Appeal to Ministers
245
that delays are dangerous. When his experienced hand is laid upon
the pulse of the sufferer, and he carefully notes the peculiar indica-
tion of the malady, his previous knowledge enables him to determine
concerning the nature of the disease and the treatment necessary to
arrest its progress. As the physician deals with physical disease, so
does the pastor minister to the sin-sick soul. And his work is as much
more important than that of the former as eternal life is more valuable
than temporal existence. The pastor meets with an endless variety
of temperaments; and it is his duty to become acquainted with the
members of families that listen to his teachings, in order to determine
what means will best influence them in the right direction.
In view of these grave responsibilities, the question will arise:
“Who is sufficient for these things?” The heart of the laborer will
almost faint as he considers the various arduous duties devolving upon
him; but the words of Christ strengthen the soul with the comforting
assurance: “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.”
The difficulties and dangers that threaten the safety of those he loves
should make him cautious and circumspect in his manner of dealing
with them, and watchful of them as one who must give an account. He
should judiciously employ his influence in winning souls to Christ and
impressing the truth upon inquiring minds. He should take care that
the world, by its delusive attractions, does not lead them away from
God and steel their hearts to the influence of His grace.
The minister is not to rule imperiously over the flock entrusted to
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his care, but to be their ensample, and to show them the way to heaven.
Following the example of Christ, he should intercede with God for
the people of his care till he sees that his prayers are answered. Jesus
exercised human and divine sympathy toward man. He is our example
in all things. God is our Father and Governor, and the Christian
minister is the representative of His Son on earth. The principles which
rule in heaven should rule upon earth; the same love that animates
the angels, the same purity and holiness that reign in heaven, should,
as far as possible, be reproduced upon earth. God holds the minister
responsible for the power he exercises, but does not justify His servants
in perverting that power into despotism over the flock of their care.
God has given to His servants precious knowledge of His truth,
and He desires that they shall closely connect themselves with Jesus
and, through sympathy, draw near to their brethren, that they may do