as equivalent to them as those times of the Church and the condition thereof could admit for in cases of controversie of doubt of error or injury c. we finde the particular Church appealing to an Assembly of Apostles and Disciples from whom they received directions decrees and in whose determinations the particular Churches acquiesce as in that great dissention that arose in the Church at Antioch about circumcision Paul and Barnabas are sent up to Jerusalem by the Church to receive the direction and determination of the Apostles and Elders there Act. 15.1.2 Having had much debate and dispute of the matter send down their determination by messengers from amongst themselves together with Paul and Barnabas viz. Barsabas and Sylas who carry them both by word and writing the effect whereof is in 28 29. verses For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost and to us to lay upon you no greater burthen then these necessary things that ye abstain from meats offered to Idols and from blood and from things strangled and from fornication from which if ye keep your selves ye shall do well Farewell After the receiving of this determination we read of no more contending about circumcision but all was quiet So that we see here was something of like nature to a Synodicall Assembly although the constitution of the Church and State at that time neither had need of nor could possibly set up either Nationall Provinciall or Classicall Assemblies 1. They had lesse need then now by reason the Churches were not so numerous 2. There Pastors and Elders being endowed with a more infallible spirit lesse need of Apostles 2. Not possible 1. For that the Church being in its infancy they had not a competent number of Apostles Elders c. to make many Assemblies 2. And more especially they lived not under Christian Majestrates there was then no Nationall Church they neither had countenance nor encouragement from the civil Majestracy there was neither Nation Province or City that generally professed Christ they had a particular Church here and there and these lyable ever and anon to be dissipated by persecution c. Now there can be no Nationall Provinciall or Classicall Assemblies where the Nation Province or considerable part of the Kingdom do not professe Christ Now if there bee much corruption where so great provision is made to reforme how much more where there is no place of appeal Therefore I shall affirm this to the whole world that there is no other Government in the Church for the substantials of it held forth in the word of God then Presbyterian for the circumstancialls the State of the times and constitutions of our Kingdom cannot expect to finde recorded in all things conduceable to the well being of a Church in regard of union and order I would to God we had more wisdom then to quarrell about circumstances certainly would we promote the substantialls of Reformation wherein both Presbyterian and Independent agree other things would be easily reconciled but while we thus contend about that punctillo of appeal the work of Reformation is most sinfully and shamefully neglected for as I said formerly Independent Government is Presbyterian except in point of appeal nay Episcopacy regulated viz. when their Lordly usurped power their Diocesan Dominion their temporall civil and secular Jurisdictions is taken off is also Presbyterian a Scripture Bishop is a Pastor or Presbyter or Elder only every Pastor is an Elder but every Elder not a Pastor Some rule some labour in the word and doctrine so that Bishop Pastor Teacher Presbyter Elder will admit of one and the same interpretation Therefore let us cease contending about words that tend rather to strife then edifying let us not tythe Mint and Annis c. while we neglect Judgement Mercy and Fidelity c. while we quarrell in circumstances in the neglect of the substance of Gods worship Like a foolish builder we are convering the house before the foundation be well laid lie a Star-gazing while the ship is ready to sink under us we quarrell about Rosemary and Bayes while Church and State run both to ruine and our neighbouring nation wallows in its blood stand combing and triming our beards while our house is on fire over our heads Truly thus and far more ridiculous is our condition the Lord help us to see it and doubtlesse it were just with God to give us over to pursue shadows and lying vanities in the neglect of our own mercy for that we are so weded to promote the Circumstances in the retard and overthrow of the substantialls of Gods worship and the power of Godlinesse c. The Third and Fourth particular Concerning the Lawfullnesse and usefulnesse of Examination by the Eldership as followeth 11. Ob. But they say now none must come to the Sacrament without Examination by the Eldership which some hold to be no better then a point of Popery however it s very needlesse and ridiculous for ancient men that have born all offices in the Parish and Church too lived long under the meanes often formerly admitted now to be Catichised like boyes neither doe I beleeve there is any rule for it in the Word the Apostles saith Let every man examine himselfe and so let him eat c. 1 Cor. 11.28 A. It s very true that none are now to be admitted to the Sacrament of the Lords supper but who ought to be examined and that upon good ground neither is there the least punctillo of Popery in it or is it either needlesse or ridiculous but a very necessary duty and grounded both upon Scripture and good reason as well for ancient as young people and seeing this is the grand stumbling-block I shall endeavour its removall especially and for that indeed without Examination there can be no true Reformation 1. For that it s objected as tending to Popery whosoever thinks so it s not for want of ignorance for it is not intended either by Parliament or Synod or any particular Congregationall Eldership to expect auricular confession but onely an account of a reason of mens Faith which men may do and yet have little share in Jesus Christ True if a man render a competent account of his knowledge in the mysteries of God if nothing of scandall appear in the life he cannot be kept back from Sacramentall visible communion although as before a stranger from union with Christ therefore is it there is a twofold Examination requisite 1. Examination of a mans own heart whether he have the sinceritie Godly zeal knowledge faith repentance love c. with such graces as indeed give a man right not onely to the Elements but to Jesus Christ without which he can have no comfort in participating 2. Examination by the Pastor and Elders whereby he is known fit for visible communion for although a man may give the Eldership a fair account yet may he be an hypocrite a childe of the devil the principall part without which all is
the spirits of many the Arch Enemies of Church and Kingdom are not subdued yet their rage and mallice is so limited that although like the surging untamed waves they would again break out if not bounded and their power so broken that the mightiest Leviathans are now held by the Hooke of God That God hath also in this breath of time put into the heart of Parliament and Synod to settle a Government in the Church having laid a good foundation of Reformation of corruptions in and about the Ordinances Officers and Administrations thereof And for that the spirits of men are wonderfully averse to this so necessary a work that although it have cost so much time treasure and blood to bring to this maturitie yet glad they would be to bring religion to a very hotch-potch as appears by those many vain and needless scruples and Stumbling-blocks which Satan and such men are every day casting in to obstruct I have thought good as in duty every Christian is bound as much as in them lies to help the Lord against the mighty and that no man that truly desires satisfaction may misse of it I have endeavoured to enumerate all such objections as have any shadow of reason that the ignorant may be informed the wilfull convinced and the weak Christian satisfied that so the Church may be edified and God glorified And that I may not be tedious I shall without more adoe lay down these following Truths which by Gods grace I shall vindicate against all opposers That Reformation of corruptions in the Church of God is of absolute necessity although not to the being yet to the well being thereof and that as well in Discipline as Doctrine That the Government of the Church by Pastors Teachers and Elders is of Divine institution That although all men ought to hear the word yet neither the ignorant nor prophane ought to be admitted to the Sacrament of the Lords Supper That self examination although a duty of absolute necessitie in every Communicant yet it s not all required And that Examination by the Eldership is both grounded upon Scripture and good reason For the First That Reformation of corruptions in the Church of God is of absolute necessitie c. is granted of all therefore needs no dispute only 1. Q. What is meant by Reformation A. The bringing of the Church and worship of God to as neer a conformitie to the minde and will of God and to the primative Institution as may be both by casting out corruptions and by supply of defects in and about the Ordinances Administrations Officers and Members thereof 2. Object Was not the government of the Church by Bishops c. according to the Word of God they were Protestants and we enjoyed far more peace in the Church then now men enjoyed then the Ordinances without interruption and doubtlesse many thousands went to heaven by Gods blessing upon means then in use A. I shall nor need now to spend time about that Argument of the Government by Bishops and their Substitutes abundance of satisfaction having by divers been given to that point True it is they were Protestant Bishops in point of Doctrine if we look upon the Doctrine of the Church generally owned but their standing was not of Divine Right both Parliament and Synod having long since condemned that Hyrarchy without doubt that Lordly Prelacy over Gods heritage being quite contrary to the word of God 1 Pet. 5.3 Neither being as Lords over Gods heritage but being examples to the flock It s true we enjoyed much Peace because the strong man kept possession none daring to question their proceedings though never so impious but when the Lord called them to account for their oppression and tyranny and that Satan saw his Kingdom begin to shake he mustered up all his servants to his support which hath made our times so troublesome And although many by Gods blessing upon means and Ordinances then in use were saved this we must attribute to the work of Gods spirit and to God owning his own Ordinances in the midst of much corruption This therefore makes not at all against casting out abuses crept into the Church neither can we expect so great a work as the turning of Church and State up-side down can be done without much combustion especially considering how most men are apt to be led by custom though never so corrupt and its a special mercy considering how many grand Enemies we have had to do withall that God hath put so timely a period to our old troubles I pray God our corrupt hearts and causelesse contentions provoke him not to punish us yet seven times more 3. Object But are there not some that create Churches to themselves what think ye of them A. I think if they deny our Congregations to be true Churches they are erronious and if they do not their separation the more unlawfull And I think as there is many gon from us because they were not of us so many are joyned to other assemblies because our Government was so long before setled being too impatient to wait Gods leisure Such men surely forgot the Israelites were forty years together without the Passeover all the while they were in the Journy to Canaan had they but well eyed the Church they might have seen it some years together in a wildernesse of distraction but still no way to Reformation and therefore ought rather to have waited till God had brought them into the desired Land then to turn their backs upon that work which fares the worse for their departure many thousands are gone that would had they continued have much added to the visible beauty of the Church who are justly to be blamed God and man looking for Reformation not Separation And it s no marvell God so much confounds their Language who will be building Babels to themselves For the Second That Pastors Teachers Elders c. 4. Object Can you make it dppear that the Government of the Church by Pastors Teachers Elders c. is of Divine Institution by the Word of God A. Yea By divers places of Scripture as 1 Tim. 4.14 the Apostle there saith neglect not the gift that is in you which was given with the laying on of the hands of the Tresbytery Again 1 Cor. 12. and God hath set some in the Church first Apostles secundarily Prophets thirdly Teachers after that miracles then gifts of healing helps in Government c. viz. men fitted with severall gifts suitable to the severall ages of the Church Again 1 Tim. 5.17 Let the Elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour especially they who labour in the word and doctrine Likewise 1 Pet. 5.1 The Elders that are among you I exhort who also am an Elder and a witnesse of the sufferings of Christ So also Rom. 12.6 7 8. Having gifts differing c. by all which places its apparent That the government of the Church by Pastors Teachers Elders c. is according
to God that their Offices are also distinct the Scriptures are so plaine they need no interpretation some rule some labour in the word and doctrine 5. Object But what Elders are those spoken of in those Scriptures are they lay Elders or Ecclesiasticall A. The word of God makes no such distinction I do not read in any place of Scripture of either Lay or Ecclesiastique but Elders they were endowed extraoadinarily with severall gifts some to labour in the word and doctrine although in that fence we take Lay viz. for Tradesmen I beleeve such for the most part if not all were the Elders in the Church of Christ in those times And therefore it is that the separate Churches rather question our Ecclesiastique Elders then the Lay to be of Divine Right On the otherside by reason our Churches have been governed by men devoted and set apart to the Ministery many think there ought to be no other but Ecclesiasticall I shall adhere with neither of them but say with all Reformed Churches that let men be gifted by God whether by ordinary or extraordinary means let them have a lawfull call to the function whether Lay or Ecclesiastique they are of Divine institution only we must not expect all to be alike qualified some gifted for the Ministery others for Discipline Order Government and others Church Administrations 6. Object What is the Office of a ruling Elder A. According to their severall titles in Scripture so is their Office and imployment they are called Governours Rulers Overseers Stewards Watchmen c. and their Office is 1. To govern and direct persons and things in the Church and therefore the Apostle reproves those that despise Government in that 2 Pet. 2.10 but chiefly them that walk after the flesh in the lust of uncleannesse and dispise Government and indeed who are there dispise Government more then dissolute vain persons 1 Cor. 12.28 They are called Helps in Government viz. such as together with the Pastor govern the Church therefore 1 Tim. 5.17 Elders that rule well are worthy of double honour 2. As Stewards and Overseers they are to see the Lawes of their Masters house observed Luk. 1â— 41 1 Pet. 4.10 to whom they must give account and give each his portion 1 Cor. 4.1 Let a man so account of as as Stewards c. or dispensors vers 2. Moreover it s required of a Steward that he be found just and faithfull so also Heb 13.17 Obey them that have the oversight of you and submit your selves for they watch for your soules as they that must give account that they may do it with joy and not with griefe for that is unprofitable for you 3. Their duty or office is to edifie the body of Christ viz. the Church and this is the end why the Lord gave severall gifts to those that had the Charge of the Church committed to them Ephes 4.12 So also 1 Cor. 14.12 4. They ought to keep the Doctrine Discipline and Ordinances of the Church from corruption the Church as much as in them lies from scandall 1 Cor. 11.2 Now I pray you brethren that you remember me in all things and keep the Ordinances as I deliver them to you The Apostle speaks here to those that had power in the Church and commends them for keeping the Ordinances and dispensations of the Church pure Again 1 Cor. 5.7 Purge out therefore the old leven that ye may be a new lump as ye are unleavened 5. Their Office is to redresse abules in the Church ordering the affairs thereof decently as in the 1 Cor. 14.33 for God is not the Author of confusion but of peace as in all the Churches of the Saints implying all the Churches of the Saints are kept in good order vers 40. Let all things be done decently and in order 6. They are to end controversies and to make peace to help the weake to restore the penitent and to encorage every one in the wayes of peace and righteousnesse As in the 1 Cor. 6.5 I speak it to your shame is it so that there is not a wise man among you no not one that shall be able to judge between his brethren but a brother goeth to Law with a brother c. 1 Cor. 10.32 Give no offence neither to the Jew nor to the Gentile nor to the Church of God Philip. 2.3 Let nothing be done through strife or vain glory but in lowlinesse of minde Let each esteem others better then himselfe It was the sin of the shepheards of Israel to neglect their duty Ezek. 34.4 the diseased have ye not strengthned neither have ye healed that which was sick neither have ye bound up that which was broken neither have ye brought again that which was driven away neither have ye sought that which was lost but with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them And indeed this was the greatsin of our Episcopal Hyrarchy and of too too many of our idle shepherds under them the Lord reform it in succeding times 7. Their duty is to visite the sick especially when sent for and to pray for them and give comfort to them James 5.14 If any be sick among you let him call for the Elders of the Church and let them pray over him anointing him with oyle in the Name of the Lord and although this unction be now out of use yet with subjection I may say the Apostle intends that Prayer ought not to goe alone without applying lawfull means which indeed ought to be sanctifyed by the Word and Prayer 8. Their office is to admit such as are sit and to suspend the unworthy from the Sacrament of the Lords supper 1 Cor. 5.5 To deliver such a one to Satan for the destruction of the flesh that the Spirit may be saved in the day of the Lord Jesus vers 11. If any that is called a brother be a fornicator or covetuous or a drunkard or an Extortioner with such a one eat not vers 13. Therefore put away from you that wicked person 9. They ought to admit or dismisse Officers in the Church as occasion is offered and these joyntly Act. 6.6 And when they had prayed they laid their hands upon them c. verse 2. Look ye out seven men of honest report full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom whom we may appoint over this businesse So that by all that hath been said it sufficiently appears that Pastors Teachers and Elders their Titles Offices and Imployment in and about Church Administrations are of Divine Institution and that they had need to be Godly and discreet 7. Object But where I pray you will men be found fit for such weighty Imployments A. Indeed there are none sufficient for these things the best of men in all ages have been short of what they ought to be we cannot expect perfection in this life the most precious subject to manifold infirmities all may say with the Apostle 2 Cor. 2.16 Who is sufficient for these things Yet
vain is to set things to rights between God and the soule in secret which being the greater work the Apostle urges that only not intending to exclude Examination by the Church as needlesse and is it not for this purpose the Apostle Peter laies down that Apostolicall injunction 1. Pet. 3.15 Be ready alwaies to give answer to every man that asks you a reason of the hope that is in you with meeknesse and fear First saith he Sanctifie the Lord God in your hearts that is be sure the heart be upright with God and then be ready alwaies to render account c. If a man must be alwayes ready and to all men to give account surely especially to the Church of God And although Christians ought not to be ashamed to confesse Jesus Christ and to make profession of their faith even to heathens or persecutors if called to it yet it s mainly intended that none should refuse to render a reason of their faith to the Church of God yea and that Scripture holds forth that they must be both knowing and faithfull that render account as well as men ignorant or scandalous Now that Examination by the Eldership is very requisite will appear by these and such like ensuing Arguments it being already sufficiently proved that Pastors Teachers Elders their Offices titles and imployments are of Divine institution and also that their titles are sutable to their imployments they are in scripture called Rulers Governours Overseers Stewards Watchmen c. and their Office as hath been largely proved is to order out the administrations of the Church decently to admit or suspend from the Sacrament according to mens severall capacities c. and therefore Examination must inevitably follow For Argum. 1 They that are bound to give account to God concerning the Church and the particular members thereof ought to be acquainted with their spiritual condition But Pastors Teachers and Elders of particular Congregations are bound to give account to God of the particular members of their Churches Therefore ought to be well acquainted with their spirituall condition Argum. 2 Those to whom we are bound to submit and obey in the Church to them we ought to render account of our faith if called to it Examination being an Ordinance of the Church But we are bound to submit to and to obey the Pastors and Elders of the Church in all Church ordinances Therefore we ought to obey them in this ordinance of Examination Argum. 3 If none but men sit to participate the Sacrament are to bee admitted and that the unfit are to be kept back by the Eldership it s of necessitie they should know who are fit and who are not which cannot be done without Examination But the worthy are to be admitted and the unworthy to be suspended by the Eldership neither can they know mens severall capacities or conditions without Examination Therefore Examination by the Eldership is of necessity without which they cannot separate between the precious and the vile as their duty is Jer. 15..19 Many Arguments might more be offered but the matter is so plain that to any reasonable man there can remain no seruple neither do I quotescriptures to those Arguments by reason they are grounded upon the former scriptures alledged for the proof of the Eldership to be of Divine right I shall only propound this one text which will answer all Obey them that have the rule over you and submit your selves for they watch for your soules as they that must give account that they may doe it with joy and not with grief for that is not profitable for you Heb. 13.17 In which scripture all may clearly see that the foregoing Arguments and many more is strongly held forth there beeing contained in the words these following Truths 1. That subjection and obedience is to be given to those that rule and governe in the Church 2. That the reason why men must obey those that rule in the Church is for that they are set over their soules as watchmen and must give account to God concerning those committed to their Charge 3. That its an occasion of Joy to Governours in the Church when people are obedient to the ordinances thereof and of grief when they disobey 4. That the hurt that follows upon the peoples non obedience and the good that attends their obedience redounds to themselves 5. That its the sinne of particular members of the Church not to obey them that in the Lord are set over them in the Church Certainly the consideration of their office and the ends of their appointments to them is Argument enough doubtlesse he is not fit to be a Steward nor can possibly give account that knows not the state of his Charge neither is he fit to be a Shepherd that knows not the state of his flock And if Elders must reprove rebuke exhort admonish and encourage as occasion is How shall they do this without Examining those with whom they have to do 2 Tim. 4.2 Notwithstanding by reason of that generall aversenesse to this necessary duty I add these ensuing considerations being willing to satisfie all 1. Consider if publique profession and confession were requisite in men grown to maturitie before they could be baptized much more requisite is it before admittance to this ordinance The Eunuch although a man of great authoritie and well instructed by Philip and although coming to Jerusalem to worship yet could not be baptized till he made profession of his faith and was first well Catechised concerning Christ Act. 8.37 If thou beleevest with all thy heart thou maiest and he answered and said I beleeve c. and although the Jewes were circumcised and were of the Nationall Church of God yet were none of them received into the particular Congregations and Churches of Jesus Christ without profession of their faith and confession of sins out of which we may gather that our baptisme gives us no right at all to the Sacrament of the Lords Supper unlesse we be sutably quallified we may eat and drink our own damnation 2. Consider there is in every Christian required not onely a believing heart but a verball profession of Faith in Christ Rom. 10.10 For with the heart man believeth unto righteousnesse and with the mouth confession is made to salvation 3. Although every man ought to examine himself that comes to the Table of the Lord yet the Officers of the Church must also examine else how shall they know who is able to examine himself And I fear they that plead most against examination by the Eldership are both least capable and most carelesse of that especiall duty of self examination besides self examination is all that is required of any man after first admittance Those the Apostle speaks to 1. Cor. 11.28 were members of the Church who had before admittance made profession of their faith in Christ 4. Methinks particular men should not stumble at examination seeing those that are in place of
some hinderance but doubtlesse every knowing Christian woman that desires communion with Iesus Christ in his Ordinances the premises considered will not reject their own mercy in turning their backs upon so weighty an Ordinance rather then do that duty which we see both God and man enjoyns and expects and wherein their own safety is so much concerned and I am confident out times have as many Maries Priscillahs Hannahs Lydiaes c. viz. women fearing the Lord and not ashamed of their profession as any time since the world began and who I hope are rather ashamed of taking upon them loose and fantastick fashions not becoming the Gospel then contemne the Ordinances of Iesus Christ and who with those Godly Matrons of old make their chief ornament the hidden man of of the heart the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit according to the exhortation of the Apostle 1 Pet. 3.4.5 also in 1 Tim. 2.9.10 both places worth the taking special notice of by every woman fearing God Neither are such uselesse to the Church but may with Priscilla help forward the work of Christ in the services of the Church Rom. 16.3 And doubtlesse they will not misse of that respect and tender care from the Eldership as be seems both their age and Sex 15. Ob. Were it only to be examined by the Minister it were not so much but for a man or woman to come before so many dashes them out of Countenance A. 1. It s not otherwaies intended but the Pastor or Minister shall propound such plain and necessary queries as are requisite which indeed are so few and easie that none need scruple Neither can any be ignorant of that know any thing of God especially being so cleerly laid down in the Ordinance of Church government the Elders for the most part being auditors only with the Pastor approving or otherwise of mens aptnesse c. for so weighty an Ordinance 2. It s for very good reason there should be Elders to joyne with the Pastor in this work otherwise the businesse would be arbitrary and more apt to corruption it s not fit the power of admission or suspension should rest in any particular breast 3. The Pastors and Elders doubtlesse know its their duty to avoid preposterous and partial proceeds vain glory provocation to strife c. And although they ought to be jealous yet must they also be tender over the soules of such who are committed to their charge and to doe all in long suffering and meeknesse forbearing one another in love that no offence be given according to the Apostles rule Phil. 2.3 Gal. 5.26 2 Cor. 63 4. 1 Pet. 5.1 2 3. 16. Ob. Me thinks it were sufficient to suspend the scandalous Is there any such need to keep off the ignorant Is not the Sacrament a converting Ordinance A. Ignorance as well as scandal make men uncapable for ignorant men are not able to discerne the Lords body Nay men ignorant and erronious are more dangerous in the Church then the scandalous for the scandalous is palpably known to himself and others to be in an undone condition but an ignorant man or a man of corrupt judgement in fundamentalls doth not only go himself hud-winked to hell but if God be not the more mercifull draws others along with him Thereforâ— as a man would keep a sword or other hurtfull weapon out of a Childes or a mad mans hand so carefull should we be of admitting men either scandalous ignorant or erronious to Sacramental communion least they ruine themselves and others for the Sacrament of the Lords supper is a consuming but not a converting Ordinance Preaching Reading Prayer c. are converting Ordinances and till men are converted and well seen in the Doctrine of Faith Repentance Justification and Sanctification they are very unfit for Sacramental communion 17. Ob. But do what you can yet many corrupt men will be admitted A. True but the fewer the better if men be inwardly depraved God only judges the Eldership sees only as man sees And if notwithstanding all care some will be corrupt much more would be if men were admitted hand over head as formerly without Examination 18. Ob. Surely were it a good work and aceording to God good Ministers would promote it but there are diverse good Preachees about London and in other parts of the kingdome that act little or nothing at all this way A. It s true that good Ministers do promote the work very much and many Congregations have made good progresse where the Ministers or Pastors are hearty to the work of Reformation And indeed where there are good Elders it bewrayes either a nutral Episcopal or a malignant spirit in those Ministers that act not Let them preach how they will if they stir not up both People and Elders to improve their ability to the utmost to put forward the work there is but little zeal for God And if the Elders be backward the Minister ought to use all means either to cause them to mend their pace or have them outed and it s the fault of Elders considering remedy may be had if they suffer under an Episcopal or malignant Pastor 2. Pastors ought to seek both the Elders and People and so the Elders and People their Pastor from God and all joyntly to seek God viz. the godly for direction and protection for it s very unlikly else the work should prosper A work well begun is half ended no doubt but Satan and our corrupt hearts will cast blocks in our way that we might stumble and fall but we have a strong God whose grace is sufficient Therefore all should resolve thorow his strength to rush thorow all opposition he that hath promised to be with his servants in Gospel Ordinances and Dispensations to the end of the world is semper idem I know there are diverse discouragements arise both to the Pastors and Elders As 1. That natural and general aversenesse of men to come in whence it comes to passe that although the Confines of a Parrish be very large and populous yet few are fit to be admitted and those peradventure of the lower sort 2. Multiplicity of such as turn their backs and lift up the heel 3. Some again expect either Independency will be established or a generall tolleration and this makes many Episcopally neutrally or malignantly affected run hither and thither rather then come in at the doore of examination hoping this Government will not long stand rather lust after their old flesh-pots and Egyptian onyons c. 4. Some are discouraged upon fears of violence offered to the Ordinances by profane men that will in despite both of God and Man lay foul hands upon the sacred Elements c. In answer to all these and many more such unworthy fcars I could speak much but that I have exceeded already and account them not worthy much debate therefore I answer briefly To the first and second 1. That generall aversnesse that is in men to the
The Sacramental STVMBLING-BLOCK Removed Or a brief discourse concerning Examination by the Congregational Eldership before admittance to the Sacrament Wherein all contrary scruples are silenced the Equity and Necessity of that duty vindicated both by Scripture and undenyable Arguments Set forth for 1. The Satisfaction of the Weake 2. The Information of the Ignorant 3. The Conviction of the Obstinate 4. The Edification of the Church of God by W. L. Cast ye up Cast ye up prepare the way take up the Stumbling-block out of the way of my people Isa 57.14 Obey them that have rule over you and submit your selves for they watch for your soules as they that must give account that they may doe it with joy and not with griefe for that is unprofitable for you Heb. 13.7 But sanctifie the Lord God in your hearts and be ready alwaies to give an answer to every man that asks you a reason of the hope that is in you with meeknesse and fear 1 Pet. 3.15 LONDON Printed by James and Joseph Moxon for Henry Overton and are to be sold at his Shop in Popes-head Alley 1648. To the CHRISTIAN READER Christian Reader THe grand confusion and distraction of the Church the great opposition that that so needfull and desirable work of Reformation now meets with together with the great pressures now lying upon the spirits of such as beare good will to the Peace and Prosperitie thereof hath compelled me to the Presse And although the unfittest of ten thousands yet by drawing this Bush in the Gappe I may by Gods blessing not onely prevent that Devastation that for ought I see is like to follow if not timely prevented But also encourage some Master-builder to repaire the Breaches with better Materialls and more skilfull hand I call God to witnesse Nothing more moves me then the love I beare to the Peace of the Church of Christ and its Reformation so much endeavoured both by Parliament and Synod so much desired by the Saints so much oppugned and oppossed by Satan and his Instruments and if by this contemptible clay the Cure be in any good measure effected I have my aime and desire thee with my selfe to give the Glory to Jesus Christ In whom I am thine W. I. A CATALOGVE of such QVERIES and SCRVPLES as are resolved in the ensuing Discourse 1. Obiect WHat is meant by Reformation Pag. 2. 2. Object Was not the goverment of the Church by Bishops c. according to the Word of God they were Protestants and we enjoyed far more peace in the Church then now men enjoyed then the Ordinances without interruption and doubtlesse many thousands went to heaven by Gods blessing upon means then in use Pag. 3. 3. Ob. But are there not some that create Churches to themselves what think ye of them Pag. 3. 4. Object Can you make it appear that the Government of the Church by Pastors Teachers Elders c. is of Divine Institution by the Word of God Pag. 4. 5. Object But what Elders are those spoken of in those Scriptures are they lay Elders or Ecclesiasticall Pag. 5. 6. Object What is the Office of a ruling Elder Pag. 5. 7. Object But where I pray you will men be found fit for such weighty Imployments Pag. 8. 8. Object But why do they choose such young men as in many places they have and some of the meaner sort me thinks they should chuse the most ancient and able men in the Parish who would better become both the title and office of Elders Pag. 9. 9. Object Me thinks the Pastors and Elders in Presbyterian Congregations are neither rightly called nor fitly qualified Pag. 12. 10. Object Q. But why must wee appeale to Classes Have they any power to determine differences and to reforme abuses in particular Congregations Pag. 13. 11. Object But they say now none must come to the Sacrament without Examination by the Eldership which some hold to bee no better then a point of Popery however it s very needlesse and ridiculous for ancient men that have born all Offices in the Parish and Church too lived long under the meanes often formerly admitted now to be catechised like boyes neither do I beleeve there is any rule for it in the Word the Apostle saith Let every man examine himselfe and so let him eat c. 1 Cor. 11.28 Pag. 17. 12. Object Methinks if they would catechise the young people it would do well but for ancient men that have received the Sacrament twenty or thirty years together or more that have born all Offices in both Church and Parish to be now called to account like boyes this cannot be endured Pag. 25. 13. Ob. But must all men be examined Certainly some men are as able to examine the Eldership as the Elders them What need is there to examine such Pag. 26. 14. Ob. But must women also be examined is there any rule for that in Scripture Pag. 27. 15. Ob. Were it only to be examined by the Minister it were not so much but for a man or woman to come before so many dashes them out of Countenance Pag. 28. 16. Ob. Methinks it were sufficient to suspend the scandalous Is there any such need to keep off the ignorant Is not the Sacrament a converting Ordinance Pag. 29. 17. Ob. But do you what you can yet many corrupt men will be admitted Pag. 29. 18. Ob. Surely were it a good work and according to God good Ministers would promote it but there are divers good Preachers about London and in other parts of the Kingdom that act little or nothing at all this way Pag. 30. 19. Ob. But what if the King come home think ye this Government will stand Pag. 32. 20. Ob. Do ye not see how Parishes are divided about this businesse in divers places they are altogether by the ears Pag. 33. 21. Ob. But what 's the reason so many Elders are chosen in divers places and so few hold not halfe in some places Pag. 34. 22. Ob. But is it meet all men should come before the Eldership to be examined before admittance Methinks they should go to the houses of some men of best rank and converse with them there Pag. 35. 23. Ob. But if men and women must both be examined it may fall out a man may be found unfit and his wife may be received some-time the man received and his wife unfit what a kind of confusion will this be doth not the Apostle Paul lay the unbeleeving woman is sanct fied by the beleeving man and the unbeleeving man by the beleeving woman 1 Cor. 7.14 Pag. 36. 24. Ob. What are the principal points that will be enquired of by the Eldership what time men come before them Pag. 39. 25. Ob. What are the crimes that make unapable of admittance in point of scandal Pag. 41. THE SACRAMENTALL STVMBLING-BLOCK Removed FOrasmuch as the Lord by unexpected and unspeakable providence hath so composed the grand quarrell of the Kingdom that notwithstanding
be wiser for the body then for the soule which is more worth then the whole world 5. Although men be never so rich and great in the world yet if they be called and quallified for this work they must become fooles children and servants or else not fit 1 Tim. 5.17 either for the Kingdom of heaven or to be imployed in the Church of God And this is one obsticle in the way of great men who if they had eyes to see they might know that the service of God and his Church is not only the greatest freedom 1 Cor. 4.20 but the highest honour 6. It s an Argument of an ignorant and carnall heart and of such as are utterly unacquainted with Iesus Christ thus to stumble at his crosse was it not the ignorance and impietie of the Scribes and Pharisees thus to do did not they say of the Lord Christ Is not this the Carpenters sonne are not his brethren with us c. Do any of the Rulers beleeve in him c. Who is it that counts the wisdom of God foolishnesse but men worldly wise And are not we apt to say What is such or such a one do not we know them well enough taking exceptions at men excellently quallisied if not so great in the world as our selves 7. Know this is only a block cast in the way by Satan that men may stumble without cause and fall Notwithstanding men of abilicie and known fidelitie be in most places chosen yet it s ordinary with the devil and his instruments to obstruct therefore if he cannot quarrell with the Ordinances then with dispensations if no cause there then with the Instruments and if with none of those then with Christ with Truth it selfe For he knows the settlement of the discipline of the Church will exceedingly obstruct the increase of his Kingdom when corruptions are cast out and persons ignorant and scandalous debarred that Ordinance which makes them ten fold more the children of the devil by unworthy participating For it s all one to him either to make men rush hand overhead upon the Ordinance to their ruine or to raise a prejudice against the duty and Instruments imployed to deprive them of that mercy which by Gods blessing might be very Instrumentall to their salvation 8. If they be Legally chosen have past the tryall and the time of exception not made use of blame your selves Neverthelesse if they be unfit there is place of appeal and remedy 9. Ob. Me thinks the Pastors and Elders in Presbyterian Congregations are neither rightly called nor fitly qualified A I. Although I doubt not but many yea the most of them are as well qualified as we can expect for that as we cannot expect perfection here nor in a Legall sence any fitly qualified yet Evangelically considered although none are sufficient the Lord looks upon them with approbation and acceptance 2. Notwithstanding there is also sufficient provision made for the removall of such whether Pastor or Elder as are uncapable either by ignorance or scandall It s not here as in Independent Churches where if the people injure their Pastor or Elders c. or the Officers injure the people without redresse but if either party be found faulty they are responsible and satisfaction is given to the suffering party according to the demerit and doubtlesse corruption will creep especially into Churches where provision is not made to keepe it out 3. Although I would not plead for the unsutablenesse or incapacitie of any cal'd to the meanest office in the Church of God yet I would have them looked upon as men subject to infirmities not as Angels and if we would not have such we must ascend higher to look for Pastors Elders c. then either God or man ordained or expects And yet ordinarily those that stumble most at the inablities of Church-Officers are men most incapable of Church Communion Secondly For the Calling of Church-Officers If Pastors Teachers Elders c. be chosen according to those directions laid down in the Ordinance and have past thorow the door of tryall accordingly as in most places they have or otherwaies men disaffected to the Government would quickly have let them know it There can be no just exception especially if the time limited for exception be more then past abundantly unlesse you deny the publique Congregations in England to be true Churches which hath been and is generally attested not only by the National Synod now sitting the Godly Learned in generall whether Episcopall or Presbyterian but all the reformed Churches nay the most pious and prudent of the Independent judgement also have publiquely positively and affirmatively declared them to be true Churches of Iesus Christ however confessed on all sides to be full of corruptiâ—ns or else we should have no need of Reformation many Godly and learned Divines having taken much pains in publique to defend the Truth against all opposers and indeed the satisfaction of such weak Christians as stumbled hereat together with that other scruple of participating the Sacrament in mixt Assemblies was the chief cause of my own undertaking that Subject published for common benefit in the Book called the Bramble berry wherein there is full satisfaction given to that point therefore not willing now to insist further I refer such as yet scruple thither 10. Q. But why must we appeal to Classes have they any power to determine differences and to reform abuses in particular Congregations A. Yea and that for very good reason for 1. Besides the appointment by Parliament and Assembly they are our own Trustees or Representatives such as are chosen by particular Congregations to hear and determine differences and reform such abuses as in case of error or injury they themselves cannot for were it not for Classis the Pastors Elders c might injure the Congregation or the people injure the Pastor c. and remain remedilesse Classis therefore are as Committees chosen out or made up of pastors and Elders out of particular Churches and although they have appointment by Authoritie of Parliament and Assembly so they are approved and chosen by particular Churches as their Trustees so that every particular Church hath like interest and so receive like redresse in point of appeal And that these may not be oppressive or injurous they are responsible to the Provincialls which are also made up of so many delegates as are thought fit out of the severall Classis as their Representatives and those also responsible to a National Synod and they likewise to a Parliament so that as much provision as may be is made to keep out Arbitrary proceeds and tyranny and to redresse all abuses and that neither Pastor or other Officer be wronged by the people or the people by the Pastor c. or joyntly fall into errors without remedy 2. Although its true wee read of no such power in the Church as Classis Provincialls Nationalls c. in the Scripture yet we finde something
Judicature trust in the Church ought and are first examined as 1. Tim. 3. After the Apostle had laid down what manner of men they ought to be that are to bear office in the Church in the 10. v. saith and let these also be rov'd implying that all admitted to Church communion ought to be proved but first such as are to rule and govern these also must be proved And this the Parliament and Synod have made good provision for in that Ordinance for setling the government of the Church that none be admitted to that trust but first to be proved by the triers who must be found men of unblameable Conversations and sound in the Faith And indeed there is great need that men that are to rule in the Church should be both grave and godly for if a man cannot tell how to rule his own house how shall he take care of the Church of God 1. Tim. 3.5 5. No man can possesse outward things but he must declare his title and upon all occasions produce his evidences and do we think the things of God are to be passed hand over head to such as are no way able to plead their proprietie Thinke it requisite to deal securely for the body and be so loose and carelesse of our immortall souls 6. Consider who is it will suffer if men unworthy be admitted as of necessitie they will if not examined shall not such a one reap his own ruine Nay and those that ought to have debarred him Inevitably incur the guilt of his bloud therefore it is farre better and more agreeable to the word of God more tending to the edification of the Church for men found unfit a while to be suspended till by the preaching of the VVord Prayer Christian admonition c. they become capable to participate to Gods glory and their own comfort 7. There is not so great cause of offence if any to any man if they confider it is but once at first admittance its needlesse when men are once sufficiently known to the Church if it were to be done as often as the Sacrament were administred there were more cause of exception 8. Consider Authority upon long and serious debate hath found it a duty of especiall concernment much conducing to the Reformation of abuses in the Church having had sufficient consult with the Assembly of Divines concerning the Legallity and necessity thereof and have found it a duty of Divine right and therefore have injoyned all in Authoritie that they admit none but first examine their aptnesse both in point of knowledge and conversation and this Ordinance will not only debar the ignorant and scandalous but also men of unsound and rotten judgements who are as dangerous in the Church and far more then scandalous livers Now if we ought to submit to every Ordinance of man for the Lords sake let us submit to this especially wherein the glory of God and our own eternall good is so much concernd And certainly those that most pleaded for Conformity for obedience to Authority in the Bishops dayes should not now spurn so much at the Ordinances of the Church yet so it is that those formerly that were our greatest Conformists are in this point chief non-conformists And such men who I am sure cast an evill eye upon the separation for making rents and divisions in the Church by their spurning against the Ordinances of the Church running hither and thither to promiscuous dispensations lusting after their old onyons become arch Seperatists which disorder doubtlesse as the work of Reformation goes on and the government of the Church setled will easily be prevented 9. Consider it s the honour of a Christian to make profession of his Faith although before persecutours and tyrants and in midst of sufferings and wilt thou be ashamed to render a reason of thy Faith to thy fellow brethren and friends 10. Nothing is required of any particular member that both Pastor and Elders have not cherefully undergone and that in a more serious and strict nature 11. The turning our backs upon the Lords Supper rather then to passe thorow this doore of examination argues great sleighting of that sacred Ordinance and herein we neglect our own mercy and bewray aboundance of folly certainly every man would charge him with folly that is heire to a good estate and will rather loose it then plead his interest or bring forth his evidences And have we not as great reason to conclude him both ignorant and unworthy to participate the Lord Christ that rather then show his right or plead his propriety will loose his part in him Therefore by all means take heed of contemning this weighty Ordinance wherein our spiritual life nutriment consists And the more thy heart is avers to submit the more certainly conclude the Ordinance is of Divine Institution for naturally our hearts are averse to God and goodnes 12. By coming in we shall declare our selves friends to Reformation Promoters of the Peace of the Church Enemies to those that would gladly increase our confusion who with Sanballat and Tobiah cast their daily scoffs and reproches upon the wayes people and Ordinances of God besides it is farre better for men found uncapable by examination to be a while suspended then if promiscuously admitted in a croud to be cast out by excommunication 13. Consider the great mischiess that attend the admitting of all sorts of men to the Table of the Lord. First Hereby occasion is given to the weaker to dispise and dislike the Ordinances of God and to contemne our Religion this being the very reason why many now of the separation have forsaken our Assemblies and do at this day power so much reproach and contempt upon us although they are to be justly condemned in so doing Wo be to them that give occasion of offence but withall wo be to them that take offence hereat The sinne of Elies sonnes 1. Sam. 2.17 was great in making the Lords people to abhor the offerings of the Lord yet this was also called the transgression of the people so that they both sinned even so promiscuous dispensation of divine Ordinances gives occasion of offence to many especially to God therefore sinfull but yet it s their sin that turn their backs upon the Ordinances for that ground Secondly It s a grand cause of the growth of sinne hereby prophane men are incouraged to go on in their impieties by being admitted into Church priviledges as well as the best men and not discountenanced by casting out that that makes Gods Vineyard fruitfull as a reverend able Divine not long since well shewed is the fencing of it and casting out the stones thereof Esay 5.2 But if the fence be so broken down that swine and all manner of beasts break in and if the stones be not cast out to wit men ignorant and scandalous its impossible for the Church to edifie or bring forth fruit pleasing to God nothing but wild and sower grapes can
be expected Thirdly The holy things of God are hereby profained childrens bread given to dogs Pearls cast before swine the uncircumcised admitted no difference put between the precious and the vild giving the Lord just cause to deprive us of his Ordinances and to say as sometime he did of his Israel What hath my beloved to do in my house Jeremiah 11.15 Fourthly It will abundantly grieve and burthen the godly party even as putrified and rotten members grieve the whole body and as its death for a dead carcasse to be joyned to a living man and as in the best framed Fabrick although much of the materials are very sound and good yet one rotten pillar or beam may bring all about our ears And as no man will put an old peece into a new garment so is it not only unsutable but very unsafe nay destructive to admit men ignorant and scandalous to fellowship with the Saints what fellowship can light have with darknesse or God with Belial And for this cause was it the hand of God lay so heavy upon the Corinthians many of them visited with sicknesses and death for their unworthy participating the Lords body 1 Cor. 11. 14. Consider that Apostolical injunction is binding to all Governours in Churches in this case 1 Cor. 5.11 If any that is called a Brother be a fornicator or covetuous or an Idolater or a rayler or a drunkard or an Extortioner with such a one eat not The Apostle prohibits not eating common bread with such for then we must go out of the world but Sacramentall bread And therefore appointed this remedy vers 13. Put away therefore from among you that wicked person 12. Ob. Methinks if they would Catechise the young people it would do well but for ancient men that have received the Sacrament twenty or thirty years together or more that have born all Offices in both Church and Parish to be now called to account like boyes This cannot be endured A. It s very good indeed for young people to be well catechised in the grounds and principles of Religion and in the Doctrine of the Sacrament that may become capable of those holy mysteries and if in publick the ancient loose nothing by it yet it s too too common for old men to be very ignorant of Jesus Christ and therefore have need enough of Examination and yet respect had to their yeers also neither Parliament or Eldership intending such a particular Catechistical account of ancient men as of the younger sort it being to pedagogicall but if the soules of the anciont be as precious as the souls of the young and if the blood of the ancient as well as the younger people will be required at their hands that willingly receive them into Sacramental communion that by unworthy participating become guilty of the body and blood of Jesus Christ then I say it is of as great necessity for the old as well as young people to render a reason of their faith to the Church Had not I pray you Nichodemus need enough of catechising an ancient man a Ruler of the Jewes yet utterly ignorant of the doctrine of Regeneration and as ignorant are many of our great and ancient men both of Regeneration and also of the work of Reformation doctrine of the Sacrament yet no doubt but all the respect that may be will be had both to age and sex the work being intended by all intrusted in it to be caried on with all humilitie love and Christian tendernesse laying aside all sinister respects or ambitious ends according to the exhortation of the Apostle 1 Pet. 5.23 speaking there to the Elders exhorts them to feed the flock of God which is among them and of whom they have oversight not by constraint or for filthy lucre but of a ready minde neither as being lords over Gods heritage but to be ensamples to the stock And for that some have received the Sacrament twenty or thirty years together the longer the worse with many for we know by wofull experience how promiscuously the Ordinances of God have been even hand over head dispensed to the great dishonour of God the shame of such as had power in the Church and much to be feared and lamented to the losse of many a poor soul and indeed this being one of the grand corruptions to be cast out of the Church ought not to be pleaded for in the least Old customs have begot old corruptions 13. Ob. But must all men be examined Certainly some men are as able to examine the Eldership as the Elders them What need is there to examine such A. Would to God all men were so and their conversations as sutable With Moses I wish all the Lords people were Prophets yet men never so well qualified must be examined before admitted yea and by men peradventure some of them of meaner abilities then those Examined For 1. The Ordinance of Parliament although made upon long and serious debate for that purpose exempts none 2. If men be never so able or honest if not known the duty may not be omitted 3. If they be known to be such yet to avoid exception and to encourage others although lesse paines need be taken it s not needlesse to render an account of the reason of our faith but according to Apostolical injunction Certainly when the Apostle enjoynes all to this duty he means not only men of weak abilities but even the strongest Christian 4. Although men be never so able yet they must obey them that are set over them in the Lord and who are lawfully called to that function and who have received authority from God abilities must not make men shake off obedience 5. Such men as are able and Godly doe seldom or never scruple this their hearts being most averse that have least knowledge of God ignorance and scandal being the grand reason of mens standing out were not men in the dark they would not stumble 14. Ob. But must women also be examined is there any rule for that in Scripture A. There is as much rule for Examination of women before their first admittance as there is for their coming to the Sacrament there being no possitive precept for it although very undeniable consequences from the Word Certainly women were conversant with Jesus Christ as well as men and although not recorded in holy Writ yet doubtlesse did participate the body and blood of Jesus Christ Sacramentally as well as men And if they have immortal soules and must live by faith as well as men and have no other way to salvation but Jesus Christ as well as men and if the guilt of their blood may by unworthy rushing upon the Ordinance of God be charged upon the Eldership as well as upon themselves certainly as much care had need to be taken how they be admitted and what right they have to the sacred and divine miresteries Peradventure shame-fac'dnesse and modesty subject to that Sex may at first a little bee
work should be a strong perswasion to us that it s of God 2. That although the Confines are large and populous and but few come in know its a mercy rather then any cause of discouragement for as many are called and but few chosen so many heare the Word and but few fit for Sacramental Communion and so long as those that do come in are such as we may comfortably have fellowship withall be not troubled God had ever the smallest number and for my part if the work be once in any good forwardnesse I beleeve there is more cause to fear too many will lay claim to it then too few and will come in fast enough if they may be received 3. Consider the condition of those that reject the Ordinance and those that with humble and holy hearts offer themselves to the work those received are godly Let that comfort and despise not the Day of small things No matter how mean in the worlds account and let not those poore souls be deprived of their desired spirituall nutriment by any causelesse obstructions 3. For that fear of violence c. It cannot enter into my heart that men will be so impudently guilty of this high peece of spirituall sacriledge to lay violent and foul hands upon the body and bloud of Christ such must especially hale the guilt of his blood upon their own heads And yet if any such be it concerns those intrusted with the Holy Ordnance to oppose them by doing all in them lies either by perswasion admonition complaint to the civil Magistrate who in such cases bears not the swore in vain and who I am confident if applyed to will not be wanting to punish such according to demerit and to encourage those concernd And if neither admonition or Christian perswasion will serve it s very lawfull to reprove them sharply and to make open opposition to them let them be never so great A notable example of this we have in Azariah the Priest who when Vzziah the King would burn Incense upon the Altar 2 Chron. 26.18 19. the Priests are commended for withstanding him and thrusting him out of the Temple and the Lord left him not unrewarded for he was a Leper from that very houre to his dying day which plainly shews that God is present in his Ordnances and will undoubtedly avenge abuses offered to him in their dispensations and without speedy repentance and Gods wonderfull mercy such men may justly expect the reward of Corah c. 4. Whereas some expect either Independency or a generall tolleration I answer For general tolleration there is no great fear and if their should the Presbyterian government I hope will have its freedome as well as others and as for Independencie there is no such difference between the Presbyterian government and that as can any way give a nullity or change to Church Ordinances for they must have both Pastors Teachers Elders Deacons c. The same Ordnances only differ in point of appeal the truth is Independant Churches are Presbyterian only Presbyterian as now stated not Independant I look upon the Independant government as a Presbyterian tree with one branch cut off by reason there is not that provision made in point of errour or injury as in Presbyterian government but in neither none can communicate without being examined before admittance nay Episcopall government reformed will not admit of promiscuous dispensations 19. Ob. But what if the King come home think ye this government will stand A. I beleeve many in our dayes there are that dispise the day of smal things and with Sanballet and Tobiah say What will these weak Iews do and who as I said are lusting after their old Egyptian flesh-pots not caring at all for the Milk and Hony of Canaan who hope to see the wheele turn but let such know their hope is as the crackling of thernes the foundation of God stnads sure and he that hath laid the foundation will also lay the top-stone The government of the Church of God is not grounded upon the King but upon Jesus Christ Isa 9.6 that rock against which the gates of hell shall never be able to prevail and considering the wonderfull works God hath wrought for us of late years in order to Reformation hee knows little of God that doubts of his assistance for future much lesse such as hope for any obstruction 20. Object Doe yee not see how Parishes are divided about this businesse in divers places they are altogether by the ears A. 1. You may easily perceive by the persons that make opposition that the government is of God carnal and profane men cannot endure it they cannot subject to the yoak of Christ the cause is not in Reformation but in our own corrupt hearts and hence is it men band themselves against the Lord Christ saying Let us break his bands asunder and cast his cords from us but the Lord hath them in derision he laughs them to scorne and he will in due time make his stoutest foes his foot-stool 2. It was said by Christ himself that he came in the flesh to make division to set the father against the son son against father mother in law against the daughter in law c. And although this was not the intent of his coming yet it is so accidentally so it ever was and will be so long as there is seed of woman and seed of the serpent there will be if a Church millitant a Church malignant and so long as there is flesh and spirit 21. Ob. But what is the reason so many Elders are chosen in divers places and so few hold not half in some places A. Many men that are chosen are as unwilling to undergoe that trouble as many other are to come in to Communion and refuse to hold from divers grounds Some for that they feare they shall reape displeasure of their neighbours not having learned to goe thorow good and evil report for Christ Others feare they shall spend too much time from the world Some out of fear of opposition and difficulty they shall meet withall in the work being as unwilling to enter upon the Office by Examination or Tryall as others to come to Sacrament But to decline their trust from such sinister ends is an unworthy thing neither ought those that doe imbrace that office be discouraged although the sonnes of Anak be many and great it s the work of God and as the Lord Christ said in an other case to his Disciples it is I bee not afraid so say I to all that God hath called to the worke Bee not afraid its Gods worke and hee will give all suitable assistance and will in dispite of men and devils set his Sonne upon his Holy hill 2. No man ought to be discouraged for that the halfe of those chosen hold not For doubtlesse many that have declined after chosen have done it out of a sence of their own unfitnesse who if they had held
would either have been found unfit upon tryall or if not hearty to the worke would have hindred the successe thereof 3. If but one third part of those chosen hold and who are upon tryall found fit being confirmed by them their authoritie is as binding as if five times their number had imbraced it and the fewer there are the more commendable is their resolution against difficulty and the lesse fear of dissention who also if they find the work too hard as opportunitie is offered may admit of additional assistance 4. The numerousnesse of the Presbytery is one of the blocks cast in the way of reformation therefore there is lesse need to stumble at their paucity if able to carry on the work Ob. 22. But is it meet all men should come before the Eldership to be examined before admittance me thinks they should go to the houses of some men of best rank and converse with them there Answ Vnlesse in case of sicknesse or the like it is very unfit For 1. It s exemplary giving occasion to others to expect the like and sets open a doore of chargeing the Eldership with partiallity and un-even dealing in distribution of Divine Ordinances 2. It must needs draw contempt both upon Governours and Government and Ordinances 3. It were an endlesse work and let men be never so high in the world yet if they ow not so much respect for the work sake to those whom God hath set over them in the Church as to come before them such men will never receive benefit by the Ordinance And if such a spirit predominate I am sure it s against the rule laid down by the Apostle 1 Tim. 5.17 Yea and derogates very much from the disposition of every one that are either fit for Church Communion or Heavenly intertainment Mark 10.15 Verily verily I say unto you whosoever shall not receive the Kingdom of God as a little child he shall not enter therein So also Matth. 18.4 Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child the same is greatest in the Kingdome of God David a King yet thought it his honour to be humble Psal 131.2 professing himself to be as a weaned child 4. Where the soul truly thirsts after Jesus Christ in the Ordinances it will easily step over this block hunger will break stone walls And although the Devil and wicked men indeavour to hedge up thy way to the Ordinances yet if thou spiritually hunger and thirst all these will be laid low every one that hath the knowledge of Jesus Christ hath learned to deny himself 5. Although the Eldership would willingly use all good means to win men by love and ready to deny themselves as it s their dutie for the avoyding of offence and the enlargement of the Church yet herein they should but please some and displease many more and bring such an endlesse task upon themselves as would take up much time and abundantly retard the work 6. It s not a work either commanded or commended to any particular Eldership by the Classical assembly how ever in some extraordinary cases something of this nature may be done left to the discretion of the particular Presbytery and who I doubt not but will condescend to any thing that may promote the work of God Ob. 23. But if men and women must both be examined it may fall out a man may be found unfit and his wife may be received sometime the man received and his wife unfit what a kind of confusion will this be doth not the Apostle Paul say The unbelieving woman is sanctified by the believing man and the unbelieving man by the believing woman 1 Cor. 7.14 A. The Apostle speaks there concerning the reason why unbelievers and believers might cohabit and continue in a conjugal estate of matrimony And is not so to be understood as that the wife can be saved by the husbands faith or the husband by the wives this were to crosse the doctrine of Scripture and the analogie of faith for every man must know and believe for himself The just shall live by his faith neither Abraham Noah Iob or Daniel could deliver any mans soul by their faith though never so nearly related The Apostle only signifies three that it was unlawfull to depart matrimonial society because both were not believers for that if the one did believe it gave their children right to external Christian Church priviledges and such Ordinances as they were capable of as Circumcision under the Law Baptisme in time of the Gospel not that the Parents can either adde or infuse Grace into their children for the dearest of Gods Saints may have children destitute of Grace and uncapable either of Church-fellowship or the least share in Jesus Christ neither is there the least hint of any thing in this Text of Sacramental Communion or of things pertaining to life and salvation for in such cases every man and woman must plead their own interest and either have particular and peculiar saving Grace or the nearest relation they have to the most Holy can do them no good He that believes shall be saved he that believeth on the Sonne hath everlasting life and he that believeth not the Sonne shall not see life but the wrath of God abides on him Iohn 3.16 And hence is it that in the great and general judgement men and women of nearest relations are separated Two shall be in the field the one taken and the other left two women grinding at the mill the one taken and the other left March 24.40 41. 2. As in the Kingdome of Heaven there is neither marrying Mark 12.16 nor giving in marriage but all are as the Angels so the Church of God on earth take no cognizance whether men be married or single wives or Virgins but he or she that 's capable of Church Communion ought to be admitted and must be visible Saints And although never so nearly related if not so ought to be shut out 3. Suppose a man upâ—â— examination be admitted and his wife respited for her incapacity a while till God shall enable her or suppose the wife be admitted and her husband for like reason suspended is it not better for that party found fit to be admitted and the party unfit to be debarred then either both to be admitted or both kept back or that either of them should deny themselves the benefit of the Ordinance For 1. It s agreeable to the Word of God and Ordinances of the Church and tends much to the comfort of the Communicant to be admitted if worthy and to admit the unworthy is contrary to all 2. What comfort can it be to thee while thou art participating the body and bloud of Jesus Christ if thy wife unworthily admitted not discerning the Lords Body be eating and drinking damnation to her self or contrariwise if thy wife be a worthy Communicant it will be the terror of her soul to see her husband hailing destruction upon himself by