rather bewail their own blindnesse Well then if the Apostles laid on hands by command from Christ Certain I am that all Baptized Disciples are bound to observe it for so runs the Commission Mat. 28.19 20. Go ye therefore and teach all nations baptizing them Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you He doth not say observe what I shall command them neither doth he leave them or us to teach and practise what and so much as we please But all things whatsoever I have commanded you You Peter and John c. so that if Peter and John were commanded to practise Laying on of hands then all Baptized Disciples are bound to observe it And upon these termes and none other Christ hath promised them his presence to the end of the world But the Gent. saith upon 1 Cor. 4.16 That the Apostle doth not intend fellowing him in all things I must needs say these are very slender Reply sorry shifts to shuffle off obedience since t is evident in the same Epistle 1 Cor. 11.1 that he commands them for remembring him in all things and keeping the ordinances as he delivered them to them And would the Apostle so praise them for that they were never exhorted to But secondly Whosoever in his right mind shall peruse that Chapter viz. 1 Cor. 4. may easily see that the Apostle intends all things even all the mysteries of God whereof he was a Steward v. 1 2. And as a Steward of such divine mysteries he shunned not to declare all the counsell of God his care being alike in all Churches Act. 20.27 1 Cor. 7.17 14.33 34. 2 Cor. 11.28 the care of all the Churches Yet the Gent. confidently affirmes That he did not teach the Laying on of hands upon all Disciples in any Churches nor to them To which I reply First It seems somewhat more then strange that the Apostle should be thus censured of Pharisaicall hypocrisie in making clean the outside of the cup and platter tithing Mint and Cummin and neglect the great and weighty matters of the Law Is he so carefull in all Churches about particular callings 1 Cor. 7.17 about orderly speaking 1 Cor. 14.33 34. about Almes 1 Cor. 16.1 And is he so carelesse in laying the Foundation Principles of Christian Religion Either the Apostle in neglecting or the Gent. in asserting such neglect 1 Cor. 4.1 2. must needs be grosly guilty of ignorance unfaithfulnesse or hypocrisie Secondly It 's plain the Apostle practised Laying on of hands in the Church and did he inforce obedience without teaching Act. 19.5 6. Chap. 17.11 Chap. 2.40 or were those Ephesian Disciples so ignoble to act by an implicite faith in submitting to they know not what The Bereans are recorded noble for not barely resting on the Apostles words it is said of Peter that with many other words he did testifie and exhort For the Gospel and Acts is but an Epitomy of what Jesus and his Apostles did and said Must it then be asserted that because it is not declared in so many words He taught laying on of hands that therefore he taught it not at all why then they practised what he never taught this is will-worship with a witnesse We do not finde that Philip spake one syllable of the Doctrine of Baptisme ether to the Samaritans or to the Eunuch Act. 8.12 36. and yet they are Baptized and he cals for the Ordinance so that I dare boldly affirme that Philip did teach the Doctrine of Baptisme though no mention be made of teaching and so of hands for what liberty soever others dare take yet I dare not charge the Apostles with acting besides their Commission and certain I am their Commission binds them to teach that which the Disciples are bound to observe Teaching them to observe Mat. 28.20 and Paul himself professeth That what he received of the Lord that he also delivered unto them by way of teaching 1 Cor. 11.23 And requires us to account of him and his fellow Ministers as faithfull stewards of the mysteries of God 1 Cor. 4.1 2. So that whatever the Gent. confidently affirmes to the contrary I dare boldly avouch that if there were no more but Apostolicall practise and Disciples observing Laying on of hands I say I dare from hence aver it with full assurance that the Apostle did teach Laying on of hands on all Disciples faithfully in all Churches Christ having purchased the same priviledges for all his Saints commanded the same exact rules for them all teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you And the Apostles most faithfully dispensing all to al Churches and particularly to this Church of Corinth for saith he 2 Cor 12.13 What is it wherein ye were inferior to other Churches Nay he professeth That in every thing they were enriched by him So that they came behind in no gift 1 Cor. 1.5 7. But if the Gent. speak true in saying that the Laying on of hands upon all Dyciples he taught in no Church nor to them I must be bold to say the Apostle spake false in affirming that they were enriched in every thing in all knowledge and that they came behind in no girt For I am sure that Laying on of hands is the Vehicle Vehiculum Spiritus or conduit pipe through which many gifts of the Spirit are conveyed And as sure that those divine ornaments wherewith the Corinthians were so enriched were graciously handed through Paul 1 Cor. 4.15 Lastly I do positively assert That the Apostle did expresly teach the Laying on of hands upon all Disciples in the Churches for besides the Church of Samaria Act 8. and the Church of Ephesus Act. 19.5 6. where it is declared that they heard before they observed either Baptisme or Laying on of hands When they heard this they were Baptized and Paul laid his hands upon them all I say besides the Apostles teachings in these Churches it is evident that they did expresly teach this Doctrine with other foundation words Act. 5.31 Gal. 1.22 once and again to the Churches of Judea or Christian Hebrews who were then comfortably walking in the compleat order of the Gospell Heb. 13.7 17.24 Yea this Doctrine is taught to all the Disciples or babes in Christ as milke fitter for constitution for though by the improvement of their time and talents they might have been teachers yet they were stil such babes not teachers that there was a necessity of teaching them again these first foundation Doctrines which possibly they had so forgot that young converts were deprived of them Thus 't is evident this Doctrine of hands was taught in the Churches to babes yea to the Hebrew Disciples and though it be so much slighted yet the Apostles do reckon it one of the six foundation Doctrines for Sions babes The Gent. proceeds to overturn Apostolicall example by his answer to the second Scripture brought to assert it namely 1 Cor. 11.1 Be ye
Apostles 'T is strange that this foundation Principle must either be mounted and advanced above its fellowes or else it must be buried in oblivion and not practised at all What is imposition of hands more then the Doctrine of Faith Repentance Baptisme and the rest that the beautifull feet of him which bringeth the Doctrine of Faith and Baptizeth may not presume to administer hands Christs Doctrine owns no such difference in point of superiority but whosoever is orderly called to preach hath also full authority to carry on all Ordinances whatsoever Christ commanded his Apostles Mat. 28.19 20. If what hath been said doth not satisfie as to the equall power of all preaching Ministers to carry on all Ordinances let these Scriptures be considered 2 Tim. 2.2 Act. 20.28 1 Cor. 3.5.8 1 Pet. 5.1 2 3 4. 3 Joh. 9. 1 Thess 1.1 with many more which clearly hold out equall power not one for any superiority So that the Gent. is much mistaken in saying 't is an Absurdity yea that many Absurdities will follow our assertion that we are commanded to follow the Apostles in all things except stil before excepted Act. 9. And in this thing it 's plain Ananias did it and the Presbyterie did it and Timothy had power to do it 1 Tim. 4.14 5.22 and other Ministers may do it and God will blesse it And thus having answered the Gent. touching fit Ministers for this ordinance I shall in the second place take a view of the subjects which he saith were a people ignorant of and strangers to the holy Ghost Whereunto I answer 1. That it is true of those Act. 19. before Paul instructed them better but I hope the Gent. will bethink himself and confesse that before the Laying on of hands they were taught and believed in the holy Ghost And as for those Disciples of both sexes in Samaria they heard Christ faithfully preached Act. 8.5 6. they saw the power of the holy Spirit working by wonderfull miracles v. 6. unclean spirits cast out v. 7. they were filled with joy a lively fruit of the Spirit v. 8. they believed which is an eminent gift of the Spirit 1 Cor. 12.9 and were Baptized in the name of Jesus that is according to the command of Jesus v. 12. Now to affirme that these were ignorant of and strangers to the Holy Ghost is that which I dare not venture upon for the reverence I owe to God and fear lest his Saints should shun me for grosse untruth But however the Gent. at unawares hath thus far holpen us in acknowledging some truth namely That they were but yong beginners meer babes in Christ to whom this Ordinance of hands was administred Whereas he saith That there was no such practise amongst the 3000. Act. 2. nor Act. 4. nor in the Churches of Corinth Rome Thessalonica or any other setled Churches I answer If Laying on of hands be the Apostles Doctrine Answ then the 3000. did religiously practise it what a needlesse thing is it now to play the Logician and muster up a Minor and Conclusion But Laying on of hands is the Apostles Doctrine Ergo. Is it not much more substantiall to prove this truth by the plain word of God thus Act. 2.42 They continued stedfast in the Apostles Doctrine so that either the Gent. must deny Laying on of hands to be the Apostles Doctrine for babes or else he must perforce confesse with humility that they did practise it What wiseman will say this Church neglected what their messengers in another * Act. 8.14 15 16 17. Church practised And as for that uncouth reasoning that neither the Churches of Rome nor Corinth nor any setled Churches did practise the Fourth Principle As it is not true in it self as I have already fully proved so it must unavoidably bring in such grosse Absurdities if he talks of Absurdities as shall shake yea and overturn most of our Ordinances For I may as well conclude that breaking of bread and the Lords Supper is not to be practised because neither the Churches of Rome of Ephesus of Philippi of Colosse of Thessalonica nor any of the seven Churches of Asia have any mention of it I know not of any more then three Churches that mention the Lords supper namely Judea Troas and Corinth and in so many at least is the Fourth Principle recorded viz. the Hebrews Samaria and Ephesus I might produce many Churches where not a syllable of Baptisme is once mentioned and the like of severall other Ordinances but I am perswaded so of the Gent. that he will ingenuously acknowledge it was for want of a better reason that he produced this From the subjects he proceeds to the end of this Ordinance which he saith Was not to put persons in expectation of or waiting for the Holy Ghost but immediately to communicate the Spirit in the action T is strange to me that the Apostles should so earnestly pray for the holy Spirit Answ Act. 8.19 to fill them that were not to expect or wait for it Deserves he food that thinks it vain to gape The Lord Jesus hath put all his upon earnest prayer and expectation for his Spirit Luk. 11. Neither is it in the power of any creature to communicate of the Spirit through any ordinance for the Wind or Spirit bloweth where and how it listeth having severall gifts which he distributeth as he pleaseth 1 Cor. 12.11 whether sooner or later 't is worth the waiting for Now the just end of this Ordinance of hands as of all other ordinances is for spirituall babes to obtain a geater measure of the same Spirit some heavenly qualification some sealing confirming mercy such as Believers have need of as Ephes 1.13 In whom also after that ye believed ye were sealed by that holy Spirit of promise that is after the poor babe hath rolled it self upon Christ by a faith of adherence God is pleased to seal it by faith of assurance sometimes sooner sometimes later sometimes in Baptisme or after sometims through laying on of hands Lords Supper Prayer Preaching how he will and when he will wherefore it behoves the gratious soul to wait upon him for his Spirit in all his holy appointments for there he will hand out his loves Cant. 7.12 There is a generation of professors that are rather principled by sight then faith who will not believe except they see signes and wonders but they should remember that an evill and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign And yet they might see signs and wonders every day 2 Cor. 12.12 yea the signs and wonders of Apostles wrought amongst them that is those greater works that Christ promised his Disciples should do Joh. 14.12 Greater miracles they never could they never did do But greater works of conversion were wrought by them and these are the great signes and seals and mighty deeds that God is working by his Apostles even before our eyes There being many through grace that are
and spear are but Christs condescensions to weak Christians Those tongues which were given once and but once that we know of in the laying on of hands and in Preaching although the Gent. do ever so highly magnifie them amongst professors and believers so as to rase the foundation of a foundation principle because he sees not that sign of tongues doth but feed his hearers with food that is not for them If we dare but give credit to that wise master builder he will clearly shew us what an unwise steward is this Gent. Mat. 24.45 Luk. 12.42 what an unfaithfull servant not dividing the word of truth aright not giving them their portion of meat in due season 2 Tim. 2.15 But indeed setting them a gaping for such food as Christ intends not for them Tongues being for a sign 1 Cor. 14.22 Not to them that believe but to them that believe not And while they are thus busily enquiring after the visible power the signs the miracles like that impertinent question Act. 1.6 they are robbed of that proper powerful food that Christ hath fitted for his table guests and conveyed through laying on of hands that true Manna which whosoever feeds upon shall never die I mean those best gifts which true Christians ought earnestly to covet and use all means to procure as Wisdome Knowledge Faith Prophesie Prayer and the rest wherein the mighty Almighty power of Christ is put forth and which sundry believing soules have felt and found in this Administration of hands some eminently and speedily others more obscurely and by insensible degrees The blessed Spirit dividing to every man severally as he will that is What he will how he will 1 Cor. 12.11 and when he will Lastly I must declare that the Gent. and others making so much noise about the visible Power the miraculous Power the externall glorious Power c. do but hereby proclaime their own unbelief The Apostle plainly telling us that tongues are for a sign not to believers but to unbelievers as above Secondly As for that reproof in Isa 1.12 I have already spoke to it and the God of heaven make it a warning to him that he may cease to reproach the wayes ordinances and servants of Christ And as for Gods demand how we know Heb. 6.2 is meant to lay hands on all Disciples though the Gent. sayes we can but answer we think so and how sad that would be I answer We can confidently tell him for God will make no such idle demands that we know so we know the fourth Principle belongs to all Disciples 1. Because it is one of the first Doctrines or Words of Christ 2. Because it 's one of the foundation Principles for Christians 3. Because it 's plainly called milk for babes Indefinitely 4. Because the Ministers of Christ taught and practised it to all his 5. Because Christs babes have need of it God himself hath spoken it and therefore will never question us for observing the Apostles writings and teachings 1 Cor. 11.37 which his holy Spirit hath testifyed are his own commands Thirdly the Gent. would have us consider How unlike this practise is to the primitive Churches and to Philip Act. 8.12 13. who wrought miracles more then we can do and Baptized with water but left the Laying on of hands to the Apostles Act. 8.14 Answ 1. We have diligently considered and through grace found our selves in the very steps of the primitive Churches whereof some are particularized as the Church of Samaria the Church of Ephesus the Churches of Judea or the Hebrewes who were taught and continued stedfastly in the Apostles Doctrine they being carefull to settle the same order in all Churches Especially in foundation Principles upon which all the Saints are built Now therefore ye are no more strangers and forainers Ephes 2.19 20. but fellow-citizens with the Saints and of the houshold of God and are built upon the foundation of the Apostles and Prophets Jesus Christ himselfe being the chiefe corner-stone 2. It 's too bold to say that Philip left Laying on of hands to the Apostles when it was the speciall work of God to employ Philip suddainly in the mighty service of converting that noble Aethiopian whom Historians record to be so famous in converting his whole Nation But secondly What a deal of stir here is to set up the poor weak instrument as though there were any power or virtue in one Ministers hands more then another or in one Ordinance then another Why this is nothing but the old Pope and Prelate masking in a new habit Let the eternall Spirit determine what difference there is between Peter and Philip I shall offer no violence to the text only change names a little 1 Cor. 3.5 6 7 8. Who then is Peter and who is Philip but Ministers by whom ye believed even as the Lord gave to every man Philip planted Peter and John watered but God gave the increase So then neither is he that planteth any thing neither he that watereth but God that giveth the increase Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one And one would think this should satisfie an honest humble heart in this matter But thirdly Philip was an Evangelist in the very same rank with Timothy and it cannot be denyed but laying on of hands was the work of an Evangelist 1 Tim. 5.22 Lay hands suddenly on no man Fourthly Act. 9.17 Doubtlesse Philip had as much authority as Ananias for it is confidently asserted by some that Ananias was but a bare Disciple though 't is a wild assertion but let that passe at present Well certain it is Ananias who had power to Baptize had equall power to lay hands upon Paul upon a twofold account 1. For the cure of his body 2. For the filling of him with the holy Ghost The very end and use of this fourth Foundation Principle Paul was at present but a new-born-babe learning and observing or practising his Principles I hope none will presume to say that this main end of Ananias imposing hands that Paul might be filled with the Holy Spirit was any ordination to office unlesse they will be wise above what is written Paul was not then Baptized and not likely to receive ordination before his Foundation Principles were laid Besides Certain it is that his solemne Ordination by imposition of hands was long after namely Act. 13. But Lastly Philip being an Evangelist was not inferiour to the setled elders or Presbytery * 1 Tim. 4.14 and they had authority to impose hands If any shall object That was in Ordination I shall only answer this That strong meat for men is not inferior to milk for babes But enough hath been said to prove Christs Ministers equall in power The Gents. last Consideration warneth his dear friends of the danger of turning Acts of Power into bare imitation and want the power quoting Act. 19.13 14 15 16. Exod. 7. to 13. 8.16 17 18
suppositions or doubtfull suppositions wherein the Gent. so much toyls and entangles himself and his readers But have plainly and clearly proved that Laying on of hands is a doctrine of Christ or one of the words of the beginning of Christ a foundation Principle the Apostle teaching a command of the eternall King and he that hath an ear let him hear for it is the Spirit that speaks to the Churches But more dust in new doubts arise from the Gent. supposition or probability that Laying on of hands upon bare Disciples was rather concluded in the word Baptism then in the word Laying on of hands for if Laying on of hands be not one of the Baptisms here expressed he saith He would gladly know how we would make up Baptism according to the Scripture Heb. 6.2 Answ First I would demand of the Gent. whether ever he read that Laying on of hands is any where termed a Baptisme if not then it is a wilde supposition and hath no probability at all that Laying on of hands should be concluded as he phraseth it in the word Baptism Secondly I shall now I am set to it as gladly answer his demand that we can very currantly make up Baptism and never be beholding to imposition of hands for the matter There are three sorts of Baptisme Flaminis Fluminis Sanguinis Ephes 4.5 of Spirit of Water of Bloud and these three agree in one 1 Joh. 5.8 The first is that heavenly birth qualifying the subject for Water Joh. 3.3 as I long since deliverd in his hearing at Muggleswik from Heb. 10.22 In this the eternall dove with his extended wings Isa 30.1 Luk. 1.35 covereth or overshadoweth the believing soul who like the blessed Virgin conceiveth with his Jesus by the hearing of the ear The second is that externall administration in which the Disciple of Christ is buried with him as our Lord commanded and his Ministers practised Mat. 28 19. Act. 10.47 48. The third is that bitter cup the drinking whereof first baptized our Redeemer in a sea of sorrows Luk. 12.50 His Fathers wrath forcing his vitall bloud in streams through every pore of his body falling down to the ground Luk 22.44 This is that cup and Baptism which the true servants of Christ must also submit unto Mat. 20.23 following their Lord without the Camp through many tribulations bearing his reproach Heb. 10.32 Call to remembrance the former dayes in which after ye were illuminated ye endured a great fight of afflictions It is observed by one that the word 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 which we translate illuminated and that truly is rendred in the Syriack Arabick and Aethiopick Baptized And that the Greek fathers do sometimes call 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 〈◊〉 Baptizo But enough hath been said and proved in answer to the Gentlemans demand so that I hope he and others will see that we are put to no straight at all to make up the Doctrine of Baptisms of Spirit of Water of Bloud without any need of imposition of hands upon that account And therefore this doubtfull supposition is utterly vanished and the fourth Foundation Doctrine of Christ established as an eternall * Mar. 24 35. with Heb 6.1 2. decree of his own lips which the Church throughout all ages Ephes 3.21 is obliged faithfully to observe Mat. 28.20 But the Gent. goes on to answer an objection made from Apostolicall example 1 Cor. 4.16 10.1 Concerning which before I reply to his answers let this be observed That although Apostolicall example be sufficient ground to practise Christian duties yet we have in this particular of hands much more then bare examples namely the teachings of Christ and his Apostles for it is already fully proved and I hope will be retained in obedient hearts 1. Institution That this foundation Principle is the expresse Doctrine or word of Christ 2. That such as be babes in Christ had need to be taught this Doctrine 3. That this Doctrine was religiously taught and practised in the Churches of the Hebrews c. And 4. That the Spirit of God enjoyns all that are truly spirituall to embrace the things written by the Apostles as none other then the commands of Christ 1 Cor. 14.37 First And as for Apostolicall examples we look upon them as binding 1. If they were performed in the Churches of Christ Phil. 4.9 2. If those Apostolicall practises were never solemnly repealed for there were some cerimonies wherewith for a time they complyed which were afterwards utterly abolished Gal. 2.3 4 5 12 13. 4.9 10 11. 5.2 3. If such performances be not impossible such as miracles for Christ doth not command impossibilities his yoak is easie his burden light yea the Gent. himself confesseth that we are not commanded to follow in acts of power I suppose he means miraculous acts which may serve as a just reply to his first consideration for though Christ hath left us an example that we should follow his steps yet it is only in his morall not in his mediatory actions Moreover let it be observed That miracles are no part of the Ordinance for though many miracles did attend Preaching Baptism Supper Laying on of hands and other Ordinances yet I hope the Gentleman will not conclude that the cessation of miracles doth strip us of these mercies These things being premised 1 Cor. 4.16 10.1 2. I do confidently assert from the two Scriptures he mentions That the Apostles examples are obliging to all believers 1. Because we have no other warrant for many of our Ordinances then Apostolicall example There is no expresse command for observing the Lords day and but one Apostolicall example but this I fear too many ungratefull that I say not ungracious spirits would readily and willingly dispense with 2. Where have we ought but Apostolicall example for women to receive the Lords supper 3. What shall we do for authority to ordain officers by imposition of hands if we refuse Apostolicall Precedents Secondly We must observe Apostolicall examples because they have exactly followed the commands of Christ That which we have seen and heard saith John 1 Epist 1.3 declare we unto you touching fellowship We have not fellowed cunningly devised fables saith Peter 2 Epist 1.16 I received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you saith Paul 1 Cor. 11.23 So that whatsoever I finde the Apostles practising except before excepted I shall freely and chearfully observe and expect the presence of the God of peace in so doing Phil. 4.9 And in the very case in hand touching the Fourth foundation Principle had I no more to rest upon but the bare example of the Apostles in the Churches I would faithfully obey for I hope enough hath been said punctually proving that what they so practised Christ commanded them and though I have heard much ignorance in the handling of this point yet I hope none will henceforth be so blasphemous as to charge the Apostles of will-worship but
that is different administrations from the same Lord. 1 Cor. 12.5 But that saith which so runs as through Baptisme Supper Hands and other Ordinances I do not judge that foundation Principle Heb. 6. but a faith of assurance Ephes 1.13 or the sealing of the Spirit which hath been communicated to some upon their purpose to obey Christ in this Ordinance to others whiles they have been under the administration of hands to a third sort immediately after to divers at a greater distance yea I have seen such a presence and with an eye which the naturall man never enjoyed beheld so great a Majesty in the administration of this fourth Principle as hath constrained me to admire the mighty operation of the Spirit and to conclude that wonders are not totally ceased Let babes in Christ covet earnestly this great gift Gal. 2.20 Ephes 3.8 Hab. 3.17 18. 1 Sam. 30.6 Mat. 21.22 Josh 10.12 13. 1 Joh. 5.4 Isa 45.11 and be found in all the means and wayes of obtaining it for 't is a Christ-exalting gift a self-abasing gift a soul-satisfying gift a heart-encouraging gift a mercy-obtaining gift a wonder-working gift a world-conquering gift a God-commanding gift Now certainly if I have spoken truth concerning this pretious gift of Faith then it is not true which some have so confidently asserted namely that the powerfull operations of the Spirit are ceased But I know what they mean viz. the visible print of the nails and spear so that it appears to me they believe little further then they see and therefore slight this Doctrine of Laying on of hands Which I think few will deny to be a notable means for the conveyance of the fourth continued spirituall gift which is Prophesie All spirituall gifts are beautifull in their place but this rather to be desired for the edification of others as the Apostle saith 1 Cor. 14.1 I do not judge a person compleatly in Gods way how eminent soever he be gifted untill he have received this Ordinance of hands I look upon the Church as neglecting her duty when omitting it or employing persons in the Administration of Ordinances without it and hiding her talents when she doth not separate such persons by it as are fit for the Lords harvest And I esteem any man that sets to the Ministery without it if he may and doth not receive it as running without his errand Let none here mistake me as though I did confound the fourth Principle with Ordination I know the one is an initiating Ordinance proper for babes 2 Tim. 1 6. such as Timothy received at the hands of Paul by which often this gift of Prophesie is communicated which when it mounts to such a flame that the soul is constrained with the Prophet Jer. 20.9 to cry out I was weary with forbearing and I could not stay Then I judge it the Churches duty to set upon this separating administration with sasting and prayer according to pattern Act. 13.2 3. As the Eldership or Presbyterie did to Timothy 1 Tim. 4.14 Persons thus designed to the work are sent out by the Holy Spirit Act. 13.4 therefore prize it The last standing or continued gift here mentioned is Discerning of Spirits which raiseth the soul to a notable degree of spirituality * 1 Cor. 2.14 No wonder then that the Apostle urgeth the necessity of the Six Principles as being the dishes in and by which this spirituall gift is brought by degrees to the believing soul which when he heartily feeds of it is of that strengthning nature as transforming the Disciple from a babe to a strong man Heb. 5. ult 'T is no small mercy to be able to try the spirits whether they be of God and to know Christs voice from a stranger 1 Joh. 4.1 Joh. 10. Mat. 7.15 16. a wolf from a sheep Since therefore the use and end of Laying on of hands is for attaining the Spirit of Christ by degrees And that I have so fully proved that the choicest gifts of the Spirit are as largely that I say not more liberally handed to believers now as ever and that these heavenly gifts are so clearly communicated through this Ordinance of hands Let my counsell be acceptable to thee if ever thou desirest thy friends society get thee to his place of abode that is Can. 1.8 forth by the foot steps of the flock and feed thy kids besides the shepheards tents There he makes his flock to rest at noon There he will give thee his loves not every where but in wayes of his own appointment His flock have left thee fair prints of their footsteps both in Doctrine and practise A goodly flock hath the Shepherd of Israel whose faith follow and lean not to thine own understanding Say not the Lords hands is shortned or his power ceased thou seest his richest gifts are continued to thee and many more then I have mentioned as the spirit of grace and supplication Zech. 13.10 the gift of suffering Phil. 1.29 of courage and boldnesse Act. 4.10 13. and sundry others Be not wanting to thy self in slighting this or any Ordinance through which Christ is pleased to convey his gift Jonah 2.8 They that observe lying vanities forsake their own mercy If there be any breathings in thy soul after these spirituall treasures which will stand thee in stead when the trumpet sounds get thee to the Merchants now if thou drive off thy bargain till then the door will be shut Possibly thou mayest think this Ordinance of hands not worth half my writing or thy reading I am sure my pains is the greater and I do not think it too much to clear up an Ordinance whereby Christ hath sweetly refreshed my soul I know it hath long lien sullied amongst the Romish pots Psal 68.13 Isa 60.8 But God can give it the wings of a dove to thy bosome to engage thy dove-like soul to flie though in clouds to thy windowes What if thou shouldest look upon this Ordinance with a contemptible eye Joh. 9.6 7. and esteem it no better then clay and spittle yet use it because 't is the Doctrine or word of Christ possibly it may clear thy sight Thou hast many pretious Lambs of Christ in view that have led thee the way through this administration as Peter John Paul Ananias and thousands more who continued stedfastly in this and all the rest of the Apostles Doctrine And remember that thou art commanded to observe and do all things whatsoever Christ commanded his Disciples in those dayes so shalt thou be sure of the presence of Christ whose favour soever thou losest So shalt thou approve thy self a new-born-babe a new Creature a friend of Christ And as many as walke according to this rule peace be on them and mercy and upon the Israel of God I must now return to the Gent. my Antagonist to wipe off those Absurdities which he saith must of necessity follow this practise First We lay no unfaithfulnesse
edifie thy self nor others vers 14 17. No no thou little one thou suckling Luk. 10.21 to whom the good pleasure of thy Father is to reveal the mysteries of his Kingdome which he conceals from the wise and prudent I stand as one of wisdomes maidens to give thee an earnest invitation yea to compell thee to come Prov. 9.3 Luk. 14.23 and sup with the Lord upon a daintier dish then tongues or any such externall things Upon that hidden manna the bread that cometh down from Heaven Joh. 6.50 Cant. 1.3 4. 2.4 which whosoever eats of shall never die I would lead thee and all thy virgin companions by the savor of his good oyntments into the inner chambers of the King yea into his banqueting house where thou shalt be presented with his choisest gifts Wisdome Knowledge Faith c. The Wisdome of God in a Mystery not an external sound Col. 2.3 Ephes 3.17 18 19 20. to satisfie a carnall heart but all the treasures of wisdome and knowledge such as will warm thy inside and by degrees so root thee and ground thee in love that at length thou shalt be filled with all the fulnesse of God Col. 2.2 Vnto all riches of the full assurance of understanding to the acknowledgement of the mystery of God and of the Father and of Christ Come then Rev. 22.17 let heaven and earth ring together The Spirit and the Bride say Come and let him that heareth say Come and let him that is athirst Come and whosoeverwill let him take of the water of life freely Who so is simple let him turn in bither Pov. 9.4 5. as for him that wanteth understanding she saith unto him Come eat of my bread and drink of the wine which I have mingled Ah thou beloved believer here 's a feast for a King such a King as thou art and thou shalt be a welcome guest the more thou shalt eat Cant. 5.1 the better welcome Eat O friends drink abundantly O beloved I have acquainted thee in what dishes this supper is served through what pipes these best gifts are conveyed Act. 10.44 2.38 9.17 namely through the word Preached through Baptism through Laying on of hands and other Ordinances Thy obedience will dispell the clouds of thy Ignorance If any man will do his will he shall know of the dectrine whether it be of God or whether I speak of my self Joh. 7.17 Rom. 2.13 For not the hearers but the doers of the Law are justified Therefore look upon them as the enemies of thy soul that tell thee thou must learn the fourth Principle but not practise it Thy dear Redeemer learns thee another lesson If ye know these things Joh. 13.17 happy are ye if ye do them Do them therefore and wait upon God for what he pleaseth to give and when The sucking babe is not alwayes sensible of its grouth in drawing the breasts Possibly God may give thee an Eunuch's portion speedily possibly by insensible degrees The Christian Hebrews had been in the use of this milk this fourth Principle and in the other five a considerable time Heb. 5.12 13. before they had any eminent gift wherefore let not any pretious soul in this practise either say God is a hard master or question his own condition if gifts do not presently or eminently flow as they desire O Augustine he is come he is come warmed the Martyr within when the flames were most scorching without Possibly God reserves his gifts till thou hast most need of them Some sooner some later If any shall say the Hebrews were not in the practise of this Doctrine of Laying on of hands because they were not eminent in gifts I must tell such persons that they flatly contradict the Scriptures which tessifie Act. 2.42 Heb. 5.12.13 That they continued stedfastly in the Apostles Doctrine yea that they had been taught it and did use it And to say That they were taught Baptisme and did practise it and were taught Laying on of hands but did not practise it is such a sign of a shallow capacity as deserves no answer but silence and pity Wherefore I invite thee again thou troubled tempted soul whom the enemy keeps back with scruples it is thy Lord cals for thee Behold I have prepared my dinner Mat. 22.4 my oxen and my fatlings are killed and all things are ready come unto the marriage Take heed thou tender Lamb of making light of these invitations beware of delaies they are very dangerous as thou tenderest the good of thy soul look not upon thy livings or livelihood but especially thy relations Luk 14.18 19 20. Ch. 9.59 61. Ch. 14.27 no not so much as bury thy dead or take leave of them that are at home He that loveth father and mother more then me is not worthy of me And whosoever doth not bear his crosse and come after me cannot be my disciple How many poor souls have I known some at the very door of Baptisme and while they have delayed slumbred and loitered the enemy came and sowed tares Mat. 13.25 by some deluded Quaker or otherwise slighting Christs Ordinances I am come in my Fathers name and ye receive me not Joh. 5.43 if another come in his own name crying up his light within in the secret chambers Mat. 24.26 him ye will receive Some have been ready to fall upon their knees for convenience sake to have hands laid upon them and though God hath had mercy upon any that have afterwards obeyed yet others have been left to strong delusions to believe 2 Thess 2.11 write and practise lies If any man draw back Heb. 10.38 my soul shall have no pleasure in him And others who have slighted the fellowship of the Saints neglecting Christ invitation I have seen death surprise them in their disobedience Luk. 14.24 For I say unto you that none of those men which were bidden shall taste of my Supper And is not that sad thou poor enquiring soul But in the last place If God have drawn out thy heart by the smell of Christs garments I say Christs garments those outward things which proud ones passe by and deluded souls disdain Which yet the Spirit sayes Psal 45.8 Come out of the Ivory Palaces casting forth the fragrant odours and cordiall perfumes of myrrhe Aloes and Cassia If these have made glad thy gracious heart whiles thy Queen-like virgin-soul hath adorned her self with the choice embroyderies of thy beloved not contenting thy self wich a fancied light in thy conscience but approving thy self the Kings daughter indeed Vers 13. legitimately descended all glorious within and thy clothing of wrought gold That is if thou have yeelded thine obedience to those principles and other Ordinances * Zech. 4.12 through which the golden gifts and graces of his Spirit flow Let no man deceive thee with vain words giving thee leave to learn but not to practise
the Lord and confirmed to his Apostles and by them faithfully taught us Mind it Christian 't is for thy life thou canst not escape if thou let it slip after warning if thou receive not the truth with love God will send thee strong delusions to believe a lie Ah! how have I seen the Lords professed people carried away captive that have slighted this Ordinance Hurryed by Satan to blaspheme other glorious truths drowned in the world and the love of it 1 Joh. 2.15 given up to horrible lying bitternesse emulation envy strife sedition making schisms rents divisions what not O thou believer that professest Christ mind this word of Christ these four first verses of the Epistle to the Hebrews Remember that this fourth principle was first spoken by the Lord himself and is plainly called The word of the * Heb. 6.1 beginning of Christ and was confirmed by signs and wonders and miracles 2. Miracles are given for conviction of Heathens Act. 8.6 16.27 29 30. But alas this avails not at all if love manifested by obedience to all Christs commands be wanting 1 Cor. 13.2 A person may have this gift and perish The third gift of this nature is extraordinary Prophesie or foretelling of events such as may wonderfully possesse a Balaam a Saul a Caiaphas a Witch this may confirme truths and convince sinners but the Prophet be damn'd 't is an excellent gift in a gratious heart but short of ordinary Prophesie The fourth extraordinary gift that is according to Court custome not the chief is kinds of tongues not new tongues for that is a speciall gift peculiar to true believers a reall sign of an effectuall work of grace for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh Rev. 14.1 wherefore those 144000. Redeemed Virgins are presented with a new song in their mouth which none else could learn Act. 17.19 When once Paul becomes a Convert he Preacheth a new Doctrine he was before a Blasphemer but now he hath learned a new lesson He is not a believer that hath not learned a new language * Ephes 5.4 These miraculous tongues are never called new tongues but strange tongues and other tongues to convince a strange people to preach to other Nations as was needfull then but now cannot well be employed since Popish inquisitions and Turkish slavery hath shut the Gospell out of their territories Act. 13.46 Neither have Christs Ministers any warrant to attempt the publishing of Gospell truths in other Nations who are known to be dogs swine and persecutors Mat. 7.6 10.23 And therefore Satan and not Gods Spirit hath engaged some foolish deluded souls called Quakers to passe the Seas in expectation probably of some miraculous ability to publish their poison against Christs Ordinances but have only performed the work of Barbarians and so returned But certainly should Christ call into forain parts he would enable his servants to help sick souls abroad as well as to heal sick bodies at home Alas our native Countrey hath need enough of more labourers Wherefore saith the Apostle tongues are for a sign Not to them that believe 1 Cor. 14.21 but to them that believe not This gift therefore belongs not to thee thou dear Disciple of Christ It is our mercy that the Ordinance I now contend for came once under hand and seal from heaven our Masters hand and this sign of tongues confirming it Since therefore this fourth Foundation Principle of thy Religion is thus by this miraculous gift ratified and thy pretious soul converted thouart not to expect such needlesse unsutable gifts as these which Gods word tels thee are not convenient for thee But fince the Spirit of truth hath more excellent treasure then tongues or the interpretation of tongues take thou the counsell of the Apostle 1 Cor. 12.31 Covet earnestly the best gifts and yet shew I unto you a more excellent way there are some gifts more excellent then others and there are graces more excellent then any other gifts the best gifts will be fewel to thy choice graces and set thy heavenly heart all on a holy flame Wherefore covet earnestly the best gifts for this end And fince 't is evident that the golden gifts of Christ * Zech. 4.12 passe through golden pipes or Ordinances into the bowl of the Candiestick that is the Church put thy affectionate mouth to these pretious pipes that contain such pretious gifts and draw with the buckets of joy out of the wels of salvation It is undeniable that this fourth foundation Doctrine of Christ is one of those pipes or channels through which these eternall streames do run and doubtlesse did not poor creatures drownd in delusions conclude these streams were dryed up they would not neglect this pipe this ordinance of hands as they do But so they think and so they speak for say they the power or gifts of the Spirit are ceased and therefore the ordinance is of no use Well when I shall clearly demonstrate that the best gifts are to this day continued as I have already proved that no gift is ceased that is needfull for believers And when it shall appear that these best gifts have been conveyed through impofition of hands Then surely both the Ordinance and gifts will be earnestly desired and affectionately embraced by gratious souls These best gifts which being continued 1 Cor. 12.8 9 10. Saints should covet are 1. Wisdome 2. Knowledge 3. Faith 4. Prophesie 5. Discerning of Spirits It must be granted without controversie that these are the best gifts of the Spirit and that they are continued in power and efficacy to this generation And first of Wisdome Prov. 4.7 Job 28.18 2 Sam. 14.20 which the eternall Spirit that gives it hath recorded as the principall thing and therefore it is here in the Catalogue of gifts deservedly set in the first place The price thereof is above Rubies it 's a defence better then strength it transformes the person so that he appears as an Angell of God Marvellous encomiums of deserved praise are given by the Spirit to this most excellent gift far surpassing all those other gifts before mentioned as Healing Tongues Miracles c. which the devotion of a Didymus doth so much dote upon making so great a noise in the world so that all 's lost with such a professor because tongues are ceased and miracles do not appear to satisfie his sense Ah poor shallow creatures shadowes of Saints that thus cry out as undone for the want of what they may perish with Scarce one word of wisdome to be heard nay the very Ordinance which is most particularly designed for the conveyance of Spirituall gifts must be cut off though it be a foundation Principle because they see not the prints of the nails and spear The power is gone we want Apostles the Fourth Principle is void Gifts do not now appear the power is gone This is the great cry of these times to cry
down a foundation Doctrine of Christ But let the true babes of Christ know to their comfort that the pwoer is not gone so long as this gift this best gift of the Spirit remains which is better then they all Wherefore get wisdome thou believing obedient soul Prov. 4.7 and with all thy getting get understanding forsake her not and she shall preserve thee love her and she shall keep thee exalt her and she shall promove thee she shall bring thee to honour when thou dost embrace her He that thus counsels thee hath richly experienced the truth of what he assures thee he asked wisdome and God gave him a large heart and was so well pleased with his choice 2 Chron. 1.10 11 12. and desire that he added to his request the greatest wealth honour and royalty that ever was given to mortall man This pretious gift shall conduct the true Christian to the Bridegrooms Chamber yea into his Masters joy Matth. 25. Dan. 12.3 where he shall shine as the brightnesse of the Firmament for he made wisdome his choice and used all means all the appointments of Christ to attain it and did not finde those pipes empty which others slighted and neglected but through those channels his vessell was filled wherefore he now lifts up his head with confidence Heb. 5.9 and Christ is become what he promised even the authour of eternall salvation to his obedient soul While those who lived in the profession of some it may be many truths are found with empty vessels void of this excellent gift of wisdome as refusing the channell through which it passeth so that now Psal 45. Mat. 25.10 11 12. when all too late they would run to buy the Bridegroom enters his royall chamber the Bride with the wise Virgins attend him and the door is shut eternally shut Lord Lord open to us is all too late Because I have called and ye refused O read and tremble Prov. 1.24 c. Hos 14. ult Who is wise and he shall understand these things prudent and he shall know them for the wayes of the Lord are right and the just shall walke in them but the transgressors shall fall therein By this time possibly some gratious soul will confesse that the best and most excellent gifts of the Spirit are not ceased But this powerfull yea most powerfull operation is continued in this principall gift of Wisdome and seeing the necessity of it may possibly cry out O help me to wisdome or else I die Which way is my beloved gone in what path doth this most excellent gift of wisdome passe Why thou poor enquiring soul it is the Prince of gifts thou enquirest after he is free and I dare not confine him to any particular passage he hath many walkes but I can point thee out which way he hath gone namely in yonder path which is one of his principall walks termed Laying on of hands 't is a path of his own preparing and indeed a foundation Doctrine of his own lips His servant Joshua found him in this very path and therein obtained this precious gift of wisdome which for the excellency of it beares his own name Deut. 34.9 And Joshua the son of Nun was full of the Spirit of wisdome for Moses had laid his hands upon him Was this transcendent gift of the Spirit conveyed through the Laying on of Moses hands Luk. 7.28 Why the least Gospell Minister is greater then Moses Object But Joshua was an Officer Answ He was a great Captain indeed and did conquer Canaan but there is not a Disciple of Christ but is a greater Captain even a King and a Priest and conquereth the world yea is more then a Conquerer through Christ Whatsoever priviledges the chiefest in Moses house enjoyed even the least member of Christs Kingdome is invested with that is to enter into the Sanctum Sanctorum or most holy place with boldnesse Heb. 10.19 which was the peculiar priviledge of their high Priests So that this way even through impositions of hands hath the blessed Spirit communicated wisdome his most excellent gift In the time of the Gospell we finde the great Apostle of the Gentiles rich in this gift A wise Master builder And St. Peter greatly admires this gift of Wisdome in him 2 Pet. 3.15 Even as our beloved brother Paul also according to the Wisdome given unto him Quest But when was this Wisdome given unto him Answ At the same time when the Holy Ghost first filled him that is when the first Messenger was sent for this as the chief end from the Lord Jesus to him Brother Saul said Ananias the Lord Jesus hath sent me that thou mightest receive thy sight and be filled with the Holy Ghost Act. 9.17 and accordingly the eyes of his mind as well as of his body were so enlightned with this choice gift of wisdome that he was able to preach Christ so that all which heard him were amazed he being so able presently to prove that he which bestowed this gift upon him is the very Christ So that here we have the precise time when this wisdome was given him Quest But how or by what means was this gift communicated Answ By that especiall Ordinance through which other gifts of the same Spirit were conveyed by Peter and John and Paul himself afterwards that is by imposition of hands Act. 9.17 And Ananias went his way and entered into the house and putting his hands on him said c. So that here in two lively examples the way and means of communicating this principall gift is discovered to thy inquiring soul I shall add no more at present concerning this gift which I would be found in at the sound of the great trumpet but to counsell thee in the words of my Redeemer in another case Go and do thou likewise Luk. 10.31 The second best gift which is also continued to and must be more and more encreased in the Saints as we may see this day is Knowledge Dan. 12.4 As this is honoured in the next place to Wisdome so are they both lock'd up together for the newborn babe in the richest Cabinet that heaven hath even in the heart of the Lords Christ and our Jesus Col. 2.3 in whom are hid all the treasures of Wisdome and knowledge This is one of those choice acquirements for the building up of the Saints which whosoever wants is blind 2 Pet. 1.5 8. and in a perishing condition My people are destroyed for want of knowledge is the great Gods patheticall expression Hos 4.6 Take heed therefore thou dost not reject it nor the means by and through which it is attained for as it is treasured up in the same magazin or storehouse so it runs in the same channel with wisdome that is communicated through the same Ordinance Then shall we know Hos 6.3 Hab. 2.14 if we follow on to know the Lord. Faith is the third continued gift running through severall channels