church_n for_o their_o work_n be_v to_o call_v gather_v and_o erect_v it_o out_o of_o the_o world_n but_o no_o ordinary_a officer_n can_v be_v or_o ever_o be_v ordain_v but_o to_o a_o church_n in_o be_v some_o say_v they_o be_v ordain_v unto_o the_o universal_a visible_a church_n of_o professor_n some_o unto_o the_o particular_a church_n wherein_o their_o work_n do_v lie_v but_o all_o grant_n that_o the_o church-state_n whereunto_o they_o be_v ordain_v be_v antecedent_n unto_o their_o ordination_n the_o lord_n christ_n can_v and_o do_v ordain_v apostle_n and_o evangelist_n when_o there_o be_v yet_o no_o gospel_n church_n for_o they_o be_v to_o be_v the_o instrument_n of_o its_o call_v and_o erection_n but_o the_o apostle_n neither_o do_v nor_o can_v ordain_v any_o ordinary_a officer_n until_o there_o be_v a_o church_n or_o church_n with_o respect_n whereunto_o they_o shall_v be_v ordain_v it_o be_v therefore_o high_o absurd_a to_o ascribe_v the_o continuation_n of_o the_o church_n unto_o the_o successive_a ordination_n of_o officer_n if_o any_o such_o thing_n there_o be_v see_v this_o successive_a ordination_n of_o officer_n depend_v sole_o on_o the_o continuation_n of_o the_o church_n if_o that_o be_v not_o secure_v on_o other_o foundation_n this_o successive_a ordination_n will_v quick_o tumble_v into_o dust_n yea_o this_o successive_a ordination_n be_v there_o any_o such_o thing_n appoint_v must_v be_v a_o act_n of_o the_o church_n itself_o and_o so_o can_v be_v the_o mean_n of_o communicate_v church_n power_n unto_o other_o a_o successive_a ordination_n in_o some_o sense_n may_v be_v grant_v namely_o that_o when_o those_o who_o be_v ordain_v officer_n in_o any_o church_n do_v die_v that_o other_o be_v ordain_v in_o their_o stead_n but_o this_o be_v by_o a_o act_n of_o power_n in_o the_o church_n itself_o as_o we_o shall_v manifest_v afterward_o 2._o not_o to_o treat_v of_o papal_a succession_n the_o limit_v of_o this_o successive_a ordination_n as_o the_o only_a way_n and_o mean_n of_o communicate_v church_n power_n and_o so_o of_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o church-state_n unto_o diocesan_n prelate_n or_o bishop_n be_v build_v on_o so_o many_o inevident_a presumption_n and_o false_a principle_n as_o will_v leave_v it_o altogether_o uncertain_a whether_o there_o be_v any_o church-state_n in_o the_o world_n or_o no._n as_o 1_o that_o such_o bishop_n be_v ordain_v by_o the_o apostle_n which_o can_v never_o be_v prove_v 2_o that_o they_o receive_v power_n from_o the_o apostle_n to_o ordain_v other_o and_o communicate_v their_o whole_a power_n unto_o they_o by_o a_o authority_n inherent_a in_o themselves_o alone_o yet_o still_o reserve_v their_o whole_a power_n unto_o themselves_o also_o give_v all_o and_o retain_v all_o at_o the_o same_o time_n which_o have_v no_o more_o of_o truth_n than_o the_o former_a and_o may_v be_v easy_o disprove_v 3_o that_o they_o never_o do_v nor_o can_v any_o of_o they_o forfeit_v this_o power_n by_o any_o crime_n or_o error_n so_o as_o to_o render_v their_o ordination_n invalid_a and_o interrupt_v the_o succession_n pretend_v 4_o that_o they_o all_o ordain_v other_o in_o such_o manner_n and_o way_n as_o to_o render_v their_o ordination_n valid_a whereas_o multitude_n be_v never_o agree_v what_o be_v require_v thereunto_o 5_o that_o whatever_o heresy_n idolatry_n flagitiousness_n of_o life_n persecution_n of_o the_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n these_o prelatical_a ordainer_n may_v fall_v into_o by_o whatever_o art_n simoniacal_a practice_n or_o false_a pretence_n unto_o what_o be_v not_o they_o come_v themselves_o into_o their_o office_n yet_o nothing_o can_v deprive_v they_o of_o their_o right_n of_o communicate_v all_o church_n power_n unto_o other_o by_o ordination_n 6_o that_o person_n so_o ordain_v whether_o they_o have_v any_o call_v from_o the_o church_n or_o no_o whether_o they_o have_v any_o of_o the_o qualification_n require_v by_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o scripture_n to_o make_v they_o capable_a of_o any_o office_n in_o the_o church_n or_o have_v receive_v any_o spiritual_a gift_n from_o christ_n for_o the_o exercise_n of_o their_o office_n and_o discharge_v of_o their_o duty_n whether_o they_o have_v any_o design_n or_o no_o to_o pursue_v the_o end_n of_o that_o office_n which_o they_o take_v upon_o they_o yet_o all_o be_v one_o be_v any_o way_n prelatical_o ordain_v bishop_n they_o may_v ordain_v other_o and_o so_o the_o successive_a ordination_n be_v preserve_v and_o what_o be_v this_o but_o to_o take_v the_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n out_o of_o the_o hand_n of_o christ_n to_o give_v law_n unto_o he_o to_o follow_v with_o his_o approbation_n the_o act_n of_o man_n beside_o and_o contrary_a to_o his_o law_n and_o institution_n and_o to_o make_v application_n of_o his_o promise_n unto_o the_o vile_a of_o man_n whether_o he_o will_v or_o no._n 7_o that_o it_o be_v not_o lawful_a for_o believer_n or_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n to_o yield_v obedience_n unto_o his_o command_n without_o this_o episcopal_a ordination_n which_o many_o church_n can_v have_v and_o more_o will_v not_o as_o judge_v it_o against_o the_o mind_n and_o will_n of_o christ._n 8_o that_o one_o worldly_a ignorant_n proud_a sensual_a beast_n such_o as_o some_o of_o the_o head_n of_o this_o successive_a ordination_n as_o the_o pope_n of_o rome_n have_v be_v shall_v have_v more_o power_n and_o authority_n from_o christ_n to_o preserve_v and_o continue_v a_o church-state_n by_o ordination_n than_o any_o the_o most_o holy_a church_n in_o the_o world_n that_o be_v or_o can_v be_v gather_v according_a to_o his_o mind_n with_o other_o unwarrantable_a presumption_n innumerable_a 3._o the_o pernicious_a consequence_n that_o may_v ensue_v on_o this_o principle_n do_v manifest_a its_o inconsistency_n with_o what_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n have_v ordain_v unto_o this_o end_n of_o the_o continuation_n of_o his_o church_n i_o need_v not_o reckon_v they_o upon_o the_o sure_a probability_n there_o be_v no_o room_n leave_v for_o fear_n of_o what_o may_v follow_v hereon_o by_o what_o have_v already_o do_v so_o if_o we_o consider_v whither_o this_o successive_a ordination_n have_v already_o lead_v a_o great_a part_n of_o the_o church_n we_o may_v easy_o judge_v what_o it_o be_v meet_v for_o it_o have_v i_o say_v lead_v man_n for_o instance_n in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n into_o a_o presumption_n of_o a_o good_a church-state_n in_o the_o loss_n of_o holiness_n and_o truth_n in_o the_o practice_n of_o false_a worship_n and_o idolatry_n in_o the_o persecution_n and_o slaughter_n of_o the_o faithful_a servant_n of_o christ_n unto_o a_o state_n plain_o antichristian_a to_o think_v there_o shall_v be_v a_o flux_n and_o communication_n of_o heavenly_a and_o spiritual_a power_n from_o jesus_n christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n in_o and_o by_o the_o hand_n and_o act_n of_o person_n ignorant_a simoniacal_a adulterous_a incestuous_a proud_a ambitious_a sensual_a preside_v in_o a_o church-state_n never_o appoint_v by_o he_o immerse_v in_o false_a and_o idolatrous_a worship_n persecute_v the_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n wherein_o be_v the_o true_a succession_n of_o apostolical_a doctrine_n and_o holiness_n be_v a_o imagination_n for_o man_n who_o embrace_v the_o shadow_n and_o appearance_n of_o thing_n never_o once_o serious_o think_v of_o the_o true_a nature_n of_o they_o in_o brief_a it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o derive_v a_o succession_n whereon_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n shall_v depend_v through_o the_o presence_n of_o christ_n with_o the_o bishop_n of_o rome_n who_o for_o a_o 100_o year_n together_o from_o the_o year_n 900_o to_o a_o 1000_o be_v monster_n for_o ignorance_n lust_n pride_n and_o luxury_n as_o baronius_n acknowledge_v a._n d._n 912.5.8_o or_o by_o the_o church_n of_o antioch_n by_o samosatenus_fw-la eudoxius_n gnapheus_n severus_n and_o the_o like_a heretic_n or_o in_o constantinople_n by_o macedonius_n eusebius_n demophilus_n anthorinus_n and_o their_o companion_n or_o at_o alexandria_n by_o lucius_n dioscurus_n aelurus_n sergius_n and_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o same_o sort_n 4._o the_o principal_a argument_n whereby_o this_o conceit_n be_v full_o discard_v must_v be_v speak_v unto_o afterward_o and_o this_o be_v the_o due_a consideration_n of_o the_o proper_a subject_n of_o all_o church-power_n unto_o who_o it_o be_v original_o formal_o and_o radical_o give_v and_o grant_v by_o jesus_n christ._n for_o none_o can_v communicate_v this_o power_n unto_o other_o but_o those_o who_o have_v receive_v it_o themselves_o from_o christ_n by_o virtue_n of_o his_o law_n and_o institution_n now_o this_o be_v the_o whole_a church_n and_o not_o any_o person_n in_o it_o or_o prelate_n over_o it_o look_v whatever_o constitute_v it_o a_o church_n that_o give_v it_o all_o the_o power_n and_o privilege_n of_o a_o church_n for_o a_o church_n be_v nothing_o but_o a_o society_n of_o profess_a believer_n enjoy_v all_o church_n power_n
preservation_n of_o church_n peace_n and_o unity_n all_o the_o dispute_n be_v whether_o we_o keep_v unto_o this_o rule_n of_o christ_n or_o no_o wherein_o we_o be_v ready_a at_o any_o time_n to_o put_v ourselves_o upon_o the_o trial_n be_v willing_a to_o teach_v or_o learn_v as_o god_n shall_v help_v we_o second_o we_o say_v that_o this_o rule_n in_o general_n be_v the_o rule_n of_o faith_n love_n and_o obedience_n contain_v and_o reveal_v in_o the_o scripture_n and_o in_o particular_a the_o command_n that_o the_o lord_n christ_n have_v give_v for_o the_o order_n and_o worship_n that_o he_o require_v in_o his_o church_n it_o may_v seem_v strange_a to_o some_o that_o we_o shall_v suppose_v the_o due_a observance_n of_o the_o rule_n of_o faith_n love_n and_o obedience_n that_o be_v of_o faith_n real_a and_o unfeigned_a love_v fervent_a and_o without_o dissimulation_n and_o of_o universal_a gracious_a evangelical_n obedience_n to_o be_v necessary_a unto_o the_o preservation_n of_o church_n peace_n and_o unity_n but_o we_o do_v affirm_v with_o some_o confidence_n that_o the_o only_a real_a foundation_n of_o they_o do_v lie_v herein_o nor_o do_v we_o value_v that_o ecclesiastical_a peace_n which_o may_v be_v without_o it_o or_o be_v neglective_a of_o it_o let_v all_o the_o christian_a world_n or_o those_o therein_o who_o concern_v themselves_o in_o we_o know_v that_o this_o be_v our_o principle_n and_o our_o judgement_n that_o no_o church_n peace_n or_o unity_n be_v value_v by_o or_o accept_v with_o jesus_n christ_n that_o be_v not_o found_v in_o that_o do_v not_o arise_v from_o and_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o a_o diligent_a attendance_n unto_o and_o observance_n of_o the_o entire_a gospel_n rule_n of_o faith_n and_o obedience_n in_o the_o neglect_v hereof_o peace_n be_v be_v but_o carnal_a security_n and_o unity_n be_v nothing_o but_o a_o conspiracy_n against_o the_o rule_n of_o christ._n add_v hereunto_o in_o particular_a the_o due_a observation_n of_o what_o the_o lord_n christ_n have_v appoint_v to_o be_v do_v and_o observe_v in_o his_o church_n as_o unto_o their_o order_n rule_n and_o worship_n and_o they_o who_o walk_v according_a unto_o this_o rule_n need_v not_o fear_v the_o charge_n of_o schism_n from_o the_o fierce_a of_o their_o adversary_n wherefore_o we_o say_v three_o those_o who_o recede_v from_o this_o rule_n in_o any_o material_a branch_n of_o it_o be_v guilty_a of_o the_o breach_n of_o church_n unity_n according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o their_o exorbitancy_n as_o suppose_v that_o any_o preach_v teach_v or_o profess_v doctrine_n that_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o form_n of_o wholesome_a word_n especial_o with_o reference_n unto_o the_o person_n office_n and_o grace_n of_o christ_n which_o be_v the_o subject_a of_o doctrine_n pure_o evangelical_n they_o break_v the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n and_o we_o be_v bind_v to_o separate_v or_o withdraw_v communion_n from_o they_o which_o be_v a_o mean_n of_o preserve_v the_o true_a peace_n and_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n speciosum_fw-la quidem_fw-la est_fw-la nomen_fw-la pacis_fw-la &_o pulchra_fw-la opinio_fw-la vnitatis_fw-la sed_fw-la quis_fw-la ambigat_fw-la eam_fw-la solam_fw-la unicam_fw-la ecclesiae_fw-la pacem_fw-la esse_fw-la quae_fw-la christi_fw-la est_fw-la say_v hilary_n suppose_v that_o man_n retain_v a_o form_n of_o godliness_n in_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o truth_n but_o deny_v the_o power_n of_o it_o act_v their_o habitual_a lust_n and_o corruption_n in_o a_o vicious_a conversation_n they_o overthrow_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o church_n unity_n and_o we_o be_v oblige_v from_o such_o to_o turn_v away_o the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v of_o those_o who_o live_v in_o a_o constant_a neglect_n of_o any_o of_o the_o command_v of_o christ_n with_o respect_n unto_o the_o order_n rule_n and_o worship_n of_o the_o church_n with_o a_o contempt_n of_o the_o mean_v appoint_v by_o he_o for_o their_o edification_n all_o these_o according_a unto_o the_o measure_n of_o their_o deviation_n from_o the_o rule_n of_o christ_n do_v disturb_v the_o foundation_n of_o all_o church_n peace_n and_o unity_n and_o therefore_o we_o say_v four_o that_o conscience_n be_v immediate_o and_o direct_o concern_v in_o no_o other_o church_n unity_n as_o such_o but_o what_o be_v a_o effect_n of_o the_o rule_n of_o christ_n give_v unto_o that_o end_n we_o know_v what_o be_v speak_v concern_v obedience_n unto_o the_o guide_n and_o ruler_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v a_o part_n of_o the_o rule_n of_o christ._n but_o we_o know_v withal_o that_o this_o obedience_n be_v require_v of_o we_o only_o as_o they_o teach_v we_o to_o observe_v and_o do_v all_o that_o he_o have_v command_v for_o other_o commission_n from_o he_o they_o have_v none_o when_o this_o rule_n be_v forsake_v and_o another_o substitute_v in_o the_o room_n of_o it_o as_o it_o quick_o divert_v the_o mind_n of_o man_n from_o a_o conscientious_a attendance_n unto_o that_o rule_n of_o christ_n as_o the_o only_a mean_n of_o church_n unity_n so_o that_o other_o do_v either_o proceed_v from_o man_n secular_a interest_n or_o may_v easy_o be_v accommodate_v thereunto_o and_o whereas_o the_o line_n of_o it_o must_v be_v draw_v in_o the_o field_n of_o pretend_a indifferency_n and_o real_a arbitrariness_n it_o will_v be_v the_o cause_n of_o endless_a contention_n whilst_o whatever_o some_o think_v themselves_o to_o have_v power_n to_o appoint_v other_o will_v judge_v themselves_o to_o have_v liberty_n to_o refuse_v five_o it_o be_v unity_n of_o christ_n appointment_n that_o schism_n respect_v as_o a_o sin_n against_o it_o and_o not_o uniformity_n in_o thing_n of_o man_n appointment_n and_o last_o those_o who_o charge_v schism_n on_o other_o for_o a_o dissent_n from_o themselves_o or_o the_o refrain_v of_o total_a communion_n with_o they_o must_v 1._o discharge_v themselves_o of_o the_o charge_n of_o it_o in_o a_o consistence_n with_o their_o charge_n on_o they_o for_o we_o find_v as_o yet_o no_o arrow_n shoot_v against_o we_o but_o such_o as_o be_v gather_v up_o in_o the_o field_n shoot_v at_o they_o that_o use_v they_o out_o of_o the_o roman_a quiver_n neither_o will_v it_o avail_v they_o to_o say_v that_o they_o have_v other_o manner_n of_o reason_n for_o their_o separation_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n than_o any_o we_o have_v for_o our_o withdraw_a communion_n from_o they_o for_o the_o question_n be_v not_o what_o reason_n they_o have_v for_o what_o they_o do_v but_o what_o right_o and_o power_n they_o have_v to_o do_v it_o namely_o to_o separate_v from_o the_o church_n whereof_o they_o be_v constitute_v a_o new_a church_n state_n of_o their_o own_o without_o the_o consent_n of_o that_o church_n and_o against_o the_o order_n and_o authority_n of_o the_o same_o 2._o require_v no_o communion_n but_o by_o virtue_n of_o the_o rule_n before_o declare_v in_o no_o other_o be_v we_o concern_v with_o respect_n unto_o the_o peace_n and_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n 3._o give_v a_o far_a confirmation_n than_o what_o we_o have_v yet_o see_v unto_o the_o principle_n or_o presumption_n they_o proceed_v upon_o in_o the_o mannagement_n of_o the_o charge_n of_o schism_n as_o that_o 1._o diocesan_a bishop_n with_o their_o metropolitan_n be_v of_o divine_a institution_n 2._o that_o the_o power_n of_o rule_n in_o and_o over_o all_o church_n be_v commit_v unto_o they_o alone_o 3._o that_o the_o church_n have_v power_n to_o ordain_v religious_a rite_n and_o ceremony_n no_o where_o prescribe_v in_o the_o scripture_n and_o impose_v the_o observation_n of_o they_o on_o all_o member_n of_o the_o church_n 4._o that_o this_o church_n they_o be_v 5._o that_o no_o man_n voluntary_a consent_n be_v require_v to_o constitute_v he_o a_o member_n of_o any_o church_n but_o that_o every_o one_o be_v surprise_v into_o that_o state_n whether_o he_o will_v or_o no._n 6_o that_o there_o be_v nothing_o of_o force_n in_o the_o argument_n plead_v for_o noncompliance_n with_o arbitrary_a unnecessary_a imposition_n 7._o that_o the_o church_n stand_v in_o no_o need_n of_o reformation_n neither_o in_o doctrine_n discipline_n nor_o conversation_n with_o sundry_a other_o thing_n of_o a_o alike_a nature_n that_o they_o need_v unto_o their_o justification_n but_o yet_o when_o all_o be_v do_v it_o will_v appear_v that_o mutual_a forbearance_n first_o remove_v animosity_n than_o administer_a occasion_n of_o inoffensive_a converse_n unto_o the_o revival_n of_o decay_a affection_n lead_v unto_o sedate_n conference_n and_o consideration_n of_o a_o more_o entire_a conjunction_n in_o the_o thing_n whereunto_o we_o have_v attain_v will_v more_o conduce_v unto_o universal_a peace_n and_o gospel_n unity_n than_o the_o most_o fierce_a contention_n about_o thing_n in_o difference_n or_o the_o most_o vehement_a charge_n of_o schism_n against_o dissenter_n but_o i_o must_v return_v to_o the_o argument_n and_o shall_v add_v something_o give_v light_n into_o the_o nature_n of_o schism_n from_o a_o
anâ—yra_n in_o galatia_n about_o the_o year_n 314_o can._n 13._o and_o mention_n be_v again_o make_v of_o they_o in_o a_o synod_n of_o antioch_n an._n 341._o and_o somewhat_o before_o at_o the_o council_n of_o neocaesarea_n can._n 13._o and_o frequent_o afterward_o as_o any_o one_o may_v see_v in_o the_o late_a collection_n of_o the_o ancient_a canon_n i_o very_o believe_v nor_o can_v the_o contrary_n be_v prove_v but_o that_o these_o chorepiscopi_fw-la at_o first_o be_v as_o absolute_a and_o complete_a in_o the_o office_n of_o episcopacy_n as_o any_o of_o the_o bishop_n of_o the_o great_a city_n have_v their_o name_n or_o denomination_n from_o the_o place_n of_o their_o residence_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o not_o for_o a_o intimation_n of_o any_o inferiority_n in_o they_o unto_o other_o city-bishop_n but_o so_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o through_o their_o poverty_n and_o want_n of_o interest_n their_o ministry_n be_v confine_v unto_o a_o small_a country-parish_n &_o perhaps_o through_o a_o comparative_a meanness_n of_o their_o gift_n or_o ability_n the_o city-bishop_n claim_v a_o superiority_n over_o they_o and_o make_v canon_n about_o their_o power_n the_o bound_a and_o exercise_v of_o it_o in_o dependence_n on_o themselves_o for_o a_o while_n they_o be_v esteem_v a_o degree_n above_o mere_a presbyter_n who_o accompany_v or_o attend_v the_o bishop_n of_o the_o city-church_n in_o his_o administration_n and_o a_o degree_n beneath_o the_o bishop_n himself_o in_o a_o posture_n never_o design_v by_o christ_n nor_o his_o apostle_n wherefore_o in_o process_n of_o time_n the_o name_n and_o thing_n be_v utter_o lose_v and_o all_o the_o country-churche_n be_v bring_v into_o a_o absolute_a subjection_n unto_o the_o city-church_n something_o be_v allow_v unto_o they_o for_o worship_n nothing_o for_o rule_n and_o discipline_n whereby_o the_o first_o state_n of_o church_n in_o their_o original_a institution_n sacred_o preserve_v in_o the_o first_o century_n be_v utter_o lose_v and_o demolish_a i_o shall_v add_v but_o one_o argument_n more_o to_o evince_v the_o true_a state_n and_o nature_n of_o evangelical_n church_n herein_o namely_o that_o they_o be_v only_o particular_a congregation_n and_o that_o be_v take_v from_o the_o duty_n and_o power_n ascribe_v in_o the_o scripture_n unto_o church_n and_o the_o member_n or_o entire_a brotherhood_n of_o they_o it_o be_v observe_v before_o that_o the_o epistle_n of_o the_o apostle_n be_v write_v all_o of_o they_o unto_o the_o body_n of_o the_o church_n in_o contradistinction_n unto_o their_o elder_n bishop_n or_o pastor_n unless_o it_o be_v those_o that_o be_v write_v unto_o particular_a person_n by_o name_n and_o as_o this_o be_v plain_a in_o all_o the_o epistle_n of_o paul_n wherein_o sometime_o distinct_a mention_n be_v make_v of_o the_o officer_n of_o the_o church_n sometime_o none_o at_o all_o so_o the_o apostle_n john_n affirm_v that_o he_o write_v unto_o the_o church_n but_o that_o diotrephes_n who_o seem_v to_o have_v be_v their_o bishop_n receive_v he_o not_o at_o once_o reject_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o apostle_n and_o overthrow_v the_o liberty_n of_o the_o church_n which_o example_n be_v diligent_o follow_v in_o the_o succeed_a age_n joh._n epist._n 3._o ver_fw-la 9_o and_o the_o apostle_n peter_n write_v unto_o the_o church_n on_o a_o especial_a occasion_n speak_v distinct_o of_o the_o elder_n 1_o pet._n 5.1_o 2._o see_v also_o heb._n 13.24_o the_o body_n of_o the_o epistle_n be_v direct_v to_o the_o body_n of_o church_n wherefore_o all_o the_o instruction_n direction_n and_o injunction_n give_v in_o those_o epistle_n as_o unto_o the_o exercise_n of_o power_n or_o the_o performance_n of_o duty_n they_o be_v give_v unto_o the_o church_n themselves_o now_o these_o be_v such_o many_o of_o they_o as_o can_v be_v act_v or_o perform_v in_o any_o church_n by_o the_o body_n of_o the_o people_n but_o that_o which_o be_v congregational_a only_o it_o be_v too_o long_o here_o to_o insist_v on_o particular_n it_o shall_v be_v do_v elsewhere_o and_o it_o will_v thence_o appear_v that_o this_o argument_n alone_o be_v sufficient_a to_o bear_v the_o weight_n of_o this_o whole_a cause_n the_o reader_n may_v if_o he_o please_v consider_v what_o representation_n hereof_o be_v make_v in_o these_o place_n compare_v together_o matth._n 18.15_o 16_o 17_o 18._o act._n 1.12_o 23_o chap._n 2.1_o 42_o 44_o 46._o chap._n 5.11_o 12_o 13._o chap._n 11.21_o 22_o 25_o 26_o 28_o 29_o 30._o chap._n 12.5_o 12._o chap._n 14.26_o 27._o chap._n 15.1_o 2_o 3_o 4_o 6_o 12_o 13_o 22_o 23_o 27_o 28_o 30._o chap._n 20.28_o rom._n 15.5_o 6_o 14_o 25_o 26._o chap._n 16.1_o 17_o 18._o 1_o cor._n 1.4_o 5._o chap._n 5._o throughout_o chap._n 12.4_o 7_o 8_o 9_o 11_o 15_o 18_o 28_o 29_o 30_o 31._o chap._n 14._o throughout_o chap._n 16.10_o 11._o 2_o cor._n 3.1_o 2_o 3._o chap._n 7.14_o 15._o chap._n 8.22_o 23_o 24._o chap._n 2_o 6_o 7_o 8_o 9_o 10_o 11._o chap._n 8.5_o ephes._n 2.19_o 20_o 21_o 22._o chap._n 5.11_o 12._o gal._n 6.1_o philip._n 2.25_o 26_o 27_o 28._o colos._n 1.1_o 2._o chap._n 2.3_o chap._n 3.16_o chap._n 4.9_o 12_o 16_o 17._o 1_o thes._n 5.11_o 12_o 13_o 14._o 2_o thes._n 3.6_o 7_o 14_o 15._o heb._n 12.13_o chap._n 10.24_o 25._o chap._n 12.15_o 16._o in_o these_o i_o say_v and_o other_o place_n innumerable_a there_o be_v those_o thing_n affirm_v of_o and_o ascribe_v unto_o the_o apostolical_a church_n as_o unto_o their_o state_n order_n assembly_n duty_n power_n and_o privilege_n as_o evince_n they_o to_o have_v be_v only_o particular_a congregation_n chap._n vi_o congregational_a church_n alone_o suit_v unto_o the_o end_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o institution_n of_o his_o church_n have_v give_v a_o account_n of_o that_o state_n and_o order_n of_o the_o gospel-churche_n which_o be_v of_o divine_a institution_n it_o be_v necessary_a that_o we_o declare_v also_o their_o suitableness_n and_o sufficiency_n unto_o all_o the_o end_n for_o which_o the_o lord_n christ_n appoint_v such_o church_n for_o if_o there_o be_v any_o true_a proper_a end_n of_o that_o nature_n which_o can_v be_v attain_v in_o or_o by_o any_o church-state_n in_o this_o or_o that_o form_n it_o must_v be_v grant_v that_o no_o such_o form_n be_v of_o divine_a appointment_n yea_o it_o be_v necessary_a not_o only_o that_o such_o a_o state_n as_o pretend_v unto_o a_o divine_a original_a be_v not_o only_o not_o contradictory_n unto_o or_o inconsistent_a with_o such_o a_o end_n but_o that_o it_o be_v effectual_o conduce_v thereunto_o and_o in_o its_o place_n necessary_a unto_o that_o purpose_n this_o therefore_o be_v that_o which_o we_o shall_v now_o inquire_v into_o namely_o whether_o this_o state_n and_o form_n of_o gospel-churche_n in_o single_a congregation_n be_v suit_v unto_o all_o those_o end_n for_o which_o any_o such_o church_n be_v appoint_v which_o they_o must_v be_v on_o the_o account_n of_o the_o wisdom_n of_o jesus_n christ_n the_o author_n and_o founder_n of_o they_o or_o be_v utter_o discard_v from_o their_o pretence_n nor_o be_v there_o any_o more_o forcible_a argument_n against_o any_o pretend_a church-state_n rule_n or_o order_n than_o that_o it_o be_v obstructive_a unto_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n in_o attain_v the_o proper_a end_n of_o their_o whole_a institution_n what_o these_o end_n be_v be_v in_o general_a before_o declare_v i_o shall_v not_o here_o repeat_v they_o or_o go_v over_o they_o again_o but_o only_o single_a out_o the_o consideration_n of_o those_o which_o be_v usual_o plead_v as_o not_o attainable_a by_o this_o way_n of_o church_n in_o single_a congregation_n only_o or_o that_o at_o least_o they_o be_v not_o suit_v unto_o their_o attainment_n the_o first_o of_o these_o be_v mutual_a love_n among_o all_o christian_n all_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n by_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n i_o intend_v they_o and_o they_o only_o who_o profess_v faith_n in_o his_o person_n and_o doctrine_n and_o to_o hear_v he_o or_o to_o be_v guide_v by_o he_o alone_o in_o all_o thing_n that_o appertain_v unto_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n and_o their_o live_n unto_o he_o if_o there_o be_v any_o call_v christian_n who_o in_o these_o thing_n choose_v other_o guide_n call_v other_o minister_n hear_v they_o in_o their_o appointment_n we_o must_v sever_v they_o from_o our_o present_a consideration_n though_o there_o be_v important_a duty_n require_v of_o we_o towards_o they_o also_o but_o what_o be_v allege_v be_v necessary_a unto_o the_o constitution_n of_o a_o true_a disciple_n of_o christ._n unto_o all_o those_o his_o great_a command_n be_v mutual_a love_n among_o themselves_o this_o he_o call_v in_o a_o especial_a manner_n his_o commandment_n and_o a_o new_a commandment_n as_o for_o other_o reason_n so_o because_o he_o have_v give_v the_o first_o absolute_a great_a example_n of_o it_o in_o himself_o as_o also_o discover_v
of_o that_o nation_n and_o by_o live_v within_o such_o parochial_a precinct_n as_o the_o law_n of_o the_o land_n have_v arbitrary_o establish_v be_v member_n of_o this_o or_o that_o particular_a congregation_n at_o least_o they_o be_v account_v so_o far_o to_o belong_v unto_o these_o church_n as_o to_o render_v they_o liable_a unto_o all_o outward_a punishment_n that_o shall_v be_v think_v meet_a to_o be_v inflict_v on_o they_o who_o comply_v not_o with_o they_o so_o far_o as_o these_o persuasion_n and_o act_n according_a unto_o they_o do_v prevail_v so_o far_o be_v they_o destructive_a of_o the_o principal_a foundation_n of_o the_o external_a be_v and_o order_n of_o the_o church_n but_o that_o man_n join_n themselves_o in_o or_o unto_o any_o church_n society_n be_v or_o aught_o to_o be_v a_o voluntary_a act_n or_o a_o act_n of_o free_a choice_n in_o mere_a obedience_n unto_o the_o authority_n and_o command_n of_o christ_n be_v so_o sacred_a a_o truth_n so_o evident_a in_o the_o scripture_n so_o necessary_a from_o its_o subject_a matter_n so_o testify_v unto_o by_o the_o practice_n of_o all_o the_o first_o church_n as_o that_o it_o despise_v all_o opposition_n and_o i_o know_v not_o how_o any_o can_v reconcile_v the_o common_a practice_n of_o give_v man_n the_o reputation_n or_o reality_n of_o be_v member_n of_o or_o belong_v unto_o this_o or_o that_o church_n as_o unto_o total_a communion_n who_o desire_n or_o choose_v no_o such_o thing_n unto_o this_o acknowledge_a principle_n 5._o there_o be_v a_o double_a join_n unto_o the_o church_n 1._o that_o which_o be_v as_o unto_o total_a communion_n in_o all_o the_o duty_n and_o privilege_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v that_o whereof_o we_o treat_v 2._o a_o adherence_n unto_o the_o church_n as_o unto_o the_o mean_n of_o instruction_n and_o edification_n to_o be_v attain_v thereby_o so_o person_n may_v adhere_v unto_o any_o church_n who_o yet_o be_v not_o meet_v or_o free_a on_o some_o present_a consideration_n to_o confederate_a with_o it_o as_o unto_o total_a communion_n see_v act._n 5.13_o 14._o and_o of_o this_o sort_n in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n be_v the_o baptise_a child_n of_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n for_o although_o they_o be_v not_o capable_a of_o perform_v church-duty_n or_o enjoy_v churchâ—priviledges_n in_o their_o tender_a year_n nor_o can_v have_v a_o right_n unto_o total_a communion_n before_o the_o testification_n of_o their_o own_o voluntary_a consent_n thereunto_o and_o choice_n thereof_o yet_o be_v they_o in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n under_o the_o care_n and_o inspection_n of_o the_o church_n so_o far_o as_o the_o outward_a administration_n of_o the_o covenant_n in_o all_o the_o mean_n of_o it_o be_v commit_v thereunto_o and_o their_o duty_n it_o be_v according_a to_o their_o capacity_n to_o attend_v unto_o the_o ministry_n of_o that_o church_n whereunto_o they_o do_v belong_v 6._o the_o proposition_n respect_v a_o visible_a profess_v church_n and_o i_o intend_v such_o a_o church_n in_o general_n as_o avow_v authority_n from_o christ_n 1._o for_o the_o ministerial_a preach_v of_o the_o word_n 2._o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n 3_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o evangelical_n discipline_n and_o 4._o to_o give_v a_o public_a testimony_n against_o the_o devil_n and_o the_o world_n not_o contradict_v their_o profession_n with_o any_o corrupt_a principle_n or_o practice_n inconsistent_a with_o it_o what_o be_v require_v in_o particular_a that_o any_o of_o they_o may_v be_v meet_a to_o be_v join_v unto_o such_o a_o church_n we_o shall_v afterward_o inquire_v 7._o it_o be_v general_o say_v that_o out_o of_o the_o church_n there_o be_v no_o salvation_n and_o the_o truth_n hereof_o be_v testify_v unto_o in_o the_o scripture_n act._n 2.47_o 1_o pet._n 3.20_o 21._o matth._n 16.18_o ephes._n 5.26_o 27._o joh._n 10.16_o 8_o this_o be_v true_a both_o positive_o and_o negative_o of_o the_o catholic_n church_n invisible_a of_o the_o elect_a all_o that_o be_v of_o it_o shall_v be_v save_v and_o none_o shall_v be_v save_v but_o those_o that_o belong_v unto_o it_o ephes._n 5.25_o 26_o 27._o of_o the_o catholic_n visible_a profess_v church_n negative_o that_o no_o adult_n person_n can_v be_v save_v that_o do_v not_o belong_v unto_o this_o church_n rom._n 10.10_o 9_o this_o position_n of_o truth_n be_v abuse_v by_o interest_n and_o pride_n a_o enclosure_n of_o it_o be_v make_v by_o they_o who_o of_o all_o christian_n in_o the_o world_n can_v lay_v the_o least_o and_o weak_a claim_n unto_o it_o namely_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n for_o they_o be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v that_o catholic_n church_n out_o of_o which_o there_o be_v no_o salvation_n and_o wherein_o none_o can_v perish_v like_o the_o ark_n of_o noah_n that_o it_o require_v the_o high_a charity_n to_o reckon_v they_o unto_o that_o visible_a profess_v church_n whereof_o the_o great_a part_n may_v perish_v and_o do_v so_o undoubted_o 10._o our_o enquiry_n be_v what_o truth_n there_o be_v in_o this_o assertion_n with_o respect_n unto_o these_o particular_a church_n or_o society_n for_o the_o celebration_n of_o gospel-worship_n and_o discipline_n whereof_o we_o treat_v and_o i_o say_v 1._o no_o church_n of_o what_o denomination_n soever_o can_v lay_v a_o claim_n unto_o this_o privilege_n as_o belong_v unto_o itself_o alone_o this_o be_v the_o ancient_a donatism_n they_o confine_v salvation_n unto_o the_o church_n of_o their_o way_n alone_o and_o after_o many_o false_a charge_n of_o it_o on_o other_o it_o begin_v real_o to_o be_v renew_v in_o our_o day_n for_o some_o dispute_n that_o salvation_n be_v confine_v unto_o that_o church_n alone_o wherein_o there_o be_v a_o succession_n of_o diocesan_n bishop_n which_o be_v the_o height_n of_o donatism_n the_o judgement_n and_o determination_n make_v concern_v the_o eternal_a salvation_n or_o damnation_n of_o man_n by_o the_o measure_n of_o some_o difference_n among_o christian_n about_o church_n their_o state_n and_o order_n be_v absurd_a foolish_a and_o impious_a and_o for_o the_o most_o part_n use_v by_o they_o who_o sufficient_o proclaim_v that_o they_o know_v neither_o what_o it_o be_v to_o be_v save_v nor_o do_v use_v any_o diligence_n about_o the_o necessary_a mean_n of_o it_o salvation_n depend_v absolute_o on_o no_o particular_a church-state_n in_o the_o world_n he_o know_v not_o the_o gospel_n who_o can_v real_o think_v it_o do_v person_n of_o believer_n be_v not_o for_o the_o church_n but_o the_o church_n be_v for_o they_o if_o the_o ministry_n of_o angel_n be_v for_o they_o who_o be_v heir_n of_o salvation_n much_o more_o be_v the_o ministry_n of_o the_o church_n so_o if_o a_o man_n be_v a_o adulterer_n a_o idolater_n a_o railer_n a_o hater_n &_o scoffer_n of_o godliness_n if_o he_o choose_v to_o live_v in_o any_o know_a sin_n without_o repentance_n or_o in_o the_o neglect_n of_o any_o know_a duty_n if_o he_o be_v ignorant_a and_o profane_a in_o a_o word_n if_o he_o be_v not_o bear_v again_o from_o above_o be_v he_o of_o what_o church_n he_o will_v and_o whatsoever_o place_n he_o possess_v therein_o he_o can_v be_v save_v and_o on_o the_o other_o side_n if_o a_o man_n believe_v in_o christ_n jesus_n that_o be_v know_v he_o in_o his_o person_n office_n doctrine_n and_o grace_n trust_v unto_o he_o for_o all_o the_o end_n of_o the_o wisdom_n and_o love_n of_o god_n towards_o mankind_n in_o he_o if_o he_o endeavour_v to_o yield_v sincere_a and_o universal_a obedience_n unto_o all_o his_o command_n and_o to_o be_v conform_v unto_o he_o in_o all_o thing_n follow_v his_o example_n have_v for_o these_o end_n receive_v of_o his_o spirit_n though_o all_o the_o church_n in_o the_o world_n shall_v reject_v he_o yet_o he_o shall_v undoubted_o be_v save_v if_o any_o shall_v hence_o infer_v that_o then_o it_o be_v all_o one_o of_o what_o church_n any_o one_o be_v i_o answer_v 1._o that_o although_o the_o be_v of_o this_o or_o that_o or_o any_o particular_a church_n in_o the_o world_n will_v not_o secure_v the_o salvation_n of_o any_o man_n yet_o the_o adherence_n unto_o some_o church_n or_o such_o as_o be_v so_o call_v in_o their_o constitution_n and_o worship_n may_v prejudice_v yea_o ruin_n the_o salvation_n of_o any_o that_o shall_v so_o do_v 2._o the_o choice_n of_o what_o church_n we_o will_v join_v unto_o belong_v unto_o the_o choice_n and_o use_n of_o the_o mean_n for_o our_o edification_n and_o he_o that_o make_v no_o conscience_n hereof_o but_o mere_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o event_n of_o be_v save_v at_o last_o will_v probable_o come_v short_a thereof_o 2._o on_o this_o supposition_n that_o there_o be_v no_o insuperable_a difficulty_n lie_v in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o discharge_n of_o this_o duty_n as_o that_o a_o person_n be_v cast_v by_o the_o providence_n of_o god_n into_o such_o a_o place_n or_o season_n as_o
or_o folly_n of_o man_n can_v invent_v when_o these_o article_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v compose_v neither_o socinianism_n nor_o arminianism_n which_o have_v now_o make_v such_o a_o inroad_n on_o some_o protestant_a church_n be_v in_o the_o world_n either_o name_n or_o thing_n wherefore_o in_o their_o confession_n no_o testimony_n can_v be_v express_o give_v against_o they_o though_o i_o acknowledge_v it_o be_v evident_a from_o what_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o article_n of_o it_o and_o the_o approve_a exposition_n they_o receive_v for_o a_o long_a time_n in_o the_o write_n of_o the_o most_o eminent_a person_n of_o the_o church_n that_o there_o be_v a_o virtual_a condemnation_n of_o all_o those_o error_n include_v therein_o but_o in_o that_o state_n whereunto_o thing_n be_v come_v among_o we_o some_o more_o express_a testimony_n against_o they_o be_v necessary_a to_o render_v any_o church_n the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n 2._o beside_o a_o distinction_n be_v find_v out_o and_o pass_v currant_n among_o we_o that_o the_o article_n of_o this_o confession_n be_v not_o article_n of_o faith_n but_o of_o outward_a agreement_n for_o peace_n sake_n among_o ourselves_o which_o be_v a_o invention_n to_o help_v on_o the_o ruin_n of_o religion_n for_o article_n of_o peace_n in_o religion_n concern_v matter_n of_o faith_n which_o he_o that_o subscribe_v do_v it_o not_o because_o they_o be_v true_a or_o article_n of_o faith_n be_v a_o engine_n to_o accommodate_v hypocrisy_n and_o nothing_o else_o but_o according_a unto_o this_o supposition_n they_o be_v use_v at_o man_n pleasure_n and_o turn_v which_o way_n they_o have_v a_o mind_n to_o wherefore_o 3._o notwithstanding_o this_o standard_n of_o truth_n difference_n in_o important_a doctrine_n wherein_o the_o edification_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n be_v high_o concern_v do_v abound_v among_o they_o who_o manage_n the_o public_a profession_n of_o the_o church_n i_o shall_v not_o urge_v this_o any_o far_o by_o instance_n in_o general_a it_o can_v modest_o be_v deny_v neither_o be_v this_o speak_v to_o abridge_v minister_n of_o church_n of_o their_o due_a liberty_n in_o their_o mannagement_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n for_o such_o a_o liberty_n be_v to_o be_v grant_v as_o 1._o arise_v from_o the_o distinct_a gift_n that_o man_n have_v receive_v for_o unto_o every_o one_o be_v grace_n give_v according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o christ_n ephes._n 4.7_o as_o every_o man_n have_v receive_v the_o gift_n so_o minister_v the_o same_o one_o to_o another_o as_o good_a steward_n of_o the_o manifold_a grace_n of_o gad_n 1_o pet._n 4.10_o 2._o as_o follow_v on_o that_o spiritual_a wisdom_n which_o minister_n receive_v in_o great_a variety_n for_o the_o application_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n unto_o the_o soul_n and_o conscience_n of_o men._n hereon_o great_a variety_n in_o public_a church-administrations_a will_v ensue_v but_o all_o unto_o edification_n 3._o such_o as_o consist_v in_o a_o different_a exposition_n of_o particular_a place_n of_o scripture_n whilst_o the_o analogy_n of_o faith_n be_v keep_v and_o preserve_v rom._n 12.6_o 4._o such_o as_o admit_v of_o different_a state_v apprehension_n in_o and_o about_o such_o doctrine_n as_o wherein_o the_o practice_n and_o comfort_n of_o christian_n be_v not_o immediate_o nor_o great_o concern_v such_o a_o liberty_n i_o say_v as_o the_o dispensation_n of_o spiritual_a gift_n and_o the_o different_a manner_n of_o their_o exercise_n as_o the_o unsearchable_a depth_n that_o be_v in_o the_o scripture_n not_o to_o be_v fathom_v at_o once_o by_o any_o church_n or_o any_o sort_n of_o person_n whatever_o and_o our_o know_v the_o best_a of_o we_o but_o in_o part_n with_o the_o difference_n of_o man_n capacity_n and_o understanding_n in_o and_o about_o thing_n not_o absolute_o necessary_a unto_o edification_n must_v be_v allow_v in_o church_n and_o their_o ministry_n but_o i_o speak_v of_o that_o variety_n of_o doctrine_n which_o be_v of_o great_a importance_n such_o it_o be_v as_o will_v set_v man_n at_o liberty_n to_o make_v their_o own_o choice_n in_o the_o use_n of_o mean_n for_o their_o edification_n and_o if_o such_o novel_a opinion_n about_o the_o person_n grace_n satisfaction_n and_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n about_o the_o work_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n of_o god_n in_o regeneration_n or_o the_o renovation_n of_o our_o nature_n into_o the_o image_n of_o god_n as_o abound_v in_o some_o church_n shall_v at_o any_o time_n by_o the_o suffrage_n of_o the_o major_a part_n of_o they_o who_o by_o law_n be_v entrust_v with_o its_o conduct_n be_v declare_v as_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o church_n it_o be_v and_o will_v be_v sufficient_a to_o absolve_v any_o man_n from_o a_o obligation_n unto_o its_o communion_n by_o virtue_n of_o its_o first_o institution_n and_o establishment_n 5._o evangelical_n discipline_n be_v neither_o observe_v nor_o attainable_a in_o these_o parochial_a assembly_n nor_o be_v there_o any_o relief_n provide_v by_o any_o other_o mean_n for_o that_o defect_n this_o have_v in_o general_n be_v speak_v unto_o before_o but_o because_o it_o belong_v in_o a_o especial_a manner_n unto_o the_o argument_n now_o in_o hand_n i_o shall_v yet_o far_o speak_v unto_o it_o for_o to_o declare_v my_o mind_n free_o i_o do_v not_o judge_v that_o any_o man_n can_v incur_v the_o gild_n of_o schism_n who_o refrain_v from_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n wherein_o the_o discipline_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v either_o whole_o want_v or_o be_v pervert_v into_o rule_n and_o domination_n which_o have_v no_o countenance_n give_v unto_o it_o in_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n and_o we_o may_v observe_v 1._o the_o discipline_n of_o the_o church_n be_v that_o alone_a for_o which_o any_o rule_n or_o authority_n be_v give_v unto_o it_o or_o exercise_v in_o it_o authority_n be_v give_v unto_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o church_n to_o dispense_v the_o word_n and_o administer_v the_o sacrament_n which_o i_o know_v not_o why_o some_o call_v the_o key_n of_o order_n but_o the_o only_a end_n why_o the_o lord_n christ_n have_v give_v authority_n or_o rule_n or_o power_n for_o it_o unto_o the_o church_n or_o any_o in_o it_o it_o be_v for_o the_o exercise_n of_o discipline_n and_o no_o other_o whatever_o power_n rule_n dignity_n or_o pre-eminence_n be_v assume_v in_o the_o church_n not_o mere_o for_o this_o end_n be_v usurpation_n and_o tyranny_n 2._o the_o outward_a mean_n appoint_v by_o jesus_n christ_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o his_o church_n in_o order_n peace_n and_o purity_n consist_v in_o this_o discipline_n he_o do_v by_o his_o word_n give_v direction_n and_o command_n for_o this_o end_n and_o it_o be_v by_o discipline_n alone_o that_o they_o be_v execute_v wherefore_o without_o it_o the_o church_n can_v live_v in_o its_o health_n purity_n and_o vigour_n the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n be_v its_o spiritual_a food_n whereon_o its_o life_n do_v depend_v but_o without_o that_o exercise_n and_o medicinal_a application_n unto_o its_o distemper_n which_o be_v make_v by_o discipline_n it_o can_v live_v a_o healthy_a vigorous_a fruitful_a life_n in_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n 3._o this_o discipline_n be_v either_o private_a or_o public_a 1._o that_o which_o be_v private_a consist_v in_o the_o mutual_a watch_n that_o all_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n have_v over_o one_o another_o with_o admonition_n exhortation_n and_o reproof_n as_o their_o edification_n do_v require_v the_o loss_n of_o this_o part_n of_o the_o discipline_n of_o christ_n in_o most_o church_n have_v lose_v we_o much_o of_o the_o glory_n of_o christian_a profession_n 2._o that_o which_o be_v public_a in_o the_o ruler_n of_o the_o church_n with_o and_o by_o its_o own_o consent_n the_o nature_n and_o act_n of_o it_o will_v be_v afterward_o consider_v 4_o there_o be_v three_o thing_n considerable_a in_o this_o discipline_n 1._o the_o power_n and_o authority_n whereby_o it_o be_v exercise_v 2._o the_o manner_n of_o its_o administration_n 3._o the_o especial_a object_n of_o it_o both_o as_o it_o be_v susceptive_a of_o member_n and_o corrective_a whereunto_o we_o may_v add_v its_o general_n end_n 1._o the_o authority_n of_o it_o be_v only_o a_o power_n and_o liberty_n to_o act_v and_o ministerial_o exercise_v the_o authority_n of_o christ_n himself_o as_o unto_o those_o by_o who_o it_o be_v exercise_v it_o be_v in_o they_o a_o act_n of_o obedience_n unto_o the_o command_n of_o christ_n but_o with_o respect_n unto_o its_o object_n the_o authority_n of_o christ_n be_v exert_v in_o it_o that_o which_o be_v exercise_v on_o any_o other_o warranty_n or_o authority_n as_o none_o can_v exert_v the_o authority_n of_o christ_n but_o by_o virtue_n of_o his_o own_o institution_n who_o act_n be_v not_o act_n of_o obedience_n unto_o christ_n whatever_o else_o it_o be_v it_o belong_v not_o unto_o
of_o the_o roman_a empire_n then_o of_o the_o roman_a church_n as_o unto_o its_o rise_n by_o holiness_n and_o devotion_n and_o its_o ruin_n by_o sensuality_n ambition_n the_o utter_a neglect_n of_o the_o discipline_n of_o christ_n and_o superstition_n but_o yet_o let_v any_o man_n peruse_v that_o historian_n who_o write_v with_o this_o express_a design_n he_o shall_v hardly_o fix_v upon_o many_o of_o those_o instance_n whereby_o the_o empire_n come_v into_o that_o deplorable_a condition_n wherein_o it_o be_v not_o able_a to_o bear_v its_o distemper_n nor_o its_o cure_n such_o as_o be_v the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n before_o the_o reformation_n but_o beside_o the_o common_a difficulty_n of_o discover_v the_o beginning_n and_o gradual_a progression_n of_o decay_n declension_n and_o apostasy_n those_o which_o we_o treat_v of_o be_v begin_v and_o carry_v on_o in_o a_o mysterious_a manner_n that_o be_v by_o the_o effectual_a work_n of_o the_o mystery_n of_o iniquity_n as_o this_o almost_o hide_v total_o the_o work_n of_o it_o from_o the_o age_n wherein_o it_o be_v wrought_v so_o it_o render_v the_o discovery_n of_o it_o now_o accomplish_a the_o more_o difficult_a passenger_n in_o a_o ship_n set_v out_o to_o sea_n ofttimes_o discern_v not_o the_o progressive_a motion_n of_o the_o ship_n yea_o for_o a_o while_o the_o land_n rather_o seem_v to_o to_o move_v from_o they_o than_o the_o vessel_n wherein_o they_o be_v from_o it_o but_o after_o a_o season_n the_o consideration_n of_o what_o distance_n they_o be_v at_o from_o their_o port_n give_v they_o sufficient_a assurance_n of_o the_o progress_n that_o have_v be_v make_v so_o be_v this_o declension_n of_o the_o church_n from_o their_o primitive_a order_n and_o institution_n be_v discoverable_a rather_o by_o measure_v the_o distance_n between_o what_o it_o leave_v and_o what_o it_o arrive_v unto_o then_o by_o express_a instance_n of_o it_o but_o yet_o be_v it_o not_o altogether_o like_a unto_o that_o of_o a_o ship_n at_o sea_n but_o rather_o unto_o the_o way_n of_o a_o serpent_n on_o a_o rock_n which_o leave_v some_o slime_n in_o all_o its_o turn_n and_o wind_n whereby_o he_o may_v be_v trace_v such_o mark_n be_v leave_v on_o record_n of_o the_o serpentine_a work_n of_o this_o mystery_n of_o iniquity_n as_o whereby_o it_o may_v be_v trace_v with_o more_o or_o less_o evidence_n from_o its_o original_a interest_n unto_o its_o accomplishment_n the_o principal_a promote_a cause_n of_o this_o defection_n on_o the_o part_n of_o man_n be_v those_o assign_v by_o st._n ambrose_n in_o one_o instance_n of_o it_o namely_o the_o negligence_n of_o the_o people_n and_o the_o ambition_n of_o the_o clergy_n i_o speak_v as_o unto_o the_o state_n rule_n discipline_n and_o order_n of_o the_o church_n for_o as_o unto_o the_o doctrine_n and_o worship_n of_o it_o there_o be_v many_o other_o cause_n and_o mean_n of_o their_o corruption_n which_o belong_v not_o unto_o our_o present_a purpose_n but_o as_o unto_o the_o alteration_n that_o be_v begin_v and_o carry_v on_o in_o the_o state_n order_n and_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n they_o arise_v from_o those_o spring_n of_o negligence_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n and_o ambition_n on_o the_o other_o with_o want_n of_o skill_n and_o wisdom_n to_o manage_v outward_a occurrence_n and_o incidency_n or_o what_o alteration_n fall_v out_o in_o the_o outward_a state_n and_o condition_n of_o the_o church_n in_o this_o world_n for_o hence_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o in_o the_o accession_n of_o the_o nation_n in_o general_a unto_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o gospel_n church_n order_n be_v suit_v and_o frame_v unto_o their_o secular_a state_n when_o they_o ought_v to_o have_v be_v bring_v into_o the_o spiritual_a state_n and_o order_n of_o the_o church_n leave_v their_o political_a state_n entire_a unto_o themselves_o herein_o i_o say_v do_v the_o guide_n of_o the_o church_n certain_o miss_v their_o rule_n and_o depart_v from_o it_o in_o the_o day_n of_o constantine_n the_o emperor_n and_o afterward_o under_o other_o christian_a emperor_n when_o whole_a town_n city_n yea_o and_o nation_n offer_v at_o once_o to_o join_v themselves_o unto_o it_o evident_a it_o be_v that_o they_o be_v not_o wrought_v hereunto_o by_o the_o same_o power_n nor_o induce_v unto_o it_o on_o the_o same_o motive_n or_o lead_v by_o the_o same_o mean_n with_o those_o who_o former_o under_o persecution_n be_v convert_v unto_o the_o faith_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ._n and_o this_o quick_o manifest_v itself_o in_o the_o life_n and_o conversation_n of_o many_o yea_o of_o the_o most_o of_o they_o hence_o those_o which_o be_v wise_a quick_o understand_v that_o what_o the_o church_n have_v get_v in_o multitude_n and_o number_n it_o have_v lose_v in_o the_o beauty_n and_o glory_n of_o its_o holy_a profession_n chrysostome_n in_o particular_a complain_n of_o it_o frequent_o and_o in_o many_o place_n cry_v out_o what_o have_v i_o to_o do_v with_o this_o multitude_n a_o few_o serious_a believer_n be_v more_o worth_a than_o they_o all_o however_o the_o guide_n of_o the_o church_n think_v meet_v to_o receive_v they_o with_o all_o their_o multitude_n into_o their_o communion_n at_o least_o so_o far_o as_o to_o place_v they_o under_o the_o jurisdiction_n of_o such_o and_o such_o episcopal_a see_v for_o hereby_o their_o own_o power_n authority_n dignity_n revenue_n be_v enlarge_v and_o mighty_o increase_v on_o this_o occasion_n the_o ancient_a primitive_a way_n of_o admit_v member_n into_o the_o church_n be_v relinquish_v the_o consideration_n of_o their_o personal_a qualification_n and_o real_a conversion_n unto_o god_n omit_v such_o multitude_n be_v receive_v as_o can_v not_o partake_v in_o all_o act_n and_o duty_n of_o communion_n with_o those_o particular_a church_n whereunto_o they_o be_v dispose_v and_o be_v the_o most_o of_o they_o unfit_a to_o be_v rule_v by_o the_o power_n and_o influence_n of_o the_o command_v of_o christ_n on_o their_o mind_n and_o conscience_n it_o be_v impossible_a but_o that_o a_o great_a alteration_n must_v ensue_v in_o the_o state_n order_n and_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n and_o a_o great_a deviation_n from_o their_o original_a institution_n man_n may_v say_v that_o this_o alteration_n be_v necessary_a that_o it_o be_v good_a and_o useful_a that_o it_o be_v but_o the_o accommodation_n of_o general_a rule_n unto_o especial_a occasion_n and_o circumstance_n but_o that_o there_o be_v a_o alteration_n hereon_o in_o all_o these_o thing_n none_o can_v with_o modesty_n deny_v and_o this_o be_v enough_o unto_o my_o present_a design_n be_v only_o to_o prove_v that_o such_o alteration_n and_o deviation_n do_v of_o old_a fall_n out_o neither_o ought_v we_o to_o cover_v the_o provoke_a degeneracy_n of_o the_o generality_n of_o christian_n in_o the_o 4_o the_o and_o 5_o the_o century_n with_o those_o that_o follow_v the_o consideration_n of_o it_o be_v necessary_a unto_o the_o vindication_n of_o the_o holy_a providence_n of_o god_n in_o the_o government_n of_o the_o world_n and_o of_o the_o faithfulness_n of_o christ_n in_o his_o deal_n with_o his_o church_n for_o there_o have_v be_v no_o nation_n in_o the_o world_n which_o public_o receive_v christian_n religion_n but_o it_o have_v be_v waste_v and_o destroy_v by_o the_o sword_n of_o pagan_a idolater_n or_o such_o as_o be_v no_o better_o than_o they_o at_o first_o all_o the_o province_n of_o the_o western_a empire_n be_v one_o after_o another_o make_v desolate_a by_o the_o pagan_a nation_n of_o the_o northern_a country_n who_o themselves_o do_v afterward_o so_o turn_v christian_n as_o to_o lay_v among_o they_o the_o foundation_n of_o anti-christianisme_n rev._n 17.12_o 13._o the_o eastern_a empire_n comprehend_v the_o residue_n of_o the_o province_n that_o have_v embrace_v the_o christian_a religion_n be_v first_o desolate_v in_o the_o chief_a branch_n of_o it_o by_o the_o saracen_n and_o at_o length_n utter_o destroy_v by_o the_o turk_n and_o i_o pray_v god_n that_o the_o like_a fate_n do_v not_o at_o this_o day_n hang_v over_o the_o reform_a nation_n as_o from_o their_o profession_n they_o be_v call_v do_v we_o think_v that_o all_o this_o be_v without_o câ—use_n do_v god_n give_v up_o his_o inheritance_n to_o the_o spoil_n of_o barbarous_a infidel_n without_o such_o provocation_n as_o the_o pass_n by_o whereof_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o the_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n of_o his_o rule_n it_o be_v not_o the_o wisdom_n nor_o the_o courage_n nor_o the_o multitude_n of_o theâ—r_a enemy_n but_o their_o own_o sin_n wickedness_n superstition_n and_o apostasy_n from_o the_o rule_n of_o gospel-order_n worship_n and_o obedience_n which_o ruin_v all_o christian_a nation_n but_o to_o give_v far_a evidence_n hereunto_o i_o shall_v consider_v the_o cause_n aforementioned_a distinct_o and_o apart_o and_o the_o first_o of_o they_o be_v the_o negligence_n of_o the_o people_n themselves_o but_o in_o this_o
state_n exceed_v the_o bound_n of_o their_o original_a institution_n and_o become_v unwieldy_a as_o unto_o the_o pursuit_n of_o their_o end_n unto_o mutual_a edification_n it_o be_v not_o hard_a to_o conjecture_v how_o a_o state_v distinction_n between_o bishop_n and_o presbyter_n do_v afterward_o ensue_v for_o as_o the_o first_o elder_a bishop_n or_o pastor_n have_v obtain_v this_o small_a pre-eminence_n in_o the_o church_n wherein_o he_o do_v preside_v and_o the_o assembly_n of_o the_o village_n about_o so_o the_o mannagement_n of_o those_o affair_n of_o the_o church_n which_o they_o have_v in_o communion_n with_o other_o be_v commit_v unto_o he_o or_o assume_v by_o he_o this_o give_v they_o the_o advantage_n of_o meeting_n in_o synod_n and_o council_n afterward_o wherein_o they_o do_v their_o own_o business_n unto_o the_o purpose_n hereon_o in_o a_o short_a time_n the_o people_n be_v deprive_v of_o all_o their_o interest_n in_o the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n so_o as_o to_o be_v govern_v by_o their_o own_o consent_n which_o indeed_o they_o also_o have_v render_v themselves_o unmeet_a to_o enjoy_v and_o exercise_v other_o elder_n be_v deprive_v of_o that_o power_n and_o authority_n which_o be_v commit_v unto_o they_o by_o christ_n and_o thrust_v down_o into_o a_o order_n or_o degree_n inferior_a unto_o that_o wherein_o they_o be_v original_o place_v new_a officer_n in_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n utter_o unknown_a to_o the_o scripture_n and_o primitive_a antiquity_n be_v introduce_v all_o charitable_a donation_n unto_o the_o church_n for_o the_o maintenance_n of_o the_o ministry_n the_o poor_a and_o the_o redemption_n of_o captive_n be_v for_o the_o most_o part_n abuse_v to_o advance_v the_o revenue_n of_o the_o bishop_n such_o secular_a advantage_n in_o honour_n dignity_n and_o wealth_n be_v annex_v unto_o episcopal_n see_v as_o that_o ambitious_a man_n shameful_o contest_v for_o the_o attain_n of_o they_o which_o in_o the_o instance_n of_o the_o bloody_a conflict_n between_o the_o party_n of_o damasus_n and_o vrsacius_n at_o rome_n ammianus_n marcellinus_n a_o heathen_a do_v great_o and_o wise_o reflect_v upon_o but_o yet_o all_o these_o evil_n be_v as_o nothing_o in_o comparison_n of_o that_o dead_a sea_n of_o the_o roman_a tyranny_n and_o idolatry_n whereinto_o at_o last_o these_o bitter_a water_n run_v and_o be_v therein_o total_o corrupt_v i_o think_v also_o to_o have_v proceed_v with_o a_o account_n of_o the_o declension_n of_o the_o church_n from_o their_o first_o institution_n in_o their_o matter_n form_n and_o rule_n â—ut_v because_o this_o will_v draw_v forth_o my_o discourse_n beyond_o my_o present_a intention_n i_o shall_v forbear_v have_v sufficient_o vindicate_v my_o assertion_n in_o this_o one_o instance_n it_o be_v no_o part_n of_o my_o design_n to_o give_v a_o answer_n at_o large_a unto_o the_o great_a volume_n that_o dr._n still_o have_v write_v on_o this_o occasion_n much_o less_o to_o contend_v about_o particular_a say_n opinion_n the_o practice_n of_o this_o or_o that_o man_n which_o it_o be_v fill_v withal_o but_o whereas_o his_o treatise_n so_o far_o as_o the_o merit_n of_o the_o cause_n be_v concern_v in_o it_o do_v consist_v of_o two_o part_n the_o first_o whereof_o contain_v such_o story_n thing_n and_o say_n as_o may_v load_v the_o cause_n and_o person_n who_o he_o oppose_v with_o prejudices_fw-la in_o the_o mind_n of_o other_o in_o which_o endeavour_n he_o exceed_v all_o expectation_n and_o what_o do_v more_o direct_o concern_v the_o argument_n in_o hand_n i_o shall_v at_o the_o end_n of_o the_o ensue_a discourse_n speak_v distinct_o unto_o all_o that_o be_v material_a of_o the_o second_o sort_n especial_o so_o far_o as_o be_v needful_a unto_o the_o defence_n of_o my_o former_a vindication_n of_o the_o nonconformist_n from_o the_o gild_n of_o schism_n for_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o first_o sort_n wherein_o the_o doctor_n do_v so_o abound_v both_o in_o his_o preface_n and_o in_o the_o first_o part_n of_o his_o book_n as_o to_o manifest_v himself_o i_o fear_v to_o be_v a_o little_a too_o sensible_a of_o provocation_n for_o the_o act_n of_o interest_n in_o wise_a man_n be_v usual_o more_o sedate_n i_o shall_v only_o oppose_v some_o general_a consideration_n unto_o they_o without_o argue_v or_o contend_v about_o particular_n which_o will_v be_v endless_a and_o useless_a and_o whereas_o he_o have_v gather_v up_o almost_o every_o thing_n that_o have_v be_v do_v write_v or_o speak_v to_o the_o prejudice_n of_o the_o cause_n and_o person_n who_o he_o oppose_v though_o frequent_o charge_v before_o add_v the_o advantage_n of_o his_o style_n and_o method_n unto_o their_o reinforcement_n i_o shall_v reduce_v the_o whole_a unto_o a_o few_o head_n which_o seem_v to_o be_v of_o the_o great_a importance_n i_o shall_v leave_v he_o without_o disturbance_n unto_o the_o satisfaction_n he_o have_v in_o his_o own_o love_n moderation_n and_o condescension_n express_v in_o his_o preface_n other_o may_v possible_o call_v some_o thing_n in_o it_o unto_o a_o far_a account_n but_o the_o first_o part_n of_o his_o book_n be_v cast_v under_o two_o head_n 1._o a_o commendation_n of_o the_o first_o reformer_n and_o their_o reformation_n with_o some_o reflection_n upon_o all_o that_o acquiesce_v not_o therein_o as_o though_o they_o esteem_v themselves_o wise_a and_o better_a than_o they_o from_o this_o topick_n proceed_v many_o severe_a reflection_n and_o some_o reproach_n the_o other_o consist_v in_o a_o story_n of_o the_o rise_n and_o progress_n of_o separation_n from_o the_o church_n of_o england_n with_o great_a miscarriage_n among_o they_o who_o first_o attempt_v it_o and_o the_o opposition_n make_v unto_o they_o by_o those_o who_o be_v themselves_o nonconformist_n the_o whole_a be_v close_v with_o the_o difference_n and_o debate_n between_o the_o divine_n of_o the_o assembly_n of_o the_o presbyterian_a way_n and_o the_o dissent_v brethren_n as_o they_o be_v then_o call_v concern_v these_o thing_n the_o discourse_n be_v so_o prolix_a and_o so_o swell_v with_o long_a quotation_n that_o i_o scarce_o believe_v any_o man_n will_v have_v the_o patience_n to_o read_v over_o a_o particular_a examination_n of_o it_o especial_o consider_v how_o little_a the_o cause_n in_o hand_n be_v concern_v in_o the_o whole_a story_n whether_o it_o be_v tell_v right_a or_o wrong_n candid_o or_o with_o a_o design_n to_o make_v a_o advantage_n unto_o the_o prejudice_n of_o other_o i_o shall_v therefore_o only_o mark_v something_o with_o respect_n unto_o both_o these_o head_n of_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o book_n which_o if_o i_o mistake_v not_o will_v lay_v it_o aside_o from_o be_v of_o any_o use_n in_o our_o present_a cause_n 1._o as_o unto_o the_o first_o reformer_n and_o reformation_n in_o the_o day_n of_o king_n edward_n the_o plea_n from_o they_o and_o it_o which_o we_o have_v be_v long_o accustom_v unto_o be_v that_o they_o be_v person_n great_a wise_a learned_a holy_a that_o some_o of_o they_o die_v martyr_n that_o the_o work_n of_o the_o reformation_n be_v great_o own_v and_o bless_v of_o god_n and_o therefore_o our_o non-acquiescency_a therein_o but_o desire_v a_o far_a reformation_n of_o the_o church_n than_o what_o they_o see_v and_o judge_v necessary_a be_v unreasonable_a and_o that_o what_o we_o endeavour_v therein_o though_o never_o so_o peaceable_o be_v schismatical_a but_o 1._o none_o do_v more_o bless_v god_n for_o the_o first_o reformer_n and_o the_o work_n they_o do_v than_o we_o do_v none_o have_v a_o high_a esteem_n of_o their_o person_n ability_n grace_n and_o suffering_n than_o we_o have_v none_o cleave_v more_o firm_o to_o their_o doctrine_n which_o be_v the_o life_n and_o soul_n of_o the_o reformation_n than_o we_o nor_o desire_v more_o to_o follow_v they_o in_o their_o godly_a design_n they_o be_v not_o of_o we_o who_o have_v declare_v that_o the_o death_n of_o king_n edward_n be_v a_o happiness_n or_o no_o unhappiness_n to_o the_o church_n of_o england_n nor_o who_o have_v reflect_v on_o the_o reformation_n as_o needless_a and_o give_v assurance_n that_o if_o it_o have_v not_o be_v undertake_v salvation_n may_v have_v be_v obtain_v safe_o enough_o in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n nor_o be_v they_o of_o we_o who_o have_v question_v the_o zeal_n and_o prudence_n of_o the_o martyr_n of_o those_o day_n in_o suffer_v we_o have_v other_o thought_n concern_v they_o another_o kind_n of_o remembrance_n of_o they_o 2._o the_o title_n assign_v unto_o they_o of_o wise_a learned_a holy_a zealous_n be_v full_o answer_v by_o that_o reformation_n of_o the_o church_n in_o its_o doctrine_n and_o worship_n which_o god_n wrought_v by_o their_o ministry_n so_o that_o none_o without_o the_o high_a ingratitude_n can_v derogate_v any_o thing_n from_o they_o in_o these_o thing_n but_o it_o be_v no_o disparagement_n unto_o any_o of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n any_o officer_n of_o
the_o church_n since_o the_o day_n of_o the_o apostle_n first_o reformer_n or_o those_o that_o follow_v they_o to_o judge_v that_o they_o be_v not_o infallible_a that_o their_o work_n be_v not_o absolute_o perfect_a like_o the_o work_n of_o god_n whereunto_o nothing_o can_v be_v add_v nor_o aught_o take_v away_o wherefore_o 3._o we_o be_v not_o oblige_v to_o make_v what_o they_o do_v and_o what_o they_o attain_v unto_o and_o what_o they_o judge_v meet_v as_o unto_o the_o government_n and_o worship_n of_o the_o church_n to_o be_v our_o absolute_a rule_n from_o which_o it_o shall_v be_v our_o sin_n to_o dissent_v or_o depart_v they_o never_o desire_v nor_o design_v that_o it_o shall_v be_v so_o for_o to_o do_v so_o will_v have_v be_v to_o have_v cast_v out_o one_o papacy_n and_o to_o have_v bring_v in_o another_o and_o the_o argument_n of_o the_o papist_n for_o their_o absolute_a adherence_n unto_o the_o man_n of_o their_o veneration_n those_o who_o have_v be_v former_o of_o great_a reputation_n in_o their_o church_n for_o learning_n holiness_n and_o devotion_n be_v as_o forcible_a unto_o they_o as_o any_o can_v be_v unto_o we_o for_o a_o adherence_n unto_o the_o first_o reformer_n in_o all_o thing_n but_o yet_o be_v they_o not_o excuse_v in_o their_o error_n thereby_o have_v we_o receive_v a_o command_n from_o heaven_n to_o hear_v they_o in_o all_o thing_n it_o have_v alter_v the_o case_n but_o this_o we_o have_v receive_v only_o with_o respect_n unto_o jesus_n christ_n and_o shall_v therefore_o in_o these_o thing_n ultimate_o attend_v only_o unto_o what_o he_o speak_v and_o we_o have_v sundry_a consideration_n which_o confirm_v we_o in_o the_o use_n and_o exercise_v of_o that_o liberty_n wherewith_o christ_n have_v make_v we_o free_a to_o inquire_v ourselves_o into_o our_o duty_n in_o these_o thing_n and_o to_o regulate_v our_o duty_n in_o they_o by_o his_o word_n notwithstanding_o what_o be_v do_v by_o our_o first_o reformer_n for_o 1._o they_o do_v not_o think_v themselves_o oblige_v they_o do_v not_o think_v meet_a to_o abide_v within_o the_o bound_n and_o limit_n of_o that_o reformation_n of_o the_o church_n which_o have_v be_v attempt_v before_o they_o by_o man_n wise_a learned_a and_o holy_a even_o in_o this_o nation_n such_o be_v that_o which_o be_v endeavour_v by_o wickliff_n and_o his_o follower_n in_o give_v testimony_n whereunto_o many_o suffer_a martyrdom_n and_o prepare_v the_o way_n unto_o those_o that_o be_v to_o come_v after_o they_o approve_v of_o what_o be_v then_o do_v or_o attempt_v to_o be_v do_v for_o the_o substance_n of_o it_o yet_o esteem_v themselves_o at_o liberty_n to_o make_v a_o further_a progress_n in_o the_o same_o work_n which_o they_o do_v according_o sure_o such_o person_n never_o design_v their_o own_o judgement_n and_o practice_n to_o give_v boundary_n unto_o all_o reformation_n for_o evermore_o or_o pretend_v that_o they_o have_v make_v so_o perfect_a a_o discovery_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o christ_n in_o all_o thing_n belong_v unto_o the_o rule_n and_o worship_n of_o the_o church_n as_o that_o it_o shall_v not_o only_o be_v vain_a but_o sinful_a to_o make_v any_o far_a inquiry_n about_o it_o some_o think_v they_o be_v come_v unto_o the_o utmost_a limit_n of_o navigation_n and_o discovery_n of_o the_o part_n of_o the_o world_n before_o the_o west-indies_n be_v find_v out_o and_o some_o man_n when_o in_o any_o kind_n they_o know_v as_o much_o as_o they_o can_v be_v apt_a to_o think_v there_o be_v no_o more_o to_o be_v know_v it_o be_v not_o so_o with_o our_o reformer_n 2._o they_o do_v not_o at_o once_o make_v what_o they_o have_v do_v themselves_o to_o be_v a_o fix_a rule_n in_o these_o thing_n for_o themselves_o make_v many_o alteration_n in_o the_o service_n book_n which_o they_o first_o compose_v and_o if_o they_o judge_v not_o their_o first_o endeavour_n to_o be_v satisfactory_a to_o themselves_o they_o have_v no_o reason_n to_o expect_v their_o second_o shall_v be_v a_o stand_a rule_n unto_o all_o future_a age_n nor_o do_v they_o so_o but_o frequent_o acknowledge_v the_o imperfection_n of_o what_o they_o have_v do_v 3._o the_o first_o reformer_n both_o bishop_n and_o other_o both_o those_o who_o undergo_v martyrdom_n at_o home_n and_o those_o who_o live_v in_o exile_n abroad_o differ_v among_o themselves_o in_o their_o judgement_n and_o apprehension_n about_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v now_o under_o concest_n whereas_o they_o perfect_o agree_v in_o all_o doctrine_n of_o faith_n and_o gospel_n obedience_n the_o public_a record_n of_o these_o difference_n do_v so_o remain_v as_o that_o they_o can_v modest_o be_v deny_v nor_o handsome_o cover_v and_o this_o must_v needs_o weaken_v the_o influence_n of_o their_o authority_n in_o the_o settlement_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v a_o act_n only_o of_o the_o prevalent_a party_n among_o they_o 4._o they_o differ_v in_o these_o thing_n from_o all_o other_o reform_a church_n with_o who_o they_o do_v absolute_o agree_v in_o doctrine_n and_o have_v the_o strict_a communion_n in_o faith_n and_o love_n for_o it_o be_v know_v that_o their_o doctrine_n which_o they_o own_v and_o establish_v be_v the_o same_o with_o that_o of_o the_o church_n abroad_o call_v particular_o reform_v in_o distinction_n from_o the_o lutheran_n but_o as_o unto_o the_o state_n rule_n and_o order_n of_o the_o church_n they_o differ_v from_o they_o all_o i_o press_v not_o this_o consideration_n unto_o the_o disadvantage_n of_o what_o they_o attain_v unto_o and_o establish_v in_o the_o way_n of_o reformation_n or_o in_o a_o way_n of_o prefer_v other_o church_n above_o they_o but_o only_o to_o evidence_n that_o we_o have_v reason_n enough_o not_o to_o esteem_v ourselves_o absolute_o oblige_v unto_o what_o they_o do_v and_o determine_v as_o unto_o all_o endeavour_n after_o any_o far_a reformation_n 5._o in_o their_o reformation_n they_o avowed_o propose_v a_o rule_n and_o measure_n unto_o themselves_o which_o be_v both_o uncertain_a and_o in_o many_o thing_n apparent_o various_a from_o the_o original_a rule_n of_o these_o thing_n give_v by_o christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n with_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o first_o church_n and_o this_o be_v the_o state_n and_o example_n of_o the_o church_n under_o the_o first_o christian_n emperor_n as_o our_o author_n confess_v this_o rule_n be_v uncertain_a for_o no_o man_n live_v be_v able_a to_o give_v a_o just_a and_o full_a account_n of_o what_o be_v the_o state_n and_o rule_n of_o all_o the_o church_n in_o the_o world_n in_o the_o reign_n of_o any_o one_o emperor_n much_o less_o during_o the_o succession_n of_o many_o of_o they_o continual_a alteration_n in_o the_o state_n or_o order_n of_o the_o church_n follow_v one_o upon_o another_o and_o that_o in_o those_o day_n there_o be_v a_o prevalent_a deviation_n from_o the_o original_a rule_n of_o church_n order_n have_v be_v before_o declare_v we_o dare_v not_o therefore_o make_v they_o and_o what_o they_o do_v to_o be_v our_o rule_n absolute_o who_o miss_v it_o so_o much_o in_o the_o choice_n of_o their_o own_o 6._o we_o may_v add_v hereunto_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o horrid_a darkness_n which_o they_o new_o be_v deliver_v from_o the_o close_a adherence_n of_o some_o traditional_a prejudices_fw-la unto_o the_o best_a of_o man_n in_o such_o a_o condition_n the_o difficulty_n and_o opposition_n they_o meet_v withal_o as_o unto_o their_o whole_a work_n their_o prudence_n as_o they_o judge_v it_o in_o a_o endeavour_n to_o accommodate_v all_o thing_n unto_o the_o inclination_n and_o desire_n of_o the_o body_n of_o the_o people_n extreme_o immerse_v in_o their_o old_a tradition_n which_o may_v not_o be_v destructive_a unto_o their_o salvation_n in_o heresy_n or_o idolatry_n all_o which_o can_v not_o but_o leave_v some_o mark_n of_o imperfection_n on_o their_o whole_a work_n of_o reformation_n upon_o these_o and_o the_o like_a consideration_n it_o be_v that_o we_o be_v enforce_v to_o assert_v the_o use_n of_o our_o own_o liberty_n light_n and_o understanding_n in_o the_o inquire_v after_o and_o compliance_n with_o the_o true_a original_a state_n and_o order_n of_o evangelical_n church_n with_o our_o duty_n in_o reference_n thereunto_o and_o not_o to_o be_v absolute_o confine_v unto_o what_o be_v judge_v meet_a and_o practise_v in_o these_o thing_n by_o the_o first_o reformer_n and_o the_o truth_n be_v if_o present_a interest_n and_o advantage_n do_v not_o prevail_v with_o man_n to_o fix_v the_o bound_n of_o all_o church_n reformation_n in_o what_o be_v by_o they_o attain_v and_o establish_v they_o will_v think_v it_o themselves_o a_o papal_a bondage_n to_o be_v bind_v up_o absolute_o unto_o their_o apprehension_n from_o a_o confinement_n whereunto_o in_o sundry_a other_o thing_n they_o declare_v themselves_o to_o be_v at_o a_o absolute_a liberty_n wherefore_o neither_o we_o nor_o our_o cause_n
instance_n in_o the_o primitive_a church_n that_o which_o be_v first_o in_o any_o kind_n give_v the_o measure_n of_o what_o follow_v in_o the_o same_o kind_n and_o light_n into_o the_o nature_n of_o they_o whereas_o therefore_o the_o schism_n that_o be_v among_o the_o church_n about_o the_o observation_n of_o easter_n be_v the_o first_o that_o fall_v out_o unto_o the_o disturbance_n of_o their_o communion_n i_o shall_v give_v a_o brief_a account_n of_o it_o as_o far_o as_o the_o question_n in_o hand_n be_v concern_v in_o it_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o apostle_n do_v with_o care_n and_o diligence_n teach_v the_o doctrine_n of_o christian_a liberty_n warn_v the_o disciple_n to_o stand_v fast_o in_o it_o and_o not_o submit_v their_o neck_n unto_o any_o yoke_n of_o bondage_n in_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n especial_o the_o apostle_n paul_n have_v frequent_a occasion_n to_o treat_v of_o this_o subject_n and_o what_o they_o teach_v in_o doctrine_n they_o establish_v and_o confirm_v in_o their_o practice_n for_o they_o enjoin_v nothing_o to_o be_v observe_v in_o the_o church_n but_o what_o be_v necessary_a and_o what_o they_o have_v the_o command_n of_o christ_n for_o leave_v the_o observation_n of_o thing_n indifferent_a unto_o their_o original_a indifferency_n but_o whereas_o they_o have_v decree_v by_o the_o direction_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n some_o necessary_a condescension_n in_o the_o gentile_a believer_n towards_o the_o jew_n in_o case_n of_o offence_n or_o scandal_n they_o do_v themselves_o make_v use_n of_o their_o liberty_n to_o comply_v with_o the_o same_o jew_n in_o some_o of_o their_o observance_n not_o yet_o unlawful_a hereon_o there_o ensue_v in_o several_a church_n different_a observation_n of_o some_o rite_n and_o custom_n which_o they_o apprehend_v be_v countenance_v by_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o apostle_n at_o least_o as_o it_o have_v be_v report_v unto_o they_o for_o immediate_o after_o the_o decease_n of_o the_o apostle_n very_o many_o mistake_v and_o untruth_n be_v report_v concern_v what_o they_o say_v do_v and_o practise_v which_o some_o diligent_o collect_v from_o old_a man_n it_o may_v be_v almost_o delirant_fw-la as_o eusebius_n give_v a_o instance_n in_o papias_n lib._n 3._o cap._n 36._o and_o even_o the_o great_a irenaeus_n himself_o be_v impose_v upon_o in_o a_o matter_n direct_o contrary_a to_o the_o scripture_n under_o a_o pretence_n of_o apostolical_a tradition_n among_o those_o report_n be_v that_o of_o the_o observation_n of_o easter_n and_o for_o a_o while_o the_o church_n continue_v in_o these_o different_a observance_n without_o the_o least_o disturbance_n of_o their_o communion_n each_o one_o follow_v that_o which_o it_o think_v the_o most_o probable_a tradition_n for_o rule_n of_o scripture_n they_o pretend_v not_o unto_o but_o after_o a_o while_o they_o begin_v to_o fall_v into_o a_o contest_v about_o these_o thing_n which_o begin_v at_o laodicea_n which_o church_n be_v as_o likely_a to_o strive_v about_o such_o thing_n as_o any_o other_o for_o eusebius_n tell_v we_o that_o melito_n the_o bishop_n of_o sardis_n write_v two_o book_n about_o easter_n begin_v the_o first_o with_o a_o account_n that_o he_o write_v they_o when_o servilius_n paulus_n be_v proconsul_n there_o be_v then_o a_o great_a stir_n about_o it_o at_o laodicea_n euseb._n lib._n 4._o cap._n 25._o but_o as_o it_o fall_v out_o on_o such_o occasion_n much_o talk_n and_o dispute_v ensue_a thereon_o the_o difference_n be_v increase_v until_o one_o side_n or_o party_n at_o variance_n will_v make_v their_o opinion_n and_o practise_v the_o rule_n and_o term_n of_o communion_n unto_o all_o other_o church_n but_o this_o be_v quick_o condemn_v by_o those_o who_o be_v wise_a and_o sober_a for_o as_o zozoman_n affirm_v they_o account_v it_o a_o frivolous_a or_o foolish_a thing_n to_o differ_v about_o a_o custom_n whereas_o they_o agree_v in_o all_o the_o principal_a head_n of_o religion_n and_o thereon_o he_o give_v a_o large_a account_n of_o different_a rite_n and_o observance_n in_o many_o church_n without_o any_o breach_n of_o communion_n among_o they_o add_v that_o beside_o those_o enumerate_v by_o he_o there_o be_v many_o other_o in_o city_n and_o village_n which_o they_o do_v in_o a_o different_a manner_n adhere_v unto_o hist._n lib._n 7._o cap._n 19_o at_o length_n this_o matter_n fall_v into_o the_o handle_n of_o victor_n bishop_n of_o rome_n and_o his_o judgement_n be_v that_o the_o observation_n of_o easter_n on_o the_o lord_n day_n and_o not_o on_o the_o fourteen_o day_n of_o the_o first_o month_n precise_o according_a to_o the_o computation_n of_o the_o jew_n in_o the_o observation_n of_o the_o passover_n be_v to_o be_v impose_v on_o all_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n every_o where_o it_o have_v all_o along_o until_o his_o time_n be_v judge_v a_o thing_n indifferent_a wherein_o the_o church_n and_o all_o believer_n be_v leave_v unto_o the_o use_n of_o their_o own_o liberty_n he_o have_v no_o pretence_n of_o any_o divine_a institution_n make_v it_o necessary_a the_o writer_n of_o those_o day_n constant_o affirm_v that_o the_o apostle_n make_v no_o canon_n rule_n or_o law_n about_o such_o thing_n he_o have_v person_n of_o as_o great_a worth_n as_o any_o in_o the_o world_n as_o melito_n polycrates_n polycarpus_n that_o oppose_v he_o not_o only_o as_o unto_o the_o imposition_n of_o his_o practice_n on_o other_o but_o as_o unto_o his_o error_n as_o they_o judge_v in_o the_o matter_n of_o fact_n and_o right_n yet_o all_o this_o can_v not_o hinder_v but_o that_o he_o will_v needs_o have_v the_o reputation_n of_o the_o father_n of_o schism_n among_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o imposition_n and_o cut_v off_o all_o the_o asian_a church_n from_o communion_n declare_v they_o and_o their_o member_n excommunicate_a euseb._n lib._n 5._o cap._n 23._o the_o noise_n hereof_o come_v abroad_o unto_o other_o church_n great_a offence_n be_v take_v at_o it_o by_o many_o of_o they_o and_o victor_n be_v roundly_o deal_v withal_o by_o sundry_a of_o they_o who_o agree_v with_o he_o in_o practice_n but_o abhor_v his_o imposition_n of_o it_o and_o make_v it_o a_o condition_n of_o church_n communion_n among_o those_o who_o so_o oppose_v and_o rebuke_v he_o irenaeus_n be_v the_o most_o eminent_a and_o i_o shall_v observe_v some_o few_o thing_n out_o of_o the_o fragment_n of_o his_o epistle_n as_o it_o be_v record_v by_o euseb._n lib._n 5._o cap._n 23._o and_o 1._o he_o tell_v we_o that_o he_o write_v unto_o victor_n in_o the_o name_n of_o those_o brethren_n in_o france_n who_o he_o do_v preside_v among_o the_o custom_n of_o consider_v thing_n of_o this_o nature_n with_o all_o the_o brethren_n of_o the_o church_n and_o write_v their_o determination_n in_o their_o name_n be_v not_o yet_o grow_v out_o of_o use_n though_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o now_o will_v be_v esteem_v novel_a and_o schismatical_a 2._o he_o tell_v victor_n that_o there_o be_v great_a variety_n in_o this_o thing_n as_o also_o in_o the_o time_n and_o season_n of_o fast_v which_o do_v not_o say_v he_o begin_z or_o arise_v in_o our_o day_n but_o long_o before_o be_v introduce_v by_o such_o who_o be_v in_o place_n of_o rule_n reject_v and_o change_v the_o common_a and_o simple_a custom_n which_o the_o church_n have_v before_o the_o dr._n therefore_o need_v not_o think_v it_o so_o strange_a that_o a_o alteration_n in_o church_n order_n and_o rule_n shall_v fall_v out_o in_o after_o age_n when_o long_o before_o irenaeus_n time_n such_o change_n be_v begin_v 3._o he_o give_v hereon_o that_o excellent_a rule_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o difference_n of_o fast_n and_o consequent_o thing_n of_o a_o alike_a nature_n commend_v the_o concord_n or_o agreement_n of_o faith_n this_o be_v the_o first_o effect_n of_o a_o departure_n from_o the_o only_a rule_n of_o unity_n and_o communion_n among_o the_o church_n which_o be_v give_v by_o christ_n himself_o and_o his_o apostle_n as_o hereby_o great_a confusion_n and_o disorder_n be_v bring_v upon_o the_o church_n so_o it_o be_v the_o first_o public_a inroad_n that_o be_v make_v on_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o scripture_n concern_v christian_n liberty_n and_o as_o it_o be_v also_o the_o first_o instance_n of_o reject_v man_n otherwise_o find_v in_o the_o faith_n from_o communion_n for_o nonconformity_n or_o the_o nonobservance_n of_o humane_a institution_n or_o tradition_n which_o have_v therein_o a_o unhappy_a consecration_n unto_o the_o use_n of_o future_a age_n so_o it_o be_v the_o first_o notorious_a entrance_n into_o that_o usurpation_n of_o power_n in_o the_o roman_a bishop_n which_o they_o carry_v on_o by_o degree_n unto_o a_o absolute_a tyranny_n neither_o be_v there_o ever_o a_o more_o pernicious_a maxim_n broach_v in_o the_o primitive_a time_n nor_o which_o have_v a_o more_o effectual_a influence_n into_o the_o ruin_n
of_o the_o first_o institution_n and_o liberty_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ._n for_o although_o the_o fact_n of_o victor_n be_v condemn_v by_o many_o yet_o the_o principle_n he_o proceed_v on_o be_v afterward_o espouse_v and_o put_v in_o practice_n our_o reverend_a author_n will_v hardly_o find_v a_o instance_n before_o this_o of_o schism_n among_o any_o church_n that_o retain_v the_o substance_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o faith_n unless_o it_o be_v in_o those_o division_n which_o fall_v out_o in_o some_o particular_a church_n among_o the_o member_n of_o they_o and_o this_o we_o affirm_v to_o be_v in_o general_a the_o case_n of_o the_o nonconformist_n at_o this_o day_n for_o admit_v such_o variation_n as_o time_n and_o other_o circumstance_n must_v necessary_o infer_v and_o they_o be_v reject_v from_o communion_n on_o the_o same_o ground_n that_o victor_n proceed_v on_o in_o the_o excommunication_n of_o the_o church_n of_o asia_n neither_o will_v there_o be_v any_o end_n of_o difference_n whilst_o the_o same_o principle_n be_v retain_v before_o this_o schism_n be_v only_o esteem_v a_o defect_n in_o love_n and_o breach_n of_o the_o rule_n of_o christ_n appointment_n for_o the_o communion_n and_o walk_v together_o of_o believer_n in_o the_o same_o church_n but_o this_o notion_n of_o schism_n be_v in_o the_o judgement_n of_o dr._n still_o pref._n p._n 46._o so_o mean_v so_o jejune_n so_o narrow_a a_o notion_n of_o it_o that_o i_o can_v say_v he_o but_o wonder_v that_o man_n of_o understanding_n shall_v be_v satisfy_v with_o it_o but_o in_o my_o judgement_n the_o author_n of_o it_o be_v a_o man_n of_o good_a understanding_n indeed_o i_o have_v hear_v he_o speak_v of_o as_o one_o of_o abstruse_a speculation_n that_o do_v not_o advantage_n christian_a religion_n and_o one_o have_v publish_v in_o print_n that_o he_o be_v one_o of_o the_o obscure_a writer_n that_o ever_o he_o read_v but_o never_o hear_v he_o before_o charge_v with_o mean_a and_o jejune_n notion_n now_o this_o be_v st_n paul_n who_o express_o charge_v schism_n on_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n because_o of_o the_o division_n that_o be_v among_o they_o namely_o the_o member_n of_o the_o same_o particular_a church_n so_o as_o they_o can_v not_o come_v together_o in_o one_o place_n in_o a_o due_a manner_n nor_o in_o all_o his_o write_n do_v he_o any_o where_o give_v we_o any_o other_o notion_n of_o schism_n but_o say_v he_o this_o be_v short_a of_o that_o care_n of_o the_o church_n peace_n which_o christ_n have_v make_v so_o great_a a_o duty_n of_o his_o follower_n but_o if_o thâ—re_v be_v no_o other_o rule_n no_o other_o duty_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o church_n peace_n but_o only_o that_o no_o separation_n be_v make_v from_o it_o which_o be_v call_v schism_n we_o may_v have_v be_v all_o quiet_a in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n let_v no_o man_n think_v to_o persuade_v we_o but_o that_o for_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o church_n peace_n it_o be_v require_v of_o we_o that_o we_o do_v and_o observe_v all_o thing_n that_o christ_n require_v of_o we_o and_o that_o we_o enjoin_v not_o the_o observation_n of_o what_o he_o have_v not_o command_v on_o victor_n penalty_n of_o be_v exclude_v from_o communion_n that_o faith_n and_o love_n and_o holiness_n be_v keep_v and_o promote_v in_o the_o church_n by_o all_o the_o way_n of_o his_o appointment_n and_o when_o these_o thing_n be_v attend_v unto_o st._n paul_n mean_a and_o jejune_n notion_n of_o schism_n will_v be_v of_o good_a use_n also_o nor_o be_v there_o the_o least_o appearance_n of_o any_o other_o kind_n of_o schism_n among_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n until_o that_o which_o be_v occasion_v by_o victor_n of_o which_o we_o have_v speak_v the_o schism_n that_o follow_v afterward_o be_v six_o to_o one_o from_o the_o contention_n of_o bishop_n or_o those_o who_o have_v a_o ambition_n so_o to_o be_v which_o the_o apostle_n foresee_v as_o clemens_n witness_v and_o make_v provision_n against_o it_o but_o that_o no_o bank_n be_v strong_a enough_o to_o confine_v the_o overflow_a ambition_n of_o some_o sort_n of_o person_n but_o say_v the_o dr._n pref._n p._n 47._o the_o obligation_n to_o preserve_v the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n extend_v to_o all_o lawful_a constitution_n in_o order_n â—o_o it_o therefore_o to_o break_v the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n we_o live_v in_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o any_o lawful_a order_n and_o constitution_n make_v to_o preserve_v it_o be_v direct_o the_o sin_n of_o schism_n now_o schism_n he_o tell_v we_o be_v as_o great_a and_o dangerous_a a_o sin_n as_o murder_n p._n 45._o and_o we_o know_v that_o no_o murderer_n have_v eternal_a life_n abide_v in_o he_o 1_o joh._n 3_o 1â—_n so_o that_o all_o man_n here_o seem_v to_o be_v adjudge_v unto_o hell_n who_o comply_v not_o with_o who_o submit_v not_o unto_o our_o ecclesiastical_a constitution_n or_o canon_n god_n forbid_v that_o ever_o such_o doctrine_n shall_v be_v look_v on_o as_o to_o have_v the_o least_o affinity_n unto_o the_o gospel_n or_o such_o censure_n to_o have_v any_o savour_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n in_o they_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n have_v not_o cast_v the_o eternal_a condition_n of_o those_o who_o he_o purchase_v with_o his_o own_o most_o precious_a blood_n into_o the_o arbitrary_a disposal_n of_o any_o that_o shall_v take_v upon_o they_o to_o make_v ecclesiastical_a constitution_n and_o order_n for_o conformity_n in_o rite_n and_o ceremony_n etc._n etc._n shall_v we_o think_v that_o he_o who_o upon_o the_o best_a use_n of_o mean_n for_o his_o instruction_n which_o he_o be_v capable_a of_o with_o fervent_a prayer_n to_o god_n for_o light_n and_o direction_n can_v comply_v with_o and_o submit_v unto_o some_o ecclesiastical_a constitution_n and_o order_n however_o pretend_v to_o be_v make_v foâ—_n the_o preservation_n of_o peace_n and_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n on_o this_o ground_n principal_o because_o they_o be_v not_o of_o the_o appointment_n nor_o have_v the_o approbation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n though_o he_o shall_v mistake_v herein_o and_o miss_v of_o his_o duty_n be_v guilty_a of_o no_o less_o sin_n than_o that_o of_o murder_n suppose_v of_o cain_n in_o kill_v his_o brother_n for_o all_o murder_n be_v from_o hatred_n and_o malice_n this_o be_v that_o which_o inflame_v the_o difference_n among_o we_o for_o it_o be_v a_o scandal_n of_o the_o high_a nature_n when_o man_n do_v see_v that_o person_n who_o in_o any_o thing_n dissent_v from_o our_o ecclesiastical_a constitution_n though_o otherwise_o sober_a honest_a pious_a and_o peaceable_a be_v look_v on_o as_o bad_a if_o not_o worse_o than_o theives_n and_o murderer_n and_o be_v deal_v withal_o according_o nor_o can_v any_o thing_n be_v more_o effectual_a to_o harden_v other_o in_o their_o immorality_n than_o to_o find_v themselves_o approve_v by_o the_o guide_n of_o the_o church_n in_o comparison_n with_o such_o dissenter_n but_o 2._o who_o be_v it_o that_o shall_v make_v these_o order_n and_o constitution_n that_o must_v be_v observe_v for_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o unity_n and_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n it_o can_v be_v none_o but_o those_o who_o have_v power_n so_o to_o do_v by_o be_v uppermost_a in_o any_o place_n or_o time_n who_o shall_v judge_v they_o to_o be_v lawful_a no_o doubt_v they_o that_o make_v they_o and_o what_o shall_v these_o constitution_n be_v about_o what_o shall_v they_o extend_v unto_o any_o thing_n in_o the_o world_n so_o there_o be_v no_o mention_n of_o it_o in_o the_o scripture_n one_o way_n or_o other_o what_o if_o any_o one_o shall_v now_o dissent_v from_o these_o constitution_n and_o not_o submit_v unto_o they_o why_o than_o he_o be_v guilty_a of_o schism_n as_o great_a and_o dangerous_a a_o sin_n as_o that_o of_o murder_n but_o when_o all_o be_v do_v what_o if_o these_o constitution_n and_o order_n shall_v be_v no_o way_n needful_a or_o useful_a unto_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n what_o if_o a_o supposition_n that_o they_o be_v so_o reflect_v dishonour_n on_o the_o wisdom_n and_o love_n of_o christ_n what_o if_o they_o be_v unlawful_a and_o unwarrantable_a the_o lord_n christ_n not_o have_v give_v power_n and_o authority_n unto_o any_o sort_n of_o man_n to_o make_v any_o such_o constitution_n what_o if_o they_o be_v the_o great_a way_n and_o mean_n of_o break_v the_o unity_n and_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n these_o and_o other_o inquiry_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n must_v be_v clear_o resolve_v not_o by_o the_o dictate_v of_o man_n own_o mind_n and_o spirit_n but_o from_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n before_o this_o intimation_n can_v be_v comply_v withal_o but_o that_o which_o be_v fall_v out_o most_o beyond_o expectation_n in_o this_o whole_a discourse_n be_v that_o the_o reverend_a author_n seek_v by_o all_o
least_o that_o any_o other_o person_n have_v undertake_v or_o will_v undertake_v the_o consideration_n of_o the_o drs._n sermon_n i_o think_v that_o my_o endeavour_n for_o the_o removal_n of_o the_o obstacle_n cast_v in_o the_o way_n unto_o a_o sincere_a coalition_n in_o the_o unity_n of_o faith_n among_o all_o sort_n of_o protestant_n may_v not_o be_v unacceptable_a neither_o do_v i_o see_v any_o other_o way_n whereby_o this_o may_v be_v do_v but_o only_o by_o a_o vindication_n of_o the_o dissenter_n from_o the_o gild_n of_o that_o state_n which_o if_o it_o be_v true_o charge_v on_o they_o must_v render_v our_o division_n irreconcilable_a and_o continue_v still_o of_o the_o same_o mind_n i_o have_v once_o more_o renew_v the_o same_o defensative_a with_o no_o other_o design_n but_o to_o maintain_v hope_n that_o peace_n and_o love_n may_v yet_o be_v preserve_v among_o we_o during_o the_o continuation_n of_o these_o difference_n and_o whereas_o it_o be_v a_o work_n of_o almighty_a power_n to_o reduce_v christian_a religion_n unto_o its_o first_o purity_n and_o simplicity_n which_o will_v not_o be_v effect_v but_o by_o various_a providential_a dispensation_n in_o the_o world_n and_o renew_v effusion_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n from_o above_z which_o be_v to_o be_v wait_v for_o and_o see_v that_o all_o endeavour_n for_o national_a reformation_n be_v attend_v with_o insuperable_a difficulty_n few_o church_n be_v either_o able_a or_o willing_a to_o extricate_v themselves_o from_o the_o dust_n of_o tradition_n and_o time_n with_o the_o rust_n of_o secular_a interest_n i_o will_v hope_v that_o they_o shall_v not_o be_v always_o the_o object_n of_o public_a severity_n who_o keep_v the_o unity_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o bond_n of_o truth_n and_o peace_n with_o all_o sincere_a disciple_n of_o christ_n every_o where_o do_v design_n nothing_o but_o a_o reformation_n of_o themselves_o and_o their_o way_n by_o a_o universal_a compliance_n with_o the_o will_n and_o word_n of_o christ_n alone_o who_o god_n have_v command_v they_o in_o all_o thing_n to_o hear_v and_o obey_v the_o reduction_n i_o say_v of_o the_o profession_n of_o christianity_n in_o general_n unto_o its_o primitive_a purity_n simplicity_n separation_n from_o the_o world_n and_o all_o implication_n with_o secular_a interest_n so_o as_o that_o it_o shall_v comprise_v nothing_o but_o the_o guidance_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n in_o the_o life_n of_o god_n towards_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o he_o be_v a_o work_n more_o to_o be_v pray_v for_o to_o come_v in_o its_o proper_a season_n then_o to_o be_v expect_v in_o this_o age._n nor_o do_v any_o yet_o appear_v fit_v in_o the_o least_o measure_n for_o the_o undertake_n or_o attempt_v such_o a_o work_n any_o far_a than_o by_o their_o own_o personal_a profession_n and_o example_n and_o whilst_o thing_n continue_v among_o protestant_a church_n in_o the_o state_n wherein_o they_o be_v under_o the_o influence_n of_o divide_a secular_a interest_n and_o advantageous_a mixture_n with_o they_o with_o the_o relic_n of_o the_o old_a general_n apostasy_n by_o difference_n in_o point_n of_o doctrine_n in_o rule_n of_o discipline_n in_o order_n of_o divine_a worship_n it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o look_v for_o any_o union_n or_o communion_n among_o they_o in_o a_o compliance_n with_o any_o certain_a rule_n of_o uniformity_n either_o in_o the_o profession_n of_o faith_n or_o in_o the_o practice_n of_o worship_n and_o discipline_n nor_o will_v such_o a_o agreement_n among_o they_o can_v it_o be_v attain_v be_v of_o any_o great_a advantage_n unto_o the_o important_a end_n of_o religion_n unless_o a_o revival_n of_o the_o power_n of_o it_o in_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n do_v accompany_v it_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n the_o glory_n of_o our_o christian_a profession_n in_o righteousness_n holiness_n and_o a_o visible_a dedication_n of_o its_o professor_n unto_o god_n be_v much_o lose_v in_o the_o world_n innumerable_a soul_n perish_v through_o the_o want_n of_o effectual_a mean_n for_o their_o conversion_n and_o edification_n to_o attempt_v public_a national_a reformation_n whilst_o thing_n ecclesiastic_a and_o civil_a be_v so_o involve_v as_o they_o be_v the_o one_o be_v rivet_v into_o the_o legal_a constitution_n of_o the_o other_o be_v neither_o the_o duty_n nor_o work_v of_o private_a man_n nor_o will_v as_o i_o suppose_v wise_a man_n be_v over_o forward_o in_o attempt_v any_o such_o thing_n unless_o they_o have_v better_a evidence_n of_o mean_n to_o make_v it_o effectual_a than_o any_o that_o do_v as_o yet_o appear_v for_o the_o religion_n of_o a_o nation_n in_o every_o form_n will_v answer_v the_o ministry_n of_o it_o what_o be_v the_o present_a duty_n in_o this_o state_n of_o thing_n of_o those_o private_a christian_n or_o minister_n who_o can_v satisfy_v their_o conscience_n as_o unto_o their_o duty_n towards_o god_n without_o endeavour_v a_o conformity_n unto_o the_o will_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o observance_n of_o all_o his_o institution_n and_o command_n confine_v all_o their_o concern_v in_o religion_n unto_o thing_n spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a be_v the_o enquiry_n before_o we_o chap._n i._o of_o the_o original_a of_o church_n when_o any_o thing_n which_o be_v plead_v to_o belong_v unto_o religion_n or_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n be_v propose_v unto_o we_o our_o first_o consideration_n of_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v in_o that_o enquiry_n which_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n make_v of_o the_o pharisee_n concern_v the_o baptism_n of_o john_n whence_o be_v it_o from_o heaven_n or_o of_o man_n he_o distribute_v all_o thing_n which_o come_v under_o that_o plea_n or_o pretence_n into_o two_o head_n as_o unto_o their_o original_a and_o efficient_a cause_n namely_o heaven_n and_o men._n and_o these_o be_v not_o only_o different_a and_o distinct_a but_o so_o contradictory_n one_o unto_o another_o that_o as_o unto_o any_o thing_n wherein_o religion_n or_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n be_v concern_v they_o can_v concur_v as_o partial_a cause_n of_o the_o same_o effect_n what_o be_v of_o man_n be_v not_o from_o heaven_n and_o what_o be_v from_o heaven_n be_v not_o of_o men._n and_o hence_o be_v his_o determination_n concern_v both_o sort_n of_o these_o thing_n every_o plant_n which_o my_o heavenly_a father_n have_v not_o plant_v shall_v be_v root_v up_o mat._n 15.13_o design_v therefore_o to_o treat_v of_o church_n their_o original_a nature_n use_v and_o end_v my_o first_o enquiry_n must_v be_v whether_o they_o be_v from_o heaven_n or_o of_o man_n that_o be_v whether_o they_o be_v of_o a_o divine_a original_a have_v a_o divine_a institution_n or_o whether_o they_o be_v a_o ordinance_n or_o creation_n of_o man_n for_o their_o pedigree_n must_v be_v derive_v from_o one_o of_o these_o single_o they_o never_o concur_v in_o the_o constitution_n of_o any_o part_n of_o divine_a worship_n or_o any_o thing_n that_o belong_v thereunto_o this_o will_v seem_v a_o case_n and_o enquiry_n of_o a_o exceed_a easy_a determination_n for_o the_o scripture_n every_o where_o make_v mention_v of_o the_o church_n or_o church_n as_o the_o ordinance_n and_o institution_n of_o god_n but_o such_o thing_n have_v fall_v out_o in_o the_o world_n in_o latter_a age_n as_o may_v make_v man_n just_o question_v whether_o we_o understand_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n aright_o or_o no_o in_o what_o be_v speak_v of_o they_o at_o least_o if_o they_o shall_v allow_v that_o the_o church_n so_o mention_v in_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o divine_a appointment_n yet_o it_o may_v be_v high_o questionable_a whether_o those_o which_o have_v since_o be_v in_o the_o world_n be_v not_o a_o mere_a product_n of_o the_o invention_n and_o power_n of_o man_n 1._o for_o many_o age_n such_o thing_n alone_o be_v propose_v unto_o the_o world_n and_o impose_v on_o it_o for_o the_o only_a church_n as_o be_v from_o hell_n rather_o than_o from_o heaven_n at_o least_o from_o man_n and_o those_o none_o of_o the_o best_a for_o all_o man_n in_o these_o western_a part_n of_o the_o world_n be_v oblige_v to_o believe_v and_o profess_v on_o the_o penalty_n of_o eternal_a and_o temporal_a destruction_n that_o the_o pope_n of_o rome_n and_o those_o depend_v on_o he_o be_v the_o only_a church_n in_o the_o world_n if_o this_o shall_v be_v grant_v as_o it_o be_v almost_o universal_o in_o some_o age_n and_o in_o this_o be_v earnest_o contend_v for_o there_o will_v be_v a_o thousand_o evidence_n to_o prove_v that_o the_o institution_n of_o church_n be_v not_o from_o heaven_n but_o from_o men._n whether_o the_o invention_n of_o man_n in_o the_o mystery_n of_o iniquity_n be_v to_o be_v receive_v again_o or_o no_o man_n of_o secular_a wisdom_n and_o interest_n may_v do_v well_o to_o consider_v but_o he_o must_v be_v blind_a and_o mad_a and_o accurse_a in_o his_o mind_n and_o understanding_n who_o can_v think_v of_o receive_v it_o as_o from_o
obedience_n unto_o the_o command_v of_o christ_n in_o its_o integrity_n for_o the_o first_o the_o scripture_n be_v full_a of_o prediction_n all_o confirm_v in_o the_o event_n that_o after_o the_o day_n of_o the_o apostle_n there_o shall_v be_v various_a attempt_n to_o wrest_v corrupt_v and_o pervert_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o to_o bring_v in_o pernicious_a error_n and_o heresy_n to_o prevent_v or_o reprove_v and_o remove_v they_o be_v no_o small_a part_n and_o duty_n of_o the_o ministerial_a office_n in_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o word_n but_o whereas_o those_o who_o teach_v such_o perverse_a thing_n do_v for_o the_o most_o part_n arise_v at_o first_o in_o the_o church_n themselves_o act._n 20.30_o 2_o pet._n 2.1_o 1_o john_n 2.19_o as_o the_o preach_a of_o the_o word_n be_v appoint_v for_o the_o rebuke_n of_o the_o doctrine_n themselves_o so_o this_o discipline_n be_v ordain_v in_o the_o church_n with_o respect_n unto_o the_o person_n of_o they_o by_o who_o they_o be_v teach_v rev._n 2.2.14_o 20._o 3_o joh._n 8.9_o gal._n 5.12_o and_o so_o also_o it_o be_v with_o respect_n unto_o schism_n and_o division_n that_o may_v fall_v out_o in_o the_o church_n the_o way_n of_o suppress_v thing_n of_o this_o nature_n by_o external_a force_n by_o the_o sword_n of_o magistrate_n in_o prison_n fine_n banishment_n and_o death_n be_v not_o then_o think_v of_o nor_o direct_v unto_o by_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n but_o be_v high_o dishonourable_a unto_o he_o as_o though_o the_o way_n of_o his_o own_o appointment_n be_v not_o sufficient_a for_o the_o preservation_n of_o his_o own_o truth_n but_o that_o his_o disciple_n must_v betake_v themselves_o unto_o the_o secular_a power_n of_o this_o world_n who_o for_o the_o most_o part_n be_v wicked_a profane_a and_o ignorant_a of_o the_o truth_n for_o that_o end_n and_o hereunto_o belong_v the_o preservation_n of_o his_o command_n in_o the_o integrity_n of_o obedience_n for_o he_o appoint_v that_o hereby_o care_n shall_v be_v take_v of_o the_o way_n walking_n and_o conversation_n of_o his_o disciple_n that_o in_o all_o thing_n it_o shall_v be_v such_o as_o become_v the_o gospel_n hence_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o discipline_n he_o ordain_v to_o consist_v in_o exhortation_n admonition_n reproof_n of_o any_o that_o shall_v offend_v in_o thing_n moral_a or_o of_o his_o especial_a institution_n with_o the_o total_a rejection_n of_o they_o be_v obstinate_a in_o their_o offence_n as_o we_o shall_v see_v afterward_o 2._o the_o second_o end_n of_o it_o be_v to_o preserve_v love_n entire_a among_o his_o disciple_n this_o be_v that_o which_o he_o give_v in_o especial_a charge_n unto_o all_o that_o shall_v believe_v in_o his_o name_n take_v the_o command_n of_o it_o to_o be_v his_o own_o in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n and_o declare_v our_o observance_n of_o it_o to_o be_v the_o principal_a pledge_n and_o evidence_n of_o our_o be_v his_o disciple_n for_o although_o mutual_a love_n be_v a_o old_a commandment_n belong_v both_o unto_o the_o moral_a law_n and_o sundry_a injunction_n under_o the_o old_a testament_n yet_o the_o degree_n and_o measure_n of_o it_o the_o way_n and_o duty_n of_o its_o exercise_n the_o motive_n unto_o it_o and_o reason_n for_o it_o be_v whole_o his_o own_o whereby_o it_o become_v a_o new_a commandment_n also_o for_o the_o preservation_n and_o continuance_n of_o this_o love_n which_o he_o lay_v so_o great_a weight_n upon_o be_v this_o discipline_n appoint_v which_o it_o be_v several_a way_n effectual_a towards_o as_o 1_o in_o the_o prevention_n or_o removal_n of_o offence_n that_o may_v arise_v among_o believer_n to_o the_o impeachment_n of_o it_o matth._n 18.15_o 16_o 17_o 2_o in_o that_o watch_n over_o each_o other_o with_o mutual_a exhortation_n and_o admonition_n without_o which_o this_o love_n let_v man_n pretend_v what_o they_o please_v will_v not_o be_v preserve_v that_o which_o keep_v either_o life_n or_o soul_n in_o christian_a love_n consist_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o those_o grace_n mutual_o and_o the_o discharge_v of_o those_o duty_n whereby_o they_o may_v be_v partaker_n of_o the_o fruit_n of_o love_n in_o one_o another_o and_o for_o the_o most_o part_n those_o who_o pretend_v high_o unto_o the_o preservation_n of_o love_n by_o their_o come_n to_o the_o same_o church_n who_o dwell_v in_o the_o same_o parish_n have_v not_o so_o much_o as_o the_o carcase_n nay_o not_o a_o shadow_n of_o it_o in_o the_o discipline_n of_o the_o lord_n christ_n it_o be_v appoint_v that_o this_o love_n so_o strict_o by_o he_o enjoin_v unto_o we_o so_o expressive_a of_o his_o own_o wisdom_n and_o love_n shall_v be_v preserve_v continue_v and_o increase_v by_o the_o due_a and_o constant_a discharge_n of_o the_o duty_n of_o mutual_a exhortation_n admonition_n prayer_n and_o watchful_a care_n over_o one_o another_o rom._n 15.14_o 1_o thes._n 5_o 11_o 12._o 2_o thes._n 3.15_o heb._n 3.12_o 13._o ch._n 12.15_o 16._o 3._o a_o three_o end_v of_o it_o be_v that_o it_o may_v be_v a_o due_a representation_n of_o his_o own_o love_n care_n tenderness_n patience_n meekness_n in_o the_o act_n of_o his_o authority_n in_o the_o church_n where_o this_o be_v not_o observe_v and_o design_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o church_n discipline_n i_o will_v not_o say_v it_o be_v antichristian_a but_o will_v say_v it_o be_v high_o injurious_a and_o dishonourable_a unto_o he_o for_o all_o church_n power_n be_v in_o he_o and_o derive_v from_o he_o nor_o be_v there_o any_o thing_n of_o that_o nature_n which_o belong_v unto_o it_o but_o it_o must_v be_v act_v in_o his_o name_n and_o esteem_v both_o for_o the_o manner_n and_o matter_n of_o it_o to_o be_v his_o act_n and_o deed._n for_o man_n therefore_o to_o pretend_v unto_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o discipline_n in_o a_o worldly_a frame_n of_o spirit_n with_o pride_n and_o passion_n by_o trick_n of_o law_n and_o canon_n in_o court_n foreign_a to_o the_o church_n themselves_o which_o be_v pretend_v to_o be_v under_o this_o discipline_n it_o be_v a_o woeful_a and_o scandalous_a representation_n of_o christ_n his_o wisdom_n care_n and_o love_n towards_o his_o church_n but_o as_o for_o his_o discipline_n he_o have_v ordain_v that_o it_o shall_v be_v exercise_v in_o and_o with_o meekness_n patience_n gentleness_n evidence_n of_o zeal_n for_o the_o good_a and_o compassion_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n with_o gravity_n and_o authority_n so_o as_o that_o therein_o all_o the_o holy_a affection_n of_o his_o mind_n towards_o his_o church_n or_o any_o in_o it_o in_o their_o mistake_n fail_n and_o miscarriage_n may_v be_v due_o represent_v as_o well_o as_o his_o authority_n act_v among_o they_o isa._n 40.11_o 2_o cor._n 10.1_o gal._n 5.22.23_o 1_o thes._n 2.7_o 2_o tim._n 2.24_o 25_o 26._o jam._n 3.17_o 1_o cor._n 13._o 4._o it_o be_v in_o part_n appoint_v to_o be_v a_o evidence_n and_o pledge_n of_o the_o future_a judgement_n wherein_o the_o whole_a church_n shall_v be_v judge_v before_o the_o throne_n of_o christ_n jesus_n for_o in_o the_o exercise_n of_o this_o discipline_n christ_n be_v on_o his_o own_o judgement_n seat_n in_o the_o church_n nor_o may_v any_o man_n pronounce_v any_o sentence_n but_o what_o he_o believe_v that_o christ_n himself_o will_v pronounce_v be_v he_o visible_o present_a and_o what_o be_v according_a to_o his_o mind_n as_o declare_v in_o his_o word_n hence_o tertullian_n call_v the_o sentence_n of_o excommunication_n in_o the_o church_n futuri_fw-la judicii_fw-la praejudicium_fw-la a_o representation_n of_o the_o future_a judgement_n 4._o in_o all_o that_o degeneracy_n which_o the_o christian_a profess_v church_n have_v fall_v into_o in_o faith_n worship_n and_o manner_n there_o be_v no_o instance_n can_v exceed_v the_o corruption_n of_o this_o divine_a institution_n for_o that_o which_o be_v the_o honour_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o gospel_n and_o a_o effectual_a mean_n to_o represent_v he_o in_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o wisdom_n and_o love_n and_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o all_o grace_n in_o the_o church_n unto_o the_o bless_a end_n now_o declare_v be_v turn_v into_o a_o domination_n earthly_a and_o secular_a exercise_v in_o a_o profane_a litigious_a unintelligible_a process_n according_a unto_o the_o art_n way_n and_o term_n of_o the_o worst_a of_o law_n court_n by_o person_n for_o the_o most_o part_n remote_a from_o any_o just_a pretence_n of_o the_o least_o interest_n in_o church_n power_n on_o cause_n and_o for_o end_n foreign_a unto_o the_o discipline_n of_o the_o gospel_n by_o a_o tyranny_n over_o the_o conscience_n and_o over_o the_o person_n of_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n unto_o the_o intolerable_a scandal_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o rule_n of_o christ_n in_o his_o church_n as_o be_v evident_a in_o the_o state_n and_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n as_o these_o be_v the_o general_a end_n of_o the_o institution_n
the_o surprisal_n of_o temptation_n not_o consent_v to_o not_o delight_v or_o continue_v in_o your_o labour_n or_o contention_n of_o spirit_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d col._n 2.1_o be_v night_n and_o day_n in_o your_o prayer_n for_o the_o whole_a brotherhood_n that_o be_v especial_o of_o their_o own_o church_n itself_o that_o the_o number_n of_o god_n elect_v may_v be_v save_v in_o mercy_n through_o a_o good_a conscience_n towards_o he_o this_o be_v their_o state_n this_o be_v their_o liturgy_n this_o their_o practice_n 1._o there_o be_v on_o all_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n a_o plentiful_a effusion_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o his_o gift_n and_o grace_n wherein_o it_o may_v be_v respect_n be_v have_v unto_o what_o be_v affirm_v by_o the_o apostle_n before_o of_o the_o same_o church_n 1_o cor._n 1.4_o 5_o 6_o 7._o the_o same_o grace_n be_v yet_o continue_v unto_o they_o 2._o by_o virtue_n of_o this_o effusion_n of_o the_o spirit_n on_o all_o of_o they_o their_o will_n and_o affection_n be_v sanctify_v their_o mind_n be_v enable_v to_o pour_v forth_o fervent_a prayer_n unto_o god_n 3_o they_o be_v not_o such_o as_o live_v in_o any_o open_a sin_n or_o any_o secret_a sin_n know_v to_o be_v so_o but_o be_v only_o subject_a unto_o involuntary_a surprisal_n who_o pardon_n they_o continual_o pray_v for_o 4._o their_o love_n and_o sense_n of_o duty_n stir_v they_o up_o to_o labour_v mighty_o in_o their_o prayer_n with_o fervency_n and_o constancy_n for_o the_o salvation_n of_o the_o whole_a fraternity_n of_o elect_a believer_n whether_o throughout_o the_o world_n or_o more_o especialâ—y_o those_o in_o and_o of_o their_o own_o church_n he_o that_o shall_v ascribe_v these_o thing_n unto_o any_o of_o those_o church_n which_o now_o in_o the_o world_n claim_v to_o be_v so_o only_o will_v quick_o find_v himself_o at_o a_o loss_n for_o the_o proof_n of_o what_o he_o assert_n do_v we_o all_o sedulous_o endeavour_v to_o reduce_v and_o restore_v church_n unto_o their_o primitive_a state_n and_o frame_n it_o will_v bring_v more_o glory_n to_o god_n than_o all_o our_o contention_n about_o rule_n and_o domination_n 4._o it_o be_v certain_a that_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n be_v fall_v into_o a_o sinful_a excess_n in_o the_o deposition_n and_o rejection_n of_o their_o elder_n 62._o who_o the_o church_n at_o rome_n judge_v to_o have_v preside_v among_o they_o laudable_o and_o unblamable_o as_o unto_o their_o whole_a walk_n and_o work_v among_o they_o and_o this_o they_o do_v by_o the_o suggestion_n of_o two_o or_o three_o envious_a discontent_a person_n and_o as_o it_o be_v probable_a from_o some_o digression_n in_o the_o epistle_n taint_v with_o those_o error_n which_o have_v former_o infest_a that_o church_n as_o the_o denial_n of_o the_o resurrection_n of_o the_o flesh_n which_o be_v therefore_o here_o reflect_v on_o but_o in_o the_o whole_a epistle_n the_o church_n be_v nowhere_o reprove_v for_o assume_v a_o authority_n unto_o themselves_o which_o do_v not_o belong_v unto_o they_o it_o seem_v what_o cyprian_n afterward_o affirm_v be_v then_o acknowledge_v namely_o that_o the_o right_n of_o choose_v the_o worthy_a and_o of_o reject_v the_o unworthy_a be_v in_o the_o body_n of_o the_o people_n but_o they_o be_v severe_o reprove_v for_o the_o abuse_n of_o their_o liberty_n and_o power_n for_o they_o have_v exercise_v they_o on_o ill_a ground_n by_o ill_a mean_n for_o ill_a end_n and_o in_o a_o most_o unjust_a cause_n he_o therefore_o exhort_v the_o body_n of_o the_o church_n to_o return_v unto_o their_o duty_n in_o the_o restauration_n of_o their_o elder_n and_o then_o prescribe_v unto_o they_o who_o be_v the_o first_o occasion_n of_o schism_n that_o every_o one_o will_v subject_v themselves_o unto_o the_o restore_a presbyter_n and_o say_v 69._o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d i_o will_v do_v the_o thing_n appoint_v or_o command_v by_o the_o multitude_n the_o church_n in_o the_o generality_n of_o its_o member_n the_o plebs_fw-la the_o multitude_n the_o body_n of_o the_o fraternity_n in_o the_o church_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d as_o they_o be_v often_o call_v in_o the_o scripture_n act._n 4.32_o chap._n 6.2_o 5._o chap._n 15.12_o 30._o have_v then_o right_o and_o power_n to_o appoint_v thing_n that_o be_v to_o be_v do_v in_o the_o church_n for_o order_n and_o peace_n i_o do_v not_o say_v they_o have_v it_o without_o or_o in_o distinction_n from_o their_o officer_n ruler_n and_o guide_n but_o in_o a_o concurrence_n with_o they_o and_o subordination_n to_o they_o whence_o the_o act_n conclude_v on_o may_v be_v esteem_v and_o be_v the_o act_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n this_o order_n can_v be_v observe_v or_o this_o can_v fall_v out_o only_o in_o a_o congregational_a church_n all_o who_o member_n do_v meet_v together_o for_o the_o discharge_n of_o their_o duty_n and_o exercise_n of_o their_o discipline_n and_o if_o no_o more_o may_v be_v consider_v in_o it_o but_o the_o miscarriage_n of_o the_o people_n without_o any_o respect_n to_o their_o right_n and_o power_n yet_o such_o church_n as_o wherein_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o that_o shall_v fall_v out_o in_o they_o as_o do_v so_o fall_v out_o in_o that_o church_n be_v not_o of_o the_o same_o kind_a or_o order_n with_o it_o but_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o they_o who_o may_v endeavour_v to_o reduce_v any_o church-state_n into_o its_o primitive_a constitution_n that_o they_o may_v be_v caution_v against_o that_o great_a evil_n which_o this_o church_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o their_o suppose_a liberty_n fâ—ll_o into_o i_o can_v but_o transcribe_v a_o few_o of_o those_o excellent_a word_n which_o be_v use_v plentiful_o with_o cogent_a reason_n in_o this_o epistle_n against_o it_o 62._o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d it_o be_v shameful_a belove_a exceed_v shameful_a which_o be_v report_v of_o you_o that_o the_o most_o firm_a and_o ancient_a church_n of_o the_o corinthian_n shall_v for_o the_o sake_n of_o one_o or_o two_o person_n seditious_o tumultuate_a against_o their_o elder_n and_o herein_o he_o proceed_v to_o declare_v the_o dreadful_a scandal_n that_o ensue_v thereon_o both_o among_o believer_n and_o infidel_n the_o instruction_n also_o which_o he_o add_v hereunto_o be_v worthy_a the_o remembrance_n of_o all_o church_n member_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d it_o be_v bless_v advice_n for_o all_o church-member_n that_o he_o give_v let_v a_o man_n be_v faithful_a let_v he_o be_v powerful_a in_o knowledge_n or_o the_o declaration_n of_o it_o let_v he_o be_v wise_a to_o judge_v the_o word_n or_o doctrine_n let_v he_o be_v chaste_a or_o pure_a in_o his_o work_n the_o great_a he_o seem_v to_o be_v the_o more_o humble_a he_o ought_v to_o be_v that_o so_o the_o church_n may_v have_v no_o trouble_n by_o he_o nor_o his_o gift_n but_o to_o return_v 5._o have_v occasion_n to_o mention_v the_o officer_n of_o the_o church_n he_o name_v only_o the_o two_o rank_n of_o bishop_n and_o deacon_n 55._o as_o the_o apostle_n also_o do_v phil._n 1.1_o speak_v of_o the_o apostle_n he_o say_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d preach_v the_o word_n through_o region_n and_o city_n they_o appoint_v the_o first_o fruit_n as_o the_o house_n of_o stephan_n as_o be_v the_o first_o fruit_n of_o achaia_n who_o therefore_o addict_v themselves_o to_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o saint_n 1_o cor._n 16.15_o or_o the_o first_o convert_v to_o the_o faith_n after_o a_o spiritual_a trial_n of_o they_o as_o unto_o their_o fitness_n for_o their_o work_n to_o be_v bishop_n and_o deacon_n of_o they_o that_o shall_v afterward_o believe_v where_o there_o be_v as_o yet_o but_o a_o few_o convert_v the_o apostle_n gather_v they_o into_o church-order_n and_o so_o soon_o as_o they_o find_v any_o fit_a among_o they_o appoint_v and_o ordain_v they_o to_o be_v bishop_n and_o deacon_n so_o that_o provision_n may_v be_v make_v for_o the_o guidance_n and_o conduct_n of_o they_o that_o shall_v be_v convert_v and_o add_v unto_o they_o after_o they_o be_v leave_v by_o the_o apostle_n these_o bishop_n he_o affirm_v to_o be_v and_o have_v be_v the_o presbyter_n or_o elder_n of_o the_o church_n even_o the_o same_o with_o those_o depose_v by_o the_o corinthian_n 58._o in_o the_o same_o manner_n as_o the_o apostle_n do_v act._n 20.28_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d etc._n etc._n it_o be_v no_o small_a sin_n in_o we_o to_o reject_v or_o cast_v off_o they_o who_o have_v offer_v the_o gift_n or_o discharge_v the_o duty_n of_o episcopacy_n holy_o and_o without_o blame_n bless_a be_v the_o elder_n who_o go_v before_o namely_o as_o he_o express_v it_o because_o they_o be_v free_v from_o that_o amotion_n from_o their_o office_n which_o those_o elder_n now_o among_o they_o have_v undergo_v after_o they_o have_v
all_o true_a evangelical_n love_n faith_n and_o worship_n be_v lose_v yea_o this_o kind_n of_o communion_n and_o conjunction_n add_v unto_o a_o implicit_a dependence_n on_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n be_v substitute_v in_o their_o room_n and_o multitude_n be_v content_v with_o they_o as_o those_o which_o do_v bestead_v they_o in_o their_o neglect_n of_o all_o other_o grace_n and_o their_o exercise_n and_o i_o wish_v it_o be_v not_o so_o among_o other_o who_o suppose_v they_o have_v all_o the_o love_n that_o be_v require_v of_o they_o if_o they_o be_v free_v from_o such_o scandalous_a variance_n with_o their_o neighbour_n as_o shall_v make_v they_o unfit_a for_o the_o communion_n 4._o if_o this_o be_v the_o only_a mean_n of_o love_n how_o do_v man_n maintain_v it_o towards_o any_o not_o of_o their_o own_o parish_n see_v they_o never_o meet_v with_o they_o at_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n and_o if_o they_o can_v live_v in_o love_n with_o those_o of_o other_o parish_n why_o can_v they_o not_o do_v so_o with_o those_o who_o have_v the_o same_o faith_n and_o sacrament_n with_o they_o do_v meet_v apart_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o divine_a worship_n in_o such_o congregation_n as_o we_o have_v describe_v wherefore_o 5._o the_o variance_n that_o be_v pretend_v to_o be_v cause_v by_o the_o set_n up_o of_o these_o particular_a congregation_n be_v a_o part_n of_o that_o variance_n which_o christ_n come_v to_o send_v into_o the_o world_n matth._n 10.34_o 35_o 36._o think_v not_o that_o i_o be_o come_v to_o send_v peace_n on_o earth_n i_o come_v not_o to_o send_v peace_n but_o a_o sword_n for_o i_o be_o come_v to_o set_v a_o man_n at_o variance_n against_o his_o father_n and_o the_o daughter_n against_o her_o mother_n and_o the_o daughter-in-law_n against_o her_o mother-in-law_n and_o a_o man_n foe_n shall_v be_v they_o of_o his_o own_o household_n he_o be_v the_o prince_n of_o peace_n he_o come_v to_o make_v peace_n between_o god_n and_o man_n between_o man_n themselves_o jew_n and_o gentile_n he_o teach_v nothing_o enjoin_v nothing_o that_o in_o its_o own_o nature_n shall_v have_v the_o least_o inconsistency_n with_o peace_n or_o give_v countenance_n unto_o variance_n but_o he_o declare_v what_o will_v ensue_v and_o fall_v out_o through_o the_o sin_n the_o darkness_n unbelief_n and_o enmity_n unto_o the_o truth_n that_o will_v continue_v on_o some_o under_o the_o preach_a of_o the_o gospel_n whilst_o other_o of_o their_o near_a relation_n shall_v embrace_v the_o truth_n and_o profession_n of_o it_o what_o occasion_n for_o this_o variance_n be_v take_v from_o the_o gather_n of_o these_o congregation_n which_o the_o way_n itself_o do_v neither_o cause_n nor_o give_v the_o least_o countenance_n unto_o we_o be_v not_o accountable_a for_o whereas_o therefore_o there_o be_v with_o those_o among_o who_o these_o variance_n and_o loss_n of_o love_n thereby_o be_v pretend_v one_o lord_n one_o faith_n one_o baptism_n one_o hope_n of_o their_o call_v the_o same_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n preach_v the_o same_o sacrament_n administer_v and_o whereas_o both_o the_o principle_n of_o the_o way_n and_o the_o person_n of_o those_o who_o assemble_v in_o distinct_a corporation_n for_o the_o celebration_n of_o divine_a worship_n do_v lead_v unto_o love_n and_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o in_o all_o its_o know_a duty_n all_o the_o evil_n that_o ensue_v on_o this_o way_n must_v be_v charge_v on_o the_o enmity_n hatred_n pride_n and_o secular_a interest_n of_o man_n which_o it_o be_v not_o in_o our_o power_n to_o cure_v 2._o another_o end_n of_o the_o institution_n of_o this_o state_n be_v that_o the_o church_n may_v be_v the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n 1_o tim._n 3.15_o that_o be_v that_o it_o may_v be_v the_o principal_a outward_a mean_n to_o support_v preserve_v publish_v declare_v and_o propagate_v the_o doctrine_n or_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n especial_o that_o concern_v the_o person_n and_o office_n of_o christ_n which_o the_o apostle_n subjoin_v unto_o this_o assertion_n in_o the_o next_o word_n that_o church_n state_n which_o do_v not_o answer_v this_o end_n be_v not_o of_o divine_a institution_n but_o this_o the_o ministry_n of_o these_o church_n be_v eminent_o suit_v unto_o there_o be_v three_o thing_n require_v in_o this_o duty_n or_o require_v unto_o this_o end_n that_o the_o church_n be_v the_o ground_n and_o a_o pillar_n of_o truth_n 1._o that_o it_o preserve_v the_o truth_n in_o itself_o and_o in_o the_o profession_n of_o all_o its_o member_n against_o all_o seducer_n false_a teacher_n and_o error_n this_o the_o apostle_n give_v in_o special_a charge_n unto_o the_o elder_n of_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n add_v the_o reason_n of_o it_o act._n 20.28_o 29_o 30_o 31._o this_o be_v in_o a_o especial_a manner_n commit_v unto_o the_o officer_n of_o the_o church_n 1_o tim._n 5.20_o 2_o tim._n 1.13_o 14._o this_o the_o ministry_n of_o these_o church_n be_v meet_v and_o suit_v unto_o the_o continual_a inspection_n which_o they_o may_v and_o aught_o to_o have_v into_o all_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n add_v unto_o that_o circumspection_n about_o and_o trial_n of_o the_o doctrine_n preach_v by_o themselves_o in_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o the_o church_n fit_v they_o for_o this_o work_n this_o be_v the_o fundamental_a mean_n on_o the_o matter_n the_o only_a outward_a mean_n that_o the_o lord_n christ_n have_v appoint_v for_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o this_o world_n whereby_o the_o church_n be_v the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n how_o this_o can_v be_v do_v where_o church_n be_v of_o that_o make_v and_o constitution_n that_o the_o officer_n of_o they_o can_v have_v no_o immediate_a inspection_n into_o or_o cognizance_n of_o either_o the_o knowledge_n opinion_n and_o practice_n of_o the_o member_n of_o their_o church_n nor_o the_o body_n of_o the_o church_n know_v on_o any_o evident_a ground_n what_o it_o be_v that_o their_o principal_a officer_n believe_v and_o teach_v i_o know_v not_o by_o this_o mean_n be_v the_o truth_n preserve_v in_o the_o church_n of_o the_o two_o first_o century_n wherein_o they_o have_v no_o officer_n but_o what_o be_v place_v in_o particular_a church_n so_o as_o that_o no_o considerable_a error_n make_v any_o entrance_n among_o they_o 2._o that_o each_o church_n take_v care_n that_o the_o same_o truth_n be_v preserve_v entire_a as_o unto_o the_o profession_n of_o it_o in_o all_o other_o church_n their_o communion_n among_o themselves_o whereof_o afterward_o be_v build_v upon_o their_o common_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o profession_n of_o the_o same_o faith_n this_o therefore_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n and_o be_v always_o their_o practice_n to_o look_v after_o that_o it_o be_v preserve_v entire_a for_o a_o change_n in_o the_o faith_n of_o any_o of_o they_o they_o know_v will_v be_v the_o dissolution_n of_o their_o communion_n wherefore_o when_o any_o thing_n of_o that_o nature_n fall_v out_o as_o it_o do_v in_o the_o church_n of_o antioch_n upon_o the_o preach_a of_o the_o necessity_n of_o circumcision_n and_o keep_v of_o the_o law_n whereby_o the_o soul_n of_o many_o of_o the_o disciple_n be_v subvert_v the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n on_o the_o notice_n and_o knowledge_n of_o it_o help_v they_o with_o their_o advice_n and_o counsel_n and_o eusebius_n tell_v we_o that_o upon_o the_o first_o promulgation_n of_o the_o heresy_n and_o frenzy_n of_o montanus_n the_o faithful_a or_o church_n in_o asia_n meet_v frequent_o in_o sundry_a place_n to_o examine_v his_o pretence_n and_o condemn_v his_o error_n whereby_o the_o church_n in_o phrygia_n be_v preserve_v hist._n eccl._n lib._n 5._o cap._n 14._o so_o the_o same_o be_v do_v afterward_o in_o the_o case_n of_o samosatenus_fw-la at_o antioch_n whereby_o that_o church_n be_v deliver_v from_o the_o infection_n of_o his_o pernicious_a heresy_n lib._n 7._o cap._n 26_o 28_o 29._o and_o this_o care_n be_v still_o incumbent_a on_o every_o particular_a church_n if_o it_o will_v approve_v itself_o to_o be_v the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n and_o in_o like_a manner_n epiphanius_n give_v a_o account_n of_o the_o original_a of_o the_o heresy_n of_o noetus_n a_o patropassian_a affirm_v that_o the_o holy_a presbyter_n of_o the_o church_n call_v he_o and_o inquire_v of_o his_o opinion_n several_a time_n whereon_o be_v convict_v before_o the_o presbytery_n of_o enormous_a error_n he_o be_v cast_v out_o of_o the_o church_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d when_o he_o begin_v to_o disperse_v his_o error_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d epiphanius_n haeres_fw-la cont_n noet_n haer._n 38._o sec._n 57_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o church_n as_o unto_o the_o substance_n of_o it_o be_v preserve_v entire_a during_o the_o two_o first_o century_n and_o somewhat_o after_o
indeed_o as_o when_o the_o israelite_n come_v out_o of_o egypt_n there_o come_v along_o with_o they_o a_o mix_a multitude_n of_o other_o people_n exod._n 12.38_o which_o fall_v to_o lust_a for_o meat_n when_o they_o come_v into_o the_o wilderness_n numb_a 11.4_o to_o the_o danger_n of_o the_o whole_a congregation_n so_o when_o christianity_n be_v first_o preach_v and_o receive_v in_o the_o world_n beside_o those_o who_o embrace_v it_o sincere_o and_o be_v add_v unto_o the_o church_n there_o be_v a_o great_a mixture_n of_o stubborn_a jew_n as_o the_o ebionite_n of_o philosophical_a greek_n as_o the_o valentinian_o and_o the_o marcionite_n of_o plain_a impostor_n such_o as_o simon_n magus_n and_o menander_n who_o all_o of_o they_o pretend_v to_o be_v christian_n but_o they_o fall_v a_o lust_a and_o exceed_o trouble_a and_o perplex_v the_o church_n with_o a_o endeavour_n to_o seduâ—e_v they_o unto_o their_o imagination_n yet_o none_o of_o their_o abomination_n can_v force_v a_o entrance_n into_o the_o church_n themselves_o which_o by_o the_o mean_n insist_v on_o be_v preserve_v but_o when_o this_o church-state_n and_o order_n be_v change_v and_o another_o gradual_o introduce_v in_o the_o room_n of_o it_o error_n and_o heresy_n get_v new_a advantage_n and_o enter_v into_o the_o church_n themselves_o which_o before_o do_v only_o assault_v and_o perplex_v they_o for_o 1._o when_o prerogative_n and_o pre-eminence_n of_o any_o single_a person_n in_o the_o church_n begin_v to_o be_v in_o esteem_n not_o a_o few_o who_o fail_v in_o their_o attempt_n of_o attain_v it_o to_o revenge_v themselves_o on_o the_o church_n make_v it_o their_o business_n to_o invent_v and_o propagate_v pernicious_a heresy_n so_o do_v thebulis_fw-la at_o jerusalem_n euseb._n lib._n 4._o cap._n 22._o and_o valentinus_n tertul._n ad_fw-la valentin_n cap._n 4._o and_o martion_n at_o rome_n epiphan_n haeres_fw-la 42._o montanus_n fall_v into_o his_o dotage_n on_o the_o same_o account_n so_o do_v novitianus_fw-la at_o rome_n euseb._n lib._n 7._o cap._n 43._o and_o arius_n at_o alexandria_n hence_o be_v that_o censure_n of_o they_o by_o lactantius_n lib._n 4._o cap._n 30._o two_o quorum_fw-la fides_fw-la fuit_fw-la lubrica_fw-la cum_fw-la deum_fw-la nosse_fw-la se_fw-la &_o colere_fw-la simularent_fw-la augendis_fw-la opibus_fw-la &_o honori_fw-la student_n affectabant_fw-la maximum_fw-la sacerdotium_fw-la &_o à _fw-la potioribus_fw-la victi_fw-la secedere_fw-la cum_fw-la suffragatoribus_fw-la maluerunt_fw-la quam_fw-la eos_fw-la far_o praepositos_fw-la quibus_fw-la concupierant_fw-la ipsâ—_fw-la ante_fw-la praeponi_fw-la 2._o when_o any_o of_o their_o bishop_n of_o the_o new_a constitution_n whether_o patriarchal_a or_o diocesan_n fall_v into_o heresy_n which_o they_o do_v frequent_o and_o that_o number_n of_o they_o they_o have_v so_o many_o advantage_n to_o diffuse_v their_o poison_n into_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o their_o church_n and_o such_o political_a interest_n for_o their_o promotion_n as_o that_o the_o church_n themselves_o be_v thorough_o infect_v with_o they_o it_o be_v true_a the_o body_n of_o the_o people_n in_o many_o place_n do_v oppose_v they_o withdraw_z and_o separate_z from_o they_o but_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v but_o that_o this_o be_v the_o first_o way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o the_o church_n cease_v to_o be_v the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n many_o destructive_a error_n be_v receive_v into_o they_o which_o do_v only_o outward_o assault_v they_o whilst_o they_o abide_v in_o their_o first_o institution_n and_o have_v not_o the_o church_n in_o process_n of_o time_n utter_o lose_v their_o primitive_a state_n and_o order_n by_o coalesce_v into_o one_o papal_a pretend_a universal_a church_n the_o faith_n itself_o can_v never_o have_v be_v so_o utter_o corrupt_v deprave_a and_o lose_v among_o they_o as_o in_o the_o issue_n it_o be_v 3._o to_o propagate_v the_o gospel_n be_v in_o like_a manner_n require_v hereunto_o this_o i_o acknowledge_v do_v more_o immediate_o concern_v the_o duty_n of_o person_n in_o any_o church-order_n than_o the_o order_n itself_o for_o it_o must_v be_v the_o work_n of_o some_o particular_a person_n dedicate_a themselves_o unto_o their_o ministry_n as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o first_o church_n 3_o joh._n 5_o 6_o 7_o 8._o the_o like_a may_v be_v say_v of_o any_o other_o public_a acknowledge_v end_n of_o the_o institution_n of_o church_n if_o the_o way_n plead_v for_o be_v not_o consistent_a with_o they_o all_o and_o the_o proper_a mean_n of_o attain_v they_o if_o it_o be_v not_o suit_v unto_o their_o accomplishment_n let_v it_o be_v discard_v i_o shall_v insist_v on_o one_o more_o only_a 3._o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n have_v give_v that_o state_n unto_o his_o church_n have_v instate_v they_o in_o that_o order_n as_o that_o his_o interest_n kingdom_n and_o religion_n may_v be_v carry_v on_o in_o the_o world_n without_o prejudice_n or_o disadvantage_n unto_o any_o of_o the_o lawful_a interest_n of_o man_n especial_o without_o any_o opposition_n unto_o or_o enterfer_v with_o the_o civil_a authority_n or_o magistracy_n which_o be_v the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n and_o no_o churchway_n that_o do_v so_o be_v of_o his_o institution_n wherefore_o i_o shall_v brief_o declare_v what_o be_v the_o principle_n of_o those_o of_o this_o way_n in_o these_o thing_n which_o be_v the_o principle_n of_o the_o way_n itself_o which_o they_o do_v profess_v 1._o our_o first_o general_a assertion_n unto_o this_o purpose_n be_v this_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n teach_v no_o doctrine_n appoint_v no_o order_n in_o his_o church_n give_v it_o no_o power_n that_o be_v opposite_a unto_o or_o inconsistent_a with_o any_o righteous_a government_n in_o this_o world_n of_o what_o sort_n soever_o it_o be_v of_o those_o whereunto_o government_n be_v distribute_v in_o reason_n and_o practice_n his_o doctrine_n indeed_o be_v oppose_v unto_o all_o unrighteousness_n in_o and_o of_o all_o man_n magistrate_n and_o other_o but_o not_o to_o the_o legal_a rule_n of_o magistrate_n that_o be_v unrighteous_a man_n and_o this_o opposition_n be_v doctrinal_a only_o confirm_v with_o promise_n and_o threaten_n of_o eternal_a thing_n refuse_v and_o despise_v all_o outward_a aid_n of_o force_n and_o restraint_n this_o rule_n we_o allow_v for_o the_o trial_n of_o all_o church_n and_o their_o state_n whether_o they_o be_v according_a unto_o the_o mind_n of_o christ._n but_o whereas_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n have_v teach_v command_v appoint_v nothing_o that_o be_v contrary_a unto_o or_o inconsistent_a with_o righteous_a government_n of_o any_o sort_n if_o ruler_n or_o magistrate_n shall_v forbid_v the_o observance_n of_o what_o he_o have_v command_v appoint_v and_o order_v and_o then_o charge_v it_o on_o he_o or_o his_o way_n that_o his_o disciple_n can_v dare_v not_o will_v not_o comply_v with_o that_o prohibition_n and_o accuse_v they_o thereon_o of_o sedition_n and_o opposition_n unto_o government_n they_o deal_v injurious_o with_o he_o whereof_o they_o must_v give_v a_o account_n for_o whereas_o all_o power_n be_v give_v unto_o he_o in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n all_o nation_n be_v his_o inheritance_n all_o people_n in_o his_o absolute_a disposal_n and_o it_o be_v his_o pleasure_n to_o set_v up_o his_o kingdom_n in_o the_o earth_n without_o which_o the_o earth_n itself_o will_v not_o be_v continue_v he_o can_v not_o deal_v more_o gentle_o with_o the_o righteous_a ruler_n of_o this_o world_n and_o he_o do_v it_o because_o righteous_a rule_n be_v the_o ordinance_n of_o god_n than_o to_o order_v all_o thing_n so_o that_o whether_o they_o receive_v his_o law_n and_o doctrine_n or_o no_o nothing_o shall_v be_v do_v in_o opposition_n unto_o they_o or_o their_o rule_n and_o if_o any_o of_o they_o be_v not_o content_v with_o this_o measure_n but_o will_v forbid_v the_o observance_n of_o what_o he_o command_v wherein_o he_o alone_o be_v concern_v and_o not_o they_o this_o be_v leave_v to_o be_v determine_v between_o he_o and_o they_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n when_o ruler_n be_v not_o able_a to_o fancy_v much_o less_o give_v a_o real_a instance_n of_o any_o one_o principle_n doctrine_n or_o practice_n in_o any_o of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n or_o any_o belong_v unto_o they_o that_o be_v contrary_a unto_o or_o inconsistent_a with_o the_o right_n or_o exercise_n of_o their_o rule_n and_o government_n and_o yet_o shall_v not_o only_o prohibit_v the_o do_n of_o those_o thing_n which_o he_o have_v command_v mere_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o spiritual_a and_o eternal_a end_n of_o his_o kingdom_n but_o shall_v also_o punish_v and_o destroy_v those_o who_o will_v not_o disow_v his_o authority_n and_o comply_v with_o their_o prohibition_n it_o do_v scarce_o answer_v their_o interest_n and_o prudence_n for_o to_o what_o purpose_n be_v it_o for_o any_o to_o provoke_v he_o who_o be_v mighty_a than_o they_o when_o they_o have_v no_o appearance_n of_o necessity_n for_o their_o so_o do_v nor_o advantage_n thereby_o 2._o in_o particular_a
state_v of_o the_o subject_a of_o our_o enquiry_n 1._o the_o diversity_n and_o division_n among_o church_n which_o respect_n be_v to_o be_v have_v unto_o in_o the_o choice_n of_o any_o which_o we_o will_v or_o aught_o to_o join_v unto_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n 1._o such_o as_o be_v occasion_v by_o the_o remain_a weakness_n infirmity_n and_o ignorance_n of_o the_o best_a of_o man_n whereby_o they_o know_v but_o in_o part_n and_o prophesy_v only_o in_o part_n wherein_o our_o edification_n be_v concern_v but_o our_o salvation_n not_o endanger_v 2._o such_o as_o be_v in_o and_o about_o thing_n fundamental_a in_o faith_n worship_n and_o obedience_n we_o shall_v speak_v to_o both_o of_o they_o 2._o all_o christian_n be_v original_o of_o one_o mind_n in_o all_o thing_n needful_a unto_o joint-communion_n so_o as_o that_o there_o may_v be_v among_o they_o all_o love_n without_o dissimulation_n howbeit_o there_o be_v great_a variety_n not_o only_o in_o the_o measure_n of_o their_o apprehension_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o truth_n but_o in_o some_o doctrine_n themselves_o as_o about_o the_o continuance_n of_o the_o observation_n of_o the_o law_n or_o at_o least_o of_o some_o of_o they_o as_o also_o opposition_n from_o without_o unto_o the_o truth_n by_o heretic_n and_o apostate_n neither_o of_o which_o hinder_v the_o church_n communion_n of_o true_a believer_n but_o the_o diversity_n difference_n and_o division_n that_o be_v now_o among_o church_n in_o the_o world_n be_v the_o effect_n of_o the_o great_a apostasy_n which_o befall_v they_o all_o in_o the_o latter_a age_n as_o unto_o the_o spirit_n rule_n and_o practice_n of_o those_o which_o be_v plant_v by_o the_o apostle_n and_o will_v not_o be_v heal_v until_o that_o apostasy_n be_v abolish_v 3._o satan_n have_v possess_v himself_o of_o the_o advantage_n of_o these_o division_n whereof_o he_o be_v the_o author_n he_o make_v use_v of_o they_o to_o act_v his_o malice_n and_o rage_n in_o stir_v up_o and_o instigate_a one_o party_n to_o persecute_v oppress_v and_o devour_v another_o until_o the_o life_n power_n and_o glory_n of_o christian_a religion_n be_v almost_o lose_v in_o the_o world_n it_o require_v therefore_o great_a wisdom_n to_o deport_v ourselves_o aright_o among_o these_o division_n so_o as_o to_o contribute_v nothing_o unto_o the_o end_v of_o malice_n design_v by_o satan_n in_o they_o 4._o in_o this_o state_n of_o thing_n until_o it_o may_v be_v cure_v which_o it_o will_v never_o be_v by_o any_o of_o the_o way_n yet_o propose_v and_o insist_v on_o the_o enquiry_n be_v concern_v the_o duty_n of_o any_o one_o who_o take_v care_n of_o his_o own_o soul_n as_o unto_o a_o conjunction_n with_o some_o church_n or_o other_o and_o on_o the_o negative_a part_n i_o say_v 1._o such_o a_o one_o be_v bind_v not_o to_o join_v with_o any_o church_n or_o society_n where_o any_o fundamental_a article_n of_o faith_n be_v reject_v or_o corrupt_v there_o may_v be_v a_o fundamental_a error_n in_o a_o true_a church_n for_o a_o season_n when_o the_o church_n err_v not_o fundamental_o 1_o cor._n 15._o 2_o tim._n 2.18_o but_o i_o suppose_v the_o error_n in_o or_o against_o the_o foundation_n be_v part_n of_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o church_n or_o society_n to_o be_v join_v unto_o for_o thereby_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o church_n be_v destroy_v it_o do_v not_o hold_v the_o head_n nor_o abide_v on_o the_o foundation_n nor_o be_v the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n wherefore_o although_o the_o socinian_o under_o a_o pretence_n of_o love_n forbearance_n and_o mutual_a toleration_n do_v offer_v we_o the_o communion_n of_o their_o church_n wherein_o there_o be_v somewhat_o of_o order_n and_o discipline_n commendable_a yet_o it_o be_v unlawful_a to_o join_v in_o church_n fellowship_n or_o communion_n with_o they_o for_o their_o error_n about_o the_o trinity_n the_o incarnation_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o satisfaction_n be_v destructive_a of_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n and_o idolatry_n in_o the_o divine_a worship_n of_o a_o mere_a creature_n be_v introduce_v by_o they_o 2._o where_o there_o 〈…〉_z any_o church_n teach_v or_o allow_v a_o mixture_n of_o doctrine_n or_o opinion_n that_o be_v prejudicial_a unto_o gospel_n holiness_n or_o obedience_n no_o man_n that_o take_v due_a care_n of_o his_o salvation_n can_v join_v himself_o unto_o it_o for_o the_o original_a rule_n and_o measure_n of_o all_o church_n communion_n be_v agreement_n in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o truth_n where_o therefore_o there_o be_v either_o not_o a_o stable_a profession_n of_o the_o same_o doctrine_n in_o all_o substantial_a truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n but_o a_o uncertain_a sound_n be_v give_v some_o say_v one_o thing_n some_o another_o or_o that_o opposition_n be_v make_v unto_o any_o truth_n of_o the_o importance_n before_o mention_v none_o can_v be_v bind_v or_o oblige_v to_o hold_v communion_n with_o it_o nor_o can_v incur_v any_o blame_n by_o refrain_v from_o it_o for_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o a_o christian_a in_o all_o thing_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o to_o join_v with_o such_o a_o church_n will_v 1._o stain_v their_o profession_n 2._o hinder_v their_o edification_n 3_o establish_v a_o new_a rule_n of_o communion_n unknown_a to_o the_o scripture_n namely_o beside_o truth_n as_o may_v easy_o be_v manifest_v 3._o where_o the_o fundamental_o of_o religious_a worship_n be_v corrupt_v or_o overthrow_v it_o be_v absolute_o unlawful_a to_o join_v unto_o or_o abide_v in_o any_o church_n so_o be_v it_o with_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n the_o various_a way_n whereby_o the_o foundation_n of_o divine_a religious_a worship_n be_v overthrow_v in_o that_o church_n by_o superstition_n and_o idolatry_n have_v be_v sufficient_o declare_v these_o render_v the_o communion_n of_o that_o church_n pernicious_a 4._o nor_o can_v any_o man_n be_v oblige_v to_o join_v himself_o with_o any_o church_n nor_o can_v it_o be_v his_o duty_n so_o to_o do_v where_o the_o eternal_o fix_a rule_n and_o measure_n of_o religious_a worship_n namely_o that_o it_o be_v of_o divine_a institution_n be_v vary_v or_o change_v by_o any_o addition_n unto_o it_o or_o subtraction_n from_o it_o for_o whereas_o one_o principal_a end_n of_o all_o church_n be_v the_o joint_a celebration_n of_o divine_a worship_n if_o there_o be_v not_o a_o certain_a stable_n rule_v thereof_o in_o any_o church_n of_o divine_a prescription_n no_o man_n can_v be_v oblige_v unto_o communion_n therewith_o 5._o where_o the_o fundamental_o of_o church_n order_n practice_n and_o discipline_n be_v destroy_v it_o be_v not_o lawful_a for_o any_o man_n to_o join_v in_o church_n communion_n these_o fundamental_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n 1._o such_o as_o concern_v the_o ministry_n of_o the_o church_n 2._o such_o as_o concern_v the_o church_n itself_o there_o be_v four_o thing_n that_o be_v necessary_a fundamental_o unto_o the_o order_n of_o the_o church_n on_o the_o part_n of_o the_o ministry_n 1._o that_o all_o the_o minister_n or_o officer_n of_o it_o be_v due_o choose_v by_o the_o church_n itself_o and_o solemn_o set_v apart_o in_o the_o church_n unto_o their_o office_n according_a unto_o the_o rule_n and_o law_n of_o christ._n this_o be_v fundamental_a unto_o church_n order_n the_o root_n of_o it_o from_o whence_o all_o other_o part_n of_o it_o do_v spring_n and_o it_o be_v that_o which_o be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o express_o provide_v for_o in_o the_o scripture_n as_o we_o shall_v see_v if_o there_o be_v a_o neglect_v herein_o and_o no_o other_o relation_n require_v between_o minister_n elder_n ruler_n bishop_n and_o the_o church_n but_o what_o be_v raise_v and_o create_v by_o way_n and_o rule_n of_o man_n appointment_n or_o if_o there_o be_v a_o temporary_a disposal_n of_o person_n into_o a_o discharge_n of_o that_o office_n without_o a_o solemn_a call_v choice_n ordination_n and_o separation_n unto_o the_o office_n itself_o and_o its_o work_n the_o law_n of_o christ_n be_v violate_v and_o the_o order_n of_o the_o church_n disturb_v in_o its_o foundation_n 2._o that_o those_o who_o be_v call_v unto_o the_o office_n of_o the_o ministry_n be_v due_o qualify_v by_o their_o endowment_n with_o spiritual_a gift_n for_o the_o discharge_v of_o their_o duty_n be_v fundamental_a unto_o the_o ministry_n that_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n do_v still_o continue_v his_o dispensation_n of_o spiritual_a gift_n unto_o man_n to_o fit_a and_o enable_v they_o unto_o the_o office_n and_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n that_o if_o he_o do_v not_o do_v so_o or_o shall_v at_o any_o time_n cease_v so_o to_o do_v the_o whole_a office_n of_o the_o ministry_n must_v cease_v and_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n with_o it_o that_o it_o be_v altogether_o useless_a for_o any_o church_n or_o person_n to_o erect_v a_o image_n of_o the_o gospel_n ministry_n by_o outward_a rite_n and_o
ceremony_n without_o the_o enliven_a form_n of_o these_o spiritual_a gift_n i_o have_v prove_v sufficient_o in_o my_o discourse_n of_o spiritual_a gift_n and_o their_o continuance_n in_o the_o church_n wherefore_o a_o communication_n of_o spiritual_a gift_n peculiar_o enable_v man_n unto_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n antecedent_n unto_o their_o solemn_a separation_n unto_o the_o office_n in_o some_o good_a measure_n be_v absolute_o necessary_a unto_o the_o due_a continuance_n of_o the_o office_n and_o its_o work_n see_v ephes._n 4.7_o 11_o 12_o 13_o 14_o 15._o to_o suppose_v that_o the_o lord_n christ_n do_v call_v and_o appoint_v man_n unto_o a_o certain_a office_n and_o work_n in_o his_o church_n seclude_v all_o other_o from_o any_o interest_n in_o the_o one_o or_o other_o and_o yet_o not_o endow_v they_o with_o peculiar_a gift_n and_o ability_n for_o the_o discharge_n of_o that_o office_n and_o work_n be_v to_o ascribe_v that_o unto_o he_o which_o be_v every_o way_n unbecoming_a his_o wisdom_n and_o grace_n with_o his_o love_n unto_o the_o church_n but_o when_o man_n look_v on_o all_o church_n order_n as_o a_o lifeless_a machine_n to_o be_v act_v move_v and_o dispose_v by_o external_n rule_n law_n canon_n and_o order_n without_o respect_n unto_o the_o act_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n go_v before_o in_o the_o rule_n of_o his_o word_n to_o enliven_v every_o part_n of_o it_o the_o true_a disciple_n of_o christ_n will_v receive_v no_o advantage_n thereby_o 3._o it_o be_v of_o the_o same_o importance_n that_o person_n so_o call_v do_v take_v heed_n unto_o their_o ministry_n that_o they_o fulfil_v it_o that_o they_o give_v themselves_o unto_o the_o word_n and_o prayer_n that_o they_o labour_v continual_o in_o the_o word_n and_o doctrine_n and_o all_o those_o other_o duty_n which_o in_o the_o scripture_n be_v prescribe_v unto_o they_o and_o this_o not_o only_o as_o unto_o the_o matter_n of_o they_o but_o as_o unto_o the_o manner_n of_o their_o performance_n with_o zeal_n love_n compassion_n and_o diligence_n where_o there_o be_v a_o great_a defect_n in_o any_o of_o these_o thing_n on_o what_o pretence_n soever_o it_o be_v where_o man_n esteem_v themselves_o exempt_v from_o this_o work_n or_o not_o oblige_v unto_o it_o when_o they_o suppose_v that_o they_o may_v discharge_v their_o office_n at_o a_o cheap_a rate_n and_o with_o less_o trouble_n as_o unto_o their_o present_a interest_n by_o such_o way_n as_o i_o shall_v not_o here_o express_v no_o man_n be_v no_o man_n can_v be_v oblige_v to_o confine_v his_o church_n communion_n unto_o such_o a_o ministry_n 4._o it_o be_v require_v that_o they_o be_v example_n unto_o the_o flock_n in_o the_o expression_n of_o the_o nature_n and_o power_n of_o the_o doctrine_n which_o they_o preach_v in_o their_o conversation_n especial_o in_o zeal_n humility_n self-denial_n and_o readiness_n for_o the_o cross._n where_o these_o thing_n be_v not_o there_o be_v such_o a_o defect_n in_o the_o fundamental_o of_o church_n practice_v as_o unto_o the_o ministry_n of_o it_o that_o no_o man_n who_o take_v care_n of_o his_o own_o edification_n can_v join_v himself_o unto_o a_o church_n labour_v under_o it_o for_o minister_n and_o church_n be_v nothing_o but_o institute_v mean_n of_o the_o conversion_n of_o sinner_n and_o the_o edification_n of_o believer_n and_o when_o any_o of_o they_o through_o their_o own_o default_n cease_v so_o to_o be_v there_o be_v no_o obligation_n unto_o any_o man_n to_o join_v or_o continue_v in_o their_o communion_n nor_o do_v they_o contract_v any_o gild_n in_o a_o peaceable_a departure_n from_o they_o but_o discharge_v their_o duty_n that_o this_o be_v do_v peaceable_o without_o strife_n or_o contention_n without_o judge_v of_o other_o as_o unto_o their_o interest_n in_o christ_n and_o eternal_a salvation_n the_o law_n of_o moral_a obedience_n do_v require_v that_o it_o be_v do_v with_o love_n and_o compassion_n and_o prayer_n towards_o and_o for_o they_o who_o be_v leave_v be_v the_o peculiar_a direction_n of_o that_o moral_a duty_n by_o the_o gospel_n such_o a_o practice_n at_o present_a will_v fall_v under_o severe_a charge_n and_o accusation_n as_o also_o brutish_a penalty_n in_o some_o place_n but_o when_o all_o church_n craft_n shall_v be_v defeat_v and_o the_o use_n that_o be_v make_v of_o its_o imaginary_a authority_n be_v discard_v there_o will_v be_v little_a occasion_n of_o this_o practice_n and_o none_o at_o all_o of_o offence_n again_o there_o be_v thing_n fundamental_a unto_o church_n practise_v and_o order_n in_o the_o church_n itself_o which_o where_o they_o be_v neglect_v no_o man_n ought_v of_o choice_n to_o join_v himself_o unto_o that_o church_n see_v he_o can_v do_v it_o without_o the_o prejudice_n of_o his_o edification_n the_o furtherance_n whereof_o he_o ought_v to_o design_n in_o that_o duty_n and_o these_o be_v 1._o that_o the_o discipline_n of_o christ_n be_v due_o exercise_v in_o it_o according_a unto_o his_o mind_n and_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o his_o prescription_n there_o never_o be_v any_o sect_n order_n or_o society_n of_o man_n in_o the_o world_n design_v for_o the_o preservation_n and_o promotion_n of_o virtue_n and_o thing_n praiseworthy_a but_o they_o have_v rule_n of_o discipline_n proper_a unto_o the_o end_v of_o their_o design_n to_o be_v observe_v in_o and_o by_o all_o that_o belong_v unto_o they_o where_o the_o erection_n of_o such_o society_n be_v continue_v in_o the_o world_n as_o it_o be_v much_o in_o the_o papacy_n both_o their_o constitution_n and_o their_o conversation_n depend_v on_o the_o especial_a rule_n of_o discipline_n which_o they_o have_v frame_v unto_o themselves_o and_o this_o be_v do_v by_o they_o in_o great_a variety_n for_o be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o discipline_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o so_o esteem_v it_o insufficient_a unto_o their_o design_n they_o have_v make_v no_o end_n of_o coin_v rule_n unto_o themselves_o to_o suppose_v that_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n who_o in_o this_o church_n state_n according_a unto_o his_o infinite_a wisdom_n have_v erect_v the_o most_o perfect_a society_n for_o the_o most_o perfect_a end_n of_o religion_n of_o obedience_n towards_o god_n of_o love_n and_o usefulness_n among_o ourselves_o have_v not_o appoint_v a_o discipline_n and_o give_v rule_n concern_v its_o administration_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o that_o society_n and_o the_o attain_n of_o those_o end_n be_v high_o injurious_a unto_o his_o honour_n and_o glory_n where_o therefore_o there_o be_v a_o church_n or_o any_o society_n that_o pretend_v so_o to_o be_v wherein_o there_o be_v a_o utter_a neglect_n of_o this_o discipline_n of_o christ_n or_o the_o establishment_n of_o another_o not_o administer_v by_o the_o law_n and_o rule_n that_o he_o have_v prescribe_v no_o disciple_n of_o christ_n can_v be_v oblige_v to_o join_v unto_o or_o to_o continue_v in_o the_o total_a sole_a communion_n of_o such_o a_o church_n and_o whereas_o there_o be_v two_o part_n of_o this_o discipline_n of_o christ_n that_o which_o be_v private_a among_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n for_o the_o exercise_n and_o preservation_n of_o love_n and_o that_o which_o be_v public_a in_o and_o by_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o ruler_n of_o the_o church_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o purity_n and_o order_n a_o neglect_n in_o either_o of_o they_o do_v much_o impeach_v the_o fundamental_a constitution_n of_o a_o church_n as_o unto_o its_o practice_n 2._o there_o be_v sundry_a other_o thing_n which_o belong_v unto_o this_o discipline_n in_o general_n which_o be_v of_o great_a consideration_n in_o the_o discharge_v of_o the_o duty_n we_o inquire_v into_o among_o they_o be_v 1._o that_o constant_a difference_n be_v put_v between_o the_o good_a and_o the_o bad_a in_o all_o church_n administration_n 2._o that_o person_n open_o or_o flegitious_o wicked_a be_v not_o admit_v into_o the_o society_n of_o the_o church_n or_o a_o participation_n of_o its_o privilege_n 3._o that_o holiness_n love_n and_o usefulness_n be_v open_o avow_v as_o the_o design_n and_o interest_n of_o the_o church_n but_o they_o be_v all_o so_o comprise_v in_o the_o general_n head_n of_o discipline_n as_o that_o i_o shall_v not_o in_o particular_a insist_v upon_o they_o from_o what_o have_v be_v thus_o declare_v it_o will_v appear_v on_o the_o other_o hand_n what_o church_n it_o be_v that_o a_o discipline_n of_o christ_n who_o take_v due_a care_n of_o his_o own_o edification_n and_o salvation_n aught_o in_o duty_n to_o join_v himself_o unto_o in_o complete_a communion_n to_o answer_v this_o enquiry_n be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o those_o discourse_n and_o controversy_n which_o have_v be_v about_o the_o note_n of_o the_o true_a church_n i_o shall_v brief_o determine_v concern_v it_o according_a to_o the_o principle_n before_o evince_v 1._o it_o must_v be_v such_o a_o church_n as_o wherein_o all_o the_o fundamental_a truth_n of_o the_o
gospel_n be_v believe_v own_a and_o profess_v without_o controversy_n and_o those_o not_o bear_v withal_o by_o who_o they_o be_v deny_v or_o oppose_v without_o this_o a_o church_n be_v not_o the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n it_o do_v not_o hold_v the_o head_n it_o be_v not_o build_v on_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n neither_o be_v it_o sufficient_a that_o those_o thing_n be_v general_o profess_v or_o not_o deny_v a_o church_n that_o be_v fill_v with_o wrangling_n and_o contion_n about_o fundamental_a or_o important_a truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v not_o of_o choice_n to_o be_v join_v unto_o for_o these_o thing_n subvert_v the_o soul_n of_o man_n and_o great_o impede_fw-la their_o edification_n and_o although_o both_o among_o distinct_a church_n and_o among_o the_o member_n of_o the_o same_o church_n mutual_a forbearance_n be_v to_o be_v exercise_v with_o respect_n unto_o a_o variety_n in_o apprehension_n in_o some_o doctrine_n of_o lesser_a moment_n yet_o the_o incursion_n that_o have_v be_v make_v into_o sundry_a protestant_a church_n in_o the_o last_o and_o present_a age_n of_o novel_a doctrine_n and_o opinion_n with_o difference_n division_n and_o endless_a dispute_n which_o have_v ensue_v thereon_o have_v render_v it_o very_o difficult_a to_o determine_v how_o to_o engage_v in_o complete_a communion_n with_o they_o for_o i_o do_v not_o judge_v that_o any_o man_n be_v or_o can_v be_v oblige_v unto_o constant_a total_a communion_n with_o any_o church_n or_o to_o give_v up_o himself_o absolute_o unto_o the_o conduct_n thereof_o wherein_o there_o be_v incurable_a dissension_n about_o important_a doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o if_o any_o church_n shall_v public_o avow_v countenance_n or_o approve_v of_o doctrine_n contrary_a unto_o those_o which_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o its_o first_o communion_n the_o member_n of_o it_o be_v at_o liberty_n to_o refrain_v the_o communion_n of_o it_o and_o to_o provide_v otherwise_o for_o their_o own_o edification_n 2._o it_o must_v be_v such_o a_o church_n as_o wherein_o the_o divine_a worship_n institute_v or_o approve_v by_o christ_n himself_o be_v diligent_o observe_v without_o any_o addition_n make_v thereunto_o in_o the_o observance_n of_o this_o worship_n as_o unto_o all_o external_a occasional_a incidency_n and_o circumstance_n of_o the_o act_n wherein_o it_o do_v consist_v it_o be_v leave_v unto_o the_o prudence_n of_o the_o church_n itself_o according_a to_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n and_o general_a rule_n of_o scripture_n and_o it_o must_v be_v so_o unless_o we_o shall_v suppose_v that_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n by_o make_v man_n his_o disciple_n do_v unmake_v they_o from_o be_v rational_a creature_n or_o refuse_v the_o exercise_n of_o the_o rational_a faculty_n of_o our_o soul_n in_o his_o service_n but_o this_o be_v so_o remote_a from_o truth_n that_o on_o the_o contrary_a he_o give_v they_o a_o improvement_n for_o this_o very_a end_n that_o we_o may_v know_v how_o to_o deport_v ourselves_o aright_o in_o the_o observance_n of_o his_o command_n as_o unto_o the_o outward_a discharge_n of_o they_o in_o his_o worship_n and_o the_o circumstance_n of_o it_o and_o this_o he_o do_v by_o that_o gift_n of_o spiritual_a wisdom_n whereof_o we_o shall_v treat_v afterward_o but_o if_o man_n if_o church_n will_v make_v addition_n in_o or_o unto_o the_o rite_n of_o religious_a worship_n unto_o what_o be_v appoint_v by_o christ_n himself_o and_o require_v their_o observance_n in_o their_o communion_n on_o the_o force_n and_o efficacy_n of_o their_o be_v so_o by_o they_o appoint_v no_o disciple_n of_o christ_n be_v or_o can_v be_v oblige_v by_o virtue_n of_o any_o divine_a institution_n or_o command_n to_o join_v in_o total_a absolute_a communion_n with_o any_o such_o church_n he_o may_v be_v induce_v on_o various_a consideration_n to_o judge_v that_o something_o of_o that_o nature_n at_o some_o season_n may_v not_o be_v evil_a and_o sinful_a unto_o he_o which_o therefore_o he_o will_v bear_v with_o or_o comply_v withal_o yet_o he_o be_v not_o he_o can_v be_v oblige_v by_o virtue_n of_o any_o divine_a rule_n or_o command_n to_o join_v himself_o with_o or_o continue_v in_o the_o communion_n of_o such_o a_o church_n if_o any_o shall_v suppose_v that_o hereby_o too_o much_o liberty_n be_v grant_v unto_o believer_n in_o the_o choice_n of_o their_o communion_n and_o shall_v thereon_o make_v severe_a declamation_n about_o the_o inconvenience_n and_o evil_n which_o will_v ensue_v i_o desire_v they_o will_v remember_v the_o principle_n i_o proceed_v upon_o which_o be_v that_o church_n be_v not_o such_o sacred_a machine_n as_o some_o suppose_v erect_v and_o act_v for_o the_o outward_a interest_n and_o advantage_n of_o any_o sort_n of_o man_n but_o only_o mean_v of_o the_o edification_n of_o believer_n which_o they_o be_v bind_v to_o make_v use_n of_o in_o obedience_n unto_o the_o command_v of_o christ_n and_o no_o otherwise_o whereas_o therefore_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n have_v not_o only_o a_o divine_a warranty_n justify_v they_o in_o the_o do_n of_o it_o but_o a_o express_a command_n make_v it_o their_o indispensible_a duty_n to_o join_v in_o the_o celebration_n of_o all_o that_o religious_a worship_n which_o the_o lord_n christ_n the_o only_a lawgiver_n of_o the_o church_n and_o who_o be_v faithful_a both_o in_o and_o over_o the_o house_n of_o god_n as_o the_o son_n have_v institute_v and_o command_v but_o have_v no_o such_o warranty_n or_o command_n for_o any_o thing_n else_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n to_o stand_v fast_o in_o the_o liberty_n wherewith_o christ_n have_v make_v they_o free_a and_o if_o by_o the_o same_o breath_n in_o the_o same_o rule_n law_n or_o canon_n they_o be_v command_v and_o oblige_v to_o observe_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n what_o the_o lord_n christ_n have_v appoint_v and_o what_o he_o have_v not_o appoint_v both_o on_o the_o same_o ground_n namely_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n and_o on_o the_o same_o penalty_n for_o their_o omission_n no_o man_n can_v be_v divine_o oblige_v to_o embrace_v the_o communion_n of_o any_o church_n on_o such_o term_n 3._o it_o be_v require_v that_o the_o ministry_n of_o a_o church_n so_o to_o be_v join_v with_o be_v not_o defective_a in_o any_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v fundamental_a thereunto_o what_o these_o be_v have_v be_v declare_v and_o because_o edification_n which_o be_v the_o end_n of_o church_n communion_n do_v so_o eminent_o depend_v on_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o church_n there_o be_v not_o any_o thing_n which_o we_o ought_v to_o have_v a_o more_o diligent_a consideration_n of_o in_o the_o join_n of_o ourselves_o unto_o any_o such_o communion_n and_o where_o the_o ministry_n of_o any_o church_n be_v the_o church_n of_o what_o sort_n or_o size_n it_o will_v be_v incurable_o ignorant_a or_o negligent_a or_o through_o a_o defect_n in_o gift_n grace_n or_o conscientious_a attendance_n unto_o their_o duty_n be_v insufficient_a unto_o the_o due_a edification_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o they_o that_o believe_v no_o man_n can_v account_v himself_o oblige_v unto_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n but_o he_o that_o can_v be_v satisfy_v with_o a_o shadow_n and_o the_o name_n of_o thing_n for_o the_o substance_n and_o reality_n of_o they_o if_o therefore_o it_o be_v grant_v as_o i_o think_v it_o be_v that_o edification_n be_v the_o principal_a end_n of_o all_o church_n communion_n it_o be_v not_o intelligible_a how_o a_o man_n shall_v be_v oblige_v unto_o that_o communion_n and_o that_o alone_a wherein_o due_a edification_n can_v be_v obtain_v wherefore_o a_o ministry_n enable_v by_o spiritual_a gift_n and_o engage_v by_o sense_n of_o duty_n to_o labour_v constant_o in_o the_o use_n of_o all_o mean_v appoint_v by_o christ_n for_o the_o edification_n of_o the_o church_n or_o increase_v of_o his_o mystical_a body_n be_v require_v in_o such_o a_o church_n as_o a_o believer_n may_v conscientious_o join_v himself_o unto_o and_o where_o it_o be_v otherwise_o let_v man_n cry_v out_o schism_n and_o faction_n whilst_o they_o please_v jesus_n christ_n will_v acquit_v his_o disciple_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o their_o liberty_n and_o accept_v they_o in_o the_o discharge_v of_o their_o duty_n if_o it_o be_v say_v that_o if_o all_o man_n be_v thus_o allow_v to_o judge_v of_o what_o be_v best_a for_o their_o own_o edification_n and_o to_o act_v according_a unto_o the_o judgement_n which_o they_o make_v they_o will_v be_v continual_o part_v from_o one_o church_n unto_o another_o until_o all_o thing_n be_v fill_v with_o disturbance_n and_o confusion_n i_o say_v 1._o that_o the_o contrary_a assertion_n namely_o that_o man_n be_v not_o allow_v to_o judge_v what_o be_v meet_v and_o best_a for_o their_o own_o edification_n or_o not_o to_o act_v according_a to_o the_o judgement_n
life_n itself_o a_o opinion_n ignominious_a unto_o christian_a religion_n however_o vapour_a withal_o by_o young_a man_n who_o wit_n fly_v above_o all_o serious_a consideration_n of_o thing_n and_o their_o circumstance_n and_o countenance_v by_o other_o from_o a_o influence_n of_o interest_n who_o otherwise_o will_v not_o be_v impose_v on_o by_o such_o a_o anti-evangelical_n presumption_n i_o shall_v therefore_o at_o the_o utmost_a distance_n from_o interest_n or_o passion_n brief_o consider_v the_o case_n propose_v and_o give_v a_o account_n of_o my_o thought_n concern_v it_o 1._o one_o or_o two_o thing_n be_v usual_o premise_v unto_o the_o consideration_n of_o this_o case_n as_o namely_o 1._o that_o those_o who_o refrain_v from_o that_o communion_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n which_o we_o insist_v upon_o do_v yet_o agree_v therewith_o in_o all_o important_a doctrine_n of_o faith_n which_o be_v the_o foundation_n the_o life_n and_o soul_n of_o church_n union_n and_o communion_n this_o i_o free_o grant_v but_o with_o this_o limitation_n that_o this_o agreement_n respect_v the_o doctrine_n as_o declare_v at_o the_o first_o reformation_n and_o explain_v in_o the_o age_n next_o ensue_v thereon_o if_o there_o be_v a_o change_n make_v in_o or_o of_o these_o doctrine_n or_o any_o of_o they_o by_o any_o in_o or_o of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n we_o profess_v our_o disagreement_n from_o they_o and_o do_v declare_v that_o thereby_o the_o foundation_n of_o our_o communion_n with_o they_o be_v weaken_v and_o the_o principal_a bond_n of_o it_o loosen_v 2._o that_o not_o only_o as_o christian_n but_o as_o reform_a protestant_n we_o do_v agree_v in_o the_o renunciation_n of_o the_o doctrine_n and_o worship_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n which_o be_v oppose_v by_o the_o common_a consent_n of_o all_o those_o who_o be_v usual_o so_o call_v yet_o this_o must_v be_v add_v thereunto_o that_o if_o any_o in_o or_o of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n shall_v make_v a_o accession_n unto_o any_o part_n of_o the_o doctrine_n and_o worship_n of_o the_o roman_a church_n not_o avow_v or_o warrant_v by_o the_o consent_n of_o the_o church_n in_o its_o first_o reformation_n we_o be_v not_o we_o can_v be_v oblige_v unto_o communion_n with_o they_o therein_o and_o by_o their_o so_o do_v the_o original_a bond_n of_o our_o communion_n be_v weaken_v if_o not_o dissolve_v 2._o these_o thing_n be_v premise_v we_o shall_v inquire_v in_o the_o first_o place_n what_o be_v the_o rule_n of_o that_o communion_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n in_o its_o parochial_a assembly_n which_o be_v require_v of_o we_o if_o this_o be_v plead_v to_o be_v a_o rule_n of_o divine_a prescription_n we_o acknowledge_v that_o great_a diligence_n and_o humility_n be_v require_v unto_o the_o consideration_n of_o it_o that_o we_o be_v not_o mistake_v and_o if_o it_o prove_v to_o be_v according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v of_o his_o institution_n if_o we_o fail_v of_o a_o compliance_n with_o it_o we_o be_v guilty_a of_o schism_n but_o if_o the_o rule_n prescribe_v limit_v and_o exact_v this_o communion_n be_v not_o so_o much_o as_o plead_v to_o be_v of_o divine_a institution_n whatever_o fault_n there_o may_v be_v in_o our_o dissent_n from_o it_o schism_n it_o be_v not_o for_o ecclesiastical_a schism_n neither_o have_v nor_o can_v have_v respect_n unto_o any_o thing_n but_o divine_a institution_n for_o if_o it_o have_v it_o be_v in_o the_o power_n of_o any_o sort_n of_o man_n to_o make_v schismatic_n of_o who_o they_o please_v as_o practical_o and_o in_o pretence_n it_o be_v come_v to_o pass_v at_o this_o day_n in_o the_o world_n now_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o communion_n require_v be_v the_o law_n of_o the_o land_n the_o book_n of_o canon_n with_o the_o rubric_n of_o the_o common_a prayer_n if_o according_a to_o the_o prescription_n direction_n and_o command_n give_v in_o they_o we_o do_v join_v ourselves_o in_o communion_n with_o parochial_a assembly_n then_o be_v we_o judge_v conformable_a to_o the_o church_n of_o england_n and_o not_o else_o by_o and_o according_a unto_o these_o be_v all_o inquiry_n make_v concern_v communion_n with_o the_o church_n and_o if_o they_o be_v observe_v the_o return_n be_v omnia_fw-la bene_fw-la now_o this_o rule_n have_v no_o divine_a warrant_n for_o its_o institution_n no_o example_n in_o the_o primitive_a church_n especial_o consider_v what_o be_v the_o thing_n which_o it_o oblige_v we_o unto_o nor_o can_v be_v make_v consistent_a with_o the_o liberty_n wherewith_o christ_n have_v make_v his_o disciple_n free_a a_o dissent_n from_o this_o rule_n be_v as_o far_o from_o schism_n as_o any_o man_n need_v desire_v it_o for_o nothing_o be_v so_o but_o what_o respect_v some_o command_n or_o institution_n of_o christ_n which_o immediate_o affect_v the_o conscience_n it_o be_v true_a the_o lord_n christ_n have_v command_v that_o love_n union_n peace_n and_o order_n whereof_o schism_n be_v a_o disturbance_n and_o whereunto_o it_o be_v opposite_a but_o they_o be_v that_o love_n union_n and_o order_n which_o he_o have_v appoint_v to_o suppose_v that_o he_o have_v leave_v it_o unto_o man_n to_o invent_v and_o appoint_v a_o new_a kind_n of_o union_n and_o order_n which_o be_v do_v in_o the_o rule_n we_o treat_v of_o which_o he_o never_o require_v and_o then_o to_o oblige_v his_o disciple_n unto_o the_o observation_n of_o it_o be_v it_o what_o it_o will_v so_o as_o that_o their_o dissent_n from_o it_o shall_v be_v criminal_a and_o that_o for_o this_o reason_n that_o it_o be_v so_o appoint_v of_o man_n be_v no_o small_a mistake_n and_o if_o all_o that_o love_n union_n peace_n and_o order_n which_o the_o lord_n jesus_n have_v enjoin_v his_o disciple_n may_v be_v punctual_o observe_v without_o any_o respect_n unto_o this_o rule_n as_o a_o rule_n of_o church_n communion_n to_o dissent_v from_o it_o whatever_o fault_n of_o another_o kind_n it_o may_v be_v be_v no_o more_o schism_n than_o it_o be_v adultery_n and_o if_o on_o some_o man_n arbitrary_a constitution_n of_o this_o rule_n and_o the_o dissent_n of_o other_o from_o it_o such_o difference_n and_o division_n ensue_v as_o seem_v to_o have_v the_o general_a nature_n of_o schism_n the_o evil_a of_o they_o belong_v unto_o those_o alone_a by_o who_o the_o rule_n be_v frame_v if_o indeed_o some_o shall_v frame_v such_o a_o rule_n of_o church_n communion_n because_o they_o suppose_v they_o see_v cause_n for_o it_o and_o will_v then_o leave_v it_o unto_o other_o to_o observe_v as_o they_o see_v cause_n if_o it_o be_v not_o of_o use_n it_o will_v not_o be_v liable_a unto_o much_o abuse_n but_o whereas_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n have_v give_v one_o and_o the_o same_o rule_n equal_o unto_o all_o his_o disciple_n in_o these_o thing_n namely_o that_o they_o shall_v observe_v and_o do_v all_o that_o he_o have_v command_v they_o for_o some_o of_o they_o on_o any_o pretence_n or_o plea_n whatever_o as_o of_o their_o be_v the_o church_n or_o the_o like_a arbitrary_o to_o frame_v a_o rule_n of_o their_o own_o as_o a_o addition_n unto_o he_o oblige_v all_o other_o unto_o a_o strict_a observance_n of_o it_o because_o they_o have_v so_o frame_v it_o be_v that_o which_o neither_o the_o scripture_n nor_o primitive_a antiquity_n know_v any_o thing_n of_o i_o will_v not_o inquire_v what_o be_v that_o power_n and_o authority_n whereby_o this_o rule_n be_v constitute_v and_o confirm_v nor_o in_o who_o it_o do_v reside_v the_o name_n of_o the_o church_n be_v usual_o pretend_a and_o plead_v but_o before_o any_o can_v be_v concern_v herein_o all_o that_o have_v be_v plead_v for_o the_o true_a state_n and_o nature_n of_o evangelical_n church_n must_v be_v overthrow_v which_o will_v not_o be_v do_v speedy_o rail_n revile_n and_o reproach_n will_v not_o do_v it_o but_o until_o this_o be_v do_v it_o will_v be_v believe_v that_o every_o particular_a congregation_n be_v indispensible_o oblige_v in_o itself_o to_o observe_v and_o do_v all_o the_o command_v of_o christ_n and_o be_v leave_v at_o liberty_n so_o to_o regulate_v the_o outward_a circumstance_n of_o its_o worship_n and_o order_n as_o be_v best_a for_o its_o own_o edification_n whereof_o itself_o be_v the_o most_o competent_a judge_n but_o as_o for_o a_o church_n of_o another_o sort_n invest_v with_o authority_n to_o make_v a_o rule_n not_o only_o as_o unto_o the_o outward_a circumstance_n of_o those_o action_n wherein_o church_n order_n and_o worship_n do_v consist_v but_o as_o unto_o sundry_a religious_a rite_n and_o observance_n which_o thereby_o be_v add_v unto_o it_o and_o impose_v the_o observance_n of_o it_o on_o a_o great_a multitude_n of_o other_o congregation_n without_o their_o consent_n whether_o they_o judge_v the_o thing_n enjoin_v to_o be_v for_o their_o edification_n or_o otherwise_o it_o be_v apparent_o not_o from_o
which_o be_v become_v a_o principal_a article_n of_o faith_n in_o the_o roman_a church_n there_o be_v a_o reformation_n attempt_v and_o attain_v in_o some_o measure_n by_o some_o nation_n or_o church_n in_o the_o last_o age_n from_o the_o corruption_n and_o imposition_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n however_o none_o of_o they_o ever_o pretend_v that_o it_o be_v complete_a or_o perfect_a according_a to_o the_o pattern_n of_o the_o scripture_n as_o unto_o the_o institution_n and_o discipline_n of_o the_o church_n no_o nor_o yet_o to_o the_o example_n of_o the_o primitive_a church_n of_o after_o age_n as_o be_v acknowledge_v by_o the_o church_n of_o england_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o commination_n against_o sinner_n but_o suppose_v it_o to_o be_v complete_a to_o conclude_v that_o because_o a_o outward_a rule_n of_o it_o be_v establish_v so_o long_o as_o that_o outward_a rule_n be_v observe_v there_o can_v be_v no_o need_n of_o reformation_n be_v a_o way_n to_o lead_v church_n into_o a_o presumptuous_a security_n unto_o their_o ruin_n for_o whereas_o man_n be_v secure_v in_o their_o interest_n by_o that_o rule_n be_v prejudice_v against_o any_o progress_n in_o reformation_n beyond_o what_o they_o have_v attain_v which_o that_o it_o shall_v be_v a_o duty_n be_v contrary_a unto_o the_o whole_a nature_n of_o christian_a religion_n which_o be_v the_o conduct_n of_o a_o spiritual_a life_n in_o the_o growth_n and_o increase_n of_o light_n and_o a_o suitable_a obedience_n so_o they_o be_v apt_a to_o think_v that_o whilst_o they_o adhere_v unto_o that_o rule_n they_o can_v stand_v in_o no_o need_n of_o reformation_n which_o be_v but_o a_o new_a name_n for_o trouble_n and_o sedition_n though_o it_o be_v the_o foundation_n on_o which_o they_o stand_v but_o general_o church_n think_v that_o other_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o reformation_n but_o they_o need_v none_o themselves_o if_o they_o will_v but_o give_v they_o leave_v to_o reform_v themselves_o who_o judge_n that_o it_o be_v needful_a for_o they_o without_o the_o least_o prejudice_n unto_o their_o church_n profession_n or_o secular_a interest_n it_o be_v all_o that_o be_v desire_v of_o they_o 2._o where_o church_n do_v so_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o reformation_n and_o will_v not_o reform_v themselves_o be_v warn_v of_o their_o duty_n the_o lord_n christ_n threaten_v to_o leave_v they_o and_o assure_o will_v do_v so_o in_o the_o time_n that_o he_o have_v limit_v unto_o his_o patience_n this_o be_v the_o subject_a of_o five_o of_o his_o epistle_n or_o message_n unto_o the_o church_n of_o asia_n rev._n chap._n 2_o 3._o and_o where_o the_o lord_n christ_n do_v on_o any_o cause_n or_o provocation_n withdraw_v his_o presence_n in_o any_o kind_n or_o degree_n from_o any_o church_n it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o any_o of_o the_o member_n of_o that_o church_n to_o remove_v from_o themselves_o the_o gild_n of_o that_o provocation_n though_o it_o can_v be_v do_v without_o a_o separation_n from_o that_o church_n it_o it_o safe_o leave_v of_o any_o church_n whatever_o then_o of_o jesus_n christ._n i_o suppose_v most_o man_n think_v that_o if_o they_o have_v a_o warn_v from_o christ_n charge_v their_o defection_n and_o call_v for_o reformation_n as_o those_o church_n of_o asia_n have_v they_o will_v repent_v and_o reform_v themselves_o but_o whereas_o it_o do_v not_o appear_v that_o some_o of_o they_o do_v so_o whereon_o they_o be_v not_o long_o after_o desert_v and_o destroy_v it_o be_v like_a that_o there_o be_v other_o who_o will_v follow_v their_o step_n though_o one_o shall_v rise_v from_o the_o dead_a to_o warn_v they_o of_o their_o danger_n but_o this_o instruction_n that_o church_n who_o lose_v their_o first_o faith_n love_n and_o work_n who_o be_v negligent_a in_o discipline_n and_o tolerate_v offensive_a evil_n in_o doctrine_n and_o manner_n among_o they_o who_o be_v lukewarm_a as_o unto_o zeal_n and_o dead_a for_o the_o great_a part_n of_o their_o member_n as_o unto_o the_o life_n of_o holiness_n be_v disapprove_v by_o christ_n and_o in_o danger_n of_o be_v utter_o desert_v by_o he_o be_v give_v unto_o all_o church_n no_o less_o divine_o then_o if_o they_o have_v a_o immediate_a message_n from_o heaven_n about_o these_o thing_n those_o therefore_o who_o be_v under_o the_o gild_n of_o they_o and_o do_v not_o reform_v themselves_o can_v claim_v the_o necessity_n of_o a_o continuance_n in_o their_o communion_n from_o any_o disciple_n of_o christ_n as_o we_o shall_v see_v afterward_o 3._o reformation_n respect_v either_o doctrine_n and_o worship_n or_o obedience_n become_v the_o gospel_n the_o debate_n about_o such_o a_o reformation_n as_o concern_v the_o retain_v or_o remove_v of_o certain_a ceremony_n we_o concern_v not_o ourselves_o in_o at_o present_a nor_o shall_v we_o in_o this_o place_n insist_v on_o what_o concern_v doctrine_n and_o worship_n which_o may_v afterward_o be_v speak_v unto_o but_o we_o shall_v confine_v ourselves_o here_o unto_o the_o consideration_n of_o gospel_n obedience_n only_o and_o we_o say_v that_o the_o church_n of_o england_n in_o the_o generality_n of_o its_o parochial_a assembly_n and_o in_o itself_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o reformation_n by_o reason_n of_o the_o woeful_a degeneracy_n of_o the_o generality_n of_o its_o member_n that_o be_v the_o inhabitant_n of_o the_o land_n from_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o command_n of_o christ_n as_o unto_o spiritual_a light_n faith_n love_n holiness_n charity_n and_o abound_v in_o the_o fruit_n of_o righteousness_n unto_o the_o praise_n of_o god_n by_o jesus_n christ._n these_o thing_n be_v the_o immediate_a end_n of_o church_n society_n the_o principal_a mean_n whereby_o god_n be_v glorify_v in_o the_o world_n where_o they_o be_v neglect_v where_o they_o be_v not_o attain_v where_o they_o be_v not_o due_o improve_v by_o the_o generality_n of_o the_o member_n of_o any_o church_n that_o church_n i_o think_v stand_v in_o need_n of_o reformation_n this_o assertion_n may_v seem_v somewhat_o importune_a and_o severe_a but_o when_o the_o sin_n of_o a_o church_n or_o nation_n be_v come_v to_o that_o height_n in_o all_o rank_n sort_n and_o degree_n of_o man_n that_o all_o person_n of_o sobriety_n do_v fear_v daily_o that_o desolate_v judgement_n from_o god_n will_v break_v in_o upon_o we_o it_o can_v be_v unseasonable_a to_o make_v mention_n of_o they_o when_o it_o be_v do_v with_o no_o other_o design_n but_o only_o to_o show_v the_o necessity_n of_o reformation_n or_o how_o necessary_a it_o be_v for_o some_o if_o all_o will_v not_o comply_v therewith_o for_o if_o a_o city_n be_v on_o fire_n it_o be_v sure_o lawful_a for_o any_o of_o the_o citizen_n to_o save_v and_o preserve_v if_o they_o can_v their_o own_o house_n though_o the_o mayor_n and_o alderman_n shall_v neglect_v the_o preservation_n of_o the_o whole_a city_n in_o general_n it_o may_v be_v easy_o demonstrate_v what_o great_a number_n among_o we_o 1._o who_o have_v imbibe_v atheistical_a opinion_n and_o either_o vent_v they_o or_o speak_v presumptuous_o according_a unto_o their_o influence_n and_o tendency_n every_o day_n 2._o who_o be_v profane_a scoffer_n at_o all_o true_a christian_a piety_n and_o the_o due_a expression_n of_o the_o power_n of_o godliness_n a_o evil_a not_o confine_v unto_o the_o laity_n such_o thing_n be_v utter_v and_o publish_v by_o they_o as_o shall_v be_v astonishable_a unto_o all_o that_o know_v the_o fear_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o his_o terror_n 3._o who_o be_v profound_o ignorant_a of_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n or_o those_o doctrine_n of_o christian_a religion_n who_o knowledge_n be_v of_o the_o high_a importance_n and_o necessity_n 4._o who_o be_v open_o flagitious_a in_o their_o life_n whence_o all_o sort_n of_o gross_a immorality_n do_v fill_v the_o land_n from_o one_o end_n unto_o the_o other_o 5._o who_o live_v in_o a_o constant_a neglect_n of_o all_o more_o private_a holy_a duty_n whether_o in_o their_o family_n or_o in_o personal_a retirement_n 6._o who_o be_v evident_o under_o the_o power_n of_o pride_n vanity_n covetousness_n profaneness_n of_o speech_n in_o curse_a oath_n and_o swear_v 7._o who_o instruct_v the_o worst_a of_o man_n unto_o a_o approbation_n of_o themselves_o in_o such_o way_n as_o these_o by_o petulant_a scoff_v at_o the_o very_a name_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o grace_n of_o christ_n at_o all_o expectation_n of_o his_o spiritual_a aid_n and_o assistance_n at_o all_o fervency_n in_o religious_a duty_n or_o other_o act_n of_o a_o holy_a converse_n these_o and_o such_o like_a thing_n as_o these_o do_v sufficient_o evidence_n the_o necessity_n of_o reformation_n for_o where_o they_o be_v continue_v the_o use_n and_o end_v of_o church_n societies_n be_v impair_v or_o lose_v and_o it_o be_v in_o vain_a to_o pretend_v that_o this_o be_v the_o old_a plea_n of_o they_o who_o â—aused_v schism_n in_o the_o
renunciation_n whereof_o be_v require_v of_o they_o who_o be_v admit_v unto_o baptism_n when_o they_o be_v adult_n see_v clem._n pedag._n lib._n 3._o cap._n 12._o if_o the_o reader_n will_v have_v a_o account_n of_o the_o life_n and_o manner_n of_o the_o first_o church_n in_o their_o member_n he_o may_v find_v it_o in_o clem._n epist._n ad_fw-la cor._n pag._n 2_o 3_o 4._o justin_n mart._n apol._n 2._o tertullian_n in_o his_o apol._n and_o lib._n 2._o ad_fw-la vxor_fw-la &_o de_fw-fr cultu_fw-la faeminarum_fw-la cyprian_a epist._n 2._o &_o 12._o euseb._n hist._n lib._n 9_o cap._n 8._o athanas_n epist._n ad_fw-la solit._n &_o epiphan_n lib._n 3._o t._n 2_o sect._n 24._o and_o the_o multiply_a complaint_n of_o chrysostome_n concern_v the_o beginning_n of_o degeneracy_n in_o this_o matter_n with_o other_o if_o the_o example_n of_o the_o primitive_a church_n have_v be_v esteem_v of_o any_o value_n or_o authority_n in_o these_o thing_n much_o of_o our_o present_a difference_n have_v be_v prevent_v 2_o the_o constitution_n of_o these_o parochial_a assembly_n be_v not_o from_o heaven_n but_o of_o men._n there_o be_v almost_o nothing_o which_o be_v require_v unto_o the_o constitution_n of_o evangelical_n church_n find_v in_o they_o nor_o be_v they_o look_v on_o by_o any_o as_o complete_a church_n but_o only_o as_o conveniency_n for_o the_o observance_n of_o some_o part_n of_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n what_o some_o have_v in_o their_o wisdom_n find_v out_o for_o conveniency_n other_o be_v engage_v unto_o a_o compliance_n therewithal_o by_o necessity_n for_o be_v bear_v within_o the_o precinct_n of_o the_o parish_n make_v they_o to_o belong_v unto_o the_o assembly_n of_o it_o whether_o they_o will_v or_o no._n to_o refrain_v from_o the_o communion_n of_o such_o church_n who_o bond_n of_o relation_n consist_v only_o in_o cohabitation_n within_o the_o precinct_n of_o a_o political_a constitution_n be_v a_o new_a kind_n of_o schism_n which_o may_v be_v cure_v by_o a_o removal_n out_o of_o those_o precinct_n if_o it_o be_v say_v that_o these_o parochial_a assembly_n have_v their_o foundation_n in_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n and_o be_v direct_v unto_o in_o the_o institution_n of_o particular_a church_n in_o the_o scripture_n that_o they_o be_v not_o man_n invention_n for_o convenience_n but_o have_v somewhat_o divine_a in_o they_o i_o say_v let_v they_o be_v leave_v unto_o the_o warranty_n which_o they_o have_v from_o these_o cause_n and_o principle_n let_v nothing_o be_v mix_v in_o their_o constitution_n which_o be_v contrary_a unto_o they_o nor_o let_v they_o be_v abridge_v of_o what_o they_o direct_v unto_o and_o there_o will_v be_v no_o more_o contend_v about_o they_o as_o unto_o their_o constitution_n for_o instance_n whatever_o there_o be_v of_o warranty_n in_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n or_o direction_n in_o evangelical_n institution_n for_o such_o assembly_n they_o absolute_o suppose_v these_o three_o thing_n 1._o that_o a_o conjunction_n in_o they_o be_v a_o voluntary_a act_n of_o free_a choice_n in_o they_o that_o so_o join_v together_o in_o they_o other_o kind_n of_o assembly_n for_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n neither_o the_o one_o nor_o the_o other_o do_v give_v the_o least_o countenance_n unto_o 2._o that_o they_o have_v in_o themselves_o sufficient_a right_n power_n and_o authority_n unto_o the_o attain_n all_o the_o end_n of_o such_o assembly_n in_o holy_a worship_n and_o rule_n other_o kind_n of_o church_n they_o know_v nothing_o of_o 3._o that_o they_o be_v enable_v to_o preserve_v their_o own_o purity_n and_o continue_v their_o own_o be_v but_o all_o these_o thing_n be_v deny_v unto_o our_o parochial_a assembly_n by_o law_n and_o therefore_o they_o can_v claim_v no_o warranty_n from_o either_o of_o those_o principle_n wherefore_o there_o can_v be_v no_o obligation_n upon_o any_o believer_n to_o join_v themselves_o with_o such_o church_n in_o constant_a communion_n as_o be_v judge_v none_o by_o they_o that_o appoint_v they_o or_o partial_o and_o improper_o only_o so_o or_o be_v of_o such_o a_o constitution_n as_o have_v in_o its_o essential_o constituent_a part_n no_o warranty_n either_o from_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n or_o scripture_n direction_n so_o as_o that_o his_o dissent_n from_o they_o shall_v be_v esteem_v schism_n how_o far_o communion_n with_o they_o for_o some_o duty_n of_o worship_n which_o be_v indeed_o all_o that_o they_o can_v pretend_v unto_o may_v be_v admit_v we_o do_v not_o now_o inquire_v 3._o there_o be_v not_o in_o they_o and_o therefore_o not_o in_o the_o church_n of_o england_n as_o unto_o its_o present_a profession_n a_o fix_a standard_n of_o truth_n or_o rule_n of_o faith_n to_o be_v profess_v which_o every_o believer_n may_v own_v and_o have_v his_o part_n or_o interest_n therein_o this_o i_o grant_v be_v not_o from_o the_o original_a constitution_n of_o the_o church_n nor_o from_o what_o be_v establish_v by_o any_o law_n therein_o but_o from_o person_n who_o at_o present_a have_v the_o declaration_n of_o its_o profession_n commit_v unto_o they_o but_o from_o what_o cause_n soever_o it_o be_v it_o be_v sufficient_a to_o warrant_v any_o man_n who_o take_v care_n of_o his_o own_o edification_n and_o salvation_n to_o use_v his_o own_o liberty_n in_o the_o choice_n of_o the_o most_o effectual_a mean_n unto_o those_o ends._n wherefore_o some_o thing_n may_v be_v add_v in_o the_o far_a explanation_n of_o this_o consideration_n as_o 1._o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o every_o church_n to_o be_v the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n to_o hold_v fast_o the_o form_n of_o wholesome_a word_n or_o to_o keep_v the_o truth_n pure_a and_o uncorrupted_a from_o all_o mixture_n of_o false_a doctrine_n error_n heresy_n or_o the_o speak_n of_o perverse_a thing_n in_o it_o unto_o the_o hurt_n of_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ._n 1_o tim._n 3.15_o 2_o tim._n 2.3_o act_n 20.28_o 29_o 30._o etc._n etc._n when_o any_o church_n cease_v so_o to_o be_v the_o obligation_n unto_o communion_n with_o it_o be_v dissolve_v 2._o this_o be_v the_o principal_a end_n of_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o church_n in_o particular_a ephes._n 4.11_o 13_o 1_o tim._n 6.20_o and_o where_o those_o who_o possess_v and_o exercise_v it_o do_v eminent_o fail_v herein_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o other_o to_o withdraw_v from_o they_o for_o 3._o every_o private_a man_n confession_n be_v include_v in_o the_o public_a profession_n of_o the_o church_n or_o assembly_n whereunto_o he_o belong_v and_o 4_o oneness_n or_o agreement_n in_o the_o truth_n whereby_o we_o come_v to_o have_v one_o lord_n one_o faith_n one_o baptism_n be_v the_o foundation_n of_o all_o church_n communion_n which_o if_o it_o be_v take_v away_o the_o whole_a fabric_n of_o it_o fall_v to_o the_o ground_n if_o the_o trumpet_n in_o any_o church_n as_o unto_o these_o thing_n give_v a_o uncertain_a sound_n no_o man_n know_v how_o to_o prepare_v himself_o for_o the_o battle_n or_o to_o fight_v the_o good_a fight_n of_o faith_n it_o will_v be_v say_v that_o this_o can_v be_v just_o charge_v on_o the_o church_n of_o england_n yea_o not_o without_o open_a wrong_n and_o injustice_n for_o she_o have_v a_o fix_a invariable_a standard_n of_o truth_n in_o the_o 39_o article_n which_o contain_v its_o public_a profession_n of_o faith_n and_o the_o rule_n of_o its_o communion_n wherefore_o i_o say_v that_o it_o be_v not_o the_o primitive_a constitution_n of_o the_o church_n nor_o its_o legal_a establishment_n that_o be_v reflect_v on_o but_o only_o the_o present_a practice_n of_o so_o many_o as_o make_v it_o necessary_a for_o man_n to_o take_v the_o care_n of_o their_o own_o edification_n on_o themselves_o but_o here_o also_o some_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v 1._o these_o article_n at_o present_a be_v exceed_o defective_a in_o their_o be_v a_o fix_a standard_n of_o the_o profession_n of_o truth_n with_o respect_n unto_o those_o error_n and_o heresy_n which_o have_v invade_v and_o pester_v the_o church_n since_o their_o frame_n and_o establishment_n we_o know_v it_o be_v the_o constant_a invariable_a custom_n of_o the_o primitive_a church_n upon_o the_o emergency_n of_o any_o new_a error_n or_o heresy_n to_o add_v unto_o the_o rule_n and_o symbol_n of_o their_o confession_n a_o testimony_n against_o they_o so_o to_o preserve_v themselves_o from_o all_o communion_n in_o they_o or_o participation_n of_o they_o and_o a_o usage_n it_o be_v both_o necessary_a and_o laudable_a as_o countenance_v by_o scripture_n example_n however_o afterward_o it_o be_v abuse_v for_o no_o write_v such_o as_o all_o church_n confession_n be_v can_v obviate_v unforeseen_a heresy_n or_o error_n not_o broach_v at_o the_o time_n of_o its_o write_n but_o only_o that_o which_o be_v of_o divine_a institution_n wherein_o infinite_a wisdom_n have_v store_v up_o provision_n of_o truth_n for_o the_o destruction_n of_o all_o error_n that_o the_o subtlety_n
to_o be_v give_v of_o any_o man_n charge_v with_o schism_n for_o a_o dissent_n from_o such_o a_o rule_n any_o such_o rule_n and_o any_o ecclesiastical_a censure_n upon_o it_o be_v apocryphal_a not_o only_o unto_o the_o scripture_n but_o unto_o that_o which_o i_o call_v primitive_a antiquity_n the_o first_o attempt_n of_o any_o thing_n in_o this_o kind_n be_v in_o reference_n unto_o the_o time_n and_o day_n of_o the_o observation_n of_o easter_n this_o be_v the_o first_o instance_n among_o christian_n of_o a_o endeavour_n to_o impose_v the_o observation_n of_o humane_a or_o church_n constitution_n or_o groundless_a tradition_n on_o any_o church_n or_o person_n in_o they_o and_o whereas_o that_o which_o be_v call_v a_o schism_n between_o the_o church_n of_o italy_n and_o asia_n or_o some_o of_o they_o do_v ensue_v thereon_o we_o have_v a_o most_o illustrious_a testimony_n from_o the_o best_a the_o wise_a and_o the_o holy_a of_o that_o age_n for_o irenaeus_n in_o france_n and_o polycrates_n in_o asia_n be_v not_o alone_o herein_o that_o the_o blame_n of_o all_o that_o division_n and_o schism_n be_v to_o be_v charge_v on_o they_o who_o attempt_v to_o deprive_v the_o church_n of_o their_o liberty_n and_o impose_v on_o they_o a_o necessity_n of_o the_o observation_n of_o the_o time_n and_o season_n which_o they_o have_v determine_v on_o after_o a_o rebuke_n be_v give_v unto_o the_o attempt_n of_o the_o judaize_v christian_n to_o impose_v the_o observation_n of_o moysaicall_a ceremony_n from_o the_o pretence_n of_o their_o divine_a institution_n on_o the_o church_n of_o the_o gentile_n by_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o this_o be_v the_o original_a of_o all_o endeavour_n to_o impose_v humane_a constitution_n for_o which_o there_o be_v no_o such_o pretence_n upon_o the_o practice_n of_o any_o and_o as_o it_o be_v a_o original_a not_o unmeet_a for_o the_o beginning_n and_o foundation_n of_o such_o imposition_n be_v in_o a_o matter_n of_o no_o use_n unto_o the_o edification_n of_o the_o church_n so_o it_o receive_v such_o a_o solemn_a rebuke_n at_o its_o first_o entrance_n and_o attempt_v that_o have_v it_o not_o be_v for_o the_o ignorance_n pride_n interest_n and_o superstition_n of_o some_o in_o the_o follow_a age_n it_o have_v perish_v without_o imitation_n the_o account_n hereof_o be_v give_v in_o eusebius_n lib._n 5._o cap._n 21_o 22_o 33_o as_o also_o of_o the_o rule_n which_o then_o prevail_v though_o afterward_o shameful_o forsake_v namely_o that_o a_o agreement_n in_o the_o faith_n be_v the_o only_a rule_n of_o communion_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v keep_v under_o any_o diversity_n in_o voluntary_a observation_n and_o the_o discourse_n of_o socrates_n on_o this_o occasion_n lib._n 5._o cap._n 21_o concern_v the_o non-institution_n of_o any_o day_n of_o fast_n or_o feast_n or_o other_o rite_n or_o ceremony_n then_o in_o use_n with_o the_o liberty_n which_o be_v therefore_o to_o be_v leave_v in_o such_o thing_n unto_o all_o christian_n be_v the_o plain_a truth_n whatever_o some_o except_o against_o it_o declare_v with_o much_o judgement_n and_o moderation_n this_o beginning_n i_o say_v have_v the_o imposition_n of_o unscriptural_a uninstituted_a rite_n ceremony_n and_o religious_a observation_n among_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o this_o solemn_a rebuke_n be_v give_v unto_o it_o howbeit_o the_o ignorance_n superstition_n and_o interest_n of_o follow_v age_n with_o the_o contempt_n of_o all_o modesty_n break_v through_o the_o boundary_n of_o this_o holy_a rebuke_n until_o their_o own_o imposition_n and_o observation_n become_v the_o substance_n of_o all_o their_o church_n discipline_n unto_o the_o total_a subversion_n of_o christian_a liberty_n wherefore_o to_o allow_v church_n ruler_n or_o such_o as_o pretend_v so_o to_o be_v a_o liberty_n and_o power_n to_o appoint_v a_o rule_n of_o communion_n comprise_v institution_n and_o command_n of_o sundry_a thing_n to_o be_v constant_o observe_v in_o the_o whole_a worship_n and_o discipline_n of_o the_o church_n not_o warrant_v in_o themselves_o by_o divine_a authority_n and_o then_o to_o charge_v beleiver_n abide_v firm_a in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o faith_n with_o schism_n for_o a_o noncompliance_n with_o such_o command_n and_o appointment_n be_v that_o which_o neither_o in_o the_o scripture_n nor_o in_o primitive_a antiquity_n have_v either_o instance_n example_n precedent_n testimony_n rumour_n or_o report_n to_o give_v countenance_n unto_o it_o the_o pedigree_n of_o this_o practice_n can_v be_v derive_v one_o step_n high_o than_o the_o fact_n of_o victor_n the_o bishop_n of_o rome_n in_o the_o excommunication_n of_o the_o church_n and_o christian_n of_o asia_n which_o be_v solemn_o condemn_v as_o a_o entrenchment_n on_o christian_a liberty_n 3._o after_o these_o thing_n the_o notion_n of_o schism_n begin_v to_o be_v manage_v various_o according_a unto_o the_o interest_n of_o they_o who_o seem_v to_o have_v the_o most_o advantage_n in_o the_o application_n of_o it_o unto_o those_o who_o dissent_v from_o they_o it_o be_v a_o endless_a thing_n to_o express_v the_o rise_n and_o declare_v the_o progress_n of_o these_o apprehension_n but_o after_o many_o loose_a and_o declamatory_n discourse_n about_o it_o they_o be_v geral_o issue_v in_o two_o head_n the_o first_o be_v that_o any_o kind_n of_o dissent_n from_o the_o pope_n and_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v schism_n all_o the_o schism_n that_o be_v or_o can_v be_v in_o the_o world_n the_o other_o be_v that_o a_o causeless_a separation_n from_o a_o true_a church_n be_v schism_n and_o this_o only_o be_v so_o but_o whereas_o in_o this_o pretend_a definition_n there_o be_v no_o mention_n of_o any_o of_o its_o internal_a cause_n nor_o of_o its_o formal_a reason_n but_o a_o bare_a description_n of_o it_o by_o a_o outward_a effect_n it_o serve_v only_o for_o a_o weapon_n in_o every_o man_n hand_n to_o perpetuate_v digladiation_n about_o it_o for_o every_o church_n esteem_v itself_o true_a and_o every_o one_o that_o separate_v himself_o esteem_v himself_o to_o have_v just_a cause_n so_o to_o do_v in_o the_o follow_a time_n especial_o after_o the_o rise_n and_o prevalency_n of_o the_o arian_n heresy_n it_o be_v ordinary_a for_o those_o of_o the_o orthodox_n persuasion_n to_o forsake_v the_o communion_n of_o those_o church_n wherein_o arian_n bishop_n do_v preside_v and_o to_o gather_v themselves_o into_o separate_a meeting_n or_o conventicle_n for_o divine_a worship_n for_o which_o they_o be_v accuse_v of_o schism_n and_o in_o sundry_a place_n punish_v according_o yea_o some_o of_o they_o unto_o the_o loss_n of_o their_o life_n yet_o i_o suppose_v there_o be_v none_o now_o who_o judge_v they_o to_o have_v be_v schismatic_n the_o separation_n of_o novatus_n and_o donatus_n from_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o whole_a catholic_n visible_a church_n on_o unwarrantable_a pretence_n be_v that_o which_o make_v the_o loud_a noise_n about_o schism_n in_o antiquity_n that_o there_o be_v in_o what_o be_v do_v by_o they_o and_o their_o follower_n the_o general_n nature_n and_o moral_a evil_n of_o causeless_a schism_n and_o division_n will_v be_v easy_o grant_v but_o it_o be_v that_o wherein_o we_o be_v not_o concern_v be_v the_o especial_a nature_n of_o schism_n what_o it_o will_n nor_o do_v they_o make_v use_n of_o any_o one_o reason_n whereon_o the_o merit_n of_o the_o present_a cause_n do_v depend_v the_o novatian_o the_o modest_a sect_n of_o the_o two_o pretend_v only_o a_o defect_n in_o discipline_n in_o grant_v church_n communion_n unto_o such_o as_o they_o will_v not_o have_v receive_v though_o they_o be_v apparent_o in_o the_o wrong_n proceed_v on_o mistake_v principle_n the_o donatist_n plead_v only_o some_o personal_a crime_n in_o some_o few_o bishop_n fall_v into_o in_o the_o time_n of_o persecution_n which_o they_o can_v never_o prove_v and_o thereon_o grow_v angry_a with_o all_o the_o world_n who_o will_v not_o condemn_v they_o and_o renounce_v their_o communion_n as_o well_o as_o they_o these_o slight_a pretence_n they_o make_v the_o occasion_n and_o reason_n of_o renounce_v the_o communion_n of_o the_o whole_a visible_a catholic_n church_n in_o all_o its_o distribution_n for_o communion_n that_o be_v all_o particular_a church_n and_o confine_v sacrament_n and_o salvation_n absolute_o unto_o their_o own_o party_n and_o hereon_o they_o fall_v into_o many_o other_o woeful_a miscarriage_n especial_o those_o of_o the_o latter_a sort_n it_o be_v indifferent_a by_o what_o name_n any_o be_v please_v to_o call_v this_o evil_a and_o folly_n a_o sin_n and_o evil_a it_o be_v schism_n or_o what_o you_o please_v to_o term_v it_o and_o just_o condemn_v by_o all_o christian_n not_o join_v with_o they_o in_o those_o day_n and_o that_o which_o be_v the_o animate_v principle_n of_o the_o tumult_n of_o the_o donatist_n be_v a_o supposition_n that_o the_o continuation_n of_o the_o true_a church_n state_n depend_v on_o the_o successive_a ordination_n of_o bishop_n
difference_n of_o lesser_a moment_n whilst_o the_o general_a rule_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n be_v attend_v unto_o 4._o to_o be_v quiet_a and_o wait_v for_o further_a instruction_n be_v the_o direction_n give_v unto_o both_o party_n whilst_o the_o difference_n do_v continue_v between_o they_o and_o that_o in_o opposition_n unto_o mutual_a imposition_n 5._o a_o church_n that_o be_v real_o so_o or_o so_o esteem_v may_v break_v the_o peace_n with_o its_o own_o member_n and_o other_o as_o well_o as_o they_o with_o it_o and_o where_o the_o fault_n be_v must_v be_v determine_v by_o the_o cause_n of_o what_o be_v do_v 6._o for_o what_o be_v add_v about_o gather_v of_o church_n it_o shall_v be_v consider_v in_o its_o proper_a place_n but_o as_o unto_o the_o application_n of_o these_o thing_n unto_o the_o present_a case_n there_o lie_v in_o the_o bottom_n of_o they_o such_o a_o unproved_a presumption_n of_o their_o be_v the_o church_n that_o be_v according_a unto_o divine_a institution_n for_o in_o their_o be_v so_o in_o any_o other_o sense_n we_o be_v not_o concern_v of_o their_o church_n power_n and_o authority_n by_o who_o such_o order_n and_o rule_n be_v make_v as_o we_o can_v by_o no_o mean_n admit_v of_o i_o can_v more_o warrantable_o give_v this_o as_o the_o apostle_n rule_n than_o that_o of_o our_o author_n what_o you_o have_v attain_v unto_o in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o doctrine_n and_o mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n walk_v together_o in_o holy_a communion_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n but_o take_v heed_n that_o you_o multiply_v not_o new_a cause_n of_o division_n and_o difference_n by_o invent_v and_o impose_v new_a order_n in_o divine_a worship_n or_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n cast_v they_o out_o who_o agree_v with_o you_o in_o all_o thing_n of_o divine_a revelation_n and_o institution_n he_o add_v from_o my_o word_n if_o the_o rule_n reach_v our_o case_n it_o must_v be_v such_o as_o require_v thing_n to_o be_v observe_v as_o be_v never_o divine_o appoint_v as_o national_a church_n ceremony_n and_o mode_n of_o worship_n to_o which_o he_o reply_v and_o so_o this_o rule_n do_v in_o order_n unto_o peace_n require_v the_o observation_n of_o such_o thing_n which_o although_o they_o be_v not_o particular_o command_v of_o god_n yet_o be_v enjoin_v by_o lawful_a authority_n provide_v that_o they_o be_v not_o unlawful_a in_o themselves_o nor_o repugnant_a unto_o the_o word_n of_o god_n answ._n 1._o let_v the_o reader_n if_o he_o please_v consult_v the_o place_n whence_o these_o word_n be_v take_v in_o my_o discourse_n and_o he_o will_v find_v this_o evasion_n obviate_v 2._o what_o be_v intend_v by_o this_o rule_n be_v it_o the_o rule_n give_v by_o the_o apostle_n who_o that_o read_v the_o word_n can_v possible_o pretend_v unto_o any_o such_o conception_n of_o their_o meaning_n if_o he_o understand_v a_o rule_n of_o his_o own_o i_o know_v not_o what_o it_o may_v or_o may_v not_o include_v 3._o i_o deny_v and_o shall_v for_o ever_o deny_v that_o the_o rule_n here_o intend_v by_o the_o apostle_n do_v give_v the_o least_o countenance_n unto_o the_o invention_n and_o imposition_n of_o thing_n not_o divine_o institute_v not_o prescribe_v not_o command_v in_o the_o word_n on_o the_o pretence_n that_o those_o who_o so_o invent_v and_o impose_v they_o judge_v they_o lawful_a and_o that_o they_o have_v authority_n so_o to_o do_v he_o object_n again_o unto_o himself_o out_o of_o my_o discourse_n that_o the_o apostle_n never_o give_v any_o such_o rule_n themselves_o about_o outward_a modes_n of_o worship_n with_o ceremony_n feast_n fast_n liturgy_n etc._n etc._n whereunto_o he_o reply_v what_o then_o i_o say_v then_o 1._o it_o have_v be_v happy_a for_o christian_n and_o christian_a religion_n if_o those_o who_o pretend_v to_o be_v their_o successor_n have_v follow_v their_o example_n and_o make_v no_o such_o rule_n at_o all_o that_o they_o will_v not_o have_v think_v themselves_o wise_a than_o they_o or_o more_o careful_a for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o church_n or_o better_o acquaint_v with_o the_o mind_n of_o christ_n in_o these_o thing_n than_o they_o be_v for_o that_o multiplication_n of_o rule_n law_n canon_n about_o the_o thing_n mention_v and_o other_o of_o a_o alike_a nature_n which_o the_o apostle_n never_o give_v any_o example_n of_o or_o encouragement_n unto_o which_o afterward_o ensue_v have_v be_v a_o principal_a mean_n of_o alter_v the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n from_o its_o original_a institution_n of_o corrupt_v its_o worship_n administer_a occasion_n unto_o scandal_n and_o endless_a strife_n 2._o if_o the_o apostle_n give_v no_o such_o rule_n themselves_o it_o may_v be_v conclude_v safe_o that_o it_o be_v because_o in_o their_o judgement_n no_o such_o rule_n be_v to_o be_v give_v other_o reason_n hereof_o can_v be_v assign_v for_o if_o it_o may_v have_v be_v do_v according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o christ_n and_o by_o virtue_n of_o the_o commission_n which_o they_o have_v from_o he_o innumerable_a evil_n may_v have_v be_v preunt_v by_o the_o do_n of_o it_o they_o foresee_v what_o difference_n will_v arise_v in_o the_o church_n what_o division_n the_o darkness_n and_o corrupt_a lust_n of_o man_n will_v cast_v they_o into_o about_o such_o thing_n as_o these_o and_o probable_o know_v much_o whereunto_o the_o mystery_n of_o iniquity_n tend_v yet_o will_v they_o not_o appoint_v any_o arbitrary_a rule_n about_o thing_n not_o ordain_v by_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n which_o may_v have_v give_v some_o bound_n unto_o the_o inclination_n of_o man_n in_o make_v and_o multiply_v rule_n of_o their_o own_o unto_o the_o ruin_n of_o the_o church_n 3._o then_o i_o say_v we_o beg_v the_o pardon_n of_o all_o who_o concern_v themselves_o herein_o that_o we_o scruple_n the_o comply_v with_o such_o rule_n in_o religion_n and_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n as_o the_o apostle_n think_v not_o meet_v to_o appoint_v or_o ordain_v but_o he_o add_v it_o be_v sufficient_a that_o they_o give_v this_o general_a rule_n that_o all_o lawful_a thing_n be_v to_o be_v do_v for_o the_o church_n peace_n answ._n what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v for_o the_o church_n peace_n we_o shall_v afterward_o consider_v to_o be_v do_v be_v intend_v of_o act_n of_o religion_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n i_o say_v then_o the_o apostle_n never_o give_v any_o such_o rule_n as_o that_o pretend_a the_o rule_n they_o give_v be_v that_o all_o thing_n which_o christ_n have_v command_v be_v to_o be_v do_v and_o observe_v and_o for_o the_o do_v of_o any_o thing_n else_o they_o give_v no_o rule_n especial_o they_o give_v not_o such_o a_o large_a rule_n as_o this_o that_o may_v serve_v the_o turn_n and_o interest_n of_o the_o worst_a of_o man_n in_o impose_v on_o the_o church_n whatever_o they_o esteem_v lawful_a as_o not_o by_o virtue_n of_o any_o rule_n of_o the_o apostle_n but_o in_o a_o open_a rejection_n of_o all_o they_o give_v it_o afterward_o fall_v out_o in_o the_o church_n this_o be_v a_o rule_n which_o will_v do_v the_o work_n to_o the_o purpose_n of_o all_o that_o have_v the_o reputation_n of_o governor_n in_o the_o church_n be_v it_o the_o pope_n or_o who_o it_o will_n for_o they_o be_v themselves_o the_o sole_a judge_n of_o what_o be_v lawful_a the_o people_n as_o it_o be_v pretend_v understand_v nothing_o of_o these_o thing_n whatever_o therefore_o they_o have_v a_o mind_n to_o introduce_v into_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n and_o to_o impose_v on_o the_o practice_n of_o man_n therein_o be_v to_o be_v do_v by_o virtue_n of_o this_o apostolical_a rule_n for_o the_o church_n peace_n provide_v they_o judge_v it_o lawful_a and_o sure_o no_o pope_n be_v ever_o yet_o so_o stark_o mad_a as_o to_o impose_v thing_n in_o religion_n which_o he_o himself_o judge_v unlawful_a beside_o thing_n may_v be_v lawful_a in_o themselves_o that_o be_v moral_o which_o yet_o it_o be_v not_o lawful_a to_o introduce_v into_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n because_o not_o expedient_a nor_o for_o edification_n yea_o thing_n may_v be_v lawful_a to_o be_v do_v sometime_o on_o some_o occasion_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n which_o yet_o it_o will_v be_v unlawful_a to_o impose_v by_o virtue_n of_o a_o general_a bind_a rule_n for_o all_o time_n and_o season_n instance_n may_v be_v multiply_v in_o each_o kind_n therefore_o i_o say_v the_o apostle_n never_o give_v this_o rule_n they_o open_v no_o such_o door_n unto_o arbitrary_a imposition_n they_o lay_v no_o such_o yoke_n on_o the_o neck_n of_o the_o disciple_n which_o may_v prove_v heavy_a and_o do_v so_o then_o that_o of_o the_o jewish_a ceremony_n which_o they_o have_v take_v away_o namely_o that_o they_o be_v to_o do_v and_o observe_v all_o that_o shall_v by_o their_o ruler_n be_v impose_v on_o they_o as_o lawful_a in_o their_o judgement_n this_o
sovereignty_n over_o their_o conscience_n be_v reserve_v by_o the_o apostle_n unto_o the_o authority_n of_o christ_n alone_o and_o their_o obedience_n be_v require_v by_o they_o only_o unto_o his_o command_n this_o be_v that_o which_o i_o see_v some_o will_v be_v at_o to_o presume_v themselves_o to_o be_v the_o church_n at_o least_o the_o only_a ruler_n and_o governor_n of_o it_o to_o assume_v to_o themselves_o alone_o the_o judgement_n of_o what_o be_v lawful_a and_o what_o be_v unlawful_a to_o be_v observe_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n to_o avow_v a_o power_n to_o impose_v what_o they_o please_v on_o all_o church_n pretend_v to_o be_v under_o their_o command_n so_o that_o they_o judge_v it_o lawful_a be_v it_o never_o so_o useless_a or_o trifle_a if_o it_o have_v no_o other_o end_v but_o to_o be_v a_o instance_n of_o their_o authority_n and_o then_o assert_v that_o all_o christian_a people_n must_v without_o further_a examination_n submit_v quiet_o unto_o this_o state_n of_o thing_n and_o comply_v with_o it_o unless_o they_o will_v be_v esteem_v damn_a schismatic_n but_o it_o be_v too_o late_o to_o advance_v such_o principle_n a_o second_o time_n he_o add_v from_o my_o paper_n or_o as_o my_o sense_n the_o apostle_n give_v rule_n inconsistent_a with_o any_o determine_a rule_n viz._n of_o mutual_a forbearance_n rom._n 14._o but_o then_o say_v he_o the_o meaning_n must_v be_v that_o whatever_o difference_n happen_v among_o christian_n there_o must_v be_v no_o determination_n either_o way_n but_o this_o be_v direst_o contrary_a to_o the_o decree_n of_o the_o apostle_n at_o jerusalem_n upon_o the_o difference_n that_o happen_v in_o the_o christian_a church_n but_o they_o be_v not_o my_o word_n which_o he_o report_v i_o say_v not_o that_o the_o apostle_n give_v rule_n inconsistent_a with_o any_o determine_a rule_n but_o with_o such_o a_o rule_n and_o the_o imposition_n of_o the_o thing_n contain_v in_o it_o on_o the_o practice_n of_o man_n in_o thing_n not_o determine_v that_o be_v whilst_o difference_n about_o they_o do_v continue_v as_o he_o contend_v for_o and_o 1._o notwithstanding_o this_o rule_n of_o forbearance_n give_v by_o the_o apostle_n express_o rom._n 14._o yet_o as_o unto_o the_o right_n and_o truth_n in_o the_o thing_n wherein_o man_n be_v at_o difference_n every_o private_a believer_n be_v to_o determine_v of_o they_o so_o far_o as_o he_o be_v able_a in_o his_o own_o mind_n every_o one_o be_v to_o be_v full_o persuade_v in_o his_o own_o mind_n in_o such_o thing_n so_o far_o as_o his_o own_o practice_n be_v concern_v 2._o the_o church_n wherein_o such_o difference_n do_v fall_v out_o may_v doctrinal_o determine_v of_o the_o truth_n in_o they_o as_o it_o be_v the_o ground_n and_o pillar_n of_o truth_n suppose_v they_o to_o be_v of_o such_o weight_n as_o that_o the_o edification_n of_o the_o church_n be_v concern_v in_o they_o for_o otherwise_o there_o be_v no_o need_n of_o any_o such_o determination_n but_o every_o one_o may_v be_v leave_v unto_o his_o own_o liberty_n there_o be_v difference_n at_o this_o day_n in_o the_o church_n of_o england_n in_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n some_o of_o they_o in_o my_o judgement_n of_o more_o importance_n than_o those_o between_o the_o same_o church_n and_o we_o yet_o it_o do_v not_o think_v it_o necessary_a to_o make_v any_o determination_n of_o they_o no_o not_o doctrinal_o 3._o if_o the_o church_n wherein_o such_o difference_n fall_v out_o be_v not_o able_a in_o and_o of_o itself_o to_o make_v a_o doctrinal_a determination_n of_o such_o difference_n they_o may_v and_o aught_o to_o crave_v the_o counsel_n and_o advice_n of_o other_o church_n with_o who_o they_o walk_v in_o communion_n in_o faith_n and_o love_n and_o so_o it_o be_v in_o the_o case_n whereof_o a_o account_n be_v give_v we_o act._n 15._o the_o determination_n or_o decree_n there_o make_v concern_v the_o necessary_a observance_n of_o the_o jewish_a rite_n by_o the_o gentile_n convert_v unto_o the_o faith_n by_o the_o apostle_n elder_n and_o brethren_n under_o the_o guidance_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n as_o his_o mind_n be_v reveal_v in_o the_o scripture_n give_v not_o the_o least_o countenance_n unto_o the_o make_n and_o impose_v such_o a_o rule_n on_o all_o church_n and_o their_o member_n as_o be_v contend_v for_o for_o 1._o it_o be_v only_o a_o doctrinal_a determination_n without_o imposition_n on_o the_o practice_n of_o any_o 2._o it_o be_v a_o determination_n against_o imposition_n direct_o and_o whereas_o it_o be_v say_v that_o it_o be_v a_o determination_n contrary_n to_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o imposer_n which_o show_v that_o the_o rule_n of_o forbearance_n where_o conscience_n be_v allege_v both_o way_n be_v no_o stand_a rule_n i_o grant_v that_o it_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o imposer_n but_o impose_v nothing_o on_o they_o nor_o be_v their_o practice_n concern_v in_o that_o erroneous_a judgement_n they_o be_v not_o require_v to_o do_v any_o thing_n contrary_a to_o their_o own_o judgement_n and_o the_o not_o do_v whereof_o do_v reflect_v on_o their_o own_o conscience_n wherefore_o the_o whole_a rule_n give_v by_o the_o apostle_n and_o the_o whole_a determination_n make_v be_v that_o no_o imposition_n be_v make_v on_o the_o conscience_n or_o practice_n of_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n in_o thing_n relate_v to_o his_o worship_n but_o what_o be_v necessary_a by_o virtue_n of_o divine_a institution_n they_o add_v hereunto_o that_o the_o gentile_n enjoy_v this_o liberty_n aught_o to_o use_v it_o without_o offence_n and_o be_v at_o liberty_n by_o virtue_n of_o it_o to_o forbear_v such_o thing_n as_o wherein_o they_o have_v or_o think_v they_o have_v a_o natural_a liberty_n in_o case_n they_o give_v offence_n by_o the_o use_n of_o they_o and_o the_o apostle_n who_o know_v the_o state_n of_o thing_n in_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o jew_n and_o all_o other_o circumstance_n give_v a_o instance_n in_o the_o thing_n which_o at_o that_o season_n be_v to_o be_v so_o forbear_v and_o whereas_o this_o determination_n be_v not_o absolute_a and_o obligatory_a on_o the_o whole_a case_n unto_o all_o church_n namely_o whether_o the_o moysaicall_a law_n be_v to_o be_v observe_v among_o christian_n but_o some_o church_n be_v leave_v unto_o their_o own_o judgement_n and_o practice_n who_o esteem_v it_o to_o be_v still_o in_o force_n as_o the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n and_o other_o leave_v unto_o their_o own_o liberty_n and_o practice_n also_o who_o judge_v it_o not_o to_o oblige_v they_o both_o side_n or_o party_n be_v bind_v to_o continue_v communion_n among_o they_o in_o faith_n and_o love_n there_o be_v herein_o a_o perpetual_a establishment_n of_o the_o rule_n of_o mutual_a forbearance_n in_o such_o case_n nothing_o be_v condemn_v but_o imposition_n on_o one_o another_o nothing_o commend_v but_o a_o abstinence_n from_o the_o use_n of_o liberty_n in_o the_o case_n of_o scandal_n or_o offence_n i_o have_v therefore_o reason_n to_o say_v that_o the_o false_a apostle_n be_v the_o only_a imposer_n that_o be_v of_o thing_n not_o necessary_a by_o virtue_n of_o any_o divine_a institution_n and_o if_o the_o author_n insinuate_v that_o the_o true_a apostle_n be_v such_o imposer_n also_o because_o of_o the_o determination_n they_o make_v of_o this_o difference_n he_o will_v fail_v in_o his_o proof_n of_o it_o it_o be_v true_a they_o impose_v on_o or_o charge_v the_o conscience_n of_o man_n with_o the_o observance_n of_o all_o the_o institution_n and_o command_n of_o christ_n but_o of_o other_o thing_n none_o at_o all_o the_o last_o thing_n which_o he_o endeavour_v a_o answer_n unto_o on_o this_o occasion_n lie_v in_o those_o word_n the_o jewish_a christian_n be_v leave_v unto_o their_o own_o liberty_n provide_v they_o do_v not_o impose_v on_o other_o and_o the_o dissenter_n at_o this_o day_n desire_v no_o more_o than_o the_o gentile_a church_n do_v viz._n not_o to_o be_v impose_v on_o to_o observe_v those_o thing_n which_o they_o be_v not_o satisfy_v it_o be_v the_o mind_n of_o christ_n shall_v be_v impose_v on_o they_o so_o be_v my_o sense_n in_o the_o place_n refer_v unto_o report_v nor_o shall_v i_o contend_v about_o it_o so_o as_o that_o the_o last_o clause_n be_v change_n for_o my_o word_n be_v not_o they_o be_v not_o satisfy_v it_o be_v the_o mind_n of_o christ_n that_o they_o shall_v be_v impose_v on_o they_o but_o they_o be_v not_o satisfy_v it_o be_v the_o mind_n of_o christ_n they_o shall_v observe_v this_o respect_v the_o thing_n themselves_o the_o other_o only_o their_o imposition_n and_o one_o reason_n against_o the_o imposition_n oppose_v be_v that_o the_o thing_n themselves_o impose_v be_v such_o as_o the_o lord_n christ_n will_v not_o have_v we_o observe_v because_o not_o appoint_v by_o himself_o but_o hereunto_o he_o answer_v two_o thing_n 1._o that_o it_o be_v agree_v
part_n of_o the_o church_n unity_n do_v or_o ever_o do_v consist_v in_o they_o in_o his_o procedure_n hereon_o our_o author_n seem_v to_o embrace_v occasion_n of_o contend_v seek_v for_o advantage_n therein_o in_o thing_n not_o belong_v unto_o the_o merit_n of_o the_o cause_n which_o i_o think_v be_v beneath_o he_o from_o my_o concession_n that_o some_o at_o least_o of_o our_o parochial_a church_n be_v true_a church_n he_o ask_v in_o what_o sense_n be_v they_o church_n right_o constitute_v with_o who_o they_o may_v join_v in_o communion_n as_o member_n i_o think_v it_o be_v somewhat_o too_o late_o now_o after_o all_o this_o dispute_n about_o the_o reason_n of_o refrain_v from_o their_o communion_n and_o his_o severe_a charge_n of_o schism_n upon_o we_o for_o our_o so_o do_v to_o make_v this_o enquiry_n wherefore_o he_o answer_v himself_o no_o but_o his_o mean_v be_v say_v he_o that_o they_o be_v not_o guilty_a of_o any_o such_o heinous_a error_n in_o doctrine_n or_o idolatrous_a practice_n in_o worship_n as_o shall_v utter_o deprive_v they_o of_o the_o be_v and_o nature_n of_o church_n which_o i_o suppose_v be_v my_o word_n but_o than_o come_v in_o the_o advantage_n do_v say_v he_o this_o kindness_n belong_v only_o unto_o some_o of_o our_o parochial_a church_n i_o have_v think_v that_o every_o parochial_a church_n be_v true_a or_o false_a according_a unto_o its_o frame_n and_o constitution_n which_o among_o we_o suppose_v the_o own_n the_o doctrine_n and_o worship_n establish_v in_o the_o church_n of_o england_n i_o answer_v brief_o it_o be_v true_a every_o church_n be_v true_a or_o false_a according_a unto_o its_o original_a frame_n and_o constitution_n this_o frame_n and_o constitution_n of_o church_n if_o it_o proceed_v from_o and_o depend_v upon_o the_o institution_n of_o christ_n it_o be_v true_a and_o approvable_a if_o it_o depend_v only_o on_o a_o national_a establishment_n of_o doctrine_n and_o worship_n i_o know_v not_o well_o what_o to_o say_v unto_o it_o but_o let_v any_o of_o these_o parochial_a church_n be_v so_o constitute_v as_o to_o answer_v the_o legal_a establishment_n in_o the_o land_n yet_o if_o the_o generality_n of_o their_o member_n be_v open_o wicked_a in_o their_o life_n and_o they_o have_v no_o lawful_a or_o sufficient_a ministry_n we_o can_v acknowledge_v they_o for_o true_a church_n some_o other_o thing_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n do_v ensue_v but_o i_o shall_v not_o insist_v on_o they_o he_o gather_v up_o in_o the_o next_o place_n the_o title_n of_o the_o cause_n allege_v for_o our_o refrain_v communion_n with_o those_o parochial_a assembly_n which_o he_o call_v our_o separation_n from_o they_o and_o hereon_o he_o inquire_v whether_o these_o reason_n be_v a_o ground_n for_o a_o separation_n from_o a_o church_n wherein_o it_o be_v confess_v there_o be_v no_o heinous_a error_n in_o doctrine_n or_o idolatrous_a practice_n in_o worship_n that_o be_v as_o he_o before_o cite_v my_o word_n as_o shall_v utter_o deprive_v they_o of_o the_o be_v and_o nature_n of_o church_n and_o it_o they_o be_v not_o then_o say_v he_o such_o a_o separation_n may_v be_v a_o formal_a schism_n because_o they_o set_v up_o other_o church_n of_o their_o own_o the_o rule_n before_o lay_v down_o that_o all_o thing_n lawful_a be_v to_o be_v do_v for_o the_o church_n peace_n take_v in_o the_o supposition_n on_o which_o it_o proceed_v be_v as_o sufficient_a to_o establish_v church_n tyranny_n as_o any_o principle_n make_v use_v of_o by_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n notwithstanding_o its_o plausible_a appearance_n and_o that_o here_o insinuate_v of_o the_o vnlawfulness_n of_o separation_n from_o any_o church_n in_o the_o world_n for_o that_o which_o have_v pernicious_a error_n in_o doctrine_n and_o idolatry_n in_o worship_n destroy_v its_o be_v be_v no_o church_n at_o all_o be_v as_o good_a security_n unto_o church_n in_o a_o obstinate_a refusal_n of_o reformation_n when_o the_o soul_n of_o the_o people_n be_v ruin_v among_o they_o for_o the_o want_n of_o it_o as_o they_o need_v desire_v and_o i_o confess_v i_o suspect_v such_o principle_n as_o be_v evident_o suit_v unto_o the_o security_n of_o the_o corrupt_a interest_n of_o any_o sort_n of_o men._n i_o say_v therefore_o 1._o that_o though_o a_o church_n or_o that_o which_o pretend_v itself_o on_o any_o ground_n so_o to_o be_v do_v not_o profess_v any_o heinous_a error_n in_o doctrine_n nor_o be_v guilty_a of_o idolatrous_a practice_n in_o worship_n destroy_v its_o nature_n and_o be_v yet_o there_o may_v be_v sufficient_a reason_n to_o refrain_v from_o its_o communion_n in_o church_n order_n and_o worship_n and_o to_o join_v in_o or_o with_o other_o church_n for_o edification_n that_o be_v that_o where_o such_o a_o church_n be_v not_o capable_a of_o reformation_n or_o be_v obstinate_a in_o a_o resolution_n not_o to_o reform_v itself_o under_o the_o utmost_a necessity_n thereof_o it_o be_v lawful_a for_o all_o or_o any_o of_o its_o member_n to_o reform_v themselves_o according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o christ_n and_o command_v of_o the_o gospel_n 2._o that_o where_o man_n be_v no_o otherwise_o member_n of_o any_o church_n but_o by_o a_o inevitable_a necessity_n and_o outward_a penal_a law_n prevent_v their_o own_o choice_n and_o any_o act_n of_o obedience_n unto_o christ_n in_o their_o join_n with_o such_o church_n the_o case_n be_v different_a from_o they_o who_o relation_n unto_o any_o church_n be_v found_v in_o their_o own_o voluntary_a choice_n as_o submit_v themselves_o unto_o the_o law_n institution_n and_o rule_n of_o christ_n in_o that_o church_n which_o we_o shall_v make_v use_n of_o afterward_o 3._o the_o doctor_n may_v have_v do_v well_o to_o have_v state_v the_o true_a nature_n of_o schism_n and_o the_o formal_a reason_n of_o it_o before_o he_o have_v charge_v a_o formal_a schism_n on_o a_o supposition_n of_o some_o outward_a act_n only_o 4._o what_o be_v our_o judgement_n concern_v parochial_a assembly_n how_o far_o we_o separate_v from_o they_o or_o refrain_v communion_n with_o they_o what_o be_v the_o reason_n whereon_o we_o do_v so_o have_v be_v now_o full_o declare_v and_o thereunto_o we_o must_v appeal_v on_o all_o occasion_n for_o we_o can_v acquiesce_v in_o what_o be_v undue_o impose_v on_o we_o either_o as_o unto_o principle_n or_o practice_n to_o show_v as_o he_o say_v the_o insufficiency_n of_o our_o cause_n of_o separation_n he_o will_v take_v this_o way_n namely_o to_o show_v the_o great_a absurdity_n that_o follow_v on_o the_o allowance_n of_o they_o and_o add_v these_o five_o especial_o i_o shall_v insist_v upon_o 1._o that_o it_o weaken_v the_o cause_n of_o reformation_n 2._o that_o it_o hinder_v all_o union_n between_o the_o protestant_a church_n 3._o that_o it_o justify_v the_o ancient_a schism_n which_o have_v be_v always_o condemn_v by_o the_o christian_a church_n 4._o that_o it_o make_v separation_n endless_a 5._o that_o it_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o obligation_n that_o lie_v on_o all_o christian_n to_o preserve_v the_o peace_n and_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n now_o as_o i_o shall_v consider_v what_o he_o offer_v on_o these_o several_a head_n and_o his_o application_n of_o it_o unto_o the_o case_n in_o hand_n so_o i_o shall_v confirm_v the_o reason_n already_o give_v of_o our_o separation_n if_o it_o must_v be_v so_o call_v from_o parochial_a assembly_n with_o these_o five_o consideration_n 1._o that_o they_o strengthen_v the_o cause_n of_o reformation_n 2._o that_o they_o open_v a_o way_n to_o union_n between_o all_o protestant_a church_n 3._o that_o they_o give_v the_o just_a ground_n of_o condemn_v the_o ancient_a schism_n that_o ever_o any_o christian_a church_n do_v just_o condemn_v 4._o that_o they_o give_v due_a bound_n unto_o separation_n 5._o that_o they_o absolute_o comply_v with_o all_o the_o command_v of_o the_o scripture_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o peace_n and_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n i_o shall_v begin_v with_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o absurdity_n charge_v by_o he_o on_o our_o principle_n and_o practice_n the_o first_o of_o they_o be_v that_o it_o weaken_v the_o cause_n of_o the_o reformation_n this_o he_o prove_v by_o long_a quotation_n out_o of_o some_o french_a divine_n we_o be_v not_o to_o expect_v that_o they_o shall_v speak_v unto_o our_o cause_n or_o make_v any_o determination_n in_o it_o see_v to_o the_o principal_a of_o they_o it_o be_v unknown_a but_o they_o say_v that_o which_o be_v contrary_a unto_o our_o principle_n so_o they_o may_v do_v and_o yet_o this_o not_o weaken_v the_o cause_n of_o the_o reformation_n for_o it_o be_v know_v that_o they_o say_v somewhat_o also_o that_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o principle_n of_o our_o episcopal_a brethren_n for_o which_o one_o of_o they_o be_v sufficient_o revile_v but_o yet_o the_o cause_n of_o reformation_n be_v not_o weaken_v thereby_o the_o first_o
testimony_n produce_v be_v that_o of_o calvin_n a_o large_a discourse_n he_o have_v institut_n lib._n 4._o cap._n 1._o against_o causeless_a separation_n from_o a_o true_a church_n and_o by_o who_o be_v they_o not_o condemn_v no_o determination_n of_o the_o case_n in_o hand_n can_v be_v thence_o derive_v nor_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o our_o refrain_v communion_n with_o parochial_a assembly_n the_o same_o with_o those_o which_o he_o condemn_v as_o insufficient_a for_o a_o total_a separation_n nor_o be_v the_o separation_n he_o oppose_v in_o those_o day_n which_o be_v absolute_a and_o total_a with_o a_o condemnation_n of_o the_o church_n from_o which_o it_o be_v make_v of_o the_o same_o nature_n with_o that_o wherewith_o we_o be_v charge_v at_o least_o not_o with_o what_o we_o own_o and_o allow_v he_o give_v the_o note_n of_o a_o true_a church_n to_o be_v the_o pure_a preach_v of_o the_o word_n and_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n according_a unto_o christ_n institution_n where_o these_o be_v he_o allow_v a_o true_a church_n to_o be_v not_o only_o without_o diocesan_n episcopacy_n but_o in_o a_o form_n and_o under_o a_o rule_n opposite_a unto_o it_o and_o inconsistent_a with_o it_o and_o if_o he_o do_v at_o all_o speak_v to_o our_o case_n as_o he_o do_v not_o nor_o unto_o any_o of_o the_o ground_n of_o it_o why_o shall_v we_o be_v press_v with_o his_o authority_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n more_o than_o other_o from_o who_o he_o differ_v also_o on_o the_o other_o beside_o there_o be_v a_o great_a deal_n more_o belong_v unto_o the_o pure_a preach_n of_o the_o word_n and_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n according_a unto_o christ_n institution_n than_o some_o seem_v to_o apprehend_v they_o may_v they_o ought_v to_o be_v so_o explain_v as_o that_o from_o the_o consideration_n of_o they_o we_o may_v justify_v our_o whole_a cause_n both_o these_o may_v be_v want_v in_o a_o church_n which_o be_v not_o guilty_a of_o such_o heinous_a error_n in_o doctrine_n or_o idolatry_n in_o worship_n as_o shall_v overthrow_v its_o be_v and_o their_o want_n may_v be_v a_o just_a cause_n of_o refrain_v communion_n from_o a_o church_n which_o yet_o we_o be_v not_o oblige_v to_o condemn_v as_o none_o at_o all_o calvin_n express_v his_o judgement_n n._n 12._o i_o will_v not_o give_v countenance_n unto_o error_n no_o not_o to_o the_o least_o so_o as_o to_o cherish_v they_o by_o flattery_n or_o connivance_n but_o though_o i_o say_v that_o the_o church_n be_v not_o to_o be_v forsake_v for_o tri_a difference_n wherein_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v retain_v safe_a and_o sound_a wherein_o the_o integrity_n of_o godliness_n do_v abide_v and_o the_o use_n of_o the_o sacrament_n appoint_v of_o the_o lord_n be_v preserve_v and_o we_o say_v the_o same_o and_o this_o very_a calvin_n who_o do_v so_o severe_o condemn_v separation_n from_o a_o true_a church_n as_o by_o he_o state_v do_v himself_o quiet_o and_o peaceable_o withdraw_v and_o depart_v from_o the_o church_n of_o geneva_n when_o they_o refuse_v to_o admit_v that_o discipline_n which_o he_o esteem_v to_o be_v according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o christ._n it_o be_v certain_a therefore_o that_o by_o the_o separation_n which_o he_o condemn_v he_o do_v not_o intend_v the_o peaceable_a relinquishment_n of_o the_o communion_n of_o any_o church_n as_o unto_o a_o constant_a participation_n of_o all_o ordinance_n in_o it_o for_o want_v of_o due_a mean_n of_o edification_n much_o less_o that_o which_o have_v so_o many_o other_o cause_n concur_v therewith_o for_o the_o other_o learned_a man_n who_o he_o quote_v unto_o the_o same_o purpose_n i_o see_v not_o any_o thing_n that_o give_v the_o least_o countenance_n unto_o his_o assertion_n that_o our_o principle_n weaken_v the_o cause_n of_o the_o reformation_n it_o be_v true_a they_o plead_v other_o cause_n of_o separation_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n than_o those_o insist_v on_o by_o we_o with_o respect_n unto_o the_o church_n of_o england_n and_o indeed_o they_o have_v be_v otherwise_o much_o to_o blame_v have_v so_o many_o thing_n as_o they_o have_v to_o plead_v of_o great_a importance_n do_v we_o say_v that_o the_o reason_n which_o we_o plead_v be_v all_o that_o can_v be_v plead_v to_o justify_v the_o separation_n of_o the_o reform_a church_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n it_o will_v weaken_v the_o cause_n of_o reformation_n for_o we_o shall_v then_o deny_v that_o idolatry_n and_o fundamental_a error_n in_o faith_n be_v any_o cause_n or_o ground_n of_o that_o separation_n however_o we_o know_v that_o the_o imposition_n of_o they_o on_o the_o faith_n and_o practice_n of_o all_o christian_n be_v more_o plead_v in_o justification_n of_o a_o separation_n from_o they_o than_o the_o thing_n themselves_o but_o allow_v those_o great_a reason_n to_o be_v plead_v against_o the_o roman_a communion_n as_o we_o do_v it_o do_v not_o in_o the_o least_o follow_v that_o our_o reason_n for_o refrain_v communion_n with_o parochial_a assembly_n do_v weaken_v the_o cause_n of_o the_o reformation_n however_o let_v i_o not_o be_v misinterpret_v as_o unto_o that_o expression_n of_o destroy_v our_o faith_n which_o the_o communion_n require_v with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n as_o unto_o all_o the_o important_a article_n of_o it_o do_v not_o do_v and_o i_o can_v subscribe_v unto_o the_o word_n of_o daille_n as_o quote_v by_o our_o author_n out_o of_o his_o apology_n if_o say_v he_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n have_v not_o require_v any_o thing_n of_o we_o which_o destroy_v our_o faith_n offend_v our_o conscience_n and_o overthrow_v the_o service_n which_o we_o believe_v due_a to_o god_n if_o the_o difference_n have_v be_v small_a and_o such_o as_o we_o may_v safe_o have_v yield_v unto_o then_o he_o will_v grant_v their_o separation_n be_v rash_a and_o unjust_a and_o they_o guilty_a of_o the_o schism_n he_o close_v his_o transcription_n of_o the_o word_n of_o sundry_a learned_a man_n who_o have_v justify_v the_o separation_n of_o the_o reform_a church_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n wherein_o we_o be_v not_o in_o the_o least_o concern_v with_o a_o enquiry_n what_o triumph_n will_v the_o church_n of_o rome_n make_v over_o we_o have_v we_o no_o other_o reason_n to_o justify_v our_o separation_n from_o they_o but_o only_o those_o which_o as_o be_v pretend_v we_o plead_v in_o our_o cause_n i_o say_v whereas_o we_o do_v plead_v confirm_v and_o justify_v all_o the_o reason_n and_o cause_n plead_v for_o the_o separation_n of_o the_o reform_a church_n from_o they_o not_o oppose_v not_o weaken_v any_o of_o they_o by_o any_o principle_n or_o practice_n of_o we_o but_o far_o press_v the_o force_n of_o the_o same_o reason_n and_o cause_n in_o all_o instance_n whereunto_o they_o will_v extend_v i_o see_v neither_o what_o cause_n the_o papist_n have_v of_o triumph_n noâ—_n any_o thing_n that_o weaken_v the_o cause_n of_o the_o reformation_n he_o add_v further_a how_o shall_v we_o be_v hiss_v aâ—d_v laugh_v at_o all_o over_o the_o christian_a world_n if_o we_o have_v nothing_o to_o allege_v for_o our_o separation_n from_o the_o roman_a church_n but_o such_o thing_n as_o these_o i_o answer_v that_o as_o the_o case_n stand_v if_o we_o do_v allege_v no_o other_o reason_n but_o those_o which_o we_o insist_v on_o for_o our_o refrain_v communion_n with_o our_o own_o parochial_a assembly_n we_o shall_v deserve_v to_o be_v deride_v for_o relinquish_a the_o plea_n of_o those_o other_o important_a reason_n which_o the_o heresy_n and_o idolatry_n and_o tyranny_n of_o that_o church_n do_v render_v just_a and_o equal_a but_o if_o we_o have_v no_o other_o cause_n of_o separation_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n but_o what_o we_o have_v for_o our_o separation_n from_o our_o parochial_a assembly_n at_o home_n as_o weak_a as_o our_o allegation_n be_v pretend_v to_o be_v we_o shall_v not_o be_v afraid_a to_o defend_v they_o against_o all_o the_o papist_n in_o the_o world_n and_o let_v the_o world_n act_n like_o itself_o in_o hiss_v whereas_o therefore_o the_o cause_n of_o reformation_n be_v not_o in_o any_o thing_n weaken_v by_o our_o principle_n no_o argument_n no_o reason_n solid_o plead_v to_o justify_v the_o separation_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v desert_v by_o we_o neither_o testimony_n proof_n nor_o evidence_n be_v produce_v to_o evince_v that_o it_o be_v weaken_v by_o we_o i_o shall_v in_o the_o second_o place_n as_o be_v before_o propose_v prove_v that_o the_o whole_a cause_n of_o the_o protestant_n separation_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v strengthen_v and_o confirm_v by_o we_o there_o be_v some_o general_a principle_n on_o which_o the_o protestant_n proceed_v in_o their_o separation_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o which_o they_o constant_o plead_v in_o justification_n thereof_o the_o first_o
who_o write_n be_v stuff_v with_o that_o charge_n and_o miserable_a attempt_n to_o make_v it_o good_n there_o be_v also_o other_o difference_n among_o they_o with_o respect_n unto_o church_n order_n rite_n ceremony_n and_o modes_n of_o worship_n the_o church_n of_o england_n as_o unto_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n and_o sundry_a other_o thing_n take_v a_o way_n by_o itself_o which_o at_o present_a we_o do_v not_o consider_v 3._o consider_v the_o agreement_n in_o all_o fundamental_a article_n of_o faith_n between_o these_o church_n thus_o at_o difference_n and_o of_o what_o great_a use_n their_o union_n may_v be_v unto_o the_o protestant_a religion_n both_o as_o unto_o its_o spiritual_a and_o political_a interest_n in_o this_o world_n the_o effect_n of_o such_o a_o union_n among_o they_o have_v be_v attempt_v by_o many_o private_a person_n prince_n colloquy_n or_o synod_n of_o some_o of_o the_o party_n at_o variance_n have_v sedulous_o engage_v herein_o i_o wish_v they_o have_v never_o miss_v it_o in_o state_v the_o nature_n of_o that_o union_n which_o in_o this_o case_n be_v alone_o desirable_a and_o alone_a attainable_a nor_o in_o the_o cause_n of_o that_o disadvantageous_a difference_n that_o be_v between_o they_o for_o hence_o it_o be_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o although_o some_o verbal_a composition_n have_v sometime_o by_o some_o be_v consent_v unto_o yet_o all_o thing_n continue_v practical_o among_o they_o as_o they_o be_v from_o the_o beginning_n and_o there_o be_v yet_o person_n who_o be_v manage_v proposal_n for_o such_o a_o union_n with_o great_a projection_n in_o point_n of_o method_n for_o the_o compass_v of_o it_o and_o state_v of_o the_o principle_n of_o agreement_n some_o whereof_o i_o have_v by_o i_o but_o the_o present_a state_n of_o thing_n in_o europe_n with_o the_o mind_n of_o potentate_n not_o concern_v in_o these_o thing_n leave_v little_a encouragement_n for_o any_o such_o attempt_n or_o expectation_n of_o any_o success_n 4._o after_o the_o trial_n and_o experience_n of_o a_o hundred_o and_o fifty_o year_n it_o be_v altogether_o in_o vain_a to_o be_v expect_v that_o any_o far_a reconciliation_n or_o union_n shall_v be_v effect_v between_o these_o protestant_a church_n by_o either_o party_n relinquishment_n of_o the_o doctrine_n they_o have_v so_o long_o teach_v profess_v and_o contend_v for_o or_o of_o their_o practice_n in_o divine_a worship_n which_o they_o have_v so_o long_o be_v accustom_v unto_o we_o may_v as_o well_o expect_v that_o a_o river_n shall_v run_v backward_o as_o expect_v any_o such_o thing_n in_o this_o state_n of_o thing_n i_o say_v the_o principle_n we_o proceed_v upon_o be_v the_o most_o useful_a unto_o the_o procure_n of_o peace_n and_o union_n among_o these_o church_n in_o the_o state_n wherein_o they_o be_v and_o without_o which_o it_o will_v never_o be_v effect_v i_o shall_v therefore_o give_v a_o account_n of_o those_o of_o they_o which_o be_v of_o this_o nature_n and_o tendency_n 1._o and_o the_o first_o be_v the_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o a_o general_a reformation_n in_o life_n and_o manner_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o person_n belong_v unto_o these_o church_n it_o be_v sufficient_o know_v what_o a_o woeful_a condition_n the_o profession_n even_o of_o the_o protestant_a religion_n be_v fall_v into_o how_o little_a evidence_n be_v there_o leave_v of_o the_o power_n of_o evangelical_n grace_n work_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n what_o little_a diligence_n in_o the_o duty_n of_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n what_o a_o deluge_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o vice_n have_v overwhelm_v the_o nation_n and_o what_o indication_n there_o be_v of_o the_o displeasure_n of_o god_n against_o we_o on_o the_o account_n of_o these_o thing_n who_o do_v not_o almost_o tremble_v at_o they_o calvin_n unto_o who_o i_o be_v new_o send_v by_o our_o reverend_a author_n in_o answer_n to_o they_o who_o plead_v for_o a_o separation_n from_o a_o true_a church_n because_o of_o the_o wickedness_n of_o many_o of_o its_o member_n or_o any_o of_o they_o add_v unto_o it_o it_o be_v a_o most_o just_a offence_n and_o unto_o which_o there_o be_v too_o much_o occasion_n give_v in_o this_o miserable_a age._n nor_o be_v it_o lawful_a to_o excuse_v our_o curse_a sloth_n which_o the_o lord_n will_v not_o let_v go_v unpunished_a as_o he_o begin_v already_o to_o chastise_v we_o with_o grievous_a stripe_n wo_n therefore_o unto_o we_o who_o by_o our_o dissolute_a licentiousness_n in_o flagitious_a sin_n do_v cause_n that_o the_o weak_a conscience_n of_o man_n shall_v be_v wound_v for_o we_o and_o if_o it_o be_v so_o then_o the_o matter_n be_v not_o much_o mend_v in_o the_o age_n wherein_o we_o live_v the_o truth_n be_v sin_n and_o impiety_n be_v come_v to_o that_o height_n and_o impudence_n sensuality_n and_o oppression_n be_v so_o diffuse_v among_o all_o sort_n of_o person_n conformity_n unto_o the_o fashion_n of_o the_o world_n become_v so_o universal_a and_o the_o evidence_n of_o god_n displeasure_n with_o the_o beginning_n and_o entrance_n of_o his_o judgement_n be_v so_o display_v as_o that_o if_o the_o reformation_n plead_v for_o be_v not_o speedy_o endeavour_v and_o vigorous_o pursue_v it_o will_v be_v too_o late_o to_o talk_v of_o difference_n and_o union_n destruction_n will_v swallow_v up_o all_o until_o this_o be_v agree_v on_o until_o it_o be_v attempt_v and_o effect_v in_o some_o good_a measure_n all_o endeavour_n for_o far_a union_n whatever_o there_o appear_v success_n shall_v be_v as_o probable_o it_o will_v be_v very_o small_a will_v be_v of_o no_o use_n unto_o the_o honour_n of_o religion_n the_o glory_n of_o christ_n nor_o good_a of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n individual_a person_n will_v do_v well_o to_o take_v care_n of_o themselves_o 2._o that_o all_o these_o differ_a church_n and_o whilst_o these_o difference_n do_v continue_v be_v teach_v to_o prefer_v their_o general_a interest_n in_o opposition_n unto_o the_o kingdom_n of_o satan_n and_o antichrist_n in_o the_o world_n before_o the_o lesser_a thing_n wherein_o they_o differ_v and_o those_o occasional_a animosity_n that_o will_v ensue_v upon_o they_o it_o have_v be_v observe_v in_o many_o place_n that_o the_o near_a some_o man_n or_o church_n come_v together_o in_o their_o profession_n the_o more_o distant_a they_o be_v in_o their_o affection_n as_o the_o lutheran_n in_o many_o place_n do_v more_o hate_v the_o calvinist_n then_o the_o papist_n i_o hope_v it_o be_v not_o so_o among_o we_o this_o make_v it_o evident_a that_o the_o want_n of_o necessary_a peace_n and_o union_n among_o church_n do_v not_o proceed_v from_o the_o thing_n themselves_o wherein_o they_o differ_v but_o from_o the_o corrupt_a lust_n and_o interest_n of_o the_o person_n that_o differ_v this_o evil_n can_v no_o otherwise_o be_v cure_v but_o by_o such_o a_o reformation_n as_o shall_v in_o some_o measure_n reduce_v primitive_a simplicity_n integrity_n and_o love_n such_o as_o be_v among_o the_o church_n of_o the_o convert_v jew_n and_o gentile_n when_o they_o walk_v according_a unto_o the_o same_o rule_n in_o what_o they_o have_v attain_v forbear_v one_o another_o in_o love_n as_o unto_o the_o thing_n wherein_o they_o differ_v until_o this_o also_o be_v effect_v all_o endeavour_n for_o far_a union_n whilst_o these_o difference_n continue_v as_o they_o be_v like_a to_o do_v unless_o the_o whole_a frame_n of_o thing_n in_o europe_n shall_v be_v change_v by_o some_o great_a revolution_n will_v be_v fruitless_a and_o useless_a be_v this_o conscientious_o insist_v on_o out_o of_o a_o pure_a love_n unto_o jesus_n christ_n with_o zeal_n for_o his_o glory_n it_o will_v not_o only_o be_v of_o more_o use_n then_o innumerable_a wrangle_a dispute_n about_o the_o point_n in_o difference_n but_o more_o than_o the_o exact_a method_n in_o contrive_v formulary_n of_o consent_n or_o colloquy_n or_o synodical_a conference_n of_o the_o party_n at_o variance_n with_o all_o their_o solemnity_n order_n limitation_n precaution_n concession_n and_o oration_n let_v man_n say_v what_o they_o will_v it_o must_v be_v the_o revival_n flourish_a and_o exercise_n of_o evangelical_n light_n faith_n and_o love_n that_o shall_v heal_v the_o difference_n and_o breach_n that_o be_v among_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n nor_o shall_v any_o thing_n else_o be_v honour_v with_o any_o great_a influence_n into_o that_o work_n 3._o that_o all_o communion_n of_o church_n as_o such_o consist_v in_o the_o communion_n of_o faith_n and_o love_n in_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o same_o sacrament_n and_o common_a advice_n in_o thing_n of_o common_a concerment_n all_o these_o may_v be_v observe_v when_o for_o sundry_a reason_n the_o member_n of_o they_o can_v have_v local_a presential_a communion_n in_o some_o ordinance_n with_o each_o church_n distinct_o if_o this_o truth_n be_v well_o establish_v and_o consent_v unto_o man_n may_v be_v
orthodox_n themselves_o but_o only_o as_o they_o be_v carry_v on_o unto_o a_o total_a renunciation_n of_o all_o communion_n whatever_o but_o only_o that_o which_o be_v enclose_v unto_o their_o own_o party_n 2._o to_o evidence_n that_o we_o give_v the_o least_o countenance_n unto_o the_o ancient_a schism_n or_o do_v contract_v the_o gild_n with_o the_o author_n of_o they_o the_o thing_n aim_v at_o there_o be_v three_o thing_n incumbent_a on_o he_o to_o prove_v 1._o that_o our_o parochial_a church_n from_o who_o we_o do_v refrain_v actual_a presential_a communion_n in_o all_o ordinance_n where_o it_o be_v require_v by_o law_n which_o can_v be_v many_o and_o but_o one_o at_o one_o time_n do_v succeed_v into_o the_o room_n of_o that_o church_n in_o a_o separation_n from_o which_o those_o schism_n do_v consist_v for_o we_o pass_v no_o judgement_n on_o any_o other_o church_n but_o what_o concern_v ourselves_o as_o unto_o present_a duty_n though_o that_o in_o a_o nation_n may_v be_v extend_v unto_o many_o or_o all_o of_o the_o same_o sort_n but_o these_o schism_n consist_v in_o a_o profess_a separation_n from_o the_o whole_a catholic_n church_n that_o be_v all_o christian_n in_o the_o world_n who_o join_v not_o with_o they_o in_o their_o opinion_n and_o practice_n and_o from_o the_o whole_a church_n state_n then_o passant_a and_o allow_v but_o our_o author_n know_v full_a well_o that_o there_o be_v other_o who_o long_o before_o our_o parochial_a church_n do_v lay_v claim_v unto_o the_o absolute_a enclosure_n of_o this_o church_n state_n unto_o themselves_o and_o thereon_o condemn_v both_o he_o and_o we_o and_o all_o the_o protestant_n in_o the_o world_n of_o the_o same_o schism_n that_o those_o of_o old_a be_v guilty_a of_o especial_o they_o make_v a_o continual_a clamour_n about_o the_o novatian_o and_o donatist_n i_o know_v that_o he_o be_v able_a to_o dispossess_v the_o church_n of_o rome_n from_o that_o usurpation_n of_o the_o state_n and_o right_n of_o the_o ancient_a catholic_n church_n from_o whence_o those_o separation_n be_v make_v and_o it_o have_v be_v sufficient_o do_v by_o other_o but_o so_o soon_o as_o we_o have_v cast_v that_o out_o of_o possession_n to_o bring_v in_o our_o parochial_a assembly_n into_o the_o room_n of_o it_o and_o to_o press_v the_o gild_n of_o separation_n from_o they_o with_o the_o same_o reason_n and_o argument_n as_o we_o be_v all_o of_o we_o but_o new_o press_v withal_o by_o the_o romanist_n namely_o that_o hereby_o we_o give_v countenance_n unto_o they_o yea_o do_v the_o same_o thing_n with_o they_o who_o make_v schism_n in_o separate_v from_o the_o catholic_n church_n of_o old_a be_v somewhat_o severe_a and_o unequal_a wherefore_o unless_o the_o church_n from_o which_o they_o separate_v which_o be_v the_o whole_a catholic_n church_n in_o the_o world_n not_o agree_v and_o act_v with_o they_o and_o those_o parochial_a assembly_n from_o who_o communion_n we_o refrain_v be_v the_o same_o and_o of_o the_o same_o consideration_n nothing_o can_v be_v argue_v from_o those_o ancient_a schism_n against_o we_o nor_o be_v any_o countenance_n give_v by_o we_o unto_o they_o for_o if_o it_o be_v ask_v of_o we_o whether_o it_o be_v free_a or_o lawful_a for_o believer_n to_o join_v in_o society_n and_o full_a communion_n with_o other_o church_n beside_o those_o that_o be_v of_o our_o way_n and_o especial_a communion_n we_o free_o answer_v that_o we_o no_o way_n doubt_v of_o it_o nor_o do_v judge_v they_o for_o their_o so_o do_v 2._o it_o must_v be_v prove_v unto_o the_o end_v propose_v that_o the_o occasion_n and_o reason_n of_o their_o separation_n of_o old_a be_v the_o same_o or_o of_o the_o same_o nature_n only_o with_o those_o which_o we_o plead_v for_o our_o refrain_v communion_n from_o parochial_a assembly_n now_o though_o the_o dr._n here_o make_v a_o flourish_n with_o some_o expression_n about_o zeal_n discipline_n purity_n of_o the_o church_n edification_n which_o he_o will_v not_o find_v in_o any_o of_o their_o pretence_n yet_o in_o truth_n there_o be_v not_o one_o thing_n allege_v wherein_o there_o be_v a_o coincidence_n between_o the_o occasion_n and_o reason_n plead_v by_o they_o and_o we_o it_o be_v know_v that_o the_o principal_a thing_n in_o general_n which_o we_o insist_v upon_o be_v the_o unwarrantable_a imposition_n of_o unscriptural_a term_n and_o condition_n of_o communion_n upon_o we_o be_v there_o any_o such_o thing_n plead_v by_o they_o that_o make_v the_o schism_n of_o old_a indeed_o they_o be_v all_o of_o they_o imposer_n and_o separate_v from_o the_o church_n because_o they_o will_v not_o submit_v unto_o their_o imposition_n some_o bishop_n or_o some_o that_o will_v have_v be_v bishop_n but_o can_v not_o entertain_v some_o new_a conceit_n of_o their_o own_o which_o they_o will_v have_v impose_v on_o all_o other_o be_v not_o submit_v unto_o therein_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o all_o those_o schism_n which_o be_v just_o esteem_v criminal_a so_o be_v it_o with_o the_o novatian_o and_o donatist_n in_o a_o especial_a manner_n even_o the_o great_a tertullian_n though_o no_o bishop_n leave_v the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n on_o this_o ground_n for_o because_o they_o will_v not_o admit_v of_o the_o strict_a observance_n of_o some_o austere_a severity_n in_o fast_v abstinence_n from_o sundry_a meat_n and_o watch_v with_o the_o like_a which_o he_o esteem_v necessary_a though_o no_o way_n warrant_v by_o scripture_n rule_n or_o example_n he_o utter_o renounce_v their_o communion_n and_o countenance_v himself_o by_o adhere_v unto_o the_o dotage_n of_o montanus_n it_o be_v true_a some_o of_o they_o contend_v for_o a_o severity_n of_o discipline_n in_o the_o church_n but_o they_o do_v it_o not_o upon_o any_o pretence_n of_o the_o neglect_v of_o it_o in_o they_o unto_o who_o the_o administration_n of_o it_o be_v commit_v but_o for_o the_o want_n of_o establish_v a_o false_a principle_n rule_n or_o erroneous_a doctrine_n which_o they_o advance_v namely_o that_o the_o most_o sincere_a penitent_n be_v never_o more_o to_o be_v admit_v into_o ecclesiastical_a communion_n whereby_o they_o do_v not_o establish_v but_o overthrow_v one_o of_o the_o principal_a end_n of_o church_n discipline_n they_o do_v not_o therefore_o press_v for_o the_o power_n or_o the_o use_n of_o the_o key_n as_o be_v pretend_v but_o advance_v a_o false_a doctrine_n in_o prejudice_n both_o unto_o the_o power_n and_o use_v of_o they_o they_o pretend_v indeed_o unto_o the_o purity_n of_o the_o church_n not_o that_o there_o be_v none_o impure_a wicked_a and_o hypocritical_a among_o they_o but_o that_o none_o may_v be_v admit_v who_o have_v once_o fall_v though_o real_o make_v pure_a by_o sincere_a repentance_n this_o be_v their_o zeal_n for_o purity_n if_o a_o man_n be_v overtake_v if_o they_o can_v catch_v he_o in_o such_o a_o fault_n as_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o passaint_n discipline_n he_o be_v to_o be_v cast_v out_o of_o the_o church_n there_o they_o have_v he_o safe_a for_o ever_o no_o evidence_n of_o the_o most_o sincere_a repentance_n can_v prevail_v for_o a_o readmission_n into_o the_o church_n and_o because_o other_o church_n will_v admit_v they_o they_o renounce_v all_o communion_n with_o they_o as_o no_o church_n of_o christ._n be_v these_o our_o principle_n be_v these_o our_o practice_n do_v we_o give_v any_o countenance_n unto_o they_o by_o any_o thing_n we_o say_v or_o do_v i_o somewhat_o wonder_v that_o the_o dr._n from_o some_o general_a expression_n and_o cast_v their_o pretence_n under_o new_a appearance_n shall_v seem_v to_o think_v that_o there_o be_v the_o least_o coincidence_n between_o what_o they_o insist_v on_o and_o what_o we_o plead_v in_o our_o own_o defence_n he_o may_v see_v now_o more_o full_o what_o be_v the_o reason_n of_o our_o practice_n and_o i_o hope_v thereon_o will_v be_v of_o another_o mind_n not_o as_o unto_o our_o cause_n in_o general_a which_o i_o be_o far_o enough_o from_o the_o expectation_n of_o but_o as_o unto_o this_o invidious_a charge_n of_o give_v countenance_n unto_o the_o schism_n condemn_v of_o old_a in_o the_o church_n and_o we_o shall_v see_v immediate_o what_o be_v the_o occasion_n of_o those_o schism_n which_o we_o be_v as_o remote_a from_o give_v countenance_n unto_o as_o unto_o the_o principle_n and_o reason_n which_o they_o plead_v in_o their_o own_o justification_n 3._o it_o ought_v also_o to_o be_v prove_v that_o the_o separation_n which_o be_v charge_v on_o we_o be_v of_o the_o same_o nature_n with_o that_o charge_v on_o they_o of_o old_a for_o otherwise_o we_o can_v be_v say_v to_o give_v any_o countenance_n unto_o what_o they_o do_v for_o it_o be_v know_v they_o so_o separate_v from_o all_o other_o church_n in_o the_o world_n as_o to_o confine_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n unto_o their_o own_o party_n to_o condemn_v all_o other_o and_o to_o
deny_v salvation_n unto_o all_o that_o abode_n in_o their_o communion_n which_o the_o donatist_n do_v with_o the_o great_a fierceness_n this_o be_v that_o which_o if_o any_o thing_n do_v true_o and_o proper_o constitute_v they_o schismatic_n as_o it_o do_v those_o also_o who_o deny_v at_o this_o day_n church_n state_n and_o salvation_n unto_o such_o church_n as_o have_v not_o diocesan_n bishop_n now_o there_o be_v no_o principle_n in_o the_o world_n that_o we_o do_v more_o abhor_v we_o grant_v a_o church_n state_n unto_o all_o however_o it_o may_v be_v defective_a or_o corrupt_a and_o a_o possibility_n of_o salvation_n unto_o all_o their_o member_n which_o be_v not_o gather_v in_o pernicious_a error_n overthrow_v the_o foundation_n nor_o idolatrous_a in_o their_o worship_n and_o who_o have_v a_o lawful_a ministry_n with_o sufficient_a mean_n for_o their_o edification_n though_o low_a in_o its_o measure_n and_o degree_n we_o judge_v none_o but_o with_o respect_n unto_o our_o own_o duty_n as_o unto_o the_o imposition_n attempt_v to_o be_v lay_v on_o we_o and_o the_o act_n of_o communion_n require_v of_o we_o which_o we_o can_v avoid_v nor_o can_v any_o man_n else_o let_v he_o pretend_v what_o he_o will_v to_o the_o contrary_a avoid_v the_o make_n of_o a_o judgement_n for_o himself_o in_o these_o thing_n unless_o he_o be_v brutish_a these_o thing_n be_v sufficient_a to_o evidence_n that_o there_o be_v not_o the_o least_o countenance_n give_v unto_o the_o ancient_a schism_n by_o any_o principle_n of_o we_o yet_o i_o shall_v add_v some_o far_a consideration_n on_o the_o instance_n he_o give_v unto_o the_o same_o purpose_n the_o first_o be_v that_o the_o novatian_o who_o pretence_n be_v the_o discipline_n and_o purity_n of_o the_o church_n wherein_o he_o say_v there_o be_v a_o concurrence_n of_o dr._n of_o his_o plea_n zeal_n for_o reformation_n of_o discipline_n the_o great_a edificatian_a of_o the_o people_n and_o the_o assert_v of_o their_o right_n in_o choose_v such_o a_o pastor_n as_o be_v likely_a to_o promote_v their_o edification_n i_o be_o sorry_a that_o interest_n and_o party_n shall_v sway_v with_o learned_a man_n to_o seek_v advantage_n unto_o their_o cause_n so_o undue_o the_o story_n in_o short_a be_v this_o novatus_n or_o novatianus_n rather_o be_v disappoint_v in_o his_o ambitious_a design_n to_o have_v be_v choose_v bishop_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n cornelius_n be_v choose_v by_o much_o the_o major_a part_n of_o the_o church_n betake_v himself_o to_o indirect_a mean_n to_o weaken_v and_o invalidate_v the_o election_n of_o cornelius_n and_o this_o he_o do_v by_o raise_v a_o new_a principle_n of_o false_a doctrine_n whereunto_o he_o as_o false_o accommodate_v the_o matter_n of_o fact_n the_o error_n he_o broach_v and_o promote_v be_v that_o there_o be_v no_o place_n for_o repentance_n such_o as_o whereon_o they_o shall_v be_v admit_v into_o the_o church_n unto_o they_o who_o have_v fall_v into_o sin_n after_o baptism_n nor_o as_o some_o add_v any_o salvation_n to_o be_v obtain_v by_o they_o who_o have_v fall_v in_o the_o time_n of_o persecution_n this_o the_o ancient_a church_n look_v on_o as_o a_o pestilent_a heresy_n and_o as_o such_o be_v it_o condmen_v in_o a_o considerable_a counsel_n at_o rome_n with_o cornelius_n euseb._n lib._n 6._o cap._n 43_o where_o also_o be_v report_v the_o decree_n which_o they_o make_v in_o the_o case_n wherein_o they_o call_v his_o opinion_n cruel_a or_o inhuman_a and_o contrary_a to_o brotherly_o love_n as_o such_o it_o be_v strenuous_o confute_v by_o cyprian_a epist._n 82._o ad_fw-la antonianum_fw-la but_o because_o the_o church_n will_v not_o submit_v unto_o this_o novel_a false_a opinion_n of_o he_o contrary_a to_o the_o scripture_n and_o the_o discipline_n of_o the_o church_n he_o and_o all_o his_o follower_n separate_v from_o all_o the_o church_n in_o the_o world_n and_o rebaptise_v all_o that_o be_v baptize_v in_o the_o orthodox_n church_n they_o deny_v unto_o they_o the_o mean_n of_o salvation_n cyprian_a ad_fw-la julian_n epist._n 73._o euseb._n lib._n 7._o cap._n 8._o that_o which_o be_v most_o probable_o false_a also_o in_o matter_n of_o fact_n when_o this_o foolish_a opinion_n which_o dionysius_n of_o alexandria_n in_o his_o epistle_n to_o dionysius_n of_o rome_n call_v a_o most_o profane_a doctrine_n reflect_v unmerciful_a cruelty_n on_o our_o most_o gracious_a lord_n jesus_n christ_n euseb._n lib._n 7._o cap._n 8._o be_v invent_v to_o be_v subservient_fw-fr unto_fw-la be_v that_o many_o of_o those_o by_o who_o cornelius_n be_v choose_v bishop_n be_v such_o as_o have_v deny_v the_o faith_n under_o the_o persecution_n of_o decius_n the_o emperor_n this_o also_o be_v false_a in_o matter_n of_o fact_n for_o although_o that_o church_n continue_v in_o the_o ancient_a faith_n and_o practice_n of_o receive_v penitent_n after_o their_o fall_n yet_o there_o be_v no_o such_o number_n of_o they_o as_o to_o influence_n the_o election_n of_o cornelius_n so_o cyprian_n testify_v factus_fw-la est_fw-la cornelius_n episcopus_fw-la de_fw-la dei_fw-la &_o christi_fw-la ejus_fw-la judicio_fw-la de_fw-la clericorum_fw-la pain_fw-la omnium_fw-la testimonio_fw-la de_fw-la suffragio_fw-la plebis_fw-la etc._n etc._n epist._n 52._o on_o that_o false_a opinion_n and_o this_o frivolous_a pretence_n they_o continue_v their_o schism_n hence_o afterward_o when_o constantine_n the_o emperor_n speak_v with_o acesius_n the_o bishop_n of_o the_o novatian_o at_o constantinople_n find_v he_o sound_a in_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o trinity_n which_o be_v then_o impugn_a by_o arius_n he_o ask_v he_o why_o then_o he_o do_v not_o communicate_v with_o the_o church_n whereon_o he_o begin_v to_o tell_v he_o a_o story_n of_o what_o have_v happen_v in_o the_o time_n of_o decius_n the_o emperor_n plead_v nothing_o else_o for_o himself_o the_o emperor_n reply_v only_o o_o acesius_n set_v up_o a_o ladder_n and_o climb_v alone_o by_o thyself_o into_o heaven_n leave_v he_o socrat._v lib._n 1_o cap._n 7._o this_o error_n endeavour_v to_o be_v impose_v on_o all_o church_n this_o false_a pretence_n in_o matter_n of_o fact_n with_o the_o follow_a pride_n in_o the_o condemnation_n of_o all_o other_o church_n deny_v unto_o they_o the_o lawful_a use_n of_o the_o sacrament_n and_o rebaptise_v they_o who_o be_v baptize_v in_o they_o do_v if_o we_o may_v believe_v the_o doctor_n herein_o contain_v all_o my_o plea_n for_o the_o forbearance_n of_o communion_n with_o parochial_a assembly_n and_o have_v countenance_n give_v unto_o they_o by_o our_o principle_n and_o practice_n of_o the_o meletian_o who_o he_o reckon_v up_o in_o the_o next_o place_n no_o certain_a account_n can_v be_v give_v epiphanius_n report_v meletus_n himself_o to_o have_v be_v a_o good_a honest_a orthodox_n bishop_n and_o in_o the_o difference_n between_o he_o and_o peter_n bishop_n of_o alexandria_n to_o have_v be_v more_o for_o truth_n as_o the_o other_o be_v more_o for_o love_n and_o charity_n and_o according_a unto_o he_o it_o be_v peter_n and_o not_o meletus_n that_o begin_v the_o schism_n haeres_fw-la 68_o n._n 2_o 3._o but_o other_o give_v quite_o another_o account_n of_o he_o socrates_n affirm_v that_o in_o time_n of_o persecution_n he_o have_v sacrifice_v to_o idol_n and_o be_v for_o that_o reason_n depose_v from_o his_o episcopacy_n by_o peter_n of_o alexandria_n lib._n 3._o cap._n 6._o hence_o he_o be_v enrage_v against_o he_o and_o fill_v all_o thebais_n and_o egypt_n with_o tumult_n against_o he_o and_o the_o church_n of_o alexandria_n with_o intolerable_a arrogance_n because_o he_o be_v convict_v of_o sundry_a wickedness_n by_o peter_n theod._n hist._n lib._n 1._o cap._n 8._o and_o his_o follower_n quick_o comply_v with_o the_o arian_n for_o their_o advantage_n the_o error_n he_o proceed_v on_o according_a to_o epiphanius_n be_v the_o same_o with_o that_o of_o novatus_n which_o how_o it_o can_v be_v if_o he_o himself_o have_v fall_v in_o persecution_n and_o sacrifice_v as_o socrates_n relate_v i_o can_v understand_v this_o schism_n of_o bishop_n meletius_n also_o it_o be_v think_v meet_a to_o be_v judge_v that_o we_o shall_v give_v countenance_n unto_o all_o thing_n be_v in_o like_a manner_n uncertain_a concern_v audus_n and_o his_o follower_n who_o he_o mention_n in_o the_o next_o place_n the_o man_n be_v represent_v by_o epiphanius_n to_o have_v be_v a_o good_a man_n of_o a_o holy_a life_n sound_v in_o the_o faith_n full_a of_o zeal_n and_o love_n to_o the_o truth_n but_o find_v many_o thing_n amiss_o in_o the_o church_n among_o the_o clergy_n and_o people_n he_o free_o reprove_v they_o for_o covetousness_n luxury_n and_o disorder_n in_o ecclesiastical_a affair_n hereon_o he_o stir_v up_o the_o hatred_n of_o many_o against_o himself_o as_o chrysostome_n do_v for_o the_o same_o cause_n afterward_o at_o constantinople_n hereupon_o he_o be_v vex_v persecute_a and_o great_o abuse_v all_o which_o he_o bear_v patient_o and_o continue_v in_o
impartial_a consideration_n he_o charge_v on_o we_o with_o great_a solemnity_n as_o we_o love_v our_o own_o soul_n now_o although_o that_o passage_n in_o that_o great_a and_o holy_a person_n be_v not_o new_a unto_o i_o have_v not_o only_o read_v it_o many_o a_o time_n in_o his_o book_n but_o frequent_o meet_v with_o it_o urge_v by_o papist_n against_o all_o protestant_n yet_o upon_o the_o drs._n intimation_n i_o have_v give_v it_o again_o the_o consideration_n require_v the_o word_n as_o they_o lie_v in_o the_o author_n be_v to_o this_o purpose_n we_o shall_v also_o judge_v they_o who_o make_v schism_n be_v vain_a qui_fw-la sunt_fw-la immanes_a or_o inane_n not_o have_v the_o love_n of_o god_n rather_o consider_v their_o own_o profit_n than_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n who_o for_o small_a or_o any_o cause_n rend_v and_o divide_v the_o glorious_a body_n of_o christ_n and_o as_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lie_v destroy_v it_o speak_v peace_n but_o design_v war_n strain_v at_o a_o gnat_n and_o swallow_v a_o camel_n for_o there_o can_v be_v no_o rebuke_n of_o thing_n by_o they_o to_o equal_v the_o mischief_n of_o schism_n lib._n 4._o cap._n 62._o i_o know_v not_o why_o he_o shall_v give_v we_o such_o a_o severe_a charge_n for_o the_o impartial_a consideration_n of_o these_o word_n that_o as_o we_o love_v our_o soul_n we_o shall_v impartial_o and_o without_o prejudice_n consider_v they_o we_o hope_v that_o out_o of_o love_n to_o the_o truth_n the_o glory_n of_o christ_n and_o care_n of_o our_o own_o soul_n we_o do_v so_o consider_v and_o have_v long_a since_o so_o consider_v whatever_o belong_v unto_o the_o cause_n wherein_o we_o engage_v and_o the_o opposition_n that_o be_v make_v unto_o it_o nor_o will_v we_o be_v offend_v with_o any_o that_o shall_v yet_o call_v on_o we_o to_o persist_v and_o proceed_v in_o the_o same_o way_n but_o why_o such_o a_o charge_n shall_v be_v lay_v on_o we_o with_o respect_n unto_o these_o word_n of_o irenaeus_n i_o know_v not_o for_o although_o we_o great_o value_v the_o word_n and_o judgement_n of_o that_o holy_a person_n that_o great_a defender_n of_o the_o mystery_n and_o truth_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o of_o the_o liberty_n of_o the_o church_n from_o unwarrantable_a imposition_n yet_o it_o be_v the_o word_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n alone_o whereby_o we_o must_v be_v regulate_v and_o determine_v in_o these_o thing_n if_o we_o love_v our_o own_o soul_n beside_o what_o be_v we_o concern_v in_o they_o be_v every_o separation_n from_o a_o church_n a_o schism_n our_o author_n show_v the_o contrary_a immediate_o be_v refrain_v communion_n in_o a_o church_n state_n not_o of_o divine_a institution_n and_o in_o thing_n not_o prescribe_v by_o the_o lord_n christ_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n hold_v communion_n in_o faith_n and_o love_n with_o all_o the_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o world_n a_o damnable_a schism_n or_o any_o schism_n at_o all_o have_v the_o reverend_a author_n in_o his_o whole_a book_n once_o attempt_v to_o prove_v it_o to_o be_v so_o though_o this_o be_v the_o whole_a of_o the_o matter_n in_o difference_n between_o we_o be_v our_o forbearance_n of_o communion_n in_o parochial_a assembly_n upon_o the_o reason_n before_o plead_v especial_o that_o of_o humane_a imposition_n of_o the_o same_o nature_n with_o the_o schism_n from_o the_o whole_a catholic_n church_n without_o pretence_n of_o any_o such_o imposition_n do_v he_o judge_v we_o to_o be_v such_o as_o have_v no_o love_n unto_o god_n such_o as_o prefer_v our_o own_o profit_n before_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n i_o hearty_o wish_v and_o pray_v that_o he_o may_v never_o have_v a_o share_n in_o that_o profit_n and_o advantage_n which_o we_o have_v make_v unto_o ourselves_o by_o our_o principle_n and_o practice_n poverty_n distress_n ruin_n to_o our_o family_n danger_n imprisonment_n revile_n with_o contemptuous_a reproach_n comprise_v the_o profit_n we_o have_v make_v unto_o ourselves_o be_v our_o refrain_v communion_n in_o some_o outward_a order_n modes_n and_o rite_n of_o man_n institution_n our_o want_n of_o conscientious_a submission_n unto_o the_o court_n of_o chancellor_n commissary_n official_o etc._n etc._n a_o rend_n and_o destroy_v of_o the_o glorious_a body_n of_o christ_n be_v it_o cement_v unite_v and_o compact_v or_o fit_o frame_v together_o by_o these_o thing_n they_o former_o pretend_v to_o be_v his_o coat_n and_o must_v they_o now_o be_v esteem_v to_o be_v his_o glorious_a body_n when_o they_o no_o way_n belong_v unto_o the_o one_o or_o the_o other_o be_v the_o application_n of_o these_o thing_n unto_o we_o a_o effect_n of_o that_o love_n charity_n and_o forbearance_n which_o be_v the_o only_a preventive_a mean_n of_o schism_n and_o whereof_o if_o man_n be_v void_a it_o be_v all_o one_o upon_o the_o matter_n whether_o they_o be_v schismatic_n or_o no_o for_o they_o will_v be_v so_o when_o it_o be_v for_o their_o advantage_n wherefore_o we_o be_v not_o concern_v in_o these_o thing_n let_v whosoever_o will_v declare_v and_o vehement_o assert_v we_o to_o be_v guilty_a of_o schism_n which_o they_o can_v prove_v we_o can_v cheerful_o subscribe_v unto_o these_o word_n of_o irenaeus_n it_o may_v not_o be_v impertinent_a on_o this_o occasion_n to_o desire_v of_o some_o other_o that_o as_o they_o love_v their_o own_o soul_n and_o have_v compassion_n for_o the_o soul_n of_o other_o man_n they_o will_v serious_o consider_v what_o state_n and_o condition_n thing_n be_v come_v unto_o in_o the_o church_n of_o england_n how_o much_o ignorance_n profaneness_n sensuality_n do_v spread_v themselves_o over_o the_o nation_n what_o neglect_v of_o the_o most_o important_a duty_n of_o the_o gospel_n yea_o what_o scoff_v at_o the_o power_n of_o religion_n do_v abound_v among_o we_o what_o a_o utter_a decay_n and_o loss_n there_o be_v of_o all_o the_o primitive_a discipline_n of_o the_o church_n what_o multitude_n be_v in_o the_o way_n of_o eternal_a ruin_n for_o want_v of_o due_a instruction_n and_o example_n from_o they_o who_o shall_v lead_v they_o how_o great_a a_o necessity_n there_o be_v of_o a_o universal_a reformation_n and_o how_o secure_o negligent_a of_o it_o all_o sort_n of_o person_n be_v what_o have_v be_v the_o pernicious_a effect_n of_o impose_v thing_n unnecessary_a and_o unscriptural_a on_o the_o conscience_n and_o practice_n of_o man_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n whereby_o the_o church_n have_v be_v deprive_v of_o the_o labour_n of_o so_o many_o faithful_a minister_n who_o may_v have_v at_o least_o assist_v in_o prevent_v that_o decay_n of_o religion_n which_o every_o day_n increase_v among_o we_o how_o easy_a a_o thing_n it_o be_v for_o they_o to_o restore_v evangelical_n peace_n and_o unity_n among_o all_o protestant_n without_o the_o loss_n of_o their_o ministry_n without_o the_o diminution_n of_o their_o dignity_n without_o deprivation_n of_o any_o part_n of_o their_o revenue_n without_o the_o neglect_n of_o any_o duty_n without_o do_v any_o thing_n against_o their_o light_n and_o conscience_n with_o respect_n unto_o any_o divine_a obligation_n and_o thereon_o set_v themselves_o serious_o to_o endeavour_v the_o remedy_n of_o these_o and_o other_o evil_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n under_o a_o sense_n of_o that_o great_a account_n which_o they_o must_v short_o give_v before_o the_o judgement_n seat_n of_o jesus_n christ._n he_o proceed_v to_o consider_v the_o case_n wherein_o the_o scripture_n allow_v of_o separation_n which_o he_o affirm_v to_o be_v three_o the_o first_o be_v in_o case_n of_o idolatrous_a worship_n this_o none_o can_v question_v they_o do_v not_o see_v from_o who_o yet_o we_o all_o separate_v as_o from_o idolater_n the_o second_o be_v in_o case_n of_o false_a dostrine_n be_v impose_v instead_o of_o true_a which_o he_o confirm_v with_o sundry_a instance_n but_o there_o be_v a_o little_a difficulty_n in_o this_o case_n for_o 1._o it_o be_v uncertain_a when_o a_o doctrine_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v impose_v be_v it_o when_o it_o be_v teach_v and_o preach_v by_o the_o guide_n and_o governor_n of_o the_o church_n or_o any_o of_o they_o without_o control_v if_o so_o then_o be_v such_o preach_v a_o sufficient_a cause_n of_o separation_n and_o will_v justify_v they_o who_o do_v at_o present_a separate_v from_o any_o church_n who_o minister_n preach_v false_a doctrine_n how_o false_a doctrine_n can_v be_v otherwise_o impose_v i_o know_v not_o unless_o it_o be_v by_o exact_v a_o express_a confession_n of_o it_o as_o truth_n 2._o what_o false_a doctrine_n it_o be_v which_o be_v of_o this_o importance_n as_o to_o justify_v separation_n be_v not_o easy_o determinable_a 3._o if_o the_o guide_n and_o governor_n of_o the_o church_n do_v teach_v this_o false_a doctrine_n who_o shall_v judge_v of_o it_o and_o determine_v it_o so_o to_o be_v and_o that_o ultimate_o so_o as_o
to_o separate_v from_o a_o church_n thereon_o shall_v the_o people_n do_v it_o themselves_o be_v they_o meet_v be_v they_o competent_a for_o it_o be_v they_o to_o make_v such_o a_o judgement_n on_o the_o doctrine_n of_o their_o guide_n do_v they_o know_v what_o be_v heresy_n have_v they_o read_v epiphanius_n or_o binius_fw-la how_o come_v this_o allowance_n to_o be_v make_v unto_o they_o which_o else_o where_o be_v deny_v the_o three_o be_v in_o case_n man_n make_v thing_n indifferent_a necessary_a to_o salvation_n and_o divide_v the_o church_n on_o that_o account_n but_o 1._o i_o know_v not_o which_o be_v to_o precede_v or_o go_v before_o their_o division_n of_o the_o church_n or_o the_o just_a separation_n nor_o how_o they_o be_v to_o be_v distinguish_v but_o it_o be_v necessary_a to_o be_v so_o express_v 2._o there_o be_v two_o thing_n in_o such_o a_o imposition_n first_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o thing_n impose_v second_o the_o judgement_n of_o they_o that_o impose_v they_o the_o former_a alone_o belong_v unto_o they_o who_o be_v impose_v on_o and_o they_o may_v submit_v unto_o it_o without_o a_o compliance_n with_o the_o doctrine_n as_o many_o do_v in_o the_o apostle_n day_n for_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o imposer_n it_o be_v their_o own_o error_n and_o concernment_n only_o 3._o why_o be_v not_o the_o impose_v of_o thing_n indifferent_a so_o as_o to_o make_v the_o observation_n of_o they_o necessary_a unto_o man_n temporal_a salvation_n in_o this_o world_n so_o as_o that_o the_o refusal_n of_o it_o shall_v real_o affect_v the_o refuser_n with_o trouble_n and_o ruin_n as_o just_a a_o cause_n of_o separation_n as_o the_o impose_v of_o they_o as_o necessary_a unto_o eternal_a salvation_n which_o shall_v never_o affect_v they_o 4._o this_o make_v thing_n indifferent_a necessary_a unto_o salvation_n and_o as_o such_o impose_v of_o they_o on_o other_o be_v a_o thing_n impossible_a that_o never_o be_v nor_o ever_o can_v be_v for_o it_o be_v the_o judgement_n of_o the_o imposer_n that_o be_v speak_v of_o and_o to_o judge_v thing_n indifferent_a in_o themselves_o to_o be_v in_o themselves_o necessary_a to_o salvation_n be_v a_o contradiction_n if_o only_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o imposer_n that_o such_o thing_n be_v not_o indifferent_a but_o necessary_a to_o salvation_n be_v intend_v and_o otherwise_o the_o thing_n themselves_o may_v lawful_o be_v impose_v i_o know_v not_o how_o this_o differ_v from_o the_o imposition_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n under_o any_o other_o pretence_n in_o his_o follow_a discourse_n concern_v miscarriage_n in_o church_n where_o no_o separation_n be_v enjoin_v we_o be_v not_o at_o all_o concern_v and_o therefore_o shall_v not_o observe_v the_o mistake_n in_o it_o which_o be_v not_o a_o few_o but_o may_v there_o not_o be_v other_o cause_n of_o peaceable_a withdraw_n from_o the_o communion_n of_o a_o church_n beside_o these_o here_o enumerate_v 1._o suppose_v a_o church_n shall_v impose_v the_o observation_n of_o judaical_a ceremony_n and_o make_v their_o observation_n necessary_a though_o not_o to_o salvation_n yet_o unto_o the_o order_n and_o decency_n of_o divine_a worship_n it_o may_v declare_v they_o to_o be_v in_o themselves_o indifferent_a but_o yet_o make_v they_o necessary_a to_o be_v observe_v or_o 2._o suppose_v a_o church_n shall_v be_v so_o degenerate_v in_o the_o life_n and_o conversation_n of_o all_o its_o member_n that_o be_v immerse_v in_o various_a sin_n they_o shall_v have_v only_o a_o form_n of_o godliness_n but_o deny_v the_o power_n of_o it_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o apostle_n be_v to_o avoid_v and_o turn_v away_o from_o they_o 3._o suppose_v a_o church_n be_v fall_v into_o such_o decay_n in_o faith_n love_n and_o fruit_n of_o charity_n as_o that_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n by_o his_o word_n declare_v his_o disapprobation_n of_o it_o and_o in_o that_o state_n refuse_v to_o reform_v itself_o and_o persecute_v they_o who_o will_v reform_v themselves_o or_o 4._o suppose_v the_o ministry_n of_o any_o church_n be_v such_o as_o be_v insufficient_a and_o unable_a to_o dispense_v the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n unto_o edification_n so_o as_o that_o the_o whole_a church_n may_v perish_v as_o unto_o any_o relief_n by_o or_o from_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o ordinance_n of_o the_o gospel_n i_o say_v in_o these_o and_o such_o other_o case_n a_o peaceable_a withdraw_n from_o the_o communion_n of_o such_o church_n be_v warrantable_a by_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o scripture_n sect_n iii_o the_o three_o part_n of_o the_o drs._n discourse_v he_o design_n to_o examine_v the_o plea_n as_o he_o speak_v for_o separation_n and_o these_o he_o refer_v to_o four_o head_n whereof_o the_o first_o respect_v the_o constitution_n of_o the_o church_n and_o those_o which_o relate_v hereunto_o be_v four_o also_o 1._o that_o parochial_a church_n be_v not_o of_o christ_n institution_n 2._o that_o diocesan_n church_n be_v unlawful_a 3._o that_o our_o national_a church_n have_v no_o foundation_n 4._o that_o the_o people_n be_v deprive_v of_o their_o right_n in_o the_o choice_n of_o their_o pastor_n the_o first_o of_o these_o namely_o that_o our_o parochial_a church_n be_v not_o of_o christ_n institution_n he_o begin_v withal_o and_o therein_o i_o be_o alone_o call_v to_o a_o account_n i_o wonder_v the_o dr._n shall_v thus_o state_n the_o question_n between_o we_o the_o meaning_n of_o this_o assertion_n that_o our_o parochial_a church_n be_v not_o of_o christ_n institution_n must_v be_v either_o they_o be_v not_o so_o because_o they_o be_v parochial_a or_o at_o least_o in_o that_o they_o be_v parochial_a but_o be_v this_o my_o judgement_n have_v i_o say_v any_o thing_n to_o this_o purpose_n yea_o he_o know_v full_a well_o that_o in_o my_o judgement_n there_o be_v no_o church_n direct_o of_o divine_a institution_n but_o those_o that_o be_v parochial_a or_o particular_a church_n we_o be_v not_o therefore_o to_o expect_v much_o in_o the_o ensue_a disputation_n when_o the_o state_n of_o the_o question_n be_v so_o mistake_v at_o the_o entrance_n if_o he_o say_v or_o intend_v that_o there_o be_v many_o thing_n in_o their_o parochial_a church_n observe_v practise_v and_o impose_v on_o all_o their_o member_n in_o and_o about_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n which_o be_v not_o of_o divine_a institution_n we_o grant_v it_o to_o be_v our_o judgement_n and_o part_n of_o our_o plea_n in_o this_o case_n but_o this_o be_v not_o at_o all_o speak_v unto_o wherefore_o the_o great_a part_n of_o the_o ensue_a discourse_n on_o this_o head_n be_v spend_v in_o perpetual_a diversion_n from_o the_o state_n of_o the_o case_n under_o consideration_n with_o a_o attempt_n to_o take_v advantage_n for_o some_o reflection_n or_o a_o appearance_n of_o success_n from_o some_o passage_n and_o expression_n belong_v nothing_o at_o all_o unto_o the_o merit_n of_o the_o cause_n a_o course_n which_o i_o think_v so_o learned_a a_o person_n will_v not_o have_v take_v in_o a_o case_n wherein_o conscience_n be_v so_o near_o concern_v some_o mistake_n occur_v in_o it_o have_v be_v already_o rectify_v as_o that_o wherein_o he_o suppose_v that_o my_o judgement_n be_v for_o the_o democratical_a government_n of_o the_o church_n as_o also_o what_o he_o allege_v in_o the_o denial_n of_o the_o gradual_a declension_n of_o the_o primitive_a church_n from_o their_o first_o original_a institution_n have_v be_v examine_v i_o shall_v therefore_o plain_o and_o direct_o propose_v the_o thing_n which_o i_o assert_v and_o maintain_v in_o this_o part_n of_o the_o controversy_n and_o then_o consider_v what_o occurr_n in_o opposition_n unto_o they_o or_o otherwise_o seem_v to_o be_v of_o any_o force_n towards_o the_o end_n in_o general_n of_o charge_v we_o with_o schism_n and_o they_o be_v these_o that_o follow_v 1._o particular_a church_n or_o congregation_n with_o their_o order_n and_o rule_n be_v of_o divine_a institution_n and_o be_v sufficient_a unto_o all_o the_o end_n of_o evangelical_n churches_n i_o take_v churches_n and_o congregation_n in_o the_o same_o sense_n and_o notion_n as_o the_o church_n of_o england_n do_v define_v the_o church_n by_o a_o congregation_n of_o beleiver_n otherwise_o there_o may_v be_v occasional_a congregation_n that_o be_v not_o state_v church_n 2._o unto_o these_o church_n there_o be_v commit_v by_o christ_n himself_o all_o the_o ordinary_a power_n and_o privilege_n that_o belong_v unto_o any_o church_n under_o the_o gospel_n and_o of_o they_o be_v require_v the_o observance_n of_o all_o church_n duty_n which_o it_o be_v their_o sin_n to_o omit_v 3._o there_o be_v no_o church_n of_o any_o other_o form_n kind_n nature_n or_o constitution_n that_o be_v of_o divine_a institution_n thing_n may_v be_v various_o order_v in_o and_o among_o christian_n or_o their_o society_n may_v be_v cast_v or_o dispose_v of_o into_o such_o respective_a relation_n to_o and_o dependence_n on_o one_o another_o
much_o concern_v my_o word_n be_v vindic._n p._n 41._o though_o many_o alteration_n be_v before_o that_o time_n introduce_v into_o the_o order_n and_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n yet_o it_o appear_v that_o when_o cyprian_n be_v bishop_n of_o the_o church_n of_o carthage_n that_o the_o whole_a community_n of_o the_o member_n of_o that_o church_n do_v meet_v together_o to_o determine_v of_o thing_n that_o be_v of_o their_o common_a interest_n according_a unto_o what_o be_v judge_v to_o be_v their_o right_n and_o liberty_n in_o those_o day_n i_o think_v no_o man_n who_o be_v so_o conversant_a in_o the_o write_n of_o cyprian_n as_o our_o author_n apparent_o be_v can_v have_v deny_v the_o truth_n hereof_o nor_o do_v i_o say_v it_o be_v so_o do_v by_o he_o only_o he_o take_v occasion_n from_o hence_o to_o discourse_v at_o large_a concern_v the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n at_o carthage_n in_o those_o day_n in_o opposition_n to_o mr._n cotton_n who_o affirm_v that_o there_o be_v find_v in_o that_o church_n the_o express_a and_o lively_a lineament_n of_o the_o very_a body_n of_o congregational_a discipline_n herein_o i_o be_o not_o concern_v who_o do_v grant_v that_o at_o that_o time_n there_o be_v many_o alteration_n introduce_v into_o the_o order_n and_o rule_n of_o the_o church_n but_o that_o the_o people_n do_v meet_v together_o unto_o the_o determination_n of_o thing_n of_o their_o common_a interest_n such_o as_o be_v the_o choice_n of_o their_o officer_n and_o the_o readmission_n of_o they_o into_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o church_n who_o have_v fall_v through_o infirmity_n in_o time_n of_o persecution_n or_o public_a offence_n and_o division_n be_v so_o evident_a in_o the_o write_n of_o cyprian_n wherein_o he_o ascribe_v unto_o they_o the_o right_n of_o choose_v worthy_a and_o of_o reject_v unworthy_a officer_n and_o tell_v they_o that_o in_o such_o case_n he_o will_v do_v nothing_o without_o their_o consent_n that_o it_o can_v be_v gainsay_v but_o hereon_o he_o ask_v where_o i_o have_v any_o reason_n to_o appeal_v to_o st._n cyprian_n for_o the_o democratical_a government_n of_o the_o church_n which_o indeed_o i_o do_v not_o do_v nor_o any_o thing_n which_o look_v like_a unto_o it_o and_o he_o add_v that_o they_o have_v this_o advantage_n from_o the_o appeal_n that_o we_o do_v not_o suppose_v any_o deviation_n then_o from_o the_o primitive_a institution_n whereas_o my_o word_n be_v positive_a that_o before_o that_o time_n there_o be_v many_o alteration_n introduce_v into_o the_o rule_n and_o order_n of_o the_o church_n such_o thing_n will_v partiality_n in_o a_o cause_n and_o aim_v at_o success_n in_o disputation_n produce_v m._n cotton_n affirm_v that_o the_o lineament_n of_o the_o congregational_a discipline_n be_v find_v in_o that_o church_n that_o there_o be_v therein_o a_o just_a representation_n of_o a_o episcopal_a church_n that_o be_v i_o presume_v diocesan_n because_o that_o alone_o be_v unto_o his_o purpose_n it_o be_v not_o lawful_a to_o make_v any_o church_n after_o the_o time_n of_o the_o apostle_n the_o rule_n of_o all_o church_n state_n and_o order_n nor_o yet_o to_o be_v absolute_o determine_v in_o these_o thing_n by_o the_o authority_n of_o any_o man_n not_o divine_o inspire_v and_o yet_o i_o can_v but_o wish_v that_o all_o the_o three_o party_n dissent_v about_o church_n order_n rule_n and_o worship_n will_v attempt_v a_o agreement_n between_o themselves_o upon_o the_o representation_n make_v of_o the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n of_o carthage_n in_o the_o day_n of_o cyprian_a which_o all_o of_o they_o lay_v some_o claim_n unto_o although_o it_o will_v be_v a_o abridgement_n of_o some_o of_o their_o pretension_n it_o may_v bring_v they_o all_o near_a together_o and_o it_o may_v be_v all_o of_o they_o in_o some_o thing_n near_o to_o the_o truth_n for_o it_o be_v certain_a 1._o that_o the_o church_n of_o carthage_n be_v at_o that_o time_n a_o particular_a church_n there_o be_v no_o more_o church_n but_o one_o in_o that_o city_n many_o occasional_a meeting_n and_o assembly_n in_o several_a place_n for_o divine_a exercise_n and_o worship_n there_o be_v but_o state_v church_n with_o officer_n of_o their_o own_o member_n peculiar_o belong_v unto_o they_o discipline_n among_o they_o such_o as_o our_o reverend_a author_n do_v afterward_o affirm_v and_o describe_v our_o parochial_a church_n to_o be_v there_o be_v none_o nor_o be_v it_o pretend_v that_o there_o be_v 2._o that_o in_o this_o one_o church_n there_o be_v many_o presbyter_n or_o elder_n who_o rule_v the_o whole_a body_n or_o community_n of_o it_o by_o common_a advice_n and_o counsel_n whether_o they_o be_v all_o of_o they_o such_o as_o labour_v in_o the_o word_n and_o doctrine_n with_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n or_o attend_v unto_o rule_n only_o it_o do_v not_o appear_v but_o that_o they_o be_v many_o and_o such_o as_o do_v not_o stand_v in_o any_o peculiar_a relation_n unto_o any_o part_n of_o the_o people_n but_o concur_v in_o common_a to_o promote_v the_o edification_n of_o the_o whole_a body_n as_o occasion_n and_o opportunity_n do_v require_v be_v evident_a in_o the_o account_n give_v of_o they_o by_o cyprian_n himself_o 3._o that_o among_o those_o elder_n in_o that_o one_o church_n there_o be_v one_o peculiar_o call_v the_o bishop_n who_o do_v constant_o preside_v among_o they_o in_o all_o church_n affair_n and_o without_o who_o ordinary_o nothing_o be_v do_v as_o neither_o do_v he_o any_o thing_n without_o the_o advice_n of_o the_o elder_n and_o consent_n of_o the_o people_n how_o far_o this_o may_v be_v allow_v for_o order_n sake_n be_v worth_a consideration_n of_o divine_a institution_n it_o be_v not_o but_o where_o there_o be_v many_o elder_n who_o have_v equal_a interest_n in_o and_o right_a unto_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n and_o the_o administration_n of_o all_o ordinance_n it_o be_v necessary_a unto_o order_n that_o one_o do_v preside_v in_o their_o meeting_n and_o consultation_n who_o custom_n give_v some_o pre-eminence_n unto_o 4._o that_o the_o people_n be_v rule_v by_o their_o own_o consent_n and_o that_o in_o thing_n of_o great_a importance_n as_o the_o choice_n of_o their_o officer_n the_o cast_v out_o and_o the_o receive_n in_o of_o lapse_v member_n have_v their_o suffrage_n in_o the_o determination_n of_o they_o 5._o that_o there_o be_v no_o imposition_n of_o liturgy_n or_o ceremony_n or_o any_o humane_a invention_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n on_o the_o church_n or_o any_o member_n of_o it_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o sole_a acknowledge_v rule_n in_o discipline_n and_o worship_n this_o be_v the_o state_n and_o order_n of_o the_o church_n of_o carthage_n in_o those_o day_n and_o although_o there_o be_v some_o alteration_n in_o it_o from_o the_o first_o divine_a institution_n of_o church_n yet_o i_o hearty_o wish_v that_o there_o be_v no_o more_o difference_n among_o we_o then_o what_o will_v remain_v upon_o a_o supposition_n of_o this_o state_n for_o what_o remain_v of_o the_o opposition_n make_v unto_o what_o i_o have_v assert_v concern_v congregational_a or_o particular_a church_n i_o may_v refer_v the_o doctor_n and_o the_o reader_n unto_o what_o have_v be_v far_o plead_v concern_v they_o in_o the_o precede_a discourse_n nor_o be_o i_o satisfy_v that_o he_o have_v give_v any_o sufficient_a answer_n unto_o what_o be_v before_o allege_v in_o the_o vindication_n but_o have_v pass_v by_o what_o be_v most_o pregnant_a with_o evidence_n unto_o the_o truth_n and_o by_o a_o mistake_n of_o my_o mind_n or_o word_n divert_v very_o much_o from_o the_o state_n of_o the_o question_n which_o be_v no_o other_o but_o what_o i_o lay_v down_o before_o yet_o i_o will_v consider_v what_o be_v material_a in_o the_o whole_a of_o his_o discourse_n on_o this_o subject_n sect_n 5._o p._n 234_o he_o say_v i_o affirm_v that_o as_o to_o the_o matter_n of_o fact_n concern_v the_o institution_n of_o congregational_a church_n it_o seem_v evident_o exemplyfy_v in_o the_o scripture_n for_o which_o i_o refer_v the_o reader_n unto_o what_o be_v now_o again_o declare_v in_o the_o confirmation_n of_o it_o and_o he_o add_v the_o matter_n of_o fact_n be_v that_o when_o church_n grow_v too_o big_a for_o one_o single_a congregation_n in_o a_o city_n than_o a_o new_a congregational_a church_n be_v set_v up_o under_o new_a officer_n with_o a_o separate_a power_n of_o government_n that_o be_v in_o that_o city_n but_o this_o be_v not_o at_o all_o the_o matter_n of_o fact_n i_o do_v not_o say_v that_o there_o be_v original_o more_o particular_a church_n than_o one_o in_o one_o city_n i_o do_v grant_v in_o the_o word_n next_o quote_v by_o he_o that_o there_o be_v not_o express_v mention_n make_v that_o any_o such_o church_n do_v divide_v itself_o into_o more_o congregation_n with_o new_a officer_n but_o this_o