truth_n out_o of_o which_o christianity_n rise_v the_o twelve_o apostolic_a foundation_n upon_o which_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n ascend_v set_v up_o its_o odd_a uneven_a unequal_a antichristianism_n part_n christian_n part_n pagan_a part_v true_a part_n false_a and_o this_o be_v all_o the_o care_n we_o need_v take_v for_o the_o body_n of_o the_o roman_a church_n it_o be_v not_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n it_o be_v not_o of_o the_o 23._o heb._n 12._o 23._o general_a assembly_n and_o church_n of_o the_o first-born_a write_v in_o heaven_n it_o deserve_v not_o that_o love_n and_o care_v due_a to_o â—he_v body_n as_o it_o be_v so_o incorporate_v it_o be_v irreco_fw-la cilable_a with_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n and_o aught_o to_o be_v so_o declare_v but_o there_o may_v lie_v hide_v number_n among_o they_o who_o like_o the_o seven_o thousand_o in_o the_o israelitish_n baalism_n who_o be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o depth_n of_o satan_n in_o that_o false_a religion_n to_o who_o the_o christianity_n that_o remain_v though_o blend_v with_o that_o corruption_n separate_v itself_o and_o as_o oil_n rise_v uppermost_a to_o they_o to_o these_o we_o may_v allow_v the_o charitable_a hope_n of_o salvation_n not_o for_o their_o popish_a tincture_n but_o for_o their_o christianity_n for_o all_o that_o be_v popish_a be_v their_o danger_n and_o their_o extreme_a danger_n it_o be_v the_o christianity_n pure_a separate_a christianity_n that_o be_v their_o only_a hope_n and_o it_o be_v only_o like_o the_o hope_n of_o a_o antidote_n work_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o great_a deal_n of_o poison_n or_o like_o true_a principle_n of_o natural_a religion_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o paganism_n the_o event_n of_o either_o of_o which_o operation_n must_v as_o i_o have_v say_v before_o be_v leave_v only_o to_o god_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n their_o damn_v all_o to_o hell_n for_o heretic_n that_o be_v not_o of_o their_o communion_n be_v but_o one_o of_o the_o blasphemy_n of_o the_o name_n of_o which_o they_o be_v full_a and_o make_v no_o man_n among_o they_o the_o safe_a but_o his_o case_n become_v the_o more_o desperate_a that_o protestancy_n argue_v from_o the_o very_a charity_n and_o compassion_n of_o it_o to_o be_v more_o infallible_o the_o religion_n of_o christ_n allow_v all_o the_o compassionate_a hope_n that_o can_v be_v to_o some_o who_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o that_o contagion_n and_o yet_o may_v be_v preserve_v from_o the_o deadliness_n of_o it_o but_o cruel_a popery_n as_o much_o as_o it_o be_v able_a prepare_v flame_n in_o this_o world_n and_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v for_o all_o that_o have_v not_o the_o faith_n of_o remove_v mountain_n not_o only_o of_o improbability_n but_o even_a impâ—ssibility_n that_o their_o monstrous_a principle_n have_v raise_v and_o set_v in_o the_o way_n of_o christian_a communion_n with_o they_o and_o thus_o i_o have_v settle_v the_o second_o head_n of_o discourse_n concern_v the_o efficacy_n of_o christian_a religion_n to_o peace_n that_o divine_a balsam_n of_o love_n run_v throughout_o the_o body_n and_o particular_o to_o the_o aggrieved_a part_n where_o there_o be_v a_o union_n upon_o the_o fundamental_a unity_n of_o christianity_n and_o so_o certain_o preserve_v and_o secure_v peace_n i_o come_v now_o to_o the_o three_o head_n of_o christian_a peace_n 3._o the_o rule_v christianity_n give_v the_o true_a professor_n of_o it_o for_o the_o imbody_v themselves_o one_o with_o another_o will_v show_v how_o sincere_o it_o design_n peace_n for_o some_o may_v think_v if_o there_o be_v no_o obligation_n of_o mutual_a conformity_n in_o particular_a society_n of_o christian_n how_o can_v there_o be_v any_o such_o society_n if_o there_o may_v be_v such_o separation_n among_o christian_n as_o that_o there_o be_v not_o require_v a_o concurrence_n in_o all_o point_n of_o doctrine_n worship_n and_o practise_v under_o peril_n of_o the_o dreadful_a sin_n of_o schism_n christianity_n will_v be_v like_o a_o general_a notion_n subsist_v in_o no_o distinct_a particular_a body_n or_o like_o a_o universe_n of_o atom_n without_o any_o connexion_n and_o then_o how_o can_v they_o that_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v one_o with_o another_o be_v at_o peace_n one_o with_o another_o if_o there_o be_v no_o association_n of_o christian_n no_o church_n particular_o unite_v and_o constitute_v there_o be_v no_o opportunity_n to_o practice_v that_o peace_n and_o submission_n to_o order_n which_o such_o society_n oblige_v to_o and_o which_o the_o apostle_n rejoice_v to_o behold_v in_o the_o church_n of_o the_o colossian_n if_o all_o the_o love_n and_o peace_n of_o christian_n be_v only_o that_o which_o be_v extend_v to_o the_o universal_a 5._o col._n 2._o 5._o church_n or_o to_o christian_n occasional_o in_o particular_a every_o one_o have_v his_o own_o private_a apprehension_n to_o himself_o then_o be_v there_o no_o room_n for_o this_o more_o distinct_a exercise_n of_o love_n and_o peace_n i_o shall_v therefore_o now_o address_v myself_o to_o consider_v the_o law_n of_o christianity_n for_o christian_n so_o imbody_v themselves_o that_o they_o may_v display_v all_o the_o general_a virtue_n of_o christianity_n in_o their_o particular_a station_n in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o i_o shall_v lay_v down_o these_o three_o rule_n concern_v this_o very_a weighty_a point_n 1._o that_o the_o first_o congregate_a of_o christian_n be_v to_o christ_n himself_o as_o to_o the_o head_n in_o who_o the_o whole_a body_n be_v principal_o unite_v and_o the_o union_n with_o he_o be_v the_o measure_n and_o true_a law_n of_o their_o union_n one_o with_o another_o as_o the_o apostle_n join_v their_o order_n and_o faith_n in_o christ_n together_o they_o give_v themselves_o first_o to_o the_o lord_n and_o then_o to_o one_o another_o 5._o col._n 2._o 5._o this_o be_v the_o apostle_n method_n to_o preach_v first_o christ_n jesus_n to_o be_v the_o lord_n and_z themselves_z servants_z for_o christ_n sake_n all_o 5._o 2_o cor._n 4._o 5._o christian_n be_v first_o convert_v to_o the_o faith_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o add_v to_o the_o church_n 47._o act_n 2._o 44_o 47._o and_o this_o be_v most_o necessary_a to_o be_v consider_v because_o if_o the_o first_o gather_v of_o christian_n be_v to_o the_o church_n the_o order_n and_o peace_n of_o that_o church_n will_v be_v the_o rule_n of_o all_o their_o after-action_n and_o regulation_n of_o themselves_o and_o they_o must_v take_v every_o thing_n on_o trust_n from_o that_o but_o if_o the_o first_o point_n of_o union_n be_v christ_n and_o faith_n in_o he_o that_o shall_v over-rule_v wherein_o soever_o a_o church_n may_v deviate_v from_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n 2._o from_o hence_o also_o it_o follow_v that_o the_o union_n of_o christian_n be_v first_o with_o the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o general_a assembly_n and_o church_n of_o the_o first-born_a who_o constitution_n be_v fix_v upon_o the_o essential_a unalterable_a and_o ever_o the_o same_o point_n of_o christianity_n and_o the_o worship_n agreeable_a to_o they_o and_o in_o which_o all_o true_a christian_n must_v concentre_v that_o they_o may_v be_v the_o body_n of_o christ._n this_o be_v that_o church_n against_o which_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v it_o shall_v never_o die_v it_o shall_v never_o fail_v which_o yet_o we_o know_v may_v befall_v all_o particular_a church_n they_o have_v and_o perpetual_o may_v fail_v mat._n 16._o 18._o now_o thus_o far_o i_o have_v already_o show_v there_o be_v as_o firm_a a_o foundation_n of_o peace_n lay_v as_o the_o understanding_n of_o man_n can_v conceive_v in_o this_o state_n of_o thing_n here_o below_o in_o a_o degenerate_a world_n of_o humane_a nature_n 3._o but_o beside_o this_o there_o be_v particular_a assembly_n that_o be_v near_o to_o christian_n in_o particular_a and_o to_o which_o they_o ought_v to_o unite_n as_o either_o have_v receive_v the_o profession_n of_o christianity_n by_o their_o ministry_n and_o so_o have_v be_v to_o they_o one_o of_o those_o pillar_n to_o which_o the_o christian_a doctrine_n be_v affix_v it_o have_v offer_v it_o to_o all_o comer_n and_o to_o they_o in_o particular_a such_o assembly_n be_v a_o rest_n or_o repose_v 15._o â—_o tim_n 3._o 15._o of_o truth_n the_o communication_n of_o it_o have_v be_v make_v to_o all_o that_o have_v be_v near_o it_o and_o particular_o to_o they_o who_o we_o suppose_v aught_o to_o unite_v with_o they_o or_o it_o be_v the_o same_o thing_n if_o their_o parent_n incorporate_v in_o such_o church_n and_o profess_v christianity_n in_o communion_n with_o they_o have_v direct_v their_o education_n into_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o profession_n of_o he_o together_o with_o the_o christian_n of_o such_o or_o such_o a_o congregation_n or_o that_o they_o themselves_o have_v consider_v the_o whole_a circumstance_n of_o their_o state_n in_o relation_n to_o
then_o call_v out_o of_o every_o nation_n convert_v into_o particular_a society_n and_o congregation_n i_o shall_v make_v a_o essay_n to_o level_v the_o line_n of_o they_o to_o nation_n and_o kingdom_n as_o they_o be_v unite_v into_o such_o conspicuous_a and_o illustrious_a body_n of_o mankind_n with_o their_o principality_n so_o form_v so_o compact_v and_o not_o only_o a_o diffuse_v catholic_n church_n or_o small_a and_o invisible_a congregational_a church_n 1._o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n can_v no_o way_n attain_v that_o greatness_n which_o it_o be_v prophesy_v and_o foretell_v it_o shall_v attain_v if_o it_o do_v not_o allow_v nation_n as_o nation_n to_o associate_v themselves_o in_o the_o profession_n of_o it_o if_o it_o only_o give_v right_o to_o private_a and_o particular_a church_n or_o congregation_n and_o a_o diffusive_a church_n that_o can_v no_o way_n congregate_v which_o though_o great_a in_o its_o spiritual_a union_n yet_o arise_v to_o no_o visible_a greatness_n but_o as_o it_o move_v into_o all_o part_n of_o the_o world_n congregate_n itself_o according_a to_o any_o of_o the_o law_n or_o advantage_n of_o humane_a society_n it_o fall_v into_o and_o find_v prepare_v for_o it_o the_o messiah_n then_o can_v never_o as_o be_v prophesy_v of_o he_o have_v his_o portion_n divide_v he_o with_o the_o great_a nor_o divide_v the_o spoil_n with_o the_o strong_a but_o must_v rest_v in_o a_o very_a low_a and_o under-condition_n of_o small_a private_a and_o particular_a assembly_n of_o his_o servant_n profess_v he_o but_o a_o national_a christian_n religion_n a_o religion_n as_o famous_a as_o the_o name_n of_o the_o most_o populous_a city_n and_o the_o great_a prince_n and_o their_o territory_n in_o honour_n to_o the_o lord_n anoint_v must_v not_o be_v allow_v no_o not_o according_o to_o his_o own_o designation_n for_o though_o the_o eminency_n of_o the_o doctrine_n and_o the_o appearance_n of_o god_n with_o it_o do_v infinite_o surmount_v all_o create_a greatness_n yet_o many_o place_n of_o scripture_n compare_v the_o honour_n and_o glory_n of_o christ_n as_o a_o prince_n over_o nation_n with_o other_o sovereignty_n and_o prefer_v he_o not_o only_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o heavenliness_n and_o eternity_n of_o it_o but_o as_o it_o obtain_v a_o interest_n and_o command_n in_o the_o world_n for_o it_o be_v a_o government_n over_o nation_n as_o nation_n over_o the_o law_n and_o principality_n of_o nation_n and_o not_o of_o one_o only_a but_o many_o nation_n not_o indeed_o in_o the_o way_n of_o worldly_a power_n but_o divine_a persuasion_n evidence_n of_o truth_n and_o reason_n virtue_n of_o holiness_n and_o goodness_n be_v the_o sceptre_n of_o this_o kingdom_n the_o weapon_n of_o this_o power_n and_o this_o mountain_n shall_v grow_v great_a and_o great_a till_o all_o the_o prophecy_n be_v exact_o fulfil_v in_o the_o sovereignty_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o low_a subjection_n of_o all_o kingdom_n to_o he_o the_o great_a mountain_n disappear_v and_o become_v nothing_o before_o he_o when_o the_o fullness_n of_o the_o jew_n and_o nation_n be_v come_v into_o he_o thus_o it_o be_v a_o mountain_n set_v upon_o the_o top_n of_o the_o mountain_n not_o only_o in_o the_o eminency_n of_o its_o doctrine_n but_o the_o profess_a subjection_n of_o the_o government_n of_o the_o world_n that_o be_v in_o scripture_n call_v mountain_n to_o it_o for_o his_o truth_n meekness_n and_o righteousness_n sake_n but_o if_o nation_n receive_v and_o flow_v into_o christianity_n sink_v it_o present_o into_o particular_a private_a assembly_n as_o it_o be_v while_n under_o persecution_n and_o that_o it_o shall_v be_v of_o no_o more_o public_a honour_n than_o at_o such_o time_n the_o mountain_n of_o the_o lord_n house_n shall_v not_o be_v above_o the_o hill_n but_o shade_v by_o they_o and_o that_o according_a to_o the_o very_a constitution_n of_o christianity_n itself_o for_o the_o supremacy_n stand_v aloft_o but_o the_o profession_n of_o christ_n retire_v into_o privacy_n yea_o the_o worship_n of_o the_o true_a god_n creator_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n which_o after_o the_o appearance_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n in_o the_o world_n be_v only_o in_o christ_n must_v be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v exalt_v as_o be_v everywhere_o signify_v that_o it_o must_v be_v abate_v and_o bring_v low_o by_o the_o depression_n and_o fall_v down_o of_o the_o mosaic_a frame_n for_o than_o it_o be_v settle_v upon_o one_o of_o the_o principality_n of_o the_o world_n and_o though_o it_o be_v now_o more_o diffuse_v yet_o if_o it_o not_o only_o be_v not_o but_o aught_o upon_o its_o own_o principle_n to_o be_v establish_v in_o and_o upon_o the_o public_a profession_n of_o a_o nation_n it_o have_v not_o nor_o can_v have_v such_o a_o eminency_n as_o among_o the_o jew_n when_o it_o have_v the_o awfulness_n and_o majestickness_n of_o a_o kingdom_n devote_v to_o that_o true_a worship_n make_v it_o thereby_o of_o much_o great_a notice_n in_o the_o world_n and_o if_o religion_n may_v be_v national_a even_o as_o nation_n themselves_o be_v unite_v in_o a_o way_n of_o order_n so_o must_v national_a religion_n also_o be_v by_o order_n compose_v into_o its_o nationalness_n and_o this_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o scripture_n and_o right_a reason_n but_o let_v this_o be_v no_o pretence_n to_o that_o tyranny_n in_o christian_a religion_n that_o great_a usurpation_n of_o popery_n for_o it_o be_v a_o sacrilegious_a displace_v the_o honour_n from_o christ_n upon_o oftentimes_o a_o most_o unworthy_a mortal_n those_o prince_n than_o that_o be_v minores_fw-la coronae_fw-la that_o lessen_v themselves_o by_o give_v their_o kingdom_n and_o power_n to_o the_o beast_n must_v needs_o diminish_v the_o honour_n of_o their_o profession_n of_o christianity_n see_v they_o have_v so_o far_o strip_v themselves_o of_o their_o principality_n that_o they_o have_v they_o not_o to_o dedicate_v to_o christ_n the_o retain_v their_o honour_n unvouch_v unviolate_a by_o any_o creature_n and_o present_v to_o the_o honour_n of_o christianity_n a_o supremacy_n unprostitute_v be_v the_o true_a glory_n do_v by_o christian_a prince_n to_o christianity_n 2._o if_o there_o be_v not_o the_o liberty_n allow_v to_o nation_n to_o espouse_v christianity_n to_o their_o government_n and_o to_o receive_v the_o honour_n to_o themselves_o of_o be_v religious_a and_o christian_n as_o nation_n the_o condition_n of_o nation_n be_v worse_a than_o that_o of_o the_o jew_n under_o the_o law_n for_o now_o people_n as_o in_o the_o body_n of_o a_o nation_n may_v not_o be_v so_o happy_a as_o to_o have_v the_o lord_n for_o their_o god_n they_o may_v not_o crown_v themselves_o with_o the_o chief_a glory_n of_o nation_n viz._n true_a religion_n moses_n we_o know_v often_o magnify_v the_o state_n of_o the_o jew_n to_o themselves_o in_o this_o particular_a viz._n the_o excellency_n of_o their_o religion_n he_o use_v it_o as_o a_o great_a argument_n that_o god_n love_v the_o nation_n he_o tell_v they_o it_o be_v their_o wisdom_n and_o honour_n before_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o nation_n round_o about_o they_o who_o have_v reason_n to_o defer_v to_o they_o that_o they_o be_v a_o great_a and_o a_o wise_a nation_n a_o understand_a people_n that_o have_v such_o etc._n deut._n 4._o 8_o etc._n etc._n statute_n and_o judgement_n now_o see_v christian_a religion_n have_v the_o undoubted_a evidence_n of_o wisdom_n truth_n and_o goodness_n not_o only_o so_o superior_a to_o all_o the_o religion_n in_o the_o world_n as_o to_o be_v the_o only_a true_a religion_n but_o much_o superior_a to_o that_o under_o administration_n of_o the_o true_a religion_n itself_o among_o the_o jew_n it_o must_v needs_o be_v the_o happiness_n of_o nation_n to_o enfranchise_v it_o as_o the_o public_a national_a religion_n by_o the_o same_o authority_n whereby_o they_o make_v valid_a any_o other_o law_n or_o act_n so_o as_o to_o become_v the_o act_n of_o the_o public_a and_o we_o have_v reason_n to_o believe_v those_o many_o expression_n of_o ephes_n 6._o eph._n 2._o 14._o c._n 3._o 6._o 2._o 14._o c._n 3._o 6._o break_v down_o the_o partition_n wall_n and_o admit_v all_o nation_n to_o be_v the_o people_n of_o god_n and_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d a_o body_n together_o be_v intend_v not_o only_o to_o signify_v that_o they_o may_v unite_v in_o lesser_a congregation_n but_o in_o the_o fullness_n of_o national_a association_n else_o they_o be_v not_o receive_v into_o the_o same_o freedom_n and_o immunity_n that_o the_o jew_n have_v nor_o can_v egypt_n and_o assyria_n be_v so_o equal_a with_o israel_n that_o israel_n shall_v be_v but_o a_o three_o with_o they_o who_o the_o lord_n of_o host_n shall_v bless_v all_o alike_o with_o no_o more_o variation_n than_o egypt_n my_o people_n assyria_n the_o work_n of_o my_o hand_n and_o israel_n my_o inheritance_n isa_n 19_o we_o may_v find_v christianity_n intend_v to_o embrace_v all_o
the_o principle_n of_o protestant_a truth_n and_o peace_n in_o four_o treatise_n viz._n the_o true_a state_n of_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n in_o freedom_n from_o penal_a law_n and_o church-censure_n the_o obligation_n to_o national_a true_a religion_n the_o nature_n of_o scandal_n particular_o as_o it_o relate_v to_o indifferent_a thing_n a_o catholic_n catechism_n show_v the_o true_a ground_n upon_o which_o the_o catholic_n religion_n be_v ascertain_v zech._n 8._o 19_o love_v the_o truth_n and_o peace_n by_o tho._n beverley_n rector_n of_o lilley_n in_o hertfordshire_n london_n print_v for_o tho._n parkhurst_n and_o will._n miller_n at_o the_o bible_n and_o three_o crown_n in_o cheapside_n and_o the_o acorn_n in_o st._n paul_n churchyard_n 1683._o to_o the_o reader_n i_o have_v very_o sad_o observe_v the_o great_a distress_n of_o humane_a affair_n through_o miscarriage_n every_o way_n in_o point_n of_o religion_n for_o while_o the_o power_n of_o this_o world_n and_o ecclesiastic_a jurisdiction_n take_v it_o for_o their_o right_n to_o impose_v by_o severe_a penalty_n and_o dreadful_a censure_n what_o they_o think_v fit_a under_o so_o great_a a_o name_n they_o yet_o neither_o can_v assure_v any_o one_o they_o be_v not_o or_o do_v not_o use_v to_o be_v mistake_v in_o their_o recommendation_n or_o that_o all_o their_o authority_n or_o power_n shall_v excuse_v and_o acquit_v those_o that_o obey_v they_o when_o they_o appear_v before_o god_n tribunal_n so_o that_o it_o be_v impossible_a the_o judgement_n or_o conscience_n shall_v have_v any_o repose_n here_o on_o the_o other_o side_n some_o not_o only_o out_o of_o recoil_v for_o self-preservation_n or_o out_o of_o design_n but_o from_o furious_a wild_a principle_n have_v break_v out_o into_o public_a disturbance_n to_o make_v room_n for_o what_o they_o have_v proclaim_v as_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n to_o the_o great_a scandal_n of_o true_a religion_n the_o imbrue_v their_o hand_n very_o horrid_o in_o blood_n and_o the_o seem_a justification_n of_o utmost_a rigour_n against_o any_o pretence_n of_o religion_n except_o according_a to_o law_n beside_o all_o this_o private_a feud_n and_o animosity_n vehement_a and_o angry_a dispute_n be_v every_o where_o clamorous_a and_o people_n hereupon_o in_o great_a amuse_n what_o they_o shall_v believe_v or_o do_v now_o since_o there_o be_v no_o doubt_n all_o these_o evil_n be_v foresee_v by_o god_n there_o be_v as_o little_a doubt_n that_o there_o be_v sure_a remedy_n provide_v against_o they_o i_o have_v then_o upon_o the_o whole_a this_o account_n to_o give_v the_o reader_n that_o the_o observation_n of_o so_o many_o counter-cries_a of_o opinion_n such_o great_a exasperation_n in_o man_n affection_n such_o complaint_n of_o oppression_n of_o conscience_n by_o undue_a law_n such_o recrimination_n of_o faction_n sedition_n fanaticism_n not_o only_o among_o christian_n but_o among_o protestant_a christian_n and_o of_o the_o same_o common_a national_a interest_n move_v i_o to_o seek_v retirement_n to_o some_o rock_n of_o certainty_n that_o i_o may_v be_v at_o perfect_a peace_n upon_o in_o full_a satisfaction_n of_o judgement_n and_o composure_n of_o affection_n and_o have_v find_v natural_a religion_n as_o certain_a as_o our_o faculty_n and_o fundamental_a christianity_n in_o most_o thing_n of_o the_o same_o immediate_a certainty_n as_o natural_a in_o all_o thing_n after_o due_a exploration_n of_o the_o same_o final_a certainty_n i_o be_o so_o far_o at_o peace_n in_o my_o judgement_n as_o to_o have_v no_o doubt_n what_o be_v truth_n in_o relation_n to_o eternal_a happiness_n if_o ten_o thousand_o more_o of_o opinion_n encompass_v i_o round_o about_o so_o far_o at_o peace_n in_o my_o affection_n as_o not_o to_o be_v in_o commotion_n with_o any_o man_n that_o give_v testimony_n to_o christian_a charity_n that_o he_o be_v a_o strict_a observer_n of_o natural_a religion_n and_o fundamental_a christianity_n one_o essential_a rule_n of_o both_o which_o be_v love_n peace_n and_o mercy_n to_o all_o that_o be_v centre_v in_o this_o natural_a christian_a religion_n though_o they_o may_v adjoyn_v or_o refuse_v some_o eccentrick_a placit_n that_o do_v not_o harm_v the_o foundation_n last_o i_o be_o assure_v this_o very_a natural_a religion_n espouse_v by_o christianity_n well_o consider_v and_o observe_v will_v disarm_v the_o world_n of_o those_o instrument_n of_o cruelty_n in_o the_o cause_n of_o religion_n so_o extreme_o abhor_v by_o it_o whether_o use_v by_o angry_a supreme_a power_n or_o unjust_o take_v up_o by_o seditious_a ambitious_a or_o fanatic_a subject_n which_o cruelty_n man_n be_v say_v to_o borrow_v from_o wild_a beast_n no_o such_o be_v give_v by_o the_o gracious_a author_n of_o all_o thing_n to_o so_o excellent_a a_o nature_n as_o he_o make_v the_o humane_a and_o therefore_o most_o certain_o not_o by_o the_o redeemer_n nor_o his_o religion_n who_o come_v to_o fill_v the_o world_n with_o innocency_n goodness_n and_o peace_n after_o so_o great_a a_o invasion_n of_o barbarity_n and_o cruelty_n now_o have_v find_v this_o satisfaction_n myself_o i_o make_v offer_n of_o it_o if_o it_o may_v be_v the_o same_o to_o other_o ask_v only_o candid_a interpretation_n in_o particular_a management_n the_o main_a principle_n be_v above_o the_o need_n of_o pardon_n or_o the_o fear_n of_o indignation_n although_o the_o discourse_n be_v intend_v much_o short_a be_v not_o distinguish_v in_o the_o body_n of_o it_o into_o chapter_n or_o otherwise_o yet_o that_o the_o reader_n may_v have_v a_o guidance_n into_o the_o main_a design_n of_o it_o i_o have_v prefix_v this_o summary_n of_o head_n of_o discourse_n follow_v each_o other_o the_o content_n the_o introduction_n explain_v the_o text_n and_o show_v the_o merciful_a design_n of_o christianity_n against_o contrary_a appearance_n the_o always_o present_a way_n of_o determine_v doubt_n in_o religion_n 1._o to_o 8._o of_o natural_a religion_n as_o sure_a as_o our_o faculty_n and_o the_o examination_n of_o thing_n by_o it_o 10._o to_o 26._o of_o natural-religion_n unite_v by_o christian_a religion_n to_o and_o with_o itself_o as_o the_o only_a assurance_n and_o test_n of_o reveal_v religion_n and_o of_o the_o little_a value_n of_o ceremony_n in_o religion_n either_o natural_a or_o christian_n 27._o to_o 45._o of_o natural_a religion_n the_o only_a standard_n of_o humane_a penal_a law_n in_o religion_n 45._o to_o 79._o of_o the_o great_a use_n of_o natural_a religion_n in_o compose_v and_o decide_v difference_n in_o christian_a religion_n apply_v to_o some_o of_o the_o great_a controversy_n in_o it_o 80_o 82._o of_o the_o first_o principle_n of_o peace_n in_o christianity_n itself_o the_o important_a honourable_a business_n give_v as_o one_o rule_n to_o walk_v by_o wherein_o it_o engage_v all_o its_o disciple_n several_a way_n produce_v peace_n 88_o to_o 94._o of_o the_o grand_a principle_n of_o the_o union_n of_o christian_n into_o one_o body_n on_o which_o love_n and_o peace_n be_v infallible_o to_o ensue_v 95_o to_o 99_o of_o heresy_n and_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o cut_v off_o from_o that_o union_n exemplify_v in_o popery_n and_o whether_o the_o roman_a society_n be_v a_o true_a church_n of_o schism_n and_o its_o nature_n as_o it_o cut_v off_o from_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n 99_o to_o 110._o of_o the_o law_n for_o christian_n be_v embody_a in_o a_o catholic_n church_n in_o particular_a congregation_n or_o church_n and_o the_o order_n of_o both_o to_o national_a christian_n constitution_n of_o the_o great_a value_n the_o word_n of_o god_n give_v to_o public_a national_a religion_n require_v our_o utmost_a attemperation_n of_o ourselves_o to_o it_o consistent_o with_o conscience_n of_o the_o peace_n of_o christianity_n in_o relation_n to_o the_o ministerial_a presidency_n of_o it_o in_o relation_n to_o magistracy_n to_o universal_a goodness_n 121_o to_o 127._o a_o lamentation_n over_o the_o world_n unhappiness_n in_o relation_n to_o so_o excellent_a a_o thing_n as_o religion_n and_o christian_a religion_n 127._o a_o offerture_n for_o the_o amicable_a return_n of_o all_o protestant_n one_o to_o another_o within_o our_o english_a nation_n and_o the_o method_n of_o it_o 136._o errata_fw-la page_z 2_o l._n 28._o r._n action_n p._n 7._o l._n 25._o for_o thus_o r._n that_o p._n 17_o l._n 17._o blot_v they_o p._n 23_o l._n 1_o for_o they_o r._n that_o l._n 5._o for_o itself_o r._n themselves_o p._n 27._o l._n 32._o r._n appellation_n p._n 91._o l._n 37._o for_o they_o r._n that_o p._n 109._o l._n 7._o blot_n why_o l._n 10._o blot_n who_o be_v p._n 1220_o marg._n r._n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d p._n 141._o l._n 7._o r._n do_v isa._n xi_o 6_o 7_o 8_o 9_o the_o wolf_n also_o shall_v dwell_v with_o the_o lamb_n and_o the_o leopard_n shall_v lie_v down_o with_o the_o kid_n and_o the_o calf_n and_o the_o young_a lion_n and_o the_o fatle_a together_o and_o a_o little_a child_n shall_v lead_v they_o and_o
with_o the_o reason_n of_o philosopher_n and_o wise_a poet_n in_o what_o they_o say_v well_o and_o wise_o as_o that_o we_o be_v god_n offspring_n 28._o act_n 17._o 28._o a_o wise_a christian_n do_v not_o deprive_v himself_o in_o his_o private_a freedom_n of_o true_a reason_n or_o christian_a sense_n though_o he_o cull_v it_o out_o of_o much_o dross_n nor_o of_o the_o benefit_n of_o christian_a worship_n where_o he_o may_v find_v good_a if_o the_o worship_n be_v not_o so_o corrupt_v that_o one_o can_v be_v separate_a from_o the_o other_o there_o be_v a_o general_a charity_n and_o toleration_n must_v be_v of_o humane_a infirmity_n in_o the_o best_a administration_n of_o it_o by_o man_n for_o there_o be_v a_o charge_n of_o our_o folly_n upon_o all_o our_o appearance_n before_o god_n visible_a not_o only_o to_o god_n who_o charge_v his_o angel_n with_o it_o but_o to_o ourselves_o so_o that_o if_o angel_n hide_v their_o face_n much_o more_o those_o who_o house_n be_v of_o clay_n and_o their_o foundation_n in_o the_o dust_n yet_o there_o be_v advantage_n of_o edification_n that_o be_v indeed_o to_o be_v have_v for_o which_o we_o be_v accountable_a to_o god_n and_o so_o our_o withdraw_a ourselves_o without_o just_a cause_n and_o the_o degree_n of_o our_o withdraw_n shall_v be_v account_v schism_n but_o of_o this_o and_o what_o may_v be_v object_v in_o these_o case_n more_o may_v be_v speak_v under_o the_o next_o head_n if_o any_o man_n indeed_o from_o want_n of_o love_n and_o with_o a_o design_n to_o divide_v scatter_v and_o sow_n opinion_n or_o cause_n division_n be_v a_o engineer_n of_o division_n such_o a_o man_n have_v the_o true_a spirit_n of_o schism_n and_o be_v to_o be_v mark_v and_o avoid_v rom._n 16._o 17._o but_o there_o may_v be_v dissent_n there_o may_v be_v dislike_n in_o many_o case_n and_o yet_o no_o schism_n no_o cut_n off_o no_o more_o than_o of_o a_o member_n in_o the_o body_n that_o be_v weak_a or_o deform_v or_o wound_v or_o it_o may_v be_v none_o of_o these_o but_o for_o ease_n or_o conveniency_n will_v posture_n itself_o somewhat_o different_o from_o the_o rest_n but_o still_o in_o all_o case_n there_o must_v be_v a_o care_n for_o the_o body_n and_o he_o that_o withdraw_v be_v in_o danger_n and_o that_o for_o the_o withdraw_a not_o for_o the_o different_a apprehension_n man_n may_v withdraw_v in_o some_o point_n of_o outward_a communion_n we_o see_v they_o may_v local_o separate_v on_o occasion_n they_o may_v deny_v to_o conform_v to_o what_o they_o think_v amiss_o as_o one_o member_n be_v not_o bind_v to_o deform_v or_o wound_v itself_o that_o it_o may_v be_v uniform_a with_o another_o that_o be_v so_o wound_v or_o deform_v there_o may_v be_v very_o different_a motion_n and_o order_v the_o several_a member_n on_o sundry_a account_n yet_o no_o schism_n no_o man_n can_v say_v then_o i_o will_v not_o be_v of_o such_o a_o body_n of_o christian_n for_o such_o a_o opinion_n for_o such_o a_o form_n of_o worship_n or_o because_o they_o will_v not_o so_o conform_v when_o all_o be_v the_o body_n of_o christ_n and_o member_n in_o particular_a it_o may_v be_v say_v be_v these_o not_o of_o the_o body_n therefore_o or_o those_o not_o of_o the_o body_n therefore_o because_o in_o some_o thing_n they_o differ_v when_o both_o part_n hold_v the_o head_n and_o be_v member_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o the_o head_n what_o can_v be_v say_v against_o it_o but_o that_o the_o law_n of_o man_n interpose_v or_o the_o law_n of_o particular_a church_n intercede_v make_v a_o difference_n betwixt_o the_o case_n of_o christian_n now_o and_o in_o the_o time_n in_o which_o the_o apostle_n write_v and_o that_o now_o such_o variation_n from_o the_o obedience_n and_o conformity_n require_v by_o those_o law_n become_v schismatical_a mere_o for_o the_o disobedience_n sake_n which_o shall_v be_v presume_v proof_n sufficient_a of_o the_o want_n of_o love_n and_o care_n for_o the_o body_n and_o not_o the_o want_n of_o love_n constitute_v the_o schism_n so_o that_o wherever_o the_o disagreement_n in_o judgement_n be_v there_o shall_v be_v the_o schism_n sure_a enough_o whatever_o the_o love_n and_o the_o indication_n of_o it_o be_v in_o all_o other_o sign_n token_n and_o effect_n of_o it_o but_o if_o there_o be_v the_o desire_a conformity_n all_o the_o hatred_n emulation_n strife_n and_o envy_n against_o the_o contrary_a side_n shall_v be_v canonize_v and_o not_o repute_v schism_n and_o the_o senslesness_n or_o even_o disaffection_n to_o the_o general_a interest_n of_o christianity_n shall_v never_o be_v consider_v but_o shall_v the_o law_n of_o man_n thus_o make_v obsolete_a the_o law_n of_o christ_n it_o be_v not_o any_o law_n nor_o a_o offence_n against_o any_o law_n but_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n nor_o against_o every_o law_n of_o christ_n but_o the_o law_n concern_v the_o unity_n of_o his_o body_n that_o can_v make_v a_o schism_n nor_o do_v a_o congregation_n or_o a_o multitude_n determine_v where_o the_o schism_n lie_v when_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n or_o a_o division_n among_o christian_n for_o as_o one_o man_n hold_v the_o substantial_o of_o christianity_n be_v more_o a_o church_n than_o a_o community_n err_v in_o those_o fundamental_o so_o be_v one_o christian_n full_a of_o the_o love_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n most_o willing_a to_o do_v and_o receive_v good_a more_o true_o of_o the_o body_n than_o association_n fill_v with_o anger_n wrath_n clamour_v and_o the_o spirit_n of_o indignation_n without_o mercy_n without_o compassion_n who_o be_v indeed_o in_o their_o union_n more_o schismatical_a than_o the_o humble_a solitary_a christian_n that_o can_v run_v with_o this_o stream_n for_o these_o thing_n be_v not_o carry_v nor_o determine_v by_o number_n but_o by_o true_a weight_n and_o worth_n as_o one_o wise_a man_n be_v more_o a_o senate_n than_o a_o convention_n of_o foolish_a and_o unknowing_a man_n by_o all_o this_o that_o have_v be_v speak_v it_o may_v be_v determine_v what_o answer_n be_v to_o be_v give_v to_o that_o question_n whether_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n as_o it_o be_v call_v be_v a_o true_a church_n to_o which_o the_o answer_v i_o shall_v give_v will_v be_v plain_o this_o it_o be_v no_o otherwise_o so_o than_o a_o marry_a woman_n that_o be_v a_o adulteress_n be_v a_o true_a wife_n i_o say_v not_o a_o true_a woman_n for_o the_o importance_n of_o woman_n be_v more_o physical_a and_o so_o in_o this_o case_n more_o ambiguous_a the_o sense_n of_o wife_n more_o befit_v the_o moral_a and_o mystical_a sense_n of_o church_n and_o the_o one_o not_o make_v use_n of_o by_o the_o scripture_n in_o these_o case_n the_o other_o constant_o call_v for_o to_o represent_v the_o true_a or_o false_a church_n but_o to_o keep_v more_o close_o to_o what_o we_o have_v be_v upon_o let_v i_o put_v the_o question_n thus_o whether_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v a_o part_n of_o this_o one_o body_n of_o christ_n and_o it_o be_v most_o evident_a if_o we_o look_v upon_o it_o as_o such_o a_o incorporation_n such_o a_o body_n as_o it_o be_v in_o and_o by_o itself_o it_o be_v not_o it_o can_v be_v other_o than_o a_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n for_o so_o it_o be_v a_o body_n consolidate_v upon_o other_o point_n of_o union_n than_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n be_v for_o though_o it_o take_v in_o they_o yet_o it_o add_v foreign_a and_o alien_n of_o its_o own_o and_o those_o very_a many_o and_o such_o as_o destroy_v if_o not_o all_o yet_o some_o of_o the_o principal_a by_o such_o a_o deep_a corruption_n of_o they_o change_v they_o so_o that_o they_o can_v be_v know_v to_o be_v the_o true_a one_o or_o alike_o precious_a fundamental_o lay_v by_o christ_n jesus_n and_o his_o apostle_n it_o be_v a_o body_n animate_v with_o another_o spirit_n the_o very_a spirit_n of_o antichrist_n a_o spirit_n of_o blood_n and_o cruelty_n against_o all_o that_o keep_v to_o the_o true_a measure_n of_o the_o temple_n and_o altar_n of_o 1._o revel_v 11._o 1._o god_n and_o his_o true_a worship_n therein_o the_o body_n of_o that_o false_a church_n have_v its_o fabric_n put_v together_o and_o unite_a not_o by_o that_o faith_n at_o once_o and_o once_o for_o all_o give_v to_o the_o saint_n but_o by_o successive_a and_o grow_a tradidition_n 3._o jud._n 3._o and_o then_o the_o spirit_n of_o it_o persecute_v out_o of_o all_o the_o common_a privilege_n of_o humanity_n so_o far_o as_o it_o can_v not_o to_o buy_v nor_o 18._o rev._n 13._o 17_o 18._o sell_v those_o that_o will_v not_o receive_v that_o mark_n of_o itself_o its_o name_n and_o the_o number_n of_o it_o viz._n that_o false_a christianity_n that_o forsake_v the_o stable_n foursquare_a of_o the_o true_a body_n of_o christ_n the_o 17._o revel_v 21._o 14_o 16_o 17._o square-root_n of_o
and_o shift_v for_o the_o gain_v opportunity_n for_o the_o assemble_v themselves_o and_o preserve_v their_o relation_n one_o to_o another_o in_o the_o discharge_n of_o mutual_a duty_n much_o more_o easy_o than_o any_o great_a association_n can_v for_o our_o saviour_n intend_v all_o for_o use_n not_o for_o form_n he_o mind_v not_o nominal_a titular_a bishop_n and_o church_n thus_o far_o i_o have_v plead_v the_o appointment_n of_o christ_n that_o the_o small_a number_n of_o christian_n may_v agree_v and_o associate_v and_o be_v assure_v of_o his_o presence_n but_o now_o that_o this_o appointment_n be_v in_o bar_n of_o great_a society_n of_o christian_n be_v by_o no_o mean_n to_o be_v grant_v for_o it_o be_v most_o apparent_a our_o saviour_n design_v all_o thing_n under_o the_o gosplel_n shall_v be_v restore_v to_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n and_o the_o true_a reason_n of_o thing_n now_o according_a to_o that_o the_o first_o end_n of_o all_o society_n be_v the_o enjoyment_n of_o true_a religion_n in_o more_o than_o solitude_n this_o desire_n of_o enjoy_v true_a religion_n in_o society_n extend_v itself_o from_o the_o least_o of_o society_n to_o the_o great_a that_o be_v not_o too_o great_a for_o the_o end_n of_o society_n our_o saviour_n therefore_o as_o he_o give_v no_o frame_n of_o positive_a law_n or_o worship_n no_o pedagogy_n of_o precept_n so_o no_o institution_n of_o bound_v church_n but_o that_o in_o case_n of_o strait_n and_o exigency_n his_o true_a religion_n may_v be_v administer_v in_o the_o very_o small_a of_o society_n with_o confidence_n of_o his_o favour_n and_o presence_n when_o it_o have_v freedom_n it_o may_v enlarge_v itself_o further_o and_o further_o and_o if_o it_o have_v favour_n of_o nation_n and_o government_n ascend_v to_o the_o great_a yet_o with_o this_o reserve_n that_o if_o in_o any_o time_n or_o place_n national_a christianity_n vary_v from_o the_o true_a original_a christianity_n as_o often_o it_o have_v be_v sound_a to_o do_v so_o that_o it_o can_v even_o in_o substantial_a thing_n be_v consent_v in_o with_o a_o pure_a conscience_n privater_a congregation_n even_o to_o the_o most_o particular_a be_v always_o ready_a for_o christian_n to_o retire_v into_o for_o so_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n allow_v where_o the_o public_a be_v not_o safe_a and_o yet_o when_o the_o whole_a be_v not_o corrupt_v nor_o liberty_n of_o join_v without_o commixture_n with_o those_o corruption_n deny_v there_o may_v yet_o be_v there_o ought_v to_o be_v no_o separation_n thus_o the_o great_a society_n be_v not_o in_o bar_n of_o the_o least_o when_o true_a religion_n require_v they_o thus_o the_o least_o be_v not_o in_o bar_n of_o the_o great_a when_o christianity_n be_v at_o full_a freedom_n for_o it_o be_v close_o ally_v with_o that_o wisdom_n whereby_o king_n ought_v to_o reign_v and_o prince_n to_o decree_v justice_n by_o which_o prince_n 16._o prov._n 8._o 15_o 16._o ought_v to_o rule_v and_o noble_n yea_o all_o the_o judge_n of_o the_o earth_n with_o that_o wisdom_n which_o rejoice_v in_o the_o habitable_a part_n of_o the_o earth_n and_o have_v its_o delight_n with_o the_o son_n of_o man_n i_o have_v therefore_o before_o observe_v that_o christian_a religion_n at_o the_o very_a first_o join_v itself_o as_o near_o as_o it_o can_v to_o all_o humane_a society_n make_v ready_a to_o it_o as_o family_n village_n region_n and_o so_o far_o as_o the_o rage_n of_o persecution_n will_v permit_v christian_a society_n unite_a themselves_o unto_o distant_a and_o national_a correspondency_n among_o themselves_o now_o it_o have_v be_v so_o unhappy_a indeed_o with_o the_o world_n that_o in_o few_o instance_n there_o have_v be_v a_o good_a state_n of_o national_a religion_n to_o yield_v a_o full_a conscientious_a compliance_n with_o yet_o this_o will_v no_o more_o argue_v against_o the_o thing_n itself_o than_o it_o do_v against_o any_o other_o of_o the_o wise_a and_o good_a ordination_n of_o god_n or_o against_o the_o jewish_a church_n so_o immediate_o govern_v by_o god_n and_o yet_o so_o often_o and_o so_o notorious_o corrupt_v in_o judah_n and_o more_o general_o in_o the_o ten_o tribe_n and_o yet_o to_o show_v how_o to_o the_o very_a utmost_a without_o follow_v a_o multitude_n to_o do_v evil_a we_o ought_v to_o join_v with_o any_o that_o be_v good_a in_o a_o nation_n and_o with_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v good_a in_o national_a religion_n when_o elijah_n have_v as_o it_o be_v desert_v his_o place_n and_o the_o good_a influence_n his_o be_v in_o public_a may_v have_v have_v and_o that_o god_n find_v he_o alone_o he_o do_v by_o way_n of_o reproof_n ask_v he_o what_o he_o do_v alone_o in_o 9_o 1_o king_n 19_o 9_o the_o wilderness_n and_o inform_v he_o of_o a_o great_a number_n that_o have_v not_o bow_v to_o baal_n than_o he_o know_v of_o with_o who_o he_o may_v join_v himself_o if_o corruption_n will_v argue_v against_o any_o good_a appointment_n or_o ordination_n of_o god_n it_o will_v argue_v against_o church_n of_o the_o very_a first_o form_n or_o constitution_n those_o church_n in_o the_o revelation_n who_o corruption_n be_v severe_o tax_v and_o threaten_v yet_o be_v without_o any_o censure_n as_o to_o their_o constitution_n and_o while_o separation_n from_o those_o church_n be_v not_o so_o much_o as_o intimate_v yet_o a_o separation_n from_o impurity_n be_v high_o commend_v and_o promise_a reward_n those_o name_n 4._o rev._n 3._o 4._o in_o sardis_n that_o have_v not_o defile_v their_o garment_n be_v assure_v they_o shall_v walk_v with_o christ_n in_o white_a for_o he_o judge_v they_o worthy_a from_o whence_o i_o conclude_v no_o form_n of_o church_n can_v recommend_v thing_n disagree_v from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n how_o true_o form_v soever_o those_o church_n be_v for_o church_n be_v constitute_v for_o join_v in_o those_o thing_n that_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o will_n of_o christ_n not_o in_o those_o that_o be_v not_o and_o yet_o separation_n from_o corruption_n do_v not_o necessitate_v separation_n from_o church_n while_o there_o be_v any_o part_n of_o divine_a truth_n and_o worship_n preserve_v pure_a to_o unite_v in_o so_o great_a be_v the_o obligation_n that_o lie_v upon_o all_o sincere_o religious_a to_o make_v true_a religion_n as_o public_a as_o they_o can_v in_o the_o several_a society_n that_o be_v find_v to_o engraft_v it_o upon_o now_o that_o every_o society_n that_o be_v the_o feat_n of_o true_a christian_a religion_n be_v in_o the_o language_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n a_o church_n i_o allow_v and_o therefore_o will_v brief_o inquire_v into_o the_o scripture-notion_n of_o a_o church_n and_o i_o find_v the_o original_a word_n take_v out_o of_o the_o septuagint_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n which_o translate_v the_o hebrew_n kahal_n by_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o our_o translator_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n as_o general_o render_v congregation_n although_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n what_o be_v in_o the_o quotation_n out_o of_o the_o old_a testament_n in_o the_o greek_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d they_o render_v church_n so_o that_o from_o the_o whole_a it_o be_v very_o plain_a as_o the_o universal_a or_o national_a assembly_n of_o the_o people_n of_o israel_n be_v call_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o the_o church_n as_o by_o st._n stephen_n act_v 7._o 38._o where_o he_o speak_v of_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o the_o israelite_n in_o the_o wilderness_n so_o the_o universal_a assembly_n of_o christian_n consider_v as_o in_o the_o catholic_n church_n be_v call_v by_o our_o saviour_n and_o the_o apostle_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d that_o be_v the_o congregation_n by_o way_n of_o eminency_n as_o holy_a record_n be_v the_o scripture_n or_o write_n and_o the_o volume_n of_o scripture_n the_o bible_n or_o book_n as_o the_o glad_a tiding_n of_o christ_n be_v the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o evangil_n or_o gospel_n so_o the_o church_n be_v the_o congregation_n and_o as_o lesser_a congregation_n of_o that_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n that_o do_v not_o comprehend_v the_o whole_a body_n be_v call_v the_o congregation_n or_o church_n even_o so_o lesser_a society_n of_o christian_n be_v call_v the_o congregation_n or_o church_n in_o allusion_n to_o which_o our_o saviour_n say_v if_o two_o or_o three_o be_v importance_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d a_o word_n of_o like_a importance_n gather_v together_o in_o my_o name_n i_o will_v be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o so_o that_o the_o universal_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o christian_n see_v only_o together_o by_o god_n and_o particular_a assembly_n of_o christian_n that_o meet_v together_o under_o each_o other_o eye_n be_v in_o the_o phrase_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n church_n even_o as_o the_o whole_a assembly_n of_o the_o israelite_n in_o the_o wilderness_n when_o they_o be_v all_o under_o
one_o view_n be_v by_o st._n stephen_n as_o i_o observe_v call_v the_o church_n and_o the_o congregation_n after_o they_o be_v become_v a_o nation_n though_o they_o can_v not_o all_o then_o meet_v together_o be_v call_v the_o church_n also_o because_o they_o be_v all_o under_o one_o law_n and_o institution_n all_o partaker_n of_o the_o same_o right_n and_o privilege_n and_o so_o indeed_o all_o particular_a church_n of_o christian_n be_v but_o the_o catholic_n church_n in_o lesser_a association_n as_o the_o circumference_n of_o heaven_n be_v the_o same_o though_o in_o so_o many_o different_a orison_n as_o light_n be_v the_o same_o though_o various_o model_v by_o its_o several_a reception_n as_o the_o ocean_n be_v one_o by_o how_o many_o several_a denomination_n soever_o it_o be_v distinguish_v from_o the_o shore_n it_o wash_v or_o the_o channel_n or_o other_o situation_n it_o rest_v in_o so_o this_o church_n be_v often_o speak_v of_o as_o one_o church_n and_o as_o several_a church_n as_o the_o sea_n be_v one_o and_o several_a sea_n they_o be_v so_o much_o every_o way_n the_o same_o as_o to_o differ_v only_o in_o the_o universality_n but_o whether_o a_o nation_n unite_v in_o christianity_n may_v be_v call_v a_o national_a church_n have_v many_o dissent_v of_o opinion_n appertain_v to_o it_o and_o not_o possible_a to_o be_v decide_v by_o express_a scripture_n there_o be_v no_o christian_a nation_n under_o heaven_n in_o those_o day_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n wherein_o it_o be_v write_v i_o shall_v leave_v whole_o in_o the_o middle_n and_o only_o observe_v two_o thing_n concern_v this_o controversy_n 1._o that_o there_o can_v no_o great_a matter_n accrue_v to_o either_o side_n of_o it_o by_o decide_v for_o or_o against_o a_o national_a church_n for_o allow_v a_o national_a church_n or_o if_o you_o will_v a_o congregational_a church_n agree_v in_o any_o thing_n not_o agree_v with_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n or_o if_o either_o of_o they_o want_v any_o thing_n necessary_a to_o our_o obedience_n to_o all_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o first_o of_o these_o case_n christian_n may_v and_o aught_o to_o retire_v from_o the_o irregularity_n of_o any_o such_o church_n either_o national_a or_o congregational_a that_o they_o may_v be_v pure_a from_o corruption_n in_o the_o second_o case_n christian_n must_v find_v out_o the_o way_n and_o opportunity_n so_o far_o as_o be_v possible_a whereby_o they_o may_v perform_v all_o the_o duty_n command_v by_o christ_n though_o they_o separate_v from_o either_o of_o those_o church_n no_o further_o than_o to_o those_o end_n but_o if_o there_o be_v a_o corruption_n in_o the_o main_n or_o a_o defect_n in_o the_o vital_n of_o the_o doctrine_n or_o worship_n of_o christ_n in_o either_o notion_n or_o church_n that_o will_v not_o be_v upon_o due_a remonstrance_n reform_v then_o if_o according_a to_o the_o institution_n of_o christ_n christian_n gather_v into_o assembly_n though_o lesser_a though_o but_o of_o two_o or_o three_o they_o be_v assure_v of_o the_o presence_n of_o christ_n and_o no_o inconvenience_n of_o rend_v the_o body_n of_o christ_n or_o make_v division_n in_o his_o church_n shall_v condemn_v they_o for_o the_o society_n desert_v be_v not_o his_o church_n but_o the_o society_n that_o do_v desert_n be_v his_o church_n suppose_v it_o retire_v sincere_o in_o obedience_n to_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n on_o the_o other_o side_n suppose_v a_o national_a church_n not_o of_o the_o ordination_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o gospel_n as_o under_o that_o name_n or_o notion_n yet_o if_o that_o stand_v good_a which_o i_o have_v endeavour_v to_o demonstrate_v that_o every_o nation_n to_o which_o the_o gospel_n be_v preach_v be_v bind_v by_o the_o law_n of_o god_n establish_v in_o nature_n and_o by_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n in_o his_o word_n to_o plant_v true_a christian_a religion_n upon_o its_o national_a union_n it_o will_v be_v still_o every_o christian_n duty_n to_o join_v in_o unite_z himself_z with_o encourage_v and_o promote_v all_o that_o true_a national_a christian_n religion_n and_o not_o to_o separate_v from_o it_o any_o further_a than_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n oblige_v he_o that_o he_o may_v yield_v obedience_n to_o all_o those_o law_n for_o it_o be_v the_o absolute_a duty_n of_o every_o member_n of_o a_o nation_n to_o seek_v the_o eternal_a salvation_n of_o his_o nation_n in_o his_o sphere_n as_o the_o apostle_n paul_n do_v of_o the_o jew_n in_o so_o high_a a_o orb_n when_o he_o profess_v his_o great_a heaviness_n and_o sorrow_n of_o heart_n even_o to_o the_o wish_v himself_o accurse_v from_o christ_n and_o pray_v with_o his_o heart_n desire_v they_o may_v be_v save_v on_o account_n of_o which_o in_o so_o many_o thing_n he_o become_v to_o the_o jew_n as_o a_o jew_n and_o write_v that_o excellent_a epistle_n to_o the_o hebrew_n it_o be_v for_o that_o very_a reason_n to_o i_o most_o probable_a it_o be_v he_o that_o he_o may_v make_v good_a all_o those_o great_a profession_n of_o love_n to_o they_o for_o though_o it_o be_v peculiar_o direct_v to_o the_o christian_a hebrew_n yet_o it_o have_v a_o aspect_n upon_o the_o whole_a religion_n and_o people_n of_o the_o jew_n as_o the_o scope_n of_o adjust_v all_o the_o mosaic_a and_o jewish_a law_n to_o the_o gospel-mediation_n make_v plain_a and_o so_o be_v in_o itself_o most_o proper_a for_o the_o conversion_n of_o that_o nation_n as_o a_o nation_n see_v their_o own_a and_o glory_v in_o national_a religion_n true_o understand_v lead_v to_o the_o christian_a religion_n just_o now_o to_o have_v be_v their_o national_a religion_n if_o they_o have_v yield_v obedience_n to_o their_o own_o law_n right_o interpret_v now_o if_o national_a religion_n be_v a_o undoubted_a obligation_n upon_o nation_n and_o the_o member_n of_o nation_n so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v true_a those_o law_n those_o officer_n that_o be_v though_o not_o ordain_v by_o christ_n yet_o not_o contradictory_n to_o his_o ordination_n but_o necessary_a according_a to_o rule_n of_o right_a reason_n to_o the_o establish_v true_a religion_n as_o national_a must_v be_v submit_v to_o also_o upon_o the_o account_n and_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o that_o true_a religion_n as_o national_a but_o if_o national_a religion_n wander_v from_o truth_n that_o fundamental_a liberty_n establish_v by_o scripture_n and_o law_n of_o nature_n must_v be_v always_o preserve_v that_o i_o before_o assert_v as_o give_v right_o to_o retire_v from_o all_o society_n not_o unite_v in_o truth_n according_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o their_o defection_n from_o it_o but_o for_o the_o further_o justify_v national_a true_a religion_n i_o will_v in_o the_o next_o place_n observe_v from_o scripture_n the_o uses_n and_o great_a end_n of_o church_n and_o see_v how_o far_o national_a religion_n may_v be_v accommodate_v to_o they_o for_o church_n be_v not_o therefore_o appoint_v that_o man_n may_v arbitrary_o and_o fanciful_o choose_v which_o or_o what_o sort_n they_o will_v be_v of_o but_o that_o the_o true_a reason_n and_o purpose_n of_o they_o may_v be_v observe_v and_o comply_v with_o and_o they_o be_v these_o three_o 1._o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o generation_n of_o man_n in_o the_o world_n in_o the_o same_o faith_n and_o worship_n of_o god_n in_o jesus_n christ_n according_a to_o the_o scripture_n however_o disperse_v at_o whatever_o distance_n soever_o remote_a yet_o unite_v in_o the_o same_o doctrine_n prayer_n preach_v praise_v god_n in_o the_o sacrament_n and_o if_o opportunity_n allow_v and_o invite_v it_o in_o the_o same_o actual_a worship_n and_o at_o all_o time_n close_o compact_v in_o a_o virtual_a and_o mystical_a communion_n with_o one_o another_o the_o same_o spirit_n run_v through_o all_o unite_n all_o to_o christ_n and_o god_n and_o one_o with_o another_o join_v in_o the_o same_o love_n and_o sympathy_n of_o joy_n in_o the_o prosperity_n and_o of_o sorrow_n in_o the_o affliction_n and_o suffering_n one_o of_o another_o and_o with_o all_o readiness_n in_o yield_v the_o fruit_n of_o mutual_a charity_n mercy_n and_o compassion_n from_o one_o end_n of_o the_o earth_n to_o the_o other_o every_o true_a christian_a be_v the_o compassionate_a samaritan_n to_o every_o other_o christian_a and_o not_o jewish_o distinguish_v his_o mercy_n to_o his_o own_o sect_n party_n or_o church_n and_o in_o case_n of_o corruption_n and_o defection_n from_o the_o law_n and_o word_n of_o christ_n there_o be_v to_o christian_n a_o mutual_a power_n of_o remonstrate_v against_o those_o corruption_n and_o that_o defection_n by_o argue_v expostulate_v censure_v the_o evil_a of_o they_o yea_o and_o authoritative_a denounce_v the_o judgement_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n upon_o they_o for_o that_o charter_n of_o christ_n to_o the_o true_a preacher_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o the_o true_a church_n stand_v good_a as_o to_o age_n so_o to_o
public_a too_o as_o it_o may_v be_v the_o duty_n of_o pastor_n and_o teacher_n towards_o the_o people_n and_o of_o they_o towards_o those_o that_o be_v so_o over_o they_o in_o the_o lord_n which_o consist_v in_o watchng_v for_o their_o soul_n as_o those_o that_o must_v give_v a_o account_n for_o they_o and_o those_o soul_n therefore_o yield_v obedience_n to_o those_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n the_o administer_a of_o which_o be_v style_v a_o ruling_n all_o these_o require_v a_o particular_a presence_n one_o with_o another_o and_o in_o such_o a_o proportion_n of_o number_n one_o to_o another_o that_o the_o principal_a duty_n may_v not_o be_v defeat_v by_o the_o over-number_n but_o that_o the_o service_n of_o all_o one_o to_o another_o may_v extend_v to_o all_o may_v comprehend_v all_o may_v continual_o pass_v and_o re-pass_a between_o all_o and_o in_o which_o all_o may_v continual_o demonstrate_v their_o consent_n and_o agreement_n but_o yet_o all_o these_o thing_n can_v be_v in_o bar_n of_o a_o national_a religion_n see_v that_o a_o nation_n as_o i_o have_v already_o say_v have_v and_o undeniable_o must_v have_v a_o national_a union_n and_o if_o true_a religion_n be_v fix_v there_o and_o carry_v along_o with_o that_o union_n it_o may_v well_o be_v call_v a_o national_a religion_n at_o least_o and_o without_o any_o injury_n a_o national_a church_n the_o agreement_n in_o the_o one_o carry_v also_o a_o agreement_n in_o the_o other_o make_v it_o so_o and_o as_o in_o such_o a_o national_a union_n though_o the_o standard_n of_o all_o thing_n as_o of_o the_o whole_a state_n of_o law_n judicature_n trade_n business_n militarystrength_n of_o a_o nation_n be_v preserve_v in_o capital_a city_n and_o court_n yet_o by_o the_o care_n of_o government_n they_o be_v all_o in_o due_a proportion_n distribute_v as_o the_o blood_n in_o the_o vein_n by_o fit_a channel_n to_o every_o particular_a as_o it_o be_v in_o circuit_n so_o the_o public_a agreement_n in_o religion_n settle_v the_o religious_a interest_n of_o a_o nation_n more_o eminent_o in_o those_o thing_n that_o do_v most_o represent_v the_o consent_n of_o the_o whole_a in_o it_o yet_o with_o due_a care_n of_o every_o part_n and_o member_n of_o the_o nation_n to_o bring_v it_o home_o particular_o to_o they_o and_o make_v the_o mutual_a intercourse_n in_o it_o free_a and_o open_a to_o all_o person_n in_o all_o place_n where_o they_o have_v occasion_n to_o pass_v up_o and_o down_o and_o maintain_v a_o intercourse_n one_o with_o another_o that_o wherever_o they_o be_v or_o have_v occasion_n to_o be_v they_o may_v enjoy_v the_o freedom_n of_o public_a worship_n and_o national_a religion_n to_o which_o at_o all_o time_n they_o give_v a_o know_v and_o even_o conscious_a vote_n that_o agree_v in_o it_o the_o assembly_n be_v as_o it_o be_v in_o view_n under_o a_o sufficiency_n of_o master_n of_o the_o assembly_n of_o the_o nation_n together_o and_o as_o national_a union_n do_v not_o swallow_v up_o lesser_a or_o even_o family_n union_n no_o more_o do_v a_o national_a any_o lesser_a church_n or_o religious_a society_n except_o by_o man_n own_o fault_n and_o wherever_o man_n thus_o unite_v come_v in_o the_o nation_n they_o glad_o lie_v hold_v of_o the_o opportunity_n of_o join_v with_o any_o other_o particular_a assembly_n to_o which_o sameness_n of_o language_n and_o manner_n give_v they_o ready_a admission_n beside_o particular_a knowledge_n and_o that_o national_a religion_n can_v be_v so_o very_o particular_a as_o congregational_a be_v no_o more_o reason_n to_o deny_v national_a and_o rest_v whole_o in_o congregational_a than_o it_o be_v to_o deny_v congregational_a and_o rest_n in_o family_n religion_n or_o to_o deny_v family_n and_o rest_n in_o personal_a religion_n because_o these_o be_v each_o close_a than_o other_o 3._o a_o three_o end_n of_o church_n come_v to_o be_v consider_v that_o more_o particular_o enforce_v national_a religion_n and_o justify_v its_o nationality_n viz._n that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o more_o illustrious_a famous_a and_o remarkable_a offer_n of_o religion_n to_o notice_n and_o observation_n for_o the_o draw_v in_o and_o congregate_a other_o to_o it_o thus_o a_o church_n be_v a_o pillar_n and_o ground_n or_o seat_n of_o truth_n and_o a_o magnificent_a house_n of_o the_o live_a god_n and_o what_o more_o advantageous_a to_o this_o end_n than_o a_o nation_n unite_v in_o the_o true_a religion_n which_o we_o know_v have_v great_o the_o odds_o of_o particular_a congregation_n in_o this_o illustriousness_n and_o magnificence_n nor_o do_v this_o run_v out_o yet_o to_o the_o build_n the_o babel_n of_o rome_n that_o will_v mount_v up_o as_o a_o tower_n to_o heaven_n or_o as_o too_o ambitious_a pyramid_n that_o be_v often_o rebuke_v with_o lightning_n from_o heaven_n for_o come_v too_o near_o it_o see_v as_o i_o have_v before_o show_v such_o a_o universality_n enforce_v be_v destructive_a to_o all_o the_o end_n of_o public_a religion_n humane_a society_n be_v so_o bound_v by_o nation_n though_o all_o the_o treaty_n of_o nation_n of_o the_o same_o true_a religion_n may_v be_v manage_v to_o give_v it_o the_o honour_n due_a to_o it_o that_o can_v be_v procurate_v in_o such_o treaty_n so_o much_o then_o as_o national_a exceed_v and_o extend_v itself_o beyond_o any_o narrow_a compass_n and_o yet_o rejoin_v itself_o to_o and_o with_o itself_o after_o the_o manner_n of_o particular_a congregation_n so_o much_o do_v it_o partake_v of_o the_o magnificency_n of_o scripture_n concern_v the_o publickness_n of_o christian_a religion_n and_o the_o catholic_n church_n and_o yet_o return_v into_o the_o closeness_n of_o particular_a church_n with_o themselves_o and_o be_v the_o just_a point_n betwixt_o the_o tyranny_n ambition_n and_o endlesness_n of_o popish_a universality_n and_o put_v christianity_n under_o a_o bed_n or_o bushel_n national_a religion_n and_o national_a union_n in_o it_o be_v as_o a_o city_n set_v upon_o a_o hill_n that_o can_v be_v hide_v as_o a_o candle_n set_v upon_o so_o exalt_v a_o candlestick_n that_o give_v light_a to_o all_o within_o itself_o and_o about_o it_o even_o as_o far_o as_o the_o fame_n of_o that_o nation_n reach_v the_o church_n much_o more_o as_o rising_z up_o into_o a_o national_a state_n be_v the_o glory_n of_o christ_n as_o therefore_o though_o we_o may_v be_v in_o some_o regard_n more_o exact_a in_o the_o most_o private_a we_o go_v out_o of_o our_o personal_a religion_n into_o family_n religion_n out_o of_o our_o family_n religion_n into_o congregational_a and_o as_o the_o christian_n at_o first_o most_o probable_o according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o humane_a society_n go_v out_o of_o congregation_n into_o consociation_n of_o church_n in_o religion_n so_o we_o out_o of_o all_o these_o where_o national_a union_n in_o true_a religion_n allow_v it_o go_v into_o that_o national_a state_n that_o we_o may_v build_v the_o honour_n of_o religion_n to_o the_o high_a in_o so_o sensible_a and_o understand_v a_o consent_n and_o union_n in_o it_o so_o public_a a_o acknowledgement_n of_o god_n and_o though_o hereby_o it_o be_v as_o a_o net_n that_o draw_v in_o bad_a as_o well_o as_o good_a even_o visible_o and_o apparent_o yet_o when_o we_o consider_v the_o possible_a care_n against_o it_o in_o particular_a congregation_n though_o still_o national_a when_o we_o further_o consider_v the_o state_n of_o the_o jewish_a church_n of_o corinth_n the_o state_n of_o the_o apocalyptick_a church_n the_o doubt_n will_v not_o be_v so_o cogent_a as_o to_o move_v national_a religion_n out_o of_o the_o nature_n of_o thing_n the_o only_a remain_a doubt_n be_v that_o thus_o national_a magistracy_n become_v as_o the_o head_n of_o such_o a_o religion_n the_o national_a religion_n be_v gather_v and_o unite_v in_o the_o magistrate_n and_o his_o law_n and_o that_o which_o shall_v only_o be_v unite_v in_o and_o depend_v upon_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n become_v subject_a to_o another_o head_n on_o pretence_n of_o which_o magistrate_n have_v be_v attempt_v on_o too_o with_o force_n to_o bring_v their_o power_n to_o true_a religion_n the_o answer_n i_o give_v to_o this_o shall_v be_v very_o brief_a in_o three_o head_n 1._o i_o always_o own_o any_o pretence_n take_v from_o exalt_v christ_n and_o his_o kingdom_n to_o enforce_v civil_a power_n to_o ratify_v true_a religion_n into_o national_a constitution_n and_o law_n be_v most_o destructive_a of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n which_o be_v not_o of_o this_o world_n that_o be_v to_o use_v force_n for_o its_o own_o promotion_n and_o utter_o subvert_v government_n see_v private_a person_n may_v under_o this_o shelter_n and_o disguise_n rise_v up_o and_o invade_v and_o disturb_v any_o civil_a state_n or_o government_n whatever_o when_o religion_n be_v our_o birthright_n by_o our_o law_n it_o may_v be_v by_o the_o same_o law_n defend_v when_o it_o be_v not_o prayer_n
we_o whatever_a small_a distinction_n make_v the_o they_o and_o the_o we_o be_v both_o one_o in_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n we_o ought_v therefore_o to_o pray_v for_o the_o common_a benefit_n of_o all_o so_o unite_v though_o not_o bind_v up_o in_o the_o same_o form_n with_o we_o for_o a_o gracious_a audience_n and_o reception_n of_o their_o and_o our_o worship_n of_o god_n that_o so_o the_o spirit_n of_o love_n and_o union_n in_o the_o main_a may_v convey_v all_o our_o service_n into_o one_o before_o god_n where_o indeed_o if_o they_o be_v as_o he_o require_v they_o meet_v strip_v of_o all_o their_o outward_a circumstance_n form_n and_o ceremony_n faith_n and_o obedience_n be_v alone_o able_a to_o mount_v thither_o with_o they_o and_o service_n so_o raise_v can_v by_o no_o mean_n be_v spare_v for_o small_a difference_n in_o a_o national_a religious_a interest_n for_o the_o angel_n of_o all_o such_o behold_v the_o face_n of_o our_o father_n in_o heaven_n if_o darius_n though_o a_o heathen_a prince_n have_v such_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o virtue_n 10_o ezr._n 6._o 10_o of_o that_o true_a religion_n he_o be_v not_o of_o as_o to_o engage_v those_o of_o so_o great_a difference_n from_o he_o in_o their_o sense_n of_o god_n to_o pray_v for_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o king_n and_o his_o son_n how_o much_o more_o shall_v we_o who_o be_v all_o of_o the_o same_o true_a faith_n and_o worship_n and_o know_v the_o force_n and_o energy_n of_o it_o by_o great_a act_n of_o favour_n to_o one_o another_o in_o those_o thing_n wherein_o we_o can_v be_v whole_o one_o yet_o all_o join_v in_o pray_v for_o the_o acceptance_n of_o one_o another_o service_n and_o the_o service_n of_o the_o whole_a nation_n whereof_o we_o be_v not_o only_o civil_a but_o religious_a member_n and_o if_o we_o be_v true_o religious_a shall_v be_v so_o account_v with_o god_n yet_o with_o the_o abatement_n of_o our_o sinful_a difference_n and_o division_n how_o shall_v we_o therefore_o unite_v that_o we_o may_v lose_v none_o of_o the_o thing_n that_o we_o have_v wrought_v but_o may_v receive_v a_o full_a reward_n rule_n 6._o it_o be_v the_o happiness_n of_o our_o nation_n that_o if_o any_o man_n truâ—y_o understand_v consider_v and_o pronounce_v of_o our_o national_a religion_n it_o stand_v in_o the_o scripture_n make_v we_o wise_a to_o salvation_n in_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n repentance_n love_n of_o god_n fear_v of_o the_o divine_a majesty_n all_o act_n of_o justice_n love_n mercy_n compassion_n true_a sincere_a preach_v the_o whole_a word_n of_o god_n prayer_n use_v of_o sacrament_n the_o lordsday_n religious_a discourse_n &_o conference_n catechetical_a instruction_n and_o education_n of_o youth_n in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o religion_n restraint_n of_o atheism_n irreligion_n intemperance_n and_o sensuality_n general_o and_o throughout_o the_o nation_n compulsion_n of_o the_o very_o worst_a of_o man_n to_o acknowledge_v a_o deity_n and_o his_o worship_n for_o what_o be_v hypocrisy_n in_o they_o may_v turn_v to_o the_o salvation_n of_o good_a man_n these_o be_v the_o thing_n i_o say_v again_o that_o be_v true_o our_o national_a religion_n all_o thing_n pertain_v to_o order_n decency_n outward_a form_n or_o mode_n be_v but_o the_o vehicle_n the_o conveyance_n of_o that_o true_a religion_n if_o the_o main_a end_n of_o which_o be_v obtain_v viz._n that_o these_o religious_a act_n be_v perform_v but_o with_o that_o peace_n and_o freedom_n from_o confusion_n confusion_n destructive_a of_o all_o public_a action_n and_o with_o that_o honourableness_n that_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o state_n of_o every_o nation_n and_o this_o nation_n particular_o in_o the_o simplicity_n of_o religious_a worship_n it_o be_v enough_o and_o whatever_o on_o these_o account_n be_v command_v in_o our_o national_a religion_n i_o free_o own_o and_o acknowledge_v as_o reconcilable_a with_o these_o character_n forbear_v such_o who_o though_o agree_v in_o all_o main_a thing_n upon_o sincere_a endeavour_n to_o understand_v they_o so_o can_v acquiesce_v in_o they_o as_o so_o who_o deserve_v compassion_n these_o thing_n ought_v to_o be_v no_o partition-wall_n in_o our_o national_a worship_v of_o god_n one_o with_o another_o nor_o can_v they_o without_o great_a rigour_n and_o censor_n ousness_n very_o evil_a in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n be_v condemn_v in_o those_o who_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o substantial_a national_a religion_n the_o publickness_n and_o more_o universal_a benefit_n of_o it_o wherein_o they_o be_v most_o true_o zealous_a pay_v obedience_n to_o the_o rule_n of_o they_o rule_n 7._o let_v we_o all_o strive_v labour_n preach_v hear_v and_o pray_v and_o even_o suffer_v in_o the_o reformation_n of_o ourselves_o and_o endeavour_n to_o reform_v all_o other_o according_a to_o the_o most_o excellent_a rule_n of_o our_o most_o holy_a religion_n profess_v in_o this_o kingdom_n as_o our_o national_a religion_n that_o it_o may_v be_v find_v to_o praise_n honour_n and_o glory_n at_o the_o appear_v of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o be_v think_v worthy_a to_o stand_v before_o the_o son_n of_o man_n at_o his_o come_n before_o who_o nothing_o but_o the_o gold_n and_o precious_a stone_n of_o substantial_a truth_n and_o goodness_n can_v stand_v all_o else_o will_v be_v burn_v off_o as_o hay_o and_o chaff_n by_o the_o fire_n of_o that_o day_n and_o they_o that_o have_v be_v hot_a and_o contentious_a for_o they_o be_v save_v only_o as_o by_o fire_n with_o difficulty_n and_o loss_n and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n that_o our_o union_n and_o love_n in_o the_o true_a religion_n may_v be_v to_o we_o a_o assurance_n of_o the_o divine_a favour_n and_o presence_n of_o his_o protection_n and_o blessing_n that_o neither_o our_o candlestick_n may_v be_v remove_v nor_o our_o nation_n the_o present_a place_n of_o it_o be_v take_v away_o for_o general_o both_o be_v remove_v one_o with_o the_o other_o or_o soon_o after_o one_o another_o rule_n 8._o let_v no_o man_n be_v discourage_v from_o the_o most_o zealous_a affectionate_a join_v himself_o to_o and_o promote_a national_a religion_n because_o oâ—_n that_o veneration_n due_a to_o the_o name_n of_o the_o church_n and_o church_n according_a to_o the_o scripture_n for_o a_o nation_n unite_v in_o true_a christian_a religion_n differ_v no_o more_o in_o the_o strict_a notion_n from_o a_o church_n than_o a_o body_n of_o man_n unite_v and_o consecrate_v to_o god_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n differ_v from_o a_o society_n unite_v and_o consecrate_v to_o god_n according_a to_o a_o institution_n that_o be_v no_o more_o than_o a_o institution_n plant_v in_o nature_n differ_v from_o a_o institution_n give_v by_o revelation_n for_o one_o be_v the_o appointment_n of_o god_n of_o old_a from_o the_o very_a foundation_n of_o humane_a society_n the_o other_o after_o the_o fall_n of_o nature_n and_o the_o inability_n of_o it_o to_o its_o end_n a_o institution_n therefore_o do_v not_o repeal_v a_o natural_a law_n but_o take_v care_n it_o shall_v be_v fulfil_v and_o complete_v in_o its_o chief_a end_n israel_n be_v a_o church_n to_o god_n be_v so_o devote_v to_o he_o by_o his_o own_o institution_n and_o it_o be_v a_o holy_a nation_n according_a to_o the_o original_a 6._o exod._n 19_o 6._o law_n be_v elevate_v by_o the_o institution_n to_o its_o true_a perfection_n as_o a_o nation_n the_o christian_n to_o who_o the_o apostle_n peter_n write_v as_o they_o be_v a_o church_n according_a to_o the_o institution_n of_o christ_n so_o they_o be_v a_o holy_a nation_n as_o he_o style_v they_o succeed_v into_o the_o place_n of_o that_o whole_a jewish_a nation_n consecrate_a to_o god_n by_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n upon_o nation_n though_o but_o stranger_n scatter_v abroad_o yet_o to_o show_v the_o 1â—_n 1_o pet._n 1._o 1â—_n great_a value_n god_n have_v of_o a_o nation_n devote_v to_o he_o they_o be_v style_v a_o holy_a nation_n the_o institution_n of_o the_o catholic_n church_n as_o the_o seat_n 9_o 1_o pet._n 2._o 9_o of_o the_o true_a religion_n of_o jesus_n christ_n make_v a_o nation_n unite_v in_o that_o true_a religion_n both_o a_o church_n as_o that_o catholic_n church_n have_v thereby_o a_o residence_n in_o it_o and_o much_o more_o than_o those_o forementioned_a scatter_a jew_n a_o holy_a nation_n as_o it_o be_v national_o resign_v up_o to_o god_n in_o the_o true_a religion_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n make_v perfect_a by_o the_o institution_n where_o then_o a_o nation_n be_v unite_v in_o the_o truth_n of_o christian_a doctrine_n the_o purity_n of_o divine_a worship_n the_o holy_a rule_n of_o practice_n the_o catholic_n love_n of_o all_o christian_n baptise_a into_o the_o same_o body_n make_v to_o drink_v into_o that_o one_o spirit_n in_o pastor_n and_o teacher_n minister_a the_o same_o gospel_n the_o apostle_n infallible_o deliver_v and_o seal_v with_o miracle_n all_o
which_o be_v mark_n of_o segregation_n from_o false_a church_n or_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n false_o so_o call_v here_o be_v the_o catholic_n church_n in_o a_o nation_n according_a to_o the_o institution_n and_o here_o be_v the_o holy_a nation_n according_a to_o both_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n and_o the_o institution_n so_o again_o where_o a_o nation_n bring_v home_o religion_n into_o the_o most_o particular_a national_a district_v or_o division_n as_o near_o as_o may_v be_v according_a to_o the_o institution_n of_o christ_n for_o particular_a church_n here_o be_v a_o nation_n of_o church_n which_o in_o regard_n they_o all_o consent_n in_o one_o national_a union_n be_v without_o any_o impropriety_n style_v a_o national_a church_n and_o every_o such_o society_n be_v both_o a_o holy_a society_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n devote_v to_o god_n and_o a_o church-society_n according_a to_o the_o institution_n direct_v and_o perfect_v that_o law_n of_o nature_n now_o the_o institution_n of_o particular_a church_n by_o christ_n i_o understand_v to_o be_v that_o where_o he_o say_v if_o two_o or_o three_o agree_v and_o be_v gather_v or_o enchurch_v in_o my_o name_n i_o will_v be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o wherein_o he_o do_v not_o only_o encourage_v the_o small_a number_n in_o case_n of_o exigency_n or_o necessity_n but_o couch_v some_o rule_n whereby_o much_o great_a number_n whether_o of_o christian_n in_o separation_n from_o civil_a society_n or_o unite_v according_a to_o they_o be_v to_o be_v form_v as_o first_o in_o all_o except_v the_o universality_n that_o be_v essential_a to_o the_o catholic_n church_n which_o be_v the_o church_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o which_o each_o particular_a must_v therefore_o partake_v that_o it_o may_v be_v a_o church_n 2._o in_o a_o number_n proportionable_a to_o edification_n in_o all_o the_o duty_n and_o ordinance_n of_o christian_a religion_n 3._o in_o the_o humility_n modesty_n and_o unaspiringness_n of_o christianity_n for_o he_o that_o institute_v his_o church_n in_o such_o small_a number_n and_o those_o not_o force_v but_o agree_v project_v nothing_o by_o that_o institution_n for_o domination_n or_o grandieur_fw-fr 4._o in_o the_o simplicity_n and_o plainness_n christian_n religion_n profess_v for_o church_n institute_v in_o such_o a_o paucity_n of_o member_n be_v never_o design_v to_o be_v court_n of_o forensick_a business_n nor_o capable_a of_o subordinate_v themselves_o so_o as_o that_o their_o member_n shall_v be_v fatigue_v with_o long_a and_o tedious_a suit_n and_o appeal_n remove_v from_o one_o part_n to_o another_o worse_o than_o go_v to_o law_n before_o unbeliever_n as_o the_o romish_a tyranny_n have_v contrive_v whereas_o our_o saviour_n method_n for_o complaint_n and_o admonition_n in_o case_n of_o scandal_n for_o reconciliation_n in_o case_n of_o repentance_n or_o severe_a discipline_n in_o case_n of_o obstinacy_n be_v natural_a easy_a and_o speedy_a as_o be_v plain_a to_o any_o observer_n 5._o christian_n church_n allow_v in_o two_o or_o three_o show_v the_o care_n of_o christ_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o proportion_n betwixt_o the_o strength_n and_o gift_n of_o his_o ordinary_a minister_n since_o the_o cessation_n of_o the_o apostolic_a measure_n and_o their_o charge_n and_o trust_v for_o our_o lord_n will_v not_o by_o his_o institution_n give_v any_o reason_n to_o moses_n his_o complaint_n i_o be_o not_o able_a to_o bear_v this_o great_a people_n thus_o be_v our_o saviour_n institution_n of_o particular_a church_n and_o though_o it_o do_v not_o lay_v any_o absolute_a interdict_v upon_o the_o true_o prudential_a though_o additional_a constitution_n either_o of_o nation_n or_o other_o humane_a society_n proceed_v according_a to_o the_o general_a maxim_n upon_o which_o society_n strengthen_v themselves_o yet_o with_o this_o caution_n that_o what_o be_v so_o do_v may_v not_o enact_v any_o thing_n by_o which_o the_o main_a and_o great_a end_n of_o this_o institution_n shall_v be_v defeat_v however_o that_o the_o institution_n shall_v never_o be_v plead_v but_o stand_v free_a from_o the_o error_n man_n fall_v too_o often_o into_o in_o pursuit_n of_o the_o maxim_n forenamed_a whereby_o they_o will_v aggrandise_v society_n in_o religious_a thing_n or_o make_v it_o comport_v with_o civil_a state_n but_o that_o his_o institution_n shall_v be_v a_o stand_a rule_n first_o to_o avoid_v they_o after_o to_o discover_v and_o reform_v they_o or_o if_o they_o grow_v extreme_a and_o not_o to_o be_v reduce_v as_o in_o popery_n to_o warrant_v a_o withdraw_n from_o they_o but_o to_o apply_v all_o this_o to_o our_o purpose_n if_o the_o main_a end_n of_o the_o catholic_n and_o particular_a church_n institute_v by_o our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n be_v obtain_v there_o be_v no_o encounter_n but_o a_o most_o happy_a agreement_n between_o the_o natural_a law_n of_o national_a religion_n and_o the_o institution_n of_o church_n which_o as_o i_o before_o assert_v be_v not_o to_o be_v draw_v into_o a_o desert_n or_o wilderness_n or_o shut_v up_o in_o cell_n and_o cloister_n or_o confine_v to_o one_o point_n of_o the_o world_n as_o the_o donatist_n will_v have_v have_v the_o true_a church_n but_o be_v to_o be_v fix_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o universe_n of_o nation_n and_o city_n as_o the_o very_a place_n of_o the_o candlestick_n or_o church_n from_o which_o in_o just_a indignation_n to_o those_o place_n when_o unworthy_a of_o they_o they_o be_v remove_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o business_n trade_n and_o conversation_n of_o the_o world_n as_o be_v apparent_a by_o the_o church_n we_o read_v of_o in_o the_o scripture_n let_v then_o true_a religion_n as_o christianity_n contend_v and_o will_v at_o last_o in_o much_o high_a degree_n overcome_v be_v as_o wide_a as_o the_o universe_n let_v the_o kingdom_n of_o the_o world_n become_v the_o kingdom_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o his_o christ_n and_o the_o universal_a church_n will_v be_v as_o wide_a bring_v it_o into_o particular_a society_n and_o particular_a church_n will_v be_v as_o many_o as_o numerous_a as_o they_o a_o church-state_n be_v indeed_o a_o state_n of_o separation_n the_o church-catholick_n be_v a_o separation_n from_o the_o universe_n because_o there_o be_v fall_v angel_n unholy_a and_o unhappy_a because_o there_o be_v a_o multitude_n of_o mankind_n in_o the_o same_o state_n but_o this_o be_v only_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o the_o happiness_n consequent_a upon_o it_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o separation_n and_o this_o the_o very_a law_n of_o nature_n agree_v in_o thus_o particular_a church_n whenever_o they_o be_v a_o separation_n from_o particular_a society_n it_o be_v for_o the_o sake_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o its_o due_a administration_n restore_v that_o and_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n and_o the_o institution_n become_v both_o one_o then_o a_o nation_n and_o a_o national_a church_n coalesce_v into_o one_o then_o civil_a society_n in_o particular_a and_o particular_a church_n grow_v into_o one_o and_o god_n be_v please_v to_o dwell_v in_o they_o and_o with_o great_a delight_n because_o all_o his_o institution_n natural_a and_o reveal_v unite_v in_o one_o i_o have_v only_o one_o caution_n to_o add_v that_o the_o state_n of_o thing_n hither_o to_o in_o the_o world_n be_v far_o from_o perfection_n that_o whethersoever_o we_o look_v we_o can_v find_v it_o so_o that_o to_o be_v remove_v from_o one_o thing_n to_o another_o in_o hope_n of_o it_o be_v perpetual_o to_o give_v ourselves_o to_o change_v except_o thing_n be_v no_o way_n tolerable_a but_o the_o very_a substance_n rule_n and_o principle_n be_v corrupt_v and_o that_o there_o be_v no_o art_n of_o retirement_n and_o withdraw_v from_o they_o leave_v we_o shall_v consider_v how_o the_o pious_a jew_n and_o israelite_n how_o our_o saviour_n and_o the_o apostle_n how_o the_o undefiled_a name_n in_o sardis_n manage_v themselves_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o great_a corruption_n what_o retreat_v from_o the_o evil_n and_o yet_o join_v in_o all_o that_o be_v good_a be_v visible_a in_o their_o practice_n what_o kind_n of_o division_n the_o good_a and_o approve_a corinthian_n make_v from_o the_o misdemeanour_n 19_o 1_o cor._n 11._o 19_o of_o the_o bad_a without_o forsake_v the_o church_n that_o we_o may_v imitate_v their_o example_n and_o continue_v to_o do_v the_o great_a service_n to_o the_o church_n or_o nation_n we_o be_v member_n of_o neither_o silence_v our_o due_a resentment_n of_o evil_a in_o our_o place_n and_o station_n nor_o rend_v ourselves_o from_o that_o body_n we_o be_v of_o but_o that_o all_o our_o thing_n 14._o 1_o cor._n 16._o 14._o may_v be_v do_v in_o charity_n rule_n 9_o in_o the_o last_o place_n let_v we_o not_o think_v nation_n and_o other_o incorporation_n of_o mankind_n slide_v away_o with_o this_o world_n and_o be_v whole_o lose_v in_o the_o future_a state_n of_o thing_n and_o that_o only_o
divine_a the_o great_a use_n of_o council_n be_v therefore_o so_o to_o debate_v and_o bring_v thing_n to_o a_o result_n by_o a_o confluence_n of_o wisdom_n and_o learning_n that_o we_o may_v see_v divine_a truth_n in_o their_o own_o light_n in_o scripture-light_n to_o hold_v out_o which_o they_o be_v but_o ministerial_o employ_v and_o not_o to_o impose_v upon_o any_o under_o the_o name_n of_o public_a for_o that_o alone_o be_v public_a that_o be_v divine_a all_o comparison_n of_o private_n among_o themselves_o must_v needs_o be_v lose_v in_o this_o public_a before_o which_o the_o great_a name_n of_o public_a be_v but_o as_o the_o drop_n of_o the_o bucket_n and_o the_o small_a dust_n of_o the_o balance_n and_o the_o union_n with_o that_o true_a public_a make_v the_o most_o private_a a_o public_a and_o separation_n from_o it_o the_o most_o seem_o public_a a_o most_o idiottal_n private_a and_o it_o be_v very_o happy_a if_o the_o experiment_n hereof_o be_v not_o too_o evident_a in_o the_o council_n that_o have_v be_v how_o little_a number_n of_o itself_o can_v contribute_v to_o true_o public_a or_o divine_a yet_o the_o fitness_n of_o the_o mean_n be_v withal_o to_o be_v acknowledge_v as_o ordain_v by_o god_n cap._n ix_o of_o the_o church-catholick_n quest_n scripture_n the_o public_a record_n of_o catholic_n religion_n be_v thus_o far_o establish_v and_o secure_v both_o by_o internal_a character_n and_o external_n care_n of_o providence_n it_o still_o remain_v necessary_a there_o shall_v be_v some_o state_v ordination_n of_o god_n for_o the_o actuate_a this_o record_n to_o its_o several_a purpose_n and_o ends._n 1._o because_o divine_a revelation_n have_v now_o finish_v its_o measure_n there_o can_v be_v expect_v those_o immediate_a motion_n of_o truth_n that_o be_v vouchsafe_v by_o god_n in_o his_o extraordinary_a presence_n but_o all_o be_v to_o be_v derive_v from_o and_o display_v in_o scripture_n 2._o scripture_n yet_o be_v but_o of_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o record_n it_o will_v lie_v still_o and_o unmoved_a and_o as_o it_o be_v dead_a if_o not_o produce_v and_o apply_v even_o as_o other_o law_n and_o record_n do_v that_o be_v not_o continual_o execute_v to_o their_o proper_a use_v be_v their_o virtue_n never_o so_o great_a if_o so_o execute_v what_o therefore_o be_v that_o ordinance_n of_o god_n in_o the_o cessation_n of_o immediate_a presence_n for_o the_o expose_v this_o record_n to_o its_o universal_a notice_n and_o for_o the_o apply_v it_o daily_o to_o its_o great_a purpose_n which_o be_v the_o execute_v it_o as_o far_o as_o it_o be_v to_o be_v execute_v in_o this_o world_n answ_n god_n have_v by_o his_o extraordinary_a minister_n who_o he_o give_v his_o divine_a revelation_n and_o word_n first_o found_v the_o church_n and_o according_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o that_o revelation_n exalt_v it_o to_o be_v serviceable_a to_o this_o great_a end_n and_o so_o to_o supply_v the_o place_n of_o immediate_a presence_n quest_n what_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v by_o the_o church_n answ_n the_o church_n be_v the_o catholic_n congregation_n of_o mankind_n call_v to_o the_o faith_n and_o obedience_n of_o that_o word_n itself_o and_o which_o be_v call_v itself_o be_v entrust_v to_o call_v other_o to_o the_o same_o faith_n and_o obedience_n and_o so_o be_v govern_v and_o govern_v according_a to_o it_o by_o daily_a exercise_n in_o and_o according_a to_o that_o word_n quest_n why_o do_v you_o give_v the_o church_n the_o stile_n of_o a_o congregation_n be_v not_o the_o part_n of_o it_o so_o distant_a that_o they_o can_v be_v congregat_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n answ_n they_o be_v yet_o all_o so_o unite_v in_o the_o faith_n and_o obedience_n of_o this_o sacred_a word_n and_o in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n according_a to_o it_o as_o to_o be_v most_o proper_o call_v a_o congregation_n in_o that_o regard_n quest_n but_o still_o how_o can_v the_o church_n be_v call_v a_o congregation_n see_v that_o speak_v it_o always_o actual_o congregat_v but_o those_o very_a member_n that_o in_o regard_n of_o nearness_n one_o to_o another_o be_v at_o due_a season_n congregat_v can_v yet_o be_v always_o congregat_v answ_n the_o twelve_o tribe_n of_o israel_n that_o be_v the_o church_n in_o its_o several_a member_n always_o unite_v always_o ready_a to_o the_o instant_a serve_a god_n day_n and_o night_n be_v behold_v and_o see_v by_o he_o as_o in_o a_o perpetual_a actual_a congregation_n quest_n why_o do_v you_o call_v the_o church_n the_o congregation_n answ_n even_o as_o holy_a write_n be_v the_o scripture_n and_o the_o bible_n or_o book_n so_o the_o church_n be_v the_o congregation_n by_o way_n of_o eminency_n the_o only_a excellent_a assembly_n or_o congregation_n in_o the_o world_n and_o indeed_o upon_o a_o true_a account_n there_o be_v no_o other_o religious_a congregation_n but_o either_o a_o rude_a multitude_n or_o a_o conspiracy_n and_o faction_n against_o god_n quest_n why_o be_v the_o church_n say_v to_o be_v a_o congregation_n call_v by_o the_o word_n answ_n because_o humane_a nature_n uncalled_a lie_v in_o the_o lapse_n of_o separation_n from_o god_n in_o private_a and_o false_a religion_n and_o in_o those_o assembly_n just_o brand_v as_o before_o till_o it_o be_v recall_v by_o he_o into_o the_o church_n unite_v again_o to_o he_o so_o that_o a_o church_n be_v not_o a_o natural_a but_o a_o supernatural_a assembly_n yet_o it_o be_v ready_a to_o embrace_v all_o true_a nature_n anâ—_n the_o association_n of_o it_o into_o itself_o quest_n why_o be_v the_o church_n describe_v to_o be_v one_o catholic_n congregation_n when_o both_o scripture_n and_o daily_a observation_n assure_v we_o there_o have_v be_v and_o be_v so_o many_o particular_a congregation_n very_o regular_a church_n and_o due_o so_o style_v answ_n because_o the_o church_n be_v of_o the_o nature_n of_o those_o thing_n that_o be_v distinguish_v only_o by_o the_o several_a accidental_a reception_n they_o find_v and_o yet_o still_o remain_v one_o the_o catholic_n church_n and_o a_o particular_a church_n differ_v not_o otherwise_o than_o as_o a_o beam_n of_o light_n differ_v from_o the_o whole_a globe_n of_o light_n or_o a_o stream_n of_o water_n from_o the_o ocean_n even_o the_o most_o particular_a church_n be_v in_o this_o regard_n catholic_n that_o it_o be_v unite_v to_o god_n and_o christ_n that_o indeed_o give_v both_o the_o name_n and_o nature_n of_o catholic_n from_o themselves_o particular_a church_n yea_o even_o particular_a person_n true_o of_o the_o church_n have_v every_o one_o the_o whole_a character_n title_n promise_v and_o privilege_n of_o the_o catholic_n church_n so_o far_o as_o they_o can_v need_v or_o receive_v they_o even_o as_o heaven_n be_v entire_a heaven_n to_o every_o single_a glorify_a soul_n every_o lively_a member_n of_o the_o church_n touch_v the_o head_n and_o cornerstone_n and_o so_o in_o he_o the_o whole_a general_n assembly_n and_o church_n of_o the_o first-born_a both_o in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n and_o be_v at_o last_o consummate_v with_o they_o to_o eternity_n quest_n how_o be_v this_o church_n congregat_v answ_n it_o be_v begin_v and_o have_v always_o increase_v by_o particular_a person_n convert_v and_o bring_v home_o to_o god_n according_a to_o his_o word_n in_o several_a age_n and_o succession_n for_o the_o church_n as_o it_o be_v a_o church_n be_v not_o a_o society_n form_v by_o a_o common_a consent_n of_o man_n or_o by_o their_o will_n but_o its_o several_a part_n be_v add_v by_o god_n so_o that_o it_o consist_v of_o all_o that_o be_v inward_o and_o true_o of_o that_o catholic_n religion_n in_o god_n the_o father_n and_o in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n by_o the_o eternal_a spirit_n all_o the_o world_n over_o and_o in_o which_o meet_v all_o that_o have_v be_v be_v or_o shall_v be_v thus_o convert_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n as_o the_o church_n be_v and_o shall_v be_v triumphant_a in_o glory_n quest_n the_o call_v then_o that_o make_v this_o congregation_n be_v first_o to_o god_n and_o christ_n and_o not_o to_o the_o church_n itself_o answ_n it_o be_v evident_o so_o all_o true_a convert_v first_o give_v themselves_o to_o god_n and_o christ_n and_o by_o virtue_n of_o that_o to_o the_o church_n the_o apostle_n be_v not_o solicitous_a of_o any_o other_o conjoin_v man_n to_o the_o church_n than_o what_o most_o necessary_o follow_v upon_o their_o receive_v the_o gospel_n and_o be_v afraid_a of_o their_o fix_v upon_o they_o that_o be_v but_o minister_n and_o servant_n we_o preach_v jesus_n to_o be_v the_o lord_n and_o ourselves_o servant_n for_o jesus_n sake_n the_o corinthian_n head_v themselves_o under_o paul_n or_o apollo_n or_o cephas_n be_v very_o mischievous_a and_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n know_v the_o union_n ought_v to_o be_v only_o to_o christ_n direct_v himself_o so_o vehement_o against_o it_o as_o also_o against_o any_o
fanciful_a distinction_n of_o themselves_o under_o christ_n as_o a_o ordinary_a chief_a of_o a_o party_n and_o not_o as_o the_o divine_a head_n of_o the_o whole_a body_n in_o the_o catholic_n truth_n even_o as_o he_o err_v that_o vulgar_o call_v christ_n good_a not_o know_v he_o to_o be_v god_n the_o supreme_o solely_n good_n quest_n be_v they_o all_o true_a convert_v that_o be_v of_o the_o church_n answ_n all_o that_o be_v indeed_o the_o church_n be_v so_o but_o all_o that_o may_v appertain_v to_o the_o church_n be_v not_o so_o as_o all_o that_o be_v of_o israel_n be_v not_o israel_n there_o be_v a_o visible_a profession_n that_o be_v too_o often_o not_o sincere_a yet_o this_o make_v man_n of_o or_o belong_v to_o the_o church_n but_o not_o true_o the_o church_n many_o be_v so_o call_v that_o be_v not_o choose_v but_o all_o that_o be_v true_o the_o church_n be_v also_o true_o call_v and_o true_o convert_v not_o only_o outward_o and_o visible_o the_o church_n but_o inward_o and_o invisible_o so_o too_o who_o praise_n be_v not_o of_o man_n but_o of_o god_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n they_o that_o be_v only_o of_o the_o visible_a church_n have_v the_o mean_n of_o grace_n and_o be_v not_o throw_v out_o of_o that_o register_n of_o god_n people_n till_o the_o final_a judgement_n cut_v they_o off_o a_o very_a great_a benefit_n in_o itself_o quest_n be_v not_o the_o church_n then_o so_o catholic_n or_o general_n as_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o true_a religion_n be_v answ_n the_o catholickness_n of_o the_o church_n as_o have_v be_v often_o inculcate_v be_v its_o union_n to_o god_n and_o christ_n and_o that_o in_o sincerity_n as_o to_o the_o general_a profession_n though_o the_o number_n of_o it_o be_v as_o the_o sand_n of_o the_o sea_n a_o remnant_n only_o shall_v be_v save_v for_o god_n will_v finish_v the_o account_n and_o cut_v it_o short_a in_o righteousness_n for_o a_o short_a work_n will_v the_o lord_n make_v in_o the_o visible_a church_n there_o shall_v be_v a_o often_o eat_v or_o brouse_v it_o off_o a_o retrench_a of_o it_o again_o and_o again_o it_o shall_v cast_v the_o leave_v of_o its_o mere_a professor_n as_o the_o teyle-tree_n or_o oak_n when_o yet_o their_o substance_n be_v in_o they_o the_o holy_a seed_n be_v the_o substance_n of_o it_o isa_n 6._o ult_n not_o lose_v they_o it_o lose_v nothing_o quest_n in_o what_o sense_n be_v it_o then_o say_v the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o the_o church_n answ_n it_o be_v undoubted_a none_o can_v fail_v while_o they_o be_v the_o church_n while_o unite_v to_o truth_n to_o the_o god_n of_o truth_n to_o christ_n the_o way_n the_o truth_n and_o the_o life_n it_o be_v also_o certain_a from_o this_o high_a declaration_n there_o always_o shall_v be_v a_o church_n in_o the_o world_n so_o unite_v hades_n or_o mortality_n shall_v not_o prevail_v over_o it_o and_o how_o much_o far_o it_o assure_v the_o perseverance_n of_o those_o that_o be_v once_o true_o the_o church_n i_o leave_v the_o thing_n itself_o to_o speak_v it_o be_v say_v they_o that_o overcome_v be_v pillar_n that_o never_o go_v out_o of_o it_o and_o they_o that_o go_v out_o of_o it_o be_v not_o of_o it_o for_o if_o they_o have_v be_v indeed_o of_o it_o they_o will_v no_o doubt_n have_v continue_v with_o it_o and_o how_o the_o church_n itself_o shall_v always_o continue_v if_o any_o true_a member_n of_o it_o may_v perish_v be_v not_o easy_a to_o conceive_v quest_n how_o be_v the_o church_n ordain_v by_o god_n to_o actuate_v scripture_n as_o it_o be_v the_o record_n of_o catholic_n religion_n answ_n the_o apostle_n in_o his_o noble_a description_n of_o the_o church_n have_v lay_v the_o foundation_n of_o our_o instruction_n herein_o in_o those_o three_o honourable_a title_n he_o have_v give_v it_o 1._o that_o it_o be_v the_o house_n of_o the_o live_n god_n 2._o that_o it_o be_v the_o pillar_n of_o truth_n 3._o that_o it_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o truth_n quest_n before_o the_o explanation_n of_o each_o of_o these_o title_n in_o the_o first_o place_n i_o desire_v it_o may_v be_v determine_v whether_o these_o thing_n be_v speak_v of_o the_o catholic_n or_o of_o a_o particular_a church_n the_o particular_a church_n of_o ephesus_n answ_n although_o i_o have_v already_o affirm_v that_o the_o catholic_n church_n differ_v from_o a_o particular_a true_a church_n only_o in_o the_o compass_n and_o comprehensiveness_n of_o it_o yet_o i_o very_o willing_o represent_v it_o over_o again_o in_o this_o instance_n these_o thing_n be_v true_o apply_v to_o the_o catholic_n church_n to_o the_o particular_a church_n of_o ephesus_n to_o every_o particular_a church_n nay_o it_o reach_v down_o to_o every_o single_a live_a member_n of_o the_o church_n so_o far_o that_o god_n make_v his_o abode_n with_o he_o dwell_v in_o he_o he_o be_v a_o pillar_n in_o the_o house_n of_o god_n the_o truth_n rest_v and_o dwell_v in_o he_o and_o shall_v be_v with_o he_o for_o ever_o so_o that_o he_o be_v a_o ground_n of_o truth_n and_o have_v more_o of_o the_o church_n in_o he_o than_o great_a seem_a portion_n of_o it_o that_o err_v from_o the_o truth_n quest_n if_o you_o please_v now_o to_o proceed_v in_o the_o explanation_n of_o these_o title_n and_o first_o what_o be_v the_o importance_n of_o the_o church_n be_v the_o house_n of_o god_n for_o the_o actuate_a the_o scripture_n answ_n god_n the_o most_o high_a possessor_n and_o owner_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n place_n his_o court_n family_n and_o particular_a residence_n where_o he_o please_v and_o he_o have_v choose_v the_o church_n to_o be_v this_o to_o he_o this_o be_v my_o rest_n here_o will_v i_o dwell_v for_o ever_o for_o i_o have_v desire_v it_o heaven_n be_v my_o throne_n earth_n be_v my_o footstool_n where_o be_v the_o house_n you_o will_v build_v i_o to_o this_o man_n will_v i_o look_v that_o tremble_v at_o my_o word_n and_o where_o god_n dwell_v there_o he_o manifest_v himself_o as_o a_o master_n of_o a_o family_n make_v know_v in_o his_o house_n and_o family_n his_o nature_n will_n law_n and_o government_n so_o god_n do_v in_o his_o church_n in_o judah_n be_v god_n know_v his_o name_n be_v great_a in_o israel_n in_o his_o church_n he_o show_v the_o light_n of_o his_o countenance_n expect_v and_o reward_n service_n as_o a_o great_a master_n and_o make_v know_v his_o dislike_n and_o displeasure_n this_o be_v bring_v to_o pass_v in_o the_o church_n by_o those_o many_o way_n that_o god_n have_v of_o bring_v his_o word_n to_o any_o place_n or_o person_n give_v it_o reception_n among_o they_o and_o then_o stir_v up_o his_o child_n and_o servant_n to_o hear_v his_o voice_n to_o search_v his_o mind_n and_o will_n and_o to_o understand_v it_o so_o that_o it_o be_v as_o a_o voice_n continual_o behind_o they_o in_o his_o temple_n therefore_o in_o his_o house_n every_o one_o must_v needs_o speak_v of_o his_o glory_n his_o word_n can_v lie_v still_o for_o all_o be_v concern_v to_o meditate_v ponder_v inquire_v and_o discourse_n of_o it_o and_o be_v by_o supreme_a management_n excite_v so_o to_o do_v and_o so_o much_o as_o this_o exercise_n in_o his_o word_n be_v by_o any_o mean_v depress_v so_o far_o god_n be_v withdraw_v and_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o church-state_n lose_v now_o of_o the_o church_n be_v the_o house_n of_o god_n there_o be_v this_o great_a type_n god_n dwell_v in_o the_o temple_n at_o jerusalem_n as_o in_o a_o palace_n there_o be_v such_o a_o diet_n of_o shewbread_n change_v every_o day_n of_o sacrifice_n of_o all_o sort_n such_o perfume_n of_o incense_n and_o odour_n such_o officer_n and_o servant_n attend_v continual_o such_o resort_n of_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o the_o people_n to_o the_o court_n of_o this_o great_a king_n and_o princely_a housholder_n together_o with_o this_o state_n run_v along_o in_o a_o mighty_a stream_n god_n show_v his_o word_n to_o jacob_n his_o statute_n and_o judgement_n to_o israel_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n the_o pomp_n and_o ceremonial_a part_n be_v whole_o transfer_v into_o spirituality_n but_o spirituality_n be_v not_o low_o but_o high_a in_o the_o substance_n of_o all_o that_o can_v be_v figure_v by_o these_o thing_n and_o the_o substantial_a part_n of_o that_o state_n the_o communication_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v much_o exalt_v in_o the_o true_a christian_a church_n that_o the_o light_n of_o one_o day_n be_v now_o as_o much_o as_o the_o light_n of_o seven_o be_v before_o thus_o the_o church_n as_o the_o family_n of_o god_n can_v but_o actuate_v his_o word_n quest_n what_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o church_n be_v the_o pillar_n of_o truth_n do_v the_o church_n support_v truth_n answ_n not_o so_o for_o itself_o be_v build_v upon_o the_o
find_v the_o truth_n by_o itself_o and_o then_o the_o church_n by_o that_o truth_n and_o not_o the_o church_n by_o itself_o and_o then_o the_o truth_n by_o the_o church_n answ_n very_o true_a for_o god_n have_v so_o in_o his_o infinite_a wisdom_n establish_v the_o very_a nature_n of_o thing_n truth_n can_v give_v many_o assurance_n of_o itself_o to_o we_o by_o itself_o so_o suit_v to_o our_o faculty_n the_o church_n can_v give_v we_o none_o but_o by_o its_o agreement_n with_o truth_n reveal_v in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n we_o can_v not_o have_v know_v such_o a_o congregation_n as_o the_o church_n at_o all_o to_o be_v much_o less_o which_o it_o be_v but_o by_o that_o word_n manifest_v itself_o in_o our_o conscience_n and_o so_o distinguish_v to_o we_o the_o true_a church_n among_o the_o many_o association_n in_o the_o world_n each_o call_n to_o we_o as_o have_v the_o best_a religion_n among_o themselves_o even_o the_o true_a apostle_n themselves_o can_v be_v know_v to_o be_v so_o and_o false_a apostle_n try_v and_o find_v liar_n no_o other_o way_n but_o by_o this_o truth_n view_v and_o consider_v single_o and_o distinct_o by_o itself_o quest_n but_o when_o we_o have_v find_v the_o church_n by_o the_o truth_n may_v we_o not_o then_o deliver_v up_o ourselves_o whole_o to_o the_o church_n as_o so_o unite_v to_o truth_n answ_n no_o by_o no_o mean_n we_o can_v never_o so_o deliver_v up_o ourselves_o nor_o will_v the_o true_a church_n desire_v any_o such_o thing_n of_o we_o see_v its_o office_n be_v not_o to_o hold_v out_o itself_o but_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n and_o in_o do_v any_o thing_n else_o it_o act_v not_o as_o a_o church_n but_o as_o any_o other_o ordinary_a society_n and_o on_o no_o other_o term_n can_v we_o have_v to_o do_v with_o it_o for_o the_o very_a attempt_n to_o hold_v out_o as_o a_o church_n any_o law_n of_o its_o own_o aught_o to_o enter_v we_o into_o a_o jealousy_n whether_o it_o be_v the_o true_a church_n which_o be_v as_o a_o church_n the_o pillar_n and_o rest_n of_o divine_a truth_n only_o quest_n what_o reason_n be_v there_o of_o such_o a_o jealousy_n when_o once_o we_o have_v find_v it_o a_o church_n by_o the_o truth_n it_o hold_v out_o answ_n because_o a_o church_n that_o have_v be_v a_o true_a church_n may_v several_a way_n decline_v from_o its_o state_n quest_n how_o then_o can_v it_o he_o say_v the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o it_o answ_n that_o prophetic_a promise_n do_v not_o secure_v this_o or_o that_o particular_a church_n but_o that_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o seed_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o world_n with_o which_o the_o covenant_n of_o god_n be_v eternal_a my_o word_n shall_v not_o depart_v out_o of_o thy_o mouth_n nor_o out_o of_o the_o mouth_n of_o thy_o seed_n or_o thy_o seed_n seed_n for_o ever_o but_o it_o be_v yet_o further_o true_a the_o true_a seed_n the_o holy_a seed_n the_o substance_n of_o the_o church_n can_v never_o utter_o and_o final_o fail_v in_o any_o particular_a member_n of_o it_o for_o if_o it_o can_v it_o be_v too_o great_a a_o violation_n of_o our_o saviour_n truth_n in_o that_o declaration_n the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o his_o church_n or_o force_v that_o immortal_a retrograde_a into_o mortality_n even_o that_o most_o dreadful_a one_o of_o the_o second_o death_n for_o which_o a_o succession_n of_o other_o and_o in_o the_o same_o danger_n be_v but_o a_o faint_a salvo_n though_o it_o go_v on_o so_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n quest_n who_o be_v this_o true_a church_n in_o every_o age_n and_o place_n answ_n they_o which_o be_v by_o true_a save_v faith_n unite_v to_o christ_n the_o son_n of_o god_n the_o rock_n of_o eternity_n and_o be_v so_o found_v upon_o he_o be_v pillar_n that_o never_o remove_v and_o a_o rest_n of_o truth_n for_o ever_o have_v be_v teach_v and_o learn_v it_o as_o it_o be_v in_o jesus_n quest_n who_o be_v the_o professionary_n church_n only_a answ_n they_o that_o though_o they_o may_v as_o artificial_a pillar_n give_v some_o ornament_n to_o the_o house_n of_o god_n and_o offer_v truth_n yet_o not_o be_v indeed_o unite_v to_o the_o foundation_n be_v movable_a and_o may_v go_v out_o of_o the_o house_n they_o be_v such_o as_o have_v not_o receive_v the_o truth_n in_o the_o love_n and_o obedience_n of_o it_o within_o themselves_o and_o so_o may_v fall_v away_o from_o it_o it_o can_v be_v say_v of_o they_o as_o of_o the_o former_a the_o truth_n shall_v be_v with_o they_o for_o ever_o have_v make_v its_o edrâ—â—â—ma_n or_o settlement_n in_o they_o quest_n how_o do_v the_o professionary_n church_n fall_v away_o in_o the_o bulk_n and_o body_n of_o its_o professor_n and_o profession_n answ_n the_o office_n of_o the_o church_n be_v to_o actuate_v truth_n and_o only_a truth_n it_o may_v fail_v either_o in_o abate_v the_o fervour_n due_a to_o truth_n though_o nothing_o false_a or_o forreign_n be_v admit_v or_o in_o receive_v falsehood_n or_o thing_n of_o a_o base_a alloy_n for_o truth_n and_o waste_v those_o fervour_n due_a only_o to_o truth_n upon_o they_o the_o one_o may_v be_v call_v a_o depart_n from_o the_o true_a state_n of_o a_o church_n the_o other_o from_o the_o state_n of_o a_o true_a church_n and_o they_o usual_o meet_v one_o in_o another_o quest_n how_o do_v this_o come_v to_o pass_v answ_n from_o the_o judgement_n of_o god_n upon_o the_o present_a sinful_a state_n permit_v thing_n so_o to_o themselves_o that_o in_o very_a few_o instance_n it_o be_v but_o that_o the_o imperfection_n of_o good_a man_n and_o the_o prevail_a corruption_n of_o professionary_n christian_n change_v the_o holy_a lively_a activity_n of_o the_o true_a state_n of_o a_o church_n into_o lukewarmness_n and_o formality_n or_o by_o admit_v falsehood_n and_o impure_a mixture_n into_o doctrine_n worship_n and_o discipline_n corrupt_v the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n so_o that_o it_o lose_v its_o truth_n quest_n what_o become_v of_o the_o professionary_n church_n when_o it_o lose_v the_o true_a state_n of_o a_o church_n answ_n it_o be_v as_o the_o prophet_n express_v a_o civil_a state_n or_o a_o city_n that_o have_v lose_v its_o splendour_n it_o become_v like_o a_o burn_a mountain_n or_o extinguish_v globe_n of_o light_n it_o retain_v the_o form_n but_o lose_v the_o life_n and_o vigour_n of_o a_o church_n like_o ephesus_n that_o lose_v its_o first_o love_n or_o sardis_n that_o have_v a_o name_n to_o live_v but_o be_v dead_a or_o laodicea_n that_o be_v neither_o cold_a nor_o hot_a quest_n what_o become_v of_o it_o when_o it_o be_v corrupt_v and_o lose_v in_o its_o truth_n answ_n it_o exchange_n the_o lively_a oracle_n for_o form_n of_o doctrine_n and_o lifeless_a discourse_n not_o of_o the_o high_a spirit_n of_o scripture_n it_o debase_v pure_a worship_n into_o ceremonialness_n superstition_n or_o idolatry_n and_o the_o gospel_n rule_n and_o discipline_n it_o sell_v for_o a_o worldly_a polity_n and_o the_o true_a grace_n of_o christianity_n express_v in_o a_o holy_a conversation_n for_o what_o be_v much_o beneath_o or_o contrary_a sometime_o it_o forsake_v truth_n in_o some_o fundamental_a article_n that_o it_o swell_v out_o from_o the_o foundation_n in_o a_o breach_n ready_a to_o fall_v and_o there_o be_v one_o instance_n of_o all_o these_o in_o the_o antichurch_n which_o will_v deserve_v a_o great_a consideration_n quest_n how_o do_v god_n deal_v with_o such_o church_n answ_n sometime_o sweep_v they_o with_o the_o besom_n of_o destruction_n take_v away_o both_o the_o candlestick_n and_o place_n of_o it_o together_o alienes_n both_o to_o they_o and_o their_o religion_n thrust_v they_o out_o of_o their_o whole_a possession_n sometime_o he_o suffer_v they_o to_o continue_v even_o for_o age_n yet_o so_o that_o their_o candlestick_n be_v move_v out_o of_o its_o due_a stately_a positure_n hardly_o appear_v like_o a_o candlestick_n and_o that_o by_o the_o indignation_n of_o god_n quest_n in_o these_o case_n how_o do_v it_o fare_v with_o the_o true_a holy_a seed_n the_o substantial_a church_n answ_n god_n chasten_v they_o to_o repentance_n self-purification_n and_o great_a zeal_n in_o that_o case_n of_o the_o church_n lose_v its_o brightness_n and_o vigour_n that_o they_o may_v recover_v their_o first_o state_n and_o work_n and_o set_v they_o on_o work_n to_o retrieve_v truth_n lose_v in_o that_o other_o case_n of_o the_o church_n defection_n quest_n how_o be_v it_o with_o they_o when_o the_o very_a place_n and_o candlestick_n be_v take_v away_o answ_n they_o be_v either_o first_o remove_v into_o the_o high_a state_n of_o the_o church_n in_o heaven_n or_o drive_v before_o into_o other_o part_n of_o the_o world_n by_o persecution_n or_o the_o violence_n of_o the_o judgement_n make_v no_o distinction_n but_o carry_v
long_o mistake_v i_o perceive_v that_o god_n be_v no_o respecter_n of_o person_n but_o 34._o act_n 10._o 34._o in_o every_o nation_n he_o that_o fear_v god_n and_o work_v righteousness_n the_o two_o comprehensive_a part_n of_o this_o religion_n be_v accept_v of_o he_o why_o then_o shall_v mankind_n imbrue_v their_o hand_n and_o that_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o religion_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o those_o that_o be_v of_o the_o same_o religion_n they_o themselves_o be_v or_o aught_o to_o be_v and_o hold_v to_o contradiction_n to_o it_o what_o excellent_a person_n be_v job_n his_o three_o friend_n and_o elihu_n though_o out_o of_o the_o family_n of_o abraham_n i_o mean_v out_o of_o that_o part_n of_o it_o where_o god_n have_v more_o eminent_o fix_v his_o church_n and_o out_o of_o that_o line_n wherein_o all_o the_o family_n of_o the_o earth_n be_v to_o be_v bless_v how_o excellent_a the_o book_n of_o their_o religion_n and_o ratiocination_n upon_o it_o though_o the_o friend_n be_v mistake_v in_o urge_v too_o far_o as_o if_o present_a affliction_n be_v a_o detection_n from_o heaven_n of_o insincerity_n and_o apply_v it_o to_o job_n that_o most_o desirable_a book_n of_o holy_a scripture_n be_v undoubted_o by_o the_o special_a wisdom_n of_o god_n prepare_v as_o a_o treatise_n of_o natural_a theology_n raise_v to_o its_o own_o height_n through_o the_o assistance_n and_o inspiration_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o wherein_o most_o probable_o the_o sense_n of_o all_o the_o pious_a patriarch_n keep_v fresh_a and_o pure_a from_o corruption_n be_v maintain_v and_o improve_v upon_o the_o proper_a reason_n of_o natural_a religion_n for_o we_o meet_v with_o no_o intermixture_n of_o positive_a precept_n or_o rite_n except_o the_o historical_a relation_n of_o sacrifice_n in_o the_o beginning_n and_o end_n of_o the_o book_n a_o institution_n of_o god_n by_o which_o man_n be_v teach_v in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o world_n as_o soon_o as_o sin_n have_v enter_v it_o to_o look_v for_o atonement_n witâ—_n god_n through_o that_o great_a sacrifice_n of_o christ_n to_o be_v offer_v in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n to_o who_o it_o be_v most_o probable_a job_n make_v somâ—_n very_o significant_a reference_n though_o according_a to_o the_o covertness_n of_o so_o great_a a_o mystery_n at_o that_o time_n but_o what_o point_n of_o natural_a religion_n even_o sense_n of_o natural_a corruption_n and_o the_o â—vil_n of_o sin_n of_o faith_n in_o divine_a mercy_n and_o repentance_n of_o godliness_n righteousness_n soberness_n fidelity_n chastity_n tempâ—rance_n charity_n and_o mercy_n to_o the_o poor_a be_v leave_v untouched_a what_o point_n relate_v to_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n against_o atheism_n idolatry_n a_o iniquity_n own_a to_o deserve_v punishment_n from_o a_o judge_n be_v not_o hâ—re_o state_v 28._o job_n 31._o 28._o prayer_n praise_n holy_a meditation_n discourse_n and_o attendance_n on_o the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o the_o knowledge_n of_o his_o way_n have_v here_o their_o frequent_a mention_n what_o severe_a reproof_n censure_n and_o condemnation_n of_o all_o wickedness_n do_v we_o meet_v with_o and_o which_o be_v most_o remarkable_a through_o the_o whole_a all_o be_v substantial_a nothing_o ceremonial_a how_o lovely_a be_v such_o a_o religion_n our_o saviour_n observe_v but_o some_o of_o the_o line_n of_o it_o in_o the_o young_a man_n in_o the_o gospel_n it_o be_v say_v he_o look_v upon_o he_o and_o love_v he_o 21._o mat._n 10._o 21._o and_o the_o scribe_n that_o have_v so_o much_o of_o the_o notion_n of_o it_o he_o commend_v as_o not_o far_o from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n viz._n from_o true_a christianity_n here_o and_o eternal_a salvation_n hereafter_o in_o this_o book_n of_o job_n we_o have_v also_o the_o true_a natural_a way_n of_o propagate_a religion_n and_o reconcile_a difference_n in_o it_o viz._n by_o discourse_n and_o argument_n only_o heinous_a offence_n and_o plain_a violation_n of_o duty_n in_o natural_a religion_n be_v cite_v to_o the_o magistrate_n tribunal_n i_o have_v insist_v so_o long_o upon_o this_o because_o we_o have_v not_o such_o another_o hypothesis_n in_o scripture_n such_o a_o body_n of_o natural_a religion_n such_o a_o form_n of_o sound_a word_n concern_v it_o give_v out_o by_o such_o master_n of_o assembly_n and_o yet_o not_o of_o that_o we_o may_v call_v the_o visible_a church_n at_o that_o time_n else_o indeed_o the_o whole_a scripture_n be_v full_a of_o natural_a religion_n from_o one_o end_n of_o it_o to_o the_o other_o and_o that_o which_o be_v least_o in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n concern_v it_o be_v great_a than_o all_o beside_o but_o no_o doubt_n there_o may_v be_v many_o other_o at_o that_o time_n and_o all_o along_o who_o be_v not_o of_o the_o jewish_a proselytism_n and_o yet_o great_a instance_n of_o this_o same_o natural_a piety_n for_o if_o elijah_n 18._o 1_o king_n 19_o 18._o who_o have_v a_o less_o compass_n to_o observe_v in_o and_o more_o probable_a opportunity_n of_o inquiry_n and_o even_o inspection_n yet_o be_v ignorant_a of_o seven_o thousand_o in_o israel_n that_o have_v not_o bow_v their_o knee_n to_o baal_n but_o think_v himself_o leave_v alone_o how_o much_o more_o may_v lie_v hide_v from_o our_o almost_o suspicion_n true_a worshipper_n of_o god_n according_a to_o natural_a religion_n all_o along_o elder_a time_n inspire_v and_o conduct_v to_o it_o by_o divine_a illumination_n nay_o who_o dare_v be_v so_o bold_a to_o define_v there_o be_v no_o such_o now_o for_o though_o it_o be_v most_o true_a there_o be_v no_o other_o name_n under_o the_o whole_a heaven_n give_v to_o man_n whereby_o they_o can_v be_v save_v but_o 12._o act_n 4._o 12._o the_o name_n of_o christ_n yet_o we_o be_v not_o sure_a that_o name_n must_v be_v express_o know_v but_o that_o the_o god_n of_o pardoning-mercy_n give_v and_o accept_v repentance_n unto_o life_n may_v by_o divine_a equity_n and_o favour_n be_v interpret_v god_n in_o christ_n in_o the_o behalf_n of_o man_n so_o address_v god_n as_o he_o be_v true_o so_o in_o himself_o yet_o ah_o lass_n we_o can_v stretch_v our_o charitable_a hope_n so_o as_o to_o think_v this_o the_o case_n of_o the_o generality_n of_o the_o nation_n that_o know_v not_o christ_n who_o lie_v in_o the_o valley_n of_o the_o shadow_n of_o death_n not_o only_o as_o ignorant_a of_o christ_n but_o as_o without_o god_n the_o true_a god_n in_o the_o world_n horrible_a corrupter_n of_o what_o they_o natural_o know_v that_o be_v of_o natural_a religion_n but_o as_o there_o be_v many_o leper_n and_o widow_n in_o the_o day_n of_o those_o two_o prophet_n 25._o luk._n 4._o 25._o but_o to_o one_o of_o each_o be_v they_o send_v so_o we_o may_v hope_v there_o be_v some_o instance_n of_o this_o divine_a bounty_n and_o grace_n if_o we_o can_v hope_v so_o but_o of_o few_o but_o these_o secret_a thing_n belong_v to_o the_o lord_n our_o god_n and_o it_o be_v safe_a not_o to_o presume_v too_o far_o on_o either_o 29._o deut._n 29._o 29._o side_n yet_o by_o the_o same_o charity_n we_o allow_v papist_n that_o the_o prevalency_n of_o true_o christian_a principle_n may_v antidote_n the_o poison_n of_o popery_n so_o the_o pregnancy_n of_o some_o natural_a principle_n rise_v up_o above_o all_o the_o refuse_v in_o such_o soul_n but_o oh_o lord_n thou_o only_o know_v yet_o some_o thing_n i_o dare_v be_v bold_a to_o affirm_v 1._o that_o if_o any_o man_n live_v upright_o as_o job_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o natural_a religion_n at_o its_o full_a extent_n and_o have_v the_o knowledge_n of_o christ_n offer_v he_o he_o will_v receive_v it_o upon_o the_o advantageous_a recommendation_n of_o it_o in_o god_n own_o time_n and_o way_n 2._o that_o if_o any_o man_n so_o obey_v the_o precept_n of_o natural_a religion_n and_o have_v not_o the_o revelation_n of_o christ_n the_o want_n of_o that_o revelation_n shall_v not_o be_v charge_v upon_o he_o so_o much_o as_o in_o the_o consequence_n of_o it_o 3._o that_o whoever_o understand_v natural_a religion_n must_v needs_o understand_v that_o sin_n be_v in_o the_o world_n that_o man_n be_v bear_v like_o the_o wild_a ass_n colt_n and_o drink_v iniquity_n like_o water_n and_o 14._o job_n 〈◊〉_d 16._o 13_o 14._o yet_o that_o god_n be_v patient_a speak_v once_o and_o twice_o in_o order_n to_o man_n conversion_n and_o repentance_n that_o therefore_o there_o be_v place_n for_o it_o in_o pardoning-mercy_n of_o which_o in_o god_n even_o humane_a nature_n itself_o have_v a_o sense_n natural_a religion_n can_v be_v ignorant_a of_o this_o for_o without_o it_o all_o service_n of_o god_n or_o application_n to_o he_o will_v be_v in_o vain_a and_o but_o like_o the_o service_n of_o devil_n yet_o i_o can_v but_o here_o take_v notice_n there_o be_v not_o such_o a_o learned_a world_n in_o moral_n as_o be_v heretofore_o among_o the_o grecian_n
have_v such_o tie_n with_o such_o supply_n of_o nourishment_n from_o a_o body_n vigour_n from_o such_o a_o soul_n inhabit_v that_o body_n it_o must_v be_v a_o member_n of_o that_o body_n even_o so_o there_o be_v a_o law_n of_o this_o mystical_a body_n and_o a_o man_n so_o unite_v so_o spirit_v be_v by_o the_o law_n the_o head_n have_v make_v for_o his_o own_o body_n who_o only_o have_v the_o power_n to_o do_v it_o he_o be_v i_o say_v a_o member_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n now_o as_o the_o apostle_n say_v intend_v this_o mystical_a body_n especial_o if_o the_o foot_n shall_v say_v because_o i_o be_o not_o the_o head_n i_o 15._o 1_o cor._n 12._o 15._o be_o not_o of_o the_o body_n be_v it_o therefore_o not_o of_o the_o body_n and_o if_o the_o ear_n shall_v say_v because_o i_o be_o not_o the_o eye_n i_o be_o not_o of_o the_o body_n be_v it_o therefore_o not_o of_o the_o body_n and_o god_n have_v temper_v the_o 25._o ver._n 24_o 25._o body_n as_o it_o have_v please_v he_o give_v more_o abundant_a honour_n to_o that_o part_n which_o lack_v that_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o schism_n in_o the_o body_n but_o that_o the_o member_n shall_v have_v the_o same_o care_n one_o for_o another_o the_o apostle_n i_o confess_v be_v speak_v of_o the_o order_n of_o high_a and_o low_a honourable_a and_o less_o honourable_a member_n of_o the_o church_n under_o the_o resemblance_n of_o the_o natural_a graduation_n in_o the_o member_n of_o the_o body_n but_o the_o reason_n be_v take_v from_o the_o law_n of_o each_o body_n argue_v it_o be_v no_o case_n at_o the_o arbitrement_n of_o any_o who_o shall_v be_v of_o this_o body_n but_o as_o that_o law_n of_o christ_n have_v define_v and_o so_o far_o as_o that_o law_n have_v extend_v that_o body_n so_o far_o the_o love_n and_o care_n of_o it_o and_o for_o it_o must_v go_v else_o there_o will_v be_v schism_n see_v there_o be_v not_o else_o that_o proper_a care_n of_o the_o member_n who_o must_v accord_o to_o the_o law_n of_o the_o body_n be_v member_n whether_o one_o or_o other_o please_v to_o have_v it_o so_o thus_o than_o i_o suppose_v there_o be_v a_o society_n or_o society_n of_o christian_n in_o this_o or_o any_o part_n of_o the_o world_n they_o hold_v christ_n the_o head_n they_o hold_v those_o great_a point_n of_o union_n i_o have_v be_v 19_o col._n 2._o 19_o speak_v of_o they_o be_v not_o chargeable_a with_o opinion_n or_o practice_n plain_o contrary_a or_o undermine_v those_o acknowledgement_n therein_o though_o they_o may_v be_v guilry_n of_o error_n in_o doctrine_n worship_n or_o practice_n yet_o not_o so_o fundamental_a as_o to_o tear_v they_o off_o from_o the_o body_n or_o make_v they_o another_o body_n or_o they_o be_v misunderstand_v to_o hold_v such_o error_n though_o indeed_o they_o do_v not_o or_o they_o be_v not_o error_n or_o they_o refuse_v to_o join_v in_o such_o opinion_n or_o practice_n as_o they_o conceive_v not_o allowable_a by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n though_o not_o destructive_a error_n nor_o can_v they_o that_o require_v their_o compliance_n pretend_v on_o their_o part_n that_o the_o thing_n be_v absolute_o necessary_a to_o make_v a_o member_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n in_o this_o case_n i_o say_v he_o be_v the_o only_a schismatic_a that_o have_v not_o a_o love_n that_o have_v not_o a_o sympathy_n with_o the_o body_n and_o therefore_o if_o neither_o party_n have_v they_o must_v be_v both_o schismatic_n there_o may_v be_v modest_a peaceable_a dissent_n and_o different_a practice_n upon_o they_o there_o be_v such_o notorious_a enough_o among_o the_o first_o christian_n as_o the_o apostle_n plain_o discourse_n rom._n 14._o for_o he_o say_v they_o that_o eat_v eat_v to_o the_o lord_n and_o give_v god_n thanks_o they_o that_o eat_v not_o yet_o still_o to_o the_o lord_n they_o eat_v 6._o ver._n 6._o not_o and_o give_v god_n thanks_o one_o for_o his_o religious_a eat_n the_o other_o for_o his_o christian_a liberty_n here_o be_v act_n of_o worship_n in_o which_o there_o can_v be_v no_o uniformity_n they_o can_v not_o join_v one_o with_o another_o so_o he_o that_o regard_v the_o day_n to_o the_o lord_n he_o regard_v it_o he_o that_o regard_v not_o the_o day_n to_o the_o lord_n he_o regard_v it_o not_o here_o again_o be_v act_n of_o reverence_n of_o god_n but_o there_o be_v no_o uniformity_n yet_o still_o the_o apostle_n rom._n 15._o 5._o suppose_v and_o exhort_v that_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o these_o difference_n in_o which_o he_o have_v positive_o make_v a_o allowance_n to_o each_o part_n they_o will_v yet_o be_v likeminded_a one_o to_o another_o according_a to_o christ_n jesus_n after_o his_o exemplar_n or_o have_v their_o eye_n upon_o the_o same_o image_n of_o christ_n instamp_v on_o both_o yea_o and_o notwithstanding_o these_o discord_n he_o suppose_v they_o may_v with_o one_o mind_n and_o one_o mouth_n glorify_v god_n and_o the_o father_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n both_o in_o those_o common_a 6._o ver._n 6._o thing_n wherein_o both_o agree_v and_o be_v perfect_o one_o and_o also_o in_o those_o thing_n wherein_o they_o have_v one_o common_a intention_n and_o design_n centre_v in_o the_o one_o point_n of_o do_v all_o to_o the_o lord_n whether_o they_o eat_v or_o eat_v not_o whether_o thâ—y_o regard_v a_o day_n or_o regard_v it_o not_o and_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n further_o exhort_v they_o to_o receive_v one_o another_o as_o christ_n have_v receive_v 7._o v._o 7._o we_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n notwithstanding_o our_o many_o fault_n so_o christian_n notwithstanding_o the_o fault_n they_o true_o or_o mistake_o esteem_v so_o in_o one_o another_o yet_o still_o they_o shall_v own_o one_o another_o as_o christian_n they_o shall_v mutual_o partake_v the_o benefit_n of_o one_o another_o christianity_n and_o the_o public_a administration_n of_o it_o as_o to_o the_o thing_n wherein_o they_o be_v as_o one_o and_o even_o in_o the_o thing_n they_o dissent_v in_o this_o conspire_v in_o the_o direction_n of_o all_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n all_o this_o plain_o show_v that_o unity_n consist_v not_o in_o uniformity_n unity_n of_o worship_n not_o in_o uniformity_n of_o worship_n nor_o do_v schism_n necessary_o follow_v upon_o such_o different_a apprehension_n or_o practice_n and_o thus_o so_o far_o as_o we_o can_v perceive_v the_o apostle_n ordain_v in_o all_o church_n there_o shall_v still_o be_v communion_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o difference_n and_o indeed_o he_o that_o be_v a_o christian_n deprive_v himself_o of_o the_o abundance_n of_o the_o fullness_n of_o the_o blessing_n of_o the_o gospel_n run_v every_o way_n among_o christian_n or_o of_o the_o mutual_a impartment_n they_o make_v of_o spiritual_a gift_n and_o grace_n one_o to_o another_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o small_a difference_n only_o be_v unthrifty_a of_o the_o advantage_n offer_v to_o he_o by_o god_n and_o straiten_n to_o himself_o the_o divine_a spirit_n in_o its_o free_a emanation_n every_o way_n and_o throughout_o all_o the_o member_n of_o christ_n without_o attend_v our_o sinful_a difference_n which_o be_v no_o rule_n at_o all_o of_o its_o effusion_n or_o restraint_n when_o it_o flow_v among_o all_o that_o be_v true_a christian_n it_o do_v not_o consider_v in_o its_o gift_n that_o one_o party_n be_v by_o itself_o another_o by_o itself_o but_o give_v to_o all_o that_o be_v true_o of_o christ_n body_n yet_o the_o sinful_a severity_n of_o one_o party_n and_o too_o often_o of_o both_o may_v displease_v grieve_v and_o in_o great_a degree_n quench_v the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o its_o donation_n as_o 19_o 1_o thes_n 5._o 19_o to_o one_o or_o both_o guilty_a party_n and_o indeed_o this_o be_v another_o of_o those_o thing_n that_o do_v more_o true_o import_v schism_n than_o external_a difference_n do_v when_o those_o that_o be_v true_o member_n of_o the_o same_o body_n do_v deny_v to_o yield_v to_o convey_v or_o to_o receive_v and_o give_v circulation_n to_o the_o communication_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n through_o the_o whole_a body_n for_o thus_o man_n may_v become_v putrid_a gangrene_v or_o mortify_v member_n and_o so_o deserve_v to_o be_v cut_v off_o not_o for_o their_o different_a sentiment_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v tolerate_v but_o for_o that_o they_o will_v not_o communicate_v or_o will_v not_o be_v communicate_v with_o they_o will_v not_o give_v or_o receive_v the_o gift_n christ_n have_v give_v 8._o ephes_n 4._o 8._o to_o man_n as_o they_o flow_v among_o all_o because_o of_o some_o thing_n wherein_o they_o differ_v it_o be_v even_o a_o schism_n from_o mankind_n a_o division_n from_o that_o not_o to_o receive_v those_o common_a benefit_n of_o reason_n from_o any_o that_o have_v have_v they_o and_o be_v willing_a to_o communicate_v they_o the_o scripture_n itself_o communicate_v
christianity_n have_v find_v it_o most_o to_o their_o advantage_n of_o edification_n to_o unite_v with_o such_o a_o congregation_n of_o christian_n all_o these_o or_o any_o of_o these_o may_v create_v a_o obligation_n to_o such_o conjunction_n but_o because_o the_o hot_a dispute_n in_o relation_n to_o christian_a practice_n so_o as_o to_o conserve_v peace_n and_o order_n have_v rise_v in_o this_o very_a juncture_n of_o particular_a society_n of_o christian_n i_o will_v endeavour_v to_o settle_v upon_o a_o indisputable_a state_n of_o thing_n and_o leave_v out_o what_o be_v more_o intricate_a and_o controversal_a that_o we_o may_v see_v how_o far_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n extend_v here_o to_o love_n and_o peace_n in_o these_o follow_a assertion_n 1._o that_o our_o lord_n have_v give_v rule_n for_o such_o holy_a grave_a and_o honourable_a society_n under_o the_o name_n of_o church_n as_o must_v needs_o invite_v all_o of_o the_o same_o excellent_a christian_a temper_n into_o their_o communion_n according_a to_o the_o opportunity_n they_o have_v to_o join_v with_o they_o their_o doctrine_n worship_n and_o practice_n so_o pure_a and_o heavenly_a so_o evident_o for_o the_o good_a of_o man_n soul_n so_o compose_v to_o all_o true_a decency_n prudence_n and_o a_o discipline_n so_o humble_a natural_a strict_a only_o to_o the_o true_a benefit_n of_o those_o that_o be_v under_o it_o that_o it_o can_v look_v like_o a_o secular_a dominion_n but_o for_o the_o service_n of_o faith_n the_o help_n of_o joy_n the_o safety_n of_o soul_n and_o their_o eternal_a interest_n this_o i_o be_o sure_a every_o one_o will_v yield_v be_v the_o frame_n and_o constitution_n of_o a_o christian_a church_n let_v it_o be_v find_v wherever_o it_o can_v be_v find_v let_v every_o church_n see_v to_o itself_o whether_o it_o be_v so_o temper_a and_o constitute_v or_o not_o how_o then_o do_v it_o seem_v possible_a that_o when_o there_o be_v such_o society_n christian_n shall_v not_o fly_v to_o they_o as_o the_o dove_n to_o the_o window_n see_v christianity_n improve_v the_o sociableness_n of_o humanity_n into_o the_o true_a publickness_n of_o spirit_n and_o desire_v to_o enjoy_v good_a with_o more_o than_o in_o solitude_n 2._o it_o be_v the_o express_a command_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o design_n in_o all_o his_o institution_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v such_o assembly_n of_o his_o people_n and_o servant_n for_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o father_n for_o his_o own_o glory_n for_o the_o salvation_n of_o his_o people_n for_o divine_a worship_n for_o the_o discharge_n of_o the_o several_a duty_n of_o christian_n for_o the_o communication_n of_o their_o gift_n and_o grace_n so_o that_o the_o forsake_v of_o the_o assembly_n of_o ourselves_o together_o as_o 25._o heb._n 10._o 25._o the_o manner_n of_o some_o be_v be_v very_o little_a distant_a from_o apostasy_n itself_o how_o can_v there_o then_o be_v but_o church_n where_o there_o be_v christian_n see_v so_o much_o of_o the_o concern_v of_o christianity_n lie_v therein_o and_o who_o indeed_o possess_v with_o those_o concern_v do_v not_o rejoice_v in_o they_o and_o bless_v god_n for_o his_o unspeakable_a gift_n in_o the_o constitution_n of_o they_o 3._o yet_o be_v there_o no_o law_n of_o christ_n that_o main_a force_n shall_v be_v use_v upon_o man_n to_o bring_v they_o into_o any_o assembly_n of_o christian_n at_o all_o much_o less_o into_o one_o rather_o than_o another_o especial_o when_o the_o main_a reason_n or_o motive_n of_o unite_n with_o assembly_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n present_v themselves_o to_o man_n apprehension_n and_o conscience_n more_o in_o some_o than_o other_o indeed_o man_n overzealous_a affectation_n of_o some_o and_o unworthy_a neglect_n of_o other_o as_o one_o for_o paul_n another_o for_o apollo_n another_o for_o cephas_n another_o for_o 12._o 1_o cor._n 1._o 12._o christ_n as_o if_o these_o minister_n by_o who_o they_o believe_v be_v to_o set_v up_o for_o themselves_o as_o head_n of_o christianinty_a and_o to_o rival_n christ_n himself_o as_o if_o but_o upon_o the_o same_o level_n with_o they_o be_v very_o just_o and_o severe_o chastise_v by_o the_o apostle_n but_o a_o true_a value_n for_o all_o the_o steward_n of_o divine_a mystery_n and_o 1._o 1_o cor._n 4._o 1._o church_n and_o a_o particular_a value_n for_o those_o pastor_n and_o congregation_n wherein_o god_n have_v vouchsafe_v especial_a blessing_n for_o man_n soul_n or_o give_v opportunity_n to_o receive_v such_o be_v very_o agreeable_a to_o the_o gospel_n as_o the_o apostle_n though_o he_o refuse_v undue_a measure_n of_o honour_n yet_o assume_v that_o of_o be_v 2._o 1_o cor._n 4._o 15._o 1_o cor._n 9_o 2._o a_o father_n as_o above_o thousand_o of_o instructor_n christianity_n and_o the_o ministry_n of_o it_o be_v so_o holy_a and_o humble_a a_o state_n that_o no_o one_o act_v according_o to_o it_o either_o arrogate_v or_o envy_n so_o he_o that_o have_v much_o of_o the_o honour_n of_o it_o have_v nothing_o over_o or_o above_o the_o measure_n of_o a_o steward_n and_o he_o that_o have_v least_o shall_v have_v nothing_o under_o that_o measure_n if_o he_o be_v find_v faithful_a so_o the_o congregation_n have_v the_o equal_a glory_n of_o be_v of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n and_o church_n to_o be_v little_a representation_n of_o and_o embody_v with_o his_o own_a catholic_n church_n in_o the_o grand_a union_n of_o all_o christian_n with_o the_o head_n here_o then_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o christian_a peace_n and_o union_n in_o church_n 4._o it_o be_v a_o principle_n in_o nature_n and_o much_o confirm_v and_o exalt_v by_o christianity_n that_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n and_o the_o salvation_n of_o man_n soul_n shall_v be_v make_v as_o public_a and_o universal_a as_o may_v be_v go_v preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o every_o creature_n and_o baptise_v all_o nation_n be_v the_o very_a commission_n christ_n give_v to_o his_o apostle_n and_o first_o ambassador_n and_o be_v continue_v to_o all_o his_o minister_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n not_o of_o 19_o mat._n 26._o 19_o the_o world_n of_o that_o age_n only_o but_o to_o that_o end_n of_o the_o world_n which_o be_v till_o his_o second_o come_v until_o which_o he_o have_v promise_v his_o presence_n the_o great_a congregation_n be_v the_o most_o natural_a receptacle_n of_o divine_a truth_n the_o state_n of_o religion_n under_o the_o gospel_n be_v rare_o speak_v of_o especial_o when_o declare_v etc._n psal_n 100_o 1._o 117._o 16._o 1_o etc._n etc._n in_o its_o magnificence_n with_o a_o less_o public_a character_n than_o all_o people_n all_o nation_n all_o land_n the_o round_a world_n in_o its_o whole_a circle_n from_o the_o rise_n of_o the_o sun_n to_o the_o go_v down_o of_o the_o same_o all_z the_o earth_n true_a religion_n aspire_v to_o it_o even_o under_o the_o narrow_a dispensation_n of_o the_o law_n and_o in_o this_o very_a sense_n it_o be_v most_o true_a that_o the_o apostle_n say_v in_o his_o time_n the_o whole_a creation_n groan_v and_o travel_v in_o pain_n until_o etc._n rom._n 8._o 19_o etc._n etc._n now_o and_o the_o earnest_a expectation_n of_o it_o wait_v for_o the_o adoption_n the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n to_o be_v gather_v together_o under_o the_o whole_a heaven_n nor_o will_v some_o of_o every_o nation_n satisfy_v the_o full_a intention_n of_o this_o magnificence_n but_o that_o nation_n as_o nation_n embody_v and_o kingdom_n as_o kingdom_n shall_v become_v the_o lord_n and_o his_o christ_n be_v the_o plenary_a sense_n of_o the_o divine_a spirit_n when_o even_o as_o of_o israel_n a_o indisputable_o national_a church_n god_n shall_v say_v of_o heathen_a nation_n as_o of_o egypt_n and_o assyria_n know_v to_o israel_n so_o well_o and_o know_v so_o well_o as_o rank_o heathen_a and_o therefore_o choose_v as_o representative_n of_o the_o whole_a heathen_a world_n yet_o of_o these_o god_n shall_v say_v bless_a be_v egypt_n my_o people_n and_o assyria_n the_o work_n of_o my_o hand_n and_o israel_n ult_n isa_n 19_o ult_n my_o inheritance_n for_o in_o that_o day_n israel_n shall_v be_v but_o a_o three_o with_o egypt_n and_o assyria_n and_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o highway_n through_o they_o all_o and_o they_o shall_v serve_v together_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o free_a passage_n of_o truth_n through_o all_o a_o high_a way_n of_o the_o gospel_n throughout_o and_o a_o union_n of_o worship_n so_o then_o if_o we_o find_v so_o much_o for_o a_o national_a religion_n in_o the_o prophecy_n of_o the_o time_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n which_o grasp_v more_o than_o those_o passage_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n which_o relate_v to_o the_o then_o matter_n of_o fact_n only_o if_o our_o saviour_n commission_n for_o make_v disciple_n and_o preach_v the_o gospel_n extend_v to_o all_o nation_n if_o the_o prophetic_a book_n of_o the_o new_a
testament_n the_o apocalypse_n foretell_v the_o kingdom_n of_o the_o world_n in_o the_o very_a state_n of_o kingdom_n become_v the_o lord_n and_o his_o christ_n all_o these_o thing_n argue_v a_o great_a encouragement_n of_o nation_n receive_v and_o make_v a_o public_a profession_n of_o the_o gospel_n as_o nation_n even_o as_o family_n may_v and_o aught_o as_o family_n and_o though_o it_o be_v undoubted_o the_o great_a honour_n and_o glory_n of_o nation_n to_o come_v as_o near_o and_o as_o exact_a and_o close_a as_o may_v be_v to_o the_o law_n and_o order_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o government_n as_o in_o the_o constitution_n of_o their_o national_a christianity_n yet_o because_o there_o will_v and_o general_o fall_v out_o to_o be_v a_o mixture_n of_o national_a custom_n in_o such_o public_a administration_n a_o comprimise_n of_o they_o to_o the_o law_n and_o government_n of_o nation_n hence_o it_o also_o come_v to_o pass_v there_o may_v be_v a_o dissatisfaction_n in_o many_o of_o the_o subject_n of_o such_o nation_n to_o comply_v with_o their_o national_a constitution_n of_o religion_n hence_o there_o be_v apt_a to_o arise_v discomposure_n and_o disquiet_n if_o prince_n or_o power_n exceed_v that_o exercise_n of_o power_n allot_v to_o they_o by_o god_n as_o we_o have_v before_o discourse_v and_o also_o by_o the_o very_a essential_a constitution_n of_o christianity_n see_v christ_n have_v make_v none_o lord_n of_o his_o people_n faith_n or_o divine_a worship_n and_o prince_n be_v no_o more_o than_o nursing-fathers_n the_o quiet_a therefore_o and_o peace_n of_o nation_n be_v most_o advance_v by_o set_v up_o nothing_o in_o christianity_n but_o what_o be_v absolute_o necessary_a according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n and_o yield_v the_o tender_a and_o open_v the_o most_o bountiful_a hand_n to_o the_o professor_n and_o minister_n of_o essential_a christianity_n cover_v all_o the_o faulty_a division_n of_o christian_n with_o their_o royal_a and_o compassionate_a purple_a this_o be_v most_o princely_a generous_a and_o great_a this_o be_v most_o exalt_v of_o christianity_n itself_o but_o if_o this_o can_v be_v obtain_v the_o next_o best_n and_o that_o which_o be_v indeed_o as_o i_o have_v already_o make_v out_o but_o just_o be_v that_o no_o native_a right_n and_o liberty_n be_v defaulk_v nor_o punitive_a oppression_n inflict_v but_o that_o the_o honorary_a reward_n of_o nation_n and_o prince_n be_v adjudge_v to_o man_n who_o be_v of_o the_o public_a sentiment_n in_o their_o administration_n in_o christian_a religion_n and_o this_o indeed_o can_v be_v except_v to_o it_o be_v the_o right_n of_o national_a power_n to_o dispose_v of_o their_o own_o according_a to_o their_o own_o reason_n and_o judgement_n yet_o be_v there_o still_o a_o obligation_n upon_o christian_a subject_n beyond_o these_o consideration_n to_o examine_v all_o thing_n with_o the_o great_a prejudice_n for_o and_o on_o the_o side_n of_o the_o national_a sense_n especial_o when_o they_o find_v the_o substantial_o of_o religion_n secure_a and_o in_o safety_n and_o beside_o their_o private_a adjustment_n of_o christian_a performance_n in_o particular_a society_n according_a to_o the_o exacter_n rule_v of_o christianity_n as_o they_o be_v judge_n for_o themselves_o to_o encourage_v also_o promote_v and_o as_o far_o as_o possible_o they_o can_v communicate_v with_o national_a religion_n put_v the_o fair_a and_o kind_a interpretation_n and_o hope_v upon_o all_o thing_n tolerate_v all_o that_o can_v without_o disobedience_n to_o god_n be_v tolerate_v observe_v rite_n and_o custom_n of_o nation_n as_o far_o as_o they_o can_v with_o security_n from_o vain_a worship_v of_o god_n by_o the_o commandment_n of_o man_n both_o because_o of_o the_o honour_n christianity_n give_v to_o magistracy_n according_a to_o natural_a sanction_n and_o also_o and_o more_o especial_o because_o of_o the_o esteem_n christianity_n have_v of_o a_o public_a and_o national_a religion_n let_v i_o then_o resume_v upon_o the_o whole_a matter_n and_o it_o plain_o appear_v christianity_n notwithstanding_o the_o freedom_n it_o allow_v to_o every_o man_n conscientious_a sentiment_n be_v no_o enemy_n but_o a_o friend_n 1._o to_o society_n 2._o to_o the_o order_n and_o peace_n that_o bound_v society_n yea_o and_o strict_o command_v they_o and_o have_v give_v positive_a institution_n for_o they_o 1._o for_o first_o it_o unite_v all_o its_o true_a disciple_n in_o that_o common_a ample_a universal_a centre_n of_o love_n peace_n and_o order_n god_n and_o christ_n to_o who_o the_o first_o dedication_n of_o a_o christian_a be_v make_v and_o in_o who_o it_o always_o rest_v 2._o it_o unite_v they_o with_o that_o most_o public_a wise_a rational_a and_o most_o holy_a assembly_n under_o heaven_n the_o catholic_n church_n even_o all_o that_o be_v that_o one_o body_n act_v by_o that_o one_o spirit_n unite_v in_o one_o hope_n one_o faith_n one_o baptism_n in_o all_o which_o every_o christian_a be_v one_o with_o the_o whole_a desire_n and_o rejoice_v in_o the_o increase_n of_o that_o one_o body_n the_o advancement_n of_o that_o one_o faith_n communicate_v in_o the_o prayer_n and_o praise_n of_o that_o one_o body_n sorrow_n in_o its_o affliction_n minister_n to_o its_o necessity_n and_o if_o opportunity_n be_v offer_v communicate_v in_o spiritual_a gift_n and_o service_n with_o any_o member_n of_o it_o and_o value_v not_o their_o particular_a rite_n as_o any_o obstruction_n while_o they_o agree_v in_o essential_o and_o indeed_o every_o christian_n shall_v be_v suffer_v to_o drop_v that_o mantle_n of_o ceremony_n as_o he_o please_v when_o he_o ascend_v in_o holy_a offering_n of_o himselfâ—o_o â—o_z god_n 3._o 〈◊〉_d to_o particular_a society_n or_o church_n of_o christian_n in_o whiâ—â—_n the_o essential_o of_o doctrine_n and_o worship_n be_v preserve_v uncorrupted_a and_o so_o they_o must_v be_v or_o else_o such_o society_n deserve_v not_o the_o name_n of_o church_n and_o when_o they_o be_v in_o such_o a_o neighbourhood_n to_o the_o true_a christian_a that_o he_o may_v free_o enjoy_v his_o choice_n he_o consider_v these_o two_o both_o recommend_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n 1._o private_a particular_a congregation_n that_o can_v conform_v to_o public_a settlement_n such_o must_v needs_o be_v the_o first_o church_n when_o christianity_n have_v no_o public_a allowance_n such_o may_v be_v still_o 2._o the_o most_o public_a settlement_n of_o christian_a religion_n and_o wherein_o he_o may_v do_v it_o he_o use_v both_o promiscuous_o wherein_o he_o must_v divide_v he_o consider_v upon_o the_o balance_n of_o his_o most_o humble_a and_o impartial_a judgement_n which_o tend_v most_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n to_o public_a edification_n as_o well_o as_o his_o own_o and_o so_o as_o not_o to_o do_v evil_a that_o good_a may_v come_v if_o he_o choose_v that_o which_o be_v more_o particular_a as_o best_o according_a to_o his_o sentiment_n he_o be_v yet_o careful_a to_o do_v all_o he_o do_v with_o the_o great_a vigour_n of_o charity_n inoffensiveness_n and_o desire_v of_o promote_a of_o that_o public_a worship_n as_o it_o contain_v the_o essential_o of_o christianity_n if_o according_a to_o the_o sincere_a sense_n of_o his_o mind_n he_o prefer_v the_o public_a appointment_n either_o as_o public_a and_o in_o that_o regard_n overweigh_a small_a doubt_n and_o so_o take_v the_o best_a advantage_n afford_v therein_o as_o to_o all_o the_o duty_n particular_a congregation_n seem_v most_o adapt_v to_o or_o that_o the_o whole_a composure_n of_o the_o public_a be_v most_o agreeable_a to_o his_o sentiment_n he_o consider_v the_o more_o private_a as_o be_v of_o the_o same_o body_n and_o can_v be_v severe_a to_o the_o retirer_n thereto_o know_v every_o man_n have_v the_o proper_a sense_n of_o his_o own_o mind_n and_o what_o essential_o christianity_n consist_v in_o and_o therefore_o will_v not_o forcible_o hale_v any_o into_o the_o public_a but_o remonstrate_v to_o they_o as_o he_o see_v reason_n with_o mild_a and_o christian_a argument_n the_o disadvantage_n of_o separate_n from_o it_o beyond_o plain_a necessity_n 4._o in_o the_o difference_n of_o judgement_n of_o public_a society_n and_o private_a in_o relation_n to_o one_o another_o or_o the_o difference_n of_o private_a among_o themselves_o the_o true_a christian_a still_o keep_v himself_o upon_o that_o love_n mercy_n and_o peace_n christianity_n teach_v he_o and_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o those_o diversity_n consider_v the_o high_a tie_n worth_n and_o value_n of_o those_o unity_n wherein_o they_o all_o meet_v 5._o if_o a_o christian_a fall_n into_o such_o place_n where_o the_o essential_o be_v corrupt_v he_o esteem_v religious_a solitude_n the_o best_a communion_n yet_o refuse_v not_o to_o improve_v any_o thing_n of_o truth_n he_o can_v extract_v from_o such_o corruption_n or_o if_o there_o be_v any_o part_n of_o public_a worship_n not_o so_o adulterate_v but_o to_o admit_v a_o possible_a separation_n in_o the_o exigence_n of_o present_a service_n
scripture_n and_o reason_n agreeable_a to_o it_o and_o deduce_v from_o it_o and_o herein_o be_v a_o minister_n of_o god_n according_a to_o the_o national_a religion_n 13._o rom._n 11._o 13._o i_o magnify_v my_o office_n to_o this_o purpose_n i_o will_v first_o consider_v of_o the_o radical_a obligation_n we_o have_v to_o join_v ourselves_o with_o other_o in_o the_o profession_n of_o religion_n and_o worship_n of_o god_n and_o how_o it_o rise_v from_o personal_a religion_n the_o substratum_fw-la or_o foundation_n of_o all_o and_o by_o what_o degree_n it_o must_v and_o aught_o to_o rise_v and_o how_o it_o most_o rational_o determine_v itself_o in_o national_a religion_n it_o ought_v to_o attempt_v thus_o high_a and_o can_v successful_o attempt_v high_o in_o the_o way_n of_o association_n to_o spread_v thus_o far_o and_o can_v expatiate_v to_o any_o purpose_n beyond_o it_o i_o shall_v therefore_o here_o give_v such_o argument_n for_o national_a religion_n out_o of_o scripture_n as_o it_o do_v not_o afford_v to_o any_o other_o figure_n of_o union_n in_o it_o in_o the_o first_o place_n therefore_o it_o necessary_o must_v be_v suppose_v and_o grant_v that_o personal_a religion_n be_v the_o fundamental_a religion_n even_o as_o a_o nation_n or_o even_o universality_n of_o humane_a nature_n must_v become_v a_o notion_n without_o particular_a person_n in_o who_o all_o community_n subsist_v even_o so_o must_v national_a or_o catholic_n religion_n vanish_v into_o imagination_n if_o it_o be_v not_o sustain_v by_o particular_a and_o personal_a piety_n nation_n and_o family_n call_v upon_o god_n most_o necessary_o imply_v and_o include_v the_o particular_a person_n of_o each_o do_v so_o and_o herein_o it_o be_v further_a considerable_a that_o every_o man_n be_v a_o complete_a be_v within_o himself_o that_o as_o it_o be_v say_v of_o he_o he_o be_v in_o his_o soul_n and_o body_n a_o little_a world_n within_o himself_o so_o he_o be_v a_o kingdom_n a_o society_n within_o himself_o and_o we_o may_v say_v in_o this_o sense_n he_o be_v a_o church_n within_o himself_o also_o as_o solomon_n call_v himself_o cohele_v the_o congregate_a ecclesiastes_n ecclesiastes_n or_o the_o preach_a soul_n in_o that_o great_a treaty_n with_o himself_o suppose_v his_o soul_n a_o congregation_n and_o a_o preacher_n within_o and_o to_o itself_o first_o and_o then_o to_o the_o public_a so_o ought_v every_o man_n to_o be_v to_o himself_o here_o therefore_o be_v the_o first_o inviolable_a duty_n and_o obligation_n to_o religion_n because_o a_o man_n can_v never_o be_v absent_a from_o himself_o and_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o any_o force_n to_o surprise_v the_o passage_n of_o a_o soul_n to_o heaven_n or_o to_o hinder_v the_o soul_n congregate_a in_o holy_a meditation_n and_o discourse_n within_o itself_o and_o as_o a_o man_n be_v thus_o consider_v he_o can_v nor_o aught_o to_o suffer_v himself_o to_o be_v impose_v upon_o or_o command_v without_o divine_a authority_n for_o as_o thus_o consider_v he_o can_v be_v force_v by_o any_o and_o he_o be_v accountable_a 12._o rom._n 14._o 4_o 12._o countable_a only_a to_o god_n he_o stand_v or_o fall_v to_o his_o own_o master_n every_o one_o shall_v give_v account_n of_o himself_o to_o god_n which_o be_v one_o of_o the_o great_a argument_n the_o apostle_n insist_o upon_o for_o mutual_a forbearance_n in_o disputable_a thing_n in_o religion_n every_o man_n on_o this_o account_n ought_v to_o be_v 15_o 1_o pet._n 3._o 15_o able_a to_o render_v a_o reason_n of_o the_o hope_n that_o be_v in_o he_o to_o himself_o and_o other_o and_o not_o to_o rest_v in_o a_o implicit_a faith_n it_o will_v be_v no_o man_n excuse_n he_o be_v lead_v or_o command_v into_o a_o false_a faith_n or_o idolatrous_a worship_n every_o man_n also_o upon_o this_o same_o account_n be_v bind_v to_o make_v confession_n 10._o rom._n 10._o 10._o with_o his_o mouth_n to_o salvation_n in_o his_o proper_a place_n and_o station_n and_o in_o a_o narrow_a sense_n yet_o a_o sense_n as_o large_a as_o his_o capacity_n and_o rank_n every_o true_a christian_a be_v a_o pillar_n and_o ground_n of_o truth_n that_o be_v truth_n must_v 15._o 1_o tim._n 3._o 15._o be_v settle_v and_o strong_o seat_v in_o his_o soul_n and_o he_o must_v expose_v truth_n and_o bear_v it_o out_o in_o confession_n and_o holy_a practice_n and_o be_v himself_o a_o temple_n or_o house_n of_o the_o live_a god_n where_o god_n will_v please_v to_o walk_v and_o dwell_v and_o therefore_o can_v be_v no_o way_n oblige_v to_o join_v with_o a_o family_n or_o any_o sort_n of_o large_a community_n in_o a_o false_a religion_n though_o he_o shall_v stand_v alone_o in_o the_o true_a or_o shall_v as_o abraham_n forsake_v his_o people_n or_o his_o father_n house_n to_o do_v it_o yet_o notwithstanding_o this_o it_o be_v not_o good_a for_o a_o man_n to_o be_v alone_o 18._o gen._n 12._o 1._o gen._n 2._o 18._o though_o in_o true_a religion_n if_o it_o can_v be_v otherwise_o he_o be_v make_v for_o society_n and_o be_v as_o it_o be_v imperfect_a without_o it_o herein_o he_o resemble_v god_n in_o some_o low_a degree_n in_o who_o image_n and_o likeness_n he_o be_v make_v god_n be_v a_o infinite_o perfect_a be_v in_o himself_o yet_o he_o have_v please_v himself_o in_o communicativeness_n to_o all_o his_o creature_n and_o in_o the_o attraction_n of_o all_o in_o their_o several_a kind_n especial_o angel_n and_o man_n to_o himself_o as_o if_o he_o be_v not_o satisfy_v in_o be_v holy_a in_o be_v happy_a alone_o thus_o man_n though_o if_o he_o can_v not_o have_v society_n in_o true_a religion_n he_o will_v be_v yet_o a_o complete_a and_o absolute_a figure_n alone_o yet_o where_o and_o so_o far_o as_o he_o can_v have_v society_n in_o it_o he_o be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v complete_a alone_o that_o he_o must_v needs_o prove_v a_o cypher_n a_o nothing_o if_o he_o affect_v and_o covet_v to_o be_v alone_o whatever_o he_o have_v if_o he_o have_v not_o love_n he_o be_v nothing_o god_n be_v love_n and_o therefore_o rejoice_v in_o communication_n from_o himself_o and_o with_o himself_o and_o so_o must_v so_o do_v every_o good_a man_n every_o holy_a man_n also_o if_o there_o be_v true_a personal_a religion_n there_o must_v be_v religious_a society_n for_o man_n be_v make_v for_o society_n and_o if_o he_o meet_v he_o must_v meet_v with_o that_o religjous_a sense_n he_o have_v upon_o himself_o with_o that_o i_o say_v he_o must_v meet_v with_o other_o which_o seem_v the_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o religious_a society_n for_o if_o a_o man_n meet_v with_o his_o own_o religion_n other_o that_o have_v the_o same_o sense_n of_o religion_n there_o arise_v a_o necessity_n of_o the_o religion_n of_o all_o to_o meet_v together_o but_o further_a man_n be_v make_v for_o society_n and_o the_o first_o and_o supreme_a end_n of_o society_n as_o of_o all_o thing_n be_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o society_n be_v in_o the_o first_o place_n bind_v to_o be_v religious_a society_n marriage_n the_o root_n and_o beginning_n of_o society_n be_v that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o godly_a seed_n mal._n 2._o 15._o to_o sustain_v a_o succession_n of_o religion_n so_o society_n spread_v on_o still_o that_o there_o may_v be_v religious_a society_n as_o soon_o therefore_o as_o seth_n the_o first_o descendent_a from_o adam_n in_o the_o holy_a line_n have_v a_o son_n bear_v in_o the_o same_o line_n it_o be_v record_v that_o then_o man_n begin_v to_o call_v upon_o the_o name_n of_o jehovah_n that_o be_v most_o probable_o adam_n and_o seth_n take_v it_o as_o a_o just_a and_o necessary_a occasion_n not_o ult_n gen._n 4._o ult_n only_o to_o set_v up_o a_o pillar_n of_o thankfulness_n in_o see_v themselves_o the_o progenitor_n of_o the_o bless_a seed_n but_o in_o the_o foresight_n of_o a_o holy_a society_n just_a ready_a to_o spring_v from_o their_o loin_n they_o think_v fit_a to_o promote_v divine_a worship_n into_o a_o public_a state_n and_o certain_a order_n and_o this_o i_o think_v the_o most_o agreeable_a interpretation_n of_o that_o controvert_v place_n so_o that_o from_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o world_n all_o along_o the_o history_n of_o true_a religion_n in_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n we_o shall_v find_v religion_n contend_v into_o publickness_n and_o all_o the_o advantage_n of_o humane_a society_n yea_o humane_a nature_n have_v take_v this_o so_o for_o grant_v that_o it_o be_v doubtful_a whether_o there_o ever_o be_v a_o society_n in_o the_o world_n political_o unite_v or_o not_o whole_o barbarous_a but_o it_o be_v cement_v in_o religion_n though_o be_v so_o general_o but_o false_a religion_n it_o prove_v no_o better_a than_o heathenism_n there_o may_v have_v be_v private_a cabal_n of_o atheism_n but_o there_o never_o be_v a_o public_a association_n against_o a_o god_n know_v and_o believe_v except_o
in_o hell_n if_o we_o can_v suppose_v a_o society_n design_o unite_v without_o religion_n it_o will_v be_v like_o the_o plot_n for_o building_n of_o babel_n a_o endeavour_n of_o such_o a_o part_n of_o mankind_n to_o set_v up_o for_o its_o self_n and_o its_o own_o security_n as_o it_o be_v in_o defiance_n of_o heaven_n a_o society_n unite_v in_o civil_n and_o crumble_v into_o sect_n and_o division_n in_o religion_n that_o be_v in_o the_o main_a substantial_o of_o doctrine_n worship_n and_o practice_n be_v a_o babel_n as_o it_o be_v under_o the_o curse_n of_o confusion_n of_o divide_a language_n a_o disparagement_n of_o religion_n which_o can_v be_v as_o it_o be_v indeed_o religion_n but_o one_o as_o if_o its_o name_n be_v legion_n or_o as_o if_o in_o fundamental_a point_n it_o can_v not_o sufficient_o evidence_n itself_o so_o as_o to_o be_v know_v to_o be_v the_o true_a last_o a_o disannul_v the_o ancient_a law_n of_o society_n which_o be_v principal_o for_o the_o union_n of_o religion_n so_o that_o if_o man_n can_v agree_v in_o all_o thing_n else_o and_o be_v yet_o divide_v here_o it_o be_v not_o true_a humane_a society_n but_o will_v want_v the_o very_o noble_a part_n or_o principle_n of_o it_o religion_n which_o be_v as_o a_o soul_n or_o spirit_n to_o it_o yet_o too_o rigorous_a and_o severe_a a_o constraint_n of_o uniformity_n be_v both_o to_o forget_v humane_a infirmity_n that_o do_v not_o allow_v so_o perfect_a a_o union_n in_o this_o world_n if_o a_o rigid_a uniformity_n be_v indeed_o perfection_n and_o to_o forget_v also_o that_o every_o man_n be_v a_o complete_a be_v within_o himself_o and_o make_v a_o perfect_a figure_n as_o he_o be_v alone_o and_o therefore_o to_o grant_v nothing_o to_o this_o consideration_n be_v rather_o to_o crowd_v man_n into_o a_o little_a ease_n in_o religion_n than_o to_o unite_v they_o and_o so_o press_v they_o too_o straight_o make_v they_o fly_v out_o of_o that_o uneasy_a state_n for_o more_o room_n and_o dissolve_v the_o union_n that_o may_v else_o have_v be_v but_o in_o all_o the_o principal_a point_n of_o true_a religion_n union_n be_v so_o necessary_a that_o it_o stand_v good_a humane_a society_n be_v for_o the_o sake_n of_o religion_n yet_o in_o this_o state_n of_o god_n patience_n to_o the_o world_n commerce_n and_o civil_a conversation_n be_v no_o more_o than_o property_n found_v in_o grace_n for_o than_o we_o must_v go_v out_o of_o the_o world_n yet_o still_o the_o supreme_a and_o prime_a end_n of_o society_n be_v religion_n society_n in_o divine_a adoration_n be_v the_o state_n of_o angel_n and_o saint_n in_o heaven_n it_o be_v design_v to_o be_v the_o state_n of_o innocency_n in_o this_o world_n it_o be_v a_o law_n that_o can_v be_v repeal_v it_o be_v the_o perpetual_a duty_n of_o man_n fallen_n nature_n have_v a_o violent_a inclination_n to_o it_o so_o that_o all_o societye_n consent_v to_o walk_v in_o the_o name_n of_o some_o god_n though_o mistake_v in_o the_o right_a object_n but_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o christianity_n as_o they_o most_o clear_o reveal_v the_o true_a religion_n so_o the_o necessity_n of_o union_n in_o it_o the_o publickness_n of_o religion_n therefore_o that_o it_o be_v most_o choosable_a for_o the_o glory_n of_o it_o to_o god_n for_o the_o good_a it_o do_v to_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n for_o the_o blessing_n and_o acceptance_n it_o receive_v from_o god_n i_o shall_v plain_o make_v evident_a from_o the_o reason_n of_o scripture_n 1._o for_o the_o glory_n public_a religion_n present_v to_o god_n it_o be_v evident_a although_o god_n in_o his_o son_n and_o spirit_n be_v a_o sufficient_a spectator_n and_o witness_n of_o and_o infinite_o rich_a in_o his_o own_o glory_n in_o the_o understanding_n of_o and_o his_o own_o eternal_a praise_n of_o himself_o so_o that_o nothing_o can_v be_v add_v to_o he_o yet_o it_o be_v most_o evident_a god_n be_v please_v to_o delight_n in_o the_o publickness_n of_o his_o service_n and_o the_o near_a approach_n of_o all_o his_o creature_n to_o he_o and_o that_o not_o in_o solitary_a service_n but_o the_o most_o conjoin_v as_o if_o infinity_n receive_v addition_n of_o glory_n from_o the_o openness_n and_o publickness_n of_o his_o worship_n which_o yet_o we_o know_v be_v impossible_a but_o it_o be_v the_o abyss_n of_o his_o goodness_n that_o he_o delight_v in_o love_v all_o his_o creature_n and_o be_v universal_o know_v love_a and_o serve_v by_o they_o and_o that_o in_o the_o great_a union_n herein_o that_o as_o he_o himself_o be_v the_o prime_a unity_n and_o universality_n and_o this_o be_v the_o perfection_n of_o his_o be_v so_o his_o creature_n spring_v from_o he_o may_v return_v to_o he_o in_o the_o same_o universality_n and_o unity_n in_o resemblance_n of_o himself_o which_o be_v the_o high_a and_o true_a worship_n of_o he_o in_o heaven_n there_o be_v a_o innumerable_a company_n of_o angel_n and_o bless_a spirit_n in_o one_o general_a assembly_n to_o praise_v and_o worship_n god_n the_o scripture_n excite_v the_o praise_n of_o all_o the_o earth_n of_o all_o the_o world_n of_o all_o land_n of_o all_o people_n tongue_n language_n nation_n kindred_n and_o family_n even_o the_o heaven_n and_o earth_n and_o thing_n under_o the_o earth_n and_o the_o whole_a host_n of_o they_o be_v call_v in_o to_o concert_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o nothing_o leave_v out_o but_o death_n and_o destruction_n which_o can_v praise_v he_o because_o never_o make_v by_o he_o and_o when_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n as_o it_o rise_v from_o his_o creature_n be_v represent_v at_o its_o high_a pitch_n it_o be_v thus_o set_v out_o and_o i_o behold_v and_o i_o hear_v the_o voice_n of_o many_o angel_n round_o about_o the_o throne_n and_o the_o beast_n and_o the_o elder_n and_o the_o number_n of_o they_o be_v ten_o thousand_o time_n ten_o thousand_o and_o thousand_o of_o thousand_o say_v with_o a_o loud_a voice_n worthy_a be_v the_o lamb_n etc._n etc._n and_o every_o creature_n which_o be_v in_o heaven_n and_o on_o the_o earth_n and_o under_o the_o earth_n and_o such_o as_o be_v in_o the_o sea_n and_o all_o that_o be_v in_o they_o i_o hear_v say_v as_o it_o be_v in_o one_o choir_n blessing_n and_o honour_n and_o glory_n and_o power_n be_v unto_o he_o that_o sit_v upon_o the_o throne_n and_o unto_o the_o lamb_n for_o ever_o and_o ever_o thus_o david_n also_o muster_v up_o the_o whole_a creation_n to_o join_v in_o the_o praise_n of_o god_n not_o to_o fill_v up_o and_o adorn_v the_o divine_a poesy_n but_o to_o show_v the_o indisputable_a right_a god_n have_v to_o the_o service_n of_o all_o his_o creature_n and_o that_o in_o those_o which_o be_v not_o able_a to_o pay_v it_o immediate_o by_o themselves_o every_o wise_a and_o prudent_a holy_a man_n be_v to_o observe_v that_o tribute_n of_o praise_n that_o be_v as_o it_o be_v mark_v upon_o they_o by_o the_o wisdom_n that_o make_v they_o and_o to_o offer_v it_o up_o for_o they_o when_o the_o service_n of_o god_n be_v represent_v as_o most_o glorious_a in_o its_o being_n most_o public_a every_o thing_n therefore_o in_o god_n ordination_n of_o religion_n tend_v to_o publickness_n our_o saviour_n will_v not_o appear_v but_o in_o the_o fullness_n of_o his_o body_n the_o church_n which_o do_v as_o it_o be_v complete_a he_o for_o it_o be_v in_o this_o sense_n his_o compliment_n or_o fullness_n though_o he_o fill_v all_o in_o all_o the_o knowledge_n of_o god_n will_v cover_v the_o earth_n even_o as_o water_n do_v the_o sea_n and_o be_v restless_a till_o it_o do_v so_o the_o preach_a of_o the_o gospel_n be_v to_o be_v extend_v to_o all_o nation_n to_o every_o creature_n in_o prayer_n there_o be_v to_o be_v a_o come_n of_o all_o flesh_n to_o god_n praise_n be_v to_o rise_v up_o as_o one_o pillar_n of_o incense_n from_o the_o whole_a world_n the_o church_n especial_o be_v to_o publish_v the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o to_o ascribe_v greatness_n to_o our_o god_n now_o the_o sense_n of_o this_o be_v that_o since_o god_n have_v be_v please_v to_o place_v his_o glory_n in_o the_o publickness_n of_o religion_n in_o this_o universality_n of_o it_o all_o good_a man_n be_v zealous_a and_o earnest_a to_o draw_v in_o the_o public_a society_n of_o the_o world_n as_o much_o as_o they_o can_v to_o love_v fear_v serve_v pray_v to_o god_n and_o praise_v he_o together_o god_n do_v not_o allow_v his_o servant_n that_o out_o of_o choice_n they_o shall_v retire_v to_o the_o religion_n of_o a_o cloister_n or_o a_o wilderness_n or_o a_o private_a separate_a assembly_n as_o the_o great_a honour_n to_o he_o but_o delight_n in_o the_o most_o public_a assembly_n of_o his_o saint_n servant_n and_o creature_n for_o though_o the_o reason_n here_o of_o lie_v deep_a in_o the_o divine_a
it_o become_v one_o great_a family_n i_o know_v there_o may_v be_v some_o exception_n from_o this_o description_n of_o a_o nation_n which_o will_v have_v their_o force_n upon_o national_a religion_n also_o as_o it_o result_v from_o it_o for_o sometime_o one_o monarchy_n do_v as_o it_o be_v stride_v over_o more_o nation_n sometime_o one_o city_n or_o free_a town_n be_v distinguish_v from_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o world_n by_o one_o government_n one_o civil_a interest_n independent_a in_o its_o government_n in_o its_o proper_a interest_n upon_o any_o other_o now_o in_o such_o a_o monarchy_n as_o contain_v several_a people_n and_o nation_n under_o it_o it_o do_v not_o proper_o give_v name_n to_o a_o national_a religion_n while_o their_o interest_n law_n conversation_n and_o civil_a commerce_n be_v preserve_v and_o keep_v distinct_a as_o these_o be_v often_o allow_v to_o be_v under_o some_o conquer_a potentacy_n on_o the_o other_o side_n if_o a_o narrow_a compass_n of_o people_n than_o we_o proper_o call_v a_o nation_n viz._n a_o region_n a_o province_n a_o city_n have_v its_o interest_n its_o law_n its_o government_n conversation_n and_o commerce_n entire_a to_o itself_o it_o be_v as_o to_o the_o purpose_n we_o be_v now_o upon_o as_o it_o be_v a_o nation_n the_o sum_n than_o be_v this_o so_o far_o as_o humane_a society_n have_v draw_v any_o people_n or_o family_n into_o a_o close_a and_o more_o compact_a state_n of_o civil_a interest_n necessitude_n one_o to_o another_o and_o government_n run_v up_o to_o the_o high_a point_n of_o government_n in_o that_o compact_a state_n so_o far_o be_v the_o obligation_n of_o union_n in_o public_a religion_n draw_v upon_o they_o where_o these_o be_v free_a that_o attendance_n to_o union_n in_o religion_n be_v free_a also_o any_o further_a than_o the_o common_a truth_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o obligation_n of_o that_o bound_v even_o those_o at_o great_a distance_n and_o union_n one_o with_o another_o for_o thus_o religion_n may_v and_o aught_o to_o unite_v all_o the_o true_a professor_n of_o it_o at_o what_o remove_n soever_o from_o one_o another_o it_o may_v and_o ought_v also_o to_o pass_v upon_o whatever_o bond_n of_o union_n there_o be_v in_o the_o world_n but_o there_o be_v no_o such_o union_n as_o law_n commerce_n conversation_n common_a safety_n run_v all_o up_o to_o the_o supreme_a government_n over_o that_o conjunction_n to_o graft_v religion_n upon_o all_o else_o be_v but_o consent_n in_o the_o same_o unity_n of_o one_o god_n one_o lord_n one_o spirit_n one_o faith_n one_o baptism_n which_o make_v the_o catholic_n church_n one_o body_n and_o join_v with_o one_o another_o presential_o in_o the_o same_o acknowledgement_n of_o god_n when_o a_o concurrence_n of_o all_o thing_n necessary_a happen_v to_o fall_v out_o as_o can_v be_v suppose_v frequent_a in_o part_n remote_a one_o from_o another_o and_o of_o a_o divers_a lip_n or_o language_n the_o catholic_n church_n be_v indeed_o unite_a as_o humane_a nature_n be_v in_o one_o and_o the_o same_o true_a reason_n and_o thereupon_o a_o readiness_n of_o wise_a and_o learned_a man_n to_o correspond_v one_o with_o another_o at_o a_o distance_n or_o confer_v one_o with_o another_o if_o at_o any_o time_n suitable_a concurrence_n favour_v it_o or_o as_o the_o world_n much_o more_o the_o catholic_n church_n be_v a_o temple_n build_v to_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o creator_n and_o redeemer_n wherein_o all_o good_a man_n meet_v from_o one_o end_n of_o the_o heaven_n to_o the_o other_o in_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o same_o spirit_n and_o in_o the_o same_o kind_n of_o worship_n and_o if_o opportunity_n allow_v in_o the_o same_o actual_a worship_n the_o near_a therefore_o any_o part_n of_o the_o catholic_n church_n be_v by_o the_o neighbourhood_n of_o nation_n by_o the_o frequency_n of_o traffic_n the_o neareâ—_n the_o more_o frequent_a the_o correspondency_n be_v the_o mutual_a assistance_n may_v and_o aught_o to_o be_v but_o now_o in_o the_o dependency_n and_o interweaving_n of_o all_o civil_a interest_n in_o nation_n there_o be_v not_o only_o those_o voluntary_a and_o contingent_a correspondency_n but_o such_o as_o first_o grow_v out_o of_o the_o nature_n of_o humane_a society_n and_o bind_v of_o themselves_o to_o common_a true_a religion_n and_o then_o have_v the_o favour_n encouragement_n direction_n obligation_n of_o law_n and_o authority_n run_v like_o the_o same_o spirit_n into_o all_o the_o several_a part_n of_o a_o nation_n and_o recommend_v that_o national_a true_a religion_n as_o it_o stand_v in_o this_o union_n that_o be_v first_o command_v by_o god_n beside_o much_o more_o free_a ordinary_a actual_a meeting_n in_o one_o and_o the_o very_a same_o place_n and_o act_n of_o worship_n it_o be_v true_a indeed_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n allow_v our_o worldly_a calling_n and_o the_o provision_n of_o the_o present_a life_n and_o relation_n and_o therefore_o a_o neighbourhood_n whether_o it_o be_v the_o more_o populous_a of_o city_n or_o town_n or_o the_o more_o infrequent_a of_o village_n have_v the_o conveniency_n of_o more_o solemn_a and_o state_v meeting_n the_o ordinary_a fit_a season_n of_o the_o lordsday_n and_o other_o solemn_a time_n of_o worship_n thereupon_o national_a religion_n be_v general_o exercise_v in_o these_o lesser_a society_n even_o as_o the_o justice_n and_o execution_n of_o law_n and_o national_a authority_n must_v be_v bring_v home_o to_o man_n in_o their_o particular_a country_n and_o town_n and_o not_o rest_n in_o the_o capital_a city_n at_o a_o distance_n from_o their_o daily_a business_n and_o conversation_n and_o yet_o the_o standard_n of_o all_o thing_n national_a be_v general_o preserve_v there_o for_o the_o very_a sake_n of_o union_n even_o so_o of_o national_a religion_n not_o as_o religion_n for_o the_o standard_n of_o that_o be_v scripture_n only_o but_o as_o national_a so_o the_o agreement_n in_o it_o be_v deposit_v with_o all_o other_o national_a acts._n so_o that_o national_a religion_n have_v the_o advantage_n in_o these_o two_o thing_n first_o the_o naturalness_n and_o closeness_n of_o the_o union_n of_o a_o nation_n to_o all_o the_o interest_n of_o humane_a society_n and_o therein_o it_o imitate_v the_o nearness_n and_o closeness_n of_o family_n or_o lesser_a incorporation_n as_o much_o as_o can_v be_v consistent_a with_o the_o second_o thing_n viz_o the_o illustriousness_n magnificence_n honourableness_n of_o religion_n as_o seat_v in_o large_a body_n but_o especial_o as_o upon_o the_o sovereignty_n and_n supremacy_n of_o the_o great_a incorporation_n of_o mankind_n i_o shall_v only_o observe_v further_a that_o all_o this_o do_v most_o effectual_o exclude_v the_o pretence_n of_o a_o universal_a church-monarchy_n as_o hateful_a in_o religion_n as_o a_o universal_a state-monarchy_n in_o politic_n and_o civil_a liberty_n both_o of_o which_o be_v indeed_o tyranny_n the_o imaginary_a benefit_n of_o such_o sort_n of_o union_n be_v infinite_o toilsome_a and_o tedious_a while_o they_o be_v expect_v and_o always_o in_o the_o issue_n find_v impossible_a to_o be_v enjoy_v in_o their_o fruit_n but_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n while_o the_o pretender_n be_v labour_v for_o and_o grasp_a at_o so_o vast_a a_o power_n they_o fill_v the_o world_n with_o the_o lamentable_a effect_n of_o their_o ambition_n and_o do_v indeed_o destroy_v humane_a society_n because_o those_o law_n and_o band_n that_o tie_v it_o together_o be_v so_o overstrained_a fly_v in_o piece_n and_o i_o be_o sure_a nothing_o be_v more_o contrary_a to_o christianity_n than_o a_o universal_a head_n of_o religion_n here_o upon_o earth_n except_o christ_n himself_o with_o a_o ubiquity_n of_o holiness_n power_n and_o influence_n come_v down_o to_o reign_v upon_o it_o a_o universal_a union_n be_v indeed_o desirable_a and_o glorious_a if_o there_o be_v a_o omnipresence_n of_o virtue_n answerable_a to_o the_o administration_n but_o that_o be_v too_o great_a for_o any_o creature_n too_o great_a in_o the_o present_a state_n of_o the_o world_n religion_n and_o christian_a religion_n glide_v along_o with_o the_o civil_a union_n they_o find_v prepare_v as_o i_o shall_v present_o evince_v beyond_o which_o be_v nothing_o but_o usurpation_n i_o come_v now_o to_o the_o argument_n from_o scripture_n and_o reason_n for_o national_a religion_n not_o afford_v to_o any_o other_o figure_n of_o union_n in_o it_o the_o first_o argument_n shall_v be_v that_o i_o derive_v from_o this_o prayer_n i_o argum._n 2_o have_v choose_v to_o discourse_v this_o point_n upon_o and_o i_o lay_v it_o thus_o the_o prayer_n in_o which_o holy_a man_n speak_v as_o they_o be_v move_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n rest_n upon_o some_o great_a pillar_n and_o principle_n of_o divine_a truth_n and_o argument_n for_o particular_a case_n in_o which_o they_o pray_v be_v bring_v to_o those_o general_a principle_n by_o a_o understanding_n enlighten_v to_o understand_v in_o a_o humble_a sense_n even_o as_o god_n understand_v
society_n of_o mankind_n it_o declare_v itself_o a_o religion_n that_o love_v they_o and_z as_o it_o be_v on_o purpose_n to_o testify_v the_o divine_a approbation_n of_o and_o the_o near_a resemblance_n between_o those_o civil_a and_o political_a union_n one_o with_o another_o found_v in_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o humane_a society_n and_o that_o religious_a union_n which_o by_o the_o very_a same_o law_n of_o nature_n follow_v they_o as_o so_o unite_v christianity_n keep_v to_o the_o very_a same_o tenor_n of_o union_n it_o find_v any_o where_o and_o twine_v as_o close_v about_o the_o city_n neighbourhood_n and_o family_n make_v ready_a to_o its_o hand_n by_o civil_a association_n as_o it_o can_v not_o call_v man_n out_o to_o wilderness_n mountain_n or_o wood_n to_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n or_o that_o they_o shall_v abide_v in_o desert_n and_o solitude_n when_o persecution_n do_v not_o drive_v and_o force_v they_o out_o but_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v denominate_v from_o those_o city_n and_o region_n where_o they_o be_v plant_v as_o the_o church_n of_o epheâ—â—â—â—_n 2._o 2_o cor_fw-la 9_o 2._o coriâ—th_n judaea_n galatia_n macedonia_n etc._n etc._n yea_o the_o christiâ—â—_n of_o achaia_n be_v call_v by_o the_o apostle_n achaia_n as_o if_o christianity_n be_v there_o become_v the_o religion_n of_o the_o country_n and_o the_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n be_v call_v those_o very_a city_n where_o they_o be_v seat_v 1â—_n rev._n 1._o 1â—_n wherein_o it_o be_v observable_a the_o church_n of_o city_n be_v call_v the_o church_n of_o or_o in_o each_o city_n as_o one_o though_o it_o be_v in_o a_o manner_n certain_a they_o must_v be_v distribute_v into_o more_o congregation_n for_o their_o numerousness_n yet_o they_o be_v still_o call_v one_o because_o the_o city_n be_v one_o but_o the_o region_n not_o be_v so_o unite_v in_o government_n neighbourhood_n or_o any_o kind_n of_o civil_a union_n the_o distribution_n of_o church_n easy_o follow_v the_o distinction_n easy_o supposable_a in_o their_o civil_a state_n in_o region_n therefore_o we_o suppose_v there_o be_v no_o centre_n of_o union_n not_o in_o the_o church_n which_o be_v at_o distance_n too_o great_a for_o coagmentation_n into_o one_o nor_o in_o the_o law_n and_o government_n at_o least_o with_o any_o respect_n of_o order_n towards_o religion_n they_o be_v therefore_o call_v church_n and_o not_o one_o church_n as_o they_o be_v without_o any_o exception_n in_o city_n even_o where_o the_o apostle_n name_v particular_a church_n in_o the_o house_n within_o those_o city_n yet_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o city_n itself_o they_o be_v comprehend_v under_o the_o one_o church_n of_o that_o city_n now_o all_o this_o speak_v the_o care_n christian_n religion_n use_v not_o to_o disturb_v but_o to_o conform_v to_o civil_a society_n and_o therefore_o especial_o to_o national_a the_o chief_a of_o those_o society_n and_o so_o i_o close_o this_o three_o argument_n for_o national_a religion_n derive_v from_o the_o consideration_n of_o christian_a religion_n national_a religion_n be_v of_o great_a moment_n and_o consideration_n in_o respect_n argum._n 4_o to_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n for_o the_o wrath_n and_o fury_n of_o god_n upon_o those_o nation_n that_o know_v he_o not_o that_o call_v not_o on_o his_o name_n be_v to_o be_v take_v at_o the_o full_a extent_n and_o duration_n in_o this_o world_n in_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v and_o so_o the_o happiness_n of_o nation_n who_o have_v the_o lord_n for_o their_o god_n that_o have_v the_o everlasting_a arm_n under_o and_o about_o they_o spread_v itself_o not_o only_o upon_o time_n but_o upon_o eternity_n it_o be_v indeed_o general_o take_v for_o grant_v that_o nation_n be_v only_o judge_v as_o nation_n in_o this_o world_n yet_o if_o we_o close_o examine_v we_o shall_v find_v both_o in_o scripture_n and_o reason_n very_o valuable_a ground_n to_o believe_v the_o day_n of_o judgement_n shall_v not_o only_o pass_v upon_o person_n single_a but_o in_o their_o community_n as_o they_o be_v lock_v in_o with_o their_o association_n and_o with_o respect_n to_o those_o very_a period_n of_o time_n and_o the_o generation_n into_o which_o the_o community_n and_o association_n have_v be_v distribute_v so_o that_o not_o only_o the_o people_n of_o every_o nation_n come_v into_o judgement_n together_o but_o the_o people_n of_o every_o generation_n of_o this_o or_o that_o nation_n come_v distinct_o into_o judgement_n together_o beside_o those_o peculiarity_n of_o sin_n or_o grace_n wherein_o every_o man_n be_v individual_a to_o himself_o and_o no_o stranger_n intermeddle_v but_o he_o prove_v and_o enjoy_v his_o own_o work_n alone_o or_o bear_v his_o own_o burden_n there_o be_v also_o man_n interwoven_a action_n either_o good_a or_o bad_a wherein_o the_o community_n knot_n of_o society_n neighbourhood_n concurrence_n with_o the_o nation_n conformity_n with_o the_o age_n and_o generation_n shall_v be_v exact_o compare_v and_o weigh_v in_o the_o eternal_a judgement_n for_o there_o be_v nothing_o more_o frequent_a in_o the_o scripture_n than_o thus_o to_o represent_v the_o carriage_n of_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n the_o nation_n whole_a as_o nation_n that_o forget_v god_n shall_v be_v turn_v into_o hell_n and_o egypt_n and_o 12._o ezek._n 32._o 18_o etc._n etc._n rom_n 2_o 12._o all_o its_o company_n all_o its_o host_n lie_v together_o the_o other_o nation_n with_o their_o multitude_n every_o one_o in_o their_o proper_a sort_n the_o uncircumcision_n and_o those_o without_o law_n be_v judge_v by_o themselves_o the_o circumcision_n and_o those_o under_o the_o law_n by_o themselves_o distinct_o our_o saviour_n speak_v oâ—_n sodom_n and_o gomorrah_n the_o man_n of_o nineveh_n tyre_n aend_v sidon_n chorazin_n bethsaida_n and_o capernaum_n come_v into_o judgement_n in_o that_o union_n in_o that_o community_n wherein_o they_o be_v embody_v here_o in_o the_o world_n and_o the_o man_n of_o that_o generation_n as_o they_o be_v that_o generation_n i_o confess_v it_o be_v not_o so_o clear_a that_o the_o happiness_n and_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n be_v with_o any_o respect_n to_o the_o distinction_n of_o nation_n because_o beside_o what_o other_o reason_n may_v be_v give_v the_o union_n of_o all_o bless_a person_n to_o god_n and_o christ_n and_o of_o happy_a spirit_n one_o to_o another_o be_v so_o infinite_o great_a as_o to_o swallow_v up_o all_o distinction_n so_o that_o there_o be_v neither_o jew_n nor_o gentile_a scythian_n nor_o barbarian_a but_o god_n and_o christ_n be_v all_o and_o in_o all_o and_o so_o far_o as_o there_o be_v any_o such_o national_a distinction_n our_o lord_n be_v of_o the_o seed_n of_o abraham_n in_o who_o all_o the_o family_n of_o the_o earth_n be_v bless_v the_o bosom_n of_o abraham_n the_o table_n of_o everlasting_a life_n at_o which_o abraham_n isaac_n and_o jacob_n sit_v down_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n the_o israel_n of_o god_n be_v the_o capital_a expression_n of_o happiness_n but_o still_o there_o be_v reason_n to_o think_v the_o distinction_n of_o nation_n be_v not_o so_o lose_v but_o that_o the_o holy_a seed_n be_v as_o the_o substance_n of_o every_o nation_n in_o which_o it_o be_v for_o ever_o as_o it_o be_v by_o itself_o conserve_v a_o seed_n serve_v god_n in_o every_o age_n which_o be_v account_v to_o the_o lord_n for_o a_o generation_n at_o that_o time_n and_o when_o god_n write_v down_o the_o people_n in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n he_o write_v they_o as_o under_o the_o head_n of_o such_o a_o nation_n this_o or_o that_o man_n be_v bear_v there_o although_o they_o be_v all_o enroll_v as_o citizen_n of_o that_o common_a city_n of_o zion_n the_o city_n of_o david_n from_o who_o our_o lord_n spring_v and_o though_o all_o christian_n be_v one_o holy_a nation_n yet_o it_o be_v say_v of_o some_o very_a glorious_a and_o happy_a state_n of_o the_o church_n of_o which_o i_o will_v not_o undertake_v to_o determine_v that_o after_o the_o distinct_a seal_v of_o so_o many_o thousand_o of_o each_o tribe_n there_o be_v yet_o a_o innumerable_a company_n not_o in_o a_o confusion_n but_o in_o a_o distinction_n so_o as_o to_o be_v know_v to_o be_v of_o all_o nation_n kindred_n people_n and_o tongue_n all_o the_o nation_n of_o they_o that_o be_v save_v be_v also_o mention_v in_o the_o same_o mystical_a book_n as_o keep_v under_o that_o distinction_n the_o apostle_n speak_v to_o his_o corinthian_n and_o thessalonian_o as_o certain_a he_o shall_v meet_v they_o under_o those_o very_a name_n at_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n he_o pray_v for_o israel_n as_o a_o nation_n that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v he_o discourse_v their_o fall_v away_o and_o recovery_n in_o a_o national_a way_n for_o many_o particular_a israelite_n be_v then_o call_v and_o save_v but_o not_o in_o a_o national_a way_n as_o he_o insist_o beside_o all_o these_o fair_a
all_o part_n of_o the_o true_a church_n who_o sin_n you_o remit_v be_v remit_v etc._n etc._n viz_o by_o solemn_a declaration_n out_o of_o and_o according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n even_o to_o the_o utmost_a distance_n wherein_o any_o rational_a possibility_n of_o extend_v such_o remonstrance_n and_o declaration_n with_o success_n and_o effect_n can_v be_v find_v there_o be_v not_o only_a power_n but_o a_o incumbent_a duty_n to_o do_v it_o this_o union_n now_o be_v of_o uncontrollable_a divine_a right_n thus_o much_o of_o national_a religion_n a_o national_a church_n can_v by_o no_o mean_n be_v deny_v to_o a_o christian_a nation_n see_v to_o be_v thus_o of_o the_o church_n be_v absolute_o necessary_a to_o salvation_n every_o man_n that_o shall_v be_v save_v be_v certain_o add_v to_o this_o church_n the_o entrance_n into_o which_o in_o deed_n and_o in_o truth_n be_v by_o the_o save_a grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o in_o the_o judgement_n of_o charity_n by_o a_o serious_a profession_n and_o this_o be_v that_o catholic_n church_n that_o compreheâ—ds_v all_o lesser_a union_n but_o exclude_v or_o deny_v none_o much_o less_o can_v be_v exclude_v by_o any_o as_o therefore_o every_o one_o must_v be_v of_o the_o church_n catholic_n and_o nation_n ought_v to_o be_v christian_a nation_n and_o protect_v that_o profession_n so_o this_o very_a catholic_n church_n in_o every_o nation_n where_o it_o be_v true_o find_v carry_v with_o it_o the_o name_n of_o a_o church_n and_o as_o a_o nation_n be_v by_o itself_o and_o its_o own_o civil_a union_n denominate_v a_o nation_n so_o the_o union_n of_o christian_n must_v be_v the_o church_n in_o that_o nation_n for_o it_o be_v the_o catholic_n church_n in_o its_o universal_a diffusion_n run_v through_o this_o or_o that_o particular_a nation_n and_o all_o the_o virtue_n and_o duty_n of_o the_o catholic_n church_n ought_v to_o be_v exercise_v in_o it_o and_o if_o any_o one_o deny_v this_o he_o deny_v the_o catholic_n church_n of_o great_a moment_n than_o any_o particular_a church_n can_v be_v 2._o all_o the_o close_a and_o most_o constant_a exercise_n of_o christian_a religion_n that_o christian_n be_v to_o exercise_v one_o with_o another_o that_o can_v be_v exercise_v but_o in_o society_n of_o this_o kind_n be_v all_o part_n of_o the_o public_a worship_n of_o god_n prayer_n preach_v sacrament_n which_o be_v indeed_o or_o aught_o to_o be_v the_o same_o for_o nature_n throughout_o the_o whole_a christian_a church_n but_o must_v be_v actual_o perform_v in_o particular_a society_n now_o these_o church_n may_v be_v solemn_o erect_v and_o constitute_v by_o agreement_n but_o they_o be_v also_o found_v and_o even_o grow_v out_o of_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o the_o thing_n for_o the_o close_a neighbourhood_n of_o christian_n one_o with_o another_o they_o have_v continual_a knowledge_n of_o and_o acquaintance_n one_o with_o another_o and_o thereby_o daily_a opportunity_n of_o agree_v in_o that_o public_a worship_n of_o god_n and_o their_o common_a profession_n all_o these_o engage_v and_o also_o incline_v they_o to_o unite_v whether_o in_o great_a family_n as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o church_n in_o the_o family_n of_o christian_n or_o in_o village_n or_o in_o great_a congregation_n of_o city_n one_o or_o more_o still_o the_o obligation_n be_v unavoidable_a the_o necessity_n of_o duty_n that_o lie_v upon_o christian_n to_o perform_v these_o act_n of_o worship_n in_o society_n and_o the_o law_n that_o be_v upon_o all_o society_n and_o society_n must_v needs_o grow_v out_o of_o this_o frequent_a conversation_n to_o dedicate_v itself_o to_o god_n make_v it_o absolute_o necessary_a that_o from_o the_o neighbourhood_n of_o christian_n shall_v arise_v particular_a church_n and_o who_o then_o can_v deny_v but_o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o union_n and_o further_o that_o there_o ought_v to_o be_v a_o union_n of_o a_o nation_n agree_v with_o itself_o as_o in_o the_o same_o government_n law_n national_a constitution_n and_o commerce_n in_o a_o more_o frequent_a and_o free_a conversation_n one_o with_o another_o so_o in_o religion_n when_o the_o part_n of_o it_o profess_v the_o same_o true_a religion_n and_o desire_v to_o worship_n god_n in_o the_o most_o public_a way_n they_o can_v or_o who_o can_v deny_v that_o a_o nation_n may_v give_v name_n to_o a_o church_n see_v the_o very_a city_n give_v name_n to_o church_n where_o there_o be_v a_o number_n of_o christian_n act_v together_o according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n give_v to_o his_o church_n the_o obligation_n to_o true_a religion_n to_o public_a religion_n be_v undeniable_a the_o opportunity_n of_o agreement_n be_v the_o same_o and_o may_v be_v transact_v in_o the_o same_o manner_n all_o other_o national_a agreement_n be_v and_o what_o be_v a_o church_n but_o a_o society_n agree_v in_o all_o act_n of_o true_a religion_n according_a to_o the_o law_n allow_v by_o christ_n have_v no_o other_o form_n but_o that_o of_o the_o catholic_n church_n distinguish_v by_o the_o particular_a society_n or_o place_n where_o they_o reside_v i_o acknowledge_v two_o thing_n be_v necessary_a to_o particular_a by_o the_o nature_n of_o particular_a society_n and_o the_o place_n where_o they_o reside_v church_n 1._o consciousness_n or_o mutual_a knowledge_n of_o person_n and_o their_o worship_n 2._o consent_n this_o our_o saviour_n teach_v in_o that_o expression_n if_o two_o of_o you_o shall_v agree_v mat._n 18._o and_o indeed_o not_o only_o in_o particular_a church_n but_o even_o in_o the_o catholic_n church_n itself_o these_o thing_n have_v their_o resemblance_n but_o with_o this_o difference_n in_o the_o catholic_n church_n the_o divine_a spirit_n run_v through_o all_o know_v they_o all_o that_o true_o belong_v to_o it_o and_o every_o one_o of_o they_o one_o for_o another_o and_o by_o their_o true_a faith_n they_o all_o be_v unite_v in_o close_a consent_n in_o all_o thing_n necessary_a to_o salvation_n one_o with_o another_o which_o faith_n be_v keep_v from_o fail_v by_o the_o same_o spirit_n in_o they_o all_o that_o be_v true_o of_o it_o but_o because_o there_o must_v be_v yet_o a_o more_o particular_a understanding_n that_o christian_n have_v one_o with_o another_o that_o they_o may_v join_v in_o the_o same_o religious_a act_n and_o mutual_o assist_v one_o another_o in_o they_o therefore_o the_o union_n of_o the_o catholic_n church_n upon_o earth_n though_o it_o be_v the_o great_a the_o most_o religious_a society_n the_o most_o strong_o band_v and_o cement_v yet_o be_v not_o sufficient_a because_o there_o be_v not_o that_o consciousness_n or_o mutual_a knowledge_n of_o and_o consent_n in_o one_o another_o faith_n and_o worship_n in_o distant_a part_n of_o the_o world_n that_o be_v necessary_a to_o the_o glorify_v god_n and_o christ_n in_o particular_a church_n this_o be_v one_o great_a reason_n too_o why_o the_o church-triumphant_a though_o inseparable_o unite_v with_o the_o church-militant_a and_o every_o part_n of_o it_o though_o more_o acceptable_a and_o prevalent_a in_o all_o its_o adoration_n yet_o can_v be_v communicate_v with_o actual_o and_o explicit_o we_o may_v not_o solicit_v such_o a_o communion_n with_o it_o here_o on_o earth_n because_o we_o be_v not_o conscious_a or_o know_v of_o any_o such_o particularity_n in_o their_o state_n or_o action_n as_o shall_v ground_v it_o nor_o be_v we_o assure_v that_o they_o be_v conscious_a of_o any_o of_o our_o particularity_n abraham_n the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n be_v for_o aught_o we_o know_v whole_o ignorant_a who_o we_o be_v when_o we_o pray_v or_o be_v exercise_v religious_o there_o be_v a_o thick_a and_o dark_a veil_n draw_v betwixt_o the_o church_n in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n as_o to_o such_o particular_a communion_n the_o father_n the_o son_n the_o holy_a spirit_n be_v only_o certain_o and_o particular_o know_v to_o we_o in_o that_o high_a region_n of_o they_o we_o be_v only_o assure_v they_o know_v we_o and_o all_o our_o action_n to_o ascribe_v the_o honour_n to_o any_o other_o of_o the_o invisible_a church_n be_v to_o idolise_v they_o as_o well_o as_o to_o thrust_v into_o thing_n we_o have_v not_o see_v or_o know_v thus_o free_o i_o acknowledge_v the_o closeness_n and_o easiness_n of_o society_n of_o mutual_a understanding_n and_o consent_n with_o one_o another_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o particular_a church_n those_o duty_n of_o mutual_a exhortation_n assistance_n counsel_n and_o when_o it_o be_v necessary_a reproof_n one_o of_o another_o beside_o the_o constant_a meeting_n in_o public_a worship_n that_o necessary_a severity_n of_o disow_v in_o case_n of_o great_a or_o incorrigible_a offence_n such_o person_n as_o walk_v in_o practice_n contrary_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o christianity_n not_o be_v possible_a but_o in_o the_o near_a conjunction_n one_o with_o another_o that_o the_o state_n of_o mankind_n allow_v at_o the_o same_o time_n to_o be_v as_o
their_o hand_n to_o guard_v they_o in_o all_o their_o way_n that_o they_o may_v not_o dâ—â—h_v their_o foot_n against_o any_o of_o the_o stone_n of_o scandal_n they_o be_v minister_a spirit_n send_v forth_o to_o minister_n for_o they_o that_o shall_v be_v heir_n of_o salvation_n those_o great_a in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n humble_a themselves_o as_o little_a one_o to_o serve_v the_o little_a one_o of_o god_n and_o christ_n and_o as_o their_o angel_n they_o always_o behold_v in_o heaven_n the_o father_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o of_o all_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o that_o whoever_o despise_v they_o even_o to_o scandal_n must_v be_v sure_a to_o have_v it_o remonstrate_v against_o they_o 2._o he_o exemplify_v the_o care_n of_o they_o in_o himself_o the_o son_n of_o man_n be_v come_v to_o seek_v and_o save_v that_o which_o be_v lose_v and_o the_o argument_n be_v raise_v to_o the_o height_n as_o it_o be_v exemplify_v in_o the_o father_n of_o the_o whole_a family_n in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n name_v after_o christ_n who_o will_v it_o be_v not_o that_o so_o much_o as_o one_o and_o yet_o when_o one_o only_o be_v in_o the_o danger_n of_o scandal_n who_o do_v not_o look_v upon_o he_o as_o a_o singularist_n especial_o if_o one_o of_o the_o least_o too_o and_o reject_v he_o shall_v perish_v but_o be_v please_v in_o the_o preservation_n of_o one_o such_o even_o as_o the_o joy_n of_o one_o sheep_n that_o be_v lose_v out_o of_o a_o hundred_o exceed_v sensible_o the_o joy_n of_o the_o ninety_o nine_o that_o be_v not_o in_o hazard_n but_o now_o lest_o the_o great_a charge_n against_o scandalize_a and_o despise_v shall_v seem_v to_o introduce_v a_o lawless_a state_n in_o christianity_n and_o increase_v petulancy_n and_o licentiousness_n in_o those_o who_o will_v be_v look_v upon_o as_o at_o least_o little_a one_o in_o christianity_n or_o make_v the_o care_n of_o not_o scandalize_a of_o endless_a scruple_n or_o burden_n our_o lord_n prescribe_v a_o method_n for_o prevent_v so_o ill_a consequence_n very_o certain_a to_o its_o end_n yet_o very_o far_o from_o scandal_n or_o despise_v a_o method_n that_o allow_v no_o sin_n and_o yet_o desert_n none_n till_o they_o deserve_v to_o be_v account_v but_o as_o heathen_n or_o publican_n to_o who_o yet_o a_o due_a measure_n of_o christian_a charity_n be_v to_o be_v preserve_v which_o method_n it_o be_v not_o my_o business_n now_o to_o enter_v into_o the_o controversal_a part_n of_o but_o to_o observe_v as_o of_o great_a moment_n that_o the_o doubt_v of_o the_o lawful_a use_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n in_o religion_n fall_v not_o into_o the_o account_n of_o any_o of_o those_o trespass_n the_o lord_n speak_v of_o and_o that_o as_o if_o it_o be_v on_o purpose_n lest_o the_o thing_n shall_v be_v mistake_v a_o most_o different_a method_n be_v in_o that_o case_n command_v by_o the_o apostle_n of_o the_o lord_n here_o therefore_o give_v i_o liberty_n to_o compare_v in_o some_o thing_n which_o i_o have_v omit_v in_o the_o body_n of_o the_o discourse_n the_o sermon_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o his_o apostle_n first_o he_o that_o doubt_v in_o indifferent_a thing_n and_o can_v conform_v to_o what_o other_o do_v and_o will_v be_v conform_v to_o in_o be_v not_o command_v by_o the_o apostle_n to_o hear_v the_o one_o or_o the_o two_o or_o three_o nor_o the_o church_n itself_o nor_o be_v it_o say_v by_o the_o apostle_n they_o that_o will_v not_o hear_v on_o such_o account_n shall_v be_v as_o heathen-man_n or_o publican_n or_o as_o we_o speak_v excommunicate_a both_o which_o be_v very_o notorious_a in_o the_o evangelist_n record_n in_o the_o case_n of_o the_o trespass_n there_o speak_v of_o which_o assure_v we_o they_o be_v of_o another_o nature_n nor_o do_v the_o apostle_n urge_v as_o from_o our_o saviour_n that_o what_o be_v in_o these_o case_n bind_v on_o earth_n shall_v be_v bind_v in_o heaven_n or_o what_o be_v loose_v on_o earth_n shall_v be_v loose_v in_o heaven_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v any_o obligation_n on_o the_o doubt_a conscience_n by_o the_o church_n canon_n or_o any_o such_o discharge_n of_o it_o before_o god_n or_o itself_o by_o obey_v they_o but_o every_o man_n in_o this_o case_n be_v to_o hear_v his_o own_o conscience_n there_o every_o thing_n of_o this_o nature_n be_v bind_v and_o loose_v there_o every_o word_n or_o matter_n be_v hear_v and_o establish_v on_o the_o other_o side_n there_o be_v no_o injunction_n of_o tell_v the_o fault_n of_o nonconformity_n if_o any_o be_v aggrieve_v at_o it_o in_o that_o gradation_n from_o one_o to_o more_o and_o so_o to_o the_o church_n but_o the_o apostle_n command_n be_v first_o not_o to_o judge_n or_o despise_v if_o that_o may_v keep_v indifferent_n to_o their_o equipoise_n if_o not_o the_o command_n be_v not_o so_o much_o as_o by_o example_n to_o scandalize_v or_o draw_v any_o that_o doubt_v to_o act_v against_o or_o over_o their_o doubt_n in_o indifferent_a thing_n because_o they_o be_v but_o indifferent_a for_o that_o be_v to_o sin_n against_o the_o brethren_n the_o weak_a brethren_n as_o at_o the_o least_o we_o esteem_v they_o now_o in_o these_o case_n to_o sin_n against_o the_o brethren_n be_v to_o sin_n against_o christ_n in_o his_o law_n against_o scandal_n now_o in_o that_o all_o thing_n be_v of_o so_o diverse_a a_o frame_n and_o aspect_n in_o the_o lord_n prescription_n concern_v trespass_n and_o the_o apostle_n direction_n in_o case_n of_o various_a apprehension_n in_o thing_n of_o indifferency_n wherein_o one_o great_a part_n may_v be_v guilty_a yet_o of_o great_a weakness_n and_o mistake_n and_o that_o none_o of_o the_o method_n order_v in_o the_o one_o be_v so_o much_o as_o mention_v in_o the_o other_o or_o once_o intimate_v it_o argue_v very_o evident_o that_o variety_n and_o as_o various_a practice_n in_o indifferent_a thing_n though_o join_v with_o such_o mistake_n and_o weakness_n be_v none_o of_o the_o trespass_n our_o saviour_n have_v regard_n to_o and_o since_o the_o apostle_n put_v all_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o scandal_n wherein_o the_o weak_a part_n be_v either_o draw_v into_o sin_n enfeeble_v in_o the_o vigour_n disquiet_v in_o the_o true_a peace_n of_o conscience_n or_o so_o much_o as_o despise_v by_o be_v incompassionate_o neglect_v in_o his_o doubt_n the_o whole_a case_n be_v bring_v under_o the_o force_n of_o our_o saviour_n sermon_n against_o scandal_n that_o none_o look_v upon_o themselves_o on_o any_o account_n as_o great_a in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n in_o the_o church_n or_o in_o the_o christian_a profession_n let_v those_o account_n be_v whatever_o they_o can_v be_v presume_v to_o be_v shall_v by_o any_o sort_n of_o imperiousness_n whether_o command_n rigorous_a treaty_n or_o example_n that_o despise_v all_o that_o do_v not_o follow_v it_o impose_v upon_o the_o little_a one_o to_o all_o which_o let_v i_o have_v the_o reader_n patience_n to_o add_v this_o one_o observation_n that_o the_o evangelist_n mark_n make_v the_o occasion_n of_o this_o or_o a_o like_a discourse_n of_o the_o lord_n upon_o scandal_n that_o the_o disciple_n be_v much_o displease_v that_o one_o do_v cast_v out_o devil_n in_o christ_n name_n that_o do_v not_o follow_v they_o that_o do_v not_o seem_v and_o indeed_o be_v not_o of_o their_o way_n in_o the_o appearance_n of_o thing_n but_o our_o lord_n with_o great_a compassion_n accept_v he_o so_o far_o as_o he_o be_v come_v for_o say_v he_o he_o that_o be_v not_o against_o we_o be_v on_o our_o part_n he_o that_o although_o in_o a_o different_a company_n or_o mode_n do_v the_o same_o thing_n we_o do_v and_o do_v nothing_o in_o opposition_n to_o our_o great_a design_n be_v on_o our_o side_n and_o so_o he_o proceed_v into_o a_o similar_v discourse_n of_o kindness_n to_o or_o scandal_n against_o his_o disciple_n though_o little_a one_o and_o if_o we_o suppose_v it_o the_o same_o discourse_n as_o in_o st._n matthew_n and_o that_o this_o evangelist_n have_v not_o a_o accurate_a regard_n to_o the_o occasion_n yet_o in_o that_o he_o connect_v it_o with_o such_o a_o occasion_n and_o that_o by_o the_o divine_a wisdom_n it_o teach_v we_o how_o much_o such_o a_o discourse_n be_v adjust_v to_o such_o a_o occasion_n for_o guide_v by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n the_o thing_n be_v so_o lay_v together_o now_o that_o the_o apostle_n have_v his_o eye_n upon_o these_o so_o famous_a discourse_n beside_o the_o reason_n i_o have_v give_v on_o this_o head_n in_o its_o due_a place_n it_o be_v evident_a to_o i_o further_o he_o have_v so_o by_o his_o representation_n of_o himself_o in_o a_o figure_n all_o along_o the_o nine_o chap._n of_o his_o first_o epistle_n to_o the_o corinth_n in_o the_o very_a heart_n of_o a_o discourse_n concern_v scandal_n as_o that_o person_n that_o humble_v himself_o as_o a_o little_a child_n in_o
craftiness_n whereby_o they_o lie_v in_o 14._o eccles_n 4._o 14._o wait_n to_o deceive_v but_o follow_v the_o truth_n in_o love_n we_o may_v grow_v up_o into_o he_o in_o all_o thing_n who_o be_v the_o head_n even_o christ_n from_o the_o whole_a body_n fit_o join_v together_o and_o compact_v by_o that_o which_o every_o joint_n supply_v according_a to_o the_o effectual_a work_n in_o the_o measure_n of_o every_o part_n make_v increase_v of_o the_o body_n to_o the_o edify_a itself_o in_o love_n be_v not_o carry_v about_o 9_o heb._n 13_o 9_o with_o divers_a and_o strange_a doctrine_n for_o it_o be_v a_o good_a thing_n that_o the_o heart_n be_v establish_v with_o grace_n not_o with_o meat_n which_o have_v not_o profit_v they_o that_o have_v be_v exercise_v therein_o 2._o that_o we_o have_v a_o true_a and_o sincere_a love_n of_o the_o divine_a law_n and_o our_o obedience_n to_o it_o the_o blessedness_n of_o which_o and_o its_o great_a preservation_n from_o scandal_n the_o psalmist_n thus_o describe_v bless_a be_v the_o man_n that_o walk_v not_o in_o the_o council_n of_o the_o ungodly_a nor_o stand_v in_o the_o way_n of_o sinner_n nor_o 1._o psal_n 1._o 1._o sit_v in_o the_o seat_n of_o the_o scornful_a but_o his_o delight_n be_v in_o the_o law_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o in_o that_o law_n do_v he_o meditate_v day_n and_o night_n and_o he_o shall_v be_v like_o the_o tree_n plant_v by_o the_o river_n of_o water_n that_o bring_v forth_o his_o fruit_n in_o due_a season_n his_o leaf_n also_o shall_v not_o wither_v and_o whatsoever_o he_o do_v shall_v prosper_v 3._o that_o we_o order_v all_o thing_n of_o indifferency_n in_o religion_n aright_o both_o as_o to_o the_o sense_n of_o our_o own_o mind_n and_o the_o edification_n of_o other_o to_o which_o purpose_n the_o apostle_n direction_n shall_v be_v always_o before_o we_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n be_v not_o meat_n nor_o drink_n but_o righteousness_n peace_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n let_v every_o man_n be_v full_o persuade_v in_o his_o own_o mind_n 22._o rom._n 14._o 5_o 17._o 1_o cor._n 10._o 22._o give_v no_o offence_n neither_o to_o the_o jew_n nor_o gentile_n nor_o to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n even_o as_o i_o please_v all_o man_n in_o all_o thing_n not_o seek_v my_o own_o profit_n but_o the_o profit_n of_o many_o that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v whoever_o thus_o serve_v christ_n be_v acceptable_a to_o god_n and_o approve_v of_o men._n finis_fw-la errata_fw-la several_a mispointings_a and_o literal_a mistake_n the_o candid_a reader_n be_v desire_v to_o observe_v and_o pardon_n and_o what_o be_v most_o injurious_a to_o the_o sense_n thus_o to_o correct_v page_n 6._o line_n 32._o for_o a_o read_v all_o p._n 13._o l._n 22._o for_o they_o r._n the._n p._n 17._o l._n 12._o deal_n not_o p._n 18._o l._n 11._o for_o at_o r._n with_o p._n 25._o l._n 30._o for_o he_o r_o any_o one_o p._n 27._o l._n 30._o for_o purity_n r._n party_n p._n 38._o l._n 4_o for_o righteous_a r._n weak_a p._n 44._o l._n 24._o deal_n they_o p._n 48._o l._n 17._o for_o rule_n r._n rate_n p._n 55._o l._n 22._o after_o be_v r._n not_o p._n 61._o l._n 9_o for_o sacrifice_n r._n sacrament_n p._n 76._o l._n 29._o for_o party_n r._n polity_n p._n 79._o l._n 11._o after_o just_o r._n may_n print_a for_o tho._n parkhurst_n the_o whole_a duty_n of_o a_o nation_n or_o national_a true_a religion_n argue_v and_o persuade_v upon_o great_a motive_n of_o scripture_n and_o reason_n conciliate_v to_o all_o moderate_a apprehension_n though_o differ_v in_o small_a thing_n and_o to_o the_o strict_a notion_n of_o church_n two_o book_n liberty_n of_o conscience_n in_o its_o order_n to_o universal_a peace_n impartial_o state_v and_o prove_v to_o be_v the_o just_a right_n and_o genuine_a effect_n of_o true_a natural_a and_o christian_a religion_n in_o immunity_n from_o penal-law_n church_n censure_n and_o private_a animosity_n a_o catholic_n catechism_n show_v the_o impossibility_n the_o catholic_n religion_n shall_v be_v vary_v to_o the_o degree_n of_o a_o thought_n from_o the_o measure_n leave_v seal_v by_o the_o apostle_n without_o the_o loss_n of_o truth_n and_o therefore_o the_o impossibility_n popery_n or_o whatever_o else_o be_v not_o find_v in_o scripture_n shall_v be_v catholic_n compose_v to_o the_o capacity_n of_o the_o mean_a that_o will_v but_o consider_v that_o they_o may_v know_v and_o be_v ready_a upon_o un-movable_a reason_n to_o give_v a_o apology_n or_o defensive_a answer_n for_o the_o catholic_n religion_n if_o they_o be_v indeed_o of_o it_o and_o be_v secure_v from_o temptation_n in_o time_n of_o danger_n 2_o pet._n i._o 12_o the_o present_a truth_n prov._n 22._o 21._o that_o i_o may_v make_v thou_o know_v the_o certainty_n of_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n that_o thou_o may_v answer_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n to_o they_o that_o send_v unto_o thou_o london_n print_v for_o tho._n parkhurst_n and_o will._n miller_n at_o the_o bible_n and_o three_o crown_n in_o cheapside_n and_o the_o acorn_n in_o st._n paul_n churchyard_n 1683._o the_o preface_n to_o the_o reader_n i_o call_v this_o a_o catechism_n because_o i_o design_v it_o a_o familiar_a instruction_n in_o fundamental_a truth_n resound_v the_o same_o thing_n from_o question_n to_o answer_n the_o easy_a way_n of_o convey_v truth_n and_o imprint_v it_o upon_o the_o mind_n of_o those_o that_o be_v even_o of_o the_o mean_a capacity_n but_o especial_o because_o the_o principle_n of_o it_o be_v to_o be_v daily_o so_o meditate_a upon_o ponder_v and_o apply_v to_o use_v as_o to_o be_v a_o perpetual_a sound_n in_o our_o ear_n and_o so_o to_o be_v proper_o style_v catechism_n for_o thing_n of_o such_o great_a weight_n as_o principle_n be_v must_v have_v as_o the_o most_o advantageous_a admission_n as_o the_o most_o deep_a and_o therefore_o leisurely_o insinuation_n as_o the_o most_o resolve_a adherence_n when_o find_v true_a and_o right_a which_o be_v buy_v the_o truth_n and_o not_o sell_v it_o so_o they_o must_v have_v the_o most_o easy_a and_o ready_a application_n to_o all_o their_o uses_n and_o end_v they_o must_v therefore_o be_v bind_v continual_o about_o our_o neck_n that_o when_o we_o go_v they_o may_v lead_v we_o that_o when_o we_o sleep_v they_o may_v keep_v we_o that_o when_o we_o wake_v they_o may_v talk_v with_o we_o prov._n 6._o 21_o 22._o i_o know_v the_o thing_n i_o have_v write_v can_v be_v due_o receive_v without_o much_o think_v and_o without_o that_o they_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n of_o a_o censorious_a rejection_n from_o the_o most_o or_o of_o a_o superficial_a unintelligent_a acceptance_n in_o the_o kind_a which_o be_v as_o bad_a as_o the_o other_o and_o therefore_o i_o present_v it_o as_o a_o catechism_n to_o those_o that_o shall_v at_o all_o approve_v it_o that_o they_o may_v be_v thorough_o verse_v in_o it_o and_o the_o sense_n of_o it_o grow_v domestic_a to_o they_o i_o call_v it_o a_o catholic_n catechism_n only_o with_o relation_n to_o the_o great_a subject_n it_o treat_v of_o the_o catholic_n religion_n and_o the_o catholic_n church_n in_o those_o thing_n wherein_o they_o be_v catholic_n or_o in_o which_o their_o catholickness_n consist_v that_o be_v that_o they_o be_v of_o god_n and_o that_o the_o whole_a society_n of_o holy_a and_o happy_a spirit_n be_v by_o that_o catholickness_n unite_v and_o close_o band_v with_o itself_o catholic_n as_o the_o epistle_n call_v catholic_n that_o be_v after_o some_o doubt_v assert_v to_o be_v divine_a of_o the_o public_a spirit_n of_o god_n and_o give_v that_o public_a doctrine_n in_o which_o the_o general_a assembly_n be_v one_o i_o have_v endeavour_v to_o contrive_v the_o question_n and_o answer_n so_o that_o the_o answer_n may_v be_v a_o apology_n or_o defensive_a answer_n of_o that_o catholic_n truth_n give_v a_o reason_n or_o a_o rational_a account_n to_o any_o demand_v that_o can_v be_v make_v upon_o it_o and_o it_o be_v the_o apology_n of_o that_o truth_n itself_o the_o apology_n it_o give_v and_o furnish_v we_o with_o for_o other_o can_v no_o man_n give_v truth_n can_v need_v no_o other_o than_o its_o native_a apology_n for_o itself_o no_o other_o will_v it_o accept_v to_o give_v this_o and_o to_o be_v always_o ready_a to_o give_v it_o to_o keep_v it_o within_o we_o and_o to_o have_v it_o fit_v to_o our_o lip_n be_v the_o proper_a fruit_n of_o such_o a_o catechetical_a instruction_n and_o the_o apostle_n assure_v we_o it_o be_v the_o great_a duty_n of_o christianity_n and_o the_o great_a honour_n we_o can_v do_v to_o god_n first_o to_o sanctify_v he_o in_o our_o heart_n by_o a_o full_a acknowledgement_n of_o he_o in_o his_o divine_a truth_n by_o a_o plerophory_n or_o full_a assurance_n of_o understanding_n in_o the_o mystery_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o father_n and_o
creature_n without_o sin_n yet_o he_o be_v make_v with_o a_o possibility_n of_o high_a advancement_n and_o perfection_n as_o he_o be_v of_o fall_v from_o his_o present_a perfection_n by_o not_o adhere_v to_o his_o creator_n according_a to_o what_o be_v reveal_v to_o he_o quest_n what_o relation_n do_v these_o two_o record_n bear_v to_o one_o another_o be_v both_o of_o god_n answ_n it_o be_v therefore_o impossible_a they_o shall_v either_o of_o they_o one_o contradict_v another_o but_o that_o they_o unite_v with_o confirm_v and_o justify_v one_o another_o and_o one_o pass_v out_o of_o and_o repass_v into_o another_o but_o the_o latter_a being_n more_o full_a clear_a and_o perfect_a make_v not_o only_o the_o addition_n of_o what_o be_v not_o contain_v in_o the_o former_a but_o do_v much_o inlighten_v and_o clear_v it_o and_o since_o the_o fall_n it_o be_v not_o where_o else_o perfect_o to_o be_v find_v but_o in_o revelation_n yet_o so_o that_o whatever_o of_o it_o remain_v or_o be_v reinkindle_v by_o revelation_n do_v both_o prepare_v a_o man_n to_o receive_v and_o do_v also_o assure_v he_o the_o truth_n of_o divine_a revelation_n quest_n you_o have_v show_v with_o what_o wisdom_n goodness_n and_o excellent_a contrivance_n all_o thing_n be_v lay_v by_o the_o creator_n let_v i_o now_o hear_v from_o you_o the_o use_v i_o be_o to_o make_v of_o it_o answ_n this_o teach_v we_o to_o adore_v applaud_v the_o fidelity_n and_o goodness_n of_o our_o holy_a maker_n and_o to_o confess_v whatever_o disorder_n have_v invade_v this_o state_n of_o thing_n be_v owe_v altogether_o to_o the_o perverseness_n and_o weakness_n of_o man_n who_o destruction_n be_v of_o himself_o alone_o and_o his_o help_n only_o in_o god_n return_v he_o to_o himself_o according_a to_o this_o first_o designation_n quest_n what_o then_o be_v the_o supreme_a end_n of_o this_o public_a and_o catholic_n religion_n answ_n god_n the_o universal_a be_v receive_v into_o his_o own_o most_o public_a glory_n life_n and_o happiness_n the_o universe_n of_o his_o holy_a creation_n be_v praise_v glorify_v enjoy_v and_o admire_v in_o they_o and_o by_o they_o to_o eternity_n cap._n ii_o of_o the_o violation_n of_o this_o catholic_n order_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o mean_v provide_v by_o god_n to_o restore_v it_o quest_n how_o do_v a_o change_n begin_v in_o this_o catholic_n state_n of_o religion_n in_o the_o place_n of_o which_o we_o now_o see_v endless_a schism_n and_o confusion_n answ_n the_o fall_v angel_n a_o high_a region_n of_o spirit_n be_v anathematise_v out_o of_o heaven_n settle_v in_o a_o black_a and_o detestable_a heresy_n and_o separation_n from_o god_n quest_n how_o do_v this_o affect_v man_n answ_n they_o immediate_o endeavour_v upon_o humane_a nature_n be_v new_o breathe_v from_o god_n and_o receive_v into_o society_n with_o himself_o and_o all_o bless_a spirit_n to_o propagate_v their_o own_o malignancy_n into_o it_o in_o our_o first_o parent_n and_o to_o separate_v it_o with_o themselves_o from_o the_o creator_n and_o his_o happy_a public_a quest_n with_o what_o appearance_n be_v so_o malicious_a a_o attempt_n cover_v answ_n under_o the_o plausible_a disguise_n of_o man_n set_v up_o for_o happiness_n and_o become_v a_o public_a within_o himself_o without_o and_o against_o the_o divine_a oracle_n quest_n what_o be_v the_o mischievous_a design_n that_o lie_v hide_v under_o this_o answ_n to_o have_v enslave_v humane_a nature_n under_o perpetual_a vassalage_n to_o the_o pseudo-catholick_n synagogue_n of_o satan_n and_o to_o have_v depend_v upon_o a_o lie_n and_o the_o father_n of_o it_o for_o infallibility_n quest_n what_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o this_o hellish_a attempt_n answ_n too_o unhappy_o successful_a it_o be_v for_o draw_v our_o unwary_a progenitor_n from_o the_o royal_a law_n implant_v in_o their_o heart_n and_o render_v suspicious_a to_o they_o the_o oracle_n of_o the_o divine_a universal_a spirit_n they_o give_v heed_n to_o a_o unknown_a obscure_a spirit_n and_o to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o devil_n quest_n what_o be_v the_o dismal_a consequence_n of_o so_o monstrous_a a_o seduction_n answ_n they_o lose_v their_o place_n in_o the_o general_n assembly_n and_o church_n of_o the_o first-born_a write_v in_o heaven_n and_o forfeit_v it_o from_o all_o their_o posterity_n quest_n but_o do_v these_o excommunicate_a spirit_n prevail_v upon_o our_o first_o parent_n to_o become_v absolute_o and_o immediate_o of_o their_o separation_n answ_n no_o for_o god_n clothe_v himself_o in_o his_o son_n with_o the_o compassion_n of_o a_o mediator_n and_o redeemer_n lay_v hold_v upon_o humane_a nature_n as_o the_o head_n of_o its_o recovery_n in_o that_o very_a nature_n certain_o reconcile_a his_o own_o seed_n the_o seed_n of_o abraham_n or_o his_o church_n into_o a_o state_n more_o catholic_n than_o the_o first_o he_o god-man_n be_v so_o inseparable_o unite_v with_o it_o and_o with_o a_o redundance_n of_o grace_n to_o all_o mankind_n lay_v the_o foundation_n of_o their_o restoration_n to_o their_o first_o communion_n with_o advantage_n if_o build_v upon_o aright_o quest_n what_o be_v the_o foundation_n lay_v by_o the_o son_n of_o god_n the_o saviour_n of_o all_o man_n especial_o of_o they_o that_o believe_v for_o the_o restore_v they_o to_o the_o first_o catholic_n state_n of_o religion_n answ_n the_o very_a same_o that_o be_v ordain_v by_o god_n before_o the_o fall_n viz._n the_o law_n of_o natural_a religion_n preserve_v in_o the_o soul_n with_o direct_a aspect_n upon_o god_n obligation_n to_o serve_v he_o and_o desire_v of_o his_o favour_n and_o when_o man_n find_v himself_o in_o a_o fall_v estate_n and_o under_o gild_n and_o yet_o that_o god_n spare_v he_o and_o have_v patience_n with_o he_o there_o must_v needs_o arise_v from_o true_a reason_n hope_n of_o and_o desire_v after_o his_o mercy_n and_o pardon_n and_o motion_n of_o return_n to_o he_o by_o repentance_n as_o be_v plain_a in_o the_o king_n of_o nineveh_n 2._o revelation_n most_o exact_o suit_v to_o our_o recovery_n out_o of_o that_o miserable_a estate_n with_o which_o god_n immediate_o succour_v our_o first_o parent_n against_o despair_n for_o that_o be_v the_o word_n of_o promise_n in_o relief_n against_o satan_n take_v possession_n of_o man_n as_o his_o spoil_n the_o seed_n of_o the_o woman_n shall_v break_v the_o serpent_n head_n a_o everlasting_a enmity_n be_v immediate_o kindle_v between_o they_o quest_n who_o be_v the_o supreme_a superintendent_n mission_v or_o send_v in_o the_o son_n name_n to_o negotiate_v our_o return_n to_o and_o preserve_v ourselves_o in_o the_o true_a catholic_n religion_n answ_n the_o divine_a spirit_n alone_o conduct_v we_o by_o heavenly_a assistance_n enlighten_v we_o in_o the_o uncorrupted_a principle_n of_o natural_a religion_n by_o reveal_v and_o assure_v to_o we_o reveal_v religion_n by_o its_o intimate_v union_n with_o natural_a and_o enable_v we_o to_o cut_v the_o line_n of_o the_o one_o run_v into_o the_o other_o with_o innumerable_a maze_n of_o union_n sometime_o prepare_v we_o for_o reveal_v religion_n by_o natural_a always_o to_o the_o true_a natural_a by_o reveal_v and_o so_o confirm_v they_o to_o we_o by_o one_o another_o quest_n you_o have_v make_v no_o mention_n of_o creation_n providence_n evidence_n of_o divine_a presence_n and_o miracle_n what_o place_v they_o have_v in_o the_o renewal_n of_o man_n state_n towards_o god_n by_o the_o redeemer_n answ_n these_o be_v all_o in_o the_o very_a same_o place_n they_o be_v in_o the_o first_o settlement_n attend_v the_o doctrine_n and_o divine_a law_n they_o be_v to_o seal_v with_o assurance_n they_o be_v divine_a and_o give_v the_o image_n and_o likeness_n of_o that_o law_n in_o the_o power_n majesty_n rectitude_n and_o order_n they_o themselves_o carry_v and_o so_o testify_v of_o god_n and_o his_o word_n of_o what_o excellency_n it_o be_v and_o that_o even_o before_o the_o reason_n of_o man_n as_o it_o be_v embody_a and_o minister_v to_o by_o his_o sense_n quest_n how_o shall_v there_o be_v a_o distinction_n betwixt_o miracle_n and_o lie_a wonder_n that_o impose_v on_o man_n answ_n there_o can_v be_v no_o counterfeit_n of_o creation_n and_o providence_n the_o universal_a miracle_n and_o all_o true_a divine_a miracle_n be_v like_o they_o general_o in_o their_o beneficence_n to_o the_o world_n beside_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o doctrine_n they_o come_v along_o with_o manifest_o distinguish_v they_o cap._n iii_o of_o the_o uncontroversible_a law_n of_o natural_a religion_n quest_n there_o have_v be_v so_o much_o of_o account_n give_v in_o general_a of_o public_a and_o catholic_n religion_n show_v that_o it_o can_v be_v no_o other_o than_o what_o be_v from_o god_n it_o be_v now_o necessary_a to_o enter_v into_o a_o more_o particular_a consideration_n and_o first_o what_o it_o be_v that_o remain_v certain_a and_o evident_o public_a or_o that_o be_v of_o god_n in_o the_o law_n write_v upon_o
foundation_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n jesus_n christ_n himself_o be_v the_o chief_a cornerstone_n quest_n how_o then_o be_v it_o say_v to_o be_v the_o pillar_n of_o truth_n and_o of_o what_o importance_n be_v that_o to_o the_o actuate_a scripture_n answ_n as_o the_o law_n and_o ordinance_n of_o court_n and_o government_n be_v public_o fix_v that_o every_o one_o may_v know_v and_o take_v notice_n of_o they_o so_o the_o church_n in_o all_o its_o member_n but_o especial_o by_o depute_a minister_n give_v themselves_o whole_o to_o it_o proclaim_v preach_v and_o make_v offer_v of_o the_o most_o public_a notice_n of_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n within_o itself_o that_o all_o the_o child_n and_o servant_n of_o the_o family_n may_v be_v continual_o catechise_v and_o build_v up_o therein_o and_o stranger_n have_v opportunity_n to_o know_v if_o they_o will_v apply_v themselves_o to_o it_o thus_o it_o be_v a_o famous_a city_n set_v on_o a_o hill_n that_o can_v be_v hide_v and_o therefore_o its_o law_n constitution_n manner_n can_v but_o in_o all_o reason_n be_v inquire_v of_o by_o all_o that_o do_v so_o much_o as_o pass_v by_o it_o it_o be_v a_o candlestick_n bear_v the_o lofty_a torch_n of_o divine_a truth_n of_o this_o the_o pillar_n of_o the_o temple_n at_o jerusalem_n and_o the_o affix_v to_o they_o the_o roll_n of_o divine_a revelation_n be_v a_o eminent_a type_n and_o allude_v to_o by_o the_o apostle_n as_o therefore_o from_o a_o prince_n come_v forth_o edict_n proclamation_n manifesto_n and_o declaration_n according_a to_o law_n which_o be_v fasten_v to_o public_a pillar_n of_o the_o court_n itself_o and_o all_o open_a and_o conspicuous_a place_n of_o concourse_n so_o be_v there_o in_o the_o church_n the_o most_o advantageous_a publication_n of_o the_o divine_a truth_n and_o word_n to_o all_o both_o the_o native_n and_o freeborn_a of_o the_o church_n itself_o and_o ingenuous_a stranger_n that_o will_v hearken_v out_o the_o most_o reasonable_a proposal_n of_o truth_n or_o who_o god_n be_v please_v to_o naturalize_v to_o himself_o quest_n what_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o church_n be_v the_o ground_n of_o truth_n and_o how_o do_v this_o actuate_v scripture_n answ_n it_o mean_v nothing_o but_o the_o perpetuity_n and_o continuation_n of_o truth_n with_o the_o church_n establish_v itself_o by_o all_o that_o firmness_n of_o divine_a evidence_n and_o reason_n and_o on_o those_o very_a security_n take_v possession_n of_o the_o church_n as_o the_o ark_n of_o its_o strength_n where_o itself_o or_o the_o god_n that_o be_v truth_n itself_o place_v the_o sole_n of_o his_o foot_n as_o on_o his_o unmovable_a footstool_n for_o ever_o of_o which_o the_o ark_n in_o the_o holâ—est_n be_v a_o type_n the_o footstool_n of_o the_o throne_n of_o mercy_n the_o secure_a repository_n of_o the_o table_n of_o the_o covenant_n the_o ark_n of_o testimony_n over_o which_o the_o shecinah_n or_o glory_n appear_v as_o enthrone_v attend_v with_o cherubim_n and_o set_v its_o foot_n upon_o it_o the_o place_n of_o my_o throne_n and_o the_o place_n of_o the_o sole_n of_o my_o foot_n ezek._n 43._o 7._o for_o thus_o the_o true_a church_n against_o which_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n can_v prevail_v be_v the_o unchangeable_a rest_n of_o truth_n it_o adhere_v to_o truth_n it_o buy_v the_o truth_n and_o never_o sell_v it_o truth_n dwell_v with_o it_o for_o ever_o god_n never_o suffer_v it_o to_o apostatise_v from_o truth_n but_o by_o the_o constant_a hold_v of_o the_o judgement_n and_o retain_v the_o love_n and_o zeal_n of_o the_o affection_n of_o those_o that_o be_v indeed_o his_o church_n he_o have_v settle_v his_o word_n in_o his_o church_n on_o earth_n even_o as_o it_o be_v for_o ever_o settle_v in_o heaven_n the_o church_n therefore_o actuate_v scripture_n by_o find_v out_o reason_n debate_v enforce_v defend_v by_o all_o argument_n that_o truth_n of_o scripture_n and_o so_o persist_v in_o it_o for_o ever_o quest_n can_v then_o the_o church_n fail_v answ_n it_o have_v be_v say_v before_o the_o true_a church_n can_v fail_v for_o the_o true_a church_n be_v as_o have_v be_v describe_v the_o house_n of_o god_n the_o pillar_n and_o ground_n of_o truth_n and_o that_o which_o be_v so_o can_v fail_v and_o god_n will_v have_v such_o a_o church_n always_o in_o the_o world_n if_o any_o person_n city_n or_o nation_n that_o seem_v to_o have_v be_v the_o church_n have_v this_o light_n eclipse_v the_o candlestiks_n remove_v for_o it_o be_v only_o a_o candlestick_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o the_o light_n and_o the_o pillar_n itself_o shake_v and_o fall_v if_o the_o record_v fix_v to_o it_o be_v take_v away_o and_o the_o palace_n and_o court_n remove_v with_o the_o prince_n who_o be_v always_o with_o his_o truth_n and_o the_o lively_a motion_n of_o it_o so_o much_o truth_n therefore_o and_o active_a display_v of_o it_o so_o much_o a_o church_n in_o any_o place_n and_o the_o truth_n remove_v or_o lie_v dead_a the_o church_n remove_v also_o or_o be_v ready_a to_o die_v in_o that_o place_n quest_n but_o be_v there_o no_o high_a sense_n of_o the_o church_n be_v the_o pillar_n and_o ground_n of_o truth_n answ_n no_o other_o but_o what_o arise_v from_o the_o most_o intimate_a and_o inseparable_a union_n betwixt_o the_o church_n and_o truth_n truth_n take_v a_o undefailable_a possession_n of_o the_o church_n so_o that_o wherever_o truth_n in_o that_o fullness_n as_o to_o lead_v to_o life_n and_o happiness_n be_v there_o be_v the_o church_n and_o no_o where_o else_o the_o true_a church_n then_o may_v be_v style_v a_o pillar_n and_o ground_n of_o truth_n in_o the_o high_a sense_n if_o right_o understand_v that_o be_v truth_n itself_o that_o be_v the_o unmovable_a pillar_n and_o everlasting_a foundation_n have_v so_o close_o band_v the_o church_n with_o itself_o that_o it_o be_v one_o pillar_n and_o foundation_n with_o it_o thus_o the_o church_n may_v be_v both_o the_o building_n and_o the_o rock_n and_o foundation_n to_o succeed_a part_n and_o member_n of_o the_o church_n the_o building_n as_o itself_o rest_v upon_o the_o pillar_n and_o foundation_n of_o truth_n else_o it_o can_v be_v the_o church_n the_o pillar_n and_o foundation_n of_o truth_n to_o the_o still_o succeed_a and_o rise_v church_n as_o it_o be_v one_o with_o truth_n itself_o to_o which_o every_o true_a member_n first_o come_v and_o unite_v and_o therein_o to_o the_o church_n even_o as_o every_o degree_n of_o building_n be_v a_o foundation_n and_o support_v to_o the_o still_o grow_a building_n not_o in_o itself_o but_o as_o it_o be_v sure_o cement_v to_o the_o foundation_n regulate_v by_o it_o and_o partake_v its_o strength_n yet_o if_o it_o swerve_v never_o so_o little_a from_o the_o foundation_n it_o be_v present_o a_o deformity_n and_o the_o more_o it_o swerve_v the_o great_a danger_n of_o the_o ruin_n of_o itself_o and_o all_o that_o rest_v upon_o it_o quest_n may_v not_o this_o help_n to_o explain_v that_o so_o much_o dispute_v expression_n of_o our_o saviour_n thou_o be_v peter_n and_o upon_o this_o rock_n i_o will_v build_v my_o church_n and_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o preval_fw-fr against_o it_o answ_n i_o shall_v be_v glad_a if_o it_o may_v give_v any_o light_n to_o it_o and_o hope_v it_o may_v for_o the_o apostle_n peter_n make_v that_o confession_n of_o the_o divinity_n of_o christ_n not_o singular_a but_o represent_v the_o whole_a body_n of_o apostle_n and_o christian_n and_o be_v possess_v with_o and_o by_o that_o truth_n he_o confess_v be_v both_o part_n of_o the_o building_n upon_o that_o rock_n and_o as_o unite_z with_o that_o rock_n he_o become_v rock_n itself_o upon_o which_o succeee_a christian_n be_v to_o be_v build_v the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n be_v in_o this_o sense_n foundation_n and_o the_o twelve_o apostle_n twelve_o foundation_n christ_n himself_o be_v the_o cornerstone_n in_o who_o alone_o the_o whole_a building_n even_o the_o apostolic_a foundation_n itself_o rise_v in_o a_o strict_a and_o proper_a sense_n quest_n be_v there_o not_o a_o good_a security_n then_o in_o join_v ourselves_o to_o the_o church_n to_o those_o that_o have_v be_v in_o the_o building_n before_o we_o answ_n no_o otherwise_o than_o as_o we_o join_v ourselves_o by_o their_o ministry_n to_o that_o foundation_n itself_o which_o always_o lie_v sure_a upon_o which_o they_o themselves_o must_v alone_o rest_v if_o the_o true_a church_n for_o by_o place_v ourselves_o not_o upon_o they_o but_o upon_o that_o common_a foundation_n we_o be_v adjust_v to_o the_o whole_a building_n that_o be_v before_o we_o that_o lie_v regular_a with_o that_o foundation_n by_o the_o care_n of_o he_o who_o be_v both_o the_o foundation_n cornerstone_n and_o be_v also_o he_o that_o build_v all_o thing_n even_o god_n in_o christ_n quest_n we_o must_v then_o seek_v to_o
they_o captive_a with_o the_o rest_n though_o in_o different_a basket_n as_o the_o prophet_n jeremy_n represent_v quest_n how_o do_v they_o survive_v in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o displace_v and_o deject_a candlestick_n answ_n they_o be_v either_o call_v out_o to_o a_o zealous_a appearance_n and_o suffer_v for_o truth_n or_o sometime_o retire_v into_o corner_n like_o the_o seven_o thousand_o in_o israel_n or_o the_o church_n in_o the_o wilderness_n that_o they_o can_v appear_v like_o a_o church_n offer_v those_o public_a notice_n of_o divine_a truth_n a_o church_n be_v design_v for_o quest_n how_o be_v a_o visible_a profession_n lose_v from_o particular_a person_n answ_n it_o be_v too_o often_o throw_v up_o by_o apostasy_n or_o profaneness_n or_o dwindle_v into_o a_o very_a spiritless_a form_n but_o very_o often_o a_o profession_n without_o the_o power_n be_v not_o inconsistent_a with_o the_o work_n of_o iniquity_n it_o may_v pass_v out_o of_o this_o world_n like_o a_o lamp_n burn_v but_o be_v find_v to_o burn_v only_o in_o a_o small_a temporary_a light_n without_o oil_n in_o the_o vessel_n a_o plenitude_n of_o grace_n in_o the_o heart_n shut_v out_o every_o lust_n it_o become_v a_o lamp_n put_v out_o in_o utter_a darkness_n quest_n what_o be_v to_o be_v infer_v from_o all_o this_o answ_n that_o there_o be_v no_o trust_n but_o in_o the_o lord_n himself_o the_o truth_n itself_o by_o which_o at_o all_o time_n the_o church_n that_o be_v indeed_o the_o pillar_n and_o ground_n of_o truth_n and_o wherein_o it_o be_v so_o will_v be_v know_v to_o we_o and_o in_o unite_n to_o truth_n we_o be_v unite_v to_o that_o quest_n there_o remain_v one_o thing_n yet_o to_o be_v understand_v in_o the_o description_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v its_o power_n of_o govern_v even_o as_o it_o be_v govern_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n under_o what_o notion_n i_o beseech_v you_o be_v that_o government_n express_v in_o scripture_n answ_n that_o power_n be_v by_o our_o saviour_n represent_v under_o the_o mataphor_n of_o key_n and_o the_o use_v of_o those_o key_n in_o open_v and_o shut_v or_o in_o bind_v and_o lose_v quest_n what_o be_v the_o meaning_n hereof_o answ_n the_o meaning_n be_v plain_o this_o when_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v by_o the_o key_n of_o knowledge_n inquire_v into_o all_o the_o divine_a and_o heavenly_a doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o word_n of_o god_n it_o have_v in_o and_o according_a to_o that_o word_n and_o only_o so_o a_o power_n of_o application_n of_o that_o doctrine_n to_o particular_a case_n bind_v man_n under_o the_o sense_n of_o gild_n and_o fear_v of_o damnation_n in_o such_o or_o such_o sin_n and_o a_o impenitent_a continuance_n in_o they_o or_o of_o absolve_v and_o assure_v man_n of_o the_o divine_a favour_n and_o acceptance_n in_o a_o holy_a course_n of_o life_n and_o obedience_n to_o god_n and_o of_o pardon_n upon_o repentance_n after_o fall_n into_o sin_n and_o disobedience_n and_o so_o of_o declare_v and_o pronounce_v upon_o man_n as_o to_o their_o present_a state_n in_o the_o church_n by_o excommunication_n or_o absolution_n all_o these_o be_v the_o power_n of_o bind_v and_o loose_v according_a to_o what_o our_o saviour_n speak_v in_o parallel_a word_n who_o sin_n you_o remit_v they_o be_v remit_v who_o sin_n you_o retain_v they_o be_v retain_v mean_v still_o according_a to_o his_o word_n the_o polestar_n by_o which_o they_o be_v to_o direct_v all_o their_o motion_n who_o claim_v any_o such_o power_n for_o only_o where_o it_o be_v declare_v according_a to_o the_o word_n be_v it_o that_o what_o be_v bind_v on_o earth_n be_v also_o bind_v in_o heaven_n and_o what_o be_v loose_v on_o earth_n be_v loose_v in_o heaven_n there_o be_v a_o invariable_a agreement_n between_o what_o be_v publish_v from_o heaven_n in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n concern_v the_o state_n and_o action_n of_o man_n on_o earth_n and_o the_o transaction_n in_o heaven_n in_o relation_n to_o they_o he_o than_o that_o pronounce_v agreeable_o with_o that_o word_n pronounce_v as_o heaven_n do_v and_o will_v pronounce_v heaven_n bind_v what_o he_o bind_v and_o lose_v what_o he_o lose_v because_o he_o speak_v the_o voice_n of_o heaven_n in_o both_o case_n but_o that_o there_o shall_v be_v any_o bind_v or_o loose_v except_o in_o the_o power_n of_o this_o word_n and_o according_a to_o it_o in_o its_o virtue_n in_o its_o truth_n nothing_o can_v be_v more_o contrary_a to_o the_o end_n to_o the_o glory_n to_o the_o sovereignty_n of_o christ_n to_o bind_v any_o single_a christian_a by_o excommunication_n and_o not_o according_a to_o this_o word_n be_v as_o much_o a_o brutum_fw-la fulmen_fw-la a_o thunder_n to_o no_o purpose_n a_o causeless_a curse_n that_o shall_v not_o come_v as_o for_o the_o pope_n to_o excommunicate_v whole_a protestant_a church_n quest_n what_o be_v a_o particular_a church_n answ_n it_o be_v the_o catholic_n church_n in_o a_o neighbourhood_n or_o number_n of_o christian_n communicate_v one_o with_o another_o ordinary_o even_o as_o the_o whole_a cotholick_a church_n will_v if_o it_o be_v possible_a communicate_v with_o itself_o in_o the_o ordinance_n and_o worship_n of_o christ_n exact_o according_a the_o to_o rule_n of_o his_o word_n wherein_o this_o be_v the_o distinguish_a character_n of_o the_o true_a church_n that_o its_o communion_n be_v not_o with_o itself_o primary_o but_o its_o communion_n be_v so_o with_o itself_o as_o to_o be_v with_o the_o father_n and_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ_n principal_o as_o the_o fountainhead_n centre_n and_o rule_n of_o the_o communion_n and_o therein_o it_o hold_v out_o and_o invite_v to_o its_o communion_n cap._n x._o of_o the_o officer_n appoint_v by_o christ_n in_o his_o church_n quest_n can_v there_o be_v either_o a_o orderly_a or_o a_o effectual_a actuation_n of_o the_o truth_n by_o the_o church_n as_o a_o congregation_n without_o distinct_a and_o separate_a office_n and_o officer_n that_o may_v attend_v continual_o on_o this_o very_a thing_n answ_n it_o be_v impossible_a for_o a_o assembly_n without_o order_n will_v cease_v to_o be_v a_o assembly_n and_o fall_v into_o a_o confusion_n or_o rude_a multitude_n all_o wise_a and_o prudent_a assembly_n have_v always_o have_v elder_n to_o preside_v over_o they_o and_o our_o lord_n have_v ordain_v such_o to_o moderate_v throughout_o his_o congregation_n or_o church_n to_o conduct_v all_o the_o public_a service_n of_o religion_n for_o all_o thing_n therein_o be_v actual_o administer_v by_o the_o minister_n of_o christ_n the_o noble_a organical_a part_n of_o the_o church_n like_o those_o sense_n that_o attend_v upon_o the_o understanding_n most_o immediate_o see_v eye_n and_o hear_v ear_n so_o these_o upon_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o they_o may_v be_v most_o fit_v engage_v and_o provoke_v hereunto_o they_o be_v even_o according_a to_o the_o very_a law_n of_o nature_n separate_v to_o their_o office_n and_o unto_o all_o preparation_n for_o they_o by_o read_v and_o meditation_n as_o to_o their_o proper_a call_v and_o business_n of_o life_n see_v they_o do_v not_o pretend_v to_o immediate_a and_o extraordinary_a inablement_n or_o excitation_n to_o their_o service_n quest_n what_o title_n or_o character_n do_v the_o new_a testament_n place_n upon_o these_o officer_n answ_n those_o that_o we_o have_v especial_a respect_n to_o for_o in_o the_o deacon_n if_o strict_o take_v we_o be_v less_o concern_v receive_v denomination_n either_o from_o their_o work_n and_o service_n or_o from_o that_o honour_n and_o estimation_n due_a to_o the_o faithful_a discharge_n of_o such_o a_o service_n from_o their_o work_n they_o be_v style_v apostle_n evangelist_n pastor_n teacher_n minister_n servant_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n and_o in_o a_o just_a sense_n of_o the_o church_n also_o from_o the_o estimation_n and_o honour_n due_a to_o the_o discharge_v of_o their_o work_n and_o the_o authority_n it_o ought_v to_o carry_v in_o the_o heart_n and_o conscience_n of_o christian_n they_o be_v style_v bishop_n elder_n ruler_n guide_n and_o ensample_n as_o also_o ambassador_n and_o the_o work_n and_o the_o honour_n do_v so_o enclose_v one_o another_o that_o they_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v separate_v and_o be_v in_o their_o institution_n the_o measure_n one_o of_o another_o extend_v both_o to_o obedience_n and_o support_v of_o they_o in_o their_o work_n and_o the_o title_n be_v so_o prepare_v by_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n that_o they_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v change_v for_o any_o other_o nor_o the_o scripture_n language_n herein_o to_o be_v alter_v for_o any_o word_n not_o import_v the_o same_o proper_a sense_n quest_n how_o shall_v the_o true_a minister_n of_o christ_n be_v know_v that_o there_o may_v be_v that_o obedience_n and_o submission_n pay_v to_o they_o that_o be_v command_v answ_n there_o can_v be_v no_o other_o mean_n to_o
digest_v their_o reason_n and_o take_v in_o the_o light_n they_o judge_v by_o so_o as_o to_o make_v it_o their_o own_o else_o if_o they_o can_v find_v their_o reason_n nor_o acquit_v themselves_o from_o doubt_n they_o must_v suspend_v for_o a_o christian_n be_v command_v by_o his_o lord_n to_o call_v no_o man_n upon_o earth_n master_n or_o father_n quest_n what_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o that_o answ_n it_o be_v this_o very_a thing_n that_o we_o shall_v receive_v nothing_o as_o doctrine_n or_o indisputable_a truth_n or_o precept_n upon_o any_o man_n word_n that_o do_v not_o offer_v such_o reason_n and_o authority_n from_o god_n and_o his_o word_n that_o we_o ourselves_o see_v reason_n not_o to_o receive_v it_o as_o the_o word_n of_o man_n but_o of_o god_n quest_n but_o be_v it_o not_o say_v that_o they_o that_o have_v the_o rule_n over_o we_o watch_v for_o our_o soul_n as_o they_o that_o must_v give_v a_o account_n for_o the_o same_o if_o we_o be_v not_o to_o believe_v they_o and_o surrender_v our_o judgement_n to_o they_o how_o can_v they_o give_v a_o account_n answ_n they_o that_o rule_n over_o we_o watch_v for_o our_o soul_n and_o must_v give_v a_o account_n as_o ezekiel_n prophet_n and_o watchman_n by_z giving_z warn_v lay_v truth_n before_o we_o offer_v the_o sincere_a word_n of_o god_n in_o all_o case_n the_o success_n of_o which_o upon_o soul_n convert_v and_o save_v be_v their_o crown_n and_o glory_n and_o their_o unsuccess_n look_v like_o a_o sorrow_n to_o see_v those_o soul_n lose_v for_o who_o they_o labour_v in_o vain_a and_o spend_v their_o strength_n upon_o they_o for_o nought_o yet_o so_o that_o if_o they_o have_v be_v faithful_a though_o without_o success_n their_o reward_n be_v with_o the_o lord_n and_o their_o work_n with_o god_n but_o notwithstanding_o this_o every_o man_n be_v so_o to_o account_v for_o his_o own_o soul_n that_o the_o very_a success_n be_v not_o a_o blind_a obedience_n to_o ruler_n but_o as_o be_v say_v a_o receive_v the_o word_n not_o as_o the_o word_n of_o man_n but_o as_o it_o be_v indeed_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o if_o these_o watchman_n neglect_v their_o duty_n or_o seduce_v instead_o of_o teach_v man_n be_v to_o apply_v to_o better_a mean_n afford_v by_o god_n and_o if_o they_o do_v not_o they_o still_o die_v in_o their_o iniquity_n and_o follow_v their_o blind_a leader_n fall_v into_o the_o pit_n which_o be_v a_o unanswerable_a argument_n that_o we_o may_v trust_v in_o no_o man_n but_o in_o god_n only_o for_o if_o a_o implicit_a faith_n can_v be_v a_o save_a faith_n it_o shall_v save_v those_o that_o follow_v such_o guide_n though_o they_o themselves_o be_v just_o condemn_v in_o not_o discharge_v their_o trust_n quest_n but_o be_v not_o the_o apostle_n and_o prophet_n to_o be_v trust_v at_o a_o high_a rate_n than_o thus_o answ_n no_o there_o be_v such_o evident_a mark_n of_o divine_a doctrine_n always_o give_v by_o god_n to_o those_o that_o desire_v to_o know_v love_n and_o obey_v he_o that_o even_o the_o very_a prophet_n and_o apostle_n be_v not_o to_o be_v receive_v without_o they_o nor_o to_o be_v believe_v but_o according_a to_o they_o nay_o to_o be_v plain_o anathematise_v if_o they_o vary_v from_o it_o christian_n be_v therefore_o to_o judge_v to_o try_v the_o spirit_n to_o search_v the_o scripture_n whether_o the_o thing_n speak_v be_v so_o to_o have_v recourse_n to_o undoubted_a principle_n of_o truth_n that_o be_v as_o standard_n to_o all_o that_o come_v after_o beside_o the_o unction_n from_o the_o holy_a one_o whereby_o they_o be_v enable_v to_o know_v all_o thing_n necessary_a to_o salvation_n quest_n but_o be_v not_o all_o humane_a teach_v and_o instruction_n hereby_o take_v away_o and_o what_o become_v of_o the_o ministry_n the_o eldership_n of_o the_o church_n and_o their_o rule_n answ_n they_o be_v all_o hereby_o establish_v for_o they_o be_v the_o ordination_n of_o god_n to_o this_o very_a purpose_n to_o make_v man_n see_v to_o bring_v they_o light_n to_o clear_a thing_n to_o they_o that_o by_o the_o awaken_n their_o judgement_n the_o summon_n and_o collect_v their_o principle_n they_o may_v see_v with_o their_o own_o eye_n the_o way_n of_o god_n and_o religion_n the_o holy_a spirit_n gracious_o adjoin_v itself_o to_o their_o ministry_n they_o have_v no_o dominion_n over_o their_o faith_n but_o be_v helper_n of_o their_o joy_n that_o be_v they_o facilitate_v and_o make_v pleasant_a the_o knowledge_n and_o assurance_n of_o religion_n and_o they_o rule_v by_o exhort_v admonish_a rebuke_v comfort_v and_o even_o command_v in_o the_o evidence_n of_o divine_a authority_n on_o account_n of_o which_o they_o be_v to_o be_v obey_v and_o high_o esteem_v for_o their_o work_n sake_n notwithstanding_o all_o this_o no_o man_n be_v exclude_v from_o his_o own_o office_n to_o himself_o for_o every_o particular_a christian_a be_v in_o some_o sense_n a_o congregation_n and_o preacher_n to_o himself_o as_o solomon_n his_o conscience_n have_v the_o key_n bind_v and_o lose_v within_o itself_o nay_o christian_n be_v not_o exclude_v from_o rule_n in_o the_o church_n when_o they_o have_v the_o word_n of_o god_n on_o their_o side_n they_o may_v plead_v and_o reason_n with_o their_o mother_n hos_n 2._o 2._o when_o they_o have_v more_o understanding_n than_o their_o teacher_n or_o the_o ruler_n rule_v not_o according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n they_o that_o speak_v according_a to_o the_o law_n and_o the_o testimony_n even_o rule_v their_o ruler_n and_o prove_v the_o more_o noble_a organ_n of_o the_o church_n when_o those_o that_o shall_v rule_v it_o be_v as_o the_o idol_n eye_n that_o see_v not_o ear_n that_o hear_v not_o or_o as_o the_o idol_n shepherd_n a_o blast_n be_v upon_o their_o right_a hand_n and_o right-eye_n that_o their_o arm_n be_v clean_o dry_v up_o and_o their_o eye_n utter_o darken_v the_o most_o naked_a unfurnished_a christian_a with_o outward_a accomplishment_n that_o yet_o know_v the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v among_o the_o prophet_n in_o such_o a_o time_n of_o necessity_n cap._n xii_o of_o schism_n and_o scandal_n quest_n from_o the_o precedent_a discourse_n of_o the_o church_n i_o conceive_v the_o true_a notion_n of_o schism_n may_v be_v deduce_v i_o desire_v you_o therefore_o to_o explain_v what_o the_o true_a nature_n of_o schism_n be_v answ_n the_o question_n concern_v the_o nature_n of_o schism_n follow_v very_o pertinent_o upon_o the_o right_a settlement_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o church_n now_o the_o whole_a be_v of_o the_o church_n consist_v in_o its_o union_n to_o god_n and_o christ_n in_o love_n according_a to_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o word_n and_o that_o it_o receive_v all_o its_o member_n into_o union_n with_o itself_o by_o their_o be_v first_o unite_v as_o itself_o be_v schism_n which_o be_v division_n must_v needs_o in_o its_o strict_a and_o most_o formal_a notion_n be_v a_o division_n from_o that_o truth_n wherein_o the_o whole_a church_n be_v one_o and_o so_o from_o the_o love_n consequent_a upon_o such_o a_o union_n quest_n what_o be_v that_o truth_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n in_o which_o the_o church_n be_v one_o answ_n the_o truth_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o god_n or_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n in_o thing_n to_o be_v believe_v and_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o law_n and_o command_n in_o thing_n to_o be_v do_v quest_n how_o be_v the_o love_n of_o the_o church_n unite_v in_o these_o answ_n it_o be_v a_o love_n in_o the_o truth_n and_o hereby_o we_o know_v we_o love_v the_o brethren_n when_o we_o love_v god_n and_o keep_v his_o commandment_n john_n epist_n 2._o no_o love_n how_o great_a soever_o be_v christian-love_n nor_o union_n how_o close_o soever_o christian-union_n if_o it_o be_v not_o in_o the_o truth_n and_o commandment_n of_o god_n from_o whence_o it_o necessary_o follow_v the_o schism_n that_o be_v a_o schism_n from_o the_o church_n must_v be_v a_o disunion_n from_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o scripture_n and_o the_o love_n spring_v from_o that_o faith_n and_o there_o be_v no_o danger_n of_o any_o other_o schism_n from_o the_o church_n as_o it_o be_v a_o church_n quest_n how_o do_v schism_n differ_v from_o heresy_n answ_n heresy_n in_o the_o high_a sense_n and_o worst_a sense_n of_o it_o be_v a_o disunion_n from_o truth_n in_o some_o fundamental_a and_o grand_a concernment_n of_o religion_n either_o in_o the_o doctrine_n or_o command_v of_o god_n so_o that_o a_o man_n be_v subvert_v and_o sin_v and_o must_v needs_o be_v condemn_v of_o a_o separation_n from_o the_o assembly_n of_o truth_n both_o by_o himself_o and_o the_o thing_n itself_o and_o that_o both_o as_o to_o faith_n and_o christian-love_n he_o be_v so_o separate_v schism_n be_v a_o disunion_n in_o some_o less_o momentous_a part_n
honour_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o schism_n in_o the_o body_n but_o that_o the_o member_n shall_v have_v the_o same_o care_n one_o for_o another_o under_o this_o elegant_a shade_n the_o apostle_n teach_v that_o a_o neglect_n and_o a_o contemptuous_a overlook_a the_o right_n and_o interest_n of_o the_o low_a and_o less_o honourable_a member_n in_o the_o church_n incur_v the_o guilt_n of_o schism_n as_o argue_v the_o want_n of_o that_o compassion_n and_o feellingness_n that_o spring_v from_o the_o head_n of_o the_o church_n down_o through_o the_o high_a to_o the_o mean_a of_o his_o member_n for_o no_o man_n ever_o hate_v his_o own_o flesh_n even_o the_o mean_a and_o low_a part_n of_o it_o but_o nourish_v and_o cherish_v it_o even_o as_o the_o lord_n the_o church_n they_o therefore_o that_o carry_v the_o great_a grace_n and_o honour_n in_o the_o church_n shall_v invest_v the_o least_o comely_a member_n with_o more_o abundant_a honour_n and_o comeliness_n in_o the_o most_o humble_a christian_a condescension_n and_o kind_a treatment_n cover_v all_o their_o defect_n in_o imitation_n of_o god_n who_o have_v give_v most_o abundant_a honour_n to_o that_o part_n which_o lack_v and_o be_v more_o tender_o careful_a of_o defer_v to_o they_o the_o utmost_a god_n have_v allow_v they_o on_o the_o other_o side_n the_o groundless_a and_o unreasonable_a repine_v and_o discontent_n of_o those_o inferior_a member_n that_o they_o be_v not_o the_o most_o noble_a part_n be_v schismatical_a also_o not_o feel_v the_o glory_n of_o those_o more_o excellent_a member_n as_o their_o own_o glory_n with_o delight_n and_o complacency_n even_o till_o it_o rise_v up_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o head_n christ_n and_o god_n to_o be_v perfect_o unite_v therefore_o in_o the_o same_o judgement_n and_o mind_n and_o to_o speak_v the_o same_o thing_n god_n have_v speak_v in_o his_o word_n and_o herein_o to_o love_v one_o another_o to_o observe_v the_o same_o pattern_n of_o worship_n give_v by_o god_n himself_o to_o look_v upon_o ourselves_o as_o only_a christ_n and_o all_o minister_n to_o be_v the_o whole_a church_n give_v it_o by_o christ_n alike_o so_o far_o as_o god_n give_v we_o opportunity_n to_o enjoy_v they_o to_o rejoice_v in_o the_o honour_n of_o the_o high_a member_n and_o to_o honour_n more_o abundant_o the_o mean_a as_o be_v all_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o temper_v by_o he_o and_o wherein_o we_o can_v in_o this_o state_n of_o the_o church_n come_v up_o to_o the_o exactness_n of_o these_o thing_n yet_o to_o perform_v thus_o in_o the_o great_a instance_n of_o each_o of_o they_o and_o in_o the_o small_a to_o tolerate_v and_o forgive_v one_o another_o these_o be_v our_o security_n and_o certain_a preservation_n from_o schism_n quest_n be_v there_o not_o another_o sort_n of_o schism_n yet_o to_o be_v speak_v of_o answ_n no_o other_o that_o i_o can_v find_v speak_v of_o by_o the_o scripture_n quest_n be_v it_o not_o schism_n when_o the_o church_n or_o that_o part_n of_o it_o wherewith_o we_o be_v conversant_a prescribe_v indifference_n to_o make_v orderly_a and_o decent_a the_o worship_n of_o god_n and_o any_o christian_n separate_v themselves_o into_o particular_a assembly_n to_o pray_v to_o hear_v and_o speak_v the_o word_n of_o god_n to_o admininister_v sacrament_n that_o they_o may_v be_v free_a from_o such_o prescription_n for_o this_o be_v set_v up_o a_o altar_n against_o a_o altar_n and_o one_o part_n of_o the_o church_n against_o another_o what_o can_v it_o then_o be_v but_o most_o notorious_a schism_n and_o so_o esteem_v in_o all_o antiquity_n answ_n i_o know_v not_o whether_o it_o be_v at_o all_o schism_n i_o be_o sure_a if_o thing_n be_v right_o manage_v it_o be_v the_o least_o guilty_a kind_n for_o there_o be_v a_o union_n as_o be_v suppose_v in_o all_o thing_n that_o be_v command_v by_o god_n and_o christ_n if_o there_o be_v that_o value_n and_o love_n for_o one_o another_o in_o those_o thing_n wherein_o they_o unite_v and_o agree_v a_o desire_n of_o interest_n in_o and_o benefit_n by_o one_o another_o prayer_n and_o a_o joy_n in_o the_o gift_n grace_n and_o spiritual_a ability_n one_o of_o another_o a_o care_n mutual_o to_o impart_v and_o receive_v the_o benefit_n of_o they_o as_o far_o as_o may_v be_v such_o a_o union_n in_o thing_n command_v by_o god_n shall_v over-rule_v the_o little_a distance_n in_o indifference_n and_o no_o more_o divide_v than_o worship_v god_n in_o different_a congregation_n by_o reason_n of_o distance_n of_o place_n or_o the_o church_n of_o god_n use_v differ_a circumstance_n of_o worship_n in_o different_a country_n and_o place_n quest_n but_o what_o if_o beside_o these_o mere_a and_o simple_a dislocation_n of_o themselves_o and_o use_v or_o non-use_a of_o these_o indifference_n there_o be_v anger_n strife_n emulation_n bitter_a zeal_n in_o one_o against_o another_o as_o be_v general_o and_o usual_o see_v do_v not_o these_o sour_a passion_n beget_v schism_n answ_n wherever_o these_o be_v find_v they_o must_v needs_o amount_v to_o that_o kind_n of_o schism_n that_o christian_n do_v not_o love_v christian_n in_o the_o truth_n and_o in_o keep_v the_o commandment_n of_o god_n since_o it_o be_v suppose_v that_o each_o part_n be_v unite_v in_o the_o fundamental_o of_o faith_n and_o divine_a command_n upon_o which_o ought_v to_o flow_v from_o the_o love_n every_o sincere_a christian_a have_v to_o god_n and_o christ_n in_o these_o love_v to_o one_o another_o also_o for_o faith_n work_v or_o be_v effectual_a by_o love_n and_o this_o be_v love_n that_o we_o keep_v his_o command_n this_o love_n therefore_o must_v needs_o to_o all_o unite_a in_o these_o mighty_a thing_n wherein_o true_a christian_n be_v unite_v surmount_v the_o disaffection_n that_o arise_v in_o the_o disunion_n about_o tything_n mint_n or_o cummin_n or_o else_o we_o must_v value_v our_o confidence_n in_o small_a thing_n or_o our_o doubt_n about_o they_o above_o the_o clear_a and_o undoubted_a truth_n and_o command_n of_o god_n which_o must_v indeed_o needs_o be_v schismatical_a in_o both_o part_n or_o on_o whatever_o part_n it_o â—e_v find_v quest_n but_o see_v these_o contention_n be_v so_o hard_a to_o be_v avoid_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o different_a judgement_n and_o especial_o divers_a practice_n of_o christian_n and_o in_o so_o distinct_a congregation_n and_o that_o in_o the_o eye_n of_o one_o another_o and_o further_o that_o the_o assembly_n of_o christian_n together_o ought_v to_o be_v as_o universal_a numerous_a or_o at_o least_o as_o free_a and_o mutual_a as_o be_v possible_a in_o regard_n of_o nearness_n of_o place_n one_o to_o another_o for_o that_o it_o be_v most_o for_o the_o honour_n of_o christianity_n they_o shall_v be_v so_o and_o most_o advantageous_a to_o the_o impart_v spiritual_a gift_n and_o grace_n between_o all_o the_o pastor_n and_o people_n see_v all_o this_o be_v so_o undeniable_a how_o can_v separation_n from_o the_o assembly_n of_o one_o another_o do_v less_o than_o carry_v the_o guilt_n of_o schism_n answ_n there_o can_v be_v no_o schism_n in_o keep_v close_o to_o the_o doctrine_n and_o command_n of_o christ_n without_o add_v or_o diminish_v turn_v to_o the_o right-hand_a or_o to_o the_o left_a for_o therein_o as_o have_v be_v often_o say_v be_v the_o bond_n of_o the_o church_n union_n therein_o alone_o be_v the_o church_n a_o church_n and_o the_o peace_n lie_v enfold_v in_o the_o truth_n the_o more_o than_o the_o consideration_n forenamed_a be_v press_v and_o they_o deserve_v very_o earnest_o to_o be_v press_v the_o more_o absolute_o necessary_a it_o be_v to_o stay_v in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o god_n and_o the_o command_v of_o christ_n or_o which_o be_v as_o true_o the_o command_n of_o god_n the_o dictate_v of_o nature_n nay_o it_o be_v better_a to_o allow_v man_n a_o suspension_n of_o their_o assent_n to_o some_o truth_n and_o of_o their_o compliance_n with_o some_o command_n that_o be_v but_o upon_o the_o outward_a skirt_n and_o march_n of_o christianity_n and_o so_o not_o so_o evident_o reveal_v than_o rush_v they_o upon_o a_o precipitate_a belief_n of_o a_o blind_a obedience_n the_o plain_a thing_n and_o those_o be_v always_o the_o most_o necessary_a be_v the_o safe_a to_o pitch_v christian_a communion_n severe_o upon_o quest_n but_o may_v it_o not_o be_v reasonable_o suppose_v that_o according_a to_o the_o constitution_n of_o church_n governor_n by_o christ_n they_o have_v a_o power_n in_o thing_n neither_o command_v nor_o forbid_v by_o god_n to_o interpose_v their_o authority_n aâ—d_v to_o determine_v they_o this_o way_n or_o that_o way_n and_o that_o obedience_n can_v be_v refuse_v without_o schism_n answ_n there_o be_v very_o great_a reason_n against_o any_o such_o supposal_n 1._o the_o apostle_n the_o high_a authority_n under_o christ_n as_o will_v be_v easy_o acknowledge_v have_v commission_n
only_o to_o teach_v the_o observation_n of_o thing_n command_v they_o by_o the_o lord_n himself_o 2._o there_o be_v a_o constant_a disclaimer_n in_o the_o gospel_n of_o any_o despotic_a or_o lordlike_o power_n in_o church-ruler_n christ_n express_o compare_v the_o power_n he_o give_v with_o civil_a power_n and_o resolve_v it_o shall_v not_o be_v so_o among_o his_o disciple_n as_o be_v among_o they_o he_o say_v the_o chief_a among_o they_o shall_v be_v minister_n and_o servant_n deliver_v the_o will_n of_o their_o lord_n and_o not_o lord_n themselves_o they_o must_v have_v no_o will_n of_o their_o own_o to_o promulge_v they_o profess_v they_o preach_v jesus_n the_o lord_n and_z themselves_z servants_z for_o jesus_n sake_n servant_n of_o those_o they_o preach_v to_o as_o they_o minister_v to_o they_o the_o divine_a will_n not_o lord_n over_o god_n heritage_n but_o ensample_n of_o the_o flock_n ambassador_n deliver_v only_o the_o message_n of_o their_o master_n and_o beseech_v man_n but_o if_o the_o whole_a scope_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n be_v give_v they_o for_o a_o dominion_n how_o great_a will_v it_o be_v 3._o these_o circumstance_n in_o religion_n may_v grow_v so_o bulky_a and_o cumbersome_a and_o make_v such_o a_o medley_n in_o it_o that_o no_o one_o will_v know_v what_o religion_n itself_o be_v 4._o the_o free_a vote_n and_o suffrage_n of_o christian_n in_o all_o thing_n they_o receive_v as_o most_o con-decent_a and_o convenient_a be_v that_o more_o abundant_a honour_n god_n have_v give_v to_o the_o mean_a member_n of_o his_o church_n thus_o the_o whole_a affair_n in_o that_o council_n act_v 11._o be_v manage_v by_o not_o only_o the_o apostle_n the_o elder_n but_o the_o brethren_n also_o each_o according_a to_o their_o station_n and_o situation_n in_o the_o body_n the_o church_n for_o that_o there_o may_v be_v no_o despotique_a power_n what_o be_v command_a by_o christ_n must_v be_v so_o represent_v that_o the_o evidence_n it_o be_v so_o command_v must_v be_v due_o represent_v and_o the_o divine_a authority_n sufficient_o remonstrate_v what_o be_v of_o advice_n and_o conveniency_n must_v be_v carry_v by_o free_a suffrage_n and_o consent_v quest_n but_o still_o the_o church_n be_v a_o society_n and_o the_o best_a of_o society_n it_o must_v be_v subject_a to_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n concern_v society_n and_o what_o be_v carry_v by_o the_o vote_n of_o people_n be_v always_o subject_a to_o turbulence_n and_o confusion_n have_v we_o not_o great_a assurance_n see_v christ_n reverse_a nothing_o natural_a but_o confirm_v it_o that_o there_o be_v many_o thing_n not_o write_v in_o scripture_n but_o leave_v to_o their_o necessity_n and_o expediency_n according_a to_o nature_n law_n and_o so_o what_o be_v near_a to_o monarchick_a be_v far_o from_o confusion_n the_o ruler_n of_o the_o church_n and_o among_o they_o the_o bishop_n aught_o to_o determine_v all_o thing_n neither_o command_v nor_o forbid_v by_o god_n answ_n there_o be_v in_o the_o church_n the_o perfect_a and_o absolute_a monarchy_n of_o christ_n in_o his_o word_n and_o beside_o this_o there_o be_v no_o other_o nor_o can_v the_o law_n of_o nature_n dictate_v any_o other_o there_o be_v one_o lawgiver_n who_o be_v able_a to_o save_v or_o destroy_v and_o there_o need_v not_o any_o more_o master_n for_o more_o will_v certain_o breed_v confusion_n whatever_o therefore_o be_v clear_o according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n or_o to_o be_v make_v out_o to_o be_v so_o whatever_o be_v the_o evident_a dictate_v of_o nature_n as_o distinction_n of_o sex_n 1_o cor._n 11._o 3._o in_o their_o public_a appearance_n in_o religious_a assembly_n administration_n of_o divine_a service_n in_o a_o know_a language_n 1_o cor._n 14._o v._n 5._o the_o speak_v of_o one_o prophet_n only_o at_o once_o and_o not_o in_o a_o confusion_n of_o voice_n v._o 31._o all_o such_o natural_a order_n and_o decency_n or_o whatever_o be_v of_o indisputable_a decency_n according_a to_o the_o manner_n and_o custom_n of_o our_o native_a country_n these_o be_v the_o utmost_a bound_n of_o prescription_n all_o thing_n else_o be_v to_o be_v comprimize_v by_o agreement_n and_o suffrage_n and_o even_o these_o necessary_a thing_n be_v to_o be_v manage_v by_o doctrine_n rational_a convicton_n exhortation_n admonition_n rebuke_v and_o even_o charge_v and_o command_v with_o all_o authority_n in_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o divine_a word_n and_o will_v and_o no_o otherwise_o for_o this_o i_o say_v again_o be_v the_o more_o abundant_a honour_n the_o ruler_n or_o more_o honourable_a member_n of_o the_o church_n be_v to_o invest_v the_o low_a with_o to_o circulate_v with_o they_o the_o life_n and_o spirit_n of_o truth_n by_o transfuse_v the_o advantage_n of_o all_o the_o light_n and_o knowledge_n they_o have_v that_o they_o as_o live_v wise_a and_o intellectual_a member_n also_o may_v judge_v what_o be_v command_v they_o by_o god_n and_o not_o be_v as_o fool_n or_o lifeless_a member_n for_o what_o blood_n spirit_n and_o life_n be_v in_o the_o body_n that_o be_v spiritual_a wisdom_n and_o understanding_n in_o the_o will_n of_o god_n in_o the_o church_n and_o in_o all_o indifferent_a thing_n the_o very_a same_o freedom_n the_o foot_n have_v to_o represent_v to_o the_o high_a power_n of_o nature_n what_o offend_v it_o and_o be_v immedate_o hear_v the_o very_a same_o power_n the_o low_a member_n of_o the_o church_n have_v to_o remonstrate_v to_o the_o high_a what_o scandalise_v it_o in_o the_o accept_n this_o or_o that_o indifferent_a ceremony_n and_o it_o ought_v as_o feel_o as_o immediate_o to_o be_v hear_v for_o as_o the_o same_o soul_n be_v present_a to_o all_o part_n of_o the_o natural_a body_n so_o the_o same_o spirit_n of_o the_o head_n of_o the_o church_n animate_v his_o whole_a body_n the_o church_n which_o be_v the_o fullness_n or_o compliment_n the_o receptacle_n of_o his_o fullness_n the_o fullness_n in_o which_o he_o will_v appear_v full_a and_o complete_a who_o fill_v all_o in_o all_o as_o therefore_o the_o head_n itself_o feel_v by_o this_o spiritual_a union_n so_o be_v the_o eye_n and_o ear_n the_o high_a member_n of_o this_o body_n to_o do_v and_o if_o they_o do_v not_o so_o feel_v it_o argue_v a_o interruption_n between_o they_o and_o the_o head_n itself_o for_o that_o most_o concernful_o reciprocate_v with_o the_o whole_a body_n and_o the_o extreme_a part_n of_o it_o and_o so_o do_v every_o part_n inlve_v by_o he_o also_o if_o there_o be_v no_o intercision_n nor_o obstruction_n betwixt_o it_o and_o the_o head_n quest_n be_v there_o yet_o any_o further_a reason_n against_o a_o power_n in_o the_o ruler_n of_o the_o church_n for_o impose_v in_o thing_n of_o indifferency_n under_o the_o name_n of_o decency_n and_o order_n answ_n there_o be_v the_o great_a reason_n of_o the_o mischief_n of_o scandal_n to_o be_v add_v to_o all_o that_o have_v be_v speak_v quest_n what_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v by_o scandal_n answ_n scandal_n be_v a_o subject_a of_o discourse_n of_o too_o large_a a_o compass_n for_o the_o present_a purpose_n but_o as_o it_o be_v strict_o to_o be_v adjust_v to_o it_o it_o may_v be_v thus_o understand_v scandal_n be_v that_o hurt_v and_o grief_n a_o man_n receive_v in_o submit_v either_o to_o humane_a example_n or_o imposition_n in_o thing_n of_o themselves_o neither_o command_v nor_o forbid_v by_o god_n when_o the_o conscience_n be_v in_o doubt_n whether_o that_o which_o be_v require_v to_o be_v do_v be_v not_o displease_v to_o god_n and_o forbid_v by_o he_o or_o that_o which_o be_v require_v to_o be_v omit_v or_o not_o do_v be_v not_o please_v to_o god_n and_o command_v by_o he_o and_o yet_o submit_v itself_o to_o be_v lead_v by_o that_o example_n or_o command_v by_o such_o imposition_n and_o so_o fall_v into_o sin_n and_o under_o a_o wound_n of_o conscience_n quest_n when_o the_o thing_n be_v indeed_o neither_o command_v nor_o forbid_v by_o god_n how_o can_v it_o be_v change_v by_o the_o conscience_n be_v in_o doubt_n concern_v it_o answ_n because_o the_o conscience_n be_v that_o complex_fw-la or_o congregat_v power_n of_o the_o soul_n wherein_o be_v preserve_v all_o the_o doctrine_n to_o be_v believe_v and_o rule_n of_o action_n to_o the_o end_n that_o it_o may_v observe_v and_o direct_v how_o the_o soul_n be_v to_o govern_v itself_o and_o square_v all_o its_o action_n to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o that_o it_o may_v comfort_v or_o check_v the_o soul_n in_o do_v well_o or_o ill_o according_a to_o those_o doctrine_n or_o rule_n wherein_o then_o conscience_n be_v mistake_v and_o misjudge_n either_o way_n against_o that_o which_o be_v command_v by_o god_n or_o for_o that_o which_o be_v forbid_v by_o he_o there_o be_v nothing_o to_o be_v do_v but_o to_o reduce_v conscience_n to_o its_o right_a rule_n which_o be_v the_o will_n of_o god_n in_o
it_o lie_a foursquare_n and_o be_v solid_a square_a measure_n for_o so_o it_o must_v be_v if_o the_o length_n breadth_n and_o height_n be_v all_o equal_a answ_n i_o do_v not_o at_o all_o forget_v it_o but_o suffer_v your_o question_n to_o lead_v through_o all_o i_o less_o design_v that_o they_o may_v come_v to_o the_o principal_a character_n of_o the_o true_a religion_n and_o the_o true_a church_n so_o exact_o adequate_a to_o one_o another_o quest_n will_v you_o then_o more_o full_o explain_v this_o similitude_n answ_n that_o i_o may_v the_o better_a do_v it_o i_o must_v repeat_v it_o from_o the_o very_a ground_n and_o bottom_n of_o it_o which_o be_v that_o god_n make_v use_v as_o he_o please_v of_o all_o the_o knowledge_n and_o science_n that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n to_o minister_v to_o divine_a knowledge_n in_o which_o he_o principal_o intend_v to_o instruct_v as_o be_v most_o absolute_o necessary_a for_o all_o of_o what_o condition_n soever_o as_o than_o mathematics_n be_v the_o most_o demonstrative_a science_n and_o some_o thing_n in_o it_o be_v of_o most_o retire_a and_o fine_a speculation_n so_o be_v other_o most_o know_a and_o necessary_a to_o all_o employ_v in_o mechanic_n thus_o god_n have_v be_v please_v to_o deposit_v some_o prophetic_a truth_n in_o the_o most_o mystic_a part_n of_o that_o learning_n and_o some_o of_o the_o more_o general_a use_n in_o the_o most_o know_a and_o acquaint_v part_n of_o it_o now_o those_o that_o be_v more_o secret_a and_o not_o so_o necessary_a i_o shall_v leave_v to_o those_o that_o be_v most_o fit_v thereunto_o but_o what_o be_v most_o plain_a and_o import_v what_o be_v most_o necessary_a for_o all_o i_o will_v insist_v upon_o as_o than_o number_n and_o measure_n be_v mean_n ordain_v for_o humane_a nature_n and_o principal_a instrument_n of_o reason_n to_o come_v to_o the_o most_o certain_a knowledge_n of_o thing_n and_o to_o be_v secure_v they_o be_v and_o continue_v what_o they_o just_o aught_o to_o be_v so_o true_a religion_n be_v thereupon_o present_v to_o we_o under_o exact_a number_n and_o measure_n fall_v in_o one_o with_o another_o the_o number_n twelve_o multiply_v into_o a_o square_a cube_n of_o twelve_o thousand_o furlong_n and_o as_o the_o foursquare_n figure_n do_v so_o bind_v and_o be_v so_o compact_v with_o itself_o that_o it_o can_v receive_v the_o least_o addition_n but_o with_o the_o loss_n of_o its_o square_n nor_o the_o least_o diminution_n but_o under_o the_o same_o forfeiture_n thus_o true_a religion_n be_v so_o perfect_o itself_o that_o it_o can_v neither_o be_v add_v to_o nor_o diminish_v from_o but_o with_o a_o proportionable_a loss_n of_o itself_o god_n be_v please_v upon_o this_o account_n to_o choose_v this_o figure_n for_o the_o altar_n under_o the_o law_n for_o the_o breastplate_n of_o judgement_n this_o be_v the_o measure_n of_o solomon_n oracle_n how_o far_o the_o measure_n in_o ezekiel_n agree_v i_o leave_v the_o heathen_a by_o natural_a wisdom_n have_v such_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o so_o just_a to_o itself_o foursquare_n that_o they_o call_v a_o good_a man_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o a_o foursquare_n man._n and_o last_o as_o solid_a square_a measure_n be_v in_o all_o part_n of_o it_o and_o throughout_o every_o part_n exact_o square_a and_o give_v the_o most_o certain_a account_n of_o the_o whole_a content_n of_o a_o body_n so_o be_v true_a religion_n in_o all_o its_o part_n exact_o so_o itself_o and_o every_o part_n of_o every_o part_n be_v reduce_v to_o the_o same_o exactness_n for_o so_o the_o length_n breadth_n and_o height_n of_o it_o be_v equal_a and_o so_o be_v the_o true_a church_n exact_o adequate_v to_o true_a religion_n the_o faith_n be_v therefore_o say_v to_o be_v at_o once_o deliver_v to_o the_o saint_n because_o it_o can_v receive_v no_o new_a measure_n and_o it_o be_v call_v the_o common_a salvation_n or_o doctrine_n of_o it_o because_o the_o universal_a standard_n be_v one_o this_o then_o be_v the_o measure_n of_o a_o man_n and_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o angel_n for_o by_o that_o wisdom_n that_o be_v natural_a to_o a_o man_n in_o which_o beast_n have_v no_o share_n that_o be_v to_o number_n and_o measure_n be_v make_v plain_a to_o we_o angelical_a number_n and_o measure_n that_o be_v the_o number_n and_o measure_n of_o true_a religion_n as_o the_o angel_n delineate_v it_o beginning_n in_o the_o apostolical_a twelve_o and_o multiply_v by_o itself_o to_o a_o exact_a square_a figure_n or_o measure_n square_a in_o the_o whole_a product_n square_a in_o every_o particular_a part_n and_o of_o that_o just_a content_n and_o with_o this_o exact_a number_n twelve_o so_o foursquare_n agree_v the_o altar_n temple_n and_o they_o that_o worship_v therein_o when_o the_o outward_a court_n be_v leave_v out_o of_o measure_n to_o be_v tread_v under_o foot_n by_o heathenish_a idolatry_n and_o superstition_n disguise_v under_o popish_a christianity_n of_o which_o whenever_o it_o shall_v be_v perfect_o free_v it_o shall_v appear_v in_o that_o glory_n here_o describe_v all_o rich_a pearl_n pure_a gold_n most_o transparent_a jasper_n that_o be_v bright_a clear_a truth_n and_o of_o the_o exact_a apostolical_a number_n and_o measure_n quest_n be_v there_o no_o far_a improvement_n to_o be_v make_v of_o this_o divine_a symbol_n the_o foursquare_n city_n answ_n there_o be_v when_o i_o have_v first_o observe_v to_o you_o false-religion_n be_v out_o of_o all_o square_a just_a measure_n and_o even_o number_n it_o be_v a_o constant_a and_o perpetual_a odd_a wander_v from_o true_a religion_n and_o the_o justness_n of_o it_o to_o itself_o and_o that_o both_o in_o doctrine_n worship_n rule_n of_o life_n and_o discipline_n so_o that_o it_o be_v impossible_a in_o it_o to_o measure_v one_o thing_n from_o and_o by_o another_o or_o any_o one_o point_n of_o any_o of_o these_o by_o itself_o uneven_a in_o the_o whole_a product_n uneven_a in_o every_o part_n uneven_a in_o the_o root_n the_o most_o significant_a emblem_n of_o the_o popish-church_n which_o have_v the_o fundamental_o of_o christianity_n have_v yet_o lose_v the_o apostolical_a twelve_o by_o innumerable_a most_o irregular_a and_o wild_a addition_n and_o deform_v every_o single_a article_n of_o truth_n by_o most_o disagreeable_a corruption_n of_o it_o and_o therefore_o as_o a_o man_n most_o learned_a in_o number_n have_v demonstrate_v the_o number_n 666_o a_o number_n no_o way_n to_o be_v reduce_v to_o a_o foursquare_n figure_n be_v the_o most_o fit_a and_o significant_a hieroglyphic_n of_o it_o and_o indeed_o of_o all_o false-religion_n that_o must_v have_v something_o of_o truth_n to_o make_v it_o a_o religion_n but_o as_o it_o be_v false_a be_v a_o odd_a from_o that_o truth_n quest_n let_v i_o now_o desire_v the_o most_o plain_a and_o useful_a application_n of_o this_o parabolic_a scheme_n answ_n you_o shall_v have_v it_o and_o it_o consist_v in_o observe_v four_o prime_a character_n of_o the_o true_a christian_a religion_n that_o may_v be_v as_o four_o equal_a side_n of_o this_o foursquare_n and_o of_o the_o church_n adjust_v to_o it_o from_o each_o of_o which_o may_v be_v measure_v to_o each_o of_o the_o rest_n and_o the_o equality_n or_o inequality_n will_v discover_v the_o truth_n or_o falsehood_n of_o all_o that_o be_v bring_v to_o the_o trial_n 1._o the_o transcendent_a holiness_n goodness_n and_o purity_n of_o the_o doctrine_n precept_n of_o worship_n rule_n of_o life_n discipline_n be_v one_o side_n of_o this_o christian-square_a with_o which_o whatever_n do_v not_o square_a be_v convict_v not_o to_o be_v of_o that_o doctrine_n and_o religion_n whether_o it_o look_v towards_o god_n in_o all_o the_o high_a most_o honourable_a apprehension_n of_o he_o suitable_a discourse_n worship_n love_n and_o obedience_n or_o whether_o it_o look_v towards_o man_n in_o all_o justice_n righteousness_n mercy_n compassion_n charity_n benevolence_n beneficence_n and_o these_o as_o they_o respect_v all_o the_o particular_a office_n of_o life_n public_a of_o magistrate_n subject_n or_o private_a as_o of_o parent_n child_n husband_n wife_n master_n or_o servant_n the_o peace_n and_o welfare_n of_o mankind_n be_v treasure_v up_o in_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n or_o last_o whether_o it_o look_v to_o a_o man_n be_v own_o person_n in_o soberness_n purity_n continency_n in_o the_o thought_n the_o word_n the_o action_n the_o honour_n and_o best_a state_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o body_n be_v provide_v for_o by_o this_o doctrine_n that_o be_v after_o godliness_n not_o only_o in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v but_o in_o this_o life_n whatever_o now_o do_v not_o agree_v with_o these_o wholesome_a word_n be_v detect_v not_o to_o be_v christian_a which_o be_v all_o truth_n virtue_n and_o praise_n 2._o there_o be_v nothing_o more_o intimate_a to_o man_n in_o this_o fall_a state_n than_o the_o sense_n of_o gild_n and_o knowledge_n that_o he_o be_v a_o
all_o but_o one_o great_a lie_n of_o this_o son_n of_o the_o father_n of_o lie_n the_o image_n of_o the_o god_n of_o this_o world_n the_o son_n of_o his_o falsehood_n and_o perdition_n contrary_a to_o christ_n the_o son_n of_o the_o father_n in_o truth_n and_o love_n but_o if_o any_o one_o receive_v christianity_n or_o the_o scripture_n from_o the_o antichurch_n and_o measure_v they_o in_o and_o by_o themselves_o separate_v true_a christianity_n from_o the_o antichristianism_n and_o retain_v it_o pure_a it_o be_v but_o like_o the_o service_n god_n receive_v from_o the_o false_a prophet_n baalam_n when_o he_o prophesy_v truth_n into_o who_o place_n and_o office_n antichrist_n succeed_v and_o be_v therefore_o style_v the_o false_a prophet_n revel_v 16._o 13._o quest_n what_o then_o can_v this_o pretend_a catholic_n church_n be_v in_o relation_n to_o the_o true_a catholic_n public_a religion_n answ_n it_o can_v be_v no_o other_o upon_o strict_a account_n than_o the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n the_o pseudocatholick_a antichurch_n in_o a_o damnable_a heresy_n from_o and_o hatred_n to_o the_o general_n assembly_n and_o church_n of_o the_o first_o bear_v write_v in_o heaven_n unite_v with_o the_o god_n of_o truth_n and_o love_n and_o the_o son_n of_o the_o father_n in_o truth_n and_o love_n in_o a_o hellish_a schism_n and_o separation_n from_o the_o apostolic_a catholic_n church_n of_o which_o god_n and_o christ_n be_v the_o head_n quest_n how_o can_v it_o be_v believe_v that_o so_o great_a a_o lie_n upon_o christianity_n shall_v be_v receive_v by_o so_o large_a a_o proportion_n of_o the_o christian_a world_n or_o that_o person_n of_o so_o vast_a ability_n and_o comprehension_n shall_v so_o deceive_v other_o or_o be_v themselves_o deceive_v answ_n scripture_n have_v take_v all_o the_o care_n possible_a to_o arm_v we_o against_o this_o objection_n which_o be_v indeed_o very_o great_a it_o call_v this_o apostasy_n a_o mystery_n of_o iniquity_n and_o to_o assure_v we_o the_o apostle_n paul_n and_o the_o divine_a person_n in_o the_o revelation_n point_n to_o the_o same_o thing_n upon_o the_o forehead_n of_o this_o adulterous_a church_n be_v write_v mystery_n now_o a_o mystery_n if_o it_o be_v present_o understand_v and_o all_o easy_a and_o plain_a be_v no_o mystery_n it_o have_v the_o energy_n of_o delusion_n in_o cause_v man_n to_o believe_v a_o lie_n it_o be_v the_o whole_a deceit_n of_o unrighteousness_n it_o set_v up_o a_o great_a stage_n of_o counterfeit_n miracle_n that_o it_o vaunt_v upon_o and_o that_o it_o may_v have_v that_o reverend_a face_n of_o antiquity_n to_o deceive_v with_o and_o say_v it_o come_v from_o a_o far-off_a age_n it_o be_v a_o mystery_n that_o be_v then_o at_o work_n in_o the_o apostle_n time_n last_o it_o have_v its_o effect_n upon_o they_o that_o may_v be_v christian_n and_o receive_v truth_n but_o not_o the_o chaste_a unprostitute_n love_n of_o truth_n alone_o quest_n but_o it_o seem_v impossible_a that_o any_o part_n of_o the_o christian_a world_n that_o have_v be_v once_o disabused_a shall_v return_v any_o more_o under_o so_o great_a a_o delusion_n answ_n there_o be_v very_o great_a hope_n that_o god_n who_o have_v command_v his_o light_n to_o shine_v out_o of_o this_o darkness_n will_v interpose_v by_o the_o perpetual_a brightness_n of_o his_o own_o appearance_n and_o by_o that_o divine_a breath_n of_o his_o mouth_n in_o his_o word_n against_o the_o return_n of_o so_o great_a a_o darkness_n this_o set_v aside_o there_o be_v so_o many_o reason_n of_o fear_n and_o such_o possibility_n of_o lay_v a_o train_n of_o cause_n reach_v to_o such_o a_o effect_n that_o there_o can_v be_v no_o place_n for_o security_n but_o in_o the_o almighty_a providence_n and_o yet_o what_o degree_n of_o that_o deadly_a scourge_n may_v fall_v on_o the_o protestant_a world_n god_n only_o know_v we_o know_v our_o sin_n deserve_v very_o ill_o quest_n what_o be_v the_o great_a security_n under_o the_o divine_a grace_n and_o providence_n against_o so_o great_a desolation_n upon_o true_a christian_a religion_n answ_n a_o perfect_a acquiescency_n of_o the_o protestant_a nation_n upon_o the_o foursquare_n of_o divine_a truth_n and_o resolvedness_n not_o to_o move_v from_o thence_o for_o as_o a_o foursquare_n never_o remove_v from_o its_o own_o base_a because_o it_o be_v all_o base_a so_o they_o that_o be_v square_v to_o it_o and_o settle_v upon_o it_o never_o move_v for_o it_o always_o bear_v they_o alike_o with_o itself_o and_o by_o its_o own_o justness_n recall_v they_o if_o they_o offer_v to_o wander_v mere_a angry_a prejudice_n against_o this_o or_o that_o false_a religion_n be_v not_o enough_o without_o be_v thus_o ground_v upon_o truth_n entertainment_n of_o truth_n with_o any_o addittament_n will_v secure_v no_o man_n for_o he_o that_o receive_v one_o addition_n may_v receive_v another_o he_o that_o receive_v truth_n lie_v foursquare_n with_o itself_o be_v call_v back_o by_o that_o even_o of_o truth_n he_o that_o add_v one_o to_o it_o and_o make_v it_o odd_a may_v go_v on_o indefinite_o as_o popery_n have_v do_v because_o he_o have_v forsakent_a he_o just_o even_o that_o shall_v stay_v he_o he_o can_v no_o long_o wait_v for_o the_o voice_n of_o truth_n that_o by_o itself_o always_o answer_v itself_o but_o to_o what_o be_v not_o like_o itself_o it_o will_v not_o answer_v but_o discover_v it_o to_o be_v off_o from_o this_o square_n it_o will_v not_o on_o any_o respect_n harken_v to_o any_o thing_n different_a because_o it_o will_v not_o be_v solicit_v to_o move_v from_o itself_o so_o that_o upon_o the_o whole_a the_o law_n of_o symmetry_n and_o commensuration_n be_v the_o great_a security_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o ascertain_v the_o true_a church_n both_o to_o itself_o and_o all_o beholder_n for_o addition_n to_o religion_n like_o surd_o or_o irrational_a figure_n incommensurable_a to_o the_o rational_a square_n can_v never_o be_v reduce_v to_o this_o foursquare_n of_o truth_n but_o be_v like_o the_o deaf_a adder_n that_o will_v not_o hearken_v to_o the_o voice_n of_o reason_n charm_v never_o so_o wise_o nor_o can_v they_o ever_o be_v reduce_v to_o a_o certainty_n or_o exactness_n with_o themselves_o but_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o day_n another_o to_o morrow_n but_o divine_a truth_n be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d rational_a certain_a express_o itself_o deaf_a indeed_o to_o any_o thing_n else_o but_o in_o itself_o it_o be_v yesterday_o and_o to_o day_n the_o same_o for_o ever_o he_o therefore_o that_o daily_o ponder_v meditate_v upon_o have_v a_o just_a measure_n of_o the_o fundamental_o of_o divine_a truth_n and_o do_v all_o thing_n in_o a_o regular_a square_n with_o they_o shall_v know_v the_o doctrine_n that_o be_v of_o god_n all_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n though_o they_o be_v various_a yet_o come_v all_o within_o the_o apostolic_a twelve_o and_o he_o that_o have_v a_o spiritual_a gust_n exercise_v to_o discern_v betwixt_o good_a and_o evil_a by_o taste_v any_o aright_o will_v taste_v all_o and_o find_v they_o apostolical_a and_o know_v whatever_o pretend_v and_o be_v not_o and_o so_o reject_v it_o he_o will_v know_v all_o the_o gate_n of_o wisdom_n and_o truth_n and_o the_o angelical_a guard_n attend_v at_o they_o and_o go_v in_o and_o out_o by_o they_o but_o the_o disorderly_a breach_n and_o gap_n that_o wild_a beast_n or_o deceitful_a fox_n have_v make_v he_o avoid_v know_v they_o exceed_v the_o apostolic_a twelve_o and_o be_v therefore_o dangerous_a and_o pernicious_a and_o whatever_o apparation_n of_o angel_n may_v be_v at_o they_o he_o know_v it_o be_v only_a satan_n transform_v into_o a_o angel_n of_o light_n and_o his_o minister_n transform_v as_o the_o apostle_n of_o christ_n as_o the_o minister_n of_o righteousness_n thus_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n number_v and_o measure_v exact_o by_o itself_o be_v the_o security_n of_o the_o twelve_o tribe_n of_o israel_n that_o be_v of_o the_o true_a church_n cap._n fourteen_o of_o the_o power_n of_o magistrate_n in_o religion_n and_o of_o national_a religion_n quest_n it_o be_v i_o think_v very_o clear_a by_o all_o that_o have_v be_v speak_v that_o the_o settlement_n of_o religion_n in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v most_o stable_a and_o certain_a and_o that_o by_o no_o power_n he_o have_v give_v in_o his_o church_n it_o can_v be_v change_v nor_o receive_v any_o arbitrary_a addition_n that_o shall_v be_v obligatory_a but_o i_o be_o in_o great_a doubt_n how_o to_o reconcile_v those_o command_n of_o scripture_n to_o be_v subject_a to_o principality_n and_o power_n with_o those_o strict_a precept_n to_o keep_v close_o to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o to_o turn_v neither_o to_o the_o right_a hand_n nor_o to_o the_o left_a where_o ruler_n so_o often_o prescribe_v in_o religion_n contrary_a to_o or_o different_a from_o the_o word_n of_o
for_o the_o sake_n of_o the_o true_a religion_n we_o may_v be_v oblige_v to_o forsake_v not_o only_o our_o country_n but_o our_o father_n house_n and_o to_o unite_v to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n found_v in_o that_o true_a religion_n yet_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n we_o must_v own_v all_o that_o be_v divine_a rational_a true_a weresoever_o we_o find_v it_o much_o more_o in_o our_o native_a country_n and_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a propagate_v true_a religion_n upon_o it_o for_o we_o shall_v not_o only_o be_v judge_v in_o this_o world_n with_o our_o nation_n but_o shall_v rise_v with_o it_o at_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n in_o the_o same_o station_n or_o lott_n wherein_o we_o be_v place_v in_o this_o world_n according_a to_o our_o do_v good_a in_o it_o we_o shall_v receive_v our_o reward_n with_o those_o of_o it_o that_o be_v save_v who_o shall_v then_o survive_v in_o glory_n and_o become_v as_o if_o they_o be_v the_o whole_a nation_n the_o perish_a part_n be_v lose_v as_o we_o therefore_o desire_v the_o prosperity_n of_o it_o in_o this_o world_n so_o ought_v we_o to_o endeavour_v by_o all_o mean_v the_o eternal_a happiness_n of_o as_o many_o of_o it_o as_o we_o can_v by_o join_v with_o they_o and_o engage_v they_o in_o true_a religion_n quest_n i_o desire_v your_o second_o proposition_n answ_n it_o be_v this_o that_o in_o a_o political_a sense_n national_a religion_n be_v when_o magistrate_n and_o the_o body_n of_o the_o people_n join_v in_o the_o true_a religion_n and_o establish_v it_o by_o law_n and_o devote_v to_o it_o the_o most_o public_a advantage_n that_o the_o largeness_n and_o grandeur_n of_o such_o a_o nation_n have_v in_o their_o power_n fix_v character_n of_o civil_a honour_n and_o ample_a condition_n upon_o the_o ruler_n of_o the_o church_n and_o communicate_v to_o they_o magistratical_a power_n in_o thing_n pertain_v to_o the_o external_n defence_n honour_n and_o provision_n for_o the_o true_a religion_n as_o it_o be_v national_a all_o which_o so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v serviceable_a to_o the_o best_a end_n be_v acceptable_a to_o god_n our_o saviour_n who_o be_v not_o the_o author_n of_o confusion_n but_o of_o peace_n and_o aught_o to_o be_v submit_v to_o with_o reverence_n both_o in_o obedience_n to_o government_n and_o also_o as_o it_o be_v do_v in_o honour_n to_o the_o name_n of_o god_n and_o true_a religion_n the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n in_o time_n of_o persecution_n be_v not_o the_o standard_n as_o to_o these_o thing_n in_o the_o prosperous_a time_n of_o it_o quest_n i_o now_o desire_v the_o three_o proposition_n answ_n the_o government_n of_o a_o nation_n in_o religion_n appoint_v and_o prescribe_v liturgy_n confession_n of_o faith_n catechism_n and_o public_a form_n of_o instruction_n or_o homily_n they_o may_v be_v so_o far_o useful_a as_o when_o they_o be_v compose_v according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n to_o secure_v true_a religion_n and_o the_o public_a administration_n of_o it_o by_o so_o much_o public_o ratify_v and_o require_v of_o all_o who_o it_o entrust_v as_o minister_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n under_o its_o approbation_n and_o maintenance_n to_o assent_v to_o the_o truth_n of_o religion_n so_o comprise_v and_o public_o to_o declare_v it_o by_o use_v they_o as_o be_v appoint_v but_o these_o be_v not_o to_o be_v understand_v to_o put_v limit_n upon_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o word_n first_o entrust_v by_o christ_n who_o be_v both_o in_o prayer_n preach_v the_o gospel_n and_o all_o mean_n of_o instruction_n to_o search_v into_o all_o the_o scripture_n that_o be_v profitable_a for_o doctrine_n instruction_n reproof_n and_o to_o pray_v with_o all_o prayer_n and_o supplication_n according_a to_o the_o particular_a occasion_n and_o in_o that_o abundance_n and_o liberality_n of_o the_o divine_a oracle_n that_o they_o themselves_o may_v speak_v as_o the_o oracle_n of_o god_n and_o pray_v with_o the_o understanding_n and_o in_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o that_o all_o their_o service_n may_v be_v matter_n of_o bounty_n from_o their_o own_o mind_n and_o not_o of_o constraint_n and_o necessity_n as_o impose_v for_o how_o shall_v they_o then_o as_o every_o good_a scribe_n instruct_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n bring_v out_o of_o their_o treasure_n thing_n new_a and_o old_a or_o like_o the_o good_a housholder_n that_o have_v make_v provision_n and_o lay_v up_o in_o store_n to_o that_o end_n in_o all_o these_o thing_n solomon_n example_n be_v great_a according_a to_o which_o the_o preacher_n ought_v to_o be_v wise_a and_o to_o teach_v the_o people_n knowledge_n and_o give_v good_a heed_n and_o seek_v to_o find_v out_o acceptable_a word_n that_o may_v be_v as_o goad_n and_o nail_n not_o blunt_v with_o common_a use_n quest_n i_o now_o desire_v your_o four_o proposition_n answ_n the_o benefit_n of_o national_a religion_n establish_v by_o law_n be_v that_o every_o subject_a of_o that_o nation_n have_v a_o right_a to_o the_o true_a religion_n so_o establish_v and_o may_v claim_v his_o interest_n and_o property_n in_o it_o as_o in_o all_o thing_n else_o legal_o due_a to_o he_o and_o be_v not_o oblige_v upon_o the_o account_n of_o passive_a obedience_n to_o desert_n or_o relinquish_v his_o right_n in_o it_o any_o more_o than_o his_o righteous_a claim_n or_o title_n to_o any_o thing_n else_o he_o enjoy_v by_o law_n and_o yet_o trangress_v no_o rule_n of_o christianity_n but_o have_v the_o same_o obligation_n to_o defend_v that_o his_o right_n as_o any_o other_o right_o whatever_o so_o far_o as_o the_o law_n of_o the_o nation_n enable_v he_o nor_o can_v there_o be_v any_o resistance_n to_o government_n in_o so_o do_v even_o as_o there_o can_v be_v none_o but_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n and_o trust_n of_o subordinate_a magistrate_n to_o adhere_v to_o the_o law_n in_o the_o point_n of_o true_a religion_n as_o in_o all_o other_o case_n and_o of_o the_o supreme_a legislative_a power_n of_o a_o nation_n to_o foresee_v danger_n and_o prevent_v they_o by_o additional_a law_n as_o necessity_n shall_v require_v and_o all_o this_o with_o the_o prerogative_n due_a to_o religion_n quest_n i_o desire_v your_o five_o proposition_n answ_n national_a religion_n see_v it_o be_v design_v to_o comprehend_v a_o multitude_n of_o person_n of_o most_o necessary_o and_o unavoidable_o various_a sentiment_n and_o apprehension_n must_v be_v so_o prepare_v as_o that_o with_o great_a ease_n and_o room_n to_o conscience_n and_o understanding_n of_o so_o many_o several_a figure_n and_o impression_n there_o may_v be_v a_o union_n in_o national_a religion_n with_o least_o scruple_n and_o therefore_o to_o give_v all_o the_o liberty_n that_o truth_n give_v not_o impose_v arbitrary_o because_o religion_n as_o have_v be_v say_v be_v god_n peculiar_a and_o in_o that_o the_o doubt_v conscience_n can_v obey_v far_o than_o it_o see_v the_o divine_a rule_n before_o it_o not_o in_o thing_n dark_a and_o disputable_a because_o clear_a thing_n be_v only_o necessary_a to_o salvation_n not_o forcible_o except_o when_o natural_a religion_n be_v violate_v because_o patient_a instruction_n counsel_n and_o ratiocination_n be_v the_o divine_a method_n in_o give_v and_o work_v faith_n quest_n i_o now_o expect_v the_o last_o proposition_n answ_n i_o shall_v give_v you_o the_o last_o and_o therein_o conclude_v this_o whole_a enquiry_n and_o instruction_n and_o it_o be_v this_o the_o true_a religion_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n in_o a_o nation_n or_o city_n do_v overtop_v all_o the_o false_a and_o private_a religion_n in_o it_o and_o become_v in_o the_o sacred_a register_n the_o national_a religion_n in_o the_o sacred_a map_n the_o christian_n of_o achaia_n be_v achaia_n itself_o the_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n be_v the_o city_n themselves_o and_o whatever_o lesser_a difference_n or_o division_n this_o or_o that_o name_n of_o distinction_n may_v seem_v to_o make_v in_o national_a religion_n yet_o the_o true_a substantial_a religion_n in_o all_o of_o they_o shall_v be_v one_o national_a religion_n and_o become_v one_o rod_n and_o sceptre_n in_o the_o hand_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o nation_n be_v as_o one_o national_a tribe_n and_o church_n for_o let_v man_n do_v what_o they_o can_v against_o it_o true_a religion_n as_o it_o be_v the_o only_a public_a religion_n and_o no_o separation_n of_o man_n from_o it_o however_o call_v public_a can_v make_v it_o private_a so_o in_o what_o place_n soever_o it_o be_v it_o shall_v have_v the_o most_o public_a character_n and_o the_o true_a religion_n in_o all_o those_o that_o sincere_o profess_v it_o shall_v be_v one_o true_a public_a religion_n and_o those_o little_a difference_n shall_v not_o cleave_v it_o into_o more_o than_o one_o without_o the_o change_n of_o true_a religion_n itself_o there_o can_v be_v a_o schism_n of_o a_o deep_a sense_n in_o it_o if_o bitterness_n and_o animosity_n censoriousness_n and_o the_o persecute_v spirit_n be_v away_o god_n will_v gracious_o interpret_v scruple_n on_o one_o side_n to_o a_o jealousy_n for_o the_o purity_n of_o religion_n the_o freedom_n of_o the_o other_o to_o a_o desire_n to_o propagate_v it_o under_o the_o favour_n of_o law_n and_o thereby_o to_o be_v capable_a of_o do_v most_o good_n in_o heaven_n they_o now_o be_v all_o one_o and_o shall_v be_v one_o and_o the_o envy_n strife_n and_o contention_n which_o the_o good_a lord_n pardon_v shall_v be_v utter_o abolish_v this_o be_v the_o honour_n of_o true_a religion_n of_o public_a divine_a religion_n now_o the_o god_n of_o peace_n that_o bring_v again_o from_o the_o dead_a our_o lord_n jesus_n that_o great_a shepherd_n of_o the_o sheep_n by_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o everlasting_a covenant_n make_v his_o church_n and_o his_o church_n in_o this_o nation_n perfect_a in_o every_o good_a work_n to_o do_v his_o will_n work_v in_o it_o that_o which_o be_v well_o please_v in_o his_o sight_n through_o jesus_n christ_n to_o who_o be_v glory_n for_o ever_o and_o ever_o amen_n finis_fw-la errata_fw-la page_n 36._o l._n 20._o for_o scale_n read_v seal_v p._n 70._o l._n 9_o r._n record_n
of_o they_o that_o diligent_o seek_v he_o that_o godliness_n have_v the_o promise_n of_o this_o life_n and_o of_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v and_o this_o must_v be_v first_o because_o as_o righteousness_n and_o duty_n be_v before_o sin_n so_o blessing_n and_o favour_n be_v before_o wrath_n and_o displeasure_n yet_o wrath_n be_v a_o more_o certain_a demonstration_n of_o absolute_a duty_n violate_v than_o favour_n be_v of_o absolute_a duty_n observe_v because_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n be_v more_o at_o liberty_n than_o his_o wrath_n which_o always_o depend_v on_o strict_a justice_n all_o which_o amount_v to_o the_o full_a proof_n of_o the_o great_a duty_n of_o national_a religion_n from_o this_o prayer_n see_v national_a irreligion_n be_v so_o near_o the_o curse_n of_o divine_a fury_n and_o revenge_n have_v thus_o far_o consider_v national_a religion_n as_o it_o be_v found_v argum._n 2_o in_o the_o very_a law_n of_o nature_n and_o inviolable_a duty_n to_o god_n i_o come_v second_o to_o consider_v the_o wisdom_n and_o unquestionable_a rationality_n of_o the_o divine_a ordination_n among_o the_o jew_n when_o by_o a_o prerogative_n of_o power_n and_o goodness_n god_n will_v secure_v the_o true_a religion_n after_o the_o nation_n have_v so_o corrupt_v themselves_o and_o that_o he_o have_v now_o begin_v as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v to_o suffer_v they_o to_o walk_v after_o their_o own_o way_n he_o find_v his_o worship_n as_o it_o be_v anew_o first_o in_o abraham_n family_n and_o from_o thence_o commence_v it_o into_o a_o national_a state_n even_o as_o he_o do_v the_o family_n wherein_o he_o have_v place_v it_o and_o that_o for_o the_o very_a sake_n of_o his_o true_a worship_n which_o family_n and_o nation_n have_v indeed_o many_o peculiar_o in_o its_o religious_a constitution_n such_o as_o be_v not_o to_o be_v find_v in_o any_o other_o as_o i_o shall_v after_o account_v for_o they_o yet_o in_o the_o general_n it_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o the_o fitness_n and_o agreeableness_n of_o that_o model_n of_o humane_a society_n to_o the_o end_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o acceptableness_n to_o god_n it_o shall_v be_v so_o devote_v but_o because_o we_o may_v think_v this_o choose_n of_o abraham_n family_n and_o the_o nation_n rise_v from_o it_o be_v a_o interdict_v upon_o any_o other_o family_n or_o nation_n to_o institute_v a_o public_a national_a religion_n any_o other_o way_n than_o as_o they_o proselyte_v themselves_o to_o that_o one_o nation_n and_o family_n it_o be_v very_o observable_a there_o be_v elsewhere_o the_o footstep_n of_o national_a and_o family_n religion_n though_o more_o rare_a in_o that_o very_a time_n as_o in_o melchisedeck_v who_o be_v king_n of_o salem_n of_o peace_n and_o righteousness_n and_o priest_n of_o the_o most_o high_a god_n so_o incorporate_n religion_n with_o his_o government_n the_o same_o be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o job_n and_o his_o friend_n so_o that_o the_o erect_v a_o national_a religion_n among_o the_o jew_n do_v not_o supersede_n the_o obligation_n of_o any_o of_o the_o nation_n to_o the_o national_a worship_n of_o god_n though_o in_o judgement_n past_o our_o find_v out_o he_o so_o overlook_v they_o as_o to_o leave_v they_o to_o themselves_o for_o he_o never_o leave_v himself_o without_o witness_n he_o ought_v to_o be_v so_o worship_v by_o give_v they_o fruitful_a time_n and_o season_n and_o fill_v their_o heart_n with_o food_n and_o gladness_n he_o be_v never_o far_o from_o they_o in_o that_o he_o give_v they_o life_n and_o breath_n and_o all_o thing_n and_o in_o he_o they_o live_v move_v and_o have_v their_o being_n so_o that_o they_o wâ—re_v without_o excuse_n when_o at_o any_o time_n his_o wrath_n be_v reveal_v from_o heaven_n against_o they_o for_o not_o glorify_v he_o as_o god_n and_o be_v thankful_a belshazzar_n and_o his_o nation_n be_v obnoxious_a to_o god_n for_o not_o glorify_v that_o god_n in_o who_o hand_n be_v his_o life_n and_o breath_n and_o all_o his_o way_n beside_o those_o of_o the_o nation_n that_o be_v near_o the_o jew_n be_v allow_v to_o unite_v themselves_o to_o the_o jewish_a national_a religion_n when_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n be_v grow_v so_o dark_a and_o obsolete_a among_o themselves_o and_o though_o they_o be_v the_o son_n of_o stranger_n yet_o god_n assure_v they_o a_o place_n in_o his_o sanctuary_n but_o because_o there_o be_v not_o provision_n enough_o for_o the_o multitude_n of_o the_o nation_n within_o the_o bound_n of_o that_o religion_n it_o be_v certain_o at_o all_o time_n lawful_a and_o please_a to_o god_n that_o they_o shall_v have_v national_o dedicate_v themselves_o to_o the_o true_a jekovah_n though_o eminent_o know_v then_o to_o be_v the_o god_n of_o israel_n and_o that_o they_o do_v not_o so_o give_v reason_n always_o to_o his_o wrath_n against_o they_o whenever_o he_o please_v to_o execute_v it_o but_o i_o hasten_v to_o the_o three_o argument_n of_o near_a concernment_n to_o we_o the_o three_o argument_n i_o derive_v from_o the_o favour_n of_o christian_a religion_n argum._n 3_o to_o national_a religion_n of_o which_o i_o shall_v lay_v down_o several_a proof_n 1._o christianity_n repeal_v none_o of_o the_o law_n of_o god_n that_o be_v found_v in_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o thing_n if_o therefore_o national_a religion_n be_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o essential_a duty_n towards_o god_n if_o it_o be_v the_o reasonable_a service_n of_o nation_n it_o be_v certain_a christianity_n do_v not_o remove_v it_o but_o restore_v and_o exalt_v it_o to_o the_o great_a perfection_n christ_n come_v not_o to_o dissolve_v any_o of_o those_o law_n but_o to_o fulfil_v they_o that_o be_v to_o restore_v the_o doctrine_n to_o its_o just_a integrity_n where_o it_o be_v false_o gloss_a upon_o and_o if_o any_o thing_n be_v want_v in_o the_o former_a revelation_n of_o it_o to_o superadd_a what_o may_v render_v it_o most_o complete_a 2._o of_o the_o same_o nature_n be_v the_o second_o proof_n that_o if_o god_n not_o only_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o type_n and_o shadow_n which_o be_v useful_a for_o that_o state_n of_o the_o church_n but_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o the_o real_a goodness_n and_o usefulness_n of_o the_o thing_n itself_o pitch_v upon_o the_o national_a form_n of_o religion_n by_o his_o immediate_a revelation_n to_o abraham_n and_o moses_n as_o i_o have_v already_o argue_v it_o can_v be_v suppose_v to_o be_v reverse_v by_o christ_n it_o remain_v therefore_o among_o those_o thing_n that_o be_v write_v for_o our_o admonition_n and_o learning_n on_o who_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n be_v come_v 3._o christianity_n vouch_v itself_o a_o religion_n of_o the_o most_o public_a spirit_n and_o intention_n and_o come_v into_o the_o world_n by_o the_o high_a conduct_n of_o god_n to_o open_v all_o passage_n for_o truth_n and_o divine_a knowledge_n among_o man_n as_o innumerable_a place_n in_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n assure_v we_o so_o that_o the_o gospel_n most_o evident_o design_n itself_o to_o be_v free_a and_o public_a as_o the_o heaven_n as_o the_o light_n of_o it_o and_o the_o word_n of_o the_o psalmist_n may_v well_o be_v apply_v to_o it_o the_o line_n of_o it_o be_v go_v throughout_o all_o the_o earth_n and_o its_o word_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n so_o far_o therefore_o as_o naturalness_n and_o publiqueness_n agree_v so_o far_o the_o thing_n be_v undeniable_a 4._o many_o expression_n of_o the_o prophet_n that_o go_v before_o of_o our_o saviour_n and_o his_o apostle_n that_o follow_v after_o have_v a_o particular_a favour_n for_o national_a religion_n to_o name_v some_o of_o a_o multitude_n christ_n shall_v sprinkle_v many_o nation_n he_o be_v the_o desire_n of_o all_o nation_n go_v make_v disciple_n of_o all_o nation_n all_o the_o kingdom_n of_o the_o world_n shall_v become_v the_o kingdom_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o of_o his_o christ_n the_o apostle_n magnify_v himself_o as_o the_o apostle_n of_o the_o nation_n he_o compare_v himself_o with_o the_o holy_a priesthood_n while_o by_o preach_v the_o gospel_n he_o be_v negotiate_v in_o the_o offer_n up_o the_o nation_n a_o sacrifice_n consecrate_v and_o sanctify_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n the_o great_a sacrifice_n that_o be_v ever_o offer_v to_o god_n except_o that_o of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n offer_v himself_o and_o this_o be_v the_o only_a instance_n of_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n resemble_v with_o the_o priesthood_n of_o the_o law_n or_o clothe_v with_o that_o denomination_n of_o priestliness_n use_n have_v appropriate_v to_o it_o and_o that_o to_o no_o other_o office_n but_o of_o preach_v to_o conversion_n rom._n 15._o 16._o but_o because_o i_o know_v the_o proof_n from_o these_o scripture_n be_v liable_a to_o be_v retrench_v by_o expound_v they_o of_o the_o diffusion_n of_o christianity_n into_o the_o catholic_n church_n throughout_o the_o world_n and_o
of_o christian_a religion_n this_o be_v premise_v i_o come_v more_o particular_o to_o give_v answer_n 1._o many_o of_o these_o thing_n that_o be_v name_v as_o find_v in_o the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n as_o a_o national_a church_n be_v not_o yet_o the_o essential_o of_o a_o church_n as_o national_a in_o general_a but_o of_o that_o particular_a national_a church_n and_o typical_a of_o thing_n under_o the_o gospel_n as_o be_v plain_a in_o the_o exposition_n of_o they_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n and_o more_o particular_o that_o excellent_a epistle_n to_o the_o hebrew_n the_o temple_n the_o high_a priest_n the_o holy_a of_o holies_n the_o altar_n the_o sacrifice_n the_o solemn_a feast_n with_o such_o like_a serve_v only_o as_o shadow_n of_o thing_n to_o come_v and_o the_o want_n of_o they_o argue_v nothing_o against_o national_a religion_n 2._o those_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o typical_a or_o who_o main_a and_o sole_a intention_n be_v not_o to_o adorn_v and_o complete_a that_o whole_a frame_n but_o rest_v upon_o universal_a principle_n of_o reason_n truth_n and_o duty_n can_v never_o be_v abrogate_a but_o be_v for_o our_o learning_n that_o we_o through_o patience_n and_o comfort_n of_o the_o scripture_n may_v have_v national_a hope_v in_o god_n and_o be_v oblige_v in_o our_o duty_n even_o as_o they_o be_v thus_o the_o duty_n of_o magistrate_n and_o people_n towards_o true_a religion_n of_o public_a instruction_n of_o public_a minister_n of_o religion_n of_o care_n for_o place_n of_o meeting_n for_o divine_a worship_n throughout_o a_o nation_n continue_v still_o and_o need_v no_o new_a command_n in_o the_o gospel_n 3._o as_o to_o the_o first_o plant_n of_o church_n by_o draw_v christian_n into_o particular_a private_a society_n it_o amount_v but_o to_o thus_o much_o that_o christ_n the_o lord_n of_o tâ—e_v church_n do_v not_o find_v his_o church_n universal_a as_o necessary_o diffuse_v itself_o into_o nation_n nor_o can_v it_o in_o reason_n be_v so_o for_o see_v it_o be_v in_o divine_a providence_n for_o great_a and_o weighty_a reason_n of_o which_o it_o be_v not_o proper_a now_o to_o speak_v intend_a and_o order_v that_o hundred_o of_o year_n shall_v pass_v over_o christianity_n ere_o it_o have_v the_o favour_n and_o protection_n of_o supreme_a christian_a magistrate_n there_o must_v have_v be_v for_o that_o space_n no_o religion_n or_o church_n if_o there_o have_v be_v no_o other_o form_n but_o national_a the_o church_n of_o christ_n therefore_o though_o it_o be_v in_o those_o day_n within_o nation_n city_n town_n and_o village_n yet_o of_o low_a stature_n in_o comparison_n of_o national_a religion_n till_o the_o reign_n of_o christian_a emperor_n considerable_a indeed_o in_o itself_o and_o its_o diffusion_n through_o so_o much_o of_o the_o world_n but_o not_o acknowledge_v by_o law_n or_o government_n till_o long_o after_o its_o first_o entrance_n and_o at_o all_o time_n upon_o the_o change_n of_o a_o christian_a magistracy_n into_o a_o pagan_a a_o apostate_n a_o heretical_a or_o idolatrous_a succession_n or_o the_o complex_fw-la of_o all_o antichristianism_n which_o early_o invade_v the_o church_n and_o even_o cover_v and_o obscure_v it_o in_o succession_n of_o time_n the_o church_n of_o necessity_n must_v fall_v back_o into_o such_o a_o low_a state_n and_o subsist_v upon_o its_o obedience_n to_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n and_o its_o own_o prudential_a accommodation_n to_o the_o state_n of_o time_n without_o the_o magistrate_n care_v and_o protection_n our_o saviour_n therefore_o take_v care_n of_o the_o catholic_n church_n which_o be_v of_o absolute_a divine_a institution_n which_o be_v found_v in_o that_o promise_n the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o it_o to_o which_o belong_v primary_o all_o the_o great_a and_o glorious_a expression_n of_o scripture_n to_o which_o be_v give_v original_o pastor_n and_o teacher_n to_o propagate_v promote_v build_v up_o and_o strengthen_v it_o and_o shall_v by_o virtue_n of_o christ_n ascension_n far_o above_o all_o heaven_n be_v certain_o continue_v to_o it_o till_o we_o all_o come_v to_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n to_o a_o perfect_a man_n to_o the_o full_a measure_n and_o stature_n of_o christ_n in_o all_o his_o member_n all_o other_o society_n of_o christian_n be_v but_o little_a image_n and_o representation_n of_o this_o in_o these_o its_o excellency_n and_o the_o more_o they_o participate_v of_o it_o the_o more_o true_o be_v they_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n but_o because_o this_o be_v too_o diffuse_v for_o one_o model_n for_o one_o frame_n to_o comprehend_v there_o be_v therefore_o allowance_n give_v by_o christ_n for_o lesser_a association_n of_o this_o catholic_n church_n from_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n and_o because_o of_o the_o discountenance_n of_o nation_n and_o worldly_a power_n at_o first_o and_o since_o upon_o true_a christianity_n our_o saviour_n therefore_o matth._n 15._o 18_o etc._n etc._n express_o fix_v the_o promise_n of_o his_o divine_a presence_n in_o the_o small_a part_n of_o this_o church_n where_o but_o two_o or_o three_o be_v gather_v together_o in_o his_o name_n he_o have_v assure_v he_o will_v be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o so_o that_o it_o be_v hence_o evident_a the_o whole_a neighbour_a discourse_n centre_n in_o the_o least_o assembly_n agree_v in_o christian_a religion_n for_o though_o it_o suppose_v first_o a_o great_a number_n the_o church_n and_o two_o or_o three_o witness_n be_v contradistinguish_v yet_o as_o it_o be_v in_o prospect_n of_o the_o great_a fewness_n upon_o some_o exigency_n of_o christian_n practise_v the_o duty_n of_o christianity_n together_o it_o bring_v down_o the_o promise_n of_o audience_n in_o their_o appeal_n to_o heaven_n and_o presence_n with_o their_o whole_a worship_n and_o service_n to_o the_o small_a number_n not_o by_o way_n of_o limitation_n to_o but_o encouragement_n of_o so_o small_a a_o number_n and_o it_o be_v very_o observable_a the_o very_a same_o declaration_n of_o christ_n to_o the_o apostle_n who_o soever_o sin_n you_o remit_v or_o bind_v by_o the_o true_a doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n shall_v stand_v good_a in_o heaven_n the_o very_a same_o be_v say_v here_o to_o the_o small_a society_n of_o christian_n as_o to_o their_o judgement_n and_o determination_n upon_o their_o own_o member_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n concern_v the_o offence_n that_o fall_v out_o among_o themselves_o have_v the_o same_o doctrine_n to_o proceed_v he_o commit_v to_o they_o even_o as_o to_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o church_n be_v pillar_n and_o rock_n of_o truth_n even_o as_o the_o most_o excellent_a minister_n and_o either_o or_o all_o be_v no_o more_o but_o praecones_fw-la each_o in_o their_o kind_n or_o publisher_n of_o the_o will_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o truth_n declare_v in_o his_o word_n in_o the_o virtue_n of_o their_o be_v part_n of_o the_o catholic_n church_n now_o the_o reason_n why_o our_o saviour_n pitch_v upon_o so_o small_a a_o number_n of_o christian_n agree_v be_v certain_o this_o because_o he_o will_v appoint_v no_o other_o form_n to_o his_o church_n than_o such_o as_o can_v live_v as_o can_v subsist_v under_o any_o civil_a government_n whatever_o whether_o friendly_a or_o unfriendly_a to_o it_o he_o give_v it_o no_o other_o shape_n but_o what_o it_o may_v attain_v and_o keep_v under_o any_o state_n of_o civil_a law_n under_o any_o enmity_n it_o meet_v with_o in_o the_o world_n and_o this_o be_v most_o necessary_a because_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v not_o confine_v to_o one_o nation_n as_o the_o jewish_a be_v who_o god_n in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n single_v out_o and_o manage_v to_o the_o state_n of_o a_o kingdom_n and_o nation_n by_o a_o mighty_a power_n and_o outstretch_v arm_n and_o conserve_v by_o the_o same_o rule_v it_o with_o a_o immediate_a sensible_a presence_n after_o he_o have_v form_v it_o by_o precise_a law_n and_o settle_v the_o just_a bound_n of_o all_o officer_n in_o their_o office_n and_o appoint_v they_o the_o place_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o it_o whereas_o the_o christian_a doctrine_n be_v indifferent_a to_o every_o nation_n under_o heaven_n it_o do_v as_o it_o make_v its_o progress_n convert_v certain_a number_n to_o itself_o at_o first_o which_o have_v no_o privilege_n of_o humane_a law_n or_o power_n but_o the_o edge_n of_o all_o turn_v against_o it_o so_o that_o the_o form_n of_o church_n be_v compose_v to_o all_o the_o vicissitude_n of_o providence_n they_o be_v to_o undergo_v and_o that_o in_o all_o reason_n must_v be_v in_o case_n of_o necessity_n the_o very_a lest_o of_o society_n of_o christian_n two_o or_o two_o or_o three_o as_o our_o saviour_n significant_o point_v upon_o small_a society_n for_o such_o be_v most_o fit_v to_o the_o worst_a of_o condition_n that_o can_v befall_v lesser_a and_o single_a body_n move_v every_o way_n