CHAP. XXVII.
Eminent ministers, so accounted in Old England, profess themselves private Christians in New England.
Thirdly, concerning the lawful commission or calling of English preachers. Mr. Cotton himself, and others most eminent in New England, have freely confest, that notwithstanding their former profession of ministry in Old England, yea, in New England, until they received a calling from a particular church, that they were but private Christians.[273]
Secondly, that Christ Jesus hath appointed no other calling to the ministry, but such as they practise in New England; and therefore consequently, that all other which is not from a particular congregation of godly persons, is none of Christ’s.[274]
False callings or commissions for the ministry.
As first, a calling or commission received from the bishops.
Secondly, from a parish of natural and unregenerate persons.
Thirdly, from some few godly persons, yet remaining in church fellowship after the parish way.
Lastly, that eminent gifts and abilities are but qualifications fitting and preparing for a call or office,according to 1 Tim. iii. Tit. i. All which premises duly considered, I humbly desire of the Father of lights, that Mr. Cotton, and all that fear God, may try what will abide the fiery trial in this particular, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed in flaming fire, &c.