of every kind, in order to fix the whole bent of our minds on the study of the Holy Scriptures, and of those things which will assist us in the under- standing of them. It directs us to be instant in prayer to God for the assistance of his Holy Spirit, by whose gracious influences alone we shall be en- abled to fulfil our duties aright. And, finally, it enjoins us so to regulate our own lives, and so to govern our respective families, that we may be patterns to all around us ; and that we may be able to address our congregations in the language of St. Paul, "Whatsoever ye have heard and seen in me, do : and the God of peace shall be with you." But it will be satisfactory to you to hear the very words of the exhortation itself: " If it shall happen the same Church, or any member thereof, to take any hurt or hinderance by reason of your negligence, ye know the greatness of the fault, and also the horrible punishment that will ensue. Wherefore consider with yourselves the end of your ministry towards the chil- dren of God, towards the spouse and body of Christ; and see that you never cease your labour, your care and diligence, until you have done all that lieth in you, according to your bounden duty, to bring all such as are or shall be committed to your charge unto that agreement in the faith and knowledge of God, and to that ripeness and perfectness of age in Christ, that there be no place left among you, either for error in religion, or for viciousness of life."
" Forasmuch then as your office is both of so great excellency, and of so great difficulty, ye see with how great care and study ye ought to apply your- selves, as well that ye may shew yourselves dutiful and thankful unto that Lord who hath placed you in so high a dignity; as also to beware that neither you yourselves offend, nor be the occasion that others offend. Howbeit ye cannot have a mind and will thereto of yourselves ; for that will and ability is given of God alone : therefore ye ought, and have need to pray earnestly for his Holy Spirit. And seeing that you cannot by any other means compass