Acts 15:37: Deserters willing to come back

Deserters willing to come back
We should like Barnabas receive,
And yet of Pant example take
Nor fugitives un censured leave,
Lest others should embolden'd be
As hirelings from the flock to flee.

Tis not a slight offence to start
And quit the post by heaven assign'd;
If once from Jesus I depart,
And cast the care of souls behind,
Whoe'er the penitent receive,
I never can myself forgive.