“For him whom God hath sent, speaketh the words of God,” etc. John 3:34; 7:18.
“If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth; that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ,” etc. 1 Peter 4:11.
“For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man; but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 2 Peter 1:21.
“For this cause left I thee in Crete, that thou shouldest set in order the things that are wanting, and ordain elders in every city, as I had appointed thee: if any be blameless,” etc. Tit. 1:5,6.
Of their qualifications, and how they are to minister after their examination, read: 1 Tim. 3 throughout; 1 Cor. 12:28; Rom. 12:7; Eph. 4:11.
Concerning the mode in which they are to be chosen, read: “We have sent with him the brother, whose praise is in the Gospel throughout all the churches; and not that only, but who was also chosen of the churches to travel with us, with this grace, which is administered by us to the glory of the same Lord, and declaration of your ready mind.” 2 Cor. 8:18,19; Acts 1:23.
“As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed and laid their hands on them, they sent them away.” Acts 13:2,3; 20:28.
“The things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also.” 2 Tim. 2:2.
“Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being ensamples to the flock.” 1 Pet. 5:2,3.
Of the election and confirmation of deacons, read: “It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. Wherefore brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business.” “Whom they set before the apostles: and when they had prayed, they laid their hands on them.” Acts 6:2,3,6; 1 Tim. 3:8–10.