The true nature of a Gospel church and its government

THE consideration of the State of the Poor unto whom the Contributions of the Church are to be ministered, belongs unto the discharge of this Office. As, (1.) That they are Poor indeed, and do not pretend themselves so to be, for advantage. (2.) What are the Degrees of their Poverty, with respect unto their Relations and Circumstances, that they may have suitable Supplies. (3.) That in other things they walk according unto Rule. (4.) In particular that they Work and Labour according to their Ability; for he that will not labour must not eat at the public Charge. (5.) To Comfort, Counsel and Exhort them unto Patience, Submission, Contentment with ⟨p. 186⟩their Condition, and Thankfulness; all which might be enlarged and confirmed, but that they are obvious.

THE consideration of the State of the Poor unto whom the Contributions of the Church are to be ministred, belongs unto the discharge of this Office. As, (1.) That they are Poor indeed, and do not pretend themselves so to be, for advantage. (2.) What are the Degrees of their Poverty, with respect unto their Relations and Circumstances, that they may have suitable Supplies. (3.) That in other things they walk according unto Rule. (4.) In particular that they Work and Labour according to their Ability; for he that will not labour must not eat at the publick Charge. (5.) To Comfort, Counsel and Exhort them unto Patience, Submission, Contentment with ⟨p. 186⟩their Condition, and Thankfulness; all which might be enlarged and confirmed, but that they are obvious.

THE Qualifications of Persons to be called unto this Office, are distinctly laid down by the Apostles, 1 Tim. 3.8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13. Upon the Trial, Knowledge and Approbation of them, with respect unto these Qualifications, their Call to this Office consists. (1.) In the choice of the Church. (2.) In a separation unto it by Prayer and Imposition of Hands,