The true nature of a Gospel church and its government

FOR the First, it is evident that Rule is an Act of Office or of Office-Power: For it requires, (1.) An especial Relation; there is so between him that Ruleth, and them that are Ruled; and this is the Relation of Office, or all confusion will ensue. (2.) Especial Prelation. He that Rules, is over, is above them that are Ruled; Obey them that are over you in the Lord ▪ This in the Church cannot be in any, but by virtue of Office▪ (3.) Especial Authority. All lawful Rule is an Act of Authority; and there is no Authority in the Church, but by virtue of Office. Secondly, That this Officer is distinct from all others in the Church, we shall immediately demonstrate, when we have a little further cleared the Context. Wherefore,

5. IT is confessed that respect is had unto Gifts; having different Gifts, ver. 6, 7. As all Office-Power in the Church is founded in them, Ephes. 4.7, 8, 9, 11, 12. But Gifts, absolutely with reference unto common use, are not intended, as in some other places. But they are spoken of with respect unto Offices or Functions, and the communication of them unto Officers, for the discharge of their Office. This is evident from the Text and Context, with the whole design of the place: For,

1. THE Analysis of the place directs unto this Interpretation. Three sorts of Duties are prescribed unto the Church in this Chapter. (1.) Such as are Universal, belonging absolutely unto all, and every one that appertains unto it; which are declared ver. 1.2. (2.) Such as are peculiar unto some, by virtue of that especial place which they have in the Church, ver. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8. This can be nothing but Office. (3.) Such as are general or common, with respect unto occasions, from ver. 8. to the end of the Chapter. Hence the same Duty is doubly prescribed; to some in way of especial Office, to others in the