Q51. The Form That Distinguishes a Particular Church

Quest. 51. Wherein does the especial form of a particular Church whereby it becomes such, and is distinguished as such from all others, consist?

In the special consent and agreement of all the members of it, to walk together in the observation of the same Ordinances numerically; hence its constitution and distinction from other Churches does proceed. Exodus 19:5, 8. Chapter 24:3, 7. Deuteronomy 26:17. 2 Corinthians 8:5. Acts 14:23. Acts 20:28. Hebrews 13:17.

Explication.

It has been before declared, what especial agreement or covenant there ought to be among all the members of the same Church, to walk together in a due subjection to, and observance of all the institutions of the Lord Christ. And this is that which gives it its special form and distinction from all other Churches. In the general nature of a Church, all Churches do agree, and equally partake. There is the same law of the constitution of them all; they have all the same rule of obedience; all the same Head, the same end; all carry it on by the observation of the same Ordinances in kind. Now besides these things which belong to the nature of a Church in general, and wherein they all equally participate, they must also have each one its proper difference, that which does distinguish it from all other Churches; and this gives it its special form as such. Now this cannot consist in any thing that is accidental, occasional, or extrinsical to it, such as is cohabitation, (which yet the Church may have respect to, for conveniency, and farthering of its edification) nor in any civil or political disposal of its members into civil societies for civil ends, which is extrinsecal to all its concernments as a Church; nor does it consist in the relation of the Church to its present Officers, which may be removed or taken away without the dissolution of the form or being of the Church, but it consisteth as was said in the agreement or covenant before mentioned; For

First, This is that which constitutes [illegible] a distinct body, different from others; for thereby and no otherwise do they coalesce into a society, according to the law of their constitution and appointment.

Secondly, this gives them their especial relation to their own Elders, Rulers, or Guides who watch over them as so associated by their own consent, according to the command of Christ.

Thirdly, From hence they have their mutual especial relation to one another which is the ground of the especial exercise of all Church duties whatever.