Prayer and supplications are to be made continually on the pastor's behalf that he might receive help and success in the work that has been given to him.

Motives for obeying this rule:

• The preached word will certainly be effectual when the ability to preach it is supplied as a result of prayer, Acts 10:1-6.

• The failure of a minister is a punishment of the people, Amos 8:11-12; Isaiah 30:20.

• The pastor prays for the church continually (Isaiah 62:6-7; Romans 1:9-10.

• The great need of the pastor for prayer is not for his own good but for the saints' good. Help the one who carries the burden, Ephesians 6:18-20; Philippians 2:17; Colossians 1:24

John Owen, Duties of Christian Fellowship: A Manual for Church Members