Vol. 2

CHAPTER IX. 445the exercise of it, are two different graces : we mustdepend upon Christ for both. A man is often unsuccessfulin the functions of the ministry, not forwant of a call, but because he chooses and undertakessuch a particular function of his own head, andupon other considerations than that of God's glory.The power of absolving is one thing; the gift ofmoving and converting sinners, by casting out thedevil of vice, and curing the diseases of the soul, isanother," 2. And he sent them to preach the kingdom ofGod, and to heal the sick."A man ought not to labour in the church till hehas received, 1. A call ; 2. Power ; 3. Mission ; and,4. Instruction. Our blessed Lord, when he sendshis apostles, gives them at the same time means toprove their mission, and by outward miracles to obligemen to look upon them as the ministers of God ; itis this which distinguishes them from false apostles,to whom the devil gives a mission without miracles.Christ here gives them the power to work only suchmiracles as should be beneficial to mankind ; to teachthem, not to act in the spirit of Elias, or in that ofthe old law ; but in the spirit of the Saviour, and ofhis law, consisting wholly of gentleness and love.He does not give them the power to make rich, butto restore health, which is a blessing more natural,than riches.innocent, and common to all," 3. And he said unto them. Take nothing foryour journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread,neither money ; neither have two coats apiece.'*The mission and poverty of the apostles is thepattern of that of missionaries. Those who preach