Deuteronomy 18

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XVIII.—Since God hath provided subsistence for ministers, they ought never willingly to entangle themselves in worldly business; farming, merchandise, or the like: for those, who love God’s ordinances as they ought, will not grudge to contribute to their support. None ought to supplant another with respect to what the Lord hath allotted him. But a worldly-minded minister is a SCANDAL to his profession—a LIVING LIE! God indeed most highly regards such ministers as leave their worldly all, and follow him, and do more in the church than men could desire of them. But it is shocking to find in countries, privileged with gospel light, affecters of fellowship with devils in 26 26* charms, fortune-telling, witchcraft, and the like! and what a mercy it is if God has preserved us from these abominations! But oh! infinite grace! in order to destroy the work, and deliver us from the delusions of the devil, God raises up his Son, a Prophet, who knows the whole mind of God, and who reveals a complete system of worship! Blessed are those, who hear his voice; and infinite is the hazard and ruin of such as refuse to regard him! But, since seducers arise in the church of God, it is necessary to try all, and to censure and punish such as are found notorious impostors. 3 D