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

¹I answer, It's true, the Apostle there mentioneth extraordinary and ordinary Officers, because he is to speak of the whole fruit of Christs Ascension to his Church, and so because Apostles were a great and principal part of Christs gift to his Church, and the influence of their labours upon the Church to the end of the world, and therefore they are called the foundation, Rev. 21.14. Hence they are mentioned as well as the ordinary; only the difference between these two may appear in the qualifications of either, for to an Apostle was required gifts of miracles, an universal Commission and Authority, infallibility of assistance, &c. but to the ordinary Elders there is no such thing required, but what may be in an ordinary manner attained unto.

1. 1Answ.

Thirdly, When we say, A Ministry is appointed for spiritual ends, it's good to know in particular what they are. And

1. You see it's in the Text, To work Faith: And therefore faith is said to come by hearing. The ear that is the organ of learning and knowledge, as also of faith. It's observed by a learned man, That though we read of godly persons, that could not see or speak, yet of none that could not hear, because that was the instrument of faith, yet this is not so to be urged, as if a godly man might not be made deaf, only it's a sad affliction, because by hearing faith is begotten and increased: What enemies then are such to their souls, who care not for hearing, who give over hearing, come now and then it may be for sinful ends, whereas by hearing the Word preached God hath appointed to give thee faith? Art thou not then such an atheistical or profane man, because thou doest no more regard this hearing of Gods word preached? Be swift to hear, said the Apostle