DIVINES unless some particular Brother shall think some other Catechism more convenient for his Congregation That so the Fundamentals of true Christian Religion by one and the same Form of Sound Words y 2 Tim. 1.13 throughout the whole City and Province may be rendred familiar both to young and old yea to all the members of the Congregations May be more easily Received Firmly Reteined and advantagiously improved for their spiritual benefit 2 By encouraging the Elder sort even all that have good knowledge and understanding in the Mysteryes of the Gospel together with Our selves Explicitly to Profess z 1 Pet. 3.15 Rom. 10.9 10. Acts 24.14 15 16. 1 Tim. 3.15 and declare as occasion shall require in some convenient way 1. That they acknowledge and receive all the Holy Scriptures in the Books of the Old and New Testament As inspired of God and of infallible Authority Resolving by Gods Grace to Submit themselves to be ordered and guided by them as the perfect Rule of Faith and Life in all things concerning their Persons Families and the Church of God a 2 Tim. 3.15 16 17. 2 Pet. 1.19 20 21. Psal 19.7 Gal. 6.10 Rom. 15.4 2. That they still retain that brief but Ancient Profession or Summe of Christian Faith called the APOSTLES CREED b The Apostles Creed is of very antient use in the Churches under the N. Testament Augustine expounds it 7 times viz. 1. De Tempore Serm. 115. De traditione Symboli p. 849. Tom. 10 Basil 1569. 2. De Tempore Serm. 129 p. 869 c. Tom. 10 3. Et Serm. 125 pag. 872 c. ibid. 4. S rm 131 De Exposit Symboli ad C mpetentes p. 887 888. Tom. 10. 5. Et de Temp. Serm. 181 De Expositione Symboli p. 989. Tom. 10 6. In Lib. de Fide Symbolo p. 139 ad 151 Tom. 3. 7. In Lib. 4 De Symb. ad Catechumenos p. 1094 ad 1139 Tom. 9. Others before Augustine also recite and mention it c. As Origen 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Lib. ad init Ruffinus Aquileiensis Presbyter in Exposit apud Hieronym in Tâ— 4 p. 101 ad 116. Basil 1553 Et etiam apud Cyprian Tom. 3 p. 570. Sect. 20 Preux 1593. Tertullian de Vâ—rginib velandis Lib. p. 188 Franeker 1597 Et Lib adversus Praxean de Trinitat C. 2 p. 494. Irenaeus Advers Haereses Lib. 1. Cap. 2. p. 50 51 52. Colon. 1596. This is called the APOSTLES CREED 1 More Conjecturally by some of the Ancients who say It is a Tradition of the Elders That after Christs Ascension when the Holy-Ghost fell upon the Apostles enabling them to speak all manner of Languages that they might Preach the Gospel to all Nations before they departed one from another to this work They joyntly agreed upon a Rule of Faith or Summe of true Doctrine which they would Preach and so being altogether and full of the Holy Ghost they composed this Rule of Faith to be given unto Believers August Serm. 181. de Tempore Tom. 10. Ruffinus in Exposit Symbol apud Cyprian pag. 564. c Tom 3. 2 More certainly by Modern writers accounting it The APOSTLES CREED because it is very consonant unto and may evidently be confirmed by the Apostles Doctrine recorded by them in the N. Testament As being agreeable to the word of God which Creed they have long since Received 3. And That they receive and hold fast that excellent CONFESSION of FAITH comprized in thirty and three Chapters and compiled by the Assembly of Divines for these three Nations As their own confession of Faith in all the said Congregations Reserving onely to some of us our liberty of Judgment about a few expressions touching Discipline laid down in that confession It being A Form of Sound Words very consonant to the Holy Scriptures And of special use Both for Preserving of the Purity and Unity of the Faith amongst us and for Obviating of both Old and Novel Errors 3. By manageing all the Ordinances of Gods Publick Worship in the Church-Assemblyes As 1. Reading of the Holy Scriptures though Exposition be not always added c Deut. 31.9 10 11. Neh. 9.3 Acts 13.27 and 15 21. Rev 1.3 2. Expounding or giving the Sence of the Scriptures Read d Neh 8.1 2 3 4 8 13. Luke 4.17 to 22 c. Acts 8.32 to 36. 3. Preaching the Word e 2 Tim. 4.1 2. 1 Cor. 1.17 Luk. 9.2 Eph. 3.8 1 Tim. 3.2 2 Tim. 3.16 17. Tit. 3.9 4. Catechizing in the Principles of the Doctrine of Christ f Heb. 5.12 13 14. and 6.1 2. 1 Cor. 3.1 2. Gal. 6.6 Joh 21.15 5. Prayer g Acts 6 2 4. and 20.36 1 Tim. 2.1 2 3. Jam. 5.14 15. 1 Cor 11 4 5. 6. Singing of Psalmes h Matth. 26.20 30 Col. 3.16 Eph. 5.19 1 Cor. 11.4 5 Prophesying by some is interpreted to intend Singing of Psalms compare 1 Chron. 25 1 2 3 1 Cor. 14.15 7. Administration of Baptisme and of the Lords Supper i Matth. 28 18 19 Acts 2.38 39 and 8.36 37 38 39. and 10.47 48. and 16.30 31 32 33 1 Cor. 1.16 Col 2 11 12. Rom. 4 11 12. 1 Cor. 11 17. to the end of the Chap. and 10.15 16 17. Acts 20.7 and 2 41.42 8 And Blessing of the People in the name of the LORD k Numb 6.23 24 25 26. and Deut. 10.8 compared with Rev. 1.4 5. 2. Cor. 13.14 Eph. 1.2 As neer as possibly we can to the unerring Standard of Gods Word l 2 Tim. 3.16 17. 1 Cor. 11.23 Baptizing the Children m Compare Gen. 7.7 to 15. with Acts 2.38 39 Col. 2.11 12. Matth. 28.18 19 Acts 16 30 31 32 33. 1 Cor. 1.16 Mark 10.13 14 of all such as are Members of true visible Churches of Christ above described And taking an especial heed to the due and Regular Dispensation of the Lords-Supper which the Apostle sufficiently intimateth to be a Barred Ordinance n 1 Cor. 11.28 29 30. and 10 21. whence Unbelievers and Unregenerate persons so remaining can reap no saving Benefit but Judgment to themselves o 1 Cor. 10.1 to 12. and 11.27 28 29 30. And whereunto Persons grossly Ignorant and Scandalous either by customary or ordinary Omission of those known Dutyes of Christianity Sanctification of the Lords-Dayes and Religious courses in Families Or by Commission of any Scandalous Sin Ought not to be admitted p 1 Cor. 11.27 to the end compared with Matth. 7.6 and 1 Cor. 5. throughout and Jude 23. 1 Tim. 5.22 But onely such visible Saints as having a competent knowledge of the misteryes of Christian Religion and making an Holy profession of Repentance from dead Works Faith in Christ and Obedience to him according to the Gospel-Rule of Repentance Faith and Obedience do in the Judgment of charity walk answerably q 1 Cor. 11.29 21 21. compared with 2 Cor. 2.7 And in order hereunto We consent and agree That the knowledge
THE AGREEMENT AND RESOLVTION of the Ministers of CHRIST Associated within the City of Dublin and Province of Leinster for furthering of a real and thorough REFORMATION According to the written Word of GOD. Phil. 3.15 16. Let us therefore as many as be perfect be thus minded And if in any thing ye be otherwise minded God shall reveal even this unto you Nevertheless whereto we have already attained let us walk by the SAME RULE let us mind the same thing Cecil Cyprian de Unit. Eccles Cathol â— 10. Ad Pacis praemium venire non possunt qui pacem Domini Discordiae furore ruperunt A Declaration of the Elders c. at the Savoy Octob. 12. 1658. p. 27. § XXIX Such Reforming Churches as consist of persons sound in the faith and of conversation becoming the Gospel ought not to despise the Communion of each other so far as may consist with their own Principles respectively though they walk not in all things according to the same Rules of Church-Order DUBLIN Printed by W. Bladen Anno Dom. 1659. THE AGREEMENT and Resolution of the MINISTERS of CHRIST VVithin the City of Dublin and Province of LEINSTER whose Names are subscribed in Order to their entring into and walking together in A Brotherly Association Had the 22. day of February 1658. at Dublin for furthering of a real and thorough Reformation of Persons Families and Congregations in all matters of Religion according to the written Word of GOD. Whereas it is clearly manifest FIrst That All the faithfull Saints and Servants of JESUS CHRIST within this Nation should strive-together for the Faith of the Gospel a Phil. 1.27 Jude â— 2 Joh. 9 10 11. 2 Tim. 1.13 The purity of Gods Worship b Exod. 20.3 4 5 6. Joh. 4.24 Mal. 3.3 4. Rev. 14 1 to 6. 2â— 4 The integrity of Christs Discipline c Mat. 28 18 19. Isa 9.6 Luk. 1.32 33. with Mat. 18.15 to 21. 1 Cor. 5. 2 Cor. 2.6 to 12. The regular Administration of all Gospel-Ordinances d Titus 1.5 1 Corinth 11.34 and 14 40 Gal. 6.16 The Oneness of Gods People in Heart and Way e 1 Cor. 1.10 Phil. 2.1 2 3. Eph 4.1 to 7. Jer. 32.39 Ezek. 11.19 Acts 4.32 2.41 42. Phil. 3.16 And their Progress in all Spirituals unto Perfection f 2 Pet. 3.18 2 Thes 1.3 4. Eph. 2.21 22. 4.11 to 17. Phil. 3.12 13 14 15. Secondly That Not onely the Civil-Magistrates in their Place g Rom. 13.3 4. Exod. 32.25 to 30. Num. 25.4 5 Psal 101 8 2 King 18 3 4 5 6. with 2 Chron. 29. 30. 31. 2 Kin. 23. with 2 Chr. 34. 35. Nor onely Parents Masters of Fam lies and Particular Persons in their Capacities h Gen. 18.18 19. Deut. 6.4 to 10. Psal 101. throughout Eph 6.4 Tit. 2.10 11 12. But also and especially The Ministers of Christ in their stations are peculiarly obliged in Conscience According to the Word of God to endeavor the Redress of all sinful evils and exorbitancies and the contrary Advancement of Truth Holiness and Righteousness by the Pure and Plenary Administration of all Christs Ordinances i Matth. 28.18 19 20. Rev. 2.1 c. 12. c. 18. c. and 3.1 c. 14 c. 1 Tim. 3 5. 2 Tim. 4.1 2. Acts 20.28 Thirdly That also Such Publick and arduous Undertakings unto which we humbly acknowledg our great Unworthiness Weakness and Insufficiencie k 1 Cor. 3.5 2.16 4.7 will prove far more facil and successful in the Hands of Ministers Associated than in their single capacity l Gal. 2.9 Luk. 10.1 Acts 2.1 2 3 4 c. and 3.1 c. and 5.29 and 6.2 c. and 8.14 c. and 13.1 2 3 4. and 15.6 to 36. Therefore We MINISTERS of JESUS CHRIST in the City of Dublin and Province of Leinster sincerely desiring to seek the things of Christ before our own affairs m Phil. 2.20 21. with 1 Cor. 10.24 Phil. 2.4 And preferring the Spiritual Peace of JERUSALEM the City and Church of God above the top of our joy n Ps 137.5 6. 122.6 7 8 9. Do unanimously Resolve and Agree I. To Decline and Abhorr all Blasphemy o Col. 3.8 Exod. 20.7 Matth. 12.31 Mark 7.22 Acts 13.45 Heresie p 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Gal. 5.20 Tit. 3.10 2 Pet. 2.1 Exod. 20.3 Schism q 1 Cor 1.11 3.3 4. Rom. 16.17 Superstition r Exod. 20.4 5 6. Acts 17.22 Col. 2.20 21 22 23. Pride Å¿ Mark 7.22 1 Johâ— 2.16 Isa 28.1 3. Ezek. 16.49 Profaneness t 1 Tim. 1.9 Jer. 23.15 Heb. 12.16 Ezek. 24.43 Ungodliness u Tit. 2 12. Rom. 1.18 Jude 15. Unrighteousness x T it 2.12 â— John 5.17 Rom. 1.18 and 2.8 Intemperance y Rom. 13.12 13. Eph. 5.18 1 Cor. 6.9 10. and All other the Manifest sinfull fruits of the flesh z Gal. 5.19 20 21. 1 Corin. 6.9 10. â— Tim. 3.1 2 3 4. Rom. 1.28 to the end As also to disavow and with all Prudence and faithfulness as we have just Occasion to Oppose Popery a 2 Thes 2.3 to 13. 1 Tim. 4.1 to 6. Rev. 13.11 to the end of the Ch. c. 17. 18. Prelacy b Luke 22.24 to 28. Matth. 20.24 to 29. Mark 10.41 to 46. 1 Peter 5 3. 3 John 9 10. For a Bishop and a Presbyter are not two distinct Orders one above the other but are one and the same both 1. According to Scripture-Testimonie compare Acts 20.17 with Verse 28. and 1 Tim. 3.1 2. c. Tit. 1.5 with Verse 7. And 2. According to the judgment of antient and learned Writers as Ambrose Theodoret Hierome Ambrose to this effect saith thus Primi Presbyteri appellabantur Episcopi ut recedente uno sequens succederet sed quia coeperant sequentes Presbyteri inveniri indigni ad Primatus tenendos immutata est ratio prospiciente Concilio ut non Ordo sed meritum crearet Episcopum multorum sacerdotum judicio constitutum ne indignus temere usurparet esset multis scandalum Ambr. Com. in cap. 4. ad Ephes Theodoret Presbyterum ab Episcopo 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 non dâ—sserre Sed qui Presbyter est Episcopum dici quatenus in uno aliquo actu in quo a Presbyterio electus est praeest coetui quia in Ecclesia nihil 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 fiâ—ri debet Theodor. lib. 4. de Fab. Haeret. Aerian Hierome Apud veteres iidem Episcopi Presbyteri fuerunt c. Hieronym Epist ad Oceanum Apostolus perspicue docet eâ—sdem esse Presbyteros Episcopos Hier. ad Evagrium Idem est Presbyter qui Episcopus antequam Diaboli instinctu studia in Religione fierent diceretu in Populis Ego sum Pauli Apollo Cephae 1 Cor. 1. Communi Presbyterorum corsilio Ecclesiae gubernabantur Postquam verò unusquisque
quos baptizaverat suos esse non Christi putabat in toto orbe decretum est ut unus de Presbyteris elâ—ctus caeteris superponeretur ad quem omnis cura Ecclesiae pertineret ut schismatum semina tollerentur Ut ergo Presbyteri sciunt se Ecclesiae consuetudine Episcopo sibi Praeposiâ—o subjectos esse ita Episcopi noverint se consuetudine magis quam Dominicae dispositionis veritate Presbyteris esse majores in commune debere Ecclesiam regere Hier. Com in Ep. ad Titum not onely as it is described in The Solemn League and COVENANT c Published by authority of Parliament c. An. 1643. but also as it is cried up by some in these days under the specious disguise of Moderated Regulated or Primitive Episcopacy And all inventions of Man tending thereunto Arminianism d Against which see G. Ames Coronis Antisynodalia D. Twiss Vindic. Grat. De Scientia media contra Corvin P. Du Moulin Anatom Armin. Twiss and Davenant against Hoard c. Socinianism e Against which see Antiphotinianismus per Stegmannum Vindiciae Evangelica by Dr Owen H. Grot. de Satisfactione Christi Compendiolum Socinianismi Confut. à Clopenburg Anti-Socinianism by N. Chewney Dr Fran. Cheynel 's Hist of Socinianism Beckmanni Exercitat contra Socin Antinomianism f Against which see Mr Anth. Burges his Vindic. Legis Dr Taylor of the use of the Law Gâ—taker against Saltmarsh Familism g Against which see Beckmanni Exercitat contra Socin Mr Baily's Disluasive from Errors c. Seckerism h Against which see Mr Bridgâ— his Vindication of Ordinances Mr Symonds Vindication c. Matth. 28.18 19 20. Quakerism i Against which see The perfect Pharisee c. Quakers confuted by Mr Eaton Antiscripturism k Against which see Andr. Rivet Isagog ad S. Scriptur Erastianism l Against which see Jâ—s Divin Regim Ecclesiast by sundry Ministers of Christ in the City of London Chap. 9. Aaron's Rod blossoming c. by Mr George Gillespie and what ever else is contrary to the acknowledging of the Truth which is according to Godliness m Tit. 1.1 1 Tim. 1.10 2 Tim. 2.16 17. Tit. 1.9 10 11. II. To take heed to our selves and Familyes n 1 Tim. 4.16 and 3.2 4 5. Holding Faith and a good Conscience in all things with all unblameableness o 1 Tim. 1.18 19. and 3.2 2 Cor. 6.3 1 Thes 2.10 That herein we may approve our selves Patterns of good Works and examples to the Flock p Tit. 2.7 1 Pet. 5.3 Phil. 3.17 And in Doctrine shewing Incorruptness Gravity Sincerity Sound speech that cannot be condemned q Tit. 2.7 8. Preaching the Word being instant in season and out of season Reprooving Rebuking Exhorting with all Long-suffering and Doctrine r 2 Tim 4.1 2 3 4. That in doing this We may both save our selves and them that hear us Å¿ 1 Tim. 4.16 And if any of us walk otherwise not to suffer Sin one upon another t Lev. 19.17 Eph. 5.11 But with the spirit of Meekness Love and Faithfulness To Advise Admonish and Restore one another u Gal. 6.1 2. Eph. 5.11 That the Ministry be not blamed and dishonoured x 2 Cor. 6.3 And We shall â—o earnestly mind the things that most conduce to the Peace Unity and Edification of the Churches y Rom. 14.19 Eph. 4.1 2 3 c. Phil. 2.1 2 3 4 c. That whereunto We have already attained We shall walk by the same Rule and mind the same thing z Phil. 3.16 both in our Preaching and practice in the Church-Assemblyes That so far as may be We may tender Our selves both unto one another and to the Congregations of one Heart and of one Way a Ezek. 11.19 Jer. 32.39 III. To endeavour the Practising of all Christian Dutyes and Performance of all brotherly Offices of Love reciprocally one to another b Phil. 4.8 Col. 3.12 13 14. Phil. 2.1 2 3 4. Forbearing all termes or Names of Reproach All sharp invectives Bitter Reflections and other Occasions of just Provocation and Offence c Eph. 4.31 32. Covering one anothers fayl ngs and infirmityes in Love d Gal. 6.1 2. Modestly vindicating one anothers Reputation wherein we may e Exod. 20.16 1 Tim. 5.19 That unfeyned brotherly Love may live and continue amongst us f Heb. 13.1 IV. To give diligence through the Lords gracious Assistance to promote in every FAMILY under our spiritual care and inspection respectively The Excercise of Gods worship and Christian Religion in the Course of these too much neglected FAMILY-DUTYES viz. Reading of the Holy Scriptures g Deut. 6.4 to 10. and 11.18 19. 2 Tim. 3.14 15. Prayer h Jer. 10.25 Dan. 6.10 11. Acts 10 2. Luke 9.18 Singing of Psalmes i Mat. 26 20 30. Col. 3.16 Eph. 5.19 Psal 30. title Repetition of Sermons k Deut. 6.4 to 10. Catechizing l Prov. 22 6 margin Exod. 12 26 27. Gen. 18.19 Eph. 6.4 Godly Conferences m Eph. 6.4 Deut. 11.18 19. and due Sanctification of the LORD'S-DAYES n Exod. 20.8 9 10 11. Deut. 5.12 13 14 15. That every Family may be as A little Church of JESUS CHRIST o Rom. 16.5 1 Cor. 16.19 Col. 4 15. Philem. 2. Gen. 18.19 Josh 24.15 Psal 101.2 5 6 7. V. To improve our Talents Publickly and privately p Acts 20.20 as the good hand of our God shall enable us with all diligence and faithfulness from time to time to exalt and establish the right REFORMATION and Spiritual Prosperity of all the Congregrations under our respective Care and Oversight in all the things of Christ q Rev. 2. 3. Chapters throughout Mat 2â— 18 19. Act. 20.18 19 20 21 26 27. Accounting all such Congregations True VISIBLE CHVRCHES of Christ As consist of a sufficient number of Persons who are visible Saints or Saints by Calling r 1 Cor. 1.2 Rom. 1.7 2 Cor. 1.1 Phil. 1.1 Eph. 1.1 Psal 50.5 Sound in the Faith Å¿ 2 Tim. 1.13 Eph. 4.12 to 17. Tit. 1.13 Col. 2.18 19. 1 Tim. 1.19 20. Tit. 3.10 and walking together in the fellowship of the Gospel t Phil. 1.5 Acts 2.41 42 46 47. Eph. 4.15 16. Col. 2.19 Eph. 2.19 20 21 22. Them and their Children u Gen. 17.4 7 8 10 to 15. Acts 2.38 39. and 5.14 2 Cor. 7.14 Acts 15.5 10. Matth. 28.18 19. and 19.13 14. Mark 10.14 Luke 8.15 16. Now this REFORMATION and prosperity of all such respective Congregations We shall endeavour as followeth viz. 1 By Catechizing the yonger and weaker sort as we may with best conveniency on the LORDS-DAYES Publickly in the Principles of the Doctrine of Christ x Heb. 5.12 13 14. and 6.1 2. 1 Cor. 3.1 2. 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 c. Gal. 6.6 Joh. 21.15 according to the Shorter or Larger Catechism Advised by the ASSEMBLY of
and conversations of all such as desire admission to the Lords-Supper be first duly enquired into and found suitable to that Ordinance r Compare 1 Cor. 11.29 with Gal 6.6 Matth. 28.29 Compare also 1 Cor. 11 27. to the end with Matth. 7.6 and 1 Cor. 5. throughout Jude 23. and 1 Tim. 5 22 and Eph. 5.11 and Acts 9.26 to 32. And if any person or persons after such Admission shall break out into Scandalous Sin and thereof be convicted by 2 or 3 witnesses or their own confession That in this case such shall by due Censure be secluded from the Lords-Supper ſ Matth. 18.15 to 21. 1 Cor. 5. throughout Ezek. 22.26 and 44.23 Matt. 7.6 Unless the Offence be discovered so immediately before the Lords-Supper that the Minister dissatisfyed in conscience can for the present onely suspend his own Act. And utterly laying aside the Antiquated Service-Book for the many Evils and Inexpediencyes thereof t See The Preface to the DIRECTORY for Gods publick Worship Read also The Anatomy of the Service-Book We shall have an eye to the Substance Sence and Scope of the DIRECTORY for Gods Publick Worship u Published for the use and benefit of these three Nations January 3. Anno Dom. 1644. 4. By Exciting Christians to the frequent and fruitful Exercise of the more Private COMMUNION of SAINTS in all the mutual dutyes thereof x Mal. 3.16 17. Psal 55.14 Heb. 10.24 25. and 3.12 13. Phil. 2.1 2 3 4. upon all occasions And more especially at their Private meetings and conferences managed in the most prudent orderly and profitable way y 1 Cor. 14.26 40. for their mutual Edification in Faith and Love and Provocation to all good Works z Rom. 14.19 1 Thes 5.11 Jude v. 20. Eph 4.16 Heb. 10.24 5. By Endeavouring to restore into all the respective Congregations under our spiritual charge within this City and Province that CHVRCH-GOVERNMENT and Discipline which Jesus Christ hath appointed in his Holy Scriptures And herein we declare our consent and agreement as followeth 1. That the Lord Jesus Christ who is the Head of the Church and is Faithful in the House of God as Moses was hath declared and Revealed the whole Patern of his House by setting down and leaving upon Record in the Scriptures a compleat and perfect Platform of Church-Discipline in all the Essential parts thereof a Isa 9.6 Mat 28.18 c. Eph. 5.23 1.22 23. Heb 3.5 6. Exod. 25 40. 1 Tim 3 14 15. Which is to be observed and kept inviolably till the second coming and Appearing of Christ b 1 Tim. 6.13 without any Additions or Inventions of men c Matth. 15 9. 2 That the holy Government and Discipline which Christ hath appointed in his Church Requireth not onely Christian watchfulness over the Walking of Brethren d Acts 20.28 but also 1. That such as Sin and go astray be Admonished and Reprooved e Gal. 6 1. Mat. 5 23 24. 18 15 to 21. 2. And impenitent Sinners cast forth and Excommunicated f Mat. 18.15 16 17 c. 1 Cor 5. throughout ◠Thes 3.6 14. 3. Who ought a so upon R pentance to be Restored and Received again into communion with the Church g 2 Cor. 2 6. to 12 Matth. 18 18 19 20. 3. That the End and use of Church Di cipline and Censures is 1. For the Reclaiming and Gaining of Offending Bretheren h Matth. 18.15 16 17. 1 Cor. 5.5 Tim. 1.20 2. For the Preventing and Deterring of others from the like Offences i 1 Tim 5.20 3. For Purging out of that Leaven which migh infect the wh le Lump k 1 Cor. 5.6 7.8 13. 4. For vindicating the Honour of Christ and the Holy Profession of the Gospel l 1 Cor. 5 7 8. Jude ver 23. Matth. 7 6. And 5. For Preventing the Wrath of God which might justly fall upon the Church if they should suffer his Covenant and the Seals thereof to be Profaned by notorious and obstinate Offenders m 1 Cor. 11.27 28 29 30 31 32. This whole Paragraph is borrowed from the Assembly's Confession of Faith Chap. 30. § 111. 4 That the Ordinary and standing Officers which Christ hath appointed in his Church for the Edifying and perfecting of his Body are Pastors and Teachers n Eph. 4.11 Rom. 12.7 8. Ruling-Elders o Rom. 12.8 1 Cor. 12.28 1 Tim. 5.17 and Deacons p Acts 6 1. to 7. Phil. 1.1 1 Tim. 3.8 to 13 5. That the Work and Duty of the Pastor and Teacher is To attend upon the Ministry of the Word and Prayer q Acts 6.1 2. To Preach the Gospel r 1 Cor. 1.17 2 Tim. 4. 1 2. Tit 2.7 8. To Teach and to Exhort ſ Rom. 12.6 7 8. Matth. 28.19 20 1 Tim. 4 11 2 Tim. 4.2 and thence they are called Ministers of the Gospel t Rom 15.16 2 Cor. 3.6 And To Administer the Seals of the Covenant u Matth 28.19 20 Mark 16.15 16. 1 Cor. 11 23 24 25 with 10 16. As also To Rule the Flock over which the Holy-Ghost hath made them Overseers x 1 Tim. 5.17 1 Thes 5.12 Heb. 13.7 17 Acts 20.28 6. That the Work of the Ruling-Elders is to joyn with the Pastor and Teacher in Governing the Church y Rom 12 7 8. 1 Cor. 12 28. 1 Tim. 5 17. The Work of the Deacons is concerning the Temporal good things of the Church To receive the Church Treasury and therewith to serve Tables and particularly to Relieve the Poor z Acts 6.1 2 3 4. Rom. 12.8 1 Cor. 12.28 7. That these Officers are called by Christ himself a Heb. 5.14 though not immediately b Gal 1.1 But by Men c Acts 13.1 2 3. 1 Tim. 4.14 Acts 14.23 6.3 4 5 6. Neither are any to be chosen and approved but such as are judged to be fitted and furnished by Christ with suitable Qualifications for the faithful discharge of the Work and Office committed to them d 1 Tim. 3.1 to 14. with 5.22 Tit. 1.5 to 10. Acts 6.3 1 Rom. 13.1 8. That the Solemn admission and Separation of Persons to the work of the Ministry is to be performed by the Laying on of the Hands of the Presbytery with Fasting and Prayer e, 3. 1 Tim. 4.14 Acts 14.23 6.3 6. And it seems to us most fit where it may conveniently be that such persons be Ordained in the presence and with the consent of the Congregation where they are to Minister f Acts 14.23 Tit. 1.5 9. That it 's the duty of all the Churches Ministers of Christ to Assist Own and Strengthen the Hands of each other in the ways of the LORD g Gal. 1.18 21 22 23 24. and 2 9. And to Receive each other in the LORD to Christian and Church-communion h Rom. 16.1 2. And to meet together in
SYNODS and Assemblyes of the Officers and Delegates of the Churches if need require i Acts 15.1 to 36. Where they have power to Determine Difficulties and Controversies according to the word of God k Acts 16.6 to 36. Especially see ver 24 28. and 16.4 5. 10. That there be many gracious Promises of the special Blessing and Presence of Christ in his Ordinances among his People who walk together in the Faith Love and Order of the Gospel l Exod. 20.24 1 Kin. 8.28 29 30. with 9.3 Isa 4.5 6. Matth. 18.18 19 20. and 28.19 20. And therefore those that pretend to be above Ordinances Or that live without Ordinances when they have opportunity of Enjoying them Or that pick and chuse among the Ordinances of Christ As to desire Baptism for their Children but never to desire the Lords-Supper for themselves Or to desire the Sacraments but to refuse and cast off the Yoke of Christ in Church-Discipline they do exceedingly wrong their own Souls and Sin against their own comforts by depriving themselves of that special Blessed Presence and Sweet communion with Christ which is to be had in the communion of Saints m Song 1.7 8. and 4 16. and 5 1. 2 Cor. 6.16 17. 1 Cor. 10.16 17. VI. To enter into and walk together in a Brotherly ASSOCIATION one with another Giving one to another the right hands of Fellowship in a constant course of Mutual Advice Encouragement and Assistance for the more Effectual accomplishing of these excellent Necessary and Difficult things n Gal. 2.9 Luke 10.1 Acts 2.1 2 3 4 c. and 3.1 c. and 5.29 and 6.2 c. and 8.14 c. and 13.1 2 3 4. and 15.6 to 36. That all our ways in Christ may be for Substance the same within all these Churches o 1 Cor. 4.17 Jer. 32.39 For a much as the mystical Body the Church of Christ is but one p 1 Cor. 12.12 13 to the end Rom. 15.4 5. Eph. 2.16 and 4.4 Col. 3.15 Song 6.9 therefore wee ought to maintain all possible oneness together Dispatching our work as much as may be in joynt Union and Communion in all the Publick Affairs of Christian Religion Thus endeavouring to keep the Unity of the Spirit in the Bond of Peace in that one Church-Body q Eph. 4.1 to 6. 1 Cor. 1.10 Phil. 2.1 to 5 Now to this end We consent and Agree 1. That We shall diligently frequent certain Meetings More General of the Bretheren in this whole Province And more Particular of those in some Countyes and parts of this Province As oft and in such Places as We shall from time to time judge needful and expedient And We shall endeavour so to make known the Times and Places of our Meetings that all the Godly Brethren of the Ministry within the said Precincts may have Opportunity of Convening and which we earnestly desire of Associating with us 2. That We shall readily Receive into this Fellowship as Members All the Brethren within the said City and Province who are duely called into the Ministry by Ordination r 1 Tim. 4 14. and 5.22 Acts 13.1 2 3. and 14.23 Titus 1.5 Are Sound in Faith ſ Tit. 1.9 10 11 12 13 14. 2 Tim. 1.13 Godly Sober and unblameable in Life t 1 Tim. 3 2.3 T it 1.7 8. Walking Religiously in their Families u 1 Tim 3.4 5. Faithfully and industriously in their Ministerial Functions x 1 Cor. 4.1 2. Jer. 23.28 2 Cor. 2.17 2 Tim. 4.1 2. Tit. 2.7 8. They first tendering to the Moderator for the time being At some General Meeting or at some Particular Meeting according to Direction from the General A TESTIMONIAL of Their Soundness in the Faith Blamelesness of Life and Laboriousness in the Ministry under the Hands of two Ministers of known integrity especially of those that are Associated And of two or three Godly Christians of the same Congregation or of the vicinity well known to some of the Associated Brethren And all that shall be Ordained PRESBYTERS by this Association for any Ministerial charge within this Province shall thereupon be Received as Members of this Association Both these and the former Sub cribing to this our Agreement Nevertheless the Associated Brethren still Reserve to themselves a Liberty for Admitting any Orthodox Godly Brother Declaring his in 〈◊〉 on to be Regularly Ordained assoon as may be to joyn with Us in Our Association as farre as he is capable 3. That at Our first General Meeting We shall choose one of Our number to be MODERATOR for Propounding of Matters Taking of Suffrages Preventing of Disorders and Managing all Discoures and conferences with due Gravity Decency Order and to the utmost Edification y 1 Cor. 14.26 40. Tit. 2.7 8. Who shall still begin and conclude Our Transactions at every Meeting with Prayer for the LORD'S Assistance Blessing and Acceptance z 1 Tim. 2.8 and 4.4.5 1 Thes 5.17 18. Eph 6.18 19 20. Acts 6.2 And at the close of that and every such Conference General or Particular We shall still determine upon the Subject-Matter Time Place and another Moderator for the next Meeting 4. That also at our first General Meeting one of the Brethren Associated which shall be deemed fittest shall be chosen Scribe or Register Who shall enter this Our Agreement into a Book forthwith that it may be Subscribed Shall carefully File up and keep all the forementioned Testimonials Shall enter all our Res lves and Determinations and Shall Register all Our Proceedings with all that shall present themselves to Us for Ordination a 1 Tim. 4.14 and 5.22 Rom. 13.1 2 3. Tit. 1 5. Heb. 5 4. Keeping safe their Testimonials and Providing all such Instruments in Writing as are requisite thereunto That any of these may be produced before the Brethren upon all just Occasions 5. That no discourses about Admission or Non-Admission of any Minister into this Society shall be blazed abroad by any Brother to the Prejudice of the Association or of any Member thereof 6 Th t all Disputes about lesser Points in difference held by any Brethren Agreeing in the Main be wholy declined in all our Meetings b Acts 15.37 38 39. Phil. 2.1.2 3 4. and 3.16 Vnless some Brother shall Conscientiously desire satisfaction from the Association in any such Particular which shall be endeavoured with all cleerness of Argument and sweetness of Spirit c Acts 15.7 to 22. Eph. 4.1 2 3 c. 1 Pet. 3.8 Phil. 2 1 2 3 4. 7. That All usurpation of Authority Authoritative coertion Domination or Jurisdiction and all exercise thereof by the Brethren one over another in this Association be utterly disclaimed abandoned and abhorred d Mat. 23.11 12. Mark 9.33 to 38. Luk. 9.46.47 48. and 22 24. to 28. 1 Pet. 5.3 3 Joh. v. 9 10. 8. That All giving of just Offence to those that are in Power and Authority over us in the Commonwealth by our intermedling beyond the Duty and limits of our calling with civil and Commonwealth-Affairs be most studiously avoided in all our Transactions e Matt. 17.27 1 Cor. 10.32 2 Cor. 6.3 Acts 24 16. 1 Cor. 7.20 9. And finally That We shall none of us withdraw ourselves from this Brotherly Fellowship without great and weighty causes Nor shall We at any time Neglect or forbear to come to the General or Particular Meetings which shall be from time to time appointed without very urgent occasions And in all these things We whose Names are hereunto Subscribed have Unanimously agreed To walk by the same Rule and to minde the same thing f Phil. 3.16 Beseeching the LORD to lead us by his Spirit into all truth g John 16.13 That as Fellow labourers in the Gospel of Christ We may make a Brotherly improvement of each others Advice and Assistance that our Hearts may be comforted being knit together in Love whilst we are following the things which make for Peace and wherewith We may Edify one another in Our most Holy Faith h 1 Thes 3.2 Philem. 24. Col. 2.2 Rom. 14.19 Jude vers 20. Consentimus nos infra-scripti FINIS