the guiding and governing of the Church They are called Elders in respect of their age and office which was to govern with the Ministers and perform all private duties for the good of the congregation as necessity required as to pray wâ—th the sick to admonish reprou and joyn with the Minister in excommunication to ordain officers for the congregation and to provide by all good means for the outward good of the Church That these ought to beâ—n eveâ—y Congregation we hold firmly agaâ—â—st the maintainers of this strange and uncouth discipline And it may appear first out of Math. 18 where Christs institutes what is needfull for the Church whereof this is one secondly the Church doth what it doth not confusedly but by the ministry of some thirdly the promise is made â—n binding and roosing to two or three which imposts that though the right of the keyes bee in the whole Church yet the Ministery therof is in some few selected and chosen out for that purpose Our Saviour alludes to the custome of the Iewish Synagogues wherein there were Eldâ—rs But howsoever this place may seem too weak at first sight to build the erection of this office upon yet the practise of the Apostles withall compared and the directions they haue left to the Church in this case will put all out of doubt to him that wrangles not for himselfe and to please men To goe along therfore in the Scripture and first the Acts of the Apostles which conta ns a type and map of the primâ—tiue times and purest Chuâ—ches that ever were in the world mentâ—on these Acts 15.4 22 whâ—ch place cannot be understood but of such â—uâ—ing Elders of the people as were amongst the â—ewes not of teaching Elders For the Apostles were as the Ministeâ—s and did perform all Ministeriall duties having none their Curats under thâ—m as Bishops had afterward For Evangelist were to accompany the Apostles in planting Churches neither â—s there any mention of any such here 2 They are dâ—stinguished here both from the Church called the brethren and Apostles Neither can this title be understood of Pastors because the Apostles were wont to appoint them onely when Churches were gathered and they were to leaue them as may appear Acts 14.23 Tit. 1.5 3 These here mentioned are as assistants to the Apostles governing and ordering the Churches businesse as both here and Acts 21 where they are present with the Apostles and in none other office nor use imployed but onely this Lastly Paul and Barnabas and some others came up to Ierusalem to the Apostles and Elders which had caâ—e of the Discipline and Religion with them The third place is Rom. 12.8 he that rules in or with dilligence where first the Apostle distinguisheth this ruling both from the ministery of the Word and from distributing and shewing mercy Hence therfore there must be some to rule in the church 2 Men are charged according to their callings and measure of gifts received to exercise themselues for the churches good who sees not plainly that the Regiment of the church is not in one Lord Bishops hand since Bishops are not in each congregation where they rule 2 That this ought to be where the Ministry of the Word is 3 This diligence cannot be meant of a three yeares visitation nor yearly Synods wherein presentments are Rece ved what bold and impudent face once dare think so wickedly of the Apostles but of that continuall care and oversight which they should shew towards the sheep of Christ which ever need some spirituall medâ—cine and Phisick for their soules 4 A fourth place is 1 Cor. 12.28 where the Apostle reckons up the severall gifts and offices which God himselfe hath set and appointed in his church Apostles are chiefe then Prophets and Governments There the Apostle distinguisheth Governments from the Ministry of the word 2 Being appointed by the Lord none can remoue them but he againe 3 The Lord giues extraordinary meanes for soule and body in extraordinary times when a church is to be planted because there want ordinary means 2 to procure the more authority and respect to the church then and ever he giues sufficient 4 The Lord hath sâ—t government in the church which the Magistrate cannot alter 5 The church is a perfect body that hath members sufficient to uphold and mâ—nâ—ster to all its own necessities neither is this to be neglected that the holy Ghost both here and Rom. 12 sets Government after Deaconship as though hee saw how some would arise and conjoyn things severed by the Lord which to preveÌ„t he shews these are not to be so conjoyned as though the Minister should haue all the government in his own hands but some speciall persons are to be assiâ—nâ—d whâ—ch may govern the Minister themselues 5 1 Tim. 4.14 with imposition of hands of the Presbytery which is to be understood of the Colledge of Presbyters contayning these amongst others For these had a speciall hand in electing and ordaining all church-officers 2 these joyned in making decrees for the government of the church Act. 15 therfore much more in executing of them 3 Timothy was called ordinarily at first not to be an Evangelist as appears Acts 16 Paul called him to that after the Churches had witnessed of him 4 The Apostle Paul Acts 20 speaks to them amongst others that they â—â—ould tend the Church and they hav ng government in their hands were to suffer no wolues to come in But because men of a contentious spirit whose greatest hopes depend upon the contrary discipline will haâ—dly yeeld tâ—ll plain force driue them nay force of the word will not till the sword of the Magistrate compells therfore the next place is 1 Tim. 5.17 in deluding of which place many sweat much in vaine for the Apostâ—e being to giue direction to Timothy how to carry himselfe in the Church of God shews h m his duty towards every condition as widdows in the beginning of th s chapter next Elders and such as rule well are worthy of double honour especially such as labour in the word and doctrine which first words implyes necessarily that there were then in the Church Elders that did govern the Churches which did not labour in the word and doctrine 2 Such ought to be had in speciall account that doe rule well 3 Such as labour in the word and doctâ—ine ought more to be respected then they that onely governe 4 That all Mâ—nâ—sters are to haue a specâ—all hand in the governing of the Churches commuted to them I will not much insist upon this place more for I know some adversaries need not so much convâ—ct on as to haue their hâ—aâ—ts perswaded Pray thou that readest that the Lord would perswade them to dwell in the tâ—nts of Shem and be content to suffer here with their brethren that thâ—y may â—aâ—gn with Christ hereafter Many adversaries will not set themselues to learn the tâ—â—th but being drunk with selfe-concert thâ—nk nothing good
wine but what they draw then selues But the Lord reveales himselfe to the humble There was never doctrine so vile but preferment and riches made â—t finde favorâ—tes Thâ—s the practâ—ce of the Church and test mony of the ancient witnesseth Ciprian Ambrose Tertullian c. By all whâ—ch may be understood Hebr. 13.17 Where obedience to their leaders is injoyned now these were Elders preaching and lay which had the government then of the Church therfore Christians are bound to subject to these 2 That of Iam. 5.14 send for the Elders of the Church may well be understood of this order of Elders being to perform many private duties specially â—f the Ministers should either be publiquely imployed or necessarily hindred 3 That Rev. 4.4 lâ—ving creatures having six wings full of eyes whâ—ch vision is of the â—â—â—bâ—e Church and fitly expounded For by wings are the helps meant which are spoken of 1 Cor. 12.28 and eyes that are within are the Elders which are as eyes for the people to see by and informing the Minister of their estate they fit him the better to speak unto the people which place so expounded is far more forcible to perâ—wade for this discipline then Apoc. 2 so expounded for Lordbishops for that exposition agrees not with the Scripture it wants all proofe of holy Wrâ—t to uphold â—t It agrees not with the practise of the Apostles who in Ephesus and Philippi set many that had the name and nature of Bishops as is plain both in Acts 20.28 and Phil 1.1 This agrees not with the word Angell who in this place signifies all that labour in word and dâ—scipline beâ—ng sent of God to the churches as the context proues in all the churches And as this poâ—nt hath testimony of Scriptures and of the Ancient so may it appear in all sound reason to be most fit for the church of Christ 1 To omit that this was in use amongst the Iewes in time of the old Testament and no way ceremoniall nor judâ—ciall but morall which the light of nature taught the Gentils after a sort in their civil government who with their Consuls had their Senate 2 Because the Apostles would not haue Ministers hindred in their study but to take heed to reading and med tatâ—on that they may by searching the Scriptures be made wâ—se to salvation and perfectly be furnished to every good work Therfore it is fitting there should be men of wisedom gravity and respect chosen to oversee the people and obserue their manners and doe lesse businesses in admonition and correctien 3 This best benefits the simplicity of the Gospell and of the Church now in the time of the new Testament where all outward pompe ceaseth which was used before in the Leviticall Priesthood to figure oâ—t Christs heavenly and wonderfull graces 4 To haue Churches so combined and consociated under one high Priest is meerly Iewish which was to signifie all ought to be subject to Christ the great high Priest who is come and alike in all if there be equall gifts All congregations are equall none having power one over an other and therfore each is to haue its Governours 5 Every congregation being a true church and so a perfect body should and must haue power to preseru it selfe by expelling and removing the dissolute and electing nâ—w officers 6 God hath given gifts unto men for this end which being so imployed bring great good and benefit to men further the Ministery keep all in good order and prevent dangers in the bâ—g nning 7 The Question being betwixt Lordbishops and these the expulsion of them is the introduction of these 8 There is no such danger in this government of corrupt on as where one man hath al in his hands he may corrupt a whole Dâ—ocesse nay Kingdom but thâ—se though evill corrupt but their own congregations 2 Here men are prone to be over-carried with antiquity the place being so eminent and the power so great but experience testifieth that where this government is used there is a more speciall blessing of God more purity and beauty in the face of these Churches wicked men are sooner found and more terrified But of this more hereafter Here one Question may be propounded that is why is not the duty of these set down in the Scriptures nor their names Answ A description of the Bishop and Presbyter is a discription of these Elders that are Bishops 1 Overseers of the flocks for these places contain rather a descript on of their sufficiency and morall part and holy conversation which ought to be in these though in a more excellent measure in the Pastors and Teachers then of the applying of them to these ministeriall duties which are proper to the Pastors This is plaine to all that considerately peruse the Texts And this answer is grounded on that 1 Tim. 5.17 where the Apostle intimats the work is an excellent work of them that rule well else why are they to haue double honour 2 Cals them by the same name that Pastors are stiled by as in the former places of Scripture If it be said their duty is not assigned the Answer is plain their office is to rule by the sword of the Spirit Word and churches censures reproofe and excommunication The rule and lawes are the word the manner is to be according to the practise of these duties in Scriptures being admonition reproof and excoÌ„munication of each wherof we haue severall and manifold examples Object 2. This brings men into base subjection which â—s not fit nor that men of state should be subject to such mean officers Answ 1 No Officer that Christ hath appointed ought to be accounted mean or bâ—se 2 It is not a subjection unto men but to the ordinance of Christ 3 Men are no more subject to these Elders then they are to be to the Ministry of the Word 4 It is nothing impairing the state or dignâ—ty of any one whatsoever for they are not to meddle w th these things but as Phisitians Surgeons seek the curing of diseases in the soules Ob. 3. If â—t be said now men are petty Popes there being none to over rule them The answer is plain here are many to rule Pastor Teacher Elder 1 These are bound strictly to the rule of the Word 2 Besides the Church may say to Archippus Take heed c. Col. 4.17 3 Other neighbour churches may ought to admonish them which if it take no place they are altogether to declare their judgment touching such a Congregation 4 The civill Magistrate is and ought to punish every congregation the leaders especially into sin and errour according to the quality and degree of their offence if they doe not conform to the right manner of worshipping God SECTION IX FRom this whâ—ch hath been shewed both against Diocesan Bishops and in just fying the wisâ—dom of God in lay Elders as they are called each may see what we are to judge of the Officers now in use amongst
CERTAIN OBSERVATIONS OF THAT REVEREND religious and faithfull servant of God and glorious Martyr of Iesus Christ M. RANDAL BATE which were part of his daily meditations in the time of his sufferings whilst he was prisoner in the Gatehouse at Westminster THE FIRST SECTION Every part of Wisedom is from heaven from the father of Lights MOst glorious and eternall Lord God which hast vouchsafed by Iesus Christ in all times to publish thy counsell and holy wil to thine own people raised sufficient witnesses against superstition and wil-worship For the clearing of thy truth vouchsafe thy presence with thy weak servant in this businesse that desires thy glory and the good of thy people That so much of thy truth as is needfull for our times may be plainly made manifest to the conscience and heart of all that belong unto thee Lord thou hast appointed Iesus Christ to be our Shepheard and promised thy Word and Spirit should not leaue thy people Thou hast brought us to be partakers of the first resurrection and drawn us out of the world to know thee in part and loue thy name Oh therfore send thyne annoynting eye-salue and cause such a light from heaven to shine in our dark hearts as all contrary thoughts and conceits that rebel against Christ his Kingdom may be subdued all lukewarmenesse may be expelled and that all with one heart and free perswasion of minde may worship thee the onely King and Lawgiver of the Church according to thy will in the unity of the Spirit Amen IN all times deare brethren and much beloved it hath been found true that satan sowes tares where the Lord hath sown wheat which come up in the night so secâ—etly and are so like the wheat that they are scarce discerned by any till they haue overgrown the corne and choaked the same nay which is more Errours never want men very busy and dilligent in tending and nourishing them so that if they haue not the chiefe place and be kept with all observance you shall see their Patrones fly in mens faces for the least neglect This too lamentable experience of the Churches condition sufficiently proveth amongst both Iewes and Gentiles For the lying serpent though he study to poyson all mens soules with damnable doctrine yet more principally the visible Church wh ch being a fountaine of living waters troubled by him filthy streames must needs flow thence to all the world Besides when the Church corrupts Gods worship in whole or in part devising any thing of her own it greatly hardens wicked men in their superstitions and devised Religions who seeing the same outside in the Religion of God which they themselues follow are hindred from discerning the graue and simple Majesty of Gods true worship thinking this to be but like their own an invention of men or at least that men are not altogether taught of God in this way nor receiue all that they professe from him alone but doe borrow many things and devise some of their owne to beautifie that which by forra gne beauty is evermore deformed sowcing an old patch of a different colour into a new garment which makes a rent where all was well before To prevent wh ch offence though unfittest I acknowledge of any I haue undertaken th s small Treatise wherein farre be t from me to seek any disgrace of the State because I d scover some corruptions in the Church for it is the Ministe s duty to reproue With much thankefulnesse we all acknowledge Gods mercy towards us in the light and liberty we haue injoyed by meanes of three renoumed Princes whereof two are fallen asleep and one now the Lords annointed surviveth on whom the Lord multiply all graces of his Spirit Neither doe I thinke that men of any reasonable understanding wiâ— think the publi hing of the t uth in a plaine manner any disgrace if it be done in way of exhortation for suppose I should erre in judgment yet the thing being done in loue and humility with all respect and due regard unto the State I doubt not but his Majesty and the State under him wil take it as a fruit of loue from him that unfeynedly seeks their peace and happinesse I know it will be said we are factious and sowe discord and therefore deserue sharpe punishment for troubling the quiet and peace of the State But mens cenâ—ures doe not feare me nor is my life precious unto me so as my race may be run with joy and a good conscience whether I â—iue it is unto Christ and for h m or whether I dye it is unto him and for his Glory And let not any of our oppositâ—s dream but the Lord will raise up such by his Spirit that shall repâ—oue thâ—se remainders of superst tion more and more â—â—aâ—ply till he come himself in his own person He will not be overcome by men but will set up his Christ in all his Ordinances As for troubling the State I professe I doe not trouble the land for we adhere to Christ and walk by his light onely And let all men know it is farre better they should heare the sharpest reproofes that doe most cut then feeâ—e the smaâ—t hand of God for continuing unreformed which men cannot but look for if they goe on in this way which the Lord hath â—o often reproved and dehorted us from Many I suppose on the other hand will blame and censure me because I t ach not an utter depaâ—ture from a corrupt form of worship whom I doe seriously desire to peruse the grounds herein conteyned for their satisfaction in this point Wherfore considering no just cause of offence is given to any for the substance of the matter especially and the necessity there is to witnesse the truth I haue published this to settle the judgement and informe the conscience of them that want better means I know and see what an hinderance it is to many in mayn points and duties of Religion to doubt in matters of small moment in shew and circumstantiall I know how many mens hearts are torn each from other and divided about these things Many going further on the right hand in detestation of errours then they are called by the Lord Doe not these call upon every man for the use of his tallent that the hey and stubble built on the foundation may be removed by the approach of the light and all may walk in one way making truth and peace to kisse each other Onely there are two things yet questionable 1 For the maner of handling these controversies it seemes nothing fit that such plain and simple stuffe should be brought to the building of the Tabernacle especially there be ng so many men of excellent parts furnished with all manner of learning and sound judgement that might travell with more successe in this businesse To which I answer from my heart that I could with it to be so and â—f they be not otherwise imployed I doe desire them
spirit and follow corrupt nature that studies more to please it selfe and men then to please the Lord. This giues way to all idolatry whatsoever Apoc. 21 the fearful haue their portion with idolaters It is to giue away the Lords right and makes men they cannot with any zeale or loue preach or practice the main truthes of God Our Saviour Christ refused to be subject to the Pharisies washings a ceremony out of Gods worship not corrupted so by idolaters but in other kinds commanded and appointed by God 10 A thing indifferent having holinesse put in it ceaseth to be indifferent and becomes simply evil and abominable for then it is will-worship as the brazen serpent 2 God onely must sanctifie things Relatiuely for an holy use Io. 2 Mark 11. 11 That is not a thing indifferent which the holy Scriptures hath commanded or forbidden in generall or speciall in any infallible example or by consequence For every man is bound to the will of God simply being made known That men are bound to examples it may appear 1 Because the Holy Ghost records them for our learning and practice Rom. 15 Christs example is brought to proue we must not please our seâ—â— es so that divine examples binde when they are not against a divine Rule 2 It is the manner of Scripture to propound divers duties onely in examples because they moue much 3 Infallible examples were guided immediately by the holy Ghost and therefore are sure rules for us to follow even in circumstances And see Math. 21 how our Saviour Christ proues by consequence the resurrection against the Sadduces 12 Circumstances of holy actions are commanded by the Lord in the generall as time to meet to hear the word and receiue Sacraments the Table to set bread and wine upon but in the particular the Church may appoint what is fittest for order and edification from the generall rules and examples of holy Scriptures ever knowing we are bound to follow the Traditions and Ordinances of Christ and his Apostles as they they haue delivered them unto us 1 Corinth 11.12 13 This word onely is to be understood in every commandement yea in every part of Gods worship so as no other god may be adored saue Iâ—hovah nor after any other manner then he commands Mat. 4.10 with Deut. 6.10 For to fear the Lord and keep his commandemants is the whole duty of man 2 Men going beyond the bounds appointed by the Lord sin against him 3 Men are expresly tyed to the Law and Testimony Isa 8. 4 Men are in darknesse and know not which way they walk except the light of the word guide them 2 Pet. 1. 14 Every particular Congregation assembled lawfully in the name of Christ that is after his own institution with the Officers given and appointed hath full liberty of her â—elfe to execute Discipl ne being independant to any other Ecclesiasticall power on earth whatsoever Math. 18 Having reproved the offender by 2 or 3 then tell the Church or Congregation after which is no higher power Whatsoever they binde on earth is bound in heaven Paul reproved the Corinthians that they had not excommunicated the incestuous person Buâ—erus ibi totum Christi Regnum there is Christs whole Kingdom neither may any take away that which Christ hath given for upon his shoulders is the government and he hath all authority and will haue it thus dispensed wherfore if Naboth would not sell the inheritance of his fathers much lesse may wee sell the inheritance of Christ Nor did Christ subject one Congregation to another for that step to the Popedome came in long after And all Pastors being equall by Gods institution are forbidden to exercise authority one over an other or expect any such title as may import it or affect preeminence like Diotrophes 15 Commanding or following humane Traditions for carnall policy or good intent brings an utter ruin and insensible judgement upon any Kingdom Hos 5 witnesse Ieroboam in the Kingdom of Israel Gideon for making the Ephod Then men 1 grow strangers from Gods own worship 2 To think Religion is but a devise of man 3 They put down the servants of the Lord 4 They despise and resist the Lords word brought by his servants 16 Of all men Ministers are bound to abhorre the least reliques of idolatry and can be least forced to the use therof Lev. 21.5 For first they draw neerest unto the Lord who is a consuming fire and will be sanctified in them that come neer him 2 Ministers must leade the people in this as in other duties 3 The most zealous servants of God haue been ever very forward against all superstitious monuments 4 Magistrates and people haue a speciall charge Lev. 21.5 to sanctifie the Priest which was then the Lords Minister 17 The Church hath not all her light at once nor by one instrument Christ comes to his people as the Sun riseth first the day dawnes then darknesse is quite expelled and at last the Sunne is in his strength For 1 the servants of God at first doe set themselues against the great and maine corruptions of the time as Luther and the former servants of God did against the foundations of Babell 2 The Lords manner is to proceed from lesser to greater as may evidently be seen in the six daies work in the creation of the world 3 All men receiue the spirit but by measure and for a speciall work 4 That the Church might be carefull to bring forth many children to God and fervently and ardently to pray for the conversion of the Iewes at whose coming home wonderfull light shall appear to the whole world 18 A whole visible Church when it abounds with men of excellent graces for Magistrates and Ministers may yet omit duties commanded by the Lord and doe many things without warrant from the Scriptures So in all the daies of the Iudges and good Kings they on itted keeping of the feast of Boothes as it appeares They sacrificed in the high places in Iehosaphats time So the first and purest times after Christ began shortly in many ceremonies to bee too superstitious For 1 much ignorance is in us all and Gods Spirit is promised to lâ—ade us no further then wee doe take heed to the Word 2 In things absolutely necessary 3 The Church is too carelesse in some things and we all are too prone to rest before wee haue done our whole work 19 Consent of Writers Orthodoxall is had though not mentioned where Scripture is plain for any point This appeares 1 because the Church is led by the same Spirit the Scriptures were penned and inspired by 2 God hath in all times and ages some witnesses to stand for him and his truth 3 Gods children haue the same minde and walk in one way This consent is either in the grounds and common principles though they doe not come to the particulars because these things were not then controverted Or in will and heart as if such truthes
had been propounded to Iohn Hus and Ierom of Prage as are now they would haue heard and approved the voice of Christ or in the like of that kinde as in all ages Gods servants haue to fight against and doe evercome some speciall enemies and corruptions that trouble the Church So Wickliffe in his time against some errours of the Romish Synagogue Luther against more Calvin and Beza against more 20 Reason inlightned and guided by the spirit of God and subject to the Word is the voice of God This is part of the image of God even that wisedom which God renewes by his Spirit Mat. 12.13 This holds so as these cautions be observed 1 The Scriptures must be the ground upon which reason is built The Scriptures are the premisses reason drawes the conclusion from thence 2 The like reasoning appeares in the Scripture 3 That mans reason be never used against any part of Scriptures nor experience for either Scriptures or experience to the contrary overthrows all the shewes of reason 4 So as men by reason presume not to understand the deep things of God that is the mysteries of Religion which the Scriptures reveales not Col. 2.5 Reason must submit to the Word and beleeue the truth therof though wee cannot conceiu the manner how it should be Ioh. 3.6 Reason especially in divine things and the worship of God serues onely as a watchman to discern what the will of God is which is our wisedom Deut. 4. So then part of our faith must be built upon reason thus informed It is a thing no lesse dangerous then odious to meddle with Princes authority not that they themselues cannot endure any higher power though naturally all men would be as Gods but chiefly because inchanting flatterers seek to bewitch Princes and themselues being voide of all conscience of duty towards God full of hatred towards his children and divellish blinde zeale for superstition and selfe loue towards themselues and would perswade Princes as Iesabel did Ahab that because they are Kings they may doe what they please and usurp not mens onely but Gods right too and sit in his Chair Such were they that came to Ioash 2 Chron. 24. Such were Davids enemies And these men to the intent they may bring about their divelish and malicious intendments pretend to be the onely true hearted subjects in the Kingdom and that men of another disposition though farre more faithfull to God and his Magistrates yet dissenting severing from their errours and not bowing down to them are factious and trouble the peace of the Kingdom So did Haman report of the Iewes Esth 3. And that their accusation may not seem frivolous they bring some complaints for the breach of lawes devised by themselues as snares to take the righteous in no way tending to the safety or honour of the Prince or the publique good of the Church or Common-wealth Though these men abound in every age and by their policies raâ—se themselues to high placâ—s their kingdom being of this world and the Lord disposing and appointing them as scourges for his own people yet because it is the Churches duty to teach all the truth and seek the good of mens soules and of Princes especially by whose meanes so much good is injoyed and that this is true loue to shew the way of life though it be by sharp reproofes therefore for Princes good â—f so be the wise and gracious God so appoint that these things may be vâ—iwed of them and for the peoples good that they may know how to cary themselues towards Authority I haue indevoured from the rule of justice that appoints every man his standing and office and bounds them with strait charge that none shall passe the lists prescribed to man fest this point which I acknowledge is farre fitter for the more judicious to haue handled The name of Kings and Princes is sacred they are stiled Gods by the Lord himselfe and children of the most High next to himselfe to be honoured of all men Wherefore from the Scriptures these things following are evident concerning them 1 That this high calling is an Ordinance of God immutably to continue for the good of man till Christ restore the Kingdom to his Father for it is morall and of necessity never abrogated by God This all firmly hold against Anabaptists Secondly for their authority that they are highest and supreme in both kinds civill and ecclesiasticall this is plain â—n David Salomon Iosiah who were chiefe the high Priest being under them the Prophets in like manner This is not doubted of therefore no stay is to be made in it The onely question and thing is 1 That Princes haue authority in things Ecclesiasticall to see the service of God done in due and beseeming manner so did David so did Iosiah This authority is in ordering fit circumstances in performing holy duties as times of meeting and of humbling themselues by fasting c. Princes are bound to this for the carelesse serving of God brings judgement upon the people 1 Cor. 11.2 The more care they haue for the Lord to be reverenced the more carefull will he be of their honour Psal 2. 2 Princes haue authority to examine and try all canons and constitutions of men to see that nothing bee thrust into the Church by deceivers This authority is in binding Ministers to the true word of God both for matter and manner in preaching prayer administring Sacraments and execution of discipline Thus they are straightly bound to keep the charge of the Lord 2 Chron. 13. The Magistrate is the keeper of both Tables this is the treasure of his Kingdom that which makes him victorious against enemies the happinesse of his own soule and his subjects the glory of God and the good of posterity 3 Princes haue authority to bring all things both Callings and Ordinances to tho first inst tution abrogating all former customes and pract ses which dissent from the Law of God and disanull such statutes as make them to be in force and credite So did Iosiah reform Salomons errours and all the idolatry set up before This reacheth to the overthrow of all Antichristian rites that are brought into the house of God This he is bound unto in the second commandement So did Moses break in peaces the golden Calfe and the good Kings took away the Groues and high places their ancestors had set up Magistrates must not suffer whorish bravery to be provoking the eyes of Gods glory Thus did our Saviour Christ 4 Prâ—nces haue authority to remoue things of a good use at first when they be corrupted and abused and of no use So did Ezekiah the brazen serpent This reacheth to all things not actually abused but in danger to be abused such were Idoll Temples that the good Emperour overthrew So may the Magistates remoue Witnesses out of Baptism now bâ—ing unprofitable This rule they are bound unto both by the second and third commandement by that care they owe to
HAving hitherto treated of some mayne grounds of the Magistrates authority the pillar of arbitrary government It remaines to come to the controversie concerning the persons by whom the Church is to be governed In handling whereof I desire the Christian Reader well to weigh the grounds against the form so much extolled now a dayes I know there are three special things that make men otherwise not evill-minded quâ—te rejâ—â—t our cause whâ—ch hee that wâ—ll jâ—dge â—â—ght of must lay aside else he shall bâ—â— blâ—ndâ—d so as he cannot dâ—scern the truth 1 The first is long and ancient custom in the Church of Christ wh ch to many is a law standâ—ng in great force For thâ—s first poâ—nt know there is no prescription against the King mâ—ch lesse against the King or heaven and even the best Churches haue had bad customes wâ—tnesse the Patrâ—aâ—kes Polligamy in doâ—ng evill and the omission of the feast of Boothes which was not kept from Ieshua till Iosiah Therfore thou must not so look what this or that man that were before thee haue done as what Christ the ancient of dares hath commanded thee to doe And the longer by any forged evidence his right hath been kept from him the more sâ—ould every one striue in his place to set him in possesâ—â—on again 2 A gâ—eat Obstacle is the allowance of the Magistrate of this government therfore sâ—ch as stand aga nst this form seem to derogate from Pr ncâ—s authority For thâ—t then though I know t dangerous to meddle w th â—uch persons yet the controversie being twâ—xt God and man who feares not the Lord more then all men Therefore this must firmly be held ever That the best Princes are subject to command appoint things unlawfull and hurtfull to the people Thus did David in numbring of the people thus Salomâ—n 2 The Magistrate is overborn with shews of reason as though this were the most profitable form So the sinne lies heavy upon them that perswade him 3 They that are the Defendants farre more incroach upon the Magistrates right then we doe As God willingâ—â— all be shewed in the things that follow hereafter 4 Reade in Hos 5 the great sin of the Isâ—aâ—lites for following the command of the Prince in subjecting themselues to the Trad tions then in force For Magistrates as they haue all authority from the God of heaven so ought they and all others to obey absolutely so far as may stand with his good pleasure Men must not like flattering Athiests imagine that Princes commands eâ—ther justifie evill or abolish the nature of that whâ—ch is good A third let is old Adam yet raignâ—ng in men which is the greatest enemy to the Kingdom of Christ and in this â—gnorance in many makes them stand for the present government dreaming that we would haue a strange confusion in the Church of Chrâ—st not conceiving what order was established in the Apostles time and that this order now in place keeps out the order which the Lord himselfe hath established Therefore reade first I beseech you brethren and then judge righteous judgment we would haue Christ raigne over all and each keep in that compasse he hath appointed doing their severall offices without intermedling with strange businesses which weaken and unfit them for the Churches service A second argument of corrupt nature is carnall desire of liberty which is the strongest adversary to beat down and vanquish For men haue ever resolved to break the bonds of Christ and not to haue him raign over them This makes many to rage and blaspheme the contrary form to these times because they are like untamed heyfers that cannot bear the yoke of Christ This should rather perswade against this present form of government since men naturally are enemies to God and cannot brook the Ordinances rightly to be administred and sâ—condly that to suffer men to haue their own will is a thing most dangerous to them as to the Israelites in choosing their King or obtaining Quailes Oh consider thou man that art called a Christian how thy disobedient life causeth the way of God to be evill spoken of and so thou layest stumbling blocks before Papists and Turkes and bringest fearfull woes upon thy selfe This comes in part for want of strict discipline and therefore be content to deny thy selfe and fall not upon Christ And ô yee that sit in the throne of God make way that Christ this King of glory may come in and set up his throne amongst us outwardly Many objections against this truth are brought especially the antiquity of Diocesan Bishops which haue been even since the Apostles times the seven Angels Rev. 2.3 they say were Diocesan Bishops and Histories mention the being and continuance of them in the Church To this it is and may be truely answered That there are divers kinds of Bishops 1 Apostolicall which onely are parishionall these were Pastors Teachers and Elders 2 Such as were Pastors onely though over many Churches such were the Bishops of the Primitiue times 3 Diocesan Bishops which came in afterwards and so they rose till they came to the Popedom That Diocesan Bishops were in the Apostles times it wants all shew of reason as is proved sufficiently before For that out of Rev. 2. 3 I referre the Reader to the discourse betwixt Mr. Downam and the Answerer of hâ—s Sermon Onely consider that cannot possibly be meant of Diocesan Bishops For Acts 20 Paul left none such but there all Elders are Bishops 2 All Ministers are Angels therfore it cannot be meant of Diocesan Bishops 3 It is against all hâ—istorie both Divine and Ecclesiasticall to bring in any such consoc ation of Churches witnesse the Centuries 4 The Lord if there had been divers Congregations in those places would haue spoken as Paul doth Gal. 1 To the Churches of Galatia to the Angell of the Church of Ephesus c. 1 It may be demanded how these could creep into the Church and men never espy them Answ Those first times were very troublesome which cunning and deceitfull men make their advantage for they fish in troublâ—d waters best of all 2 In Cities there was but one Congregâ—tâ—on when the churches were first planted and so but one Pastor which was called Bâ—shop onely which when the Church increased more congregations were established yet continued his carefull oversight which was then his Bishoprick not so much for desire of preeminence as either of ignorance of his duty in this kinde or provident care and respect such had of their brethren 3 Men gaue reason and caâ—nall policy too great rule both in ceremonies and discipline and the Church then labouring with contentâ—ons thought that the appointing of one over the rest would bee a meanes to still all and keep them in order 4 Men being chosen at first as arbitrators rather then Iudges for the excellency of their graces and deserts to the Church then for any authority of their places Others following in the same
not haue omitted if they had judged this form best and fitting For they set down both by precept and example what respect and regard is due to other Churches much more would they haue set down what respect men owe to their Diocesan And particularizing the duties of servants to their Masters and people to their Ministers Did they not adde some precepts how Minister and People should obey their Ordinary This argument holds firmly especially considering the Apostle Iohn survived all the other Apostles who saw the state of the Congregations and wrote the prophecie of the future estate of the Church what it should suffer Without question if there had been any such innovation he would haue mentioned it 2 Our Saviour Christ Mat. 18 from the reproofe of one or two referres it to the Congregation not to a Diocesan Bishop and ratifies in heaven what they doe in his name heâ—re on earth If they could produce any such promise and direction for their Diocesan Bishops we would with all willingnesse subject unto them for we stand out for Christ not for our selues 3 The Apostles wrote unto the Churches as Parishionall not Diocesan Gal. 1.2 to the Churches of Galatia 1 Pet. 5.2 which argues that â—n these dayes they were free and entire not having such dependance of an other by bond and duty 4 Every Congregation had power to exercise all discipline to elect their own officers and to depose as occasion and necessity required 1 Cor. 5 Rom. 16 Cenchrea had her Deacon and was a Church Ioh. epist 3 Acts 14. 5 The Apostle Iohn reproved Diotrephes that affected superiority 3 epist and that he cast out such as the Church would haue received or reteâ—ned 6 There is no such title given to any in all the Scriptures as argue they had any soveraignty or rule over other Congregations Now titles are Symbola rerum notes and evidences of things signified by them and the Scripture giues each other for the purpose and office fitting titles 7 It was in use in the times of the primitiue Church as both the Acts of the Apostles and the Ecclesiasticall history witnesse that one Church should help an other in all duties both in soule and body without exercising authority one over another so did Ierusalem Antioch and Samaria When they doubted in like manner of any question if private answer could not satisfie publique Synods were appointed Act. 15 other consociation then this the Church knew none till at least three or foure hundred years after Christ neither can an Author of credit be brought to the contrary as witnesse Centuriae Magdeburgenses Now as this Diocesan Church hath no ground in Scriptures nor in antiquity till things began to decline so neither can it haue any being in true reason as may appear by these Reasons Reas 1. Because whole Christ is where his Word is preached and Sacraments administred There is his whole Kingdom This is Bucers Argument to proue Discipline in every Congregation and not to haue them depend one upon an other in every Congregation there is the Word and Sacraments 2 It is most fit in all sense that the Ministers which teach should also exercise Discipline as those which haue most exact knowledg of the persons amongst whom they liue Secondly as they that are to giue account for the people And thirdly that preach to them and therfore are to govern theÌ„ outwardly which is lesse then to preach Fourthly as they that are hereby to maintain there respect and place by the sword which the Lord hath given them 3 This conceit raysed up by the Pope and partly holds him up till this day For if there may be Diocesan Churches why not universall Both sprâ—ng and are grounded upon the same sandy foundation of carnall policy and from time to time still nourished by Ambition Why doe men then take the one being alike and leaue the other 4 This excludes that holy communion which every Congregation might haue one with an other as it was in the Primitiue times when they sent to the neighbour Churches who were not slack either to send Ministers or letters wherby they might be informed and receiue satisfaction in all doubts wheras now many Churches are bound to one mans pleasure and arbitrament whom by his definitiue sentence determining matters though never so unrighteously men are bound to obey as their ordinary without further adoe 5 The Lord was wont howsoever the Apostles and Prophets were ceased yet to raise up men of excellent gifts and graces who like the Iudges amongst the Israelites with their light after a sort directed the whole Church not by any authority but as the Modern Divines Calvin Beza Bucer P. Martyr and the rest by manifesting the good will of the Lord. Now men by bringing in this devise of theirs haue stopt the course of Gods blessing as much as in them lies 6 This hath brought the people to exceeding trouble bondage and costs it brings in a rabble of Appaâ—ators that sell sin and procure pardons for others which doings officers with the Proctors and the rest what blemish are they to our Protestant reformed Churches To conclude all with that place before mentioned Acts 20 Ministers are to take heed to all their Flock which these cannot doe Secondly they must be set over the flock by the Holy Ghost Now what hee doth hee doth by the Word which is flat against these therfore there is no Diocesan Church Thirdly neither can whole Diocesses and Provinces come together to hear their Shepheards and Pastors which were fit wheras thus in all their life many neither see nor know him that pretends to be over them as their Bishop 7 Is not this a tying of the Church to places and persons to binde men to Bishops seas like that sea of Rome Wherfore Brethren yee that haue been deceived think not scorn to learn from one inferiour farre in gifts in these things But hearken to the Lord that it may goe well with you You see you haue no evidence for these places but prescription and possession which though with men they may seem good yet with the Lord they are nothing he respects not custom nor long continuance of time but the right and that which was from the beginning Wherfore look as the men that had marryed them wiues of the heathens at Nehemiaes command put them away so since you haue undertaken a strange charge such as the Lord forbids dare not to continue not He that will forsake father and mother house and lands for Christs names sake shall receiue an hundred fold even in this life besides assurance of heaven A great reward is in this promise of God and should be valued by you more worth then all the present honours and possessions you are endowed by man with all Wherefore consider what an offer the Lord makes to buy your places of you wheras he might throw you out as usurpers at a deare rate he offers an 100 fold If men
lightly passed over And the rather because they must liue in some pompe and worldly dignity and haue so many in their courts which liue upon the same meanes By this we may discerne what to judge of their excommunications for there ought to be for open sinnes unrepented of the persons being admonished therof and to be denounced by the Mâ—nister and agreed upon by the whole Church Whese therfore the cause is meerly good for which men are excommunicated that is to say either for performing some Christ an duty or refusing subjection to mens tradâ—tions in the service of God there Christ absolues Ioh. 9. 2 When it is not done by the church that hath the keies but by some usurper that hath no right unto it it is like the sentence of a drunken man upon an other to be hanged or stabd because he will not pledg him or carrouse No mans sentence but the Iudges condemns nor any but they that God appoints judges Neither may men seek absolution from them for they haue no authority 2 Their excommunication is the crosse the Lord would haue men bear if we cannot avoide 3 They sever us but from the world and driue us neerer to Christ 4 It maintaines them in their usurpation covetousnesie and prâ—dâ— to seeke unto them Quest 2. Whether a man may sue in their courts Answ For causes Ecclesiasticall oâ— criminall which come within compasse of the to be punished I think â—â—s unlawfull For 1 men must rather protest against this woâ—k of darknesse 2 These things may and ought to be ordered by Arbâ—tâ—ators if it be possible if the lawfull Magistrate fail suffer all c. And the a gument against suing one another 1 Cor. 6 holds more firmly against this first those were lawfull courts these unlawfull secondly it was scandalous then so it is here for they are as great enemies to sincere Religion as these were thirdly though a mans cause be never so good yet thou being one that fearest God truely they will sentence thee and pronounce unrighteous judgement against thy person not minding the justice of thy cause For a good man makes a good cause bad there as an evill man procures favour to a bad cause fourthly their authority is as Ecclesiasticall which is not in the Kâ—ngs power to grant but must proceed from Christ fifthly they haue lost the keyes to whom they were gâ—ven Wee haue spoken of the first of those call ngs which flowing from the office of Diocesan Bishops is unlawfull Now of the second that as Church wardens comprehending those other bound to the same things they are enjoyned to Against which though the former grounds overthrow theâ—r callâ—ng yet more speciall are to be adjoyned because it â—s hard to root out any such long customary office though unlawfull For besides that most men preferre custome before the law of God they doe not once make scruple of any thing â—stablished but swaâ—low all that is presented unto them without examination Wherfore that with more facility wee may end this controversie obserue these grounds 1 That all men are bound to preseru that liberty which Chrâ—st hath purchased and bestowed upon them Gal. 5.1 And we are expresly b dden that men should not haue dominion over us eâ—ther over our soules to beleeu ye ld to what they teach Col. 2 or bodies in spiritual consideration for we are Christs 2 Every subject is bound to fight and striue with spirituall weapons â—or Christs Government and Kingdom to be set up where he is 3 That the meanest office under an unâ—awfull forme of goveâ—nment â—s part of that government and though not to deeply pâ—â—nged in sin as othâ—rs yet gâ—ilty of theâ—r sinns that are chief in a measure 4 That theâ—e â—s no part of Christs Kingd m nor no truth of the Word so small bâ—t â—t is worth suffering for and dying for as the godly Iewes surfered bâ—cause they would not cat Swines flesh Vpon these grounds and the like how discrepant and opposite these are to the government of Chrâ—st Foâ— 1 these keep out the Lords own Officers of ruling Elders which we haâ—e proved Christ hath left in hâ—s church they being in the Apostles t mes not contradicted bâ—t approved and therefore of Divine Institution In this respâ—ct tâ—erfore they are like Diocesan Bishops who keep out Ministers and people too from their right in government of the church though they doe not equall them That they doe kâ—ep them out it is plain for they take upon them now to order things for the churches government so that ignorant people can discern no want This argument is firm because one ordinance of God doth not hurt nor keep out an other 2 That which keeps out Gods ordinance keeps out the Lord wâ—th some specâ—all blessing for his children present in each of his oâ—d nances 3 This in part sâ—uts the Kingdom of God A second argument against Churchwardens is because these are corrupted and degenerated like the office of the mâ—nistery that was quite changed â—nto a Priesthood in times of popery So as now they haâ—e lost their right in government of the church and yeelded shamefully to Antâ—christ whose servants and vassals they were so long time together So as it is not more lawfull to be a Church warden then a Masse-priest for both of them receiu their present being from the man of Sin This argument is firm because such retain the Mark of the bâ—ast in part 2. The same l ght comming and the same spirit in a great and powerfull manner that was in the Apostles times all darknesse and corruption ought to be removed 3 These keep out the Deacons who are expresly commanded and appointed Acts 6 1 Tim. 3 and confound this with their office which shews both their office to bee new and unlawfull For that the Holy Ghost establiâ—hed the Apostâ—es both gaue charge thâ—y should be elected and they were in the pâ—â—mâ—tâ—ue Church many yeares togâ—ther tâ—â—l Ant christ got the day and sâ—t up â—â—s throne This is no small wrong to the church to keep out those that were to dâ—strâ—bute to the poore so carefully in each congregatâ—on that there should be no want to any they eaâ—â—d the Mini sters and therfore are called Helps of which hereafter Wherfore as Ester spake of Haman in procurâ—ng the overthrow of the Iewes The enemy could not recompence the Kings losse no more can they foâ— they wrong the poor giue not such testimony of their loue and liberallâ—ty whâ—ch the office of the Dâ—acon doth proclaim and make vâ—sible to the world Neither must wee think it enough that there are good lawes established For experience witnesseth the necessity hereof nâ—â—ther ought men to confound what Chr st hath severed The Chrâ—stian Mag st ates duty is to see both Minâ—sters and people subject to Christs Ordinances not to invent any new 4 An office devâ—sed by man ever serues man not God witnesse all the Hierarchy dev sed by Pope who
and degrees of Discipline by private admonition then by two or three lastly to acquaint the Congregation All which not reclayming the sinner he is to be accounted as an heathen and the Church to haue no communion with him 3 There the power is given to the church to bind and loose 4 The manner not one to doe this but some company together and calling upon the name of the Lord to proceed according to the rules aforesaid This place is so plain that the divels cannot withstand it It is an order from the wisedom of the Father by the Sonne which is the Prophet of his Church therfore the men that are adverse to it make themselues guilty of the bloud of mens soules For election of Officerrs wee haue from the Apostles Act. 1 Act. 6 Acts 14. From all which the manner of bringing in of officers may be learned 1 Every church must haue her Elders 2 These must not be appointed till places be vacant 3 Every congregation ought to haue such as look to mens bodies and necessities 4 The Congregations are to choose some and present them 5 They are to be ordained with prayer and fasting 6 No one may doe this alone but all Ministers joyntly in the places over which they are to be set These places binde us 1 These things the Apostles learned from Christ Act. 1.3 2 As the Father sent Christ so Christ sent his Apostles 3 These things are written for our learning Rom. 12 7.8 see elsewhere The Apostle reckons up offices which men may not confound teaching and exhortation comprehending the Doctor and Pastors offices governning Elders distributing Deacons shewing mercy the Widdows These must needs be distinct offices else they are not pertinently inserted by the Apostle 2 It shews that men had divers gifts for the same 3 That they are to continue because they are members of Christs body without which the body cannot consist This place binds us 1 Cor. 5. The church is reproved for not executing this Discipline in Excommunication where is a notable-description of the manner how it should be performed first the persons on whom it is to be executed must be such as are within secondly such as haue committed some notorious sin 2 The persons by whom it is executed 1 the whole Church gathered together 2 such as haue power to cast out 3 The power by which they are to doe it is not humane authority but Christs authority which he giues to every congregation to cast out the evill 4 The manner first mourning for such offence secondly meeting together and calling upon the Lord thirdly having the like spirit Paul had 5 The act it selfe of Excommunication to be cast out from amongst the Church 6 The end 1 that the corruption might be mortified and 2 that grace and spirituall part might be preserved and restored 7 The necessity of it 1 lest the whole church be guilty of the sin 2 the salvation of the party sinning 3 lest others be infected with the same or like wickednesse This place binds us being for the good of the Church as it is a Church and not appropriated to them in Corinth 2 All the arguments and motiues are generall and binde all Acts 15. The Holy Ghost sets down the manner of governing of the church First when there arise questions and controversies that trouble the mindes of any whence we learn these conclusions 1 That it is the duty of all Ministers to take notice of such opinions as are hatched and spread contrary and besides the form of doctrine received 2 In the confâ—ting of those opinions that are novellous and dangerous ministers are to seek the counsell and direction of others wherfore these ought to be Synods assembled 3 The persons that are to meet are Ministers Elders and people 4 The Ministers and Elders are to haue the managing and ordering of matters in â—isquisition of truthes 5 Nothing is rashly to be concluded but much consâ—â—atation and disputation is to bee used before 6 Men must not burden those that haue received the spirit of God and true faith with any 〈◊〉 which the Lord hath not 〈…〉 it is to tâ—mpt the Lord. 7 That which Ministers themselues know not necessary they are not to impose on any as necessary 8 Obtruding of any thing of mens own upon Churches troubles and overthrows the soules of men 9 Amongst equalls there may be for order one as Moderator which hearing all mens judgments is to conclude according to the determination of the Scriptures 10 Things that may be done yet troubling others are not nor ought to be forced upon men 11 Men are so farre to yeeld to keep peace with their brethren as is possible and yet to doe nothing against a good conscience 12 In Synods greatest sins must chiefly be interdicted 13 To prevent offence to the brethren that are weak we may and the Church ought to conclude things indifferent to bee abstayned from by all 14 Charity ought to be the ground of that which the Church commands in things indifferent 15 The Churches decrees binde not saue as they further the salvation of others and prevent offence 16 The whole Church is to take order for the execution of such wholesome and profitable constitutions as are agreed upon 17 The Church of God is to procure respect to their decrees by perswasion of learned and holy men rather then by threats and compulsion 18 There ought nothing to be agreed upon and urged upon the Church by such Synods but what is necessary for the present times 19 Things concluded on rightly by the Church are to be observed though not as necessary to salvation yet as profitable to prevent offence 20 The churches decrees freeing men from the bondage of ceremonies are very comfortable to the servants of God 21 The church hath power to send Ministers from place to place upon occasion to other churches from whence they may not return till they may be dismissed thence The necessity of this first for the peace of the Church secondly to detect such as under the name of the church obtâ—ude things upon the Church without command The excellency and authority of these First the spirit of God is specially amongst them that gather rightly together secondly God will blesse their decrees for the great good of the church The rule of judging things here is first by the authority of Scriptures which is both affirmatiue and negatiue 2 the peace of mens consciences which ought tenderly to be regarded 3 outward peace of the Church amongst the true members of the same 1 Cor. 14 The Apostle sets down how men should perform publique service to the Lord whence for our direction these positions may be learned 1 That men must chiefly bend themselues to prophecy and teach the people thâ—s binds us also to seek the good of the people 2 Since the divell in all ages hath indeavoured to corrupt Gods ordinances and remoue preaching that is most profitable therfore the
the Word 4 Appointing Diocesan Bishops argues Christ Iesus of want of providence as though he had not foreseen enough what is needfull and fitting for his Church in all times wheras he is the wisedom of the Father and one that sees all things in an instant with their circumstances therfore could not but see what dissention would arise in his Church after his departure 2 It argues Christ of want of power as though Christ could not sufficiently procure the weale of his Church by his own meanes except mens device and policy concurred with all 5 It is unlawfull for carnall policy to devise any calling and place it aboue the calling of God This is like Ahaz his Altar with the Altar of the Lord But Diocesan Bishops are meerly a fruit of carnall policy and placed aboue Pastors Teachers and Elders which are appointed of the Lord. This Argument is firme for things of Divine Institution are most excellent and most necessary therefore ought to keep their place and order aboue all mens best inventions 6 Any new government where the Lord hath set a former is a dispising of the Lord because he can govern without it â— Sam. 8.7 If in the Common-wealth as well in the Church 7 Setting up this calling robbes the Ministers of their calling and being therfore it is unlawfull For Ministers by reason of Diocesan Bishops are not rightly introduced they can not come in by the means and way Christ hath appointed that is by the election of the people c. And they must be no further nor longer Ministers then they are licensed by them As much therfore as Gregory spake of universall Bishops as is given to these so much is taken away from the true and lawfull Ministers of God 8 It is a horrible and crying sinne to subject the sons of God members of Christ to any one man in spirituall discipline what then is it to subject the Embassadours of Christ that are sent by the Lord and make themselue when their Master hath given theÌ„ liberty and freedom from such This argument is firm because all Ministers are servants of the Church not Lords over the heritage of Christ This is therfore to encroach upon Christs right 9 It is great presumption to continue this form of government which hath been so hurtfull to the Church already Is not thâ—s to tempt God wil not the burnt child dread the fire Cannot long experience of former and latter times procure so much at our hands as that wee should preferre the Lords own Ordinance before mens inventions 10 New Lords new lawes Altering the Governours hath â—t not altered and changed the form and manner of governing and rules and laws to be observed in discipline so that Scriptures are not now in such request but men must make Canons of their own therby to hold the people in subjection 11 No new Lord spirituall but hee claymes further authority then the Lord hath given to any man on earth So hath the Pope so doe all that exercise Lordship in the Church of Christ Because when men haue once past the bounds they run further as that authority Christ giues and the Scripture warrants is not sufficient to â—phoâ—d their kingdom withall so doe these claim not onely generall subjection and an oath of carâ—on call obâ—dâ—ence both of Ministers and people which is great usurpation but take further authority to appoint and institute teaching ceremonies to stirre up the dull minde of man to speak in their own phrase 12 They that erect another strange government withdraw their harts from Christ and seek not so carefully to be taught by him but rest like the Israelites in their King This we see generally amongst us as it was and is in Popery men trust others themselues mean-while ignorant and secure So doe our ignorant nay people more prudent to trust the Bishops as they are called and never search the Scriptures then selues to know such things as neerly concern them nor will credit the truth it selfe preached by others that are the faithfull Embassadours of Christ because of the supposed learning and knowledge in these men This argument is sound because all occasions of sin and especially idols and corrivals with Christ are to be removed 13 Christ promiseth his presence equally to every Congregation therfore none may lay claym to haue such authority as our Ordinaries challenge for where there is no speciall promise there is neither priviledge nor authority Now Ordinaries haue no speciall promises made them 14 No man ought to take any thing upon him except it be given him from heaven these men haue it from the earth Io. 3. 15 Donation of Princes is no sufficient ground for men to exercise authority over their fellows 1 Because it is directly against Christs commandement 2 Christ though he were the Sonne of God yet had both an immediate voice from heaven to consecrate him and the Word to proue his calling by So Iohn Baptist which examples binde us to haue a direct word for every calling brought into the Church In a word how can men answer soundly and throughly Popish arguments for Primacy or overthrow that opinion which hath overthrown more soules then any heresie or heathenish dream ever in the world hath done if they admit this superiority of Bishops over Diocesses Wherfore in this respect I am perswaded Christian Reader thou dost easily see that the Ministers that stand out against this doe but that which thou and I ought to doe striving for Christs Kingdom and Priviledges and Lawes to be kept entire to himselfe And as his Propheticall and Priestly offices haue been suffered for so must men suffer for this and by suffering they shall prevail Why therfore doe any speak against men in this kinde since they doe it in loue to Christ for the good of the Church sâ—ewing all due respect to the Magistrate notwithstanding in this they dissent from him procuring the peace of the Common-wealth as much as any in their places SECTION IIII. NOw thou seest Christ an Reader the unlawfulnesse of Diocesan Bishops in the Church of Christ because they exercise a spirituall authority without any licence from Christ the King of his Church to whom all authority is committed and given by the Father and from whom all that are lawful and profitable to the Church receiue their installing FroÌ„ hence then any one may gather the nullity of a Diocesan Church which is a little to be stood upon before we come to the things following a Diocesan Bishop And first to show what we understand by it for our better proceeding By Diocesan Church I understand the conjoyning of many Congregations under one mans government commonly called the Bishop of the Diocesse That this is plainly divers from nay contrary to the constitutions of the Church of the Apostles it may appear by these grounds following 1 Neither Christ nor his Apostles left any such canons for ordering of the church which certainly they would
Monarchy and the Hâ—erarchy of Rome to be erected and established when Bisâ—ops began to haue civill authority granted them and Bishops were chosen some of Magistrates and great Lords as histories mentâ—on wherfore this was and is a property of Antichrist to arrogate such high glorious titles 5 Bishops haue no authority over Ministers nor are capable of civill authority by the Canons and Lawes of Christ wherfore they are not to haue any title For the Argument is firm Titles being symbols and notes of the things are to bee denyed to such as haue not the nature of the things 6 Wordly and earthly titles make men to be thought onely of the world and so procures but worldly reverence looseth the true respect which is due to the Ministers of the Gospell SECTION VII THus thou hast been lead Christian Reader a long time to see the nakednesse of these men that vaunt it out so glorâ—ously in the world wherby may many questions be resolved Quest 1. Whether it stands more for the glory of God and the good of Church and Kingdom to suffer these men to hold the government in their hands and not permit the Ministers to preach and exeâ—cise discipâ—ine or econtra To this it is plain that the Magistrate is to doe to them as our Saviour Christ dealt Ioh. 2 in whipping out buyers and sellers and money-changers these might better come into the Temple then these Bishops into the Churches of God and had more necessary use but they had abused holy things and made it a den of theeues First consider a little gentle Reader and the Loâ—d remoue prejudicate opinion fâ—om thee what these doe to the Church and Common-wealth I appeal to every mans conscience whâ—ther they are not and doe not shew themselues enemies to the sincere preaching of the Gospell the scepter of Christs Kingdom and the glory of our land Secondly doe they not lay heavy burthens upon Authority laying all the wrong they doe upon his Majesty and so work a hard conceit of his Majesty in the hearts of his best loving subjects as though it were his will men should bee put out and silenced not convinced before by Scripture which was his Majesties pleasure Thirdly doe they not cause great profanenesse in the land which weakens any Kâ—ngdom 1 By their own preaching seldom cold generall unfitting the times and seasons calling good evill making sad the hearts of Gods people and stâ—engthning the hands of the wicked that none can return from his wickednesse 2 By their disgracing and troubling the most zealous servants of God which causeth grâ—at offence and they in this case are guilty of the overthrow of many a soule which by such persecutions is turned out of the way 3 By sending forth such a rude Ministry as cannot deliver the counsell of the Lord nor giue every one their portion in due season but aâ—e blinde guides making many fall into the ditch with them 4 By enacting and continuing such Canons in force as keep out many able Ministers thrust out those that Christ himselfe hath sent as they cannot deny themselues make many a one break peace of conscience to undergoe them and to loose his gifts in a great measure Besides discomfoâ—t in his calling and grieving others making many also to spend all their study to justâ—fie the ceremonies which are now contâ—overted and setting a fire the house of God and making way for Antichrists return 5 They bring the ordinance of God into contempt through their slubbering coveteous and profane handling of them Who respects the Sabboths ministry of the word oâ— câ—nsures of the Church 6 Doe they not take authority from his Majesty to execute statutes against Papists and yet suffer them contrary to his Majesties pleasure and to the indangering of his royall person and State 7 Then bad example in specches seeking the world c. and their servants profane licentiousnesse Fourthly they haue much living which they prodigally mispend and ryot out in pompe and vanity to their own hurt and otheâ—s Fifthly doe they not oppose and directly deale against the Statute Laws of the Kingdom and seek to bereaue his Majesty and loyall subjects of their inheritance Sixthly doe they not impoverish many of the Kings subjects by their proceedâ—ngs whâ—ch hâ—nders them in their Callings the common servâ—ce all owe to the Kâ—ng and Countrey and disables them from such taxes as otherwâ—se they might be able to discharge The Magâ—stâ—ate â—s bound to keep and see kept both Tables and to remoue what hinders the observation of either which these men doe in every mans judgement well weighing things Wherfore the conclusion is easie I doubt not and will be assented unto For what good heart can endure such a heavy burthen to lie upon his Majesty as these men lay upon him howsoever they would seem to be his onely friends and please him in every thing like Baals false Prophets Quest 2. Whether a man may yeeld obedience unto them Answ Not in that authority which is proper to them and comes from themselues as they are Biâ—hops 1 This is an acknowledging of them 2 Men must stand fast in their Chrâ—stâ—an lâ—berty Gal. 5.1 and not suffer men to rule over tâ—em at their pleasure Col. 2. Quest 3. Whether are Ministâ—rs to be ordained by them Answ 1 One man onely hath no authority but rather many together ought to lay on their hands 2 All Ministers may ordayn as well as a Diocesan Bishop having the like authority and succeeding the Apostles one as well as the other which in the primitiue times was usuall 3 None may receiue their authority from them so as they should be their substitutes 4 Every congregation hath power from Christ as hath been shewed and was practized in the primitiue church 5 They require both canonicall obedience and subscription to their decrees 6 It is doubtfull whether they are Ministers or no since they are not elected by any people nor haue any particular flock neither doth the holy Ghost set any such over his people 7 Ordination ought to be performed with fasting and prayer All which he that considers well and makes conscience will discerne easily what is best to be done Qu. 4. Whether may men giue titlâ—s unto them or no Answ Consider well the former grounds and to this adde 1 This is a confession of the mouth And 2 it is an acknowledgment of subjection due unto them 3 It is a lye when they are not Lords and we know it 4 Though their Lordship seem to bee civill yet the ground is spirituall their Bishoprick authority following the same SECTION VIII NOw lest any should think wee rob the Church of much good and bring in confusion with abolition of these Diocesan Biâ—hops therfore â—t shall be requ site in the next place to treat a l ttâ—e of these officers which the Scriptures mention in the tâ—mâ— of the new Testament which are chiefly the Elders which are to assist the Ministers in