A learned and very useful commentary on the whole epistle to the Hebrews wherein every word and particle in the original is explained ... : being the substance of thirty years Wednesdayes lectures at Black-fryers, London / by that holy and learned divine Wiliam Gouge ... : before which is prefixed a narrative of his life and death : whereunto is added two alphabeticall tables ...

§. 17. Of laying on of hands at Ordination.

THis rite of laying hands on them that were to be set apart to the Ministry, is most expresly set down in Gods word. For Timothy was set apart by laying on 〈◊〉〈◊〉 the hands of the Presbytery, 1 Tim. 4. 14. and the Apostle setteth out the Act of ordination under this rite, where he saith, Lay hands suddenly on no man, 1 Tim. 5. 22.

Such as under the Gospell are to be set apart for ordinary Ministers, are Pastours, and Teachers. Mens abilities to these functions are to be tried: and good Testimo∣ny given of their orthodox judgement, and pious conversation: and in a publique assembly on a day of fasting, and prayer, they are, after some exhortation, and di∣rection concerning the Ministeriall function; and prayer made for Gods blessing on them, they are to be set apart to the Ministeriall function, by this rite of imposition of hands.

This rite was used, to shew that the blessing which they desired, and the ability* 1.1 which was given, or was further to be expected, was from above: and for obtain∣ing thereof, prayer used to be joyned with imposition of hands, Act. 6. 6. and 13. 3 and 20. 8.

Of ordaining Ministers, see more Chap. 3. v. 2. §. 35.

Notes

• * 1.1

  Ends of laying on hands. Prayer joyned with laying on hands.