The great Apostle gave command

Verse 1

The great Apostle gave command, Let ev'ry Church in order stand; Good regulations must be made, And be by all the Church obey'd.

Verse 2

To answer that, so good effect, Saint Paul himself thus did direct: To order Deacons ev'ry where, Who should that sacred office bear.

Verse 3

Let such who act the faithful part, And have the cause of Christ at heart, And such as are of good repute, That needful office execute.

Verse 4

Is it their aim in all they do, To raise the Saviour's Church below! Their faithful labours will be blest, And Jesus' kingdom be increas'd.

Verse 5

Dear Lord be with thy spirit near, While we ordain these brethren here; May zeal and knowledge, love and grace, Prepare and fit them for that place.

Verse 6

Be thou their counsel when they need, Their conduct bless, their labours speed; O may they be of greatest worth, To aid and build thy church on earth.