then came Peter to Him, and asked, “Lord, how often shall my brother sin against me and I forgive him? Till seven times?” 22 Jesus said unto him, “I say not unto you, ‘Until seven times.’ But rather ‘Until seventy times seven.’”

Mark 11:25 – When you stand praying, forgive, if you have ought against any: that your Father also which is in heaven may for­give you your trespasses.  But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses.

Romans 14:3 – Let not him that eats despise him that eats not; and let not him which eats not judge him that eats: for God has received him.  4 Who are you that judges another man’s servant? To his own master he stands or falls. Yet, he shall be holden up: for God is able to make him stand… 13 Let us not therefore judge one another anymore: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumbling-block or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way.

Romans 15:1 – We then that are strong ought to bear the infirmities of the weak, and not to please ourselves. 2 Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edifica­tion.

1^st Corinthians 13:4 – Charity suffers long, and is kind; charity envies not; charity vaunts not itself, is not puffed up, 5 Does not behave itself unseemly, seeks not her own, is not easily provoked, thinks no evil; 6 Rejoices not in iniquity, but rejoices in the truth; 7 Bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Galatians 6:1 – Brethren, if a man be over­taken in a fault, you which are spiritual are to restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering yourself, lest you also be tempted.

Colossians 3:12 – Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meek­ness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one an­other, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do you. 14 And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.

CLARIFICATION VII. “It is the glory of God to conceal a thing,” (Proverbs 25:2).

Free pardon is the substance of the gospel, the work of God in perfection, as prophesied in Isaiah:

Isaiah 55:1 – Ho, every one that thirsts, come you to the waters, and he that has no money; come buy and eat; yes come, buy wine and milk without money and with­out price. 2 Wherefore do you spend money for that which is not bread? and your labor for that which satisfies not? Hearken diligently unto Me, and eat that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. 3 Incline your ear and come unto Me: hear and your soul shall live; and I will make an everlasting covenant with you, even the sure mercies of David. 4 Behold, I have given Him for a witness to the people, a Leader and Commander to the people. 5 Be­hold, You shall call a nation that You know not, and nations that knew not You shall run unto You because of the LORD Your God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for He has glorified You.  6 Seek you the LORD while He may be found, call upon Him while He is near: 7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon. 8 For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, says the LORD. 9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. 10 For as the rain comes down, and the snow from heaven, and returns not thither, but waters the earth and makes it bring forth and bud that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater: 11 So shall My word be that goes forth out of My mouth: it shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. 12 For you shall go out with joy, and be led forth with peace: the mountains and the hills shall break forth before you into singing, and all the trees of the field shall clap their hands. 13 Instead of the thorn shall come up the fir tree, and instead of the brier shall come up the myrtle tree: and it shall be to the LORD for a name, for an everlasting sign that shall not be cut off.

It is evident that Jesus Christ proposed to us this Gospel for our imitation, with an admonition to endeavor to keep it in like perfection, forgiving one another, even as He has forgiven us.

Matthew 18:23 –  Therefore is the king­dom of heaven likened unto a certain king, which would take account of his servants. 24 And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto him, which owed him ten thousand talents. 25 But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had, and payment to be made. 26 The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him, saying, “Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay you all.” 27 Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion, and loosed him, and forgave him the debt. 28 But the same servant went out, and found one of his fellow servants which owed him a hundred pence: and he laid hands on him and took him by the throat, saying, “Pay me what you owe me.” 29 And his fellow servant fell down at his feet, and besought him saying, “Have patience with me, and I will pay you all.”  30 And he would not: but went and cast him into prison till he should pay the debt. 31 So when his fellow servants saw what was done, they were very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done. 32 Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto him, O you wicked servant, I forgave you all that debt because you desired me: 33 Should not you also have had compassion on your fellow servant, even as I had pity on you? 34 And his lord was angry, and delivered him to the tormentors till he should pay all that was due unto him. 35 So likewise shall My heavenly Father do also unto you, if you from your hearts forgive not everyone his brother their trespasses.

While we are clothed with flesh, we do all things imperfectly. Freedom from failings is a fruit reserved for us in glory. For here we see darkly as in a glass, and here we know but in part. In many things we offend all; who knows how often? Mutual failings among believers are to be borne with. Offences are to be pardoned. Weak­nesses to be supported; and may these ever serve to remind us of those pence of the talents of which each of us were for­given. Let him that is without fault throw stones at others.

Some men rejoice in others’ failings; and being malicious they fail more in their sinful joy than the brethren in that which they rejoice at. Some are angry at weaknesses and infirmities in others; being proud and conceited, not considering that they them­selves also are in the flesh. Some delight to dwell always upon a frailty; such deserve to find no charity in the like kind. For injuries, who can bear until seven times? Peter thought it much.

Some study more revenge than pardon. Some pretend to forgive, but yet every slight offence makes a continued alienation of the affections and separation of converse. Some will carry a smooth face over a rough heart; Christ is in none of these ways. They have no savor of the gospel. For meekness, patience, forbearance, and forgiveness, hiding, cover­ing, removing of offences, are the foot­steps of Christ.

Do you see your brother failing? Pity him. Does he continue in it? Earnestly pray for him, admonish him. Cannot another sin when you so often sin too? If you be angry, vexed, rejoiced, alienated from, you are partner with him in evil, instead of helping him. Suppose your God should be angry every time you give cause, and strike every time you provoke Him. When your brother offends you, do but pause your heart while you take a faithful view of the patience and forbearance of God towards you, and then consider His command for you to go and do likewise.

Let then, all tenderness of affection and bowels of compassion towards one another be put on amongst us, as becomes saints. Let pity, not envy; mercy, not malice; patience, not passion; Christ, not flesh; grace, not nature; pardon, not spite or revenge, be our guides and companions in our conver­sations.

Motives hereunto are as follows:

1. God’s infinite mercy, patience, forbear­ance, long-suffering, and free grace towards us, sparing, pardoning, pitying, bearing with us, in innumerable daily, hourly failings and provocations; especially all this being proposed for our imitation in our measure.

Matthew 18: 32 – Then his lord, after that he had called him said unto him, “O you wicked servant, I forgave you all that debt because you desired me.  33 Should not you also have had compassion on your fellow servant, even as I had pity on you?”

2. The goodness, unwearied, and unchangeable love of the Lord Jesus Christ puts forth every day for us, not ceasing to plead in our behalf,  and that notwithstanding our continual backsliding.

1^st John 2:1 – My little children, these things write I unto you, that you sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous:  2 And He is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.

3. The experience which our own hearts have of the need wherein we stand of others’ patience, forbearance, and pardon.

Ecclesiastes 7:20 – For there is not a just man upon earth that does good and sins not. 21 Also take no heed unto all words that are spoken; lest you hear your servant curse you: 22 For oftentimes also your own heart knows that you yourself likewise have cursed others.

4. Attend to the strictness of the command to forgive, and ignore not the threatening attending its non-performance.
5. The great glory of the gospel, which is in the walking of the brethren with a right foot as to this rule.

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RULE VIII

Tender and affectionate participation with one another in their several states and conditions, bearing each other’s burdens.

Galatians 6:2 – Bear you one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.

Hebrews 13:3 – Remember them that are in bonds as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body.

1^st Corinthians 12:25 – There should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another. 26 And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it.

1^st Corinthians 11:29 – Who is weak, and I am not weak? Who is offended, and I burn not?

James 1:27 – Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, “To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction.”

Matthew 25:35 – For I was hungry, and you gave Me meat: I was thirsty, and you gave Me drink: I was a stranger, and you took Me in: 36 Naked, and you clothed Me: I was sick, and you visited Me: I was in prison, and you came unto Me…  40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as you have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, you have done it unto Me.

2^nd Timothy 1:16 – The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for often he refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain: 17 But, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me.

Acts 20:35 – I have showed you all things, how that so laboring you ought to support the weak…

CLARIFICATION VIII. The former rule con­cerned the carriage and frame of spirit towards our brethren in their failings; this is in their miseries and afflictions. In this also, conformity to Christ is required, who in all the afflictions of His people is afflicted, and persecuted in their distresses.

Isaiah 63:9 – In all their affliction He was afflicted, and the angel of His presence saved them: in His love and in His pity He redeemed them; and He bare them, and carried them all the days of old.

Acts 9:4 – And Saul fell to the earth, and heard a voice saying unto him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute you Me?”

If we could rightly bring up our spiritual union as a church, to hold any member together in a mutual union of the many members, as in one body, to which the church is repeatedly and emphatically compared, then would this duty be excellently performed. For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; and knows that if one member be in pain, the rest have little comfort or ease. Similarly, he is a rotten member which is not affected with the anguish of his companions. They are marked particularly for destruction who, in the midst of plentiful enjoyments, forget the miseries of their brethren. For whom that is truly joined to Christ can say of his brother, I have no need of you?

Amos 6:6 – That drink wine in bowls, and anoint themselves with the chief ointments: but they are not grieved for the affliction of Joseph.

1^st Corinthians 12:21 – And the eye cannot say unto the hand, I have no need of you. Nor again the head to the feet, I have no need of you.

If we will not feel the weight of our brethren’s afflictions, burdens, and sorrow, it is then a righteous thing that our own should be doubled. The desolations of the church make Nehemiah grow pale in the court of a great king.

Nehemiah 2:1 – And it came to pass in the month Nisan, in the twentieth year of Artaxerxes the king, that wine was before him: and I took up the wine and gave it unto the king. Now I had not been beforetime sad in his presence. 2 Wherefore the king said unto me, “Why is your countenance sad, seeing you are not sick? this is nothing else but sorrow of heart.” Then I was very sore afraid, 3 And said unto the king, “Let the king live forever: why should not my counte­nance be sad, when the city, the place of my fathers sepulchers lie waste, and the gates thereof are consumed with fire?”

They who are not concerned in the troubles, sorrows, visitations, wants, poverties, perse­cutions of the saints, not so far as to pity their wounding, to feel their strokes, to refresh their spirits, help bear their burdens upon their own shoulders, can never assure themselves that they are united to the Head of those saints. Now, that there is a necessity to a right performance of this duty, and that a discharge of it is required of God’s people is shown below.

1. A due valuation, strong desire, and high esteem of the church’s prosperity, in every member of it.

Psalm 122:6 – Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love you.

2. Bowels of compassion as a fruit of love; which is not only to be sensible of, but intimately moved for the several burdens of the saints. Not mere awareness, or emotions of pity, or vain feelings towards, but an action into fellowship of the burden so as to provide whatever portion of relief possible there to.

Colossians 3:12 – Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; 13 Forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do you.

3. Courage and boldness to own other’s weakness, afflictions, and burdens as our own, without shame in all conditions.

2^nd Timothy 1:16 – The Lord give mercy unto the house of Onesiphorus; for often he refreshed me, and was not ashamed of my chain: 17 But, when he was in Rome, he sought me out very diligently, and found me.

4. Personal visitations in sicknesses, troubles, and restraints, to advise, comfort, and refresh them.

Matthew 25:36 – Naked, and you clothed Me: I was sick, and you visited Me: I was in prison, and you came unto Me.

5.  Readiness to provide suitable support for others, with a proper administration of spiritual or temporal assistances, according to the condition wherein they are. The motives are the same as to the former rule.

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RULE IX

Free contribution and communication of temporal things to them that are poor indeed, agreeable with  their necessities, wants, and afflictions.

1^st John 3:17 – Whoever has this world’s goods and sees his brother has need, and shuts up his bowels of compassion from him, how can the love of God dwell in him? 18 My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue, but in deed and in truth.

1^st Corinthians 16:1 – Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do you. 2 Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God has prospered him.

2^nd Corinthians 9:5 – Therefore I thought it necessary to exhort the brethren, that they would go before unto you, and make up beforehand your bounty, whereof you had notice before, that the same might be ready, as a matter of bounty, and not as of covetousness. 6 But this I say, he which sows sparingly shall also reap sparingly; and he which sows bountifully shall also reap bountifully. 7 Every man according as he purposes in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly or of necessity: for God loves a cheerful giver.

Romans 12:13 – Distributing to the necessity of saints; given to hospitality.

Galatians 6:10 – As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.

1^st Timothy 6:17 – Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not high-minded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who gives us richly all things to enjoy; 18 That they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; 19 Laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.

Hebrews 13:16 – To do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

Leviticus 25:35 – If your brother be waxen poor, and fallen in decay with you, then you shall relieve him.

Matthew 25:34 – Then shall the King say unto them on His right hand, Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 For I was hungry, and you gave Me meat: I was thirsty, and you gave Me drink: I was a stranger, and you took Me in: 36 Naked, and you clothed Me: I was sick, and you visited Me: I was in prison, and you came unto Me … 40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, inasmuch as you have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, you have done it unto Me.

CLARIFICATION IX.  According to our Savior’s prediction we will always have the poor among us, and this forewarning of God serves for the trial of faith of both the poor themselves and others. Of the poor’s contentment with Christ alone, with their submission to the all-disposing sovereignty of God. Of “others,” as to how freely they might, for Christ’s sake, part with those things wherewith their hand has been both blessed and filled.

Matthew 26:11 – For you have the poor always with you; but Me you have not always.

Deuteronomy 15:11 – For the poor shall never cease out of the land: therefore, I command you saying, “You shall open your hand wide unto your brother, to your poor, and to your needy in your land.

When God gave manna for food unto His people, everyone had an equal share: “He that gathered much had nothing over, and he that gathered little had no lack,” (Exodus 16:18). This distribution in equality was again, for the necessity of the church, reduced into practice in the days of the apostles. Of the total sum of the possessions of believers, distribution was made to every man accord­ing to his need.

2^nd Corinthians 8:15 – As it is written, “He that had gathered much had nothing over; and he that had gathered little had no lack.” 16 But thanks be to God which put the same earnest care into the heart of Titus for you. 17 For indeed he accepted the exhorta­tion; but being more forward, of his own accord he went unto you.

Acts 4:34 – Neither was there any among them that lacked: for as many as were possessors of lands or houses did sell them, and brought the prices of the things that were sold, 35 And laid them down at the apostles’ feet: and distribution was made unto every man according as he had need.

That every man by the ordinance and appointment of God has a peculiar right to the use and disposal of the earthly things wherewith he has been particularly entrusted of the Lord, is unquestionable. The very precepts for free distribution and communication are enough to prove it. But the belief that these things are altogether given by God to men for themselves and their own use is to be denied; for Christ told us that “friends” are to be made of our mammon, otherwise as the Lord’s brother warns us it “shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire.”

For Christ needs for some, that which He had bestowed on others to be stewards of, and that to prove their hearts. If He has given you your own, as well as your brother’s portion also to keep, will you be false to His trust and defraud your brother?

1^st Timothy 6:9 – But they that will be rich fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts, which drown men in destruction and perdition. 10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, have erred from the faith and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 11 But you, O man of God, flee these things…

James 5:1 – Go to now you rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you. 2 Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are motheaten. 3 Your gold and silver are cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. You have heaped treasure together for the last days.

Christ being rich, became poor for our sakes; if He makes us rich, it is that we may feed the poor for His sake. Neither does this duty rest only (though chiefly) on those who are greatly increased; but even those who have nothing but their labor, should also spare out of their gain for those who cannot work.

Ephesians 4:28 – Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labor, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needs.

The two mites are as much required of the Lord as are they accepted by Him. Now, the relief of the poor brethren in the church has a twofold rule; first, their necessity; and secondly, others’ abilities.

Unto this twofold rule must assistance be proportioned, provided that those which are poor walk suitably to their condition. And as we ought to relieve men in their poverty, so we ought by all lawful means to prevent when possible their being poor. To keep a man from falling is an equal mercy to the helping of him up when he is down.

2 Thessalonians 3:10 – For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work neither should he eat. 11 For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly working not at all, but are busybodies.

Motives to this duty are:—

1. The love of God unto us all.

1^st John 3:16 – Hereby perceive we the love of God, because He laid down His life for us: and we ought to lay down our lives for the brethren.

2. The glory of the gospel is exceedingly exalted thereby.

Titus 3:8 –  This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that you affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be careful to maintain good works. These things are good and profitable unto men… 14 And let ours also learn to maintain good works for necessary uses, that they be not unfruitful.

Matthew 5:7 – Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.

3. The union wherein we are all brought to in Christ, with the common inheritance promised unto all.
4. The testimony of the Lord Jesus, witness­ing that whatsoever is done to the least as being done unto Himself.

Matthew 25:40 – And the King shall answer and say unto them, “Verily I say unto you, that inasmuch as you have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, you have done it unto Me.”

5. The promises in scriptures appropriated to our charity.

Ecclesiastes 11:1 – Cast your bread upon the waters: for you shall find it after many days.

Proverbs 19:17 – He that has pity upon the poor lends unto the LORD; and that which he has given will He pay him again.

Deuteronomy 15:10 – You shall surely give him, and your heart shall not be grieved when you give unto him: because that for this thing the LORD your God shall bless you in all your works, and in all that you put your hand to.

Matthew 10:42 – And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a dis­ciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.

The way whereby it is to be done by the church, is first by the appointing of deacons to take what has been voluntarily contributed by the brethren, and that according as God has blessed them. Then, what has been gathered is given to such to distribute to the necessity of the saints, according to the advice of the church. This charity is besides private dis­tributions, wherein we all ought to always abound.

Acts 6:1 –  And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglect­ed in the daily ministration. 2 Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, “It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. 3 Wherefore, brethren, look you out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. 4 But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.” 5 And the saying pleased the whole multitude: and they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Ghost, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas a proselyte of Antioch: 6 Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.

1^st Corinthians 16:1 – Now concerning the collection for the saints, as I have given order to the churches of Galatia, even so do you. 2 Upon the first day of the week let every one of you lay by him in store, as God has prospered him, that there be no gatherings when I come. 3 And when I come, whomsoever you shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem.

Matthew 6:3 –  But when you do your alms, let not your left hand know what your right hand does. 4 That your alms may be in secret: and your Father which sees in secret Himself shall reward you openly.

Hebrews 13:16 – But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased.

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RULE X

RULE 10. To mark diligently and care­fully avoid all causes of division, and those who cause them. Especially shunning seducers, false teachers, and broachers of heresies and errors contrary to the form of wholesome words.

Romans 16:17 – Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which you have learned; and avoid them. 18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.

Matthew 24:4 – And Jesus answered and said unto them, “Take heed that no man deceives you. 5 For many shall come in My name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.” …Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ, or there; believe it not. 24 For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. 25 Behold, I have told you before.

1^st Timothy 6:3 – If any man teaches other­wise, and consent not to wholesome words, even the words of our Lord Jesus Christ, and to the doctrine which is according to godli­ness; 4 He is proud, knowing nothing, but doting about questions and strife of words, whereof comes envy, strife, railings, evil surmisings, 5 Perverse disputings of men of corrupt minds, and destitute of the truth, supposing that gain is godliness: from such withdraw yourself.

2^nd Timothy 2:16 – But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness. 17 And their word will eat as doth a canker: of whom is Hymenaeus and Philetus.

Titus 3:9 – But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain. 10 A man that is a heretic after the first and second admonition reject; 11 Knowing that he that is such is subverted and sins, being condemned of him­self.

1^st John 2:18 – Little children, it is the last time: and as you have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time. 19 They went out from us, but they were not of us; for if they had been of us, they would no doubt have continued with us: but they went out that they might be made manifest that they were not all of us.

1^st John 4:1 – Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

2^nd John 10 – If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him Godspeed: 11 for he that bids him God-speed is partaker of his evil deeds.

Acts 20:29 – For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. 30 Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them. 31 Therefore watch, and remember that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn everyone night and day with tears.

Revelation 2:14 – But I have a few things against you, because you have them there that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumbling-block before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication. 15 You also have them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitans, which thing I hate. 16 Repent; or else I will come unto you quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of My mouth.

CLARIFICATION X. The former part of this rule was something spoken to in Rule iv. If the preservation of unity ought to be our aim, then certainly the causes and causers of division ought to be avoided. “From such turn away.” There is a generation of men whose tongues seem to be played upon by the devil; James chap. 3:6 calls it, “Set on fire of hell.” As though they were the mere offspring of serpents, they delight in nothing but in the fire of contention; disputing, quarrelling, backbiting, endless strivings, are that they live upon. “Note such men, and avoid them.”

Generally such are men of private interests, fleshly ends, high conceits, and proud spirits. “From such turn away.” For the latter part of the rule in particular, concerning seducers, that a judgment of discerning by the Spirit need rest in the church and upon several members thereof is apparent.

1^st John 2:27 – Brethren, I write no new commandment unto you, but an old commandment which you had from the beginning. The old commandment is the word which you have heard from the beginning.

1^st Corinthians 2:15 – But he that is spiritual judges all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.

Isaiah 8:20 – To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.

To the exercise of this duty the Church and all within here are commanded.

1^st John 4:1 – Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

1^st Corinthians 14:29 – Let the prophets speak two or three, and let the others judge.

 Those who prove the words and actions of others by God’s word are thereby commended.

Acts 17:11 – These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

And hereunto are we encouraged and assured to be fruitful in our faith if we do these things.

Philippians 1:9 – That you may approve things that are excellent; that you may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; 11 Being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.

Hebrews 5:14 – Strong meat belongs to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have had their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

For “if the blind lead the blind, both will fall into the ditch.” It is evident that gold not tried may be suspected impure. Thus, Christians must choose the good, and refuse the evil. If their teachers could excuse themselves if they lead others astray, they might as well require blind submission from them. Consequently, that the brethren must exercise this duty aright and perform obedience to this rule, is necessary.

1. They that would get their senses exercised so as “to discern good and evil,” must first give themselves to the Scriptures and obtain a “form of sound words,” and those pertaining to the main truths of the gospel and the fundamental articles of true religion. For, upon the first apprehension of any teachings to the contrary, they must straightway turn away from him that brings it, and not bid him “God-speed.”

Hebrews 5:14 – But strong meat belongs to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.

2^nd Timothy 1:13 – Hold fast the form of sound words, which you hast heard of me, in faith and love which is in Christ Jesus.

2^nd John 10 – If there come any unto you and brings not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed.

2. Saints need to attend and hearken to nothing but what comes to them in the way of God. Some men, yes very many in our days, have such itching ears after novelty, that they run greedily after every one that lies in wait to deceive them with cunning enticing words, to make out some new pretended revelations; and this they do from a pretended liberty. Thus, it is the duty of all to be testing and proving all things, with few considering that God will only have His work done in His own way. How these deceivers come to you, it matters not, they come only that they may be heard. Believing themselves to be something they are not, these seducers and false prophets of our days are men out of God’s way, having left their own callings to wander without a call, ordinary or extra-ordinary, without providence or promise.

Romans 12 3 – For I say through the grace given unto me to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God has dealt to every man the measure of faith.

1^st Corinthians 8 2 – And if any man thinks that he knows any thing, he knows nothing yet as he ought to know.

Galatians 6 3 – For if a man think himself to be something when he is nothing, he has deceived himself.

For a man to put himself voluntarily and uncalled, upon the hearing of these false teachers, is to tempt God; with Whom it is just and righteous to deliver them up to the efficacy of error so that they may believe the lies they hear. Attend only then to and try only that which comes in the way of God. To all others bid not God-speed.

3. Saints are to be ready and furnished, always mindful of the characters which the Holy Ghost has given us in His word concerning seducers whereby poor unstable souls are ensnared by them. First, that they come in “sheep’s clothing” feigning goodly pretenses of innocency and holiness.

Matthew 7:15 – Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.

Secondly, with “good words and fair speeches,” smooth as butter and oil.

Romans 16:17 – Now I beseech you, brethren, mark them which cause divisions and offences contrary to the doctrine which you have learned; and avoid them. 18 For they that are such serve not our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly; and by good words and fair speeches deceive the hearts of the simple.

Thirdly, answering men’s lusts, they bringing doctrines suitable to the most beloved lusts of men, especially a broad and easy way of salvation.

2^nd Timothy 4:3 – For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

Fourthly, always deceiving the simple with pretenses of glorious discoveries and novel revela­tions.

 Matthew 24:24 – For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect. 25 Behold, I have told you before.

2^nd Thessalonians 2:2 – That you be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. 3 Let no man deceive you by any means…

4. Utterly reject and separate from such as have been confronted with proper means of conviction and admon­ition.

Titus 3:10 – A man that is a heretic after the first and second admonition reject; 11 Knowing that he that is such is subverted and sins, being condemned of himself.

5. Not to receive any without testimony from some of the brethren of known integrity in the churches. Such is the misery of our days, that men will run to hear those that they know not from whence they come, nor what they are. The commendable practice of the first churches to give testimonials to them that were to pass from one place to another, and not to receive any without them, is quite established.

1^st Corinthians 16:3 – And when I come, whomsoever you shall approve by your letters, them will I send to bring your liberality unto Jerusalem.

Acts 9:26 – And when Saul was come to Jerusalem, he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.

6. To walk orderly, by not attending to any doctrine not known to, or approved by the churches.
7. To remove far away all delight in novelties, disputes, janglings, contentions about words not tending to godliness, which usually are beginnings of fearful apostasies.

Acts 17:21 – (For all the Athenians and strangers which were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing.) 22 Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars’ hill, and said, “you men of Athens, I perceive that in all things you are too superstitious.”

Titus 3:9 – But avoid foolish questions, and genealogies, and contentions, and strivings about the law; for they are unprofitable and vain.

2^nd Timothy 4:3 – For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4 And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.

1^st Timothy 3:2 – A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; 3 Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; 4 One that rules well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity.

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RULE XI

Cheerfully willing to endure the lot and portion of the whole church, partaking in prosperity and affliction, and to not draw back upon any occasion whatever.

Matthew 13:20 – He that received the seed into stony places, the same is he that hears the word, and anon with joy receives it; 21 Yet he has no root in himself, so endures but for a while: for when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, by and by he is offended.

Hebrews 10:23 –  Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for He is faithful that promised;) 24 And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: 25 Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as you see the day approaching… 32 But call to remembrance the former days, in which after you were illuminated you endured a great fight of afflictions; 33 Partly, while you were made a gazing-stock both by reproaches and afflictions; and partly, while you became companions of them that were so used. 34 For you had compassion of me in my bonds, and took joyfully the spoiling of your goods, knowing in yourselves that you have in heaven a better and an enduring substance. 35 Cast not away therefore your confidence which has great recompense of reward. 36 For you have need of patience that, after you have done the will of God, you might receive the promise. 37 For yet a little while, he that shall come will come and will not tarry. 38 Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draws back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. 39 But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.

2^nd Timothy 4:10 – Demas has forsaken me, having loved this present world.… 16 At my first answer no man stood with me, but all men forsook me: I pray God that it may not be laid to their charge.

CLARIFICATION XI. Backsliding from the practice of any way of Christ, or the faithful use of any ordinances, which were taken up upon a conviction of His institution, is in no small degree an apostasy from Christ Himself. Apostasy, in what degree soever, is attended with all that aggravation which a willful surrender of the tasted sweetness and goodness from God in exchange for the temporary things of this world which one can lay upon.

Seldom it is that backsliders are without pretenses in their falling away from Christ; though commonly of what they forsake in respect of what they pretend to retain of the world, they say as Lot of Zoar, “Is it not a little one?” But yet without exception we see that such things generally tend to more ungodliness. Every unrecovered step back­wards away from Christ further exposes a falseness within the heart, revealing what former pretenses have been there.

Fools or unbelievers are they, who from ill motives of seemingly any sort, which were stirred up out of their corrupt hearts, that readily embrace whatever temporal things that are seen, when being presented a way to them with appealing colors or pretenses designed to deceitfully justify their declining from their gospel duty and return to this present world. For their lust will not allow them to want in part, and that for which they should yield to in their being tempted, will surely separate them further from Christ..

Therefore, it is the small beginnings of great evils which are to be resisted. For the neglect of the duty of which we address, is always accompanied with indifference or irreverence for the communion of saints. Selfishness and self-righteousness are main causes for the great dishonor and confusion whereinto most churches in the world are fallen. This love of the world, which Demas yielded to, was in part touched on before; and because of such it is a righteous thing with God to suffer the sons of men to wax vain in their imaginations, in whom neither the love of Christ nor the terror of the Lord prevails against their love for the world or fear of men.

May this then, with the danger and abomina­tion of backsliding, make such an impression on the hearts of the saints, that with full “purpose of heart they might cleave unto the Lord,” and “follow hard after Him” in all His ordinances. This they must do, so that if and when persecution arise, they may cheerfully “follow the Lamb whithersoever He goes.” For then, by their faithfully adhering close one to another, all might receive such mutual assistance and supportment as that their joint prayers may prevail with the goodness of God, and by their joint sufferings over­come the wickedness of men.

Now, for a close adhering to the church wherein we walk in fellowship in all conditions whatsoever, without dismission or separation upon just and equitable grounds, for the seeking and embracing of communion in some other churches, the motives are as follows:

1. The eminency and excellency of the ordinances enjoyed through obedience and faith motivated by a sacrificial love for Christ.
2. The danger of backsliding, and evidence of unsoundness in every degree thereof.
3. The obvious scandal, confusion, and disorder brought upon many people and churches by their careless neglect thereof.

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RULE XII

Allow no difference in respect of persons in church affairs, but readily condescend to the lowliest of persons and services, equally for the benefit and use of all the brethren.

James 2:1 – My brethren, have not the faith of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, with respect of persons. 2 For if there come unto your assembly a man with a gold ring, in goodly apparel, and there come in also a poor man in vile raiment; 3 And you have respect to him that wears the goodly apparel, and say unto him, “You sit here in a good place,” and say to the poor, “You stand you there, or sit here under my footstool.” 4 Are you not then partial in yourselves, and so then have become judges of evil thoughts? 5 Listen my beloved brethren, has not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which He has promised to them that love Him? 6 But you have despised the poor. Do not rich men oppress you, and draw you before the judgment seats?

Matthew 20:26 – But it shall not be so among you, but whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister. 27 And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant.

Romans 12:16, Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits.

John 13:12 – So after He had washed their feet, and had taken again His garments and was set down again, He said unto them, “Know you what I have done to you? 13 You call me Master and Lord: and you say well; for so I am. 14 If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; you also ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 For I have given you an example, that you should do as I have done to you. 16 Verily, verily, I say unto you, “The servant is not greater than his Lord; neither he that is sent greater than He that sent him.”

CLARIFICATION XII. Where the Lord has not distinguished, neither ought we. In Jesus Christ there is neither rich nor poor, high nor low, but only a new creature. Generally, “God has chosen the poor of this world to confound the mighty.“

Experience shows us that not many great, not many wise, not many mighty after the flesh, are partakers of the heavenly calling. Not that the gospel of Christ opposes in any way, or takes away those many differences and distinctions known among the sons of men that testify of their power, authority, relations, enjoyment of earthly blessings, gifts, age, or any other eminency whatsoever. Much of such is according to the institution and appointment of God, with all that respect, reverence, duty, obedience, and subjection due unto persons in those distinctions; not forgetting the ancient bounds of propriety and interest in such earthly things.

But in things purely spiritual, these outward things, which for the most part happen alike in all cultures and societies, are of no value nor should be esteem in the eyes of the saint. For all men in the church are to be considered as saints, and should not therefore be known as either great or small, rich or poor; for all in Christ are equal, and all are naked before God. For in the things of God, men are either blessed or cursed.

Matthew 5:3 – Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

4 Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.

5 Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

6 Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.

7 Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.

8 Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.

9 Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God.

10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11 Blessed are you, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.

12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

For the blessing to be cherished above all is free grace, and such as make distinctions among men in this present world are to be nothing among saints. For grace is a holy counterbalance that makes all to be brethren of the same family, servants of the same Master, each employed about work to the same end, all performed by the same precious faith, empowered by the same Spirit to the enjoyment of the same purchased privileges of fellowship with the Father and His Son, sharing a common hope and expectancy of the same recompense of reward and eternal abode.

Whence then should any difference arise? Let the greatest then account it their greatest honor  to perform the meanest necessary service to the meanest of the saints. A community in all spiritual advantages should give equality in spiritual affairs. Not he that is richest, not he that is poorest, but he that is humblest is accepted before the Lord.

Motives hereunto for such lowliness and meekness of heart are as follows:

1. Christ’s example.
2. Scripture precepts.
3. God’s nonacceptance of persons by class or merit.
4. Joint participation of the same com­mon faith, hope, etc.
5. The unprofitableness of all causes of outward differences in the things of God.

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RULE XIII

If any be in distress, under persecution, in affliction, then ought the whole church to be humbled and given to earnest prayer on the behalf of such.

Acts 12:5 – Peter therefore was kept in prison: but prayer was made without ceasing by the church unto God for him… 7 And behold, the angel of the Lord came upon him, and a light shined in the prison: and he smote Peter on the side and raised him up, saying, “Arise up quickly.” And his chains fell off from his hands… 12 And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark, where many were gathered together praying.

Romans 12:15 – Rejoice with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep.

1^st Corinthians 12:26 – Whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it. 27 Now you are the body of Christ, and each members in particular.

2^nd Thessalonians 3:1 – Finally brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified even as it is with you: 2 And that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.

CLARIFICATION XIII. This duty, being in general both made from, and included in other former rules, needs not here to be much spoken of for the support of it. Upon consideration and the supposition of our fellow-membership in Christ, it is no more duty than the very nature of godliness from which Christ in us, and us in Christ, equally requires and calls for.

As God delights in our thankful praises, so also in the fervent prayers of His churches. Therefore, He variously calls them by several dispensations to the performance of these duties. Now, often at times to spare the whole church, He does by permitting afflictions of one or more members thereof; knowing that that near relation which by His institution and Spirit is between them, it will make their distress common, and their prayers closely combined.

The spiritual union within the church, which must be ever guarded to be fully enjoyed, is more noble and excellent than the natural union among lost men in the world. For ours is founded upon the eternal precepts of the Gospel, secured by the blood of Christ, and wrought by the Holy Spirit; the bond of which is our fervent love one for another which greatly testifies to the character and glory of God.

John 13:35 – By this shall all men know that you are My disciples, if you have love one to another.

Ephesians 1:12 – That we should be to the praise of His glory, who first trusted in Christ.

Philippians 1:9 – And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; 10 That you may approve things that are excellent; that you may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; 11 Being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.

Hebrews 13:1 – Let brotherly love continue.

1^st Peter 1:21 – Who by Him do believe in God, that raised Him up from the dead and gave Him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God. 22 Seeing you have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, see that you love one another with a pure heart fervently.

Thus, in this it would be monstrous if either any member in particular, or the whole church in general, should not suffer with and be brought to a godly concern for the distress of each part and every member.

Similarly, that member which is rotten and thus needs to be cut off for fear of infecting the body, because it feels not the pains of its associates. If then, any members of the church do lie under the immediate afflicting hand of God, or the persecuting rage of man, it is the duty of every fellow-member and of the church in general to be sensible of it, and account themselves as sharers therein. All need to be instant before God with earnest supplication, and helpful to them by suitable assistance, that the spiritual concernment of all in that affliction may be apparent to the suffering ones; and that because:

First, the will of God is thereby fulfilled.

Secondly, the glory of the gospel is there­by exalted.

Thirdly, preservation and deliverance to the whole church procured.

Fourthly, conformity with Christ’s suffer­ings in His saints thereby attained.

Fifthly, an inestimable benefit of church-fellowship enjoyed.

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RULE XIV

Vigilant watchfulness over each other’s conversation, attended with mutual admonition in case of disorderly walking, with a rendering an account to the church if the of­fending party will not be prevailed upon.

Matthew 18:15 – Moreover if your brother shall trespass against you, go, and tell him his fault between you and him alone: if he shall hear you, you have gained your brother. 16 But if he will not hear you, then take with you one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. 17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglects to hear the church, let him be unto you as a heathen man and a publican.

1^st Thessalonians 5:14 – Now we exhort you brethren, warn them that are unruly.

Hebrews 3:12 – Take heed brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the living God. 13 But exhort one another daily, while it is called Today; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin.

Hebrews 10:24 – Let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: 25 exhorting one another; and so much the more, as you see the day approaching.

Hebrews 12:13 – And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed. 14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: 15 Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled; 16 Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.

Leviticus 19:17 – You shall not hate your brother in your heart: you shall in any wise rebuke your neighbour, and not suffer sin upon him.

2 Thessalonians 3:15 – Count him not as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.

Romans 15:14 – I myself also am per-suaded of you, my brethren, that you also are full of goodness, filled with all knowledge, able also to admonish one another.

James 5:19 – Brethren, if any of you do err from the truth, and one convert him;  20 Let him know, that he which converts the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins.

Proverbs 29:1 – He that being often reproved, and hardens his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.

CLARIFICATION XIV. There is a threefold duty included in this rule, the main whereof and here chiefly intended is that of admonition; whereunto the first is previous and conducing; the latter in some cases severe and consequential, necessitating appropriate action by all members towards the one who chooses to reject godly admonishment.

Whether you consider the glory of God and the Gospel therein concerned, or the bonds of Christian relations, with those mutual endearments wherein all stand and are to be engaged, and the obligations that are upon each for the general good and spiritual edification one of another, this duty is of eminent necessity and usefulness for the preservation of the cause of Christ in His body.

1^st Corinthians 5:6 – …Know you not that a little leaven leavens the whole lump? 7 Purge out therefore the old leaven, that you may be a new lump…

Not that we should curiously pry into one another’s failings, much less maliciously search into doubtful unknown things to the trouble or disparagement of our brethren, both which are contrary to that love which “thinks no evil,” but “hides a multitude of sins.“

Howbeit, we must be faithful to this rule out of a sense of the glory of God, the honor  of the gospel, and for the righteous care of each other’s souls. We are to observe their walking, that what is exemplary therein may be rightly followed, what is failing may be corrected, what is amiss may be reproved, that in all things God may be glorified and Christ exalted.

Now, admonition in the church is twofold:

1. Authoritative, by the way of power.
2. Fraternal, by the way of love.

The first, Authoritative, is again twofold:

1. Doctrinal, by the way of teaching.
2. Disciplinary, which belongs to the whole church.

The latter, Fraternal, is again twofold:

1. Exhortatory, to encourage unto good.
2. Admonitory, to reprove that which is amiss.

It is this last which is peculiarly aimed at and intended in the rule; to correct or reprove that which is amiss within the body. This we assert as the duty of every church member towards them with whom he walks in fellowship, to admonish any from the word whom he perceives not walking in anything with a right foot, as becomes that of the gospel; and thereby to recover his soul to the right way.

Much wisdom and caution, tenderness, and moderation, is required in the persons performing this duty, for the want thereof in some will often degenerate this necessity from a peaceable remedy of evil, into fuel for strife and needless debate among the unlearned and cause further division. Let them then, who are called to perform this duty, diligently consider the following things:

1. That in the whole action he is careful to not transgress that rule of charity which we have.

1^st Corinthians 13:7 – [Charity] bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

Galatians 6:2 – Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, you which are spiritual restore such a one in the spirit of meekness; considering yourself, lest you also be tempted.

2. Let him have peace at home, by an assurance of constant laboring to cast out all beams and motes from his own eye.

Matthew 7:5 –  You hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of your own eye; and then shall you see clearly to cast out the mote out of your brother’s eye.

3. Let him so perform it that it may evidently appear that he has no other aim but the glory of God and the good of his brother reproved, with all envy and rejoicing in evil being far away.
4. Let him be sure to draw his admonitions solely from the word, that the authority of God may appear therein, and without the word let him not presume to judge or speak.
5. Let all circumstances attending time, place, persons, and the like, be duly weighed, that all provocation to the least manner may be fully avoided.
6. Let it be considered as an ordinance whereunto Christ has special regard for the sake of His body remaining holy.
7. Let him carefully distinguish between personal injuries unto himself, whose mention must have far more of forgiveness than reproof, and those offences that tend to public scandal of the Gospel and the Church.
8. Let self-examination concerning the same, or the like miscarriage of charity, always accompany the brotherly admon­ition.

All these things and the like being duly weighed, let every brother with Christian courage faithfully admonish from the word everyone whom he judges to walk disorderly in any particular whatsoever.

Yet, while we are not to suffer sin upon another, we must be ready to receive comfort and satisfaction upon a brother’s just defense, or promised amendment; for with­out this, in case of true offence, one man could never be freed from the guilt of other men’s sins.

Ezekiel 3:18 – When I say unto the wicked, “You shall surely die;” and you give him no warning, nor speak to warn the wicked from his wicked way to save his life; the same wicked man shall die in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at your hand.

Acts 18:6 – And when they opposed them­selves and blasphemed, he shook his raiment and said unto them, “Your blood be upon your own heads; I am clean. From hence­forth I go unto the Gentiles.”

Acts – 20:26 – Wherefore I take you to record this day, that I am pure from the blood of all men. 27 For I have not shunned to declare unto you all the counsel of God.

Let also the person being admonished accept the admonition with all Christian patience, without any more regret of spirit than he would have against him who should break the weapon wherewith he was in danger to be slain.

Psalm 141:5 – Let the righteous smite me and it shall be a kindness. Let him reprove me and it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head. For yet my prayer shall also be with them in their calamities.

Proverbs 9:8 – Reprove not a scorner, lest he hate you. Rebuke a wise man, and he will love you. 9 Give instruction to a wise man, and he will be yet wiser. Teach a just man, and he will increase in learning.

 Proverbs 14:16 – A wise man fears and departs from evil: but the fool rages and is confident.

He who is being admonished would be wise to consider the following soberly and prayer­fully:

1. The authority of Him who has appointed his admonition.
2. The privilege and mercy he can now enjoy by such a spiritual intervention preventing such a danger, or the provision of a way out of such an evil which perhaps himself did not or could not discern.
3. The dreadful judgments threatening wrath, which are plentiful in scriptures on despisers of reproofs, and so thankfully accept a just admonition even from the meanest in the congregation.

Proverbs 29:1 – He, that being often reproved hardens his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.

For the last, or repairing unto the church in case of not prevailing by private admonition, our Saviour has so plainly laid down both the manner admonition, as well as the end of such proceeding, that to the teachable it ought to need no further explanation.

Matthew 18:15 – Moreover if your brother shall trespass against you, go, and tell him his fault between you and him alone: if he shall hear you, you have gained your brother. 16 But if he will not hear you, then take with you one or two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. 17 And if he shall neglect to hear them, tell it unto the church: but if he neglects to hear the church, let him be unto you as a heathen man and a publican.

Only here I shall observe that by “church” there in verse 17, it cannot be understood as the elders of the church alone, but rather the whole congregation. For if the offended brother should take with him two or three of the elders unto the offender, as he well may, and such were to be considered “the church,” then “the church” would be told of the offence before the reproof has been managed by two or three, which is obviously contrary to the whole of the rule.

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RULE XV

Exemplary walking in all holiness and godliness of conver­sation, to the glory of the gospel, edification of the church, and for conviction of them which are without.

Psalm 24:3 – Who shall ascend into the hill of the LORD? Or who shall stand in His holy place? 4 He that has clean hands and a pure heart, who has not lifted up his soul unto vanity, nor sworn deceitfully.

Matthew 5:16 – Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven. 20 For I say unto you, “That except your righteousness shall exceed the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.”

Matthew 21:19 – When He saw a fig-tree in the way and He came to it and found nothing thereon but leaves only, He said unto it, “Let no fruit grow on you henceforward forever,” etc.

2^nd Corinthians 7:1 – Having therefore these promises dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.

2^nd Timothy 2:19 – Let everyone that names the name of Christ depart from iniquity.

Titus 2:11 – For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, 12 Teaching us that denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; 13 Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; 14 Who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

Ephesians 4:21 – If so be that you have heard Him, and have been taught by Him, as the truth is in Jesus: 22 That you put off concerning the former conversation of the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; 23 And be renewed in the spirit of your mind.

1^st Peter 3:1 – Likewise, you wives, be in subjection to your own husbands; that if any obey not the word, they also may without the word be won by the conversation of the wives; 2 While they behold your chaste conver­sation coupled with fear.

Hebrews 12:14 – Follow peace with all men, and holiness without which no man shall see the Lord.

Ephesians 5:15 – See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, 16 redeeming the time because the days are evil.

2^nd  Samuel 12:14 – Howbeit, because by this deed you have given great occasion to the enemies of the LORD to blaspheme, the child also that is born unto you shall surely die.

CLARIFICATION XV. Holiness becomes the house of the Lord forever; without it none shall see God. Christ died to wash His church and to present it before His Father without spot or blemish; that He might purchase unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. It is the kingdom of God within us, and by which it appears unto all that we are the children of the kingdom.

Let this be the great discriminating character of the church from the world, that they are a holy, humble, self-denying people. Because our Master is holy, His doctrine and worship are holy, let us therefore strive that our hearts may also be holy.

This is our wisdom towards them that are without, whereby they may be guided or convinced; this is the means whereby we build up one another most effectually. Examples are a sharper way of instruction than precepts.

Loose walking, which causes the name of God to be blasphemed, the little ones of Christ to be offended, and His enemies to rejoice, is attended to with the most dreadful woes. O that all who are called to a holy profession, and do enjoy holy ordinances, did shine also in holiness of conversation that those who accuse them as evil doers might have their mouths stopped and their hearts filled with shame, to the glory of the gospel!

To this general head belongs wise walking, in all patience, meekness, and longsuffering towards those that are without, until they evidently appear to be fighters against God, when they are to be prayed for. Hither, also might be referred the patience of the saints in all tribulations, sufferings, and perse­cutions for the name of Christ.

Motives for the exercise of universal holi­ness, in acts internal and external, private, and public, personal and of all relations, are as follows:

1. The utter insufficiency of the most precious ordinances for any communion with God without holiness.
2. The miserable issue of deceived souls, with their barren, empty, fruitless faith.
3. The glory of the gospel, when the power of holiness has an evident impression on the hearts, thoughts, words, actions, and lives of professors.
4. Scandal of the gospel, the advantage of its adversaries, the shame of the church, and fierce wrath of God, following the unsuitable walking of vain professors.

Isaiah 29:13 – Wherefore the Lord said, “Forasmuch as this people draw near Me with their mouths, and with their lips they do honor towards Me, but they have removed their hearts far from Me, for their fear toward Me is taught by the precept of men.”

Matthew 7:22 – Many will say to Me in that day, “Lord, Lord, have we not prophe­sied in Your name? And in Your name have cast out devils? And in Your name done many wonderful works?”23 And then will I profess unto them, “I never knew you: depart from Me, you that worked iniquity.”

5. The sweet reward which the practice of holiness brings along with it even in this life, with that eternal weight of glory where unto it leads hereafter; unto which the holy Son of God brings us all, and that through the precious sprinkling of His most holy blood!

And these are but some of those rules, rules within God’s word for all men, the practice of which is required of all who adorns the profession of being Christ’s own people. Rules for those who have been called by grace to walk together with Jesus Christ in fellowship with the Father; fellowship purchased by His death and given us by His resurrection. Thus true saints will purpose to walk according to all the rules of the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, even as He purposed to give Himself for our sins, that we might be holy, for He is holy.
Such rules are to be practiced towards others without, as they should with several limitations, yet always in their full latitude towards the brethren of the congregations. For these rules will surely assist all who seek holy communion with each other and the Father, only through Christ, and only by the Holy Spirit. Thus ought all observed these rules who claim the name of Christ, that they sin not, nor take His name in vain.

Psalm 133:1 – Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! 2 It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; 3 As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the LORD commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.

Psalm 134:1 – Behold, bless you the LORD, all you servants of the LORD, which by night stand in the house of the LORD. 2 Lift up your hands in the sanctuary, and bless the LORD. 3 The LORD that made heaven and earth bless thee out of Zion.

The End