Pastoral Polemics

In his sturdy work on The Doctrine of Justification by Faith (vol. 5, Works, Banner of Truth), John Owen models engaging in polemics in the presence and sight of God. In the preface, he tells us his aim in defending and teaching the doctrine (p. 4):

I have ascribed no opinion unto any particular person—much less wrested the words of any, reflected on their persons, censured their abilities, taken advantage of presumed prejudices against them, represented their opinions in the deformed reflections of strained consequences, fancied intended notions, which their words do not express, nor, candidly interpreted, give any countenance unto—or endeavored the vain pleasure of seeming success in opposition unto them; which, with the like effects of weakness of mind and disorder of affections, are the animating principles of many late controversial writings. 

To declare and vindicate the truth, unto the instruction and edification of such as love it in sincerity, to extricate their minds from those difficulties (in this particular instance) which some endeavor to cast on all gospel mysteries, to direct the consciences of them that inquire after abiding peace with God, and to establish the minds of them that do believe, are the things I have aimed at. . . .

Then in the first chapter on general considerations, Owen urges pastors and teachers to direct their energies toward the good conscience of the believer (p. 8):

Whereas we cannot either safely or usefully treat of this doctrine, but with respect unto the same ends for which it is declared, and whereunto it is applied in the Scripture, we should not, by any pretences, be turned aside from attending unto this case and its resolution, in all our discourses on this subject; for it is the direction, satisfaction, and peace of the consciences of men, and not the curiosity of notions or subtlety of disputations, which it is our duty to design. . . . For more weight is to be put on the steady guidance of the mind and conscience of one believer, really exercised about the foundation of his peace and acceptance with God, than on the confutation of ten wrangling disputers. 

So let's be found following Owen's model of pastoral concern in handling this holy and happy doctrine, shunning all temptations to display, vanity, and pride.