2. The minister's failing is the people's punishment, Amos 8:11, 12;
to be for assistance, encouragement, abilities, success, deliverance, and protection, is proved in the rule. As their temptations are multiplied, so ought prayers in their behalf. They have many curses of men against them, Jer. 15:10;—it is hoped that God hears some prayers for them. When many are not ashamed to revile them in public, some ought to be ashamed not to remember them in private.
Motives:— 1. The word will doubtless be effectual, when ability for its administration is a return of prayers, Acts 10:1–6.
2. The minister's failing is the people's punishment, Amos 8:11, 12; Isa. 30:20.
3. His prayers are continually for the church, Isa. 62:6, 7; Rom. 1:9, etc.
4. That for which he stands in so much need of prayers is the saints' good, and not peculiarly his own. Help him who carries the burden,
Eph. 6:18–20; Phil 2:17; Col. 1:24.
RULE IV. Reverential estimation of him, with submission unto him for his work's sake.
1 Cor. 4:1, "Let a man so account of us, as of the ministers of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God."
1 Thess. 5:12, 13, "We beseech you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work's sake."
1 Tim. 5:17, "Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine."