the preaching of the gospel
Had the preaching of the gospel been committed to the ministry of angels, their superior natures would have rendered them incapable of receiving those services of gratitude which are evidences and effects of faith and obedience. But when men, subject to wants and griefs, come to us in the name of the Lord, we feel ourselves called upon to consult their temporal comfort. I. FROM THE NATURE AND DESIGN OF THE MINISTERIAL OFFICE, FORCIBLE ARGUMENTS RESULT FOR THE GRATITUDE AND LIBERALITY OF THOSE FOR WHOSE BENEFIT IT IS EMPLOYED. "We sow unto you spiritual things." We are the ministers of a spiritual dispensation which has for its object the present happiness and everlasting salvation of mankind; we endeavour to implant in your mind those sacred principles which, when nourished by Divine influence, ripen into all the fruits of righteousness and peace; we willingly spend our strength for your improvement. Just is the plea, good men will reply. From your ministrations we have...