The true nature of a Gospel church and its government

IT were much to be desired, that all those who take upon them this Pastoral Office, did well consider and understand how great and necessary a part of their Work and Duty doth ⟨p. 92⟩consist in their continual fervent Prayer for their Flocks. For besides that it is the only instituted way, whereby, they may by virtue of their Office bless their Congregations, so will they find their Hearts and Minds in and by the discharge of it, more and more filled with love, and engaged with diligence, unto all other Duties of their Office, and excited unto the Exercise of all Grace towards the whole Church on all occasions. And where any are negligent herein, there is no Duty which they perform towards the Church, but it is influenced with false considerations, and will not hold weight in the balance of the Sanctuary.

3. THE Administration of the Seals of the Covenant is committed unto them as the Stewards of the House of Christ. For unto them the Authoritative Dispensation of the Word is committed, whereunto the Administration of the Seals is annexed. For their principal end is, the peculiar Confirmation and Application of the Word Preached. And herein there are three things that they are to attend unto. (1.) The Times and Seasons of their Administration unto the Churches Edification, especially that of the Lords Supper whose frequency is enjoined. It is the Duty of Pastors to consider all the necessary Circumstances of their Administration, as unto Time, Place, Frequency, Order and Decency. (2.) To keep severely unto the Institution of Christ, as unto the way and manner of their Administration. The gradual introduction of uninstituted Rites and Ceremonies into the Church-Celebration of the Ordinance of the Lords Supper, ended at length in the Idolatry of the Mass. Herein then, alone, and not in bowing, cringing, and vestments, lies the Glory and Beauty of these Administrations; namely, that they are compliant with, and expressive of the Institution of Christ; nor is any thing done in them, but in express obedience unto his Authority. I have received of the Lord, that which I delivered unto you, saith the Apostle in this case,