John Brown of Haddington is a gem of the Puritans, my only regret is not to have found him earlier.
His instructions to theological students are inspiring.
1. See that ye be real Christians yourselves.
2. Ponder much, as before God, what proper furniture (gifts?) you have for the ministerial work, and labour to increase it.
3. Take heed that your call from Christ and his Spirit to your ministerial work be not only real but evident.
4. See that your end in entering into, or executing your office, be single and disinterested.
5. See that your minds be deeply impressed with the nature, extent, and importance of your ministerial work.
6. See that ye take heed to your spirits, that ye deal not treacherously with the Lord.
7. See that ye, as workmen who need not be ashamed, earnestly labour rightly to divide the word of truth, according to the capacities, necessities, and particular occasions of your hearers, giving every one of them their portion in due season.
8. See that ye be judicious, upright, constant, and faithful in your profession.
9. Always improve and live on that blessed encouragement which is offered to you as Christians and ministers in the gospel.
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