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

Fourthly, Yea if there were not such a duty upon Church-officers in confirming of others, why should the Apostle likewise to Timothy use that severe and dreadful adjuration? 1 Tim, 5.21. where Timothy is charged before God, in reference to this matter of laying on of hands, as well as other things, and Christ and the holy Angels, that he do nothing with partiality, nor be too hasty herein, lest we partake of other mens sins: How could this be, but that men are not of themselves to intrude thereunto, otherwise their sins would be upon their own heads, who go without a Call?

Fourthly, Yea if there were not such a duty upon Church-officers in confirming of others, why should the Apostle likewise to Timothy use that severe and dreadfull adjuration? 1 Tim, 5.21. where Timothy is charged before God, in reference to this matter of laying on of hands, as well as other things, and Christ and the holy Angels, that he do nothing with partiality, nor be too hasty herein, lest we partake of other mens sinnes: How could this be, but that men are not of themselves to intrude thereunto, otherwise their sins would be upon their own heads, who go without a Call?

Fifthly, When the Apostle saith, Lay hands suddenly on no man; In that negative command is contained an affirmative, as Walleus well observeth, viz. with deliberation and good advice to lay hands on those that are sufficiently qualified: so that there is not only an example but a command, and that laying on of hands is not a mere accidental Ceremony, appeareth, in that by this action he describeth the whole confirmation in that Office, which Synecdoche could not be, unless it were either an essential part, or a proper and inseparable adjunct. Certainly these Arguments may satisfy any that are not contentious. This hath been ever both in the Apostles days, and since their time, a constant custom, judged to be grounded upon the Scripture. Neither may we look for such cogent and clear demonstrations in matter of Church order, as in Fundamental Doctrines. If any desire further insight, he may peruse those several learned Tractates that have lately come out to confirm this Truth.