CXLV expository sermons upon the whole 17th chapter of the Gospel according to St.…

2.¹ That which we call the Vocation or Authorizing of one to the Office of the Ministry, consists in these things,

1. 1Vocation to the Office of the Ministry, consists in these things.

1. An inward Qualification of the person, with such gifts as God requireth, and they are reduced by Paul to two heads, they are Doctrinal for his learning, that he be apt to teach, that he can divide the word of God aright, &c. as a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, that he be able to convince gain-sayers. ¹These gifts require Learning and Knowledge. So that a gift to pray well, or to speak about plain doctrinal things in Religion, though with much affection and zeal, is not the whole Ministerial gift; for the Apostle requireth more; viz. such sound knowledge in matters controverted, that he may be able to convince gain-sayers. And

1. 1I. Inward qualifications.

The second Qualification, is for his life, that it be holy and unblameable. Therefore the sin of a Minister is greater then another mans, by reason of his Office. Hence the same Sacrifice was appointed for the Priests sin, as was for the sin of the whole Congregation, Levit. 4. To this qualification, some had an inward promptitude and readiness of heart, with an holy zeal being moved by God to this work. Now although this may be granted in some, yet the Apostle requireth it not as a necessary qualification; yea it's the duty of some to be called to the Ministry, who through their modesty or fear fly from it, as much as they can. Thus Moses refused the Office he was called unto, insomuch that the anger of God is said to be kindled against him,