Banner of Truth has recently published an interesting volume by Strasbourg reformer Martin Bucer entitled Concerning the True Care of Souls. You can obtain the book here , here , and here . You may remember that Bucer was a mentor to John Calvin, especially during Calvin’s exile to Strasbourg between his two stays in Geneva. Peter Beale provides a readable translation and the late David F. Wright has written a very informative historical introduction. Bucer discusses Christ’s rule of his church and the various offices within the church. I would recommend that church sessions work their way through this study for their own benefit and the benefit of Christ’s church.
I appeal to you, brothers, to watch out for those who cause divisions and create obstacles contrary to the doctrine that you have been taught; avoid them. For such persons do not serve our Lord Christ, but their own appetites, and by smooth talk and flattery they deceive the hearts of the naïve. (Romans 16:17-18)