by John Thomas
With reference to Acts 20:28—In the days of the apostles, things were very different to what they are now. There were many congregations, or churches, but they were all one flock, or "denomination", and men endowed with spiritual gifts were their rulers. But even these were not distinguished from their brethren as " clergy", or priests; but as ministers, or servants. Well knowing the presumption, pride, and arrogance of the flesh, the Spirit commanded them especially to feed the flock, and not to fleece it; to oversee it willingly and of a ready mind, but not for the sake of compensation; and to be examples to the flock, and not to lord it over the heritages. (1 Pet 5:2,3)
— Elpis Israel — An Exposition of the Kingdom of God, The Rudiments Of The World, Chapter 5 — Immortality in the present state a positive evil -- Immortality in man unscriptural -- The professing world religious from fear -- The world's reli…, p. 176
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