or his truth So desyring the reader to weygh well what I plead not to bee offended at the manifold quotations which are of necessâ—ty that by places compared together the truth which is a mystery may appeare Antichristianisme which is the mystery of iniquity may bee discovered I cease commending him to the grace of God in Iesus Châ—ist who in due tyme will bring his people out of Aegypt Babylon spiritually so called though for a season they are there kept in Antichristian captivity gâ—eevous spirituall slavery which the Lord in his due tyme effect Amen Amen Iohn Smyth The principall contents of this treatise our differences from the auncyent brethren of the Seperation 1 Wee hould that the worship of the new testament properly so called is spirituall proceeding originally from the hart that reading out of a booke though a lawfuâ—l ecleâ—iastical action is no part of spirituall worship but rather the invention of the man of synne it beeing substituted for a part of spirituall worship 2 Wee hould that seeing prophesiing is a parte of spirituall worship therefore in time of prophesâ—yng it is vnlawfull to have the booke as a helpe before the eye 3 wee hould that seeing singinging a psalme is a parte of spirituall worship therefore it is vnlawfull to have the booke before the eye in time of singinge a psalme â— wee hould that the Presbytery of the church is vniforme that the triformed Presbyterie consisting of three kinds of Elders viz. Pastors Teachers Rulers is none oâ— Gods Ordinance but mans devise 5 wee hold that all the Elders of the Church are Pastors and that lay Elders to called are Antichristian 6 wee hold that in contributing to the Church Treaturie their ought 〈◊〉 bee both a separation from them that are without a sanctification of the whole action by Prayer Thankesgiving THE DIFFERENCES OF THE CHVRCHES OF THE SEPEration Conteyning a description of the Leitourgie Ministerie of the visible Church Annexed as a correction supplement to a litle treatise lately published bearing title principles inferences concerning the visible Church THE FIRST PART concerning the Leitourgie of the Church Cap. 1. of the Kingdom of the Saynts The visible Church by the Apostle is called a Kingly preisthood 1. pet 2.9 and the Saynts are Kings Preists vnto God Revel 1.6 The Saynts as Kings â—ule the visible Church 1. Cor. 5.12 psal 149.9 Mat. 18 15-17 1. Cor. 6 1.-9 The visible Church is Christs Kingdom Mat. 8.12 Ioh. 18 33-37 Act. 1.3 1. Cor. 15.24.25 Hebr. 12.28 The members of the visible Church are called the children of the Kingdom Mat. 8.12 And are vnder the government of the Church Marc. 13.34 1. Cor. 6.1.9 vnder the governmeÌ„nt of Christ Luk. 19.27 The actions of the Church in administring the Kingdom are actions of opposition difference plea strif as in admonition examination excommunication pacification absolution c. 1. Cor. 5 3-5 6 1-9 2. Ep. 2.6.7 Mat. 18-15-17 Revel 2.2 2. Chron. 19 10-11 Hethetto aperteyneth conference disputation Luc. 2.46.47 Act. 6.9 17 2 compared with psâ—l 122.5 1. King 3 16-27 In examination of opinions facts also in conference disputation evidences of all sorts may be produced for finding out of the truth Revel 2.2 1. King 3 25-27 Evidences are of divers natures as confessions lotts Iosh 7 16-21 Oathes Exod. â—2 10.11 bookes of all sortes Dan 9 2-1 King 14.19 Act. 7.22 17.28 1. Cor. 15.33 Tit. 1.12 Iude. vers 14. compared with 1. Timoth. 1.4 Luk. 3 25-27 namly translations dictionaries histories chronicles commentaries c all which may for evidence of the truth be brought into the Church by necessary consequence Actions of administring the Church or Kingdom are not actions of spirituall worship properly so called for as the Kingdome and Preisthood of the old Testament were distinct as also their actions severall Heb. 7.14 Gen. 49.10 Deut. 33 8-11 2. Chron. 26.18 psal 122 4-5 So are the Kingdom Preisthood of the new Testament their actions also which were typed by the other Heb. 5.4.5 Act. 15 7-29 with 13.2 3. Chap. 2. of the Preisthood of the saynts Thus much of the Kingdom now followeth the Preisthood of the Church The saynts as Preists offer vp spirituall sacrifices acceptable to God by Iesus Christ 1. pet 2.5 Spirituall sacrifices are such as originally proceed from the spirit they are called spirituall in opposition to the carnall or literall sacrifices performed by the sacrificing Preists of the old Testament which originally proceeded from the lettre by proportion also see Ioh. 1.17 2. Cor. 3.6 Gal. 3.5 Ioh. 4 20-24 The actions of the Church in dispencing the preisthood are actions of concord or vnion Act. 4 24-32 philip 3.16 Ephes 4 3-6 Actions of the Preisthood of the saynts are actions of spirituall worship properly so called Deuâ— 33.10 1. pet 2.5 compared with Revel 8.3 Heb. 13.10 philip 2.17 Act. 13.2 1. Cor. 11.4 14 15.22.26-31 In the worship of God properly so called the saynts are not to oppose contradict examine or censure to propound doubtfull controversall points of doctryne but in vnion spirituall to offer vp one the same spirituall sacryfice to the Lord. Act. 4 24-32 1. Cor. 11 18-20 10.16.17 If any thing doubtfull or false be delivered in tyme of spirituall worship it is to be examyned censured afterward 1. Cor. 14 31-33.40 compared with Revel 2.2 Act. 17.11 Chap. 3. of Spirituall worship of the Spirit Concerning spirituall worship consider these things following 1. The Fountayne from whence it proceedeth 2. The helpes wherby it is supported or furthered 3. The essence or nature wherin properly it cousisteth The Fountayne from whence spirituall worship proceedeth is the spirit Act. 1.4.5 2.4.17.18 1. Cor. 12.4 7.11 Eph. 5.18.19 The spirit signifieth 2. things 1. the spirit of God 2. the spirit of man that is the regenerate part of the soule Act. 2.17.18 1. Cor. 12.4 Rom. 7.6 Galath 3.2.3 The Regenerate part of the soule is eyther the sanctified memory the sanctified judgment the sanctified hart affections the sanctified conscience from all these must spirituall worship proceed Psal 103.1 2. Mat. 22 37 1. Timoth. 1.5 The work of the holy spirit is to suggest matter to move the regenerate part of the soule 1. Cor. 12 8-11 Ioh. 14.26 Luk. 24 32-45 The work of the memory is to have in a readynesse sufficiency of fit matter for the spirituall worship psal 103.2 119.16.93 The work of the judgment or vnderstanding is to discerne judge truth from falsehood right from wrong good from bad fit from vnsit 1. Cor. 14 29-32 11.29 Colos 1.9 3.16 Philip. 1.9.10 The work of the hart affections is to be moved according to the qualitie of the matter kind of the worship Iam. 5.13 Ezra 3 10-13 1. Cor. 14.24.25 The work of the conscience is a sorowfull or confortable
agents Deut. 31.9 1. Chron. 16.4 compared with vs 7 37.39-42 Chap. 25 1-6-31 Nehem. 8 7-9.18 9 3-6 Though the Pâ—eisis also any of the people might read fing Mat. 23.2.3 Luk. 2.46 4.16.17 Act. 13.14.15 Nehem. 8.8 Marc. 14.26 The Scriptures read tuned Musically were prophesies prayers thanksgivings 1. Chron 25 1-6 Deut. 31.10 2. Chron. 34.30 Psal 7â— for prophesies for instru ion 1. Chron. 16 7-36 Psal 146.147.148.149 150. compared with Revel 19 1-8 For thanksgivings Psal 102. the title 92. title for prayers As Musicall Instruments playing vppon them was typicall bicause it was Artificiall So reading of a book was typicall also bicause it is meerely Artificiall Hence it followeth that reading prophesies was a type of prophesying reading prayâ—rs a type oâ— praying eading thanksgivings a type of praising God or thankfulnes To conclude as it followeth not that seing prayers were read in the old testament â—s prayers thâ—â—â—or wee may read prayers now for prayers no more doth it follow that â—hough in the old testament they read Psalmes prophesies we may doe so now nameâ—y in the tyme of worship or aâ— parts or helps of Spiritual worship properly so called Therfor as the auncient brethren of the Seperation have taken all books from before â—he eye in tyme of prayer so doe wee take all bookes from the eye in tyme of propheâ—ying singing that by the same reason they being al equally excellent parts of Spiâ—â—tual worship for God is asmuch honoured in prophesying Psalmes as in praying â—â—ey all of them remayne in the triumphant Church in heaven even as they were all â—racâ—ised by Adam in Paradise before his fal therfor are properly moral Spiritual worship The second part of the Ministery of the Church The first section of the Eldership or Presbytery Chap. 1. Of the names or titles of the Elders Thus much concerning the Leitourgie of the Church now follow the offices of the Church viz the Presbytery Deaconry Phil. 1.1 Esay 66.21 Nomb. 3 5.-10 16 5 â—8 17. Chap. The Presbytery of the church is the company of the Elders which are for the church 〈◊〉 the publique actions of the Church eyther of the Kingdom or preisthood Heb. 13.17 〈◊〉 Thes 5.12 1. Timoth. 4.14 5.17 The presbytery is vniforme consisting of Officers of one sort Esay 66.21 compared â—â—ith Exod. 28.1 with Nomb. 11.24.25 1. Timoth. 3 1-8 Act. 14.23 philip 1.1 Ieâ—em â— 1-4 Ezech. 34 1-16 These Officers are called Elders Overseers or Bishops pastors Teachers Governors â—â—aders preposâ—ti which are several names of one the same office consisting of several â—â—orks or qualifications For every one of these officers must be 1. An Elder or Auncient in yeeres 1. Timoth. 3.6 5.1 2. Oversee the flock 1. pet 5.2 Act 20.28 3. Feed the â—â—ock 1. pet 5.2 Act. 20.28 4. Able to teach exhort with wholsome doctryne convince the gainsayers 1. â—â—oth 3.2 Tit. 1.9 Eph. 4 11. 5. Governe the Church 1. Tim. 3.4.5 1. Cor. 12.28 6. Lead the Church in al the publique allaires thereof Heb. 13.17 7. Are preferred to place of honor 1. Thes 5.12 1. Tim. 5.17 speciall labour 1. Timoth. 3.1 Seing all the Elders must teach exhort convince feed oversee rule lead the church therfor they may all administer the seales of the covenant for that is a cheef work of feeding applying the covenant that particularly Chap. 2. Of reasons proving the Elders to be of one sort viz all Pastors First in the Old Testament ther was but one kind of Preists who had al equal authority to administer al the holy things excepting the high Pâ—eist who typed forth Christ Iesus the high Preâ—st of our confession so pâ—opâ—â—tionably in the New Testament ther â—s but one â—ort of Elders who succede the Preists in the dispensation oâ— holy things Esay 66.21 As in the Old Testament ther was the sanhedrim which consisted of 70. auncients for the administration of the Kingdom which was a type of the viâ—ible church al which Eâ—ders in their fiâ—st institution Nomb. 11.25 did prophecy were of one kind vnder Moses so in the new Testament vnder Christ Iesus which is the King of the church ther is a sâ—nâ—dâ—iâ—n or Elderâ—â—â—p consâ—â—â—ing of Auneieâ—s of one kind who adminisâ—er 〈◊〉 tâ—e good of the Church Reveâ— 4.4 5.6 Againe If Pastor Teacher Elder had been 3. Offices formally differing the Apostle intending to teach the several offices of the Church would have mentioned them 1. Timoth 3. But ther he only mentioneth Bishops Deacons according as Phil. 1.1 〈◊〉 Bishops are only of one sort or kind Moreover if the Apstles had ordeyned 3. Kinds of Elders Act. 14.23 they would hâ—ve mentioned them with the â—seâ—eral kinds of ordination but that iâ— not dâ—â—e for in oâ—e phrase their election and ordinacion is mentioned go their ordination being one their office is one not three Further if their had been 3. Kinds of Elders at Ephesus then the Apostle at Milâ—â—um would have given them several chaâ—dges as having several dutyes lying vppon them but the Apostâ—e Act. 20.28 giveth them one general chardg common to them all namely the duty of seeding the work of the Pastorâ— go they are all Pastors Besides Eph. 4.11 Pastors teachers are all one office for where as the Apostle had spoken disâ—â—ibutively before of Apostâ—es Prophets Evangelists as intending them â—everâ—l offices he speaketh copulatively of pastors teachers exegeâ—ically teaching 〈◊〉 they are both one offâ—ce â—â—stly if all the Elders have the pastors gifts the works of the pastor the pastoâ—â— ordination then they have all the pastors office But all the Elders have the pâ—stors giâ—â—â— vâ—z the word of wisdome or the gift of exhortation Tit. 1.9 therfor the pastoâ—â— worke as Act. 20.28 1. Pet. 5.2 which is feeding or exhorting so the same ordination Act. 14.23 Therfor all the Elders have the same office of the pastor so aâ—â— all of one sort Hence this consectary ariseth that the Eldership consisting of three sorts of Elâ—ers is the invention of man having both an Antichâ—istian Ministery and Government in it And therfor when the Popish prelacy was supprest the triformed presbytery substituted one Antichrist was put down another set vp in his place or the beast was supprest his image advanced And therfor as they that submit to the prelacy are subject to that woe of worshipping the beast so they that submit to the triformed Presbytery are in like manner lyable to the woe denounced against then that worship the image of the beast Chap. 3. Objections for three sorts of Elders answered The first Objection 1 Tim. 5.17 In this place the Apostle maketh two sortes of Elders viz. 1. Those that Rule only 2. Those that Teach Rule Eph. 4.11 the Apostle maketh two kindes of those that Teach Pastors Doctors Therefore
or Levites for ordinary reading of the law in the Tabernacle Secondly Hence it followeth that reading in the old Testament was no part of the worship of the tabernacle or temple or of the service performed by the Priests therein for all the worship that was appointed by Moses for the Preists was limited to the holy place whither the people were not admitted Thirdly therfor reading was of another nature performed in the vtter court or Synagogue or els where eyther by the levites or any other learned men of what tribe seever Mat. 23.2 Luk. 4.16 Act. 13-15 compared with Act. 15-21 Deut. 31 9-11 1 Chron. 10.4.7.37.39 15 1-8 28.13.2 Chron. 34.14.30.31 Nehem. 8. 9. so no part of worship properly so called but only a ceremoniall ground or soundation of inward or outward spiritual worship common to the Churches of all ages Lastly it is not denyed but that reading now is to be vsed in the Church only we say it is not a part of spiritual worship or a lawful meanes in tyme of spiritual worship The second objection Reading is commaunded in the new testament Colos 4.16 1. Thes 5.27 and a blessing promâ—sed thereto Revel 1.3 and the commaundement is that it be practised in the church therefore it is a part or meanes of the worship of the new testament Answer to the second objection Not euerie thinge performed in the church is a parte of spirituall worship forall the partes of publique administratioÌ„ of the Kingdome are done in the church and yet cannot be sayd to be partes of spirituall worship properly so called Chap 1. and 2. Moreover when he commaundeth his Epistles to be read in the Churches his meaning is not strictly literall that is that the very wordes which he wrote should be repeated verbatim out of the booke but his meaning is that the fense of the wordes or the meaning of the Apostle should be related to the brethreÌ„ whither by reading the verywordes by expounding the meaning by interpreting or translating For if his meaning be that the very wordes he wrote be literaly read theÌ„ the Greek wordes must be repeated out of the booke to all nations which is contrary to 1. Cor. 14.26 If his meaning be that the sense should be given any way by translating by reading the translation by interpreting his meaning in a paraphrase commentary c. then how will it follow that reading the Greek tong which is not vnderstood in the English Churches is a law full part of spirituall worship according to the literall signification of readings Further the Apostle wrote his Epistles to the Collossians Thessalonians the other Churches vppon particular occasions for partcular endes and the commaundement of reading then was speciall in those respects to them and the intent of the Apostle is not to enioyne the reading of them every day in tyme of Spiritual worship to al Churches yet wee do acknowledg the absolute necessity of reading searching the Scriptures Ioh. 5.39 Againe that reading is a lawful yea necessary meanes or help to further vs to Spiritual worship is not denyed but this is denyed that it is a lawful help in tyme of worship or a lawful part of Spiritual worship For it is confessed defended by the auncient brethreÌ„ of the seperation that the originals are no lawful help in tyme of prayer So say we they are no lawful help in tyme of prophesying singing Psalmes that by equal proportion for ther is the same reason of helps in all the parts of Spiritual worship during the tyme of performing the worship The third objection The Apostle 1. Tim. 4 13-16 commaundeth Timothie so all Elders to attend to reading wher reading is joyned with exhortation doctryne so importeth that it is to be vnderstood of the joyning of reading in tyme of Spiritual worship Answer to the third objection The circuÌ„stances of the place being â—â—el considered wâ—â— afoard that Paul speaketh noâ— of the execution of his office but of preparing himself to the execution of his office which is attayned by reading the Scriptures wherby men are fitted with matter fitt to teach exhort for by this meanes the gift oâ— prophecy was preserved in Timothie vs 14. by this meanes his proficiency should be manifested vs 15. by this meanes he should the better save mens soules vs 16. The fourth objection Let it be graunted that the Apostles Evangelists vsed no bookes being extraordinary men having the extraordinary direction of the spirit for they needed no such helps of bookes as wee doe Yet wee being men ordinary have need of bookes therefor they by the direction of the Spirit both have written bookes for our vse have commaunded vs to vse them Answer to the fourth objection This objection may aswell fit bringing of bookes into the tyme of prayer froÌ„ wheÌ„ce they are justly banished for it may be sayd that the Apostles were extraordinary men needed no bookes for prayer but wee need books to help our infirmity why may not a man aswel say the Apostle commaundeth the reading of prayers promiseth a blessing to reading of prayers in tyme of prayer as otherwise Again though the holy Spirit be not given to vs in the same manner measure as to the Apostles yet we have the same Spirit to help vs as they had to the same ordinary purposes is he sent to vs by Christ as to them namely to help our infirmityes Rom. 8. 26. for the work of the ministery Eph. 4.12 to be our annoynting 1. Ioh. 2.27 to lead into all truth Ioh 16.13 to be our paraclete Ioh. 14.16 so by consequent to help vs to pray prophesy prayse God Againe this objection seemeth to establish two formes of prophesying one without bookes by the Apostles for many yeeres in the Church another with bookes afterward taught by the Apostles then it followeth that the Apostles gospell was yea nay who first taught practised one way afterward taught commaunded to practise another way Lastly The Apostles had the bookes of the Old Testament in the Hebrwe tong so might have vsed them before their eye in tyme of prophesying eyther to read out of them to the Hebrues or to translate and interprett out of them to the Greecians but they did neyther of these but only prophesyed out of their harts as the Holy Ghost gave them vtterance Act. 2.4 Yea taught the primitive Churches so to doe 1. Cor. 14.26 If it can be shewed that they did vse the bookes of the Old Testament in tyme of worship to read or interprete from them lett it be shewed wee yeeld if not thus wee hold practise for the present Here vppon it followeth that neyther reading the originals nor interpreting or translating out of the originals the book being before the eye is eyther a lawfull part or meanes of Spirituall worship Chap. 12. Of the writings of men Writings of
the transâ—ation offer it to God is to offer to God not he mans labor not his owne that which cost him nothing but is another mans cost therfore it is vnlâ—wâ—ull 7. Reading a translation is not commaunded nor was ever practised by Christ the Apostles or thâ— pâ—imitive Chuâ—ches in tyme of worship so being devised by man is in the account of vayre worship Mat. 15.9 wâ—ll-worship Col. 2.23 so a kynd of Idolatry therefore the translation it selfe before the eye in tyme oâ— worship an Idoll so hath a curse denounced against the vse of it in tyme oâ— worship Revel 22.18 Exod. 20.4.5 8. A translation being the worke of a mans witt learning is asmuch as truly an humane writing as the Apocrypha so commonly called writings are seing it hath not the allowance of holy men inspired but is of an hidden authority it may be justly called Apocryphon for the signification of the word importeth so much therefore not â—o be brought into the worship of God to be read 9. All the arguments vsed agaynst the reading of homilies prayers may be applyed â—gaynst the reading of translations in tyme of wâ—rship As 1. They do stâ—nt or quench the spirit which is contrary to 1. Thes 5.19.20 2 Cor. 3.17 2. They are not the pure word of God so contrary to Eccles 12.10 Mat. 15.9 3. They are the private workes of men contrary to 1. Cor 12.7.8 2 Pet. 1.20 4. They are the private openings or interpretations of the prophesies of Scripture â—ontrary to 2 pet 1.20 5. They contradict the giftes bestowed by Christ vppon the Church for the work of â—e ministery conâ—trary to Eph. 4.8.11.12 Act. 2.4 Ioh. 16.7 6 They derogate from the vertue of Christs AsceÌ„tion dignitie of his Kingdome conâ—â—ary to Eph. 4.8 7. They blemish Christs bounty to care of his church contrary to Ioh. 14.16.18.26 8. They disgrace the Spirit of God setting him to schoole contrary to 1 Ioh. 2.27 9. They bring into the Church a straunge ministratioÌ„ contrary to 1. Cor. 12.5 so a new part of the gospel or covenant conâ—rary to Gal. 3.15 10. They do not manifest the spirit which commeth from within but manifesteth the lettre which commeth from without 2. Cor. 3.6 11. Therefore they are not spiritual worship Ioh. 4.24 compared with 2. Cor. 3 1â— Gal. 5.1 4.31 12. Children may read a translation perfectly wel But children cannot perform aâ—â— part of Spiritual worship therfor reading a translation is no part of Spiritual worship Quere whither between the parts of Spiritual worship that is between prayer prophesying singing Psalmes a man may not inteâ—pose the reading of a scripture or chapter not intending it as worship but as a fuâ—ther preparaâ—on to worship Chap. 15. Objections for translations answered The first Objection Rom. 4.3 What fayth the Scripture then followeth the Septuagints translation Heb. 3.7 The holy ghost faith then follow the woâ—des of the Septuagints translation it is observed that the Apâ—stles quote the wordes of the Septuagints translation not only wher they expound the meaning of the holy ghost as Heb. 10.5 Rom. 4.3 Wher the Apostles follow the Septuagints not the Hebrue but also in their devises besides the original as in the second Caynan Luk. 3.36.37 in the 75. persons of Iacobs Family Act. 7.24 where as ther is but one caynan 70. personâ— in the Hebrue Answer to the first Objection If the originals themselves are not to be vsed as helps in tyme of Spiritual worship as hath been proved then this objection is of no force â—or translations Secondly if it were of force to bring translations to be read in the tyme of worship â—t were avay leable thus far even to bring in to the tyme of worship the errors of the â—ranslations for so this objection importeth that the Apostles quote the Septuagints â—rrors wheras it is said by some that in the Apostles intention it is no error sith â—â—riting to Theophilus the Grecians rather then he would hazaâ—d their fayth by â—â—aundging the Septuagints errors corre ing such an approved Translation he 〈◊〉 ought it meet to follow that receaved devise of theirs contrary to the truth the â—oly Ghost thâ—rein yeelding to mans infirmity as in the cases of Polygaâ—y Diverce 〈◊〉 fury in the Old Testament It is thus answered thâ—t the Holy Ghost needeth 〈◊〉 the lyes of men to work his work nor the Septuagints errors to support the fayth 〈◊〉 â—heophilus the Grecians And this mischeef followeth herevppon that rather 〈◊〉 the â—ayth of Theophilus the Grecians should be endaungered the credit oâ— the 〈◊〉 Scriptuâ—es should be hazarded their being found in then such devises errors and câ—â—â—radictions And further it is tâ—e thing by connivency to passe by sinne â—s waâ— the coâ—â—â—ation of Polygamy Divoâ—ce Vsuâ—y See Act. 17.30 Another thing to translate 〈◊〉 from a translation into theÌ„ original which is to approve them this whosoever affirmeth speaketh litle lesse then blasphemy Thirdly therfor as Antiehrist hath polluted all Gods ordinances so hath he violated the original criptures And therfor one Caynan must be put out For so me auncient copies have it not for 75. Ther must be read seaventy all Pente for Pantes as Rom. 12.11 Kairo Kurio it is possible easily to mistake so small a matter in copying out any thing as experience teacheth Lastly fully to answer the objection whatsoever is good in the Septuagints translation was taken out of the New Testament auncient Fathers of the Greek Church For it is manifest by historyes that the Septuagints translation is lost this that goeth vnder the name of the Septuagint is a patchery made out of auncient writings and therfor the Holy Ghost doth not ayme at the Septuagints Translation at all as is imported in the Objection The second Objection The were Greekes Grecians Hellenes Kai Hellenistai As may appeare Act. 6. 1. Rom. 1.16 The Greekes were of the Progeny of the Greekes aswel as of the country The Grecians were Iewes by Progeny borne in Grecia Therfor Paull calleth himself an Hebrew of the Hebrewes Philip 3 5. Now these Grecians had forgotten their Language spake Greek only And having Synagogues in the Cities where they dwelt hâ—d the Septuagints translation read vnto them the Apostles comming into their Synagogues did approve that act of theiâ—s of reading the translation so it followeth that reading translations is lawfull in worship Answer to the second Objection The distiction of Greekes Grecians is vayne as appeareth by these places compated together Act. 21.39 18.2.24 with Act. 6.1 Philip. 3.5 For Paul was borne at Tarsus in Cilicia Aquila at Pontus Apollos at Alexandria And yet are all called Iewes not Hellenists or Grecians Act. 6.1 The Helenists murmured against the Hebrues the Helenists did vnderstand the Hebrue tong had not forgotten
vp the gift God hath given vnto him 1. pet 4. 10.11 Mat. 25.29 2. Tim. 1.6 1. Cor. 14.12 Although some Elder excel in one gift some in another yet it followeth not that therfor they are several officers formally diâ—â—ering one from another for not the degree measure or excellency of a gift or gifts but the several kind nature of gifts works make several kinds of offices 1. Cor. 12.4.5.6 The Elder that excelleth in government most properly may be called a ruler or Governour although he have the gifts powre to teach exhort confort apply that by vertue of his office Tit. 1.9 Heb. 13.17 That Elder that excelleth in doctryne convincing the gainsayers may most properly be called a Teacher or Doctor though by vertue of his office he may administer of other pastoral dutyes Act. 18.28 19.1 1. Cor. 3 4-6 compared with Tit. 1.9 Eph. 4.11 1. Pet. 5.2 The Elder that exceleth in exhortation consolatioÌ„ application may most properly be called a pastor or shepheard though by vertue of his office he is to teach convince governe Act. 20.28 Tit. 1.9 Eph. 4.11 1. Pet. 5 2. As the Apostle doth 2. Tim. 1.6 1. Pet. 4.10 So may the Church give a charg to the Elder in ordination to stir vp attend to vse his proper most pregnant familiar gift which he is to mynd accordingly to endevour himself in his administration thus shal every one as his gift is excel therein to the edification of the Church 1. Corinth 14.12 Thus shal al men that have excelleÌ„cy of gifts when they shal be added to the church be imployed in the honourable service of the Church wheras if ther be but one pastor in a Church men of more excellent gifts being added to the Church shall sitt still leese ther gifts look on which alone is an argument sufficient to overthrow the fancy of one pastor only in one Church Chap. 5. Of the works of the Presbytery or Elders in the preisthood of the Church Thus much concerning the presbytery Now follow the works of the Elders or the presbytery Which are of two sorts 1. Workes of the preisthood of the Church 2. Workes of the Kingdom of the Church For the prophecy of the Church is comprehended vnder the preisthood as a branch of it Deut. 33.10 Revel 1.6 with 1. Cor. 14.31 Act. 2.17.18 The workes of the preisthood are prophesying that is publishing the covenant of grace or the new Testament wherto aperteyneth putting to the seases praying singing psalmes of praise thanksgiving vnto the Lord The office of the Eldership or the work of the presbytery is to lead moderate the Church in these Spiritual Sacrifices in regard whereof they have their names as Leaders prepositi c. Although the presbytery lead moderate these Spiritual Sacrifices yet the brethren are interessed in vsing their gifts for the performance of al these parts of Spiritual worship 1. Cor. 14.31.26 Revel 2.6 1. pet 2.5 that when the whole Church is come together in one 1. Cor. 14.23 yet things must be done in order 1. Cor. 14.33.40 Exception The administration of the scales of the Covenant someth to apertayne only 〈◊〉 Elders or presbytery as saâ—â—â—â—ing did only to the preists Mat. 2.6 26. â—6-â—0 〈◊〉 14.12 Chap. 6. Of the presbytery or Elders in the Kingdom of the Church The workes of the Kingdom are Admonition Conviction Examination Disputation 〈◊〉 communication Absolution handling all matters of difference betwixt brother â—â—other if ther be any of like nature The Eldership is to lead moderate the Church actions speaches in these matters causses of the Kingdom government Deut. 16 18.-20 1 14-18 2. Chron. 19.5 â—1 1. Cor. 6 1-8 1. Thes 5.12.13 1. Tim. 5.17 Heb. 13.17 The brethren are all interessed in all the parts of administration though the Elders â—â—â—d moderate them 1. Cor. 5.4.5 1. Thâ—â—â— 1â— 2. Ep. 3.6 Revel 2.2 1.4 1.11 1.6 The brethren joyntly have all powre both of the Kingdom preisthood immediately from Christ Revel 1.6 1. Pet. 2.5 2. Cor. 6 16-18 Mat. 18.20 that by vertue of the covenant God maketh with them Gen 17.7 with Act 2.39 Rom. 4.11 Gal. 3.14.16 Therfor when the Church wanteth an Eldership it hath never the lesse powre to Preach Pray Sing Psalmes so by consequent to administer the seales of the covanant also to admonish convince excommunicate absolve al other actions eyther of the Kingdom or preisthood by necessary consequent When the Church hath chosen ordeyned her self Elders then the Church leeseth none of her former powre but still retayneth it entyre to herself to vse when occasion seweth by necessary consequent The presbytery hath no powre but what the Church hath giveth vnto it which the Church vppon just cause can take away Colos 4.17 Gal. 1.9 Revel 2.2 1. cor 16.22 The Church hath some powre which the presbytery alone hath not viz powre of Elections communication 1. Cor. 5.4.5 Act. 6.5 14.23 so by consequent of all other Sentences The second Section Chap. 1. Of the Treasury of the Church the Deacons office Thus much of the office workes of the preebytery Now follow the office workes of the Deacons The Deacons office respecteth the body bodily necessityes of the Saints Act. 6.2 which is called serving tables in that place as also bodely service of the Eldership Church Esay 66 21 compared with Ezech 44 10-14 Nomb 3 5-10 In respect whereof the deacoÌ„s may be termed the servants of the Eldership church â—s the Levites were given to serve the preists the people in the tabernacle noÌ„b 3 5-10 The Deacons in the new testament are answerable to the Levites in the old testamet â—s the Elders are answerable to ther preists Esay 66 21. compared with 1. Chron 26.20 The Deacons office especially is occupyed about the treasury of the Church 1. chron 16.20 compared with Act. 6.2 Ioh. 13.29 Concerning the treasury consider these things 1. Who are to contribute what is to be given to the treasury 2. Of what nature the treasury is when it is to be collected 3. How the treasury is to be imployed at whose appointment Chap. 2. VVho are to contribute They that have but two mites as the poore widow in the gospell are to contribute to the treasury Luk 21.2 aswel as they that are wealthy vs 4. Exod. 35 20-29 They that have much are to give much Luk. 21.4 Act. 4.34 They that have but litle are to contribute a litle by proportion All the members of the Church are to contribute somthing bicause the almes or contribution is the manifestation of grace even of our bowels of mercy compassion a part of our holy communion 1. Cor. 16.2 2. Cor. 8 2-3 7. Act. 2.42 Luk. 21.4 As al Rivers goe into the sea flow out of the sea so
wee must all cast into the treasury all receave from the treasury againe as our necessityes are Quere whither they that are mayntayned by the treasury are to contribute into the treasury as the officers poore brethren Chap. 3. VVhat or how much is to be given to the treasury So much is to be given to the treasury as may serve for supplying the present necessityes of the Church Act. 2.45 4.34.35 In the necessityes of the Church the rick must sel their goods possessions for the help of the Church Act. 2.45 4.34.35 In the necessityes of the Church the brethren must contribute not only according to their ability but even beyond their ability their extreme poverty must abound to their rich liberality 2. Cor. 8.2.3 1. Pet. 4.11 A man is accepted of the Lord according to that which he hath not according to that he hath not in contributing if their be a willing mynd though only two mites be given 2. Cor. 8.12 Luk. 21.3 If in the necessityes of the Church the rich brethren do not releeve the poore by contributing to the treasury otherwise they are vnworthy members of the Church vn natural parts of the body are to be censured according to the rule Mat. 18 15-18.1 Timoth. 5.20 Deut. 15 7-11.1 Cor. 12.22.25.26 The rich that have frends that are needy of the Church must releeve theÌ„ themselves must not chardg the Church with them 1. Tim. 5.4.16 vnder nephewes widowes all poore frends are to be vnderstood by proportion Quere whither if a brother have wife children frends to releeve that are without The Church is bound to releeve him so far forth as he may also releeve them Chap. 4. Of what nature the treasury is The treasury is holy Act. 2.42 1. Chron. 26.20 compared with Mat. 27.6 2. Cor. 8.4 â— Hence therfor follow these two consectaryes 1. Every holy ordinance of God must be sanctified by prayer thanksgiving 1. Tim. 4.3 â— therfor Almes or contribution to the treasury must be sanctified by prayer thanksgiving see for this point 2. Cor. 9 12-15 vs 8-11 1 Chron. 29 10-20 2. Ther ought to be a seperation in almes contributioÌ„ to the treasury aswel as in other parts of our Spiritual communion Act. 4.32 5.13 2. Cor. 6.17 Act. 2.42 Heb. 13. â—6 2. Cor. 8.7 therfor they that are without if they give any thing must lay it a part seveâ—al from the treasury it must be imployed to common vse Mat. 27.6.7 The treasury is Holy in these respects 1. In regard of the persons that contribute who are Holy 2. In respect of the grace manifested in contribution which must be 1. Sympathy or â—ompassion 2. freenes or voluntary offering 3 liberality or bountifullnes Rom. 12.13 â—5 16 2. Cor. 9 5-7 3. In regard of the persons vses wherto it is imployed which are the Saynts their â—ecessityes 2. Cor. 8.4 9.12.1 4. In regard of the Lord himself it being a Sacrifice wherewith God is well pleased â—hilip 4.18 Heb. 13.16 And a memoriall of the Saynts before the Lord. Nomb. 31. â—0 54 Phil. 4.17 a testimony of the love of the brethren 2. Cor. 8.8.24 so conâ—ortable to the conscience Chap. 5. VVhen the treasury is to be collected The treasury is to be collected every first day of the week when the whole Church â—ommeth together to break bread Act. 20.7 compared with 1. Cor. 16.2 Reasons hereof are divers as followeth 1. Bicause the Lords Supper is weekly to be administred so from the Treasury â—eekly ther must a portion be imployed to the provision of bread wine other neâ—ssaryes for the more seemly administration thereof Act. 20.7 compared with 1. â—or 16.2 2. Bicause the Elders are worthy of double honor which is yeelded them by weekly â—ayntenance according to their labor necessities 1. Tim. 5.17 18. Gal. 6.6 3. Bicause the poore of the Church are weekly to be releeved other necessities conâ—â—ually supplyed Act 6.1 2.42 Hence it foloweth that when the greatest communion of the church is held the coâ—â—nioÌ„ of this grace also of ministring to the necessities of the saynts should be exercised Quere At what tyme of the Lords day after what manner the Treasury is to 〈◊〉 collected Chap. 6. How the Treasury is to be employed The Church Treasury is to be employed to these Speciall vses 1. Mayntenance of the Elders especially such among them as are most painful in the â—ro doctryne 1. Tim. 5.17.18 The Elders that are of hability ought not to require maintenance of the church but ought rather to contribute to the treasury Act. 20.35 The elders may sometyme vppon good grounds work with their hands for avoyding offence helping the Church Act. 20.34.35 2. Mayntenance of the widowes by consequent other officers that want mayntenance 1. Timoth. 5.3.4.16 Act. 6.1 3. Releef of the poor brethren also orphanes widows of brethren deceased Act 2.44 4.32 2. Cor. 8. 9. chap. that not only of the owne but of other true Churches especially of them from whom they receaved the faith Rom. 15.27 4. Provision for necessary vses as places vessels bread wine other implements so the common necessityes of the whole body Exod. 35 25-29 Nomb. 7 1. Chron. 29 1-â— Quere whither it the chardg of bread wine be very great as it falleth out in somâ— countryes some yeeres the officers poore want mayntenance the Lords suppâ— may not be deferred not be administred every Lords day Chap. 13. At whose disposition the Treasury is Seing the Deacons are the hands of the Church as it were the servants of the bâ—dâ— in the bodyly necessityes therfor the delivering of the treasury so the custody of perteyneth to them 1. Chroh 26.20 The Eldership as they are to oversee the flock to enquire into the occasions 〈◊〉 faires of the whole body as they are officers for the whole body in the Church name therfor it aperteyâ—â—â— vnto them for the Church to oversee the treasury take accouts of it to appoint the disposition of it 2. King 22.4 Act. 11.30 4.35 The Church is the owner primary possessor of the treasury the cheef Lord 〈◊〉 vnder Christ vnto the Church must the account be made finally Thus much concerning the Deacons office workes concerning the treasury 〈◊〉 the Church FINIS Certayne demaundes wherto wee desire direct found answer with proof from the Scriptures 1. Concerning the Kingdom Preisthood of Christ VVhither the Kingdom Preisthood of the old Testament were not distinct seâ—â—rall both in person office actions VVhither the Kingdom Preisthood of the old Testament were not typical shaâ—â— winâ— out the Kingdom Preisthood of Christ VVhither the Kingdom Preisthood of Christ are not distinct buth in office actâ— though vnited in one person VVhither as
the Apostle saith didacticoi proistamenoiÌ„ 1. Timoth. 3. VVhither didacticos that is apt to teach be not expounded by the Apostle Tit. 1.9 by three particulars viz 1. to teach wholsome doctryne 2. to exhort 3. to convince the gainsayers VVhither Teaching Ruling be not the two parts of feeding VVhither feeding that is Teaching Ruling exhorting conforting be not the pastors office therfor all the Elders pastors VVhither the Eldership hath not all their powre from the Church VVhither the Eldership hath a negative voyce in the church that nothing can be concluded without them VVhither if most or the Church consent the Elders dissent the matter cannot passe against the Elders dissent VVhither seing the church may depose excommunicate the Eldership they may not passe other sentences without or contrary to their liking VVhither may not a man propound his mater to the church without acquaynting the Elders with it in the first place VVhither in the second degree of admonition a man is not bound to take an Elder for witnesse VVhether one Elder only in a church be Gods ordinance whither if ther be chosen any Elder ther must be chosen more then one VVhither the seales of the covenant may not be administred ther being yet no Elders in offiice 8. Concerning the Treasury contribution VVhither the treasury be not Holy VVhither contribution be not an action of the communion of the Saynts VVhither as in other parts of communion so in this ther ought not to be a seperation from them that are without VVhither the action of contribution must not be Sanctified by prayer thanksgiving A Recapitulation of the Chapters to be found according to their pages The first part concerning the Leitourgie of the Church Chap. 1. Of the Kingdom of the Saynts pag. 1. Chap. 2. Of the Preisthood of the Saynts pag. 1. Chap. 3. Of Spirituall worship of the Spirit pag. 2. Chap. 4. Of quenching the Spirit pag. 2. Chap. 5. Of the helps of Spiritual worship pag. 3. Chap. 6. Concerning bookes writing pag. 3. Chap. 7. Of the kindes of bookes or writings pag. 4. Chap. 8. Of the originals or holy Scriptures of the partes of holy Scripture pag. 4. Chap. 9. How the originals or holy Scriptures are to be vsed pag. 5. Chap. 10 Reasons proving the originals not to be given as helps before the eye in worship pdg. 6. Chap. 11. Objections for bookworship answered pag. 7. Chap. 12. Of the writings of men pag. 10. Chap. 13. Of reading translations of the translation of the 72. intâ—â—preters pag. 10. Chap. 14. Of other arguments against reading translations 〈◊〉 tyme of worship pag. 11. Chap. 15. Objections for translations answered pag. 13. Chap. 16. Of the lawfulnes of translating the Scriptures the vse of translations in our account pag. 17. Chap. 17. Concerning the vse of the translation for the hearers pag. 18. Chap. 18. Of the nature or essence of Spiritual worship the essential causses kindes thereof pag. 18. Chap. 19. How the worship of the old Testament did type the Spiritual worship of the new Testament pag. 30. Chap. 20. Of that which was performed in the court pag. 21. The second part of the Ministery of the Church pag. 22. The first section of the Eldership or Presbytery pag. 22. Chap. 1. Of the names or titles of the Elders pag. 22. Chap. 2. Of reasons proving the Elders to be of one sort viz all Pastors pag. 23. Chap. 3. Objections for three sorts of Elders answered pag. 24. Chap. 4. Of the divers gifts of Elders pag. 26. Chap. 5. Of the works of the Presbytery or Elders in the Preisthood of the church pa. 27 Chap. 6. Of the workes of the Presbytery or Elders in the KingdoÌ„ of the church pag. 28. The second section Chap. 1. Of the treasury of the Church the Deacons office pag. 28. Chap. 2. Who are to contribute pag. 29. Chap. 3. What or how much is to be given to the treasury pag. 29. Chap. 4. Of what nature the treasury is pag. 29. Chap. 5. When the treasury is to be collected pag. 30. Chap. 6. How the treasury is to be employed pag. 30. Chap. 7. At whose disposition the treasury is pag. 31. Certayne demaundes pag. 31. FINIS