82 A CIÎRISTÍAIQ CHURCH. condescension, were but more universally taught and prac- tised, and the furious and narrow spirits of men tempered and enlarged, according to the glorious pattern of the apostles of Christ. SECT. VI.Here will occur another enquiry also; and that is, "when the congregation itself is divided in their sentiments, how must any proposed question be determined ? Or whether a proposed communicant must be admitted ?" I answer; in all such cases, the light of nature and the common usage of man- kind have determined it, that the greater number should carry the question according to their sentiment, and the lesser ought to submit. But I would take the liberty to give my opinion in point of prudence thus : That though, in questions of less moment, it is proper enough that the major vote should decide the case; yet, in an affair of considerable importance, suchas the choice of a minister, or the receiving a member to constantcommunion, &c. if it were possible, I would obtain an universal concurrence of all the church, ; for it would be better, if such a thingcould be so managed, as, that no old member of the church be made uneasy by receiving a new one; much less should a church, that will act with prudence, admit a new member contrary to the sentiments of their minister, or give occasion of grief to him; as I have before hinted. But, surely, I would never determine the affair only by a, majority of one or two voices; for this will be in danger of giving so great an uneasiness to a considerable number of the church, though they happen tobe theminor part, that oftentimes it will administer occasion for strife,, division and separation. There is one piece of prudence that we may learn from our greatest enemies, thepope, and the conclave of cardinals ; who, in the election of a new pope, never appoint the personbut by the vote of two-thirds of the college of cardinals; that in an affair of such importance, there may be no dangerous contention of parties after the person is elected. And I should think this so valuable a ruleof prudence in the sacred affairs of the church of Christ, that no matter of moment should ever be determined, sinless two-thirds or moreof the congregation agreeto it. And indeed, if there he a firm opposition made, but by two or three considerable members, against the admission of any new com- municant, I would not be hasty to admit the person, but rather persuade him to delay, or to. seek communion elsewhere, than endanger the peace of awhole church. I desire it may be noted herb, that I liave only delivered my private opinion concerning the distinct power of elders, ministers, and votes of the people, in admission of members to the communion of the church : But wlmether the power of receiving or eácludingbe vested entirely in the people, or in theminister, or in both together; whether by
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