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

Thirdly, There must be an Examination and Approbation of his Gifts by those who are in Church office: For this end the Apostle doth lay down so many properties of those who are to be made Elders, which were not to any purpose, if they were not to be examined; yea, it's directly set down in the Office of Deacons, which is an inferior Office, 1 Tim. 3.10. Let them first be proved, and then let them have the Office of a Deacon, and when Timothy is enjoined, 1 Tim. 5.22. To lay hands suddenly on no man, lest he be partaker of others mens sins. This inferreth the great examination and trial he is to take of them.

Thirdly, There must be an Examination and Approbation of his Gifts by those who are in Church office: For this end the Apostle doth lay down so many properties of those who are to be made Elders, which were not to any purpose, if they were not to be examined; yea, it's directly set down in the Office of Deacons, which is an inferiour Office, 1 Tim. 3.10. Let them first be proved, and then let them have the Office of a Deacon, and when Timothy is enjoyned, 1 Tim. 5.22. To lay hands suddenly on no man, lest he be partaker of others mens sins. This inferreth the great examination and trial he is to take of them.

Lastly, There is the confirming them in the Office, by laying on of hands with fasting and prayer. This is the constant example of all that were set apart to the Ministerial Office, that we read of in the Scripture, Act. 14.23. and therefore who may presume to do otherwise, when not one instance can be given to the contrary? I do not here dispute in whom this constituting or ordaining