The scripture represents mankind by nature as fools, madmen and being in a state of darkenss, &c. When one is set to in|spect, or watch over another, it supposes some kind of incapacity that he is under to take care of himself. Watchmen over the souls of men implies that they are prone to neglect them, or to be in|attentive to their souls.
Them for the Master's use so that the soul in this view, is of infinite importance.Ģ. The perfections of the Deity are more illustrated in the redemption of fallen men, than they would have been the salva|tion of apostate angels else why were the latter passed by, while God chose the former as the objects of his attention? God hath from eternity appointed a proper number, for the display of his mercy and justice means are necessary to fit
What renders them so valuable, is the important relation they stand in to their Maker. l is of vast importance else why so much attention paid to it, as to have a guard to inspect it? All those injunctions we find interspersed through the sacred pages, to watch|men to be faithful, are so many evidences of the worth of mens souls.There are several ideas suggested by the work assigned to gospel ministers in the text: which is, to watch for souls. They are amenable to their great Lord and Master for every sermon they preach, and most give an account of the reception they and their work meet with, among their hearers.-Under the influence of such a thought, let us take notice of a few things, supposed by the work, assigned to ministers in the text.-Say something with respect to their character.-Whence it appears that they must give account.-When they may be said to be properly influ|enced by such considerations. Has to a judgement-day: For they watch for your souls, as they that must quickly give ac|count. Our text contains an important motive, to ex|cite to attention and respect, that is due to the ministers of Christ, on account of their relation to him and that is the aspect their work The word signifies to lead, guide, or direct. Neither as being lords over God's heritage.
To illustrate this sentiment, was the design of the Apostle in this verse: "Obey them that have the rule over you, and submit yourselves." He was far from inculcating any thing that might seem to confront what the Apostle Peter has enjoined, 1 Pet. It is true, they are frail, sinful dust and ashes, in common with other men yet on account of the important embassy with which they are entrust|ed▪ it is agreeable to the unerring dictates of in|spiration, to esteem them very highly in love for their works sake. It is from this source, that those who are for the de|fence of it, meet with so much contempt. NOTHING is more evident, than that men are prejudiced against the gospel. "For they watch for your souls as they that must give account."
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