←438
←438
Quesnel on Rom. 1.1, and John 10.1, 2. Calvin gives the same view—‘Est autem bonum cordis nostri testimonium, quod neque ambitione, neque avaritia, neque ulla alia cupiditate, sed sincero Dei timore, et aedificandse Ecclesiae studio oblatum munus recipiamus. Id quidem unicuique nostrum (ut dixi), si volumus Ministerium nostrum Deo approbare, necessariumest.’ Instit. Lib. iv. c. iii. 11. Comber supposes that our Reformers had this definition in their view in framing the important question in the Ordination Service, which was written a few years after the publication of the Institutes. Philip Henry gave a most beautiful exposition of this desire, in answer to the question put to him at his Ordination.—‘As far as upon search and inquiry I can find up to now, though there is that within me that would seek great things for myself (if indeed they were to be found in this calling), yet with my mind I do not seek them. But it is the improvement of the talent which I have received in the service of the Gospel, for the glory of God, and the salvation of souls, I hope is in my eyes. If there is any thing else, I do not admit it—I do not allow it. While so many “seek their own,” it is my desire, and it shall be my endeavour, to “seek the things of Jesus Christ.” ‘Life, p. 34—Matthew Henry’s self-inquiry at the same sacred season was of a similar spirit. ‘1. What am I?’ Have I been convinced of my condition, and been humbled for my sin? Have I heartily given myself to Christ? Have I a real hatred of sin, and love of holiness? 2. What have I done? Time trifled! opportunities lost! engagements broken! conversation unprofitable! forgetfulness of God and of duty! 3. From what principles do I undertake this work? I trust from a persuasion of the Divine institution of the Ministry, of the necessity of a Divine call, and of my call to the work: from zeal for God, and love for precious souls. 4. What are my ends in this work? Not taking it as a trade to live by; not to get myself a name, or to maintain a party; but aiming at the glory of God, and the good of souls. 5. What do I want? That God would fix my heart in dedication to the work; that he would be with me at my Ordination; that he would fit me for my work with the gifts of knowledge, utterance, and prudence; and with all Ministerial graces, especially sincerity and humility; and that he would open a door of opportunity to me. 6. What are my resolutions? To have nothing to do with sin; to abound in gospel obedience; to consider my Ordination Vow in the employment of my talents, the maintenance of the truth, the charge of my family, the superintendence of my flock, and the endurance of opposition. Abridged from M. Henry’s Life. p. 34-44.