A brief instruction in the worship of God, and discipline of the churches of…

The Office of them that are to instruct the Church in the name and authority of Christ, is one and the same, as hath been showed before. And there are many names that are equally accommodated unto all that are partakers of it, as Elders, Bishops, Guides; They are all alike Elders, alike Bishops, alike Guides, have the one office in common amongst them, and every one the whole entire unto himself. But there are names also given unto them, whereby they are distinguished, not as to Office, but as to their work and employment in the discharge of that office: such are Pastors and Teachers, Ephes. 4.11. Which are placed as distinct persons in their work, partakers of the same Office. Now the foundation of this distinction and difference lies.

The Office of them that are to instruct the Church in the name and authority of Christ, is one and the same, as hath been shewed before. And there are many names that are equally accommodated unto all that are partakers of it, as Elders, Bishops, Guides; They are all alike Elders, alike Bishops, alike Guides, have the one office in common amongst them, and every one the whole intire unto himself. But there are names also given unto them, whereby they are distinguisht, not as to Office, but as to their work and employment in the discharge of that office: such are Pastors and Teachers, Ephes. 4.11. Which are placed as distinct persons in their work, partakers of the same Office. Now the foundation of this distinction and difference lyes.

First, In the different gifts that they have received; For although it be required in them all, that they have received all ⟨p. 153⟩those gifts, abilities, and qualifications which are necessary for the work of the Ministry, yet as to the degrees of their participation of their gifts, some may more excel in one, others in another,