We have highlighted Thomas Murphy (1823-1900)’s important work on Pastoral Theology (1877) previously, but additionally, he has written separately on Duties of Church Members to the Church (1878) and People and Pastor: Duties Involved in the Important Relation (1887). Both of these works are filled with practical wisdom and eminently relevant today within the life of any congregation. For a sampling of the topics considered, here is a list of the duties of church members discussed, followed by a list of the relationship aspects between pastors and their flock.

Duties of Church Members:

• To pray for the Church;
• To attend Church;
• To support the Church;
• To draw others to the Church;
• To study the peace of the Church;
• To guard the good name of the Church;
• To stand by the Pastor of the Church;
• To contribute to the benevolent objects of the Church;
• To adopt some branch of Christian work; and
• To help in the Sabbath-school of the Church.

Topics involved in the important relationship between Pastor and the People include:

• "Electing a Pastor"
• "Love Your Own Church"
• "Hearing and Criticising the Sermon"
• "Receiving the Pastor’s Visits"
• "Bearing Evil Reports to the Pastor"
• "Guarding the Pastor’s TIme"
• "Working With the Pastor"
• "Aiding the Pastor by Attending Church"
• "Drawing Non-Attendants to Church"
• "Minor Duties"
• "Spoiling a Pastor"
• "Guarding the Pastor’s Good Name"
• "Pastor’s Salary"

• “Prayer for the Pastor”

  From an experienced 19th century Presbyterian pastor, there are many practical lessons here that are worth considering today. Consider downloading these books for further study.