to one possessing not a particle of spiritual gift—yea, it may be, not a particle of spiritual life—he is nevertheless a recognized minister. In short, man’s authority without Christ’s gift makes a man a minister; whereas Christ’s gift without man’s authority does not. If this be not a dishonor done to the Lord Christ, what is? Christian reader, pause here, and deeply ponder this principle of human authority. We confess we are anxious you should get to the root of it, and judge it thoroughly, in
Page 25