Meaning: The quote by William Ames encapsulates the essence of the ordinary ministry within the context of the Christian faith. Ames, a renowned English Puritan philosopher and theologian, was known for his significant contributions to Reformed theology during the 17th century. In this quote, he underscores the fundamental principles that govern the ordinary ministry, emphasizing the reliance on the will of God as revealed in the Scriptures and the prescribed means within the church for its ongoing edification.

Ames' reference to the ordinary ministry denotes the regular or customary service and administration within the church. It encompasses the various activities and functions carried out by individuals who are called to serve in positions of leadership and guidance within the Christian community. This can include pastors, elders, deacons, and other appointed individuals who are responsible for the spiritual well-being and growth of the congregation.

The concept of receiving direction from the will of God as revealed in the Scriptures lies at the core of the ordinary ministry. According to this principle, those in positions of ministry are expected to derive their guidance, teachings, and decisions from the authoritative source of the Bible. The Scriptures are viewed as the inspired word of God, containing divine wisdom and instructions for the conduct of the church and the spiritual nurture of its members. By adhering to the teachings and principles outlined in the Scriptures, the ordinary ministry seeks to align its actions and decisions with the divine will, thereby ensuring the spiritual integrity and fidelity of its service.

Additionally, Ames emphasizes the importance of utilizing the means appointed by God within the church for its continual edification. This highlights the significance of adhering to the established practices, ordinances, and spiritual disciplines that are designed to foster the growth, maturity, and well-being of the church community. These means may include preaching, teaching, sacraments, prayer, fellowship, and other communal activities that are integral to the spiritual nourishment and development of the congregation. By availing themselves of these prescribed means, the ordinary ministry endeavors to facilitate the ongoing edification, instruction, and spiritual enrichment of the church body.

Ames' emphasis on the ordinary ministry aligning itself with the will of God and the appointed means within the church serves to underscore the importance of humility, obedience, and adherence to divine authority. By grounding its direction and practices in the revealed will of God and the prescribed means of edification, the ordinary ministry seeks to operate in accordance with the principles and standards set forth by the Christian faith. This approach also serves to emphasize the reliance on God's wisdom and guidance, rather than relying solely on human ingenuity or innovation in the administration of the church.

In conclusion, William Ames' quote encapsulates the foundational principles that underpin the ordinary ministry within the context of the Christian faith. By emphasizing the reliance on the will of God as revealed in the Scriptures and the prescribed means within the church for its continual edification, Ames underscores the importance of aligning the ministry's direction and practices with divine authority and established principles. This approach serves to uphold the spiritual integrity and fidelity of the ordinary ministry, ensuring that its service and administration are rooted in the timeless wisdom and guidance of God.