"The Form of Presbyterial Church Government" states:
My question is, is there particular reasoning around the statement "withal of his age, which is to be twenty four years"? Why 24 years? I was surprised to find such a concrete number.
He that is to be ordained, being either nominated by the people, or otherwise commended to the presbytery, for any place, must address himself to the presbytery, and bring with him a testimonial of his taking the covenant of the three kingdoms; of his diligence and proficiency in his studies; what degrees he hath taken in the university, and what hath been the time of his abode there; and withal of his age, which is to be twenty four years; but especially of his life and conversation. (Italics added)
My question is, is there particular reasoning around the statement "withal of his age, which is to be twenty four years"? Why 24 years? I was surprised to find such a concrete number.