very_a sin_n abundant_o witness_v against_o by_o god_n in_o most_o of_o the_o old_a prophet_n when_o as_o some_o will_v stand_v up_o and_o prophesy_v peace_n when_o there_o be_v no_o peace_n as_o ezek._n 13.10.16_o and_o what_o have_v they_o to_o do_v with_o peace_n while_o their_o hand_n be_v full_a of_o blood_n and_o iniquity_n i_o can_v wish_v it_o be_v not_o the_o sin_n of_o some_o of_o the_o pretend_a angel_n of_o the_o church_n in_o those_o day_n where_o be_v that_o faithful_a one_o to_o be_v find_v it_o may_v be_v one_o of_o a_o thousand_o that_o as_o a_o true_a angel_n or_o ambassador_n from_o christ_n will_v deal_v roundly_o with_o their_o sin_n and_o tell_v israel_n of_o her_o sin_n and_o judah_n of_o her_o transgression_n good_a physician_n will_v search_v the_o wound_n thorough_o the_o rather_o for_o to_o cure_v they_o it_o be_v also_o christ_n method_n to_o lay_v open_a the_o wound_n and_o sin_n of_o his_o church_n that_o so_o he_o may_v like_o the_o good_a samaritane_n pour_v oil_n into_o they_o and_o heal_v they_o and_o bring_v to_o repentance_n christ_n minister_n shall_v follow_v their_o master_n pattern_n deal_v faithful_o simple_o and_o roundly_o with_o the_o sin_n of_o their_o people_n according_a to_o gospel_n rule_v in_o that_o case_n provide_v and_o not_o as_o many_o do_v speak_v peace_n and_o word_n of_o comfort_n the_o true_a portion_n of_o spiritual_a member_n of_o christ_n unto_o profess_a enemy_n to_o godliness_n and_o the_o saint_n scorner_n and_o derider_n of_o christ_n way_n and_o ordinance_n drunkard_n swearer_n etc._n etc._n what_o have_v such_o to_o do_v with_o the_o child_n bread_n so_o continue_v unrepentant_a and_o obstinate_a it_o be_v much_o to_o be_v fear_v for_o this_o lukewarmness_n of_o many_o minister_n and_o church_n it_o will_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o christ_n will_v spew_v they_o out_o of_o his_o mouth_n cap._n 3._o 16._o as_o he_o do_v the_o church_n of_o laodicea_n and_o the_o church_n of_o israel_n of_o old_a mat._n 21.43_o i_o shall_v only_o add_v that_o of_o ezek._n 13.22_o 23._o to_o be_v serious_o consider_v in_o the_o close_a of_o this_o point_n the_o prophet_n speak_v to_o those_o that_o sow_v pillow_n under_o the_o arms-hole_n because_o with_o lie_v you_o have_v make_v the_o heart_n of_o the_o righteous_a sad_a who_o i_o have_v not_o make_v sad_a and_o strengthen_v the_o hand_n of_o the_o wicked_a that_o he_o shall_v not_o turn_v from_o his_o wicked_a way_n by_o promise_v he_o life_n therefore_o you_o shall_v see_v no_o more_o vanity_n nor_o divine_a divination_n for_o i_o will_v deliver_v my_o people_n out_o of_o your_o hand_n and_o you_o shall_v know_v that_o i_o be_o the_o lord_n observe_v 2._o another_o correllary_n hence_o rise_v that_o all_o church_n and_o person_n ought_v to_o have_v and_o receive_v a_o due_a acknowledgement_n of_o all_o grace_n and_o virtue_n that_o they_o be_v eminent_a in_o though_o chargeable_a with_o many_o defection_n and_o fail_n otherwise_o christ_n spare_v not_o to_o acknowledge_v but_o make_v honourable_a mention_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o church_n in_o this_o and_o the_o next_o chapter_n though_o otherwise_o many_o aberration_n and_o fail_n be_v lay_v unto_o their_o charge_n though_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n be_v to_o be_v reprove_v for_o the_o coldness_n in_o her_o first_o love_n yet_o she_o have_v these_o commendable_a virtue_n and_o grace_n in_o she_o constancy_n and_o patience_n under_o suffering_n for_o christ_n sake_n and_o hatred_n to_o all_o evil_a worker_n and_o false_a light_n and_o apostle_n that_o come_v with_o doctrine_n destructive_a to_o the_o great_a fundamental_a or_o corner_n stone_n the_o true_a doctrine_n of_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o so_o christ_n proceed_v with_o the_o other_o church_n in_o the_o like_a method_n and_o lay_v a_o commendable_a character_n on_o they_o all_o for_o those_o grace_n in_o they_o worthy_o call_v for_o it_o paul_n can_v give_v a_o just_a acknowledgement_n to_o his_o brethren_n the_o jew_n though_o otherwise_o perverse_a enough_o bear_v they_o witness_n that_o they_o have_v a_o zeal_n to_o god_n though_o not_o according_a to_o knowledge_n rom._n 10.2_o and_o christ_n tell_v the_o jew_n and_o speak_v it_o with_o approbation_n and_o to_o their_o commendation_n you_o believe_v in_o god_n believe_v you_o also_o in_o i_o it_o be_v the_o great_a fault_n of_o most_o of_o professor_n of_o these_o day_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o persuasion_n that_o they_o will_v not_o almost_o acknowledge_v he_o a_o brother_n in_o christ_n or_o give_v he_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o fellowship_n that_o be_v not_o baptize_v into_o the_o same_o opinion_n and_o interest_n with_o himself_o but_o this_o rather_o savour_v of_o a_o spirit_n schismatical_a and_o factious_a then_o of_o a_o meek_a christianlike_a peacemaking_a temper_n which_o will_v bear_v all_o thing_n that_o be_v indifferent_a rather_o than_o break_v the_o communion_n and_o unity_n of_o brethren_n who_o have_v put_v on_o one_o lord_n one_o faith_n one_o baptism_n o_o what_o a_o lamentable_a practice_n it_o be_v for_o such_o as_o be_v presbyterian_o to_o rake_v up_o all_o the_o fault_n and_o dirt_n they_o can_v and_o cast_v it_o in_o the_o face_n of_o independent_o and_o again_o for_o independent_o to_o cast_v it_o back_o on_o the_o presbyterian_o and_o both_o of_o they_o to_o cast_v it_o in_o the_o face_n of_o those_o call_v anabaptist_n and_o they_o again_o as_o ready_a as_o the_o former_a to_o repay_v it_o back_o again_o why_o have_v you_o so_o learned_a christ_n o_o for_o shame_n let_v all_o that_o fear_n god_n of_o each_o sort_n be_v ashamed_a of_o this_o unchristianlike_a practice_n let_v it_o not_o be_v tell_v in_o gath_n nor_o publish_v in_o askelon_n but_o follow_v the_o step_n of_o your_o common_a saviour_n what_o you_o see_v of_o god_n in_o your_o brethren_n commend_v it_o encourage_v it_o cherish_v it_o though_o there_o may_v be_v fail_n in_o each_o sort_n and_o that_o great_a one_o yet_o for_o that_o grace_n and_o appearance_n of_o god_n in_o they_o love_v they_o honour_v they_o and_o think_v better_o of_o they_o then_o of_o thyself_o though_o thou_o may_v be_v right_a in_o some_o external_o of_o worship_n than_o they_o yet_o they_o may_v be_v right_a than_o thou_o in_o doctrinal_n and_o though_o thou_o be_v sound_a than_o they_o in_o doctrinal_n yet_o they_o may_v be_v the_o more_o holy_a and_o better_a man_n i_o speak_v not_o this_o to_o comply_v with_o any_o corrupt_a doctrine_n or_o worship_n but_o to_o give_v every_o one_o his_o due_a title_n of_o honour_n love_n and_o commendation_n for_o their_o gift_n and_o grace_n and_o for_o their_o fault_n and_o fail_n deal_v with_o they_o in_o a_o spirit_n of_o love_n and_o charity_n gal._n 6.1_o for_o their_o recovery_n and_o repentance_n according_a to_o gospel_n order_n for_o so_o thou_o may_v win_v thy_o brother_n but_o by_o the_o other_o way_n thou_o be_v sure_a to_o drive_v he_o far_o from_o thou_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o the_o familistical_a notionist_n the_o quaker_n in_o these_o day_n be_v high_o baptize_v in_o this_o sin_n and_o out_o run_v all_o other_o in_o this_o uncharitable_a and_o unchristianlike_a practice_n they_o be_v sharp_a censurer_n of_o all_o other_o church_n and_o person_n that_o will_v not_o run_v in_o the_o same_o fanatique_a wild_a course_n with_o themselves_o and_o which_o be_v strange_a and_o most_o observable_a be_v that_o they_o never_o will_v acknowledge_v nor_o give_v a_o due_a commendation_n to_o any_o though_o never_o so_o self-denying_a and_o godly_a and_o fill_v abundant_o with_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n unless_o they_o take_v up_o the_o same_o mad_a opinion_n with_o themselves_o and_o therefore_o not_o strange_a when_o they_o have_v lose_v the_o spirit_n of_o love_n and_o charity_n and_o in_o stead_n thereof_o be_v fill_v with_o a_o spirit_n of_o self-fulness_n and_o pride_n that_o they_o tread_v under_o foot_n the_o blood_n of_o the_o covenant_n as_o a_o unholy_a thing_n and_o so_o carry_v on_o to_o damnable_a and_o blasphemous_a opinion_n and_o heresy_n among_o the_o many_o reason_n that_o we_o ought_v to_o give_v a_o due_a acknowledgement_n to_o the_o grace_n in_o the_o godly_a these_o be_v some_o 1._o that_o god_n may_v have_v the_o due_a honour_n as_o the_o author_n of_o they_o 2._o because_o all_o grace_n be_v of_o the_o same_o spirit_n work_v and_o therefore_o worthy_a of_o honour_n wheresoever_o they_o be_v find_v 3._o for_o the_o encouragement_n and_o cherish_v all_o person_n under_o all_o hardship_n and_o affliction_n in_o acquire_v and_o maintain_v those_o grace_n alive_a fructify_a and_o effective_a 4._o and_o last_o that_o their_o sin_n may_v not_o so_o discourage_v the_o godly_a as_o to_o think_v nothing_o praise_v worthy_a in_o they_o while_o they_o have_v many_o thing_n in_o they_o worthy_a to_o
only_o indeed_o be_v temporary_a and_o necessary_a alone_o for_o the_o first_o plantation_n of_o the_o christian_a faith_n it_o will_v as_o well_o follow_v that_o pastor_n teacher_n and_o elder_n be_v defunct_a because_o some_o of_o their_o first_o primitive_a and_o extraordinary_a gift_n be_v cease_v also_o but_o second_o i_o be_o of_o opinion_n that_o what_o be_v necessary_o essential_a to_o denominate_v a_o apostle_n do_v not_o consist_v sole_o in_o be_v eye-witness_n of_o christ_n life_n death_n and_o resurrection_n or_o of_o power_n of_o miracle_n for_o other_o of_o the_o disciple_n may_v be_v partaker_n in_o those_o gift_n and_o be_v so_o equal_o with_o themselves_o and_o yet_o no_o apostle_n and_o paul_n that_o want_v much_o of_o the_o accommodation_n of_o witness_v unto_o the_o life_n death_n and_o resurrection_n of_o christ_n though_o supply_v by_o a_o miraculous_a sight_n from_o heaven_n none_o can_v deny_v but_o be_v the_o great_a apostle_n and_o light_n unto_o the_o gentile_n last_o in_o the_o affirmative_a i_o assert_v the_o true_a essential_o of_o a_o apostle_n do_v consist_v in_o his_o call_n and_o commission_n to_o that_o work_n and_o function_n christ_n call_v the_o first_o twelve_o matth._n 10.1.5_o which_o be_v only_o denominate_v disciple_n and_o from_o their_o mission_n unto_o the_o lose_a sheep_n of_o israel_n they_o be_v then_o first_o baptize_v into_o the_o name_n of_o apostle_n and_o so_o have_v take_v their_o name_n from_o their_o office_n as_o man_n send_v it_o soon_o become_v their_o proper_a appellation_n now_o i_o say_v it_o be_v a_o right_a mission_n and_o commission_n that_o give_v a_o be_v and_o essential_o unto_o a_o apostle_n christ_n he_o be_v the_o first_o author_n that_o commissionated_a unto_o this_o office_n in_o that_o of_o matth._n 10._o his_o commission_n be_v more_o strict_a and_o of_o narrow_a jurisdiction_n but_o in_o matth._n 28.19_o it_o be_v much_o enlarge_v for_o in_o the_o first_o they_o be_v only_o to_o go_v to_o the_o lose_a sheep_n of_o israel_n and_o not_o in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o gentile_n but_o in_o the_o second_o they_o be_v command_v to_o go_v and_o disciple_n all_o nation_n and_o to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o every_o creature_n now_o as_o they_o be_v send_v on_o this_o great_a embassy_n for_o christ_n and_o by_o christ_n so_o they_o send_v other_o to_o go_v on_o with_o the_o same_o work_n mathias_n be_v the_o first_o we_o read_v of_o act_v 1._o that_o they_o choose_v into_o the_o place_n of_o judas_n after_o that_o paul_n and_o barnabas_n act_n 13.2_o 3._o be_v choose_v and_o separate_v unto_o this_o work_n and_o send_v unto_o the_o gentile_n and_o so_o may_v be_v true_o call_v the_o apostle_n of_o the_o gentile_n they_o again_o with_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o apostle_n in_o their_o several_a province_n go_v about_o gather_v and_o constitute_v church_n and_o ordain_v elder_n and_o officer_n in_o every_o church_n and_o those_o political_a church_n make_v up_o of_o officer_n and_o elder_n and_o member_n be_v the_o true_a delegate_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o the_o centre_n of_o all_o just_a power_n and_o authority_n and_o they_o again_o from_o this_o delegated_a power_n commissionate_v other_o and_o send_v they_o forth_o as_o the_o apostle_n of_o christ_n by_o virtue_n of_o that_o power_n commit_v unto_o they_o to_o disciple_v the_o gentile_n and_o unconvert_v nation_n abroad_o in_o the_o world_n for_o this_o be_v the_o then_o practice_v unless_o we_o affirm_v that_o all_o church_n be_v plant_v and_o all_o nation_n convert_v by_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o in_o their_o day_n that_o we_o read_v of_o in_o history_n be_v afterward_o convert_v to_o the_o faith_n and_o become_v famous_a church_n the_o apostle_n be_v man_n but_o of_o one_o generation_n and_o to_o ascribe_v to_o they_o that_o work_n be_v to_o make_v they_o eviternal_a though_o their_o doctrine_n continue_v yet_o their_o person_n be_v translate_v and_o go_v to_o their_o father_n and_o this_o propagation_n of_o the_o faith_n and_o work_v of_o conversion_n must_v be_v carry_v on_o from_o generation_n to_o generation_n till_o all_o the_o elect_n be_v call_v in_o and_o we_o all_o come_v to_o a_o perfect_a man_n and_o unto_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o stature_n of_o the_o fullness_n of_o christ_n and_o this_o must_v necessary_o be_v do_v by_o apostolical_a man_n and_o officer_n for_o i_o will_v have_v the_o ingenious_a to_o consider_v that_o the_o office_n of_o elder_n pastor_n teacher_n help_n and_o government_n be_v but_o relative_a function_n and_o have_v their_o be_v only_o dependent_a and_o limit_v to_o their_o relation_n and_o church_n they_o be_v neither_o elder_n pastor_n nor_o governent_n without_o their_o own_o church_n therefore_o it_o be_v very_o necessary_a that_o there_o must_v be_v other_o officer_n universal_o commissionated_a to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o the_o unconverted_a gentile_n and_o these_o be_v proper_o call_v apostle_n of_o christ_n authorize_v by_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n unto_o this_o service_n joseph_n of_o arimethea_n as_o antiquity_n testify_v be_v our_o english_a apostle_n which_o be_v send_v by_o the_o church_n unto_o our_o nation_n conversion_n dionysius_n areopagita_n be_v the_o apostle_n unto_o france_n james_n unto_o spain_n anthony_n unto_o italy_n thomas_n unto_o italy_n and_o so_o other_o unto_o other_o nation_n and_o when_o christianity_n be_v almost_o lose_v and_o obliterated_a here_o in_o england_n by_o the_o incursion_n of_o barbarous_a nation_n gregory_n the_o bishop_n of_o rome_n not_o yet_o antichistianize_v some_o century_n of_o year_n after_o send_v here_o austin_n as_o a_o apostle_n and_o a_o restorer_n of_o their_o almost_o lose_a faith_n and_o christian_n profession_n so_o likewise_o when_o our_o church_n send_v man_n to_o convert_v the_o gentile_a nation_n of_o america_n and_o elsewhere_o as_o private_a disciple_n they_o can_v go_v for_o how_o can_v they_o preach_v unless_o they_o be_v send_v as_o officer_n to_o wit_n as_o pastor_n elder_n teacher_n or_o governent_n they_o can_v for_o they_o be_v relation_n only_o to_o their_o own_o church_n therefore_o they_o must_v go_v as_o apostle_n which_o be_v only_o suitable_a to_o so_o general_a and_o universal_a work_n and_o if_o it_o be_v object_v that_o if_o the_o apostolical_a office_n must_v continue_v as_o necessary_a to_o do_v the_o full_a work_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o church_n why_o not_o the_o gift_n of_o healing_n miracle_n tongue_n etc._n etc._n i_o answer_v there_o be_v no_o necssity_n for_o it_o for_o they_o be_v only_o add_v because_o of_o unbelief_n and_o to_o confirm_v the_o truth_n of_o that_o doctrine_n which_o be_v first_o deliver_v unto_o the_o saint_n second_o i_o be_o not_o sensible_a what_o great_a inconvenience_n will_v follow_v upon_o it_o if_o it_o be_v admit_v that_o such_o gift_n of_o miracle_n healing_n etc._n etc._n be_v still_o continue_v by_o christ_n unto_o his_o church_n though_o not_o so_o clear_a and_o ordinary_a as_o in_o the_o first_o church_n i_o have_v read_v of_o tertullian_n and_o after_o he_o cyprian_a about_o the_o second_o century_n who_o provoke_v their_o adversary_n to_o the_o trial_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o their_o profession_n by_o miracle_n by_o bring_v person_n possess_v with_o devil_n into_o their_o assembly_n which_o if_o they_o shall_v not_o be_v effect_v and_o make_v to_o confess_v themselves_o to_o be_v devil_n and_o christ_n to_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n than_o they_o be_v content_a to_o suffer_v m._n baxter_n give_v we_o a_o far_a account_n out_o of_o athanasiâ—_n austin_n and_o many_o of_o the_o father_n that_o there_o be_v a_o continuation_n of_o miracle_n in_o their_o day_n and_o attest_v to_o by_o so_o many_o and_o honest_a witness_n that_o they_o be_v credible_a to_o reason_n page_n 63._o upon_o that_o question_n in_o his_o book_n of_o infidelity_n and_o in_o that_o part_n of_o the_o book_n of_o the_o sin_n against_o the_o holy_a ghost_n page_z 15._o speak_v of_o cast_v out_o devil_n of_o which_o sort_n say_v he_o some_o think_v that_o real_o they_o do_v so_o by_o the_o power_n of_o god_n as_o we_o may_v do_v now_o by_o fast_v and_o prayer_n sometime_o to_o this_o purpose_n consider_v what_o the_o prayer_n and_o appeal_n of_o god_n people_n have_v strange_o and_o miraculous_o perfect_v and_o produce_v at_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n of_o late_a and_o within_o our_o memory_n in_o divers_a example_n which_o be_v now_o too_o long_o to_o rehearse_v some_o have_v be_v restore_v to_o health_n and_o miraculous_o recover_v when_o there_o be_v no_o hope_n other_o dispossess_v of_o evil_a spirit_n that_o have_v palpable_o vex_v and_o possess_v they_o and_o that_o only_a by_o the_o prayer_n of_o faith_n of_o somg_v odd_o person_n i_o shall_v only_o give_v one_o instance_n i_o hear_v it_o relate_v by_o a_o faithful_a messenger_n of_o christ_n in_o a_o public_a
or_o habitation_n be_v his_o throne_n or_o his_o castle_n as_o the_o law_n term_n have_v it_o therein_o he_o exercise_v his_o command_n free_o either_o by_o his_o paternal_a or_o magisterial_a authority_n and_o he_o have_v better_a title_n to_o this_o sovereignty_n it_o be_v natural_a &_o moral_a than_o any_o sovereign_n have_v to_o they_o in_o the_o world_n 2._o there_o be_v therein_o its_o subject_n who_o obey_v more_o free_o in_o respect_n of_o their_o more_o divine_a oeconomy_n than_o any_o prince_n subject_n whatsoever_o three_o a_o man_n most_o private_a design_n and_o transaction_n be_v agitate_a therein_o four_o a_o man_n therein_o live_v go_v in_o and_o out_o and_o no_o place_n be_v it_o ever_o so_o pleasant_a be_v so_o complacent_fw-la to_o a_o man_n as_o the_o place_n of_o his_o own_o habitation_n be_v it_o never_o so_o homely_a and_o therefore_o a_o man_n will_v not_o spare_v to_o spend_v all_o his_o strength_n wit_n or_o wealth_n to_o defend_v his_o house_n &_o place_n of_o habitation_n against_o all_o pretender_n of_o right_a thereunto_o therefore_o these_o metaphor_n of_o a_o throne_n seat_n house_n or_o habitation_n be_v fit_o take_v up_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o signify_v unto_o we_o the_o power_n of_o satan_n in_o the_o wicked_a and_o ungodly_a which_o in_o scripture_n be_v call_v his_o strong_a hold_n and_o habitation_n for_o in_o they_o he_o command_v and_o act_n free_o be_v as_o a_o father_n lord_n and_o master_n to_o we_o the_o child_n of_o disobedience_n for_o his_o servant_n and_o child_n you_o be_v to_o who_o you_o obey_v and_o they_o obey_v free_o and_o without_o any_o regret_n as_o dutiful_a child_n and_o servant_n to_o such_o a_o father_n and_o master_n even_o the_o prince_n that_o rule_v in_o the_o air_n even_o the_o spirit_n that_o now_o work_v in_o the_o child_n of_o disobedience_n ephes_n 2.2_o there_o he_o make_v his_o habitation_n there_o he_o live_v and_o transact_v the_o high_a design_n of_o his_o kingdom_n of_o darkness_n there_o he_o take_v his_o delight_n to_o dwell_v and_o take_v that_o pleasure_n in_o this_o place_n of_o his_o habitation_n that_o before_o he_o will_v forego_v it_o or_o lose_v a_o inch_n of_o his_o possession_n the_o strong_a man_n in_o the_o gospel_n must_v first_o come_v even_o christ_n in_o his_o spirit_n of_o grace_n and_o that_o after_o much_o struggle_a &_o contend_v between_o flesh_n and_o spirit_n and_o that_o christ_n shall_v be_v sure_a to_o make_v his_o title_n clear_a and_o evident_a by_o faith_n and_o the_o great_a charter_n of_o the_o gospel_n before_o he_o will_v be_v dispossess_v of_o his_o ancient_a freehold_n tenor_n yea_o his_o love_n or_o rather_o pernicious_a desire_n to_o his_o old_a habitation_n be_v such_o that_o after_o he_o be_v dispossess_v thereof_o by_o christ_n that_o if_o he_o can_v get_v or_o make_v a_o reentry_n into_o his_o lose_a possession_n by_o his_o diabolical_a stratagem_n and_o temptation_n he_o come_v in_o with_o seven_o fold_n worse_a spirit_n than_o the_o first_o to_o make_v good_a his_o right_n and_o reentry_n if_o he_o may_v and_o the_o condition_n of_o that_o house_n be_v far_o more_o miserable_a then_o at_o the_o first_o o_o therefore_o watch_n and_o be_v prepare_v with_o the_o armoury_n of_o christ_n to_o oppose_v the_o assault_n of_o satan_n you_o believe_v and_o enlighten_v soul_n and_o though_o he_o sometime_o may_v foil_n you_o yet_o let_v he_o not_o overturn_v you_o though_o he_o may_v endeavour_v to_o come_v into_o your_o soul_n yet_o let_v he_o not_o have_v quiet_a possession_n for_o great_a be_v he_o that_o be_v with_o we_o than_o he_o that_o be_v against_o we_o resist_v the_o devil_n and_o he_o will_v flee_v from_o you_o and_o through_o christ_n we_o shall_v have_v victory_n note_v hence_o observe_v that_o satan_n rule_v as_o absolute_a lord_n and_o sovereign_n over_o the_o unbelieving_a and_o disobedient_a they_o be_v his_o house_n the_o place_n of_o his_o dwell_n his_o throne_n his_o kingdom_n his_o seat_n and_o if_o that_o be_v not_o enough_o to_o describe_v their_o malignity_n and_o satan_n sovereignty_n over_o they_o they_o be_v call_v satan_n himself_o v._o 10._o the_o better_a to_o manifest_v satan_n seat_n throne_n and_o habitation_n in_o and_o over_o the_o ungodly_a consider_v the_o contrary_a the_o seat_n throne_n and_o habitation_n of_o god_n though_o god_n in_o his_o infinite_a nature_n be_v illocal_a infinite_a and_o incomprehensible_a as_o unto_o any_o place_n or_o form_n yet_o metaphorical_o be_v say_v to_o be_v in_o a_o place_n that_o be_v from_o whence_o he_o in_o any_o special_a manner_n do_v manifest_v his_o glory_n power_n grace_n and_o goodness_n so_o god_n be_v say_v to_o come_v depart_z and_o return_v in_o scripture_n when_o he_o special_o manifest_v himself_o in_o grace_n mercy_n and_o answer_n to_o his_o people_n or_o unto_o any_o particular_a believe_a soul_n and_o when_o god_n withdraw_v that_o appearance_n of_o mercy_n grace_n and_o glory_n nor_o hear_v the_o prayer_n of_o his_o people_n but_o go_v out_o in_o judgement_n against_o they_o than_o he_o be_v say_v to_o depart_v to_o be_v go_v and_o return_v into_o his_o place_n hos_fw-la 5.15_o i_o will_v go_v and_o return_v to_o my_o place_n till_o they_o acknowledge_v their_o offence_n god_n be_v say_v to_o have_v three_o special_a place_n of_o habitation_n seat_n or_o throne_n in_o scripture_n 1._o heaven_n be_v his_o throne_n and_o his_o dwell_a place_n isa_n 66.1_o 1_o king_n 8.30_o 2._o the_o heart_n of_o the_o saint_n be_v his_o throne_n and_o dwell_v place_n isa_n 57.15_o 1_o jo._n 3.24_o 3._o the_o church_n or_o christ_n zion_n be_v the_o habitation_n and_o tabernacle_n of_o his_o glory_n psal_n 132.13_o the_o church_n be_v the_o place_n where_o god_n communicate_v himself_o and_o give_v his_o answer_n unto_o his_o people_n and_o therefore_o in_o 1_o tim._n 3.15_o it_o be_v call_v the_o house_n of_o god_n and_o often_o in_o scripture_n the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n these_o be_v the_o special_a habitation_n of_o god_n satan_n have_v also_o three_o special_a place_n of_o habitation_n and_o dominion_n in_o scripture_n 1._o in_o hell_n over_o the_o damn_a spirit_n and_o therefore_o he_o be_v call_v the_o prince_n of_o darkness_n and_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o bottomless_a pit_n 2._o the_o heart_n of_o the_o wicked_a and_o unbeliever_n be_v the_o seat_n and_o habitation_n of_o satan_n ephes_n 2.2_o 3._o his_o throne_n be_v among_o the_o society_n of_o the_o wicked_a they_o be_v his_o synagogue_n v._o 9_o where_o his_o doctrine_n be_v transact_v and_o maintain_v and_o they_o be_v his_o seat_n and_o throne_n from_o whence_o all_o his_o wicked_a and_o pernicious_a edict_n do_v proceed_v against_o god_n and_o godliness_n psal_n 2.2_o 3._o therefore_o in_o this_o verse_n the_o spirit_n say_v to_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n i_o know_v that_o thou_o dwell_v in_o a_o place_n where_o satan_n bear_v rule_v in_o all_o idolatry_n wickedness_n and_o hatred_n to_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n without_o controlment_n and_o yet_o to_o thy_o praise_n and_o comfort_n be_v it_o that_o thou_o hold_v fast_v my_o name_n and_o have_v not_o deny_v my_o faith_n that_o be_v that_o thou_o do_v constant_o profess_v my_o truth_n and_o have_v not_o be_v draw_v to_o deny_v my_o gospel_n or_o doctrine_n of_o faith_n not_o in_o those_o very_a hot_a and_o persecute_v day_n wherein_o antipas_n my_o faithful_a martyr_n be_v slay_v in_o that_o city_n of_o you_o by_o those_o tyrannical_a person_n there_o in_o who_o satan_n dwell_v and_o prevail_v there_o be_v no_o far_a difficulty_n in_o those_o word_n only_o understand_v that_o antipas_n as_o aretus_n testify_v and_o some_o other_o of_o antiquity_n be_v the_o pastor_n or_o bishop_n to_o this_o church_n of_o ephesus_n yet_o other_o say_v he_o be_v only_o a_o assistant_n to_o the_o church_n however_o this_o bless_a st._n antipas_n policarpus_fw-la and_o some_o other_o be_v the_o first_o martyr_n to_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n after_o the_o apostle_n in_o the_o reign_n of_o trajan_n from_o the_o word_n thus_o explain_v note_v obs_n 2._o that_o the_o godly_a by_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n be_v dispose_v and_o mingle_v among_o the_o most_o vile_a and_o wicked_a in_o the_o world_n the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v liken_v to_o a_o lily_n among_o thorn_n by_o the_o wiseman_n in_o the_o canticle_n where_o the_o synagogue_n and_o throne_n of_o satan_n be_v god_n have_v plant_v those_o asiatic_a church_n righteous_a job_n say_v of_o himself_o that_o he_o be_v a_o brother_n to_o dragon_n and_o a_o companion_n to_o owl_n chap._n 30.29_o and_o holy_a david_n soul_n be_v vex_v by_o sojourn_v in_o mesech_n and_o dwell_v in_o the_o tent_n of_o kedar_n psal_n 120.5_o honest_a heart_a joseph_n have_v his_o habitation_n among_o the_o idolatrous_a egyptian_n and_o there_o
constancy_n and_o faithful_a martyrdom_n unto_o christ_n and_o his_o truth_n it_o be_v great_a encouragement_n to_o the_o live_n to_o have_v the_o pattern_n of_o former_a worthy_a man_n before_o they_o it_o be_v say_v that_o it_o be_v the_o read_n of_o achilles_n life_n in_o homer_n that_o make_v alexander_n ambitious_a to_o be_v his_o competitor_n in_o noble_a achievement_n again_o julius_n cesar_n take_v up_o alexander_n example_n endeavour_v to_o be_v sole_a lord_n of_o the_o whole_a world_n so_o also_o it_o be_v on_o a_o spiritual_a account_n abraham_n be_v call_v the_o father_n of_o the_o faithful_a for_o his_o approve_a faith_n in_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n and_o they_o be_v his_o child_n and_o the_o true_a seed_n of_o abraham_n that_o walk_v in_o the_o step_n of_o faithful_a abraham_n and_o so_o abraham_n abel_n enoch_n noah_n sarah_n moses_n etc._n etc._n be_v make_v everliving_a example_n of_o faith_n and_o godliness_n for_o imitation_n to_o all_o generation_n to_o come_v heb._n 11._o it_o much_o comfort_v we_o and_o bear_v up_o our_o spirit_n in_o suffering_n when_o we_o hear_v that_o christ_n our_o head_n and_o captain_n have_v perfect_v our_o salvation_n by_o suffering_n he_o have_v tread_v to_o we_o our_o first_o this_o thorny_a way_n let_v we_o not_o be_v ashamed_a to_o take_v up_o our_o cross_n and_o follow_v he_o whensoever_o he_o shall_v call_v we_o to_o it_o and_o so_o in_o all_o thing_n else_o in_o he_o that_o be_v imitable_a by_o we_o not_o as_o he_o be_v mediator_n but_o as_o a_o holy_a person_n and_o head_n of_o his_o mystical_a body_n the_o church_n and_o so_o he_o present_v himself_o as_o a_o gracious_a example_n to_o his_o disciple_n jo._n 13.15_o for_o i_o have_v give_v you_o a_o example_n that_o you_o shall_v do_v as_o i_o have_v do_v to_o you_o as_o he_o be_v the_o perfection_n of_o all_o the_o creature_n and_o the_o light_n itself_o and_o wisdom_n of_o the_o father_n so_o sure_o o_o all_o pattern_n and_o example_n his_o in_o the_o way_n of_o grace_n be_v most_o sound_a wise_a and_o perfect_a and_o bless_v be_v they_o they_o that_o follow_v their_o lord_n and_o master_n for_o he_o be_v the_o way_n and_o the_o life_n verse_n 14.15_o but_o i_o have_v a_o few_o thing_n against_o thou_o because_o thou_o have_v there_o they_o that_o hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n who_o teach_v balack_n to_o cast_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n to_o eat_v thing_n sacrifice_v unto_o idol_n and_o to_o commit_v fornication_n so_o have_v thou_o also_o they_o that_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n which_o thing_n i_o hate_v the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n and_o laodicea_n only_o of_o the_o whole_a seven_o do_v pass_v the_o approbation_n of_o the_o spirit_n without_o any_o but_o prefix_v or_o annex_v to_o they_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n have_v her_o commendable_a grace_n of_o constancy_n in_o the_o faith_n and_o profession_n of_o the_o truth_n in_o the_o worst_a of_o time_n and_o among_o the_o vile_a people_n even_o where_o the_o seat_n of_o satan_n be_v yet_o all_o in_o she_o be_v not_o well_o or_o sound_n for_o christ_n come_v on_o with_o a_o but_o against_o she_o but_o i_o have_v a_o few_o thing_n against_o thou_o because_o etc._n etc._n whence_o by_o the_o way_n observe_v obs_n 1._o that_o many_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o person_n may_v suffer_v much_o for_o christ_n and_o the_o profession_n of_o christ_n yet_o not_o sound_a and_o right_o in_o all_o the_o truth_n of_o christ_n doubtless_o the_o church_n at_o pergamus_n have_v and_o enjoy_v but_o sad_a and_o afflict_a day_n when_o antipas_n christ_n faithful_a martyr_n be_v slay_v for_o than_o she_o deny_v not_o the_o faith_n but_o hold_v her_o profession_n with_o much_o constancy_n the_o church_n at_o thyatira_n too_o be_v commend_v for_o her_o faith_n and_o her_o patience_n verse_n 19_o yet_o both_o these_o church_n notwithstanding_o their_o fair_a profession_n they_o have_v much_o rottenness_n and_o unsoundness_n in_o the_o root_n their_o doctrine_n be_v not_o straight_o that_o they_o have_v among_o they_o there_o be_v those_o in_o the_o one_o hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n and_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o niolaitan_n in_o the_o other_o the_o doctrine_n of_o jezabel_n and_o her_o wicked_a practice_n both_o most_o unsound_a both_o in_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n yet_o both_o high_o suffer_v for_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n we_o see_v that_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n among_o the_o gentile_n be_v sufficient_a to_o bring_v suffer_v on_o the_o disciple_n but_o suffer_v for_o that_o profession_n be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o make_v they_o sound_v in_o all_o thing_n some_o may_v prophesy_v in_o christ_n name_n and_o cast_v out_o devil_n in_o his_o name_n and_o suffer_v and_o give_v their_o body_n to_o be_v burn_v for_o his_o name_n and_o yet_o at_o the_o last_o day_n christ_n may_v tell_v they_o he_o know_v they_o not_o he_o that_o will_v attain_v a_o comfortable_a martyrdom_n for_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o christ_n let_v he_o first_o see_v that_o his_o end_n be_v right_a first_o that_o it_o be_v true_o and_o real_o for_o christ_n second_o that_o it_o be_v out_o of_o love_n to_o christ_n and_o his_o truth_n three_o that_o it_o tend_v whole_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o not_o at_o self_n this_o be_v the_o true_a suffering_n that_o will_v attain_v to_o the_o crown_n of_o life_n but_o to_o proceed_v christ_n have_v a_o charge_n against_o this_o church_n of_o pergamus_n and_o it_o be_v because_o thou_o have_v there_o they_o that_o hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n who_o teach_v balack_n to_o cast_v a_o stumble_a block_n or_o a_o stone_n of_o offence_n in_o the_o greek_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n because_o thou_o have_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d thou_o have_v that_o be_v thou_o keep_v hold_v and_o intend_v to_o keep_v and_o hold_v thou_o have_v these_o balaamite_n not_o by_o accident_n or_o chance_n but_o by_o choice_n thou_o have_v they_o because_o thou_o delight_v in_o they_o and_o will_v have_v it_o so_o thy_o habendum_fw-la and_o tenendum_fw-la go_v together_o thou_o have_v they_o and_o will_v not_o part_v with_o they_o because_o thou_o love_v they_o therefore_o thy_o sin_n be_v the_o great_a herein_o and_o what_o have_v thou_o those_o that_o hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n etc._n etc._n the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n be_v when_o he_o see_v that_o god_n have_v bless_v jacob_n and_o that_o there_o be_v no_o enchantment_n against_o israel_n he_o curse_o advise_v balack_n the_o prince_n of_o the_o midianite_n to_o make_v a_o great_a sacrifice_n to_o baal_n peor_n and_o to_o invite_v the_o israelite_n unto_o it_o now_o baal_n peor_n be_v the_o filthy_a lascivious_a idol_n priapus_n as_o godwin_n jewish_a antiquity_n testify_v who_o festival_n and_o sacrifice_n be_v celebrate_v by_o both_o sex_n in_o most_o shameless_a posture_n and_o manner_n and_o therefore_o hos_fw-la 9.10_o it_o be_v say_v they_o go_v to_o baal_n peor_n and_o discover_v themselves_o to_o their_o shame_n because_o it_o make_v they_o shameless_a and_o to_o discover_v their_o nakedness_n before_o that_o idol_n now_o the_o curse_a advice_n or_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n for_o a_o man_n doctrine_n be_v his_o advice_n or_o counsel_n consist_v of_o two_o part_n first_o to_o sacrifice_v to_o idol_n and_o to_o participate_v at_o their_o curse_a altar_n in_o eat_v of_o their_o idolothite_n express_o against_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o that_o of_o s._n paul_n 1_o cor._n 10.20_o 28_o act_v 15.29_o second_o in_o mix_v with_o the_o midianitish_a woman_n a_o notion_n utter_o forbid_v to_o the_o jewish_a nation_n not_o to_o meddle_v with_o in_o such_o a_o way_n so_o that_o though_o balaam_n can_v not_o curse_v israel_n according_a to_o balack_n desire_n be_v overmaster_v by_o god_n yet_o it_o seem_v his_o heart_n go_v still_o after_o the_o wage_n of_o unrighteousness_n as_o 2_o pet._n 2.15_o testify_v that_o be_v his_o desire_n and_o heart_n be_v to_o take_v balack_n hire_n and_o reward_n to_o curse_n israel_n if_o the_o lord_n have_v not_o overmaster_v both_o his_o tongue_n and_o heart_n and_o instead_o of_o curse_v they_o he_o be_v enforce_v to_o bless_v they_o and_o see_v he_o can_v not_o pleasure_n balack_n according_a to_o his_o expectation_n and_o desire_n as_o a_o prophet_n in_o his_o malediction_n yet_o he_o be_v free_a as_o a_o private_a machavilian_n or_o a_o achitophel_n to_o counsel_n balack_n that_o the_o ready_a way_n to_o bring_v the_o people_n of_o israel_n at_o enmity_n with_o their_o god_n be_v to_o bring_v they_o to_o idolatry_n and_o adultery_n and_o so_o god_n that_o be_v their_o keeper_n and_o saviour_n against_o all_o enchantment_n and_o curse_n will_v
a_o church_n do_v nullify_v a_o church_n though_o very_o high_a if_o right_a and_o sound_a in_o the_o root_n and_o hold_v fast_o the_o faith_n this_o give_v the_o very_o be_v to_o a_o church_n and_o so_o i_o say_v that_o many_o of_o our_o national_a church_n have_v now_o renonunce_v their_o institution_n and_o call_v from_o antichrist_n and_o be_v call_v to_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o faith_n by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n and_o spirit_n be_v become_v spouse_n of_o christ_n call_v and_o faithful_a though_o mix_v with_o many_o corruption_n and_o unsound_a doctrine_n and_o practice_n as_o pergamus_n corinth_n and_o other_o be_v yet_o for_o their_o doctrine_n of_o faith_n and_o sacrament_n among_o they_o be_v to_o be_v account_v as_o golden_a candlestick_n of_o the_o lord_n church_n of_o christ_n holy_a and_o sanctify_a but_o still_o observe_v this_o that_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n the_o more_o pure_a and_o undefiled_a one_o have_v the_o great_a praise_n great_a manifestation_n of_o love_n grace_n comfort_n and_o glory_n on_o she_o than_o any_o of_o the_o other_o the_o more_o unsound_a one_o though_o they_o be_v sister_n yet_o this_o be_v the_o only_a one_o of_o her_o mother_n though_o all_o the_o rest_n be_v daughter_n yet_o this_o be_v the_o rose_n of_o sharon_n and_o the_o lily_n of_o the_o valley_n though_o the_o rest_n be_v christ_n vineyard_n too_o yet_o this_o be_v the_o garden_n enclose_v where_o he_o take_v his_o delight_n at_o noon_n and_o thus_o much_o hereon_o shall_v suffice_v verse_n 16._o repent_v or_o else_o i_o will_v come_v unto_o thou_o quick_o and_o will_v fight_v against_o they_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o my_o mouth_n repent_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d grow_v wise_a change_v thy_o judgement_n and_o practice_v from_o evil_a to_o good_a cast_v off_o thy_o idolatry_n and_o adultery_n and_o do_v thy_o first_o work_n and_o return_v unto_o i_o in_o sincerity_n and_o holiness_n or_o else_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v long_o before_o i_o come_v against_o thou_o and_o make_v war_n against_o thou_o for_o so_o the_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d carry_v it_o and_o that_o with_o a_o most_o cut_v confound_v weapon_n the_o sword_n of_o my_o mouth_n which_o be_v his_o word_n and_o doctrine_n christ_n make_v war_n with_o his_o enemy_n by_o the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n or_o word_n two_o way_n first_o he_o manage_n it_o as_o light_a to_o discover_v darkness_n by_o his_o angel_n and_o minister_n both_o for_o the_o evince_a confound_a and_o overthrow_v all_o false_a worship_n doctrine_n and_o practice_n and_o thus_o he_o manifest_v his_o displeasure_n from_o heaven_n by_o his_o word_n against_o all_o worker_n of_o iniquity_n as_o he_o do_v here_o against_o the_o balaamitish_a and_o nicolaish_n doctrine_n of_o pergamus_n and_o as_o he_o have_v do_v of_o late_a among_o we_o against_o all_o popish_a and_o superstitious_a innovation_n and_o false_a worship_n but_o second_o if_o the_o ministerial_a convince_a word_n will_v not_o serve_v to_o recall_n and_o bring_v to_o repentance_n his_o rebellious_a people_n or_o enemy_n he_o will_v proceed_v far_o by_o his_o terrible_a doctrine_n or_o word_n of_o judgement_n against_o they_o if_o pergamus_n will_v not_o repent_v upon_o the_o conviction_n of_o her_o sin_n christ_n will_v go_v out_o and_o fight_v against_o she_o and_o remove_v her_o candlestick_n from_o among_o she_o yea_o god_n will_v call_v for_o a_o nabuchadnezzar_n a_o mahomet_n a_o ottoman_a and_o they_o shall_v be_v call_v his_o servant_n to_o execute_v the_o lord_n command_n and_o burden_n of_o judgement_n against_o his_o rebellious_a sinful_a church_n and_o thus_o christ_n sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v with_o which_o he_o fight_v against_o his_o enemy_n chap._n 19.21_o thus_o the_o remnant_n of_o the_o follower_n of_o the_o beast_n and_o false_a prophet_n be_v slay_v with_o the_o sword_n of_o he_o that_o sit_v upon_o the_o horse_n which_o sword_n proceed_v out_o of_o his_o mouth_n that_o be_v as_o honest_a bishop_n hall_n on_o the_o place_n say_v they_o be_v slay_v by_o the_o powerful_a command_n of_o christ_n not_o only_o spiritual_o or_o analogical_o but_o corporal_o and_o upon_o their_o bodily_a death_n all_o the_o fowl_n be_v fill_v with_o their_o flesh_n thus_o far_o bishop_n hall_n god_n command_v to_o take_v the_o child_n of_o babel_n and_o to_o dash_v they_o against_o the_o wall_n take_v those_o my_o enemy_n and_o slay_v they_o before_o i_o say_v the_o lord_n thus_o we_o see_v what_o be_v the_o sword_n of_o christ_n mouth_n that_o he_o draw_v against_o his_o unrepentant_a and_o obstinate_a wicked_a church_n first_o confusion_n of_o their_o false_a doctrine_n by_o his_o powerful_a ministerial_a word_n and_o spirit_n next_o of_o their_o person_n by_o command_a war_n or_o famine_n or_o pestilence_n on_o they_o for_o they_o be_v also_o his_o destroy_a weapon_n jer._n 47.7_o now_o this_o be_v do_v and_o command_v by_o christ_n sometime_o express_o in_o scripture_n as_o rev._n 18.6_o 7_o 8._o reward_v she_o as_o she_o have_v reward_v you_o and_o cap._n 12._o 10._o he_o that_o kill_v with_o the_o sword_n must_v be_v kill_v with_o the_o sword_n sometime_o it_o be_v do_v providential_o by_o move_v on_o the_o heart_n of_o prince_n to_o war_n the_o persian_a against_o the_o turk_n or_o the_o turk_n against_o the_o emperor_n or_o venetian_a the_o english_a against_o the_o spaniard_n and_o spaniard_n against_o the_o french_a and_o so_o in_o the_o turmoil_n thereof_o many_o corrupt_a church_n of_o christ_n perish_v utter_o as_o to_o their_o outward_a state_n and_o policy_n and_o this_o be_v the_o way_n that_o the_o great_a whore_n herself_o will_v fall_v and_o perish_v rev._n 17.16_o 17._o or_o three_o god_n send_v immediate_o his_o destroy_a angel_n to_o execute_v his_o wrath_n as_o ez._n 9.1_o 2_o 3_o 4_o 5_o 6_o 7._o against_o his_o idolatrous_a people_n the_o jew_n and_o as_o many_o other_o place_n testify_v to_o smite_v they_o for_o their_o abomination_n and_o their_o wickedness_n observe_v 1._o note_v from_o these_o word_n that_o repentance_n be_v the_o only_a gospel_n remedy_n to_o divert_v the_o wrath_n and_o judgement_n of_o god_n go_v forth_o against_o a_o wicked_a church_n or_o people_n repent_v or_o else_o say_v the_o spirit_n unto_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n you_o know_v what_o will_v follow_v turn_v from_o sinful_a way_n and_o turn_v to_o god_n be_v the_o only_a way_n to_o keep_v god_n presence_n still_o among_o we_o if_o we_o will_v have_v have_v turn_v unto_o god_n from_o our_o former_a false_a way_n of_o worship_n and_o wicked_a practice_n against_o god_n law_n and_o his_o saint_n we_o shall_v not_o have_v see_v those_o late_a desolate_v day_n among_o we_o ahab_n repentance_n though_o it_o be_v formal_a and_o outward_a yet_o it_o stop_v the_o hand_n of_o god_n judgement_n much_o in_o his_o day_n but_o where_o there_o be_v a_o real_a repentance_n or_o turn_v unto_o god_n by_o a_o back-slidden_a and_o corrupt_a church_n god_n real_o divert_v his_o threaten_a judgement_n and_o this_o be_v mere_o a_o doctrine_n of_o grace_n and_o not_o legal_a as_o some_o will_v have_v it_o for_o the_o law_n say_v the_o soul_n that_o sin_v shall_v die_v the_o law_n admtis_fw-la of_o no_o sorrow_n and_o repentance_n for_o sin_n but_o satisfaction_n and_o justice_n but_o the_o law_n of_o grace_n or_o gospel_n in_o the_o hand_n of_o christ_n he_o have_v full_o satisfy_v both_o law_n and_o justice_n for_o sin_n and_o the_o breach_n of_o the_o law_n cry_v out_o in_o the_o street_n and_o to_o every_o creature_n repent_v and_o believe_v believe_v and_o repent_v for_o the_o remission_n of_o sin_n see_v more_o at_o large_a on_o the_o precedent_n 5._o vers_fw-la of_o this_o cap._n what_o repentance_n be_v but_o by_o the_o way_n take_v a_o character_n of_o true_a penitent_n first_o they_o abhor_v themselves_o in_o their_o own_o eye_n the_o sight_n of_o their_o sin_n make_v they_o to_o abhor_v and_o loathe_v themselves_o ezek._n 20.43_o and_o job_n 42.6_o second_o this_o they_o do_v not_o so_o much_o for_o the_o evil_a that_o sin_n bring_v upon_o they_o as_o for_o the_o evil_n itself_o which_o be_v in_o sin_n be_v a_o offence_n against_o god_n and_o his_o divine_a will_n and_o holy_a law_n psal_n 51.2_o three_o their_o repentance_n be_v universal_a and_o perfect_a as_o to_o its_o part_n it_o be_v not_o one_o sin_n or_o corruption_n they_o leave_v but_o all_o ezek._n 20.43_o you_o shall_v loathe_v yourselves_o in_o your_o own_o sight_n for_o all_o the_o evil_n that_o you_o have_v commit_v four_o they_o be_v afterward_o the_o more_o jealous_a of_o god_n glory_n and_o fearful_a to_o sin_n against_o he_o say_v how_o shall_v we_o do_v this_o thing_n and_o sin_n against_o our_o god_n who_o have_v wash_v we_o and_o
over_o this_o book_n of_o prophecy_n be_v full_a of_o such_o discovery_n to_o wit_n the_o afflict_a state_n of_o the_o church_n its_o security_n in_o that_o condition_n together_o with_o the_o rise_n of_o antichrist_n its_o reign_n pollution_n and_o a_o discovery_n thereof_o and_o at_o last_o its_o utter_a ruin_n and_o abolition_n and_o the_o consequent_a thereof_o the_o restauration_n of_o the_o church_n to_o glory_n judicious_a christian_n shall_v account_v this_o knowledge_n excellent_a it_o will_v much_o help_v to_o keep_v their_o spirit_n in_o a_o frame_n and_o temper_v suitable_a to_o their_o condition_n this_o will_v teach_v they_o to_o know_v that_o this_o be_v a_o time_n of_o patience_n and_o tribulation_n not_o of_o triumph_v and_o reign_v while_o the_o bridegroom_n be_v absent_a the_o spouse_n be_v under_o sorrow_n and_o mourning_n not_o of_o mirth_n and_o rejoice_v the_o scarlet_a whore_n or_o harlot_n church_n sit_v yet_o as_o a_o queen_n and_o therefore_o the_o true_a spouse_n sit_v mourning_n yet_o still_o expect_v the_o daystar_n to_o arise_v for_o her_o comfort_n and_o consolation_n see_v more_o concern_v the_o usefulness_n of_o this_o prophecy_n in_o the_o preface_n to_o this_o work_n observe_v 3._o the_o content_n and_o intendment_n of_o this_o prophecy_n be_v not_o obvious_a to_o every_o eye_n read_v and_o hear_v will_v not_o serve_v turn_n there_o must_v be_v a_o keep_n that_o be_v he_o that_o will_v read_v to_o advantage_v the_o thing_n in_o this_o prophecy_n must_v read_v observant_o hear_v attentive_o and_o at_o last_o treasure_n up_o in_o his_o heart_n what_o he_o have_v read_v and_o hear_v and_o so_o have_v careful_o observe_v the_o content_n of_o each_o prophecy_n with_o a_o right_a application_n thereof_o he_o become_v most_o bless_v and_o happy_a from_o the_o difficulty_n of_o the_o understanding_n of_o this_o prophecy_n observe_v 4._o that_o the_o profound_a speculation_n and_o the_o choice_a truth_n be_v hard_a come_v by_o it_o be_v a_o true_a say_n quod_fw-la difficilimum_fw-la pulcherrimum_n truth_n as_o treasure_n that_o lie_v deep_a be_v sweet_a it_o be_v not_o unknown_a what_o knot_n there_o be_v in_o the_o choice_a doctrine_n of_o the_o trinity_n the_o divinity_n of_o christ_n justification_n etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o most_o necessary_a to_o be_v know_v this_o inform_v we_o several_a lesson_n 1._o to_o set_v a_o reverence_n upon_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n for_o they_o be_v choice_a one_o not_o easy_o come_v by_o 2._o it_o set_v a_o check_n upon_o our_o swell_a conceit_n as_o if_o we_o know_v all_o mystery_n and_o the_o deep_a thing_n of_o god_n but_o we_o be_v creature_n not_o omniscient_a and_o it_o teach_v we_o that_o many_o difficulty_n in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v the_o truth_n of_o god_n though_o we_o know_v they_o not_o 3._o it_o quicken_v we_o to_o duty_n and_o whet_v our_o endeavour_n to_o the_o attainment_n thereof_o strive_v to_o enter_v into_o the_o strait_a gate_n choice_a truth_n as_o heaven_n must_v be_v take_v by_o violence_n and_o the_o violent_a take_v they_o by_o force_n 4._o god_n have_v hide_v some_o excellent_a truth_n under_o the_o rock_n and_o lay_v they_o deep_a that_o the_o great_a ability_n and_o grace_n he_o give_v may_v be_v exercise_v therein_o in_o the_o word_n there_o be_v meat_n for_o babe_n and_o also_o meat_n for_o strong_a man_n both_o have_v enough_o that_o neither_o may_v complain_v for_o want_n 5._o last_o it_o drive_v we_o to_o god_n and_o to_o pray_v with_o david_n open_v thou_o our_o eye_n that_o we_o may_v see_v the_o wonder_n of_o thy_o law_n for_o the_o time_n be_v at_o hand_n the_o same_o expression_n be_v in_o the_o last_o chapter_n v._o 10._o which_o intimate_v that_o all_o aught_o to_o take_v heed_n to_o the_o content_n of_o this_o prophecy_n because_o the_o time_n be_v then_o at_o hand_n and_o draw_v nigh_o wherein_o all_o the_o prediction_n thereof_o must_v be_v accomplish_v and_o wherein_o a_o entrance_n shall_v be_v make_v forthwith_o unto_o the_o accomplishment_n of_o some_o and_o so_o unto_o all_o the_o rest_n in_o their_o order_n until_o all_o shall_v be_v fulfil_v and_o in_o the_o first_o verse_n it_o be_v say_v the_o thing_n reveal_v in_o these_o prophecy_n by_o christ_n unto_o his_o servant_n john_n must_v short_o come_v to_o pass_v hence_o observe_v that_o those_o prophecy_n begin_v to_o be_v in_o force_n and_o run_v out_o present_o upon_o john_n time_n and_o so_o continue_v in_o all_o the_o age_n since_o until_o the_o consummation_n of_o all_o this_o will_v be_v make_v good_a in_o the_o ensue_a discourse_n treat_v on_o the_o particular_n verse_n 4._o john_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n in_o asia_n grace_n be_v unto_o you_o and_o peace_n from_o he_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v and_o which_o be_v to_o come_v and_o from_o the_o seven_o spirit_n which_o be_v before_o his_o throne_n verse_n 5._o and_o from_o jesus_n christ_n etc._n etc._n john_n have_v discover_v the_o author_n of_o this_o revelation_n in_o the_o first_o two_o verse_n by_o who_o it_o be_v give_v and_o the_o instrument_n by_o who_o it_o be_v send_v and_o receive_v and_o have_v confirm_v it_o by_o a_o sure_a testimony_n that_o it_o be_v he_o himself_o that_o do_v receive_v it_o he_o go_v on_o with_o a_o salute_a preface_n to_o the_o seven_o famous_a church_n which_o be_v then_o in_o the_o lesser_a asia_n by_o way_n of_o a_o admonitory_a epistle_n wherein_o partly_o he_o commend_v and_o encourage_v they_o partly_o he_o check_v they_o which_o will_v be_v manifest_v in_o the_o progress_n of_o the_o discourse_n before_o he_o enter_v upon_o the_o relation_n of_o the_o prophetical_a vision_n themselves_o from_o whence_o observe_v that_o christ_n minister_n or_o prophet_n though_o they_o have_v a_o burden_n or_o doctrine_n of_o judgement_n and_o wrath_n to_o denounce_v against_o a_o people_n or_o church_n yet_o they_o be_v in_o the_o first_o place_n to_o come_v with_o the_o doctrine_n of_o grace_n and_o peace_n in_o their_o mouth_n with_o bowel_n of_o pity_n and_o compassion_n towards_o they_o the_o work_n of_o judgement_n be_v as_o it_o be_v a_o work_n of_o abhorrency_n unto_o god_n why_o will_v you_o die_v o_o house_n of_o israel_n how_o often_o will_v i_o have_v gather_v and_o heal_v you_o but_o you_o will_v not_o it_o be_v god_n method_n a_o long_a time_n to_o exercise_v his_o patience_n and_o forbearance_n before_o his_o wrath_n be_v execute_v he_o will_v try_v all_o mean_n in_o the_o first_o place_n by_o mercy_n by_o providence_n by_o deliverance_n to_o win_v a_o people_n to_o himself_o he_o will_v as_o a_o good_a husbandman_n many_o year_n enclose_v dig_v dress_v and_o prune_v his_o vineyard_n in_o expectance_n of_o fruitfulness_n before_o he_o will_v hew_v they_o down_o and_o cast_v they_o in_o the_o fire_n he_o will_v abide_v long_o with_o his_o backslide_a child_n forty_o year_n long_o be_v he_o grieve_v by_o his_o gainsay_n people_n israel_n yea_o he_o will_v come_v down_o and_o see_v as_o if_o former_o he_o do_v not_o take_v notice_n of_o their_o sin_n hope_v of_o their_o amendment_n by_o such_o forbearance_n whether_o their_o transgression_n be_v so_o or_o not_o ezek._n 33.11_o god_n take_v a_o solemn_a oath_n as_o i_o live_v say_v the_o lord_n i_o have_v no_o pleasure_n in_o the_o death_n of_o the_o wicked_a turn_v turn_v etc._n etc._n when_o god_n be_v as_o it_o be_v by_o unrepentant_a sinner_n enforce_v to_o withdraw_v his_o presence_n and_o execute_v his_o judgement_n o_o how_o trouble_a be_v he_o at_o it_o he_o do_v it_o as_o it_o be_v step_z by_z step_z ezek_n 10.4_o when_o god_n withdraw_v his_o glory_n from_o the_o temple_n first_o it_o move_v to_o the_o threshold_n then_o towards_o heaven_n v._o 19_o then_o to_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o city_n and_o from_o thence_o to_o the_o mountain_n on_o the_o east_n side_n of_o the_o city_n cap._n 11._o 23._o and_o so_o at_o last_o go_v whole_o from_o they_o this_o set_v a_o reproof_n upon_o such_o that_o come_v like_o boanarge_n son_n of_o thunder_n with_o doctrine_n of_o judgement_n and_o wrath_n before_o they_o have_v make_v experiment_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o peace_n and_o grace_n that_o of_o our_o saviour_n may_v be_v well_o apply_v unto_o they_o they_o know_v not_o of_o what_o spirit_n they_o be_v of_o observe_v 2._o that_o all_o christ_n faithful_a minister_n that_o desire_v the_o good_a of_o soul_n by_o their_o doctrine_n be_v to_o pray_v for_o the_o increase_n of_o grace_n and_o peace_n in_o god_n and_o in_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n and_o upon_o all_o their_o hearer_n it_o be_v john_n wish_n here_o to_o the_o seven_o church_n paul_n always_o in_o every_o epistle_n to_o those_o to_o who_o he_o direct_v they_o rom._n 1.7_o it_o manifest_v our_o charity_n and_o our_o duty_n in_o pray_v for_o all_o
utter_a overthrow_n chap._n 31._o v._n 3._o etc._n etc._n it_o be_v also_o somewhat_o against_o reason_n that_o saul_n shall_v be_v all_o the_o precedent_a night_n at_o endor_n and_o on_o his_o way_n come_v and_o go_v and_o that_o under_o great_a dejection_n trouble_n and_o consternation_n by_o reason_n of_o his_o hard_a fate_n foretell_v he_o and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o he_o shall_v the_o immediate_a morrow_n join_v battle_n with_o the_o philistine_n be_v in_o my_o apprehension_n a_o very_a unlikely_a conceit_n i_o shall_v only_o add_v and_o conclude_v with_o that_o of_o the_o psalmist_n o_o teach_v we_o o_o lord_n to_o number_v our_o day_n that_o we_o may_v apply_v our_o heart_n unto_o wisdom_n that_o both_o god_n and_o the_o creature_n may_v have_v their_o due_n verse_n 11._o i_o be_o alpha_n and_o omega_n the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o and_o what_o thou_o see_v write_v in_o a_o book_n and_o send_v it_o unto_o the_o seven_o church_n which_o be_v in_o asia_n unto_o ephesus_n and_o unto_o smyrna_n unto_o pergamus_n and_o unto_o thyatira_n and_o unto_o sardis_n and_o unto_o philadelphia_n and_o unto_o laodicea_n after_o john_n be_v set_v by_o a_o spiritual_a rapture_n in_o a_o fit_a frame_n and_o posture_n to_o receive_v those_o divine_a and_o excellent_a revelation_n he_o in_o this_o verse_n make_v a_o entrance_n into_o his_o first_o vision_n which_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o that_o great_a and_o mighty_a voice_n that_o he_o hear_v as_o of_o a_o trumpet_n say_v i_o be_o alpha_n and_o omega_n etc._n etc._n this_o be_v christ_n as_o be_v manifest_v in_o verse_n 8._o compare_v to_o the_o 9_o who_o be_v the_o beginning_n and_o last_o of_o all_o thing_n and_o who_o be_v the_o giver_n out_o and_o author_n of_o this_o revelation_n unto_o john_n and_o give_v he_o this_o vision_n concern_v the_o seven_o church_n by_o way_n of_o a_o admonitory_a epistle_n unto_o they_o and_o what_o he_o see_v and_o shall_v be_v represent_v unto_o he_o in_o those_o vision_n he_o be_v command_v to_o write_v they_o down_o and_o send_v they_o to_o the_o seven_o famous_a church_n which_o then_o be_v in_o asia_n minor_fw-la at_o ephesus_n smyrna_n &_o e._n hence_o note_n observe_v that_o the_o true_a minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n must_v deal_v very_o faithful_o with_o their_o church_n in_o their_o doctrine_n and_o prophecy_n they_o must_v come_v with_o real_a vision_n of_o god_n not_o feign_v once_o paul_n do_v profess_v unto_o those_o he_o write_v that_o he_o keep_v nothing_o back_o for_o their_o good_a but_o discover_v the_o whole_a mind_n of_o god_n unto_o they_o they_o be_v to_o observe_v god_n motion_n and_o direction_n when_o he_o move_v they_o must_v move_v when_o he_o stand_v still_o so_o must_v they_o if_o god_n command_v they_o to_o come_v with_o the_o doctrine_n of_o peace_n and_o consolation_n they_o be_v not_o to_o come_v with_o the_o doctrine_n of_o judgement_n and_o if_o god_n proceed_v in_o anger_n wrath_n and_o judgement_n against_o a_o people_n for_o their_o sin_n the_o minister_n ought_v not_o like_o the_o false_a prophet_n in_o jeremiah_n preach_v peace_n peace_n and_o sew_v pillow_n under_o their_o elbow_n to_o build_v they_o up_o in_o security_n and_o so_o make_v they_o ripe_a for_o destruction_n neither_o be_v they_o only_o in_o a_o perfunctory_a way_n to_o preach_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n unto_o their_o church_n but_o they_o must_v follow_v john_n example_n here_o whatsoever_o vision_n or_o burden_n be_v make_v know_v unto_o they_o from_o the_o lord_n they_o must_v for_o the_o more_o certainty_n and_o better_a observation_n thereof_o write_v it_o down_o and_o send_v it_o and_o commit_v it_o to_o their_o church_n keep_v this_o rule_n the_o apostle_n keep_v in_o commit_v their_o doctrine_n unto_o writing_n a_o sure_a way_n of_o preserve_v it_o for_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o the_o end_n of_o all_o verse_n 12._o and_o i_o turn_v to_o see_v the_o voice_n that_o speak_v with_o i_o and_o be_v turn_v i_o see_v seven_o golden_a candlestick_n verse_n 13._o and_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o seven_o candlestick_n one_o like_a unto_o the_o son_n of_o man_n clothe_v with_o a_o garment_n down_o to_o the_o foot_n and_o gird_v about_o the_o pap_n with_o a_o golden_a girdle_n john_n have_v hear_v this_o great_a and_o terrible_a voice_n he_o turn_v to_o see_v the_o voice_n that_o speak_v unto_o he_o either_o this_o be_v to_o be_v take_v metonimocal_o where_o see_v be_v put_v for_o understanding_n that_o be_v he_o turn_v right_o and_o distinct_o to_o understand_v the_o voice_n he_o hear_v or_o else_o to_o be_v take_v per_fw-la synecdochen_n part_n for_o the_o whole_a that_o be_v he_o turn_v to_o see_v the_o voice_n that_o be_v the_o person_n that_o utter_v the_o voice_n from_o hence_o note_n observe_v that_o god_n faithful_a one_o be_v very_a intent_n to_o know_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n in_o all_o the_o discovery_n of_o his_o will._n they_o be_v not_o those_o that_o desire_v to_o know_v their_o master_n will_n dark_o and_o in_o part_n they_o be_v willing_a to_o know_v it_o full_o that_o they_o may_v full_o obey_v it_o it_o be_v but_o a_o fruitless_a hear_n to_o hear_v the_o voice_n only_o in_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o not_o be_v intent_n upon_o the_o intendment_n and_o substance_n of_o it_o the_o word_n of_o god_n though_o it_o be_v the_o power_n of_o life_n unto_o all_o that_o believe_v yet_o without_o this_o be_v but_o as_o a_o mere_a voice_n and_o a_o dead_a letter_n those_o with_o paul_n act_v 9_o when_o he_o be_v strike_v down_o when_o he_o be_v go_v to_o damascus_n hear_v the_o voice_n but_o see_v not_o he_o that_o speak_v unto_o he_o so_o many_o in_o our_o day_n do_v hear_v the_o same_o voice_n of_o god_n that_o strike_v through_o other_o soul_n unto_o conversion_n while_o they_o neither_o see_v nor_o understand_v the_o meaning_n of_o god_n in_o the_o voice_n either_o to_o their_o comfort_n or_o conversion_n no_o soon_o be_v john_n turn_v to_o comprehend_v more_o distinct_o this_o voice_n that_o speak_v unto_o he_o but_o present_o he_o have_v a_o vision_n present_v he_o of_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n and_o one_o like_a unto_o the_o son_n of_o man_n in_o the_o mid_n of_o they_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n i_o refer_v to_o the_o last_o verse_n of_o this_o chapter_n where_o the_o spirit_n itself_o be_v interpreter_n but_o by_o the_o way_n this_o note_n arise_v observe_v that_o god_n reserve_v his_o choice_a discovery_n for_o the_o most_o diligent_a and_o inquire_a soul_n john_n when_o he_o turn_v to_o see_v the_o voice_n and_o be_v turn_v he_o see_v seven_o golden_a candlestick_n etc._n etc._n when_o soul_n turn_v to_o god_n and_o inquire_v careful_o after_o his_o will_n god_n will_v be_v find_v of_o they_o they_o be_v the_o treasurer_n of_o his_o mind_n the_o secret_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v with_o those_o that_o fear_v he_o they_o shall_v know_v the_o intendment_n of_o god_n in_o all_o the_o revolution_n and_o providential_a percussion_n of_o the_o nation_n of_o the_o world_n if_o the_o statist_n of_o the_o world_n will_v know_v what_o will_v be_v the_o event_n of_o thing_n their_o best_a counsellor_n will_v be_v such_o as_o be_v the_o wise_a and_o diligent_a observer_n not_o of_o star_n fly_v of_o bird_n the_o bowel_n of_o beast_n and_o such_o ethnic_a foppery_n but_o of_o the_o voice_n of_o god_n in_o his_o holy_a word_n observe_v 2._o the_o thing_n contain_v in_o this_o book_n of_o prophecy_n be_v most_o certain_a john_n say_v not_o he_o hear_v only_o a_o voice_n but_o he_o see_v seven_o golden_a candlestick_n etc._n etc._n the_o sense_n of_o sight_n be_v the_o most_o certain_a most_o evidential_a of_o all_o the_o sense_n 1_o john_n 1.3_o and_o indeed_o this_o whole_a book_n be_v a_o book_n of_o vision_n present_v unto_o john_n and_o which_o he_o see_v in_o patmos_n now_o in_o all_o vision_n there_o be_v some_o representation_n make_v either_o to_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o body_n external_o or_o to_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o mind_n internal_o second_o in_o every_o vision_n there_o be_v something_o that_o be_v future_a and_o therefore_o it_o be_v sometime_o call_v pprophecy_n or_o prediction_n isa_n 1.1_o three_o the_o party_n to_o who_o it_o be_v make_v have_v a_o strong_a irradiation_n of_o spirit_n and_o mighty_a light_n overpower_v he_o to_o make_v he_o obedient_a unto_o that_o heavenly_a vision_n and_o so_o be_v put_v out_o of_o all_o doubt_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o it_o four_o it_o be_v in_o great_a evidence_n when_o the_o party_n be_v awake_a dream_n be_v but_o obscure_a vision_n when_o man_n be_v asleep_a and_o therefore_o vision_n be_v the_o more_o evident_a and_o excellent_a discovery_n of_o the_o truth_n in_o this_o
some_o of_o the_o mistake_v of_o our_o translator_n consult_v to_o this_o purpose_n luke_n 7.24_o mal._n 3.1_o and_o therefore_o it_o shall_v be_v better_o render_v here_o messengers_z write_v unto_o the_o messenger_n of_o the_o seven_o church_n and_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v so_o term_v because_o they_o be_v person_n send_v and_o commissionated_a by_o christ_n to_o preach_v and_o teach_v his_o gospel_n among_o his_o church_n matth._n 28.18_o have_v clear_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o the_o angel_n or_o seven_o star_n of_o the_o asian_a church_n i_o shall_v draw_v these_o note_n observe_v 1._o christ_n have_v a_o especial_a eye_n of_o providence_n and_o hand_n of_o protection_n over_o all_o his_o faithful_a minister_n of_o his_o word_n in_o the_o most_o terrible_a time_n of_o wrath_n and_o judgement_n he_o take_v they_o in_o his_o right_a hand_n clap_v they_o under_o his_o wing_n for_o safety_n noah_n who_o be_v a_o preacher_n of_o righteousness_n be_v preserve_v in_o the_o ark_n when_o all_o the_o world_n be_v drown_v righteous_a lot_n be_v preserve_v when_o sodom_n flame_v in_o fire_n ezekiel_n daniel_n mordecai_n etc._n etc._n be_v preserve_v in_o babylon_n when_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o judah_n suffer_v all_o the_o misery_n that_o a_o insolent_a conqueror_n can_v lay_v upon_o they_o how_o luther_n be_v preserve_v when_o all_o the_o antichristian_a world_n seek_v his_o ruin_n be_v most_o admirable_a to_o consider_v i_o have_v hear_v it_o relate_v that_o that_o most_o famous_a minister_n of_o christ_n peter_n du_fw-fr molyne_n be_v preserve_v in_o paris_n be_v a_o suck_a child_n by_o his_o nurse_n under_o a_o tub_n when_o the_o bloody_a massacre_n do_v not_o spare_a man_n woman_n or_o child_n of_o the_o reform_a faith_n that_o he_o may_v afterward_o become_v a_o star_n in_o the_o firmament_n of_o christ_n church_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o all_o this_o be_v they_o that_o be_v most_o engage_v for_o christ_n in_o his_o work_n and_o ministry_n he_o do_v most_o engage_v for_o their_o safety_n and_o protection_n satan_n be_v their_o great_a enemy_n therefore_o christ_n be_v their_o great_a friend_n and_o bulwark_n oh_o that_o all_o the_o minister_n of_o our_o church_n be_v shine_a star_n faithful_a angel_n or_o rather_o faithful_a messenger_n of_o god_n word_n and_o truth_n then_o christ_n will_v carry_v they_o in_o his_o right_a hand_n of_o protection_n and_o they_o shall_v be_v as_o the_o apple_n of_o his_o eye_n unto_o he_o the_o angel_n messenger_n or_o chief_a minister_n of_o these_o seven_o asian_a church_n be_v here_o represent_v by_o star_n star_n always_o in_o prophetical_a scripture_n signify_v eminency_n splendour_n light_n and_o excellency_n how_o be_v thou_o fall_v from_o heaven_n o_o lucifer_n thou_o son_n of_o the_o morning_n mean_v nabuchadnezzar_n isa_n 14.12_o and_o rev._n 18.10_o i_o see_v a_o star_n fall_v from_o heaven_n which_o connote_v the_o fall_n of_o a_o most_o eminent_a high_a and_o excellent_a person_n from_o hence_o note_n 2._o those_o that_o be_v the_o dispenser_n of_o christ_n mystery_n aught_o to_o be_v more_o eminent_a and_o excellent_a in_o knowledge_n and_o holiness_n than_o other_o inferior_a christian_n they_o be_v figure_v by_o star_n by_o the_o shine_a heavenly_a lamp_n they_o be_v the_o salt_n of_o the_o earth_n their_o lip_n shall_v especial_o preserve_v wisdom_n they_o shall_v be_v as_o star_n of_o the_o great_a magnitude_n shine_v in_o the_o firmament_n of_o their_o church_n they_o be_v the_o overseer_n of_o the_o flock_n to_o go_v in_o and_o out_o before_o they_o in_o soundness_n of_o life_n and_o doctrine_n yet_o too_o though_o their_o light_n be_v great_a shine_a and_o eminent_a yet_o let_v they_o consider_v they_o be_v but_o star_n their_o light_n be_v borrow_v from_o the_o sun_n they_o shall_v not_o advance_v it_o to_o that_o pitch_n as_o to_o make_v it_o a_o infallible_a light_n but_o they_o shall_v eye_v the_o son_n as_o the_o fountain_n of_o all_o true_a light_n to_o keep_v they_o in_o their_o proper_a sphere_n and_o not_o to_o lord_n it_o over_o the_o lord_n inheritage_n let_v they_o remember_v too_o that_o they_o be_v star_n whereof_o some_o may_v be_v erratic_a as_o well_o as_o fix_v once_o christ_n alone_o be_v the_o true_a light_n the_o true_a morning_n star_n that_o whosoever_o shall_v receive_v light_n from_o this_o true_a son_n of_o righteousness_n he_o can_v be_v deceive_v but_o at_o last_o shall_v be_v bring_v to_o the_o father_n of_o all_o light_n 3._o another_o note_n be_v that_o the_o minister_n of_o christ_n be_v in_o a_o high_a and_o honourable_a call_n they_o be_v figure_v under_o the_o type_n of_o star_n celestial_a light_n they_o have_v the_o same_o title_n of_o god_n minister_a spirit_n the_o angel_n they_o be_v his_o messenger_n that_o go_v on_o his_o errant_n his_o ambassador_n to_o treat_v with_o man_n about_o the_o great_a mystery_n of_o heaven_n hence_o arise_v another_o corrolary_n that_o all_o christ_n minister_n as_o they_o be_v star_n though_o differ_v from_o one_o another_o in_o glory_n in_o part_n gift_n and_o grace_n yet_o not_o differ_v in_o power_n nor_o lord_n over_o one_o another_o they_o be_v angel_n that_o be_v messengers_z ambassador_n not_o prince_n cardinal_n not_o lord_n bishop_n every_o church_n here_o have_v its_o angel_n its_o bishop_n its_o pastor_n its_o elder_a not_o many_o bishop_n not_o many_o elder_n in_o a_o classical_a form_n over_o divers_a church_n but_o every_o church_n have_v its_o angel_n its_o minister_n or_o officer_n ephesus_n have_v its_o anâ—gel_n smyrna_n its_o angel_n etc._n etc._n not_o that_o ephesus_n angel_n either_o single_o o._n joint_n with_o two_o three_o or_o more_o be_v superintendent_n over_o all_o the_o rest_n here_o be_v a_o far_a description_n of_o the_o terribleness_n of_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n in_o this_o vision_n when_o he_o come_v in_o power_n and_o judgement_n out_o of_o his_o mouth_n go_v a_o sharp_a two-edged_a sword_n and_o his_o face_n shine_v as_o the_o sun_n in_o his_o strength_n the_o sword_n of_o the_o mouth_n be_v take_v in_o scripture_n for_o the_o word_n or_o doctrine_n proceed_v from_o the_o mouth_n psalm_n 56.5_o prov._n 5.4_o job_n 5.15_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n be_v here_o call_v a_o sharp_a two-edged_a sword_n it_o cut_v both_o side_n but_o in_o a_o diverse_a mode_n it_o wound_v the_o penitent_a but_o for_o their_o recovery_n and_o to_o bring_v they_o unto_o christ_n and_o so_o it_o be_v mighty_a in_o operation_n heb._n 4.12_o and_o second_o it_o be_v a_o destroy_a sword_n to_o his_o adversary_n rev._n 19.15_o out_o of_o his_o mouth_n go_v a_o sharp_a sword_n that_o with_o it_o he_o shall_v smite_v the_o heathen_a hence_o observe_v christ_n word_n be_v very_o powerful_a and_o pierce_v it_o divide_v between_o the_o bone_n and_o the_o marrow_n between_o the_o soul_n and_o the_o spirit_n it_o be_v telum_fw-la achilleum_fw-la achilles_n spear_n that_o can_v both_o hurt_v and_o cure_v kill_v and_o make_v alive_a but_o it_o may_v be_v here_o question_v whether_o this_o figure_n of_o a_o two_o edge_a sword_n that_o go_v out_o of_o the_o mouth_n of_o christ_n may_v not_o signify_v and_o represent_v a_o material_a sword_n also_o i_o answer_v affirmative_o that_o christ_n also_o be_v to_o use_v that_o sword_n which_o be_v to_o smite_v the_o heathen_a with_o and_o that_o be_v a_o material_a one_o for_o he_o be_v to_o rule_v they_o with_o a_o rod_n of_o iron_n rev._n 19.15_o now_o how_o it_o can_v be_v understand_v that_o christ_n be_v to_o smite_v the_o heathen_a with_o the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n that_o be_v his_o word_n or_o rule_v they_o with_o his_o word_n and_o doctrine_n i_o see_v but_o small_a reason_n for_o such_o a_o interpretation_n and_o see_v too_o when_o he_o do_v this_o it_o be_v in_o fierceness_n tread_v the_o wine-press_n of_o the_o wrath_n of_o almighty_a god_n but_o then_o some_o may_v say_v do_v christ_n judge_v and_o smite_v his_o enemy_n only_o by_o the_o material_a sword_n i_o answer_v no_o first_o he_o go_v out_o with_o the_o sword_n or_o spirit_n of_o his_o mouth_n to_o wit_n his_o divine_a truth_n and_o word_n to_o make_v manifest_a destroy_v and_o overthrow_v all_o antichristian_a idolatry_n and_o worship_n 2_o thes_n 2._o then_o second_o he_o go_v out_o on_o the_o red_a horse_n of_o war_n with_o a_o material_a sword_n to_o destroy_v the_o beast_n and_o the_o false_a prophet_n and_o their_o adherent_n and_o they_o be_v so_o smite_v and_o destroy_v that_o the_o fowl_n of_o the_o air_n be_v call_v to_o the_o prey_n to_o eat_v the_o flesh_n of_o king_n and_o the_o flesh_n of_o captain_n and_o the_o flesh_n of_o mighty_a man_n and_o the_o flesh_n of_o horse_n and_o of_o they_o that_o sit_v upon_o they_o and_o the_o flesh_n of_o all_o man_n both_o free_a and_o bond_n
peace_n through_o jesus_n christ_n and_o therefore_o beautiful_a be_v their_o foot_n and_o so_o may_v right_o be_v represent_v mystical_o or_o figurative_o by_o those_o lightsome_a and_o noble_a creature_n the_o star_n but_o to_o prevent_v tediousness_n in_o repetition_n i_o refer_v to_o the_o note_n on_o the_o precedent_n sixteenth_o verse_n where_o i_o have_v full_o discuss_v the_o same_o subject_n and_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n christ_n interpret_v to_o be_v the_o seven_o church_n to_o wit_n in_o ephes_n smyrna_n pergamus_n etc._n etc._n in_o exodus_fw-la 25._o among_o the_o adorement_n and_o instrument_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n god_n command_v mâ—ses_n to_o make_v a_o candlestick_n of_o beat_a gold_n christ_n in_o this_o verse_n take_v up_o the_o figure_n and_o type_n of_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n to_o represent_v mystical_o his_o tabernacle_n with_o man_n his_o seven_o famous_a asian_a church_n wherein_o his_o glorious_a presence_n do_v most_o resplendent_o appear_v for_o it_o be_v say_v verse_n 13._o that_o he_o appear_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o in_o great_a lustre_n glory_n and_o splendour_n golden_a candlestick_n be_v fit_a type_n and_o emblem_n to_o represent_v christ_n church_n first_o in_o respect_n of_o their_o choice_a metal_n they_o be_v golden_a candlestick_n observe_v christ_n church_n be_v of_o that_o precious_a allay_n and_o temper_n that_o they_o excel_v all_o other_o assembly_n in_o the_o world_n other_o of_o the_o world_n though_o never_o so_o great_a and_o eminent_a be_v but_o as_o lead_v or_o tin_n but_o those_o like_a precious_a gold_n second_o gold_n be_v the_o most_o try_a and_o refine_a metal_n that_o be_v so_o be_v christ_n church_n they_o go_v under_o seven_o fold_n refinement_n they_o have_v trial_n from_o god_n and_o man_n refinement_n by_o affliction_n refinement_n by_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n whereby_o their_o dross_n be_v do_v away_o and_o so_o become_v most_o precious_a and_o shine_a gold_n three_o gold_n be_v the_o most_o noble_a dear_a and_o high_a esteem_a metal_n among_o man_n so_o christ_n church_n be_v the_o most_o high_o respect_v by_o god_n of_o all_o creature_n the_o world_n be_v make_v for_o their_o sake_n yea_o they_o be_v the_o right_a heir_n that_o be_v that_o have_v the_o more_o especial_a right_n by_o blessing_n promise_n and_o compact_a unto_o the_o world_n and_o the_o good_a thing_n thereof_o whether_o thing_n present_a or_o thing_n to_o come_v why_o all_o be_v you_o if_o christ_n be_v you_o 1_o cor._n 3.23_o four_o it_o be_v the_o most_o extensive_a and_o ductible_a of_o all_o metal_n so_o christ_n church_n they_o have_v the_o large_a bowel_n of_o true_a charity_n of_o any_o sort_n of_o people_n in_o the_o world_n for_o they_o will_v endeavour_v the_o conversion_n and_o pray_v for_o it_o even_o of_o their_o very_a enemy_n five_o gold_n be_v the_o most_o weighty_a of_o all_o metal_n christ_n church_n be_v of_o the_o great_a weight_n with_o god_n all_o other_o be_v but_o as_o the_o dust_n of_o the_o balance_n in_o comparison_n of_o they_o they_o be_v of_o such_o weight_n with_o god_n that_o they_o be_v to_o stand_v in_o the_o gap_n to_o stay_v the_o hand_n of_o god_n when_o he_o go_v out_o to_o execute_v his_o judgement_n if_o two_o or_o three_o righteous_a person_n be_v in_o a_o city_n god_n will_v not_o destroy_v it_o for_o their_o sake_n six_o and_o last_o gold_n be_v most_o fair_a and_o shine_a of_o all_o metal_n so_o christ_n church_n they_o be_v most_o shine_v in_o their_o grace_n they_o be_v not_o guild_a candlestick_n but_o golden_a one_o yea_o beat_a one_o as_o that_o of_o the_o tabernacle_n be_v thou_o be_v all_o fair_a say_v christ_n to_o his_o spouse_n in_o cant._n 1._o my_o love_n behold_v thou_o be_v fair_a behold_v thou_o be_v fair_a like_o a_o lily_n among_o the_o thorn_n so_o be_v my_o love_n among_o the_o daughter_n cant._n 2.2_o in_o the_o next_o place_n consider_v the_o type_n and_o figure_n the_o seven_o candlestick_n that_o be_v the_o emblem_n of_o those_o seven_o church_n and_o how_o they_o suit_v fit_o for_o this_o purpose_n all_o know_v the_o proper_a work_n of_o candlestick_n be_v to_o contain_v and_o hold_v their_o shine_a lamp_n or_o candle_n as_o in_o exod._n 25.37_o and_o thou_o shall_v make_v the_o seven_o lamp_n thereof_o and_o the_o lamp_n thereof_o shall_v thou_o put_v thereon_o to_o give_v light_n towards_o that_o that_o be_v before_o it_o as_o the_o golden_a candlestick_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n be_v to_o have_v seven_o lamp_n or_o light_n to_o give_v light_n to_o all_o that_o be_v before_o it_o so_o these_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n those_o seven_o asian_a church_n have_v their_o seven_o lamp_n or_o light_n therein_o which_o number_n denote_v perfection_n to_o enlighten_v all_o that_o be_v before_o it_o they_o have_v also_o their_o seven_o angel_n seven_o faithful_a messenger_n minister_n or_o ambassador_n of_o christ_n word_n and_o truth_n to_o enlighten_v every_o soul_n that_o come_v with_o a_o teachable_a heart_n before_o they_o hence_o note_v observe_v that_o every_o church_n of_o christ_n as_o the_o candlestick_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n exod._n 25.37_o aught_o to_o have_v their_o shine_a lamp_n in_o they_o that_o be_v minister_n and_o teacher_n that_o be_v both_o godly_a and_o faithful_a one_o each_o one_o of_o the_o seven_o asian_a church_n have_v its_o angel_n its_o light_n its_o lamp_n within_o its_o candlestick_n and_o a_o church_n without_o these_o light_n these_o angel_n be_v as_o a_o candlestick_n without_o its_o lamp_n or_o light_n stand_v for_o ornament_n and_o fashion_n sake_n but_o want_v much_o of_o its_o honour_n life_n light_n and_o service_n which_o those_o lamp_n and_o light_n will_v yield_v unto_o it_o for_o christ_n have_v place_v in_o his_o church_n some_o apostle_n some_o evangelist_n some_o prophet_n some_o teacher_n some_o pastor_n some_o elder_n and_o all_o for_o the_o edify_a and_o complete_n of_o his_o body_n the_o church_n church_n thus_o organise_v with_o their_o angel_n and_o minister_n be_v most_o comely_a yea_o that_o high_a expression_n in_o cant._n 6.4_o may_v be_v well_o apply_v to_o such_o thou_o be_v beautiful_a o_o my_o love_n as_o tirza_n comely_a as_o jerusalem_n terrible_a as_o a_o army_n with_o banner_n amid_o those_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n that_o have_v their_o angel_n or_o lamp_n shine_v within_o they_o christ_n make_v his_o glorious_a appearance_n in_o the_o likeness_n of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n verse_n 13._o the_o discovery_n of_o christ_n way_n and_o presence_n both_o in_o the_o way_n of_o grace_n and_o judgement_n be_v most_o clear_o to_o be_v learn_v and_o discern_v among_o his_o church_n that_o have_v their_o angel_n minister_n and_o teacher_n shine_v most_o bright_a in_o their_o life_n and_o doctrine_n in_o the_o midst_n among_o they_o and_o like_v to_o this_o be_v the_o advice_n which_o christ_n himself_o have_v give_v to_o the_o spouse_n in_o the_o canticle_n chap._n 1.7_o 8._o when_o she_o have_v lose_v or_o can_v not_o find_v her_o belove_a tell_v i_o o_o thou_o who_o my_o soul_n love_v where_o thou_o feed_v where_o thou_o make_v thy_o flock_n to_o rest_v at_o noon_n his_o answer_n be_v if_o thou_o know_v not_o thou_o fair_o among_o woman_n go_v thy_o way_n forth_o by_o the_o footstep_n of_o the_o flock_n and_o feed_v thy_o kid_n beside_o the_o shepherd_n tent_n therefore_o o_o thou_o the_o belove_a of_o my_o soul_n cause_n my_o soul_n that_o by_o its_o wander_n have_v long_o miss_v thou_o to_o seek_v for_o thou_o among_o thy_o golden_a candlestick_n in_o thy_o ordinance_n and_o holy_a assembly_n in_o the_o midst_n whereof_o thou_o do_v appear_v that_o my_o soul_n which_o languish_v may_v be_v comfort_v with_o apple_n and_o stay_v with_o flagon_n with_o spiritual_a comfort_n and_o refreshment_n from_o thyself_o who_o dwell_v in_o the_o garden_n and_o feed_v thy_o flock_n beside_o the_o shepherd_n tent_n observe_v 2._o that_o christ_n church_n be_v his_o chief_a treasury_n here_o on_o earth_n of_o light_n and_o truth_n if_o soul_n desire_v to_o come_v into_o the_o true_a light_n and_o truth_n of_o god_n where_o shall_v they_o rather_o repair_v then_o unto_o those_o golden_a candlestick_n who_o proper_a service_n be_v to_o hold_v forth_o light_a unto_o all_o comer_n christ_n be_v find_v walk_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o verse_n 1â—_n and_o therefore_o where_o the_o sun_n run_v its_o course_n there_o must_v needs_o be_v light_n in_o that_o firmament_n and_o much_o glory_n and_o for_o this_o reason_n in_o this_o place_n these_o seven_o famous_a asian_a church_n be_v represent_v by_o the_o figure_n of_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n and_o also_o in_o zach._n 4.3_o etc._n etc._n the_o ancient_a church_n of_o the_o jew_n be_v represent_v by_o a_o golden_a candlestick_n with_o seven_o lamp_n
thereon_o and_o in_o rev._n 4._o the_o two_o gospel_n witness_n be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o two_o candlestick_n to_o wit_n the_o two_o church_n of_o jew_n and_o gentile_n with_o their_o two_o olive_n branch_n by_o their_o side_n to_o wit_n the_o two_o administration_n of_o law_n and_o gospel_n which_o be_v always_o pour_v out_o their_o oil_n for_o light_n into_o the_o ministerial_a lamp_n of_o these_o golden_a candlestick_n here_o must_v needs_o be_v then_o much_o light_n and_o truth_n for_o these_o be_v the_o two_o anoint_a one_o that_o stand_v by_o the_o lord_n of_o the_o whole_a earth_n zach._n 4.2.12_o and_o 14_o verse_n chap._n ii_o verse_n 1._o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n write_v these_o thing_n say_v he_o that_o hold_v the_o seven_o star_n in_o his_o right_a hand_n who_o walk_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n the_o general_a preface_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n and_o of_o the_o whole_a book_n be_v finish_v in_o the_o first_o chapter_n wherein_o be_v consider_v who_o be_v the_o author_n of_o these_o divine_a revelation_n and_o that_o be_v christ_n under_o divers_a denomination_n and_o similitude_n some_o appropriable_a only_a to_o the_o divine_a nature_n some_o to_o the_o humane_a clear_o notify_v that_o that_o person_n that_o appear_v unto_o john_n be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o christ_n god-man_n who_o give_v these_o divine_a revelation_n unto_o john_n some_o immediate_o by_o himself_o some_o by_o his_o minister_a spirit_n the_o angel_n for_o though_o the_o great_a part_n of_o these_o prophecy_n be_v give_v and_o signify_v by_o the_o instrumentality_n of_o angel_n yet_o it_o may_v be_v true_o say_v that_o christ_n do_v it_o for_o it_o be_v a_o know_a rule_n what_o be_v do_v by_o another_o at_o one_o order_n and_o command_v be_v do_v by_o himself_o christ_n he_o be_v the_o author_n of_o those_o vision_n he_o give_v they_o out_o to_o john_n and_z john_n he_o be_v the_o recipient_a instrument_n and_o the_o subordinate_a author_n and_o be_v command_v to_o write_v they_o and_o make_v they_o know_v unto_o the_o church_n and_o in_o the_o first_o place_n in_o this_o second_o and_o three_o chapter_n john_n be_v command_v by_o christ_n to_o write_v those_o premonition_n to_o the_o seven_o church_n which_o in_o their_o order_n shall_v be_v handle_v but_o in_o the_o way_n before_o i_o fall_v upon_o the_o particular_n it_o will_v be_v worth_a the_o enquiry_n quest_n why_o john_n be_v command_v particular_o to_o write_v to_o each_o church_n of_o the_o seven_o apart_o to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n of_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n of_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n etc._n etc._n i_o answer_v for_o divers_a reason_n first_o they_o be_v not_o guilty_a of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o fault_n and_o as_o their_o defection_n be_v divers_a and_o various_a so_o ought_v they_o to_o have_v various_a and_o divers_a reprehension_n so_o likewise_o their_o grace_n and_o endowment_n be_v various_a so_o ought_v they_o to_o have_v divers_a and_o various_a encouragement_n therein_o the_o more_o obdurate_a and_o high-handed_n sinner_n aught_o to_o have_v the_o sharp_a and_o high_a reproof_n and_o censure_n but_o the_o more_o flexible_a and_o tender-hearted_a aught_o to_o be_v deal_v with_o the_o more_o tender_a hand_n of_o love_n and_o compassion_n second_o the_o several_a charge_n be_v draw_v against_o each_o particular_a church_n and_o so_o send_v unto_o they_o by_o the_o hand_n of_o their_o own_o peculiar_a angel_n minister_n or_o pastor_n to_o show_v unto_o we_o that_o they_o be_v not_o to_o seek_v for_o any_o extrinsical_a power_n or_o authority_n over_o themselves_o christ_n be_v the_o common_a and_o general_a admonitor_n and_o reprehender_n of_o they_o all_o each_o of_o they_o be_v sole_o and_o single_o under_o his_o reprehensive_a power_n and_o jurisdiction_n the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n have_v only_o receive_v command_n and_o reproof_n that_o relate_v to_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n so_o the_o angel_n of_o smyrna_n for_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n and_o the_o angel_n of_o pergamus_n for_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n etc._n etc._n the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n do_v not_o receive_v command_n or_o reproof_n to_o impose_v they_o juridical_o on_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n nor_o smyrna_n on_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n or_o on_o any_o one_o of_o the_o seven_o either_o single_o by_o itself_o or_o joint_o with_o any_o of_o the_o other_o one_o two_o or_o more_o they_o be_v not_o to_o be_v superintendent_o or_o to_o have_v a_o prelatical_a authority_n over_o the_o rest_n there_o be_v no_o cathedral_n then_o at_o ephesus_n nor_o in_o any_o of_o the_o other_o six_o the_o name_n of_o archiepiscopacy_n and_o hierarchycal_a supremacy_n be_v then_o unknown_a in_o the_o little_a well-ordered_a christian_a world_n or_o rather_o common-weal_n bishop_n than_o do_v look_v no_o far_o with_o a_o eye_n of_o authority_n then_o over_o their_o own_o flock_n neither_o then_o be_v it_o know_v that_o a_o combination_n of_o some_o few_o church_n or_o rather_o officer_n of_o church_n under_o the_o name_n of_o classical_a elder_n provincial_a elder_n or_o national_a elder_n shall_v have_v the_o sole_a power_n and_o jurisdiction_n over_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n in_o their_o vicinity_n ephesus_n then_o as_o unto_o outward_a authority_n be_v independent_a smyrna_n then_o be_v independent_a and_o so_o be_v all_o the_o rest_n the_o church_n can_v then_o and_o also_o now_o can_v act_v consultative_o by_o way_n of_o advice_n by_o their_o elder_n and_o brethren_n either_o joint_n or_o single_o but_o not_o juridical_o by_o way_n of_o authority_n over_o one_o and_o another_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v all_o peer_n respect_v their_o authority_n yet_o in_o their_o grace_n and_o perfection_n among_o themselves_o differ_v from_o one_o and_o another_o in_o glory_n christ_n keep_v the_o sole_a legislative_a power_n in_o his_o own_o hand_n and_o what_o he_o communicate_v thereof_o unto_o his_o church_n it_o be_v not_o that_o they_o shall_v be_v lord_n over_o their_o sister-churche_n faith_n but_o that_o they_o may_v within_o their_o due_a bound_n exercise_v their_o wholesome_a admonition_n and_o censure_n according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n christ_n will_v not_o suffer_v one_o church_n juridical_o to_o censure_v another_o sister-church_n though_o corrupt_a for_o there_o be_v no_o such_o authority_n give_v they_o christ_n keep_v that_o prerogative_n in_o his_o own_o hand_n he_o reprove_v and_o censure_v the_o whole_a seven_a asian_a church_n himself_o but_o suffer_v not_o one_o or_o more_o to_o do_v it_o over_o the_o rest_n and_o one_o great_a reason_n of_o this_o be_v that_o if_o christ_n have_v grant_v such_o authority_n unto_o one_o church_n over_o other_o that_o that_o church_n which_o become_v most_o potent_a and_o most_o countenance_v by_o the_o secular_a power_n though_o most_o corrupt_v in_o doctrine_n and_o worship_n will_v undertake_v to_o censure_v the_o sound_a and_o most_o orthodox_n church_n of_o all_o as_o the_o arrian_n do_v of_o old_a in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o son_n of_o constantine_n the_o great_a and_o their_o successor_n censure_n chastise_v and_o vex_v even_o the_o sound_a and_o most_o faithful_a church_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o idolatrous_a apostatise_v church_n of_o rome_n under_o this_o pretence_n of_o have_v authority_n over_o other_o church_n do_v even_o fulminate_v out_o her_o dire_a anathemas_n on_o all_o other_o church_n though_o the_o faithful_a and_o undefiled_a spouse_n of_o christ_n be_v wise_a therefore_o you_o true_a spouse_n of_o christ_n hold_v fast_o the_o liberty_n wherewith_o christ_n have_v make_v you_o free_a lest_o you_o subjugate_v your_o neck_n and_o precious_a faith_n unto_o the_o idolatry_n of_o the_o spiritual_a harlot_n for_o this_o very_a reason_n christ_n give_v his_o particular_a censure_n and_o reproof_n to_o each_o particular_a church_n according_a to_o their_o peculiar_a fail_n and_o error_n that_o one_o more_o corrupt_a church_n may_v not_o undertake_v to_o censure_v that_o which_o be_v less_o corrupt_a but_o if_o it_o be_v demand_v how_o a_o sound_n and_o faithful_a church_n of_o christ_n shall_v carry_v itself_o towards_o a_o erroneous_a and_o backslidden_a corrupt_a church_n i_o answer_v they_o be_v to_o use_v all_o mean_n for_o their_o recovery_n and_o that_o in_o love_n and_o charity_n first_o they_o be_v to_o advise_v they_o and_o admonish_v they_o of_o the_o danger_n of_o their_o way_n charitable_o not_o juridical_o as_o a_o church_n exercise_n towards_o her_o own_o member_n second_o they_o be_v to_o pray_v for_o their_o heal_n and_o recovery_n out_o of_o their_o spiritual_a malady_n if_o all_o this_o will_v not_o do_v to_o their_o amendment_n they_o be_v to_o withdraw_v communion_n from_o they_o and_o to_o leave_v
they_o to_o their_o master_n who_o after_o he_o have_v proceed_v on_o his_o white_a horse_n with_o offer_n of_o peace_n and_o reconciliation_n and_o they_o continue_v obstinate_a and_o not_o turn_v by_o repentance_n he_o can_v go_v forth_o on_o his_o red_a horse_n of_o wrath_n and_o fury_n and_o remove_v his_o candlestick_n his_o church_n and_o the_o glory_n thereof_o from_o among_o they_o and_o leave_v they_o desolate_a the_o first_o that_o i_o read_v of_o that_o extend_v the_o wing_n of_o his_o authority_n beyond_o his_o own_o just_a limit_n and_o boundary_n be_v victor_n bishop_n of_o rome_n about_o the_o end_n of_o the_o second_o century_n who_o hot_o contend_v with_o ireneus_fw-la and_o other_o of_o the_o african_a church_n to_o have_v a_o supremacy_n over_o they_o and_o to_o impose_v his_o dictate_v on_o they_o and_o that_o very_o pertinacious_o about_o a_o frivolous_a controversy_n the_o observation_n of_o easter_n herein_o that_o mystery_n of_o iniquity_n do_v begin_v to_o work_v which_o in_o few_o after_o succeed_a age_n come_v to_o its_o full_a stature_n to_o this_o i_o shall_v only_o add_v that_o all_o ancient_a and_o modern_a history_n both_o civil_a and_o ecclesiastic_a do_v testify_v that_o this_o prelacy_n and_o affect_v of_o supremacy_n over_o other_o church_n whether_o it_o be_v in_o one_o single_a church_n person_n or_o many_o combine_a one_o have_v not_o only_o be_v very_o dangerous_a and_o prejudicial_a to_o the_o faithful_a church_n of_o christ_n but_o be_v and_o have_v be_v always_o the_o very_a first_o bear_v of_o pride_n and_o luxury_n three_o another_o reason_n be_v that_o christ_n write_v particular_o to_o each_o of_o the_o seven_o church_n be_v to_o show_v that_o christ_n have_v a_o equal_a care_n and_o respect_n to_o all_o his_o church_n while_o they_o continue_v he_o though_o under_o foul_a prevarication_n and_o backslide_n christ_n have_v bowel_n of_o compassion_n towards_o they_o as_o long_o as_o they_o keep_v faithful_a to_o his_o name_n though_o otherwise_o in_o themselves_o very_o faulty_a and_o he_o be_v find_v to_o be_v walk_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o providential_o care_v for_o they_o hold_v the_o seven_o star_n in_o his_o right_a hand_n and_o teach_v they_o by_o his_o word_n if_o so_o be_v he_o may_v bring_v they_o to_o repentance_n last_o these_o message_n be_v direct_v to_o each_o particular_a church_n out_o of_o christ_n especial_a tenderness_n towards_o they_o that_o they_o may_v endeavour_v to_o reform_v their_o enormity_n within_o and_o among_o themselves_o that_o the_o church_n error_n and_o infirmity_n may_v not_o be_v tell_v in_o gath_n nor_o publish_v abroad_o to_o their_o reproach_n among_o their_o enemy_n whilst_o there_o be_v any_o hope_n of_o the_o recovery_n of_o backslider_n christ_n come_v with_o a_o rod_n and_o stroke_n of_o a_o love_a and_o tender_a heart_a father_n to_o cure_v they_o not_o to_o shame_v and_o reproach_v they_o and_o therefore_o christ_n direct_v john_n to_o write_v his_o message_n to_o the_o angel_n of_o each_o particular_a church_n to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n write_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o angel_n i_o refer_v to_o the_o sixteenth_o and_o last_o verse_n of_o the_o first_o chapter_n but_o the_o question_n be_v whether_o by_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n be_v intend_v the_o chief_a pastor_n or_o bishop_n be_v as_o superintendent_n or_o archbishop_n over_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o bishop_n and_o pastor_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n or_o whether_o the_o angel_n of_o ephesus_n be_v the_o metropolitan_a over_o the_o other_o six_o sister_n church_n i_o answer_v first_o to_o the_o latter_a there_o be_v no_o colour_n at_o all_o for_o that_o opinion_n for_o the_o reason_n but_o in_o the_o former_a page_n specify_v and_o to_o add_v a_o word_n because_o christ_n command_v each_o angel_n to_o reform_v their_o abuse_n within_o themselves_o he_o send_v not_o the_o angel_n of_o one_o church_n to_o reform_v another_o that_o have_v no_o authority_n over_o it_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n be_v not_o send_v to_o smyrna_n nor_o smyrna_n unto_o ephesus_n nor_o unto_o the_o rest_n but_o a_o extraordinary_a officer_n a_o prophet_n john_n a_o man_n of_o god_n be_v send_v unto_o they_o all_o to_o tell_v they_o of_o their_o fault_n and_o to_o exercise_v that_o authority_n which_o christ_n have_v give_v and_o deposit_v in_o all_o his_o gospel_n church_n and_o to_o each_o of_o they_o in_o particular_a for_o their_o deal_n and_o recovery_n out_o of_o their_o backslide_n indeed_o any_o one_o that_o have_v a_o extraordinary_a spirit_n and_o call_v as_o john_n have_v may_v exercise_v that_o unlimited_a authority_n over_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n but_o i_o know_v not_o any_o in_o these_o day_n or_o since_o the_o apostle_n time_n that_o do_v pretend_v unto_o it_o but_o that_o great_a and_o rampant_a roman_a man_n of_o sin_n who_o be_v the_o great_a and_o only_a pretender_n to_o that_o spirit_n of_o infallibility_n and_o yet_o who_o more_o fallible_a than_o himself_o in_o his_o judicial_a sentence_n doctrine_n and_o way_n of_o worship_n indeed_o if_o he_o have_v what_o he_o pretend_v that_o spirit_n of_o infallibility_n just_o may_v he_o assume_v authority_n in_o censure_v direct_a and_o govern_v all_o other_o church_n but_o before_o that_o do_v appear_v let_v himself_o and_o other_o that_o assume_v the_o like_a authority_n with_o himself_o hide_v their_o face_n in_o shame_n and_o confusion_n for_o ever_o second_o to_o the_o first_o question_n i_o answer_v that_o those_o i_o confess_v of_o the_o episcopal_a interest_n do_v hold_v that_o the_o superscription_n of_o the_o particular_a church_n direct_v to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n smyrna_n etc._n etc._n do_v intend_v and_o signify_v that_o they_o be_v direct_v to_o the_o chief_a pastor_n or_o bishop_n that_o be_v supreme_a overseer_n director_n and_o mediator_n over_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o bishop_n and_o pastor_n of_o the_o particular_a church_n within_o ephesus_n smyrna_n etc._n etc._n as_o if_o this_o have_v be_v write_v to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n that_o be_v say_v the_o episcopal_v to_o the_o archbishop_n who_o be_v the_o chief_a prelate_n and_o bishop_n over_o all_o other_o the_o prelate_n and_o bishop_n in_o england_n or_o if_o it_o have_v be_v direct_v to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o london_n salisbury_n exeter_z etc._n etc._n that_o be_v say_v they_o to_o the_o bishop_n of_o london_n salisbury_n or_o exeter_z etc._n etc._n who_o be_v the_o chief_a bishop_n pastor_n and_o overseer_n over_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o bishop_n and_o pastor_n within_o his_o own_o jurisdiction_n and_o diocese_n i_o answer_v first_o that_o the_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o we_o translate_v according_a to_o the_o latin_a dialect_n bishop_n and_o pastor_n or_o according_a to_o our_o own_o proper_a idiom_n overseer_n and_o feeder_n of_o the_o flock_n be_v synonimas_fw-la and_o be_v but_o as_o several_a denomination_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o office_n which_o do_v arise_v from_o divers_a act_n therein_o for_o the_o faculty_n of_o over-seeing_a guidance_n and_o direction_n he_o be_v call_v a_o bishop_n for_o that_o of_o teach_v instruct_v and_o spiritual_o feed_v his_o flock_n in_o all_o kind_n he_o be_v call_v a_o pastor_n and_o very_o often_o too_o in_o scripture_n for_o his_o rootedness_n and_o soundness_n in_o faith_n life_n and_o doctrine_n he_o be_v call_v a_o elder_a so_o that_o these_o be_v but_o several_a name_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o office_n and_o often_o apply_v in_o scripture_n reciprocal_o to_o one_o and_o the_o same_o person_n sometime_o he_o be_v call_v the_o elder_a of_o the_o church_n sometime_o the_o bishop_n sometime_o the_o pastor_n to_o denote_v unto_o we_o that_o such_o as_o guide_v well_o their_o flock_n and_o feed_v they_o with_o the_o green_a pasture_n of_o wholesome_a doctrine_n be_v most_o worthy_a of_o double_a honour_n among_o the_o saint_n but_o lest_o herewith_o they_o shall_v be_v elevate_v above_o their_o proper_a station_n they_o ought_v to_o eye_n another_o title_n too_o which_o be_v give_v they_o in_o scripture_n they_o be_v minister_n that_o be_v servants_z that_o attend_v on_o christ_n and_o his_o church_n they_o receive_v christ_n message_n and_o commend_v they_o unto_o his_o church_n and_o come_v again_o with_o return_n of_o the_o church_n improvement_n in_o obedience_n and_o thankfulness_n unto_o christ_n and_o for_o this_o reason_n they_o be_v here_o entitle_v by_o the_o name_n of_o angel_n messenger_n ambassadors_z or_o minister_n of_o christ_n and_o how_o these_o humble_a title_n of_o servitor_n and_o messenger_n will_v suit_v and_o agree_v to_o the_o lording_n stomach_n of_o metropolitan_o and_o lord_n bishop_n or_o chief_a pastor_n over_o many_o
be_v praise_v cherish_v and_o follow_v as_o have_v the_o impress_n of_o the_o spirit_n on_o they_o christ_n have_v give_v his_o approbation_n of_o the_o suffering_n constancy_n and_o patience_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n for_o his_o name_n sake_n and_o take_v notice_n thereof_o as_o their_o work_n catexochen_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n that_o be_v i_o take_v notice_n of_o these_o your_o grace_n and_o work_n of_o suffering_n patience_n and_o zeal_n against_o such_o worker_n false_a teacher_n and_o false_a apostle_n and_o these_o be_v your_o good_a work_n worthy_a of_o commendation_n and_o imitation_n in_o you_o now_o in_o all_o our_o action_n observe_v there_o must_v be_v many_o circumstantial_a ingredient_n to_o denominate_v they_o by_o the_o name_n of_o good_a work_n according_a to_o that_o old_a rule_n a_o quo_fw-la cvi_fw-la quomodo_fw-la quando_fw-la first_o they_o must_v proceed_v from_o a_o true_a fountain_n god_n spirit_n must_v be_v the_o first_o mover_n and_o author_n of_o they_o corrupt_a nature_n can_v produce_v nothing_o high_a than_o itself_o rom._n 3.9_o 10._o god_n can_v look_v upon_o none_o of_o our_o duty_n or_o work_n with_o a_o eye_n of_o complacency_n unless_o they_o have_v in_o the_o first_o place_n his_o stamp_n upon_o they_o second_o cui_fw-la you_o must_v examine_v to_o what_o end_n and_o to_o who_o to_o who_o name_n and_o glory_n they_o be_v direct_v if_o we_o sacrifice_v to_o ourselves_o for_o our_o own_o end_n and_o advantage_n our_o sacrifice_n be_v in_o vain_a a_o abomination_n and_o as_o the_o cut_n off_o a_o dog_n head_n in_o as_o much_o as_o we_o do_v it_o unto_o ourselves_o and_o not_o unto_o the_o lord_n consider_v isa_n 1._o a_o good_a action_n or_o work_n may_v lose_v its_o crown_n for_o want_v of_o a_o right_a end_n if_o we_o pray_v repent_v mourn_v for_o sin_n etc._n etc._n which_o be_v necessary_a duty_n yet_o if_o we_o only_o respect_v ourselves_o and_o our_o own_o end_n to_o wit_n to_o be_v free_v and_o deliver_v only_o from_o wrath_n to_o come_v not_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o the_o sanctify_a of_o god_n name_n thereby_o we_o may_v lose_v much_o of_o the_o comfort_n of_o those_o duty_n if_o not_o the_o duty_n themselves_o become_v sin_n unto_o we_o for_o all_o must_v be_v do_v unto_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o name_n three_o you_o must_v consider_v the_o quomodo_n in_o what_o manner_n work_n be_v to_o be_v do_v to_o denominate_v they_o good_a they_o must_v not_o be_v do_v pharisaical_o to_o be_v see_v of_o man_n so_o they_o lose_v their_o reward_n the_o suffering_n and_o patience_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n for_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n be_v high_o commendable_a grace_n in_o they_o yet_o if_o they_o shall_v affect_v they_o as_o the_o popeling_n do_v to_o attain_v to_o themselves_o the_o glory_n and_o name_n of_o martyr_n they_o have_v their_o reward_n the_o familistical_a quaker_n of_o these_o day_n do_v most_o perverse_o walk_v in_o the_o same_o step_n high_o affect_v suffering_n and_o rush_v thereinto_o not_o consider_v the_o cui_fw-la nor_o the_o quomodo_n neither_o to_o what_o end_n they_o do_v it_o nor_o the_o manner_n how_o they_o do_v it_o indeed_o person_n may_v suffer_v just_o for_o their_o pertinacy_n and_o obstinacy_n against_o magistrate_n but_o not_o for_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n unless_o in_o his_o providence_n he_o call_v they_o to_o it_o therefore_o four_o the_o quando_fw-la be_v also_o to_o be_v consider_v the_o time_n when_o they_o be_v to_o be_v perform_v to_o bestow_v a_o beneficence_n on_o a_o rich_a person_n or_o one_o that_o want_v it_o not_o it_o can_v be_v call_v a_o act_n of_o charity_n for_o they_o be_v able_a to_o make_v retribution_n for_o it_o but_o to_o do_v it_o towards_o christ_n poor_a afflict_v member_n when_o their_o want_n and_o necessity_n call_v for_o it_o than_o it_o be_v true_o a_o good_a work_n second_o to_o draw_v suffering_n on_o one_o self_n for_o one_o pertinaciousness_n in_o opinion_n not_o relate_v as_o necessary_n or_o fundamental_o unto_o salvation_n and_o so_o disturb_v the_o peace_n of_o commonwealth_n in_o the_o promotion_n thereof_o this_o can_v be_v term_v a_o suffering_n for_o christ_n name_n but_o it_o must_v be_v clear_a and_o real_a truth_n that_o justify_v a_o soul_n in_o his_o suffering_n for_o it_o that_o the_o soul_n and_o conscience_n be_v keep_v undefiled_a thereby_o and_o so_o become_v a_o faithful_a witness_n unto_o christ_n and_o the_o truth_n when_o god_n call_v he_o to_o it_o in_o clear_a dispensation_n of_o providence_n see_v more_o hereon_o in_o v._o 9_o of_o the_o former_a chapter_n five_o in_o the_o last_o place_n understand_v that_o the_o best_a and_o choice_a of_o our_o work_n though_o they_o be_v all_o right_o circumstantiate_v as_o aforesaid_a yet_o strict_o and_o simple_o in_o themselves_o according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o justice_n they_o be_v not_o to_o be_v call_v good_a work_n for_o so_o and_o in_o that_o sense_n god_n be_v only_o good_a mark_v 10.18_o and_o our_o best_a work_n be_v mingle_v with_o much_o weakness_n and_o imperfection_n in_o the_o production_n of_o they_o though_o the_o agency_n of_o god_n spirit_n be_v manifest_o in_o they_o yet_o pass_v through_o corrupt_a conduit_n and_o the_o hand_n of_o sinful_a instrument_n they_o receive_v a_o tincture_n of_o the_o vessel_n and_o defilement_n from_o the_o sinful_a agent_n that_o do_v produce_v and_o effect_v they_o and_o so_o single_o in_o themselves_o be_v sinful_a and_o imperfect_a but_o as_o our_o person_n be_v accept_v in_o christ_n our_o work_n though_o otherwise_o weak_a sinful_a and_o imperfect_a in_o themselves_o be_v perform_v in_o the_o sincerity_n of_o our_o soul_n god_n accept_v as_o good_a holy_a and_o perfect_a as_o be_v do_v and_o present_v in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n and_o upon_o that_o altar_n that_o both_o sanctify_v the_o gift_n and_o the_o giver_n in_o vain_a to_o seek_v for_o a_o acceptation_n of_o our_o work_n before_o our_o person_n be_v in_o christ_n than_o he_o accept_v the_o will_n for_o the_o deed_n and_o our_o work_n though_o weak_a and_o imperfect_a in_o themselves_o yet_o in_o christ_n and_o as_o flow_v from_o his_o divine_a efficiency_n they_o be_v accept_v of_o god_n as_o most_o holy_a good_a and_o perfect_a i_o shall_v in_o the_o next_o place_n consider_v more_o especial_o what_o be_v commendable_a in_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n which_o be_v the_o labour_n and_o patience_n they_o undergo_v for_o christ_n sake_n which_o do_v manifest_o appear_v in_o their_o zeal_n against_o evil_a doer_n and_o false_a apostle_n which_o they_o can_v not_o bear_v from_o hence_o note_n observe_v that_o it_o be_v equal_o burdensome_a troublesome_a and_o grievous_a to_o christ_n faithful_a church_n to_o have_v evil_a doer_n and_o false_a teacher_n among_o they_o the_o one_o do_v corrupt_v their_o manner_n the_o other_o their_o judgement_n the_o one_o be_v pernicious_a in_o their_o example_n the_o other_o in_o their_o doctrine_n the_o one_o destroy_v the_o life_n of_o godliness_n the_o other_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n and_o where_o the_o one_o be_v tolerate_v the_o other_o follow_v also_o for_o if_o evil_a worker_n be_v forbear_v in_o the_o church_n their_o judgement_n will_v be_v soon_o corrupt_v to_o endeavour_v to_o uphold_v their_o more_o corrupt_a practice_n for_o such_o as_o keep_v not_o to_o the_o command_n of_o god_n he_o give_v they_o over_o judicial_o to_o embrace_v and_o follow_v false_a teacher_n and_o to_o believe_v lie_n and_o vanity_n and_o second_o when_o false_a teacher_n be_v tolerate_v quick_o follow_v evil_a practice_n when_o in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o late_a bishop_n in_o opposition_n to_o the_o godly_a it_o be_v assert_v that_o the_o law_n that_o require_v the_o observation_n of_o the_o sabbath_n be_v not_o moral_a but_o only_o humane_a and_o ecclesiastic_a what_o follow_v that_o false_a teach_n but_o most_o profane_a and_o wicked_a practice_n of_o card_v bowl_a sport_v revel_v drunkenness_n and_o all_o sort_n of_o profaneness_n upon_o that_o day_n uprightness_n in_o life_n and_o doctrine_n be_v the_o two_o pillar_n of_o a_o church_n and_o where_o one_o fail_v the_o other_o will_v soon_o fall_v to_o ground_n after_o they_o be_v as_o inseparable_a twin_n the_o corruption_n of_o the_o one_o will_v be_v the_o death_n of_o the_o other_o it_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v as_o soon_o as_o these_o primitive_a church_n entertain_v false_a apostle_n among_o they_o we_o present_o hear_v of_o the_o obscene_a sect_n of_o the_o nicholaitan_n follow_v the_o devil_n will_v not_o be_v content_v to_o corrupt_v the_o head_n only_o but_o the_o heart_n also_o and_o if_o in_o the_o first_o place_n he_o corrupt_v the_o heart_n the_o evil_a affection_n will_v soon_o fume_v into_o the_o judgement_n and_o darken_v the_o understanding_n wherefore_o a_o use_n of_o caution_n
hence_o arise_v to_o christ_n church_n that_o if_o they_o be_v zealous_a of_o god_n glory_n and_o their_o own_o well-being_n that_o they_o suffer_v not_o peaceable_o among_o they_o either_o evil_a doer_n or_o false_a teacher_n both_o equal_o tend_v if_o tolerate_v to_o their_o destruction_n and_o ruin_n observe_v 2._o it_o be_v often_o a_o matter_n of_o great_a trouble_n and_o travel_v for_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o deal_v with_o evil_a doer_n and_o false_a teacher_n in_o the_o church_n when_o the_o corrupt_a part_n be_v become_v a_o great_a interest_n in_o the_o church_n how_o difficult_a be_v it_o for_o the_o sound_a part_n to_o meddle_v with_o it_o witness_v the_o present_a state_n of_o our_o church_n in_o england_n and_o elsewhere_o among_o the_o nation_n desire_v reformation_n from_o antichristian_a error_n and_o idolatry_n what_o a_o matter_n of_o trouble_n it_o be_v and_o sometime_o of_o much_o affliction_n and_o suffering_n to_o divers_a precious_a and_o sound_a christian_n when_o they_o go_v about_o to_o reprove_v the_o false_a teacher_n and_o evil_a worker_n the_o great_a hinderer_n at_o present_a of_o a_o thorough_a reformation_n in_o the_o ordinance_n and_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n how_o they_o fall_v upon_o such_o as_o the_o troubler_n of_o israel_n not_o consider_v that_o their_o lust_n be_v the_o principal_a cause_n thereof_o and_o if_o christ_n witness_n speak_v against_o they_o in_o faithfulness_n they_o be_v present_o brand_v as_o troubler_n of_o their_o peace_n and_o faction_n and_o often_o suffer_v for_o it_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n have_v their_o portion_n herein_o of_o travel_n and_o patience_n for_o their_o integrity_n unto_o christ_n and_o his_o truth_n against_o these_o teacher_n and_o wicked_a person_n in_o that_o primitive_a age_n so_o near_o christ_n time_n and_o the_o pour_v forth_o of_o the_o spirit_n and_o therefore_o no_o marvel_n if_o under_o the_o fall_n away_o and_o antichrist_n dominion_n christ_n faithful_a witness_n have_v a_o share_n therein_o also_o but_o to_o proceed_v and_o thou_o have_v try_v they_o which_o say_v they_o be_v apostle_n and_o be_v not_o and_o have_v find_v they_o liar_n it_o seem_v ephesus_n have_v pseudo-apostle_n or_o false_a apostle_n as_o well_o as_o corinth_n and_o other_o church_n 2_o cor._n 11.13_o who_o pretend_v themselves_o to_o be_v true_a apostle_n of_o christ_n who_o under_o that_o pretence_n come_v with_o deceitful_a and_o soul-destroying_a doctrine_n as_o that_o the_o resurrection_n be_v pass_v already_o that_o the_o moysaicall_a law_n be_v to_o be_v join_v to_o faith_n in_o christ_n for_o justification_n that_o the_o community_n of_o all_o thing_n and_o woman_n be_v lawful_a which_o they_o call_v spiritual_a marriage_n which_o the_o sect_n of_o nicolaitan_n hold_v these_o be_v the_o error_n of_o the_o false_a apostle_n of_o the_o primitive_a day_n now_o the_o apostle_n of_o christ_n be_v extraordinary_a officer_n send_v by_o he_o so_o the_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d signify_v one_o send_v to_o his_o service_n for_o the_o publish_n the_o messiah_n and_o his_o doctrine_n over_o the_o whole_a world_n and_o so_o be_v universal_a officer_n and_o can_v act_v in_o and_o over_o all_o church_n by_o their_o apostolical_a authority_n but_o for_o other_o to_o argue_v from_o their_o practice_n that_o be_v ordinary_a officer_n and_o of_o a_o ordinary_a spirit_n that_o they_o may_v act_v as_o they_o do_v be_v a_o mere_a non_fw-la sequitur_fw-la now_o the_o false_a apostle_n will_v it_o seem_v needs_o arrogate_v the_o same_o authority_n to_o themselves_o in_o impose_v their_o dictate_v upon_o the_o church_n but_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n have_v so_o much_o spiritual_a wisdom_n as_o to_o try_v and_o examine_v they_o and_o so_o find_v they_o false_a one_o and_o liar_n hence_o note_n that_o it_o be_v a_o most_o commendable_a practice_n and_o duty_n in_o christ_n church_n to_o make_v a_o diligent_a and_o narrow_a inquisition_n into_o the_o truth_n of_o all_o doctrine_n and_o teacher_n that_o come_v among_o they_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n be_v very_o famous_a for_o this_o very_a thing_n and_o a_o euge_fw-la give_v they_o by_o christ_n for_o this_o action_n and_o indeed_o how_o can_v they_o or_o any_o other_o church_n find_v out_o the_o deceitfulness_n and_o falsity_n of_o those_o that_o be_v false_a apostle_n and_o false_a teacher_n unless_o they_o have_v try_v and_o examine_v their_o doctrine_n paul_n account_v the_o berean_o more_o noble_a than_o other_o for_o this_o very_a thing_n for_o the_o enquiry_n into_o the_o truth_n of_o his_o doctrine_n whether_o thing_n be_v so_o or_o not_o as_o he_o deliver_v unto_o they_o for_o indeed_o it_o argue_v a_o most_o stupid_a kind_n of_o disposition_n to_o receive_v all_o thing_n that_o come_v from_o man_n without_o enquiry_n either_o into_o the_o truth_n thereof_o or_o at_o least_o the_o integrity_n faithfulness_n and_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o relator_n thereof_o for_o as_o some_o truth_n lie_v deep_a and_o every_o common_a person_n or_o member_n can_v fathom_v it_o yet_o every_o one_o though_o never_o so_o weak_a that_o can_v satisfy_v their_o conscience_n by_o their_o own_o sight_n in_o the_o entertainment_n of_o a_o truth_n yet_o can_v in_o part_n acquiesce_v in_o the_o ability_n and_o fidelity_n of_o their_o teacher_n and_o so_o may_v get_v much_o satisfaction_n unto_o themselves_o from_o the_o authority_n of_o their_o guide_n and_o teacher_n therefore_o it_o be_v a_o duty_n incumbent_n on_o all_o first_o for_o the_o more_o spiritual_a and_o quick-sighted_a christian_n to_o try_v all_o thing_n and_o to_o hold_v fast_o what_o be_v good_a next_o for_o the_o weak_a christian_n to_o try_v the_o faithfulness_n and_o integrity_n of_o his_o teacher_n and_o to_o hold_v fast_o what_o he_o commend_v unto_o he_o in_o thing_n disputable_a and_o not_o of_o easy_a discernment_n query_n but_o a_o question_n may_v be_v move_v who_o shall_v try_v judge_n and_o examine_v false_a apostle_n false_a teacher_n and_o their_o corrupt_a doctrine_n i_o answer_v first_o every_o private_a or_o particular_a christian_n may_v do_v it_o judicio_fw-la discretionis_fw-la by_o a_o judgement_n of_o discretion_n and_o of_o private_a discern_v but_o second_o to_o try_v they_o judicio_fw-la authoritativo_fw-la by_o a_o judgement_n of_o authority_n and_o juridical_o it_o must_v be_v do_v by_o that_o whole_a church_n wherein_o they_o be_v rise_v up_o and_o maintain_v for_o in_o they_o lie_v the_o plenary_a judicial_a power_n and_o authority_n of_o judge_v all_o doctrine_n and_o teacher_n which_o be_v usual_o call_v the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n neither_o be_v this_o power_n in_o the_o officer_n or_o eldership_n of_o the_o church_n when_o distinct_a from_o the_o body_n as_o some_o will_v have_v it_o but_o collective_o in_o the_o whole_a church_n officer_n and_o member_n though_o unto_o the_o presbytery_n or_o officer_n i_o shall_v grant_v the_o precedency_n in_o many_o thing_n yet_o the_o body_n collective_a be_v above_o the_o officer_n for_o the_o officer_n be_v ordain_v more_o principal_o for_o the_o body_n but_o not_o the_o body_n for_o the_o officer_n but_o the_o head_n can_v say_v unto_o the_o body_n i_o have_v no_o need_n of_o thou_o nor_o the_o body_n unto_o the_o head_n but_o all_o joint_n together_o make_v up_o a_o complete_a harmony_n and_o a_o organical_a body_n officer_n and_o member_n in_o a_o church_n make_v up_o a_o complete_a christian_n or_o microcosm_n or_o commonwealth_n wherein_o all_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n be_v juridical_o administer_v and_o who_o have_v the_o full_a power_n of_o try_v censure_v and_o judge_v all_o false_a teacher_n and_o doctrine_n that_o shall_v rise_v among_o they_o for_o if_o the_o juridical_a power_n be_v sole_o in_o the_o presbytery_n or_o officer_n of_o the_o church_n than_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n will_v not_o collective_o deserve_v that_o eulogy_n and_o approbation_n for_o their_o zeal_n against_o false_a apostle_n but_o it_o will_v rather_o be_v attribute_v to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n or_o chief_a officer_n or_o overseer_n of_o the_o church_n only_o but_o here_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o ephesus_n be_v praise_v and_o approve_v for_o their_o non-toleration_n of_o evil_a person_n and_o for_o their_o try_v of_o and_o sift_v out_o the_o false_a apostle_n therefore_o it_o argue_v very_o strong_o that_o the_o power_n of_o censure_n and_o try_v be_v not_o single_o in_o the_o officer_n but_o in_o officer_n and_o member_n joint_o as_o make_v up_o one_o organical_a body_n politic_a which_o be_v christ_n high_a judicature_n on_o earth_n to_o decide_v and_o judge_v of_o all_o doctrine_n rise_v in_o his_o church_n that_o will_v not_o hold_v weight_n according_a to_o the_o shekel_n of_o the_o sanctuary_n a_o far_a instance_n you_o have_v pregnant_a to_o this_o purpose_n in_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n in_o verse_n 20._o follow_a where_o the_o reproof_n be_v
lay_v home_o close_o on_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o thyatira_n for_o suffer_v the_o woman_n jezabel_n and_o her_o prophetic_a delusion_n now_o if_o it_o be_v alone_o in_o the_o angel_n power_n of_o thyatira_n to_o deal_v with_o these_o balaamitish_a prophet_n the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n will_v especial_o lay_v the_o burden_n and_o reproof_n upon_o they_o to_o wit_n the_o superintendent_o of_o the_o church_n but_o it_o be_v clear_o notify_v unto_o we_o that_o the_o charge_n be_v whole_o lay_v home_o upon_o the_o church_n v._o 17._o let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n though_o i_o grant_v the_o eldership_n or_o officer_n may_v be_v the_o mouth_n of_o christ_n unto_o the_o church_n and_o again_o the_o church_n mouth_n unto_o christ_n and_o so_o they_o be_v his_o ambassador_n agitate_v in_o his_o name_n and_o be_v to_o precede_v in_o many_o duty_n in_o relation_n to_o the_o church_n yet_o the_o charge_n for_o admission_n and_o entertainment_n of_o heterodoxy_n and_o corruption_n in_o the_o church_n be_v not_o sole_o lay_v upon_o they_o but_o upon_o the_o whole_a church_n so_o hence_o this_o be_v clear_o evince_v that_o those_o that_o be_v just_o charge_v for_o the_o admission_n and_o permission_n of_o evil_n have_v a_o indubitable_a power_n and_o authority_n in_o themselves_o either_o not_o to_o admit_v it_o or_o be_v admit_v to_o try_v it_o and_o cut_v it_o off_o by_o such_o mean_n as_o be_v appoint_v for_o such_o end_n but_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o thyatira_n be_v just_o charge_v for_o the_o admission_n and_o permission_n of_o corruption_n among_o they_o therefore_o the_o conclusion_n be_v evident_a but_o this_o shall_v suffice_v herein_o see_v more_o hereon_o v._o 20._o follow_v object_n but_o be_v not_o this_o with_o the_o papist_n to_o raise_v the_o jurisdiction_n of_o the_o church_n so_o high_a as_o to_o set_v it_o above_o the_o sovereignty_n of_o the_o word_n i_o answer_v negative_o for_o a_o sovereign_a prince_n receive_v no_o diminution_n of_o honour_n for_o his_o subordinate_a minister_n of_o state_n to_o receive_v that_o honour_n due_a unto_o their_o place_n neither_o so_o do_v the_o word_n lose_v at_o all_o of_o its_o glory_n for_o that_o the_o church_n have_v its_o due_a honour_n put_v upon_o it_o also_o indeed_o the_o word_n be_v suprema_fw-la lex_fw-la the_o standard_n the_o rule_n and_o light_n by_o which_o all_o doctrine_n be_v try_v and_o discern_v and_o be_v of_o divine_a revelation_n and_o in_o its_o self_n infallible_a must_v needs_o be_v above_o the_o authority_n and_o of_o a_o sure_a testimony_n then_o that_o which_o be_v mix_v with_o much_o fallibility_n and_o imperfection_n as_o the_o choice_a and_o pure_a church_n ever_o be_v as_o those_o of_o corinth_n ephesus_n galatia_n etc._n etc._n and_o as_o a_o law_n of_o mere_a humane_a institution_n be_v repute_v of_o so_o high_a authority_n that_o it_o bind_v the_o legislator_n themselves_o and_o in_o that_o respect_n be_v above_o those_o that_o make_v it_o but_o much_o more_o the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o be_v his_o law_n and_o his_o reveal_v mind_n come_v from_o so_o infinite_a and_o unerrable_a a_o legislator_n as_o god_n be_v so_o far_o transcend_v the_o authority_n of_o any_o judicature_n on_o earth_n as_o the_o wisdom_n of_o a_o infinite_a do_v a_o finite_a creature_n therefore_o must_v needs_o be_v bind_v to_o all_o to_o who_o it_o be_v make_v know_v have_v such_o a_o perfection_n in_o it_o that_o whosoever_o be_v conversant_a therein_o it_o be_v able_a by_o the_o blessing_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o make_v he_o wise_a unto_o salvation_n and_o perfect_a in_o every_o good_a thing_n and_o work_n the_o word_n unto_o the_o church_n be_v as_o the_o sun_n unto_o the_o dial_n if_o the_o dial_n be_v set_v right_o to_o the_o sun_n it_o will_v give_v a_o right_a judgement_n of_o the_o time_n of_o the_o day_n so_o if_o the_o church_n give_v a_o judgement_n according_a to_o the_o square_a and_o scantling_n of_o the_o word_n it_o will_v be_v a_o righteous_a judgement_n but_o otherwise_o to_o make_v the_o word_n subservient_fw-fr and_o to_o conclude_v unto_o the_o church_n dictate_v be_v a_o undertake_v to_o rectify_v the_o course_n of_o the_o sun_n unto_o the_o obliquity_n of_o the_o dial_n which_o will_v prove_v aethiopiam_fw-la lware_v and_o most_o irrational_a so_o that_o church_n that_o keep_v herself_o within_o her_o own_o sphere_n and_o try_v and_o examine_v spirit_n and_o doctrine_n that_o be_v heterodox_n and_o unsound_a by_o the_o sound_n of_o the_o word_n which_o be_v a_o most_o sure_a light_n and_o infallible_a cynosure_n doubtless_o that_o church_n will_v be_v lead_v and_o preserve_v in_o all_o truth_n but_o if_o any_o one_o so_o far_o exalt_v its_o self_n as_o to_o conclude_v for_o truth_n its_o own_o dictate_v dissentaneous_a unto_o the_o word_n but_o suit_v with_o self-interest_n and_o design_n the_o first_o may_v be_v a_o golden_a candlestick_n both_o precious_a and_o famous_a for_o its_o faith_n integrity_n and_o justice_n towards_o god_n and_o man_n but_o the_o latter_a will_n soon_o degenerate_a into_o a_o harlot-church_n if_o not_o soon_o become_v apostate_n to_o the_o faith_n the_o first_o be_v christ_n high_a judicature_n on_o earth_n wherein_o he_o take_v delight_n to_o walk_v in_o as_o his_o garden_n enclose_v to_o view_v their_o pleasant_a fruit_n but_o the_o other_o christ_n will_v look_v upon_o as_o a_o rot_a tree_n that_o cumber_v the_o ground_n and_o serve_v only_o to_o be_v hew_v down_o and_o cast_v into_o the_o fire_n observe_v 4._o another_o observation_n be_v that_o in_o the_o pure_a time_n and_o church_n there_o be_v find_v great_a corruption_n both_o in_o manner_n and_o doctrine_n in_o this_o famous_a church_n of_o ephesus_n corinth_n etc._n etc._n in_o the_o apostle_n day_n be_v find_v both_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d evil_a one_o and_o false_a one_o such_o as_o pretend_v they_o be_v apostle_n but_o be_v find_v liar_n and_o deceiver_n among_o the_o twelve_o there_o be_v a_o judas_n in_o that_o church_n in_o the_o ark_n when_o the_o world_n and_o church_n have_v one_o and_o the_o same_o extent_n and_o boundary_n in_o eight_o person_n only_o yet_o one_o be_v a_o cham_n and_o there_o be_v also_o a_o cain_n when_o it_o be_v of_o a_o lesser_a number_n and_o but_o four_o in_o the_o world_n but_o here_o obiter_fw-la and_o by_o the_o way_n we_o must_v be_v careful_a to_o distinguish_v between_o god_n decretive_a will_n and_o his_o preceptive_a will._n his_o voluntas_fw-la bene_fw-la placiti_fw-la and_o voluntas_fw-la signi_fw-la as_o the_o school_n call_v it_o or_o his_o will_n of_o purpose_n and_o his_o will_n of_o good_a pleasure_n not_o that_o there_o be_v two_o will_n in_o god_n but_o several_a and_o divers_a act_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o will_n as_o by_o the_o same_o will_v we_o love_v by_o the_o same_o will_v we_o hate_v by_o the_o same_o will_v we_o purpose_v one_o thing_n by_o the_o same_o will_v we_o command_v another_o thing_n yet_o they_o be_v not_o two_o contradictory_n will_n but_o divers_a act_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o will_n diversa_fw-la non_fw-la sunt_fw-la contraria_fw-la now_o though_o god_n may_v in_o his_o providential_a wisdom_n ordain_v false_a teacher_n and_o wicked_a person_n to_o be_v find_v in_o his_o church_n for_o divers_a end_n know_v unto_o god_n and_o more_o especial_o for_o the_o trial_n of_o the_o faithful_a and_o the_o exaltation_n of_o his_o grace_n yet_o they_o be_v much_o mistake_v that_o hence_o argue_v either_o for_o admission_n of_o wicked_a person_n or_o unsound_a in_o the_o faith_n into_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o church_n or_o for_o their_o toleration_n therein_o after_o a_o discovery_n for_o it_o be_v the_o command_n of_o god_n to_o the_o contrary_a that_o we_o admit_v not_o such_o be_v know_v into_o the_o consortship_n of_o the_o church_n or_o be_v admit_v upon_o discovery_n we_o tolerate_v they_o not_o for_o if_o they_o be_v to_o be_v admit_v and_o tolerate_v quiet_o within_o the_o church_n then_o doubtless_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n have_v not_o receive_v that_o encomium_fw-la and_o well_o do_v for_o their_o zeal_n against_o they_o nor_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n that_o worthy_a reproof_n for_o the_o suffer_v that_o woman_n jezabel_n among_o they_o therefore_o the_o one_o church_n do_v her_o duty_n and_o obey_v christ_n preceptive_a will_n and_o have_v the_o praise_n and_o glory_n for_o it_o the_o other_o neglect_v it_o and_o therefore_o have_v a_o just_a check_n lay_v upon_o she_o so_o that_o this_o question_n be_v to_o be_v state_v de_fw-la jure_fw-la non_fw-la de_fw-la facto_fw-la i_o confess_v de_fw-fr facto_fw-la there_o may_v be_v evil_a person_n false_a teacher_n in_o the_o best_a church_n and_o pure_a time_n but_o de_fw-la
to_o overturn_v all_o its_o opposite_n that_o assert_n that_o true_a real_a grace_n or_o as_o he_o call_v it_o a_o real_a change_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v not_o pre-requisite_a as_o the_o condition_n unto_o baptism_n among_o many_o other_o argument_n of_o he_o against_o m._n blake'_v dogmatical_a faith_n i_o shall_v only_o make_v use_n of_o his_o four_o and_o five_o and_o eleven_o argument_n page_n 96._o of_o his_o apology_n and_o refer_v the_o reader_n to_o that_o place_n for_o far_a satisfaction_n where_o there_o be_v many_o more_o argument_n both_o from_o authority_n and_o scripture_n levy_v to_o this_o purpose_n and_o comport_v with_o this_o truth_n his_o four_o argument_n be_v they_o that_o be_v to_o renounce_v the_o world_n flesh_n and_o devil_n be_v to_o be_v true_a believer_n to_o justification_n but_o they_o that_o be_v to_o be_v baptize_v be_v then_o to_o renounce_v the_o world_n flesh_n and_o devil_n therefore_o this_o abrenunciation_n have_v be_v practise_v always_o in_o baptism_n since_o the_o apostle_n time_n as_o antiquity_n testify_v his_o five_o argument_n be_v they_o that_o be_v require_v to_o believe_v sincere_o in_o the_o father_n son_n and_o holy_a ghost_n be_v require_v to_o believe_v to_o justification_n but_o such_o be_v all_o as_o come_v to_o baptism_n therefore_o for_o the_o major_a it_o require_v no_o more_o proof_n but_o to_o explain_v what_o it_o be_v to_o believe_v in_o the_o father_n son_n and_o holy_a ghost_n and_o our_o divine_n against_o the_o papist_n have_v enough_o prove_v that_o the_o phrase_n of_o believe_v in_o comprehend_v the_o act_n of_o the_o will_n as_o well_o as_o the_o understanding_n to_o believe_v in_o god_n be_v to_o take_v he_o for_o our_o god_n which_o be_v to_o take_v he_o for_o our_o sovereign_a ruler_n and_o chief_a good_a this_o none_o but_o a_o sound_a believer_n can_v true_o do_v his_o eleven_o argument_n if_o baptism_n be_v solemnize_n of_o the_o mystical_a marriage_n between_o christ_n and_o the_o baptise_a then_o true_a justify_v faith_n be_v of_o god_n require_v thereto_o but_o the_o antecedent_n be_v true_a therefore_o therefore_o it_o be_v say_v that_o we_o be_v baptize_v into_o christ_n and_o into_o one_o body_n and_o the_o church_n have_v ever_o hold_v the_o antecedent_n to_o be_v true_a the_o consequence_n be_v evident_a in_o that_o no_o man_n but_o the_o sound_a believer_n can_v true_o take_v christ_n as_o a_o husband_n and_o head_n for_o so_o to_o do_v be_v justify_v faith_n these_o three_o have_v i_o only_o choose_v of_o m._n baxter_n 26._o argument_n to_o set_v as_o a_o antithesis_fw-la unto_o m._n morice_n position_n and_o as_o a_o answer_n thereunto_o and_o if_o i_o may_v speak_v it_o pace_fw-la tanti_fw-la viri_fw-la a_o ill_a case_n be_v much_o disadvantageous_a to_o the_o most_o learned_a man_n and_o in_o this_o that_o i_o have_v set_v m._n baxter_n to_o answer_v m._n morice_n be_v but_o to_o set_v socrates_n to_o answer_v plato_n and_o i_o may_v add_v one_o word_n that_o whereas_o it_o be_v object_v that_o judas_n and_o simon_n magus_n faith_n which_o be_v only_o dogmatical_a and_o formal_a though_o rot_a in_o the_o root_n gives_z right_a of_o admission_n i_o answer_v first_o it_o may_v be_v grant_v in_o foro_fw-la ecclesiae_fw-la for_o that_o may_v be_v say_v to_o give_v admission_n to_o baptism_n etc._n etc._n which_o so_o qualifi_v the_o person_n as_o the_o church_n be_v bind_v to_o admit_v he_o as_o be_v one_o that_o seem_v sound_a in_o believe_v for_o judas_n be_v always_o reckon_v among_o the_o twelve_o before_o his_o traitorous_a betray_a act_n of_o his_o lord_n and_o master_n and_o simon_n be_v say_v to_o have_v believe_v also_o act_v 8.13_o now_o the_o church_n can_v but_o give_v a_o judgement_n of_o charity_n and_o not_o know_v any_o thing_n to_o the_o contrary_a can_v deny_v admission_n either_o to_o simon_n or_o any_o other_o that_o desire_v it_o for_o charity_n think_v no_o evil_a and_o hope_v the_o best_a of_o all_o and_o it_o be_v a_o old_a rule_n de_fw-fr occultis_fw-la non_fw-la judicat_fw-la ecclesia_fw-la but_o second_o this_o be_v not_o a_o entitul_a and_o have_v right_a coram_fw-la deo_fw-la &_o a_o foedere_fw-la for_o that_o alone_o be_v save_a faith_n which_o god_n in_o his_o covenant_n make_v the_o condition_n pre-requisite_a to_o such_o a_o right_a of_o admission_n which_o be_v before_o assert_v and_o prove_v and_o that_o that_o give_v right_a coram_fw-la deo_fw-la give_v a_o true_a title_n also_o foro_fw-la ecclesiae_fw-la for_o according_a to_o a_o charitative_a judgement_n they_o be_v bind_v to_o judge_v that_o the_o profession_n of_o faith_n and_o will_n of_o such_o as_o desire_v admission_n be_v both_o true_a real_a and_o sanctify_a or_o else_o they_o will_v not_o desire_v it_o though_o oftentimes_o the_o sequel_n manifest_v that_o they_o be_v deceive_v therein_o and_o hereby_o it_o be_v clear_o evince_v that_o the_o church_n door_n be_v wide_a than_o the_o door_n of_o heaven_n and_o that_o the_o number_n of_o the_o church_n militant_a do_v exceed_v the_o triumphant_a and_o be_v far_o enlarge_v beyond_o the_o limit_n of_o the_o elect._n and_o herein_o this_o shall_v suffice_v observe_v 5._o that_o false_a teacher_n be_v most_o arrogant_a and_o pretend_v high_a to_o gift_n and_o mission_n the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n find_v it_o so_o in_o their_o false_a teacher_n and_o corinth_n also_o 2_o cor._n 13.11_o who_o transform_v themselves_o into_o the_o apostle_n of_o christ_n and_o who_o by_o their_o own_o mouth_n say_v they_o be_v apostle_n they_o will_v needs_o get_v the_o honour_n of_o man_n of_o extraordinary_a spirit_n and_o calling_n as_o the_o apostle_n be_v yet_o on_o trial_n they_o be_v find_v liar_n they_o be_v of_o diotrephes-like_a spirit_n that_o will_v needs_o have_v the_o precedency_n and_o be_v above_o john_n himself_o and_o the_o true_a apostle_n gaudent_fw-la preesse_fw-la non_fw-la ut_fw-la prosunt_fw-la sed_fw-la quia_fw-la grande_fw-fr aliquid_fw-la putant_fw-la preesse_fw-la &_o insolentius_fw-la &_o arrogantius_fw-la principes_fw-la in_o ecclesia_fw-la locum_fw-la appertivisse_fw-la they_o be_v like_o those_o in_o jer._n 8.8_o who_o say_v we_o be_v wise_a and_o the_o law_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v with_o we_o while_o their_o heart_n be_v full_a of_o lie_n and_o vanity_n and_o as_o those_o in_o ezek._n 13.6_o who_o say_v the_o lord_n say_v yet_o have_v see_v nothing_o but_o a_o vain_a vision_n and_o a_o lie_a divination_n but_o i_o shall_v here_o demand_v why_o shall_v those_o false_a teacher_n denominate_v themselves_o to_o be_v apostle_n see_v the_o number_n be_v only_o limit_v to_o twelve_o i_o answer_v some_o of_o the_o ancient_a father_n do_v denominate_v the_o first_o second_o and_o three_o century_n after_o christ_n the_o apostolical_a time_n though_o the_o twelve_o be_v dead_a for_o the_o purity_n of_o their_o doctrine_n and_o be_v so_o near_o the_o fountain_n as_o church_n history_n manifest_v and_o our_o bishop_n jewel_n offer_v to_o join_v issue_n with_o the_o papist_n so_o far_o as_o the_o five_o century_n upon_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o father_n as_o hold_v the_o apostolical_a doctrine_n second_o i_o answer_v this_o apostolical_a office_n be_v not_o so_o much_o the_o peculiar_a faculty_n of_o the_o twelve_o as_o to_o debar_v all_o other_o from_o that_o denomination_n and_o though_o i_o grant_v they_o be_v christ_n apostle_n catexochen_n yet_o that_o do_v not_o hinder_v but_o other_o that_o be_v send_v for_o so_o much_o the_o word_n signify_v in_o the_o greek_a in_o christ_n embassy_n unto_o the_o world_n may_v appropriate_v that_o title_n unto_o themselves_o as_o paul_n very_o often_o in_o his_o epistle_n have_v just_o vindicate_v his_o right_n unto_o it_o and_o i_o know_v not_o why_o may_v not_o barnabas_n with_o other_o that_o be_v send_v upon_o the_o same_o message_n with_o paul_n and_o the_o rest_n appropriate_v the_o same_o title_n and_o that_o just_o to_o themselves_o also_o for_o i_o be_o of_o opinion_n that_o those_o be_v stand_v perpetual_a officer_n in_o the_o church_n which_o be_v describe_v in_o eph._n 4.11_o and_o be_v to_o continue_v it_o from_o one_o age_n to_o another_o until_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o christ_n mystical_a the_o elect_a be_v gather_v and_o complete_a for_o so_o the_o word_n strong_o enforce_v and_o he_o give_v some_o apostle_n and_o some_o prophet_n and_o some_o evangelist_n and_o some_o pastor_n and_o teacher_n for_o the_o perfect_a of_o the_o saint_n for_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n for_o the_o edify_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n till_o we_o all_o come_v into_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o faith_n and_o of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n unto_o a_o perfect_a man_n unto_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o stature_n of_o the_o fullness_n of_o christ_n now_o whereas_o they_o object_v that_o be_v contrary_a mind_v that_o some_o office_n in_o the_o church_n be_v
officer_n now_o at_o present_a authorize_v in_o the_o church_n mere_o as_o such_o officer_n then_o sure_o there_o be_v some_o officer_n want_v unto_o the_o church_n by_o which_o it_o may_v be_v right_o dispense_v but_o the_o major_a be_v former_o clear_v the_o consequence_n i_o believe_v none_o will_v deny_v that_o look_v upon_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n as_o a_o act_n of_o authority_n and_o office_n therefore_o the_o conclusion_n be_v evident_a and_o therefore_o to_o shut_v up_o this_o discourse_n i_o be_o very_o much_o of_o opinion_n that_o all_o primitive_a office_n and_o officer_n which_o be_v of_o positive_a institution_n in_o the_o apostle_n time_n be_v moral_a positive_a law_n and_o still_o constringent_a and_o perpetual_a unless_o you_o can_v show_v their_o repeal_v see_v cawdry_n on_o the_o sabbath_n part_v 1._o cap._n 2._o hereon_o and_o therefore_o bind_v unto_o the_o church_n in_o all_o age_n confer_v hereunto_o that_o of_o eph._n 4.11_o 12_o 13._o all_o which_o indeed_o the_o church_n do_v virtual_o and_o implicit_o maintain_v though_o they_o have_v lay_v by_o the_o name_n thereof_o so_o necessary_a do_v they_o find_v the_o act_n of_o the_o say_a office_n though_o the_o office_n themselves_o nominal_o be_v thrust_v out_o of_o door_n when_o we_o send_v preacher_n to_o our_o american_n plantation_n for_o the_o discipling_n the_o poor_a indian_n be_v they_o not_o tantamount_n as_o apostle_n when_o eusebius_n the_o centurist_n and_o late_a church_n historiographer_n do_v historify_v the_o act_n and_o occurrence_n of_o the_o church_n be_v they_o not_o in_o a_o qualify_a sense_n evangelist_n when_o person_n do_v interpret_v and_o enucleate_v dark_a or_o prophetical_a scripture_n do_v they_o not_o look_v like_o prophet_n when_o by_o the_o faith_n and_o prayer_n of_o the_o faithful_a corruption_n be_v vanquish_v the_o will_n be_v reform_v health_n restore_v and_o satanical_a dispossession_n accomplish_v do_v they_o not_o carry_v the_o face_n of_o miracle_n and_o why_o then_o shall_v we_o not_o entertain_v the_o office_n and_o gift_n themselves_o nominal_o as_o well_o as_o operative_o and_o virtual_o though_o with_o some_o mark_n of_o distinction_n as_o by_o a_o crescent_a as_o unto_o young_a brother_n acknowledge_v always_o and_o that_o just_o a_o pre-eminence_n of_o gift_n and_o spirit_n in_o those_o of_o the_o first_o age_n and_o near_a unto_o the_o fountain_n of_o life_n and_o verity_n but_o far_o thereby_o from_o conclude_v that_o their_o office_n be_v bury_v with_o the_o first_o founder_n together_o with_o their_o most_o excellent_a gift_n in_o one_o arm_n but_o still_o keep_v alive_a and_o preserve_v for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o church_n and_o the_o perfect_a of_o the_o saint_n for_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n for_o the_o edify_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n till_o we_o all_o come_v to_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o faith_n and_o of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n unto_o a_o perfect_a man_n unto_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o station_n of_o the_o fullness_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o none_o may_v judge_v i_o rash_a or_o presumptory_a in_o this_o opinion_n i_o submit_v it_o to_o the_o trial_n of_o christ_n church_n and_o add_v adhuc_fw-la sub_fw-la judice_fw-la lie_fw-la est_fw-la try_v all_o thing_n hold_v fast_o that_o which_o be_v good_a let_v every_o one_o be_v persuade_v full_o in_o his_o own_o mind_n and_o in_o the_o mean_a to_o walk_v in_o that_o measure_n of_o light_n that_o he_o have_v attain_v unto_o in_o the_o next_o place_n the_o question_n may_v be_v seasonable_o set_v how_o shall_v we_o know_v or_o try_v false_a apostle_n from_o true_a christ_n minister_n from_o antichrist_n or_o the_o pseudo-prophet_n from_o the_o orthodox_n see_v the_o false_a one_o can_v transform_v themselves_o into_o the_o apostle_n of_o christ_n and_o say_v they_o be_v apostle_n and_o minister_n of_o christ_n as_o well_o as_o true_a one_o 2_o cor._n 11.13_o rev._n 2.2_o this_o question_n indeed_o be_v worthy_a the_o discussion_n useful_a both_o for_o the_o rectify_v of_o the_o private_a judgement_n of_o discretion_n as_o well_o as_o of_o the_o public_a authoritative_a judgement_n of_o the_o church_n in_o this_o particular_a for_o indeed_o it_o be_v no_o new_a thing_n nor_o strange_a to_o the_o pure_a church_n of_o god_n to_o have_v false_a prophet_n and_o false_a apostle_n in_o they_o in_o the_o day_n of_o ahab_n 1_o king_n 18.19_o the_o prophet_n of_o baal_n be_v four_o hundred_o and_o fifty_o and_o of_o the_o grove_n four_o hundred_o but_o the_o true_a one_o hide_v by_o obadiah_n be_v but_o one_o hundred_o ezekiel_n jeremiah_n meet_v they_o too_o in_o babylon_n jer._n 28_o 29_o chap._n and_o ezek._n 12.2_o 3._o the_o apostolic_a primitive_a church_n be_v much_o trouble_v and_o vex_v with_o false_a apostle_n false_a prophet_n and_o false_a teacher_n also_o witness_v 2_o cor._n 11.13_o 2_o pet._n 2.1_o gal._n 5.12_o matth._n 24.11_o and_o those_o church_n of_o ephesus_n pergamus_n sardis_n etc._n etc._n have_v their_o share_n also_o in_o this_o trouble_n by_o the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n nicolaitan_n jezabel_n etc._n etc._n and_o this_o god_n often_o suffer_v with_o the_o sad_a consequence_n thereof_o in_o and_o upon_o his_o church_n to_o make_v the_o truth_n more_o clear_a and_o precious_a to_o try_v the_o godly_a and_o discover_v hypocrite_n and_o to_o show_v his_o power_n and_o wisdom_n that_o can_v produce_v good_a out_o of_o evil_a and_o preserve_v his_o undefiled_a in_o the_o midst_n of_o contagion_n but_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o saint_n be_v to_o try_v they_o and_o discover_v they_o that_o so_o they_o may_v be_v avoid_v with_o all_o their_o malignant_a influence_n and_o pernicious_a doctrine_n now_o a_o false_a apostle_n or_o prophet_n may_v be_v discover_v two_o way_n first_o either_o from_o his_o false_a doctrine_n or_o pprophecy_n or_o second_o from_o his_o false_a call_n or_o mission_n the_o ancient_a prophet_n of_o god_n be_v call_v seer_n from_o the_o clear_a divine_a revelation_n and_o irradiation_n they_o have_v of_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n 2_o king_n 17.13_o and_o this_o be_v call_v the_o gift_n of_o prophecy_n next_o they_o have_v a_o clear_a call_n to_o exercise_v that_o gift_n but_o the_o false_a prophet_n they_o prophesy_v out_o of_o their_o own_o heart_n and_o follow_v their_o own_o spirit_n and_o have_v see_v nothing_o as_o in_o ezek._n 12.2_o 3._o that_o be_v they_o be_v prophet_n because_o they_o will_v be_v prophet_n it_o be_v their_o own_o motion_n that_o make_v they_o prophesy_v they_o thrust_v themselves_o upon_o it_o and_o make_v their_o own_o will_n the_o high_a original_n of_o their_o call_n and_o therefore_o in_o the_o next_o place_n the_o thing_n they_o prophesy_v be_v their_o own_o what_o their_o fancy_n lust_n private_a interest_n affection_n and_o carnal_a reason_n suggest_v unto_o they_o so_o their_o prophecy_n come_v by_o the_o will_n of_o man_n not_o of_o god_n as_o that_o of_o 2_o pet._n 1.21_o and_o therefore_o however_o esteem_v and_o magnify_v by_o man_n be_v worthless_a in_o god_n account_n because_o it_o only_o proceed_v from_o their_o own_o spirit_n and_o not_o from_o god_n spirit_n the_o true_a spirit_n of_o pprophecy_n now_o i_o will_v not_o here_o be_v mistake_v as_o if_o i_o press_v for_o enthusiastic_a prophecy_n but_o to_o keep_v close_o to_o that_o spirit_n of_o pprophecy_n in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o will_v not_o close_o with_o man_n base_a interest_n and_o motion_n but_o be_v according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o this_o be_v the_o true_a spirit_n of_o pprophecy_n and_o therefore_o what_o come_v from_o the_o will_n of_o man_n and_o private_a spirit_n be_v in_o the_o scripture_n various_o brand_v under_o the_o title_n of_o lie_n dream_n vain_a divination_n perverse_a thing_n the_o commandment_n of_o man_n mark_v 7.7_o wisdom_n of_o this_o world_n 1_o cor._n 2.6_o another_o jesus_n another_o spirit_n another_o gospel_n 2_o cor._n 11_o 4._o therefore_o paul_n dare_v not_o preach_v any_o other_o thing_n but_o christ_n jesus_n the_o lord_n and_o what_o he_o have_v from_o he_o by_o his_o spirit_n that_o he_o preach_v unto_o they_o 2_o cor._n 4.5_o therefore_o we_o may_v plain_o judge_v a_o false_a prophet_n or_o apostle_n when_o he_o come_v with_o doctrine_n and_o prophecy_n of_o his_o own_o motion_n and_o own_o spirit_n and_o own_o design_n be_v opposite_a and_o destructive_a to_o the_o spirit_n doctrine_n of_o faith_n and_o godliness_n within_o the_o gospel_n object_n but_o will_v not_o some_o say_v that_o all_o heretic_n false_a apostle_n and_o false_a teacher_n will_v come_v with_o verbum_fw-la domini_fw-la in_o their_o mouth_n and_o pretend_v high_o that_o their_o doctrine_n be_v concordant_a and_o agreeable_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n or_o else_o in_o vain_a to_o broach_v and_o attest_v they_o and_o who_o more_o high_a than_o
as_o in_o sickly_a body_n have_v much_o to_o do_v to_o keep_v life_n and_o soul_n together_o hence_o i_o assert_v a_o person_n may_v receive_v a_o call_n from_o divers_a particular_a church_n but_o the_o more_o sound_a and_o orthodox_n the_o church_n be_v from_o whence_o it_o be_v derive_v the_o more_o orthodox_n and_o sound_n be_v the_o call_n though_o in_o a_o corrupt_a church_n there_o may_v be_v the_o true_a essential_o of_o all_o office_n and_o call_v yet_o not_o so_o virtual_a and_o with_o that_o satisfaction_n of_o conscience_n as_o in_o a_o more_o sound_a and_o undefiled_a one_o but_o for_o the_o particular_a church_n of_o rome_n as_o now_o constitute_v can_v be_v a_o perfect_a church_n to_o this_o end_n nay_o i_o much_o question_n whether_o she_o have_v not_o by_o her_o abound_a abomination_n false_a doctrine_n and_o idolatry_n lose_v the_o very_a essence_n of_o a_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o by_o consequence_n the_o essence_n of_o all_o church_n office_n and_o ordinance_n also_o a_o wife_n and_o spouse_n when_o she_o turn_v a_o harlot_n she_o lose_v the_o privilege_n of_o a_o wife_n and_o ipso_fw-la facto_fw-la virtual_o become_v a_o cast-out_a and_o divorce_v so_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n though_o by_o some_o too_o favourable_o acknowledge_v to_o be_v true_o a_o church_n though_o not_o a_o true_a one_o have_v not_o only_o forsake_v her_o first_o love_n but_o have_v commit_v adultery_n and_o spiritual_a fornication_n with_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n and_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o the_o earth_n be_v make_v drink_v with_o the_o wine_n of_o her_o fornication_n rev._n 17.2_o now_o she_o that_o have_v play_v the_o part_n of_o so_o notorious_a a_o harlot_n as_o that_o she_o be_v entitle_v in_o scripture_n v._o 5._o the_o mother_n of_o harlot_n and_o abomination_n of_o the_o earth_n the_o great_a whore_n babylon_n the_o great_a etc._n etc._n how_o such_o a_o church_n or_o rather_o antichristian_a synagogue_n shall_v give_v a_o essence_n to_o christian_n officer_n and_o ordinance_n it_o can_v enter_v into_o my_o judgement_n or_o conscience_n to_o conclude_v though_o otherwise_o extensive_a enough_o in_o charity_n to_o erroneous_a and_o backslide_a church_n and_o ready_a to_o acknowledge_v and_o approve_v whatsoever_o of_o truth_n and_o god_n be_v in_o they_o but_o that_o which_o be_v most_o admirable_a to_o consider_v in_o this_o adulterate_a romish_a church_n be_v that_o god_n have_v so_o far_o infatuate_v her_o spiritual_a reason_n and_o understanding_n that_o of_o all_o those_o office_n and_o officer_n we_o read_v in_o the_o gospel_n that_o christ_n have_v institute_v for_o the_o work_n of_o his_o ministry_n and_o perfect_v of_o the_o saint_n we_o can_v hear_v but_o of_o one_o to_o wit_n bishop_n and_o that_o too_o with_o most_o abundant_a prelatical_a corruption_n in_o the_o whole_a apocryphal_a catalogue_n of_o the_o officer_n of_o the_o synagogue_n of_o rome_n where_o be_v it_o assert_v in_o scripture_n of_o a_o secondary_a monstrous_a head_n of_o the_o church_n to_o be_v a_o pope_n where_o shall_v you_o read_v of_o those_o princely_a cardinal_n in_o the_o whole_a treasury_n of_o god_n word_n in_o what_o page_n of_o his_o word_n shall_v you_o find_v the_o lordlike_o title_n of_o archbishop_n lord_n abbot_n archdeacon_n &_o c_o where_o shall_v we_o find_v it_o record_v in_o holy_a writ_n of_o all_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o rabble_n and_o supernumerary_a officer_n of_o this_o harlot_n church_n as_o dean_n canon_n prebend_n surrogate_v priest_n abbot_n abbess_n friar_n nun_n doctor_n proctor_n summoner_n cum_fw-la multis_fw-la aliis_fw-la &_o c_o and_o again_o have_v not_o this_o adulteress_n instead_o of_o those_o spurious_a issue_n spew_v out_o of_o her_o bosom_n the_o sound_n and_o orthodox_n office_n and_o officer_n of_o christ_n as_o where_o shall_v you_o hear_v in_o all_o her_o egyptian_a or_o babylonish_n territory_n the_o sound_n of_o those_o gospel_n officer_n as_o pastor_n teacher_n elder_n bishop_n right_o qualify_v &_o c_o therefore_o sure_a shame_n unto_o all_o such_o that_o will_v own_v a_o derivation_n of_o office_n and_o call_v from_o such_o a_o church_n that_o have_v not_o only_o banish_v such_o officer_n out_o of_o her_o jurisdiction_n as_o be_v true_o christ_n but_o be_v become_v herself_o a_o adulteress_n and_o the_o mother_n of_o harlot_n and_o also_o the_o throne_n of_o antichrist_n and_o yet_o if_o any_o for_o all_o this_o will_v endeavour_v to_o avouch_v their_o call_n and_o mission_n good_a as_o unto_o the_o essential_o thereof_o from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n they_o must_v in_o the_o first_o place_n maintain_v that_o she_o be_v true_o a_o church_n of_o christ_n as_o unto_o the_o essence_n at_o least_o and_o to_o separate_v and_o depart_v from_o such_o a_o church_n i_o know_v not_o how_o they_o can_v defend_v it_o without_o sin_n therefore_o either_o be_v so_o ingenious_a as_o to_o acknowledge_v to_o be_v a_o true_a essential_a christian_n church_n and_o justify_v your_o call_n therefrom_o and_o hold_v communion_n with_o she_o or_o else_o acknowledge_v she_o to_o be_v the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n and_o of_o antichrist_n together_o with_o all_o her_o dependency_n of_o mission_n call_v and_o ordinance_n which_o at_o best_o be_v but_o antichristian_a and_o therefore_o worthy_o to_o be_v reject_v remove_v and_o loathe_v of_o all_o true_a christian_n heart_n beside_o we_o have_v a_o command_n for_o it_o come_v out_o of_o she_o my_o people_n and_o i_o pray_v how_o shall_v we_o depart_v or_o come_v out_o of_o she_o if_o we_o communicate_v with_o she_o in_o her_o holy_a thing_n indeed_o ingenious_a m._n baxter_n affirm_v if_o the_o pope_n be_v antichrist_n the_o case_n be_v clear_a as_o the_o good_a bishop_n downam_n jewel_n etc._n etc._n have_v evince_v see_v his_o worcestershire_n agreement_n p._n 69_o and_o 70._o object_n but_o it_o may_v be_v object_v how_o then_o shall_v the_o first_o reformer_n that_o fall_v off_o from_o rome_n have_v a_o right_a call_n to_o the_o ministerial_a office_n of_o the_o church_n if_o they_o have_v it_o not_o from_o that_o church_n from_o which_o they_o depart_v i_o answer_v sure_o they_o never_o own_v their_o call_n from_o rome_n from_o whence_o they_o have_v depart_v and_o have_v manifest_v to_o be_v the_o seat_n of_o antichrist_n but_o withal_o assert_v that_o their_o call_n be_v some_o what_o extraordinary_a and_o some_o what_o ordinary_a god_n in_o that_o time_n of_o spiritual_a darkness_n move_v most_o powerful_o and_o vigorous_o on_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o first_o restorer_n as_o wickliff_n husse_n luther_n etc._n etc._n and_o give_v they_o such_o a_o call_n of_o ability_n and_o courage_n that_o be_v not_o ordinary_a in_o that_o great_a first_o undertake_n and_o break_v forth_o of_o light_n second_o he_o give_v they_o the_o ordinary_a call_n of_o their_o respective_a church_n to_o be_v their_o pastor_n teacher_n etc._n etc._n so_o be_v both_o abilitated_a and_o call_v of_o god_n and_o man_n they_o have_v a_o true_a and_o justifiable_a call_n to_o the_o ministry_n of_o christ_n if_o any_o one_o say_v the_o ministerial_a office_n must_v precede_v in_o order_n before_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n i_o grant_v that_o the_o church_n can_v be_v call_v or_o gather_v without_o a_o precedent_a officer_n for_o how_o shall_v they_o hear_v without_o a_o preacher_n or_o how_o shall_v they_o preach_v unless_o they_o be_v send_v but_o withal_o rejoin_v and_o superadd_a that_o in_o the_o first_o constitution_n of_o church_n extraordinary_a call_n do_v supply_v all_o want_n otherwise_o so_o i_o be_o of_o opinion_n it_o may_v be_v grant_v that_o in_o so_o miserable_a collapse_a church_n estate_n as_o the_o antichristian_a darkness_n in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o first_o reformation_n be_v god_n do_v supply_v not_o with_o ordinary_a gift_n only_o those_o that_o he_o employ_v in_o that_o work_n of_o the_o first_o reformation_n and_o in_o absence_n of_o the_o ordinary_a call_n god_n give_v they_o a_o additament_n of_o part_n and_o gift_n not_o ordinary_a which_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v in_o all_o their_o constant_a course_n and_o ministry_n carry_v on_o with_o a_o spirit_n of_o extraordinary_a courage_n and_o ability_n witness_v that_o say_n of_o luther_n when_o he_o be_v advise_v by_o some_o of_o his_o friend_n in_o respect_n of_o danger_n that_o he_o shall_v abstain_v from_o a_o diet_n wherein_o he_o promise_v to_o give_v his_o adversary_n a_o conference_n he_o answer_v if_o there_o be_v as_o many_o devil_n at_o the_o diet_n as_o there_o be_v tile_n in_o the_o city_n he_o will_v not_o fear_v they_o but_o will_v among_o they_o but_o in_o right_o constitute_v church_n the_o ordinary_a call_n be_v not_o to_o be_v neglect_v but_o to_o be_v attend_v to_o as_o a_o positive_a law_n of_o god_n indispensable_a and_o not_o in_o the_o least_o to_o be_v slight_v but_o where_o god_n have_v dispense_v
sacrifice_v the_o saint_n which_o they_o term_v heretic_n or_o schismatics_n and_o troubler_n of_o their_o peace_n and_o union_n but_o when_o you_o meet_v such_o a_o fiery_a persecute_v spirit_n in_o any_o that_o pretend_v to_o christ_n judge_v of_o it_o whence_o it_o be_v by_o these_o scripture_n gal._n 5.20_o col._n 3.12_o 13._o so_o great_a have_v be_v the_o malice_n of_o false_a prophet_n and_o false_a teacher_n ever_o against_o the_o true_a saint_n that_o they_o have_v never_o rest_v till_o they_o have_v get_v their_o blood_n shed_v it_o be_v the_o pope_n and_o his_o false_a prelate_n and_o priest_n that_o first_o fill_v all_o europe_n with_o blood_n it_o be_v the_o same_o curse_a progeny_n that_o bring_v so_o many_o precious_a soul_n to_o the_o stake_n and_o faggot_n in_o queen_n mary_n day_n otherwise_o of_o herself_o as_o history_n testify_v of_o nature_n good_a enough_o quere_z but_o it_o may_v here_o be_v query_v for_o what_o thing_n ought_v we_o to_o suffer_v with_o patience_n and_o constancy_n and_o not_o to_o faint_v under_o the_o burden_n thereof_o i_o have_v partly_o former_o answer_v this_o question_n in_o the_o nine_o verse_n of_o the_o first_o chapter_n i_o shall_v here_o add_v one_o word_n more_o for_o the_o rectify_v the_o judgement_n and_o keep_v the_o conscience_n undefiled_a herein_o first_o know_v that_o every_o soul_n be_v strict_o oblige_v to_o observe_v all_o the_o law_n of_o god_n whether_o moral_a natural_a or_o positive_a and_o to_o undergo_v all_o suffering_n whatsoever_o rather_o then_o to_o dishonour_n god_n by_o the_o breach_n of_o the_o former_a or_o neglect_v his_o worship_n by_o the_o contempt_n of_o the_o latter_a we_o be_v not_o only_o bind_v under_o persecutor_n to_o keep_v the_o conscience_n undefiled_a in_o not_o commit_v gross_a sin_n as_o idolatry_n etc._n etc._n but_o also_o we_o be_v oblige_v to_o perform_v all_o our_o positive_a christian_n duty_n though_o we_o suffer_v for_o it_o as_o we_o find_v that_o daniel_n give_v a_o testimony_n in_o this_o case_n though_o to_o the_o hazard_n of_o persecution_n to_o extremity_n and_o will_v not_o forbear_v his_o three_o time_n a_o day_n solemn_a prayer_n and_o that_o upon_o his_o knee_n in_o his_o chamber_n and_o his_o window_n open_a towards_o jerusalem_n though_o he_o know_v his_o enemy_n may_v by_o that_o mean_n surprise_v and_o accuse_v he_o and_o cause_v he_o to_o be_v cast_v into_o the_o den_n of_o lion_n yet_o do_v he_o hold_v himself_o bind_v daily_o to_o the_o law_n of_o outward_a worship_n though_o the_o look_n to_o jerusalem_n be_v but_o a_o ceremony_n ordain_v by_o god_n upon_o solomon_n prayer_n 1_o king_n 8.9_o also_o the_o macchabean_a worthy_n do_v not_o think_v that_o persecution_n do_v or_o can_v discharge_v they_o from_o the_o strict_a observe_v even_o of_o the_o ceremonial_a law_n of_o not_o eat_v swine_n flesh_n but_o for_o it_o endure_v all_o extremity_n of_o torment_n as_o the_o story_n relate_v and_o for_o it_o be_v just_o rank_v among_o the_o worthy_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n who_o live_v and_o die_v in_o faith_n heb._n 11._o so_o jealous_a be_v god_n not_o only_o for_o the_o preservation_n of_o his_o moral_a law_n but_o even_o of_o those_o ceremonial_a and_o ritual_a law_n that_o after_o he_o have_v discover_v his_o will_n about_o they_o and_o command_v they_o they_o forthwith_o become_v moral_o positive_a law_n and_o obligent_fw-la until_o their_o repeal_v from_o the_o same_o authority_n be_v manifest_v and_o clear_v therefore_o by_o this_o judge_n what_o a_o lax_n and_o loose_a religion_n do_v hobbs_n his_o leviathan_n prescribe_v unto_o we_o to_o submit_v to_o any_o religion_n that_o the_o chief_a or_o sovereign_a magistrate_n shall_v dictate_v to_o we_o and_o that_o it_o be_v not_o christian_n duty_n to_o suffer_v for_o any_o article_n but_o for_o that_o that_o jesus_n christ_n be_v the_o messiah_n so_o subject_v almost_o the_o whole_a will_n of_o god_n in_o moral_n and_o positives_n unto_o the_o will_n of_o man_n but_o as_o to_o this_o let_v we_o like_o true_a christian_n pray_v libera_n domine_fw-la nos_fw-la a_fw-la malo_fw-la verse_n 4._o nevertheless_o i_o have_v somewhat_o against_o thou_o because_o thou_o have_v leave_v thy_o first_o love_n we_o have_v hear_v the_o virtue_n and_o grace_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n and_o how_o she_o have_v a_o just_a and_o honourable_a approbation_n for_o they_o yet_o notwithstanding_o there_o be_v a_o tang_n in_o the_o end_n which_o show_v some_o defection_n in_o she_o and_o after_o all_o her_o commendation_n there_o be_v a_o nevertheless_o follow_v close_o in_o the_o heel_n thereof_o with_o somewhat_o to_o be_v say_v against_o she_o just_o as_o it_o be_v often_o say_v of_o the_o good_a king_n of_o israel_n in_o the_o book_n of_o king_n that_o they_o walk_v and_o do_v upright_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n as_o david_n the_o king_n but_o withal_o there_o be_v add_v a_o but_o but_o they_o depart_v not_o from_o the_o sin_n of_o jeroboam_n that_o make_v israel_n to_o sin_n hence_o by_o the_o way_n note_v observe_v that_o the_o pure_a church_n and_o the_o best_a christian_n be_v not_o altogether_o exempt_v from_o stain_n but_o have_v their_o spot_n and_o blemish_n as_o well_o as_o resplendent_a grace_n it_o be_v the_o spouse_n condition_n in_o cant._n 1.5_o where_o she_o describe_v herself_o and_o say_v i_o be_o black_a but_o comely_a o_o you_o daughter_n of_o jerusalem_n as_o the_o tent_n of_o kedar_n as_o the_o curtain_n of_o solomon_n let_v we_o out_o survey_v the_o first_o church_n and_o christian_n to_o elucidate_n and_o confirm_v this_o truth_n and_o see_v they_o stand_v near_o the_o light_n even_o the_o sun_n of_o truth_n and_o his_o twelve_o illustrious_a radiate_a sign_n his_o apostle_n in_o my_o judgement_n they_o be_v to_o be_v repute_v the_o sound_a and_o the_o pure_a yet_o see_v whether_o we_o read_v not_o of_o their_o maculae_fw-la or_o spot_n as_o well_o as_o of_o their_o shine_a grace_n the_o church_n of_o corinth_n be_v a_o famous_a church_n yet_o she_o have_v her_o fail_n contaminate_v the_o holy_a feast_n and_o their_o agapee_n with_o surfeit_v and_o drunkenness_n and_o beside_o the_o foul_a error_n of_o false_a apostle_n as_o deny_v the_o resurrection_n etc._n etc._n the_o church_n of_o galatia_n be_v not_o much_o inferior_a in_o her_o wantonnize_a after_o liveless_a ceremonial_a fancy_n and_o press_v they_o as_o necessary_a with_o christ_n unto_o salvation_n and_o when_o paul_n oppose_v they_o herein_o for_o who_o sake_n they_o once_o be_v ready_a to_o pull_v out_o their_o eye_n to_o do_v he_o good_a yet_o now_o for_o cross_v their_o capricious_a whimsy_n be_v become_v their_o great_a adversary_n the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n pergamus_n etc._n etc._n have_v their_o several_a encomium_n for_o their_o grace_n yet_o there_o be_v some_o thing_n chargeable_a on_o they_o for_o wax_a cold_a in_o their_o first_o love_n for_o admit_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n nicolaitan_n jezabel_n etc._n etc._n if_o we_o descend_v from_o body_n collective_a to_o individual_a person_n we_o shall_v find_v the_o same_o lot_n befall_v unto_o all_o consider_v noah_n job_n david_n peter_n etc._n etc._n but_o i_o desire_v not_o to_o rake_v up_o the_o fault_n of_o the_o saint_n which_o be_v not_o leave_v upon_o record_n to_o encourage_v to_o sin_n but_o to_o be_v precedent_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o as_o example_n for_o encouragement_n unto_o repentant_a sinner_n because_o thou_o have_v leave_v thy_o first_o love_n some_o difficulty_n seem_v in_o these_o word_n whether_o by_o first_o love_n be_v intend_v christ_n who_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n have_v leave_v or_o that_o first_o ardent_a affection_n and_o zeal_n which_o she_o bear_v to_o christ_n at_o her_o first_o conversion_n the_o latter_a interpretation_n to_o i_o be_v clear_a because_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n have_v not_o withdraw_v herself_o from_o the_o faith_n of_o christ_n as_o be_v evident_a by_o the_o two_o precedent_a verse_n for_o it_o be_v for_o christ_n sake_n and_o his_o truth_n that_o she_o have_v suffer_v much_o both_o from_o wicked_a person_n and_o wicked_a teacher_n therefore_o as_o long_o as_o her_o faith_n be_v sound_a she_o can_v not_o be_v say_v to_o have_v leave_v christ_n as_o her_o first_o love_n and_o take_v a_o new_a love_n or_o new_a object_n of_o her_o faith_n but_o that_o for_o which_o she_o be_v charge_v as_o faulty_a be_v that_o she_o have_v leave_v she_o first_o love_n that_o be_v her_o first_o zeal_n and_o fervent_a affection_n which_o she_o bear_v to_o christ_n and_o his_o ordinance_n at_o her_o first_o conversion_n and_o this_o be_v plain_a from_o the_o next_o verse_n where_o she_o be_v command_v to_o repent_v and_o to_o do_v she_o first_o work_n from_o hence_o observe_v observe_v that_o it_o be_v frequent_o see_v that_o many_o true_a and_o faithful_a
unclean_a lust_n whatsoever_o this_o be_v the_o most_o sad_a condition_n when_o god_n do_v unchurch_n a_o people_n for_o their_o sin_n witness_v the_o habitation_n of_o these_o seven_o asian_a church_n wherein_o the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n in_o mahumatism_n and_o heathenism_n be_v set_v up_o in_o the_o room_n of_o christ_n holy_a doctrine_n and_o ordinance_n and_o all_o for_o their_o impenitency_n and_o obstinacy_n in_o their_o loud_a cry_v abomination_n and_o therefore_o i_o can_v too_o often_o recognize_v this_o verse_n to_o backslidden_a soul_n remember_v from_o whence_o thou_o be_v fall_v and_o repent_v and_o do_v thy_o first_o work_n or_o else_o i_o will_v come_v against_o thou_o short_o and_o will_v remove_v thy_o candlestick_n out_o of_o his_o place_n except_o thou_o repent_v verse_n 6._o but_o this_o thou_o have_v that_o thou_o hate_v the_o work_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n which_o i_o also_o hate_n christ_n go_v on_o and_o tell_v the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n that_o though_o she_o be_v just_o faulty_a for_o her_o defection_n in_o her_o first_o love_n yet_o she_o have_v this_o commendable_a point_n in_o she_o to_o be_v add_v unto_o she_o other_o commendable_a grace_n that_o she_o abhor_v the_o abomination_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n both_o in_o judgement_n and_o practice_n which_o also_o be_v most_o hateful_a and_o abominable_a unto_o christ_n himself_o now_o the_o sect_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n as_o all_o ecclesiastic_a history_n testify_v take_v the_o denomination_n from_o nicholas_n a_o deacon_n of_o antioch_n but_o whether_o he_o be_v their_o leader_n himself_o or_o whether_o they_o false_o pretend_v he_o the_o first_o founder_n of_o their_o heresy_n be_v disputable_a indeed_o ireneus_fw-la tertullian_n and_o epiphanius_n be_v of_o opinion_n that_o he_o himself_o be_v their_o leader_n yet_o clemens_n alexandrinus_n and_o eusebius_n lib._n 3._o do_v say_v that_o the_o nicolaitan_n have_v false_o pretend_v the_o name_n of_o nicholas_n to_o their_o heresy_n as_o m._n baxter_n assert_n in_o his_o book_n of_o infidelity_n p._n 132._o however_o we_o see_v their_o heresy_n be_v abominable_a for_o christ_n hate_v they_o and_o their_o heretical_a practice_n and_o opinion_n consist_v as_o antiquity_n testify_v under_o the_o name_n of_o christian_n to_o hold_v and_o practice_v all_o manner_n of_o corporal_a obscenity_n and_o adultery_n lawful_a and_o all_o manner_n of_o spiritual_a fornication_n and_o idolatry_n also_o and_o which_o they_o ground_v on_o this_o wicked_a principle_n that_o there_o be_v no_o difference_n in_o good_a or_o evil_n but_o only_o in_o opinion_n and_o therefore_o take_v liberty_n to_o all_o sort_n of_o wickedness_n and_o that_o these_o be_v chief_a head_n of_o their_o heresy_n be_v somewhat_o evident_a from_o verse_n 14_o &_o 15._o of_o this_o chapter_n where_o the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n and_o nicolaitan_n be_v join_v and_o compare_v now_o we_o know_v that_o balaam_n wicked_a doctrine_n be_v to_o lay_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n to_o entice_v they_o to_o offend_v god_n both_o in_o corporal_a and_o spiritual_a whoredom_n in_o the_o business_n of_o baal_n peor_n that_o so_o by_o offend_v he_o they_o may_v perish_v numb_a 25._o compare_v to_o 31.16_o the_o nicolaitan_n be_v this_o false_a prophet_n true_a disciple_n and_o be_v true_a branch_n of_o the_o gnostic_n of_o old_a who_o pretend_v strange_a and_o unknown_a high_a mystery_n and_o discovery_n of_o light_n which_o plain_a and_o orthodox_n christian_n never_o hear_v of_o as_o many_o of_o the_o same_o spirit_n now_o a_o day_n pretend_v unto_o on_o purpose_n to_o amuse_v the_o simple_a and_o to_o draw_v they_o into_o the_o snare_n of_o satan_n and_o how_o well_o these_o filthy_a dreamer_n among_o we_o do_v correspond_v with_o their_o elder_a brethren_n the_o nicholaitan_n compare_v the_o heresy_n and_o blasphemy_n of_o some_o of_o these_o time_n with_o that_o description_n of_o the_o nicholaitan_n make_v by_o m._n baxter_n out_o of_o historical_a antiquity_n page_n 129._o of_o his_o say_a book_n of_o infidelity_n speak_v of_o the_o nicholaitan_n who_o inhuman_a filthiness_n say_v he_o be_v such_o and_o their_o devilish_a conceit_n so_o many_o and_o vile_a that_o i_o will_v forbear_v to_o mention_v they_o only_o this_o they_o make_v themselves_o like_o christ_n and_o some_o of_o they_o to_o be_v equal_a to_o he_o and_o some_o the_o same_o with_o he_o that_o good_a and_o evil_n differ_v not_o in_o deed_n but_o in_o man_n opinion_n they_o worship_v image_n they_o live_v in_o such_o horrid_a way_n in_o lust_n and_o filthiness_n as_o be_v not_o to_o be_v name_v epiphanius_n himself_o unhappy_o fell_a in_o among_o they_o and_o know_v their_o way_n from_o their_o own_o mouth_n and_o action_n but_o happy_o escape_v when_o they_o will_v have_v draw_v he_o to_o their_o lust_n they_o have_v multitude_n of_o amaze_a word_n and_o notion_n like_o our_o behmenist_n that_o will_v bring_v a_o man_n into_o a_o suspicion_n of_o witchcraft_n to_o read_v they_o they_o use_v witchcraft_n and_o several_a sort_n of_o enchantment_n and_o keep_v devil_n in_o familiarity_n with_o they_o that_o by_o their_o mean_n they_o may_v increase_v their_o knowledge_n and_o power_n thus_o far_o m._n baxter_n and_o he_o profess_v afterward_o that_o it_o be_v not_o one_o nor_o two_o but_o all_o church_n history_n of_o those_o time_n that_o make_v mention_n of_o they_o do_v say_v the_o same_o thing_n and_o if_o they_o will_v read_v epiphanius_n himself_o who_o once_o fall_v in_o among_o they_o they_o will_v see_v much_o more_o have_v thus_o far_o describe_v the_o nicholaitan_n and_o their_o heresy_n in_o the_o next_o place_n take_v this_o note_n observe_v that_o the_o more_o pure_a sound_a and_o undefiled_a the_o church_n be_v the_o devil_n be_v most_o solicitous_a to_o raise_v heresy_n and_o schism_n in_o it_o how_o busy_a the_o devil_n be_v in_o those_o asian_a church_n in_o the_o apostle_n time_n to_o bring_v in_o the_o foul_a heresy_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n and_o jezabel_n if_o possible_o he_o can_v so_o to_o entice_v they_o to_o sin_n against_o their_o god_n that_o he_o may_v have_v his_o purpose_n on_o they_o but_o when_o the_o church_n become_v more_o corrupt_v tyrannical_a and_o antichristianize_v under_o the_o headship_n of_o the_o bishop_n of_o rome_n their_o heresy_n be_v less_o and_o their_o schism_n few_o then_o in_o the_o primitive_a pure_a time_n for_o satan_n will_v rather_o hereticate_v and_o poison_v the_o whole_a than_o a_o part_n and_o indeed_o the_o devil_n have_v his_o design_n accomplish_v when_o he_o see_v a_o church_n rush_v onward_o to_o their_o own_o destruction_n by_o the_o multitude_n of_o their_o corruption_n and_o among_o such_o he_o have_v no_o need_n to_o lay_v any_o of_o his_o stratagem_n of_o heresy_n and_o schism_n but_o only_o to_o let_v they_o in_o peace_n and_o security_n and_o they_o will_v hasten_v on_o fast_o enough_o unto_o their_o own_o destruction_n therefore_o hence_o unto_o i_o it_o be_v a_o good_a argument_n that_o we_o have_v true_a and_o faithful_a church_n of_o christ_n among_o we_o and_o that_o the_o true_a doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v sincere_o preach_v and_o teach_v among_o our_o church_n or_o else_o satan_n the_o envious_a one_o will_v not_o be_v so_o ready_a to_o sow_v also_o his_o tare_n of_o heresy_n and_o error_n as_o he_o do_v at_o present_a among_o we_o to_o overthrow_v if_o he_o may_v our_o hope_n and_o harvest_n it_o seem_v to_o i_o but_o a_o sad_a say_n when_o some_o minister_n affirm_v they_o give_v thanks_o to_o god_n that_o their_o church_n be_v not_o trouble_v with_o the_o heresy_n of_o the_o time_n though_o i_o confess_v heresy_n be_v great_a evil_n and_o to_o be_v fervent_o deprecate_v from_o all_o christ_n flock_n yet_o when_o they_o say_v they_o be_v all_o at_o peace_n it_o be_v much_o to_o be_v fear_v that_o there_o be_v another_o strong_a man_n keep_v the_o house_n beside_o christ_n for_o be_v sure_a when_o christ_n come_v to_o bruise_v satan_n head_n he_o will_v bite_v christ_n heel_n and_o no_o soon_o be_v the_o manchild_n christ_n bear_v in_o the_o soul_n of_o his_o faithful_a one_o but_o the_o dragon_n will_v present_o send_v forth_o flood_n of_o water_n of_o heresy_n error_n and_o persecution_n if_o possible_o to_o destroy_v both_o it_o and_o they_o rev._n 12.15_o and_o this_o proceed_v from_o that_o everlasting_a enmity_n set_v between_o the_o seed_n of_o the_o woman_n and_o the_o seed_n of_o the_o serpent_n even_o from_o the_o beginning_n gen._n 3.15_o and_o will_v continue_v until_o he_o be_v bind_v up_o in_o everlasting_a chain_n of_o darkness_n and_o therefore_o the_o pure_a the_o church_n be_v the_o busy_a will_n satan_n be_v to_o undermine_v they_o if_o he_o may_v observe_v 2._o another_o note_n be_v that_o all_o heresy_n be_v defile_v and_o abominable_a
christ_n hate_v it_o and_o his_o church_n hate_v it_o and_o therefore_o sure_o it_o have_v some_o poisonous_a and_o pestilential_a quality_n in_o it_o sometime_o it_o amount_v so_o far_o as_o to_o defile_v both_o judgement_n and_o practice_v joint_o as_o it_o do_v in_o the_o sect_n of_o the_o nicholaitan_n and_o this_o it_o most_o frequent_o do_v unless_o in_o such_o a_o time_n when_o the_o appearance_n of_o a_o angel_n of_o light_n will_v seem_v better_o with_o satan_n design_n for_o if_o the_o theoretique_n part_n of_o the_o understanding_n be_v not_o sound_a the_o practic_a can_v hardly_o be_v straight_o where_o the_o light_n of_o the_o eye_n be_v darken_v our_o foot_n will_v soon_o stumble_v and_o the_o will_n and_o judgement_n be_v so_o link_v together_o that_o some_o make_v the_o will_v to_o be_v the_o last_o act_n of_o the_o understanding_n or_o the_o practic_a part_n of_o the_o judgement_n so_o near_o they_o be_v relate_v into_o oneness_n that_o the_o contagion_n of_o the_o one_o will_v be_v the_o defilement_n of_o the_o other_o yet_o second_o satan_n be_v so_o serpentine_a and_o crafty_a that_o often_o he_o can_v restrain_v the_o will_n and_o put_v on_o the_o form_n of_o a_o angel_n of_o light_n and_o set_v on_o a_o strict_a garb_n of_o holiness_n and_o mortification_n then_o ordinary_a even_o unto_o a_o erenetique_a monastical_a conversation_n deny_v the_o lawful_a comfort_n of_o humane_a life_n and_o society_n that_o he_o may_v make_v the_o great_a impression_n to_o deceive_v thereby_o as_o he_o do_v in_o some_o of_o the_o crafty_a deceive_a heretic_n of_o these_o day_n therefore_o it_o be_v not_o only_o the_o duty_n of_o all_o christ_n faithful_a one_o but_o their_o honour_n and_o glory_n and_o their_o crown_n to_o abominate_a and_o hate_v all_o such_o deed_n and_o mystery_n of_o satan_n even_o as_o they_o be_v abominate_v and_o hate_v by_o christ_n himself_o verse_n 7._o he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n let_v he_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n to_o he_o that_o overcome_v will_v i_o give_v to_o taste_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n which_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o paradise_n of_o god_n the_o ear_n be_v the_o chief_a instrument_n or_o organ_n by_o which_o we_o hear_v and_o the_o spirit_n set_v it_o here_o metonimical_o for_o hear_v itself_o such_o a_o hear_n or_o right_a understanding_n as_o be_v mention_v in_o rom._n 10.17_o as_o come_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n by_o a_o sagacious_a and_o diligent_a prepend_v of_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n in_o the_o word_n stir_v up_o and_o warm_v by_o the_o influence_n of_o the_o same_o spirit_n and_o such_o a_o hear_n or_o such_o a_o ear_n be_v here_o call_v as_o competent_o fit_a for_o the_o comprehension_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o these_o prophecy_n hence_o note_v observe_v that_o there_o be_v chief_o require_v a_o spiritualised_a and_o enlighten_v reason_n and_o a_o well_o order_v judgement_n for_o the_o discovery_n of_o the_o mystery_n of_o this_o book_n of_o prophecy_n holy_a and_o good_a affection_n without_o sound_a knowledge_n will_v not_o reach_v it_o it_o be_v for_o he_o that_o have_v understanding_n that_o must_v count_v the_o number_n of_o the_o beast_n rev._n 13.18_o god_n have_v give_v diversity_n of_o gift_n to_o his_o church_n for_o the_o profit_n of_o the_o whole_a some_o one_o be_v excellent_a for_o a_o interpretation_n of_o tongue_n another_o for_o prophecy_n another_o for_o exhortation_n another_o for_o a_o psalm_n another_o for_o gubernation_n and_o discipline_n another_o be_v excellent_a about_o justification_n another_o about_o the_o doctrine_n of_o holiness_n and_o sanctification_n other_o again_o be_v for_o unlock_v prophetical_a deep_n and_o mystery_n etc._n etc._n so_o every_o one_o have_v their_o variety_n of_o gift_n and_o excellency_n that_o the_o body_n may_v be_v complete_v and_o make_v perfect_a by_o the_o co-assistance_n and_o harmony_n of_o the_o whole_a let_v it_o not_o seem_v strange_a that_o this_o book_n be_v dark_a and_o difficult_a to_o the_o supine_n and_o lazy_a christian_n it_o be_v only_o for_o he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n to_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n what_o be_v mean_v by_o the_o spirit_n that_o speak_v unto_o the_o church_n be_v to_o be_v inquire_v into_o it_o can_v be_v understand_v neither_o angel_n nor_o the_o holy_a spirit_n personal_o consider_v for_o in_o the_o next_o immediate_a verse_n the_o same_o spirit_n be_v call_v the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o which_o be_v dead_a and_o be_v alive_a now_o this_o must_v be_v christ_n who_o appear_v unto_o john_n not_o in_o his_o humanity_n but_o spiritual_o in_o his_o deity_n under_o the_o figure_n and_o likeness_n of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n review_n v._n 13._o of_o the_o first_o chapter_n more_o full_o to_o this_o purpose_n and_o here_o he_o be_v call_v the_o spirit_n to_o denote_v observe_v that_o christ_n be_v one_o and_o the_o same_o not_o only_o in_o property_n and_o quality_n with_o the_o holy_a spirit_n but_o in_o essence_n also_o he_o have_v the_o incommunicable_a property_n of_o the_o father_n in_o the_o word_n in_o the_o next_o verse_n and_o precedent_a chapter_n v._o 4_o 8_o &_o 17._o who_o be_v the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o in_o vers_fw-la 18._o of_o this_o chapter_n he_o be_v call_v the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o in_o this_o verse_n he_o be_v call_v the_o spirit_n all_o make_v up_o this_o harmonious_a conclusion_n and_o truth_n that_o christ_n be_v one_o and_o the_o same_o everlasting_a father_n son_n and_o spirit_n our_o god_n bless_v for_o ever_o observe_v another_o note_n from_o these_o word_n be_v that_o every_o wise_a and_o judicious_a christian_n ought_v to_o be_v very_a intent_n and_o inquire_v into_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n in_o and_o about_o all_o his_o providential_a deal_n and_o discovery_n towards_o his_o church_n abroad_o in_o the_o world_n what_o god_n speak_v unto_o his_o church_n be_v not_o of_o a_o private_a interpretation_n but_o of_o a_o public_a concernment_n unto_o all_o other_o if_o god_n have_v deal_v in_o judgement_n and_o righteousness_n with_o those_o asiatic_a church_n and_o for_o their_o abound_a iniquity_n unrepented_a of_o have_v anathematise_v and_o utter_o unchurch_v they_o all_o think_v not_o that_o we_o shall_v go_v free_a if_o we_o be_v find_v in_o the_o same_o transgression_n with_o they_o there_o be_v other_o church_n too_o as_o well_o as_o these_o once_o famous_a for_o their_o faith_n and_o piety_n now_o become_v the_o den_n of_o dragon_n and_o habitation_n of_o all_o unclean_a spirit_n therefore_o to_o avoid_v the_o stroke_n of_o divine_a judgement_n by_o a_o timely_a repentance_n how_o behoveful_a and_o necessary_a it_o be_v for_o he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n to_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n for_o be_v sure_a if_o we_o run_v the_o same_o course_n of_o sin_n with_o they_o we_o shall_v drink_v the_o same_o cup_n of_o indignation_n with_o they_o also_o if_o we_o continue_v obstinate_a and_o repent_v not_o for_o god_n be_v the_o same_o immutable_a be_v just_a and_o righteous_a and_o a_o hater_n of_o all_o iniquity_n today_o and_o for_o ever_o but_o to_o he_o that_o overcome_v that_o be_v hold_v out_o against_o the_o spiritual_a assault_n of_o satan_n and_o so_o overcome_v his_o temptation_n will_v i_o give_v say_v christ_n to_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n which_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o paradise_n of_o god_n here_o we_o have_v the_o triumphant_a christian_a conqueror_n describe_v together_o with_o his_o crown_n and_o reward_n to_o he_o that_o overcome_v that_o be_v the_o conqueror_n the_o reward_n be_v to_o eat_v of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n in_o the_o paradise_n of_o god_n but_o if_o it_o shall_v be_v ask_v wherein_o shall_v a_o christian_n combatant_n overcome_v to_o denominate_v he_o a_o true_a conqueror_n and_o to_o overcome_v indeed_o i_o answer_v as_o god_n have_v furnish_v we_o with_o variety_n of_o spiritual_a weapon_n and_o armoury_n from_o himself_o which_o be_v mighty_a through_o god_n to_o pull_v down_o the_o strong_a hold_v of_o satan_n so_o we_o have_v divers_a and_o various_a stratagem_n and_o wile_n of_o he_o to_o meet_v with_o in_o our_o christian_n warfare_n here_o beneath_o we_o have_v not_o only_o to_o fight_v with_o our_o corruption_n within_o but_o we_o must_v meet_v with_o divers_a assault_n of_o satan_n also_o from_o without_o enticement_n and_o allurement_n to_o false_a doctrine_n and_o worship_n and_o if_o we_o comply_v not_o we_o may_v be_v sure_a to_o meet_v his_o buffet_n from_o without_o in_o revile_n reproach_n affliction_n etc._n etc._n and_o often_o as_o paul_n do_v fight_v with_o unreasonable_a and_o bestial_a man_n as_o he_o do_v after_o the_o manner_n of_o beast_n at_o ephesus_n so_o that_o he_o that_o overcome_v to_o
end_n blaspheme_v and_o raise_v a_o most_o false_a report_n touch_v his_o resurrection_n and_o affirm_v that_o his_o disciple_n come_v and_o steal_v he_o away_o out_o of_o his_o sepulchre_n and_o that_o he_o be_v not_o indeed_o rise_v as_o they_o affirm_v but_o convey_v away_o close_o by_o they_o that_o he_o may_v be_v deify_v and_o this_o the_o unbelieving_a perverse_a jew_n say_v unto_o this_o day_n their_o malice_n stop_v not_o here_o against_o the_o head_n but_o also_o fall_v foul_a upon_o his_o member_n and_o church_n in_o succeed_a age_n we_o see_v how_o malicious_o they_o fall_v upon_o stephen_n in_o act._n 7._o and_o how_o zealous_a saul_n himself_o be_v while_o a_o unconvert_v jew_n against_o the_o disciple_n at_o damascus_n act_v 9_o what_o uproar_n do_v the_o jew_n raise_v and_o what_o provocation_n do_v they_o use_v to_o incense_v the_o magistrate_n and_o chief_a governor_n against_o the_o apostle_n and_o disciple_n of_o christ_n in_o every_o place_n and_o city_n these_o asiatic_a church_n be_v not_o free_a of_o their_o clamour_n or_o their_o invective_n against_o the_o christian_n profession_n paul_n meet_v they_o at_o antioch_n act_v 13.45_o and_o at_o iconism_n act_n 14.2.19_o who_o stone_v paul_n and_o at_o thessolonica_n act_v 17.5_o a_o uproar_n be_v rise_v by_o the_o jew_n by_o reason_n of_o he_o at_o corinth_n he_o be_v draw_v before_o gallio_n at_o the_o judgement_n seat_n by_o the_o envy_n of_o the_o jew_n act_n 18.12_o and_o at_o ephesus_n he_o find_v the_o same_o malicious_a deal_n from_o the_o jew_n act_n 19.9_o he_o find_v some_o of_o the_o same_o blasphemer_n there_o that_o be_v in_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n and_o philadelphia_n rev._n 3.9_o that_o speak_v evil_a of_o that_o way_n of_o the_o christian_n faith_n before_o the_o multitude_n yea_o the_o very_a heathen_n themselves_o be_v more_o friendly_a to_o the_o christian_n than_o the_o jew_n the_o profess_a people_n of_o god_n witness_v the_o entertainment_n of_o paul_n among_o the_o athenian_n act_n 17._o the_o carriage_n of_o gallio_n festus_n felix_n and_o agrippa_n towards_o he_o pilate_n a_o roman_a perfect_a will_v wash_v his_o hand_n from_o the_o death_n of_o christ_n while_o the_o jew_n the_o visible_a people_n of_o god_n cry_v out_o crucify_v he_o at_o malta_n among_o the_o barbarian_n paul_n be_v almost_o deify_v act_v 28.6_o but_o when_o at_o jerusalem_n and_o among_o the_o jew_n they_o will_v have_v tear_v he_o to_o piece_n act_n 21._o and_o 23.12_o o_o strange_a that_o zeal_n pervert_v shall_v so_o rage_v in_o fury_n against_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n and_o his_o christ_n these_o jew_n do_v not_o only_o occasional_o oppose_v the_o faith_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o publisher_n thereof_o but_o of_o set_a purpose_n do_v go_v to_o every_o city_n and_o place_n where_o it_o be_v teach_v for_o to_o oppose_v and_o suppress_v it_o if_o they_o can_v else_o possible_o they_o can_v not_o be_v find_v in_o so_o various_a place_n and_o city_n and_o at_o so_o far_o distance_n one_o from_o the_o other_o do_v their_o part_n and_o vent_v their_o malice_n against_o it_o object_n but_o some_o may_v say_v that_o those_o that_o raise_v blasphemy_n in_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n and_o philadelphia_n be_v not_o proper_o jew_n by_o blood_n but_o such_o as_o say_v they_o be_v jew_n and_o be_v not_o but_o do_v lie_v cap._n 3._o 9_o i_o answer_v indeed_o they_o be_v not_o worthy_a to_o be_v call_v jew_n who_o have_v many_o eminent_a privilege_n peculiar_a to_o their_o nation_n our_o apostle_n paul_n can_v boast_v that_o he_o be_v a_o hebrew_n of_o the_o hebrew_n and_o rom._n 3.1_o 2._o they_o have_v much_o advantage_n every_o way_n chief_o because_o unto_o they_o be_v commit_v the_o oracle_n of_o god_n and_o the_o word_n of_o peace_n and_o reconciliation_n by_o christ_n be_v first_o to_o be_v preach_v unto_o they_o than_o next_o unto_o the_o gentile_n mat._n 10.5_o and_o indeed_o they_o be_v not_o worthy_a of_o the_o name_n of_o jew_n that_o have_v such_o great_a and_o glorious_a privilege_n and_o yet_o so_o averse_a unto_o the_o truth_n yet_o second_o i_o say_v they_o must_v needs_o be_v the_o same_o jew_n of_o the_o same_o blood_n and_o progeny_n that_o oppose_v persecute_a and_o blaspheme_v paul_n and_o other_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n also_o with_o those_o find_v blaspheme_a revile_v and_o persecute_v in_o smyrna_n and_o philadelphia_n be_v so_o like_o one_o the_o other_o in_o their_o curse_a practice_n but_o last_o i_o answer_v though_o they_o say_v they_o be_v jew_n yet_o indeed_o be_v not_o for_o he_o be_v not_o a_o jew_n that_o be_v one_o outward_a but_o he_o be_v a_o true_a jew_n a_o true_a israelite_n of_o god_n that_o be_v one_o inward_a it_o be_v not_o he_o that_o tal_n and_o boast_v of_o his_o carnal_a privilege_n and_o birthright_n as_o from_o abraham_n and_o do_v not_o the_o work_n of_o abraham_n be_v a_o jew_n but_o such_o a_o one_o be_v a_o true_a spiritual_a jew_n that_o walk_v in_o the_o step_n of_o faithful_a abraham_n but_o for_o those_o revile_v persecute_v jew_n they_o be_v rather_o to_o be_v term_v rabshekah_n and_o barbarian_n then_o jew_n for_o their_o circumcision_n be_v become_v unto_o they_o by_o reason_n of_o their_o impiety_n and_o blasphemy_n against_o the_o truth_n uncircumcision_n and_o therefore_o not_o worthy_a to_o be_v call_v jew_n just_o as_o a_o nominal_a christian_n when_o turn_v antichristian_a and_o a_o blasphemer_n and_o persecutor_n of_o the_o true_a profession_n of_o christ_n who_o will_v think_v he_o worthy_a of_o the_o name_n of_o christian_n and_o though_o he_o arrogate_v to_o himself_o that_o name_n and_o title_n and_o say_v as_o the_o jew_n here_o do_v he_o be_v a_o christian_n who_o will_v not_o say_v unto_o he_o he_o be_v not_o but_o a_o liar_n and_o a_o barbarian_a or_o at_o best_o a_o antichristian_a but_o if_o it_o be_v demand_v what_o be_v the_o blasphemy_n of_o those_o jew_n against_o the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n and_o philadelphia_n etc._n etc._n i_o answer_v as_o before_z doubtless_o their_o blasphemy_n be_v bicernis_n or_o twofold_n the_o one_o horn_n thereof_o strike_v direct_o at_o christ_n the_o other_o at_o the_o church_n and_o his_o member_n this_o appear_v by_o act_n 19.9_o when_o paul_n preach_v in_o the_o jew_n synagogue_n christ_n and_o his_o doctrine_n divers_a be_v harden_v and_o believe_v not_o but_o speak_v evil_a of_o that_o way_n before_o the_o multitude_n first_o they_o will_v blaspheme_v the_o master_n and_o say_v that_o he_o be_v a_o deceiver_n and_o cast_v out_o devil_n by_o beelzebub_n and_o a_o destroyer_n of_o their_o law_n and_o custom_n which_o they_o have_v from_o nose_n and_o next_o that_o his_o disciple_n and_o follower_n be_v seditious_a and_o perverter_n of_o all_o magistracy_n and_o government_n and_o also_o among_o themselves_o unclean_a use_v promiscuous_a lust_n as_o the_o nicolaitan_n be_v deny_v the_o holy_a law_n of_o god_n so_o by_o these_o diabolical_a artifices_fw-la to_o bring_v they_o into_o contempt_n with_o the_o whole_a world_n and_o so_o under_o the_o rod_n of_o persecution_n and_o tribulation_n see_v the_o charge_n of_o tertullian_n the_o orator_n of_o the_o jew_n against_o paul_n act_v 24.5_o 6_o etc._n etc._n tend_v partly_o to_o this_o effect_n and_o the_o jew_n perceive_v the_o heresy_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n gnostic_n and_o other_o of_o like_a unclean_a practice_n to_o creep_v in_o among_o the_o church_n be_v bold_a to_o reproach_v they_o as_o all_o such_o and_o of_o the_o same_o unclean_a judgement_n and_o practice_n with_o the_o former_a consider_v the_o word_n of_o epiphanius_n to_o this_o purpose_n out_o of_o m._n baxter_n book_n of_o infidelity_n page_n 131._o which_o sort_n of_o man_n say_v he_o satan_n seem_v to_o have_v fit_v and_o send_v for_o a_o reproach_n and_o stumble_a block_n to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o have_v put_v on_o themselves_o the_o name_n of_o christian_n that_o for_o their_o sake_n the_o nation_n be_v offend_v shall_v abhor_v the_o profit_n of_o the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o shall_v refuse_v the_o truth_n declare_v to_o they_o because_o of_o their_o savage_a wickedness_n and_o incredible_a vileness_n that_o i_o say_v their_o frequent_a villainy_n be_v take_v notice_n of_o they_o may_v persuade_v themselves_o that_o those_o be_v such_o that_o be_v of_o the_o holy_a church_n of_o god_n and_o so_o may_v turn_v away_o their_o ear_n as_o i_o say_v from_o the_o true_a doctrine_n of_o god_n or_o at_o least_o behold_v the_o dishonesty_n of_o a_o few_o may_v cast_v the_o same_o reproach_n upon_o all_o etc._n etc._n these_o doubtless_o be_v the_o advantage_n that_o the_o jew_n take_v to_o blaspheme_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n with_o and_o so_o to_o make_v christ_n doctrine_n and_o follower_n seem_v abominable_a while_o some_o that_o be_v
call_v christian_n be_v true_o and_o worthy_o abominable_a this_o artifice_n and_o method_n satan_n keep_v still_o afoot_a to_o this_o day_n to_o vilify_v christ_n truth_n be_v and_o his_o follower_n by_o term_v their_o doctrine_n novel_a and_o new_a light_n though_o of_o above_o 1600_o year_n stand_v and_o of_o apostolical_a institution_n and_o if_o they_o prove_v faithful_a assertor_n of_o it_o be_v present_o term_v factious_a or_o schismatical_a for_o it_o be_v as_o they_o say_v disturber_n of_o the_o national_a peace_n perverter_n of_o custom_n law_n and_o government_n and_o forthwith_o brand_v with_o anti-magistratical_a and_o anti-ministerial_a title_n as_o if_o they_o be_v against_o magistracy_n when_o they_o say_v in_o the_o first_o place_n fear_v god_n in_o the_o next_o honour_v the_o king_n or_o if_o they_o be_v against_o all_o minister_n because_o they_o be_v against_o the_o formal_a lazy_a and_o belly-god_n priest_n who_o very_a form_n as_o carnal_a ordinance_n be_v perish_v with_o use_v and_o in_o the_o room_n thereof_o desire_v a_o ministry_n sound_n able_a godly_a efficacious_a spiritual_a and_o more_o edify_v in_o the_o assembly_n and_o church_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o next_o place_n if_o any_o defection_n happen_v in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n as_o if_o some_o among_o they_o turn_v loose_a nicolaitan_n or_o the_o like_a there_o will_v not_o be_v want_v the_o nominal_a jew_n formal_a christian_n to_o blaspheme_v they_o as_o if_o they_o be_v all_o of_o that_o feather_n the_o papist_n as_o soon_o as_o they_o hear_v of_o some_o heresy_n break_v forth_o among_o the_o protestant_n present_o cry_v out_o and_o blaspheme_v the_o whole_a name_n of_o protestant_n as_o if_o they_o be_v all_o of_o that_o heresy_n among_o the_o old_a episcopal_a man_n of_o our_o nation_n it_o be_v a_o common_a say_n that_o a_o geneva_n presbytery_n make_v a_o fair_a gap_n and_o be_v a_o downright_a way_n to_o brownism_n and_o anabaptism_n as_o m._n hooker_n preface_n to_o his_o ecclesiastical_a policy_n manifest_v and_o if_o any_o nonconformist_a turn_v anabaptist_n or_o brownist_n present_o they_o will_v say_v the_o presbyter_n be_v all_o such_o and_o again_o if_o any_o independent_a or_o baptist_n now_o a_o day_n become_v a_o familistical_a quaker_n or_o antiscripturist_n present_o the_o presbyter_n lay_v the_o same_o harsh_a judgement_n and_o contumely_n upon_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o the_o same_o profession_n to_o render_v they_o abominable_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o all_o as_o if_o the_o eleven_o apostle_n be_v all_o judasses_n because_o one_o in_o twelve_o be_v a_o judas_n this_o satanical_a method_n shall_v be_v quite_o lay_v by_o by_o such_o as_o have_v true_o learn_v christ_n this_o be_v the_o old_a jewish_a trick_n and_o stratagem_n against_o the_o primitive_a precious_a asiatic_a church_n of_o christ_n who_o be_v not_o all_o nicholaitan_n because_o some_o nicolaitan_n be_v creep_v in_o among_o they_o but_o precious_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o god_n both_o for_o their_o grace_n and_o suffering_n for_o the_o testimony_n of_o jesus_n but_o for_o such_o as_o will_v blaspheme_v the_o true_a doctrine_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o professor_n thereof_o by_o mean_n of_o the_o evil_a among_o they_o and_o to_o cast_v a_o reproach_n tribulation_n and_o affliction_n thereby_o upon_o they_o all_o let_v they_o too_o withal_o not_o be_v discontent_v to_o read_v their_o judgement_n in_o this_o verse_n while_o they_o say_v they_o be_v jew_n and_o be_v not_o but_o be_v the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n observe_v 4._o the_o last_o note_n from_o these_o word_n shall_v be_v that_o a_o mislead_v zeal_n be_v both_o dangerous_a and_o pernicious_a little_o do_v the_o jew_n think_v that_o they_o be_v fight_v against_o the_o god_n of_o heaven_n when_o they_o be_v persecute_v and_o blaspheme_v the_o professor_n of_o christ_n nay_o they_o do_v it_o and_o think_v as_o paul_n in_o his_o ignorance_n that_o they_o do_v god_n good_a service_n in_o it_o if_o our_o zeal_n be_v not_o commix_v with_o sound_a knowledge_n instead_o of_o promote_a the_o glory_n of_o god_n we_o may_v do_v the_o downright_a work_n of_o satan_n these_o poor_a jew_n have_v a_o indubitable_a aim_n and_o zeal_n to_o glorify_v god_n for_o so_o paul_n bear_v testimony_n of_o they_o rom._n 10.2_o but_o it_o be_v exercise_v amiss_o in_o that_o it_o be_v not_o according_a unto_o knowledge_n if_o their_o judgement_n have_v be_v right_o inform_v or_o bear_v the_o least_o proportion_n with_o their_o zeal_n they_o will_v not_o persecute_v the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n from_o city_n to_o city_n and_o from_o town_n to_o town_n much_o less_o put_v the_o lord_n of_o life_n to_o death_n among_o they_o but_o the_o scripture_n must_v be_v fulfil_v use_v christian_n now_o adays_o shall_v look_v to_o it_o lest_o they_o go_v about_o to_o do_v the_o work_n of_o satan_n when_o they_o blaspheme_v and_o persecute_v all_o other_o that_o be_v different_o mind_v from_o they_o in_o some_o particular_n they_o may_v call_v themselves_o christian_n but_o be_v not_o for_o it_o savour_v not_o of_o a_o christian_n spirit_n which_o be_v ready_a to_o cover_v and_o heal_v the_o infirmity_n of_o his_o christian_n brother_n not_o to_o revile_v or_o cast_v a_o rancour_n on_o it_o to_o gangrene_n it_o which_o be_v the_o work_n of_o satan_n though_o i_o be_o not_o for_o the_o least_o toleration_n of_o evil_n or_o heresy_n in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n yet_o i_o will_v have_v all_o to_o take_v heed_n how_o they_o blaspheme_v persecute_v or_o speak_v evil_a of_o that_o way_n or_o practice_v which_o have_v the_o visible_a stamp_n of_o christ_n upon_o it_o though_o at_o present_a by_o reason_n of_o some_o cloud_n of_o ignorance_n over_o they_o they_o can_v plain_o discern_v the_o truth_n of_o it_o in_o this_o case_n the_o counsel_n of_o gamaliel_n act_v 5._o be_v very_o seasonable_a refrain_v yourselves_o from_o these_o man_n and_o let_v they_o alone_o for_o if_o their_o work_n be_v of_o man_n it_o will_v sure_o come_v to_o nought_o but_o if_o it_o be_v of_o god_n you_o can_v destroy_v it_o lest_o you_o be_v find_v even_o fighter_n against_o god_n verse_n 10._o fear_v none_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o thou_o shall_v suffer_v behold_v the_o devil_n shall_v cast_v some_o of_o you_o into_o prison_n that_o you_o may_v be_v try_v and_o you_o shall_v have_v tribulation_n ten_o day_n be_v thou_o faithful_a unto_o death_n and_o i_o will_v give_v thou_o a_o crown_n of_o life_n i_o know_v say_v christ_n the_o tribulation_n and_o affliction_n that_o will_v overtake_v thou_o o_o church_n of_o smyrna_n yet_o fear_v none_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o shall_v come_v upon_o thou_o neither_o art_n thou_o to_o suffer_v only_o the_o reproach_n and_o blasphemy_n of_o the_o tongue_n but_o also_o the_o devil_n shall_v so_o far_o prevail_v against_o you_o as_o by_o his_o instigation_n that_o the_o tyrant_n of_o the_o world_n and_o your_o malicious_a enemy_n shall_v so_o far_o persecute_v you_o and_o cast_v some_o of_o you_o into_o prison_n but_o comfort_v you_o it_o be_v not_o for_o your_o destruction_n but_o only_o for_o the_o trial_n of_o your_o faith_n and_o constancy_n to_o your_o christian_n profession_n and_o your_o tribulation_n be_v not_o for_o a_o little_a space_n but_o to_o continue_v ten_o day_n that_o be_v ten_o year_n that_o answer_v ten_o prophetical_a day_n or_o rather_o i_o understand_v it_o ten_o day_n of_o tribulation_n shall_v pass_v over_o you_o to_o wit_n the_o ten_o great_a primitive_a persecution_n the_o first_o whereof_o begin_v against_o the_o christian_n under_o nero_n and_o the_o ten_o under_o dioclesian_n yet_o however_o this_o long_a and_o tedious_a persecution_n reach_v thou_o yet_o leave_v not_o thy_o constancy_n but_o be_v thou_o faithful_a unto_o thy_o lord_n and_o saviour_n though_o their_o persecution_n be_v so_o high_a and_o fiery_a as_o to_o make_v thou_o to_o taste_v the_o torture_n of_o death_n for_o thy_o faith_n yet_o be_v thou_o a_o faithful_a witness_n to_o i_o in_o that_o death_n and_o thou_o shall_v be_v crown_v as_o a_o reward_n of_o thy_o faithfulness_n with_o the_o glory_n of_o eternal_a life_n observe_v 1._o from_o the_o word_n be_v god_n never_o let_v the_o devil_n loose_a to_o raise_v tribulation_n or_o persecution_n against_o his_o church_n but_o he_o give_v they_o first_o a_o cordial_a a_o preparative_n and_o strength_n from_o himself_o that_o they_o may_v not_o sink_v under_o ut_fw-la though_o they_o may_v suffer_v by_o it_o before_o the_o ten_o great_a day_n of_o persecution_n fall_v on_o the_o primitive_a asian_a church_n christ_n tell_v they_o fear_v not_o those_o thing_n which_o you_o shall_v suffer_v though_o imprisonment_n and_o death_n itself_o attend_v you_o for_o it_o be_v only_o for_o your_o trial_n and_o that_o your_o faith_n may_v be_v more_o apparent_a by_o your_o constant_a martyrdom_n in_o the_o face_n
become_v their_o enemy_n and_o deliver_v they_o up_o either_o to_o balack_n or_o the_o moabite_n hand_n or_o smite_v they_o himself_o in_o wrath_n and_o judgement_n and_o indeed_o balaam_n desire_n and_o doctrine_n take_v effect_v and_o be_v right_a unto_o its_o end_n and_z according_o they_o sin_v and_z according_o god_n be_v angry_a with_o they_o and_o smite_v of_o they_o with_o a_o plague_n twenty_o four_o thousand_o num_fw-la 25.9_o compare_v numb_a 31.16_o to_o cap._n 25.1_o 2_o etc._n etc._n now_o it_o seem_v the_o church_n at_o pergamus_n have_v such_o that_o hold_v such_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n such_o as_o pretend_v fair_a as_o balaam_n and_o carry_v it_o may_v be_v a_o high_a profession_n to_o christianity_n yet_o lay_v such_o a_o scandal_n or_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o church_n as_o balaam_n do_v to_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n that_o be_v they_o hold_v that_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o eat_v of_o thing_n sacrifice_v to_o idol_n to_o participate_v of_o the_o idolatrize_a sacrifice_n and_o heathenish_a festival_n of_o the_o panim_fw-la pergamite_n as_o there_o be_v of_o the_o same_o consort_n in_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n 1_o cor._n 10._o who_o will_v needs_o participate_v in_o the_o lord_n supper_n and_o in_o the_o idol_n sacrifice_n which_o be_v the_o service_n of_o devil_n v._o 20_o so_o pleasant_a and_o sweet_a be_v the_o old_a heathenish_a idolatry_n to_o the_o new_a convert_v christian_n that_o they_o will_v needs_o keep_v their_o old_a jovial_a feast_n and_o sacrifice_n to_o jupiter_n bacchus_n venus_n adonis_n priapus_n etc._n etc._n together_o with_o the_o eucharistical_a feast_n of_o the_o supper_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o not_o only_o thus_o turn_v spiritual_a fornicator_n and_o adulterer_n but_o also_o commit_v corporal_a whoredom_n and_o fornication_n for_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o those_o loose_a idol_n feast_n can_v be_v celebrate_v without_o it_o for_o the_o feast_n and_o sacrifice_n of_o priapus_n venus_n bacchus_n adonis_n etc._n etc._n the_o more_o shame_n and_o bestiality_n and_o lasciviousness_n be_v discover_v therein_o the_o more_o they_o think_v they_o please_v their_o god_n in_o their_o sacrifice_n and_o therefore_o doubtless_o it_o be_v in_o the_o excess_n as_o all_o historian_n that_o treat_v thereof_o do_v witness_n and_o this_o be_v clear_a from_o the_o next_o verse_n for_o it_o come_v in_o with_o a_o conjunction_n copulative_a even_o so_o have_v thou_o they_o that_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o nicholaitan_n a_o loose_a lascivious_a and_o idolize_v doctrine_n agree_v with_o that_o of_o balaam_n only_o differ_v in_o some_o mysterious_a notion_n be_v a_o branch_n of_o the_o high_a fly_v gnostic_n who_o have_v peculiar_a expression_n and_o un-intelligible_a notion_n proper_a to_o their_o sect_n i_o refer_v you_o to_o the_o precedent_n v._n 6._o concern_v the_o nicolaitan_n more_o at_o large_a this_o be_v the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o stumble_a block_n the_o scandal_n and_o offence_n which_o some_o corrupt_a and_o unsound_a christian_n lay_v in_o the_o way_n of_o other_o in_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n this_o word_n stumble_v block_n be_v here_o take_v up_o for_o the_o manner_n of_o man_n in_o lay_v stone_n block_n or_o snare_n in_o the_o way_n that_o make_v person_n fall_v or_o stumble_v thereat_o and_o this_o word_n be_v use_v in_o scripture_n sometime_o active_o sometime_o passive_o the_o pharise_n and_o scribe_n be_v offend_v and_o scandalize_v at_o the_o doctrine_n and_o miracle_n of_o christ_n mat._n 15.12_o here_o be_v a_o offence_n take_v but_o none_o give_v but_o a_o active_a scandal_n be_v when_o a_o real_a offence_n be_v give_v and_o a_o manifest_a stumbling-block_n be_v lay_v in_o the_o way_n as_o balack_n do_v to_o israel_n and_o when_o any_o open_a evil_n be_v commit_v either_o contrary_a to_o god_n law_n or_o when_o our_o liberty_n be_v use_v in_o thing_n indifferent_a in_o a_o unseasonable_a time_n to_o the_o offence_n of_o the_o weak_a whereby_o they_o be_v make_v the_o worse_a less_o godly_a and_o honest_a this_o also_o be_v a_o active_a scandal_n and_o a_o stumbling-block_n rom._n 14._o and_o to_o be_v avoid_v of_o all_o know_a christian_n the_o note_n that_o arise_v from_o this_o verse_n thus_o explain_v be_v obser_n 1_o that_o god_n have_v a_o controversy_n with_o all_o such_o church_n as_o hold_v and_o maintain_v pernicious_a unsound_a doctrine_n and_o wicked_a practice_n this_o be_v that_o god_n hate_v in_o the_o church_n and_o be_v so_o abominable_a to_o he_o that_o god_n have_v a_o charge_n against_o those_o back-slidden_a church_n for_o their_o erroneous_a doctrine_n and_o practice_n and_o threaten_v they_o that_o he_o will_v come_v with_o the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n against_o they_o and_o will_v remove_v their_o candlestick_n from_o among_o they_o if_o they_o do_v not_o repent_v which_o in_o few-age_n after_o he_o exempt_v against_o they_o to_o the_o utmost_a it_o be_v not_o church_n privilege_n will_v exempt_v a_o people_n sin_v against_o god_n from_o his_o desolate_v judgement_n the_o people_n of_o israel_n be_v god_n peculiar_a own_o people_n choose_v out_o among_o all_o the_o nation_n of_o the_o world_n to_o know_v his_o name_n the_o holy_a people_n isa_n 62.12_o dan._n 8.24_o a_o people_n near_o unto_o god_n and_o bless_v above_o all_o deut._n 7.6_o 14._o they_o be_v the_o people_n that_o have_v the_o holy_a land_n temple_n ordinance_n divine_a worship_n oracle_n of_o god_n the_o prophet_n his_o tabernacle_n and_o the_o most_o special_a presence_n of_o god_n these_o be_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o as_o dear_a unto_o he_o as_o the_o apple_n of_o his_o eye_n zach._n 2.8_o yet_o when_o this_o people_n fall_v to_o wicked_a practice_n and_o rebel_v against_o god_n and_o cast_v off_o his_o yoke_n his_o wholesome_a law_n and_o doctrine_n none_o of_o their_o church-priviledge_n can_v secure_v or_o protect_v they_o from_o the_o desolation_n and_o judgement_n which_o come_v upon_o they_o it_o be_v to_o small_a purpose_n to_o say_v when_o we_o sin_n against_o god_n we_o have_v abraham_n to_o our_o father_n or_o cry_v the_o temple_n of_o the_o lord_n the_o temple_n of_o the_o lord_n it_o be_v neither_o birth_n privilege_n nor_o church_n will_v secure_v we_o from_o the_o judgement_n of_o god_n for_o the_o axe_n be_v lay_v unto_o the_o root_n and_o the_o people_n that_o bring_v not_o forth_o fruit_n worthy_a of_o repentance_n shall_v beâ—â—â—_n down_o and_o cast_v into_o the_o fire_n o_o then_o see_v god_n will_v not_o spare_v he_o own_o child_n if_o they_o sin_n and_o rebel_n against_o he_o and_o see_v that_o judgement_n must_v begin_v at_o the_o house_n of_o god_n and_o if_o it_o begin_v first_o at_o we_o what_o shall_v be_v the_o end_n of_o they_o that_o obey_v not_o the_o gospel_n of_o god_n and_o if_o the_o righteous_a scarce_o be_v save_v where_o shall_v the_o ungodly_a and_o sinner_n appear_v 1_o pet._n 4.17_o 18._o observe_v 2._o that_o erroneous_a and_o corrupt_a church_n and_o person_n be_v very_o obstinate_a and_o tenacious_a of_o their_o corrupt_a principle_n and_o practice_n the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n have_v those_o that_o hold_v and_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n and_o the_o nicolaitan_n they_o do_v it_o not_o underhand_o &_o in_o secret_a but_o open_o and_o profess_o as_o the_o israelite_n do_v in_o the_o business_n of_o baal_n peor_n at_o the_o advice_n of_o balaam_n when_o they_o commit_v idolatry_n and_o whoredom_n with_o the_o daughter_n of_o moab_n they_o do_v it_o not_o in_o a_o corner_n but_o avowed_o profess_o and_o shameless_o as_o it_o be_v evident_a in_o num._n 25._o from_o v._o 1._o to_o 6._o and_o beholdone_v of_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n come_v and_o bring_v unto_o his_o brethren_n a_o midianitish_a woman_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o moses_n &_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o all_o the_o congregation_n of_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n who_o be_v weep_v before_o the_o door_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n of_o the_o congregation_n when_o moses_n and_o the_o faithful_a among_o the_o israelite_n be_v mourning_n and_o weep_v for_o the_o abomination_n of_o their_o brethren_n than_o some_o of_o they_o be_v so_o bold_a and_o impudent_a as_o to_o come_v before_o they_o even_o in_o their_o face_n with_o their_o sin_n in_o their_o hand_n not_o ashamed_a of_o they_o sober_a christian_n will_v think_v it_o strange_a that_o any_o profess_a church_n of_o christ_n or_o christian_n shall_v open_o and_o profess_o hold_v and_o maintain_v doctrine_n &_o practice_n as_o bad_a as_o balaam_n and_o the_o nicholaitan_n and_o if_o not_o far_o worse_a and_o yet_o this_o carry_v as_o much_o truth_n with_o it_o as_o any_o historical_a relation_n in_o the_o world_n and_o that_o too_o maintain_v with_o as_o much_o pertinaciousness_n impudence_n strength_n of_o wit_n and_o policy_n as_o if_o it_o be_v the_o most_o virtuous_a or_o
gracious_a principle_n in_o the_o whole_a word_n of_o god_n what_o a_o do_v tug_v and_o patch_v of_o counsel_n there_o be_v for_o the_o uphold_v of_o idolatry_n and_o image_n worship_n in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n for_o many_o age_n all_o be_v anathematise_v by_o she_o that_o will_v not_o join_v in_o that_o false_a worship_n and_o it_o be_v to_o this_o day_n maintain_v by_o they_o in_o the_o face_n of_o the_o sun_n which_o be_v the_o great_a scandal_n and_o stumble_a block_n to_o the_o jew_n and_o turk_n to_o keep_v they_o off_o from_o the_o faith_n unto_o this_o day_n o_o most_o sad_a that_o profess_a christian_n shall_v be_v the_o great_a and_o most_o obstinate_a idolater_n among_o the_o nation_n round_o about_o they_o and_o this_o be_v not_o all_o they_o have_v their_o adultery_n too_o and_o fornication_n profess_o own_v avow_a and_o allow_v else_o what_o mean_v the_o public_a revenue_n that_o come_v into_o the_o pope_n coffer_n from_o the_o stew_n at_o rome_n and_o elsewhere_o under_o his_o jurisdiction_n which_o be_v authorize_v and_o erect_v by_o sixtus_n the_o four_o at_o rome_n and_o pope_n nicholas_n the_o first_o that_o prohibit_v the_o clergy_n marriage_n deprive_v a_o priest_n of_o his_o benefice_n at_o placentia_n for_o have_v a_o wife_n and_o child_n but_o the_o say_a priest_n afterward_o prove_v the_o say_a woman_n to_o be_v the_o wife_n of_o another_o man_n and_o only_o his_o concubine_n he_o be_v again_o restore_v o_o abominable_a and_o doctrine_n of_o devil_n honourable_a marriage_n forbid_v and_o adultery_n and_o fornication_n allow_v and_o countenance_v and_o this_o be_v not_o a_o private_a opinion_n or_o of_o some_o person_n in_o that_o harlot_n church_n but_o it_o exceed_v that_o of_o pergamus_n for_o they_o have_v but_o some_o among_o they_o that_o hold_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n but_o it_o be_v here_o more_o general_a &_o as_o catholic_a as_o their_o church_n be_v so_o catholic_a be_v those_o their_o error_n &_o wicked_a practice_n for_o as_o far_o as_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n jurisdiction_n reach_v esso_fw-la far_o the_o worship_n of_o image_n her_o idolatry_n &_o adultery_n reach_v also_o but_o let_v we_o turn_v our_o eye_n from_o this_o great_a scarlet_a whore_n and_o look_v a_o little_a and_o reflect_v upon_o our_o own_o reform_a church_n at_o home_n and_o see_v whether_o there_o be_v any_o thing_n there_o maintain_v and_o uphold_v as_o the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n and_o the_o nicolaitan_n among_o we_o it_o be_v no_o evil_a to_o inquire_v a_o enemy_n discover_v be_v half_o vanquish_v i_o hope_v we_o have_v but_o few_o of_o the_o late_a generation_n of_o baal_n priest_n leave_v among_o we_o of_o that_o prelatical_a party_n that_o endeavour_v with_o might_n and_o main_a to_o bring_v in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n and_o of_o their_o abovesaid_a mother_n jezabel_n among_o we_o it_o be_v true_a they_o endeavour_v to_o lay_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o true_a israelite_n of_o god_n in_o their_o travel_n towards_o their_o celestial_a canaan_n they_o entice_v and_o invite_v the_o faithful_a one_o of_o this_o nation_n to_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o baal_n peor_n and_o to_o commit_v fornication_n with_o the_o midianitish_a woman_n and_o many_o precious_a one_o do_v stumble_v and_o fall_v thereby_o but_o god_n give_v they_o a_o day_n of_o sorrow_n and_o repentance_n for_o it_o now_o their_o idolatry_n and_o adultery_n consist_v in_o their_o altar_n worship_n pompous_a gorgeous_a service_n cringe_n and_o congee_n at_o the_o cross_n musical_a church-service_n etc._n etc._n all_o which_o be_v but_o part_n of_o the_o garment_n of_o the_o scarlet_a whore_n but_o also_o they_o commit_v fornication_n with_o the_o daughter_n of_o moab_n that_o be_v they_o mix_v interest_n and_o relation_n with_o antichristian_o and_o join_v counsel_n with_o jesuit_n etc._n etc._n and_o take_v up_o profess_o romish_a principle_n and_o practice_n as_o the_o doctrine_n of_o freewill_n liberty_n of_o play_n on_o the_o lord_n day_n and_o conformity_n to_o all_o outward_a ceremonial_a rite_n and_o service_n on_o purpose_n to_o ensnare_v the_o conscientious_a and_o godly_a and_o to_o make_v they_o fall_v and_o yet_o this_o be_v not_o all_o but_o like_o true_a balaamite_n they_o teach_v balack_n to_o lay_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n that_o be_v they_o incite_v and_o stir_v up_o their_o prince_n and_o sovereign_a to_o do_v the_o very_a same_o and_o to_o enact_v heavy_a and_o penal_a law_n against_o all_o nonconformist_n to_o their_o form_n and_o false_a worship_n and_o receive_v from_o balack_n their_o foe_n the_o wage_n or_o hire_n of_o unrighteousness_n it_o be_v not_o he_o that_o preach_v the_o gospel_n and_o life_n by_o the_o gospel_n that_o receive_v the_o wage_n of_o balaam_n as_o some_o fanatiques_n of_o these_o day_n will_v have_v it_o but_o very_o suitable_o it_o maybe_o apply_v to_o such_o prophet_n that_o will_v teach_v their_o prince_n and_o sovereign_a to_o set_v up_o and_o command_v a_o worship_n which_o have_v none_o of_o christ_n stamp_n upon_o it_o and_o to_o enforce_v it_o on_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o true_o godly_a on_o great_a penalty_n thereby_o to_o ensnare_v they_o and_o make_v they_o stumble_v if_o they_o may_v these_o be_v true_a balaamite_n indeed_o and_o for_o this_o their_o antichristian_a service_n they_o expect_v great_a revenue_n encouragement_n and_o honour_n as_o wage_n due_a unto_o they_o and_o this_o be_v the_o wage_n of_o unrighteousness_n 2_o pet_n 2.15_o which_o balaam_n love_v there_o be_v another_o sort_n among_o we_o that_o hold_v profess_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o nicholaitan_n and_o balaam_n that_o hold_v no_o difference_n betwoeen_v good_a and_o evil_n and_o that_o good_a and_o evil_n consist_v only_o in_o opinion_n not_o in_o reality_n and_o these_o be_v high_a fly_v antiscripturists_a and_o antinomestical_a atheist_n and_o be_v not_o so_o much_o as_o to_o be_v converse_v with_o as_o christian_n but_o to_o be_v look_v on_o as_o alien_n and_o stranger_n to_o god_n his_o law_n and_o the_o commonweal_n of_o israel_n the_o lord_n open_v their_o eye_n to_o see_v their_o madness_n and_o folly_n if_o it_o be_v his_o bless_a will_n observe_v 2._o the_o true_a worship_n of_o god_n and_o false_a can_v never_o stand_v together_o dagon_n and_o the_o ark_n can_v be_v competitor_n under_o one_o roof_n christ_n will_v not_o endure_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n idolatry_n and_o adultery_n to_o be_v practise_v in_o his_o church_n if_o his_o church_n will_v entertain_v such_o doctrine_n and_o teacher_n he_o will_v hate_v they_o for_o it_o and_o he_o will_v no_o long_o be_v their_o teacher_n but_o will_v become_v their_o enemy_n and_o come_v against_o they_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n we_o can_v serve_v two_o master_n christ_n and_o mammon_n at_o once_o either_o we_o must_v love_v the_o one_o and_o hate_v the_o other_o for_o there_o be_v no_o fellowship_n between_o light_n and_o darkness_n the_o one_o always_o expel_v the_o other_o observe_v 3._o that_o false_a teacher_n as_o balaam_n may_v carry_v a_o high_a and_o fair_a hand_n of_o profession_n and_o yet_o still_a balaamite_n in_o their_o heart_n balaam_n be_v a_o prophet_n and_o prophesy_v very_o clear_o of_o christ_n numb_a 24._o and_o carry_v a_o very_a fair_a hand_n in_o profession_n as_o to_o desire_v the_o death_n of_o the_o righteous_a and_o yet_o still_o love_v the_o wage_n of_o unrighteousness_n so_o many_o false_a prophet_n of_o our_o day_n may_v profess_v fair_o and_o prophesy_v many_o excellent_a thing_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o truth_n and_o yet_o still_a balaamite_n in_o their_o heart_n love_v the_o wage_n of_o unrighteousness_n willing_o they_o will_v curse_v the_o godly_a &_o blast_v they_o it_o they_o can_v but_o god_n providential_o by_o his_o wisdom_n have_v overpowr_v they_o yet_o though_o they_o know_v that_o there_o be_v no_o enchantment_n against_o jacob_n nor_o divination_n against_o israel_n they_o will_v teach_v balack_n as_o sly_a machiavilian_o to_o lay_v snare_n to_o entrap_v the_o true_a israelite_n of_o god_n and_o make_v they_o fall_v advise_v as_o cunning_a politician_n their_o sovereign_a authority_n to_o enact_v strict_a law_n for_o conformity_n unto_o their_o false_a and_o wil-worship_n on_o purpose_n to_o make_v the_o conscientious_a godly_a to_o stumble_v against_o the_o just_a authority_n of_o the_o magistrate_n and_o so_o to_o sin_n and_o perish_v and_o hereby_o that_o honourable_a and_o just_a maintenance_n which_o gospel_n minister_n may_v right_o receive_v and_o demand_v of_o their_o flock_n be_v become_v unto_o such_o the_o wage_n of_o unrighteousness_n the_o papist_n at_o this_o day_n carry_v a_o high_a hand_n of_o profession_n and_o who_o high_o than_o they_o who_o more_o costly_a in_o their_o service_n and_o worship_n who_o more_o desire_a the_o death_n of_o the_o righteous_a as_o
then_o monastical_a life_n and_o votary_n of_o all_o sort_n testify_v than_o they_o yet_o who_o have_v lay_v more_o stumble_a block_n in_o the_o way_n of_o christian_n and_o the_o truth_n than_o they_o by_o their_o balaamitish_a doctrine_n and_o practice_n it_o be_v most_o usual_a among_o we_o to_o commend_v the_o day_n of_o our_o forefather_n as_o most_o imitable_a and_o religious_a yet_o how_o sad_a to_o consider_v when_o we_o find_v the_o very_a doctrine_n of_o balaam_n leave_v unto_o we_o from_o they_o for_o though_o at_o present_a i_o have_v not_o number_v the_o thirty_o seven_o year_n of_o my_o age_n yet_o i_o well_o remember_v how_o rise_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n be_v practise_v here_o among_o we_o and_o that_o too_o by_o imitation_n from_o our_o predecessor_n we_o have_v our_o floralia_fw-la our_o feast_n and_o sacrifice_n to_o the_o goddess_n of_o maia_n which_o be_v carry_v on_o with_o a_o great_a and_o solemn_a vanity_n with_o much_o paganish_a custom_n exercise_v thereabouts_o mix_v with_o a_o great_a deal_n of_o vanity_n sin_n shame_n and_o bestiality_n and_o this_o not_o only_o permit_v but_o maintain_v and_o defend_v by_o ungodly_a balaamite_n in_o opposition_n to_o the_o godly_a in_o their_o time_n yet_o the_o practice_n thereof_o in_o these_o part_n be_v so_o vile_a that_o the_o same_o person_n the_o same_o day_n that_o they_o do_v eat_v of_o the_o body_n and_o blood_n of_o christ_n in_o his_o ordinance_n of_o the_o supper_n the_o same_o day_n be_v drunken_a and_o fill_v with_o thing_n offer_v unto_o idol_n i_o mean_v in_o their_o heathenish_a sport_n and_o vanity_n but_o bless_v be_v god_n that_o have_v now_o teach_v we_o otherwise_o yet_o though_o at_o present_a we_o make_v a_o fair_a profession_n yet_o still_o we_o have_v some_o remainder_n of_o this_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n all_o england_n over_o even_o in_o keep_v our_o wake_n our_o revel_n our_o parochial_a festival_n a_o foot_n wherein_o there_o be_v a_o great_a smatch_n of_o antichristian_a idolatrize_v and_o eat_v thing_n offer_v to_o idol_n and_o lust_a after_o the_o midianitish_a woman_n and_o flesh_n pot_n and_o onion_n of_o egypt_n in_o the_o observation_n of_o these_o and_o other_o roman_a festival_n if_o feast_n or_o festival_n be_v they_o never_o so_o pious_o institute_v as_o the_o '_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o love-feast_n among_o the_o primitive_a christian_n be_v once_o come_v to_o be_v defile_v and_o to_o lose_v their_o primitive_a virgin_n institution_n and_o end_n and_o to_o become_v sacrifice_n to_o bacchus_n or_o venus_n or_o to_o any_o idol_n whatsoever_o they_o be_v to_o be_v disannul_v abrogate_a and_o lay_v aside_o as_o a_o unholy_a thing_n the_o lord_n deliver_v his_o church_n and_o people_n from_o the_o politic_a balaamite_n of_o these_o time_n who_o will_v teach_v balack_n to_o lay_v a_o stumble_a block_n before_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n and_o the_o lord_n give_v a_o discern_a heart_n unto_o our_o sovereign_a magistrate_n to_o discover_v all_o such_o that_o come_v unto_o he_o and_o move_v or_o teach_v he_o to_o lay_v stumble_v block_n or_o snare_n in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o true_a israelite_n of_o god_n let_v such_o have_v the_o wage_n of_o balaam_n who_o have_v forsake_v the_o right_a way_n and_o be_v go_v astray_o follow_v the_o way_n of_o balaam_n the_o son_n of_o beor_n so_o let_v they_o receive_v the_o wage_n of_o unrighteousness_n for_o their_o hire_n observe_v 4._o that_o false_a prophet_n and_o false_a teacher_n be_v still_o ready_a to_o insinuate_v with_o and_o please_v the_o humour_n of_o the_o prince_n of_o the_o people_n in_o all_o their_o wicked_a design_n balaam_n be_v very_o ready_a and_o intense_a to_o answer_v balack_n curse_a desire_n against_o israel_n if_o the_o lord_n have_v not_o prevent_v he_o what_o elsemade_v balaam_n after_o he_o have_v the_o denial_n of_o god_n that_o he_o shall_v not_o go_v to_o balack_n numb_a 22.12_o to_o make_v another_o application_n to_o god_n to_o get_v permission_n to_o go_v to_o balack_n and_o when_o he_o know_v his_o errand_n that_o it_o be_v to_o curse_v israel_n how_o often_o do_v he_o tempt_v the_o lord_n with_o sacrifice_n if_o possible_o he_o can_v to_o draw_v god_n to_o his_o design_n and_o though_o god_n do_v manifest_v his_o displeasure_n to_o balaam_n in_o his_o way_n in_o the_o business_n he_o go_v about_o by_o the_o angel_n with_o the_o sword_n and_o make_v his_o ass_n miraculous_o to_o reprove_v he_o yet_o neither_o miracle_n cross_n providence_n nor_o prohibition_n shall_v hinder_v balaam_n to_o serve_v balack_n against_o the_o israelite_n if_o he_o may_v if_o once_o false_a prophet_n perceive_v the_o humour_n of_o their_o prince_n they_o will_v be_v sure_a to_o sew_v pillow_n under_o their_o armhole_n they_o will_v observe_v the_o humour_n of_o man_n and_o apply_v themselves_o to_o please_v answerable_o yet_o this_o be_v not_o all_o they_o will_v as_o balaam_n instruct_v balack_n in_o wicked_a and_o curse_a design_n and_o practice_n though_o they_o have_v command_n enough_o to_o the_o contrary_a and_o witness_v sufficient_o from_o heaven_n against_o it_o yet_o they_o will_v justle_v such_o curse_a and_o bloody_a plot_n into_o their_o prince_n heart_n that_o they_o never_o think_v of_o yea_o that_o be_v abhorrent_n to_o some_o of_o their_o nature_n as_o it_o be_v witness_v in_o the_o history_n of_o q._n marry_o that_o her_o own_o natural_a disposition_n be_v good_a and_o merciful_a and_o only_o instigate_v and_o teach_v to_o persecution_n against_o the_o saint_n by_o the_o wicked_a balaamite_n false_a teacher_n as_o bonner_n fisher_n etc._n etc._n it_o be_v observe_v by_o some_o that_o our_o late_a king_n charles_n of_o england_n have_v never_o split_v the_o ship_n of_o the_o commonweal_n against_o the_o rock_n have_v he_o not_o hearken_v too_o much_o to_o the_o advice_n of_o the_o balaamite_n about_o he_o the_o bishop_n &_o their_o corrupt_a party_n who_o teach_v he_o to_o lay_v snare_n or_o stumbling-block_n in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o true_a israelite_n of_o god_n in_o this_o nation_n to_o wit_n by_o the_o promotion_n and_o countenance_n of_o romish_a idolatry_n and_o their_o midianitish_a fornication_n but_o behold_v the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n they_o be_v both_o take_v in_o their_o own_o snare_n and_o lay_v in_o the_o dust_n together_o and_o so_o according_a to_o that_o numb_a 31.8_o they_o slay_v the_o king_n of_o midianitish_a 〈◊〉_d prince_n and_o balaam_n also_o the_o son_n of_o beor_n they_o slay_v with_o the_o sword_n beyond_o sea_n it_o be_v a_o proverb_n no_o curse_a design_n afoot_o but_o a_o priest_n have_v a_o finger_n in_o it_o i_o can_v pray_v it_o be_v not_o in_o england_n i_o can_v wish_v that_o they_o in_o our_o israel_n have_v less_o of_o achitophel_n or_o machiavelli_n in_o they_o and_o more_o of_o the_o simplicity_n of_o he_o gospel_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o room_n thereof_o observe_v 5._o false_a prophet_n as_o balaam_n lay_v their_o design_n not_o only_o for_o the_o temporal_a destruction_n of_o the_o godly_a but_o for_o the_o eternal_a also_o if_o they_o may_v balaams_n design_n in_o his_o curse_a counsel_n to_o balak_n be_v that_o the_o israelite_n shall_v idolatrise_v and_o adulterize_n that_o the_o judgement_n of_o god_n may_v both_o reach_v their_o body_n and_o soul_n together_o the_o devil_n and_o his_o agent_n desire_v that_o all_o may_v have_v no_o better_a portion_n than_o themselves_o they_o will_v not_o be_v content_v with_o the_o destruction_n of_o saint_n body_n but_o will_v night_n and_o day_n like_o roar_a lion_n go_v about_o to_o seek_v to_o destroy_v they_o and_o to_o cause_v they_o to_o lose_v and_o forfeit_v their_o eternal_a state_n of_o happiness_n if_o they_o can_v it_o be_v this_o that_o make_v these_o church_n of_o asia_n to_o lose_v their_o candlestick_n and_o it_o will_v be_v always_o the_o balaamitish_a doctrine_n and_o practice_n that_o will_v cause_n god_n to_o remove_v his_o presence_n of_o grace_n power_n and_o comfort_n from_o one_o people_n to_o another_o that_o be_v more_o sound_a and_o fruitful_a o_o therefore_o you_o church_n of_o christ_n look_v to_o your_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n that_o they_o be_v right_a and_o straight_o to_o the_o rule_n of_o god_n word_n so_o god_n will_v delight_v to_o dwell_v among_o you_o and_o will_v make_v you_o the_o habitation_n of_o his_o glory_n otherwise_o will_v leave_v your_o place_n desolate_a and_o forsake_v though_o you_o be_v his_o people_n in_o profession_n if_o you_o turn_v to_o idol_n false_a worship_n and_o wicked_a practice_n though_o moses_n and_o eliah_n be_v among_o you_o righteous_a soul_n they_o shall_v only_o save_v themselves_o but_o the_o wicked_a shall_v be_v cut_v off_o from_o the_o land_n of_o the_o live_n which_o be_v reserve_v as_o a_o inheritance_n for_o the_o pure_a and_o undefiled_a observe_v 6._o that_o
wheresoever_o idolatry_n be_v admit_v into_o a_o church_n looseness_n and_o lasciviousness_n present_o follow_v error_n be_v fruitful_a and_o one_o bring_v forth_o another_o assoon_o as_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n maintain_v the_o eat_n of_o thing_n offer_v unto_o idol_n which_o be_v the_o service_n of_o devil_n present_o they_o join_v hand_n with_o the_o obscene_a sect_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n when_o the_o israelite_n join_v to_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o baal_n peor_n numb_a 25._o they_o become_v shameless_a and_o present_o fall_v on_o the_o midianitish_a woman_n in_o ezek._n 8.14_o we_o shall_v read_v that_o there_o be_v jewish_a woman_n weep_v for_o tammuz_o that_o be_v as_o some_o read_v it_o adonis_n or_o a_o idol_n or_o image_n of_o adonis_n who_o be_v a_o great_a lover_n of_o venus_n and_o slay_v by_o a_o boar_n in_o who_o memory_n there_o be_v celebrate_v yearly_a solemnity_n in_o which_o be_v the_o weep_n of_o woman_n or_o as_o junius_n have_v it_o it_o be_v osiris_n a_o idol_n of_o the_o egyptian_n and_o phoenician_n in_o who_o rite_n they_o forget_v all_o bound_n of_o modesty_n and_o discover_v their_o nakedness_n to_o the_o idol_n so_o corrupt_a be_v false_a worship_n and_o idolatry_n that_o it_o and_o filthiness_n do_v usual_o walk_v hand_n in_o hand_n together_o in_o most_o partâ—_n 〈◊〉_d â—he_n jurisdiction_n of_o rome_n but_o especial_o italy_n and_o spain_n â—ein_o the_o great_a and_o most_o notorious_a idolatry_n be_v commit_v and_o countenance_v there_o be_v the_o great_a obscenity_n both_o in_o word_n and_o action_n yea_o and_o that_o common_o practise_v among_o they_o which_o be_v unnatural_a and_o sodomitish_a and_o not_o so_o much_o as_o to_o be_v name_v among_o christian_n so_o it_o be_v so_o here_o once_o within_o our_o memory_n with_o we_o as_o soon_o as_o we_o have_v taste_v the_o same_o grape_n of_o rome_n lust_n be_v soon_o promote_v both_o in_o court_n and_o country_n quest_n but_o if_o you_o here_o demand_v wherein_o lie_v the_o mischievousness_n and_o grievousness_n of_o this_o sin_n of_o idolatry_n i_o answer_v 1._o all_o idolater_n they_o forsake_v the_o true_a god_n 2._o they_o change_v the_o glory_n of_o the_o incorruptible_a god_n into_o the_o form_n of_o creep_a thing_n 3._o they_o thrust_v out_o the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n from_o their_o holy_a place_n and_o at_o last_o god_n himself_o 4._o they_o slight_a god_n and_o his_o help_n in_o extremity_n and_o call_v to_o their_o idol_n that_o see_v not_o hear_v not_o nor_o understand_v as_o the_o papist_n do_v to_o s._n anthony_n s._n francis_n etc._n etc._n 5._o they_o become_v prodigal_a towards_o their_o idol_n as_o the_o adulterer_n think_v nothing_o too_o much_o for_o his_o harlot_n so_o they_o nothing_o too_o much_o for_o their_o idolatrize_a worship_n witness_v the_o church_n of_o rome_n 6._o they_o become_v unclean_a and_o nicolaitan_n which_o thing_n god_n hate_v 7._o they_o become_v fool_n infatuate_v and_o deliver_v over_o to_o a_o reprobate_a sense_n whilst_o they_o disclaim_v the_o great_a infinite_a glorious_a holy_a and_o alwise_a god_n and_o in_o the_o room_n thereof_o adore_v batts_n ox_n mole_n owl_n etc._n etc._n and_o that_o which_o be_v worse_o little_a piece_n of_o dead_a wood_n metal_n and_o the_o like_a carve_v and_o frame_v by_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o workman_n and_o this_o be_v the_o just_a hand_n of_o god_n upon_o all_o idolater_n who_o receive_v not_o the_o truth_n in_o the_o love_n of_o it_o and_o therefore_o god_n give_v they_o over_o to_o strange_a delusion_n and_o believe_v a_o lie_n observe_v 7._o the_o last_o note_n from_o these_o word_n shall_v be_v that_o it_o be_v one_o of_o the_o difficult_a undertake_n of_o the_o ministry_n of_o christ_n to_o take_v off_o or_o wean_v either_o new_a plant_v church_n or_o new_o reform_v one_o from_o their_o old_a false_a worship_n and_o practice_n some_o of_o the_o new_a plant_v church_n as_o of_o pergamus_n corinth_n and_o other_o of_o the_o gentile_n think_v that_o they_o may_v still_o participate_v of_o their_o former_a sacrifice_n of_o devil_n and_o their_o idolathite_n and_o of_o christ_n table_n also_o but_o the_o apostle_n paul_n be_v very_o bitter_a against_o such_o in_o 1_o cor._n 10.20_o 21._o and_o the_o spirit_n here_o also_o fall_v foul_a upon_o they_o and_o set_v a_o check_n upon_o the_o pergamitish_a church_n for_o entertainment_n of_o such_o doctrine_n what_o ado_n have_v paul_n also_o to_o take_v off_o the_o believe_a jew_n from_o their_o circumcision_n and_o moysaicall_a rite_n they_o will_v needs_o have_v the_o observation_n of_o all_o the_o ceremonial_a law_n and_o pedagogy_n of_o moses_n join_v to_o christ_n for_o justification_n and_o so_o make_v christ_n of_o none_o effect_v no_o less_o than_o a_o full_a council_n of_o apostle_n and_o elder_n be_v sufficient_a to_o remove_v this_o stumble_a block_n out_o of_o the_o way_n act_n 15._o and_o what_o a_o difficult_a business_n it_o be_v in_o the_o first_o reformation_n to_o reform_v up_o full_o all_o the_o world_n know_v what_o uproar_n commotion_n and_o civil_a war_n there_o be_v in_o k._n edward_n the_o sixth_n day_n when_o the_o mass-book_n be_v but_o turn_v into_o english_a as_o some_o of_o k._n edward_n counsellor_n advise_v our_o cornish_a rebel_n who_o be_v then_o in_o arm_n for_o their_o old_a mumpsimus_n and_o popish_a worship_n and_o sure_o luther_n nor_o zuinglius_fw-la nor_o calvin_n can_v go_v on_o with_o a_o thorough_a reformation_n in_o germany_n france_n or_o other_o place_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o unpreparedness_n and_o unsuitable_a state_n and_o condition_n of_o the_o nation_n among_o who_o they_o begin_v the_o reformation_n be_v so_o long_a time_n settle_v and_o fix_v upon_o their_o old_a lees_n it_o be_v a_o very_a difficult_a work_n for_o they_o to_o go_v far_o through_o with_o it_o than_o be_v fit_a and_o competent_a for_o that_o generation_n who_o always_o reserve_v some_o relic_n remain_v and_o smack_v of_o popery_n though_o the_o main_a work_n be_v beat_v down_o and_o therefore_o some_o heady_a people_n of_o those_o time_n that_o will_v not_o condescend_v in_o any_o thing_n or_o have_v providential_a carriage_n towards_o the_o weak_a and_o dark_a sort_n of_o people_n will_v reform_v thing_n even_o to_o the_o height_n and_o full_a pitch_n of_o reformation_n according_a to_o the_o primitive_a pattern_n but_o the_o people_n of_o they_o age_n be_v not_o able_a to_o bear_v it_o it_o cause_v much_o trouble_n to_o the_o church_n and_o through_o intemperate_a zeal_n much_o hindrance_n and_o obstruction_n to_o the_o begin_v reformation_n and_o advantage_n to_o the_o enemy_n but_o since_o in_o many_o place_n and_o nation_n of_o the_o reform_a this_o reformation_n have_v make_v a_o further_a progress_n by_o some_o step_n yet_o still_o among_o most_o of_o the_o reform_a not_o only_o in_o this_o nation_n but_o elsewhere_o there_o be_v some_o remain_v of_o the_o old_a false_a worship_n and_o practice_n and_o a_o lust_a after_o they_o so_o strong_a a_o desire_n we_o have_v to_o the_o imitation_n of_o our_o predecessor_n practice_n be_v they_o never_o so_o corrupt_a yet_o bless_v be_v god_n for_o that_o reformation_n we_o enjoy_v and_o liberty_n to_o profess_v and_o practice_v the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n according_a to_o the_o most_o undefiled_a and_o pure_a pattern_n that_o we_o judge_v agreeable_a to_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n what_o shall_v we_o desire_v more_o on_o our_o own_o part_n or_o what_o great_a blessing_n can_v we_o expect_v from_o god_n by_o the_o sword_n of_o the_o magistrate_n then_o to_o be_v protect_v secure_v and_o countenance_v in_o the_o way_n and_o worship_n of_o god_n according_a to_o a_o good_a conscience_n if_o the_o minister_n and_o church_n will_v not_o reform_v in_o such_o a_o day_n when_o public_a edict_n be_v go_v forth_o from_o cyrus_n to_o set_v israel_n free_a i_o wonder_v when_o they_o will_v fall_v upon_o it_o do_v they_o expect_v the_o magistrate_n to_o command_v and_o compel_v all_o unto_o the_o work_n alas_o this_o be_v not_o the_o generation_n that_o all_o will_v be_v fit_a for_o such_o a_o work_n in_o a_o whole_a nation_n or_o kingdom_n no_o never_o will_v there_o be_v such_o a_o golden_a age_n until_o christ_n himself_o shall_v come_v with_o the_o fan_n in_o his_o hand_n to_o purge_v his_o garner_n and_o take_v the_o kingdom_n unto_o himself_o be_v not_o the_o church_n a_o lily_n among_o thorn_n if_o the_o whole_a nation_n be_v the_o church_n where_o be_v the_o thorn_n be_v they_o the_o other_o neighbour_n nation_n about_o alas_o they_o be_v lily_n too_o church_n on_o that_o account_n as_o well_o as_o you_o be_v they_o the_o gentle_a nation_n as_o turk_n persian_n antichristian_o and_o popish_a nation_n as_o italian_n spanish_a french_a &_o c_o alas_o they_o be_v no_o thorn_n to_o you_o the_o reform_a nation_n be_v in_o equal_a balance_n
to_o they_o and_o as_o apt_a to_o hear_v they_o as_o they_o you_o but_o i_o confess_v you_o have_v those_o christian_n society_n and_o church_n among_o you_o that_o be_v as_o lily_n shine_v in_o grace_n among_o those_o thorn_n and_o unfruitful_a nation_n and_o to_o retard_v our_o reformation_n in_o church_n and_o ordinance_n till_o all_o be_v square_v and_o hew_v fit_a for_o this_o work_n or_o before_o the_o magistrate_n compel_v all_o unto_o this_o work_n be_v a_o vain_a expectation_n see_v that_o there_o be_v so_o much_o of_o that_o old_a leven_a of_o our_o ancestor_n national_a church_n national_a officer_n birth_n privilege_n and_o ordinance_n on_o that_o account_n etc._n etc._n still_o remain_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o most_o among_o we_o that_o it_o will_v not_o only_o render_v the_o work_n of_o a_o full_a reformation_n in_o this_o generation_n most_o difficult_a but_o the_o attempt_n thereof_o rather_o dangerous_a and_o prejudicial_a not_o only_o to_o the_o faithful_a in_o this_o land_n but_o general_o to_o the_o cause_n of_o christ_n in_o all_o the_o reform_a nation_n round_o about_o we_o witness_v the_o intemperate_a zeal_n of_o many_o that_o live_v in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o first_o reformation_n who_o become_v a_o reproach_n and_o a_o shame_n in_o their_o irregular_a attempt_n about_o this_o work_n though_o they_o have_v good_a heart_n and_o desire_v and_o aim_v at_o good_a and_o just_a thing_n yet_o they_o prosecute_v it_o not_o just_o for_o to_o denominate_v a_o good_a action_n or_o work_n the_o thing_n itself_o desire_v and_o attempt_v must_v not_o only_o be_v a_o good_a and_o honest_a thing_n in_o itself_o as_o a_o full_a reformation_n to_o god_n word_n be_v but_o it_o must_v have_v other_o honest_a circumstance_n in_o it_o also_o 1_o the_o time_n when_o must_v be_v consider_v in_o such_o a_o time_n when_o god_n and_o a_o clear_a providence_n call_v unto_o it_o 2_o the_o manner_n how_o must_v be_v consider_v in_o a_o peaceable_a manner_n it_o be_v to_o be_v endeavour_v and_o promote_v as_o the_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o peace_n not_o with_o war_n tumult_n and_o rebellion_n against_o magistrate_n which_o be_v as_o the_o sin_n of_o witchcraft_n so_o that_o the_o best_a action_n may_v lose_v its_o reward_n and_o the_o atempter_n thereof_o suffer_v just_o for_o the_o unjust_a prosecution_n thereof_o it_o be_v a_o sure_a rule_n to_o christian_n that_o they_o be_v to_o do_v no_o evil_n that_o good_a may_v come_v thereof_o we_o be_v not_o to_o sin_v against_o the_o law_n of_o god_n nor_o his_o ordinance_n of_o magistracy_n unless_o case_n of_o inevitable_a necessity_n where_o god_n will_v rather_o have_v mercy_n then_o sacrifice_n to_o promote_v any_o just_a end_n or_o good_a whatsoever_o for_o we_o be_v bind_v to_o walk_v by_o the_o rule_n of_o god_n command_n and_o precept_n not_o of_o event_n and_o providence_n therefore_o all_o you_o faithful_a one_o of_o this_o land_n be_v wise_a and_o sober_a in_o this_o your_o way_n of_o temptation_n stop_v not_o the_o current_n of_o god_n reformation_n by_o your_o precipitate_a and_o irregular_a act_n be_v you_o still_o and_o you_o shall_v see_v the_o salvation_n of_o our_o god_n you_o see_v the_o main_a hindrance_n of_o this_o full_a work_n among_o we_o even_o the_o old_a leven_a of_o false_a worship_n derive_v and_o leave_v unto_o we_o from_o our_o ancestor_n god_n will_v remove_v this_o more_o and_o more_o by_o step_n and_o degree_n and_o that_o more_o general_o and_o will_v enlarge_v the_o tent_n of_o jacob_n among_o we_o if_o we_o provoke_v not_o god_n by_o our_o sin_n towards_o he_o but_o to_o expect_v a_o total_a reformation_n never_o look_v for_o it_o until_o the_o day_n star_n shall_v arise_v with_o a_o incomparable_a glory_n in_o the_o interim_n let_v we_o walk_v honest_o and_o sober_o like_o child_n of_o the_o light_n serve_v and_o fear_v god_n and_o honour_v the_o king_n and_o than_o god_n will_v make_v they_o unto_o we_o nurse_n father_n and_o nurse_n mother_n and_o most_o happy_a and_o bless_a be_v the_o people_n that_o have_v their_o portion_n and_o lot_n in_o such_o a_o land_n object_n but_o after_o all_o this_o a_o objection_n may_v be_v rise_v the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n have_v those_o among_o they_o that_o hold_v and_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n and_o the_o nicolaitan_n and_o practise_v spiritual_a and_o corporal_a adultery_n so_o hold_v the_o church_n of_o corinth_n thyatira_n have_v the_o doctrine_n of_o jezabel_n galathia_fw-la the_o jewish_a doctrine_n of_o circumcision_n and_o many_o other_o great_a corruption_n be_v among_o those_o primitive_a church_n as_o drunkenness_n deny_v the_o resurrection_n incest_n eat_v thing_n offer_v unto_o idol_n and_o the_o obscenity_n of_o the_o nicolaitan_n yet_o these_o be_v still_o call_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n his_o seven_o candlestick_n his_o faithful_a one_o call_v and_o elect_a and_o be_v not_o then_o our_o parochial_a church_n our_o national_a church_n as_o true_o church_n of_o christ_n as_o those_o be_v and_o be_v they_o not_o as_o sound_v in_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n as_o those_o first_o primitive_a christian_n and_o church_n be_v and_o so_o deserve_v the_o name_n of_o church_n of_o christ_n faithful_a elect_a and_o call_v as_o well_o as_o they_o 1_o i_o answer_v we_o be_v to_o look_v unto_o the_o first_o institution_n of_o all_o church_n if_o they_o be_v gather_v and_o plant_v by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o spirit_n they_o be_v true_o church_n of_o christ_n elect_v and_o call_v though_o in_o process_n of_o time_n the_o envious_a one_o sow_v plentiful_o among_o the_o good_a wheat_n his_o tare_n and_o darnel_n as_o among_o those_o of_o corinth_n pergamus_n and_o other_o in_o the_o primitive_a time_n yet_o i_o believe_v christ_n have_v but_o a_o few_o thing_n against_o they_o in_o respect_n what_o he_o have_v against_o we_o they_o be_v but_o corrupt_a in_o part_n we_o all_o leprous_a they_o lose_v but_o some_o member_n we_o the_o very_a vital_n for_o i_o much_o question_n whether_o our_o national_a church_n be_v of_o this_o gospel_n structure_n as_o those_o primitive_a church_n be_v at_o the_o first_o seeing_z we_o read_v in_o history_n of_o their_o civil_a institution_n and_o beginning_n be_v so_o divide_v or_o ordain_v by_o the_o politic_a law_n of_o the_o nation_n yet_o withal_o i_o say_v we_o have_v the_o sincere_a faith_n of_o christ_n here_o preach_v among_o we_o present_o after_o if_o not_o in_o the_o very_a apostle_n day_n by_o joseph_n of_o arimathea_n as_o historian_n testify_v this_o good_a seed_n be_v almost_o lose_v among_o we_o but_o again_o revive_v by_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n in_o after_o age_n but_o hold_v captive_a and_o low_a under_o the_o tyranny_n of_o antichristian_a darkness_n yet_o doubtless_o god_n have_v here_o and_o elsewhere_o his_o invisible_a church_n and_o elect_a one_o our_o succession_n to_o the_o apostle_n be_v by_o cleave_v to_o their_o doctrine_n and_o so_o we_o own_o a_o succession_n from_o they_o but_o not_o a_o visible_a succession_n of_o church_n for_o so_o we_o have_v sail_v under_o the_o antichrist_n reign_v and_o tyranny_n over_o we_o and_o to_o plead_v that_o our_o parochial_a society_n be_v church_n of_o christ_n be_v but_o at_o best_a to_o plead_v that_o our_o hundred_o or_o counties_n be_v churchdivision_n presbytery_n or_o ecclesiastic_a jurisdiction_n also_o be_v of_o the_o same_o civil_a institution_n with_o the_o former_a but_o some_o write_v that_o dionysius_n pope_n of_o rome_n be_v the_o first_o divider_n and_o institutor_n of_o parish_n about_o anno_fw-la 267._o and_o bring_v into_o england_n by_o honorius_n bishop_n of_o canterbury_n as_o learned_a master_n selden_n in_o his_o book_n de_fw-fr decimis_fw-la testify_v 2_o i_o answer_v if_o our_o church_n be_v right_a in_o their_o first_o institution_n gather_v by_o the_o word_n and_o spirit_n we_o have_v as_o real_o lose_v the_o very_a be_v of_o our_o church_n under_o antichrist_n reign_n as_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n pergamus_n ephesus_n smyrna_n etc._n etc._n under_o the_o saracenical_a tyranny_n and_o mahometanism_n and_o therefore_o there_o be_v as_o great_a need_n to_o call_v our_o church_n out_o of_o babylon_n and_o to_o restore_v they_o from_o antichristianisme_n as_o pergamus_n etc._n etc._n of_o the_o miserable_a captivate_v asian_a church_n from_o turcism_n and_o mahometanism_n unless_o we_o grant_v that_o the_o whore_n of_o babylon_n have_v the_o keep_n and_o be_v the_o preserver_n of_o the_o ordinance_n of_o the_o true_a spouse_n and_o have_v the_o power_n of_o the_o key_n commit_v unto_o she_o and_o therefore_o the_o authority_n that_o many_o church_n pretend_v unto_o by_o succession_n of_o church_n be_v but_o a_o sorry_a one_o and_o at_o the_o best_a but_o antichristian_a and_o popish_a last_o i_o answer_v that_o it_o be_v not_o corruption_n in_o
cleanse_v we_o and_o sanctify_v we_o how_o shall_v we_o defile_v ourselves_o again_o by_o sin_n lest_o our_o state_n become_v seven_o fold_n worse_o than_o the_o first_o this_o be_v the_o temper_n of_o a_o gracious_a repentant_a spirit_n observe_v god_n be_v so_o gracious_a that_o he_o always_o premonish_v before_o he_o strike_v in_o judgement_n his_o rebellious_a and_o sinful_a people_n he_o call_v they_o to_o repentance_n before_o he_o will_v go_v forth_o to_o fight_v with_o the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n against_o they_o he_o will_v not_o come_v in_o wrath_n upon_o they_o unwarn_v if_o god_n have_v decree_v a_o general_a destruction_n or_o desolation_n to_o any_o church_n he_o will_v make_v it_o know_v unto_o his_o prophet_n they_o shall_v declare_v it_o to_o his_o people_n and_o therefore_o so_o often_o here_o in_o these_o two_o chapter_n christ_n say_v let_v he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n let_v he_o that_o be_v wise_a among_o you_o consider_v well_o of_o those_o judgement_n which_o be_v to_o come_v upon_o you_o and_o be_v make_v know_v unto_o you_o by_o your_o prophet_n john_n and_o to_o what_o end_n do_v god_n this_o first_o that_o the_o lord_n elect_v and_o precious_a one_o among_o they_o may_v be_v awaken_v out_o of_o their_o sin_n and_o bring_v to_o repentance_n second_o that_o they_o may_v be_v secure_v from_o eternal_a ruin_n if_o not_o from_o temporal_a three_o that_o the_o wicked_a and_o impenitent_a may_v acknowledge_v their_o own_o evil_a way_n and_o give_v glory_n to_o god_n and_o justify_v god_n righteous_a proceed_n against_o they_o yea_o often_o god_n will_v premonish_v a_o long_a time_n and_o bear_v long_o with_o the_o sin_n of_o his_o people_n before_o he_o will_v execute_v the_o punishment_n due_a unto_o they_o isa_n 42.12_o jer._n 3.5_o god_n can_v in_o a_o moment_n crush_v they_o all_o with_o his_o breath_n yet_o wait_v long_o for_o their_o repentance_n 390._o year_n 1_o pet._n 3.20_o about_a 100_o year_n in_o the_o day_n of_o noah_n whilst_o the_o ark_n be_v a_o prepare_v god_n long-suffering_a wait_v for_o the_o repentance_n of_o the_o old_a world_n by_o the_o preach_a of_o noah_n unto_o they_o how_o long_o do_v god_n premonish_v we_o since_o the_o first_o time_n of_o the_o first_o reformation_n by_o his_o faithful_a prophet_n and_o minister_n to_o purge_v and_o cast_v out_o the_o leaven_n of_o antichristianism_n from_o among_o we_o before_o he_o will_v go_v out_o in_o judgement_n against_o we_o be_v not_o his_o long-suffering_a exercise_v towards_o we_o from_o henry_n 8._o and_o edward_n 6._o day_n unto_o these_o present_a time_n a_o hundred_o year_n and_o upward_a still_o look_v and_o expect_v that_o we_o will_v pull_v down_o the_o high_a place_n and_o grove_n that_o jeroboam_n build_v and_o the_o priest_n of_o baal_n in_o the_o confine_n of_o our_o holy_a land_n and_o this_o be_v the_o lord_n long-suffering_a to_o us-ward_n send_v we_o prophet_n after_o prophet_n and_o precept_n upon_o precept_n to_o preadmonish_v we_o not_o willing_a that_o any_o shall_v perish_v but_o that_o all_o shall_v come_v to_o repentance_n yet_o for_o all_o this_o and_o the_o many_o day_n of_o peace_n and_o plenty_n god_n do_v give_v unto_o we_o invite_v we_o as_o by_o gracious_a opportunity_n to_o ammendment_n we_o grow_v worse_a and_o worse_o and_o add_v more_o abomination_n in_o the_o service_n of_o god_n then_o be_v at_o first_o until_o at_o last_o the_o lord_n come_v to_o fight_v against_o we_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n of_o war_n pestilence_n and_o famine_n as_o we_o have_v late_o have_v sad_a experience_n of_o observe_v 3._o that_o though_o god_n in_o mercy_n to_o his_o people_n give_v they_o often_o a_o long_a time_n of_o preadmonishment_n unto_o repentance_n yet_o if_o they_o continue_v impenitent_a he_o will_v come_v quick_o against_o they_o that_o time_n that_o we_o look_v upon_o as_o long_a and_o far_o distant_a as_o 100_o 500_o or_o 1000_o year_n be_v but_o as_o a_o day_n with_o god_n yea_o but_o a_o little_a space_n and_o at_o present_a with_o he_o for_o he_o be_v eternity_n itself_o without_o measure_n or_o number_n though_o it_o be_v in_o some_o age_n after_o that_o christ_n come_v in_o judgement_n against_o those_o asian_a church_n for_o their_o sin_n yet_o he_o come_v quick_o against_o they_o in_o a_o time_n near_o than_o they_o think_v of_o it_o be_v a_o quick_a and_o short_a time_n unto_o sinner_n when_o judgement_n reach_v they_o unexpected_o though_o it_o be_v many_o hundred_o year_n ago_o that_o that_o proud_a city_n and_o scarlet_a whore_n begin_v her_o reign_n as_o queen_n and_o the_o time_n of_o her_o reign_n be_v for_o 1260_o day_n yet_o it_o be_v say_v rev._n 18.2_o babylon_n be_v fall_v babylon_n be_v fall_v and_o be_v become_v the_o habitation_n of_o devil_n that_o be_v god_n see_v it_o as_o already_o do_v for_o the_o certainty_n of_o it_o and_o all_o thing_n future_a be_v as_o present_v with_o he_o and_o though_o it_o be_v above_o 1600_o year_n since_o christ_n ascend_v yet_o he_o say_v rev._n 21.20_o sure_o i_o come_v quick_o amen_n the_o people_n of_o the_o old_a world_n and_o of_o sodom_n and_o gomorrah_n think_v the_o day_n of_o god_n vengeance_n afar_o off_o till_o they_o be_v all_o sweep_v away_o with_o the_o desolate_v judgement_n of_o god_n who_o will_v have_v think_v in_o k._n charles_n his_o time_n when_o revel_v quaff_a dance_v and_o all_o vanity_n be_v in_o their_o throne_n that_o god_n shall_v come_v and_o write_v a_o sentence_n of_o desolation_n and_o misery_n on_o himself_o and_o kingdom_n as_o on_o belshazzar_n dan._n 5.4.5_o 25_o mene_n mene_n tekel_n upharsin_n the_o day_n be_v thy_o kingdom_n take_v from_o thou_o and_o give_v to_o darius_n the_o median_a ver_fw-la 30_o 31._o therefore_o if_o we_o be_v find_v in_o the_o same_o transgression_n with_o our_o predecessor_n let_v we_o not_o be_v secure_a but_o fear_v and_o tremble_v leave_v the_o same_o judgement_n overtake_v we_o also_o happy_a be_v the_o man_n that_o fear_v always_o say_v the_o wiseman_n prov._n 28.14_o let_v god_n judgement_n come_v soon_o or_o late_a they_o will_v come_v quick_a enough_o upon_o secure_a unrepentant_a sinner_n it_o be_v too_o late_o to_o prevent_v the_o fire_n when_o the_o house_n be_v in_o flame_n o_o let_v that_o proverb_n in_o ezek._n 12.22_o be_v no_o long_o use_v in_o israel_n say_v the_o day_n be_v prolong_v and_o every_o vision_n fail_v observe_v 4._o that_o god_n people_n and_o church_n fare_v the_o worse_a for_o the_o entertainment_n of_o the_o wicked_a among_o they_o all_o of_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n be_v not_o balaamite_n or_o nicolaitan_n but_o that_o they_o have_v they_o among_o they_o that_o hold_v their_o abominable_a doctrine_n yet_o however_o for_o free_a toleration_n of_o they_o christ_n will_v come_v against_o they_o all_o not_o only_o against_o the_o wicked_a to_o fight_v against_o they_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n but_o also_o i_o will_v come_v against_o thou_o quick_o thou_o whole_a church_n of_o pergamus_n for_o suffer_v these_o abomination_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o thou_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n have_v the_o same_o check_n for_o suffer_v the_o woman_n jezabel_n among_o they_o and_o at_o last_o together_o with_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n be_v both_o wrap_v up_o in_o the_o same_o desolate_v judgement_n and_o misery_n for_o the_o entertainment_n of_o these_o abomination_n among_o they_o liberty_n to_o sin_n be_v no_o part_n of_o that_o liberty_n with_o which_o christ_n have_v make_v we_o free_a faithful_a one_o may_v plead_v for_o liberty_n for_o different_a thing_n and_o judgement_n in_o themselves_o not_o simple_o moral_o evil_a or_o against_o the_o positive_a law_n of_o god_n but_o for_o for_o spiritual_a or_o carnal_a adultery_n such_o must_v needs_o be_v either_o the_o advocate_n of_o antichrist_n or_o the_o devil_n that_o plead_v for_o their_o sufferance_n and_o toleration_n as_o there_o be_v various_a disease_n in_o body_n so_o they_o have_v their_o various_a medicine_n if_o the_o distemperature_n grow_v high_a and_o inflame_v it_o may_v endanger_v the_o death_n of_o the_o body_n so_o it_o be_v in_o christ_n mystical_a body_n his_o church_n if_o the_o distemper_a gangrene_n grow_v high_a and_o spread_a and_o ulcerate_v it_o may_v endanger_v the_o whole_a vital_n of_o that_o church_n as_o there_o be_v in_o natural_a physic_n bloodletting_n evacuating_n heal_a corrode_a and_o cauterize_n medicine_n so_o in_o our_o spiritual_a physic_n there_o be_v variety_n of_o medicine_n suitable_a to_o all_o the_o distemperature_n of_o the_o body_n the_o church_n and_o they_o that_o use_v lenitive_n or_o heal_a medicine_n when_o the_o disease_n call_v for_o corrode_a or_o cauterize_n plaster_n be_v but_o merciless_a physician_n and_o will_v kill_v and_o
murder_n rather_o than_o cure_v and_o save_v alive_a object_n but_o you_o will_v object_v how_o be_v the_o justice_n of_o god_n vindicate_v if_o he_o smite_v both_o godly_a and_o ungodly_a together_o for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o wicked_a among_o they_o i_o answer_v if_o the_o godly_a in_o a_o church_n do_v connive_v free_o tolerate_v or_o wink_v at_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o wicked_a they_o be_v come_v partaker_n with_o they_o also_o therein_o so_o also_o just_o in_o their_o judgement_n and_o misery_n the_o church_n and_o faithful_a in_o pergamus_n and_o thyatira_n be_v just_o visit_v by_o god_n for_o suffer_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n nicolaitan_n and_o jezabel_n among_o they_o and_o righteous_o wrap_v up_o in_o one_o common_a calamity_n with_o the_o balaamite_n and_o nicolaitan_n but_o second_o if_o the_o faithful_a in_o a_o church_n do_v protest_v declare_v against_o and_o endeavour_v as_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lie_v and_o by_o all_o lawful_a mean_n for_o the_o purge_n out_o of_o the_o evil_a and_o erroneous_a person_n and_o doctrine_n among_o they_o they_o have_v do_v their_o duty_n towards_o god_n and_o deliver_v their_o soul_n from_o guilt_n though_o the_o common_a calamity_n and_o judgement_n of_o god_n on_o the_o wicked_a may_v reach_v these_o too_o without_o any_o derogation_n to_o divine_a justice_n for_o it_o touch_v not_o they_o as_o a_o judgement_n but_o as_o trial_n and_o for_o other_o good_a end_n of_o god_n jeremiah_n daniel_n ezekiel_n and_o other_o faithful_a servant_n of_o god_n suffer_v very_o much_o in_o the_o caldean_a captivity_n yet_o not_o as_o for_o their_o own_o sin_n but_o for_o other_o especial_a end_n of_o god_n but_o very_o often_o god_n do_v and_o will_v save_v his_o faithful_a one_o as_o wheat_n among_o the_o chaff_n by_o a_o temporal_a salvation_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o judgement_n and_o destruction_n of_o wicked_a one_o round_o about_o god_n will_v call_v out_o righteous_a lot_n from_o sodom_n and_o will_v provide_v noah_n a_o ark_n when_o he_o come_v with_o flame_n of_o fire_n or_o flood_n of_o desolate_v water_n on_o the_o wicked_a world_n do_v not_o god_n persevere_v providence_n and_o special_a mark_n of_o grace_n appear_v in_o this_o nation_n in_o preserve_v and_o keep_v many_o precious_a grain_n of_o wheat_n among_o all_o our_o chaff_n in_o this_o late_a day_n of_o our_o winow_v and_o tribulation_n and_o many_o whereof_o as_o it_o be_v be_v take_v by_o the_o hand_n by_o god_n as_o righteous_a lot_n and_o noah_n and_o ark_v provide_v for_o they_o by_o god_n to_o pass_v from_o sodom_n and_o the_o wicked_a world_n over_o the_o flood_n into_o a_o land_n of_o rest_n the_o mountain_n of_o ararat_n i_o mean_v the_o wilderness_n of_o america_n and_o so_o indeed_o the_o faithful_a witness_n of_o christ_n by_o the_o dragon_n be_v pour_v out_o of_o flood_n of_o persecution_n after_o they_o flee_v into_o the_o wilderness_n and_o be_v there_o preserve_v for_o some_o time_n until_o the_o day_n of_o wrath_n be_v over_o therefore_o when_o you_o see_v your_o faithful_a lot_n noah_n &c._n &c._n fly_v from_o you_o or_o call_v by_o god_n to_o place_n of_o security_n look_v then_o for_o desolate_v time_n isa_n 26.20_o 21._o when_o our_o halcyon_n bird_n as_o swallow_n etc._n etc._n fly_v from_o we_o it_o be_v a_o sign_n of_o approach_a winter_n so_o when_o good_a and_o godly_a man_n be_v remove_v out_o of_o their_o place_n or_o drive_v into_o corner_n then_o observe_v it_o as_o a_o true_a prognostic_n judgement_n and_o indignation_n be_v nigh_o at_o hand_n observe_v 5._o when_o god_n be_v wrath_n with_o a_o people_n he_o turn_v his_o sweet_a mercy_n into_o the_o most_o terrible_a judgement_n the_o word_n of_o god_n mouth_n which_o be_v the_o staff_n and_o comfort_n of_o his_o people_n he_o can_v turn_v unto_o the_o voice_n of_o trumpet_n and_o as_o the_o roar_n of_o many_o water_n for_o terribleness_n when_o we_o keep_v close_o unto_o christ_n than_o all_o thing_n be_v we_o friend_n servants_z riches_n child_n and_o our_o table_n be_v mercy_n to_o we_o but_o when_o we_o be_v become_v enemy_n to_o christ_n by_o evil_a work_n than_o friend_n servants_z riches_n child_n our_o table_n and_o all_o be_v become_v snare_n unto_o we_o when_o the_o king_n frown_v on_o we_o all_o his_o courtier_n and_o noble_n will_v do_v it_o also_o whilst_o god_n be_v our_o friend_n all_o the_o whole_a creation_n will_v serve_v we_o free_o but_o if_o he_o frown_v all_o will_v conspire_v and_o rebel_v against_o we_o his_o angel_n who_o he_o former_o command_v for_o our_o safety_n to_o pitch_v their_o tent_n about_o we_o will_v then_o be_v command_v to_o come_v with_o slaughter_n weapon_n against_o we_o when_o a_o man_n way_n please_v the_o lord_n he_o make_v his_o enemy_n to_o be_v at_o peace_n with_o he_o prov._n 16.7_o babylon_n can_v never_o have_v hurt_v zion_n till_o zion_n have_v offend_v when_o pergamus_n thyatira_n and_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o offend_a asian_a church_n forsaked_a god_n instead_o of_o the_o powerful_a sword_n of_o christ_n mouth_n or_o word_n of_o grace_n in_o convince_a they_o of_o sin_n and_o mortify_v their_o corruption_n or_o speak_v comfortable_o to_o they_o he_o send_v forth_o another_o word_n a_o word_n of_o judgement_n and_o indignation_n command_v their_o adversary_n to_o go_v forth_o with_o their_o destroy_a weapon_n either_o of_o war_n pestilence_n or_o famine_n to_o sweep_v they_o off_o from_o the_o land_n of_o the_o live_n that_o their_o place_n shall_v be_v no_o more_o find_v o_o therefore_o let_v we_o be_v sure_a to_o keep_v god_n our_o friend_n verse_n 17._o he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n let_v he_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n to_o he_o that_o overcome_v will_v i_o give_v to_o eat_v of_o the_o hide_a manna_n and_o will_v give_v he_o a_o white_a stone_n and_o in_o the_o stone_n a_o new_a name_n write_v which_o no_o man_n know_v save_v he_o that_o receive_v it_o he_o that_o be_v wise_a and_o have_v a_o understand_a heart_n among_o you_o let_v he_o consider_v those_o premonition_n which_o i_o have_v so_o often_o inculcate_v lest_o the_o judgement_n threaten_v for_o your_o sin_n overtake_v you_o and_o therefore_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n to_o he_o that_o overcome_v will_v i_o give_v to_o eat_v of_o the_o hide_a manna_n as_o if_o christ_n have_v say_v although_o i_o will_v come_v against_o the_o wicked_a one_o in_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n and_o fight_n against_o they_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o my_o mouth_n yet_o to_o he_o that_o overcome_v that_o be_v that_o oppose_v and_o escape_v the_o temptation_n of_o those_o pernicious_a doctrine_n among_o they_o and_o keep_v themselves_o undefiled_a therein_o to_o they_o will_v i_o give_v to_o eat_v of_o the_o hide_a manna_n here_o some_o difficulty_n or_o interpretation_n offer_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o this_o hide_a manna_n many_o assert_v it_o to_o be_v christ_n which_o be_v that_o invisible_a food_n receive_v by_o faith_n according_a to_o john_n 6.32_o 33_o 34._o which_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n and_o there_o typify_v forth_o by_o manna_n but_o save_v due_a reverence_n to_o the_o learned_a that_o go_v that_o way_n i_o can_v join_v with_o they_o single_o in_o that_o interpretation_n for_o first_o it_o be_v here_o call_v hide_a manna_n or_o strange_a manna_n not_o as_o yet_o undiscovered_a now_o christ_n be_v the_o know_v and_o manifest_a spiritual_a food_n and_o manna_n unto_o all_o believer_n and_o so_o that_o of_o john_n 6.3_o be_v bring_v thereby_o to_o verify_v it_o and_o allude_v thereunto_o second_o every_o believer_n have_v christ_n already_o as_o his_o spiritual_a food_n and_o manna_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v but_o a_o surplusage_n and_o tautology_n to_o promise_v that_o as_o a_o crown_n and_o reward_n to_o the_o conquer_a faithful_a one_o which_o they_o enjoy_v already_o even_o from_o their_o first_o day_n or_o in_o their_o low_a state_n of_o faith_n therefore_o sure_o it_o must_v be_v somewhat_o more_o than_o christ_n spiritual_o eat_v by_o faith_n manna_n be_v the_o food_n that_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n that_o god_n give_v to_o his_o child_n of_o israel_n in_o the_o wilderness_n exod._n 16.14_o 15._o etc._n etc._n and_o as_o antiquity_n and_o jewish_a rabbi_n testify_v in_o the_o eat_n thereof_o be_v represent_v all_o sort_n of_o meat_n to_o the_o taste_n that_o the_o appetite_n or_o curiosity_n can_v wish_v for_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v a_o fit_a type_n for_o to_o represent_v christ_n by_o who_o be_v the_o true_a bread_n of_o life_n that_o can_v fill_v and_o answer_v all_o our_o necessity_n and_o that_o he_o that_o shall_v eat_v thereof_o shall_v never_o hunger_n more_o but_o this_o be_v a_o hide_a manna_n a_o strange_a secret_a bread_n of_o life_n not_o yet_o
mountain_n to_o fall_v upon_o they_o and_o hide_v they_o from_o the_o face_n of_o he_o that_o sit_v upon_o the_o throne_n and_o from_o the_o wrath_n of_o the_o lamb._n this_o be_v the_o terrible_a and_o unknown_a name_n of_o christ_n which_o no_o man_n know_v but_o christ_n himself_o which_o one_o day_n he_o will_v manifest_v when_o all_o his_o enemy_n be_v make_v his_o footstool_n and_o take_v the_o kingdom_n unto_o himself_o o_o let_v this_o thy_o kingdom_n come_v and_o bless_a be_v he_o that_o shall_v sit_v down_o with_o christ_n in_o his_o kingdom_n observe_v 2._o christ_n be_v very_o zealous_a and_o intense_a on_o the_o punishment_n of_o delinquent_a church_n christ_n come_v all_o in_o a_o fiery_a posture_n against_o thyatira_n and_o withal_o tell_v she_o ver_fw-la 22_o 23._o that_o for_o suffer_v jezabel_n within_o she_o behold_v i_o will_v cast_v she_o into_o a_o bed_n and_o they_o that_o commit_v adultery_n with_o she_o into_o great_a tribulation_n except_o they_o repent_v of_o their_o deed_n and_o i_o will_v kill_v her_o child_n with_o death_n etc._n etc._n christ_n when_o he_o whip_v out_o of_o the_o temple_n the_o buyer_n and_o seller_n jo_n 2._o do_v it_o so_o zealous_o that_o for_o that_o very_a act_n it_o be_v former_o prophesy_v of_o he_o the_o zeal_n of_o thy_o house_n have_v eat_v i_o up_o how_o zealous_a be_v christ_n in_o his_o carriage_n and_o ready_a to_o punish_v all_o those_o delinquent_a asian_a church_n he_o tell_v ephesus_n in_o the_o first_o place_n except_o she_o repent_v and_o recover_v she_o first_o love_n and_o do_v she_o first_o work_n he_o will_v come_v quick_o and_o remove_v her_o candlestick_n out_o of_o its_o place_n to_o pergamus_n he_o say_v repent_v or_o i_o come_v quick_o against_o thou_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o my_o mouth_n how_o zealous_a be_v christ_n against_o the_o zeal-fallen_a church_n of_o laodicea_n cap._n 3._o 15_o 16._o i_o know_v thou_o be_v neither_o hot_a nor_o cold_a i_o will_v thou_o be_v cold_a or_o hot_a so_o then_o because_o thou_o be_v lukewarm_a i_o will_v spew_v thou_o out_o of_o my_o mouth_n you_o see_v christ_n will_v not_o spare_v his_o delinquent_a church_n but_o come_v quick_o against_o they_o except_o they_o repent_v and_o this_o proceed_n of_o christ_n with_o his_o church_n answer_n to_o this_o apparition_n of_o he_o to_o john_n who_o have_v his_o eye_n like_v unto_o a_o flame_n of_o fire_n and_o foot_n like_o burn_a brass_n cap._n 1._o 14_o 15._o verse_n 19_o i_o know_v thy_o work_n and_o charity_n and_o service_n and_o faith_n and_o thy_o patience_n and_o thy_o work_n and_o the_o last_o to_o be_v more_o than_o the_o first_o all_o those_o grace_n here_o mention_v by_o the_o spirit_n and_o find_v in_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v of_o true_a â—eal_a grace_n not_o only_o so_o in_o appearance_n and_o opinion_n but_o in_o truth_n and_o sincerity_n and_o therefore_o christ_n before_o he_o fall_v on_o the_o charge_n against_o she_o first_o he_o give_v a_o approbation_n and_o a_o encouragement_n to_o her_o grace_n and_o in_o effect_n tell_v she_o it_o be_v true_a o_o church_n of_o thyatira_n i_o must_v acknowledge_v thy_o work_n of_o grace_n as_o thy_o true_a love_n towards_o i_o which_o have_v produce_v and_o bring_v forth_o in_o thou_o the_o happy_a fruit_n of_o thy_o zealous_a service_n and_o thy_o faith_n enliven_v by_o love_n together_o with_o thy_o constant_a patience_n under_o suffering_n for_o my_o name_n sake_n and_o by_o this_o it_o appear_v that_o thou_o have_v receive_v the_o truth_n in_o the_o love_n thereof_o and_o withal_o i_o must_v add_v unto_o thy_o praise_n that_o there_o be_v a_o growth_n and_o improvement_n in_o those_o gracious_a work_n and_o the_o last_o to_o be_v more_o than_o the_o first_o that_o be_v though_o thy_o first_o work_n be_v do_v out_o of_o much_o zeal_n yet_o the_o latter_a be_v do_v on_o more_o certain_a and_o sober_a ground_n of_o knowledge_n and_o sincerer_n end_v then_o the_o first_o and_o therefore_o as_o thou_o have_v make_v a_o improvement_n of_o thy_o grace_n so_o thou_o be_v more_o in_o esteem_n and_o thy_o work_n also_o then_o at_o the_o first_o by_o the_o way_n here_o observe_v we_o may_v observe_v though_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n be_v never_o so_o blame-worthy_a yet_o christ_n will_v give_v she_o her_o due_a and_o set_v too_o his_o seal_n of_o approbation_n to_o all_o that_o be_v sound_a and_o righteous_a in_o she_o it_o seem_v there_o be_v grace_n sufficient_a in_o thyatira_n to_o denominate_v she_o a_o golden_a candlestick_n and_o a_o church_n of_o christ_n notwithstanding_o christ_n have_v a_o few_o thing_n to_o say_v against_o she_o it_o savour_v not_o of_o the_o dovelike_a spirit_n of_o christ_n and_o love_n when_o any_o shall_v be_v so_o rigid_a as_o will_v not_o acknowledge_v such_o society_n to_o be_v church_n of_o christ_n because_o some_o imperfection_n in_o they_o either_o in_o doctrine_n or_o manner_n though_o otherwise_o abound_v in_o work_n of_o holiness_n as_o love_v to_o god_n and_o his_o saint_n and_o faith_n towards_o jesus_n christ_n zeal_n towards_o god_n worship_n and_o service_n and_o in_o suffer_v for_o christ_n sake_n doubtless_o with_o some_o rigid_a person_n in_o these_o day_n the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n and_o thyatira_n will_v be_v unchurch_v and_o anathematise_v by_o they_o have_v they_o but_o authority_n over_o they_o though_o christ_n have_v set_v his_o seal_n upon_o they_o and_o mark_v they_o as_o golden_a candlestick_n as_o in_o a_o natural_a body_n some_o member_n may_v be_v rot_v and_o dead_a and_o yet_o a_o lively_a body_n so_o in_o those_o spiritual_a body_n politics_n there_o may_v be_v some_o member_n rot_v and_o dead_a at_o the_o root_n yet_o the_o body_n still_o a_o organical_a body_n and_o no_o great_a hindrance_n to_o the_o whole_a and_o again_o in_o a_o natural_a body_n there_o may_v be_v a_o catholic_a disease_n seize_v upon_o every_o part_n and_o member_n of_o the_o body_n which_o may_v render_v it_o very_o uncapable_a for_o its_o service_n and_o yet_o still_o a_o lively_a body_n so_o it_o may_v be_v in_o a_o church_n a_o body_n politic_a it_o may_v be_v catholique_o sick_a and_o infect_v with_o some_o venomous_a disease_n some_o pestifferous_a doctrine_n or_o other_o and_o yet_o a_o church_n still_o though_o a_o decrepit_a infirm_a and_o lame_a one_o but_o when_o the_o disease_n come_v to_o be_v mortal_a leprous_a or_o incurable_a it_o be_v time_n then_o to_o cry_v out_o sum_n impurus_fw-la sum_fw-la impurus_fw-la procul_fw-la hinc_fw-la procul_fw-la ite_z for_o the_o word_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n and_o thy_o love_n etc._n etc._n here_o we_o see_v the_o good_a work_n that_o god_n do_v approve_v of_o in_o his_o people_n and_o do_v also_o render_v they_o as_o approve_v saint_n both_o unto_o themselves_o and_o the_o whole_a world_n christ_n alone_o be_v the_o public_a approve_a person_n in_o the_o room_n of_o all_o his_o member_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n as_o unto_o justification_n and_o perfect_a righteousness_n yet_o before_o these_o grace_n do_v appear_v in_o the_o saint_n to_o evidence_n their_o calling_n they_o be_v but_o the_o child_n of_o wrath_n as_o well_o as_o other_o election_n do_v secure_v our_o eternal_a estate_n but_o before_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n come_v to_o evidence_n it_o by_o faith_n that_o work_v by_o love_n sin_n and_o death_n have_v dominion_n over_o we_o and_o though_o we_o be_v heir_n of_o all_o in_o god_n predetermination_n yet_o differ_v we_o not_o at_o all_o from_o servant_n in_o the_o state_n of_o unregeneracy_n yea_o therein_o we_o be_v slave_n and_o captive_n to_o sin_n and_o satan_n these_o gracious_a work_n be_v call_v thy_o work_n though_o they_o be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n and_o wrought_v by_o his_o spirit_n in_o we_o yet_o god_n goodness_n do_v call_v they_o we_o because_o they_o be_v act_v by_o the_o instrumentality_n of_o our_o soul_n as_o pass_v through_o our_o will_n affection_n and_o understanding_n and_o here_o love_n or_o charity_n be_v put_v in_o the_o first_o place_n among_o all_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n whether_o love_n in_o order_n of_o nature_n be_v before_o faith_n i_o shall_v not_o here_o dispute_v only_o thus_o much_o i_o say_v that_o all_o general_o grant_v that_o faith_n first_o act_n be_v a_o assent_n to_o the_o truth_n as_o unto_o a_o proposition_n now_o unless_o love_v come_v in_o to_o ingrediate_v the_o affection_n unto_o the_o truth_n propose_v it_o will_v only_o be_v but_o a_o bare_a opinion_n and_o never_o come_v to_o a_o lively_a faith_n second_o i_o say_v love_n be_v here_o propose_v as_o first_o in_o order_n as_o be_v the_o most_o excellent_a gospel_n grace_n 1_o cor._n 13._o throughout_o now_o abide_v faith_n hope_n and_o charity_n but_o the_o great_a of_o
than_o the_o approve_a presbyter_n of_o a_o church_n but_o the_o latter_a zeal_n be_v better_a â—egulated_v and_o more_o sober_a than_o the_o former_a when_o i_o be_v a_o child_n say_v paul_n i_o speak_v as_o a_o child_n i_o do_v as_o a_o child_n i_o understand_v as_o a_o child_n but_o when_o i_o become_v a_o man_n i_o put_v away_o childish_a thing_n so_o it_o be_v in_o our_o spiritual_a growth_n in_o our_o first_o birth_n we_o be_v very_o childish_a and_o zealous_a of_o small_a thing_n external_a circumstance_n in_o worship_n we_o then_o look_v upon_o as_o great_a thing_n and_o if_o a_o paint_a window_n a_o cross_n a_o suâ—pless_a a_o cope_n etc._n etc._n stand_v in_o our_o way_n we_o present_o stumble_v at_o they_o and_o think_v it_o the_o most_o acceptable_a service_n we_o can_v perform_v to_o god_n either_o to_o burn_v they_o or_o break_v they_o to_o piece_n as_o antichristian_a trumpery_n again_o if_o we_o come_v a_o little_a high_o than_o we_o spend_v most_o or_o all_o our_o strength_n about_o the_o defence_n of_o external_a form_n of_o worship_n as_o whether_o presbytery_n independency_n or_o the_o way_n of_o the_o anabaptist_n so_o call_v be_v the_o right_a way_n this_o humour_n too_o be_v most_o prevalent_a in_o the_o neophites_n but_o the_o weighty_a thing_n of_o god_n and_o his_o law_n be_v for_o the_o elder_n and_o strong_a sort_n the_o one_o think_v to_o catch_v heaven_n by_o tything_n mint_n and_o anniss_n by_o be_v very_o intense_a about_o the_o small_a thing_n of_o the_o law_n but_o the_o other_o â—ot_n leave_v the_o first_o undo_v fall_v upon_o the_o kernel_n and_o substance_n of_o religion_n which_o be_v fit_a meat_n for_o strong_a man_n the_o grow_a christian_n grace_n excel_v the_o young_a as_o his_o love_n be_v more_o sound_n he_o love_v not_o for_o interest_n or_o opinion_n sake_n as_o many_o young_a one_o do_v but_o he_o love_v the_o brethren_n on_o this_o ground_n as_o be_v member_n of_o one_o body_n be_v make_v partaker_n of_o the_o same_o divine_a truth_n with_o himself_o second_o his_o service_n be_v more_o cordial_a in_o respect_n of_o the_o large_a experience_n of_o the_o goodness_n of_o god_n to_o his_o soul_n he_o have_v often_o meet_v god_n presence_n in_o his_o ordinance_n than_o the_o young_a christian_n have_v and_o therefore_o needs_o must_v his_o desire_n and_o affection_n excel_v unto_o god_n ordinance_n and_o worship_n see_v he_o have_v ofâ—ner_o meet_v god_n therein_o as_o in_o a_o special_a habitation_n of_o his_o glory_n three_o a_o old_a christian_n faith_n be_v sound_a than_o the_o young_a he_o believe_v not_o because_o he_o have_v hear_v only_o with_o the_o ear_n but_o he_o believe_v because_o he_o have_v see_v taste_v and_o experience_v the_o truth_n and_o faithfulness_n of_o god_n and_o his_o promise_n to_o his_o soul_n which_o the_o other_o it_o may_v be_v as_o yet_o have_v not_o attain_v too_o four_o his_o patience_n be_v more_o try_v more_o refine_v than_o the_o young_a five_o and_o last_o in_o effect_n all_o his_o grace_n be_v sound_a and_o better_o circumstantiate_v then_o those_o of_o the_o young_a christian_n for_o end_n for_o ground_n for_o manner_n for_o time_n and_o in_o all_o other_o circumstance_n whatsoever_o therefore_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o strive_v that_o our_o last_o work_n may_v be_v more_o than_o our_o first_o otherwise_o shame_n unto_o we_o as_o unprofitable_a servant_n verse_n 20._o notwithstanding_o i_o have_v a_o few_o thing_n against_o thou_o because_o thou_o suffer_v that_o woman_n jezabel_n which_o call_v herself_o a_o prophetess_n to_o teach_v and_o seduce_v my_o servant_n to_o commit_v fornication_n and_o to_o eat_v thing_n sacrifice_v unto_o idol_n yet_o nevertheless_o o_o thou_o church_n of_o thyatira_n though_o i_o do_v approve_v and_o encourage_v thy_o gracious_a work_n of_o love_n faith_n service_n and_o patience_n and_o commend_v thou_o for_o thy_o proficiency_n in_o they_o yet_o i_o have_v a_o few_o thing_n certain_a offence_n to_o lay_v in_o charge_n against_o thou_o hence_o note_v observe_v if_o our_o sin_n be_v few_o and_o great_a though_o our_o grace_n be_v many_o and_o eminent_a yet_o god_n will_v come_v against_o we_o for_o they_o few_o great_a and_o scandalous_a sin_n be_v as_o dead_a fly_n in_o precious_a ointment_n it_o will_v defile_v the_o whole_a box_n of_o spiritual_a grace_n god_n will_v not_o inhabit_v quiet_o and_o at_o peace_n in_o one_o mansion_n with_o sin_n and_o wickedness_n if_o ephraim_n will_v have_v idol_n god_n will_v let_v he_o alone_o and_o if_o israel_n will_v uphold_v wickedness_n though_o his_o own_o peculiar_a people_n who_o be_v abound_v in_o sacrifice_n and_o holy_a service_n yet_o that_o shall_v not_o privilege_v they_o from_o a_o babylonish_n captivity_n if_o his_o own_o select_a people_n will_v turn_v wild_a olive_n and_o cruciâ—â—e_v the_o lord_n prophet_n and_o his_o christ_n he_o can_v cut_v they_o off_o and_o make_v they_o a_o desolate_a and_o disperse_a people_n upon_o the_o face_n of_o the_o whole_a earth_n thyatira_n have_v many_o excellent_a grace_n and_o so_o have_v ephesus_n smyrna_n pergamus_n etc._n etc._n yet_o for_o their_o sin_n and_o especial_o those_o of_o idolatry_n and_o fornication_n the_o corrupt_a doctrine_n of_o balaam_n jezabel_n and_o the_o nicolaitan_n god_n come_v against_o they_o in_o judgement_n and_o fiery_a indignation_n and_o remove_v his_o candlestick_n from_o among_o they_o and_o leave_v they_o desolate_a if_o we_o conceive_v our_o grace_n of_o faith_n love_n service_n etc._n etc._n will_v secure_v we_o from_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n though_o we_o admit_v antichristian_a doctrine_n of_o idolatry_n false_a and_o evil_a worship_n among_o we_o we_o shall_v be_v much_o deceive_v doubtless_o many_o of_o our_o former_a bishop_n be_v very_o godly_a man_n as_o jewel_n downham_n Ê‹sher_n hall_n davenant_n etc._n etc._n yet_o their_o real_a grace_n and_o holiness_n can_v not_o stop_v the_o hand_n of_o god_n in_o go_v forth_o in_o wrath_n against_o the_o antichristian_a practice_n and_o false_a worship_n tolerate_v and_o allow_v in_o the_o church_n of_o engâ—_n 〈…〉_o only_o can_v deliver_v their_o own_o soul_n but_o they_o themselves_o 〈◊〉_d main_a and_o the_o whole_a function_n shall_v smart_v for_o it_o in_o the_o day_n of_o 〈◊〉_d lord_n indignation_n and_o though_o some_o of_o they_o be_v godly_a and_o pious_a man_n yet_o for_o their_o tolerate_n and_o connive_v at_o false_a doctrine_n and_o worship_n they_o themselves_o shall_v suffer_v in_o the_o common_a judgement_n but_o their_o pious_a and_o gracious_a soul_n shall_v be_v save_v so_o as_o by_o fire_n not_o that_o of_o purgatory_n first_o kindle_v in_o the_o pope_n kitchen_n but_o by_o the_o fire_n of_o affliction_n sanctify_v unto_o they_o by_o that_o fire_n of_o purge_v and_o cleanse_v away_o our_o dross_n to_o wit_n god_n spirit_n and_o word_n we_o be_v therefore_o to_o look_v to_o it_o how_o we_o admit_v offence_n among_o we_o though_o they_o be_v but_o few_o they_o may_v draw_v god_n into_o judgement_n against_o we_o and_o though_o they_o may_v not_o at_o present_a unchurch_n we_o yet_o if_o hold_v unrepented_a of_o they_o may_v provoke_v god_n to_o come_v against_o we_o quick_o with_o the_o sword_n of_o his_o mouth_n o_o let_v no_o man_n plead_v for_o toleration_n of_o sin_n false_a doctrine_n or_o worship_n from_o the_o primitive_a practice_n or_o precedent_n of_o the_o first_o church_n so_o as_o they_o sin_v first_o in_o these_o particular_n so_o they_o be_v make_v the_o first_o example_n of_o god_n wrath_n and_o justice_n it_o be_v but_o a_o sad_a say_n of_o some_o that_o their_o present_a church_n be_v as_o sound_v straight_o and_o holy_a as_o the_o primitive_a one_o they_o have_v their_o drunkard_n incestuous_a follower_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n the_o nicolaitan_n and_o jezabel_n and_o we_o say_v they_o in_o our_o parochial_a church_n have_v not_o worse_o alas_o they_o be_v now_o make_v unto_o we_o example_n of_o god_n righteous_a judgement_n for_o those_o and_o the_o rest_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o their_o very_a habitation_n give_v unto_o the_o curse_a mahometan_n and_o their_o off_o spring_n turn_v barbarian_n and_o heathen_n and_o if_o we_o be_v find_v in_o the_o same_o sin_n and_o transgression_n with_o they_o o_o may_v we_o not_o fear_v the_o same_o desolate_v judgement_n let_v we_o not_o contemn_v the_o long-suffering_a of_o god_n but_o speedy_o repent_v and_o do_v our_o first_o work_n so_o far_o shall_v we_o be_v from_o boast_v on_o that_o account_n that_o it_o shall_v rather_o be_v unto_o we_o just_a matter_n of_o grief_n and_o sorrow_n but_o to_o proceed_v the_o charge_n against_o thyatira_n be_v that_o thou_o suffer_v the_o woman_n jezabel_n who_o call_v herself_o a_o prophetess_n to_o teach_v and_o deceive_v my_o servant_n etc._n etc._n this_o woman_n jezebel_n here_o mention_v doubtless_o
man_n shut_v shut_v and_o no_o man_n open_v rev._n 3.7_o and_o so_o he_o have_v the_o power_n both_o in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n and_o execute_v the_o office_n of_o a_o headship_n and_o none_o but_o he_o isa_n 9_o 6._o col._n 1.18_o ephes_n 5.23_o second_o there_o be_v a_o delegated_a or_o ministerial_a power_n which_o be_v give_v by_o christ_n to_o his_o church_n and_o this_o be_v 1_o either_o the_o power_n of_o judgement_n and_o election_n or_o 2._o of_o office_n and_o authority_n the_o whole_a body_n have_v power_n of_o choose_v admit_v receive_v or_o of_o reject_v and_o censure_v and_o so_o the_o whole_a be_v above_o any_o particular_a member_n or_o officer_n but_o second_o the_o power_n of_o office_n be_v not_o in_o the_o multitude_n but_o in_o some_o one_o or_o more_o as_o pastor_n elder_n and_o the_o like_a which_o they_o have_v call_v to_o this_o authority_n and_o ministerial_a office_n and_o so_o be_v in_o a_o high_a authority_n though_o inferior_a to_o the_o whole_a than_o any_o other_o private_a member_n whatsoever_o so_o that_o whatsoever_o the_o whole_a church_n do_v judicial_o act_v or_o censure_v the_o power_n of_o office_n be_v to_o precede_v therein_o and_o all_o what_o be_v do_v thereby_o it_o be_v still_o in_o ordine_fw-la ad_fw-la ecclesiam_fw-la and_o hence_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o power_n of_o judgement_n and_o censure_v be_v not_o a_o power_n of_o office_n in_o the_o brethren_n over_o their_o elder_n as_o some_o will_v object_v but_o a_o distinct_a power_n and_o the_o one_o be_v essential_a to_o a_o church_n as_o that_o of_o judgement_n but_o that_o of_o 〈◊〉_d and_o rule_n be_v mere_o accidental_a and_o it_o may_v be_v or_o not_o be_v in_o a_o church_n sine_fw-la interritu_fw-la subjecto_fw-la so_o hence_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o thyatira_n have_v the_o essential_a power_n of_o the_o key_n in_o her_o officer_n and_o fraternity_n as_o in_o one_o origanical_a body_n joint_o together_o for_o the_o remove_n of_o this_o woman_n jezabel_n for_o how_o unreasonable_a a_o thing_n be_v it_o to_o conceive_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n shall_v lay_v a_o chece_n upon_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o thyatira_n for_o suffer_v the_o idolatry_n of_o jezabel_n among_o they_o if_o it_o be_v not_o in_o they_o but_o in_o the_o officer_n power_n alone_o for_o the_o removal_n of_o they_o we_o shall_v think_v he_o a_o hard_a father_n or_o master_n if_o not_o somewhat_o senfless_a and_o beside_o himself_o that_o will_v will_v will_v whip_v all_o his_o child_n and_o servant_n with_o stripe_n for_o the_o neglect_v miscarriage_n and_o fault_n of_o the_o chief_a steward_n of_o the_o house_n and_o shall_v we_o judge_v this_o a_o hard_a matter_n among_o the_o son_n of_o man_n and_o shall_v we_o not_o judge_v it_o far_o from_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n and_o his_o mercful_a deal_n towards_o we_o that_o he_o shall_v put_v a_o check_n upoh_o we_o and_o come_v against_o we_o in_o wrath_n and_o judgement_n for_o tolerate_v evil_n among_o we_o which_o be_v not_o in_o our_o power_n to_o reform_v or_o remedy_n far_o be_v these_o conceit_n from_o our_o thought_n and_o judgement_n concern_v god_n and_o his_o righteous_a judgement_n towards_o we_o doubtless_o the_o whole_a combine_a church_n of_o thyatira_n have_v power_n to_o remove_v her_o scandal_n although_o the_o charge_n be_v superscribe_v 〈◊〉_d the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n woite_n i_o know_v thy_o love_n thy_o service_n thy_o faith_n and_o thy_o patience_n notwithstanding_o i_o have_v somewhat_o against_o thou_o the_o pastor_n officer_n or_o minister_n be_v god_n angel_n they_o receive_v from_o god_n his_o message_n and_o deliver_v they_o to_o the_o people_n they_o be_v aâ—_n it_o be_v god_n mouth_n unto_o they_o and_o acquaint_v they_o with_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n what_o god_n have_v to_o say_v unto_o they_o either_o for_o their_o encouragement_n or_o for_o their_o reprehension_n so_o this_o check_n and_o message_n here_o be_v not_o lay_v or_o send_v only_o on_o the_o angel_n or_o pastor_n of_o thyatira_n but_o on_o the_o whole_a church_n col._n 1.11_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n the_o angel_n be_v but_o the_o hand_n and_o instrument_n for_o to_o receive_v it_o and_o though_o he_o shall_v first_o move_v and_o lead_v to_o the_o removove_a and_o censure_v of_o this_o harlot_n jezabel_n and_o yet_o be_v neglegent_fw-la rmiss_o and_o dormant_a therein_o that_o shall_v not_o excuse_v this_o church_n if_o they_o be_v find_v guilty_a with_o he_o in_o the_o same_o sinful_a connivance_n and_o compliance_n for_o i_o will_v give_v unto_o every_o one_o of_o you_o say_v christ_n according_a to_o their_o work_n if_o you_o will_v indulge_v and_o comply_v with_o jezabel_n and_o her_o curse_a doctrine_n you_o shall_v suffer_v with_o she_o but_o if_o you_o shall_v overcome_v and_o escape_v her_o falsity_n you_o shall_v have_v a_o crown_n of_o life_n the_o power_n of_o judgement_n and_o censure_v be_v in_o the_o officer_n only_o directive_o but_o in_o the_o whole_a church_n formaliter_fw-la and_o effectual_o the_o whole_a church_n can_v act_v out_o of_o office_n neither_o can_v the_o officer_n or_o presbyter_n act_v in_o judgement_n or_o censure_v without_o the_o aprobation_n and_o assent_n of_o the_o church_n and_o fraternity_n mr._n rutherford_n the_o great_a learned_a champion_n for_o presbytery_n write_v thus_o in_o favour_n of_o this_o way_n and_o judgement_n lib._n 1._o pag._n 49._o here_o grave_a beza_n our_o divine_n calvin_n bucer_n bullinger_n melancthon_n bucan_n pareus_n rivetus_n sibrandus_fw-la junius_n trelcatius_n the_o father_n cyprian_n jerome_n augustine_n nazianzene_n chrisostome_n ambrose_n theodoret_n theophilact_fw-mi require_v all_o to_o be_v do_v to_o wit_n about_o excommunication_n and_o censure_v plebe_fw-la consentiente_fw-la and_o why_o shall_v their_o consent_n be_v desire_v if_o the_o elder_n will_v do_v it_o without_o the_o consent_n of_o the_o people_n peter_n martyr_n be_v peremptory_a in_o his_o common_a place_n sect._n 9_o unde_fw-la concluditur_fw-la non_fw-la absque_fw-la commensa_fw-la ecclesiae_fw-la quempiam_fw-la excommunicari_fw-la posse_fw-la and_o this_o hereon_o shall_v suffice_v see_v more_o former_o in_o the_o 2_o vers_n of_o this_o cap._n verse_n 21._o i_o give_v her_o space_n to_o repent_v of_o her_o fornication_n and_o she_o repent_v not_o verse_n 22._o behold_v i_o will_v cast_v she_o into_o a_o bed_n and_o they_o that_o commit_v adultery_n with_o she_o into_o great_a tribulation_n except_o they_o repent_v of_o their_o deed_n though_o the_o church_n of_o thyatira_n be_v very_o faulty_a in_o suffer_v the_o false_a doctrine_n of_o jezebel_n within_o she_o and_o though_o the_o abomination_n of_o this_o false_a prophetess_n be_v high_o provoke_v sin_n against_o the_o justice_n of_o god_n yet_o god_n be_v please_v to_o give_v unto_o this_o false_a prophetess_n and_o to_o the_o church_n that_o entertain_v she_o a_o space_n not_o a_o little_a but_o a_o long_a tract_n of_o time_n to_o repent_v of_o her_o spiritual_a and_o corporal_a fornication_n and_o yet_o â—he_v slight_v the_o long_a suffering_n of_o god_n which_o shall_v lead_v she_o to_o repentance_n and_o she_o repent_v not_o whereupon_o christ_n lay_v a_o index_n a_o mark_n a_o asterisme_n upon_o she_o not_o such_o a_o mark_n as_o he_o lay_v on_o his_o elect_a one_o of_o love_n and_o favour_n but_o the_o contrary_a of_o wrath_n and_o indignation_n behold_v as_o much_o to_o say_v as_o let_v all_o see_v take_v notice_n &_o admire_v of_o the_o righteous_a judgement_n i_o be_o go_v about_o to_o pour_v forth_o on_o this_o false_a impenitent_a prophetess_n and_o her_o adherent_n i_o will_v cast_v she_o into_o a_o bed_n and_o they_o that_o commit_v adultery_n with_o she_o into_o great_a tribulation_n except_o they_o repent_v of_o their_o deed_n as_o she_o have_v play_v the_o harlot_n under_o her_o green_a coverture_n both_o in_o her_o idolatry_n and_o adultery_n and_o as_o she_o make_v her_o bed_n the_o place_n of_o her_o abomination_n so_o i_o will_v cast_v she_o into_o another_o bed_n a_o bed_n of_o my_o own_o make_n not_o of_o down_n or_o of_o wanton_a dalliance_n but_o a_o bed_n of_o affliction_n a_o bed_n of_o tribulation_n and_o of_o much_o anguish_n if_o nothing_o will_v cure_v she_o if_o she_o will_v not_o hearken_v to_o my_o gracious_a precaution_n if_o she_o will_v not_o repent_v for_o all_o my_o gracious_a deal_n and_o long_a suffering_n towards_o she_o i_o will_v cast_v she_o into_o a_o bed_n i_o will_v make_v her_o sick_a unto_o the_o very_a heart_n it_o shall_v be_v a_o bed_n of_o great_a tribulation_n and_o if_o all_o this_o will_v not_o prevail_v with_o she_o to_o reform_v and_o amend_v i_o will_v cast_v she_o into_o another_o bed_n a_o bed_n of_o death_n and_o not_o only_o she_o but_o all_o that_o commit_v adultery_n with_o
such_o help_n jo._n 2.25_o the_o devil_n know_v but_o some_o of_o our_o thought_n at_o some_o time_n but_o god_n know_v all_o our_o thought_n and_o secret_a imagination_n of_o our_o heart_n and_o that_o cotinual_o and_o this_o be_v the_o reason_n because_o he_o be_v the_o alone_a judge_n of_o the_o world_n therefore_o he_o must_v know_v all_o secret_n else_o how_o can_v he_o righteous_o reward_v every_o one_o according_a to_o his_o work_n eccles_n 12.14_o rom._n 2.6_o observe_v 2._o god_n in_o his_o distributive_a justice_n deal_v with_o all_o person_n according_a to_o the_o equity_n of_o their_o work_n he_o who_o be_v justice_n in_o the_o abstract_n will_v give_v unto_o every_o one_o what_o be_v he_o god_n will_v give_v good_a thing_n unto_o good_a man_n and_o evil_a thing_n unto_o evil_a man_n and_o that_o the_o certain_a rule_n and_o measure_n of_o this_o discriminate_a judgement_n will_v be_v in_o the_o last_o day_n according_a to_o our_o work_n object_n but_o will_v it_o not_o hence_o follow_v that_o we_o may_v merit_v by_o our_o work_n answ_n it_o be_v not_o here_o say_v that_o god_n will_v reward_v we_o for_o our_o work_n but_o according_a to_o our_o work_n and_o so_o in_o rom._n 2.6_o work_n do_v not_o merit_v at_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n rom._n 4.2_o than_o we_o shall_v have_v whereof_o to_o glory_v but_o not_o before_o god_n 1._o because_o the_o best_a be_v imperfect_a in_o respect_n of_o the_o most_o perfect_a law_n of_o god_n require_v perfection_n in_o every_o punctillio_fw-la and_o circumstance_n thereof_o 2._o our_o work_n be_v in_o themselves_o imperfect_a and_o finite_a can_v merit_v before_o a_o infinite_a perfection_n as_o god_n be_v 3._o work_n can_v merit_v because_o they_o be_v not_o our_o own_o primary_o but_o of_o god_n efficiency_n 4._o because_o man_n do_v they_o as_o their_o oblige_a duty_n unto_o god_n their_o creator_n but_o god_n be_v debtor_n unto_o none_o 5._o there_o be_v no_o proportion_n between_o work_n and_o the_o reward_n the_o one_o be_v finite_a the_o other_o infinite_a both_o in_o time_n and_o measure_n yet_o howsoever_o though_o good_a work_n can_v be_v a_o even_a rule_n of_o merit_n with_o god_n as_o they_o be_v with_o man_n yet_o they_o be_v a_o manifest_a rule_n or_o measure_n of_o equity_n for_o it_o be_v very_o equitable_a that_o it_o go_v well_o or_o ill_o with_o we_o as_o we_o have_v do_v either_o good_a or_o evil_n and_o so_o every_o one_o shall_v be_v reward_v according_a to_o his_o work_n object_n but_o evil-work_n merit_v eternal_a death_n as_o their_o proper_a hire_n and_o why_o not_o good_a work_n merit_v heaven_n as_o his_o due_a reward_n and_o wage_n answ_n true_o the_o wage_n of_o sin_n be_v death_n but_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n be_v eternal_a life_n the_o one_o be_v of_o ourselves_o most_o perfect_a and_o therefore_o deserve_v its_o wage_n and_o reward_n but_o the_o other_o be_v a_o free_a gift_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o respect_n our_o best_a and_o most_o perfect_a work_n be_v imperfect_a in_o his_o sight_n verse_n 24._o but_o unto_o you_o i_o say_v and_o to_o the_o rest_n in_o thyatira_n as_o many_o as_o have_v not_o this_o doctrine_n and_o which_o have_v not_o know_v the_o depth_n of_o satan_n as_o they_o speak_v i_o will_v put_v upon_o you_o no_o other_o burden_n verse_n 25._o but_o that_o which_o you_o have_v already_o hold_v fast_o till_o i_o come_v though_o god_n be_v a_o god_n of_o justice_n and_o judgement_n against_o jezabel_n her_o adultery_n and_o their_o child_n their_o false_a doctrine_n and_o practice_n yet_o as_o unto_o those_o of_o thyatira_n that_o have_v not_o embrace_v those_o wicked_a way_n god_n be_v a_o god_n of_o grace_n and_o mercy_n unto_o they_o for_o he_o tell_v they_o but_o unto_o you_o i_o say_v that_o be_v even_o to_o the_o rest_n of_o they_o that_o be_v at_o thyatira_n so_o many_o of_o you_o as_o have_v not_o embrace_v this_o devilish_a doctrine_n and_o have_v not_o approve_v those_o depth_n of_o satan_n as_o they_o speak_v that_o be_v those_o mystery_n those_o high_a and_o profound_a speculation_n which_o be_v no_o better_a than_o satan_n own_o device_n and_o stratagem_n hence_o note_v observe_v 1._o that_o satan_n will_v have_v his_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d his_o mystery_n his_o profound_a speculation_n in_o his_o false_a worship_n as_o well_o as_o god_n shall_v have_v in_o his_o true_a worship_n the_o devil_n will_v be_v god_n ape_n and_o as_o god_n have_v his_o wisdom_n his_o depth_n his_o height_n and_o mysterious_a doctrine_n so_o the_o devil_n will_v have_v his_o profound_a speculation_n for_o his_o disciple_n also_o if_o god_n will_v have_v true_a prophet_n and_o prophetess_n the_o devil_n will_v have_v his_o balaamite_n nicolaitan_n and_o jezabel_n and_o those_o shall_v have_v their_o mysterious_a doctrine_n as_o the_o gnostic_n of_o old_a who_o do_v walk_v in_o the_o way_n of_o high_a speculation_n and_o notion_n hardly_o intelligible_a to_o any_o sober_a christian_n somewhat_o like_o the_o necromantic_a conjuration_n of_o the_o old_a romish_a priest_n or_o the_o sublevate_v alegorize_a familist_n and_o quaker_n of_o these_o day_n who_o when_o they_o think_v they_o speak_v with_o most_o understanding_n when_o they_o be_v lest_o understand_v either_o by_o themselves_o or_o other_o i_o will_v put_v upon_o you_o no_o other_o burden_n but_o that_o which_o you_o have_v already_o burden_n in_o the_o prophetical_a writing_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n be_v take_v for_o the_o doctrine_n of_o god_n judgement_n against_o his_o enemy_n isa_n 13.1.15.1.17.1.19.1_o and_o in_o the_o gospel_n it_o be_v take_v for_o the_o doctrine_n of_o any_o person_n as_o in_o mat._n 23.4_o it_o be_v say_v that_o the_o pharisee_n lay_v burden_n on_o other_o man_n shoulder_n that_o they_o themselves_o will_v not_o touch_v with_o one_o finger_n that_o be_v their_o strict_a and_o severe_a doctrine_n and_o mandate_n to_o which_o they_o will_v have_v other_o bind_v unto_o but_o will_v keep_v themselves_o at_o large_a in_o mat._n 11.30_o christ_n doctrine_n be_v call_v his_o yoke_n and_o his_o burden_n his_o yoke_n be_v easy_a and_o his_o burden_n light_n and_o this_o be_v that_o burden_n that_o christ_n will_v lay_v on_o the_o thyatirans_n and_o no_o more_o but_o this_o to_o wit_n christ_n true_a and_o apostolic_a doctrine_n which_o they_o have_v former_o receive_v from_o john_n and_o other_o of_o christ_n ambassador_n hence_o note_v observe_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v to_o receive_v no_o other_o burden_n or_o doctrine_n then_o what_o they_o have_v already_o receive_v from_o christ_n christ_n himself_o will_v add_v no_o further_o burden_n than_o his_o first_o doctrine_n of_o truth_n deliver_v by_o himself_o and_o his_o apostle_n but_o by_o what_o authority_n do_v over-presumptuous_a man_n under_o pretence_n of_o catholic_a and_o apostolic_a tradition_n add_v unto_o the_o christian_n religion_n which_o be_v pure_a and_o simple_a many_o of_o their_o own_o vain_a superstitious_a ceremony_n and_o invention_n against_o which_o christ_n have_v declare_v both_o here_o and_o in_o mar_n 7._o and_o luk._n 11._o and_o other_o place_n sure_o one_o day_n it_o may_v be_v ask_v of_o they_o who_o require_v these_o thing_n at_o your_o hand_n to_o walk_v by_o god_n manifest_a and_o plain_a command_n be_v a_o sure_a path_n and_o lead_v unto_o eternal_a life_n but_o to_o make_v superstructure_n of_o our_o own_o or_o kindle_v spark_n of_o our_o own_o fire_n and_o warm_v ourselves_o thereat_o at_o least_o notwithstanding_o those_o we_o may_v lie_v down_o in_o sorrrow_n what_o burden_n do_v the_o late_a prelatical_a party_n lie_v on_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o godly_a which_o they_o never_o have_v receive_v from_o christ_n or_o his_o apostle_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v true_o burden_n unto_o they_o and_o very_o grievous_a to_o bear_v but_o christ_n burden_n be_v easy_a and_o his_o yoke_n be_v sweet_a mat._n 11.30_o every_o thing_n of_o christ_n be_v pleasant_a unto_o the_o enlighten_v soul_n though_o his_o yoke_n be_v heavy_a unto_o flesh_n and_o blood_n yet_o it_o be_v nothing_o irksome_a but_o rather_o sweet_a as_o honey_n to_o the_o regenerate_a and_o spiritual_a christian_n observe_v 2._o that_o true_a christian_a doctrine_n be_v a_o burden_n or_o yoke_n he_o that_o take_v up_o a_o burden_n must_v go_v through_o with_o it_o and_o tug_v under_o it_o and_o pass_v through_o all_o difficulty_n or_o else_o he_o may_v loose_v his_o reward_n it_o be_v not_o a_o burden_n or_o yoke_v take_v up_o by_o ourselves_o for_o of_o our_o selus_fw-la we_o will_v not_o willing_o come_v under_o it_o it_o be_v tedious_a to_o flesh_n and_o blood_n and_o therefore_o christ_n be_v say_v to_o put_v it_o on_o we_o he_o make_v we_o first_o will_v by_o his_o spirit_n of_o grace_n and_o then_o we_o be_v ready_a to_o yield_v our_o
life_n in_o the_o paradise_n of_o god_n etc._n etc._n all_o be_v variety_n of_o expression_n to_o set_v forth_o the_o great_a and_o excellent_a glory_n of_o the_o other_o world_n christ_n do_v former_o promise_v the_o participation_n of_o himself_o in_o that_o his_o glorious_a kingdom_n to_o the_o conquer_a saint_n under_o the_o type_n of_o hide_a manna_n tree_n of_o life_n and_o in_o this_o verse_n as_o the_o morning_n star_n christ_n be_v the_o bright_a morning_n star_n first_o because_o he_o than_o bring_v comfort_n with_o he_o to_o his_o afflict_a church_n second_o he_o bring_v light_a with_o he_o to_o his_o ancient_a people_n the_o jew_n that_o now_o sit_v in_o darkness_n and_o in_o the_o shadow_n of_o death_n rom._n 11.25_o 2_o pet._n 1.19_o this_o morning_n star_n be_v the_o same_o with_o that_o sun_n that_o rise_v in_o malachy_n 4.2_o with_o heal_v in_o his_o wing_n and_o must_v of_o necessity_n signify_v christ_n personal_a appearance_n again_o as_o the_o great_a part_n of_o the_o crown_n and_o reward_n of_o his_o faithful_a one_o and_o for_o the_o heal_n enlighten_v and_o conversion_n of_o his_o ancient_a church_n and_o people_n the_o jew_n hence_o note_v observe_v that_o christ_n will_v appear_v again_o to_o the_o comfort_n of_o his_o afflict_a gentile_a church_n and_o to_o the_o enlighten_v and_o conversion_n of_o his_o ancient_a people_n the_o jew_n before_o the_o ultimate_a end_n of_o all_o and_o general_a judgement_n because_o then_o be_v a_o day_n of_o total_a destruction_n not_o a_o appearance_n for_o the_o conversion_n of_o they_o that_o be_v in_o unbelief_n that_o be_v the_o time_n when_o the_o saint_n receive_v their_o utmost_a glory_n not_o strive_v roll_a and_o overpowering_a the_o nation_n christ_n then_o deliver_v up_o all_o power_n unto_o the_o father_n 1_o cor._n 15.24_o therefore_o that_o be_v no_o day_n to_o give_v power_n into_o their_o hand_n over_o the_o nation_n in_o the_o day_n of_o ultimate_a judgement_n gog_n and_o magog_n and_o all_o the_o church_n enemy_n be_v catch_v and_o cast_v into_o the_o lake_n of_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n for_o evermore_o cap._n 19_o 20._o therefore_o it_o be_v no_o day_n of_o rule_v over_o they_o for_o that_o day_n than_o will_v be_v past_a and_o over_o to_o conclude_v the_o saint_n temporal_a reign_n begin_v with_o the_o appearance_n of_o this_o morning_n star_n and_o end_n with_o the_o final_a destruction_n of_o all_o the_o wicked_a but_o their_o heavenly_a glory_n shall_v never_o end_v and_o for_o the_o conclusion_n of_o this_o chapter_n verse_n 29._o he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n let_v he_o hear_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v unto_o the_o church_n let_v the_o wise_a intelligent_a christian_n consider_v and_o ponder_v what_o the_o spirit_n say_v to_o each_o of_o these_o church_n and_o from_o the_o often_o repetition_n of_o the_o spirit_n memento_n in_o these_o word_n take_v this_o conclusion_n that_o christ_n doctrine_n and_o prophecy_n can_v be_v too_o often_o inculcate_v upon_o the_o heart_n and_o memory_n of_o his_o people_n chap._n iii_o verse_n 1._o and_o unto_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n in_o sardis_n write_v these_o these_o thing_n say_v he_o that_o have_v the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o the_o seven_o star_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n that_o thou_o have_v a_o name_n that_o thou_o live_v and_o be_v dead_a christ_n proceed_v with_o his_o charge_n against_o the_o church_n at_o sardis_n superscribe_v unto_o the_o angel_n or_o chief_a minister_n of_o that_o church_n for_o the_o reason_n before_o specify_v chap._n 2._o v._n 1._o write_v these_o thing_n say_v he_o that_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o the_o seven_o star_n i_o can_v join_v unto_o their_o interpretation_n that_o make_v the_o seven_o spirit_n and_o the_o seven_o star_n to_o be_v all_o one_o to_o wit_n christ_n seven_o angel_n of_o his_o church_n which_o he_o carry_v in_o his_o hand_n cap._n 1._o 20._o so_o it_o will_v seem_v a_o tautology_n whilst_o a_o more_o convenient_a sense_n may_v be_v find_v applicable_a to_o it_o to_o wit_n these_o thing_n say_v he_o which_o have_v the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n that_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o his_o sevenfold_a grace_n and_o perfection_n for_o the_o number_n seven_o in_o all_o prophetical_a writing_n do_v intimate_v perfection_n as_o cap._n 1._o 5._o and_o 4._o 5._o and_o this_o sevenfold_a spirit_n of_o perfection_n be_v christ_n own_o spirit_n and_o be_v send_v by_o he_o and_o at_o his_o disposal_n and_o therefore_o christ_n may_v be_v true_o verify_v to_o have_v the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n or_o the_o sevenfold_a operate_a spirit_n of_o god_n as_o well_o as_o the_o seven_o star_n in_o his_o hand_n and_o disposal_n hence_o note_v observe_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o grace_n and_o a_o gracious_a ministry_n be_v the_o special_a inseparable_a gift_n of_o christ_n towards_o his_o church_n they_o be_v inseparable_a companion_n where_o the_o one_o do_v go_v the_o other_o be_v present_a also_o if_o christ_n come_v with_o seven_o star_n in_o his_o right_a hand_n he_o come_v with_o the_o seven_o spirit_n in_o his_o left_a hand_n to_o that_o people_n also_o a_o true_a ministry_n and_o the_o spirit_n be_v never_o separate_v though_o i_o shall_v not_o tie_v up_o god_n to_o those_o mean_n only_o yet_o ordinary_o it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o expect_v christ_n in_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o spirit_n without_o the_o ministerial_a adminstration_n of_o his_o star_n and_o angel_n they_o be_v as_o it_o be_v the_o charioteer_n of_o the_o spirit_n the_o word_n be_v the_o spirit_n be_v vehiculum_fw-la or_o chariot_n but_o the_o minister_n thereof_o be_v those_o that_o carry_v and_o support_v this_o chariot_n on_o the_o shoulder_n never_o think_v that_o the_o spirit_n the_o glory_n of_o this_o chariot_n will_v come_v or_o rest_n in_o our_o temple_n unless_o it_o be_v bring_v unto_o we_o by_o the_o foot_n of_o those_o star_n those_o beautiful_a one_o that_o bring_v the_o glad_a tiding_n of_o peace_n god_n have_v so_o link_v together_o in_o his_o alwise_a decree_n and_o predetermination_n the_o concatenation_n of_o subordinate_a cause_n or_o medium_n unto_o salvation_n that_o ordinary_o one_o can_v be_v effect_v without_o the_o other_o and_o so_o we_o be_v save_v by_o faith_n in_o christ_n through_o the_o sanctification_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o word_n one_o will_v not_o do_v this_o work_n without_o the_o concurrence_n of_o the_o other_o but_o when_o christ_n come_v with_o they_o joint_o together_o either_o to_o a_o particular_a soul_n or_o church_n he_o make_v they_o of_o a_o wilderness_n and_o a_o land_n of_o darkness_n a_o goshen_n and_o a_o land_n of_o light_n and_o happy_a be_v that_o people_n to_o who_o christ_n so_o come_v with_o his_o seven_o spirit_n and_o his_o seven_o star_n with_o his_o gracious_a spirit_n and_o spiritual_a ministry_n and_o for_o such_o who_o lot_n be_v fall_v in_o such_o a_o land_n i_o say_v their_o lot_n be_v fall_v in_o a_o goodly_a heritage_n but_o what_o be_v the_o reason_n that_o christ_n here_o appear_v under_o this_o representation_n of_o one_o that_o have_v the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o the_o seven_o star_n i_o answer_v christ_n be_v upon_o discovery_n of_o the_o hypocritical_a defection_n of_o the_o church_n of_o sardis_n and_o thererefore_o he_o need_v to_o appear_v not_o only_o under_o a_o search_a pierce_a and_o spiritual_a administration_n as_o one_o that_o can_v search_v the_o reins_n and_o heart_n cap._n 2._o 23._o and_o as_o one_o that_o have_v the_o seven_o spirit_n of_o god_n or_o the_o sevenfold_a search_a spirit_n of_o god_n which_o know_v the_o hide_a thing_n of_o man_n but_o also_o under_o a_o lightsome_a administration_n of_o the_o seven_o star_n for_o a_o further_a discovery_n and_o conviction_n of_o their_o hypocritical_a practice_n and_o therefore_o the_o church_n of_o sardis_n hide_a hypocrisy_n and_o inward_a rottenness_n be_v search_v out_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o make_v manifest_a by_o the_o true_a light_n and_o ministry_n of_o the_o seven_o star_n angel_n or_o minister_n of_o the_o word_n he_o fall_v upon_o they_o with_o his_o charge_n against_o they_o and_o tell_v they_o i_o know_v thy_o work_n that_o thou_o have_v a_o name_n that_o thou_o live_v and_o be_v dead_a hence_o by_o the_o way_n note_v observe_v that_o christ_n spiritual_a ministry_n in_o the_o hand_n of_o his_o minister_n and_o ambassador_n can_v try_v the_o secret_a and_o hide_a thing_n of_o man_n the_o spiritual_a man_n say_v the_o apostle_n judge_v all_o thing_n and_o be_v judge_v of_o none_o and_o if_o a_o private_a spiritual_a member_n may_v judge_v judicio_fw-la discretionis_fw-la then_o sure_o much_o more_o the_o public_a ambassador_n and_o authorise_a minister_n of_o christ_n they_o can_v try_v by_o the_o word_n and_o spirit_n whither_o our_o work_n &_o profession_n
he_o how_o much_o more_o will_v he_o be_v now_o ready_a and_o willing_a be_v reconcile_v by_o his_o blood_n to_o receive_v we_o again_o into_o his_o gracious_a favour_n after_o our_o backslide_n upon_o our_o repentance_n and_o turn_v unto_o he_o from_o our_o sin_n then_o former_o be_v now_o adopt_a child_n and_o no_o long_a stranger_n and_o enemy_n the_o contemplation_n of_o this_o grace_n make_v the_o prodigal_a child_n in_o the_o gospel_n to_o return_v unto_o his_o father_n and_o he_o be_v not_o mistake_v of_o his_o father_n good_a will_n towards_o he_o for_o as_o soon_o as_o his_o father_n see_v he_o but_o a_o far_o off_o he_o have_v compassion_n and_o run_v and_o fall_v on_o his_o neck_n and_o kiss_v he_o luke_n 15.20_o oh_o the_o wonderful_a grace_n of_o god_n that_o no_o soon_o have_v we_o heart_n or_o desire_n to_o return_v unto_o god_n and_o to_o have_v a_o eye_n towards_o he_o after_o we_o have_v play_v the_o prodigal_n and_o go_v astray_o from_o he_o by_o evil_a work_n but_o present_o he_o meet_v we_o more_o than_o half_a way_n be_v yet_o a_o far_o off_o and_o fall_v upon_o our_o neck_n and_o kiss_v we_o with_o kiss_n of_o his_o love_n and_o favour_n though_o we_o play_v the_o prodigal_n yet_o we_o be_v child_n still_o the_o prodigal_a be_v a_o son_n though_o he_o play_v the_o bankcrupt_a and_o spend_v almost_o all_o his_o stock_n of_o grace_n the_o consideration_n that_o we_o be_v child_n though_o wanton_a one_o will_v make_v we_o desire_v to_o return_v unto_o our_o father_n though_o provoke_v against_o we_o by_o our_o sinful_a course_n and_o for_o our_o comfort_n and_o encouragement_n herein_o consider_v that_o of_o john_n if_o any_o man_n sin_n we_o have_v a_o advocate_n with_o the_o father_n jesus_n christ_n the_o righteous_a 1_o john_n 2.1_o it_o be_v our_o advocate_n the_o child_n advocate_n believer_n advocate_n and_o therefore_o we_o may_v come_v and_o return_v unto_o the_o father_n with_o the_o great_a boldness_n observe_v 2._o another_o note_n from_o hence_o be_v that_o we_o be_v to_o stick_v close_o to_o and_o hold_v fast_o that_o doctrine_n which_o be_v first_o deliver_v unto_o the_o saint_n the_o church_n of_o sardis_n that_o be_v almost_o lose_v and_o dead_a in_o her_o spiritual_a state_n and_o condition_n be_v not_o command_v by_o christ_n to_o seek_v out_o any_o new_a way_n or_o novel_a doctrine_n but_o to_o call_v to_o mind_n and_o remember_v the_o old_a one_o which_o they_o have_v former_o receive_v and_o hear_v from_o the_o faithful_a apostle_n and_o minister_n of_o christ_n they_o be_v not_o to_o seek_v after_o any_o new_a discovery_n of_o light_n which_o be_v not_o former_o deliver_v to_o they_o there_o be_v great_a danger_n in_o such_o way_n they_o may_v attain_v unto_o the_o new_a light_n of_o the_o gnostic_n nicolaitan_n and_o the_o high_a speculation_n thereof_o or_o rather_o the_o depth_n of_o satan_n as_o they_o speak_v and_o yet_o perish_v eternal_o for_o the_o way_n to_o life_n be_v the_o good_a old_a way_n discover_v first_o unto_o adam_n after_o his_o fall_n in_o the_o promise_a seed_n of_o the_o woman_n to_o break_v the_o serpent_n head_n gen._n 3._o and_o more_o and_o more_o manifest_v under_o the_o promise_n and_o the_o dark_a type_n and_o shadow_n of_o the_o law_n till_o at_o last_o it_o come_v to_o its_o meridian_n and_o full_a discovery_n by_o the_o son_n of_o god_n himself_o in_o the_o gospel_n and_o this_o doctrine_n of_o this_o gospel_n of_o christ_n be_v it_o that_o sardis_n be_v command_v to_o remember_v that_o which_o she_o have_v former_o receive_v and_o hear_v and_o to_o keep_v close_o unto_o it_o from_o which_o he_o have_v make_v a_o defection_n great_a and_o foul_a this_o be_v the_o sum_n of_o wholesome_a doctrine_n that_o we_o be_v command_v to_o keep_v close_o unto_o and_o this_o be_v that_o that_o paul_n enjoin_v timothy_n to_o attend_v unto_o 1_o tim._n 3.14_o 15._o continue_v thou_o in_o the_o thing_n which_o thou_o have_v learned_a and_o be_v persuade_v thereof_o know_v of_o who_o thou_o have_v learn_v they_o and_o that_o thou_o have_v know_v the_o holy_a scripture_n of_o a_o child_n which_o be_v able_a to_o make_v thou_o wise_a unto_o salvation_n through_o the_o faith_n which_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n the_o only_a way_n that_o be_v to_o restore_v and_o renew_v the_o soul_n that_o be_v almost_o dead_a in_o sin_n to_o attain_v the_o new_a name_n the_o new_a life_n the_o new_a jerusalem_n that_o come_v down_o from_o god_n be_v to_o keep_v close_o to_o and_o hold_v fast_o the_o old_a way_n the_o old_a doctrine_n the_o old_a light_n deliver_v by_o christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n for_o all_o innovation_n in_o doctrine_n or_o worship_n carry_v great_a danger_n with_o they_o and_o i_o will_v come_v on_o thou_o as_o a_o thief_n etc._n etc._n observe_v 3._o that_o christ_n will_v fall_v upon_o the_o wicked_a with_o his_o judgement_n when_o they_o least_o think_v of_o in_o a_o hour_n that_o they_o shall_v not_o know_v of_o his_o judgement_n will_v prevent_v their_o expectation_n none_o will_v believe_v in_o jeremiah_n time_n that_o the_o captivity_n will_v come_v upon_o jerusalem_n but_o every_o one_o will_v put_v far_o away_o the_o evil_a day_n lam._n 4.12_o as_o if_o it_o be_v to_o come_v in_o after_o generation_n and_o not_o in_o they_o see_v ezek._n 12.22_o 37._o the_o jew_n little_o think_v in_o christ_n day_n that_o the_o period_n of_o their_o city_n and_o temple_n be_v so_o nigh_o though_o he_o foretell_v they_o that_o short_o it_o shall_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o not_o one_o stone_n shall_v be_v leave_v upon_o another_o the_o old_a world_n be_v secure_a until_o noah_n enter_v into_o the_o ark_n and_o the_o flood_n come_v and_o destroy_v they_o all_o sodom_n and_o gomorrah_n will_v not_o believe_v god_n threaten_n until_o they_o feel_v the_o consume_a fire_n and_o brimstone_n gen._n 19_o whilst_o belshazzar_n be_v carrouse_v in_o his_o cup_n god_n write_v a_o mene_n tekei_n upharsin_n over_o his_o head_n and_o kingdom_n dan._n 5.4_o etc._n etc._n england_n and_o other_o nation_n do_v not_o think_v that_o bloody_a judgement_n be_v so_o near_o whatsoever_o sinner_n think_v christ_n be_v at_o hand_n the_o judge_n and_o judgement_n be_v at_o the_o door_n sinner_n be_v secure_a and_o think_v judgement_n slumber_v when_o they_o be_v upon_o the_o march_n and_o upon_o the_o wing_n isa_n 5.26_o lam_n 4.19_o wicked_a man_n say_v as_o those_o in_o isa_n 5.19_o let_v he_o make_v haste_n and_o hasten_v his_o work_n that_o we_o may_v see_v it_o and_o let_v the_o counsel_n of_o the_o holy_a one_o of_o iâ—rael_n draw_v nigh_o and_o come_v that_o we_o may_v know_v it_o they_o mock_v the_o prophet_n of_o god_n that_o tell_v they_o of_o judgement_n and_o destruction_n but_o god_n will_v avenge_v they_o speedy_o i_o come_v quick_o say_v christ_n rev._n 22.20_o and_o the_o reason_n that_o god_n bring_v on_o judgement_n with_o speed_n and_o soon_o than_o they_o be_v look_v for_o be_v first_o from_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o wicked_a who_o high_o wrong_v and_o provoke_v god_n justice_n and_o patience_n and_o call_v for_o his_o wrath_n upon_o they_o by_o their_o sin_n second_o because_o of_o the_o prayer_n of_o the_o godly_a who_o daily_o importune_v god_n to_o avenge_v they_o of_o their_o enemy_n luk._n 18.7_o 8._o and_o shall_v not_o god_n avenge_v his_o own_o elect_n which_o cry_v night_n and_o day_n unto_o he_o though_o he_o bear_v long_o with_o they_o i_o tell_v you_o that_o he_o will_v avenge_v they_o speedy_o it_o be_v the_o cry_n of_o those_o precious_a soul_n clothe_v in_o white_a rev._n 6.10_o that_o bring_v destroy_v judgement_n and_o desolation_n on_o babylon_n how_o long_o o_o lord_n holy_a and_o true_a do_v thou_o not_o judge_v and_o avenge_v our_o blood_n on_o they_o that_o dwell_v on_o the_o earth_n it_o be_v answer_v they_o that_o they_o shall_v rest_v yet_o for_o a_o little_a season_n until_o their_o fellow_n servant_n also_o and_o their_o brethren_n that_o shall_v be_v kill_v as_o they_o be_v shall_v be_v fulfil_v see_v more_o hereon_o cap._n 2._o 16._o observe_v 4._o the_o execution_n of_o all_o terrible_a judgement_n be_v commit_v to_o the_o hand_n of_o christ._n he_o come_v as_o a_o thief_n to_o destroy_v spoil_n and_o undo_v his_o enemy_n he_o will_v not_o only_o rob_v they_o of_o a_o little_a but_o take_v all_o their_o pretend_a grace_n and_o comfort_n from_o they_o only_o here_o lie_v the_o difference_n for_o comparison_n and_o parable_n do_v not_o always_o run_v on_o all_o four_o the_o wicked_a and_o unjust_a theive_v spoil_v and_o plunder_v the_o honest_a thrive_a peaceable_a man_n but_o christ_n as_o the_o just_a thief_n spoil_v and_o make_v desolate_a the_o wicked_a and_o unrighteous_a only_o christ_n come_v as_o a_o thief_n
open_v and_o shut_v there_o be_v such_o a_o excellent_a image_n erect_v like_o the_o first_o part_n of_o that_o in_o dan._n 2.32_o who_o head_n be_v of_o fine_a gold_n his_o breast_n and_o arm_n of_o silver_n it_o be_v a_o notable_a and_o noble_a say_n of_o constantine_n the_o emperor_n unto_o the_o pastor_n and_o bishop_n of_o his_o time_n vos_fw-fr est_fw-fr be_v in_o ecclesia_fw-la sed_fw-la ego_fw-la extra_fw-la ecclesiam_fw-la episcopus_fw-la though_o he_o be_v the_o great_a champion_n of_o the_o church_n and_o the_o christian_n temporal_a saviour_n yet_o he_o will_v not_o meddle_v with_o open_v or_o shut_v in_o christ_n church_n nor_o extort_v the_o key_n of_o david_n or_o christ_n out_o of_o their_o hand_n to_o who_o christ_n leave_v it_o for_o what_o be_v do_v by_o they_o be_v do_v by_o christ_n as_o by_o his_o delegated_a power_n what_o they_o bind_v in_o earth_n be_v bind_v in_o heaven_n and_o what_o they_o lose_v on_o earth_n be_v loose_v in_o heaven_n christ_n will_v not_o suffer_v any_o to_o wield_v his_o key_n but_o those_o to_o who_o hand_n he_o have_v commit_v they_o according_a to_o his_o own_o method_n and_o way_n of_o direction_n who_o use_v they_o contrary_a to_o this_o they_o will_v find_v they_o scorpion_n in_o their_o hand_n ready_a to_o bite_v and_o destroy_v they_o instead_o of_o heal_v and_o cure_v remember_v the_o example_n of_o uzziah_n and_o tremble_v 2_o chron._n 26.16_o be_v it_o not_o the_o downfall_n to_o popery_n when_o spiritual_a man_n turn_v layick_n and_o bishop_n become_v prince_n and_o on_o the_o other_o side_n secular_a prince_n handle_v the_o spiritual_a key_n open_v and_o shut_v as_o they_o please_v make_v law_n edict_n and_o rule_n unto_o the_o church_n which_o be_v christ_n and_o his_o church_n prerogative_n only_o what_o undo_v our_o late_a episcopal_a hierarchy_n in_o england_n but_o mix_v sacred_a thing_n with_o profane_a make_v christ_n and_o caesar_n law_n all_o one_o the_o bishop_n he_o be_v make_v a_o temporal_a lord_n to_o act_v in_o the_o parliamentary_a and_o civil_a affair_n of_o the_o nation_n and_o in_o requital_n hereof_o the_o supreme_a magistrate_n he_o be_v make_v supreme_a head_n of_o the_o church_n to_o enact_v what_o law_n he_o please_v as_o in_o reference_n to_o the_o church_n and_o to_o open_v and_o shut_v to_o who_o he_o will_v by_o his_o high_a court_n of_o delegate_n and_o high_a commission_n etc._n etc._n such_o a_o church_n such_o a_o head_n a_o civil_a church_n a_o civil_a head_n such_o a_o church_n such_o law_n such_o officer_n such_o key_n such_o pow-ar_a all_o prudential_o and_o all_o of_o the_o present_a world_n wisdom_n and_o fabricate_a and_o therefore_o not_o strange_a that_o the_o fabric_n last_v no_o long_o but_o fall_v witâ—in_o few_o age_n after_o the_o first_o structure_n thereof_o and_o be_v it_o not_o now_o to_o be_v fear_v that_o the_o church_n among_o we_o may_v be_v lull_v asleep_o as_o in_o the_o lap_n of_o constantine_n by_o overmuch_o indulgence_n and_o temporal_a honour_n cast_v upon_o she_o and_o her_o minister_n though_o i_o be_o not_o a_o enemy_n to_o their_o just_a maintenance_n and_o temporal_a comfort_n yet_o i_o be_o jealous_a of_o they_o that_o all_o be_v not_o lambskin_n that_o appear_v so_o about_o they_o but_o that_o somewhat_o if_o not_o too_o much_o of_o the_o fox_n tail_n lie_v undiscovered_a within_o what_o mean_v else_o the_o bleat_n of_o the_o cattle_n i_o mean_v their_o press_v after_o preferment_n extraneous_a as_o to_o their_o church_n as_o head_n of_o university_n state-chaplain_n great_a parsonage_n commissioner_n and_o tryer_n etc._n etc._n and_o so_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o want_n of_o christ_n own_o key_n do_v often_o open_v to_o person_n against_o who_o christ_n have_v shut_v and_o shut_v against_o some_o to_o who_o christ_n have_v open_v so_o fallible_a be_v man_n that_o open_v with_o the_o wooden_a key_n of_o their_o own_o politic_n the_o lord_n deliver_v our_o sovereign_a magistrate_n from_o the_o snare_n of_o these_o spiritual_a machiavilian_o or_o machiavilian_a doctor_n that_o do_v teach_v the_o magistrate_n to_o lay_v his_o politic_n as_o rule_n to_o christ_n church_n that_o will_v have_v he_o open_a where_o christ_n shut_v and_o shut_v where_o christ_n open_v it_o be_v equal_o dangerous_a unto_o both_o magistrate_n and_o minister_n to_o move_v or_o act_v out_o of_o their_o own_o proper_a sphere_n but_o act_v in_o their_o own_o orb_n the_o one_o in_o his_o civil_a government_n and_o state_n the_o other_o in_o his_o spiritual_a policy_n and_o church_n so_o both_o become_v gracious_a and_o honourable_a in_o their_o respective_a government_n and_o dominion_n quest._n but_o what_o shall_v not_o christian_n magistrate_n do_v nothing_o in_o the_o church_n or_o execute_v no_o part_n of_o their_o authority_n therein_o which_o god_n have_v give_v they_o for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o church_n i_o answer_v first_o the_o magistrate_n may_v exercise_v his_o authority_n for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o church_n in_o several_a respect_n first_o in_o protect_v encourage_v and_o countenance_v the_o church_n in_o the_o service_n of_o christ_n and_o defend_v their_o liberty_n therein_o and_o so_o become_v nurse_n father_n unto_o the_o church_n second_o as_o christ_n do_v approve_v and_o command_v obedience_n from_o all_o to_o magistrate_n and_o their_o law_n as_o for_o god_n sake_n rom._n 13._o so_o magistrate_n shall_v approve_v and_o command_v christ_n law_n and_o government_n to_o be_v observe_v of_o all_o within_o their_o respective_a boundary_n and_o jurisdiction_n three_o if_o any_o prove_v turbulent_a seditious_a or_o factious_a in_o the_o church_n under_o pretence_n of_o liberty_n and_o so_o become_v a_o peace-breaker_n in_o the_o commonweal_n the_o magistrate_n may_v restrain_v he_o by_o his_o civil_a power_n four_o if_o any_o church_n member_n become_v a_o blasphemer_n a_o idolater_n a_o open_a delinquent_n against_o the_o first_o table_n or_o transgressor_n of_o the_o second_o the_o magistrate_n may_v chastise_v he_o for_o it_o over_z and_o above_o the_o censure_n of_o the_o church_n not_o as_o require_v thereunto_o by_o the_o church_n but_o by_o virtue_n of_o his_o own_o civil_a law_n that_o equal_o reach_v all_o person_n that_o transgress_v they_o whether_o ecclesiastiques_n or_o other_o 2._o but_o second_o in_o the_o negative_a i_o answer_v that_o magistrate_n have_v nothing_o to_o do_v nor_o be_v competent_a judge_n as_o magistrate_n of_o controversal_a point_n opinion_n doctrine_n or_o of_o thing_n mere_o relate_v to_o the_o church_n christ_n never_o endue_v the_o magistrate_n with_o such_o a_o power_n therefore_o the_o argument_n be_v very_o prevalent_a a_o negative_a that_o they_o have_v no_o such_o power_n the_o church_n alone_o under_o christ_n be_v endue_v with_o that_o power_n of_o try_v doctrine_n suppress_v error_n in_o opinion_n and_o judgement_n according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n now_o to_o who_o this_o rule_n be_v give_v the_o foresay_a power_n be_v give_v but_o the_o rule_n be_v commit_v to_o the_o church_n only_o and_o not_o to_o magistrate_n mat._n 18._o therefore_o the_o say_a power_n of_o try_v doctrine_n and_o suppress_v error_n be_v commit_v only_o to_o the_o church_n and_o not_o to_o magistrate_n object_n but_o may_v not_o magistrate_n suppress_v error_n and_o use_v their_o authority_n to_o that_o end_n when_o they_o be_v thereunto_o well_o advise_v by_o a_o learned_a assembly_n of_o divine_n or_o able_a minister_n of_o the_o church_n answ_n the_o minister_n of_o christ_n if_o they_o be_v such_o adviser_n herein_o do_v first_o betray_v their_o trust_n and_o call_n in_o their_o master_n service_n into_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o magistrate_n plain_o acknowledge_v that_o their_o lord_n and_o master_n have_v not_o provide_v a_o armoury_n sufficient_a in_o his_o house_n and_o kingdom_n to_o overthrow_v error_n as_o well_o as_o mean_n for_o their_o discovery_n be_v not_o this_o to_o run_v for_o carnal_a weapon_n whilst_o they_o lie_v by_o those_o make_v by_o god_n spiritual_a one_o and_o mighty_a through_o god_n to_o pull_v down_o power_n principality_n and_o all_o the_o work_n of_o darkness_n second_o if_o magistrate_n act_n thus_o upon_o the_o advice_n of_o other_o they_o must_v not_o only_o see_v with_o other_o man_n eye_n and_o act_n upon_o a_o implicit_a faith_n but_o do_v also_o hereby_o become_v but_o the_o executioner_n of_o their_o assembly_n decree_n what_o more_o do_v the_o popish_a prince_n when_o they_o execute_v the_o edict_n of_o the_o romish_a conclave_n and_o what_o otherwise_o do_v pilate_n when_o he_o become_v the_o executioner_n of_o the_o priest_n sentence_n upon_o christ_n in_o crucify_a he_o a_o seamark_n to_o all_o to_o take_v notice_n on_o this_o account_n three_o magistrate_n as_o magistrate_n be_v not_o to_o suppress_v error_n because_o christ_n have_v other_o law_n ordinance_n and_o way_n to_o suppress_v they_o
when_o they_o call_v themselves_o so_o and_o that_o they_o be_v not_o of_o the_o true_a christian_n church_n but_o of_o the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n see_v more_o hereon_o cap._n 2._o vers_fw-la 9_o behold_v i_o will_v make_v they_o that_o they_o shall_v come_v and_o worship_n before_o thy_o foot_n and_o they_o shall_v know_v that_o i_o have_v love_v thou_o these_o word_n contain_v a_o promise_n to_o the_o church_n of_o philadelphia_n that_o christ_n will_v make_v those_o enemy_n of_o she_o the_o blaspheme_a jew_n to_o come_v and_o worship_n before_o her_o foot_n that_o be_v will_v make_v they_o to_o submit_v to_o the_o sceptre_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o to_o worship_v he_o in_o the_o presence_n of_o philadelphia_n which_o for_o her_o purity_n and_o soundness_n may_v pass_v for_o a_o type_n and_o figure_n of_o the_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n before_o who_o these_o carnal_a formal_a jew_n shall_v fall_v low_a and_o worship_n object_n but_o if_o it_o be_v demand_v who_o shall_v they_o be_v make_v to_o worship_n i_o answer_v first_o god_n in_o christ_n who_o they_o have_v blaspheme_v and_o dishonour_v the_o sole_a object_n of_o divine_a worship_n which_o philadelphia_n and_o the_o true_a church_n do_v honour_n and_o obey_v second_o they_o shall_v civil_o worship_v and_o reverence_n philadelphia_n and_o the_o true_a church_n for_o the_o honour_n that_o christ_n have_v put_v upon_o she_o and_o so_o will_v think_v it_o a_o honour_n indeed_o to_o come_v under_o the_o same_o profession_n worship_n and_o discipline_n with_o the_o christian_n church_n and_o when_o i_o have_v do_v this_o say_v christ_n they_o shall_v know_v that_o i_o always_o love_v thou_o and_o that_o thou_o be_v most_o dear_a unto_o i_o now_o this_o prophecy_n and_o promise_n be_v never_o fulfil_v unto_o philadelphia_n in_o the_o full_a extent_n thereof_o only_o we_o read_v of_o some_o few_o of_o the_o malignant_a jew_n give_v by_o christ_n to_o the_o church_n of_o philadelphia_n and_o other_o of_o that_o age_n but_o how_o this_o promise_n be_v fulfil_v in_o the_o latitude_n thereof_o it_o can_v enter_v into_o my_o understanding_n to_o comprehend_v for_o when_o ever_o do_v those_o perverse_a jew_n that_o for_o their_o notorious_a malignity_n against_o christ_n and_o the_o truth_n be_v just_o call_v the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n come_v and_o worship_n or_o bow_v down_o before_o the_o foot_n of_o philadelphia_n or_o when_o do_v they_o submit_v to_o the_o worship_n of_o the_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n only_o but_o in_o some_o first_o fruit_n and_o that_o before_o this_o be_v write_v to_o philadelphia_n and_o when_o do_v the_o jewish_a synagogue_n of_o satan_n even_o to_o this_o day_n ever_o since_o become_v the_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n more_o than_o some_o few_o scatter_a person_n that_o be_v convert_v to_o the_o faith_n inconsiderable_a to_o the_o fulfil_n of_o this_o promise_n or_o when_o do_v ever_o god_n make_v it_o it_o eminent_o appear_v to_o they_o that_o the_o christian_n church_n be_v the_o only_o belove_a people_n and_o society_n in_o the_o eye_n of_o god_n above_o all_o other_o in_o the_o world_n see_v those_o thing_n be_v never_o yet_o accomplish_v according_a to_o the_o fullness_n of_o this_o promise_n sure_o there_o be_v yet_o a_o time_n to_o come_v when_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o more_o universal_a call_n of_o the_o jewish_a synagogue_n into_o holy_a philadelphia_n or_o the_o christian_n church_n than_o ever_o yet_o have_v be_v to_o this_o present_a day_n a_o note_n hence_o will_v rise_v observe_v that_o god_n will_v not_o only_o make_v the_o natural_a obstinate_a jew_n but_o also_o their_o true_a counterpane_n the_o nominal_a seem_a christian_n to_o come_v and_o bow_v before_o the_o true_a spouse_n of_o christ_n before_o the_o latter_a day_n this_o be_v confirm_v from_o this_o verse_n wherein_o it_o be_v promise_v by_o christ_n that_o the_o obstinate_a jew_n shall_v come_v in_o and_o worship_n before_o the_o foot_n of_o the_o church_n of_o philadelphia_n but_o towards_o philadelphia_n in_o the_o latter_a this_o be_v never_o as_o yet_o perform_v in_o the_o extensiveness_n of_o this_o scripture_n as_o be_v above_o manifest_v therefore_o as_o yet_o to_o come_v to_o pass_v before_o the_o foot_n of_o the_o true_a philadelphia_n the_o holy_a church_n of_o christ_n and_o not_o only_o the_o natural_a jew_n shall_v come_v in_o submit_v and_o join_v to_o the_o holy_a church_n of_o christ_n but_o all_o formal_a birth_n christian_n shall_v also_o either_o come_v in_o and_o worship_n before_o this_o true_a church_n or_o else_o shall_v at_o least_o wise_a reverence_n this_o true_a holy_a church_n as_o the_o only_o belove_v of_o christ_n for_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o lamb_n will_v be_v upon_o she_o and_o the_o nation_n of_o they_o which_o be_v save_v shall_v walk_v in_o the_o light_n of_o it_o and_o for_o her_o great_a honour_n the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n do_v bring_v their_o glory_n and_o honour_n into_o it_o rev_n 21.23_o and_o it_o be_v but_o just_a that_o god_n true_a church_n and_o people_n shall_v have_v a_o day_n too_o as_o well_o as_o their_o adversary_n have_v they_o we_o know_v how_o that_o the_o great_a and_o lofty_a one_o of_o the_o world_n have_v put_v all_o possible_a reproach_n and_o affliction_n on_o the_o saint_n of_o god_n and_o church_n of_o the_o pure_a judgement_n but_o yet_o the_o time_n be_v at_o hand_n that_o they_o shall_v be_v convince_v and_o shall_v know_v the_o saint_n to_o be_v the_o only_o belove_v of_o god_n and_o the_o great_a interest_n and_o stay_n of_o kingdom_n and_o then_o the_o great_a monarch_n will_v be_v glad_a to_o take_v hold_n on_o the_o skirt_n of_o a_o jew_n to_o come_v under_o the_o protection_n of_o this_o holy_a church_n for_o their_o god_n be_v the_o lord_n of_o host_n quest._n and_o if_o any_o one_o ask_v when_o this_o shall_v be_v answ_n when_o the_o fullness_n of_o the_o gentile_n shall_v come_v in_o and_o all_o israel_n shall_v be_v save_v rom._n 11._o when_o christ_n shall_v appear_v again_o for_o the_o restore_n of_o his_o kingdom_n than_o the_o kingdom_n and_o dominion_n and_o the_o greatness_n of_o the_o kingdom_n under_o the_o whole_a heaven_n shall_v be_v give_v unto_o the_o people_n of_o the_o saint_n of_o the_o most_o high_a dan._n 7.27_o then_o shall_v all_o come_v and_o worship_n before_o philadelphia_n the_o glorious_a new_a unite_a christian_n church_n of_o jew_n and_o gentile_n and_o this_o shall_v be_v the_o true_a zion_n the_o dwell_a place_n of_o god_n glory_n whereunto_o all_o nation_n shall_v flock_v and_o worship_n before_o it_o and_o become_v one_o with_o it_o or_o otherwise_o shall_v be_v make_v bow_n unto_o the_o iron_n sceptre_n of_o christ_n whereby_o he_o will_v make_v all_o the_o nation_n of_o the_o earth_n to_o submit_v to_o his_o sovereign_a authority_n and_o fall_v and_o worship_n before_o his_o foot_n rev._n 19.15_o verse_n 10._o because_o thou_o have_v keep_v the_o word_n of_o my_o patience_n i_o also_o will_v keep_v thou_o from_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n which_o shall_v come_v upon_o all_o the_o world_n to_o try_v they_o that_o dwell_v upon_o the_o earth_n that_o for_o which_o philadelphia_n be_v commend_v for_o by_o christ_n be_v for_o keep_v the_o word_n of_o his_o patience_n this_o have_v either_o respect_n to_o christ_n or_o unto_o the_o church_n as_o if_o christ_n have_v say_v because_o thou_o have_v keep_v the_o word_n of_o my_o patience_n that_o be_v the_o word_n and_o doctrine_n which_o with_o a_o great_a deal_n of_o patience_n i_o have_v teach_v the_o world_n and_o with_o a_o like_a patience_n preach_v it_o from_o time_n to_o time_n or_o else_o the_o effect_n be_v put_v for_o the_o cause_n because_o thou_o have_v keep_v the_o word_n of_o my_o patience_n that_o be_v the_o word_n of_o my_o gospel_n which_o enjoin_v and_o work_v patience_n either_o or_o both_o of_o these_o sense_n may_v apt_o be_v raise_v and_o entertain_v from_o these_o word_n without_o any_o prejudice_n unto_o the_o truth_n and_o intention_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o these_o word_n or_o 2._o as_o respect_v the_o church_n of_o philadelphia_n this_o word_n as_o it_o be_v the_o word_n of_o christ_n patience_n which_o he_o teach_v patient_o the_o word_n be_v for_o many_o generation_n so_o it_o be_v receive_v and_o keep_v by_o she_o with_o patience_n and_o constancy_n for_o which_o she_o have_v the_o reward_n of_o be_v keep_v from_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n quest_n but_o whither_o be_v philadelphia_n so_o save_v and_o keep_v from_o the_o hour_n of_o temptation_n that_o fall_v upon_o all_o other_o her_o sister_n church_n that_o she_o be_v so_o free_v that_o she_o be_v not_o touch_v by_o it_o answ_n it_o be_v not_o probable_a that_o philadelphia_n go_v free_a when_o the_o ten_o day_n of_o persecution_n under_o the_o emperor_n
needs_o be_v sure_a and_o firm_a for_o in_o he_o according_a to_o that_o of_o the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 1.20_o be_v all_o the_o promise_n of_o god_n yea_o and_o amen_o and_o that_o he_o may_v get_v the_o better_a faith_n and_o credence_n thereunto_o he_o add_v another_o title_n the_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n paul_n can_v public_o profess_v that_o he_o be_v a_o faithful_a witness_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o counsel_n of_o god_n to_o his_o discsple_n and_o that_o he_o have_v hide_v nothing_o back_o that_o do_v necessary_o conduce_v to_o their_o salvation_n and_o think_v you_o that_o christ_n in_o these_o revelation_n have_v not_o deal_v as_o the_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n who_o be_v the_o god_n of_o all_o truth_n himself_o o_o you_o of_o little_a faith_n that_o will_v not_o believe_v the_o truth_n of_o those_o prophecy_n the_o downfall_n of_o the_o beast_n babylon_n and_o the_o whore_n together_o with_o the_o resurrection_n of_o the_o witness_n and_o the_o church_n glorious_a restore_v state_n on_o earth_n before_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n which_o be_v clear_o and_o full_o assert_v and_o evidence_v from_o this_o book_n of_o prophecy_n have_v not_o christ_n promise_v it_o that_o be_v the_o amen_o in_o who_o all_o the_o promise_n be_v yea_o and_o amen_o and_o come_v from_o he_o that_o be_v the_o true_a and_o faithful_a witness_n that_o can_v never_o fail_v and_o to_o take_v off_o all_o suspicion_n of_o failure_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o those_o prophecy_n there_o be_v a_o three_o property_n here_o add_v the_o beginning_n of_o the_o creation_n of_o god_n this_o have_v relation_n to_o that_o description_n of_o christ_n in_o chap._n 1._o v._n 8._o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d it_o may_v be_v render_v either_o the_o beginning_n of_o the_o creation_n of_o god_n or_o the_o principality_n of_o the_o creation_n of_o god_n for_o christ_n be_v both_o the_o begin_n of_o all_o creature_n for_o by_o he_o all_o thing_n be_v make_v and_o without_o he_o nothing_o be_v make_v and_o he_o be_v also_o the_o supreme_a prince_n and_o governor_n of_o all_o the_o work_n of_o the_o creation_n for_o so_o it_o necessary_o follow_v that_o all_o thing_n shall_v be_v subject_a to_o his_o principality_n and_o government_n who_o do_v at_o first_o create_v they_o and_o give_v a_o be_v to_o they_o therefore_o to_o shut_v up_o this_o the_o say_n of_o these_o prophecy_n in_o this_o book_n must_v needs_o be_v sure_a and_o come_v to_o pass_v in_o their_o appoint_a season_n see_v the_o amen_o the_o faithful_a and_o true_a witness_n and_o the_o creator_n preserver_n and_o governor_n of_o all_o the_o work_n of_o the_o creation_n have_v say_v and_o speak_v they_o who_o will_v not_o then_o believe_v they_o come_v first_o from_o so_o faithful_a and_o true_a a_o witness_n and_o from_o one_o who_o be_v the_o beginning_n and_o prince_n of_o the_o whole_a creation_n and_o therefore_o most_o able_a to_o perform_v they_o verse_n 15._o i_o know_v thy_o work_n that_o thou_o be_v neither_o cold_a nor_o hot_a i_o will_v thou_o be_v cold_a or_o hot_a this_o church_n of_o laodicea_n as_o she_o come_v last_o in_o place_n so_o she_o come_v last_o in_o spiritual_a grace_n of_o all_o her_o sister_n church_n christ_n find_v nothing_o in_o she_o that_o be_v true_o commendable_a even_o in_o the_o church_n of_o sardis_n and_o pergamus_n though_o as_o good_a as_o dead_a and_o mix_v with_o much_o corruption_n yet_o there_o be_v find_v in_o they_o somewhat_o praiseworthy_a some_o undefiled_a name_n that_o be_v not_o carry_v aside_o by_o the_o false_a doctrine_n of_o jezebel_n but_o in_o laodicea_n nothing_o be_v find_v commendable_a and_o therefore_o she_o hear_v of_o nothing_o from_o christ_n but_o matter_n of_o reproof_n and_o of_o the_o desperateness_n of_o her_o spiritual_a state_n and_o condition_n doubtless_o there_o be_v some_o sincere_a faithful_a witness_n in_o this_o church_n of_o laodicea_n notwithstanding_o the_o spirit_n be_v silence_n in_o it_o or_o else_o she_o can_v not_o be_v proper_o number_v as_o one_o of_o the_o golden_a candlestick_n or_o as_o a_o church_n of_o christ_n their_o number_n be_v but_o small_a they_o be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o give_v a_o denomination_n unto_o the_o whole_a for_o indeed_o a_o body_n politic_a whither_o civil_a or_o spiritual_a be_v to_o be_v denominate_v sound_n or_o unsound_a from_o the_o major_a part_n as_o in_o the_o case_n of_o particular_a soul_n or_o person_n if_o grace_n be_v more_o prevalent_a in_o degree_n in_o the_o soul_n than_o sin_n and_o corruption_n it_o be_v to_o be_v term_v a_o sincere_a gracious_a soul_n but_o if_o sin_n be_v most_o prevalent_a it_o may_v be_v just_o term_v a_o sinful_a and_o unregenerate_a soul_n so_o be_v the_o case_n of_o political_a church_n if_o their_o frame_n constitution_n and_o matter_n be_v most_o unsound_a and_o corrupt_a such_o church_n be_v not_o to_o be_v denominate_v sound_n healthful_a body_n we_o be_v not_o to_o call_v darkness_n light_n or_o light_a darkness_n though_o for_o their_o profession_n of_o their_o faith_n they_o be_v call_v church_n of_o christ_n yet_o for_o the_o deadness_n thereof_o they_o may_v with_o sardis_n be_v right_o term_v dead_a one_o yea_o twice_o dead_a and_o to_o be_v pluck_v up_o by_o the_o root_n doubtless_o under_o prelacy_n both_o english_a and_o romish_a there_o be_v and_o be_v diverse_a precious_a christian_n and_o saint_n of_o christ_n as_o in_o the_o day_n of_o elijah_n when_o the_o idol_n of_o baal_n and_o his_o worship_n and_o the_o priest_n thereof_o be_v exalt_v yet_o then_o in_o that_o corrupt_a state_n of_o israel_n there_o be_v seven_o thousand_o that_o bowâ—d_v not_o the_o knee_n to_o baal_n yet_o they_o few_o faithful_a one_o in_o the_o day_n of_o elijah_n or_o those_o in_o the_o day_n of_o prelacy_n etc._n etc._n popery_n come_v far_o short_a to_o denominate_v israel_n at_o that_o time_n or_o our_o english_a or_o foreign_a nation_n under_o that_o corrupt_a frame_n or_o temper_n of_o antichristian_a prelacy_n to_o be_v praiseworthy_a church_n or_o sound_n sincere_a and_o healthful_a in_o their_o general_a matter_n frame_n or_o constitution_n but_o to_o return_v to_o the_o charge_n against_o laodicea_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n that_o thou_o be_v neither_o cold_a nor_o hot_a laodicea_n be_v of_o a_o strange_a mongrel_n composure_n and_o temper_n neither_o cold_a nor_o hot_a mould_v and_o compact_v as_o a_o certain_a odd_a extraction_n of_o two_o contrary_n cold_a and_o heat_n i_o think_v before_o this_o that_o that_o maxim_n be_v in_o all_o thing_n unquestionable_a in_o medio_fw-la consistit_fw-la virtus_fw-la it_o seem_v true_a religion_n will_v not_o admit_v of_o that_o principle_n for_o laodicea_n be_v here_o blame_v to_o be_v in_o the_o mean_a that_o be_v in_o a_o frame_n or_o temper_v which_o be_v neither_o hot_a nor_o cold_a by_o hot_a be_v here_o understand_v one_o that_o be_v zealous_a fervent_a in_o spirit_n for_o the_o truth_n and_o worship_n of_o god_n that_o can_v endure_v any_o corruption_n will-worship_n or_o superstition_n shall_v be_v admit_v in_o the_o true_a christian_n worship_n and_o religion_n and_o such_o a_o one_o be_v call_v a_o hot_a fervent_a or_o zealous_a christian_n and_o this_o can_v never_o be_v too_o intense_a as_o unto_o the_o degree_n thereof_o if_o it_o be_v considerate_a and_o according_a to_o sound_a knowledge_n the_o ignorant_a inconsiderate_a zeal_n be_v reprove_v and_o condemn_v as_o dangerous_a and_o pernicious_a not_o the_o sound_n and_o orthodox_n it_o be_v not_o with_o god_n grace_n as_o with_o moral_a habit_n of_o virtue_n wherein_o both_o the_o extreme_n stray_v from_o mediocrity_n either_o in_o the_o excess_n or_o in_o the_o defect_n be_v fault_n and_o vice_n as_o the_o excess_n of_o liberality_n may_v run_v into_o prodigality_n and_o the_o defect_n into_o covetous_a parsimony_n or_o the_o excess_n in_o fortitude_n may_v be_v call_v temerity_n and_o fool-hardiness_n and_o the_o defect_n cowardice_n and_o pusilanimity_n and_o so_o in_o the_o rest_n but_o in_o gracious_a habit_n the_o case_n be_v different_a soul_n can_v exceed_v therein_o be_v you_o holy_a as_o your_o heavenly_a father_n be_v holy_a no_o less_o than_o a_o aim_n unto_o perfection_n will_v serve_v turn_n be_v zealous_a fervent_a boil_a hot_a for_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n it_o be_v sound_a and_o considerate_a it_o will_v admit_v of_o no_o mediocrity_n lukewarmness_n or_o half_a friend_n to_o god_n and_o his_o way_n be_v equal_o a_o abomination_n in_o god_n sight_n for_o he_o require_v the_o whole_a heart_n as_o be_v coldness_n or_o deadness_n itself_o and_o therefore_o this_o strange_a commixture_n of_o temper_n in_o laodicea_n be_v explode_v by_o christ_n as_o most_o dangerous_a and_o pernicious_a and_o therefore_o add_v i_o will_v thou_o be_v cold_a or_o hot_a hence_o note_v observe_v a_o lukewarm_a temper_n among_o
god_n if_o we_o be_v not_o of_o his_o family_n he_o will_v leave_v we_o alone_o to_o run_v on_o in_o our_o own_o perverse_a way_n until_o destruction_n and_o hell_n overwhelm_v we_o be_v zealous_a therefore_o and_o repent_v what_o zeal_n be_v see_v former_o on_o the_o fifteen_o and_o sixteenth_o verse_n christ_n in_o the_o former_a verse_n prescribe_v the_o remedy_n to_o the_o church_n of_o laodicea_n for_o her_o disease_n and_o here_o he_o advise_v to_o the_o application_n of_o it_o be_v zealous_a be_v fervent_a be_v hot_a cast_v away_o thy_o half_a mongrel_n religion_n which_o be_v neither_o hot_a nor_o cold_a purge_v out_o o_o england_n thy_o romish_a leven_a that_o make_v thou_o hang_v even_o half_a way_n between_o heaven_n and_o hell_n between_o christ_n and_o antichrist_n be_v zealous_a and_o repent_v o_o laodicea_n cast_v out_o o_o england_n thy_o pretend_a riches_n honour_n and_o preferment_n which_o work_v a_o conceit_n in_o thou_o that_o thou_o be_v rich_a while_o thou_o be_v but_o beggarly_a and_o naked_a and_o buy_v gold_n try_v of_o the_o fire_n of_o christ_n and_o true_a honour_n from_o he_o and_o that_o white_a raiment_n of_o he_o righteousness_n and_o of_o his_o holy_a spouse_n in_o her_o external_a office_n and_o ordinance_n which_o will_v make_v thou_o true_o honourable_a beautiful_a rich_a and_o comely_a be_v zealous_a i_o say_v and_o fervent_a hot_a after_o those_o precious_a jewel_n and_o spiritual_a riches_n and_o repent_v of_o thy_o former_a folly_n and_o vain_a conceit_n and_o then_o thou_o will_v be_v wise_a to_o purpose_n and_o become_v as_o a_o lily_n among_o the_o thorn_n and_o the_o fair_a of_o all_o thy_o sister_n verse_n 20._o behold_v i_o stand_v at_o the_o door_n and_o knock_n if_o any_o man_n hear_v my_o voice_n and_o open_v the_o door_n i_o will_v come_v in_o to_o he_o and_o will_v sup_v with_o he_o and_o he_o with_o i_o christ_n add_v here_o another_o motive_n to_o the_o poor_a blind_a laodicean_n to_o come_v unto_o he_o for_o gold_n for_o white_a raiment_n for_o eyesalve_n to_o supply_v all_o their_o want_n which_o be_v draw_v from_o his_o willingness_n and_o readiness_n to_o come_v in_o and_o converse_v with_o all_o such_o that_o be_v but_o willing_a to_o receive_v he_o and_o to_o close_v with_o he_o and_o therefore_o he_o tell_v they_o behold_v i_o stand_v at_o the_o door_n and_o knock_n christ_n come_v as_o one_o desire_v to_o have_v entrance_n he_o knock_v first_o that_o they_o may_v know_v to_o who_o it_o be_v that_o they_o must_v open_v christ_n come_v in_o his_o first_o grace_n be_v irresistible_a and_o as_o the_o strong_a man_n dispossess_v satan_n and_o take_v possession_n of_o the_o house_n the_o soul_n by_o a_o spiritual_a force_n and_o overpower_v hand_n but_o if_o the_o soul_n after_o faith_n receive_v by_o its_o own_o sloth_n remissness_n or_o backslide_v shall_v shut_v the_o door_n or_o entrance_n thereof_o against_o the_o kindly_a operation_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o spirit_n christ_n be_v not_o oblige_v to_o break_v up_o the_o door_n of_o that_o heart_n again_o by_o violence_n as_o at_o his_o first_o come_v in_o unto_o it_o but_o will_v come_v and_o call_v and_o knock_v for_o entrance_n that_o be_v will_v wait_v with_o mercy_n with_o providence_n with_o precept_n command_n with_o exhortation_n and_o reproof_n that_o if_o possible_a to_o melt_v the_o stray_a and_o err_a soul_n into_o compunction_n and_o to_o open_v again_o unto_o he_o that_o the_o king_n of_o glory_n may_v enter_v in_o from_o which_o posture_n of_o christ_n observe_v observe_v that_o christ_n use_v all_o possible_a mean_n for_o the_o reclaim_n and_o regain_n err_a soul_n into_o the_o way_n of_o life_n he_o come_v as_o it_o be_v a_o supplicant_n at_o their_o door_n and_o desire_v they_o to_o give_v entrance_n to_o he_o he_o stand_v and_o knock_v he_o wait_v and_o wait_v long_o and_o call_v and_o call_v again_o by_o divers_a and_o various_a way_n of_o mercy_n and_o grace_n he_o put_v they_o in_o mind_n of_o his_o former_a love_a kindness_n and_o how_o ready_a he_o be_v to_o help_v they_o if_o they_o will_v but_o open_a to_o he_o and_o follow_v his_o direction_n and_o hearken_v to_o his_o voice_n sometime_o he_o shake_v his_o rod_n over_o they_o to_o bring_v they_o to_o repentance_n and_o tell_v they_o as_o many_o as_o he_o love_v he_o rebuke_n and_o chasten_v sometime_o he_o invite_v they_o by_o mercy_n and_o gracious_a consideration_n to_o return_v unto_o he_o then_o again_o he_o take_v the_o terror_n of_o the_o law_n to_o make_v they_o see_v their_o danger_n if_o they_o continue_v obstinate_a unto_o his_o call_n and_o last_o he_o send_v his_o ambassador_n with_o precept_n upon_o precept_n and_o line_n upon_o line_n beseech_v in_o christ_n name_n the_o stray_a soul_n to_o return_v unto_o he_o christ_n will_v never_o be_v want_v to_o they_o unless_o they_o be_v want_v unto_o themselves_o quest_n but_o why_o do_v not_o christ_n himself_o use_v his_o force_n and_o open_v the_o door_n himself_o by_o his_o spirit_n power_n to_o these_o poor_a laodicean_n be_v not_o he_o the_o great_a key-bearer_n of_o david_n who_o open_v and_o no_o man_n shut_v and_o if_o he_o will_v but_o speak_v the_o word_n he_o need_v not_o stand_v knock_v at_o their_o door_n they_o will_v fly_v open_a to_o he_o that_o he_o may_v enter_v in_o i_o answer_v 1._o it_o be_v true_a at_o christ_n first_o enter_v into_o the_o soul_n our_o base_a nature_n be_v so_o resistable_a and_o abhorrent_n to_o the_o work_n of_o grace_n that_o he_o must_v come_v by_o force_n by_o a_o spiritual_a force_n with_o his_o key_n of_o david_n to_o unlock_v the_o door_n of_o our_o heart_n if_o he_o will_v have_v a_o entrance_n thereinto_o but_o second_o have_v first_o shed_v abroad_o his_o first_o grace_n into_o our_o heart_n than_o he_o command_v we_o to_o work_v in_o the_o power_n of_o that_o grace_n to_o work_v out_o our_o salvation_n with_o fear_n and_o tremble_a have_v receive_v the_o promise_n say_v the_o apostle_n cleanse_v yourselves_o from_o all_o filthiness_n 2_o cor._n 7.1_o and_o christ_n put_v we_o then_o upon_o do_v that_o we_o may_v stir_v up_o our_o grace_n improve_v our_o talent_n and_o become_v active_a grow_a and_o fruitful_a christian_n and_o on_o this_o account_n christ_n here_o knock_v at_o the_o door_n of_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o church_n of_o laodicea_n and_o bid_v she_o to_o hearken_v to_o his_o voice_n and_z ro_o open_v to_o he_o she_o have_v receive_v the_o first_o grace_n of_o faith_n from_o christ_n or_o else_o she_o can_v not_o be_v number_v among_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n though_o she_o be_v a_o sad_a disorderly_a and_o rusty_a one_o yet_o she_o be_v a_o church_n of_o christ_n still_o and_o therefore_o may_v very_o well_o be_v command_v to_o set_v her_o power_n and_o grace_v a_o work_n to_o open_v unto_o christ_n the_o operation_n of_o who_o spirit_n she_o have_v shut_v out_o and_o quench_v by_o her_o uneven_a carriage_n and_o lukewarm_a temper_n three_o and_o in_o the_o last_o place_n know_v that_o laodicea_n have_v not_o quite_o shut_v the_o door_n to_o christ_n as_o unto_o the_o operation_n of_o his_o grace_n she_o be_v a_o church_n of_o christ_n though_o a_o lukewarm_a one_o but_o she_o have_v shut_v the_o door_n and_o deny_v he_o passage_n in_o some_o of_o his_o ordinance_n by_o which_o christ_n usual_o and_o ordinary_o enter_v she_o have_v shut_v the_o door_n unto_o a_o true_a spiritual_a ministry_n discipline_n orderly_o call_v and_o regular_a dispense_n of_o his_o ordinance_n and_o instead_o thereof_o entertain_v a_o formal_a lazy_a indifferent_a lukewarm_a ministry_n state-discipline_n officer_n and_o call_v and_o so_o all_o ordinance_n be_v bring_v to_o the_o scantling_n of_o the_o will_n of_o man_n not_o of_o god_n or_o of_o christ_n and_o so_o make_v up_o a_o mongrel_n hermaphroditical_a worship_n part_n of_o god_n and_o part_n of_o man_n which_o indeed_o be_v pure_o neither_o god_n nor_o man_n and_o therefore_o a_o abomination_n both_o to_o god_n and_o man_n she_o have_v shut_v this_o door_n and_o way_n of_o entrance_n against_o christ_n as_o some_o of_o our_o church_n have_v do_v this_o day_n and_o therefore_o christ_n come_v and_o knock_v and_o how_o by_o the_o ministry_n of_o his_o word_n and_o faithful_a witness_n and_o as_o john_n be_v send_v with_o a_o epistle_n in_o his_o hand_n to_o laodicea_n and_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o delinquent_a asian_a church_n so_o christ_n send_v his_o faithful_a teacher_n and_o prophet_n with_o a_o burden_n in_o their_o mouth_n against_o all_o such_o false_a worship_n and_o doctrine_n to_o unshut_a the_o door_n if_o it_o may_v be_v that_o the_o king_n of_o glory_n may_v enter_v in_o use_v from_o the_o discourse_v premise_n it_o plain_o appear_v that_o this_o scripture_n