The true nature of a Gospel church and its government

5. THE substance of these and all other Instances or Testimonies of the same kind, is this; Those whose names are the same equally common and applicable unto them all, whose Function is the same, whose Qualifications and Characters are the same, whose Duties, Account and Reward are the same, concerning whom there is in no one place of Scripture the least mention of inequality, disparity or preference in Office among them, they are essentially and every way the same. That thus it is with the Elders and Bishops in the Scripture cannot modestly be denied.

I do acknowledge that where a Church is greatly increased, so as that there is a necessity of many Elders in it for its Instruction and Rule, that Decency and Order do require, that one of them do in the management of all Church Affairs preside, to guide and direct the way and manner thereof. So the Presbyters at Alexandria did choose one from among themselves that should have the preeminence of a President among them. Whether the Person that is so to preside, be directed unto by being first Converted or first Ordained, or on the account of Age, or of Gifts and Abilities, whether he continue for a Season only, and then another be deputed unto the same Work, or for his Life, are things in themselves indifferent, to be determined according unto the General Rules of Reason and Order, with respect unto the Edification of the Church.

I do acknowledge that where a Church is greatly encreased, so as that there is a necessity of many Elders in it for its Instruction and Rule, that Decency and Order do require, that one of them do in the management of all Church Affairs preside, to guide and direct the way and manner thereof. So the Presbyters at Alexandria did choose one from among themselves that should have the preheminence of a President among them. Whether the Person that is so to preside, be directed unto by being first Converted or first Ordained, or on the account of Age, or of Gifts and Abilities, whether he continue for a Season only, and then another be deputed unto the same Work, or for his Life, are things in themselves indifferent, to be determined according unto the General Rules of Reason and Order, with respect unto the Edification of the Church.