SECTION III. 21 of their church-officers. The scripture itself makes it 'evident, that deacons were chosen by the people in primitive times. Acts Ni. 3. Brethren, look ye out from among you seven men, &c. verses 5 -7. And these were to be entrusted only with the money, or temporal things of the church. And nature, and uni- versal custotn, teach us, that physicians and lawyers, who are en- trusted with the care of the bodies and estates of men; are not imposed on us by others, but are chosen by the persons who en- trust them. If I would learn philosophy, or any science, art, or trade, I have a natural right to chose who shall instruct me in it. Even children are allowed to chose their own guardians ; and boys, whoare apprentices, tochase theirown masters. And dotli not reason loudly proclaim this truth, that the guides of our souls in religion ought to be chosen by ourselves when we are at the age of man, as being a matter of dearer and more divine impor- tance than any other ; and an affair in whose success none can be so much concerned as ourselves; for it is of ourselves that God will expect a final account. Let us take heed then to our own conduct in this matter, and remember, that the New Testament has never appointed any uninspired men to chase pastors or teachers for a whole assembly of people, and impose them upon the assembly, or upon any particular members thereof, against their will. 3. It is certain also, that due care ought to be taken. that Om persons be fitly qualified who are chosen into this office or minis- try: And though private christians have a right to chase their ministers, and may best judge of the general suitableness of their talents to their own edification, yet they are seldom so fit judges of the learnedqualifications of ministers,,as those who have been some years ministers, pastors, or teachers themselves, whether of the same or of neighbouring churches ; and therefore, reason tells us, it is generally most proper that some of these more knowing and experienced men should be consulted in this matter ; and after due examination and knowledge of the person, their appro- bation be obtained to encourage thechoice of the people, where it can be conveniently had : And therefore, in scripture, as I shalt shew immediately, we never find any ordinations by the people, alone without superior helps; nor should it ever be done, where such helps can be obtained. 4. May I not add, It is certain also, that there ought to be some sacred solemnity attending the investiture or ordination of every such officer? This has always been done in all nations, both in civil and sacred affairs. This ought to be done by a so- lemn and public dedication of himself to this service, with the prayers of the church 'concurring to seek a divine blessing on him therein. Reason itself dictates this as a most proper prac- tice. And it is certain, that the union and assistance of a few 11 3
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