Reformed Presbyterian Minutes of Synod 1997 - Rparchives.org

226 MINUTES OF THE 1997 SYNOD OF THE
(b) Plainly, so that all ages and abilities may understand; delivering the
truth not in the enticing words of human wisdom, but in demonstration of
the Spirit and of power, in case the cross of Christ be made of no effea (1
Corinthians 2:4; 1:17); also abstaining from an unprofitable use of
unknown tongues, strange phrases, and cadences of sounds or words; and
sparingly citing quotations from ecclesiastical or other human writers,
ancient or modern, however elegant.
(c) Faithfully, for the honor of Christ, the conversion, edification, and
salvation of the people, and not his own gain or glory; keeping nothing
back that may promote these goals, giving to everyone what he or she
needs to hear, and having impartial respea to everyone, without
neglecting the most vulnerable, or sparing the most influential, in their
sins.
(d) Wisely, framing all his teaching, exhortations, and especially his
reproofs, in such a manner as may be most likely to be effeaive; showing
all due respect to each individual's person and place, and not giving way to
his personal animosities or prejudices.
(e) Lovingly, that the people may see his ministry springing from a
genuine love for the Lord and a deep desire to do them good.
(f) Solemnly, as appropriate to the Word of God; avoiding the kind of
gestures, tone of voice, and expressions, that give opportunity for people
to despise him and his ministry.
(g) As taught by God, and convinced in his own heart, that all that he
teaches is the truth of Christ; and living before the congregation, as an
example to them; earnestly, both in private and public, recommending his
labors to the blessing of God, and watchfully looking to himself, and to the
flock of which the Lord has made him an overseer. In this way, the truth
will be faithfully preserved, many people converted to Christ and built up
in the Christian faith and life, and he himself will receive many
encouragements in his ministry in this life, and afterward a crown of glory
in the world to come.
24. The worshipers in the fact and manner of their attention have a part in the
preaching of the Word. They should listen with "diligence, preparation, and
prayer, receive it with faith and love, lay it up in their hearts, and praaice it in
their lives" (Shorter Catechism, A. 90).
The Benediction
25. Public worship should be concluded with a solemn blessing upon the
people. The common form is "The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of
God, and the communion of the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen" (2
Corinthians 13:14). Scripture supplies several suitable benedictions (for example,
Hebrews 13:20-21, 1 Corinthians 1:3, Ephesians 6:23-24, 2 Thessalonians 3:16;
Num. 6:24-26).