A treatise of self-denial. By Richard Baxter, pastor of the church at KidderminsterA treatise of self-denial. By Richard Baxter, pastor of the church at Kederminster

And by personal reproaches and dishonours it is that the Doctrine of the Reformed Divines is made so odious among the Lutherans; and the like instances might be given in others. If now any weighty Christian Verity should be asserted by any Pastor of the Church, in a sounder and clearer manner, than is commonly known or owned, if the person that doth it, should but fall under any reproach (which he shall be sure of if the Devil can procure it) it's two to one but for his sake his Doctrine will be stigmatized with the name of error, and so lie buried for ever, till Divine Omnipotency commands its Resurrection. And hence it is that there is not one Instrument that ever God raiseth up to vindicate any truth, or ordinance, or do him any special service, but Satan raiseth up tongues and pens if not hands and swords against him, and an Army of reproachers will presently be on the back of him.

And by personal reproaches and dishonours it is that the Doctrine of the Reformed Divines is made so odious among the Lutherans; and the like instances might be given in others. If now any weighty Christian Verity should be asserted by any Pastor of the Church, in a sounder and clearer manner, than is commonly known or owned, if the person that doth it, should but fall under any reproach (which he shall be sure of if the Devil can procure it) it's two to one but for his sake his Doctine will be stigmatized with the name of error, and so lie buried for ever, till Divine Omnipotency commands its Resurrection. And hence it is that there is not one Instrument that ever God raiseth up to vindicate any truth, or ordinance, or do him any special service, but Satan raiseth up tongues and pens if not hands and swords against him, and an Army of reproachers will presently be on the back of him.

Now in all such cases as these, it is a great duty for any servant of Christ to be very regardful of his Reputation even with Posterity: For his good name may much promote the Truth, as we know the Name of Austin, Calvin, and many another doth at this day. And if it be our great duty to extend our service ⟨p. 322⟩of God as far as we can, to all Countries, and to all posterity, to do them good; then is it our duty to endeavour that a good Reputation should go along with our labours to further the success, or remove impediments. And thus while we are sincere, and intend all for God, we may and must regard our honour; and yet in so doing we Deny our selves, because we do it not for our selves but for God and his Church.