The Duty and Privilege of Christians in Connection with the Support of the Ordinances of the Gospel

the long version

This book, first published in the early 19th century, addresses the responsibilities of Christians to actively support the ordinances (or sacred practices) of the gospel, such as public worship, the preaching of the Word, the administration of the sacraments (like baptism and the Lord’s Supper), and the overall life of the church. John Angell James emphasizes the importance of church members not only attending these ordinances but also contributing to their maintenance, whether through prayer, financial support, or other forms of participation. He stresses that these ordinances are central to the life of the Christian community and the growth of the kingdom of God, and thus it is both a duty and a privilege for believers to uphold and support them. The work has a strong devotional and practical focus, encouraging Christians to see their involvement in the life of the church as an essential part of their faith and worship. It highlights the communal aspect of Christianity and the role that the local church plays in nurturing believers and advancing the gospel message.