The works of George Swinnock, M.A

1. In a mutual Communication of their graces and gifts; Grace is given us, not only for our selves, but also for the good of the Saints, 1 Cor. 12. 5, 6. There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit; differences of administration, but the same Lord; diversities of operation, but the same God, which worketh all in all; But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal. The water of life is like a common stream, for the benefit of many. 2. In a mutual joining in the ordinances of God, Act. 2. 43. The Servants of the same Lord, wait upon him, sometimes singly, sometimes in company. There are set seasons, wherein they all meet ⟨p. 276⟩together to attend him, though when they are parted they are all about his business; And the same day there were added to the Church three thousand souls; And they continued steadfastly in the Apostles, Doctrine and Fellowship, and breaking of Bread, and Prayer. 3. In mutual serviceableness each to other. Every man is a Steward to manage his abilities for others good, and to improve his Talents for his Masters glory; Now if our stock were our own, that we were the Proprietors, to let it lie still would argue us guilty of much folly; but when it is altogether another's, and we are but factors for him, to neglect the improvement of it, speaks us arrant thieves, and guilty of unfaithfulness;¹ As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good Stewards of the manifold grace of God, 1 Pet. 4. 10. Its but an ill property of the Swan, that she cannot endure the Goose should come near her, to take part of her food. Though it might be a fault in the Church of Syracuse, what Hilary mentions, that by a Law there was a community of outward goods; yet I am sure it is none, that there should be a community of spiritual gifts. Wicked men are said to be of the night, but Saints of the day; now as the day enlightens and warms all it shines on, calls them to their work, to their walk, and helpeth to prevent their fa•ls and wandering; even so should the Saints, In love serve one another,