just stated is one of the radical principles of our system. It is enough to advert to the recognition of it involved in the office of ruling elder. Ruling elders are declared to be the representatives of the people. They are chosen by them to act in their name in the government of the Church. The functions of these elders, therefore, determine the power of the people; for a representative is one chosen by others to do in their name what they are entitled to do in their own persons; or rather to exercise