second_o i_o answer_v that_o it_o be_v so_o at_o the_o first_o too_o luther_n and_o other_o first_o spread_v the_o gospel_n first_o some_o of_o our_o own_o love_a believe_v and_o embrace_v it_o by_o their_o preach_n and_o then_o they_o persuade_v other_o and_o i_o know_v not_o how_o our_o english_a at_o amsterdam_n can_v show_v any_o better_a calling_n to_o their_o church_n but_o they_o except_v and_o say_v that_o in_o england_n our_o church_n be_v gather_v by_o proclamation_n and_o by_o the_o sound_n of_o a_o trumpet_n as_o in_o queen_n elizabeth_n day_n &_o so_o be_v do_v by_o compulsion_n and_o be_v not_o voluntary_a i_o answer_v first_o some_o do_v come_v voluntary_o and_o glad_o and_o therefore_o at_o least_o for_o they_o it_o be_v a_o true_a constitution_n second_o the_o compulsion_n that_o be_v use_v be_v only_o to_o the_o outward_a mean_n not_o to_o the_o faith_n and_o that_o be_v very_o justifiable_a josiah_n compel_v ill_a that_o be_v find_v in_o israel_n to_o serve_v the_o lord_n their_o god_n 2_o chron._n 34.33_o but_o they_o say_v that_o be_v at_o the_o restore_n not_o at_o the_o plant_n of_o a_o church_n i_o answer_v i_o see_v no_o reason_n but_o that_o it_o be_v as_o lawful_a in_o the_o one_o as_o in_o the_o other_o and_o therefore_o if_o it_o destroy_v not_o the_o true_a restore_n why_o shall_v it_o destroy_v the_o true_a plant_n but_o we_o say_v queen_n elizabeth_n act_n be_v a_o restore_n too_o for_o i_o hope_v we_o have_v a_o true_a church_n here_o in_o queen_n mary_n time_n though_o under_o persecution_n and_o i_o be_o sure_a then_o there_o be_v no_o compulsion_n to_o ouâ—_n religion_n nor_o such_o government_n service_n ministry_n or_o people_n among_o the_o protestant_n as_o they_o now_o except_v against_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v a_o restore_n put_v case_n the_o separatist_n have_v any_o child_n or_o servant_n that_o be_v negligent_a cold_a and_o backward_o in_o frequent_v holy_a assembly_n or_o perform_v religious_a duty_n public_a or_o private_a and_o upon_o admontion_n they_o will_v not_o reform_v what_o will_v they_o do_v in_o this_o case_n will_v they_o utter_o cast_v they_o off_o or_o rather_o will_v they_o not_o punish_v they_o and_o thereby_o compel_v they_o to_o the_o outward_a mean_n and_o to_o obedience_n thereunto_o wherein_o if_o god_n do_v bless_v their_o labour_n so_o that_o through_o his_o mercy_n such_o child_n or_o servant_n do_v afterward_o labour_v in_o the_o mean_n sound_o and_o conscionable_o shall_v this_o be_v nought_o because_o they_o be_v bring_v thereto_o by_o compulsion_n no_o sure_o it_o be_v great_a comfort_n to_o the_o compeller_n that_o they_o take_v that_o course_n and_o it_o be_v great_a comfort_n to_o the_o compel_v that_o they_o be_v so_o deal_v withal_o so_o the_o compulsion_n use_v in_o restore_v the_o church_n in_o queen_n elizabeth_n time_n be_v lawful_a and_o good_a against_o all_o their_o clamour_n and_o exception_n second_o answ_n they_o except_v against_o the_o government_n of_o our_o church_n and_o say_v that_o we_o have_v a_o false_a government_n and_o therefore_o a_o false_a church_n but_o the_o consequence_n be_v false_a for_o than_o it_o must_v follow_v that_o a_o true_a government_n make_v a_o true_a church_n which_o be_v not_o true_a the_o antecedent_n be_v false_a too_o if_o they_o have_v say_v it_o make_v a_o faulty_a church_n they_o have_v say_v true_a but_o that_o it_o make_v a_o false_a antichristian_a church_n and_o i_o know_v not_o what_o it_o be_v a_o mere_a slander_n but_o say_v they_o your_o officer_n be_v anti-christian_n i_o answer_v the_o chief_a officer_n and_o those_o that_o be_v most_o spurn_v at_o be_v the_o bishop_n and_o they_o be_v before_o antichrist_n three_o they_o except_v against_o our_o service_n of_o god_n they_o say_v we_o have_v a_o false_a service_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o a_o false_a church_n i_o answer_v if_o they_o mean_v only_o some_o part_n of_o our_o service_n as_o they_o have_v no_o colour_n so_o to_o traduce_v it_o all_o then_o the_o consequence_n be_v false_a but_o if_o they_o mean_v all_o than_o the_o antecedent_n be_v notorious_o untrue_a no_o part_n of_o our_o service_n of_o god_n can_v be_v prove_v false_a it_o be_v perform_v of_o those_o that_o be_v true_o religious_a among_o we_o in_o truth_n and_o understanding_n and_o affection_n they_o except_v first_o say_v they_o it_o be_v carnal_a i_o answer_v haply_o in_o some_o those_o that_o have_v carnal_a mind_n it_o be_v so_o but_o it_o be_v neither_o so_o in_o itself_o nor_o so_o in_o the_o conscionable_a performer_n thereof_o the_o lord_n be_v one_o god_n a_o eternal_a infinite_a spirit_n our_o heart_n and_o spirit_n be_v lift_v up_o to_o believe_v in_o he_o to_o go_v to_o he_o to_o cry_v and_o call_v upon_o he_o in_o his_o son_n second_o they_o say_v it_o be_v idolatrous_a your_o service_n book_n be_v your_o idol_n say_v they_o i_o answer_v that_o be_v no_o idol_n nor_o our_o service_n thereby_o idolatry_n three_o they_o say_v we_o have_v a_o will_v worship_v invent_v by_o man_n i_o answer_v we_o worship_v not_o god_n by_o any_o invention_n of_o our_o own_o or_o other_o man_n as_o part_n of_o his_o worship_n but_o only_o as_o outward_a carriage_n thereof_o and_o these_o also_o be_v such_o as_o our_o church_n be_v persuade_v be_v agreeable_a to_o these_o general_a rule_n of_o decency_n and_o order_n which_o god_n have_v prescribe_v in_o his_o word_n answer_v four_o they_o except_v against_o our_o stint_a prayer_n i_o answer_v they_o have_v not_o the_o church_n always_o use_v stint_v prayer_n look_v into_o these_o scripture_n and_o you_o shall_v find_v it_o so_o numb_a 6.23_o there_o be_v a_o stint_a prayer_n appoint_v to_o aaron_n and_o his_o son_n to_o bless_v the_o child_n of_o israel_n withal_o thus_o shall_v you_o bless_v the_o lord_n bless_v thou_o and_o keep_v thou_o &c_n &c_n deut._n 26.3_o to_o the_o 15._o there_o be_v a_o form_n of_o confession_n and_o prayer_n set_v down_o which_o the_o people_n be_v to_o use_v when_o they_o bring_v the_o first_o fruit_n 1_o chron._n 16.7_o to_o the_o 36._o there_o be_v a_o psalm_n which_o david_n do_v appoint_v to_o give_v thanks_n unto_o the_o lord_n by_o the_o hand_n of_o asaph_n &_o his_o brethren_n praise_v the_o lord_n and_o call_v upon_o his_o name_n &c_n &c_n and_o psal_n 92._o be_v entitle_v a_o psalm_n for_o the_o sabbath_n appoint_v to_o be_v sing_v that_o day_n and_o our_o saviour_n christ_n himself_o appoint_v a_o stint_a prayer_n luk._n 11.2_o when_o you_o pray_v say_v our_o father_n &c_n &c_n and_o likewise_o himself_o use_v a_o stint_a prayer_n matth._n 26.44_o and_o he_o pray_v the_o three_o time_n say_v the_o same_o word_n and_o therefore_o stint_a prayer_n in_o itself_o be_v no_o sin_n if_o they_o reply_v that_o they_o be_v so_o direct_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n yet_o that_o be_v no_o let_v to_o we_o for_o their_o conceive_a prayer_n be_v also_o direct_o from_o the_o holy_a ghost_n after_o a_o special_a manner_n yet_o that_o be_v no_o reason_n but_o that_o we_o may_v use_v conceive_v prayer_n though_o they_o be_v not_o so_o special_o from_o the_o spirit_n as_o they_o and_o yet_o we_o be_v not_o so_o confine_v to_o those_o set_a prayer_n but_o that_o we_o may_v and_o do_v in_o every_o particular_a congregation_n before_o and_o after_o preach_v enlarge_v add_v alter_v and_o supply_v as_o occasion_n require_v and_o that_o as_o free_o zealous_o and_o spiritual_o as_o any_o may_v do_v in_o other_o church_n yea_o but_o say_v they_o your_o service_n be_v all_o take_v out_o of_o the_o portesse_n or_o mass_n book_n contrary_a to_o god_n commandment_n levit._n 18.2.3_o deut._n 12.30_o &c_n &c_n i_o answer_v it_o be_v well_o know_v that_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n have_v be_v a_o true_a and_o sound_a church_n and_o it_o be_v know_v that_o in_o that_o time_n there_o be_v some_o form_n of_o public_a prayer_n and_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n in_o use_n among_o they_o and_o as_o that_o church_n fall_v by_o little_a and_o little_a from_o her_o integrity_n so_o that_o form_n by_o little_a and_o little_o be_v corrupt_v now_o the_o church_n be_v to_o be_v reform_v 〈…〉_z be_v to_o be_v reform_v too_o and_o so_o it_o be_v that_o which_o be_v idolatrous_a and_o superstitious_a be_v cast_v out_o and_o that_o which_o be_v profitable_a be_v retain_v partly_o for_o peace_n sake_n that_o the_o better_a sort_n may_v still_o be_v hold_v within_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n but_o special_o because_o it_o be_v of_o good_a use_n even_o before_o popery_n so_o that_o we_o take_v nothing_o from_o they_o but_o what_o may_v in_o a_o charitable_a construction_n be_v well_o endure_v that_o which_o be_v most_o question_v be_v the_o cross_n in_o baptism_n which_o we_o
and_o to_o reign_v over_o they_o and_o therefore_o he_o refuse_v they_o to_o be_v his_o body_n therefore_o what_o direction_n soever_o christ_n tender_v unto_o we_o we_o must_v obey_v it_o and_o whatsoever_o be_v against_o the_o direction_n of_o christ_n we_o must_v defy_v they_o and_o second_o see_v christ_n be_v our_o head_n therefore_o whatsoever_o life_n or_o direction_n we_o have_v in_o spiritual_a thing_n we_o must_v acknowledge_v the_o fountain_n of_o they_o that_o we_o have_v they_o not_o of_o ourselves_o but_o from_o he_o only_o for_o of_o his_o fullness_n we_o all_o receive_v grace_n for_o grace_n joh._n 1.16_o and_o without_o he_o we_o be_v able_a to_o do_v nothing_o joh._n 15.5_o and_o by_o he_o we_o be_v able_a to_o do_v all_o thing_n phil._n 4.13_o mark_v how_o sweet_o these_o place_n agree_v together_o we_o receive_v all_o from_o he_o without_o he_o we_o can_v do_v nothing_o by_o he_o we_o be_v able_a to_o do_v all_o thing_n therefore_o whatsoever_o good_a thing_n we_o have_v spiritual_a life_n or_o grace_n we_o must_v receive_v they_o thankful_o embrace_v they_o sweet_o use_v they_o gracious_o to_o the_o honour_n of_o thy_o head_n and_o the_o good_a &_o comfort_n of_o thyself_o and_o thy_o fellow-member_n so_o likewise_o for_o unprofitable_a member_n that_o dishonour_v our_o head_n we_o shall_v pray_v that_o our_o head_n christ_n jesus_n will_v either_o make_v they_o profitable_a or_o else_o cut_v they_o off_o and_o also_o that_o he_o will_v be_v please_v to_o purge_v from_o his_o body_n the_o noisome_a humour_n as_o sin_n and_o superstition_n that_o so_o he_o may_v have_v a_o sound_n and_o a_o healthful_a body_n three_o and_o last_o see_v christ_n be_v our_o head_n therefore_o as_o he_o have_v a_o gracious_a care_n for_o our_o safety_n so_o we_o shall_v be_v as_o careful_a to_o preserve_v and_o maintain_v his_o honour_n and_o glory_n we_o shall_v rejoice_v when_o we_o see_v his_o honour_n and_o glory_n advance_v and_o we_o shall_v mourn_v and_o be_v grieve_v when_o we_o see_v it_o oppose_v and_o so_o likewise_o we_o shall_v be_v affect_v with_o the_o good_a or_o harm_n of_o our_o fellow-member_n 1_o cor._n 12.25_o we_o shall_v be_v careful_a to_o bring_v one_o another_o to_o heaven_n and_o not_o be_v careless_a whether_o they_o come_v thither_o or_o no._n use_v 4_o the_o last_o use_n be_v this_o hence_o we_o have_v a_o sufficient_a warrant_n that_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n because_o christ_n our_o head_n spiritual_a life_n and_o the_o doctrine_n of_o salvation_n be_v find_v true_o in_o our_o church_n but_o our_o adversary_n except_v against_o we_o first_o say_v they_o you_o have_v not_o god_n ordinance_n among_o you_o and_o therefore_o you_o have_v not_o christ_n to_o be_v your_o head_n we_o answer_v that_o they_o must_v show_v we_o out_o of_o god_n word_n that_o those_o be_v the_o ordinance_n of_o christ_n which_o we_o want_v but_o say_v they_o you_o have_v antichrist_n to_o be_v your_o head_n for_o you_o have_v many_o thing_n from_o he_o i_o answer_v we_o defy_v he_o as_o much_o as_o they_o do_v together_o with_o his_o doctrine_n we_o defy_v his_o practice_n and_o course_n if_o we_o have_v or_o use_v any_o thing_n that_o he_o do_v or_o have_v use_v before_o we_o first_o it_o be_v either_o no_o matter_n of_o substance_n but_o only_o some_o passage_n or_o carriage_n or_o circumstance_n either_o in_o worship_n or_o government_n or_o second_o they_o be_v such_o thing_n as_o be_v use_v in_o pure_a time_n and_o church_n before_o antichrist_n or_o three_o it_o be_v of_o the_o best_a which_o that_o church_n be_v in_o apostasy_n that_o be_v have_v be_v a_o church_n and_o still_o pretend_v to_o continue_v the_o same_o have_v reserve_v for_o still_o they_o have_v some_o good_a thing_n and_o profess_v some_o good_a truth_n last_o at_o least_o it_o be_v thorough_o cleanse_v from_o their_o superstition_n and_o idolatry_n so_o that_o still_o we_o have_v christ_n to_o be_v the_o head_n of_o our_o church_n and_o his_o spiritual_a life_n and_o the_o doctrine_n of_o salvation_n be_v find_v among_o we_o and_o beget_v spiritual_a life_n in_o many_o of_o we_o we_o must_v needs_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n and_o so_o much_o for_o this_o point_n the_o twelve_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n the_o three_o point_n propound_v to_o be_v speak_v of_o concern_v the_o find_v out_o of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n be_v touch_v the_o member_n of_o it_o for_o as_o i_o show_v you_o the_o church_n be_v a_o body_n and_o that_o every_o body_n consist_v of_o certain_a member_n therefore_o if_o we_o will_v exact_o know_v the_o body_n we_o must_v know_v the_o member_n now_o the_o member_n be_v take_v either_o in_o a_o more_o general_a sense_n include_v the_o head_n or_o else_o in_o a_o more_o strict_a and_o particular_a sense_n be_v consider_v as_o a_o diverse_a thing_n from_o the_o head_n now_o because_o we_o will_v carry_v the_o matter_n full_o before_o we_o we_o take_v it_o in_o both_o those_o sense_n and_o have_v speak_v of_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o first_o sense_n where_o we_o show_v that_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n be_v the_o head_n and_o the_o only_a head_n of_o the_o true_a visible_a church_n now_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n in_o a_o more_o strict_a and_o particular_a sense_n sort_n be_v consider_v as_o a_o diverse_a thing_n from_o the_o head_n and_o thus_o consider_v the_o member_n be_v of_o three_o sort_n first_o some_o be_v member_n by_o right_a only_o and_o not_o by_o possession_n second_o some_o be_v member_n by_o possession_n not_o by_o right_a and_o three_o some_o be_v member_n both_o by_o right_n and_o by_o possession_n first_o some_o be_v member_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n by_o right_a only_o not_o by_o possession_n for_o some_o member_n have_v a_o good_a right_n in_o the_o body_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n and_o the_o privilege_n thereunto_o belong_v kind_n but_o yet_o be_v not_o actual_o possess_v of_o they_o and_o of_o these_o there_o be_v diverse_a kind_n ir_v general_o all_o the_o elect_a of_o god_n live_v upon_o the_o face_n of_o the_o earth_n that_o as_o yet_o be_v not_o call_v for_o the_o church_n be_v they_o and_o the_o word_n be_v they_o and_o the_o sacrament_n be_v they_o and_o the_o ministry_n be_v they_o the_o lord_n special_o intend_v his_o own_o ordinance_n to_o the_o benefit_n of_o his_o choose_a though_o indeed_o they_o themselves_o be_v notable_a so_o much_o as_o to_o know_v their_o own_o right_n in_o they_o much_o less_o be_v they_o able_a to_o reach_v forth_o their_o hand_n to_o claim_v it_o and_o enjoy_v it_o yet_o because_o the_o lord_n have_v appoint_v they_o to_o be_v heir_n of_o salvation_n and_o therefore_o consequent_o he_o have_v appoint_v they_o a_o time_n in_o which_o he_o will_v call_v they_o to_o the_o outward_a profession_n of_o the_o save_a faith_n therefore_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o purpose_n of_o god_n they_o be_v by_o right_n true_a member_n of_o the_o true_a visible_a church_n though_o they_o be_v not_o as_o yet_o actual_o possess_v of_o it_o and_o thus_o one_o and_o the_o same_o man_n may_v be_v at_o one_o and_o the_o same_o time_n a_o member_n of_o the_o church_n malignant_a and_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n in_o his_o own_o practice_n and_o profession_n and_o by_o right_n in_o respect_n of_o god_n purpose_n a_o true_a member_n of_o christ_n true_a visible_a body_n this_o be_v the_o case_n of_o saul_n who_o by_o his_o practice_n be_v of_o the_o malignant_a church_n and_o persecute_v the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n and_o yet_o by_o right_n he_o be_v a_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n second_o those_o that_o be_v member_n of_o the_o true_a visible_a church_n by_o right_n and_o not_o by_o possession_n be_v such_o as_o only_o have_v hear_v of_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o gospel_n and_o be_v endue_v with_o some_o little_a smatch_n of_o religion_n yet_o they_o be_v but_o enter_v into_o the_o church_n only_o their_o foot_n be_v in_o the_o porch_n they_o be_v not_o yet_o come_v within_o the_o holy_a place_n they_o have_v not_o yet_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n of_o baptism_n which_o be_v our_o admission_n into_o the_o visible_a church_n so_o that_o after_o that_o time_n the_o church_n do_v acknowledge_v we_o from_o thence_o forward_o to_o be_v her_o child_n and_o we_o acknowledge_v she_o to_o be_v our_o mother_n and_o so_o we_o be_v incorporate_v and_o become_v member_n of_o that_o body_n so_o then_o those_o that_o have_v only_o hear_v of_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o gospel_n and_o have_v some_o little_a smatch_n of_o religion_n they_o can_v just_o be_v say_v to_o be_v member_n by_o possession_n yet_o
god_n make_v a_o covenant_n with_o abraham_n there_o be_v the_o word_n and_o in_o the_o 10._o vers_fw-la there_o be_v the_o sacrament_n circumcision_n and_o in_o the_o 23._o verse_n there_o be_v abraham_n obedience_n he_o circumcise_a ishmael_n and_o all_o the_o male_n in_o his_o house_n so_o likewise_o when_o god_n send_v to_o gather_v his_o people_n out_o of_o egypt_n first_o he_o deliver_v they_o his_o word_n by_o moses_n exo._n 3.15_o and_o 6.6_o and_o he_o give_v they_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o passeover_n exo._n 12.3_o and_o in_o the_o eight_o and_o twenty_o verse_n of_o that_o chapter_n there_o be_v the_o people_n obedience_n the_o child_n of_o israel_n go_v and_o do_v as_o the_o lord_n have_v command_v moses_n and_o aaron_n even_o so_o do_v they_o and_o what_o be_v the_o law_n and_o sacrifice_n in_o the_o former_a testament_n but_o even_o as_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n be_v in_o the_o new_a testament_n and_o do_v not_o the_o lord_n require_v and_o receive_v of_o the_o people_n a_o precise_a promise_n of_o obedience_n even_o before_o he_o prescribe_v they_o either_o law_n or_o sacrifice_n this_o we_o may_v see_v he_o do_v exod._n 19.5.8_o god_n send_v moses_n to_o the_o people_n there_o before_o he_o deliver_v they_o his_o law_n and_o before_o he_o prescribe_v their_o sacrifice_n to_o know_v whether_o they_o will_v obey_v or_o not_o and_o they_o say_v they_o will_v so_o that_o under_o the_o law_n there_o be_v the_o word_n and_o the_o sacrament_n and_o profession_n of_o obedience_n in_o the_o people_n and_o so_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n and_o so_o joshua_n renew_v the_o true_a worship_n of_o god_n jos_n 1.16.18_o redress_v the_o thing_n amiss_o and_o bring_v in_o the_o law_n and_o the_o passove_a and_o the_o people_n they_o promise_v obedience_n in_o all_o thing_n even_o as_o they_o obey_v moses_n and_o so_o in_o the_o 2_o king_n 23.2_o 3_o 21_o 22_o 23._o when_o josiah_n restore_v the_o church_n of_o god_n first_o he_o cause_v the_o word_n of_o the_o book_n of_o the_o covenant_n to_o be_v read_v to_o the_o people_n in_o the_o second_o verse_n so_o there_o be_v the_o word_n and_o in_o the_o 21._o verse_n there_o the_o king_n restore_v the_o passeover_n so_o there_o be_v the_o sacrament_n and_o in_o the_o three_o verse_n there_o be_v their_o obedience_n for_o the_o king_n make_v a_o covenant_n with_o the_o lord_n and_o all_o the_o people_n stand_v to_o it_o and_o thus_o likewise_o it_o be_v in_o the_o time_n of_o ezra_n as_o you_o may_v read_v chap._n 7.8_o and_o also_o in_o the_o time_n of_o nehemiah_n chap._n 8._o &_o 9_o they_o restore_v the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n and_o make_v a_o covenant_n with_o god_n wherein_o they_o profess_v their_o obedience_n and_o so_o be_v restore_v to_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n so_o then_o these_o must_v needs_o be_v the_o principal_a mark_n and_o note_n whereby_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n be_v discern_v because_o they_o be_v not_o only_o in_o the_o institute_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n but_o also_o in_o the_o renew_n and_o restore_v of_o it_o when_o it_o be_v corrupt_v it_o be_v in_o this_o case_n as_o with_o a_o camp_n in_o the_o field_n who_o as_o they_o be_v gather_v at_o the_o first_o to_o their_o colour_n and_o banner_n 27._o so_o likewise_o if_o the_o camp_n be_v put_v to_o flight_n by_o the_o enemy_n the_o general_n hang_v out_o and_o display_v his_o colour_n and_o ensign_n that_o so_o they_o that_o be_v scatter_v may_v gather_v to_o they_o again_o and_o that_o so_o they_o may_v be_v a_o camp_n as_o before_o so_o it_o be_v with_o god_n church_n when_o it_o be_v put_v to_o the_o worst_a when_o it_o be_v corrupt_v and_o pollute_v he_o display_v the_o ensign_n and_o banner_n of_o his_o word_n and_o sacrament_n that_o so_o whosoever_o be_v fall_v away_o may_v enter_v into_o covenant_n again_o and_o become_v a_o member_n of_o the_o true_a visible_a church_n and_o fight_v under_o god_n banner_n as_o well_o as_o he_o do_v before_o thus_o we_o see_v how_o it_o be_v in_o the_o former_a testament_n that_o these_o be_v the_o true_a mark_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n and_o so_o it_o be_v also_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n i_o will_v give_v you_o a_o pattern_n or_o example_n only_o in_o two_o church_n and_o by_o they_o you_o may_v esteem_v of_o all_o the_o rest_n the_o first_o be_v the_o church_n of_o jerusalem_n act._n 2.14_o 41_o 42._o in_o the_o fourteen_o verse_n it_o be_v say_v peter_n lift_v up_o his_o voice_n etc._n etc._n there_o be_v the_o word_n preach_v and_o in_o verse_n 41._o there_o be_v the_o sacrament_n of_o baptism_n they_o that_o glad_o receive_v his_o word_n be_v baptize_v and_o in_o verse_n 42._o there_o be_v the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n under_o the_o name_n of_o break_v of_o bread_n and_o there_o be_v also_o their_o profession_n of_o obedience_n for_o they_o continue_v in_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n and_o fellowship_n and_o break_v of_o bread_n and_o prayer_n and_o so_o there_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n the_o second_o pattern_n be_v the_o church_n of_o corinth_n 1_o corinth_n 1.13_o there_o be_v baptism_n and_o in_o the_o 1_o corinth_n 11.23_o there_o be_v the_o lord_n supper_n and_o chap._n 15.1_o there_o be_v the_o word_n preach_v and_o also_o their_o obedience_n for_o the_o apostle_n paul_n preach_v unto_o they_o the_o gospel_n which_o they_o receive_v and_o continue_v in_o so_o that_o these_o be_v the_o chief_a and_o most_o principal_a mark_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n and_o where_o these_o be_v the_o word_n true_o preach_v the_o sacrament_n right_o administer_v and_o profession_n of_o obedience_n to_o that_o which_o they_o do_v both_o require_v there_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n of_o god_n the_o ancient_a father_n do_v acknowledge_v this_o in_o effect_n for_o they_o say_v that_o the_o word_n preach_v and_o the_o sacrament_n administer_v be_v the_o chief_a mark_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n 29_o but_o there_o must_v be_v obedience_n to_o they_o both_o for_o that_o be_v the_o life_n of_o all_o and_o indeed_o even_o the_o papist_n themselves_o when_o they_o be_v out_o of_o controversy_n do_v grant_v the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n be_v the_o chief_a and_o clear_a mark_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n and_o so_o much_o for_o the_o proof_n reas_n 1_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o observation_n be_v these_o first_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n be_v the_o cause_n and_o the_o definition_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n as_o we_o have_v show_v and_o therefore_o must_v needs_o be_v the_o most_o infallible_a mark_n of_o it_o but_o you_o will_v say_v how_o can_v the_o same_o thing_n be_v the_o cause_n and_o definition_n and_o also_o the_o sign_n and_o mark_n too_o yes_o very_o well_o as_o for_o instance_n the_o sunshine_n be_v the_o cause_n and_o definition_n as_o also_o the_o infallible_a mark_n and_o sign_n of_o the_o day_n and_o so_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n be_v the_o cause_n and_o definition_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n must_v needs_o also_o be_v the_o clear_a and_o most_o infallible_a sign_n and_o mark_n of_o it_o reas_n 2_o second_o they_o must_v needs_o be_v infallible_a mark_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n which_o be_v always_o find_v wheresoever_o a_o church_n be_v plant_v or_o wheresoever_o it_o be_v continue_v or_o wheresoever_o it_o be_v restore_v but_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n and_o obedience_n be_v find_v in_o all_o these_o therefore_o these_o be_v the_o most_o infallible_a note_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n in_o the_o first_o plant_n math._n 28.19_o and_o in_o the_o continue_n act._n 2.41_o 42._o and_o in_o the_o restore_n as_o ioshua_n and_o iosiah_n time_n etc._n etc._n as_o we_o have_v show_v before_o reas_n 3_o three_o wheresoever_o moses_n be_v teach_v and_o obey_v with_o his_o ceremony_n there_o be_v a_o synagogue_n of_o the_o jew_n where_o the_o alcoran_n be_v teach_v and_o mahomet_n observe_v there_o be_v a_o church_n of_o mahometan_n so_o likewise_o where_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n be_v teach_v and_o his_o sacrament_n administer_v and_o obedience_n yield_v to_o they_o there_o be_v a_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n four_o where_o there_o be_v good_a wheat_n sow_v and_o thrive_v and_o come_v up_o in_o the_o blade_n be_v not_o that_o a_o field_n of_o wheat_n so_o likewise_o where_o the_o word_n be_v preach_v and_o the_o sacrament_n administer_v and_o profession_n of_o obedience_n to_o they_o both_o be_v not_o this_o a_o true_a church_n not_o that_o profession_n only_o make_v a_o true_a church_n but_o because_o as_o i_o have_v show_v it_o can_v be_v but_o whereas_o these_o be_v there_o be_v some_o that_o do_v sincere_o profess_v five_o be_v not_o she_o a_o right_n
in_o their_o synagogue_n &_o that_o these_o be_v translate_v from_o they_o though_o this_o be_v probable_a and_o likely_a enough_o yet_o it_o be_v but_o a_o conjecture_n there_o be_v no_o sure_a proof_n for_o it_o but_o there_o must_v be_v sure_a ground_n to_o erect_v a_o church-officer_n upon_o second_o there_o be_v no_o example_n in_o all_o the_o scripture_n of_o any_o church_n so_o govern_v three_o the_o place_n of_o scripture_n allege_v for_o they_o be_v scarce_o and_o few_o and_o indeed_o there_o be_v but_o one_o and_o that_o be_v in_o the_o 1_o tim._n 5.17_o i_o will_v not_o stand_v to_o scan_v it_o or_o to_o make_v shift_n against_o it_o but_o if_o it_o be_v so_o expound_v of_o govern_v elder_n beside_o minister_n it_o be_v subject_a to_o many_o just_a exception_n and_o also_o it_o may_v admit_v many_o interpretation_n to_o the_o contrary_a agreeable_a to_o the_o analogy_n of_o faith_n and_o fit_v to_o the_o word_n themselves_o and_o there_o be_v a_o great_a many_o more_o harsh_a interpretation_n that_o pass_v for_o currant_n in_o far_o weighty_a matter_n so_o that_o first_o either_o there_o be_v none_o such_o at_o all_o or_o second_o if_o there_o be_v such_o as_o for_o my_o part_n i_o will_v not_o utter_o deny_v it_o yet_o they_o be_v only_o in_o practice_n then_o it_o can_v be_v prove_v to_o be_v a_o institution_n for_o many_o thing_n be_v do_v then_o which_o in_o do_v be_v not_o institute_v three_o or_o if_o it_o be_v by_o institution_n yet_o it_o be_v only_o for_o that_o present_a dispensation_n when_o there_o be_v no_o christian_a magistrate_n so_o that_o now_o we_o live_v under_o a_o christian_a magistrate_n be_v not_o bind_v to_o it_o nor_o have_v no_o such_o use_n of_o it_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v not_o perpetual_a four_o or_o if_o it_o be_v perpetual_a yet_o our_o church_n be_v not_o utter_o destitute_a we_o have_v in_o every_o parish_n vestry-man_n to_o join_v with_o the_o minister_n in_o such_o part_n of_o government_n as_o needs_o such_o person_n to_o hear_v and_o reform_v some_o matter_n with_o the_o minister_n that_o he_o may_v not_o carry_v all_o alone_a and_o therefore_o there_o be_v no_o cause_n of_o such_o quarrel_n and_o exclamation_n as_o be_v make_v against_o our_o church_n upon_o this_o occasion_n and_o so_o much_o for_o the_o four_o point_n concern_v govern_v elder_n deacons_n in_o the_o five_o place_n we_o come_v to_o the_o office_n of_o deacon_n that_o be_v a_o express_a office_n mention_v in_o scripture_n as_o act._n 6.2_o though_o they_o be_v not_o there_o express_o call_v deacon_n yet_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o they_o be_v such_o in_o rom._n 12.8_o they_o be_v call_v distributor_n and_o in_o the_o 1_o tim._n 3.12_o there_o they_o be_v by_o name_n these_o be_v such_o as_o at_o the_o first_o be_v appoint_v and_o employ_v altogether_o about_o the_o poor_a and_o about_o church-treasury_n but_o afterward_o they_o do_v also_o exercise_v some_o ministerial_a function_n for_o philip_n be_v a_o deacon_n deacon_n act._n 6._o yet_o afterward_o he_o preach_v and_o baptize_v act._n 8.5_o 38._o though_o he_o do_v that_o rather_o as_o he_o be_v a_o evangelist_n than_o a_o deacon_n for_o so_o we_o may_v read_v act._n 21_o 8._o that_o philip_n be_v a_o evangelist_n and_o afterward_o the_o deacon_n baptize_v which_o save_v the_o judgement_n of_o the_o better_o learn_v i_o think_v they_o rather_o usurp_v than_o have_v any_o right_n to_o it_o by_o office_n or_o other_o warrant_n for_o it_o yet_o in_o succeed_a age_n they_o have_v general_o a_o degree_n of_o the_o ministry_n answerable_a to_o that_o of_o the_o levite_n under_o the_o law_n who_o teach_v and_o look_v to_o the_o treasury_n too_o and_o the_o scripture_n seem_v to_o favour_v it_o 1_o tim._n 3.13_o where_o it_o be_v say_v they_o have_v minister_v well_o etc._n etc._n so_o that_o it_o be_v neither_o strange_a nor_o much_o to_o be_v find_v fault_n with_o that_o there_o be_v some_o such_o among_o us._n but_o admit_v they_o be_v only_o employ_v in_o church-treasury_n for_o that_o be_v the_o true_a original_n of_o they_o yet_o either_o they_o be_v only_o for_o certain_a time_n and_o place_n and_o so_o be_v the_o occasion_n of_o their_o first_o erection_n act._n 6._o calvin_n in_o act_n 21.8_o and_o therefore_o they_o be_v not_o of_o necessity_n to_o be_v in_o every_o congregation_n or_o if_o they_o be_v necessary_a we_o have_v churchwarden_n and_o collector_n answerable_a to_o they_o though_o not_o so_o gift_v as_o they_o be_v in_o act._n 6._o that_o may_v be_v the_o defect_n of_o the_o time_n that_o afford_v not_o man_n so_o well_o qualify_v or_o of_o the_o chooser_n of_o they_o that_o make_v not_o better_a choice_n and_o also_o though_o they_o be_v not_o so_o choose_v by_o prayer_n and_o imposition_n of_o hand_n which_o either_o be_v not_o simple_o necessary_a in_o this_o case_n or_o else_o be_v omit_v that_o be_v also_o the_o chooser_n fault_n but_o say_v they_o if_o you_o retain_v the_o office_n and_o not_o the_o title_n this_o be_v to_o subject_a god_n ordinance_n to_o your_o own_o invention_n as_o if_o one_o shall_v say_v he_o will_v yield_v to_o have_v his_o matter_n moderate_v and_o determine_v in_o the_o chancery_n and_o yet_o not_o by_o my_o lord_n chancellor_n who_o the_o king_n appoint_v but_o by_o one_o of_o his_o own_o choose_n and_o so_o in_o the_o church_n you_o will_v have_v this_o matter_n of_o church-treasury_n order_v and_o yet_o not_o by_o deacon_n who_o the_o lord_n jesus_n have_v appoint_v i_o answer_v this_o be_v but_o a_o cavil_n about_o word_n so_o long_o as_o we_o retain_v the_o thing_n itself_o there_o be_v no_o such_o great_a matter_n for_o the_o name_n and_o so_o much_o shall_v suffice_v to_o be_v speak_v concern_v deacon_n in_o the_o six_o place_n we_o come_v to_o widow_n widow_n of_o these_o we_o may_v read_v in_o scripture_n as_o in_o act._n 6.1_o and_o 1_o tim._n 5.3_o and_o it_o be_v probable_a that_o these_o be_v mean_v 1_o cor._n 12.28_o where_o they_o be_v call_v helper_n and_o rom._n 12.8_o shower_n of_o mercy_n you_o shall_v have_v my_o judgement_n brief_o in_o this_o point_n and_o that_o be_v this_o that_o all_o these_o place_n of_o scripture_n well_o understand_v and_o compare_v together_o do_v prove_v only_o thus_o much_o first_o that_o in_o many_o church_n there_o be_v then_o such_o widow_n second_o that_o wheresoever_o they_o be_v there_o they_o be_v to_o be_v relieve_v three_o that_o where_o they_o be_v so_o relieve_v there_o they_o be_v to_o perform_v work_n of_o mercy_n and_o charity_n as_o to_o attend_v the_o sick_a to_o wash_v the_o saint_n foot_n and_o such_o like_a as_o occasion_v require_v but_o that_o they_o be_v a_o necessary_a officer_n in_o every_o church_n and_o that_o where_o they_o be_v not_o there_o the_o church-government_n be_v defective_a that_o can_v never_o be_v prove_v in_o geneva_n they_o have_v rather_o poor_a man_n than_o woman_n and_o in_o the_o church_n of_o france_n they_o have_v no_o such_o use_n of_o widow_n at_o all_o seven_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o other_o assistant_n as_o reader_n fellow_n acolutive_n exorcist_n etc._n etc._n concern_v who_o because_o they_o be_v not_o at_o all_o find_v in_o the_o word_n we_o therefore_o do_v pass_v they_o by_o officer_n eight_o and_o last_o we_o come_v to_o the_o christian_a magistrate_n who_o though_o he_o be_v last_o name_v yet_o have_v not_o the_o least_o hand_n in_o church-government_n and_o the_o question_n concern_v he_o be_v first_o whether_o he_o may_v be_v right_o call_v a_o church-officer_n i_o answer_v he_o may_v though_o not_o in_o that_o proper_a sense_n as_o the_o minister_n because_o he_o have_v not_o such_o a_o immediate_a hand_n in_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n but_o in_o a_o large_a sense_n he_o may_v and_o that_o very_o right_o for_o be_v a_o member_n of_o the_o church_n and_o that_o a_o chief_a one_o too_o how_o can_v he_o be_v exclude_v from_o be_v a_o church_n officer_n and_o that_o a_o chief_a one_o too_o in_o his_o nature_n it_o be_v no_o disparagement_n to_o he_o christ_n be_v the_o head_n of_o the_o church_n and_o he_o be_v christ_n lieutenant_n within_o his_o lawful_a dominion_n why_o may_v not_o he_o be_v a_o chief_a ruler_n in_o church-businesse_n it_o be_v god_n own_o promise_n isai_n 49.23_o that_o king_n and_o queen_n shall_v be_v nurse_v father_n and_o nurse_n mother_n to_o his_o church_n themselves_o by_o officer_n be_v nurse_n and_o their_o authority_n and_o countenance_n be_v like_o breast_n or_o dug_n to_o cherish_v and_o feed_v and_o hatch_v up_o the_o church_n withal_o and_o the_o apostle_n lay_v it_o as_o a_o duty_n upon_o all_o the_o faithful_a 1_o tim._n 2.2_o that_o they_o pray_v for_o king_n and_o all_o in_o authority_n that_o they_o
and_o this_o rule_n hold_v as_o well_o for_o the_o church_n now_o as_o then_o there_o be_v the_o same_o necessity_n there_o must_v also_o be_v the_o same_o power_n so_o the_o point_n be_v plain_a that_o every_o particular_a visible_a church_n have_v power_n from_o god_n to_o ordain_v certain_a outward_a rite_n etc._n etc._n the_o reason_n to_o prove_v this_o point_n be_v these_o first_o some_o reas_n 1_o ceremony_n be_v necessary_a in_o every_o church_n no_o religion_n can_v possible_o be_v carry_v without_o some_o outward_a rite_n and_o ceremony_n now_o who_o shall_v ordain_v these_o but_o themselves_o as_o best_o know_v their_o own_o state_n as_o in_o a_o private_a family_n who_o shall_v ordain_v order_n for_o it_o but_o those_o of_o the_o family_n second_o no_o right_n be_v universal_a to_o hold_v every_o reas_n 2_o where_o in_o all_o church_n no_o that_o be_v impossible_a because_o diverse_a church_n be_v of_o diverse_a state_n and_o therefore_o every_o church_n must_v have_v 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take_v away_o the_o abuse_n and_o the_o thing_n may_v still_o be_v impose_v and_o put_v in_o practice_n three_o we_o must_v have_v a_o eye_n to_o do_v all_o to_o god_n glory_n 1_o cor._n 10.31_o four_o they_o must_v be_v do_v without_o scandal_n or_o offence_n as_o much_o as_o possible_o may_v be_v the_o church_n must_v be_v wary_a herein_o for_o though_o all_o thing_n be_v lawful_a yet_o all_o thing_n be_v not_o expedient_a 1_o cor._n 10._o 23_o 32._o five_o all_o thing_n must_v be_v do_v to_o edification_n 1_o cor._n 14_o 26._o last_o all_o thing_n must_v be_v do_v decent_o and_o in_o order_n 1_o cor._n 14.40_o as_o in_o exod._n 28.40_o aaron_n son_n must_v have_v coat_n and_o girdle_n and_o bonnet_n make_v they_o for_o glory_n and_o beauty_n which_o be_v the_o end_n that_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o legal_a ceremony_n do_v aim_v at_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v our_o end_n also_o in_o the_o like_a case_n and_o thus_o the_o church_n may_v safe_o ordain_v ceremony_n 2._o the_o last_o use_n be_v to_o teach_v we_o that_o if_o we_o live_v in_o a_o church_n where_o such_o thing_n be_v ordain_v that_o be_v not_o simple_o unlawful_a we_o must_v take_v heed_n that_o we_o resist_v not_o this_o power_n or_o the_o thing_n thereby_o ordain_v bridle_v thyself_o from_o dislike_n special_o from_o refusal_n yet_o yield_v with_o some_o persuasion_n of_o conscience_n take_v such_o a_o course_n whereby_o thou_o may_v obey_v the_o magistrate_n and_o the_o church_n and_o yet_o not_o offend_v the_o weak_a herein_o be_v wisdom_n yet_o rather_o obey_v the_o magistrate_n though_o with_o offence_n for_o here_o disobedience_n be_v the_o great_a sin_n and_o so_o take_v away_o the_o sin_n of_o offend_v the_o weak_a and_o indeed_o in_o this_o case_n i_o give_v none_o offence_n because_o my_o hand_n be_v bind_v and_o i_o have_v no_o liberty_n to_o do_v otherwise_o but_o what_o if_o a_o man_n be_v not_o persuade_v of_o these_o thing_n what_o be_v then_o to_o be_v do_v must_v he_o separate_v from_o the_o church_n no_o first_o they_o must_v labour_v to_o be_v better_o inform_v second_o they_o must_v resolve_v to_o bear_v with_o a_o great_a deal_n rather_o than_o to_o make_v a_o rent_n in_o the_o church_n three_o suffer_v thyself_o to_o be_v overbear_v in_o thing_n indifferent_a by_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n till_o thou_o be_v able_a to_o prove_v it_o simple_o unlawful_a or_o to_o show_v that_o there_o be_v great_a scandal_n in_o the_o use_n of_o it_o then_o in_o disobey_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o church_n and_o of_o the_o christian_a magistrate_n i_o know_v that_o it_o be_v sin_n to_o disobey_v the_o christian_a magistrate_n except_o i_o know_v that_o god_n command_v the_o contrary_a now_o in_o these_o indifferent_a thing_n i_o do_v but_o fear_v i_o do_v not_o know_v that_o god_n command_v the_o contrary_a to_o that_o which_o my_o conscience_n be_v doubtful_a of_o now_o shall_v i_o run_v into_o a_o know_a sin_n because_o i_o will_v avoid_v a_o sin_n only_o fear_v so_o much_o shall_v serve_v for_o this_o point_n and_o so_o we_o have_v finish_v the_o eyghth_n point_n concern_v the_o power_n and_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n the_o six_o and_o twenty_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n you_o may_v remember_v that_o 9_o point_n be_v propound_v to_o be_v speak_v to_o concern_v the_o church_n of_o whereof_o we_o have_v already_o handle_v 8._o of_o they_o and_o now_o we_o be_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o nine_o and_o that_o be_v the_o application_n of_o all_o that_o which_o have_v be_v speak_v to_o all_o visible_a church_n in_o christendom_n that_o i_o knnow_v of_o those_o congreagtion_n that_o profess_v not_o christianity_n we_o meddle_v not_o with_o the_o pagan_n that_o profess_v heathenish_a religion_n no_o christian_n the_o jew_n that_o profess_v the_o law_n and_o not_o the_o gospel_n the_o turk_n that_o profess_v that_o abominable_a idol_n mahomet_n and_o not_o the_o son_n of_o god_n jesus_n christ_n these_o we_o have_v here_o nothing_o to_o do_v with_o they_o be_v utter_o exclude_v from_o the_o outward_a name_n of_o a_o church_n as_o be_v assembly_n quite_o of_o another_o kind_n they_o have_v no_o christ_n not_o somuch_o as_o in_o outward_a profession_n and_o therefore_o be_v no_o church_n at_o all_o it_o be_v the_o christian_a assembly_n that_o be_v those_o that_o profess_v the_o faith_n of_o christ_n crucify_v that_o we_o be_v here_o to_o speak_v of_o you_o shall_v understand_v that_o the_o doctrine_n concern_v the_o church_n whereof_o i_o have_v speak_v have_v be_v so_o plain_o and_o full_o deliver_v that_o if_o it_o be_v right_o understand_v it_o will_v easy_o apply_v itself_o to_o all_o christian_a church_n in_o the_o censure_n of_o those_o that_o be_v religious_a &_o judicious_a but_o yet_o because_o diverse_a christian_a church_n be_v of_o diverse_a condition_n differ_v one_o from_o another_o as_o well_o in_o time_n as_o in_o place_n and_o because_o the_o chief_a reach_n of_o this_o whole_a discourse_n both_o in_o teacher_n &_o hearer_n be_v this_o to_o see_v how_o we_o may_v justify_v our_o stand_n in_o the_o present_a state_n of_o this_o church_n of_o england_n therefore_o for_o your_o better_a direction_n both_o to_o help_v your_o judgement_n concern_v other_o church_n and_o to_o settle_v your_o resolution_n church_n touch_v the_o goodness_n and_o soundness_n of_o this_o church_n that_o we_o live_v in_o i_o will_v endeavour_v god_n will_v to_o make_v application_n of_o that_o which_o have_v be_v speak_v as_o to_o all_o church_n in_o general_a so_o more_o particular_o to_o this_o church_n of_o we_o the_o general_a division_n of_o all_o church_n that_o either_o be_v or_o have_v be_v since_o our_o saviour_n time_n be_v twofold_a first_o according_a to_o their_o situation_n and_o so_o some_o be_v eastern_a and_o the_o
twenty_o nine_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n very_o necessary_a for_o the_o consolation_n and_o support_v of_o god_n church_n especial_o in_o these_o time_n wherein_o be_v handle_v first_o in_o general_a concern_v first_o the_o name_n second_o the_o title_n three_o the_o nature_n four_a the_o division_n of_o the_o true_a church_n second_o of_o the_o visible_a church_n first_o the_o definition_n second_o the_o cause_n three_o the_o member_n four_a the_o mark_v and_o note_n five_o the_o government_n sixthly_a the_o privilege_n seventhly_a the_o adversary_n eighthly_a the_o authority_n and_o last_o the_o application_n of_o it_o to_o all_o church_n in_o the_o world_n so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v know_v to_o us._n by_o that_o learned_a and_o faithful_a preacher_n master_n john_n randall_n bachelor_n of_o divinity_n pastor_n of_o saint_n andrew_n hubbart_n in_o little_a eastcheap_n london_n and_o sometime_o fellow_n of_o lincoln_n college_n in_o oxford_n publish_a by_o the_o copy_n perfect_v and_o give_v by_o the_o author_n in_o his_o life_n time_n careful_o preserve_v and_o adorn_v with_o note_n in_o the_o margin_n by_o the_o late_a faithful_a minister_n of_o christ_n master_n william_n holbrooke_n glorious_a thing_n be_v speak_v of_o thou_o o_o city_n of_o god_n psal_n 87.3_o london_n imprint_v by_o felix_n kyngston_n for_o nathanael_n newberry_n at_o the_o star_n in_o popes-head_n alley_n 1631._o to_o the_o right_n worshipful_a true_o religious_a and_o my_o much_o honour_a friend_n mr._n richard_n knightly_a of_o preston-cape_n in_o the_o county_n of_o northampton_n esquire_n and_o one_o of_o his_o majesty_n justice_n of_o peace_n in_o the_o same_o county_n grace_n and_o peace_n be_v mulply_v etc._n etc._n worthy_a sir_n it_o be_v a_o proverb_n no_o more_o common_a than_o true_a that_o true_a love_n will_v creep_v where_o it_o can_v go_v as_o appear_v in_o that_o fact_n of_o mary_n magdalen_n who_o wish_v well_o to_o the_o person_n of_o christ_n she_o wash_v his_o foot_n yea_o it_o will_v begin_v below_o at_o the_o ground_n to_o ascend_v up_o to_o the_o top_n as_o zacheus_n when_o he_o climb_v the_o figtree_n to_o get_v the_o sight_n of_o christ._n love_n to_o christ_n will_v show_v itself_o by_o a_o love_n of_o his_o church_n and_o ascend_v to_o he_o in_o heaven_n by_o speak_v a_o good_a word_n for_o it_o and_o seek_v and_o procure_v her_o welfare_n here_o on_o earth_n 28._o it_o be_v that_o spiritual_a temple_n to_o which_o christ_n have_v promise_v his_o perpetual_a presence_n during_o the_o time_n of_o this_o world_n and_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o every_o christian_a so_o far_o as_o in_o he_o lie_v to_o further_o the_o build_n thereof_o according_a to_o that_o of_o chrysostome_n hom._n in_o act._n 8._o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d that_o every_o one_o of_o the_o faithful_a aught_o to_o edify_v the_o church_n if_o they_o can_v do_v nought_o else_o yet_o let_v they_o imitate_v david_n pattern_n psal_n 51.18_o and_o harken_v to_o his_o precept_n psal_n 122.6_o suitable_a to_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o jew_n in_o the_o build_n of_o the_o temple_n some_o do_v give_v one_o gift_n some_o another_o some_o do_v labour_n in_o hew_v square_n other_o in_o bring_v and_o bear_v they_o to_o the_o raise_n up_o of_o the_o structure_n but_o especial_o be_v the_o burden_n of_o this_o work_n lay_v upon_o the_o shoulder_n of_o minister_n which_o like_o bezaleel_n and_o aholiab_n be_v fit_v and_o furnish_v of_o god_n for_o this_o work_n and_o have_v the_o cure_n and_o care_n thereof_o commit_v to_o they_o now_o the_o lord_n have_v not_o give_v to_o all_o alike_o but_o to_o some_o more_o some_o less_o yet_o all_o for_o the_o good_a of_o his_o church_n to_o the_o author_n of_o this_o treatise_n he_o have_v give_v more_o than_o ordinary_a gift_n as_o his_o work_n already_o publish_v do_v show_v he_o have_v the_o honour_n to_o be_v a_o wise_a master-builder_n to_o be_v like_o those_o builder_n in_o nehem._n 4.17_o with_o one_o hand_n he_o wrought_v in_o the_o work_n with_o the_o other_o he_o hold_v a_o weapon_n as_o you_o shall_v see_v apparent_o in_o this_o treatise_n wherein_o he_o do_v confirm_v profess_a truth_n and_o confute_v opposite_a error_n it_o please_v god_n while_o he_o be_v live_v to_o make_v he_o a_o happy_a instrument_n of_o stay_v many_o in_o the_o church_n who_o be_v ready_a to_o fall_v from_o it_o and_o to_o gain_v many_o in_o which_o by_o seducement_n have_v be_v draw_v away_o and_o as_o god_n give_v such_o success_n to_o his_o labour_n when_o he_o be_v alive_a so_o i_o trust_v they_o shall_v find_v the_o same_o though_o he_o be_v dead_a if_o read_v with_o a_o single_a eye_n i_o dare_v assure_v you_o it_o be_v not_o the_o treatise_n of_o any_o other_o but_o of_o he_o who_o labour_n need_v not_o fear_v the_o light_n it_o be_v perfect_v by_o his_o own_o hand_n in_o his_o life_n and_o give_v to_o a_o near_a and_o dear_a friend_n of_o i_o who_o rest_v in_o the_o lord_n who_o have_v hope_v to_o 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virtuous_a gentleman_n go_v on_o good_a sir_n stand_v for_o god_n and_o he_o will_v stand_v for_o you_o honour_v he_o and_o as_o he_o have_v so_o he_o will_v honour_v and_o what_o service_n i_o may_v do_v you_o by_o my_o prayer_n or_o otherwise_o you_o shall_v be_v assure_v of_o the_o lord_n bless_v you_o and_o you_o and_o all_o your_o ample_a and_o religious_a kindred_n your_o worship_n in_o any_o thing_n i_o may_v to_o be_v command_v ithiel_n smart_n the_o first_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n your_o question_n be_v what_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n have_v speak_v of_o god_n in_o the_o first_o place_n and_o of_o christ_n in_o the_o second_o place_n it_o now_o follow_v in_o the_o three_o place_n that_o we_o speak_v of_o the_o church_n wherein_o we_o will_v stand_v upon_o these_o two_o general_a point_n first_o a_o introduction_n to_o prepare_v the_o way_n to_o the_o question_n second_o we_o will_v descend_v to_o the_o question_n itself_o first_o the_o introduction_n natural_a and_o that_o consist_v of_o two_o branch_n first_o we_o will_v show_v that_o the_o order_n of_o the_o question_n be_v very_o natural_a second_o that_o the_o matter_n be_v of_o great_a weight_n and_o importance_n first_o the_o order_n of_o the_o question_n among_o themselves_o and_o so_o our_o work_n and_o manner_n of_o proceed_v be_v very_o natural_a and_o that_o first_o in_o respect_n of_o god_n question_n in_o the_o first_o question_n and_o second_o in_o respect_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o second_o question_n and_o three_o in_o respect_n of_o all_o the_o three_o question_n lay_v together_o first_o in_o respect_n of_o god_n for_o our_o faith_n have_v be_v first_o inform_v and_o instruct_v concern_v god_n himself_o the_o author_n and_o worker_n of_o all_o it_o be_v then_o in_o the_o next_o place_n to_o be_v inform_v touch_v his_o work_n and_o among_o they_o first_o and_o principal_o of_o the_o first_o and_o chief_a of_o they_o all_o that_o be_v the_o church_n for_o the_o church_n be_v god_n own_o special_a workmanship_n form_v by_o his_o own_o hand_n separate_v as_o a_o peculiar_a people_n to_o his_o own_o majesty_n consecrate_v to_o his_o own_o worship_n and_o service_n gather_v by_o his_o own_o word_n purchase_v by_o his_o own_o son_n quicken_v and_o direct_v by_o his_o own_o spirit_n and_o ordain_v from_o all_o eternity_n in_o his_o own_o secret_a council_n to_o be_v partaker_n of_o his_o own_o glory_n beside_o of_o all_o the_o work_n that_o god_n exercise_v towards_o his_o creature_n the_o great_a and_o best_a be_v they_o that_o god_n exercise_v towards_o his_o church_n as_o election_n call_v justification_n sanctification_n glorification_n etc._n etc._n yea_o further_o whatsoever_o god_n do_v work_v beside_o in_o the_o
business_n my_o purpose_n be_v therefore_o god_n will_v to_o traverse_v this_o whole_a controversy_n so_o far_o as_o strength_n and_o time_n and_o your_o capacity_n will_v permit_v and_o so_o far_o as_o i_o conceive_v i_o will_v deal_v plain_o and_o simple_o and_o indifferent_o without_o prejudice_n to_o the_o adversary_n cause_n or_o partiality_n to_o our_o own_o cause_n without_o traduce_v they_o or_o flatter_v ourselves_o nor_o will_v i_o witting_o conceal_v any_o of_o god_n truth_n from_o you_o upon_o any_o sinister_a affection_n or_o respect_v whatsoever_o it_o be_v your_o duty_n also_o to_o travel_v with_o i_o in_o this_o business_n faithful_o and_o conscionable_o both_o by_o prayer_n to_o god_n and_o all_o other_o our_o best_a endeavour_n with_o this_o reach_n always_o in_o our_o eye_n that_o every_o one_o of_o we_o be_v find_v member_n even_o of_o the_o church_n live_v member_n even_o of_o the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n for_o as_o it_o be_v of_o riches_n it_o be_v comfortable_a speak_n of_o they_o when_o we_o have_v a_o part_n in_o they_o so_o it_o be_v of_o the_o church_n much_o more_o it_o be_v sweet_a and_o comfortable_a to_o speak_v of_o it_o then_o when_o we_o know_v ourselves_o to_o have_v our_o part_n therein_o and_o thus_o much_o for_o the_o introduction_n to_o prepare_v we_o to_o the_o religious_a and_o sanctify_a handle_v of_o the_o question_n now_o we_o come_v to_o the_o question_n itself_o in_o the_o handle_n whereof_o first_o some_o general_a point_n art_n to_o be_v lay_v down_o second_o church_n we_o be_v to_o come_v to_o the_o particular_a matter_n the_o general_a point_n be_v these_o first_o of_o the_o name_n second_o of_o the_o title_n three_o of_o the_o nature_n four_a of_o the_o division_n of_o the_o true_a church_n and_o so_o we_o will_v make_v a_o passage_n into_o the_o true_a visible_a church_n name_n first_o we_o will_v begin_v with_o the_o name_n church_n be_v a_o word_n that_o we_o have_v at_o the_o second_o hand_n from_o the_o saxon_n for_o they_o call_v it_o church_fw-mi the_o very_a ancient_a sound_n and_o pronunciation_n whereof_o many_o of_o our_o nation_n in_o the_o northern_a part_n retain_v to_o this_o day_n 16._o but_o it_o seem_v to_o be_v fetch_v original_o from_o the_o greek_a for_o as_o they_o call_v the_o sabbath_n day_n the_o time_n wherein_o god_n be_v worship_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o lord_n that_o be_v the_o lord_n day_n revel_v 1.10_o bullinger_n so_o the_o place_n too_o for_o the_o lord_n public_a service_n musc_n 555._o bull_v but_o this_o be_v not_o so_o use_v in_o the_o scripture_n and_o therefore_o see_v we_o be_v to_o speak_v of_o religious_a matter_n it_o be_v good_a to_o speak_v as_o the_o scripture_n speak_v we_o will_v therefore_o insist_v only_o upon_o the_o name_n that_o the_o scripture_n express_v it_o by_o in_o the_o former_a testament_n the_o original_a signify_v a_o company_n or_o congregation_n as_o in_o exod._n 16.1_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d deut._n 5.22_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o 33.4_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o when_o it_o be_v so_o call_v it_o be_v intend_v by_o way_n of_o excellency_n of_o the_o church_n as_o that_o be_v the_o assembly_n of_o assembly_n the_o most_o excellent_a assembly_n in_o the_o world_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n it_o be_v call_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d as_o matth._n 16_o 18._o which_o signify_v a_o calling_n or_o a_o company_n call_v forth_o from_o among_o the_o rest_n according_a to_o the_o custom_n of_o the_o athenian_n where_o certain_a man_n be_v call_v forth_o by_o the_o voice_n of_o a_o crier_n from_o the_o rest_n by_o some_o special_a meeting_n and_o business_n and_o so_o the_o holy_a ghost_n seem_v to_o translate_v it_o from_o a_o civil_a sense_n and_o use_v to_o a_o religious_a intend_v another_o manner_n of_o cryer_n and_o call_v then_o be_v in_o athens_n and_o it_o do_v not_o only_o signify_v the_o company_n so_o call_v but_o also_o the_o place_n where_o they_o be_v assemble_v for_o public_a and_o religious_a exercise_n which_o i_o can_v say_v that_o it_o so_o signify_v in_o scripture_n but_o in_o use_n of_o speech_n among_o we_o and_o in_o some_o ecclesiastical_a history_n piscat_fw-la on_o 1._o cor._n 11.18_o 22._o muscul_fw-la pag._n 556._o hyper._n method_n 527._o 528._o when_o god_n tie_v his_o presence_n to_o a_o material_a building_n as_o in_o the_o former_a testament_n the_o temple_n may_v more_o proper_o be_v call_v the_o church_n but_o now_o that_o he_o be_v tie_v to_o a_o spiritual_a build_n only_o which_o be_v the_o faithful_a it_o be_v not_o so_o proper_o call_v so_o but_o yet_o synagogue_n signify_v as_o well_o the_o place_n as_o the_o company_n luk._n 7_o 5._o and_o by_o a_o figure_n we_o may_v call_v the_o place_n by_o the_o name_n of_o that_o it_o contain_v this_o i_o speak_v to_o justify_v the_o use_n of_o the_o word_n church_n among_o we_o though_o as_o i_o say_v i_o can_v see_v that_o it_o signify_v so_o in_o scripture_n the_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d congregation_n intend_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n three_o thing_n first_o thing_n that_o there_o be_v a_o company_n of_o they_o whether_o many_o or_o few_o there_o must_v be_v a_o congregation_n second_o they_o must_v have_v usual_a and_o solemn_a meeting_n for_o the_o public_a worship_n and_o service_n of_o god_n three_o that_o the_o lord_n himself_o have_v call_v they_o to_o be_v of_o this_o assembly_n and_o to_o perform_v this_o duty_n and_o this_o last_o be_v the_o main_a and_o principal_a thing_n intend_v in_o this_o word_n doctr._n and_o from_o hence_o from_o the_o name_n of_o the_o church_n i_o will_v draw_v this_o observation_n namely_o that_o those_o which_o be_v of_o the_o church_n be_v call_v forth_o of_o god_n from_o among_o the_o rest_n to_o the_o knowledge_n and_o obedience_n of_o his_o will_n to_o open_v the_o way_n to_o the_o easy_a and_o full_a understanding_n of_o the_o point_n we_o must_v consider_v and_o make_v some_o discourse_n of_o calling_n this_o word_n be_v use_v much_o in_o scripture_n and_o have_v diverse_a signification_n calling_n we_o will_v make_v four_o division_n of_o calling_n first_o there_o be_v a_o general_a call_n and_o a_o particular_a call_n second_o there_o be_v a_o extraordinary_a and_o a_o ordinary_a call_n three_o there_o be_v a_o inward_a and_o a_o outward_a call_n four_o there_o be_v a_o effectual_a and_o a_o not_o effectual_a call_n particular_a first_o there_o be_v a_o general_a and_o a_o particular_a call_n a_o general_a that_o be_v when_o god_n do_v proffer_v the_o mean_n of_o salvation_n to_o a_o whole_a city_n or_o a_o nation_n or_o to_o the_o whole_a world_n as_o it_o be_v act._n 17.30_o but_o now_o god_n admonish_v all_o man_n every_o where_o to_o repent_v or_o else_o when_o god_n only_o give_v to_o some_o particular_a man_n some_o general_a or_o confuse_a notice_n of_o save_v grace_n a_o particular_a call_n be_v when_o god_n tender_v occasion_n and_o a_o mean_n of_o grace_n in_o some_o particular_a manner_n to_o some_o particular_a person_n come_v near_o to_o sin_n and_o deal_v more_o direct_o with_o sin_n example_n we_o have_v of_o this_o psal_n 31.6_o david_n say_v thou_o have_v teach_v i_o wisdom_n in_o the_o secret_a of_o my_o heart_n and_o such_o a_o calling_n have_v the_o jailor_n act._n 16.31_o there_o god_n deal_v particular_o and_o direct_o with_o sin_n believe_v in_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n and_o thou_o shall_v be_v save_v now_o if_o this_o particular_a call_v be_v apprehend_v and_o lay_v hold_n upon_o when_o god_n tender_v it_o than_o we_o be_v save_v if_o not_o it_o increase_v our_o condemnation_n ordinary_a the_o second_o division_n of_o calling_n be_v extraordinary_a and_o ordinary_a extraordinary_a calling_n be_v when_o god_n call_v man_n even_o many_o time_n without_o mean_n or_o by_o some_o bymeane_n or_o by_o weak_a mean_n not_o tend_v or_o at_o least_o not_o sufficient_a usual_o to_o such_o effect_n or_o else_o by_o some_o rare_a and_o strange_a mean_n as_o when_o paul_n be_v call_v by_o a_o voice_n from_o heaven_n act._n 9.3_o a_o ordinary_a call_n be_v when_o the_o mean_n time_n place_n and_o effect_n of_o grace_n be_v such_o as_o they_o be_v usual_o wont_a to_o be_v in_o that_o case_n if_o any_o of_o they_o be_v away_o it_o be_v extraordinary_a in_o that_o respect_n yet_o if_o the_o mean_n be_v ordinary_a that_o be_v the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n the_o calling_n be_v ordinary_a too_o because_o god_n ordinary_o second_v the_o preach_n of_o his_o word_n with_o the_o work_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o we_o may_v see_v act._n 10.44_o while_o peter_n yet_o speak_v the_o word_n the_o holy_a ghost_n fall_v on_o all_o they_o that_o hear_v he_o and_o act._n
2.41_o inâ—ard_o the_o three_o division_n of_o calling_n there_o be_v a_o outward_a and_o a_o inward_a call_n a_o outward_a call_n be_v when_o the_o mean_n be_v outward_a as_o by_o the_o word_n sacrament_n correction_n blessing_n miracle_n the_o work_n of_o creation_n and_o providence_n the_o edict_n of_o the_o magistrate_n or_o state_n wherein_o we_o live_v the_o natural_a conscience_n and_o the_o common_a gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n all_o which_o of_o themselves_o only_o go_v to_o the_o outward_a man_n and_o procure_v a_o external_a obedience_n to_o god_n call_v example_n may_v be_v give_v of_o every_o one_o of_o these_o and_o this_o be_v it_o our_o saviour_n speak_v of_o matth._n 22.24_o many_o be_v call_v but_o few_o be_v choose_v a_o inward_a call_n be_v when_o the_o mean_n and_o the_o work_n of_o they_o enter_v into_o the_o very_a spirit_n and_o inmost_a affection_n of_o a_o man_n and_o this_o be_v only_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o regeneration_n when_o god_n by_o his_o spirit_n work_v with_o the_o outward_a mean_n in_o our_o call_n such_o a_o calling_n have_v lydia_n act._n 16.14_o while_o she_o hear_v paul_n preach_v the_o lord_n open_v her_o heart_n etc._n etc._n the_o outward_a call_n without_o this_o inward_a only_a leave_v we_o without_o excuse_n and_o aggravate_v our_o damnation_n ofttimes_o in_o the_o church_n visible_a the_o inward_a call_n without_o the_o outward_a be_v available_a to_o salvation_n as_o in_o the_o church_n invisible_a but_o both_o together_o be_v more_o comfortable_a and_o effectual_a as_o in_o the_o live_a member_n of_o the_o church_n visible_a four_o there_o be_v a_o effectual_a effectual_a and_o a_o not_o effectual_a call_n a_o call_v effectual_a be_v when_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n be_v both_o tender_v powerful_o unto_o we_o and_o when_o it_o be_v true_o receive_v and_o embrace_v and_o continue_v in_o unto_o the_o end_n math._n 9.9_o there_o be_v a_o effectual_a call_n when_o as_o our_o saviour_n call_v matthew_n and_o he_o arise_v present_o and_o follow_v he_o and_o this_o call_n be_v proper_a only_o to_o the_o elect_a a_o not_o effectual_a call_n be_v when_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n which_o be_v able_a to_o save_v we_o be_v offer_v unto_o we_o of_o god_n but_o we_o do_v not_o accept_v of_o they_o nor_o yield_v unto_o they_o way_n a_o calling_n may_v be_v not_o effectual_a divers_a way_n as_o first_o when_o it_o be_v utter_o refuse_v as_o it_o be_v among_o the_o gadaren_n that_o desire_v christ_n to_o depart_v from_o they_o mat._n 8.34_o or_o second_o when_o it_o be_v defer_v some_o will_v not_o utter_o refuse_v the_o mean_n of_o grace_n but_o they_o will_v defer_v they_o as_o foelix_n that_o will_v hear_v paul_n another_o time_n act._n 24.26_o or_o three_o when_o it_o be_v accept_v to_o the_o half_n as_o it_o be_v with_o agrippa_n act._n 26.28_o thou_o have_v persuade_v i_o almost_o to_o become_v a_o christian_n say_v he_o to_o paul_n or_o four_a when_o it_o reduce_v we_o only_o to_o some_o outward_a formal_a obedience_n without_o truth_n and_o singleness_n of_o heart_n and_o thus_o it_o be_v with_o the_o foolish_a virgin_n matth._n 25.3_o and_o thus_o it_o be_v also_o with_o simon_n the_o sorcerer_n act._n 8.13.21_o he_o make_v a_o outward_a profession_n of_o faith_n he_o believe_v and_o be_v baptize_v verse_n 13._o but_o his_o heart_n be_v not_o right_a in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n vers_fw-la 21._o last_o or_o when_o it_o be_v not_o continue_v in_o to_o the_o end_n and_o thus_o it_o be_v with_o demas_n 2._o tim._n 4.10_o that_o forsake_v religion_n and_o embrace_v this_o present_a world_n and_o these_o be_v in_o all_o the_o reprobate_n yea_o many_o of_o they_o be_v in_o some_o of_o the_o elect_a for_o a_o time_n proof_n now_o if_o we_o understand_v the_o church_n in_o a_o large_a sense_n as_o it_o consist_v of_o all_o sort_n good_a and_o bad_a it_o have_v all_o these_o calling_n in_o it_o but_o if_o we_o speak_v of_o it_o in_o a_o restrain_a sense_n as_o it_o consist_v only_o of_o the_o elect_a than_o it_o be_v not_o subject_a to_o the_o not_o effectual_a call_n to_o come_v to_o the_o note_n all_o that_o be_v of_o the_o church_n be_v call_v of_o god_n to_o the_o obedience_n of_o his_o will_n here_o be_v three_o thing_n to_o be_v consider_v first_o they_o be_v call_v there_o be_v the_o work_n second_o they_o be_v call_v of_o god_n there_o be_v the_o author_n of_o the_o work_n and_o three_o to_o the_o obedience_n of_o his_o will_n there_o be_v the_o end_n of_o the_o work_n first_o the_o church_n of_o god_n be_v call_v for_o so_o the_o apostle_n 1._o cor._n 1.2_o speak_v of_o the_o church_n call_v they_o saint_n by_o calling_n or_o as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o original_n call_v saint_n and_o rome_n 8_o 28._o call_v of_o his_o purpose_n act._n 2.39_o even_o as_o many_o as_o the_o lord_n god_n shall_v call_v that_o be_v his_o whole_a church_n rom._n 8.30_o who_o he_o predestine_v they_o also_o he_o call_v so_o you_o see_v the_o church_n be_v a_o call_v company_n now_o whether_o god_n deal_v mild_o or_o rough_o draw_v we_o or_o lead_v we_o yet_o still_o it_o be_v a_o calling_n the_o work_n be_v the_o same_o second_o the_o author_n of_o this_o call_n that_o be_v god_n 1._o cor._n 1.9_o god_n be_v faithful_a who_o have_v call_v you_o and_o in_o this_o respect_n he_o be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o caller_n as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o original_n now_o whether_o god_n call_v immediate_o by_o himself_o or_o by_o mean_n whether_o the_o calling_n be_v outward_a or_o inward_a all_o be_v do_v by_o god_n the_o author_n be_v the_o same_o still_o three_o the_o end_n of_o this_o call_n be_v to_o the_o knowledge_n and_o obedience_n of_o god_n will_n 1._o thess_n 4.7_o god_n have_v not_o call_v we_o to_o uncleanness_n but_o to_o â—sse_v now_o holiness_n consist_v in_o knowledge_n and_o obedience_n it_o be_v true_a that_o the_o further_a end_n of_o our_o call_n be_v to_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o his_o glory_n but_o the_o immediate_a end_n of_o our_o call_n be_v to_o virtue_n &_o grace_n as_o they_o be_v join_v in_o the_o 2._o pet_n 1.3_o through_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o he_o that_o have_v call_v we_o to_o glory_n and_o virtue_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o our_o whole_a state_n and_o profession_n be_v call_v our_o call_n as_o in_o eph._n 4.1_o walk_v worthy_a of_o the_o vocation_n whereunto_o you_o be_v call_v yea_o for_o this_o end_n it_o be_v call_v a_o holy_a call_n 2_o tim._n 1.9_o and_o it_o be_v so_o call_v first_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o caller_n who_o be_v holy_a second_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o work_n our_o calling_n which_o be_v holy_a three_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o mean_n which_o be_v hoâ—y_o fourthly_a in_o respect_n of_o the_o end_n we_o be_v call_v to_o which_o be_v holiness_n five_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o effect_n which_o be_v holy_a those_o that_o be_v true_o and_o effectual_o call_v be_v by_o that_o call_v change_v and_o make_v holy_a saint_n object_n but_o some_o may_v except_v and_o say_v be_v not_o some_o of_o the_o elect_a yet_o uncalled_a and_o yet_o they_o be_v of_o the_o church_n too_o answ_n i_o answer_v they_o be_v of_o the_o church_n in_o god_n purpose_n and_o acceptance_n but_o they_o be_v not_o so_o in_o the_o eye_n of_o man_n no_o nor_o yet_o in_o their_o own_o apprehension_n till_o they_o have_v a_o calling_n which_o they_o be_v sure_a to_o have_v one_o time_n or_o other_o first_o or_o last_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o pâ—int_n be_v these_o reason_n 1_o first_o that_o we_o shall_v be_v of_o the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o profess_v his_o service_n and_o worship_n this_o be_v another_o business_n not_o our_o own_o nay_o it_o be_v god_n business_n not_o man_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v not_o thrust_v ourselves_o into_o it_o but_o we_o must_v have_v a_o vocation_n and_o call_n to_o it_o and_o that_o from_o god_n matth._n 20._o from_o 1._o to_o 7._o verse_n they_o that_o go_v into_o the_o vineyard_n must_v be_v hire_v and_o who_o shall_v hire_v and_o bid_v they_o go_v but_o the_o master_n of_o the_o vineyard_n now_o god_n church_n be_v the_o vineyard_n and_o god_n be_v the_o master_n and_o therefore_o none_o can_v call_v but_o he_o in_o matth._n 22.2.3_o etc._n etc._n the_o wedding_n be_v prepare_v the_o guest_n must_v come_v but_o first_o they_o must_v be_v bid_v and_o call_v and_o by_o who_o must_v they_o be_v call_v and_o bid_v but_o by_o the_o bridegroom_n father_n even_o god_n himself_o that_o make_v the_o feast_n for_o that_o be_v mean_v by_o the_o parable_n god_n the_o father_n marry_v we_o to_o his_o son_n christ_n he_o provide_v joy_n and_o peace_n of_o conscience_n for_o we_o which_o be_v
refuse_v to_o come_v no_o let_v we_o be_v thankful_a for_o it_o it_o be_v a_o precious_a jewel_n and_o let_v we_o take_v heed_n we_o do_v not_o relinquish_v our_o call_v let_v we_o not_o look_v back_o for_o no_o man_n that_o put_v his_o hand_n to_o the_o plough_n and_o look_v back_o be_v fit_a for_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n use_v 4_o four_o by_o this_o we_o may_v know_v whether_o we_o be_v of_o the_o church_n of_o god_n or_o no._n every_o one_o that_o live_v in_o the_o church_n pretend_v to_o be_v of_o the_o church_n but_o here_o be_v the_o trial_n be_v thou_o call_v yes_o why_o then_o thou_o be_v of_o the_o church_n in_o some_o sense_n so_o far_o as_o thou_o be_v call_v so_o far_o thou_o be_v of_o the_o church_n if_o thou_o have_v only_o a_o outward_a call_n thou_o be_v but_o a_o outward_a member_n but_o if_o thou_o have_v a_o inward_a and_o effectual_a call_n than_o thou_o be_v a_o true_a and_o live_a member_n of_o it_o but_o you_o will_v say_v how_o shall_v i_o know_v whether_o i_o have_v this_o effectual_a call_n or_o not_o i_o answer_v it_o be_v easy_a to_o know_v it_o do_v thou_o find_v god_n spirit_n work_v effectual_o in_o thou_o to_o cause_v thou_o to_o leave_v thy_o sin_n to_o stir_v thou_o up_o to_o repentance_n and_o to_o faith_n and_o to_o do_v good_a work_n as_o thou_o have_v a_o new_a name_n so_o have_v thou_o by_o this_o call_n a_o new_a heart_n and_o a_o new_a life_n and_o new_a motion_n and_o affection_n &_o new_a course_n if_o thou_o have_v than_o thy_o call_n be_v effectual_a else_o it_o be_v but_o a_o dream_n the_o sure_a mark_n of_o all_o be_v thy_o conscience_n do_v that_o check_n thou_o for_o every_o know_a sin_n and_o infirmity_n and_o do_v thou_o labour_v in_o truth_n to_o obey_v it_o and_o renounce_v and_o overcome_v that_o sin_n thy_o conscience_n check_v thou_o for_o this_o be_v the_o sure_a mark_n of_o a_o effectual_a call_v for_o when_o the_o spirit_n have_v thus_o quicken_v and_o purge_v thou_o and_o do_v instruct_v thou_o and_o deal_v effectual_o with_o thy_o conscience_n and_o frame_v thou_o to_o obedience_n to_o it_o here_o be_v a_o sure_a mark_n of_o a_o effectual_a call_n if_o we_o flee_v the_o corruption_n that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n through_o lust_n and_o if_o we_o give_v ourselves_o diligent_o to_o a_o course_n of_o grace_n and_o sanctification_n if_o we_o join_v with_o our_o virtue_n faith_n etc._n etc._n this_o make_v our_o call_n sure_a and_o our_o election_n too_o 2._o pet._n 1.5_o 9_o 10._o and_o if_o we_o do_v these_o thing_n we_o shall_v never_o fall_v use_v 5_o the_o last_o use_n be_v matter_n of_o reproof_n or_o confutation_n of_o such_o as_o deny_v we_o and_o the_o church_n wherein_o we_o live_v to_o be_v a_o true_a church_n we_o have_v a_o true_a call_n and_o that_o from_o god_n to_o sanctification_n by_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n and_o by_o the_o spirit_n therefore_o we_o be_v a_o true_a church_n this_o they_o can_v deny_v ainsworth_n and_o other_o among_o themselves_o confess_v that_o they_o have_v their_o call_v here_o yea_o their_o effectual_a call_v and_o they_o will_v not_o say_v but_o they_o be_v a_o true_a call_v therefore_o so_o be_v we_o and_o so_o our_o church_n a_o true_a church_n yea_o but_o say_v they_o this_o call_n be_v extraordinary_a i_o answer_v what_o be_v extraordinary_a in_o it_o the_o mean_n be_v ordinary_a as_o the_o word_n preach_v read_v and_o confer_v on_o the_o sacrament_n administer_v and_o prayer_n offer_v up_o to_o god_n it_o be_v extraordinary_a when_o we_o be_v call_v without_o mean_n or_o by_o rare_a and_o strange_a mean_n but_o the_o mean_n here_o be_v ordinary_a therefore_o the_o calling_n be_v so_o too_o beside_o many_o thousand_o in_o our_o church_n have_v a_o true_a and_o effectual_a call_v the_o mean_n be_v daily_o powerful_a through_o god_n mercy_n either_o to_o win_v or_o to_o confirm_v not_o a_o few_o but_o many_o thousand_o therefore_o the_o commonness_n of_o it_o prove_v it_o to_o be_v ordinary_a yea_o but_o say_v they_o it_o be_v so_o in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n too_o many_o be_v call_v there_o and_o yet_o that_o be_v no_o true_a church_n it_o be_v strange_a that_o they_o will_v blind_v themselves_o so_o wilful_o and_o not_o discern_v betwixt_o thing_n that_o so_o notorious_o differ_v for_o first_o in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n few_o or_o none_o be_v convert_v here_o in_o our_o church_n be_v many_o second_o they_o have_v only_o a_o general_n call_v to_o a_o confuse_a notice_n of_o god_n we_o to_o the_o particular_a and_o precise_a knowledge_n of_o every_o article_n and_o point_n of_o religion_n needful_a to_o salvation_n three_o they_o have_v not_o the_o mean_n the_o word_n true_o preach_v nor_o read_v in_o a_o know_a tongue_n we_o have_v therefore_o it_o be_v strange_a that_o they_o shall_v once_o open_v their_o mouth_n to_o make_v such_o a_o absurd_a comparison_n the_o second_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n now_o in_o the_o second_o place_n we_o be_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o title_n give_v to_o the_o church_n title_n there_o be_v no_o great_a difference_n betwixt_o the_o name_n and_o the_o title_n of_o a_o thing_n for_o sometime_o the_o name_n be_v call_v the_o title_n and_o the_o title_n the_o name_n yet_o as_o it_o be_v with_o person_n of_o great_a place_n and_o quality_n they_o have_v their_o name_n and_o their_o title_n too_o as_o paul_n a_o apostle_n of_o jesus_n christ_n etc._n etc._n paul_n there_o be_v his_o name_n a_o apostle_n etc._n etc._n there_o be_v his_o title_n and_o so_o it_o be_v general_o with_o all_o thing_n of_o any_o great_a note_n they_o have_v their_o name_n whereby_o they_o be_v ordinary_o call_v and_o their_o title_n whereby_o some_o extraordinary_a or_o special_a matter_n be_v attribute_v to_o they_o and_o affirm_v of_o they_o so_o in_o the_o matter_n in_o hand_n concern_v the_o saint_n or_o company_n of_o the_o faithful_a the_o name_n church_n do_v propound_v they_o bare_o or_o simple_o to_o our_o understanding_n the_o title_n raise_v we_o up_o to_o the_o consideration_n of_o some_o further_a matter_n in_o the_o nature_n and_o state_n of_o the_o church_n than_o the_o name_n do_v import_v and_o therefore_o have_v speak_v of_o the_o name_n now_o we_o be_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o title_n of_o the_o church_n there_o be_v many_o worthy_a and_o goodly_a title_n ascribe_v to_o the_o church_n as_o it_o be_v say_v psalm_n 87.3_o goodly_a and_o glorious_a thing_n be_v speak_v of_o thou_o oh_o city_n of_o god_n many_o as_o be_v much_o variety_n of_o matter_n to_o be_v consider_v in_o the_o estate_n of_o the_o church_n and_o glorious_a as_o every_o title_n commend_v the_o grace_n beauty_n and_o glory_n of_o the_o church_n after_o a_o special_a manner_n reason_n and_o the_o lord_n do_v adorn_v she_o with_o these_o many_o glorious_a title_n for_o many_o cause_n as_o first_o to_o give_v we_o a_o more_o full_a and_o perfect_a view_n of_o the_o whole_a doctrine_n concern_v the_o church_n no_o one_o title_n be_v able_a to_o express_v all_o the_o particular_n that_o concern_v the_o church_n therefore_o the_o lord_n use_v many_o that_o what_o be_v want_v in_o some_o may_v be_v supply_v by_o the_o rest_n second_o that_o he_o may_v express_v and_o set_v forth_o the_o greatness_n of_o his_o love_n to_o his_o church_n which_o be_v infinite_a and_o extend_v in_o many_o excellent_a kind_n require_v many_o and_o glorious_a title_n to_o express_v it_o by_o it_o be_v true_a that_o none_o indeed_o though_o never_o so_o many_o and_o glorious_a can_v express_v it_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o his_o love_n but_o these_o that_o we_o have_v do_v full_o express_v it_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o our_o capacity_n so_o far_o as_o we_o be_v able_a and_o as_o it_o be_v fit_a for_o we_o to_o understand_v three_o because_o by_o these_o many_o glorious_a title_n give_v to_o the_o church_n the_o lord_n will_v enamour_v we_o with_o her_o love_n and_o allure_v we_o to_o her_o communion_n that_o we_o may_v the_o more_o willing_o and_o cheerful_o be_v associate_v and_o gather_v unto_o she_o and_o the_o more_o sweet_o and_o comfortable_o repose_v ourselves_o in_o her_o bosom_n when_o we_o hear_v so_o many_o and_o so_o glorious_a thing_n speak_v of_o she_o i_o can_v relate_v much_o less_o handle_v all_o the_o title_n affirm_v of_o the_o church_n only_o i_o will_v reduce_v they_o to_o certain_a head_n and_o cull_v forth_o the_o choice_n of_o they_o out_o of_o each_o testament_n sort_n they_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n first_o some_o be_v absolute_a that_o concern_v the_o church_n simple_o in_o itself_o second_o some_o be_v not_o so_o absolute_a but_o respective_a which_o concern_v the_o church_n as_o iâ—_n
have_v reference_n to_o something_o else_o else_o first_o some_o be_v absolute_a without_o reference_n to_o any_o thing_n else_o garden_n the_o first_o be_v in_o the_o former_a testament_n cant._n 4.12_o it_o be_v call_v a_o garden_n enclose_v a_o spring_n shut_v up_o a_o fountain_n seal_v up_o here_o two_o title_n be_v give_v to_o it_o first_o it_o be_v call_v a_o garden_n for_o as_o in_o a_o garden_n grow_v many_o fragrant_a and_o goodly_a flower_n pleasant_a to_o the_o eye_n and_o sweet_a and_o comfortable_a to_o the_o smell_n so_o in_o the_o church_n many_o goodly_a grace_n like_o fragrant_a flower_n do_v grow_v and_o flourish_v the_o word_n and_o the_o sacrament_n faith_n and_o obedience_n justification_n and_o sanctification_n etc._n etc._n these_o spiritual_a flower_n cast_v a_o wondrous_a please_a sight_n upon_o the_o eye_n and_o a_o sweet_a smell_n to_o the_o nostril_n of_o every_o spiritual_a man_n that_o be_v able_a to_o see_v into_o and_o discern_v they_o yea_o the_o lord_n himself_o make_v this_o garden_n as_o his_o walk_a place_n delight_v and_o solace_v his_o majesty_n with_o the_o sweet_a odour_n of_o the_o fruit_n of_o this_o garden_n that_o be_v the_o grace_n and_o beauty_n of_o this_o paradise_n fountain_n second_o it_o be_v call_v a_o spring_n or_o fountain_n first_o because_o as_o a_o spring_n have_v water_n in_o it_o so_o the_o church_n have_v water_n excellent_a water_n even_o the_o water_n of_o life_n this_o be_v it_o our_o saviour_n speak_v of_o joh._n 7.38_o 39_o he_o that_o believe_v in_o i_o out_o of_o his_o belly_n shall_v flow_v river_n of_o water_n of_o life_n this_o speak_v he_o of_o the_o spirit_n which_o they_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o shall_v receive_v these_o water_n be_v the_o spiritual_a gift_n and_o grace_n which_o god_n bestow_v upon_o his_o church_n second_o it_o be_v call_v a_o spring_n or_o a_o fountain_n because_o as_o a_o fountain_n have_v water_n so_o it_o have_v clear_a water_n so_o the_o water_n in_o the_o church_n the_o gift_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n wherewith_o it_o be_v adorn_v be_v clean_o and_o pure_a not_o stain_v with_o puddle_n and_o dirt_n of_o sin_n and_o error_n three_o as_o a_o spring_n or_o fountain_n have_v water_n in_o itself_o at_o the_o first_o hand_n and_o have_v it_o not_o derive_v to_o they_o by_o any_o channel_n or_o secondary_a mean_n so_o the_o gift_n and_o grace_n of_o the_o church_n they_o have_v they_o confer_v upon_o they_o immediate_o from_o christ_n himself_o who_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o the_o garden_n as_o in_o that_o cant._n 4.15_o and_o there_o be_v one_o common_a adjunct_n affirm_v of_o each_o of_o these_o title_n a_o garden_n enclose_v a_o spring_n shut_v up_o or_o a_o fountain_n seal_v up_o and_o this_o be_v add_v to_o show_v the_o privateness_n or_o severalnesse_n of_o it_o in_o itself_o that_o it_o be_v hedge_v in_o or_o shut_v up_o this_o show_v first_o the_o special_a protection_n of_o god_n over_o his_o church_n or_o people_n he_o hedge_n and_o wall_n and_o enclose_v they_o in_o and_o seal_n and_o shut_v they_o up_o so_o that_o nothing_o can_v come_v at_o they_o to_o work_v their_o annoyance_n second_o this_o intend_v a_o separation_n betwixt_o they_o and_o the_o world_n first_o a_o separation_n of_o they_o from_o the_o world_n that_o they_o may_v not_o communicate_v with_o they_o in_o their_o corruption_n in_o their_o manner_n and_o fashion_n but_o that_o they_o may_v continue_v within_o the_o compass_n of_o their_o own_o society_n second_o a_o separation_n of_o the_o world_n from_o they_o that_o they_o can_v communicate_v in_o their_o pleasant_a fruit_n and_o pure_a water_n profane_a and_o graceless_a people_n they_o can_v have_v no_o part_n in_o the_o gift_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n they_o be_v restrain_v only_o to_o the_o church_n and_o to_o the_o choose_a so_o much_o of_o that_o place_n out_o of_o the_o old_a testament_n the_o other_o place_n be_v in_o the_o new_a testament_n in_o the_o 1._o pet._n 2.9_o liberty_n you_o be_v a_o choose_a generation_n a_o royal_a priesthood_n a_o holy_a nation_n a_o peculiar_a people_n set_v at_o liberty_n etc._n etc._n first_o they_o be_v a_o choose_a generation_n there_o be_v many_o other_o generation_n in_o the_o world_n yea_o but_o they_o be_v reject_v these_o be_v choose_v second_o a_o royal_a priesthood_n there_o be_v another_o priesthood_n yea_o but_o that_o be_v serviceable_a and_o mean_a these_o be_v a_o royal_a princely_a divine_a priesthood_n three_o a_o holy_a nation_n there_o be_v other_o nation_n but_o they_o be_v profane_a and_o wicked_a these_o be_v holy_a separate_v and_o sanctify_v by_o god_n spirit_n four_o a_o peculiar_a people_n there_o be_v other_o people_n yea_o but_o they_o be_v of_o the_o common_a fashion_n fit_a for_o all_o company_n and_o course_n these_o be_v a_o peculiar_a people_n reserve_v only_o to_o themselves_o and_o to_o their_o religion_n and_o to_o their_o god_n so_o much_o of_o those_o title_n that_o be_v absolute_a and_o concern_v the_o church_n simple_o in_o itself_o god_n the_o second_o sort_n be_v respective_a title_n such_o as_o concern_v the_o church_n as_o it_o have_v reference_n to_o some_o other_o thing_n else_o and_o these_o be_v either_o first_o such_o as_o have_v reference_n to_o god_n or_o second_o such_o as_o have_v reference_n to_o christ_n or_o three_o such_o as_o have_v reference_n to_o the_o faithful_a or_o four_a such_o as_o have_v reference_n to_o the_o world_n or_o five_o such_o as_o have_v reference_n to_o the_o truth_n first_o those_o title_n that_o be_v give_v to_o the_o church_n in_o respect_n of_o god_n be_v many_o isai_n 2.2_o micha_n 4.1_o it_o be_v call_v god_n mountain_n because_o god_n have_v set_v it_o up_o in_o a_o high_a and_o eminent_a place_n as_o a_o city_n on_o a_o hill_n and_o also_o because_o he_o have_v establish_v it_o so_o strong_o that_o as_o the_o mountain_n of_o god_n it_o shall_v stand_v fast_o for_o ever_o so_o in_o psal_n 87.3_o it_o be_v call_v the_o city_n of_o god_n because_o he_o build_v it_o and_o make_v their_o wall_n and_o repair_v the_o breach_n make_v they_o law_n grant_v they_o privilege_n maintain_v their_o charter_n &_o rule_v and_o govern_v they_o by_o his_o own_o ordinance_n in_o the_o 1._o tim._n 3.15_o it_o be_v call_v the_o house_n of_o god_n as_o be_v the_o place_n where_o his_o own_o honour_n dwell_v converse_v daily_o with_o his_o people_n and_o careful_o provide_v for_o they_o as_o a_o master_n of_o a_o family_n for_o his_o household_n god_n in_o the_o 1._o cor._n 3.17_o it_o be_v call_v the_o temple_n of_o god_n it_o be_v more_o than_o a_o house_n a_o holy_a house_n even_o as_o the_o lord_n that_o dwell_v in_o it_o be_v holy_a last_o it_o be_v call_v 1._o pet._n 2.10_o god_n the_o people_n of_o god_n and_o that_o by_o a_o special_a and_o mutual_a appropriation_n both_o of_o they_o that_o be_v his_o church_n to_o he_o and_o of_o he_o to_o they_o he_o be_v their_o god_n love_a and_o favour_v they_o above_o all_o other_o and_o they_o be_v his_o people_n consecrate_v whole_o and_o entire_o to_o he_o and_o his_o worship_n so_o peculiar_a they_o be_v to_o god_n that_o they_o be_v his_o inheritance_n isai_n 19.25_o all_o other_o be_v servant_n and_o underling_n and_o not_o god_n inheritance_n and_o so_o much_o for_o those_o title_n that_o have_v reference_n to_o god_n now_o second_o sister_n follow_v those_o that_o have_v reference_n to_o christ_n and_o they_o be_v many_o too_o first_o it_o be_v call_v his_o love_n can._n 4.1_o namely_o as_o christ_n love_v she_o dear_o above_o his_o own_o life_n and_o as_o the_o church_n love_v he_o dear_o above_o all_o the_o world_n beside_o and_o can._n 4.9_o the_o church_n be_v call_v his_o sister_n as_o partake_v together_o he_o with_o she_o of_o the_o same_o flesh_n and_o blood_n by_o nature_n and_o she_o with_o he_o adopt_a into_o the_o fellowship_n and_o state_n of_o god_n child_n as_o he_o himself_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n so_o in_o the_o same_o verse_n she_o be_v call_v the_o spouse_n of_o christ_n he_o marry_v she_o unto_o himself_o in_o righteousness_n christ_n and_o in_o judgement_n and_o in_o mercy_n and_o compassion_n as_o the_o prophet_n show_v we_o hos_fw-la 2.19.20_o queen_n and_o thereupon_o she_o obtain_v the_o title_n of_o a_o queen_n ps_n 1.45_o 19_o and_o good_a reason_n she_o be_v marry_v to_o the_o king_n of_o king_n the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o joh._n 10.27_o the_o church_n be_v say_v to_o be_v his_o sheep_n sheep_n as_o he_o feed_v and_o rule_v they_o like_o a_o faithful_a shepherd_n and_o they_o as_o good_a sheep_n hear_v follow_a and_o obey_v he_o and_o none_o other_o eph._n 1.23_o she_o be_v call_v his_o body_n body_n as_o he_o like_v a_o perfect_a head_n
convey_v life_n and_o spirit_n into_o they_o and_o they_o like_o live_a member_n receive_v this_o life_n and_o perform_v their_o several_a office_n both_o to_o he_o and_o one_o to_o another_o many_o other_o title_n there_o be_v of_o the_o like_a kind_n all_o tend_v to_o show_v not_o a_o communion_n only_o as_o my_o belove_a be_v i_o he_o and_o i_o be_o he_o but_o a_o union_n rather_o as_o they_o be_v one_o with_o he_o and_o he_o with_o they_o their_o sin_n be_v he_o by_o imputation_n and_o so_o his_o righteousness_n be_v they_o yea_o they_o be_v call_v christ_n christ_n 1._o co._n 12.12_o so_o much_o of_o the_o second_o sort_n of_o title_n the_o three_o sort_n be_v give_v with_o reference_n to_o the_o faithful_a as_o in_o micah_n 4.8_o all_o it_o be_v call_v the_o tower_n of_o the_o flock_n as_o who_o shall_v say_v all_o the_o flock_n of_o christ_n resort_v to_o the_o church_n as_o to_o a_o strong_a hold_n or_o tower_n and_o if_o they_o recover_v that_o there_o be_v perfect_a safety_n so_o say_v the_o prophet_n isa_n 14.32_o the_o lord_n have_v establish_v zion_n and_o the_o poor_a of_o his_o people_n shall_v trust_v in_o it_o so_o in_o gal._n 4.26_o she_o be_v call_v the_o mother_n of_o we_o all_o she_o be_v a_o fruitful_a mother_n have_v many_o child_n not_o the_o mother_n of_o one_o nation_n only_o as_o agar_n but_o of_o all_o nation_n in_o the_o world_n and_o she_o be_v a_o very_a love_a mother_n give_v her_o child_n suck_v out_o of_o her_o own_o breast_n the_o two_o testament_n and_o thereby_o nourish_v and_o bring_v they_o up_o till_o they_o be_v of_o great_a strength_n yea_o till_o they_o be_v of_o a_o perfect_a and_o full_a age_n in_o jesus_n christ_n earth_n the_o four_o sort_n of_o title_n be_v give_v with_o reference_n to_o the_o world_n in_o general_a and_o in_o this_o respect_n the_o church_n be_v call_v the_o substance_n of_o the_o world_n isa_n 6.13_o so_o long_o as_o the_o holy_a seed_n stand_v so_o long_o the_o world_n stand_v when_o it_o decay_v the_o substance_n be_v go_v and_o the_o world_n perish_v so_o in_o this_o respect_n the_o church_n be_v call_v the_o joy_n of_o the_o whole_a earth_n lam._n 2.10_o when_o the_o church_n thrive_v the_o whole_a earth_n be_v the_o better_a for_o it_o howsoever_o many_o man_n grudge_v at_o this_o when_o the_o church_n prosper_v yet_o they_o shall_v rejoice_v at_o it_o themselves_o have_v no_o right_a to_o any_o blessing_n on_o earth_n but_o by_o their_o fellowship_n in_o this_o respect_n also_o it_o be_v call_v a_o lily_n among_o thorn_n thorn_n can._n 2.2_o which_o show_v two_o thing_n first_o the_o great_a and_o goodly_a grace_n and_o beauty_n of_o the_o church_n how_o far_o it_o exceed_v all_o the_o congregation_n in_o the_o world_n beside_o as_o the_o lily_n that_o be_v far_o more_o glorious_a than_o solomon_n in_o all_o his_o royalty_n exceed_v the_o bramble_n the_o bush_n and_o thorn_n and_o second_o it_o show_v also_o the_o tenderness_n of_o the_o church_n much_o ado_n to_o be_v hatch_v and_o easy_o hurt_v in_o the_o world_n even_o as_o the_o lily_n be_v among_o the_o thorn_n truth_n and_o so_o it_o show_v the_o harshness_n and_o troublesomenesse_n of_o the_o world_n to_o the_o church_n that_o be_v like_o prick_a thorn_n and_o scratch_a bramble_n to_o she_o the_o last_o sort_n of_o title_n be_v such_o as_o have_v reference_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n and_o in_o this_o respect_n the_o church_n be_v call_v the_o pillar_n and_o ground_n of_o truth_n 1._o tim._n 3.15_o we_o must_v not_o take_v it_o as_o the_o papist_n do_v as_o if_o the_o truth_n be_v build_v on_o the_o church_n and_o the_o church_n be_v the_o foundation_n of_o that_o for_o christ_n alone_o be_v the_o foundation_n and_o the_o truth_n be_v rather_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o church_n mat._n 16.18_o upon_o this_o rock_n say_v christ_n will_v i_o build_v my_o church_n that_o be_v upon_o this_o truth_n which_o peter_n have_v profess_v of_o christ_n before_o will_v i_o build_v my_o church_n therefore_o we_o must_v expound_v it_o thus_o the_o pillar_n and_o ground_n of_o truth_n that_o be_v the_o supporter_n and_o upholder_n and_o maintainer_n of_o it_o to_o keep_v it_o in_o sure_a and_o safe_a custody_n that_o neither_o satan_n nor_o all_o his_o instrument_n shall_v ever_o be_v able_a utter_o to_o overthrow_v it_o but_o that_o it_o shall_v live_v and_o abide_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o faithful_a for_o ever_o and_o in_o this_o sense_n the_o church_n be_v call_v a_o candlestick_n candlestick_n revel_v 1.20_o not_o as_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o light_n but_o the_o bearer_n up_o and_o holder_n forth_o of_o the_o light_n of_o god_n truth_n to_o the_o view_n of_o the_o world_n and_o so_o much_o of_o the_o last_o sort_n of_o title_n now_o that_o we_o have_v pass_v over_o the_o title_n give_v to_o the_o church_n and_o show_v they_o in_o their_o several_a rank_n we_o will_v draw_v they_o into_o a_o head_n in_o a_o observation_n and_o that_o be_v this_o namely_o that_o the_o church_n of_o god_n that_o be_v the_o company_n doct._n 2_o and_o assembly_n of_o the_o faithful_a be_v the_o most_o gracious_a and_o bless_a beautiful_a and_o glorious_a assembly_n that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n the_o scripture_n be_v plentiful_a in_o this_o argument_n to_o teach_v we_o that_o we_o must_v enlarge_v our_o heart_n and_o thought_n to_o the_o more_o ample_a and_o full_a understanding_n of_o it_o beside_o the_o title_n we_o speak_v of_o before_o which_o all_o prove_v this_o there_o be_v many_o other_o proof_n in_o the_o scripture_n i_o will_v give_v you_o one_o place_n which_o be_v not_o in_o the_o canonical_a scripture_n which_o though_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v read_v in_o the_o church_n yet_o you_o may_v read_v it_o private_o and_o that_o be_v in_o the_o 2._o esdras_n 5.22_o etc._n etc._n and_o i_o have_v a_o desire_n to_o reason_n again_o and_o i_o begin_v to_o talk_v with_o the_o most_o high_a again_o and_o i_o say_v oh_o lord_n of_o every_o forest_n of_o the_o earth_n and_o of_o all_o the_o tree_n thereof_o thou_o have_v choose_v thou_o one_o only_a vineyard_n and_o of_o all_o the_o land_n in_o the_o world_n thou_o have_v choose_v thou_o one_o pit_n and_o of_o all_o the_o flower_n of_o the_o ground_n thou_o have_v choose_v thou_o one_o lily_n etc._n etc._n in_o exod._n 19.5_o god_n say_v to_o the_o jew_n and_o so_o to_o the_o whole_a church_n that_o they_o shall_v be_v his_o chief_a treasure_n above_o all_o people_n as_o if_o many_o pearl_n and_o precious_a stone_n be_v enamel_v in_o beat_a gold_n and_o frame_v together_o into_o one_o body_n will_v not_o this_o be_v a_o glorious_a body_n but_o such_o be_v the_o church_n in_o the_o eye_n and_o acceptance_n of_o god_n god_n do_v more_o high_o esteem_v of_o the_o church_n then_o of_o all_o the_o world_n beside_o all_o the_o rest_n be_v but_o trash_n &_o dross_n and_o dung_n the_o lord_n set_v nothing_o by_o they_o in_o comparison_n of_o the_o church_n isai_n 4.5_o the_o lord_n shall_v create_v upon_o every_o place_n of_o mount_n zion_n and_o upon_o the_o assembly_n thereof_o a_o cloud_n and_o smoke_n by_o day_n and_o the_o shine_a of_o a_o flame_a fire_n by_o night_n for_o upon_o all_o the_o glory_n shall_v be_v a_o defence_n that_o be_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o glory_n of_o all_o the_o world_n the_o whole_a body_n and_o every_o part_n thereof_o be_v glorious_a yea_o glory_n itself_o all_o other_o pomp_n and_o glory_n without_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o church_n be_v baseness_n and_o smoke_n and_o misery_n see_v the_o glorious_a estate_n of_o the_o church_n as_o it_o be_v shadow_v in_o the_o law_n exod._n 25.8.9_o by_o the_o sanctuary_n or_o tabernacle_n thing_n first_o there_o be_v the_o ark_n verse_n 10._o second_o there_o be_v the_o testimony_n put_v into_o the_o ark._n verse_n 16._o three_o there_o be_v the_o mercy-seat_n verse_n 17._o four_o the_o cherubin_n verse_n 18._o five_o god_n speak_v from_o betwixt_o the_o cherubin_n ver_fw-la 22._o six_o the_o table_n verse_n 23._o seven_o the_o shewbread_n verse_n 30._o last_o the_o golden_a candlestick_n verse_n 31._o these_o do_v all_o figure_n out_o the_o glorious_a estate_n of_o the_o church_n under_o the_o gospel_n there_o be_v the_o ark_n that_o be_v god_n himself_o and_o have_v not_o we_o the_o same_o god_n there_o be_v the_o testimony_n in_o the_o ark_n which_o be_v a_o witness_n or_o evidence_n of_o god_n presence_n that_o he_o ever_o be_v and_o will_v be_v present_a there_o and_o so_o we_o have_v the_o word_n and_o the_o sacrament_n to_o witness_v god_n continual_a presence_n with_o us._n there_o be_v the_o mercy-seat_n and_o what_o be_v that_o but_o jesus_n christ_n the_o
shall_v be_v make_v as_o white_a as_o snow_n second_o here_o be_v comfort_n against_o their_o want_n and_o defect_n and_o infirmity_n thou_o can_v not_o pray_v nor_o perform_v any_o other_o good_a duty_n as_o thou_o ought_v yea_o but_o thou_o be_v a_o member_n of_o that_o bless_a and_o glorious_a church_n whereof_o christ_n jesus_n be_v the_o head_n and_o therefore_o all_o thy_o want_n and_o infirmity_n be_v cover_v and_o supply_v by_o the_o perfection_n of_o christ_n three_o here_o be_v comfort_n against_o temptation_n and_o against_o the_o devil_n and_o all_o his_o power_n for_o thou_o be_v a_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n which_o be_v like_a to_o mount_n zion_n that_o can_v be_v remove_v but_o shall_v stand_v fast_o for_o ever_o and_o ever_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n nor_o all_o the_o power_n of_o the_o devil_n shall_v ever_o prevail_v against_o thou_o the_o lord_n for_o his_o own_o glory_n which_o he_o have_v set_v upon_o we_o will_v never_o see_v we_o overthrow_v last_o here_o be_v comfort_n for_o we_o against_o all_o the_o reproach_n of_o man_n that_o howsoever_o we_o be_v as_o the_o offscowring_a of_o the_o world_n in_o their_o unjust_a censure_n yet_o in_o god_n sight_n who_o judge_v according_a to_o the_o truth_n we_o be_v beautiful_a and_o glorious_a and_o therefore_o let_v this_o suffice_v to_o give_v we_o content_v against_o all_o the_o scoff_n and_o nickname_n in_o the_o world_n if_o we_o be_v so_o bless_v and_o beautiful_a in_o god_n eye_n what_o need_v we_o care_v though_o we_o be_v contemn_v in_o the_o world_n the_o five_o use_n be_v matter_n of_o terror_n to_o the_o world_n that_o persecute_v use_v 5_o and_o oppose_v themselves_o against_o god_n church_n they_o know_v not_o who_o it_o be_v they_o make_v their_o force_n against_o it_o be_v even_o against_o god_n and_o therefore_o they_o shall_v never_o prevail_v and_o against_o the_o people_n of_o god_n the_o most_o glorious_a and_o bless_a company_n that_o be_v and_o therefore_o first_o they_o may_v be_v dismay_v for_o they_o rush_v against_o a_o rock_n and_o kick_v against_o the_o prick_n act._n 9_o they_o shall_v never_o have_v good_a success_n yea_o second_o they_o shall_v be_v punish_v with_o the_o fierce_a and_o full_a vengeance_n and_o wrath_n of_o god_n because_o they_o resist_v the_o lord_n and_o oppose_v his_o glorious_a and_o anoint_a one_o use_v 6_o the_o six_o and_o last_o use_n be_v to_o reprove_v the_o perverse_a opinion_n of_o the_o world_n that_o be_v blind_a and_o can_v see_v no_o grace_n nor_o beauty_n in_o the_o church_n like_v unto_o the_o wicked_a jew_n that_o will_v not_o see_v any_o form_n or_o beauty_n in_o christ_n isai_n 53._o they_o look_v only_o on_o the_o outward_a man_n and_o indeed_o there_o be_v nothing_o to_o be_v see_v but_o deformity_n and_o misery_n but_o if_o they_o can_v look_v within_o there_o be_v perfect_a glory_n yea_o but_o say_v they_o this_o be_v but_o your_o word_n we_o can_v see_v no_o such_o glory_n in_o the_o church_n but_o we_o can_v see_v a_o great_a deal_n of_o sin_n and_o misery_n among_o you_o why_o do_v you_o then_o face_n it_o out_o thus_o i_o answer_v we_o must_v understand_v it_o with_o these_o limitation_n first_o it_o can_v be_v discern_v but_o with_o a_o spiritual_a eye_n and_o therefore_o the_o world_n can_v see_v it_o because_o they_o want_v this_o eye_n to_o discern_v it_o withal_o second_o it_o be_v understand_v of_o the_o church_n as_o they_o be_v consider_v in_o their_o head_n christ_n and_o not_o as_o they_o be_v consider_v by_o themselves_o if_o they_o consider_v the_o church_n thus_o they_o shall_v perceive_v perfect_a glory_n christ_n himself_o be_v perfect_o glorious_a and_o he_o cover_v and_o supply_v our_o want_n and_o deformity_n and_o present_v we_o as_o glorious_a to_o god_n his_o father_n three_o it_o be_v so_o rather_o in_o our_o desire_n and_o god_n account_v then_o in_o actual_a possession_n four_o we_o have_v not_o thâ—s_a glory_n and_o blessedness_n here_o but_o 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the_o highly_o to_o esteem_v of_o it_o the_o name_n bear_v diverse_a signification_n in_o ordinary_a method_n ought_v to_o be_v divide_v first_o and_o define_v after_o but_o because_o the_o whole_a nature_n of_o the_o thing_n may_v be_v apt_o enough_o comprehend_v in_o one_o general_a description_n and_o because_o the_o division_n have_v a_o more_o near_a dependence_n with_o that_o which_o follow_v make_v a_o ready_a step_n and_o passage_n thereunto_o we_o will_v first_o define_v therefore_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o church_n and_o then_o proceed_v in_o the_o next_o place_n according_a to_o our_o order_n set_v down_o to_o divide_v it_o into_o several_a kind_n and_o branch_n the_o nature_n of_o the_o church_n be_v thus_o describe_v thing_n the_o church_n of_o god_n in_o the_o true_a general_a nature_n thereof_o be_v the_o whole_a company_n of_o god_n choose_v both_o in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n where_o they_o be_v describe_v by_o three_o thing_n first_o by_o the_o efficient_a cause_n 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faith_n of_o god_n church_n be_v call_v the_o faith_n of_o god_n choose_v titus_n 1.1_o and_o therefore_o they_o be_v call_v the_o first_o bear_v who_o name_n be_v write_v in_o heaven_n heb._n 12.23_o which_o what_o be_v it_o else_o but_o to_o be_v write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n that_o be_v to_o be_v god_n choose_v it_o be_v true_a that_o it_o be_v much_o more_o agreeable_a to_o the_o name_n of_o the_o church_n to_o be_v define_v by_o their_o call_v rather_o than_o by_o their_o choose_v as_o in_o the_o first_o lecture_n because_o they_o be_v a_o company_n call_v but_o yet_o it_o be_v more_o agreeable_a to_o the_o right_a nature_n of_o the_o church_n to_o be_v define_v by_o their_o choose_n rather_o than_o by_o their_o call_v and_o that_o
in_o heaven_n contain_v as_o well_o angel_n as_o man_n and_o therefore_o we_o speak_v of_o they_o by_o themselves_o and_o prove_v that_o the_o angel_n be_v a_o part_n of_o god_n church_n as_o well_o as_o man_n then_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o that_o part_n of_o god_n church_n which_o consist_v of_o man_n and_o in_o handle_v this_o point_n we_o propound_v three_o thing_n to_o be_v speak_v too_o first_o to_o speak_v of_o that_o part_n of_o god_n church_n consist_v of_o man_n which_o be_v in_o heaven_n by_o themselves_o second_o of_o those_o which_o be_v in_o earth_n by_o themselves_o three_o of_o both_o those_o which_o be_v in_o heaven_n and_o which_o be_v in_o earth_n together_o concern_v the_o first_o we_o have_v speak_v and_o show_v that_o heaven_n be_v the_o place_n of_o receipt_n for_o all_o god_n choose_v after_o their_o departure_n out_o of_o this_o life_n now_o we_o be_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o second_o namely_o earth_n that_o part_n of_o god_n church_n consist_v of_o man_n which_o be_v on_o earth_n and_o so_o to_o proceed_v to_o the_o three_o point_n and_o first_o of_o that_o part_n of_o god_n church_n on_o earth_n for_o although_o there_o be_v the_o same_o choose_v now_o in_o heaven_n which_o sometime_o be_v on_o earth_n and_o the_o same_o now_o in_o earth_n which_o sometime_o shall_v be_v in_o heaven_n so_o that_o the_o church_n or_o choose_v in_o heaven_n do_v not_o make_v a_o several_a church_n by_o themselves_o nor_o those_o in_o earth_n a_o several_a church_n by_o themselves_o but_o both_o together_o make_v one_o and_o the_o same_o church_n yet_o because_o there_o be_v some_o particular_a consideration_n incident_a to_o that_o in_o heaven_n which_o they_o on_o earth_n have_v not_o yet_o attain_v to_o and_o likewise_o some_o other_o particular_a consideration_n incident_a to_o that_o on_o earth_n which_o they_o in_o heaven_n have_v already_o pass_v from_o therefore_o each_o of_o they_o be_v to_o be_v handle_v by_o itself_o and_o therefore_o have_v speak_v of_o that_o part_n of_o god_n church_n which_o be_v in_o heaven_n before_o now_o we_o be_v to_o speak_v of_o that_o on_o earth_n i_o shall_v not_o need_v to_o define_v this_o on_o earth_n because_o it_o be_v apparent_o define_v before_o in_o the_o general_a for_o if_o that_o be_v the_o whole_a company_n of_o god_n choose_v in_o heaven_n and_o in_o earth_n than_o this_o must_v needs_o be_v the_o whole_a company_n of_o god_n choose_v live_v on_o earth_n doctr._n all_o that_o i_o will_v speak_v concern_v this_o point_n shall_v be_v contrive_v into_o one_o observation_n and_o that_o be_v this_o namely_o that_o god_n always_o have_v have_v from_o the_o beginning_n and_o have_v now_o and_o shall_v have_v to_o the_o world_n end_n a_o company_n of_o choose_a people_n upon_o earth_n belong_v to_o he_o call_v upon_o he_o believe_v in_o he_o and_o worship_v he_o in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n you_o see_v that_o the_o observation_n consist_v of_o three_o part_n first_o that_o god_n ever_o have_v second_o that_o he_o have_v now_o and_o three_o that_o he_o shall_v have_v to_o the_o world_n end_n a_o company_n etc._n etc._n first_o god_n always_o have_v in_o matter_n of_o fact_n example_n be_v fit_a and_o strong_a proof_n this_o be_v then_o a_o matter_n of_o fact_n already_o do_v it_o be_v best_o to_o be_v prove_v by_o example_n take_v out_o of_o history_n of_o several_a time_n we_o will_v begin_v with_o the_o first_o beginning_n god_n have_v his_o church_n in_o paradise_n how_o prove_v you_o that_o why_o first_o there_o be_v god_n the_o preacher_n second_o there_o be_v our_o first_o parent_n adam_n and_o eve_n the_o hearer_n and_o three_o there_o be_v the_o word_n and_o commandment_n gen._n 2.16_o 17._o there_o be_v the_o doctrine_n of_o salvation_n and_o the_o strict_a form_n and_o manner_n of_o worship_n prescribe_v by_o god_n which_o he_o will_v be_v honour_v by_o now_o what_o be_v here_o want_v to_o the_o full_a be_v of_o a_o true_a church_n for_o here_o be_v a_o pastor_n and_o a_o people_n and_o the_o word_n and_o such_o a_o word_n as_o be_v fit_v for_o their_o salvation_n therefore_o in_o paradise_n god_n have_v his_o church_n also_o out_o of_o paradise_n god_n still_o have_v his_o church_n for_o there_o be_v still_o the_o same_o preacher_n god_n the_o same_o hearer_n adam_n and_o eve_n the_o doctrine_n of_o salvation_n though_o not_o the_o same_o it_o be_v before_o yet_o here_o be_v that_o doctrine_n of_o salvation_n fit_v their_o present_a state_n and_o condition_n a_o doctrine_n of_o repentance_n and_o of_o punishment_n of_o sin_n and_o special_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n a_o doctrine_n of_o faith_n in_o christ_n genes_n 3.16_o the_o seed_n of_o the_o woman_n shall_v break_v the_o serpent_n head_n so_o here_o god_n have_v his_o church_n still_o 535._o to_o pass_v from_o they_o to_o abel_n there_o be_v abel_n sacrifice_a and_o his_o faith_n and_o there_o be_v god_n presence_n and_o acceptance_n as_o we_o may_v see_v gen._n 4.4_o compare_v with_o heb._n 11.4_o now_o where_o these_o be_v there_o be_v a_o true_a church_n afterwards_o in_o the_o time_n of_o seth_n it_o be_v say_v gen._n 4_o 25._o that_o then_o man_n begin_v to_o call_v upon_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o be_v man_n do_v then_o begin_v more_o zealous_o to_o worship_n god_n so_o here_o god_n have_v his_o church_n still_o let_v we_o pass_v from_o seth_n to_o enoch_n it_o be_v say_v of_o he_o that_o he_o walk_v with_o god_n believe_v in_o god_n and_o that_o he_o please_v god_n genes_n 5.24_o heb._n 11.5_o now_o where_o there_o be_v man_n walk_v with_o god_n believe_v in_o he_o and_o please_v he_o there_o be_v a_o true_a church_n so_o in_o the_o time_n of_o noah_n abraham_n isaac_n and_o jacob_n and_o in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o patriarch_n god_n have_v his_o church_n still_o heb._n 11.6_o 7_o etc._n etc._n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o chapter_n there_o the_o succession_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o faithful_a be_v set_v down_o as_o it_o be_v of_o purpose_n to_o prove_v this_o point_n which_o we_o have_v in_o hand_n namely_o that_o god_n have_v a_o church_n from_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o world_n to_o prove_v this_o point_n further_o we_o will_v omit_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o flourish_a time_n of_o the_o church_n for_o of_o they_o there_o be_v no_o question_n there_o be_v then_o not_o embracer_n only_o of_o the_o heavenly_a truth_n but_o professor_n too_o in_o great_a number_n and_o we_o will_v instance_n in_o those_o time_n that_o be_v most_o obscure_a when_o there_o be_v the_o least_o likelihood_n of_o a_o church_n and_o if_o we_o can_v prove_v that_o god_n have_v his_o church_n in_o those_o time_n than_o the_o point_n will_v be_v prove_v that_o god_n have_v always_o have_v a_o church_n we_o will_v therefore_o instance_n in_o they_o first_o at_o the_o flood_n when_o all_o flesh_n have_v corrupt_v their_o way_n gen._n 6.12_o and_o that_o the_o earth_n be_v fill_v with_o cruelty_n verse_n 13._o yet_o in_o that_o desperate_a time_n there_o be_v find_v noah_n a_o just_a and_o upright_o man_n in_o that_o generation_n verse_n 9_o so_o god_n have_v his_o church_n then_o let_v we_o pass_v from_o these_o time_n and_o come_v to_o the_o bondage_n and_o slavery_n of_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n in_o egypt_n when_o god_n peculiar_a people_n be_v in_o the_o hand_n of_o a_o most_o profane_a idolatrous_a and_o cruel_a nation_n so_o that_o they_o have_v neither_o liberty_n nor_o time_n nor_o mean_n of_o god_n true_a worship_n yet_o as_o there_o be_v a_o light_n in_o goshen_n when_o palpable_a darkness_n be_v over_o all_o the_o land_n of_o egypt_n beside_o so_o when_o all_o the_o world_n be_v overwhelm_v with_o gross_a ignorance_n sin_n and_o error_n yet_o than_o god_n have_v his_o church_n among_o the_o israelite_n there_o be_v some_o midwife_n fear_v god_n exod._n 1.21_o and_o there_o be_v some_o that_o cry_v and_o pray_v and_o sigh_v to_o god_n and_o be_v hear_v of_o he_o exod._n 2.23_o 24._o so_o god_n have_v his_o church_n in_o those_o time_n likewise_o in_o the_o day_n of_o elias_n when_o the_o church_n be_v bring_v to_o a_o low_a ebb_n the_o prophet_n can_v see_v no_o more_o leave_v but_o himself_o and_o yet_o he_o have_v eye_n to_o discern_v it_o yet_o he_o be_v a_o true_a worshipper_n of_o god_n 751._o and_o so_o god_n have_v his_o true_a church_n then_o if_o there_o have_v be_v no_o more_o than_o he_o 1._o king_n 19.10_o but_o the_o lord_n see_v seven_o thousand_o more_o that_o be_v true_a worshipper_n and_o have_v not_o bow_v their_o knee_n to_o baal_n vers_fw-la 18._o in_o this_o desperate_a time_n when_o they_o kill_v god_n prophet_n and_o break_v down_o his_o altar_n and_o seek_v the_o life_n
of_o elias_n yet_o in_o this_o very_a time_n god_n have_v his_o church_n and_o a_o flourish_a one_o too_o in_o his_o eye_n though_o man_n can_v not_o discern_v it_o afterwards_o in_o that_o general_a apostasy_n when_o israel_n and_o judah_n be_v both_o fall_v from_o god_n yet_o here_o be_v a_o true_a church_n still_o here_o be_v one_o out_o of_o a_o city_n and_o two_o out_o of_o a_o tribe_n to_o worship_n god_n jer._n 3.13_o 14._o so_o in_o the_o captivity_n of_o babylon_n when_o the_o church_n be_v quite_o overwhelm_v as_o it_o be_v jerusalem_n be_v so_o distress_v religion_n deface_v all_o turn_v into_o a_o miserable_a desolation_n so_o as_o there_o be_v never_o the_o like_a be_v there_o any_o sorrow_n like_a unto_o my_o sorrow_n say_v the_o prophet_n speak_v in_o the_o behalf_n of_o the_o church_n lam._n 1.12_o yet_o than_o god_n have_v his_o church_n there_o be_v both_o teacher_n and_o embracer_n as_o jeremy_n haggai_n zechariah_n and_o daniel_n and_o many_o other_o at_o our_o saviour_n come_v in_o the_o flesh_n when_o the_o law_n and_o the_o temple_n priest_n and_o people_n the_o church_n and_o commonwealth_n be_v utter_o corrupt_v and_o defile_v yet_o still_o god_n have_v his_o church_n there_o be_v zachary_n and_o elizabeth_n joseph_n and_o marie_n simeon_n and_o anna_n true_a beleevere_n and_o right_a worshipper_n of_o god_n last_o in_o the_o height_n of_o the_o pride_n of_o antichrist_n the_o abomination_n of_o desolation_n stand_v in_o the_o holy_a place_n for_o many_o hundred_o year_n when_o all_o the_o nation_n in_o the_o earth_n be_v make_v drink_v with_o the_o cup_n of_o fornication_n by_o the_o whore_n of_o babylon_n the_o synagogue_n of_o rome_n yet_o god_n have_v some_o from_o time_n to_o time_n that_o loathe_v her_o golden_a cup_n some_o that_o be_v not_o defile_v with_o her_o fornication_n but_o keep_v themselves_o pure_a virgin_n and_o a_o chaste_a spouse_n to_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n sweet_o embrace_v his_o save_a truth_n and_o so_o much_o for_o proof_n of_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o observation_n that_o god_n always_o have_v a_o church_n and_o company_n of_o choose_a people_n etc._n etc._n the_o second_o part_n be_v that_o as_o god_n ever_o have_v have_v so_o he_o now_o have_v a_o church_n etc._n etc._n i_o shall_v not_o need_v to_o speak_v much_o for_o proof_n of_o this_o point_n for_o it_o can_v be_v deny_v but_o that_o bless_a be_v god_n there_o be_v many_o flourish_a church_n at_o this_o day_n in_o germany_n france_n england_n and_o scotland_n many_o in_o all_o these_o place_n that_o worship_n god_n in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n yea_o under_o popery_n no_o doubt_n but_o there_o be_v many_o true_a christian_n yea_o even_o among_o the_o turk_n and_o jew_n and_o infidel_n i_o doubt_v not_o but_o that_o there_o be_v yeâ—_n remain_v some_o that_o worship_n god_n with_o we_o no_o question_n but_o there_o be_v some_o spark_n of_o fire_n among_o those_o burn_a ash_n some_o polish_a stone_n of_o these_o decay_a church_n some_o gold_n among_o all_o that_o dross_n some_o that_o serve_v the_o lord_n among_o so_o many_o thousand_o servant_n of_o sin_n and_o slave_n of_o satan_n we_o have_v many_o instance_n now_o at_o this_o day_n of_o some_o that_o live_v under_o popery_n and_o among_o the_o jew_n that_o profess_v our_o religion_n so_o the_o second_o part_n be_v prove_v that_o god_n now_o have_v his_o church_n and_o choose_a people_n the_o last_o part_n and_o shall_v have_v to_o the_o world_n end_n etc._n etc._n we_o can_v prove_v this_o point_n by_o example_n as_o we_o do_v the_o former_a because_o it_o be_v not_o yet_o thorough_o fulfil_v yet_o we_o have_v as_o sure_a proof_n for_o it_o as_o example_n we_o have_v god_n own_o word_n for_o it_o and_o that_o which_o god_n have_v speak_v be_v as_o sure_a as_o if_o it_o be_v already_o do_v and_o therefore_o the_o prophet_n deliver_v many_o prediction_n in_o the_o preterperfect_a tense_n as_o if_o they_o be_v already_o do_v because_o of_o the_o certainty_n of_o it_o i_o say_v we_o have_v god_n word_n for_o proof_n of_o this_o point_n psal_n 132.13_o 14._o for_o the_o lord_n have_v choose_v zion_n and_o love_v to_o dwell_v in_o it_o say_v this_o be_v my_o rest_n for_o ever_o here_o will_v i_o dwell_v etc._n etc._n god_n will_v dwell_v and_o rest_v and_o that_o for_o ever_o in_o his_o church_n as_o himself_o be_v for_o ever_o so_o his_o church_n be_v for_o ever_o so_o math._n 28.20_o i_o be_o with_o you_o ever_o even_o to_o the_o world_n end_n it_o be_v more_o than_o if_o he_o have_v say_v i_o will_v be_v with_o you_o etc._n etc._n it_o be_v as_o much_o as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v thus_o as_o sure_o as_o i_o be_o actual_o present_a with_o you_o now_o so_o i_o will_v still_o continue_v unto_o the_o very_a end_n of_o the_o world_n and_o whereas_o in_o respect_n of_o his_o bodily_a presence_n it_o be_v nor_o so_o because_o he_o be_v to_o ascend_v into_o heaven_n yet_o by_o his_o spirit_n he_o be_v with_o we_o effectual_o to_o all_o save_a purpose_n joh._n 14.16_o i_o will_v pray_v the_o father_n and_o he_o shall_v give_v you_o another_o comforter_n that_o he_o may_v abide_v with_o you_o for_o ever_o vers_fw-la 17._o even_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n etc._n etc._n and_o whereas_o there_o be_v many_o opposer_n of_o god_n church_n man_n and_o devil_n and_o many_o time_n they_o have_v a_o great_a hand_n over_o the_o church_n yet_o they_o be_v still_o bridle_v and_o curb_v and_o the_o church_n still_o so_o protect_v and_o defend_v that_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v never_o prevail_v against_o it_o that_o be_v utter_o to_o disannul_v it_o math._n 16.18_o there_o be_v many_o other_o proof_n for_o this_o point_n but_o because_o we_o shall_v speak_v of_o they_o in_o the_o reason_n therefore_o we_o will_v pass_v to_o they_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o point_n that_o god_n ever_o have_v now_o have_v and_o shall_v have_v a_o church_n to_o the_o world_n end_n be_v these_o reas_n 1_o first_o we_o have_v god_n promise_n for_o it_o who_o be_v truth_n and_o can_v lie_v if_o that_o be_v too_o little_a we_o have_v his_o oath_n for_o it_o wherein_o it_o be_v impossible_a he_o shall_v lie_v psal_n 132.11_o 12._o the_o lord_n have_v swear_v in_o truth_n to_o david_n and_o will_v not_o shrink_v from_o it_o say_v of_o the_o fruit_n of_o thy_o body_n will_v i_o set_v up_o thy_o throne_n for_o ever_o he_o have_v swear_v it_o and_o will_v not_o shrink_v from_o it_o that_o be_v he_o will_v not_o recant_v which_o although_o it_o be_v typical_o speak_v of_o david_n and_o his_o seed_n yet_o in_o truth_n &_o substance_n of_o it_o it_o be_v intend_v of_o christ_n and_o his_o church_n the_o same_o promise_n be_v renew_v jer._n 33.17_o 18._o where_o it_o be_v say_v that_o david_n shall_v never_o want_v a_o man_n to_o sit_v upon_o the_o throne_n of_o the_o house_n of_o israel_n and_o in_o the_o 20._o and_o 21._o verse_n it_o be_v say_v if_o you_o can_v break_v my_o covenant_n of_o the_o day_n and_o my_o covenant_n of_o the_o night_n than_o my_o covenant_n may_v be_v break_v with_o david_n my_o servant_n give_v we_o to_o understand_v that_o his_o promise_n be_v irrevocable_a so_o long_o as_o there_o be_v day_n or_o so_o long_a as_o there_o be_v night_n on_o the_o earth_n so_o long_o the_o lord_n will_v have_v his_o church_n on_o earth_n his_o word_n and_o his_o promise_n can_v be_v break_v no_o say_v our_o saviour_n heaven_n and_o earth_n may_v fail_v but_o my_o word_n shall_v never_o fail_v therefore_o he_o have_v pass_v his_o word_n for_o the_o continuance_n of_o his_o church_n for_o ever_o it_o shall_v continue_v for_o ever_o in_o despite_n of_o all_o her_o adversary_n second_o the_o save_a truth_n and_o doctrine_n of_o salvation_n reas_n 2_o shall_v never_o perish_v from_o the_o earth_n therefore_o the_o church_n that_o be_v the_o pillar_n of_o truth_n shall_v never_o be_v abolish_v from_o the_o earth_n if_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n can_v fail_v than_o the_o church_n may_v fail_v but_o that_o can_v never_o fail_v for_o still_o there_o shall_v be_v some_o witness_n of_o god_n truth_n to_o feel_v the_o save_a power_n of_o it_o in_o themselves_o and_o to_o testify_v it_o to_o other_o and_o therefore_o the_o church_n shall_v never_o fail_v the_o three_o reason_n be_v take_v from_o god_n fatherly_a care_n over_o reas_n 3_o his_o church_n even_o for_o their_o own_o sake_n because_o he_o love_v they_o and_o they_o be_v dear_a to_o he_o as_o the_o apple_n of_o his_o eye_n and_o therefore_o they_o shall_v never_o be_v all_o destroy_v except_o the_o lord_n can_v forget_v his_o own_o people_n his_o darling_n which_o be_v impossible_a four_o he_o do_v preserve_v his_o church_n
against_o his_o anoint_v it_o be_v to_o no_o purpose_n they_o shall_v not_o prevail_v it_o be_v all_o but_o the_o imagination_n of_o a_o vain_a thing_n psal_n 2.1_o yet_o i_o will_v tell_v they_o what_o they_o shall_v prevail_v in_o they_o shall_v prevail_v thus_o far_o to_o make_v the_o church_n more_o in_o number_n and_o more_o zealous_a for_o god_n and_o constant_a in_o his_o truth_n contrary_a to_o their_o end_n for_o behold_v when_o they_o have_v do_v what_o they_o can_v against_o the_o faithful_a when_o they_o have_v burn_v they_o to_o ash_n god_n will_v raise_v out_o of_o those_o very_a ash_n a_o new_a seed_n to_o call_v upon_o his_o name_n and_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o saint_n shed_v shall_v fatten_v the_o church_n and_o make_v it_o more_o fruitful_a and_o be_v a_o cause_n of_o the_o great_a increase_n of_o the_o faithful_a it_o be_v a_o vain_a thing_n therefore_o for_o they_o to_o threaten_v they_o and_o to_o say_v as_o many_o time_n they_o do_v that_o they_o will_v root_v out_o these_o professor_n it_o be_v more_o than_o they_o can_v do_v nay_o it_o be_v more_o than_o the_o devil_n their_o good_a master_n can_v do_v himself_o and_o therefore_o let_v they_o never_o think_v to_o do_v it_o five_o this_o teach_v we_o not_o to_o judge_v of_o the_o church_n by_o use_v 5_o sight_n or_o appearance_n it_o have_v a_o be_v even_o when_o it_o can_v hardly_o be_v discern_v rest_v rhou_n upon_o this_o undoubted_a truth_n that_o sure_o such_o a_o one_o there_o be_v where_o or_o how_o etc._n etc._n leave_v that_o to_o god_n for_o it_o may_v be_v hide_v from_o our_o sight_n even_o as_o the_o corn_n be_v among_o the_o chaff_n so_o that_o we_o can_v discern_v it_o and_o yet_o it_o may_v have_v a_o be_v and_o so_o much_o for_o that_o point_n now_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o three_o point_n namely_o together_o of_o the_o church_n of_o god_n consist_v of_o man_n in_o heaven_n and_o in_o earth_n together_o i_o will_v describe_v it_o by_o certain_a quality_n and_o circumstance_n such_o as_o may_v present_v and_o make_v it_o plain_a to_o every_o man_n view_n and_o because_o it_o be_v a_o article_n of_o our_o faith_n and_o now_o that_o we_o be_v enter_v into_o it_o it_o be_v needful_a to_o speak_v of_o all_o that_o be_v necessary_a for_o we_o to_o believe_v concern_v this_o point_n church_n therefore_o we_o will_v fetch_v these_o quality_n from_o that_o article_n in_o the_o creed_n that_o concern_v the_o church_n i_o believe_v the_o holy_a catholic_a church_n and_o i_o will_v reduce_v all_o the_o matter_n we_o be_v here_o to_o speak_v of_o to_o these_o six_o head_n first_o that_o the_o church_n be_v one_o second_o that_o it_o be_v holy_a three_o that_o it_o be_v catholic_a four_o that_o it_o be_v join_v to_o christ_n five_o that_o they_o have_v a_o communion_n one_o with_o another_o and_o sixth_o that_o they_o be_v know_v only_o to_o god_n and_o themselves_o and_o all_o these_o be_v raise_v out_o of_o the_o article_n in_o the_o creed_n that_o it_o be_v one_o therefore_o it_o be_v say_v the_o church_n not_o church_n and_o the_o nicen_n creed_n which_o be_v pen_v after_o this_o say_v i_o believe_v one_o that_o it_o be_v holy_a and_o catholic_a so_o it_o be_v say_v in_o express_a word_n that_o it_o be_v join_v to_o christ_n and_o that_o they_o have_v a_o communion_n among_o themselves_o both_o these_o be_v intend_v when_o it_o be_v say_v they_o be_v a_o communion_n of_o saint_n last_o that_o they_o be_v know_v only_o to_o god_n and_o themselves_o how_o be_v this_o gather_v hence_o why_o thus_o because_o it_o be_v say_v i_o believe_v it_o now_o that_o which_o we_o believe_v be_v not_o see_v and_o therefore_o this_o article_n must_v not_o be_v expound_v of_o a_o visible_a church_n as_o the_o papist_n will_v have_v it_o doctr._n one_o now_o first_o of_o the_o first_o note_n it_o be_v but_o one_o for_o so_o the_o nicen_n creed_n for_o plainness_n sake_n add_v this_o particle_n one_o we_o will_v draw_v it_o into_o a_o observation_n and_o that_o be_v this_o namely_o that_o all_o the_o faithful_a that_o ever_o be_v or_o shall_v be_v either_o in_o heaven_n or_o in_o earth_n do_v make_v up_o but_o one_o only_a church_n it_o be_v prove_v thus_o the_o scripture_n when_o it_o speak_v of_o the_o true_a church_n in_o the_o general_a true_a nature_n of_o it_o speak_v in_o the_o singular_a number_n eph._n 5.27_o 32._o that_o he_o may_v make_v it_o a_o glorious_a church_n etc._n etc._n this_o i_o speak_v concern_v christ_n and_o concern_v his_o church_n and_o math._n 16.18_o upon_o this_o rock_n will_v i_o build_v my_o church_n it_o be_v true_a that_o the_o scripture_n speak_v sometime_o in_o the_o plural_a number_n of_o church_n as_o the_o apostle_n paul_n 1_o cor._n 11.16_o we_o have_v no_o such_o custom_n nor_o the_o church_n of_o god_n but_o than_o it_o speak_v of_o particular_a visible_a congregation_n but_o of_o the_o general_a catholic_a church_n it_o speak_v always_o in_o the_o singular_a number_n as_o be_v but_o one_o and_o so_o express_o ascribe_v oneness_n to_o it_o cant._n 6_o 8._o christ_n say_v to_o his_o church_n my_o love_n my_o dove_n etc._n etc._n eph._n 4.4_o there_o be_v one_o body_n etc._n etc._n the_o church_n have_v a_o threefold_a oneness_n it_o be_v one_o in_o itself_o it_o be_v one_o with_o christ_n and_o it_o have_v a_o oneness_n among_o the_o member_n in_o this_o place_n we_o speak_v but_o of_o the_o oneness_n it_o have_v in_o itself_o of_o the_o other_o two_o we_o shall_v speak_v in_o their_o due_a place_n oneness_n that_o it_o be_v one_o in_o itself_o therefore_o it_o be_v call_v the_o house_n of_o god_n not_o house_n the_o temple_n of_o god_n not_o temple_n as_o in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o law_n there_o be_v but_o one_o tabernacle_n and_o afterward_o but_o one_o temple_n whereto_o all_o the_o people_n come_v levitic_n 17.3_o 4._o deut._n 21_o 5._o and_o 16.2_o 2._o chron._n 2.4_o so_o now_o there_o be_v but_o one_o only_a church_n of_o the_o faithful_a reas_n 1_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o point_n be_v these_o the_o first_o be_v take_v out_o of_o ephes_n 4.4_o 5._o there_o be_v many_o reason_n heap_v together_o there_o be_v but_o one_o spirit_n therefore_o but_o one_o church_n as_o there_o be_v but_o one_o soul_n and_o therefore_o but_o one_o man_n there_o be_v but_o one_o hope_n at_o which_o all_o god_n people_n joint_o aim_v and_o therefore_o they_o be_v one_o corporation_n one_o lord_n and_o therefore_o one_o family_n one_o faith_n which_o be_v the_o life_n of_o the_o church_n and_o if_o there_o be_v but_o one_o life_n than_o there_o can_v be_v but_o one_o church_n one_o baptism_n and_o therefore_o but_o one_o promise_n and_o covenant_n which_o all_o do_v make_v to_o god_n as_o one_o man_n second_o the_o church_n be_v the_o body_n of_o christ_n ephes_n 5.23_o reas_n 2_o and_o christ_n he_o be_v the_o head_n of_o the_o church_n and_o therefore_o as_o there_o be_v but_o one_o christ_n so_o there_o be_v but_o one_o church_n else_o we_o shall_v make_v a_o monster_n of_o christ_n to_o say_v he_o have_v one_o head_n and_o many_o body_n again_o the_o church_n be_v the_o spouse_n of_o christ_n and_o he_o be_v her_o husband_n as_o be_v employ_v verse_n 25._o now_o christ_n shall_v have_v many_o wife_n if_o there_o be_v many_o church_n which_o be_v absurd_a and_o therefore_o there_o be_v but_o one_o church_n still_o three_o they_o have_v all_o one_o shepherd_n and_o therefore_o they_o reas_n 3_o be_v all_o but_o one_o sheepfold_a joh._n 10.16_o four_o they_o be_v all_o partaker_n of_o one_o bread_n and_o therefore_o reas_n 4_o but_o one_o body_n 1._o cor._n 10.17_o five_o all_o the_o difference_n that_o be_v betwixt_o they_o be_v abolish_v reas_n 5_o by_o christ_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v but_o one_o ephes_n 2.14_o gal._n 3.28_o the_o use_v be_v these_o first_o this_o teach_v we_o the_o unchangeableness_n use_v 1_o of_o god_n heavenly_a truth_n and_o of_o the_o course_n of_o salvation_n because_o there_o be_v but_o one_o church_n still_o and_o therefore_o but_o one_o truth_n still_o it_o be_v unchangeable_a there_o be_v but_o one_o truth_n and_o course_n of_o salvation_n from_o the_o begin_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n the_o dispensation_n or_o manner_n of_o carriage_n have_v be_v some_o what_o different_a sometime_o it_o have_v be_v carry_v dark_o sometime_o clear_o sometime_o in_o ceremony_n sometime_o without_o ceremony_n sometime_o by_o the_o law_n sometime_o by_o the_o gospel_n by_o tradition_n as_o before_o the_o law_n by_o revelation_n and_o by_o scripture_n yet_o the_o substance_n be_v ever_o one_o and_o the_o same_o the_o same_o faith_n and_o course_n of_o salvation_n that_o adam_n be_v
and_o therefore_o they_o must_v needs_o be_v holy_a five_o the_o effect_n which_o they_o feel_v in_o themselves_o be_v reas_n 5_o holy_a effect_n holy_a motion_n and_o holy_a desire_n holy_a life_n and_o holy_a obedience_n and_o their_o spiritual_a life_n that_o be_v to_o say_v their_o faith_n be_v most_o holy_a jude_n 20._o therefore_o they_o be_v holy_a six_o they_o be_v choose_v to_o holiness_n 1._o pet._n 1.2_o and_o therefore_o reas_n 6_o they_o be_v holy_a seven_o they_o be_v regenerate_v and_o bear_v again_o to_o holiness_n reas_n 7_o and_o therefore_o can_v sin_v 1._o joh._n 3.9_o and_o eph._n 2.9_o we_o be_v create_v in_o christ_n jesus_n to_o good_a work_n and_o therefore_o must_v needs_o be_v holy_a the_o use_n be_v these_o first_o this_o show_v the_o essential_a difference_n use_v 1_o betwixt_o god_n church_n and_o all_o other_o congregation_n whatsoever_o for_o this_o be_v holy_a and_o all_o other_o be_v unholy_a and_o this_o holiness_n carry_v a_o kind_n of_o reciprocation_n with_o god_n church_n for_o every_o church_n of_o god_n be_v true_o holy_a and_o every_o congregation_n that_o be_v holy_a be_v the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n and_o so_o wheresoever_o there_o be_v any_o man_n or_o woman_n that_o be_v true_o holy_a though_o they_o be_v out_o of_o the_o know_a church_n yet_o they_o be_v live_v member_n of_o the_o true_a catholic_a church_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a wheresoever_o there_o be_v any_o that_o be_v not_o holy_a though_o they_o live_v in_o the_o visible_a church_n and_o be_v in_o great_a place_n and_o of_o great_a gift_n yet_o they_o be_v no_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n so_o then_o here_o be_v the_o trial_n whether_o we_o be_v of_o the_o true_a church_n or_o not_o if_o we_o have_v holiness_n in_o our_o heart_n and_o in_o our_o desire_n than_o we_o be_v of_o the_o true_a church_n else_o we_o be_v not_o but_o you_o will_v say_v be_v every_o one_o holy_a that_o be_v of_o the_o true_a church_n i_o answer_v yes_o in_o some_o measure_n first_o or_o last_o second_o this_o shall_v teach_v we_o to_o labour_v for_o holiness_n use_v 2_o without_o which_o we_o shall_v never_o see_v god_n to_o our_o comfort_n in_o heaven_n nor_o by_o faith_n here_o on_o earth_n psal_n 15.1_o 2_o etc._n etc._n the_o prophet_n ask_v this_o question_n lord_n who_o shall_v dwell_v in_o thy_o tabernacle_n or_o who_o shall_v rest_v in_o thy_o holy_a mountain_n the_o answer_n be_v even_o he_o that_o walk_v upright_o and_o work_v righteousness_n and_o speak_v the_o truth_n in_o his_o heart_n revel_v 21.27_o there_o shall_v enter_v no_o unclean_a thing_n into_o the_o heavenly_a jerusalem_n there_o if_o ever_o we_o will_v see_v god_n with_o joy_n and_o comfort_n we_o must_v labour_v for_o a_o pure_a heart_n and_o pure_a hand_n it_o shall_v teach_v we_o therefore_o first_o to_o take_v heed_n of_o sin_n and_o to_o avoid_v it_o for_o it_o be_v filthiness_n and_o uncleanness_n as_o opposite_a to_o holiness_n as_o darkness_n be_v to_o light_n and_o satan_n to_o god_n himself_o let_v every_o one_o that_o call_v on_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o be_v every_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n depart_v from_o iniquity_n let_v they_o leave_v their_o lie_v and_o swear_v and_o covetousness_n and_o labour_n to_o fly_v from_o the_o corruption_n that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n through_o lust_n and_o resist_v the_o enticement_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o fight_v against_o the_o rebellion_n of_o their_o own_o heart_n and_o not_o suffer_v their_o corruption_n to_o break_v forth_o but_o to_o root_v they_o out_o put_v off_o your_o shoe_n for_o you_o stand_v on_o holy_a ground_n lay_v by_o your_o sin_n and_o wicked_a affection_n for_o the_o church_n be_v a_o holy_a church_n that_o you_o be_v member_n of_o the_o temple_n of_o god_n be_v holy_a which_o temple_n you_o be_v defile_v not_o yourselves_o with_o sin_n and_o uncleanness_n therefore_o remember_v what_o god_n say_v jer._n 11.15_o what_o shall_v my_o belove_a tarry_n in_o my_o house_n see_v they_o have_v commit_v a_o abomination_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v i_o have_v no_o room_n for_o they_o in_o my_o house_n if_o they_o commit_v abomination_n and_o psalm_n 50.16_o what_o have_v thou_o to_o do_v say_v god_n to_o the_o wicked_a to_o take_v my_o covenant_n in_o thy_o mouth_n see_v thou_o hate_v to_o be_v reform_v therefore_o say_v with_o the_o church_n in_o the_o canticle_n chap._n 6.5_o i_o have_v put_v off_o my_o coat_n how_o then_o shall_v i_o put_v it_o on_o i_o have_v wash_v my_o foot_n how_o shall_v i_o defile_v they_o and_o as_o it_o teach_v we_o to_o fly_v sin_n so_o in_o the_o second_o place_n it_o teach_v we_o to_o follow_v that_o which_o be_v good_a whatsoever_o thing_n be_v true_a whatsoever_o thing_n be_v honest_a etc._n etc._n think_v on_o those_o thing_n phil._n 4.8_o give_v yourselves_o to_o holy_a meditation_n and_o conference_n frequent_a good_a company_n and_o exercise_n use_v the_o mean_n of_o holiness_n be_v conversant_a in_o hear_v and_o read_v the_o word_n and_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n and_o be_v frequent_a and_o earnest_a in_o prayer_n to_o god_n for_o the_o spirit_n of_o sanctification_n that_o he_o may_v make_v your_o heart_n mind_n will_n and_o affection_n and_o live_v holy_a and_o unblameable_a that_o so_o as_o you_o profess_v yourselves_o to_o be_v saint_n so_o you_o may_v live_v like_o saint_n last_o this_o may_v serve_v for_o reproof_n of_o the_o graceless_a and_o use_v 3_o reckless_a people_n of_o the_o world_n that_o scoff_n at_o the_o holiness_n of_o god_n people_n there_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o people_n in_o the_o world_n that_o if_o they_o be_v in_o their_o cup_n or_o upon_o the_o stage_n or_o in_o their_o pastime_n or_o in_o their_o ordinary_a talk_n if_o they_o can_v have_v a_o lest_o at_o the_o holy_a brethren_n in_o it_o though_o without_o cause_n or_o sense_n it_o make_v they_o all_o merry_a it_o season_v all_o their_o business_n but_o first_o let_v they_o know_v that_o they_o have_v no_o part_n in_o god_n church_n for_o all_o the_o part_n and_o member_n thereof_o be_v holy_a and_o further_o let_v they_o know_v 3_o that_o they_o must_v be_v either_o saint_n or_o devil_n either_o of_o the_o seed_n of_o god_n or_o of_o the_o devil_n and_o therefore_o let_v they_o know_v that_o as_o they_o scoff_v at_o we_o unjust_o so_o the_o lord_n from_o heaven_n do_v most_o just_o deride_v they_o and_o will_v one_o day_n laugh_v at_o their_o destruction_n and_o this_o be_v to_o they_o a_o token_n of_o perdition_n and_o a_o most_o certain_a token_n too_o because_o they_o be_v not_o only_o without_o holiness_n themselves_o but_o they_o hate_v it_o and_o deride_v it_o in_o other_o but_o to_o we_o it_o be_v a_o sign_n of_o salvation_n both_o that_o we_o be_v endue_v with_o holiness_n and_o also_o that_o we_o suffer_v persecution_n for_o it_o heb._n 3.3_o the_o apostle_n use_v this_o word_n very_o grave_o which_o they_o do_v so_o deride_v he_o call_v they_o holy_a brethren_n and_o therefore_o in_o the_o second_o place_n let_v we_o be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v daunt_v by_o their_o scoff_v at_o we_o as_o that_o it_o may_v rather_o encourage_v we_o to_o be_v more_o holy_a let_v we_o say_v as_o david_n do_v to_o michal_n when_o she_o scoff_v at_o he_o for_o dance_v before_o the_o ark_n be_o i_o vile_a in_o thy_o eye_n for_o this_o i_o will_v be_v yet_o more_o vile_a so_o let_v we_o say_v do_v our_o holiness_n displease_v you_o i_o will_v be_v yet_o more_o holy_a let_v we_o therefore_o labour_n by_o prayer_n to_o god_n and_o all_o good_a endeavour_v not_o only_o to_o begin_v but_o to_o grow_v on_o from_o grace_n to_o grace_n from_o one_o measure_n of_o holiness_n to_o another_o notwithstanding_o their_o scoff_n that_o so_o at_o last_o we_o may_v be_v fit_a to_o enter_v into_o that_o holy_a place_n whereinto_o none_o unholy_a nor_o unclean_a thing_n shall_v enter_v the_o five_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n have_v enter_v into_o the_o point_n concern_v the_o church_n of_o god_n in_o heaven_n and_o in_o earth_n together_o we_o show_v that_o in_o as_o much_o as_o it_o be_v a_o article_n of_o our_o faith_n to_o believe_v the_o catholic_a church_n that_o therefore_o it_o be_v needful_a that_o we_o shall_v understand_v and_o speak_v of_o it_o out_o of_o that_o article_n of_o the_o creed_n which_o concern_v the_o church_n that_o article_n say_v i_o believe_v the_o holy_a catholic_a church_n the_o communion_n of_o saint_n etc._n etc._n wherein_o i_o note_v six_o thing_n whereby_o the_o church_n be_v mark_v out_o first_o that_o it_o be_v one_o for_o so_o say_v the_o nicen_n creed_n and_o so_o this_o article_n intend_v when_o it_o say_v church_n and_o not_o church_n second_o that_o
in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o so_o they_o shall_v be_v raise_v at_o the_o last_o day_n matth._n 24.31_o the_o angel_n shall_v gather_v the_o body_n of_o the_o elect_a from_o all_o quarter_n and_o corner_n of_o the_o world_n then_o there_o must_v needs_o have_v be_v a_o church_n in_o all_o corner_n of_o the_o world_n and_o so_o they_o shall_v be_v find_v in_o heaven_n after_o the_o resurrection_n revel_v 7.9_o for_o there_o the_o apostle_n john_n say_v i_o behold_v and_o lo_o a_o great_a multitude_n which_o no_o man_n can_v number_v of_o all_o nation_n and_o people_n &_o tongue_n stand_v before_o the_o throne_n and_o before_o the_o lamb_n praise_v god_n and_o revel_v 21.13_o so_o the_o church_n be_v catholic_a general_o disperse_v over_o the_o face_n of_o the_o whole_a world_n and_o every_o believe_a man_n be_v a_o true_a member_n of_o it_o the_o reason_n be_v these_o first_o god_n be_v the_o lord_n and_o ruler_n reas_n 1_o of_o all_o the_o world_n and_o therefore_o the_o church_n the_o body_n of_o his_o son_n who_o be_v heir_n of_o the_o world_n must_v be_v as_o large_a too_o at_o least_o for_o some_o of_o all_o part_n for_o shall_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n power_n reach_v every_o where_o and_o not_o the_o kingdom_n of_o his_o grace_n proportionable_o in_o some_o measure_n though_o not_o in_o that_o generality_n altogether_o it_o be_v to_o reach_v as_o far_o too_o second_o god_n mercy_n and_o christ_n merit_n require_v it_o reas_n 2_o that_o the_o church_n shall_v be_v general_o disperse_v over_o the_o whole_a world_n god_n mercy_n require_v it_o who_o will_v that_o all_o man_n shall_v be_v save_v 1._o tim._n 2.4_o that_o be_v all_o sort_n of_o man_n of_o all_o place_n so_o likewise_o christ_n merit_n require_v it_o for_o that_o be_v for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o whole_a world_n 1._o joh._n 2.2_o that_o be_v for_o some_o of_o every_o part_n of_o the_o world_n three_o god_n be_v glorify_v in_o the_o high_a degree_n only_o in_o reas_n 3_o those_o that_o be_v member_n of_o the_o church_n that_o be_v save_v it_o be_v true_a god_n be_v glorify_v much_o in_o the_o reprobate_n that_o be_v damn_v but_o he_o be_v glorify_v in_o the_o high_a degree_n only_o in_o those_o that_o be_v save_v and_o shall_v there_o be_v any_o place_n or_o nation_n or_o tongue_n in_o the_o world_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v not_o be_v glorify_v in_o some_o portion_n of_o it_o even_o in_o the_o high_a degree_n that_o can_v be_v believe_v therefore_o the_o church_n be_v general_a etc._n etc._n four_o satan_n kingdom_n be_v general_a and_o every_o wicked_a reas_n 4_o person_n be_v a_o member_n of_o his_o curse_a synagogue_n therefore_o christ_n kingdom_n be_v general_a too_o and_o every_o believer_n through_o the_o whole_a world_n be_v of_o his_o church_n five_o the_o church_n be_v thus_o general_a to_o leave_v the_o wicked_a reas_n 5_o without_o excuse_n so_o that_o no_o nation_n shall_v be_v able_a to_o pretend_v just_o that_o they_o be_v utter_o debar_v from_o salvation_n now_o no_o man_n able_a to_o say_v that_o the_o church_n of_o god_n never_o be_v among_o their_o nation_n nor_o that_o none_o among_o they_o be_v save_v no_o god_n shall_v stop_v their_o mouth_n with_o many_o instance_n of_o every_o man_n own_o nation_n when_o he_o shall_v say_v why_o here_o be_v a_o member_n of_o my_o church_n even_o of_o thy_o own_o nation_n and_o why_o may_v not_o thou_o have_v be_v so_o too_o reas_n 6_o last_o without_o the_o church_n be_v no_o salvation_n therefore_o every_o believer_n whosoever_o be_v a_o member_n of_o the_o church_n use_v 1_o the_o use_n of_o the_o point_n be_v these_o the_o first_o use_n be_v matter_n of_o reproof_n and_o first_o against_o the_o jew_n that_o will_v have_v the_o church_n and_o so_o the_o save_a faith_n confine_v to_o their_o own_o nation_n as_o if_o they_o be_v the_o only_a people_n of_o god_n and_o none_o but_o they_o it_o be_v true_a that_o so_o it_o be_v for_o many_o hundred_o year_n the_o lord_n choose_v they_o from_o all_o the_o nation_n of_o the_o earth_n as_o his_o only_a peculiar_a people_n to_o be_v glorify_v by_o they_o alone_o in_o his_o service_n and_o worship_n that_o so_o they_o may_v be_v glorify_v alone_o as_o it_o be_v by_o he_o in_o heaven_n yea_o but_o the_o great_a the_o mercy_n of_o god_n herein_o be_v to_o they_o the_o great_a be_v their_o unthankfulness_n to_o he_o in_o that_o they_o shake_v of_o his_o yoke_n and_o will_v not_o receive_v christ_n jesus_n though_o he_o be_v send_v special_o to_o they_o but_o reject_v he_o and_o crucify_v he_o and_o to_o this_o day_n for_o the_o most_o part_n they_o do_v abandon_v he_o as_o a_o malefactor_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v so_o far_o now_o from_o be_v the_o only_a people_n that_o god_n love_v that_o they_o be_v the_o only_a people_n that_o he_o hate_v and_o as_o it_o be_v fortolde_v of_o they_o by_o the_o prophet_n hos_n 1.9_o they_o be_v loammi_n not_o god_n people_n now_o they_o be_v the_o only_a people_n that_o be_v except_v against_o as_o not_o be_v of_o god_n church_n and_o whereas_o they_o envy_v the_o gentile_n that_o they_o shall_v have_v any_o part_n in_o god_n because_o they_o be_v once_o bar_v from_o the_o church_n and_o hate_v of_o god_n and_o therefore_o they_o think_v they_o shall_v be_v so_o for_o ever_o but_o alas_o now_o they_o must_v know_v that_o now_o the_o partition_n wall_n be_v break_v down_o and_o that_o christ_n jesus_n have_v make_v all_o one_o and_o that_o every_o people_n be_v judah_n and_o every_o faithful_a man_n be_v a_o priest_n and_o a_o sacrifice_n and_o every_o place_n be_v the_o temple_n and_o have_v spiritual_a altar_n for_o a_o clean_a sacrifice_n to_o be_v offer_v on_o and_o that_o now_o be_v come_v to_o pass_v that_o which_o the_o prophet_n foretell_v mal._n 1.10_o 11._o that_o in_o the_o place_n where_o it_o be_v say_v unto_o they_o you_o be_v not_o my_o people_n it_o shall_v be_v say_v unto_o they_o you_o be_v the_o son_n of_o the_o live_a god_n and_o as_o it_o be_v matth._n 18.20_o that_o where_o two_o or_o three_o be_v gather_v together_o in_o the_o name_n of_o christ_n he_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o and_o as_o our_o saviour_n say_v joh._n 4.24_o god_n be_v a_o spirit_n and_o they_o that_o worship_v he_o must_v worship_v he_o in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n and_o that_o now_o be_v fullfil_v the_o say_n of_o isaiah_n isai_n 54.1_o which_o he_o foretell_v that_o the_o barren_a have_v more_o child_n than_o the_o fruitful_a woman_n that_o be_v that_o there_o shall_v be_v more_o gentile_n of_o the_o church_n than_o ever_o there_o be_v jew_n and_o as_o it_o reprove_v they_o so_o it_o reprove_v the_o donatist_n that_o will_v have_v no_o church_n but_o in_o africa_n no_o church_n but_o they_o somewhat_o like_a unto_o the_o humour_n of_o the_o separatist_n at_o this_o day_n that_o will_v have_v no_o church_n but_o they_o principal_o it_o reprove_v the_o papist_n that_o will_v have_v no_o church_n but_o that_o of_o rome_n affirm_v that_o they_o that_o be_v not_o of_o the_o fellowship_n of_o that_o church_n be_v in_o the_o certain_a estate_n of_o damnation_n but_o this_o be_v against_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o catholic_a church_n to_o be_v restrain_v within_o they_o and_o let_v not_o they_o take_v upon_o they_o to_o restrain_v that_o which_o god_n have_v enlarge_v but_o as_o they_o brag_v of_o peter_n so_o let_v they_o learn_v to_o be_v rule_v by_o god_n as_o peter_n be_v act._n 10.15_o not_o to_o account_v those_o unclean_a who_o god_n account_v and_o call_v clean_o and_o therefore_o see_v god_n have_v so_o far_o enlarge_v his_o bounty_n that_o he_o have_v purify_v the_o whole_a world_n so_o that_o some_o of_o all_o part_n and_o place_n shall_v be_v member_n of_o his_o church_n for_o shame_n let_v they_o not_o scantle_v his_o goodness_n and_o pollute_v all_o other_o church_n as_o unclean_a except_o their_o church_n but_o let_v they_o leave_v all_o other_o to_o god_n and_o let_v they_o labour_n to_o see_v that_o themselves_o be_v purify_v lest_o as_o i_o say_v before_o of_o the_o jew_n they_o prove_v themselves_o of_o all_o other_o church_n to_o be_v none_o of_o god_n church_n the_o second_o use_n be_v for_o instruction_n teach_v we_o what_o use_v 2_o church_n it_o be_v that_o we_o must_v esteem_v and_o repute_v catholic_a sure_o not_o any_o particular_a church_n in_o the_o world_n though_o never_o so_o pure_a and_o sound_a but_o that_o which_o be_v general_a that_o which_o be_v scatter_v over_o all_o the_o world_n it_o be_v true_a that_o a_o particular_a church_n may_v be_v call_v catholic_a that_o be_v a_o right_a believe_a church_n or_o catholic_a that_o be_v a_o part_n of_o the_o
catholic_a but_o proper_o and_o right_o it_o be_v not_o so_o also_o there_o may_v be_v a_o catholic_a visible_a church_n that_o be_v all_o the_o particular_a part_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n be_v consider_v in_o one_o common_a notion_n in_o the_o mind_n but_o it_o be_v most_o true_o and_o proper_o affirm_v of_o the_o invisible_a church_n for_o that_o be_v the_o catholic_a church_n which_o be_v holy_a and_o apostolic_a which_o in_o the_o true_a sense_n contain_v only_o those_o that_o be_v true_o sanctify_v and_o build_v on_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n thus_o you_o see_v what_o church_n to_o repute_v catholic_a namely_o that_o which_o be_v general_a scatter_a and_o disperse_v over_o all_o the_o world_n and_o not_o any_o particular_a church_n much_o less_o may_v any_o one_o particular_a man_n be_v call_v proper_o catholic_a and_o therefore_o it_o be_v a_o vain_a brag_n of_o the_o papist_n to_o say_v that_o their_o church_n be_v catholic_a it_o be_v a_o particular_a church_n for_o first_o it_o be_v not_o general_o disperse_v over_o all_o the_o world_n and_o beside_o there_o be_v a_o time_n when_o there_o be_v other_o christian_a church_n at_o jerusalem_n and_o antioch_n etc._n etc._n before_o ever_o their_o church_n be_v and_o therefore_o there_o be_v a_o time_n when_o they_o be_v not_o catholic_a and_o so_o not_o catholic_a now_o because_o that_o which_o be_v catholic_a sheldon_n be_v one_o and_o the_o same_o at_o all_o time_n i_o say_v not_o in_o one_o place_n but_o those_o that_o profess_v the_o same_o true_a faith_n that_o other_o do_v be_v still_o the_o catholic_a church_n a_o priest_n of_o their_o own_o have_v well_o answer_v they_o that_o so_o long_o as_o they_o be_v govern_v by_o general_a counsel_n they_o may_v be_v call_v catholic_n but_o now_o see_v they_o be_v govern_v by_o one_o man_n namely_o the_o pope_n it_o be_v fit_a that_o they_o be_v call_v of_o he_o papist_n and_o so_o much_o for_o the_o second_o use_n object_n use_v 3_o the_o three_o use_n as_o this_o teach_v we_o what_o church_n to_o repute_v catholic_a so_o likewise_o it_o teach_v we_o what_o faith_n be_v to_o be_v repute_v catholic_a not_o that_o which_o one_o only_a church_n do_v embrace_v but_o than_o you_o will_v say_v there_o be_v but_o a_o little_a catholic_a faith_n there_o be_v scarce_o any_o one_o point_n catholic_a for_o in_o what_o one_o point_n of_o religion_n have_v all_o the_o faithful_a agree_v i_o answer_v first_o yes_o every_o fundamental_a point_n be_v always_o hold_v by_o all_o the_o faithul_n else_o they_o be_v not_o faithful_a if_o they_o be_v cut_v off_o from_o the_o foundation_n so_o that_o howsoever_o in_o small_a matter_n as_o of_o ceremony_n and_o circumstance_n and_o such_o like_a some_o difference_n and_o some_o error_n be_v betwixt_o those_o that_o be_v faithful_a yet_o in_o the_o main_a substance_n there_o be_v none_o at_o all_o second_o i_o say_v all_o time_n be_v not_o alike_o for_o the_o mean_n and_o occasion_n of_o knowledge_n of_o some_o fundamental_a point_n in_o that_o clearness_n as_o they_o shall_v be_v know_v the_o light_n of_o salvation_n break_v out_o every_o day_n more_o clear_o than_o other_o therefore_o it_o be_v sufficient_a if_o they_o all_o believe_v the_o same_o thing_n that_o we_o do_v so_o far_o as_o they_o do_v and_o may_v attain_v to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o they_o or_o if_o they_o be_v ignorant_a of_o some_o yet_o it_o be_v sufficient_a that_o they_o follow_v the_o rest_n and_o do_v not_o oppose_v against_o that_o which_o they_o know_v not_o but_o do_v renounce_v and_o repent_v of_o their_o ignorance_n and_o this_o their_o very_a repentance_n of_o their_o ignorance_n be_v a_o acknowledgement_n of_o such_o truth_n as_o they_o be_v ignorant_a of_o by_o this_o it_o appear_v plain_o that_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v not_o catholic_a because_o none_o of_o those_o point_n wherein_o they_o differ_v from_o we_o have_v be_v universal_o hold_v no_o nor_o speak_v by_o the_o faithful_a as_o purgatory_n invocation_n of_o saint_n transubstantiation_n justification_n by_o work_n worship_v of_o image_n and_o such_o like_a but_o they_o will_v say_v if_o our_o faith_n be_v not_o catholic_a object_n than_o you_o be_v much_o less_o catholic_a be_v gainsay_v general_o by_o the_o church_n for_o many_o hundred_o year_n i_o answer_v first_o answ_n it_o be_v gainsay_v indeed_o by_o many_o that_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v of_o the_o church_n but_o those_o that_o be_v true_o of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n hold_v and_o maintain_v that_o in_o effect_n which_o we_o do_v as_o we_o can_v instance_n in_o many_o particular_n of_o every_o age._n for_o the_o fiâ—st_n three_o hundred_o year_n after_o christ_n we_o can_v prove_v the_o church_n hold_v the_o same_o faith_n which_o we_o do_v now_o and_o six_o hundred_o year_n after_o christ_n when_o popery_n get_v the_o upper_a hand_n yet_o still_o we_o have_v some_o that_o hold_v the_o same_o faith_n from_o time_n to_o time_n and_o it_o be_v gainsay_v by_o who_o not_o by_o those_o that_o be_v true_o faithful_a but_o by_o those_o that_o make_v dissension_n in_o the_o church_n but_o if_o this_o will_v not_o satisfy_v they_o then_o let_v this_o controversy_n be_v decide_v by_o that_o other_o adjunct_n in_o the_o nicen_n creed_n where_o it_o be_v call_v catholic_a and_o apostolic_a for_o that_o alone_o be_v true_o catholic_a which_o be_v also_o apostolic_a and_o than_o it_o be_v clear_a on_o our_o side_n for_o if_o the_o apostle_n believe_v and_o teach_v as_o we_o do_v as_o we_o have_v and_o can_v plain_o prove_v than_o our_o faith_n be_v catholic_a and_o whatsoever_o church_n or_o person_n since_o they_o have_v not_o so_o teach_v and_o believe_v must_v not_o be_v hold_v catholic_a nor_o apostolic_a nor_o yet_o their_o faith_n and_o doctrine_n therefore_o our_o faith_n be_v apostolic_a must_v needs_o be_v true_o catholic_a and_o howsoever_o though_o none_o have_v believe_v since_o the_o apostle_n day_n yet_o we_o hold_v the_o fame_n faith_n with_o they_o we_o must_v needs_o have_v the_o true_a catholic_a faith_n indeed_o this_o be_v a_o reason_n to_o flesh_n and_o blood_n which_o they_o make_v when_o they_o say_v where_o be_v your_o church_n so_o many_o hundred_o year_n we_o answer_v we_o ever_o have_v a_o church_n for_o we_o ever_o have_v some_o that_o oppose_v they_o and_o their_o course_n and_o stand_v for_o the_o maintenance_n of_o this_o faith_n which_o we_o profess_v but_o if_o never_o any_o since_o the_o apostle_n day_n have_v stand_v for_o this_o faith_n which_o we_o profess_v yet_o we_o say_v and_o can_v prove_v that_o the_o apostle_n believe_v and_o teach_v the_o same_o that_o we_o believe_v and_o teach_v therefore_o our_o faith_n be_v true_o catholic_a and_o apostolic_a and_o therefore_o as_o the_o apostle_n be_v save_v by_o this_o faith_n so_o shall_v we_o and_o then_o what_o matter_n be_v it_o if_o all_o the_o world_n have_v oppose_v it_o use_v 4_o the_o four_o use_n this_o require_v thankfulness_n in_o we_o that_o be_v gentile_n and_o so_o in_o darkness_n the_o lord_n have_v vouchsafe_v we_o this_o light_n quality_n and_o respite_v we_o to_o those_o time_n of_o the_o gospel_n wherein_o the_o church_n be_v make_v catholic_a now_o we_o come_v to_o the_o four_o point_n that_o be_v that_o the_o church_n be_v a_o communion_n of_o saint_n whereby_o two_o thing_n be_v affirm_v first_o that_o the_o church_n that_o be_v the_o faithful_a have_v a_o communion_n with_o christ_n second_o that_o they_o have_v a_o communion_n one_o with_o another_o both_o which_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the._n 1._o john_n 1.3_o that_o you_o also_o may_v have_v fellowship_n with_o we_o and_o that_o our_o fellowship_n may_v be_v also_o with_o the_o father_n and_o with_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ_n and_o rom._n 12.5_o so_o we_o be_v many_o be_v one_o body_n in_o christ_n and_o every_o one_o one_o another_o member_n first_o of_o the_o communion_n the_o faithful_a have_v with_o christ_n their_o head_n which_o be_v the_o four_o point_n we_o will_v draw_v it_o into_o a_o observation_n and_o that_o be_v this_o namely_o doctr._n that_o all_o the_o faithful_a the_o whole_a church_n and_o every_o member_n thereof_o have_v a_o joint_n and_o mutual_a communion_n with_o jesus_n christ_n he_o and_o we_o be_v brethren_n heb._n 2.11_o it_o be_v a_o joint_a communion_n because_o all_o together_o do_v participate_v therein_o and_o it_o be_v mutual_a because_o all_o the_o faithful_a partake_v in_o it_o in_o christ_n and_o christ_n with_o every_o one_o of_o they_o the_o proof_n of_o the_o point_n be_v these_o 1._o cor._n 1.9_o god_n be_v faithful_a by_o who_o you_o be_v call_v unto_o the_o fellowship_n of_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n 1._o joh._n 1.3_o that_o you_o
of_o god_n that_o one_o may_v be_v whet_v on_o and_o provoke_v by_o another_o four_o it_o be_v needful_a for_o the_o maintenance_n of_o love_n among_o the_o faithful_a which_o can_v no_o way_n so_o well_o be_v maintain_v as_o when_o we_o all_o see_v that_o we_o have_v need_n of_o one_o another_o last_o it_o be_v needful_a in_o respect_n of_o the_o faithful_a for_o the_o declaration_n and_o exercise_n of_o their_o faith_n that_o our_o faith_n may_v have_v some_o fruit_n to_o be_v exercise_v in_o philem_n verse_n 5._o adversary_n five_o and_o last_o there_o be_v this_o communion_n in_o respect_n of_o our_o adversary_n and_o first_o for_o defend_v ourselves_o for_o be_v strong_o unite_v together_o as_o one_o man_n they_o can_v overcome_v we_o whereas_o if_o we_o be_v separate_v and_o disjoin_v they_o will_v easy_o overcome_v us._n second_o for_o the_o offend_a and_o oppugn_v the_o enemy_n who_o band_n themselves_o together_o against_o they_o and_o therefore_o they_o be_v to_o set_v themselves_o all_o together_o as_o with_o one_o heart_n against_o their_o adversary_n otherwise_o they_o will_v be_v so_o far_o from_o overcome_v they_o as_o that_o they_o will_v be_v overcome_v of_o they_o and_o so_o much_o for_o the_o reason_n why_o there_o be_v such_o a_o mutual_a communion_n among_o the_o faithful_a the_o use_v of_o the_o point_n be_v these_o first_o this_o teach_v every_o use_n 1_o one_o of_o we_o to_o labour_v to_o be_v one_o of_o the_o member_n of_o god_n church_n that_o so_o thou_o may_v have_v thy_o part_n in_o this_o communion_n and_o that_o thou_o may_v have_v thereby_o a_o right_a to_o god_n and_o christ_n and_o the_o spirit_n and_o to_o faith_n &_o to_o justification_n and_o to_o salvation_n and_o to_o all_o the_o gift_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n and_o to_o all_o the_o promise_n and_o privilege_n of_o the_o faithful_a and_o to_o all_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n here_o and_o glory_n hereafter_o these_o be_v no_o where_o to_o be_v have_v but_o here_o therefore_o if_o thou_o be_v not_o one_o of_o this_o communion_n and_o society_n thou_o have_v no_o right_n in_o these_o thing_n and_o here_o they_o be_v certain_o to_o be_v have_v and_o enjoy_v therefore_o let_v every_o one_o of_o we_o labour_n to_o be_v living-member_n of_o this_o communion_n and_o society_n and_o so_o we_o shall_v have_v a_o rich_a and_o a_o gracious_a portion_n with_o the_o faithful_a we_o shall_v be_v make_v partaker_n of_o the_o same_o grace_n with_o they_o here_o and_o of_o the_o same_o glory_n hereafter_o marvel_v not_o then_o that_o david_n and_o other_o of_o the_o saint_n be_v so_o much_o grieve_v when_o they_o be_v deprive_v of_o this_o bless_a communion_n though_o they_o be_v never_o deprive_v of_o this_o inward_a communion_n yet_o it_o be_v their_o grief_n and_o the_o very_a break_n of_o their_o heart_n when_o they_o be_v deprive_v of_o this_o outward_a fellowship_n and_o no_o marvel_n also_o though_o they_o do_v so_o rejoice_v when_o they_o can_v come_v to_o god_n house_n to_o be_v partaker_n of_o this_o fellowship_n for_o than_o they_o can_v reach_v out_o their_o hand_n to_o partake_v of_o the_o pledge_n of_o god_n love_v sensible_o second_o as_o this_o teach_v we_o to_o labour_v to_o be_v one_o of_o this_o use_v 2_o society_n and_o communion_n so_o it_o teach_v we_o also_o to_o labour_n to_o maintain_v this_o communion_n that_o as_o we_o be_v entitle_v to_o it_o so_o we_o must_v bend_v all_o our_o force_n to_o contribute_v to_o it_o and_o to_o uphold_v it_o and_o not_o to_o content_v ourselves_o with_o the_o bare_a title_n only_o but_o to_o be_v as_o we_o be_v call_v and_o to_o practice_v as_o we_o profess_v that_o as_o we_o profess_v to_o have_v a_o communion_n of_o state_n so_o we_o may_v have_v a_o communion_n of_o practice_n also_o and_o this_o be_v it_o which_o the_o apostle_n say_v ephes_n 4.3_o keep_v the_o unity_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o bond_n of_o peace_n as_o who_o shall_v say_v as_o thou_o have_v find_v that_o favour_n with_o god_n that_o thou_o be_v associate_v by_o a_o call_n to_o the_o church_n and_o the_o communion_n thereof_o so_o let_v it_o be_v thy_o chief_a and_o principal_a endeavour_n to_o maintain_v and_o keep_v that_o unity_n and_o communion_n phil._n 1.27_o continue_v in_o one_o spirit_n and_o in_o one_o mind_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v flinch_v not_o from_o it_o but_o as_o you_o have_v this_o communion_n so_o stand_v in_o it_o and_o maintain_v it_o communion_n and_o that_o we_o may_v so_o do_v we_o must_v take_v heed_n first_o that_o we_o separate_v nor_o cut_v off_o ourselves_o nor_o be_v draw_v from_o this_o communion_n this_o be_v forbid_v heb._n 10.25_o 39_o not_o forsake_v the_o fellowship_n we_o have_v among_o ourselves_o as_o the_o manner_n of_o some_o be_v and_o in_o the_o 39_o verse_n but_o we_o be_v not_o they_o which_o withdraw_v ourselves_o unto_o perdition_n if_o we_o separate_v we_o cut_v off_o ourselves_o from_o the_o body_n and_o so_o from_o the_o head_n too_o and_o then_o we_o have_v no_o part_n in_o christ_n for_o he_o be_v a_o head_n to_o none_o but_o his_o own_o body_n nor_o in_o god_n nor_o in_o the_o spirit_n nor_o in_o any_o of_o the_o promise_n and_o privilege_n and_o grace_n that_o belong_v to_o this_o society_n and_o therefore_o this_o be_v a_o special_a matter_n that_o every_o one_o of_o we_o be_v to_o take_v heed_n of_o namely_o that_o we_o entertain_v not_o the_o least_o thought_n of_o leave_v the_o church_n though_o we_o doubt_v of_o the_o truth_n of_o it_o yet_o we_o must_v be_v well_o advise_v before_o we_o leave_v it_o second_o we_o must_v take_v heed_n we_o give_v no_o offence_n to_o the_o faithful_a to_o cause_v they_o to_o alienate_v themselves_o from_o we_o by_o walk_v inordinate_o 2._o thes_n 3.6_o the_o faithful_a be_v command_v to_o separate_v themselves_o from_o every_o brother_n that_o walk_v inordinate_o or_o by_o contention_n for_o the_o church_n have_v nothing_o to_o do_v with_o such_o so_o say_v the_o apostle_n 1._o cor._n 11.16_o nor_o by_o any_o other_o misdemeanour_n three_o as_o we_o must_v take_v heed_n that_o we_o give_v no_o offence_n so_o we_o must_v take_v heed_n we_o be_v not_o too_o apprehensive_a of_o offence_n that_o we_o be_v not_o ready_a to_o break_v out_o upon_o every_o little_a quarrel_n and_o discontent_n but_o we_o must_v resolve_v to_o bear_v any_o thing_n so_o that_o it_o be_v not_o against_o conscience_n rather_o then_o to_o trouble_v that_o communion_n or_o to_o interrupt_v that_o fellowship_n last_o and_o principal_o we_o must_v take_v heed_n that_o we_o repair_v to_o the_o public_a assembly_n and_o that_o we_o gather_v together_o with_o these_o assembly_n for_o the_o worship_n and_o service_n of_o god_n to_o hear_v the_o word_n read_v and_o preach_v and_o to_o join_v together_o in_o prayer_n for_o this_o be_v it_o that_o the_o apostle_n approve_v 1._o cor._n 5.4_o when_o you_o be_v gather_v together_o etc._n etc._n and_o this_o be_v it_o that_o be_v commend_v in_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n act._n 2.42_o that_o they_o continue_v in_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n and_o fellowship_n and_o break_v of_o bread_n and_o prayer_n matth._n 18.22_o where_o two_o or_o three_o say_v our_o saviour_n be_v gather_v together_o in_o my_o name_n there_o i_o be_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o he_o promise_v his_o special_a presence_n to_o this_o communion_n and_o society_n therefore_o we_o must_v be_v careful_a to_o join_v with_o such_o assembly_n for_o there_o be_v no_o better_a way_n to_o continue_v this_o communion_n than_o this_o and_o as_o we_o must_v come_v to_o these_o place_n ourselves_o so_o we_o must_v call_v upon_o one_o another_o to_o do_v so_o too_o for_o so_o it_o be_v prophesy_v that_o the_o faithful_a shall_v do_v in_o the_o last_o day_n isai_n 2.3_o that_o they_o shall_v say_v come_v let_v we_o go_v up_o to_o the_o mountain_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o the_o house_n of_o the_o god_n of_o jacob_n etc._n etc._n and_o we_o must_v also_o rejoice_v at_o such_o occasion_n when_o we_o hear_v that_o man_n come_v willing_o to_o the_o house_n of_o the_o lord_n as_o the_o prophet_n david_n do_v psal_n 122.1_o three_o here_o be_v matter_n of_o examination_n whereby_o we_o use_v 3_o may_v try_v whether_o we_o be_v true_a member_n of_o the_o church_n or_o not_o do_v thou_o practice_v this_o communion_n and_o fellowship_n then_o thou_o be_v a_o true_a member_n else_o thou_o can_v never_o true_o persuade_v thyself_o that_o thou_o be_v a_o true_a member_n unless_o thou_o practise_v this_o communion_n prove_v and_o try_v and_o examine_v yourselves_o therefore_o and_o that_o by_o these_o particular_n first_o communion_n let_v we_o examine_v ourselves_o upon_o this_o point_n do_v we_o use_v the_o mean_n of_o
the_o apostle_n teach_v we_o gal._n 6.10_o do_v good_a to_o all_o especial_o to_o the_o household_n of_o faith_n likewise_o it_o teach_v we_o to_o separate_v ourselves_o from_o all_o profane_a and_o wicked_a man_n 2._o cor._n 6.17_o come_v out_o from_o among_o they_o and_o separate_v yourselves_o say_v the_o lord_n and_o touch_v none_o unclean_a thing_n etc._n etc._n last_o this_o may_v serve_v to_o control_v the_o pride_n of_o the_o romish_a use_v 6_o antichrist_n who_o regard_v not_o the_o saint_n but_o as_o his_o slave_n he_o will_v not_o use_v they_o as_o fellow_n in_o a_o holy_a communion_n this_o show_v he_o to_o be_v antichrist_n he_o will_v be_v the_o head_n of_o the_o saint_n he_o will_v bless_v all_o none_o must_v bless_v he_o this_o be_v abominable_a pride_n and_o insolency_n not_o to_o be_v speak_v of_o the_o seven_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n whereas_o the_o argument_n we_o treat_v of_o be_v the_o church_n we_o turn_v aside_o to_o expound_v the_o article_n in_o the_o creed_n which_o concern_v the_o church_n i_o believe_v the_o holy_a catholic_a church_n the_o communion_n of_o saint_n and_o there_o as_o you_o have_v hear_v we_o find_v six_o adjunct_n or_o epithet_n that_o the_o church_n be_v qualify_v withal_o first_o that_o it_o be_v one_o second_o that_o it_o be_v holy_a three_o catholic_a four_a that_o they_o have_v a_o communion_n with_o christ_n fifthly_o that_o they_o have_v a_o communion_n one_o with_o another_o six_o and_o last_o that_o they_o be_v know_v only_o to_o god_n and_o themselves_o the_o five_o former_a be_v plain_o lay_v down_o in_o the_o article_n of_o which_o you_o have_v also_o heatd_v the_o six_o and_o last_o whereof_o we_o be_v now_o to_o speak_v be_v not_o plain_o lay_v down_o but_o yet_o it_o be_v direct_o employ_v in_o the_o word_n for_o if_o you_o ask_v i_o how_o this_o clause_n grow_v from_o the_o article_n i_o answer_v because_o it_o be_v say_v i_o believe_v the_o church_n etc._n etc._n now_o if_o it_o be_v a_o know_v manifest_a thing_n to_o the_o eye_n and_o to_o the_o outward_a sense_n than_o it_o be_v not_o so_o proper_o say_v to_o be_v believe_v for_o faith_n be_v of_o thing_n not_o see_v heb._n 11.1_o doctr._n we_o will_v make_v it_o plain_a by_o a_o observation_n and_o that_o be_v this_o that_o the_o faithful_a the_o true_a church_n be_v know_v to_o none_o but_o to_o god_n &_o themselves_o you_o must_v understand_v that_o their_o person_n be_v to_o be_v take_v notice_n of_o as_o well_o as_o the_o person_n of_o other_o man_n and_o likewise_o their_o profession_n be_v to_o be_v see_v as_o well_o as_o the_o the_o profession_n of_o other_o man_n yea_o but_o their_o save_a grace_n whereby_o they_o be_v make_v member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n be_v not_o certain_o know_v but_o to_o god_n and_o themselves_o you_o see_v how_o the_o note_n stand_v first_o they_o be_v know_v to_o god_n second_o they_o be_v know_v to_o themselves_o three_o they_o be_v know_v to_o none_o but_o god_n and_o themselves_o prove_v first_o god_n know_v they_o mala._n 3.16_o god_n have_v a_o book_n of_o remembrance_n write_v before_o he_o of_o those_o that_o be_v he_o john_n 10.14_o i_o know_v i_o say_v our_o saviour_n and_o in_o joh._n 13.18_o he_o say_v i_o know_v who_o i_o have_v choose_v 2._o tim._n 2.19_o the_o lord_n know_v who_o be_v he_o this_o the_o apostle_n refer_v to_o god_n own_o secret_a counsel_n to_o know_v who_o be_v his_o revel_v 3.1_o 4._o the_o lord_n say_v to_o the_o church_n of_o sardy_n i_o know_v thy_o work_n for_o thou_o have_v a_o name_n that_o thou_o live_v but_o be_v dead_a and_o verse_n 4._o thou_o have_v a_o few_o name_n yet_o in_o sardy_a which_o have_v not_o defile_v their_o garment_n etc._n etc._n so_o that_o they_o be_v know_v to_o god_n by_o name_n thou_o have_v a_o few_o name_n in_o sardy_a etc._n etc._n themselves_o second_o they_o be_v know_v to_o themselves_o 1._o joh._n 3.14.19_o we_o know_v we_o be_v translate_v from_o death_n to_o life_n because_o we_o love_v the_o brethren_n and_o we_o know_v that_o we_o be_v of_o the_o truth_n and_o shall_v before_o he_o assure_v our_o heart_n and_o 1._o joh._n 4.13_o 16._o hereby_o we_o know_v that_o we_o dwell_v in_o he_o and_o he_o in_o we_o because_o he_o have_v give_v we_o of_o his_o spirit_n and_o we_o have_v know_v and_o believe_v the_o love_n that_o god_n have_v in_o us._n here_o you_o must_v not_o understand_v it_o as_o if_o they_o do_v certain_o know_v each_o other_o to_o be_v so_o as_o that_o i_o shall_v know_v you_o or_o you_o i_o certain_o to_o be_v of_o this_o number_n but_o that_o all_o know_v the_o nature_n of_o their_o state_n and_o particular_o every_o one_o of_o their_o own_o conscience_n assure_v they_o that_o they_o for_o their_o part_n be_v of_o it_o it_o three_o none_o but_o god_n and_o they_o know_v it_o rom._n 2.28_o 29._o revel_v 2.17_o he_o be_v not_o a_o jew_n which_o be_v one_o outward_a neither_o be_v that_o circumcision_n which_o be_v outward_a in_o the_o flesh_n but_o he_o be_v a_o jew_n which_o be_v one_o within_o and_o the_o circumcision_n be_v of_o the_o heart_n in_o the_o spirit_n here_o be_v a_o plain_a exception_n against_o all_o outward_a show_n and_o testification_n whatsoever_o as_o altogether_o insufficient_a to_o make_v any_o certain_a proof_n to_o the_o world_n who_o be_v the_o true_a circumcision_n and_o jew_n indeed_o that_o be_v who_o be_v true_o sanctify_v and_o right_a member_n of_o the_o church_n and_o it_o be_v restrain_v to_o the_o heart_n which_o god_n alone_o and_o themselves_o know_v it_o be_v as_o much_o as_o if_o he_o have_v express_o say_v they_o be_v only_o know_v to_o god_n and_o to_o themselves_o 1._o king_n 19.10_o 18._o compare_v with_o rom._n 11.3_o 4._o the_o prophet_n heliah_n complain_v that_o he_o be_v leave_v alone_o he_o see_v no_o church_n at_o that_o time_n and_o yet_o the_o holy_a ghost_n say_v that_o there_o be_v then_o seven_o thousand_o which_o have_v not_o bow_v their_o knee_n to_o baal_n if_o any_o can_v have_v discern_v they_o than_o the_o prophet_n may_v that_o be_v their_o teacher_n but_o he_o know_v no_o such_o no_o nor_o scarce_o any_o that_o profess_v to_o be_v such_o therefore_o only_o god_n and_o themselves_o know_v it_o so_o much_o for_o the_o proof_n of_o the_o point_n the_o reason_n be_v these_o first_o that_o whereby_o they_o be_v reas_n 1_o know_v to_o man_n that_o be_v their_o profession_n be_v common_a to_o hyprocrite_n as_o well_o as_o to_o they_o for_o hypocrite_n may_v go_v as_o far_o in_o show_n of_o grace_n as_o the_o best_a therefore_o they_o can_v be_v know_v to_o none_o but_o god_n and_o themselves_o second_o that_o whereby_o true_a believer_n be_v distinguish_v reas_n 2_o from_o hypocrite_n that_o be_v the_o truth_n of_o their_o heart_n and_o their_o inward_a affection_n can_v be_v see_v by_o man_n for_o the_o faithful_a may_v fall_v as_o low_a in_o sin_n to_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o world_n as_o the_o wicked_a and_o yet_o have_v truth_n in_o their_o heart_n still_o but_o none_o know_v the_o heart_n but_o god_n and_o themselves_o therefore_o none_o know_v this_o who_o be_v true_a believer_n but_o god_n and_o themselves_o three_o sin_n be_v a_o secret_a thing_n in_o a_o hypocrite_n and_o therefore_o reas_n 3_o he_o may_v bear_v a_o show_n of_o religion_n and_o yet_o harbour_v secret_o some_o sin_n that_o may_v utter_o cut_v he_o off_o from_o the_o estate_n of_o grace_n therefore_o none_o can_v know_v who_o be_v god_n but_o god_n and_o themselves_o four_o there_o be_v certain_a inward_a grace_n in_o the_o heart_n reas_n 4_o which_o can_v outward_o be_v discern_v as_o faith_n and_o repentance_n especial_o god_n love_v and_o favour_n to_o a_o man_n and_o the_o forgiveness_n of_o his_o sin_n be_v a_o close_a secret_n not_o to_o be_v discern_v outwad_o only_o these_o be_v know_v to_o god_n that_o give_v they_o and_o to_o they_o that_o have_v they_o reu._n 2.17_o the_o use_n be_v these_o first_o this_o serve_v to_o refute_v those_o that_o hold_v this_o opinion_n that_o we_o that_o be_v of_o the_o church_n may_v know_v other_o to_o be_v so_o too_o and_o that_o take_v upon_o they_o to_o affirm_v that_o such_o and_o such_o shall_v be_v save_v where_o god_n have_v say_v it_o we_o may_v bold_o affirm_v it_o too_o as_o of_o david_n abraham_n peter_n paul_n etc._n etc._n but_o we_o must_v meddle_v no_o further_o leave_v the_o rest_n to_o god_n we_o may_v say_v of_o other_o that_o we_o be_v persuade_v that_o they_o be_v god_n but_o we_o can_v say_v that_o we_o know_v it_o to_o be_v so_o joh._n 21.21_o 22._o when_o peter_n will_v inquire_v of_o another_o what_o he_o shall_v do_v our_o
saviour_n answer_v he_o what_o be_v that_o to_o thou_o follow_v thou_o i_o for_o the_o exception_n make_v out_o of_o 1._o joh._n 3.10_o where_o the_o child_n of_o god_n be_v say_v to_o be_v know_v and_o the_o child_n of_o the_o devil_n whosoever_o do_v not_o righteousness_n be_v not_o of_o god_n etc._n etc._n and_o that_o in_o the_o 2._o joh._n 1._o where_o the_o apostle_n call_v the_o lady_n he_o write_v to_o elect_a lady_n and_o in_o the_o 1._o thess_n 1.4_o know_v belove_v say_v the_o apostle_n that_o you_o be_v elect_a of_o god_n these_o and_o such_o like_a place_n be_v thus_o answer_v that_o either_o this_o be_v speak_v out_o of_o a_o charitable_a persuasion_n or_o else_o it_o be_v speak_v so_o of_o all_o because_o some_o be_v so_o for_o that_o seem_v to_o be_v the_o case_n 1._o thes_n 1.4_o or_o if_o he_o have_v any_o certain_a knowledge_n of_o any_o particular_n it_o be_v by_o divine_a revelation_n we_o can_v say_v therefore_o out_o of_o a_o certain_a knowledge_n that_o any_o particular_a man_n be_v a_o true_a member_n of_o the_o church_n only_o this_o we_o may_v say_v that_o we_o be_v persuade_v upon_o good_a ground_n he_o be_v so_o use_v 2_o second_o the_o papist_n be_v here_o refute_v for_o they_o sin_v horrible_o in_o this_o kind_n in_o that_o they_o pray_v to_o such_o and_o such_o particular_a person_n as_o saint_n whereas_o many_o of_o they_o it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v be_v damn_v spirit_n in_o hell_n for_o false_a teacher_n may_v be_v know_v by_o their_o fruit_n matth._n 7.19.20_o again_o this_o refute_v three_o other_o error_n of_o popery_n that_o do_v direct_o contradict_v these_o three_o branch_n of_o the_o observation_n first_o they_o make_v predestination_n to_o be_v contingent_a and_o so_o they_o say_v god_n himself_o do_v not_o precise_o know_v who_o be_v he_o for_o if_o predestination_n do_v depend_v upon_o man_n will_n that_o if_o man_n will_v he_o shall_v be_v save_v than_o god_n know_v nothing_o till_o he_o see_v what_o man_n will_v do_v second_o they_o deny_v certainty_n of_o salvation_n and_o so_o the_o faithful_a themselves_o can_v know_v themselves_o to_o be_v god_n they_o will_v have_v no_o man_n say_v certain_o of_o himself_o that_o he_o shall_v be_v save_v and_o yet_o they_o will_v say_v it_o of_o other_o that_o they_o be_v save_v and_o that_o be_v the_o three_o error_n which_o contradict_v the_o three_o branch_n of_o this_o observation_n in_o that_o they_o say_v the_o church_n be_v always_o visible_a and_o so_o general_o other_o may_v know_v who_o be_v true_a member_n of_o the_o church_n as_o well_o as_o themselves_o but_o we_o see_v all_o these_o error_n be_v here_o refute_v by_o this_o doctrine_n wherein_o we_o have_v teach_v and_o prove_v that_o the_o faithful_a be_v only_o know_v to_o god_n and_o themselves_o and_o to_o none_o other_o but_o if_o any_o man_n ask_v i_o how_o then_o shall_v we_o love_v one_o another_o and_o do_v good_a one_o to_o another_o as_o brethren_n if_o we_o know_v not_o who_o be_v brethren_n i_o answer_v we_o must_v persuade_v ourselves_o of_o other_o that_o they_o be_v god_n upon_o good_a ground_n and_o good_a hope_n because_o we_o see_v the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n and_o repentance_n and_o love_n in_o they_o so_o far_o as_o can_v outward_o be_v discern_v therefore_o we_o must_v be_v persuade_v they_o be_v god_n and_o so_o we_o must_v love_v they_o and_o do_v good_a to_o they_o as_o brethren_n the_o three_o use_n teach_v we_o that_o if_o every_o one_o may_v know_v use_n 3_o himself_o to_o be_v god_n than_o every_o one_o of_o we_o shall_v labour_v to_o learn_v this_o and_o know_v it_o for_o himself_o but_o you_o will_v say_v how_o shall_v we_o know_v this_o i_o answer_v by_o a_o due_a examination_n of_o thyself_o whether_o thou_o have_v god_n spirit_n the_o spirit_n of_o adoption_n which_o make_v we_o to_o cry_v abba_n father_n that_o be_v which_o make_v we_o go_v to_o god_n as_o to_o our_o father_n and_o to_o call_v upon_o he_o as_o our_o father_n for_o that_o same_o spirit_n bear_v witness_n to_o our_o spirit_n that_o we_o be_v the_o child_n of_o god_n rom._n 8.15_o 16._o and_o in_o the_o 1._o cor._n 2.11_o 12._o what_o man_n say_v the_o apostle_n know_v the_o thing_n of_o man_n save_o the_o spirit_n that_o be_v in_o man_n even_o so_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n know_v no_o man_n but_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n now_o we_o have_v receive_v not_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o world_n but_o the_o spirit_n which_o be_v of_o god_n that_o we_o may_v know_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v give_v we_o of_o god_n the_o apostle_n say_v no_o man_n know_v the_o thing_n of_o god_n that_o be_v the_o secret_n of_o god_n but_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n now_o this_o be_v one_o of_o god_n secret_n to_o know_v whether_o we_o be_v god_n therefore_o have_v this_o spirit_n we_o may_v know_v ourselves_o to_o be_v go_n and_o that_o we_o may_v further_o seal_v this_o unto_o ourselves_o let_v we_o labour_n to_o make_v our_o election_n sure_a unto_o ourselves_o by_o walk_v in_o good_a work_n strive_v against_o sin_n and_o work_v the_o work_n of_o holiness_n and_o righteousness_n and_o obedience_n to_o god_n which_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o so_o shall_v we_o assure_v our_o heart_n that_o we_o be_v go_n and_o so_o much_o be_v speak_v of_o this_o last_o adjunct_n and_o also_o of_o the_o article_n name_n now_o we_o come_v to_o the_o four_o general_a head_n propound_v to_o be_v handle_v in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o church_n and_o that_o be_v the_o division_n of_o the_o church_n now_o the_o division_n of_o the_o church_n be_v partly_o of_o the_o name_n and_o partly_o of_o the_o thing_n itself_o first_o of_o the_o name_n the_o name_n be_v doubtful_a and_o carry_v many_o signification_n yea_o and_o many_o contrary_a signification_n and_o therefore_o be_v to_o be_v divide_v according_o in_o the_o large_a sense_n it_o may_v be_v apply_v to_o any_o multitude_n or_o company_n of_o people_n whatsoever_o whither_o in_o case_n of_o religion_n or_o not_o in_o case_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o original_a word_n both_o hebrew_n and_o greek_a in_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n will_v bear_v it_o in_o the_o old_a testament_n ezek._n 32.22_o there_o the_o name_n be_v apply_v to_o ashur_n and_o his_o company_n to_o a_o company_n of_o man_n not_o in_o case_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o same_o be_v apply_v deut._n 33.4_o in_o case_n of_o religion_n to_o the_o congregation_n of_o jacob_n that_o be_v to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n nay_o further_o that_o name_n be_v extend_v to_o those_o that_o malicious_o oppose_v the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o oppose_v religion_n psalm_n 26.5_o i_o have_v hate_v the_o assembly_n or_o church_n of_o the_o wicked_a so_o that_o the_o hebrew_n word_n in_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n bear_v it_o as_o well_o for_o a_o company_n not_o in_o case_n of_o religion_n as_o for_o a_o company_n in_o case_n of_o religion_n so_o likewise_o the_o greek_a word_n ecclesia_fw-la in_o the_o new_a testament_n bear_v it_o in_o this_o general_a sense_n as_o act._n 19.32_o where_o it_o be_v apply_v to_o a_o disorder_a assembly_n in_o a_o case_n of_o mutiny_n the_o assembly_n that_o be_v the_o church_n be_v out_o of_o order_n and_o in_o the_o act._n 2.47_o the_o same_o word_n be_v apply_v to_o the_o company_n of_o believer_n that_o be_v to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n the_o lord_n add_v to_o the_o church_n so_o we_o see_v how_o this_o word_n have_v be_v apply_v in_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n to_o any_o multitude_n or_o company_n of_o people_n whatsoever_o either_o in_o case_n or_o not_o in_o case_n of_o religion_n yea_o but_o yet_o it_o be_v restrain_v in_o ordinary_a use_n of_o speech_n and_o so_o have_v be_v for_o many_o year_n unto_o a_o company_n of_o people_n as_o profess_v some_o certain_a religion_n whatsoever_o religion_n it_o be_v the_o church_n be_v according_o so_o call_v for_o there_o be_v a_o true_a religion_n and_o every_o church_n that_o embrace_v that_o religion_n be_v a_o true_a church_n and_o again_o there_o be_v false_a religion_n and_o they_o that_o embrace_v any_o of_o they_o be_v false_a church_n so_o every_o church_n receive_v her_o denomination_n from_o the_o religion_n she_o embrace_v as_o for_o example_n we_o call_v those_o jew_n which_o be_v bear_v jew_n but_o those_o only_o be_v of_o the_o jewish_a church_n which_o embrace_v the_o jewish_a religion_n so_o that_o if_o a_o jew_n bear_v do_v embrace_v the_o christian_a religion_n he_o be_v not_o of_o the_o jewish_a church_n though_o he_o be_v of_o the_o jewish_a nation_n yet_o he_o be_v of_o the_o christian_a church_n so_o likewise_o if_o a_o man_n be_v a_o
christian_a bear_v and_o yet_o join_v with_o the_o jewish_a church_n in_o their_o religion_n he_o be_v not_o of_o the_o christian_a but_o of_o the_o jewish_a church_n and_o so_o it_o be_v of_o all_o other_o so_o then_o the_o name_n of_o church_n and_o religion_n be_v in_o some_o sense_n yoke-fellowe_n all_o church_n receive_v denomination_n from_o the_o religion_n they_o profess_v now_o then_o religion_n be_v as_o the_o form_n of_o the_o church_n give_v it_o name_n and_o be_v therefore_o look_v what_o religion_n it_o be_v that_o the_o church_n profess_v and_o such_o be_v the_o church_n to_o be_v repute_v there_o be_v a_o true_a religion_n and_o every_o church_n embrace_v and_o profess_v the_o same_o be_v to_o be_v repute_v a_o true_a church_n as_o the_o reform_a church_n there_o be_v many_o false_a religion_n and_o every_o church_n profess_v such_o religion_n be_v false_a church_n as_o the_o church_n of_o the_o heathen_a that_o worship_n false_a god_n and_o so_o embrace_v false_a religion_n and_o so_o the_o church_n of_o the_o saracen_n that_o erect_v and_o set_v up_o mahomet_n against_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o jew_n that_o deny_v the_o come_n of_o the_o messiah_n in_o the_o flesh_n be_v false_a church_n but_o there_o be_v some_o church_n that_o embrace_v party_n religion_n in_o part_n true_a and_o in_o part_n false_a yea_o what_o church_n be_v so_o pure_a that_o be_v not_o taint_v with_o some_o error_n and_o what_o church_n be_v there_o so_o impure_a that_o profess_v not_o some_o notable_a heavenly_a truth_n we_o must_v therefore_o consider_v what_o truth_n and_o what_o error_n they_o hold_v and_o so_o the_o truth_n will_v be_v soon_o decide_v without_o christ_n there_o be_v no_o salvation_n and_o so_o no_o true_a church_n 1._o joh._n 5.12_o he_o that_o have_v the_o son_n have_v life_n and_o he_o that_o have_v not_o the_o son_n of_o god_n have_v not_o life_n if_o you_o ask_v i_o whether_o one_o and_o the_o same_o church_n may_v not_o be_v a_o true_a church_n in_o respect_n of_o some_o in_o it_o profess_v the_o truth_n or_o in_o respect_n of_o some_o fundamental_a truth_n profess_v in_o it_o and_o yet_o a_o false_a church_n in_o respect_n of_o some_o profess_v falsehood_n in_o it_o or_o in_o respect_n of_o some_o fundamental_a truth_n overthrow_v in_o it_o i_o answer_v sure_o it_o may_v till_o such_o time_n as_o the_o false_a church_n have_v get_v the_o upperhand_n and_o make_v law_n for_o her_o error_n and_o against_o the_o other_o truth_n with_o sentence_n of_o abandon_v all_o those_o out_o of_o their_o church_n which_o do_v hold_v the_o truth_n so_o it_o be_v with_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n before_o the_o council_n of_o trent_n and_o thus_o it_o be_v with_o the_o church_n of_o sardy_n revel_v 3.1_o 4._o she_o have_v a_o name_n to_o live_v but_o be_v dead_a and_o yet_o in_o the_o four_o verse_n the_o lord_n say_v he_o have_v a_o few_o name_n in_o sardy_a etc._n etc._n therefore_o take_v this_o for_o a_o rule_n whatsoever_o church_n embrace_v christ_n jesus_n god_n and_o man_n the_o only_a mean_n of_o salvation_n be_v a_o true_a church_n though_o taint_v with_o many_o error_n beside_o and_o on_o the_o contrary_a whatsoever_o church_n believe_v not_o this_o be_v a_o false_a church_n though_o it_o hold_v many_o other_o excellent_a truth_n beside_o so_o much_o of_o the_o division_n of_o the_o name_n of_o the_o church_n itself_o now_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o division_n of_o the_o thing_n itself_o that_o be_v of_o god_n church_n which_o be_v not_o so_o to_o be_v understand_v as_o if_o god_n have_v so_o many_o several_a kind_n of_o church_n for_o the_o church_n as_o i_o have_v show_v before_o be_v one_o and_o the_o same_o from_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o world_n to_o the_o end_n that_o church_n of_o god_n which_o be_v in_o the_o beginning_n and_o remain_v now_o and_o shall_v continue_v to_o the_o world_n end_n be_v but_o one_o and_o the_o same_o church_n therefore_o when_o we_o mention_v the_o division_n of_o the_o church_n itself_o we_o mean_v not_o that_o it_o be_v several_o divide_v into_o diverse_a and_o several_a kind_n but_o distinguish_v in_o itself_o in_o diverse_a and_o sundry_a respect_n and_o principal_o for_o these_o first_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o bound_n and_o limit_n distinguish_v or_o compass_v of_o it_o second_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o several_a portion_n belong_v to_o it_o in_o the_o several_a estate_n that_o it_o be_v ordain_v unto_o three_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o outward_a state_n of_o it_o to_o the_o world_n sometime_o know_v sometime_o unknown_a first_o it_o be_v distinguish_v in_o itself_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o bound_n and_o compass_n of_o it_o and_o so_o it_o be_v either_o universal_a or_o particular_a universal_a that_o be_v universal_a the_o whole_a company_n of_o god_n choose_v both_o in_o heaven_n a_o earth_n but_o this_o have_v no_o limit_n but_o be_v disperse_v far_o and_o wide_o over_o the_o face_n of_o the_o whole_a earth_n and_o reach_v to_o heaven_n itself_o but_o because_o i_o have_v speak_v of_o this_o before_o both_o in_o the_o adjunct_n catholic_a and_o also_o in_o handle_v the_o general_a nature_n of_o the_o church_n therefore_o i_o will_v trust_v your_o memory_n for_o that_o point_n and_o not_o speak_v more_o here_o of_o it_o in_o the_o next_o place_n a_o particular_a church_n that_o be_v particular_a every_o particular_a company_n of_o the_o faithful_a or_o at_o least_o of_o those_o that_o be_v call_v to_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o faith_n which_o be_v several_a by_o themselves_o of_o several_a time_n and_o place_n be_v but_o particular_a church_n but_o because_o we_o shall_v speak_v more_o proper_o of_o this_o when_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o visible_a church_n therefore_o we_o will_v respite_n it_o till_o then_o second_o it_o be_v distinguish_v in_o itself_o define_v in_o respect_n of_o the_o several_a portion_n that_o belong_v unto_o it_o in_o the_o several_a state_n that_o it_o be_v ordain_v to_o and_o they_o be_v two_o the_o first_o be_v on_o earth_n or_o in_o this_o life_n and_o that_o be_v a_o fight_v or_o warfare_n and_o the_o second_o be_v in_o heaven_n in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v crown_v and_o triumph_v and_o according_o the_o church_n be_v divide_v into_o the_o church_n militant_a and_o the_o church_n triumphant_a to_o begin_v with_o the_o first_o the_o church_n militant_a be_v the_o congregation_n of_o the_o faithful_a on_o earth_n that_o do_v continual_o exercise_v a_o spiritual_a warfare_n against_o sin_n and_o satan_n and_o all_o the_o adversary_n of_o god_n and_o of_o his_o religion_n mark_v the_o part_n of_o the_o definition_n i_o say_v it_o be_v a_o congregation_n of_o the_o faithful_a that_o do_v thus_o fight_v for_o though_o hypocrite_n and_o sometime_o those_o that_o do_v persecute_v the_o gospel_n do_v fight_v the_o lord_n battle_n and_o so_o in_o a_o general_a sense_n may_v be_v repute_v part_n of_o this_o militant_a church_n yet_o that_o be_v but_o colourable_o and_o outward_o for_o some_o sinister_a respect_n not_o in_o truth_n and_o singleness_n of_o heart_n nor_o in_o true_a hatred_n of_o sin_n nor_o in_o a_o true_a desire_n to_o obey_v god_n and_o to_o advance_v his_o kingdom_n and_o glory_n and_o therefore_o to_o speak_v proper_o none_o be_v true_a part_n of_o this_o church_n militant_a respect_n but_o the_o faithful_a only_o second_o i_o say_v it_o be_v a_o spiritual_a warfare_n and_o that_o in_o many_o respect_n first_o it_o be_v spiritual_a in_o respect_n of_o the_o end_n of_o it_o for_o though_o sometime_o the_o adversary_n of_o the_o faithful_a oppugn_v they_o in_o their_o body_n and_o outward_a state_n yet_o it_o be_v mere_o in_o a_o spiritual_a respect_n either_o direct_o or_o indirect_o to_o hurt_v their_o spiritual_a estate_n or_o life_n of_o grace_n &_o so_o likewise_o when_o the_o faithful_a defend_v their_o body_n or_o outward_a estate_n against_o their_o adversary_n when_o they_o maintain_v their_o reputation_n or_o their_o life_n it_o be_v not_o so_o much_o for_o the_o thing_n itself_o as_o to_o defend_v and_o maintain_v our_o spiritual_a estate_n second_o it_o be_v spiritual_a in_o respect_n of_o the_o weapon_n that_o be_v use_v in_o this_o fight_n for_o they_o be_v chief_o spiritual_a on_o both_o part_n the_o adversary_n weapon_n be_v temptation_n etc._n etc._n the_o faithful_a their_o weapon_n be_v the_o whole_a armour_n of_o god_n three_o it_o be_v spiritual_a in_o regard_n of_o the_o general_n of_o the_o field_n on_o both_o side_n which_o be_v spirit_n god_n good_a spirit_n on_o the_o side_n of_o the_o faithful_a and_o satan_n and_o spiritual_a wickedness_n on_o the_o wicked_n side_n the_o three_o thing_n in_o the_o note_n be_v this_o that_o this_o warfare_n must_v be_v exercise_v continual_o for_o the_o envious_a man_n
the_o apostle_n exhort_v we_o jam._n 1.12_o my_o brethren_n count_v it_o exceed_a joy_n when_o you_o fall_v into_o diverse_a temptation_n four_o as_o we_o must_v not_o take_v it_o heavy_o but_o rejoice_v in_o it_o so_o we_o must_v prepare_v and_o arm_v ourselves_o for_o it_o before_o hand_n as_o a_o man_n that_o be_v to_o fight_v against_o his_o enemy_n will_v fit_v and_o prepare_v and_o arm_v himself_o to_o the_o battle_n so_o must_v we_o our_o enemy_n will_v be_v sure_a to_o be_v prepare_v against_o we_o and_o therefore_o if_o we_o be_v not_o prepare_v against_o they_o how_o shall_v we_o be_v able_a to_o withstand_v they_o and_o therefore_o we_o must_v be_v continual_o prepare_v ourselves_o to_o encounter_v with_o sin_n and_o satan_n and_o all_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n as_o we_o must_v prepare_v ourselves_o to_o this_o battle_n so_o fifthly_o we_o must_v carry_v ourselves_o resolute_o and_o valiant_o in_o this_o fight_n and_o see_v that_o we_o fight_v a_o good_a fight_n of_o faith_n as_o fight_v the_o lord_n battle_n thus_o joshua_n encourage_v the_o people_n to_o war_n because_o they_o fight_v the_o lord_n battle_n now_o to_o fit_v we_o and_o to_o help_v and_o direct_v we_o in_o this_o warfare_n warfare_n consider_v these_o particular_n first_o what_o enemy_n they_o be_v that_o we_o fight_v against_o our_o enemy_n be_v many_o even_o a_o world_n of_o enemy_n the_o dragon_n and_o all_o his_o angel_n the_o world_n and_o all_o her_o child_n and_o darling_n the_o flesh_n and_o all_o the_o wisdom_n and_o sense_n thereof_o for_o all_o that_o be_v enmity_n against_o god_n sin_n death_n hell_n all_o come_v with_o open_a mouth_n to_o devour_v us._n this_o be_v it_o the_o apostle_n say_v ephes_n 6.12_o we_o wrestle_v not_o against_o flesh_n and_o blood_n that_o be_v not_o only_o against_o flesh_n and_o blood_n but_o against_o principality_n and_o power_n against_o worldly_a governor_n the_o prince_n of_o the_o darkness_n of_o this_o world_n against_o spiritual_a wickedness_n which_o be_v in_o high_a place_n mark_v how_o the_o apostle_n set_v they_o out_o in_o all_o their_o terror_n and_o power_n marching_z as_o it_o be_v with_o their_o colour_n display_v in_o all_o their_o ruff_n &_o bravery_n and_o this_o he_o do_v not_o to_o dismay_v or_o discomfort_v we_o but_o to_o encourage_v we_o and_o to_o whet_v we_o on_o that_o we_o see_v how_o many_o and_o how_o strong_a and_o how_o resolute_a our_o enemy_n be_v we_o shall_v labour_v to_o be_v as_o resolute_a as_o they_o second_o we_o be_v to_o consider_v what_o weapon_n we_o be_v to_o use_v we_o must_v put_v on_o the_o whole_a armour_n of_o god_n ephes_n 6.11_o and_o special_o we_o must_v labour_v to_o be_v furnish_v with_o these_o two_o part_n of_o this_o armour_n prayer_n and_o watchfulness_n nothing_o be_v more_o necessary_a to_o a_o soldier_n in_o time_n of_o war_n then_o watchfulness_n for_o if_o he_o fall_v asleep_a his_o enemy_n come_v and_o kill_v he_o or_o else_o if_o his_o colonel_n come_v and_o find_v he_o he_o kill_v he_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n 1._o pet._n 5.8_o exhort_v we_o to_o watchfulness_n be_v sober_a and_o watch_n for_o your_o adversary_n the_o devil_n like_o a_o roar_a lion_n walk_v about_o seek_v who_o he_o may_v devour_v but_o what_o kind_n of_o watch_v be_v this_o this_o be_v not_o to_o watch_v with_o a_o bille_n on_o our_o shoulder_n but_o it_o be_v to_o watch_v over_o our_o own_o heart_n three_o we_o be_v to_o consider_v how_o far_o forth_o we_o be_v to_o fight_v even_o to_o the_o death_n not_o only_o of_o sin_n but_o even_o to_o the_o death_n of_o the_o body_n too_o if_o need_v be_v revel_v 2.10_o be_v thou_o faithful_a unto_o the_o death_n and_o i_o will_v give_v thou_o the_o crown_n of_o life_n and_o we_o must_v resist_v even_o unto_o blood_n heb._n 12.4_o we_o must_v fight_v till_o we_o stand_v up_o to_o the_o knee_n in_o blood_n and_o not_o yield_v to_o sin_n we_o must_v fight_v till_o we_o overcome_v we_o must_v not_o only_o fight_v but_o we_o must_v fight_v so_o long_o so_o hard_o so_o happy_o that_o we_o may_v overcome_v but_o how_o shall_v we_o overcome_v if_o we_o fight_v till_o death_n if_o we_o die_v in_o the_o fight_n i_o answer_v we_o may_v overcome_v for_o all_o that_o for_o that_o death_n be_v but_o to_o the_o outward_a man_n it_o be_v the_o spirit_n and_o inward_a man_n that_o overcom_v and_o therefore_o though_o we_o be_v slay_v yet_o we_o overcome_v revel_v 2.1_o four_o we_o must_v consider_v what_o help_n and_o force_n we_o have_v on_o our_o side_n sure_o more_o than_o be_v against_o we_o we_o have_v such_o a_o army_n that_o all_o the_o world_n can_v yield_v the_o like_a we_o have_v god_n and_o christ_n and_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o all_o the_o holy_a angel_n to_o help_v we_o we_o have_v the_o prayer_n and_o wel-wishing_n of_o all_o the_o faithful_a in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n we_o have_v the_o word_n the_o sacrament_n the_o example_n of_o christ_n himself_o and_o all_o the_o faithful_a to_o encourage_v us._n and_o who_o will_v not_o fight_v have_v all_o these_o to_o fight_v for_o he_o and_o with_o he_o and_o who_o will_v or_o can_v doubt_v of_o the_o victory_n see_v we_o have_v all_o the_o power_n and_o force_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n to_o assist_v we_o and_o to_o take_v part_n with_o we_o only_o the_o power_n of_o hell_n be_v against_o we_o and_o how_o can_v they_o hurt_v we_o five_o and_o last_o we_o be_v to_o consider_v with_o what_o mind_n we_o be_v to_o come_v into_o the_o field_n and_o to_o defend_v ourselves_o not_o for_o fashion_n nor_o for_o company_n nor_o to_o be_v see_v nor_o to_o get_v profit_n but_o we_o must_v come_v with_o this_o mind_n to_o obey_v and_o to_o glorify_v god_n to_o maintain_v his_o law_n and_o kingdom_n and_o to_o uphold_v that_o spiritual_a life_n that_o god_n have_v endue_v we_o withal_o and_o to_o destroy_v and_o keep_v under_o the_o power_n of_o satan_n and_o the_o malignant_a church_n and_o not_o with_o any_o sinister_a intention_n whatsoever_o and_o thus_o if_o we_o observe_v these_o rule_n they_o will_v be_v good_a mean_n to_o fit_v we_o to_o this_o warfare_n and_o to_o direct_v we_o in_o it_o as_o also_o to_o help_v we_o to_o overcome_v the_o three_o use_n be_v for_o singular_a comfort_n to_o all_o god_n child_n use_v 3_o that_o howsoever_o we_o suffer_v many_o conflict_n here_o yet_o all_o our_o affliction_n and_o tribulation_n and_o conflict_n shall_v one_o day_n be_v reward_v and_o recompense_v plentiful_o with_o a_o crown_n and_o that_o in_o heaven_n as_o we_o suffer_v with_o christ_n here_o so_o we_o shall_v reign_v with_o he_o hereafter_o therefore_o let_v we_o see_v that_o we_o be_v fighter_n in_o this_o battle_n and_o that_o we_o fight_v a_o true_a fight_n else_o we_o shall_v have_v no_o such_o reward_n but_o if_o we_o do_v thus_o fight_v we_o be_v sure_a to_o have_v our_o reward_n what_o then_o though_o sin_n tyrannize_v the_o conscience_n threaten_v the_o world_n persecute_v and_o the_o devil_n sometime_o put_v we_o to_o the_o worst_a yet_o our_o comfort_n be_v we_o shall_v certain_o have_v the_o victory_n and_o so_o a_o crown_n at_o last_o therefore_o let_v we_o not_o think_v much_o to_o endure_v trouble_n here_o for_o a_o while_n for_o we_o shall_v be_v conqueror_n yea_o more_o than_o conqueror_n faith_n the_o apostle_n rome_n 8.34_o 35._o we_o be_v more_o than_o conqueror_n he_o do_v not_o say_v you_o shall_v be_v but_o you_o be_v already_o more_o than_o conqueror_n through_o he_o that_o love_v us._n last_o this_o show_v we_o how_o much_o we_o gratify_v satan_n and_o wrong_v the_o lord_n when_o we_o yield_v unto_o sin_n we_o betray_v he_o and_o his_o cause_n and_o his_o glory_n as_o much_o as_o in_o we_o lie_v into_o his_o enemy_n hand_n yea_o we_o fight_v against_o god_n for_o satan_n he_o that_o be_v not_o with_o i_o say_v our_o saviour_n be_v against_o i_o yea_o we_o wrong_v ourselves_o exceed_o leave_v the_o glorious_a and_o honourable_a colour_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o make_v we_o and_o fight_v under_o satan_n banner_n and_o so_o much_o for_o this_o point_n and_o for_o this_o lecture_n the_o eight_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n in_o handle_v the_o division_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v the_o four_o general_a head_n i_o show_v that_o it_o be_v partly_o of_o the_o name_n partly_o of_o the_o thing_n itself_o of_o the_o name_n we_o speak_v full_o for_o the_o division_n of_o the_o thing_n itself_o i_o show_v you_o that_o it_o must_v not_o be_v understand_v so_o as_o if_o god_n have_v many_o kind_n of_o church_n for_o the_o church_n be_v but_o one_o as_o i_o have_v former_o prove_v but_o this_o division_n be_v a_o distinction_n which_o put_v
be_v as_o opposite_a to_o the_o popish_a church_n the_o true_a church_n be_v sometime_o though_o not_o always_o invisible_a which_o be_v partly_o in_o the_o four_o and_o five_o sense_n above_o specify_v so_o that_o the_o church_n even_o then_o when_o it_o be_v after_o a_o sort_n invisible_a be_v also_o after_o a_o sort_n visible_a too_o that_o be_v it_o be_v invisible_a because_o it_o be_v not_o easy_a and_o plain_a to_o be_v discern_v and_o visible_a because_o it_o be_v discern_v by_o some_o though_o hardly_o and_o so_o consequent_o those_o papist_n that_o make_v the_o visiblenes_n of_o the_o church_n to_o be_v sometime_o such_o that_o it_o can_v hardly_o be_v know_v agree_v with_o we_o in_o the_o thing_n direct_o though_o they_o differ_v in_o the_o phrase_n and_o manner_n of_o speech_n visible_a now_o i_o will_v give_v you_o some_o general_a advertisement_n here_o concern_v the_o church_n invisible_a and_o visible_a whereby_o you_o may_v the_o better_o conceive_v and_o understand_v the_o whole_a business_n first_o you_o must_v know_v that_o the_o church_n invisible_a be_v the_o whole_a company_n of_o god_n choose_v in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n whether_o they_o be_v call_v or_o to_o be_v call_v whether_o they_o do_v profess_v the_o truth_n or_o whether_o they_o do_v not_o yet_o profess_v it_o for_o god_n choose_v which_o be_v not_o yet_o call_v nor_o do_v not_o yet_o profess_v the_o truth_n be_v of_o the_o invisible_a church_n too_o as_o i_o have_v heretofore_o show_v second_o the_o universal_a visible_a church_n be_v the_o whole_a company_n of_o know_a professor_n on_o earth_n the_o difference_n betwixt_o the_o universal_a invisible_a church_n and_o the_o universal_a visible_a church_n be_v these_o follow_v church_n 1._o the_o invisible_a contain_v all_o good_a wheat_n without_o chaff_n 1._o the_o visible_a contain_v good_a and_o bad_a wheat_n and_o chaff_n together_o 2._o the_o invisible_a be_v partly_o in_o heaven_n 2._o the_o visible_a only_o on_o earth_n 3._o the_o invisible_a be_v of_o all_o time_n and_o place_n from_o the_o begin_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n 3._o the_o visible_a be_v only_o of_o certain_a time_n and_o place_n asunder_o 4._o the_o invisible_a have_v many_o sheep_n belong_v to_o it_o that_o be_v not_o yet_o bring_v into_o the_o fold_n 4._o the_o visible_a have_v many_o within_o the_o fold_n that_o profess_v to_o be_v sheep_n yet_o indeed_o be_v wolf_n 5._o against_o the_o invisible_a the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v never_o prevail_v 5._o against_o the_o visible_a they_o may_v and_o do_v prevail_v in_o a_o sore_a measure_n sometime_o utter_o root_a it_o out_o in_o some_o particular_a place_n as_o we_o see_v in_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n and_o the_o second_o and_o three_o chapter_n of_o the_o revelation_n they_o may_v prevail_v against_o the_o visible_a church_n to_o the_o horrible_a defile_n and_o destroy_v of_o they_o but_o so_o they_o can_v do_v against_o the_o invisible_a church_n for_o that_o be_v out_o of_o their_o reach_n the_o second_o advertisement_n be_v this_o that_o the_o invisible_a church_n on_o earth_n be_v the_o whole_a company_n of_o god_n choose_v live_v in_o the_o world_n whether_o profess_v or_o not_o profess_v the_o truth_n whereof_o though_o some_o part_n be_v visible_a that_o be_v such_o as_o make_v open_a profession_n yet_o all_o can_v be_v see_v or_o more_o particular_o it_o be_v a_o company_n of_o faithful_a or_o professor_n for_o this_o be_v partly_o visible_a may_v have_v hypocrite_n in_o it_o even_o whole_a hundred_o that_o make_v profession_n of_o save_v faith_n yet_o so_o secret_o either_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o fewness_n of_o their_o number_n or_o fear_v of_o persecution_n or_o the_o timorousness_n of_o their_o nature_n that_o they_o can_v hardly_o be_v discern_v to_o be_v such_o so_o that_o one_o and_o the_o same_o church_n may_v be_v visible_a and_o invisible_a at_o once_o visible_a as_o make_v some_o profession_n that_o may_v be_v and_o be_v see_v to_o some_o and_o yet_o invisible_a too_o as_o not_o make_v that_o open_a profession_n that_o public_a notice_n may_v be_v take_v of_o it_o yea_o one_o and_o the_o same_o man_n may_v be_v a_o member_n of_o the_o church_n visible_a and_o of_o the_o church_n invisible_a at_o once_o of_o the_o visible_a as_o his_o profession_n be_v partly_o see_v and_o of_o the_o invisible_a that_o be_v of_o the_o universal_a church_n as_o his_o election_n faith_n and_o other_o inward_a grace_n be_v not_o see_v the_o three_o advertisement_n be_v that_o those_o that_o be_v of_o the_o church_n both_o visible_a and_o invisible_a be_v therefore_o save_v not_o so_o much_o because_o they_o be_v of_o the_o visible_a church_n for_o then_o all_o of_o that_o church_n shall_v be_v save_v which_o be_v not_o so_o but_o because_o they_o be_v of_o the_o invisible_a church_n too_o for_o there_o be_v none_o of_o that_o that_o be_v of_o the_o invisible_a universal_a church_n but_o be_v and_o shall_v be_v save_v so_o likewise_o a_o man_n may_v be_v no_o member_n either_o of_o the_o visible_a or_o invisible_a and_o yet_o he_o be_v not_o damn_v because_o he_o be_v not_o of_o the_o visible_a but_o because_o he_o be_v not_o of_o the_o invisible_a universal_a church_n the_o four_o advertisement_n be_v this_o how_o we_o be_v to_o understand_v some_o thing_n that_o be_v affirm_v of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o scripture_n for_o it_o be_v speak_v of_o in_o diverse_a sense_n in_o the_o scripture_n as_o first_o some_o thing_n be_v affirm_v of_o the_o visible_a church_n only_o which_o can_v be_v understand_v of_o the_o invisible_a as_o that_o in_o matth._n 13.47_o 48._o where_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n that_o be_v the_o visible_a church_n be_v compare_v to_o a_o net_n which_o gather_v both_o good_a and_o bad_a fish_n for_o the_o invisible_a universal_a church_n contain_v only_o the_o elect_n have_v no_o bad_a fish_n in_o it_o again_o some_o thing_n be_v affirm_v of_o the_o invisible_a church_n only_o which_o can_v be_v affirm_v of_o the_o visible_a church_n as_o that_o in_o cant._n 4.7_o thou_o be_v all_o fair_a my_o love_n and_o there_o be_v no_o spot_n in_o thou_o no_o visible_a church_n but_o have_v many_o spot_n therefore_o this_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v of_o the_o invisible_a only_o and_o so_o likewise_o that_o which_o i_o have_v speak_v of_o heretofore_o that_o they_o be_v know_v only_o to_o god_n and_o themselves_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v of_o the_o invisible_a church_n only_o again_o some_o thing_n of_o both_o and_o that_o in_o many_o respect_n first_o some_o thing_n which_o be_v principal_o speak_v of_o the_o visible_a church_n be_v abusive_o apply_v to_o the_o invisible_a universal_a church_n the_o whole_a take_v denomination_n of_o the_o great_a part_n as_o matth._n 8.12_o the_o child_n of_o the_o kingdom_n shall_v be_v cast_v out_o this_o be_v speak_v principal_o of_o the_o visible_a church_n of_o the_o jew_n that_o shall_v be_v cast_v off_o and_o yet_o be_v apply_v abusive_o to_o the_o invisible_a to_o the_o child_n of_o the_o kingdom_n whereas_o none_o of_o they_o can_v be_v cast_v off_o but_o shall_v certain_o be_v save_v so_o revel_v 3.1_o 4._o in_o the_o first_o verse_n the_o lord_n say_v to_o the_o church_n of_o sardy_n thou_o have_v a_o name_n that_o thou_o live_v but_o be_v dead_a here_o be_v a_o dead_a church_n yet_o in_o the_o four_o verse_n the_o lord_n say_v thou_o have_v a_o few_o name_n in_o sardy_a which_o have_v not_o defile_v their_o garment_n etc._n etc._n here_o be_v a_o live_a church_n how_o be_v this_o to_o be_v understand_v this_o be_v speak_v principal_o of_o the_o visible_a church_n that_o it_o be_v a_o dead_a church_n but_o be_v abusive_o apply_v to_o the_o invisible_a church_n which_o be_v among_o they_o the_o whole_a take_v denomination_n of_o the_o great_a part_n and_o rom._n 10.21_o compare_v with_o rom._n 11.1_o in_o the_o ten_o chapter_n and_o last_o verse_n israel_n be_v say_v to_o be_v a_o disobedient_a and_o gainsay_v people_n in_o the_o eleven_o chapter_n and_o first_o verse_n they_o be_v say_v to_o be_v god_n people_n which_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v as_o the_o place_n before_o some_o thing_n be_v principal_o affirm_v of_o the_o invisible_a church_n but_o analogical_o be_v apply_v to_o the_o visible_a church_n as_o the_o whole_a take_v denomination_n from_o the_o better_a part_n as_o for_o example_n if_o i_o come_v into_o the_o barn_n and_o see_v a_o heap_n of_o corn_n among_o the_o chaff_n i_o may_v say_v true_o it_o be_v a_o heap_n of_o corn_n though_o the_o most_o of_o it_o be_v chaff_n name_v it_o from_o the_o better_a part_n and_o in_o this_o sense_n when_o the_o visible_a church_n receive_v her_o denomination_n from_o the_o better_a part_n the_o church_n may_v be_v call_v the_o body_n of_o christ_n
ephes_n 1.22_o 23._o compare_v with_o 1._o cor._n 12.27_o saint_n holy_a catholic_a the_o pillar_n of_o truth_n etc._n etc._n these_o be_v principal_o affirm_v of_o the_o church_n invisible_a but_o proportional_o apply_v to_o the_o church_n visible_a 51._o the_o whole_a receive_v denomination_n of_o the_o better_a part_n doctr._n these_o thing_n premise_v we_o come_v now_o to_o the_o observation_n and_o that_o be_v this_o that_o the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n be_v sometime_o bring_v into_o such_o strait_n that_o the_o outward_a face_n of_o it_o do_v either_o not_o appear_v at_o all_o or_o at_o least_o it_o do_v very_o hardly_o appear_v to_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o world_n i_o say_v the_o outward_a face_n of_o it_o do_v hardly_o appear_v for_o the_o inward_a grace_n of_o it_o be_v never_o see_v as_o faith_n and_o election_n for_o the_o heart_n wherein_o these_o be_v can_v be_v discover_v as_o these_o be_v always_o invisible_a so_o likewise_o the_o outward_a face_n of_o the_o church_n be_v sometime_o hide_a again_o i_o say_v it_o be_v so_o but_o sometime_o for_o sometime_o it_o be_v very_o plain_a and_o apparent_a and_o glorious_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o world_n we_o do_v not_o here_o take_v upon_o we_o to_o prove_v peremptory_o that_o there_o be_v a_o time_n when_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o visible_a and_o apparent_a church_n in_o the_o world_n the_o world_n be_v large_a and_o many_o thing_n be_v do_v in_o some_o place_n of_o the_o world_n that_o we_o neither_o do_v nor_o can_v know_v and_o therefore_o in_o regard_n of_o we_o we_o may_v say_v there_o be_v no_o such_o matter_n for_o the_o point_n must_v stand_v thus_o that_o even_o in_o those_o place_n and_o in_o such_o time_n where_o the_o church_n be_v most_o likely_a to_o be_v as_o where_o the_o true_a church_n have_v late_o be_v and_o where_o it_o have_v flourish_v or_o where_o the_o best_a mean_n be_v the_o word_n and_o the_o sacrament_n and_o the_o ministry_n or_o where_o they_o profess_v to_o be_v the_o true_a church_n yet_o even_o then_o and_o there_o the_o true_a church_n may_v lie_v hide_v and_o not_o be_v outward_o discern_v and_o so_o consequent_o if_o it_o may_v be_v in_o such_o a_o state_n in_o such_o place_n and_o at_o such_o time_n much_o more_o be_v it_o so_o at_o other_o place_n and_o time_n where_o there_o be_v no_o such_o probability_n of_o a_o church_n and_o this_o strike_v home_n at_o the_o papist_n that_o will_v have_v the_o outward_a face_n of_o the_o true_a church_n so_o notorious_o apparent_a and_o visible_a to_o the_o world_n but_o as_o i_o have_v show_v in_o such_o place_n and_o at_o such_o time_n where_o it_o have_v be_v most_o like_a to_o have_v be_v even_o then_o and_o there_o the_o true_a church_n may_v be_v hide_v and_o not_o apparent_a to_o the_o world_n this_o i_o will_v prove_v in_o the_o case_n of_o the_o church_n of_o israel_n in_o elias_n time_n 1._o king_n 19.10_o where_o the_o prophet_n complain_v of_o such_o a_o scarcity_n of_o the_o faithful_a in_o his_o day_n as_o that_o he_o say_v be_v himself_o be_v leave_v alone_o if_o there_o have_v be_v a_o church_n any_o where_o in_o those_o time_n sure_o it_o shall_v have_v be_v in_o israel_n where_o the_o best_a mean_n be_v but_o there_o be_v no_o outward_a appearance_n of_o a_o church_n and_o shall_v we_o think_v than_o it_o be_v any_o where_o else_o so_o likewise_o in_o the_o 2._o chron._n 15.3_o israel_n have_v be_v for_o a_o long_a time_n without_o a_o true_a god_n without_o a_o priest_n to_o teach_v without_o law_n then_o they_o have_v no_o true_a visible_a church_n of_o god_n among_o they_o and_o if_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v find_v in_o israel_n where_o shall_v it_o be_v find_v the_o papist_n will_v reply_v in_o judah_n if_o not_o with_o israel_n judah_n prevail_v against_o israel_n because_o they_o stay_v upon_o the_o lord_n god_n of_o their_o father_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o 2._o chron._n 13.18_o well_o yet_o they_o be_v bad_a enough_o too_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o 2._o chron._n 14.3_o 5._o they_o have_v their_o strange_a god_n and_o their_o image_n and_o high_a place_n and_o grove_n in_o all_o their_o city_n which_o asa_n take_v away_o but_o yet_o if_o it_o be_v thus_o with_o israel_n that_o they_o have_v no_o outward_a face_n of_o a_o true_a church_n may_v it_o not_o be_v so_o with_o judah_n too_o and_o so_o in_o other_o church_n yea_o we_o will_v prove_v that_o it_o be_v so_o with_o judah_n afterward_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o 2._o chron._n 28.23_o 24.25_o where_o it_o be_v say_v of_o ahaz_n that_o he_o sacrifice_v to_o the_o god_n of_o damascus_n and_o to_o the_o god_n of_o the_o king_n of_o aram_n he_o break_v the_o vessel_n of_o the_o house_n of_o god_n shut_v up_o the_o door_n of_o the_o house_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o make_v he_o altar_n in_o every_o corner_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o in_o every_o city_n of_o judah_n he_o make_v high_a place_n to_o burn_v incense_n to_o other_o god_n etc._n etc._n so_o judah_n be_v worse_o than_o israel_n nay_o than_o the_o very_a heathen_a that_o be_v before_o they_o as_o we_o may_v see_v 2._o chron._n 33.9_o where_o it_o be_v say_v that_o manasseh_n make_v israel_n to_o err_v and_o to_o do_v worse_o than_o the_o heathen_a who_o the_o lord_n have_v cast_v out_o before_o they_o so_o you_o see_v here_o be_v no_o outward_a face_n of_o a_o church_n neither_o in_o judah_n nor_o in_o israel_n if_o not_o in_o they_o where_o can_v there_o be_v any_o who_o can_v now_o point_v with_o his_o finger_n and_o say_v i_o know_v which_o be_v the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n whereunto_o i_o may_v and_o must_v join_v myself_o if_o it_o be_v so_o with_o they_o that_o be_v the_o natural_a branch_n than_o there_o be_v no_o privilege_n for_o any_o other_o church_n but_o that_o it_o may_v be_v so_o with_o they_o too_o but_o the_o papist_n will_v object_v that_o this_o be_v so_o under_o the_o law_n only_o but_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v so_o under_o the_o gospel_n or_o if_o it_o be_v so_o sometime_o yet_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v so_o often_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n i_o say_v i_o will_v prove_v that_o the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n be_v so_o also_o under_o the_o gospel_n and_o shall_v be_v so_o not_o sometime_o only_o but_o often_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o outward_a face_n of_o a_o true_a church_n revel_v 12.6_o 14._o the_o woman_n be_v say_v there_o to_o be_v flee_v into_o the_o wilderness_n which_o be_v mean_v of_o the_o church_n that_o at_o several_a time_n to_o the_o world_n end_n shall_v be_v drive_v to_o live_v in_o desert_n and_o forlorn_a place_n how_o then_o shall_v man_n see_v it_o and_o take_v notice_n of_o it_o and_o join_v with_o it_o when_o it_o be_v in_o such_o a_o secret_a place_n so_o in_o the_o revel_v 13.7_o 8._o the_o beast_n make_v war_n with_o the_o saint_n and_o overcome_v they_o and_o power_n be_v give_v unto_o he_o over_o every_o kindred_n and_o nation_n and_o tongue_n therefore_o all_o that_o dwell_v upon_o the_o earth_n worship_v he_o who_o name_n be_v not_o write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n of_o the_o lamb_n where_o be_v the_o outward_a face_n of_o a_o church_n in_o these_o time_n and_o in_o the_o 2._o thes_n 2.3_o 4_o 5._o the_o apostle_n show_v that_o antichrist_n shall_v come_v and_o sit_v in_o god_n temple_n as_o god_n etc._n etc._n the_o devil_n shall_v be_v so_o cunning_a that_o he_o shall_v set_v up_o antichrist_n in_o god_n temple_n that_o be_v in_o god_n church_n where_o there_o have_v be_v a_o outward_a face_n of_o a_o church_n continue_v for_o many_o year_n and_o yet_o he_o shall_v not_o be_v know_v but_o to_o be_v god_n but_o only_o to_o those_o that_o be_v spiritually-minded_n for_o he_o shall_v sit_v as_o god_n so_o that_o then_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o outward_a face_n of_o a_o true_a church_n there_o so_o likewise_o that_o in_o luk._n 18.8_o prove_v this_o point_n where_o our_o saviour_n say_v when_o the_o son_n of_o man_n come_v shall_v he_o find_v faith_n on_o the_o earth_n if_o faith_n be_v so_o scarce_o to_o be_v find_v which_o be_v the_o life_n of_o the_o church_n where_o then_o shall_v the_o church_n be_v find_v but_o where_o shall_v he_o not_o find_v faith_n in_o india_n or_o in_o rome_n only_a no_o not_o only_o in_o one_o or_o two_o place_n but_o not_o in_o the_o earth_n and_o who_o shall_v not_o find_v it_o the_o son_n of_o man._n when_o the_o son_n of_o man_n come_v shall_v he_o find_v faith_n on_o the_o earth_n then_o the_o church_n be_v not_o so_o palpable_a as_o that_o it_o may_v be_v
together_o act._n 15.2_o &_o there_o be_v a_o settle_a form_n of_o government_n and_o so_o the_o church_n of_o philippi_n phil._n 1.1_o be_v also_o grow_v to_o some_o perfection_n and_o settle_a form_n of_o government_n they_o have_v their_o bishop_n and_o deacon_n so_o likewise_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n act._n 17.28_o they_o have_v their_o elder_n and_o overseer_n second_o some_o be_v less_o perfect_a as_o the_o church_n in_o creta_n which_o have_v some_o thing_n that_o be_v unperfect_a and_o therefore_o titus_n be_v leave_v there_o to_o redress_v thing_n amiss_o tit._n 1.5_o and_o so_o the_o church_n of_o the_o gentile_n be_v not_o grow_v to_o that_o perfection_n and_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n will_v lay_v no_o heavy_a burden_n on_o they_o but_o that_o which_o they_o shall_v be_v well_o able_a to_o bear_v act._n 15.19_o yet_o these_o be_v true_a church_n so_o that_o though_o some_o visible_a church_n be_v universal_a some_o particular_a some_o more_o notorious_o know_v some_o less_o know_v some_o more_o pure_a some_o more_o corrupt_a and_o some_o grow_v to_o some_o perfection_n and_o ripeness_n some_o in_o their_o infancy_n less_o perfect_a yet_o all_o these_o be_v true_a visible_a church_n so_o long_o as_o they_o profess_v the_o true_a save_a faith_n this_o may_v suffice_v for_o the_o illustration_n of_o the_o note_n now_o we_o come_v to_o the_o proof_n of_o the_o point_n and_o first_o under_o the_o law_n there_o be_v a_o set_a place_n choose_v where_o the_o lord_n will_v put_v his_o name_n that_o be_v where_o religion_n shall_v be_v profess_v and_o he_o dwell_v there_o that_o be_v as_o a_o father_n or_o as_o a_o master_n of_o the_o family_n beget_v child_n and_o rule_v and_o govern_v that_o family_n by_o his_o word_n now_o what_o be_v this_o under_o the_o gospel_n but_o this_o that_o where_o god_n save_v truth_n be_v profess_v there_o god_n himself_o be_v present_a as_o in_o his_o true_a visible_a church_n matth._n 18.20_o where_o two_o or_o three_o be_v gather_v together_o in_o my_o name_n say_v our_o saviour_n there_o be_o i_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o what_o be_v a_o church_n but_o a_o company_n of_o people_n gather_v together_o in_o the_o name_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o what_o be_v it_o to_o be_v gather_v together_o in_o his_o name_n but_o joint_o to_o profess_v his_o save_a truth_n and_o what_o be_v they_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o who_o he_o be_v but_o his_o church_n for_o so_o in_o revel_v 2.1_o he_o be_v say_v to_o walk_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n and_o what_o be_v the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n but_o the_o seven_o visible_a church_n revel_v 1.20_o and_o this_o be_v not_o tie_v to_o any_o one_o place_n more_o than_o other_o but_o wheresoever_o say_v our_o saviour_n two_o or_o three_o be_v gather_v etc._n etc._n be_v it_o among_o the_o jew_n or_o among_o the_o gentile_n be_v it_o general_o in_o the_o world_n or_o particular_o in_o a_o parish_n or_o house_n wheresoever_o it_o be_v say_v our_o saviour_n i_o be_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o neither_o do_v he_o say_v that_o of_o necessity_n there_o must_v be_v any_o great_a multitude_n of_o they_o if_o but_o two_o or_o three_o be_v gather_v together_o in_o his_o name_n he_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o so_o act._n 2.41_o 47._o there_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n there_o be_v a_o company_n of_o people_n that_o receive_v the_o word_n that_o be_v that_o hear_v it_o and_o obey_v it_o and_o they_o be_v baptize_v that_o be_v they_o do_v not_o only_o embrace_v but_o outward_o profess_v the_o save_a truth_n and_o so_o they_o be_v add_v to_o the_o church_n that_o be_v they_o be_v of_o the_o visible_a church_n do_v but_o consider_v how_o the_o apostle_n 1._o cor._n 1.2_o describe_v the_o church_n of_o corinth_n to_o they_o that_o be_v sanctify_v in_o jesus_n christ_n that_o be_v to_o those_o that_o have_v true_a save_v faith_n in_o christ_n that_o sanctify_v they_o saint_n by_o call_v that_o be_v such_o as_o make_v profession_n at_o the_o least_o to_o be_v so_o with_o all_o that_o call_v on_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n in_o every_o place_n which_o phrase_n call_v on_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n general_o in_o scripture_n signify_v the_o profession_n of_o god_n religion_n so_o that_o those_o that_o thus_o profess_v the_o true_a religion_n be_v true_a visible_a church_n revel_v 1.20_o the_o church_n there_o be_v say_v to_o be_v golden_a candlestick_n now_o what_o be_v the_o use_n of_o a_o candlestick_n but_o to_o hold_v forth_o the_o light_n to_o be_v see_v of_o man_n and_o this_o not_o only_a experience_n teach_v but_o christ_n himself_o teach_v it_o mat._n 5.15_o neither_o do_v man_n light_v a_o candle_n and_o put_v it_o under_o a_o bushel_n but_o on_o a_o candlestick_n and_o it_o give_v light_a to_o all_o that_o be_v in_o the_o house_n and_o what_o be_v the_o true_a visible_a church_n but_o a_o company_n that_o hold_v forth_o the_o light_n of_o the_o save_a truth_n to_o be_v see_v by_o the_o world_n and_o those_o instance_n allege_v of_o those_o church_n that_o be_v some_o more_o visible_a some_o less_o some_o more_o pure_a some_o more_o corrupt_a some_o more_o perfect_a some_o more_o imperfect_a yet_o all_o of_o they_o true_a church_n prove_v the_o whole_a substance_n of_o the_o observation_n clear_o and_o direct_o and_o so_o much_o for_o the_o proof_n the_o reason_n of_o the_o point_n be_v these_o first_o the_o save_a reas_n 1_o truth_n or_o faith_n itself_o be_v the_o life_n of_o the_o church_n therefore_o they_o that_o profess_v it_o and_o thereby_o make_v it_o public_o know_v to_o the_o world_n that_o the_o same_o be_v the_o save_a truth_n and_o that_o embrace_v it_o they_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n second_o where_o there_o be_v such_o a_o company_n profess_v god_n reas_n 2_o truth_n there_o they_o have_v the_o promise_n of_o christ_n presence_n in_o a_o special_a manner_n matth._n 18.20_o but_o christ_n be_v present_v no_o where_o in_o such_o a_o special_a manner_n but_o in_o his_o church_n therefore_o such_o a_o company_n be_v a_o true_a church_n again_o they_o have_v also_o the_o promise_n of_o life_n and_o salvation_n rom._n 10.13_o but_o none_o be_v save_v but_o those_o that_o be_v of_o the_o church_n therefore_o they_o be_v a_o true_a church_n three_o the_o true_a church_n be_v build_v on_o the_o prophet_n and_o reas_n 3_o apostle_n ephes_n 2.10_o that_o be_v on_o that_o save_a faith_n which_o they_o teach_v and_o write_v therefore_o they_o that_o profess_v this_o faith_n must_v needs_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n four_o there_o christ_n be_v honour_v and_o obey_v public_o as_o their_o head_n ephes_n 1.22_o therefore_o they_o that_o profess_v to_o be_v such_o be_v his_o visible_a body_n five_o there_o among_o such_o a_o company_n be_v the_o ordinary_a mean_n of_o salvation_n which_o be_v no_o where_o else_o to_o be_v find_v but_o in_o the_o visible_a church_n matth._n 16.19_o six_o there_o his_o voice_n be_v open_o hear_v and_o in_o some_o measure_n obey_v therefore_o they_o be_v his_o sheep_n and_o that_o be_v his_o fold_n joh._n 10.27_o seven_o all_o other_o society_n and_o company_n consist_v of_o those_o that_o profess_v such_o a_o call_v or_o mystery_n and_o obedience_n thereunto_o therefore_o they_o that_o public_o profess_v the_o save_a faith_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o knowledge_n of_o his_o law_n and_o obedience_n thereunto_o they_o and_o none_o other_o be_v the_o true_a visible_a church_n of_o christ_n eight_o the_o true_a visible_a church_n be_v distinguish_v from_o all_o other_o society_n whatsoever_o by_o this_o profession_n of_o the_o save_a faith_n for_o other_o company_n of_o man_n either_o profess_v no_o religion_n at_o all_o or_o not_o the_o true_a religion_n therefore_o whatsoever_o company_n do_v profess_v the_o true_a save_a faith_n and_o religion_n that_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n of_o christ_n last_o the_o particular_a profession_n of_o the_o save_a faith_n make_v a_o particular_a man_n a_o true_a member_n of_o the_o true_a visible_a church_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o example_n of_o the_o eunuch_n act._n 8.37_o 38._o he_o believe_v the_o save_a faith_n of_o christ_n and_o be_v baptize_v and_o so_o make_v open_a profession_n of_o it_o and_o so_o become_v a_o member_n of_o the_o true_a visible_a church_n if_o this_o profession_n in_o particular_a make_v a_o particular_a man_n a_o true_a member_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n much_o more_o in_o general_n do_v it_o make_v a_o company_n of_o man_n profess_v the_o same_o faith_n to_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n use_v 1_o the_o use_v of_o the_o point_n be_v many_o the_o first_o be_v matter_n of_o reproof_n against_o the_o papist_n who_o lie_v
neighbour_n church_n then_o they_o be_v no_o long_o to_o be_v take_v notice_n of_o as_o true_a visible_a church_n but_o on_o the_o other_o side_n if_o they_o be_v matter_n of_o small_a moment_n that_o do_v not_o overthrow_v the_o foundation_n than_o the_o hay_n and_o stubble_n shall_v burn_v 1._o cor._n 3.12_o 15._o but_o yet_o they_o shall_v remain_v still_o a_o true_a church_n second_o if_o they_o be_v great_a matter_n error_n that_o do_v overthrow_v the_o foundation_n yet_o if_o they_o be_v not_o public_o profess_v as_o the_o doctrine_n of_o that_o church_n yea_o though_o they_o be_v public_o profess_v yet_o if_o upon_o admonition_n of_o other_o neighbour_n church_n they_o do_v recant_v and_o reform_v their_o error_n than_o they_o be_v still_o to_o be_v account_v true_a visible_a church_n and_o it_o be_v a_o sin_n for_o any_o to_o forsake_v they_o be_v in_o they_o yea_o it_o be_v a_o sin_n not_o to_o join_v as_o a_o member_n to_o they_o live_v in_o they_o deu._n 12.5_o at_o least_o we_o be_v to_o join_v with_o they_o in_o consent_n and_o communion_n of_o profession_n the_o case_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o second_o and_o three_o chapter_n of_o the_o revelation_n make_v the_o former_a exception_n clear_a as_o you_o may_v see_v in_o your_o own_o read_n of_o they_o use_v 3_o the_o three_o use_n be_v this_o every_o man_n that_o have_v any_o touch_n of_o conscience_n or_o any_o grace_n in_o he_o be_v desirous_a to_o be_v a_o member_n of_o the_o true_a visible_a church_n for_o that_o be_v a_o good_a pledge_n and_o witness_v to_o their_o soul_n that_o they_o be_v member_n of_o christ_n jesus_n here_o than_o thou_o may_v learn_v to_o know_v whether_o thou_o be_v a_o member_n or_o no_o and_o so_o likewise_o how_o to_o become_v a_o member_n first_o therefore_o labour_v to_o find_v out_o to_o know_v understand_v and_o believe_v the_o save_a truth_n of_o god_n and_o for_o this_o end_n we_o must_v hear_v the_o word_n preach_v and_o confer_v of_o it_o and_o join_v with_o the_o godly_a and_o frequent_v public_a christian_a assembly_n and_o also_o we_o must_v pray_v to_o god_n for_o his_o spirit_n that_o he_o will_v be_v please_v to_o acquaint_v thou_o with_o his_o save_a truth_n and_o to_o open_v thy_o eye_n that_o thou_o may_v see_v the_o right_a way_n and_o that_o he_o will_v also_o lead_v thou_o therein_o second_o thou_o must_v labour_v as_o thou_o know_v it_o so_o likewise_o to_o profess_v it_o and_o make_v open_a show_n of_o it_o to_o the_o world_n be_v not_o ashamed_a of_o it_o it_o be_v a_o royal_a call_v if_o we_o be_v ashamed_a of_o it_o christ_n will_v be_v ashamed_a of_o we_o before_o his_o father_n and_o before_o his_o angls_n in_o heaven_n and_o as_o we_o must_v not_o be_v ashamed_a of_o it_o so_o we_o must_v not_o be_v afraid_a to_o profess_v it_o it_o be_v not_o a_o matter_n of_o shame_n or_o fear_v to_o be_v of_o god_n church_n but_o a_o matter_n of_o glory_n and_o comfort_n therefore_o be_v not_o afraid_a of_o reproach_n persecution_n temptation_n all_o outward_a misery_n which_o we_o be_v sure_a to_o endure_v if_o we_o be_v know_v to_o profess_v the_o save_a truth_n of_o christ_n christ_n jesus_n do_v bold_o oppose_v himself_o against_o the_o high_a priest_n and_o pilate_n and_o the_o jew_n the_o scribe_n and_o pharisy_n and_o the_o soldier_n yea_o he_o oppose_v himself_o to_o death_n itself_o and_o to_o all_o the_o power_n of_o darkness_n and_o to_o the_o terror_n of_o god_n himself_o for_o thou_o and_o will_v thou_o be_v afraid_a to_o oppose_v thyself_o to_o some_o few_o outward_a danger_n for_o he_o nay_o it_o be_v for_o ourselves_o in_o the_o end_n for_o we_o shall_v have_v the_o glory_n of_o it_o yet_o be_v wise_a and_o do_v not_o rash_o thrust_v thyself_o into_o any_o danger_n but_o if_o thou_o have_v just_a occasion_n and_o a_o call_v from_o god_n shun_v it_o not_o for_o fear_v of_o man_n let_v not_o thy_o false_a heart_n betray_v the_o truth_n of_o christ_n his_o cause_n but_o rely_v upon_o god_n power_n promise_n and_o protection_n stand_v to_o it_o resolute_o and_o with_o a_o good_a christian_a courage_n and_o say_v i_o be_o a_o professor_n of_o christ_n crucify_v and_o so_o i_o will_v continue_v by_o his_o assistance_n even_o unto_o the_o very_a death_n though_o i_o be_v crucify_v even_o as_o he_o be_v three_o we_o must_v see_v that_o our_o profession_n be_v not_o in_o hypocrisy_n for_o this_o be_v the_o cankerworm_n that_o eat_v out_o religion_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o many_o professor_n therefore_o profess_v the_o truth_n sincere_o and_o in_o singleness_n of_o heart_n as_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n who_o see_v and_o search_v the_o reins_n do_v it_o as_o the_o only_a cause_n whereby_o we_o may_v and_o must_v be_v save_v and_o whereby_o thou_o look_v for_o thy_o reward_n in_o mercy_n at_o god_n hand_n at_o the_o last_o day_n do_v it_o as_o in_o obedience_n to_o god_n to_o glorify_v his_o name_n and_o to_o advance_v his_o kingdom_n and_o to_o the_o confusion_n of_o satan_n and_o his_o complice_n four_o as_o we_o must_v do_v it_o without_o hypocrisy_n so_o we_o must_v see_v we_o practise_v it_o and_o that_o open_o for_o our_o public_a practice_n of_o it_o be_v our_o great_a and_o best_a part_n of_o our_o profession_n we_o must_v not_o be_v like_o those_o titus_n 1.16_o that_o in_o their_o word_n profess_v that_o they_o know_v god_n but_o by_o their_o work_n deny_v he_o that_o be_v their_o work_n stand_v up_o against_o they_o and_o tell_v they_o to_o their_o face_n that_o there_o be_v no_o such_o matter_n that_o which_o we_o profess_v with_o our_o lip_n we_o must_v practice_v with_o our_o life_n put_v the_o case_n that_o two_o man_n be_v at_o odds_n one_o man_n say_v one_o thing_n another_o man_n prove_v the_o contrary_a by_o plain_a and_o evident_a argument_n whether_o of_o these_o two_o be_v the_o best_a and_o great_a avoucher_n of_o the_o thing_n so_o it_o be_v in_o this_o he_o that_o profess_v in_o his_o word_n only_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n and_o another_o which_o do_v practice_v it_o in_o his_o work_n which_o be_v the_o best_a and_o great_a avoucher_n of_o god_n truth_n sure_o he_o that_o practise_v it_o in_o his_o work_n five_o as_o we_o must_v labour_v to_o do_v these_o thing_n ourselves_o so_o we_o must_v do_v the_o best_a we_o can_v to_o draw_v other_o to_o it_o according_a to_o the_o commandment_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n to_o peter_n luk._n 22.32_o when_o thou_o be_v convert_v strengthen_v thy_o brethren_n which_o when_o i_o think_v on_o it_o can_v but_o admonish_v i_o of_o my_o duty_n and_o so_o it_o do_v we_o all_o that_o we_o shall_v labour_v to_o draw_v other_o to_o that_o good_a which_o we_o ourselves_o be_v partaker_n of_o thus_o it_o be_v with_o the_o woman_n of_o samaria_n when_o she_o be_v convert_v she_o labour_v to_o draw_v all_o the_o city_n of_o samaria_n to_o christ_n john_n 4.28_o 29._o especial_o we_o shall_v labour_v with_o our_o own_o family_n that_o they_o may_v serve_v god_n as_o joshua_n do_v i_o and_o my_o house_n say_v he_o will_v serve_v the_o lord_n so_o shall_v we_o have_v true_a visible_a church_n within_o the_o wall_n of_o our_o own_o house_n howsoever_o it_o be_v in_o the_o land_n or_o country_n or_o parish_n where_o we_o dwell_v use_v 4_o last_o this_o shall_v teach_v we_o thankfulness_n for_o our_o state_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v vouchsafe_v so_o gracious_o to_o show_v himself_o to_o the_o people_n of_o this_o land_n for_o many_o year_n that_o the_o whole_a save_a truth_n of_o god_n shall_v be_v know_v and_o profess_v and_o that_o by_o public_a authority_n it_o be_v countenance_v among_o we_o church_n we_o confess_v there_o be_v many_o sin_n in_o our_o life_n defect_n in_o our_o state_n and_o we_o mourn_v for_o they_o and_o groan_n under_o they_o and_o pray_v with_o sigh_n and_o tear_n against_o they_o and_o we_o trust_v god_n in_o his_o good_a time_n will_v hear_v we_o and_o redress_v these_o corruption_n and_o abuse_n among_o we_o yet_o through_o god_n mercy_n we_o profess_v the_o whole_a save_a truth_n and_o therefore_o we_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n of_o god_n against_o all_o schismatic_n and_o papist_n and_o slanderer_n whatsoever_o every_o one_o may_v see_v and_o say_v that_o it_o be_v a_o miraculous_a and_o wonderful_a of_o god_n that_o still_o this_o profession_n be_v maintain_v be_v thankful_a for_o it_o and_o walk_v in_o obedience_n to_o it_o and_o honour_n god_n for_o it_o and_o use_v it_o well_o and_o pray_v and_o labour_n for_o the_o continuance_n of_o it_o to_o we_o and_o our_o posterity_n to_o all_o generation_n the_o blessing_n be_v so_o much_o the_o great_a and_o thankworthy_a blessing_n
intendment_n diverse_a as_o the_o thing_n itself_o tend_v direct_o to_o the_o damage_n and_o hurt_v of_o the_o church_n and_o yet_o god_n so_o overrule_v they_o as_o that_o they_o be_v mean_n of_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n as_o first_o hear_v or_o read_v the_o word_n or_o some_o other_o good_a book_n with_o intent_n to_o deride_v or_o scoff_n or_o cavil_v at_o they_o as_o we_o read_v of_o one_o virginius_n a_o bishop_n of_o rome_n who_o be_v set_v to_o write_v against_o calvin_n and_o â—eading_v over_o calvin_n book_n for_o that_o end_n he_o see_v the_o light_n so_o clear_a against_o he_o that_o he_o be_v convince_v and_o will_v write_v no_o more_o against_o he_o so_o that_o whereas_o he_o read_v over_o his_o book_n with_o intent_n to_o cavil_n at_o they_o god_n so_o overruled_n it_o that_o against_o his_o own_o intendment_n he_o become_v a_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n thereby_o second_o the_o sin_n of_o god_n choose_v why_o a_o man_n will_v think_v that_o they_o shall_v 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mean_n of_o scatter_v the_o seed_n of_o the_o word_n into_o many_o place_n and_o so_o of_o cause_v many_o church_n as_o in_o act._n 8.4_o there_o be_v great_a persecution_n and_o the_o word_n be_v scatter_v abroad_o what_o can_v hurt_v the_o church_n more_o than_o this_o yet_o this_o be_v so_o overruled_n by_o god_n as_o that_o he_o make_v it_o a_o mean_n of_o the_o propagation_n of_o his_o church_n in_o many_o place_n whereas_o before_o it_o be_v in_o judea_n only_o by_o this_o mean_v it_o be_v come_v into_o samaria_n too_o but_o all_o these_o be_v by-cause_n and_o therefore_o we_o do_v only_o point_v at_o they_o and_o so_o pass_v they_o by_o yet_o this_o be_v worthy_a herein_o to_o be_v take_v notice_n of_o the_o wonderful_a power_n wisdom_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n that_o bring_v light_a out_o of_o darkness_n and_o make_v whatsoever_o please_v he_o even_o beside_o and_o against_o its_o own_o bent_n and_o intendment_n serviceable_a mean_n for_o the_o be_v of_o his_o church_n sense_n the_o other_o sort_n of_o cause_n which_o be_v the_o first_o be_v such_o as_o cause_v the_o church_n direct_o and_o of_o themselves_o and_o these_o be_v more_o proper_a and_o material_a than_o the_o other_o first_o then_o take_v the_o church_n in_o a_o comparative_a sense_n as_o it_o be_v compare_v to_o a_o building_n and_o so_o the_o cause_n be_v to_o be_v apprehend_v thus_o as_o a_o build_n have_v four_o principal_a cause_n so_o have_v the_o church_n first_o in_o a_o build_n there_o be_v the_o foundation_n second_o the_o builder_n three_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o build_n four_a the_o form_n so_o in_o god_n church_n there_o be_v these_o four_o cause_n of_o it_o first_o the_o foundation_n and_o that_o be_v jesus_n christ_n 1_o cor._n 3.11_o other_o foundation_n can_v no_o man_n lay_v than_o that_o which_o be_v lay_v which_o be_v jesus_n christ_n and_o metaphorical_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n as_o they_o teach_v christ_n 1_o cor._n 3.10_o as_o a_o skilful_a master-builder_n i_o 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temple_n in_o the_o lord_n in_o who_o you_o be_v also_o build_v together_o to_o be_v the_o habitation_n of_o god_n by_o the_o spirit_n and_o thus_o the_o church_n be_v to_o be_v apprehend_v in_o a_o comparative_a sense_n as_o it_o be_v compare_v to_o a_o building_n again_o take_v the_o church_n absolute_o in_o itself_o sieve_n and_o then_o it_o have_v a_o efficient_a cause_n a_o instrumental_a cause_n a_o material_a cause_n a_o formal_a cause_n and_o a_o final_a cause_n first_o it_o have_v a_o efficient_a cause_n from_o which_o it_o have_v she_o be_v for_o that_o be_v the_o efficient_a cause_n of_o a_o thing_n cause_n from_o whence_o a_o thing_n have_v that_o be_v which_o it_o have_v now_o the_o efficient_a cause_n from_o whence_o the_o church_n have_v she_o be_v be_v god_n himself_o he_o be_v the_o author_n of_o it_o act._n 2.47_o the_o lord_n add_v to_o the_o church_n etc._n etc._n so_o that_o god_n himself_o be_v the_o efficient_a cause_n of_o the_o church_n second_o the_o 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lay_v down_o together_o god_n have_v commit_v unto_o we_o say_v the_o apostle_n the_o word_n of_o reconciliation_n then_o the_o sacrament_n they_o be_v the_o next_o outward_a instrumental_a cause_n or_o mean_n of_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n and_o first_o baptism_n rom._n 6.4_o know_v you_o not_o that_o all_o we_o that_o have_v be_v baptize_v into_o christ_n have_v be_v baptize_v into_o his_o death_n and_o the_o lord_n supper_n 1_o cor._n 10.16_o the_o cup_n of_o blessing_n which_o we_o bless_v be_v it_o not_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n the_o bread_n which_o we_o break_v be_v it_o not_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n by_o baptism_n we_o be_v make_v member_n of_o
christ_n mystical_a body_n and_o by_o the_o lord_n supper_n we_o be_v nourish_v in_o this_o body_n which_o be_v his_o church_n now_o all_o these_o three_o outward_a mean_n be_v lay_v down_o together_o matth._n 28.19_o go_v teach_v all_o nation_n baptise_v they_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o father_n and_o of_o the_o son_n and_o of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n go_v that_o be_v speak_v to_o the_o apostle_n teach_v there_o be_v the_o word_n and_o baptise_v there_o be_v the_o sacrament_n one_o express_v the_o other_o employ_v these_o be_v the_o instrumental_a cause_n without_o us._n inward_a now_o the_o instrumental_a cause_n within_o we_o be_v first_o repentance_n act._n 11.18_o god_n have_v grant_v to_o the_o gentile_n repentance_n to_o life_n second_o faith_n act._n 15.9_o and_o he_o put_v no_o difference_n betwixt_o we_o and_o they_o after_o that_o by_o faith_n he_o have_v purify_v their_o heart_n and_o last_o and_o principal_o god_n spirit_n that_o be_v the_o testimony_n of_o god_n spirit_n in_o our_o heart_n whereby_o we_o be_v persuade_v of_o god_n love_n and_o favour_n 1_o cor._n 2.12_o we_o have_v receive_v not_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o world_n but_o the_o spirit_n which_o be_v of_o god_n that_o we_o may_v know_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v give_v to_o we_o of_o god_n and_o all_o these_o six_o instrumental_a mean_n inward_a and_o outward_a be_v lay_v down_o together_o in_o the_o second_o of_o the_o act_n in_o the_o case_n of_o the_o first_o church_n that_o be_v plant_v after_o our_o saviour_n ascension_n from_o the_o fourteen_o verse_n to_o the_o six_o and_o thirty_o there_o be_v their_o minister_n and_o the_o word_n his_o sermon_n then_o peter_n life_n up_o his_o voice_n etc._n etc._n then_o there_o be_v their_o sacrament_n first_o baptism_n in_o the_o 38._o and_o 41._o verse_n then_o they_o that_o glad_o receive_v the_o word_n be_v baptize_v etc._n etc._n and_o the_o lord_n supper_n in_o the_o 42._o and_o 46._o verse_n and_o they_o continue_v in_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n and_o fellowship_n and_o break_v of_o bread_n etc._n etc._n there_o be_v the_o outward_a cause_n so_o likewise_o the_o inward_a as_o first_o there_o be_v repentance_n vers_fw-la 37._o and_o 38._o they_o be_v prick_v in_o their_o heart_n then_o second_o there_o be_v faith_n too_o as_o in_o the_o 41._o and_o 44._o verse_n they_o that_o glad_o receive_v his_o word_n and_o all_o that_o believe_v etc._n etc._n and_o last_o there_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n for_o in_o the_o seventeen_o verse_n it_o be_v say_v that_o it_o be_v prophesy_v before_o of_o they_o that_o god_n will_v pour_v out_o his_o spirit_n upon_o they_o and_o in_o the_o 38._o verse_n the_o apostle_n bid_v they_o repent_v and_o be_v baptize_v etc._n etc._n and_o you_o shall_v receive_v the_o gift_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n so_o that_o they_o repent_v and_o believe_v do_v receive_v the_o gift_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n so_o these_o be_v the_o instrumental_a cause_n or_o mean_n of_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n the_o next_o cause_n be_v the_o material_a cause_n and_o that_o be_v the_o people_n of_o god_n saint_n by_o call_v 1_o cor._n 1.2_o the_o member_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n 1_o cor._n 12.27_o citizen_n with_o the_o saint_n etc._n etc._n ephes_n 2.19_o as_o member_n be_v the_o matter_n of_o the_o body_n and_o citizens_z the_o matter_n of_o a_o city_n so_o the_o member_n of_o christ_n be_v the_o matter_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n which_o be_v his_o church_n four_o the_o formal_a cause_n of_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n and_o that_o be_v inward_a and_o outward_a that_o which_o be_v inward_a be_v the_o effectual_a call_n and_o gather_v of_o god_n people_n to_o christ_n when_o the_o faithful_a be_v persuade_v in_o their_o heart_n to_o believe_v and_o obey_v the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n the_o outward_a formal_a cause_n that_o be_v their_o joint_n and_o public_a profession_n of_o the_o save_a faith_n and_o the_o outward_a communion_n that_o they_o hold_v in_o the_o mean_n of_o grace_n both_o for_o duty_n of_o piety_n to_o god_n and_o of_o charity_n each_o to_o other_o you_o shall_v find_v both_o these_o in_o the_o case_n of_o the_o church_n at_o jerusalem_n act._n 2._o first_o their_o effectual_a call_n which_o be_v their_o inward_a formal_a cause_n that_o be_v lay_v down_o in_o the_o 37_o 38_o 41_o and_o 44._o verse_n they_o be_v prick_v in_o their_o heart_n repent_v baptize_v add_v to_o the_o church_n etc._n etc._n there_o be_v their_o effectual_a call_n their_o outward_a formal_a cause_n that_o be_v set_v down_o in_o the_o 41_o 42_o 44_o 45_o 46._o verse_n they_o continue_v in_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n and_o fellowship_n etc._n etc._n and_o have_v all_o thing_n common_a etc._n etc._n there_o be_v their_o joint_n and_o public_a profession_n of_o the_o save_a faith_n and_o their_o outward_a communion_n these_o be_v the_o material_a cause_n of_o the_o church_n last_o the_o final_a cause_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v the_o end_n of_o a_o church_n and_o that_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v in_o many_o respect_n first_o in_o respect_n of_o god_n glory_n that_o some_o of_o adam_n seed_n may_v glorify_v the_o lord_n god_n here_o in_o his_o church_n by_o believe_v obey_v call_v upon_o he_o and_o hereafter_o in_o heaven_n sing_v everlasting_a praise_n to_o his_o glory_n rom._n 9.23_o that_o he_o may_v declare_v the_o riches_n of_o his_o glory_n on_o the_o vessel_n of_o mercy_n which_o he_o have_v prepare_v to_o glory_n second_o the_o final_a cause_n of_o the_o church_n be_v in_o respect_n of_o the_o faithful_a themselves_o and_o of_o their_o salvation_n and_o glory_n for_o god_n will_v not_o have_v all_o mankind_n cast_v away_o as_o they_o well_o deserve_v but_o some_o he_o will_v have_v of_o his_o free_a grace_n and_o mercy_n to_o obtain_v salvation_n and_o glory_n by_o jesus_n christ_n 2_o thes_n 2.14_o and_o to_o receive_v the_o end_n of_o their_o faith_n which_o be_v the_o salvation_n of_o their_o soul_n 1_o pet._n 1.9_o three_o the_o final_a cause_n of_o the_o church_n be_v in_o respect_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n that_o the_o same_o may_v be_v embrace_v and_o maintain_v and_o keep_v alive_a on_o earth_n that_o some_o man_n may_v not_o only_o know_v the_o truth_n but_o believe_v it_o and_o live_v in_o the_o obedience_n of_o it_o and_o also_o that_o the_o scripture_n the_o record_n of_o truth_n may_v be_v safe_o preserve_v first_o that_o the_o body_n of_o the_o scripture_n may_v not_o be_v mangle_v or_o tear_v by_o heretic_n second_o that_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o scripture_n may_v not_o be_v deprave_a by_o the_o enemy_n of_o it_o last_o that_o the_o scripture_n may_v not_o be_v as_o a_o seal_a book_n but_o that_o there_o may_v be_v some_o on_o earth_n to_o interpret_v it_o and_o to_o teach_v it_o and_o that_o it_o may_v be_v open_o teach_v and_o practise_v on_o earth_n this_o be_v one_o end_n of_o god_n church_n four_o the_o final_a cause_n of_o the_o church_n be_v in_o regard_n of_o the_o wicked_a that_o they_o may_v be_v leave_v without_o excuse_n when_o as_o the_o precious_a truth_n of_o god_n be_v propound_v to_o they_o by_o his_o minister_n and_o by_o his_o church_n and_o when_o as_o they_o deny_v it_o as_o false_a or_o contemn_v it_o or_o at_o least_o careless_o neglect_v it_o as_o a_o vile_a thing_n not_o worth_a harken_v to_o that_o then_o they_o may_v just_o perish_v in_o their_o own_o wilfulness_n thus_o you_o have_v hear_v concern_v the_o cause_n of_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n both_o of_o those_o that_o cause_n it_o direct_o and_o of_o themselves_o and_o also_o such_o as_o cause_v it_o not_o of_o themselves_o direct_o but_o only_o as_o by_o the_o way_n be_v overruled_n by_o god_n to_o that_o end_n we_o will_v draw_v it_o into_o a_o observation_n doctr._n we_o hear_v first_o that_o god_n be_v the_o efficient_a cause_n of_o his_o church_n and_o all_o other_o cause_n be_v from_o he_o he_o note_v then_o be_v this_o that_o howsoever_o there_o be_v many_o thing_n in_o the_o world_n which_o concur_v and_o have_v a_o great_a hand_n in_o the_o cause_v and_o constitute_v of_o a_o church_n yet_o the_o cause_n of_o all_o cause_n be_v the_o lord_n himself_o and_o indeed_o he_o be_v all_o in_o all_o in_o it_o this_o be_v so_o in_o all_o other_o thing_n that_o god_n be_v all_o in_o all_o in_o they_o special_o it_o be_v so_o in_o the_o church_n as_o first_o that_o be_v more_o special_o respect_v of_o god_n than_o any_o thing_n else_o and_o second_o as_o the_o church_n depend_v more_o near_o upon_o he_o than_o any_o thing_n else_o in_o the_o world_n ephes_n 4.6_o the_o apostle_n speak_v there_o of_o the_o church_n say_v there_o be_v one_o god_n and_o father_n of_o
all_o which_o be_v above_o all_o and_o through_o all_o and_o in_o you_o all_o and_o in_o the_o 1_o cor._n 12.6_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o the_o edification_n of_o the_o church_n use_v the_o very_a word_n in_o the_o note_n there_o be_v diversity_n of_o operation_n say_v he_o but_o god_n be_v the_o same_o which_o work_v all_o in_o all_o and_o this_o we_o shall_v find_v to_o be_v the_o voice_n of_o god_n church_n psal_n 95_o 6_o 7_o 8._o come_v say_v they_o let_v we_o worship_n and_o fall_v down_o before_o the_o lord_n our_o maker_n etc._n etc._n he_o be_v our_o lord_n our_o maker_n our_o god_n and_o we_o be_v his_o people_n of_o his_o pasture_n his_o sheep_n of_o his_o hand_n why_o but_o all_o other_o be_v his_o people_n yea_o but_o we_o be_v his_o people_n after_o a_o special_a manner_n ephes_n 2.10_o we_o be_v his_o workmanship_n but_o you_o will_v say_v so_o be_v all_o thing_n else_o yea_o but_o we_o be_v another_o kind_n of_o workmanship_n we_o be_v create_v in_o christ_n jesus_n unto_o good_a work_n we_o have_v not_o only_o our_o be_v but_o our_o well-being_n from_o he_o he_o have_v not_o only_o create_v we_o as_o man_n but_o re-created_n we_o or_o regenerate_v we_o as_o new_a man_n wherein_o howsoever_o many_o thing_n concur_v as_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n etc._n etc._n yet_o all_o be_v his_o do_v he_o be_v the_o worker_n of_o it_o he_o be_v all_o in_o all_o let_v we_o enlarge_v our_o thought_n in_o this_o point_n church_n that_o god_n be_v all_o in_o all_o in_o cause_v of_o his_o church_n and_o let_v we_o consider_v first_o how_o every_o one_o of_o the_o three_o person_n in_o the_o trinity_n have_v a_o special_a and_o a_o effectual_a hand_n herein_o first_o god_n the_o father_n the_o first_o person_n he_o have_v a_o special_a hand_n in_o it_o joh._n 6.44_o no_o man_n can_v come_v unto_o i_o except_o the_o father_n which_o send_v i_o draw_v he_o so_o likewise_o the_o second_o person_n jesus_n christ_n he_o have_v a_o special_a hand_n in_o it_o joh._n 14.6_o no_o man_n come_v unto_o the_o father_n but_o by_o i_o so_o likewise_o the_o three_o person_n the_o holy_a ghost_n he_o have_v a_o special_a hand_n in_o it_o 1_o cor._n 12.3_o no_o man_n can_v say_v that_o be_v by_o a_o true_a persuasion_n that_o jesus_n be_v the_o lord_n but_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n god_n the_o father_n he_o love_v the_o world_n and_o in_o that_o love_n of_o his_o he_o decree_v that_o such_o and_o such_o shall_v be_v gather_v to_o his_o church_n and_o so_o be_v save_v and_o also_o in_o that_o love_n send_v his_o son_n to_o redeem_v we_o and_o to_o pay_v our_o ransom_n and_o give_v we_o his_o spirit_n to_o sanctify_v and_o to_o comfort_v we_o that_o be_v his_o church_n so_o likewise_o christ_n jesus_n he_o love_v the_o church_n and_o in_o this_o love_n of_o he_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n and_o take_v our_o nature_n and_o our_o sin_n and_o our_o punishment_n upon_o he_o and_o lay_v down_o his_o life_n for_o we_o that_o he_o may_v purchase_v the_o church_n with_o his_o own_o blood_n as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v act._n 20.28_o and_o incorporate_v we_o into_o himself_o and_o make_v we_o bone_n of_o his_o bone_n and_o flesh_n of_o his_o flesh_n ephes_n 5.30_o and_o bring_v we_o to_o his_o father_n joh._n 14.6_o so_o likewise_o the_o holy_a ghost_n he_o love_v they_o and_o in_o that_o love_n which_o he_o carry_v to_o they_o he_o come_v and_o dwell_v in_o they_o and_o enlighten_v they_o govern_v they_o and_o frame_v they_o to_o obedience_n sanctify_v they_o and_o apply_v the_o mean_n of_o grace_n to_o the_o particular_a conscience_n of_o every_o one_o of_o they_o he_o make_v they_o apprehensive_a of_o that_o course_n whereby_o they_o be_v save_v and_o apply_v it_o unto_o they_o 1_o cor._n 2.10_o 12._o second_o every_o part_n and_o several_a work_n that_o tend_v to_o our_o salvation_n be_v of_o god_n as_o first_o election_n that_o be_v from_o god_n ephes_n 1.4_o he_o have_v choose_v we_o in_o he_o etc._n etc._n so_o our_o call_v be_v from_o he_o rom._n 8.30_o who_o he_o predestinate_v they_o also_o he_o call_v likewise_o our_o regeneration_n be_v from_o he_o joh._n 1.13_o which_o be_v bear_v not_o of_o blood_n nor_o of_o the_o will_n of_o the_o flesh_n nor_o of_o the_o will_n of_o man_n but_o of_o god_n so_o also_o our_o teach_n be_v of_o god_n joh._n 6.45_o they_o shall_v be_v all_o teach_v of_o god_n our_o justification_n be_v also_o of_o he_o rom._n 8.33_o it_o be_v god_n that_o justify_v last_o our_o sanctification_n be_v from_o he_o 1_o thes_n 5.23_o now_o the_o very_a god_n of_o peace_n sanctify_v you_o throughout_o etc._n etc._n so_o that_o every_o several_a work_n that_o tend_v to_o our_o salvation_n be_v of_o god_n last_o every_o several_a mean_n both_o within_o we_o and_o without_o we_o be_v god_n do_v but_o of_o this_o we_o shall_v speak_v in_o the_o reason_n and_o therefore_o we_o will_v now_o come_v to_o they_o reas_n 1_o the_o reason_n be_v these_o god_n be_v all_o in_o all_o in_o his_o church_n first_o because_o the_o church_n be_v god_n house_n 1_o tim._n 3.15_o now_o who_o shall_v build_v a_o house_n for_o god_n but_o god_n himself_o reas_n 2_o second_o the_o visible_a church_n be_v a_o mean_n to_o worship_n god_n by_o deut._n 12.11_o where_o god_n put_v his_o name_n there_o he_o will_v be_v worship_v now_o who_o shall_v or_o can_v prescribe_v god_n worship_n but_o himself_o therefore_o he_o be_v all_o in_o all_o in_o his_o church_n reas_n 3_o three_o the_o live_a member_n of_o the_o church_n be_v god_n adopt_a son_n member_n of_o christ_n mystical_a body_n king_n and_o priest_n unto_o god_n in_o all_o which_o the_o like_a cause_n god_n be_v most_o sensible_o all_o in_o all_o in_o his_o church_n for_o he_o make_v they_o king_n and_o priest_n etc._n etc._n revel_v 1.6_o four_o to_o be_v make_v a_o church_n or_o a_o true_a member_n thereof_o reas_n 4_o be_v altogether_o a_o work_n wrought_v upon_o the_o heart_n now_o god_n only_o work_v upon_o the_o heart_n all_o other_o mean_n and_o instrument_n be_v exclude_v but_o only_o so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v assist_v by_o he_o last_o consider_v the_o efficient_a cause_n in_o comparison_n to_o all_o reas_n 5_o other_o cause_n and_o then_o it_o will_v appear_v plain_o that_o the_o cause_n of_o all_o cause_n be_v the_o lord_n himself_o first_o the_o efficient_a cause_n be_v god_n himself_o yea_o and_o he_o alone_a which_o be_v proof_n enough_o that_o god_n be_v all_o in_o all_o second_o the_o instrumental_a cause_n they_o be_v whole_o and_o only_o of_o he_o first_o for_o the_o outward_a cause_n as_o the_o word_n sacrament_n minister_n and_o gift_n first_o god_n ordain_v they_o and_o give_v they_o their_o be_v and_o therefore_o they_o be_v call_v god_n word_n and_o god_n sacrament_n and_o god_n minister_n and_o god_n gift_n eph._n 4.11_o 12._o he_o have_v give_v some_o to_o be_v apostle_n &_o some_o to_o be_v prophet_n and_o some_o to_o be_v evangelist_n and_o some_o pastor_n and_o teacher_n for_o the_o gather_n of_o his_o saint_n for_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n etc._n etc._n second_o he_o vouchsafe_v the_o presence_n and_o tender_a of_o they_o to_o such_o person_n and_o place_n where_o he_o will_v have_v his_o church_n to_o be_v as_o we_o may_v see_v act._n 16.6_o paul_n &_o silas_n be_v forbid_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n to_o preach_v the_o word_n in_o asia_n and_o verse_n 7._o the_o spirit_n suffer_v they_o not_o to_o go_v into_o bythinia_n and_o in_o the_o ten_o verse_n it_o be_v say_v they_o go_v into_o macedonia_n be_v assure_v that_o the_o lord_n have_v call_v they_o to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n there_o sometime_o god_n restrayn_v the_o mean_n from_o some_o and_o enlarge_v they_o to_o other_o as_o matth._n 10.5_o go_v not_o into_o the_o way_n of_o the_o gentile_n compare_v with_o act._n 13.46_o 47._o it_o be_v necessary_a say_v the_o apostle_n to_o the_o jew_n there_o that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n shall_v first_o have_v be_v preach_v unto_o you_o but_o see_v you_o put_v it_o from_o you_o and_o judge_v yourselves_o unworthy_a of_o everlasting_a life_n lo_o we_o turn_v to_o the_o gentile_n for_o so_o have_v the_o lord_n command_v we_o etc._n etc._n last_o god_n give_v the_o success_n and_o blessing_n to_o the_o mean_n and_o so_o make_v they_o effectual_a 1_o cor._n 3.5_o 6._o paul_n plant_v and_o apollo_n water_v but_o it_o be_v god_n that_o give_v the_o increase_n and_o act._n 11.21_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v with_o they_o so_o that_o a_o great_a number_n believe_v and_o turn_v to_o the_o lord_n 2_o chron._n 30._o from_o the_o six_o to_o the_o twelve_o verse_n
hezekiah_n send_v forth_o messenger_n throughout_o all_o israel_n and_o judah_n with_o godly_a letter_n for_o the_o keep_n of_o the_o passeover_n and_o the_o wicked_a laugh_v they_o to_o scorn_v but_o the_o text_n note_v in_o the_o twelve_o verse_n that_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n be_v in_o judah_n so_o that_o he_o give_v they_o one_o heart_n to_o do_v the_o commandment_n of_o the_o king_n the_o king_n may_v have_v command_v long_o enough_o yet_o if_o god_n have_v not_o give_v the_o people_n a_o heart_n they_o will_v never_o have_v obey_v he_o so_o that_o all_o other_o mean_n be_v utter_o void_a yea_o nothing_o without_o god_n 1_o co._n 3.7_o neither_o be_v he_o that_o plant_v any_o thing_n nor_o he_o that_o water_v but_o god_n that_o give_v the_o increase_n now_o if_o god_n give_v we_o these_o outward_a instrumental_a cause_n of_o the_o be_v of_o his_o church_n he_o give_v we_o the_o inward_a much_o more_o as_o repentance_n and_o faith_n and_o principal_o the_o chief_a of_o all_o god_n spirit_n be_v give_v we_o mere_o and_o free_o of_o god_n 2_o cor._n 1.22_o who_o have_v also_o seal_v we_o and_o give_v we_o the_o earnest_n of_o his_o spirit_n in_o our_o heart_n so_o that_o we_o see_v the_o instrumental_a cause_n of_o the_o church_n both_o inward_a and_o outward_a be_v of_o god_n so_o also_o the_o material_a cause_n that_o be_v of_o god_n too_o 1_o cor._n 3.9_o you_o be_v god_n building_n say_v the_o apostle_n the_o formal_a cause_n that_o be_v of_o god_n also_o the_o outward_a formal_a cause_n which_o be_v our_o joint_n and_o public_a profession_n of_o the_o faith_n 1_o cor._n 12.3_o no_o man_n can_v say_v that_o jesus_n be_v the_o lord_n but_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n special_o the_o inward_a formal_a cause_n be_v of_o god_n 1_o cor._n 1.9_o we_o be_v call_v of_o god_n to_o the_o fellowship_n of_o his_o son_n jesus_n christ_n last_o the_o final_a cause_n that_o be_v of_o god_n too_o god_n word_n labour_n husbandry_n ordinance_n church_n etc._n etc._n be_v not_o only_o of_o and_o from_o he_o as_o he_o be_v the_o efficient_a cause_n of_o they_o but_o also_o for_o he_o and_o his_o glory_n as_o he_o be_v the_o final_a cause_n of_o they_o so_o likewise_o if_o we_o cast_v our_o eye_n on_o the_o by-cause_n of_o the_o church_n god_n be_v all_o in_o all_o even_o in_o they_o too_o yea_o extraordinary_o in_o these_o so_o that_o he_o seem_v rather_o to_o have_v a_o great_a hand_n in_o these_o than_o in_o the_o rest_n that_o god_n shall_v make_v persecution_n which_o tend_v of_o itself_o to_o the_o destruction_n of_o the_o church_n to_o be_v a_o cause_n of_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n this_o than_o show_v that_o god_n be_v all_o in_o all_o in_o cause_v his_o church_n so_o much_o for_o the_o reason_n the_o use_n be_v these_o first_o use_v be_v for_o instruction_n to_o teach_v we_o use_v 1_o that_o see_v the_o lord_n be_v all_o in_o all_o in_o cause_v his_o church_n then_o let_v he_o be_v reverent_o and_o ingenuous_o acknowledge_v so_o to_o be_v and_o in_o that_o respect_n first_o let_v such_o congregation_n as_o have_v taste_v god_n bounty_n in_o this_o kind_n ascribe_v all_o the_o honour_n and_o praise_n and_o glory_n of_o that_o their_o bless_a state_n to_o he_o alone_o and_o that_o which_o i_o say_v of_o whole_a congregation_n let_v every_o one_o in_o particular_a practice_n and_o that_o both_o for_o the_o congregation_n and_o special_o for_o himself_o we_o must_v not_o dote_v on_o the_o mean_n though_o they_o be_v singular_a help_n under_o god_n the_o minister_n gift_n nor_o any_o other_o thing_n the_o church_n have_v it_o must_v not_o be_v dote_v upon_o it_o be_v true_a that_o we_o must_v esteem_v high_o of_o they_o and_o labour_n for_o the_o good_a of_o they_o and_o acknowledge_v what_o benefit_n we_o have_v receive_v from_o they_o and_o be_v thankful_a to_o they_o yet_o still_o i_o say_v it_o be_v all_o the_o lord_n do_v and_o let_v he_o have_v all_o the_o glory_n of_o they_o and_o if_o ever_o there_o shall_v such_o a_o 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have_v care_n for_o ourselves_o only_o as_o josiah_n have_v lord_n say_v he_o let_v there_o be_v peace_n in_o my_o day_n but_o we_o must_v have_v a_o care_n of_o our_o posterity_n and_o pray_v that_o god_n will_v continue_v his_o church_n to_o they_o too_o and_o this_o be_v a_o necessary_a duty_n both_o for_o minister_n and_o people_n and_o that_o each_o for_o himself_o and_o one_o for_o another_o the_o minister_n he_o be_v to_o pray_v for_o himself_o that_o the_o lord_n will_v open_v his_o mouth_n and_o sanctify_v his_o heart_n and_o affection_n that_o he_o may_v preach_v powerful_o and_o effectual_o and_o for_o the_o people_n that_o they_o may_v be_v teachable_a and_o tractable_a humble_a willing_a and_o ready_a to_o understand_v and_o believe_v obey_v and_o practice_v that_o which_o they_o be_v teach_v and_o so_o likewise_o the_o people_n they_o be_v to_o pray_v for_o their_o minister_n and_o for_o themselves_o too_o that_o god_n will_v open_v their_o minister_n mouth_n and_o sanctify_v his_o heart_n and_o affection_n that_o he_o may_v preach_v powerful_o and_o effectual_o to_o they_o and_o also_o that_o they_o may_v have_v teachable_a heart_n ready_a and_o willing_a to_o hear_v and_o to_o obey_v and_o that_o god_n will_v water_v their_o heart_n with_o his_o spirit_n that_o they_o may_v be_v fruitful_a three_o this_o shall_v stir_v we_o up_o to_o use_v the_o mean_n profitable_o which_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o the_o church_n let_v they_o not_o be_v unprofitable_a towards_o we_o much_o less_o let_v they_o be_v contemn_v of_o we_o but_o let_v we_o make_v a_o good_a use_n of_o they_o as_o of_o god_n special_a ordinance_n which_o he_o will_v sure_o revenge_v if_o we_o contemn_v they_o do_v the_o lord_n bend_v himself_o whole_o and_o all_o his_o force_n as_o it_o be_v to_o make_v we_o understanding_n wise_a and_o obedient_a and_o to_o bring_v we_o to_o himself_o and_o shall_v we_o neglect_v so_o great_a salvation_n and_o not_o make_v use_n of_o it_o to_o be_v bring_v unto_o god_n do_v not_o receive_v such_o a_o precious_a grace_n of_o god_n in_o vain_a but_o embrace_v it_o take_v the_o opportunity_n of_o it_o now_o be_v the_o accept_a time_n now_o be_v the_o day_n of_o salvation_n now_o god_n stand_v at_o the_o door_n and_o knock_v now_o the_o table_n be_v prepare_v the_o victual_n be_v ready_a and_o the_o guest_n be_v call_v therefore_o let_v we_o now_o quicken_v up_o ourselves_o let_v we_o take_v hold_n on_o the_o promise_n of_o grace_n and_o let_v we_o receive_v the_o word_n not_o as_o the_o word_n of_o man_n but_o as_o it_o be_v indeed_o the_o word_n of_o the_o eternal_a god_n powerful_a to_o save_v we_o if_o we_o believe_v and_o obey_v it_o or_o else_o if_o we_o refuse_v and_o contemn_v it_o powerful_a to_o condemn_v we_o and_o to_o cast_v we_o headlong_o into_o hell_n use_v 2_o the_o second_o use_n be_v matter_n of_o comfort_n to_o we_o see_v god_n be_v all_o in_o all_o in_o constitute_v his_o church_n than_o it_o assure_v we_o of_o the_o welfare_n of_o the_o church_n it_o shall_v go_v well_o with_o the_o church_n although_o satan_n bend_v all_o his_o force_n against_o it_o though_o the_o wicked_a malign_a and_o persecute_v it_o god_n be_v for_o it_o who_o can_v be_v against_o it_o it_o be_v of_o god_n and_o therefore_o it_o shall_v stand_v in_o despite_n of_o satan_n and_o all_o his_o force_n it_o be_v god_n that_o plant_v his_o vine_n who_o can_v root_v it_o out_o he_o make_v a_o hedge_n about_o it_o who_o can_v break_v it_o down_o yea_o god_n be_v a_o wall_n of_o fire_n about_o his_o church_n therefore_o whosoever_o come_v near_o to_o hurt_v it_o shall_v be_v consume_v
and_o burn_v up_o god_n water_v it_o and_o make_v it_o fruitful_a who_o shall_v hinder_v the_o growth_n and_o increase_n thereof_o sure_o god_n will_v not_o suffer_v his_o own_o work_n to_o be_v hinder_v by_o any_o power_n in_o the_o world_n if_o this_o be_v well_o consider_v it_o will_v dismay_v the_o adversary_n of_o the_o church_n and_o even_o daunt_v satan_n himself_o for_o they_o know_v beforehand_o that_o they_o be_v fighter_n against_o god_n yea_o against_o his_o special_a hand_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o they_o shall_v prevail_v the_o wicked_a after_o the_o flood_n when_o they_o build_v the_o tower_n of_o babel_n they_o fight_v against_o god_n but_o they_o can_v not_o prevail_v it_o turn_v to_o their_o confusion_n but_o these_o fight_n against_o god_n in_o a_o special_a manner_n and_o therefore_o this_o be_v our_o comfort_n they_o shall_v never_o prevail_v though_o they_o band_n themselves_o together_o against_o the_o lord_n and_o against_o his_o church_n yet_o all_o they_o do_v be_v but_o the_o imagination_n of_o a_o vain_a thing_n because_o it_o be_v against_o god_n and_o against_o his_o people_n this_o shall_v comfort_v the_o faithful_a in_o all_o their_o persecution_n temptation_n and_o distress_n whatsoever_o because_o that_o they_o be_v build_v by_o god_n own_o hand_n and_o therefore_o like_o mount_n zion_n they_o shall_v stand_v fast_o for_o ever_o and_o never_o be_v remove_v and_o likewise_o they_o be_v continual_o assist_v by_o god_n hand_n so_o that_o their_o enemy_n can_v hurt_v they_o as_o the_o mountain_n be_v about_o jerusalem_n so_o the_o lord_n be_v about_o his_o people_n from_o henceforth_o and_o for_o ever_o psal_n 125.1_o 2._o so_o much_o of_o the_o first_o observation_n arise_v from_o the_o cause_n of_o the_o church_n the_o next_o point_n arise_v hence_o be_v this_o that_o wheresoever_o doct._n 2_o the_o true_a cause_n of_o a_o true_a church_n be_v effectual_a and_o that_o by_o the_o ordinary_a blessing_n of_o god_n they_o have_v their_o due_a success_n there_o certain_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n first_o i_o say_v where_o they_o be_v effectual_a for_o sometime_o the_o cause_n may_v be_v present_a yet_o not_o effectual_a or_o at_o least_o very_a little_a effectual_a but_o where_o they_o be_v effectual_a only_o there_o they_o cause_v a_o church_n second_o i_o say_v by_o the_o ordinary_a blessing_n of_o god_n for_o extraordinary_a blessing_n and_o success_n do_v not_o sufficient_o prove_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n the_o point_n be_v clear_a in_o the_o case_n of_o the_o church_n act._n 2._o from_o the_o begin_n to_o the_o end_n the_o cause_n of_o a_o church_n be_v there_o as_o we_o show_v before_o and_o they_o be_v effectual_a verse_n 41._o they_o be_v add_v to_o the_o church_n and_o it_o be_v ordinary_o effectual_a verse_n 47._o the_o lord_n add_v to_o the_o church_n from_o day_n to_o day_n etc._n etc._n and_o therefore_o there_o be_v a_o true_a church_n and_o so_o it_o be_v call_v in_o that_o verse_n 47._o and_o so_o it_o be_v in_o the_o case_n of_o the_o church_n of_o antioch_n act._n 11._o from_o 20._o to_o 26._o verse_n there_o be_v the_o mean_n the_o word_n and_o the_o minister_n of_o it_o and_o it_o be_v effectual_a for_o they_o believe_v and_o it_o be_v ordinary_o effectual_a for_o a_o great_a number_n believe_v and_o turn_v to_o the_o lord_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v a_o church_n and_o be_v also_o so_o call_v vers_fw-la 26._o so_o likewise_o in_o the_o 1_o cor._n 1.2_o unto_o the_o church_n of_o god_n which_o be_v at_o corinthus_n to_o they_o that_o be_v sanctify_v in_o christ_n jesus_n saint_n by_o calling_n etc._n etc._n they_o have_v a_o call_v then_o and_o this_o be_v effectual_a for_o they_o be_v sanctify_v in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o so_o be_v a_o true_a church_n the_o case_n be_v thus_o in_o the_o seven_o church_n revel_v 1.16_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o chapter_n there_o be_v the_o seven_o golden_a candlestick_n that_o be_v seven_o true_a visible_a church_n and_o there_o be_v the_o son_n of_o man_n that_o be_v christ_n walk_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o and_o there_o be_v the_o star_n that_o be_v his_o minister_n uphold_v in_o his_o right_a hand_n and_o a_o two-edged_a sword_n come_v out_o of_o his_o mouth_n that_o be_v his_o word_n and_o the_o power_n thereof_o for_o so_o the_o word_n be_v compare_v to_o a_o two-edged_a sword_n heb_n 4.12_o and_o these_o be_v effectual_a too_o the_o star_n be_v uphold_v and_o it_o be_v a_o sharp_a two-edged_a sword_n so_o where_o these_o be_v thus_o effectual_a there_o be_v a_o golden_a candlestick_n that_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n reas_n 1_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o point_n be_v these_o first_o the_o cause_n do_v always_o prove_v the_o effect_n necessary_o where_o it_o have_v her_o work_n and_o be_v not_o resist_v now_o here_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o a_o true_a church_n and_o their_o work_n be_v not_o resist_v therefore_o here_o be_v the_o effect_n too_o that_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n second_o where_o these_o cause_n be_v there_o be_v the_o definition_n reas_n 2_o of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n that_o be_v a_o company_n of_o people_n profess_v joint_o the_o save_a truth_n now_o where_o these_o be_v there_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n three_o whosoever_o live_v in_o such_o a_o church_n where_o these_o reas_n 3_o cause_n be_v walk_v in_o truth_n and_o sincerity_n and_o be_v careful_a and_o conscionable_a to_o obey_v these_o mean_n he_o be_v certain_o save_v and_o on_o the_o contrary_a whosoever_o live_v out_o of_o such_o a_o church_n and_o do_v not_o obey_v these_o mean_n ordinary_o he_o can_v be_v save_v then_o where_o these_o be_v must_v needs_o be_v a_o true_a church_n for_o without_o the_o church_n ordinary_o there_o be_v no_o salvation_n but_o our_o adversary_n that_o we_o have_v principal_o to_o deal_v against_o in_o this_o case_n confess_v it_o that_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n be_v the_o instrument_n and_o mean_n of_o constitute_v the_o church_n and_o conserve_n it_o therefore_o we_o will_v stand_v no_o long_o on_o the_o proof_n and_o ground_n of_o the_o point_n the_o use_v be_v these_o first_o this_o serve_v to_o justify_v our_o church_n use_v 1_o to_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n separation_n against_o the_o separation_n that_o deny_v it_o for_o by_o this_o it_o appear_v we_o have_v a_o true_a church_n because_o that_o we_o have_v the_o cause_n of_o a_o true_a church_n and_o because_o they_o be_v effectual_a yea_o and_o ordinary_o effectual_a among_o us._n if_o they_o except_v against_o we_o they_o must_v deny_v and_o say_v either_o that_o we_o have_v not_o the_o cause_n of_o a_o true_a church_n among_o we_o or_o that_o these_o cause_n be_v not_o effectual_a or_o else_o that_o they_o be_v not_o ordinary_o effectual_a among_o us._n some_o deny_v some_o of_o these_o and_o some_o deny_v all_o of_o they_o and_o therefore_o say_v we_o be_v no_o true_a church_n if_o they_o say_v we_o have_v not_o the_o mean_n discipline_n we_o answer_v that_o we_o have_v through_o god_n mercy_n the_o word_n and_o the_o sacrament_n and_o minister_n and_o gift_n which_o be_v the_o cause_n and_o mean_n of_o a_o church_n yea_o but_o say_v they_o you_o have_v not_o all_o god_n ordinance_n among_o you_o you_o want_v discipline_n etc._n etc._n i_o answer_v first_o we_o only_o wait_v to_o see_v they_o prove_v by_o the_o word_n to_o be_v god_n ordinance_n which_o they_o so_o much_o require_v answ_n and_o then_o we_o will_v receive_v they_o with_o both_o hand_n as_o we_o have_v do_v great_a thing_n second_o i_o answer_v if_o we_o shall_v not_o receive_v they_o yet_o we_o may_v be_v a_o true_a church_n though_o happy_o not_o so_o pure_a and_o perfect_a a_o church_n for_o discipline_n be_v not_o a_o matter_n of_o substance_n to_o the_o be_v of_o a_o church_n but_o to_o the_o well-being_n only_o object_n yea_o but_o say_v they_o though_o you_o have_v the_o word_n among_o you_o call_v yet_o you_o have_v it_o not_o out_o of_o the_o lord_n mouth_n for_o your_o minister_n have_v not_o a_o true_a call_n they_o be_v not_o call_v and_o send_v of_o god_n i_o answer_v that_o extraordinary_a call_n we_o neither_o have_v answ_n nor_o look_v for_o but_o such_o ordinary_a call_n as_o ordinary_a minister_n have_v have_v in_o any_o church_n since_o the_o death_n of_o the_o apostle_n we_o have_v the_o same_o let_v they_o show_v we_o any_o since_o that_o time_n and_o we_o will_v prove_v that_o we_o be_v answerable_a to_o it_o therefore_o if_o we_o be_v not_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n than_o there_o be_v never_o any_o since_o the_o apostle_n death_n yea_o object_n but_o say_v they_o you_o have_v your_o call_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n rome_n i_o
the_o church_n have_v a_o head_n so_o it_o have_v but_o one_o head_n for_o as_o a_o body_n without_o a_o head_n be_v a_o monster_n in_o nature_n by_o defect_n so_o likewise_o if_o there_o be_v two_o or_o many_o head_n to_o one_o body_n it_o be_v a_o monster_n in_o nature_n by_o excess_n now_o the_o church_n be_v but_o one_o body_n and_o therefore_o must_v have_v but_o one_o head_n three_o this_o our_o head_n be_v christ_n jesus_n and_o he_o alone_a for_o see_v the_o church_n be_v his_o own_o body_n therefore_o he_o alone_o must_v be_v the_o head_n if_o we_o shall_v assign_v any_o other_o to_o be_v the_o head_n of_o the_o church_n be_v christ_n body_n it_o be_v as_o if_o we_o shall_v take_v the_o body_n of_o a_o man_n and_o set_v upon_o it_o the_o head_n of_o a_o beast_n and_o so_o shall_v be_v a_o body_n against_o nature_n for_o as_o a_o body_n without_o a_o head_n be_v a_o monster_n in_o nature_n by_o defect_n and_o as_o a_o body_n with_o two_o or_o many_o head_n be_v a_o monster_n beyond_o nature_n by_o excess_n so_o for_o a_o body_n to_o have_v a_o head_n of_o another_o kind_n be_v against_o nature_n &_o be_v as_o monstrous_a as_o either_o of_o the_o other_o therefore_o the_o church_n be_v the_o body_n of_o christ_n must_v have_v christ_n alone_o to_o be_v the_o head_n of_o it_o and_o thus_o the_o way_n be_v beat_v out_o plain_a to_o this_o natural_a observation_n which_o follow_v doctr._n namely_o that_o our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n jesus_n christ_n as_o he_o be_v most_o true_o and_o proper_o the_o head_n of_o the_o church_n in_o general_a that_o be_v of_o the_o whole_a company_n of_o the_o elect_n which_o be_v his_o true_a mystical_a body_n as_o we_o have_v teach_v before_o so_o proportionable_o he_o be_v also_o the_o head_n of_o the_o true_a visible_a church_n that_o be_v of_o all_o congregation_n in_o the_o world_n profess_v open_o the_o save_v faith_n for_o the_o clear_n of_o this_o point_n we_o must_v hear_v call_v to_o mind_v two_o thing_n of_o which_o we_o have_v hear_v before_o first_o that_o there_o be_v some_o thing_n affirm_v in_o scripture_n which_o be_v principal_o speak_v of_o the_o invisible_a church_n but_o proportionable_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v of_o the_o visible_a the_o whole_a take_v the_o name_n of_o the_o better_a part_n and_o so_o this_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v here_o for_o when_o it_o be_v say_v simple_o that_o christ_n be_v the_o head_n of_o the_o church_n it_o be_v mean_v principal_o of_o the_o invisible_a church_n and_o yet_o be_v proportionable_o to_o be_v understand_v of_o the_o visible_a church_n because_o some_o of_o those_o member_n that_o be_v in_o the_o visible_a church_n be_v also_o of_o the_o invisible_a universal_a church_n the_o whole_a take_v denomination_n of_o the_o better_a part_n and_o therefore_o i_o do_v not_o say_v in_o the_o observation_n that_o christ_n be_v simple_o the_o head_n of_o a_o visible_a church_n but_o proportionable_o because_o there_o be_v some_o in_o the_o visible_a church_n that_o he_o be_v the_o head_n of_o the_o second_o point_n that_o we_o be_v here_o to_o call_v to_o mind_n for_o the_o clear_n of_o the_o observation_n be_v this_o that_o the_o visible_a church_n be_v either_o universal_a or_o particular_a the_o universal_a be_v the_o whole_a company_n of_o those_o that_o profess_v the_o save_a truth_n through_o the_o world_n from_o the_o begin_n to_o the_o end_n thereof_o a_o particular_a visible_a church_n be_v a_o company_n of_o those_o that_o join_v together_o in_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o same_o save_a truth_n in_o some_o particular_a place_n and_o time_n etc._n etc._n now_o therefore_o when_o i_o say_v christ_n be_v the_o head_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n i_o mean_v chief_o and_o most_o proper_o the_o universal_a visible_a church_n not_o but_o that_o it_o may_v be_v affirm_v also_o of_o every_o particular_a visible_a church_n yea_o and_o of_o every_o member_n too_o that_o be_v so_o far_o forth_o as_o it_o be_v a_o member_n of_o christ_n and_o christ_n the_o head_n thereof_o as_o the_o head_n be_v the_o head_n of_o the_o right_a side_n as_o well_o as_o of_o the_o left_a and_o of_o the_o hand_n too_o as_o well_o as_o of_o the_o whole_a body_n yet_o not_o simple_o and_o by_o way_n of_o appropriation_n but_o together_o with_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o member_n by_o way_n of_o participation_n and_o communication_n that_o be_v as_o be_v a_o member_n with_o the_o rest_n of_o such_o a_o body_n so_o all_o particular_a visible_a church_n from_o the_o begin_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n be_v indeed_o but_o one_o body_n though_o diverse_a in_o time_n place_n and_o other_o circumstance_n yet_o in_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o save_a truth_n they_o be_v but_o one_o and_o the_o same_o in_o general_n and_o christ_n be_v the_o head_n of_o the_o whole_a universal_a visible_a church_n and_o also_o he_o be_v the_o head_n of_o every_o particular_a visible_a church_n but_o that_o be_v only_o by_o way_n of_o communication_n as_o that_o particular_a church_n concurre_v and_o participate_v with_o other_o particular_a church_n in_o the_o universal_a visible_a church_n simple_o in_o itself_o christ_n can_v be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o head_n of_o one_o particular_a visible_a church_n for_o than_o we_o shall_v make_v many_o head_n and_o many_o body_n as_o the_o head_n can_v be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o head_n of_o the_o hand_n simple_o by_o itself_o but_o by_o way_n of_o concurrence_n with_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o member_n therefore_o when_o we_o say_v christ_n be_v the_o head_n of_o a_o particular_a visible_a church_n we_o must_v understand_v it_o in_o common_a as_o all_o particular_a visible_a church_n be_v member_n of_o that_o body_n whereof_o christ_n be_v the_o head_n the_o apostle_n make_v this_o plain_a in_o the_o 1_o cor._n 12.27_o you_o be_v the_o body_n of_o christ_n and_o member_n for_o your_o part_n they_o be_v the_o body_n of_o christ_n in_o some_o sense_n and_o yet_o in_o some_o sense_n they_o be_v but_o member_n and_o in_o both_o these_o sense_n they_o have_v christ_n to_o be_v their_o head_n consider_v the_o church_n of_o corinth_n in_o itself_o and_o it_o be_v a_o body_n consider_v it_o in_o the_o general_a with_o other_o particular_a church_n and_o it_o be_v but_o a_o part_n of_o the_o body_n i_o note_v this_o the_o rather_o to_o prevent_v a_o objection_n ready_a to_o be_v make_v against_o this_o truth_n which_o be_v that_o if_o christ_n be_v the_o head_n of_o every_o particular_a visible_a church_n in_o england_n and_o france_n etc._n etc._n then_o either_o there_o be_v many_o christ_n because_o there_o be_v many_o body_n or_o else_o there_o be_v but_o one_o head_n to_o many_o body_n both_o which_o be_v absurd_a but_o christ_n be_v the_o head_n of_o every_o particular_a visible_a church_n proportionable_o that_o be_v as_o that_o particular_a church_n be_v a_o member_n of_o the_o universal_a visible_a church_n and_o so_o much_o shall_v serve_v for_o explication_n adaequatum_fw-la now_o we_o come_v to_o the_o proof_n that_o christ_n jesus_n be_v the_o head_n and_o the_o only_a head_n proportionable_o of_o a_o true_a particular_a visible_a church_n in_o ephes_n 1.22_o the_o apostle_n say_v god_n have_v appoint_v he_o over_o all_o thing_n to_o be_v the_o head_n to_o his_o church_n i_o grant_v that_o this_o be_v speak_v principal_o and_o proper_o of_o the_o church_n universal_a for_o that_o be_v the_o only_a body_n that_o be_v in_o all_o respect_v fit_v and_o equal_v to_o the_o head_n and_o the_o head_n to_o it_o yet_o it_o hold_v consequent_o and_o by_o proportion_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n for_o that_o be_v therefore_o call_v a_o church_n because_o it_o be_v presume_v that_o there_o be_v at_o least_o some_o faithful_a and_o elect_a of_o god_n among_o they_o yea_o the_o apostle_n seem_v to_o speak_v it_o with_o reference_n to_o that_o particular_a church_n of_o ephesus_n who_o he_o call_v saint_n in_o the_o first_o verse_n and_o it_o can_v be_v no_o comfort_n to_o they_o to_o know_v that_o christ_n be_v the_o head_n to_o his_o church_n unless_o it_o be_v intend_v that_o they_o be_v a_o part_n of_o his_o body_n and_o so_o likewise_o ephes_n 4.15_o 16._o christ_n be_v say_v to_o be_v the_o head_n of_o his_o body_n now_o what_o body_n be_v that_o but_o only_o that_o body_n speak_v of_o in_o the_o 11._o and_o 12._o verse_n where_o his_o ministry_n be_v public_o exercise_v and_o that_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n so_o in_o ephes_n 5.23_o christ_n be_v the_o head_n of_o the_o church_n and_o the_o church_n be_v his_o body_n that_o be_v speak_v principal_o of_o the_o invisible_a church_n but_o be_v proportionable_o to_o be_v understand_v of_o the_o visible_a for_o the_o
church_n govern_v by_o the_o word_n not_o else_o and_o in_o this_o sense_n the_o good_a king_n both_o of_o israel_n and_o judah_n be_v always_o the_o head_n of_o the_o church_n not_o in_o decide_v matter_n of_o faith_n and_o religion_n for_o that_o god_n word_n decide_v but_o this_o word_n head_n of_o the_o church_n scripture_n must_v be_v wary_o use_v because_o it_o be_v not_o find_v in_o the_o scripture_n but_o chief_a governor_n be_v and_o therefore_o in_o that_o sense_n the_o king_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v head_n of_o the_o church_n within_o his_o dominion_n because_o under_o christ_n he_o be_v chief_a governor_n second_o they_o except_v &_o say_v the_o universal_a visible_a church_n have_v a_o visible_a head_n now_o where_o be_v this_o visible_a head_n christ_n be_v not_o visible_a i_o answer_v yes_o christ_n be_v visible_a for_o first_o though_o he_o be_v not_o actual_o see_v in_o this_o dispensation_n of_o time_n yet_o he_o may_v be_v see_v if_o the_o king_n after_o he_o be_v crown_v shall_v keep_v himself_o in_o his_o closet_n all_o his_o life_n time_n yet_o he_o be_v a_o king_n and_o a_o visible_a king_n too_o though_o he_o be_v not_o actual_o see_v of_o his_o subject_n so_o christ_n he_o be_v the_o king_n of_o his_o church_n and_o be_v now_o in_o heaven_n visible_a where_o the_o saint_n see_v he_o and_o where_o we_o shall_v see_v he_o too_o and_o that_o with_o these_o eye_n of_o we_o and_o therefore_o he_o be_v visible_a though_o he_o be_v not_o actual_o see_v of_o we_o now_o second_o i_o answer_v that_o in_o some_o sort_n he_o be_v visible_a daily_o in_o his_o church_n in_o the_o word_n and_o in_o the_o sacrament_n especial_o in_o the_o lord_n supper_n in_o these_o christ_n be_v among_o we_o and_o in_o our_o sight_n crucify_v gal._n 3.1_o three_o he_o be_v once_o visible_a and_o see_v on_o earth_n for_o many_o year_n and_o shall_v be_v see_v by_o every_o eye_n at_o the_o last_o day_n and_o that_o as_o the_o head_n of_o the_o church_n four_o his_o minister_n together_o with_o lawful_a magistrate_n do_v in_o some_o sort_n visible_o represent_v he_o among_o us._n so_o that_o christ_n and_o not_o the_o pope_n be_v the_o head_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n though_o he_o be_v not_o actual_o see_v every_o day_n among_o us._n and_o so_o much_o for_o the_o first_o use_n the_o second_o use_n be_v matter_n of_o comfort_n to_o god_n church_n in_o use_n 2_o that_o christ_n be_v their_o head_n and_o that_o many_o way_n first_o way_n it_o show_v the_o excellency_n of_o the_o church_n second_o the_o nearness_n it_o have_v with_o christ_n last_o it_o show_v the_o safety_n of_o the_o church_n first_o it_o show_v the_o excellency_n of_o the_o church_n for_o see_v it_o have_v such_o a_o glorious_a head_n as_o our_o lord_n christ_n be_v therefore_o the_o body_n must_v needs_o be_v glorious_a too_o the_o great_a kingdom_n and_o monarch_n in_o the_o world_n come_v infinite_o short_a of_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o church_n even_o as_o far_o as_o their_o governor_n come_v short_a of_o the_o excellency_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v as_o far_o as_o mortal_a and_o sinful_a man_n come_v short_a of_o the_o eternal_a and_o bless_a son_n of_o god_n as_o christ_n have_v a_o name_n above_o all_o name_n to_o be_v the_o head_n of_o head_n that_o be_v the_o most_o excellent_a and_o glorious_a head_n so_o have_v the_o church_n in_o her_o measure_n a_o name_n above_o all_o name_n the_o body_n of_o body_n the_o most_o excellent_a and_o glorious_a body_n in_o the_o world_n second_o it_o show_v the_o near_a conjunction_n the_o church_n have_v with_o christ_n and_o be_v matter_n of_o comfort_n to_o the_o church_n in_o that_o respect_n there_o be_v no_o conjunction_n so_o near_o as_o this_o let_v any_o or_o all_o the_o society_n in_o the_o world_n show_v i_o such_o a_o near_a conjunction_n betwixt_o they_o and_o their_o governor_n as_o be_v betwixt_o christ_n and_o his_o church_n servant_n have_v their_o lord_n company_n their_o master_n city_n their_o major_n subject_n their_o king_n sheep_n their_o shepherd_n etc._n etc._n yea_o but_o the_o church_n have_v christ_n to_o be_v her_o head_n and_o this_o be_v the_o near_a conjunction_n that_o can_v be_v other_o governor_n of_o other_o society_n those_o that_o be_v under_o they_o or_o conjoin_v with_o they_o in_o the_o same_o company_n may_v have_v hurt_v and_o yet_o they_o not_o know_v of_o it_o or_o if_o they_o know_v it_o they_o do_v not_o affect_v it_o at_o least_o if_o they_o do_v affect_v it_o it_o be_v but_o for_o conscience_n of_o their_o place_n only_o but_o christ_n know_v the_o harm_n and_o wrong_n that_o be_v do_v to_o his_o church_n and_o affect_v they_o as_o do_v to_o himself_o act._n 9_o saul_n saul_n why_o persecute_v thou_o i_o say_v our_o saviour_n he_o take_v the_o injury_n that_o saul_n offer_v to_o his_o church_n as_o do_v to_o himself_o and_o of_o necessity_n christ_n must_v needs_o be_v sensible_a of_o the_o harm_n do_v to_o his_o church_n as_o the_o head_n be_v of_o the_o hurt_n do_v to_o the_o body_n it_o be_v impossible_a but_o that_o the_o head_n shall_v be_v sensible_a of_o the_o hurt_n do_v to_o the_o body_n and_o that_o in_o regard_n of_o itself_o as_o well_o as_o of_o the_o member_n this_o the_o church_n consider_v and_o receive_v inestimable_a comfort_n by_o the_o consideration_n thereof_o for_o by_o this_o they_o be_v assure_v of_o christ_n near_a presence_n to_o they_o in_o their_o affliction_n by_o mean_n of_o this_o near_a conjunction_n and_o also_o they_o be_v assure_v that_o he_o will_v relieve_v they_o of_o the_o wrong_n and_o injury_n do_v unto_o they_o and_o revenge_v they_o on_o their_o enemy_n as_o do_v to_o himself_o and_o also_o he_o will_v merciful_o recompense_v all_o our_o releever_n as_o if_o they_o have_v relieve_v he_o on_o earth_n in_o his_o great_a extremity_n this_o point_n be_v marvelous_a comfortable_a to_o all_o such_o as_o know_v themselves_o to_o be_v live_v member_n of_o his_o body_n the_o church_n three_o this_o be_v matter_n of_o comfort_n to_o we_o in_o regard_n of_o our_o safety_n which_o we_o have_v by_o mean_n of_o this_o near_a conjunction_n christ_n be_v our_o head_n therefore_o we_o shall_v be_v safe_a the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o we_o we_o be_v build_v upon_o the_o rock_n and_o that_o rock_n be_v christ_n and_o they_o shall_v never_o prevail_v against_o we_o if_o they_o can_v prevail_v against_o christ_n than_o they_o may_v prevail_v against_o we_o too_o but_o the_o one_o be_v impossible_a and_o so_o be_v the_o other_o too_o second_o it_o assure_v we_o that_o we_o shall_v prevail_v against_o they_o nay_o it_o be_v pass_v do_v for_o it_o be_v do_v already_o for_o christ_n our_o head_n have_v overcome_v the_o world_n the_o devil_n and_o all_o the_o power_n of_o darkness_n the_o head_n be_v above_o water_n the_o body_n can_v possible_o be_v drown_v i_o have_v overcome_v the_o world_n say_v our_o saviour_n three_o it_o assure_v we_o that_o certain_o we_o shall_v live_v and_o reign_v in_o heaven_n for_o where_o the_o head_n be_v there_o the_o member_n shall_v be_v also_o joh._n 17.24_o yea_o we_o be_v already_o by_o communication_n with_o he_o in_o heavenly_a place_n ephes_n 2.6_o because_o he_o be_v our_o head_n be_v there_o already_o the_o three_o use_n be_v for_o instruction_n that_o see_v christ_n be_v the_o use_v 3_o head_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n than_o we_o must_v labour_v so_o to_o esteem_v he_o and_o to_o believe_v in_o he_o to_o reverence_v he_o and_o to_o obey_v he_o as_o our_o head_n first_o therefore_o see_v it_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o head_n to_o convey_v life_n sense_n and_o motion_n to_o the_o body_n let_v we_o therefore_o wait_v upon_o our_o head_n jesus_n christ_n and_o call_v upon_o he_o for_o his_o life_n and_o spirit_n and_o for_o his_o direction_n in_o all_o our_o action_n both_o for_o matter_n of_o doctrine_n and_o manner_n and_o discipline_n too_o and_o also_o let_v we_o defy_v all_o other_o direction_n and_o all_o other_o counsel_n that_o do_v not_o agree_v either_o particular_o or_o at_o least_o in_o the_o general_a with_o his_o reveal_v will_n all_o direction_n therefore_o that_o be_v against_o christ_n and_o against_o his_o word_n though_o it_o be_v bring_v to_o we_o by_o a_o angel_n from_o heaven_n we_o must_v not_o receive_v it_o but_o stand_v at_o defiance_n with_o it_o and_o we_o must_v submit_v ourselves_o entire_o to_o the_o sceptre_n of_o the_o word_n and_o spirit_n of_o our_o head_n christ_n it_o be_v israel_n perverseness_n 1_o sam._n 8.7_o and_o the_o jew_n wilfulness_n luk._n 19.14_o that_o they_o do_v refuse_v to_o have_v christ_n to_o be_v their_o head_n
full_a of_o wicked_a and_o ungodly_a man_n in_o one_o kind_a or_o other_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n may_v be_v a_o witness_n of_o all_o this_o there_o be_v carnal_a people_n 1_o cor._n 3.3_o there_o be_v fornicator_n and_o one_o in_o the_o high_a degree_n a_o incestuous_a person_n 1_o cor._n 5_o 1._o so_o there_o be_v depravers_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o resurrection_n 1_o cor._n 15.12_o and_o for_o the_o lord_n supper_n how_o horrible_o do_v they_o abuse_v it_o 1_o cor._n 11.21_o yet_o for_o all_o this_o though_o there_o be_v such_o notorious_a offender_n in_o it_o it_o be_v a_o true_a church_n so_o likewise_o if_o you_o will_v find_v out_o false_a brethren_n you_o shall_v have_v they_o in_o the_o church_n gal._n â—_o 4_o so_o for_o heretic_n you_o shall_v have_v they_o in_o the_o church_n too_o 1_o cor._n 11.19_o there_o must_v be_v heresy_n among_o you_o say_v the_o apostle_n and_o revel_v 2.6_o 14_o 15_o in_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n there_o be_v the_o nicholaitan_o and_o so_o in_o the_o church_n of_o pergamus_n there_o be_v they_o that_o maintain_v the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n and_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o nicholaitan_o so_o for_o schismatic_n they_o be_v in_o the_o church_n too_o before_o they_o be_v separate_v 1_o cor._n 11.18_o there_o be_v dissension_n among_o they_o nay_o i_o will_v say_v further_o that_o antichrist_n may_v be_v a_o member_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n the_o text_n intend_v he_o must_v be_v so_o 2_o thes_n 2.4_o he_o must_v sit_v in_o the_o temple_n of_o god_n diverse_a divine_n tire_v themselves_o with_o opinion_n upon_o this_o place_n some_o say_v he_o must_v sit_v in_o that_o which_o be_v the_o temple_n of_o god_n but_o that_o answer_v not_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o word_n for_o he_o must_v sit_v in_o that_o which_o be_v the_o temple_n of_o god_n yea_o but_o say_v other_o he_o may_v sit_v in_o that_o which_o be_v the_o temple_n of_o god_n because_o some_o faithful_a lie_n hide_v within_o it_o but_o this_o can_v be_v the_o meaning_n of_o it_o for_o it_o be_v mean_v of_o a_o visible_a church_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v antichrist_n shall_v sit_v in_o that_o which_o be_v the_o temple_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n till_o he_o be_v utter_o corrupt_a and_o full_o discover_v and_o no_o question_n but_o that_o many_o year_n after_o antichrist_n fate_n in_o the_o church_n it_o be_v a_o true_a church_n so_o that_o it_o be_v plain_a that_o hypocrite_n and_o castaway_n in_o the_o high_a degree_n be_v &_o may_v be_v of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n reas_n 1_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o point_n be_v these_o first_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o gospel_n require_v it_o that_o some_o member_n of_o the_o church_n shall_v be_v reprobate_n and_o castaway_n for_o the_o gospel_n 2_o cor._n 2.16_o be_v the_o savour_n of_o death_n unto_o death_n to_o some_o and_o to_o other_o it_o be_v the_o savour_n of_o life_n unto_o life_n to_o the_o wicked_a it_o be_v the_o savour_n of_o death_n unto_o death_n the_o sweetness_n and_o the_o comfort_n of_o the_o gospel_n draw_v they_o on_o to_o profess_v and_o to_o embrace_v it_o for_o a_o while_n but_o the_o hardness_n of_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o make_v they_o to_o give_v over_o and_o to_o fall_v away_o at_o last_o and_o so_o it_o become_v a_o savour_n of_o death_n unto_o they_o reas_n 2_o second_o the_o excellency_n of_o the_o church_n and_o of_o a_o christian_a profession_n be_v such_o that_o general_o all_o man_n desire_v to_o be_v of_o it_o and_o therefore_o even_o the_o wicked_a will_v seem_v to_o be_v such_o and_o so_o they_o join_v to_o the_o outward_a communion_n of_o the_o church_n though_o they_o be_v but_o reprobate_n and_o castaway_n three_o it_o be_v the_o corruption_n of_o man_n heart_n to_o be_v satisfy_v and_o to_o rest_v in_o shadow_n but_o leave_v the_o substance_n so_o reas_n 3_o that_o if_o they_o be_v baptize_v and_o so_o receive_v into_o the_o church_n they_o rest_v in_o that_o and_o go_v no_o further_o foolish_o flatter_a themselves_o that_o all_o be_v well_o when_o as_o yet_o they_o want_v the_o substance_n of_o baptism_n and_o so_o whereas_o they_o think_v that_o they_o be_v in_o the_o way_n to_o heaven_n they_o be_v in_o the_o high_a way_n to_o hell_n four_o it_o be_v from_o the_o subtlety_n and_o malice_n of_o the_o devil_n reas_n 4_o he_o it_o be_v that_o sow_n the_o tare_n among_o the_o good_a corn_n matth._n 13.28_o he_o seek_v above_o all_o the_o disgrace_n and_o spoil_v of_o the_o church_n and_o this_o he_o know_v he_o can_v do_v more_o than_o by_o draw_v the_o member_n and_o professor_n thereof_o into_o hypocrisy_n and_o wickedness_n five_o else_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o hypocrite_n at_o all_o unless_o reas_n 5_o they_o be_v find_v in_o the_o church_n for_o he_o can_v be_v a_o hypocrite_n unless_o he_o make_v profession_n of_o the_o faith_n and_o so_o be_v of_o the_o visible_a church_n six_o the_o visible_a church_n consist_v only_o of_o man_n now_o reas_n 6_o man_n can_v see_v the_o heart_n and_o therefore_o if_o hypocrite_n join_v to_o the_o church_n she_o can_v disburden_v herself_o till_o she_o know_v they_o by_o their_o outward_a course_n and_o therefore_o till_o then_o she_o be_v constrain_v to_o nourish_v they_o as_o her_o own_o member_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o reprobate_n and_o castaway_n be_v in_o the_o visible_a church_n seven_o it_o be_v for_o the_o trial_n of_o the_o faithful_a and_o therefore_o reas_n 7_o hypocrite_n heretic_n and_o false_a brethren_n be_v among_o they_o to_o prove_v they_o as_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1_o cor._n 11.19_o god_n will_v try_v we_o whether_o we_o will_v follow_v he_o in_o his_o word_n or_o they_o in_o their_o heresy_n and_o fancy_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v among_o we_o even_o as_o the_o canaanite_n be_v leave_v among_o the_o israelite_n to_o prove_v they_o whether_o they_o will_v keep_v the_o way_n of_o the_o lord_n or_o not_o judg._n 2.22_o and_o chap._n 3.1.12_o reas_n 8_o eighthly_a god_n goodness_n and_o readiness_n to_o all_o intendr_v to_o all_o sort_n the_o mean_n of_o grace_n be_v another_o reason_n of_o it_o matth._n 22.10_o all_o both_o good_a and_o bad_a be_v bring_v into_o the_o wedding_n feast_n he_o will_v have_v the_o bad_a to_o come_v as_o well_o as_o the_o good_a that_o they_o may_v have_v the_o tender_a of_o grace_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o reprobate_n and_o castawaye_n be_v in_o the_o visible_a church_n reas_n 9_o nine_o it_o be_v so_o because_o god_n will_v have_v the_o argument_n of_o his_o justice_n upon_o hypocrite_n within_o his_o church_n that_o the_o faithful_a see_v it_o practise_v upon_o they_o it_o may_v strike_v a_o great_a reverence_n of_o god_n into_o their_o heart_n matth._n 22.13_o 1_o cor._n 11.30_o 32._o that_o when_o the_o wicked_a be_v punish_v the_o righteous_a may_v take_v warning_n therefore_o there_o be_v reprobate_n in_o the_o church_n reas_n 10_o last_o such_o must_v be_v in_o the_o church_n that_o discipline_n may_v be_v exercise_v in_o cut_v they_o off_o 1_o cor._n 5.4_o 7._o and_o 2_o cor._n 2.7_o 8._o such_o must_v be_v deliver_v to_o satan_n that_o they_o may_v be_v win_v if_o it_o be_v possible_a or_o at_o least_o that_o the_o faithful_a may_v be_v admonish_v by_o their_o example_n and_o may_v take_v heed_n by_o their_o reproach_n and_o censure_n for_o when_o the_o wicked_a be_v punish_v the_o righteous_a will_v beware_v use_v 1_o the_o first_o use_n teach_v we_o that_o if_o hypocrite_n and_o castawaye_n may_v be_v and_o oftentimes_o be_v member_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n than_o we_o be_v not_o to_o look_v for_o such_o a_o pure_a and_o perfect_a estate_n of_o a_o church_n in_o this_o world_n that_o it_o shall_v be_v without_o hypocrite_n and_o ungodly_a man_n in_o it_o so_o long_o as_o we_o live_v here_o in_o this_o world_n good_a and_o bad_a wheat_n and_o tare_n be_v promiscuous_o and_o confuse_o scatter_a and_o mingle_v together_o the_o utter_a and_o thorough_a separation_n of_o they_o be_v respite_v to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n it_o pass_v the_o skill_n and_o power_n of_o man_n to_o do_v this_o it_o be_v to_o be_v do_v by_o the_o angel_n at_o christ_n direction_n when_o he_o come_v to_o judgement_n matth._n 13.39_o 40._o it_o be_v true_a that_o a_o separation_n from_o the_o bad_a must_v be_v endeavour_v by_o we_o here_o in_o this_o life_n so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v know_v to_o we_o and_o so_o far_o as_o we_o be_v able_a to_o separate_v but_o first_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o we_o to_o know_v all_o that_o be_v wicked_a second_o for_o those_o we_o do_v know_v it_o be_v impossible_a also_o to_o be_v quite_o separate_v from_o
their_o arm_n and_o livery_n whereby_o they_o be_v distinguish_v from_o all_o other_o company_n yea_o we_o know_v that_o every_o lord_n and_o great_a man_n have_v his_o badge_n and_o cognisance_n whereby_o his_o servant_n and_o attendant_n be_v to_o be_v know_v from_o other_o man_n so_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n the_o lord_n of_o lord_n the_o great_a and_o glorious_a god_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n have_v his_o badge_n and_o cognisance_n whereby_o his_o servant_n be_v distinguish_v and_o discern_v from_o all_o other_o from_o the_o servant_n of_o sin_n and_o from_o the_o servant_n of_o the_o world_n and_o from_o the_o servant_n of_o man_n true_a it_o be_v that_o the_o church_n invisible_a be_v know_v to_o god_n alone_o because_o none_o but_o he_o be_v the_o searcher_n of_o the_o heart_n but_o the_o church_n visible_a be_v therefore_o call_v visible_a because_o it_o have_v certain_a sensible_a note_n and_o mark_n set_v upon_o it_o that_o at_o the_o sight_n thereof_o it_o may_v be_v know_v to_o be_v the_o church_n of_o god_n i_o do_v not_o speak_v here_o of_o the_o inward_a mark_n which_o god_n do_v set_v secret_o on_o his_o child_n as_o that_o they_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n join_v by_o faith_n unto_o christ_n their_o head_n endue_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o adoption_n assure_v they_o of_o god_n favour_n and_o persuade_v they_o to_o holiness_n and_o a_o inward_a love_n and_o affection_n to_o the_o brethren_n for_o by_o these_o they_o be_v only_o know_v to_o god_n and_o to_o themselves_o but_o i_o speak_v of_o outward_a mark_n whereby_o they_o be_v know_v to_o other_o such_z as_o that_o thereby_o the_o world_n may_v take_v notice_n of_o such_o a_o congregation_n so_o mark_v that_o they_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n of_o god_n this_o be_v a_o matter_n practise_v in_o the_o former_a testament_n and_o prophesy_v for_o the_o latter_a isai_n 19.19_o that_o the_o visible_a church_n shall_v be_v thus_o mark_v out_o and_o sure_o it_o be_v very_o necessary_a church_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v such_o outward_a token_n and_o mark_n to_o discern_v it_o by_o first_o in_o respect_n of_o those_o that_o be_v within_o the_o church_n for_o the_o sure_a confirmation_n of_o their_o heart_n that_o they_o be_v in_o the_o right_a way_n as_o also_o for_o the_o public_a testification_n of_o faith_n and_o religion_n to_o be_v in_o the_o world_n and_o second_o in_o respect_n of_o those_o that_o be_v without_o for_o many_o arrogate_v false_o the_o name_n of_o the_o church_n unto_o themselves_o as_o false_a prophet_n and_o heretic_n and_o schismatic_n all_o which_o may_v be_v discover_v plain_o by_o these_o mark_n that_o they_o be_v not_o such_o as_o they_o pretend_v themselves_o to_o be_v as_o also_o because_o some_o of_o they_o that_o be_v without_o belong_v to_o god_n election_n by_o these_o mark_n discern_v the_o true_a church_n may_v thereby_o be_v allure_v to_o join_v to_o her_o communion_n and_o so_o be_v bring_v to_o god_n that_o all_o the_o rest_n may_v be_v leave_v utter_o without_o excuse_n that_o be_v show_v by_o such_o palpable_a and_o plain_a evidence_n which_o be_v the_o true_a church_n out_o of_o which_o there_o be_v no_o salvation_n yet_o they_o wilful_o refuse_v to_o assemble_v thereunto_o what_o be_v to_o be_v think_v of_o such_o but_o that_o they_o be_v rebel_n against_o god_n and_o enemy_n to_o christ_n kingdom_n that_o when_o he_o display_v his_o banner_n open_o they_o will_v not_o come_v into_o the_o fight_n on_o his_o side_n but_o take_v part_n against_o he_o legitimate_a now_o these_o outward_a mark_n have_v certain_a quality_n or_o property_n belong_v to_o they_o which_o wheresoever_o they_o be_v find_v they_o make_v these_o mark_n legitimate_a and_o to_o be_v acknowledge_v to_o be_v true_a and_o sufficient_a else_o they_o be_v not_o to_o be_v admit_v now_o these_o quality_n or_o property_n belong_v to_o these_o mark_n of_o the_o church_n be_v two_o first_o that_o these_o mark_n and_o note_n of_o the_o church_n must_v be_v essential_a to_o it_o second_o that_o they_o must_v be_v better_o know_v to_o we_o than_o the_o church_n itself_o first_o they_o must_v be_v essential_a that_o be_v and_o such_o as_o concern_v the_o very_a be_v of_o the_o church_n some_o concern_v the_o well_o be_v of_o the_o church_n as_o discipline_n and_o such_o like_a which_o wheresoever_o it_o be_v find_v it_o make_v that_o church_n more_o pure_a sound_a and_o perfect_a than_o other_o church_n that_o want_v thâ—m_n but_o the_o mark_n we_o seek_v after_o be_v such_o as_o concern_v the_o very_a be_v of_o the_o church_n so_o that_o wheresoever_o they_o be_v find_v there_o be_v certain_o the_o true_a be_v of_o a_o visible_a church_n and_o also_o wheresoever_o the_o church_n visible_a have_v any_o true_a be_v at_o all_o they_o there_o be_v these_o find_v and_o this_o quality_n be_v attend_v with_o three_o other_o that_o be_v subordinate_a to_o it_o and_o follow_v consequent_o upon_o it_o as_o first_o these_o mark_n must_v have_v this_o be_v that_o as_o they_o be_v essential_a to_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n so_o they_o must_v be_v common_a to_o every_o church_n visible_a throughout_o the_o world_n for_o if_o any_o church_n be_v without_o they_o than_o they_o be_v not_o sufficient_a mark_n second_o they_o must_v be_v proper_a to_o the_o church_n visible_a and_o to_o no_o other_o congregation_n in_o the_o world_n for_o if_o these_o mark_n agree_v to_o any_o other_o congregation_n there_o be_v no_o certainty_n in_o they_o to_o find_v out_o the_o church_n by_o they_o three_o they_o must_v always_o be_v join_v together_o so_o that_o wheresoever_o there_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n there_o be_v these_o mark_n and_o wheresoever_o these_o be_v there_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n for_o if_o at_o any_o time_n they_o be_v asunder_o then_o there_o be_v a_o time_n when_o a_o church_n visible_a be_v not_o to_o be_v discern_v from_o other_o congregation_n i_o do_v not_o say_v they_o be_v always_o find_v in_o the_o same_o degree_n but_o sometime_o more_o sometime_o less_o always_o in_o some_o measure_n and_o this_o be_v the_o first_o quality_n of_o these_o mark_n with_o the_o subordinate_a quality_n that_o follow_v upon_o they_o the_o second_o property_n or_o quality_n of_o these_o mark_n mark_n be_v that_o they_o must_v be_v better_o know_v than_o the_o church_n itself_o for_o to_o seek_v out_o a_o thing_n unknown_a by_o that_o which_o be_v as_o much_o unknown_a or_o a_o thing_n little_o know_v by_o that_o which_o be_v less_o know_v be_v a_o thing_n preposterous_a and_o absurd_a we_o be_v never_o the_o near_o but_o if_o we_o will_v seek_v out_o a_o thing_n wise_o we_o must_v seek_v that_o which_o be_v unknown_a by_o that_o which_o be_v know_v and_o that_o which_o be_v but_o a_o little_a know_v by_o that_o which_o be_v more_o know_v for_o that_o which_o i_o know_v another_o by_o must_v be_v better_o know_v to_o i_o than_o the_o other_o as_o for_o example_n if_o i_o know_v a_o man_n by_o his_o face_n or_o by_o some_o wart_n or_o mole_n upon_o it_o than_o i_o must_v know_v that_o better_a or_o at_o least_o have_v a_o more_o particular_a impression_n of_o it_o in_o my_o mind_n than_o of_o the_o man_n himself_o so_o the_o note_n and_o mark_n of_o the_o church_n must_v be_v better_a know_v to_o i_o than_o the_o church_n itself_o and_o both_o these_o mark_n and_o note_n must_v concur_v together_o for_o be_v a_o certain_a mark_n it_o must_v be_v first_o able_a to_o direct_v we_o to_o the_o thing_n we_o seek_v and_o second_o such_o as_o may_v not_o deceive_v we_o therein_o if_o it_o be_v a_o thing_n well_o know_v and_o yet_o not_o essential_a it_o may_v direct_v but_o it_o be_v apt_a to_o deceive_v again_o if_o it_o be_v essential_a and_o not_o best_o know_v as_o it_o be_v not_o apt_a to_o deceive_v so_o it_o be_v not_o able_a to_o direct_v therefore_o they_o must_v both_o concur_v together_o so_o then_o the_o issue_n of_o all_o be_v this_o that_o whatsoever_o thing_n do_v so_o belong_v to_o a_o visible_a church_n that_o be_v examine_v by_o these_o note_n they_o will_v stand_v answerable_a thereunto_o these_o and_o none_o other_o be_v to_o be_v acknowledge_v right_a mark_n thereof_o 727._o now_o there_o be_v none_o that_o will_v hold_v the_o touch_n of_o these_o note_n but_o these_o three_o the_o word_n preach_v the_o sacrament_n administer_v and_o three_o obedience_n profess_v to_o that_o which_o they_o both_o require_v which_o because_o it_o be_v the_o main_a substance_n of_o all_o that_o which_o be_v speak_v touch_v this_o point_n we_o will_v deliver_v and_o handle_v it_o by_o way_n of_o observation_n doctr._n the_o observation_n be_v this_o that_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n and_o the_o administration_n
of_o the_o sacrament_n and_o profession_n of_o obedience_n to_o the_o require_v of_o they_o both_o that_o be_v to_o that_o which_o they_o both_o require_v be_v the_o chief_a and_o most_o infallible_a mark_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n 2.42_o i_o do_v not_o say_v that_o they_o be_v the_o only_a mark_n for_o many_o other_o be_v assign_v and_o may_v be_v admit_v but_o not_o upon_o these_o property_n afore_o mention_v for_o they_o be_v not_o essential_a nor_o better_o know_v than_o the_o church_n itself_o as_o these_o be_v therefore_o these_o be_v the_o chief_a and_o most_o infallible_a mark_n for_o proof_n of_o the_o observation_n look_v into_o matth._n 28.19_o go_v teach_v all_o nation_n baptise_v they_o say_v our_o saviour_n in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o father_n the_o son_n and_o the_o holy_a ghost_n etc._n etc._n what_o be_v the_o business_n our_o saviour_n send_v his_o apostle_n about_o it_o be_v to_o plant_v and_o erect_v visible_a church_n in_o the_o world_n how_o be_v that_o to_o be_v do_v go_v say_v he_o teach_v all_o nation_n etc._n etc._n first_o they_o must_v teach_v the_o word_n there_o be_v the_o word_n preach_v second_o go_v and_o baptize_v etc._n etc._n there_o be_v the_o sacrament_n administer_v and_o though_o but_o one_o be_v name_v as_o that_o be_v of_o most_o special_a use_n for_o the_o present_a dispensation_n of_o plant_v church_n yet_o figurative_o the_o other_o be_v intend_v for_o so_o you_o shall_v find_v be_v their_o practice_n act._n 2.41_o 42._o where_o it_o be_v say_v not_o only_o that_o they_o do_v baptize_v but_o that_o they_o break_v bread_n also_o there_o be_v the_o lord_n supper_n too_o and_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v think_v that_o they_o go_v beyond_o their_o commission_n in_o this_o for_o it_o be_v the_o minister_n part_v to_o deliver_v it_o and_o the_o people_n to_o receive_v it_o so_o then_o here_o be_v the_o word_n preach_v and_o the_o sacrament_n administer_v and_o what_o else_o be_v they_o to_o do_v vers_fw-la 20._o teach_v they_o to_o observe_v and_o do_v etc._n etc._n there_o be_v at_o least_o profession_n of_o obedience_n as_o if_o christ_n shall_v say_v let_v they_o profess_v at_o least_o that_o they_o will_v obey_v you_o else_o turn_v away_o from_o they_o and_o shake_v off_o the_o dust_n of_o your_o foot_n as_o a_o witness_n against_o they_o the_o word_n be_v so_o precise_a for_o every_o particular_a in_o the_o observation_n and_o that_o from_o our_o saviour_n own_o mouth_n and_o contain_v such_o a_o absolute_a description_n of_o the_o office_n both_o of_o minister_n and_o people_n and_o the_o intendment_n be_v the_o erect_n and_o settle_v of_o true_a visible_a church_n that_o i_o think_v it_o be_v as_o much_o as_o if_o our_o saviour_n have_v say_v wheresoever_o these_o three_o be_v perform_v there_o let_v the_o world_n take_v notice_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n and_o so_o from_o time_n to_o time_n wheresoever_o there_o be_v any_o true_a church_n to_o the_o world_n end_n and_o what_o be_v this_o but_o that_o which_o i_o have_v affirm_v in_o the_o observation_n that_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n and_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n and_o obedience_n of_o the_o people_n to_o that_o which_o they_o do_v both_o require_v be_v the_o most_o infallible_a and_o chief_a mark_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n another_o evangelist_n report_v the_o same_o commission_n speak_v as_o much_o in_o effect_n though_o not_o in_o such_o precise_a term_n mark_n 16.15_o 16._o go_v you_o into_o all_o the_o world_n and_o preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o every_o creature_n he_o that_o shall_v believe_v and_o be_v baptize_v shall_v be_v save_v etc._n etc._n there_o be_v the_o word_n preach_v and_o there_o be_v the_o sacrament_n as_o before_o and_o there_o be_v profession_n of_o obedience_n to_o they_o both_o for_o if_o they_o believe_v they_o must_v obey_v this_o point_n be_v so_o clear_a that_o it_o need_v no_o further_a proof_n yet_o because_o it_o be_v a_o question_n betwixt_o we_o and_o the_o papist_n and_o also_o betwixt_o we_o and_o the_o separation_n and_o likewise_o among_o divine_n therefore_o we_o will_v see_v further_a proof_n of_o it_o there_o be_v other_o place_n of_o scripture_n which_o avouch_v the_o same_o in_o effect_n yet_o not_o so_o pregnant_o as_o these_o do_v joh._n 10.4_o our_o saviour_n say_v he_o go_v before_o his_o sheep_n that_o be_v before_o his_o people_n and_o they_o hear_v his_o voice_n and_o follow_v he_o how_o do_v christ_n go_v before_o his_o people_n he_o go_v before_o they_o in_o the_o word_n and_o in_o the_o sacrament_n lead_v they_o in_o the_o way_n of_o salvation_n for_o the_o word_n be_v there_o express_o name_v my_o voice_n and_o under_o that_o the_o sacrament_n be_v figurative_o to_o be_v understand_v and_o they_o hear_v it_o and_o follow_v he_o there_o be_v obedience_n our_o saviour_n allude_v to_o the_o custom_n of_o the_o shepherd_n in_o that_o country_n that_o be_v wont_a to_o tune_v a_o voice_n to_o their_o sheep_n which_o they_o hear_v and_o know_v do_v all_o follow_n now_o this_o voice_n of_o christ_n be_v his_o word_n and_o his_o sacrament_n be_v part_n thereof_o therefore_o if_o you_o ask_v who_o be_v the_o sheep_n of_o christ_n the_o answer_n be_v ready_a they_o that_o hear_v the_o voice_n of_o christ_n and_o follow_v he_o as_o who_o shall_v say_v where_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n the_o answer_n be_v where_o the_o word_n be_v true_o preach_v and_o at_o least_o profess_a to_o be_v obey_v the_o like_a speech_n be_v in_o the_o 27._o verse_n of_o the_o same_o chapter_n so_o likewise_o in_o ephes_n 5.26_o the_o apostle_n say_v that_o christ_n give_v himself_o for_o his_o church_n that_o he_o may_v sanctify_v it_o and_o cleanse_v it_o by_o the_o wash_n of_o water_n through_o the_o word_n apply_v these_o word_n to_o the_o visible_a church_n than_o there_o be_v the_o word_n and_o water_n that_o be_v baptism_n and_o under_o that_o sacrament_n the_o lord_n supper_n be_v imply_v and_o there_o be_v profession_n of_o obedience_n for_o they_o be_v sanctify_v and_o cleanse_v so_o that_o wheresoever_o these_o be_v there_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n answerable_a unto_o these_o assertion_n you_o shall_v find_v it_o by_o experience_n to_o have_v be_v from_o the_o beginning_n look_v into_o paradise_n gen._n 2.16_o 17._o there_o be_v the_o word_n god_n commandment_n give_v to_o our_o first_o parent_n you_o shall_v not_o eat_v etc._n etc._n and_o there_o be_v the_o sacrament_n the_o tree_n of_o life_n verse_n 9_o purposely_o to_o signify_v and_o to_o seal_v unto_o they_o eternal_a life_n if_o they_o do_v obey_v and_o there_o be_v also_o their_o obedience_n acknowledge_v in_o that_o they_o accept_v of_o their_o estate_n and_o that_o upon_o that_o condition_n if_o any_o doubt_n of_o this_o it_o be_v plain_o lay_v down_o gen._n â—_o 4_o where_o the_o woman_n acknowledge_v that_o they_o be_v bind_v not_o to_o eat_v of_o that_o tree_n so_o there_o be_v their_o profession_n of_o obedience_n so_o you_o see_v how_o it_o be_v with_o the_o church_n in_o paradise_n before_o the_o fall_n now_o let_v we_o see_v how_o it_o be_v with_o the_o church_n out_o of_o paradise_n after_o the_o fall_n gen._n 3.15_o there_o be_v the_o promise_n of_o the_o gospel_n there_o be_v the_o word_n preach_v and_o gen._n 4.3_o 4._o there_o be_v the_o sacrifice_n there_o be_v cain_n and_o abel_n offer_v sacrifice_n which_o be_v representation_n of_o christ_n own_o sacrifice_n of_o himself_o and_o consequent_o of_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n and_o there_o be_v also_o their_o profession_n of_o obedience_n in_o that_o they_o bring_v their_o sacrifice_n unto_o god_n no_o doubt_n but_o adam_n their_o father_n teach_v they_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o how_o they_o ought_v to_o worship_n god_n and_o they_o profess_v obedience_n to_o that_o he_o teach_v both_o cain_n as_o well_o as_o abel_n for_o than_o they_o be_v both_o member_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n so_o here_o be_v the_o word_n and_o the_o sacrament_n and_o obedience_n profess_v to_o they_o both_o and_o so_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n likewise_o that_o in_o gen._n 9_o from_o the_o eight_o to_o the_o seventeen_o verse_n in_o noah_n time_n after_o the_o flood_n there_o be_v god_n covenant_n make_v with_o noah_n so_o there_o be_v the_o word_n and_o there_o be_v the_o bow_n set_v in_o the_o cloud_n there_o be_v the_o sacrament_n and_o three_o their_o profession_n of_o obedience_n too_o for_o it_o be_v a_o covenant_n which_o intend_v obedience_n on_o noah_n part_n for_o else_o how_o be_v it_o a_o covenant_n if_o it_o be_v not_o condescend_v to_o on_o both_o part_n and_o so_o also_o in_o abraham_n time_n gen._n 17_o 4_o 7.10.23_o in_o the_o 4._o and_o 7._o verse_n
and_o natural_a mother_n that_o reas_n 5_o bring_v forth_o a_o child_n of_o her_o own_o body_n and_o after_o she_o have_v bring_v it_o forth_o nourish_v it_o with_o her_o own_o milk_n so_o likewise_o the_o church_n that_o do_v beget_v we_o by_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n and_o nourish_v we_o with_o the_o sacrament_n be_v not_o she_o a_o true_a church_n six_o every_o tree_n be_v know_v by_o the_o fruit_n matth._n 7.16_o reas_n 6_o 17._o the_o false_a prophet_n be_v know_v by_o his_o false_a doctrine_n for_o so_o the_o place_n intend_v if_o that_o be_v a_o sufficient_a mark_n to_o know_v they_o by_o then_o true_a doctrine_n be_v a_o sufficient_a mark_n to_o know_v the_o true_a church_n by_o seven_o it_o be_v christ_n presence_n that_o make_v a_o true_a visible_a reas_n 7_o church_n therefore_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n outward_o represent_v christ_n presence_n so_o as_o nothing_o else_o do_v and_o so_o make_v he_o notorious_o present_a make_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n last_o from_o the_o sufficient_a enumeration_n of_o the_o part_n of_o a_o true_a reas_n 8_o visible_a church_n it_o must_v be_v so_o none_o be_v member_n and_o part_n of_o it_o but_o the_o minister_n and_o people_n now_o the_o minister_n do_v their_o duty_n in_o dispense_n god_n mystery_n both_o for_o preach_v the_o word_n and_o administer_a the_o sacrament_n they_o be_v the_o minister_n of_o christ_n 1_o cor._n 4.1_o and_o the_o people_n do_v their_o duty_n in_o obey_v that_o they_o teach_v at_o least_o outward_o they_o be_v the_o sheep_n of_o christ_n joh._n 10.4_o now_o which_o of_o these_o mark_n may_v be_v spare_v or_o what_o other_o be_v use_v 1_o there_o that_o need_n to_o be_v add_v therefore_o where_o these_o be_v exception_n there_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n the_o use_n of_o the_o point_n be_v these_o the_o first_o use_n be_v matter_n of_o reproof_n and_o that_o of_o many_o adversary_n first_o it_o reprove_v such_o as_o except_v and_o say_v first_o that_o other_o congregation_n beside_o except_o 1_o the_o true_a visible_a church_n have_v these_o mark_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v not_o sufficient_a nor_o infallible_a mark_n i_o answer_v answ_n it_o be_v true_a that_o other_o congregation_n pretend_v to_o have_v these_o mark_n as_o what_o heretic_n or_o schismatic_n be_v there_o that_o will_v not_o say_v they_o have_v the_o truth_n and_o right_a faith_n with_o they_o this_o be_v the_o general_a claim_n of_o they_o all_o the_o scripture_n be_v we_o and_o for_o we_o but_o this_o be_v a_o false_a pretence_n for_o when_o it_o come_v to_o the_o trial_n it_o will_v appear_v that_o it_o be_v but_o their_o say_n not_o that_o it_o be_v so_o in_o truth_n for_o either_o they_o will_v refuse_v some_o part_n of_o the_o scripture_n or_o else_o they_o will_v mangle_v and_o deprave_v it_o or_o else_o they_o will_v take_v the_o letter_n for_o the_o sense_n as_o the_o papist_n do_v in_o the_o matter_n of_o transubstantiation_n this_o be_v my_o body_n and_o other_o heretic_n that_o because_o it_o be_v say_v he_o shall_v baptize_v you_o with_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o with_o fire_n therefore_o they_o baptize_v with_o fire_n take_v the_o letter_n of_o the_o scripture_n instead_o of_o the_o sense_n of_o it_o or_o else_o they_o add_v something_o to_o the_o word_n as_o tradition_n and_o such_o like_a and_o so_o though_o they_o do_v approve_v and_o take_v it_o in_o at_o the_o foredoor_n yet_o they_o cast_v it_o out_o at_o the_o backdoor_n so_o that_o indeed_o they_o have_v it_o not_o at_o all_o whatsoever_o they_o pretend_v we_o may_v say_v true_o therefore_o that_o they_o challenge_v these_o mark_n but_o we_o can_v say_v they_o be_v they_o but_o they_o still_o remain_v the_o proper_a right_n of_o god_n true_a church_n we_o know_v that_o the_o devil_n policy_n and_o the_o depth_n of_o his_o subtlety_n be_v to_o imitate_v apish_o the_o course_n of_o god_n that_o thereby_o he_o may_v deceive_v the_o more_o cunning_o and_o therefore_o he_o will_v counterfeit_v god_n own_o mark_n and_o cognisance_n but_o we_o must_v try_v the_o spirit_n 1_o joh._n 4.1_o and_o the_o proof_n will_v make_v all_o clear_a for_o satan_n can_v transform_v himself_o into_o a_o angel_n of_o light_n and_o his_o apostle_n can_v transform_v themselves_o into_o the_o apostle_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o minister_n as_o though_o they_o be_v the_o minister_n of_o righteousness_n 2_o cor._n 11.13_o 14_o 15._o so_o than_o though_o these_o lay_v claim_v to_o these_o mark_n and_o say_v they_o be_v they_o yet_o they_o have_v no_o right_n to_o they_o it_o be_v but_o their_o vain_a brag_n their_o master_n satan_n himself_o allege_v scripture_n and_o pretend_v it_o be_v for_o he_o but_o he_o be_v shameful_o discover_v by_o our_o saviour_n for_o he_o leave_v out_o part_n of_o it_o and_o deprave_a it_o as_o we_o may_v see_v math._n 4.6_o 7._o and_o so_o the_o harlot_n pro._n 7.14_o say_v i_o have_v peace-offering_n this_o day_n i_o have_v pay_v my_o vow_n therefore_o come_v i_o out_o to_o meet_v thou_o she_o pretend_v to_o pray_v but_o her_o intent_n be_v to_o play_v the_o harlot_n and_o so_o zidkiah_n 1_o king_n 22.24_o brag_v that_o he_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o prophecy_n when_o indeed_o it_o be_v a_o lie_a spirit_n that_o be_v in_o his_o mouth_n so_o the_o congregation_n of_o heretic_n and_o of_o schismatic_n lay_v claim_v to_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n and_o say_v they_o be_v they_o when_o as_o indeed_o they_o be_v not_o because_o they_o do_v either_o refuse_v some_o part_n of_o they_o or_o deprave_v they_o or_o add_v unto_o they_o their_o own_o invention_n second_o that_o except_o and_o say_v that_o many_o visible_a church_n have_v except_o 2_o not_o these_o mark_n at_o least_o not_o all_o of_o they_o always_o i_o answer_v yes_o they_o have_v they_o all_o answ_n and_o that_o always_o in_o some_o measure_n more_o or_o less_o else_o they_o be_v not_o true_a visible_a church_n for_o the_o better_a understanding_n hereof_o consider_v these_o two_o thing_n first_o the_o different_a estate_n of_o church_n necessary_a sometime_o god_n church_n do_v thrive_v and_o flourish_v and_o than_o it_o have_v all_o these_o mark_n without_o doubt_n god_n word_n be_v true_o preach_v the_o sacrament_n right_o administer_v and_o obedience_n to_o they_o both_o be_v profess_v and_o yield_v and_o that_o in_o a_o high_a degree_n but_o sometime_o a_o church_n of_o god_n be_v not_o in_o such_o a_o excellent_a estate_n some_o be_v but_o in_o their_o begining_n new_o plant_v and_o so_o can_v have_v all_o at_o once_o but_o have_v every_o thing_n in_o its_o order_n &_o place_n first_o the_o word_n be_v tender_v to_o they_o than_o the_o people_n if_o they_o believe_v and_o submit_v themselves_o and_o profess_v obedience_n to_o it_o they_o be_v to_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o the_o sacrament_n first_o baptism_n and_o then_o the_o lord_n supper_n so_o far_o forth_o as_o it_o be_v a_o visible_a church_n it_o have_v all_o these_o mark_n these_o church_n be_v but_o in_o their_o beginning_n and_o therefore_o they_o have_v but_o the_o beginning_n of_o these_o note_n and_o mark_n again_o sometime_o a_o church_n be_v in_o a_o die_a and_o decay_a estate_n either_o by_o reason_n of_o apostasy_n or_o persecution_n if_o the_o church_n be_v in_o a_o decay_a state_n by_o apostasy_n what_o shall_v i_o say_v to_o such_o church_n i_o say_v that_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o these_o be_v true_a visible_a church_n so_o far_o forth_o they_o retain_v these_o mark_n if_o they_o be_v but_o the_o remainder_n of_o a_o church_n than_o they_o have_v the_o remainder_n of_o these_o mark_n if_o it_o be_v a_o die_a and_o a_o decay_a church_n than_o it_o have_v die_v and_o decay_a mark_n so_o then_o these_o mark_n must_v be_v find_v in_o all_o true_a visible_a church_n according_a to_o the_o state_n of_o those_o church_n if_o it_o be_v a_o die_a church_n than_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n and_o obedience_n be_v die_v and_o decay_v too_o but_o when_o it_o be_v quite_o fall_v it_o cease_v to_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n nor_o have_v it_o these_o mark_n and_o so_o likewise_o in_o the_o time_n of_o persecution_n when_o the_o church_n be_v so_o persecute_v that_o there_o be_v none_o leave_v to_o make_v open_a profession_n of_o the_o faith_n and_o religion_n of_o christ_n yet_o so_o long_o as_o there_o be_v any_o that_o public_o suffer_v for_o the_o gospel_n so_o long_o there_o be_v a_o true_a church_n though_o trouble_v and_o bring_v low_o for_o by_o their_o suffering_n they_o profess_v obedience_n to_o the_o gospel_n and_o though_o they_o be_v debar_v of_o the_o public_a use_n of_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n yet_o the_o fruit_n and_o effect_n of_o they_o be_v still_o visible_a
and_o so_o they_o have_v these_o note_n and_o mark_n in_o some_o degree_n second_o consider_v in_o what_o state_n or_o sense_n these_o mark_n be_v necessary_o require_v in_o the_o church_n they_o shall_v be_v and_o sometime_o be_v in_o the_o pure_a and_o sound_a church_n in_o a_o high_a and_o excellent_a degree_n there_o be_v the_o true_a word_n without_o tradition_n the_o true_a sacrament_n none_o but_o those_o that_o christ_n institute_v true_a obedience_n without_o resistance_n to_o any_o part_n of_o the_o know_a will_n of_o god_n and_o answerable_o this_o true_a word_n must_v be_v true_o and_o sound_o preecht_v these_o sacrament_n only_o so_o administer_v as_o christ_n have_v command_v without_o any_o addition_n and_o this_o true_a obedience_n true_o profess_v without_o any_o sinister_a respect_n and_o this_o all_o church_n be_v to_o pray_v and_o labour_n for_o and_o thus_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v in_o all_o true_a visible_a church_n but_o yet_o they_o be_v general_o otherwise_o in_o all_o visible_a church_n in_o as_o much_o as_o all_o be_v subject_a to_o error_n and_o corruption_n but_o yet_o so_o long_o as_o the_o true_a mark_n be_v find_v in_o any_o visible_a church_n though_o they_o be_v not_o so_o right_o and_o sincere_o carry_v as_o they_o shall_v the_o same_o be_v a_o true_a church_n though_o not_o so_o pure_a as_o some_o other_o if_o they_o have_v the_o true_a word_n though_o mix_v with_o some_o error_n so_o they_o be_v not_o such_o as_o overthrow_v the_o foundation_n they_o be_v a_o true_a church_n though_o more_o corrupt_a as_o for_o example_n the_o church_n of_o galatia_n embrace_v the_o true_a word_n but_o not_o true_o preach_v for_o they_o teach_v justification_n by_o work_n gal._n 3.1_o 2_o 3._o and_o some_o think_v that_o they_o be_v then_o in_o the_o state_n of_o apostasy_n and_o yet_o they_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n and_o be_v so_o call_v gal._n 1.2_o so_o second_o for_o the_o sacrament_n look_v into_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n 1_o cor._n 11.22_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o chapter_n they_o have_v the_o lord_n supper_n but_o it_o be_v much_o deprave_a and_o not_o so_o sincere_o administer_v as_o it_o ought_v to_o have_v be_v and_o yet_o they_o be_v a_o true_a church_n and_o so_o for_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o resurrection_n a_o material_a point_n in_o religion_n there_o be_v some_o that_o deny_v it_o in_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n 1_o cor._n 15.12_o and_o yet_o they_o be_v a_o true_a church_n last_o for_o profession_n of_o obedience_n the_o church_n of_o sardis_n revel_v 3.3.1_o have_v a_o name_n that_o she_o live_v but_o be_v dead_a 123._o they_o be_v general_o in_o the_o estate_n of_o apostasy_n in_o that_o church_n yet_o because_o they_o make_v profession_n of_o obedience_n though_o not_o sincere_o and_o because_o some_o among_o they_o do_v true_o profess_v as_o in_o the_o 4._o ver_fw-la therefore_o it_o be_v call_v a_o church_n i_o speak_v not_o this_o to_o cherish_v any_o church_n in_o the_o corruption_n that_o they_o be_v in_o but_o only_o to_o keep_v we_o from_o a_o uncharitable_a conceit_n of_o such_o a_o church_n as_o not_o to_o esteem_v it_o for_o a_o true_a church_n because_o the_o word_n be_v not_o so_o true_o preach_v nor_o the_o sacrament_n so_o right_o administer_v nor_o profession_n of_o obedience_n so_o sincere_o yield_v as_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v three_o they_o object_n and_o say_v that_o these_o be_v not_o more_o except_o 2_o know_n than_o the_o church_n and_o so_o be_v disable_v by_o your_o own_o rule_n before_o give_v from_o be_v the_o principal_a mark_n i_o answer_v they_o must_v be_v and_o be_v better_o know_v than_o the_o church_n for_o see_v that_o only_o be_v a_o true_a church_n which_o profess_v the_o true_a faith_n as_o we_o have_v show_v before_o therefore_o we_o must_v first_o know_v which_o be_v the_o true_a faith_n before_o we_o know_v which_o be_v the_o true_a church_n and_o so_o as_o they_o must_v be_v more_o know_v so_o they_o must_v be_v first_o know_v i_o know_v a_o visible_a church_n as_o a_o company_n of_o man_n not_o by_o their_o faith_n but_o as_o a_o church_n by_o their_o faith_n only_o and_o their_o profession_n of_o it_o as_o i_o know_v a_o musician_n because_o of_o his_o music_n not_o the_o music_n by_o the_o musician_n and_o so_o much_o for_o reproof_n of_o these_o first_o sort_n of_o adversary_n that_o except_v against_o this_o doctrine_n exception_n second_o it_o reprove_v other_o that_o object_n and_o say_v that_o there_o be_v other_o mark_n require_v as_o well_o as_o these_o as_o first_o love_n to_o the_o brethren_n i_o answer_v this_o be_v a_o part_n of_o their_o obedience_n which_o they_o profess_v second_o say_v they_o there_o except_o 1_o must_v be_v a_o lawful_a ministry_n i_o answer_v that_o be_v presuppose_v and_o intend_v in_o the_o two_o former_a mark_n answ_n when_o we_o say_v except_o 2_o that_o the_o word_n must_v be_v true_o preach_v and_o the_o sacrament_n right_o administer_v answ_n yea_o but_o say_v they_o special_o discipline_n except_o 3_o that_o be_v a_o essential_a mark_n i_o answer_v that_o be_v a_o good_a mark_n answ_n but_o not_o essential_a the_o church_n have_v a_o be_v and_o a_o well-being_n discipline_n be_v a_o note_n of_o the_o well-being_n of_o the_o church_n not_o of_o the_o true_a be_v of_o it_o for_o it_o be_v no_o part_n of_o the_o essence_n of_o the_o church_n and_o so_o it_o be_v exclude_v from_o be_v a_o necessary_a mark_n of_o a_o true_a church_n because_o it_o be_v not_o essential_a i_o confess_v where_o that_o discipline_n want_v that_o god_n call_v for_o in_o his_o word_n that_o so_o far_o that_o church_n be_v a_o imperfect_a church_n but_o yet_o not_o a_o false_a church_n as_o a_o man_n sick_a of_o the_o palsy_n his_o sinew_n be_v weak_a his_o hand_n tremble_v his_o joint_n be_v not_o sound_o knit_v together_o this_o be_v a_o craze_a and_o disease_a man_n not_o a_o false_a man_n so_o that_o church_n that_o want_v discipline_n be_v not_o well_o and_o sound_o tie_v together_o in_o the_o joint_n and_o so_o be_v a_o imperfect_a church_n not_o a_o false_a church_n i_o speak_v not_o this_o as_o i_o say_v before_o to_o cherish_v any_o church_n in_o their_o corruption_n for_o they_o be_v to_o labour_v against_o they_o but_o yet_o let_v we_o judge_v charitable_o and_o not_o say_v such_o a_o church_n be_v a_o false_a church_n when_o indeed_o it_o be_v but_o a_o bad_a church_n they_o three_o and_o last_o there_o be_v other_o adversary_n here_o reprove_v that_o object_n against_o this_o doctrine_n and_o they_o be_v the_o papist_n they_o object_n and_o say_v that_o these_o mark_n be_v not_o the_o principal_a but_o other_o be_v more_o require_v than_o these_o and_o that_o as_o better_a mark_n they_o allege_v four_o first_o antiquity_n second_o succession_n three_o multitude_n last_o unity_n or_o consent_n these_o be_v strange_a mark_n of_o a_o true_a church_n first_o for_o antiquity_n can_v that_o find_v i_o out_o the_o true_a church_n then_o it_o will_v follow_v that_o every_o ancient_a church_n be_v a_o true_a church_n and_o so_o the_o church_n among_o the_o turk_n shall_v be_v a_o true_a church_n because_o it_o be_v ancient_a therefore_o it_o be_v antiquity_n of_o truth_n not_o of_o place_n or_o people_n look_v what_o church_n maintain_v the_o ancient_a doctrine_n of_o truth_n that_o be_v the_o true_a church_n so_o that_o antiquity_n separate_v from_o the_o truth_n be_v no_o note_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n cain_n and_o satan_n be_v ancient_a yet_o no_o true_a church_n but_o join_v this_o note_n with_o the_o truth_n the_o true_a word_n preach_v which_o be_v one_o of_o our_o note_n and_o then_o it_o be_v a_o true_a mark_n second_o for_o succession_n what_o succession_n of_o bishop_n or_o of_o man_n that_o sit_v in_o one_o chair_n be_v this_o a_o note_n without_o the_o word_n or_o with_o it_o if_o they_o say_v without_o the_o word_n that_o be_v falsâ—â—f_a with_o the_o word_n than_o still_o they_o run_v upon_o our_o note_n and_o mark_n of_o the_o church_n for_o we_o say_v that_o succession_n of_o true_a and_o sound_a doctrine_n be_v a_o special_a note_n of_o the_o church_n succession_n of_o itself_o be_v no_o note_n it_o be_v as_o if_o a_o man_n shall_v say_v this_o be_v my_o horse_n because_o this_o be_v my_o bridle_n as_o if_o his_o bridle_n will_v not_o serve_v any_o other_o horse_n three_o for_o multitude_n they_o make_v that_o a_o note_n of_o the_o church_n but_o it_o be_v quite_o contrary_a for_o general_o the_o true_a church_n be_v the_o few_o in_o number_n and_o for_o the_o most_o part_n the_o great_a number_n be_v the_o worst_a and_o by_o this_o rule_n in_o christ_n time_n the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n and_o jew_n be_v
thereby_o to_o disgrace_v church-government_n and_o to_o make_v it_o the_o great_a trouble-state_n in_o the_o christian_a world_n what_o be_v it_o that_o the_o disciple_n contend_v about_o in_o our_o saviour_n time_n luk_n 22.24_o be_v it_o not_o the_o matter_n of_o church-government_n who_o shall_v be_v the_o chief_a among_o they_o and_o so_o the_o ruler_n and_o governor_n of_o the_o rest_n by_o this_o occasion_n the_o devil_n make_v strife_n among_o the_o apostle_n and_o what_o breed_v those_o great_a broil_n and_o contention_n in_o the_o primitive_a church_n betwixt_o the_o eastern_a and_o the_o western_a bishop_n be_v it_o not_o church-government_n which_o shall_v be_v the_o high_a see_v and_o who_o shall_v be_v the_o high_a and_o chiâ—â—â—t_a bishop_n to_o go_v further_o what_o bring_v forth_o antichrist_n into_o the_o world_n and_o that_o advance_v the_o pope_n to_o that_o high_a pitch_n which_o he_o come_v to_o be_v it_o not_o church-government_n the_o pope_n audacious_o engross_a all_o sovereignty_n in_o the_o church_n to_o himself_o and_o many_o good_a bishop_n and_o church_n in_o their_o weakness_n yield_v too_o much_o to_o he_o in_o that_o kind_n by_o the_o perverseness_n of_o the_o govern_v in_o a_o word_n what_o dishonour_n have_v hereby_o be_v do_v to_o god_n what_o disgrace_n to_o religion_n what_o hindrance_n to_o the_o prosperous_a success_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n what_o furtherance_n and_o advantage_n to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o satan_n what_o heart-burn_n have_v it_o breed_v among_o some_o how_o have_v it_o alienate_v the_o heart_n of_o other_o from_o we_o and_o that_o in_o many_o that_o otherwise_o be_v inclinable_a towards_o we_o what_o tumult_n have_v it_o breed_v at_o home_n what_o clamour_n abroad_o what_o grief_n have_v it_o bring_v to_o our_o friend_n and_o well_o affect_v what_o rejoice_v to_o our_o enemy_n and_o profane_a person_n what_o distraction_n and_o doubt_n have_v it_o breed_v in_o weak_a and_o tender_a conscience_n what_o dishearten_v and_o discourage_v have_v it_o be_v how_o many_o excellent_a talent_n for_o god_n ministry_n have_v be_v hereby_o bury_v in_o the_o ground_n without_o profit_n and_o so_o consequent_o many_o congregation_n destitute_a of_o their_o faithful_a minister_n and_o of_o their_o heavenly_a food_n and_o leave_v as_o a_o prey_n to_o the_o raven_a wolf_n by_o this_o mean_n have_v they_o not_o by_o the_o providence_n and_o wisdom_n of_o our_o governor_n be_v otherwise_o provide_v for_o i_o dare_v undertake_v that_o in_o all_o likelihood_n have_v not_o the_o devil_n cast_v this_o bone_n among_o we_o and_o throw_v this_o business_n of_o church-government_n as_o a_o football_n before_o we_o for_o every_o one_o to_o run_v after_o and_o so_o to_o set_v we_o all_o together_o by_o the_o ear_n this_o church_n of_o england_n through_o god_n blessing_n have_v be_v this_o day_n the_o most_o famous_a and_o flourish_a church_n that_o ever_o be_v in_o the_o world_n whereas_o now_o this_o business_n this_o only_a business_n of_o church-government_n have_v occasional_o by_o the_o peevishness_n of_o some_o hatch_v nourish_v and_o bring_v forth_o much_o ignorance_n prophannesse_n uncharitableness_n contempt_n of_o holiness_n neglect_v of_o god_n ordinance_n looseness_n and_o licentiousness_n i_o grieve_v to_o think_v on_o these_o thing_n and_o i_o can_v have_v no_o pleasure_n to_o speak_v of_o they_o and_o we_o may_v be_v all_o ashamed_a of_o they_o before_o god_n and_o the_o world_n and_o it_o must_v be_v every_o one_o care_n and_o endeavour_v to_o be_v instant_a with_o god_n by_o prayer_n that_o in_o his_o good_a time_n he_o will_v be_v please_v to_o redress_v these_o foul_a evil_n yet_o here_o i_o have_v mention_v they_o to_o the_o end_n that_o we_o may_v be_v both_o whet_v on_o by_o these_o consideration_n to_o look_v the_o more_o careful_o into_o this_o business_n and_o also_o that_o we_o may_v be_v admonish_v to_o carry_v ourselves_o the_o more_o temperate_o and_o moderate_o towards_o it_o and_o so_o much_o of_o the_o first_o point_n namely_o of_o the_o harm_n and_o evil_n that_o have_v happen_v occasional_o by_o this_o matter_n of_o the_o church-government_n though_o in_o itself_o holy_a and_o good_a it_o the_o second_o point_n be_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o church-government_n yea_o see_v here_o two_o word_n church_n and_o government_n and_o each_o of_o these_o may_v carry_v three_o sense_n first_o for_o the_o word_n church_n we_o be_v not_o here_o to_o understand_v it_o of_o the_o catholic_a church_n for_o that_o be_v disperse_v over_o all_o place_n of_o the_o world_n can_v well_o be_v bring_v within_o the_o compass_n of_o the_o same_o law_n nor_o rule_v by_o the_o same_o earthly_a governor_n it_o be_v impossible_a for_o the_o reature_n to_o wield_v such_o a_o great_a charge_n the_o sole_a governor_n of_o the_o church_n in_o this_o sense_n be_v jesus_n christ_n the_o only_a head_n thereof_o and_o the_o only_a law_n it_o be_v to_o be_v govern_v by_o be_v the_o presence_n power_n and_o direction_n of_o the_o spirit_n but_o here_o we_o understand_v it_o of_o a_o particular_a visible_a church_n whether_o it_o be_v parochial_a national_n or_o provincial_a for_o these_o be_v confine_v and_o bound_v within_o their_o several_a place_n may_v and_o must_v have_v their_o several_a law_n and_o governor_n every_o one_o for_o and_o within_o itself_o of_o this_o church_n it_o be_v that_o we_o here_o speak_v of_o whether_o it_o be_v great_a or_o less_o now_o we_o come_v to_o the_o next_o word_n government_n which_o word_n in_o a_o general_a sense_n signify_v to_o maintain_v second_o in_o particular_a to_o govern_v first_o in_o general_a in_o respect_n of_o the_o state_n of_o nature_n as_o we_o be_v man_n so_o the_o lord_n govern_v that_o be_v maintain_v and_o preserve_v his_o church_n seat_v every_o particular_a church_n in_o the_o place_n where_o it_o be_v make_v a_o fence_n about_o it_o feed_v and_o clothe_v they_o supply_v their_o want_n afford_v they_o help_n and_o mean_n for_o their_o relief_n defend_v they_o from_o their_o enemy_n deliver_v they_o from_o danger_n cause_v they_o to_o thrive_v and_o prosper_v in_o outward_a thing_n and_o cover_v they_o with_o his_o favour_n as_o with_o a_o shield_n and_o this_o kind_n of_o government_n the_o lord_n extend_v over_o the_o whole_a world_n yea_o even_o to_o the_o wicked_a as_o well_o as_o to_o the_o faithful_a yet_o with_o this_o difference_n to_o the_o wicked_a in_o the_o common_a favour_n of_o his_o providence_n to_o the_o faithful_a in_o the_o special_a favour_n of_o his_o grace_n in_o christ_n for_o even_o in_o the_o very_a temporal_a blessing_n that_o the_o faithful_a have_v in_o this_o life_n they_o be_v they_o by_o grace_n and_o promise_v in_o christ_n and_o therefore_o to_o the_o wicked_a they_o perish_v in_o the_o enjoy_n of_o they_o they_o have_v no_o further_a benefit_n of_o they_o but_o outward_a and_o temporal_a to_o the_o faithful_a they_o be_v helpefull_a and_o serviceable_a in_o some_o degree_n to_o the_o work_n of_o their_o eternal_a salvation_n for_o so_o god_n intend_v they_o and_o so_o the_o faithful_a accept_v and_o use_v they_o this_o be_v for_o the_o general_a government_n of_o god_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o state_n of_o nature_n as_o we_o be_v man_n second_o there_o be_v a_o particular_a government_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o estate_n of_o grace_n as_o we_o be_v man_n profess_v the_o save_a faith_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o so_o the_o government_n be_v twofold_a inward_a and_o outward_a first_o inward_a and_o this_o be_v proper_a to_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n god_n only_o rule_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o his_o choose_a as_o a_o king_n by_o the_o power_n of_o his_o word_n and_o spirit_n convert_n they_o from_o the_o service_n of_o sin_n to_o the_o service_n of_o god_n cause_v they_o to_o believe_v god_n promise_n in_o christ_n and_o so_o justify_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n crucify_a the_o old_a man_n and_o quicken_a the_o new_a acquaint_v we_o with_o his_o will_n and_o frame_v we_o to_o obedience_n put_v good_a motion_n from_o time_n to_o time_n into_o our_o mind_n and_o stir_v we_o up_o and_o enable_v we_o to_o entertain_v they_o gracious_o and_o to_o give_v place_n unto_o they_o and_o so_o sanctify_v we_o and_o further_o he_o assure_v we_o of_o god_n love_n and_o favour_n and_o our_o election_n in_o christ_n and_o so_o comfort_v we_o further_o he_o increase_v these_o and_o other_o grace_n in_o we_o every_o day_n more_o and_o more_o so_o long_o as_o we_o be_v in_o this_o world_n till_o at_o length_n they_o be_v full_o perfect_v in_o we_o and_o we_o receive_v into_o his_o kingdom_n of_o glory_n in_o heaven_n and_o so_o he_o glorify_v us._n this_o this_o be_v the_o right_a kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o of_o christ_n whereby_o god_n reign_v in_o we_o as_o
king_n here_o and_o make_v we_o to_o reign_v as_o king_n with_o he_o for_o ever_o hereafter_o this_o be_v the_o inward_a government_n second_o the_o outward_a government_n that_o be_v the_o power_n and_o direction_n that_o god_n have_v put_v over_o to_o the_o son_n of_o man_n for_o the_o well_o govern_v of_o the_o church_n whereby_o there_o must_v be_v first_o sufficient_a and_o painful_a minister_n to_o instruct_v the_o people_n in_o the_o way_n of_o salvation_n teach_v they_o repentance_n towards_o god_n and_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o second_o there_o must_v be_v other_o that_o be_v holy_a and_o religious_a man_n choose_v for_o their_o assistant_n for_o the_o dispatch_n of_o such_o ecclesiastical_a business_n as_o they_o may_v be_v helpefull_a in_o and_o three_o there_o must_v be_v certain_a godly_a and_o christian_a law_n and_o custom_n establish_v among_o they_o by_o the_o common_a consent_n of_o the_o church_n for_o the_o maintain_n of_o peace_n and_o order_n in_o the_o church_n for_o the_o punishment_n of_o sin_n and_o sinner_n and_o for_o the_o encouragement_n of_o well-doer_n and_o for_o the_o better_a execution_n of_o all_o such_o ordinance_n as_o the_o lord_n in_o this_o case_n have_v provide_v to_o be_v do_v in_o his_o church_n and_o this_o be_v the_o government_n which_o we_o here_o mean_v and_o which_o we_o seek_v after_o that_o be_v the_o power_n and_o direction_n and_o administration_n that_o god_n have_v commit_v to_o his_o church_n special_o to_o the_o minister_n and_o overseer_n thereof_o to_o see_v that_o the_o whole_a body_n be_v well_o order_v and_o that_o every_o member_n carry_v themselves_o godly_a and_o religious_o both_o in_o private_a especial_o in_o public_a both_o towards_o god_n and_o the_o world_n in_o the_o three_o place_n we_o be_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o necessity_n of_o church-government_n be_v how_o needful_a and_o necessary_a it_o be_v in_o the_o church_n for_o the_o good_a thereof_o for_o the_o better_a understanding_n of_o this_o point_n we_o must_v know_v that_o there_o be_v a_o twofold_a necessity_n one_o absolute_a the_o other_o conditional_a absolute_a that_o be_v when_o one_o thing_n be_v so_o necessary_o require_v to_o another_o as_o that_o it_o can_v be_v without_o it_o second_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n that_o be_v not_o absolute_a but_o conditional_a that_o be_v when_o one_o thing_n be_v so_o necessary_a to_o another_o as_o that_o it_o can_v well_o be_v without_o it_o of_o this_o latter_a sort_n the_o necessity_n of_o this_o government_n in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n be_v for_o the_o church_n may_v be_v without_o it_o in_o some_o kind_n of_o be_v but_o it_o can_v have_v her_o well-being_n except_o this_o concur_v the_o point_n lie_v fit_a to_o be_v handle_v by_o way_n of_o observation_n and_o therefore_o so_o i_o will_v deliver_v it_o the_o observation_n be_v this_o namely_o doctr._n that_o there_o be_v necessary_o require_v a_o outward_a form_n of_o government_n in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n to_o be_v exercise_v and_o administer_v by_o man_n all_o the_o former_a part_n of_o the_o observation_n as_o necessity_n church_n and_o government_n have_v be_v before_o explain_v only_o the_o last_o word_n administration_n by_o man_n needs_o some_o open_n i_o say_v it_o must_v be_v administer_v by_o man_n i_o do_v not_o say_v it_o must_v be_v devise_v of_o man_n for_o it_o must_v be_v of_o god_n own_o ordain_v either_o in_o particular_a or_o at_o least_o in_o general_a and_o it_o must_v be_v administer_v that_o be_v man_n as_o minister_n and_o instrument_n must_v put_v in_o execution_n that_o which_o god_n have_v ordain_v and_o what_o man_n must_v these_o be_v sure_o they_o must_v be_v member_n of_o the_o same_o congregation_n for_o first_o these_o man_n must_v not_o be_v such_o as_o be_v of_o no_o church_n for_o what_o have_v we_o to_o do_v with_o they_o that_o be_v without_o or_o they_o with_o we_o nor_o second_o it_o must_v not_o be_v do_v by_o they_o that_o be_v member_n of_o another_o church_n for_o what_o have_v one_o church_n to_o do_v to_o meddle_v with_o another_o government_n except_o it_o be_v by_o advice_n or_o in_o case_n of_o necessity_n or_o in_o such_o cause_n as_o concern_v diverse_a church_n but_o they_o must_v be_v member_n of_o the_o same_o church_n these_o be_v the_o party_n that_o may_v and_o must_v administer_v this_o government_n so_o that_o we_o see_v the_o note_n stand_v upright_o namely_o that_o of_o necessity_n there_o be_v to_o be_v require_v a_o outward_a form_n of_o government_n in_o god_n church_n to_o be_v exercise_v and_o administer_v by_o man_n for_o the_o proof_n of_o this_o point_n in_o rom._n 12.4_o 5_o etc._n etc._n the_o apostle_n compare_v the_o church_n to_o a_o body_n and_o professor_n to_o part_n and_o member_n of_o that_o body_n now_o say_v he_o every_o member_n have_v not_o the_o same_o office_n no_o for_o that_o be_v superfluity_n and_o will_v breed_v confusion_n but_o several_a member_n be_v tie_v to_o several_a office_n for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o whole_a body_n now_o there_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o outward_a government_n in_o the_o church_n as_o verse_n 5_o etc._n etc._n and_o there_o must_v be_v sundry_a office_n and_o officer_n to_o exercise_v that_o government_n and_o who_o shall_v these_o be_v but_o the_o member_n of_o the_o same_o body_n in_o the_o 1_o cor._n 12._o from_o the_o 12._o to_o the_o 21._o verse_n there_o the_o apostle_n press_v the_o same_o comparison_n further_o and_o grow_v to_o more_o particular_n call_v one_o the_o eye_n another_o the_o foot_n the_o hand_n the_o head_n etc._n etc._n of_o purpose_n to_o show_v that_o as_o in_o the_o body_n and_o the_o part_n thereof_o it_o be_v so_o order_v that_o some_o be_v to_o govern_v other_o to_o be_v govern_v so_o it_o be_v in_o the_o church_n some_o must_v govern_v other_o must_v be_v govern_v and_o still_o understand_v that_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o outward_a government_n in_o the_o church_n and_o that_o they_o that_o govern_v must_v be_v member_n of_o the_o same_o church_n for_o so_o the_o comparison_n hold_v they_o must_v be_v member_n of_o the_o same_o body_n and_o this_o the_o apostle_n do_v set_v down_o general_o for_o a_o rule_n in_o the_o first_o epistle_n of_o the_o corinthian_n chap._n 14._o vers_fw-la 40._o let_v all_o thing_n be_v do_v decent_o and_o by_o order_n where_o we_o see_v that_o the_o apostle_n express_o command_v order_n in_o the_o church_n that_o be_v government_n for_o it_o be_v all_o one_o for_o thing_n to_o be_v well_o order_v or_o well_o govern_v and_o it_o be_v intend_v of_o outward_a business_n in_o the_o church_n as_o verse_n 26._o where_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o their_o come_n together_o and_o it_o be_v a_o charge_n let_v all_o thing_n etc._n etc._n there_o be_v the_o necessity_n of_o it_o and_o all_o be_v impose_v upon_o man_n as_o we_o see_v in_o the_o 26_o verse_n brethren_n when_o you_o come_v together_o etc._n etc._n you_o that_o be_v member_n of_o the_o same_o church_n and_o according_a to_o this_o general_a rule_n so_o the_o apostle_n carry_v themselves_o the_o apostle_n write_v to_o timothy_n 1_o tim._n 3.14_o 15._o say_v these_o thing_n write_v i_o unto_o thou_o that_o thou_o may_v know_v how_o to_o behave_v thyself_o in_o the_o house_n of_o god_n now_o that_o which_o he_o write_v to_o he_o of_o be_v partly_o of_o outward_a government_n as_o verse_n 1._o and_o forward_o where_o he_o speak_v of_o the_o office_n of_o a_o bishop_n and_o the_o word_n in_o the_o fifteen_o verse_n show_v it_o plain_o he_o write_v to_o he_o that_o he_o may_v know_v how_o to_o behave_v himself_o in_o the_o house_n of_o god_n that_o be_v in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n but_o you_o will_v say_v he_o be_v but_o a_o particular_a man_n and_o therefore_o what_o do_v this_o concern_v the_o whole_a church_n i_o answer_v though_o it_o be_v write_v particular_o to_o he_o yet_o he_o be_v the_o chief_a overseer_n in_o that_o church_n it_o consequent_o concern_v the_o whole_a church_n and_o this_o be_v so_o necessary_a that_o he_o will_v not_o respite_v it_o till_o his_o come_n though_o he_o be_v to_o come_v short_o but_o for_o the_o more_o surety_n he_o write_v beforehand_o that_o so_o the_o church_n may_v not_o be_v destitute_a of_o so_o material_a a_o ornament_n as_o outward_a government_n be_v and_o he_o charge_v timothy_n most_o severe_o in_o chap._n 5._o vers_fw-la 21._o and_o in_o chap._n 6._o vers_fw-la 13._o and_o 14._o that_o the_o same_o be_v due_o observe_v and_o so_o in_o tit._n 1.5_o there_o the_o apostle_n write_v to_o titus_n that_o be_v bishop_n of_o the_o church_n of_o creta_n say_v for_o this_o cause_n leave_v i_o thou_o in_o creta_n that_o thou_o shall_v continue_v to_o redress_v the_o thing_n that_o
as_o by_o his_o direction_n be_v establish_v we_o be_v free_a indeed_o from_o sin_n that_o it_o shall_v not_o reign_v over_o we_o and_o we_o be_v free_a from_o satan_n that_o he_o can_v condemn_v we_o and_o we_o have_v a_o freedom_n from_o the_o law_n that_o we_o be_v not_o subject_a to_o the_o curse_n of_o it_o but_o yet_o we_o be_v still_o bind_v to_o do_v that_o which_o the_o law_n command_v and_o so_o to_o obey_v our_o governor_n and_o to_o submit_v ourselves_o to_o outward_a government_n only_o we_o be_v free_a from_o they_o in_o our_o conscience_n that_o they_o shall_v not_o be_v lord_n over_o that_o yea_o but_o say_v they_o we_o be_v a_o law_n unto_o ourselves_o we_o need_v not_o any_o ruler_n a_o proud_a allegation_n from_o a_o presumptuous_a spirit_n who_o be_v there_o among_o we_o that_o have_v make_v any_o trial_n of_o his_o heart_n for_o obedience_n to_o god_n but_o be_v guilty_a to_o himself_o that_o he_o be_v dull_a and_o backward_a and_o needs_o reproof_n and_o admonition_n and_o censure_n and_o all_o too_o little_a to_o keep_v he_o within_o the_o compass_n of_o obedience_n the_o humble_a soul_n feel_v such_o a_o rebelliousnesse_n within_o itself_o that_o it_o cry_v out_o not_o to_o god_n only_o but_o to_o man_n too_o o_o i_o be_o a_o miserable_a sinner_n i_o pray_v you_o look_v to_o i_o watch_v over_o i_o reprove_v i_o exhort_v i_o censure_v i_o terrify_v i_o with_o shame_n and_o punishment_n for_o my_o sin_n for_o my_o rebellious_a heart_n must_v be_v so_o bridle_v or_o else_o it_o will_v break_v forth_o outrageous_o into_o sin_n we_o know_v what_o the_o apostle_n say_v of_o himself_o rom._n 7._o that_o he_o be_v sell_v under_o sin_n therefore_o this_o come_v from_o a_o proud_a spirit_n in_o they_o to_o say_v they_o have_v no_o need_n of_o government_n because_o they_o be_v a_o law_n unto_o themselves_o we_o see_v the_o inconvenience_n that_o it_o breed_v in_o particular_a man_n what_o will_v the_o inconvenience_n be_v to_o the_o whole_a body_n if_o it_o be_v suffer_v in_o general_n sure_o much_o more_o as_o it_o be_v with_o the_o israelite_n when_o there_o be_v no_o king_n in_o israel_n so_o will_v it_o be_v in_o the_o church_n if_o there_o be_v no_o outward_a government_n every_o man_n will_v do_v what_o he_o lift_v second_o it_o reprove_v those_o that_o hold_v church-government_n use_v 2_o as_o a_o indifferent_a thing_n they_o think_v it_o no_o great_a matter_n whether_o there_o be_v any_o or_o not_o it_o may_v be_v or_o it_o may_v not_o be_v say_v they_o and_o yet_o the_o church_n may_v do_v well_o enough_o but_o these_o be_v sufficient_o disprove_v by_o the_o former_a inconvenience_n that_o follow_v where_o no_o government_n be_v and_o have_v this_o be_v the_o mind_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n they_o will_v never_o have_v take_v such_o precise_a order_n for_o it_o in_o every_o church_n and_o sure_o the_o church_n that_o maintain_v this_o doctrine_n be_v not_o the_o church_n of_o the_o saint_n for_o in_o 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that_o outward_a government_n be_v not_o simple_o necessary_a to_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n but_o to_o the_o well-being_n only_o use_v 4_o four_o see_v there_o be_v a_o outward_a government_n necessary_a in_o god_n church_n for_o the_o well-being_n of_o it_o then_o this_o shall_v teach_v we_o to_o rest_v content_a with_o that_o which_o we_o enjoy_v and_o to_o be_v careful_a to_o live_v in_o obedience_n to_o it_o and_o to_o be_v thankful_a for_o it_o and_o to_o be_v earnest_n with_o god_n by_o prayer_n for_o the_o supply_n of_o it_o where_o it_o be_v want_v for_o though_o it_o concern_v not_o our_o life_n yet_o it_o concern_v our_o health_n though_o it_o concern_v not_o the_o be_v yet_o it_o concern_v the_o well_o be_v of_o the_o church_n and_o every_o man_n be_v to_o make_v conscience_n of_o it_o in_o his_o place_n both_o those_o that_o govern_v that_o they_o govern_v according_a to_o god_n word_n and_o those_o that_o obey_v that_o they_o obey_v according_a to_o god_n word_n 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enable_v we_o word_n to_o speak_v of_o the_o four_o whether_o there_o be_v any_o prescript_n form_n of_o church-governement_n in_o every_o particular_a set_v down_o in_o the_o word_n it_o be_v natural_a to_o every_o man_n when_o he_o hear_v that_o such_o a_o good_a thing_n there_o be_v and_o that_o it_o be_v behooveful_a and_o necessary_a to_o his_o own_o use_n to_o have_v a_o long_a desire_n after_o it_o he_o will_v then_o fain_o know_v where_o it_o be_v be_v to_o be_v have_v and_o how_o he_o may_v come_v by_o it_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o this_o be_v your_o pure_a mind_n in_o this_o case_n you_o have_v hear_v that_o there_o be_v a_o church-government_n you_o have_v see_v also_o how_o necessary_a it_o be_v to_o the_o well-being_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n and_o the_o member_n thereof_o now_o you_o will_v cast_v about_o to_o see_v where_o it_o be_v to_o be_v have_v that_o so_o you_o may_v be_v make_v partaker_n of_o it_o for_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o this_o your_o desire_n i_o 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spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o god_n spirit_n reveal_v god_n mind_n only_o by_o god_n word_n therefore_o we_o must_v do_v in_o this_o case_n as_o in_o all_o other_o doubtful_a and_o difficult_a case_n in_o religion_n fly_v to_o the_o golden_a rule_n isai_n 8.20_o to_o the_o law_n and_o to_o the_o testimony_n if_o they_o speak_v not_o according_a to_o this_o word_n it_o be_v because_o they_o have_v no_o light_n in_o they_o god_n word_n must_v be_v consult_v withal_o and_o what_o that_o faith_n must_v be_v embrace_v if_o we_o have_v not_o the_o light_n of_o god_n word_n in_o it_o we_o be_v blind_a and_o dumb_a and_o no_o light_n be_v in_o we_o at_o all_o this_o rule_n of_o the_o prophet_n be_v second_v by_o our_o saviour_n himself_o joh._n 5.39_o search_v the_o scripture_n etc._n etc._n they_o testify_v of_o i_o not_o only_o of_o the_o person_n of_o christ_n who_o or_o what_o he_o be_v but_o of_o his_o mind_n what_o he_o will_v have_v we_o to_o do_v in_o all_o our_o course_n position_n now_o what_o the_o scripture_n say_v and_o what_o order_n it_o take_v in_o this_o kind_n may_v be_v true_o and_o plain_o deliver_v in_o these_o two_o position_n first_o that_o the_o whole_a substance_n of_o church-government_n be_v so_o set_v down_o in_o god_n word_n as_o that_o every_o particular_a church_n may_v receive_v instruction_n how_o to_o be_v govern_v by_o it_o second_o that_o there_o be_v not_o any_o one_o set_v particular_a form_n of_o church-government_n so_o set_v down_o in_o the_o scripture_n that_o every_o church_n may_v receive_v instruction_n thereby_o how_o to_o be_v govern_v in_o every_o particular_a ceremony_n and_o discipline_n these_o two_o position_n be_v well_o understand_v do_v teach_v we_o all_o thing_n needful_a to_o be_v know_v in_o this_o point_n there_o may_v seem_v to_o be_v some_o contradiction_n betwixt_o they_o the_o one_o affirm_v that_o there_o be_v a_o form_n of_o church_n government_n set_v down_o in_o the_o word_n the_o other_o deny_v it_o but_o this_o be_v only_o in_o show_v a_o contradiction_n and_o be_v easy_o reconcile_v by_o this_o distinction_n it_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o speak_v of_o the_o general_a another_o thing_n to_o speak_v of_o the_o particular_a the_o affirmative_a position_n say_v that_o it_o be_v whole_o set_v down_o there_o in_o the_o general_a and_o partly_o in_o the_o particular_a the_o negative_a say_v it_o be_v not_o there_o whole_o in_o every_o particular_a these_o position_n i_o purpose_v to_o deliver_v by_o way_n of_o observation_n that_o so_o i_o may_v speak_v the_o more_o plentiful_o upon_o they_o observation_n and_o that_o they_o may_v be_v the_o fit_a for_o your_o understanding_n i_o will_v begin_v with_o the_o first_o which_o be_v this_o namely_o doctr._n 1_o that_o the_o whole_a substance_n of_o church-goverment_n be_v so_o set_v down_o in_o scripture_n that_o every_o particular_a church_n may_v receive_v instruction_n and_o direction_n thereby_o how_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v govern_v this_o doctrine_n i_o doubt_v not_o but_o it_o be_v the_o certain_a truth_n of_o god_n matth._n 28.20_o teach_v they_o to_o observe_v and_o do_v whatsoever_o i_o have_v command_v you_o first_o we_o must_v here_o presuppose_v the_o necessity_n of_o church-government_n as_o i_o have_v teach_v before_o and_o second_o that_o it_o be_v god_n ordinance_n as_o i_o have_v also_o before_o show_v and_o than_o it_o must_v needs_o follow_v that_o christ_n give_v it_o in_o charge_n to_o his_o apostle_n and_o so_o they_o teach_v it_o and_o that_o not_o by_o preach_v only_o but_o by_o write_v too_o for_o what_o they_o preach_v they_o write_v the_o substance_n of_o it_o so_o that_o even_o in_o their_o write_n at_o least_o the_o substance_n of_o this_o business_n be_v
contain_v and_o this_o be_v the_o more_o likely_a because_o about_o that_o very_a time_n that_o be_v somewhat_o before_o his_o ascension_n he_o speak_v unto_o they_o of_o the_o thing_n which_o appertain_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n act._n 1.3_o which_o if_o we_o understand_v not_o of_o the_o substance_n of_o god_n kingdom_n which_o be_v inward_a in_o the_o heart_n of_o his_o child_n but_o of_o the_o appurtenance_n of_o it_o as_o it_o seem_v to_o be_v than_o it_o can_v be_v fit_a apply_v than_o to_o this_o matter_n of_o church-government_n for_o what_o do_v more_o near_o and_o proper_o appertain_v or_o be_v annex_v to_o that_o kingdom_n than_o this_o now_o the_o apostle_n must_v teach_v all_o that_o christ_n teach_v they_o but_o christ_n teach_v they_o this_o therefore_o they_o must_v teach_v it_o too_o and_o that_o not_o by_o preach_v only_o but_o by_o write_v too_o for_o what_o they_o preach_v they_o write_v the_o substance_n of_o it_o therefore_o there_o be_v sufficient_a matter_n to_o be_v find_v in_o scripture_n to_o direct_v every_o church_n in_o the_o substance_n of_o church-government_n let_v we_o come_v somewhat_o near_o to_o the_o point_n ephes_n 4.11_o 12._o it_o be_v there_o say_v that_o christ_n do_v therefore_o give_v some_o to_o be_v apostle_n and_o some_o prophet_n and_o some_o evangelist_n and_o some_o pastor_n and_o teacher_n for_o the_o repair_n of_o the_o saint_n and_o for_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n and_o for_o the_o edification_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n whereby_o it_o be_v plain_a that_o by_o those_o which_o christ_n so_o give_v to_o be_v apostle_n etc._n etc._n there_o be_v sufficient_a direction_n leave_v for_o the_o edification_n of_o the_o whole_a body_n now_o government_n be_v one_o special_a mean_n for_o edification_n yea_o and_o for_o the_o gather_n of_o the_o saint_n and_o for_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n and_o therefore_o that_o be_v not_o untaught_a by_o they_o and_o so_o consequent_o not_o unwritten_a at_o least_o for_o the_o substance_n of_o it_o ad_fw-la to_o this_o that_o which_o the_o apostle_n have_v in_o 1_o cor._n 12.5_o 9_o especial_o in_o vers_fw-la 28._o and_o then_o it_o will_v appear_v to_o be_v clear_a enough_o where_o the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o of_o administration_n and_o gift_n &_o so_o come_v to_o those_o that_o be_v endue_v with_o those_o gift_n and_o that_o be_v to_o exercise_v they_o whereof_o though_o some_o be_v temporal_a yet_o other_o be_v perpetual_a which_o if_o we_o add_v to_o that_o ephes_n 4.11_o then_o here_o be_v sufficient_a provision_n ordain_v of_o god_n and_o set_v down_o in_o his_o word_n for_o every_o church_n to_o be_v direct_v by_o for_o substance_n of_o governor_n and_o government_n and_o consider_v that_o this_o be_v not_o speak_v of_o the_o corinth_n only_a but_o of_o the_o church_n in_o general_a god_n have_v ordain_v some_o in_o his_o church_n etc._n etc._n that_o thereby_o it_o may_v be_v plain_a that_o it_o be_v appliable_a to_o every_o particular_a church_n the_o like_a place_n be_v in_o rom._n 12.7_o 8._o where_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o office_n in_o the_o church_n and_o of_o they_o that_o use_v they_o these_o place_n then_o lay_v together_o prove_v the_o point_n let_v we_o come_v to_o example_n of_o church_n in_o scripture_n to_o prove_v the_o point_n further_o we_o have_v example_n of_o this_o in_o two_o church_n in_o scripture_n that_o be_v best_o provide_v for_o in_o this_o kind_n and_o that_o be_v in_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n and_o of_o ephesus_n take_v the_o church_n of_o corinth_n for_o a_o example_n and_o see_v how_o sufficient_o it_o be_v provide_v for_o in_o this_o kind_n and_o that_o in_o most_o particular_n for_o they_o have_v the_o word_n and_o the_o lord_n supper_n sect_n and_o offender_n be_v punish_v yea_o and_o general_o they_o have_v rule_n give_v they_o for_o the_o whole_a carriage_n of_o god_n worship_n as_o in_o the_o 1_o cor._n 14._o consider_v what_o rule_v of_o edification_n and_o order_n he_o there_o prescribe_v and_o extend_v they_o to_o all_o church_n in_o their_o kind_n and_o say_v then_o whether_o all_o church_n be_v not_o sufficient_o provide_v for_o in_o the_o general_a for_o this_o matter_n of_o church-government_n see_v this_o also_o in_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n act._n 20_o 28_o consider_v the_o charge_n there_o give_v to_o all_o the_o overseer_n of_o that_o church_n that_o they_o shall_v feed_v the_o flock_n etc._n etc._n that_o be_v govern_v they_o as_o well_o as_o teach_v they_o consider_v the_o manifold_a instruction_n he_o give_v they_o there_o how_o they_o shall_v carry_v themselves_o and_o withal_o consider_v the_o particular_n he_o charge_v timothy_n withal_o in_o both_o his_o epistle_n for_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n and_o say_v if_o this_o church_n be_v not_o sufficient_o provide_v for_o in_o this_o kind_n if_o you_o yet_o doubt_v of_o it_o believe_v the_o apostle_n act._n 20.20_o where_o the_o apostle_n say_v that_o he_o have_v keep_v nothing_o back_o from_o they_o that_o be_v profitable_a so_o that_o if_o church-government_n be_v profitable_a for_o they_o as_o sure_o it_o be_v very_o necessary_a then_o for_o the_o substance_n of_o it_o they_o be_v sufficient_o instruct_v and_o so_o it_o will_v follow_v that_o all_o other_o church_n must_v be_v so_o too_o either_o more_o or_o less_o though_o happy_o not_o in_o that_o degree_n of_o perfection_n as_o these_o be_v and_o so_o much_o for_o the_o proof_n of_o the_o point_n the_o reason_n of_o it_o be_v these_o first_o it_o be_v so_o in_o matter_n of_o substance_n reas_n 1_o both_o for_o duty_n of_o life_n and_o for_o matter_n of_o faith_n namely_o that_o the_o whole_a substance_n of_o it_o be_v so_o set_v down_o in_o god_n word_n that_o every_o particular_a man_n may_v receive_v instruction_n thereby_o how_o to_o carry_v and_o how_o to_o govern_v himself_o if_o this_o be_v so_o for_o a_o particular_a christian_a in_o matter_n of_o faith_n and_o practice_n then_o this_o be_v a_o matter_n partly_o of_o faith_n but_o more_o of_o practice_n and_o be_v for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o a_o church_n therefore_o the_o substance_n of_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v set_v down_o in_o god_n word_n second_o it_o be_v so_o in_o the_o jewish_a church_n in_o the_o former_a reas_n 2_o testament_n god_n set_v down_o the_o matter_n of_o church-government_n very_o precise_o for_o the_o substance_n of_o it_o and_o that_o in_o most_o particular_n and_o therefore_o he_o do_v so_o with_o the_o church_n in_o the_o latter_a testament_n for_o must_v not_o the_o church_n now_o be_v as_o well_o provide_v as_o then_o sure_o it_o must_v in_o matter_n of_o substance_n reas_n 3_o three_o christ_n care_n of_o his_o church_n prove_v it_o it_o be_v not_o credible_a that_o he_o so_o tender_o love_v her_o welfare_n and_o so_o gracious_o provide_v every_o thing_n else_o for_o she_o that_o he_o will_v fail_v she_o in_o this_o leave_v she_o 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alas_o the_o church_n be_v but_o a_o company_n of_o man_n blind_a and_o ignorant_a not_o able_a to_o direct_v and_o govern_v themselves_o beside_o they_o be_v headstrong_a and_o wilful_a that_o they_o will_v not_o be_v rule_v or_o else_o they_o be_v peremptory_a in_o their_o own_o conceit_n loath_a to_o part_v with_o their_o own_o invention_n though_o they_o be_v never_o so_o much_o against_o the_o word_n therefore_o christ_n must_v leave_v direction_n and_o where_o but_o in_o his_o word_n reas_n 5_o the_o five_o reason_n be_v take_v from_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o the_o word_n 2_o tim._n 3.16_o 17._o for_o the_o whole_a scripture_n be_v give_v by_o inspiration_n from_o god_n and_o be_v profitable_a to_o teach_v to_o convince_v to_o correct_v and_o to_o instruct_v in_o righteousness_n but_o how_o far_o forth_o be_v it_o thus_o
profitable_a the_o apostle_n say_v in_o the_o 17._o verse_n that_o the_o man_n of_o god_n may_v be_v absolute_a be_v make_v perfect_a to_o all_o good_a work_n that_o the_o man_n of_o god_n may_v be_v absolute_a who_o be_v this_o man_n of_o god_n sure_o timothy_n and_o such_o as_o he_o be_v that_o be_v in_o the_o chief_a place_n for_o government_n in_o god_n church_n and_o these_o must_v be_v perfect_a to_o every_o good_a work_n and_o therefore_o to_o this_o work_n to_o govern_v aright_o therefore_o if_o government_n be_v a_o good_a work_n and_o that_o the_o scripture_n make_v the_o man_n of_o god_n perfect_a to_o every_o good_a work_n than_o also_o it_o instruct_v he_o and_o make_v he_o perfect_a in_o this_o good_a work_n last_o the_o main_a business_n in_o this_o matter_n of_o government_n reas_n 6_o be_v set_v down_o and_o provide_v for_o by_o name_n in_o the_o scripture_n there_o be_v the_o word_n and_o the_o preach_n of_o it_o the_o sacrament_n and_o the_o administration_n of_o they_o officer_n and_o their_o duty_n and_o visit_v the_o sick_a relieve_v the_o poor_a cast_v out_o the_o infectious_a and_o such_o like_a as_o may_v be_v show_v by_o many_o place_n of_o scripture_n yea_o if_o any_o man_n can_v name_v any_o other_o substantial_a part_n or_o business_n of_o church-government_n i_o dare_v undertake_v to_o show_v in_o the_o word_n that_o there_o be_v some_o good_a order_n at_o least_o in_o general_n take_v for_o it_o so_o much_o for_o the_o reason_n the_o use_v be_v these_o first_o here_o be_v a_o rule_n for_o all_o church_n use_v 1_o to_o go_v by_o in_o their_o government_n we_o must_v follow_v the_o rule_n and_o direction_n of_o god_n in_o his_o word_n as_o moses_n in_o build_v the_o tabernacle_n be_v to_o do_v all_o thing_n according_a to_o the_o pattern_n which_o he_o see_v in_o the_o mount_n so_o must_v they_o do_v every_o thing_n in_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n according_a to_o the_o pattern_n set_v down_o in_o the_o scripture_n avoid_v and_o here_o two_o extremity_n be_v to_o be_v avoid_v that_o some_o have_v fall_v into_o first_o let_v we_o take_v heed_n we_o go_v not_o too_o far_o as_o some_o have_v do_v that_o have_v be_v exceed_v bold_a and_o presumptuous_a this_o way_n take_v upon_o they_o to_o coin_n new_a law_n and_o to_o devise_v new_a officer_n and_o to_o erect_v a_o whole_a new_a form_n of_o government_n and_o to_o intrude_v it_o upon_o the_o church_n other_o there_o be_v that_o pretend_v to_o go_v no_o further_o than_o christ_n have_v prescribe_v in_o his_o word_n yet_o they_o obtrude_v more_o on_o the_o church_n than_o ever_o he_o mean_v though_o not_o of_o their_o own_o head_n as_o they_o say_v but_o under_o pretence_n of_o his_o own_o ordinance_n other_o make_v that_o perpetual_a which_o be_v but_o temporal_a as_o the_o work_n of_o miracle_n etc._n etc._n these_o thing_n have_v be_v the_o occasion_n of_o much_o mischief_n in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o howsoever_o the_o intent_n of_o these_o may_v be_v good_a yet_o the_o event_n be_v naught_o as_o if_o the_o event_n of_o they_o be_v at_o any_o time_n good_a yet_o the_o practice_n of_o they_o be_v foul_a and_o naught_o for_o hereby_o they_o accuse_v the_o scripture_n of_o insufficiency_n and_o christ_n himself_o of_o neglect_n that_o he_o do_v not_o or_o of_o want_n of_o wisdom_n as_o if_o he_o can_v not_o provide_v sufficient_o for_o his_o church_n second_o as_o we_o must_v not_o go_v too_o far_o so_o we_o must_v take_v heed_n that_o we_o come_v not_o too_o short_a for_o that_o be_v as_o great_a a_o sin_n to_o leave_v out_o any_o thing_n that_o god_n have_v prescribe_v as_o to_o add_v any_o thing_n thereto_o to_o decline_v from_o god_n word_n either_o to_o the_o right_a hand_n or_o to_o the_o left_a be_v alike_o sinful_a to_o charge_n christ_n with_o superfluity_n as_o well_o as_o with_o defect_n be_v alike_o evil_a thus_o they_o err_v that_o make_v those_o office_n or_o officer_n temporal_a which_o christ_n have_v make_v perpetual_a to_o endure_v to_o the_o world_n end_n for_o this_o be_v to_o charge_n christ_n with_o superfluity_n therefore_o the_o best_a and_o safe_a course_n in_o this_o business_n be_v to_o do_v thus_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o a_o church_n both_o magistrate_n minister_n and_o people_n be_v to_o consult_v with_o god_n word_n and_o to_o entreat_v god_n by_o prayer_n to_o open_v the_o scripture_n to_o they_o and_o to_o open_v their_o understand_n that_o they_o may_v see_v what_o be_v propound_v to_o they_o therein_o in_o this_o case_n and_o that_o they_o be_v to_o embrace_v and_o not_o wilful_o either_o to_o take_v or_o refuse_v any_o thing_n but_o with_o submission_n to_o receive_v better_a advice_n if_o god_n send_v it_o they_o and_o according_o they_o be_v to_o proceed_v as_o in_o christ_n stead_n and_o as_o if_o himself_o be_v personal_o present_a to_o direct_v they_o what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v in_o this_o case_n use_v 2_o the_o second_o use_n be_v to_o teach_v we_o obedience_n to_o church-government_n for_o see_v it_o be_v god_n ordinance_n it_o must_v be_v embrace_v and_o obey_v and_o yield_v to_o else_o if_o we_o resist_v it_o we_o resist_v god_n because_o we_o resist_v god_n ordinance_n this_o be_v special_o to_o be_v press_v in_o our_o church_n for_o the_o christian_a magistrate_n sake_n who_o have_v ratify_v such_o a_o government_n among_o we_o for_o his_o sake_n we_o must_v yield_v yet_o always_o in_o the_o lord_n the_o conscience_n be_v free_a from_o be_v subject_a to_o man_n but_o you_o will_v say_v what_o if_o i_o live_v in_o a_o church_n where_o i_o think_v their_o government_n be_v not_o according_a to_o god_n word_n i_o answer_v first_o that_o though_o every_o particular_a in_o that_o government_n can_v be_v maintain_v by_o god_n word_n yet_o in_o the_o general_a it_o may_v be_v sound_o maintain_v second_o i_o say_v that_o except_o thou_o can_v disprove_v it_o on_o very_o good_a ground_n out_o of_o the_o word_n thou_o must_v take_v it_o on_o their_o word_n that_o impose_v it_o and_o thou_o must_v obey_v it_o till_o thou_o be_v better_o resolve_v for_o this_o be_v the_o rule_n concern_v outward_a government_n in_o the_o church_n when_o it_o be_v impose_v by_o the_o magistrate_n it_o be_v not_o leave_v free_a to_o we_o either_o to_o obey_v or_o not_o to_o obey_v but_o we_o must_v obey_v unless_o we_o have_v a_o good_a warrant_n out_o of_o god_n word_n against_o it_o but_o what_o if_o i_o doubt_v must_v i_o yet_o obey_v before_o i_o be_o resolve_v yes_o though_o thou_o doubt_v of_o it_o yet_o thou_o must_v obey_v except_o thou_o can_v bring_v some_o sound_a proof_n out_o of_o god_n word_n against_o it_o either_o direct_o or_o by_o necessary_a consequence_n use_v 3_o last_o this_o teach_v we_o thankfulness_n to_o god_n in_o christ_n for_o that_o he_o have_v so_o sufficient_o and_o careful_o provide_v for_o we_o not_o only_o for_o matter_n of_o doctrine_n but_o of_o government_n not_o for_o our_o be_v only_o but_o for_o our_o well-being_n too_o a_o love_a father_n will_v not_o teach_v his_o child_n only_o how_o to_o live_v but_o also_o how_o to_o live_v orderly_o and_o healthful_o and_o how_o he_o may_v govern_v himself_o with_o grace_n and_o credit_n to_o the_o world_n so_o christ_n provide_v not_o only_o for_o the_o be_v of_o his_o church_n and_o for_o the_o life_n of_o it_o but_o also_o for_o the_o health_n and_o grace_n and_o well-being_n of_o it_o a_o good_a shepherd_n provide_v not_o only_a pasture_n to_o feed_v his_o sheep_n but_o he_o have_v his_o crook_n too_o to_o govern_v they_o and_o keep_v they_o in_o order_n so_o our_o chief_a and_o heavenly_a shepherd_n furnish_v we_o not_o only_o with_o doctrine_n but_o also_o with_o discipline_n too_o in_o a_o sufficient_a manner_n he_o provide_v his_o word_n and_o sacrament_n to_o feed_v and_o nourish_v we_o and_o he_o have_v discipline_n his_o rod_n to_o keep_v we_o in_o the_o right_a way_n alas_o what_o will_v have_v become_v of_o we_o if_o we_o have_v be_v leave_v whole_o to_o ourselves_o and_o to_o our_o own_o direction_n the_o silly_a sheep_n be_v not_o more_o ready_a to_o go_v astray_o and_o become_v a_o prey_n to_o the_o wolf_n and_o bear_n and_o lion_n than_o we_o be_v ready_a to_o run_v into_o the_o snare_n of_o sin_n and_o by_o our_o misdemeanour_n to_o betray_v ourselves_o into_o the_o hand_n of_o satan_n if_o we_o have_v not_o the_o rod_n and_o staff_n of_o our_o bless_a shepherd_n his_o holy_a discipline_n to_o guide_v we_o in_o the_o right_a way_n lord_n say_v the_o prophet_n jeremy_n i_o know_v it_o be_v not_o in_o man_n to_o direct_v his_o own_o step_n we_o may_v true_o apply_v this_o speech_n to_o the_o church_n
it_o be_v not_o in_o she_o to_o devise_v she_o own_o government_n if_o christ_n therefore_o have_v not_o provide_v for_o she_o in_o this_o case_n but_o have_v leave_v she_o to_o herself_o a_o thousand_o to_o one_o she_o have_v never_o hit_v on_o the_o right_a way_n or_o if_o she_o have_v she_o can_v have_v have_v no_o comfort_n of_o conscience_n in_o that_o case_n nor_o hope_v of_o blessing_n in_o the_o course_n because_o still_o she_o will_v have_v be_v uncertain_a and_o doubtful_a whether_o it_o be_v of_o god_n or_o not_o therefore_o as_o it_o be_v and_o must_v be_v from_o the_o lord_n so_o let_v we_o bless_v and_o praise_v the_o lord_n our_o good_a god_n that_o have_v so_o merciful_o and_o plentiful_o furnish_v we_o in_o this_o kind_n and_o so_o much_o of_o the_o affirmative_a point_n namely_o that_o the_o whole_a substance_n of_o church-government_n be_v so_o set_v down_o in_o scripture_n that_o every_o particular_a church_n may_v receive_v instruction_n and_o direction_n thereby_o how_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v govern_v scripture_n now_o i_o come_v to_o the_o second_o point_n the_o negative_a position_n namely_o that_o there_o be_v not_o any_o one_o particular_a form_n of_o church-government_n set_v down_o in_o scripture_n that_o every_o particular_a church_n be_v precise_o bind_v unto_o to_o observe_v for_o order_v every_o particular_a this_o be_v a_o negative_a position_n as_o you_o see_v must_v be_v content_a with_o negative_a proof_n for_o see_v the_o question_n be_v whether_o there_o be_v such_o a_o government_n in_o scripture_n for_o every_o particular_a or_o not_o and_o see_v the_o answer_n be_v that_o there_o be_v not_o no_o marvel_n then_o though_o there_o be_v no_o direct_a place_n to_o confirm_v it_o but_o you_o will_v say_v that_o many_o together_o will_n i_o say_v no_o many_o lay_v all_o together_o will_v not_o they_o that_o pretend_v there_o be_v such_o a_o thing_n must_v instance_n in_o some_o such_o place_n in_o the_o word_n where_o it_o be_v prove_v else_o the_o contrary_n be_v presume_v to_o be_v true_a and_o so_o it_o follow_v that_o the_o refutation_n of_o such_o allegation_n be_v the_o direct_a proof_n of_o the_o position_n therefore_o for_o proof_n of_o this_o negative_a position_n first_o i_o say_v no_o place_n of_o scripture_n say_v that_o there_o be_v or_o prescribe_v that_o there_o shall_v be_v such_o a_o particular_a form_n of_o church-government_n etc._n etc._n for_o every_o part_n of_o discipline_n nay_o nor_o many_o place_n confer_v and_o lay_v all_o together_o do_v not_o for_o matter_n of_o substance_n and_o in_o general_a there_o be_v proof_n enough_o as_o we_o hear_v before_o in_o the_o former_a point_n but_o not_o for_o any_o particular_a form_n in_o every_o particular_a etc._n etc._n as_o there_o be_v no_o place_n that_o affirm_v or_o prescribe_v this_o particular_a form_n of_o church-government_n so_o i_o say_v further_o there_o be_v no_o example_n for_o it_o in_o all_o the_o scripture_n there_o be_v no_o question_n but_o that_o if_o our_o saviour_n or_o his_o apostle_n have_v intend_v any_o such_o form_n of_o government_n to_o be_v observe_v in_o every_o particular_a either_o they_o will_v have_v give_v it_o in_o express_a charge_n particular_o or_o at_o least_o there_o will_v have_v be_v some_o notorious_a pattern_n of_o it_o in_o some_o church_n but_o there_o be_v no_o such_o in_o scripture_n to_o instance_n in_o the_o best_a church_n corinth_n and_o ephesus_n be_v the_o best_a provide_v for_o in_o that_o case_n yet_o these_o have_v no_o particular_a form_n of_o church-government_n whereunto_o they_o be_v precise_o bind_v first_o for_o corinth_n there_o be_v more_o write_v to_o that_o church_n for_o matter_n of_o outward_a government_n than_o to_o any_o other_o church_n yea_o almost_o as_o much_o as_o to_o all_o other_o yet_o it_o be_v not_o provide_v for_o in_o every_o particular_a no_o not_o in_o regard_n of_o itself_o in_o many_o particular_n it_o be_v well_o provide_v for_o in_o all_o it_o be_v not_o by_o writing_n for_o some_o the_o apostle_n respite_v till_o his_o presence_n 1_o cor._n 11.34_o other_o thing_n will_v i_o set_v in_o order_n when_o i_o come_v so_o then_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n be_v not_o provide_v for_o in_o every_o particular_a by_o writing_n for_o herself_o much_o less_o be_v it_o so_o provide_v for_o as_o that_o every_o church_n shall_v be_v direct_v thereby_o but_o you_o will_v say_v be_v not_o the_o church-order_n of_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n the_o lord_n own_o commandment_n 1_o cor._n 14.37_o yes_o they_o be_v to_o they_o of_o that_o church_n so_o far_o as_o be_v direct_o enjoin_v they_o but_o not_o to_o all_o church_n else_o so_o likewise_o for_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n though_o it_o be_v then_o the_o most_o famous_a church_n in_o asia_n and_o plentiful_o provide_v for_o that_o way_n yet_o it_o be_v not_o so_o provide_v for_o that_o every_o church_n shall_v be_v direct_v by_o it_o nay_o it_o be_v not_o provide_v for_o in_o every_o particular_a for_o itself_o but_o you_o will_v say_v be_v not_o particular_n profitable_a if_o so_o be_v they_o be_v than_o the_o apostle_n paul_n say_v to_o the_o overseer_n of_o that_o church_n act._n 20.20_o i_o have_v keep_v nothing_o back_o that_o be_v profitable_a for_o you_o and_o therefore_o not_o those_o particular_n i_o answer_v sure_o particular_n be_v profitable_a and_o therefore_o this_o church_n have_v enough_o in_o general_a whereby_o they_o may_v frame_v unto_o themselves_o such_o particular_n as_o be_v needful_a for_o they_o but_o they_o have_v not_o all_o particular_n this_o place_n prove_v the_o former_a position_n well_o that_o the_o substance_n of_o church-government_n be_v set_v down_o in_o the_o word_n whole_o in_o the_o general_a but_o not_o in_o every_o particular_a though_o they_o have_v some_o to_o measure_v the_o rest_n by_o yea_o but_o there_o be_v a_o further_a matter_n for_o government_n in_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n than_o in_o any_o other_o church_n for_o the_o apostle_n impose_v on_o timothy_n a_o charge_n of_o perpetuity_n as_o in_o 1_o tim._n 6.13_o i_o charge_v thou_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n etc._n etc._n that_o thou_o keep_v the_o commandment_n without_o spot_n until_o the_o appear_v of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n so_o then_o that_o government_n which_o he_o charge_v he_o withal_o be_v to_o be_v perpetual_a i_o answer_v first_o that_o that_o commandment_n be_v chief_o if_o not_o only_o of_o faith_n and_o holiness_n second_o if_o it_o be_v understand_v of_o government_n yet_o that_o be_v but_o personal_a to_o timothy_n that_o he_o shall_v keep_v it_o as_o much_o as_o in_o he_o lay_v and_o also_o it_o be_v only_o for_o that_o particular_a church_n and_o for_o those_o particular_a thing_n there_o command_v which_o come_v far_o short_a of_o every_o particular_a that_o they_o shall_v perpetual_o be_v there_o observe_v this_o be_v the_o charge_n he_o give_v timothy_n last_o i_o answer_v if_o it_o be_v extend_v to_o every_o particular_a church_n it_o must_v be_v understand_v of_o matter_n of_o substance_n which_o as_o we_o have_v hear_v must_v be_v perpetual_a in_o all_o church_n so_o that_o we_o see_v there_o be_v no_o proof_n for_o this_o nor_o no_o example_n in_o scripture_n nay_o there_o be_v example_n against_o it_o because_o we_o find_v not_o the_o same_o government_n in_o all_o church_n for_o some_o want_v that_o which_o other_o have_v and_o so_o by_o this_o rule_n one_o of_o they_o shall_v have_v sin_v as_o in_o the_o church_n of_o philippi_n there_o be_v only_a bishop_n and_o deacon_n name_v so_o that_o we_o see_v there_o be_v no_o particular_a form_n of_o church-government_n for_o every_o particular_a set_v down_o in_o the_o word_n for_o every_o church_n precise_o to_o be_v rule_v by_o reas_n 1_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o point_n be_v these_o first_o it_o be_v impossible_a it_o shall_v be_v so_o the_o multitude_n and_o variety_n of_o particular_n be_v infinite_a and_o still_o new_a occasion_n arise_v in_o the_o church_n daily_o which_o if_o they_o be_v foresee_v yet_o they_o can_v not_o be_v write_v the_o world_n can_v not_o contain_v the_o book_n as_o the_o evangelist_n speak_v of_o the_o word_n and_o work_n of_o our_o saviour_n what_o civil_a law_n be_v there_o ever_o that_o the_o best_a head_n have_v be_v lay_v together_o to_o devise_v that_o be_v sufficient_a at_o the_o first_o for_o every_o particular_a but_o by_o new_a occasion_n still_o increase_v for_o particular_a cause_n yea_o but_o though_o man_n can_v not_o yet_o god_n can_v have_v provide_v for_o that_o but_o yet_o he_o do_v not_o yea_o i_o say_v further_o that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n though_o it_o be_v a_o most_o perfect_a and_o absolute_a law_n of_o faith_n and_o life_n yet_o it_o prescribe_v not_o for_o every_o particular_a what_o be_v to_o
in_o place_n of_o public_a and_o religious_a assembly_n as_o it_o may_v seem_v to_o be_v in_o our_o saviour_n time_n luk._n 4.16_o 17._o where_o our_o saviour_n come_v into_o the_o temple_n there_o be_v a_o book_n of_o the_o prophecy_n of_o isaiah_n deliver_v to_o he_o so_o that_o they_o must_v be_v extant_a in_o the_o public_a assembly_n and_o how_o must_v they_o be_v extant_a there_o not_o as_o dumb_a show_n but_o as_o the_o lively_a voice_n of_o god_n to_o be_v read_v open_o so_o be_v the_o case_n act._n 13.27_o the_o word_n of_o the_o prophet_n be_v read_v every_o sabbath_n day_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o it_o must_v be_v preach_v too_o that_o be_v conscionable_o expound_v and_o apply_v so_o you_o may_v read_v act._n 13.15_o that_o there_o be_v lecture_n of_o the_o law_n and_o of_o the_o prophet_n and_o that_o the_o ruler_n of_o the_o synagogue_n send_v to_o paul_n and_o barnabas_n say_v that_o if_o they_o have_v any_o word_n of_o exhortation_n they_o shall_v say_v on_o and_o this_o be_v our_o saviour_n charge_n mark_n 16.15_o go_v preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o every_o creature_n and_o so_o it_o be_v the_o apostle_n charge_v to_o timothy_n 2_o tim._n 4.2_o preach_v the_o word_n be_v instant_a etc._n etc._n and_o this_o be_v so_o necessary_a as_o that_o it_o be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n to_o salvation_n rom._n 1.16_o we_o can_v be_v save_v without_o it_o and_o it_o be_v impossible_a we_o shall_v believe_v without_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n how_o shall_v they_o believe_v in_o he_o of_o who_o they_o have_v not_o hear_v and_o how_o shall_v they_o hear_v without_o a_o preacher_n rom._n 10.14_o and_o this_o be_v the_o practice_n both_o of_o christ_n and_o of_o his_o apostle_n they_o preach_v the_o word_n and_o as_o the_o word_n must_v be_v teach_v so_o it_o must_v be_v hear_v understand_v and_o obey_v therefore_o our_o saviour_n say_v luk._n 11.28_o bless_a be_v they_o that_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o keep_v it_o and_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n colos_n 3.16_o say_v let_v the_o word_n of_o god_n dwell_v in_o you_o plenteous_o he_o use_v a_o very_a elegant_a speech_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v let_v it_o not_o come_v as_o a_o stranger_n to_o tarry_v with_o you_o for_o a_o little_a while_n but_o let_v it_o dwell_v with_o you_o etc._n etc._n and_o as_o it_o must_v be_v hear_v and_o obey_v so_o it_o must_v be_v diligent_o confer_v upon_o that_o be_v it_o which_o be_v commend_v in_o the_o man_n of_o berea_n act._n 17.11_o that_o they_o search_v the_o scripture_n to_o try_v whether_o the_o thing_n be_v so_o that_o paul_n teach_v they_o so_o there_o must_v be_v care_v have_v for_o the_o word_n we_o see_v second_o there_o must_v be_v care_n have_v for_o the_o sacrament_n first_o that_o they_o be_v use_v and_o none_o other_o which_o christ_n institute_v and_o second_o that_o they_o be_v administer_v in_o the_o same_o manner_n that_o our_o saviour_n do_v administer_v they_o so_o it_o be_v command_v matth._n 28.19_o go_v teach_v all_o nation_n baptise_v they_o etc._n etc._n there_o be_v the_o sacrament_n of_o baptism_n enjoin_v and_o in_o the_o 1_o cor._n 11.23_o there_o be_v the_o lord_n supper_n and_o the_o practice_n of_o they_o appear_v in_o both_o the_o epistle_n to_o the_o corinthian_n and_o by_o name_n for_o the_o lord_n supper_n in_o that_o first_o epistle_n i_o 11._o v._n 25._o where_o the_o apostle_n deliver_v not_o only_o the_o substance_n of_o it_o but_o in_o some_o measure_n the_o circumstance_n of_o it_o also_o last_o the_o duty_n of_o prayer_n that_o must_v be_v have_v in_o the_o church_n that_o prayer_n must_v be_v public_o make_v in_o the_o church_n we_o have_v the_o exhortation_n of_o the_o apostle_n to_o it_o 1_o tim._n 3.1_o i_o exhort_v that_o first_o of_o all_o prayer_n be_v make_v for_o all_o man_n etc._n etc._n where_o he_o intend_v it_o of_o public_a prayer_n and_o exhort_v to_o it_o as_o to_o a_o chief_a duty_n i_o exhort_v that_o first_o of_o all_o prayer_n be_v make_v etc._n etc._n and_o so_o in_o the_o 1_o cor._n 14.16_o and_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o apostle_n be_v answerable_a to_o this_o act._n 1.14_o after_o christ_n assension_n they_o continue_v with_o one_o accord_n in_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n so_o you_o see_v how_o that_o in_o well-governed_n church_n the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n and_o prayer_n be_v to_o be_v have_v and_o use_v we_o have_v a_o example_n for_o all_o these_o together_o act._n 2_o 41_o 42._o where_o it_o be_v say_v that_o they_o which_o glad_o receive_v the_o word_n be_v baptize_v and_o they_o continue_v in_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n and_o fellowship_n and_o break_v of_o bread_n and_o prayer_n so_o there_o be_v the_o word_n and_o the_o sacrament_n and_o prayer_n here_o many_o good_a and_o profitable_a observation_n may_v be_v have_v but_o they_o be_v here_o only_o handle_v as_o by_o the_o way_n and_o we_o have_v handle_v some_o of_o they_o before_o in_o the_o mark_n and_o note_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n and_o the_o main_a thing_n in_o they_o rest_v to_o be_v handle_v in_o the_o instance_n when_o we_o come_v to_o they_o so_o much_o for_o the_o first_o point_n that_o the_o word_n and_o the_o sacrament_n and_o prayer_n must_v be_v have_v in_o the_o church_n 120._o the_o second_o point_n be_v election_n of_o officer_n from_o time_n to_o time_n as_o occasion_n require_v this_o must_v be_v have_v too_o for_o a_o duty_n to_o be_v perform_v necessary_o require_v a_o officer_n to_o perform_v it_o and_o the_o duty_n be_v of_o sundry_a kind_n so_o must_v the_o officer_n be_v too_o that_o manage_v they_o else_o there_o will_v be_v disorder_n and_o confusion_n and_o none_o must_v intrude_v or_o thrust_v themselves_o into_o such_o place_n of_o their_o own_o head_n for_o that_o be_v intolerable_a presumption_n heb._n 5.4_o no_o man_n take_v this_o honour_n to_o himself_o unless_o he_o be_v choose_v of_o god_n as_o aaron_n be_v there_o be_v no_o warrant_n of_o conscience_n either_o in_o they_o that_o thus_o intrude_v to_o execute_v such_o office_n nor_o in_o other_o to_o obey_v nor_o no_o hope_n of_o blessing_n by_o either_o therefore_o there_o must_v be_v election_n of_o officer_n in_o the_o church_n that_o be_v there_o must_v be_v a_o lawful_a assignment_n of_o such_o man_n to_o such_o office_n when_o a_o church_n be_v first_o plant_v it_o be_v one_o of_o their_o first_o duty_n to_o proceed_v to_o the_o election_n of_o officer_n as_o act._n 14.23_o they_o ordain_v they_o elder_n in_o every_o church_n by_o election_n and_o so_o in_o titus_n 1.5_o titus_n be_v leave_v in_o crete_n when_o the_o church_n be_v first_o plant_v to_o ordain_v elder_n in_o every_o city_n again_o as_o there_o must_v be_v election_n of_o officer_n when_o the_o church_n be_v first_o plant_v so_o there_o must_v be_v election_n for_o the_o supply_n of_o officer_n when_o any_o be_v displace_v either_o by_o death_n or_o for_o their_o misdemeanour_n other_o must_v be_v place_v in_o their_o room_n by_o election_n and_o thus_o do_v the_o apostle_n when_o judas_n be_v fall_v away_o they_o fall_v to_o election_n by_o lot_n for_o another_o to_o supply_v his_o room_n act._n 1.21_o again_o when_o the_o church_n of_o god_n be_v increase_v and_o when_o by_o multitude_n of_o business_n those_o that_o be_v officer_n have_v as_o much_o already_o to_o do_v as_o they_o can_v turn_v their_o hand_n to_o other_z officer_n be_v to_o be_v add_v by_o election_n and_o this_o be_v the_o case_n act._n 6.2_o 3._o when_o the_o multitude_n of_o disciple_n grow_v there_o be_v a_o murmur_a because_o the_o widow_n of_o the_o grecian_n be_v neglect_v in_o the_o daily_a ministration_n now_o the_o apostle_n have_v great_a matter_n in_o hand_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v unmeet_a for_o they_o to_o tend_v to_o it_o therefore_o say_v they_o choose_v you_o out_o seven_o man_n from_o among_o you_o etc._n etc._n and_o so_o when_o the_o people_n of_o israel_n be_v increase_v and_o that_o moses_n know_v not_o what_o to_o do_v exod._n 18.21_o 22._o jethro_n his_o father_n in_o law_n give_v he_o counsel_n to_o choose_v other_o officer_n to_o assist_v he_o and_o so_o he_o do_v so_o that_o election_n of_o officer_n be_v a_o needful_a duty_n in_o the_o church_n now_o as_o this_o must_v be_v do_v in_o regard_n of_o all_o officer_n so_o especial_o there_o must_v be_v election_n of_o minister_n such_o as_o labour_v in_o the_o word_n and_o doctrine_n as_o they_o have_v the_o chief_a business_n to_o deal_v in_o and_o their_o election_n consist_v chief_o in_o two_o thing_n ordination_n and_o assignation_n to_o some_o particular_a place_n first_o ordination_n that_o be_v a_o action_n whereby_o man_n be_v separate_v to_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n and_o
whereby_o they_o be_v enable_v to_o do_v some_o thing_n which_o they_o can_v not_o do_v before_o as_o in_o the_o power_n and_o use_v of_o the_o key_n to_o bind_v and_o loose_v and_o some_o other_o thing_n they_o may_v do_v lawful_o now_o which_o they_o be_v able_a to_o do_v before_o but_o not_o lawful_o as_o to_o preach_v and_o to_o administer_v the_o sacrament_n etc._n etc._n these_o depend_v upon_o lawful_a ordination_n such_o a_o ordination_n we_o find_v act._n 13.2_o 3._o where_o paul_n and_o barnabas_n be_v separate_v to_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n but_o not_o assign_v to_o any_o one_o particular_a place_n and_o in_o the_o 1_o tim._n 4.4_o where_o the_o apostle_n say_v to_o timothy_n despise_v not_o the_o gift_n that_o be_v in_o thou_o which_o be_v give_v thou_o by_o prophecy_n and_o the_o lay_v on_o of_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o company_n of_o the_o presbytery_n where_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o his_o ordination_n before_o he_o come_v to_o be_v assign_v to_o a_o particular_a place_n for_o as_o yet_o he_o have_v no_o certain_a charge_n till_o he_o come_v to_o ephesus_n and_o the_o apostle_n speak_v as_o of_o a_o thing_n do_v before_o that_o be_v for_o ordination_n in_o the_o second_o place_n we_o come_v to_o the_o appointment_n of_o they_o to_o some_o particular_a place_n where_o they_o may_v exercise_v their_o gift_n and_o to_o perform_v the_o work_n of_o their_o ministry_n whereby_o there_o be_v a_o mutual_a reference_n betwixt_o the_o minister_n and_o those_o who_o he_o be_v set_v over_o he_o be_v their_o pastor_n and_o they_o be_v his_o flock_n and_o so_o the_o apostle_n leave_v titus_n in_o crete_n that_o he_o may_v ordain_v elder_n in_o every_o city_n tit._n 1.5_o that_o be_v that_o he_o may_v ordain_v they_o and_o appoint_v they_o in_o every_o city_n for_o both_o these_o usual_o do_v and_o shall_v go_v together_o that_o be_v ordination_n and_o appointment_n to_o some_o particular_a place_n special_o among_o we_o though_o in_o the_o apostle_n time_n there_o be_v minister_n at_o large_a but_o this_o be_v not_o good_a among_o we_o we_o have_v no_o such_o large_a commission_n as_o the_o apostle_n have_v but_o we_o must_v have_v reference_n to_o a_o certain_a people_n and_o to_o a_o certain_a place_n and_o so_o act._n 14.23_o they_o ordain_v elder_n by_o election_n in_o every_o church_n there_o they_o do_v ordain_v minister_n and_o appoint_v they_o to_o a_o certain_a place_n and_o sure_o whatsoever_o be_v right_o do_v in_o this_o kind_n the_o lord_n himself_o acknowledge_v for_o his_o own_o handy_a work_n act._n 20.28_o take_v heed_n to_o the_o flock_n over_o which_o the_o holy_a ghost_n have_v make_v you_o overseer_n etc._n etc._n i_o speak_v all_o this_o while_n of_o the_o outward_a call_n only_o for_o that_o be_v in_o the_o power_n of_o the_o church_n the_o inward_a be_v mere_o and_o immediate_o from_o god_n the_o church_n be_v to_o try_v and_o examine_v the_o inward_a too_o by_o the_o proof_n of_o their_o gift_n and_o by_o charge_v they_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n to_o speak_v the_o truth_n herein_o whether_o they_o find_v that_o god_n spirit_n have_v make_v they_o willing_a and_o able_a for_o the_o ministry_n but_o to_o confer_v it_o on_o they_o they_o can_v so_o much_o for_o the_o second_o point_n election_n of_o officer_n do_v the_o three_o point_n be_v the_o duty_n of_o charity_n and_o mercy_n they_o be_v to_o be_v do_v in_o the_o church_n next_o to_o the_o duty_n of_o piety_n to_o god_n the_o duty_n of_o mercy_n and_o charity_n be_v most_o careful_o to_o be_v perform_v and_o to_o be_v provide_v for_o in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n i_o speak_v not_o so_o much_o of_o spiritual_a duty_n of_o charity_n concern_v spiritual_a distress_n as_o to_o comfort_v the_o wound_a conscience_n to_o bear_v with_o the_o weak_a to_o have_v compassion_n on_o our_o brethren_n infirmity_n but_o chief_o of_o outward_a bodily_a charity_n which_o concern_v the_o outward_a state_n of_o our_o brethren_n as_o first_o the_o sick_a must_v be_v visit_v second_o the_o dead_a must_v be_v buâ—ied_v three_o the_o needy_a must_v be_v relieve_v four_a the_o minister_n must_v be_v maintain_v in_o these_o four_o consist_v all_o the_o duty_n of_o mercy_n and_o charity_n to_o be_v do_v in_o the_o church_n first_o the_o sick_a be_v to_o be_v visit_v the_o text_n be_v clear_a for_o this_o in_o jam._n 5.14_o if_o any_o man_n be_v sick_a let_v they_o call_v for_o the_o elder_n of_o the_o church_n etc._n etc._n and_o this_o must_v not_o be_v do_v for_o fashion_n sake_n after_o a_o civil_a manner_n but_o for_o conscience_n sake_n after_o a_o religious_a and_o christian_a manner_n we_o must_v pray_v with_o they_o and_o for_o they_o for_o their_o recovery_n and_o for_o a_o speedy_a and_o comfortable_a end_n we_o must_v offer_v our_o service_n to_o they_o for_o any_o good_a office_n in_o that_o necessity_n we_o must_v comfort_v and_o encourage_v they_o against_o the_o terror_n and_o pang_n of_o death_n we_o must_v stir_v they_o up_o to_o put_v their_o house_n especial_o their_o soul_n in_o order_n thus_o we_o must_v labour_v every_o way_n to_o fit_v they_o for_o the_o time_n of_o their_o dissolution_n thus_o we_o must_v visit_v the_o sick_a second_o the_o dead_a be_v to_o be_v bury_v this_o be_v commend_v for_o a_o good_a work_n of_o mercy_n by_o christ_n own_a word_n mark_n 14.6_o 8._o when_o the_o woman_n pour_v the_o box_n of_o ointment_n on_o his_o head_n some_o murmur_v at_o it_o but_o our_o saviour_n say_v she_o have_v wrought_v a_o good_a work_n on_o i_o for_o she_o be_v come_v aforehand_o to_o anoint_v my_o body_n to_o the_o burial_n so_o he_o approve_v burial_n for_o a_o good_a work_n and_o see_v that_o sepulcher_n and_o burial_n be_v monument_n of_o our_o resurrection_n for_o that_o be_v the_o first_o and_o true_a use_n of_o they_o among_o the_o faithful_a where_o shall_v this_o be_v practise_v more_o than_o in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n where_o the_o resurrection_n be_v most_o and_o best_o teach_v and_o believe_v three_o the_o needy_a be_v to_o be_v relieve_v the_o naked_a must_v be_v clothe_v the_o hungry_a must_v be_v feed_v etc._n etc._n and_o this_o duty_n consist_v of_o two_o branch_n collection_n and_o distribution_n first_o there_o must_v be_v collection_n so_o the_o apostle_n enjoin_v 1_o cor._n 16.1_o 2._o that_o every_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n every_o man_n must_v put_v aside_o something_o for_o the_o relief_n of_o the_o saint_n than_o it_o must_v be_v collect_v and_o gather_v and_o so_o much_o put_v into_o the_o treasury_n and_o that_o be_v the_o use_n of_o the_o treasury_n in_o mark_n 12.45_o to_o put_v in_o that_o which_o be_v collect_v second_o there_o must_v be_v distribution_n as_o rom._n 12.8_o he_o that_o distribute_v let_v he_o do_v it_o with_o simplicity_n and_o vers_fw-la 13._o distribute_v to_o the_o necessity_n of_o the_o saint_n heb._n 13.16_o to_o do_v good_a and_o to_o distribute_v forget_v not_o etc._n etc._n and_o this_o may_v be_v do_v either_o by_o their_o own_o hand_n or_o other_o and_o that_o not_o to_o their_o own_o church_n alone_o but_o to_o other_o too_o if_o they_o want_v and_o these_o abound_v rom._n 12.26_o so_o that_o that_o which_o be_v collect_v must_v not_o be_v keep_v but_o after_o collection_n there_o must_v be_v distribution_n and_o in_o these_o two_o office_n consist_v the_o relieve_n of_o the_o needy_a the_o four_o duty_n of_o mercy_n be_v this_o the_o minister_n must_v be_v manifest_v this_o be_v the_o apostle_n mean_v in_o the_o 1_o tim._n 5.17_o where_o he_o say_v that_o he_o that_o rule_v well_o be_v worthy_a of_o double_a honour_n special_o he_o that_o labour_v in_o the_o word_n and_o doctrine_n where_o at_o least_o double_a honour_n be_v take_v for_o the_o honour_n of_o maintenance_n and_o the_o text_n be_v clear_a for_o it_o by_o that_o which_o follow_v where_o he_o say_v thou_o shall_v not_o mussel_n the_o mouth_n of_o the_o ox_n that_o tread_v forth_o the_o corn_n and_o this_o must_v not_o be_v do_v with_o a_o spare_a hand_n but_o as_o the_o apostle_n command_v it_o in_o galat._n 6.6_o let_v he_o that_o be_v teach_v in_o the_o word_n make_v he_o that_o have_v teach_v he_o partaker_n of_o all_o his_o good_n let_v he_o think_v nothing_o too_o dear_a for_o he_o and_o this_o be_v not_o ground_v on_o the_o law_n of_o love_n only_o but_o even_o upon_o the_o law_n of_o reason_n too_o for_o so_o the_o apostle_n in_o the_o 1_o cor._n 9.11_o sheweth_z that_o in_o reason_n if_o they_o minister_v to_o we_o spiritual_a thing_n it_o be_v no_o great_a matter_n if_o they_o reap_v our_o carnal_a thing_n it_o be_v true_a that_o rather_o than_o the_o minister_n shall_v be_v burdensome_a to_o
the_o church_n he_o be_v to_o labour_v with_o his_o own_o hand_n to_o satisfy_v his_o necessity_n but_o yet_o when_o there_o be_v a_o competent_a state_n in_o the_o people_n they_o be_v to_o ease_v he_o of_o that_o labour_n and_o of_o their_o estate_n to_o relieve_v his_o want_n as_o the_o philippian_n do_v by_o the_o apostle_n paul_n phil._n 4.10_o 11._o where_o the_o apostle_n rejoice_v for_o the_o care_n which_o they_o have_v in_o minister_a to_o he_o and_o sure_o the_o people_n lose_v nothing_o by_o this_o for_o when_o the_o minister_n be_v thus_o provide_v for_o they_o give_v themselves_o whole_o to_o their_o calling_n without_o let_v to_o study_v for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o people_n whereas_o else_o they_o be_v drive_v to_o provide_v for_o themselves_o it_o will_v be_v with_o they_o as_o it_o be_v with_o the_o israelite_n under_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o cruel_a taskmaster_n in_o egypt_n they_o must_v be_v seek_v straw_n while_o they_o shall_v be_v make_v brick_n to_o build_v withal_o they_o must_v be_v seek_v after_o the_o pelf_n of_o this_o world_n while_o they_o shall_v be_v building_n god_n house_n and_o they_o that_o neglect_v this_o duty_n be_v empty_a of_o all_o religion_n both_o for_o piety_n to_o god_n who_o minister_n they_o be_v and_o for_o charity_n to_o themselves_o and_o their_o brethren_n because_o they_o do_v not_o strain_v themselves_o to_o relieve_v the_o want_n of_o such_o as_o by_o god_n ordinance_n they_o be_v most_o bind_v unto_o and_o which_o do_v spend_v themselves_o and_o their_o time_n for_o other_o good_a and_o salvation_n so_o much_o of_o the_o three_o point_n for_o duty_n and_o work_n of_o mercy_n and_o charity_n the_o four_o point_n be_v the_o censure_n of_o the_o church_n censure_n the_o proceed_n against_o offender_n for_o see_v in_o all_o church_n there_o be_v still_o some_o that_o walk_v inordinate_o some_o course_n of_o necessity_n must_v be_v take_v against_o they_o that_o the_o church_n may_v be_v disburden_v either_o of_o their_o person_n or_o of_o their_o sin_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o our_o saviour_n himself_o take_v precise_a order_n for_o this_o matter_n matth._n 18.15_o etc._n etc._n and_o the_o apostle_n charge_v this_o duty_n on_o the_o thessalonian_n with_o great_a authority_n 2_o thess_n 3.6_o we_o warn_v you_o brethren_n in_o the_o name_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n that_o you_o withdraw_v yourselves_o from_o every_o brother_n that_o walk_v inordinate_o and_o he_o be_v grievous_o offend_v with_o the_o corinthian_n that_o they_o do_v not_o proceed_v according_o with_o all_o severity_n against_o the_o incestuous_a person_n 1_o cor._n 55._o and_o the_o reason_n for_o such_o proceed_n be_v very_o weighty_a this_o first_o no_o government_n i_o say_v not_o only_o can_v be_v good_a but_o can_v stand_v where_o malefactor_n be_v not_o punish_v much_o less_o can_v the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n where_o sin_n be_v special_o to_o be_v hate_v prevent_v and_o suppress_v second_o where_o know_a sin_n be_v not_o punish_v there_o the_o state_n and_o government_n be_v repute_v accessary_a to_o that_o sin_n now_o what_o a_o scandal_n be_v it_o to_o god_n religion_n and_o church_n to_o be_v account_v favourer_n or_o sparer_n of_o any_o sin_n which_o they_o must_v be_v if_o offender_n be_v not_o punish_v three_o offender_n must_v be_v punish_v else_o there_o be_v danger_n of_o infect_v the_o whole_a congregation_n so_o say_v the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 5.6_o a_o little_a leaven_n leaven_v the_o whole_a lâ—mpe_n therefore_o the_o old_a and_o sour_a leaven_n be_v to_o be_v purge_v forth_o four_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o offendor_n himself_o censure_n must_v be_v have_v in_o the_o church_n that_o so_o the_o flesh_n may_v be_v thereby_o destroy_v and_o his_o soul_n save_v and_o so_o god_n mercy_n glorify_v in_o the_o convert_n a_o penitent_a sinner_n by_o his_o save_a ordinance_n 1_o cor._n 5.5_o but_o if_o he_o continue_v obstinate_a his_o punishment_n here_o be_v but_o the_o begin_n of_o his_o torment_a state_n in_o hell_n and_o the_o decreee_v of_o god_n reprobation_n be_v begin_v to_o be_v execute_v upon_o he_o and_o so_o the_o lord_n be_v glorify_v in_o judgement_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o his_o church_n in_o the_o confusion_n of_o his_o enemy_n now_o these_o proceed_n consist_v in_o many_o particular_n for_o the_o church_n be_v merciful_a even_o as_o their_o heavenly_a father_n be_v merciful_a they_o delight_v not_o in_o the_o death_n of_o sinner_n but_o rather_o that_o they_o shall_v be_v convert_v and_o live_v and_o therefore_o they_o attempt_v all_o mean_n of_o cure_n first_o before_o they_o proceed_v in_o cut_v off_o this_o and_o yet_o they_o be_v just_a too_o as_o god_n their_o father_n be_v just_a and_o therefore_o when_o gracious_a and_o mild_a mean_n do_v not_o prevail_v they_o proceed_v to_o rough_a course_n first_o therefore_o there_o must_v be_v private_a admonition_n betwixt_o he_o and_o thou_o or_o two_o or_o three_o more_o so_o our_o saviour_n command_v matth._n 18.15_o 16._o second_o if_o he_o will_v not_o hear_v complaint_n must_v be_v make_v to_o the_o church_n as_o in_o vers_n 17._o which_o as_o i_o take_v it_o be_v that_o note_v out_o by_o letter_n which_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o in_o 2_o thes_n 2.14_o three_o consequent_o if_o he_o will_v not_o hear_v the_o church_n separate_v from_o he_o have_v no_o company_n with_o he_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v in_o that_o 2_o thes_n 3.14_o and_o this_o be_v it_o also_o which_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1_o cor._n 5.9_o i_o write_v unto_o you_o that_o you_o shall_v not_o company_n with_o fornicator_n this_o be_v a_o suspending_a of_o they_o for_o a_o time_n from_o the_o sacrament_n and_o from_o communion_n in_o holy_a thing_n till_o the_o church_n have_v trial_n whether_o thereby_o they_o will_v be_v bring_v to_o repentance_n four_o if_o this_o will_v not_o prevail_v what_o must_v be_v do_v then_o why_o if_o they_o can_v cure_v they_o must_v cut_v off_o he_o must_v be_v deliver_v up_o to_o satan_n indeed_o so_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1_o cor._n 5.5_o and_o 1_o tim._n 1.20_o and_o that_o which_o the_o church_n do_v in_o this_o case_n the_o lord_n ratify_v in_o heaven_n matth._n 18.18_o whosoever_o they_o bind_v on_o earth_n be_v bind_v in_o heaven_n yet_o so_o too_o that_o upon_o his_o repentance_n they_o can_v and_o must_v and_o do_v most_o willing_o loose_v they_o from_o those_o band_n of_o satan_n wherein_o they_o wrap_v he_o before_o this_o be_v a_o most_o serious_a and_o weighty_a duty_n to_o be_v perform_v in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n but_o how_o grievous_o it_o be_v both_o neglect_v and_o abuse_v it_o be_v a_o shame_n to_o speak_v of_o that_o any_o that_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v of_o the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o have_v power_n in_o their_o hand_n to_o execute_v these_o censure_n shall_v yet_o neglect_v they_o these_o be_v the_o only_a mean_n to_o reclaim_v or_o cast_v off_o the_o obstinate_a when_o imprisonment_n and_o all_o other_o way_n will_v not_o serve_v so_o also_o it_o be_v abuse_v by_o those_o upon_o who_o it_o be_v inflict_v they_o deride_v it_o and_o make_v but_o a_o jest_n of_o it_o as_o if_o they_o be_v never_o the_o further_o from_o heaven_n for_o all_o that_o and_o sure_o it_o may_v be_v they_o be_v not_o because_o they_o be_v never_o near_o it_o well_o whosoever_o they_o be_v that_o abuse_n it_o let_v they_o know_v that_o it_o be_v god_n own_o precious_a and_o holy_a ordinance_n and_o therefore_o not_o to_o be_v dally_v in_o nor_o base_o esteem_v yea_o it_o be_v god_n own_o work_n and_o do_v where_o it_o be_v lawful_o proceed_v in_o and_o it_o be_v ratify_v by_o he_o in_o heaven_n and_o where_o it_o be_v abuse_v god_n will_v be_v avenge_v on_o the_o abuser_n to_o the_o full_a it_o be_v true_a that_o the_o curse_v causeless_a as_o solomon_n speak_v be_v like_o the_o fly_n of_o a_o bird_n in_o the_o air_n it_o leave_v no_o impression_n behind_o it_o and_o in_o this_o case_n god_n deride_v it_o from_o heaven_n and_o it_o be_v their_o fearful_a sin_n that_o inflict_v it_o but_o when_o it_o be_v just_o suffer_v it_o be_v the_o heavy_a stroke_n that_o can_v light_v upon_o man_n in_o this_o life_n either_o from_o god_n or_o man_n the_o sword_n of_o the_o magistrate_n be_v nothing_o to_o this_o that_o only_o deprive_v we_o of_o temporal_a life_n this_o of_o eternal_a life_n a_o wound_a conscience_n which_o be_v a_o intolerable_a burden_n to_o they_o that_o have_v â—elâ—_n it_o be_v nothing_o to_o this_o for_o a_o man_n sometime_o in_o that_o case_n can_v pray_v for_o himself_o or_o if_o he_o can_v pray_v for_o himself_o yet_o he_o may_v and_o must_v and_o be_v pray_v for_o by_o the_o congregation_n these_o be_v neither_o in_o case_n
to_o pray_v for_o themselves_o nor_o must_v they_o be_v pray_v for_o by_o the_o saint_n 1_o joh._n 5.16_o because_o now_o for_o aught_o we_o can_v see_v he_o be_v quite_o cut_v off_o from_o god_n our_o father_n nothing_o can_v match_v this_o state_n but_o hell_n this_o be_v the_o porch_n that_o the_o house_n this_o the_o mouth_n that_o the_o body_n this_o the_o very_a brink_n that_o the_o eternal_a pit_n of_o utter_a desolation_n i_o herefore_o we_o be_v to_o bewail_v the_o misery_n of_o our_o time_n wherein_o so_o precious_a a_o ordinance_n of_o god_n as_o this_o be_v be_v so_o abuse_v and_o we_o be_v to_o pray_v unto_o god_n that_o this_o ordinance_n of_o he_o may_v take_v effect_n among_o we_o this_o be_v a_o excellent_a ordinance_n of_o god_n to_o reclaim_v offender_n when_o neither_o the_o sword_n of_o the_o magistrate_n nor_o any_o other_o mean_n can_v reclaim_v they_o and_o so_o much_o of_o the_o four_o duty_n the_o five_o duty_n be_v call_v of_o public_a assembly_n duty_n they_o must_v be_v call_v for_o matter_n be_v not_o to_o be_v carry_v in_o the_o church_n by_o one_o man_n direction_n alone_o but_o by_o the_o common_a consent_n of_o the_o whole_a and_o consent_n be_v not_o to_o be_v fetch_v from_o house_n to_o house_n of_o every_o man_n by_o himself_o for_o that_o course_n be_v subject_a to_o fraud_n but_o assistant_n be_v to_o be_v call_v party_n be_v to_o be_v warn_v to_o be_v there_o and_o so_o public_o to_o testify_v their_o own_o consent_n and_o our_o saviour_n have_v promise_v his_o presence_n and_o assistance_n in_o such_o case_n matth._n 18.19_o 20._o now_o these_o assembly_n be_v sometime_o great_a as_o of_o a_o diocese_n or_o province_n sometime_o small_a as_o of_o a_o parish_n again_o some_o be_v ordinary_a upon_o ordinary_a occasion_n and_o as_o extraordinary_a occasion_n do_v oft_o fall_v out_o some_o be_v extraordinary_a a_o assemble_v together_o for_o ordinary_a occasion_n and_o duty_n they_o be_v for_o the_o most_o part_n these_o first_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n and_o prayer_n 1_o cor._n 11.20_o when_o you_o come_v together_o into_o one_o place_n this_o be_v not_o to_o eat_v the_o lord_n supper_n and_o 1_o cor._n 14.26_o what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v brethren_n when_o you_o come_v together_o according_a as_o every_o one_o of_o you_o have_v a_o psalm_n or_o a_o doctrine_n etc._n etc._n so_o that_o there_o must_v be_v public_a assembly_n for_o these_o duty_n second_o there_o must_v be_v a_o call_n of_o public_a assembly_n for_o the_o election_n of_o officer_n for_o this_o cause_n the_o multitude_n be_v call_v together_o act._n 6.2_o three_o there_o must_v be_v a_o public_a meeting_n for_o alm_n for_o the_o collect_v and_o distribute_v to_o the_o saint_n so_o the_o apostle_n command_v 1_o cor._n 16.3_o 4._o last_o there_o must_v be_v ordinary_a public_a assembly_n for_o the_o execution_n of_o church_n censure_n as_o 1_o cor._n 5.4_o when_o you_o be_v gather_v together_o and_o my_o spirit_n with_o you_o etc._n etc._n so_o there_o must_v be_v public_a meeting_n upon_o extraordinary_a occasion_n sometime_o god_n testify_v extraordinary_a mercy_n and_o give_v extraordinary_a blessing_n to_o his_o church_n and_o then_o there_o must_v be_v a_o extraordinary_a assembly_n of_o the_o church_n to_o give_v public_a thanks_o to_o god_n as_o it_o be_v in_o hester_n 9.22_o second_o some_o heavy_a judgement_n be_v either_o feel_v or_o fear_v to_o come_v upon_o the_o church_n and_o then_o the_o church_n must_v assemble_v together_o for_o fast_v and_o prayer_n as_o it_o be_v command_v joel_n 2.15_o 16._o and_o we_o see_v the_o practice_n of_o it_o in_o the_o ninivites_fw-la jonah_n 3.5_o where_o they_o proclaim_v a_o fast_a upon_o jonas_n preach_v of_o destruction_n to_o come_v upon_o they_o three_o law_n and_o decree_n be_v to_o be_v make_v or_o reviue_v for_o the_o carriage_n of_o god_n worship_n or_o such_o like_a and_o so_o in_o act._n 15._o the_o church_n come_v together_o for_o the_o decree_a of_o matter_n concern_v ceremony_n and_o act._n 16.4_o they_o deliver_v those_o decree_n for_o the_o church_n to_o keep_v than_o there_o must_v be_v a_o assemble_v for_o the_o receive_n of_o they_o last_o doubt_n and_o controversy_n be_v to_o be_v decide_v therefore_o there_o must_v be_v public_a assembly_n for_o the_o decide_n of_o they_o so_o paul_n be_v send_v up_o to_o jerusalem_n act._n 15.1_o 2_o etc._n etc._n about_o doubt_n that_o do_v arise_v and_o what_o do_v they_o there_o the_o apostle_n and_o elder_n come_v together_o to_o look_v to_o this_o matter_n vers_fw-la 6._o so_o much_o of_o the_o five_o duty_n the_o six_o duty_n be_v oversight_n duty_n that_o all_o these_o thing_n may_v be_v due_o and_o right_o do_v this_o duty_n be_v as_o needful_a as_o the_o rest_n for_o we_o know_v that_o every_o thing_n grow_v out_o of_o frame_n in_o time_n except_o they_o be_v uphold_v and_o renew_v by_o continual_a oversight_n and_o look_v into_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v say_v act._n 15.6_o that_o the_o apostle_n and_o elder_n come_v together_o to_o look_v into_o the_o matter_n this_o be_v one_o most_o necessary_a duty_n for_o it_o be_v the_o keeper_n and_o maintainer_n of_o all_o the_o rest_n if_o this_o be_v neglect_v all_o the_o rest_n will_v fail_v we_o know_v concern_v our_o own_o body_n that_o if_o we_o look_v not_o to_o ourselves_o in_o our_o diet_n all_o will_v be_v soon_o out_o of_o frame_n and_o much_o more_o in_o our_o soul_n for_o who_o find_v not_o by_o experience_n that_o though_o he_o labour_v to_o set_v himself_o never_o so_o well_o in_o frame_n in_o the_o morning_n yet_o before_o night_n for_o want_v of_o oversight_n the_o soul_n will_v be_v much_o out_o of_o order_n and_o be_v it_o not_o for_o this_o careful_a oversight_n our_o soul_n will_v be_v grow_v over_o with_o sin_n as_o the_o field_n be_v with_o weed_n so_o will_v it_o be_v likewise_o with_o the_o church_n now_o for_o this_o matter_n of_o oversight_n first_o it_o must_v be_v order_v that_o thing_n once_o ordain_v be_v establish_v by_o authority_n and_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a by_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o christian_a magistrate_n at_o least_o of_o the_o church_n thus_o josiah_n make_v a_o covenant_n with_o god_n and_o establish_v it_o by_o his_o authority_n and_o make_v all_o the_o people_n stand_v to_o it_o 1_o chron._n 34.32_o and_o so_o the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 14.37_o establish_v those_o thing_n which_o he_o have_v ordain_v in_o the_o church_n by_o the_o authority_n of_o his_o apostleship_n if_o any_o man_n say_v he_o be_v spiritual_a let_v he_o acknowledge_v that_o the_o thing_n which_o i_o write_v unto_o you_o be_v of_o the_o lord_n and_o if_o thing_n be_v not_o thus_o establish_v civil_a man_n will_v not_o regard_v they_o second_o every_o man_n must_v be_v quicken_v up_o and_o encourage_v to_o the_o performance_n of_o this_o duty_n and_o therefore_o there_o must_v be_v over_o sight_n in_o the_o church_n thus_o josiah_n encourage_v the_o priest_n to_o the_o service_n of_o the_o lord_n 2_o chron._n 35.2_o and_o so_o paul_n quicken_v up_o timothy_n to_o the_o observation_n of_o his_o duty_n 1_o tim._n 5.21_o i_o charge_v thou_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n and_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o elect_a angel_n that_o thou_o observe_v these_o thing_n and_o so_o the_o lord_n incourage_v the_o church_n of_o smyrna_n revel_v 2.10_o against_o her_o suffering_n fear_v none_o of_o those_o thing_n say_v he_o which_o thou_o shall_v suffer_v etc._n etc._n but_o be_v faithful_a unto_o the_o death_n and_o i_o will_v give_v thou_o the_o crown_n of_o life_n three_o there_o must_v be_v oversight_n that_o well-doer_n may_v be_v commend_v and_o approve_a so_o the_o apostle_n peter_n commend_v they_o to_o who_o he_o write_v 2_o pet_n 1.19_o for_o do_v well_o in_o that_o they_o do_v take_v heed_n unto_o the_o word_n of_o the_o prophet_n etc._n etc._n and_o in_o the_o second_o and_o three_o chapter_n of_o the_o revelation_n there_o be_v never_o a_o church_n that_o have_v any_o good_a thing_n in_o it_o but_o our_o saviour_n commend_v they_o for_o it_o and_o the_o want_n of_o this_o duty_n be_v a_o great_a dismay_v to_o religious_a proceed_n among_o us._n four_o thing_n must_v be_v redress_v therefore_o there_o must_v be_v oversight_n in_o the_o church_n and_o so_o paul_n leave_v titus_n in_o creta_n to_o redress_v those_o thing_n that_o be_v amiss_o titus_n 1_o 5._o and_o so_o our_o saviour_n in_o revel_v 2.5_o labour_n to_o reform_v the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n remember_v from_o whence_o thou_o be_v fall_v and_o repent_v etc._n etc._n and_o likewise_o the_o church_n of_o sardi_n revel_v 3.2_o the_o last_o duty_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o oversight_n be_v
officer_n must_v be_v guide_v in_o do_v these_o duty_n must_v have_v a_o good_a warrant_n the_o best_a and_o indeed_o the_o only_a true_a and_o sound_a warrant_n for_o they_o be_v to_o be_v fetch_v from_o the_o lord_n jesus_n out_o of_o his_o word_n for_o see_v he_o be_v the_o head_n and_o chief_a officer_n of_o his_o church_n therefore_o the_o rest_n be_v instrument_n and_o servant_n under_o he_o be_v to_o wait_v at_o his_o mouth_n for_o direction_n how_o to_o carry_v themselves_o in_o their_o place_n first_o therefore_o the_o word_n of_o god_n must_v be_v seek_v into_o careful_o and_o diligent_o second_o we_o must_v seek_v unto_o god_n by_o humble_a and_o fervent_a prayer_n for_o the_o assistance_n of_o his_o spirit_n both_o for_o the_o right_a understanding_n and_o also_o for_o willing_a conformablenesse_n and_o submission_n to_o the_o word_n for_o this_o be_v right_o consult_v and_o walk_v with_o god_n when_o we_o have_v take_v advice_n from_o his_o word_n for_o every_o business_n in_o hand_n and_o when_o we_o receive_v a_o comfortable_a answer_n from_o he_o in_o prayer_n for_o encouragement_n therein_o and_o do_v so_o proceed_v in_o it_o because_o god_n will_v have_v it_o so_o for_o as_o every_o creature_n so_o every_o business_n we_o go_v about_o be_v true_o sanctify_v unto_o we_o by_o the_o word_n and_o prayer_n that_o be_v when_o we_o look_v into_o the_o word_n for_o a_o warrant_n for_o it_o and_o when_o we_o go_v to_o god_n by_o prayer_n to_o direct_v we_o in_o it_o warrant_v here_o therefore_o in_o god_n word_n first_o we_o must_v have_v a_o warrant_n for_o the_o duty_n that_o it_o be_v necessary_a or_o at_o least_o lawful_a to_o be_v do_v second_o for_o the_o doer_n that_o he_o or_o they_o be_v authorise_v at_o least_o allow_v by_o god_n to_o deal_v in_o it_o three_o a_o warrant_n must_v be_v have_v hence_o for_o the_o carriage_n of_o the_o business_n that_o it_o be_v command_v or_o at_o least_o permit_v by_o the_o warrant_n of_o god_n word_n the_o matter_n we_o be_v now_o to_o insist_v on_o be_v the_o warrant_n for_o the_o caution_n condition_n and_o carriage_n of_o the_o business_n and_o this_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n first_o principal_a either_o a_o principal_a and_o direct_a warrant_n or_o second_o a_o inferior_a warrant_n of_o a_o low_a degree_n derive_v from_o it_o the_o principal_a and_o direct_a warrant_n be_v express_o mention_v in_o the_o word_n and_o that_o either_o by_o way_n of_o precept_n or_o example_n by_o way_n of_o precept_n and_o that_o be_v either_o particular_a or_o general_a each_o precise_o to_o be_v observe_v as_o be_v in_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o bind_v law_n example_n i_o mean_v only_o such_o as_o the_o word_n commend_v they_o be_v either_o ordinary_a or_o extraordinary_a extraordinary_a be_v such_o as_o be_v peculiar_a to_o certain_a time_n place_n and_o church_n such_o as_o be_v the_o election_n of_o mathias_n by_o lot_n act._n 1._o and_o these_o end_v where_o they_o begin_v and_o be_v not_o to_o be_v propound_v as_o pattern_n for_o imitation_n ordinary_a be_v such_o as_o be_v common_o practise_v as_o gather_v for_o the_o saint_n whereof_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1_o cor._n 16.1_o that_o as_o he_o have_v ordain_v in_o the_o church_n of_o galatia_n so_o he_o ordain_v among_o they_o also_o etc._n etc._n and_o these_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v by_o all_o where_o there_o be_v like_o occasion_n second_o the_o warrant_n from_o a_o inferior_a or_o low_a degree_n warrant_n as_o be_v derive_v from_o the_o principal_a these_o be_v young_a in_o year_n as_o not_o be_v in_o the_o apostle_n time_n but_o in_o some_o near_a age_n after_o and_o mean_a in_o authority_n as_o be_v ratify_v by_o man_n not_o so_o infallible_o guide_v by_o the_o spirit_n as_o the_o apostle_n be_v and_o these_o also_o be_v either_o precept_n or_o example_n first_o precept_n and_o they_o be_v common_o call_v tradition_n or_o constitution_n i_o mean_v not_o tradition_n in_o matter_n of_o faith_n for_o they_o be_v very_o dangerous_a but_o in_o matter_n of_o outward_a church_n government_n and_o these_o may_v more_o safe_o be_v deal_v withal_o second_o example_n or_o practice_n of_o the_o church_n and_o each_o of_o these_o be_v either_o general_o ratify_v by_o all_o or_o the_o most_o church_n or_o else_o but_o by_o some_o one_o or_o few_o church_n and_o each_o of_o these_o the_o most_o ancient_a and_o pure_a or_o latter_a and_o more_o corrupt_a now_o whatsoever_o be_v do_v in_o church-government_n must_v have_v ground_n from_o one_o or_o both_o these_o warrant_n if_o it_o be_v possible_a it_o must_v have_v warrant_n from_o the_o first_o that_o be_v the_o principal_a warrant_n therefore_o when_o any_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v do_v in_o this_o case_n look_v special_o into_o the_o principal_a warrant_n which_o be_v the_o word_n if_o so_o there_o be_v any_o particular_a precept_n for_o it_o then_o that_o must_v be_v do_v as_o the_o lord_n commandment_n without_o any_o further_o communicate_v with_o flesh_n and_o blood_n as_o the_o apostle_n say_v when_o he_o speak_v of_o matter_n of_o church-government_n 1_o cor._n 14.37_o but_o if_o the_o precept_n be_v general_a as_o that_o all_o thing_n must_v be_v do_v in_o order_n etc._n etc._n make_v use_n of_o they_o for_o such_o particular_n only_o as_o natural_o proceed_v from_o thence_o be_v inform_v by_o sound_a consequence_n in_o reason_n and_o religion_n if_o we_o have_v no_o precept_n in_o scripture_n than_o we_o must_v look_v to_o example_n and_o those_o that_o be_v ordinary_a which_o though_o they_o be_v not_o of_o that_o authority_n that_o precept_n be_v of_o because_o those_o be_v absolute_o to_o be_v embrace_v yet_o they_o be_v much_o to_o be_v regard_v and_o these_o we_o be_v to_o fashion_v ourselves_o unto_o always_o observe_v a_o due_a proportion_n of_o time_n place_n person_n occasion_n and_o such_o other_o necessary_a circumstance_n for_o to_o apply_v that_o to_o one_o church_n in_o one_o state_n and_o at_o one_o time_n which_o be_v in_o another_o church_n in_o another_o state_n and_o at_o another_o time_n be_v absurd_a well_o then_o if_o we_o be_v destitute_a of_o this_o principal_a warrant_n that_o we_o have_v neither_o precept_n nor_o example_n in_o god_n word_n then_o we_o must_v go_v to_o the_o inferior_a warrant_n we_o must_v see_v what_o precept_n and_o example_n be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o writer_n that_o have_v speak_v of_o church-government_n since_o the_o apostle_n time_n and_o of_o these_o we_o must_v see_v whether_o they_o be_v of_o the_o most_o ancient_a and_o pure_a church_n or_o of_o the_o latter_a and_o more_o corrupt_a if_o we_o have_v no_o precedent_n by_o constitution_n or_o practice_n but_o in_o the_o late_a and_o corrupt_a time_n i_o see_v not_o but_o that_o the_o church_n now_o be_v may_v as_o well_o devise_v particular_n of_o their_o own_o as_o follow_v they_o yea_o and_o better_o so_o long_o as_o they_o measure_v their_o particular_n fit_o and_o wise_o by_o those_o in_o the_o word_n but_o if_o we_o have_v any_o precedent_n in_o all_o or_o the_o most_o ancient_a and_o pure_a church_n for_o the_o most_o part_n it_o be_v safe_a enough_o to_o build_v on_o they_o so_o as_o they_o be_v not_o misapplyed_n nor_o mistake_v i_o speak_v still_o of_o matter_n of_o church-government_n not_o of_o faith_n but_o if_o there_o be_v many_o constitution_n and_o example_n in_o those_o church_n and_o some_o differ_v from_o other_o take_v the_o best_a that_o be_v that_o which_o be_v near_a to_o the_o word_n and_o have_v best_a precedent_n of_o pure_a church_n or_o of_o such_o as_o that_o their_o condition_n &_o state_n may_v best_o agree_v with_o we_o this_o point_n of_o inferior_a warrant_n some_o have_v go_v too_o far_o in_o esteem_v too_o high_o of_o it_o some_o have_v come_v too_o short_a esteem_v too_o base_o of_o it_o first_o some_o esteem_n too_o high_o of_o these_o impious_o equal_v they_o with_o the_o word_n whereas_o there_o be_v two_o main_a difference_n first_o because_o those_o in_o the_o word_n be_v certain_o true_a we_o know_v it_o be_v do_v by_o christ_n or_o his_o apostle_n second_o as_o we_o know_v they_o be_v do_v by_o they_o so_o we_o know_v that_o they_o be_v do_v by_o they_o as_o they_o be_v infallible_o guide_v by_o god_n himself_o so_o that_o they_o can_v not_o err_v but_o for_o the_o matter_n of_o inferior_a warrant_n first_o haply_o there_o be_v no_o such_o thing_n do_v at_o least_o in_o those_o time_n and_o by_o those_o person_n for_o history_n make_v mention_n of_o thing_n not_o true_a or_o second_o yet_o they_o may_v err_v for_o they_o be_v not_o infallible_o guide_v by_o god_n spirit_n other_o come_v too_o short_a esteem_v too_o base_o of_o they_o as_o if_o they_o be_v nothing_o worth_a they_o esteem_v
no_o more_o of_o a_o ancient_a church_n than_o of_o one_o that_o have_v be_v within_o these_o two_o hundred_o year_n let_v we_o take_v the_o mean_a betwixt_o both_o these_o embrace_v they_o reverent_o where_o they_o be_v not_o contradict_v by_o the_o word_n and_o so_o they_o be_v a_o sufficient_a warrant_n in_o those_o case_n if_o we_o be_v destitute_a of_o better_a and_o so_o much_o be_v speak_v for_o the_o warrant_n of_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v to_o be_v do_v in_o church-government_n now_o we_o come_v to_o the_o second_o general_a head_n rule_n the_o manner_n whereby_o they_o must_v be_v carry_v that_o must_v be_v good_a too_o as_o well_o as_o the_o warrant_n whereon_o they_o be_v ground_v for_o many_o time_n good_a thing_n be_v mar_v by_o ill_a handle_n therefore_o that_o these_o good_a thing_n may_v not_o be_v mar_v with_o ill_a handle_n observe_v touch_v the_o manner_n of_o the_o carriage_n of_o they_o these_o rule_n first_o that_o the_o most_o necessary_a and_o material_a duty_n be_v first_o and_o chief_o provide_v for_o second_o that_o all_o thing_n be_v do_v decent_o and_o in_o order_n three_o that_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n be_v not_o trouble_v four_a that_o whosoever_o have_v any_o right_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o this_o business_n be_v not_o contemn_v or_o restrain_v of_o their_o right_n last_o these_o duty_n must_v be_v so_o carry_v so_o far_o as_o may_v be_v as_o best_o fit_v the_o civil_a government_n wherein_o we_o live_v we_o will_v begin_v with_o the_o first_o that_o be_v that_o the_o most_o necessary_a and_o material_a duty_n must_v be_v first_o and_o chief_o provide_v for_o and_o they_o be_v the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n and_o prayer_n and_o the_o ministry_n these_o must_v be_v first_o look_v to_o so_o our_o saviour_n himself_o take_v this_o course_n he_o first_o provide_v for_o these_o matth._n 28.19_o go_v teach_v all_o nation_n baptise_v they_o etc._n etc._n and_o so_o the_o apostle_n peter_n in_o act._n 2.37_o 38_o etc._n etc._n first_o he_o preach_v and_o baptize_v and_o so_o the_o apostle_n paul_n in_o the_o 1_o cor._n 15.3_o first_o of_o all_o say_v he_o i_o deliver_v unto_o you_o that_o which_o i_o receive_v how_o that_o christ_n die_v for_o our_o sin_n etc._n etc._n first_o he_o preach_v faith_n and_o repentance_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v plain_a for_o this_o for_o these_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o religion_n therefore_o these_o must_v be_v first_o lay_v else_o there_o can_v be_v no_o build_n second_o these_o be_v the_o gatherer_n of_o god_n choose_v if_o they_o have_v not_o these_o none_o can_v be_v convert_v at_o all_o three_o these_o be_v so_o effectual_a to_o the_o be_v of_o a_o church_n that_o where_o these_o be_v find_v there_o be_v a_o church_n and_o where_o they_o be_v not_o there_o be_v none_o therefore_o these_o must_v be_v first_o and_o chief_o provide_v for_o the_o due_a observation_n of_o this_o rule_n if_o it_o be_v careful_o look_v into_o will_v prevent_v much_o ignorance_n and_o dissension_n and_o other_o inconvenience_n many_o there_o be_v that_o nuzzle_v the_o people_n up_o in_o ceremony_n only_o and_o go_v no_o further_o as_o the_o popish_a church_n this_o be_v a_o cause_n of_o horrible_a blindness_n and_o ignorance_n the_o people_n for_o the_o most_o part_n rest_v there_o and_o think_v they_o have_v religion_n enough_o if_o they_o observe_v such_o and_o such_o ceremony_n and_o so_o be_v careless_a of_o true_a growth_n in_o christianity_n by_o the_o true_a use_n of_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n these_o be_v pharisaical_a course_n to_o tithe_v mint_n and_o annise_v and_o to_o leave_v the_o weighty_a matter_n of_o the_o law_n matth._n 23.23_o other_o beat_v first_o and_o chief_o on_o discipline_n and_o will_v have_v that_o and_o nothing_o else_o teach_v a_o preposterous_a zeal_n which_o wrought_v much_o dissension_n as_o by_o lamentable_a experience_n we_o may_v see_v in_o our_o church_n for_o this_o have_v be_v a_o occasion_n that_o many_o have_v separate_v from_o our_o church_n and_o that_o many_o live_v discontent_n in_o it_o not_o be_v first_o well_o ground_v in_o the_o principal_a first_o faith_n and_o repentance_n must_v be_v teach_v and_o afterward_o church-government_n the_o second_o rule_n be_v rule_n all_o must_v be_v do_v decent_o and_o in_o order_n for_o so_o be_v the_o express_a rule_n 1_o cor._n 14.40_o first_o then_o decency_n be_v require_v in_o church-government_n this_o be_v require_v in_o civil_a and_o natural_a duty_n and_o therefore_o in_o christian_a and_o religious_a duty_n it_o be_v require_v much_o more_o now_o this_o be_v not_o in_o all_o place_n alike_o for_o we_o must_v understand_v that_o that_o which_o be_v decent_a in_o one_o place_n may_v be_v uncomely_a in_o another_o that_o be_v to_o be_v repute_v decent_a in_o any_o place_n decent_a which_o the_o custom_n and_o fashion_n of_o the_o place_n not_o repugnant_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o nature_n civility_n and_o god_n word_n have_v make_v decent_a as_o for_o example_n prophesy_v with_o the_o hat_n on_o in_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n undecent_a 1_o cor._n 11.4_o but_o in_o the_o reform_a church_n in_o france_n make_v decent_a by_o custom_n they_o be_v in_o god_n stead_n to_o speak_v unto_o the_o people_n they_o think_v they_o may_v be_v cover_v therefore_o still_o such_o custom_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v and_o according_o decency_n to_o be_v esteem_v second_o order_n be_v require_v in_o churchgovernment_n so_o it_o be_v in_o all_o other_o thing_n special_o it_o must_v be_v so_o in_o god_n church_n he_o be_v the_o author_n and_o god_n of_o order_n and_o not_o of_o confusion_n this_o be_v it_o that_o commend_a and_o grace_v salomon_n house_n exceed_o so_o that_o the_o queen_n of_o sheba_n be_v ravish_v to_o see_v it_o in_o the_o 1_o king_n 10.5_o and_o shall_v he_o that_o be_v great_a than_o solomon_n the_o lord_n jesus_n want_v it_o in_o his_o house_n the_o church_n it_o be_v a_o special_a grace_n belong_v to_o the_o visible_a church_n and_o therefore_o cant._n 4.2_o solomon_n speak_v of_o the_o order_n of_o god_n church_n show_v how_o comely_a it_o be_v thy_o tooth_n be_v like_o a_o flock_n of_o sheep_n in_o good_a order_n which_o go_v up_o from_o the_o wash_n etc._n etc._n david_n be_v enamour_v with_o it_o psa_n 68.25_o speak_v as_o under_o a_o veil_n of_o the_o godly_a order_n which_o be_v in_o god_n church_n faith_n the_o singer_n go_v before_o the_o player_n of_o instrument_n come_v after_o and_o in_o the_o midst_n be_v the_o maid_n play_v with_o timbrel_n do_v now_o this_o order_n extend_v itself_o to_o two_o thing_n first_o in_o thing_n to_o be_v do_v in_o the_o church_n second_o in_o the_o person_n that_o do_v they_o first_o in_o thing_n to_o be_v do_v there_o must_v be_v order_n as_o in_o prophesy_v that_o one_o speak_v after_o another_o 1_o cor._n 14.31_o and_o so_o in_o order_n the_o word_n must_v be_v preach_v before_o the_o sacrament_n be_v administer_v prayer_n must_v be_v before_o preach_v baptism_n before_o the_o lord_n supper_n as_o also_o small_a matter_n must_v be_v lay_v by_o while_o great_a be_v in_o handle_v act._n 6_o 2._o sometime_o extraordinary_a case_n of_o necessity_n may_v overbeare_v this_o rule_n but_o general_o it_o must_v be_v thus_o so_o there_o must_v be_v order_n in_o person_n the_o superior_n must_v be_v first_o respect_v person_n whether_o he_o be_v superior_a in_o year_n or_o in_o gift_n and_o grace_n the_o pastor_n must_v rule_v the_o flock_n and_o not_o the_o flock_n the_o pastor_n final_o it_o be_v with_o we_o in_o the_o church_n as_o it_o be_v with_o soldier_n in_o the_o field_n every_o man_n be_v place_v by_o the_o captain_n and_o must_v keep_v his_o rank_n and_o so_o it_o must_v be_v with_o we_o we_o must_v keep_v our_o rank_n that_o god_n have_v place_v we_o in_o in_o the_o church_n and_o not_o break_v out_o for_o that_o be_v a_o grievous_a sin_n i_o will_v this_o be_v well_o look_v into_o in_o our_o church_n that_o man_n will_v not_o go_v beyond_o their_o rank_n for_o this_o breed_v disorder_n and_o confusion_n in_o the_o church_n rule_n the_o three_o rule_n be_v that_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n be_v not_o break_v nor_o trouble_v the_o apostle_n in_o ephes_n 4.3_o will_v have_v we_o whatsoever_o we_o do_v to_o keep_v peace_n and_o he_o use_v a_o special_a phrase_n there_o keep_v the_o unity_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o bond_n of_o peace_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v if_o you_o keep_v not_o peace_n which_o be_v the_o bond_n your_o spiritual_a communion_n be_v in_o danger_n to_o be_v soon_o dissolve_v and_o in_o the_o 1_o cor._n 11.16_o the_o apostle_n teach_v that_o contentiousnes_n be_v not_o tolerate_v in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n the_o envious_a serpent_n and_o
his_o instrument_n have_v a_o special_a delight_n in_o disturb_v this_o peace_n and_o spare_v no_o mean_n but_o seek_v all_o advantage_n for_o the_o sow_v of_o dissension_n in_o the_o church_n and_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n be_v too_o apprehensive_a of_o it_o else_o he_o can_v not_o do_v we_o that_o harm_n he_o do_v unless_o we_o be_v so_o apprehensive_a of_o dissension_n among_o ourselves_o now_o as_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n be_v endanger_v in_o many_o case_n endanger_v so_o especial_o in_o these_o first_o when_o man_n be_v addict_v to_o one_o minister_n before_o another_o one_o to_o paul_n another_o to_o cephas_n etc._n etc._n this_o come_v of_o a_o carnal_a mind_n as_o the_o apostle_n show_v 1_o cor._n 3._o and_o thus_o they_o wrong_v themselves_o and_o the_o minister_n too_o themselves_o in_o that_o they_o be_v hinder_v hereby_o from_o the_o good_a they_o may_v have_v and_o their_o minister_n because_o that_o they_o make_v contention_n betwixt_o they_o where_o otherwise_o none_o will_v be_v second_o this_o peace_n be_v endanger_v in_o the_o election_n of_o officer_n some_o breed_n and_o make_v faction_n for_o one_o against_o another_o as_o their_o affection_n lead_v they_o three_o it_o be_v endanger_v in_o decide_v controversy_n either_o of_o religion_n or_o state_n one_o will_v be_v cross_v and_o thwart_v another_o in_o the_o heat_n of_o contention_n and_o strife_n yea_o happy_o rend_v themselves_o from_o the_o church_n if_o it_o may_v not_o go_v as_o they_o will_v have_v it_o let_v god_n child_n be_v admonish_v to_o have_v no_o part_n in_o such_o contention_n but_o let_v they_o labour_v for_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n if_o they_o will_v have_v peace_n in_o themselves_o for_o we_o be_v call_v to_o peace_n to_o mind_n and_o to_o speak_v one_o thing_n if_o the_o good_a thing_n we_o seek_v for_o may_v quiet_o and_o peaceable_o be_v obtain_v it_o be_v well_o let_v god_n have_v the_o glory_n and_o ourselves_o may_v comfortable_o enjoy_v the_o benefit_n of_o they_o but_o if_o they_o can_v be_v have_v without_o break_v the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v they_o may_v have_v comfort_n for_o they_o have_v discharge_v their_o conscience_n in_o seek_v the_o best_a thing_n and_o let_v they_o bewaille_fw-fr the_o corruption_n of_o the_o time_n and_o keep_v themselves_o unspotted_a of_o those_o corruption_n and_o pray_v to_o god_n for_o redress_n thus_o be_v we_o to_o seek_v the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n and_o not_o be_v any_o cause_n of_o dissension_n whereby_o it_o may_v be_v break_v the_o four_o rule_n to_o be_v observe_v in_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o carriage_n of_o church_n business_n be_v rule_n that_o whosoever_o have_v any_o right_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o any_o such_o duty_n be_v not_o contemn_v nor_o rsterain_v of_o their_o right_n but_o that_o they_o be_v call_v to_o the_o business_n and_o permit_v to_o speak_v and_o do_v free_o so_o far_o as_o the_o lord_n have_v put_v into_o their_o hand_n for_o then_o the_o lord_n be_v best_a please_v with_o a_o business_n when_o it_o be_v joint_o perform_v by_o everyone_n that_o be_v authorise_v by_o himself_o thereto_o the_o magistrate_n must_v not_o neglect_v the_o minister_n nor_o the_o minister_n must_v neglect_v the_o magistrate_n the_o pastor_n must_v not_o neglect_v the_o flock_n nor_o must_v the_o flock_n neglect_v the_o pastor_n but_o every_o man_n must_v have_v his_o due_a and_o do_v his_o duty_n look_v into_o act._n 15.23_o and_o see_v how_o the_o business_n be_v carry_v there_o the_o apostle_n break_v and_o the_o elder_n and_o the_o brethren_n have_v a_o hand_n in_o that_o business_n every_o man_n so_o far_o as_o concern_v he_o ofttime_n it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o there_o be_v a_o diotrephes_n find_v in_o the_o church_n as_o in_o the_o three_o epistle_n of_o john_n that_o love_v to_o have_v the_o pre-eminence_n and_o to_o sway_v all_o with_o their_o own_o hand_n there_o this_o rule_n be_v break_v sometime_o in_o a_o church_n the_o censure_n of_o the_o church_n be_v wring_v out_o of_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o minister_n and_o pass_v by_o another_o authority_n only_o he_o may_v complain_v and_o publish_v what_o other_o have_v do_v himself_o can_v have_v no_o further_o hold_v in_o they_o here_o likewise_o this_o rule_n be_v break_v last_o many_o abuse_n their_o christian_a liberty_n to_o the_o offence_n of_o the_o weak_a and_o so_o this_o rule_n be_v break_v for_o the_o weak_a brother_n have_v his_o interest_n in_o my_o liberty_n as_o well_o as_o myself_o rule_n the_o five_o and_o last_o rule_n be_v that_o all_o thing_n in_o the_o outward_a government_n of_o the_o church_n must_v be_v so_o carry_v as_o best_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o may_v be_v fit_v the_o government_n of_o the_o civil_a state_n wherein_o we_o live_v i_o will_v not_o have_v any_o think_v that_o we_o will_v draw_v religion_n to_o the_o bent_n of_o the_o outward_a state_n but_o we_o speak_v of_o outward_a government_n in_o the_o church_n that_o we_o say_v must_v not_o cross_v the_o well_o establish_a government_n of_o the_o civil_a state_n to_o cause_v innovation_n and_o change_n and_o trouble_n and_o confusion_n special_o in_o a_o christian_a commonwealth_n it_o be_v never_o our_o saviour_n meaning_n that_o the_o outward_a carriage_n of_o religion_n shall_v overthrow_v the_o carriage_n of_o the_o temporal_a state_n but_o that_o caesar_n shall_v have_v as_o well_o that_o which_o be_v caesar_n as_o god_n that_o which_o be_v go_n i_o speak_v of_o a_o politic_a state_n already_o establish_v by_o lawful_a authority_n and_o confirm_v by_o wholesome_a law_n and_o maintain_v by_o the_o ancient_a use_n and_o custom_n of_o the_o place_n there_o religion_n come_v in_o afterward_o it_o must_v be_v frame_v for_o the_o outward_a carriage_n of_o it_o to_o the_o civil_a state_n except_o wherein_o religion_n be_v plain_o contradict_v our_o saviour_n no_o doubt_n be_v as_o careful_a of_o civil_a christian_a state_n as_o moses_n be_v of_o the_o jewish_a policy_n but_o there_o church-government_n be_v fit_v to_o their_o civil_a state_n and_o so_o must_v we_o but_o you_o will_v say_v that_o both_o civil_a state_n and_o their_o church-government_n be_v each_o of_o they_o direct_o and_o equal_o from_o god_n true_a and_o be_v not_o all_o the_o power_n that_o be_v ordain_v of_o god_n so_o the_o apostle_n say_v rom._n 13.1_o and_o therefore_o though_o the_o government_n of_o civil_a state_n be_v not_o now_o so_o immediate_o from_o god_n as_o the_o jew_n be_v yet_o it_o be_v from_o god_n too_o and_o therefore_o by_o proportion_n where_o the_o government_n of_o the_o civil_a state_n be_v ratify_v by_o use_n religion_n come_v in_o afterward_o in_o all_o equity_n and_o reason_n it_o be_v to_o be_v carry_v according_o for_o the_o outward_a passage_n of_o it_o when_o the_o apostle_n peter_n persuade_v the_o scatter_a jew_n to_o submit_v themselves_o to_o all_o manner_n ordinance_n of_o man_n for_o the_o lord_n sake_n 1_o pet._n 2.3_o it_o be_v a_o plain_a warning_n to_o they_o that_o nothing_o be_v do_v by_o they_o in_o their_o particular_a carriage_n much_o less_o in_o the_o outward_a government_n of_o the_o church_n which_o may_v be_v prejudicial_a to_o the_o government_n of_o the_o civil_a state_n they_o must_v not_o cross_v that_o unless_o that_o cross_a religion_n as_o i_o say_v before_o the_o want_n of_o the_o due_a observation_n of_o this_o rule_n have_v make_v many_o become_v anabaptist_n and_o despiser_n of_o government_n and_o in_o many_o place_n it_o have_v make_v religion_n fare_v the_o worse_o and_o the_o professor_n thereof_o to_o be_v traduce_v for_o rebellious_a troublesome_a and_o dangerous_a people_n enemy_n to_o the_o state_n so_o much_o for_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o carriage_n of_o church_n business_n now_o we_o come_v to_o the_o three_o and_o last_o general_a head_n they_o namely_o the_o end_n that_o must_v be_v aim_v at_o in_o do_v these_o duty_n that_o must_v be_v good_a too_o it_o must_v be_v do_v with_o a_o single_a end_n and_o a_o sincere_a affection_n and_o intention_n free_a from_o all_o sinister_a respect_n either_o to_o themselves_o or_o other_o there_o be_v two_o good_a end_n which_o we_o must_v aim_v at_o in_o all_o action_n concern_v church-government_n the_o first_o be_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n the_o second_o be_v the_o edification_n of_o our_o brethren_n first_o we_o must_v aim_v whole_o and_o only_o at_o god_n glory_n so_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1_o cor._n 10.31_o whatsoever_o you_o do_v let_v all_o be_v do_v to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n for_o it_o be_v god_n business_n his_o gift_n and_o officer_n and_o ordinance_n of_o purpose_n appoint_v for_o his_o glory_n after_o a_o special_a manner_n and_o therefore_o this_o require_v a_o true_a zeal_n for_o the_o lord_n of_o
host_n for_o the_o advance_v of_o his_o kingdom_n and_o the_o magnify_v of_o his_o name_n as_o also_o it_o require_v uprightness_n of_o heart_n that_o lay_v aside_o all_o guile_n covetousness_n ambition_n please_v of_o man_n they_o may_v mere_o intend_v the_o honour_n and_o glory_n of_o their_o lord_n and_o master_n the_o second_o end_n be_v that_o all_o tend_v to_o the_o edification_n of_o their_o brethren_n so_o the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 14.26_o will_v have_v all_o thing_n in_o the_o church_n do_v for_o edification_n and_o so_o he_o carry_v himself_o 2_o cor._n 12.19_o for_o the_o lord_n have_v ordain_v officer_n in_o his_o church_n &_o give_v they_o gift_n for_o that_o end_n as_o it_o be_v in_o ephes_n 4.12_o therefore_o that_o be_v the_o matter_n that_o all_o must_v direct_v themselves_o unto_o now_o this_o matter_n of_o edification_n require_v two_o grace_n wisdom_n first_o wisdom_n second_o love_n if_o we_o have_v not_o these_o grace_n we_o shall_v never_o take_v this_o course_n first_o it_o require_v wisdom_n to_o observe_v &_o discern_v what_o course_n be_v most_o profitable_a for_o edification_n and_o that_o to_o follow_v as_o the_o minister_n be_v wise_o to_o observe_v the_o time_n and_o season_n he_o live_v in_o and_o the_o person_n that_o he_o have_v to_o deal_v withal_o and_o so_o to_o insist_v chief_o on_o such_o point_n as_o be_v fit_a for_o such_o season_n and_o person_n to_o give_v milk_n to_o the_o weak_a and_o meat_n to_o the_o strong_a he_o must_v be_v a_o wise_a steward_n give_v to_o every_o one_o in_o god_n house_n his_o portion_n in_o due_a season_n where_o this_o rule_n be_v observe_v it_o will_v be_v a_o singular_a furtherance_n to_o the_o labour_n of_o the_o ministry_n for_o the_o edify_n of_o the_o church_n as_o wisdom_n be_v require_v in_o this_o duty_n so_o also_o in_o the_o second_o place_n love_n be_v require_v in_o commiserate_v the_o infirmity_n of_o the_o weak_a love_n and_o in_o have_v compassion_n of_o the_o damnable_a estate_n of_o poor_a ignorant_a and_o unbelieve_a soul_n unfeigned_o desire_v and_o labour_v their_o conversion_n and_o for_o that_o cause_n frame_v themselves_o and_o their_o course_n so_o as_o may_v be_v fit_a to_o bring_v they_o to_o god_n they_o must_v with_o the_o apostle_n become_v all_o to_o all_o that_o they_o may_v win_v some_o love_n be_v a_o far_o more_o excellent_a virtue_n and_o more_o beneficial_a to_o the_o church_n than_o knowledge_n knowledge_n puff_v up_o say_v the_o apostle_n but_o love_n edifi_v 1_o cor._n 8.1_o knowledge_n without_o love_n make_v man_n proud_a it_o tend_v to_o ostentation_n but_o love_v always_o seek_v and_o labour_v for_o those_o thing_n only_o that_o may_v edify_v then_o do_v man_n swerve_v from_o this_o golden_a rule_n of_o edification_n when_o they_o enact_v law_n ordain_v ceremony_n use_v preach_v general_o for_o the_o maintenance_n of_o the_o state_n more_o than_o for_o edification_n yea_o from_o than_o they_o commit_v high_a impiety_n in_o this_o kind_n when_o they_o use_v course_n and_o passage_n in_o church-government_n to_o destruction_n not_o to_o edification_n yea_o as_o snare_n to_o entrap_v tender_a conscience_n at_o least_o to_o provoke_v and_o offend_v they_o this_o be_v against_o the_o apostle_n rule_n 2_o cor._n 1_o 3._o our_o power_n say_v he_o be_v give_v for_o edification_n not_o for_o destruction_n put_v the_o case_n that_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v impose_v be_v lawful_a must_v we_o do_v they_o present_o no_o not_o unless_o they_o edify_v our_o brother_n so_o the_o apostle_n say_v rom._n 15.1_o 2._o we_o must_v bear_v with_o the_o weak_a and_o every_o man_n must_v please_v his_o neighbour_n in_o that_o which_o be_v good_a to_o edification_n and_o rom._n 14.19_o let_v we_o follow_v those_o thing_n which_o concern_v peace_n and_o wherewith_o one_o may_v edify_v another_o and_o 1_o cor._n 10.23_o the_o apostle_n say_v all_o thing_n be_v lawful_a for_o i_o but_o all_o thing_n edify_v not_o as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v we_o must_v not_o do_v all_o lawful_a thing_n unless_o they_o edify_v so_o then_o this_o be_v the_o end_n of_o all_o our_o action_n to_o be_v do_v in_o the_o church_n they_o must_v be_v do_v to_o god_n glory_n and_o the_o edification_n of_o our_o brother_n and_o so_o much_o shall_v serve_v touch_v the_o rule_n and_o law_n whereby_o the_o officer_n must_v be_v guide_v in_o perform_v their_o action_n and_o duty_n in_o the_o church_n now_o it_o remain_v only_o that_o i_o instance_n as_o i_o promise_v in_o two_o or_o three_o duty_n fit_v they_o to_o the_o person_n and_o rule_n duty_n and_o first_o i_o will_v instance_n in_o the_o first_o duty_n which_o be_v the_o word_n sacrament_n and_o prayer_n now_o as_o these_o be_v to_o be_v have_v in_o the_o church_n so_o they_o must_v be_v administer_v first_o by_o such_o person_n and_o second_o by_o such_o rule_n as_o god_n in_o his_o wisdom_n have_v ordain_v and_o fit_v for_o they_o and_o first_o we_o will_v speak_v of_o the_o person_n then_o of_o the_o duty_n first_o the_o person_n to_o deal_v in_o every_o of_o these_o duty_n in_o the_o public_a use_n be_v the_o minister_n be_v they_o bishop_n pastor_n or_o presbyter_n they_o and_o all_o of_o they_o and_o none_o but_o they_o be_v to_o deal_v in_o they_o their_o very_a name_n import_v so_o much_o they_o be_v call_v minister_n of_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n and_o so_o prayer_n it_o hold_v by_o proportion_n to_o the_o priest_n of_o the_o law_n for_o they_o and_o none_o else_o be_v to_o offer_v sacrifice_n i_o speak_v of_o ordinary_a case_n but_o necessity_n sometime_o enforce_v otherwise_o yet_o some_o be_v express_o except_v against_o in_o this_o case_n as_o woman_n they_o be_v not_o to_o speak_v in_o the_o church_n 1_o cor._n 14.34_o and_o therefore_o whereas_o sometime_o they_o take_v upon_o they_o to_o baptize_v this_o be_v a_o horrible_a presumption_n in_o they_o and_o a_o profanation_n of_o god_n mystery_n second_o the_o rule_n whereby_o they_o must_v be_v direct_v in_o do_v these_o duty_n be_v these_o first_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n for_o the_o matter_n of_o it_o it_o must_v be_v god_n word_n alone_o and_o that_o which_o be_v build_v upon_o it_o for_o the_o manner_n it_o must_v be_v sincere_o preach_v not_o make_v merchandise_n thereon_o and_o true_o and_o right_o agreeable_a to_o the_o analogy_n of_o faith_n and_o instant_o and_o continual_o in_o season_n and_o out_o of_o season_n reverent_o and_o conscionable_o and_o powerful_o not_o as_o the_o word_n of_o man_n but_o as_o it_o be_v indeed_o the_o word_n of_o the_o live_a god_n second_o the_o sacrament_n those_o and_o none_o other_o must_v be_v administer_v which_o christ_n have_v institute_v and_o that_o right_o and_o in_o such_o manner_n as_o christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n institute_v they_o but_o yet_o we_o be_v not_o bind_v to_o every_o circumstance_n for_o christ_n and_o the_o apostle_n be_v baptize_v when_o they_o be_v of_o year_n so_o must_v not_o we_o be_v three_o prayer_n that_o must_v be_v fit_v for_o every_o occasion_n sin_n must_v be_v confess_v judgement_n must_v be_v pray_v against_o blessing_n must_v be_v thankful_o remember_v and_o this_o must_v be_v do_v both_o for_o themselves_o and_o other_o and_o all_o fervent_o and_o in_o the_o spirit_n so_o much_o for_o the_o first_o instance_n the_o second_o instance_n shall_v be_v in_o the_o second_o duty_n election_n of_o officer_n and_o here_o also_o consider_v first_o the_o person_n that_o must_v perform_v this_o duty_n second_o the_o rule_n they_o must_v be_v direct_v by_o first_o the_o person_n that_o be_v to_o deal_v in_o it_o for_o minister_n it_o must_v be_v those_o that_o be_v in_o superior_a place_n and_o degree_n the_o governor_n of_o the_o church_n but_o yet_o with_o approbation_n of_o fellow_n minister_n so_o for_o deacon_n or_o churchwarden_n and_o other_o inferior_a officer_n they_o must_v be_v choose_v by_o the_o minister_n and_o people_n together_o we_o see_v a_o precedent_n for_o this_o in_o act._n 6._o where_o the_o apostle_n refer_v this_o partly_o to_o the_o people_n that_o they_o shall_v choose_v out_o certain_a from_o among_o themselves_o for_o this_o office_n and_o yet_o still_o they_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o it_o and_o a_o hand_n in_o it_o too_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o that_o place_n second_o the_o rule_n they_o must_v proceed_v by_o in_o this_o duty_n and_o special_o in_o election_n of_o minister_n be_v these_o first_o be_v examination_n and_o trial_n of_o their_o gift_n so_o it_o be_v imply_v of_o the_o ministry_n in_o the_o 1_o tim._n 5.21_o 22._o lay_v hand_n sudden_o on_o no_o man_n etc._n etc._n and_o so_o it_o be_v express_v in_o deacon_n 1_o tim._n 3.10_o let_v they_o first_o be_v prove_v then_o let_v they_o minister_v if_o
it_o be_v so_o of_o deacon_n much_o more_o of_o minister_n the_o second_o rule_n they_o be_v to_o proceed_v by_o be_v approbation_n so_o say_v the_o apostle_n 1_o tim._n 3.7_o he_o that_o be_v a_o bishop_n must_v be_v also_o well_o report_v of_o etc._n etc._n and_o so_o it_o be_v say_v of_o timothy_n act._n 16.2_o that_o the_o brethren_n report_v well_o of_o he_o three_o there_o must_v be_v imposition_n of_o hand_n as_o in_o act._n 13.3_o after_o they_o have_v fast_v and_o pray_v they_o lay_v their_o hand_n upon_o paul_n and_o barnabas_n etc._n etc._n and_o in_o the_o 1_o tim._n 4.14_o the_o apostle_n say_v to_o timothy_n despise_v not_o the_o gift_n that_o be_v in_o thou_o which_o be_v give_v thou_o by_o prophecy_n and_o lay_v on_o of_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o company_n of_o the_o eldership_n four_o there_o must_v be_v fast_v and_o prayer_n that_o be_v plain_a act._n 13.3_o last_o both_o the_o chooser_n and_o the_o choose_a must_v have_v god_n before_o their_o eye_n that_o without_o any_o sinister_a respect_n the_o one_o seek_v and_o the_o other_o admit_v also_o the_o choose_a must_v solemn_o promise_v a_o conscionable_a care_n to_o perform_v the_o duty_n impose_v upon_o he_o faithful_o this_o they_o must_v make_v open_a protestation_n of_o now_o we_o will_v come_v to_o the_o three_o duty_n to_o instance_n in_o that_o and_o that_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o charity_n here_o consider_v first_o that_o these_o duty_n must_v be_v do_v second_o the_o person_n to_o deal_v in_o these_o duty_n and_o three_o the_o rule_n that_o they_o be_v to_o be_v direct_v by_o first_o these_o duty_n must_v be_v do_v for_o it_o be_v so_o under_o the_o law_n deut._n 15.7_o if_o one_o of_o thy_o brethren_n with_o thou_o be_v poor_a thou_o shall_v not_o harden_v thy_o heart_n nor_o shut_v thy_o hand_n from_o thy_o poor_a brother_n then_o iâ—…_n be_v much_o more_o so_o under_o the_o gospel_n that_o the_o poor_a be_v provide_v for_o for_o the_o law_n of_o love_n be_v there_o more_o precise_o enforce_v both_o by_o the_o example_n and_o command_n of_o christ_n as_o be_v his_o new_a commandment_n 1_o pet._n 3.8_o love_n as_o brethren_n be_v pitiful_a before_o be_v courteous_a heb._n 1â—_n 76_o isai_n 58.7_o luk._n 14.13_o matth._n 10._o and_o 2.5_o joh_n be_v a_o father_n of_o the_o poor_a yea_o god_n himself_o be_v foe_n psal_n 68.5_o the_o poor_a be_v in_o christ_n stead_n mark_n 14.7_o and_o they_o sustain_v christ_n own_o person_n on_o earth_n matth._n â—…_n and_o pro._n 19.17_o he_o that_o have_v mercy_n on_o the_o poor_a â—â—â—deth_v to_o the_o lord_n etc._n etc._n therefore_o they_o must_v be_v provide_v for_o again_o these_o duty_n be_v first_o the_o fruit_n of_o our_o faith_n titus_n 3.8_o second_o they_o be_v unseparable_a consequent_n of_o our_o love_n to_o god_n 1_o joh._n 3.7_o and_o 4.21_o three_o they_o be_v badge_n of_o our_o profession_n four_o this_o may_v be_v our_o case_n hereafter_o five_o this_o be_v the_o measure_n of_o our_o judgement_n matth._n 25._o six_o civil_a and_o carnal_a man_n do_v the_o like_a second_o the_o person_n to_o deal_v in_o this_o duty_n be_v minister_n and_o people_n three_o the_o rule_n they_o be_v to_o be_v do_v by_o be_v many_o and_o excellent_a first_o they_o must_v be_v do_v with_o cheerfulness_n rom._n 12.8_o let_v he_o that_o show_v mercy_n do_v it_o with_o cheerfulness_n and_o 2_o cor._n 9.7_o let_v every_o man_n give_v not_o grudge_o for_o god_n love_v a_o cheerful_a giver_n second_o they_o must_v be_v do_v with_o speed_n pro._n 3.19_o say_v not_o to_o thy_o brother_n go_v and_o come_v again_o to_o morrow_n and_o i_o will_v give_v thou_o if_o thou_o now_o have_v it_o three_o they_o must_v be_v do_v without_o hypocrisy_n in_o singleness_n and_o simplicity_n of_o heart_n matth._n 6.1_o etc._n etc._n give_v not_o your_o alm_n before_o man_n say_v our_o saviour_n to_o be_v see_v of_o they_o rom._n 8.12_o let_v he_o that_o distribute_v do_v it_o with_o simplicity_n four_o it_o must_v be_v do_v arcord_v to_o the_o ability_n of_o the_o giver_n 2_o cor._n 8.12_o for_o if_o there_o be_v first_o a_o willing_a mind_n it_o be_v accept_v according_a to_o that_o a_o man_n have_v and_o not_o according_a to_o that_o a_o man_n have_v not_o and_o 1_o cor._n 16.2_o every_o man_n must_v lay_v up_o and_o give_v to_o the_o poor_a as_o god_n have_v prosper_v he_o five_o it_o must_v be_v do_v according_a to_o the_o need_n of_o the_o receiver_n act._n 4.35_o the_o apostle_n distribute_v to_o every_o man_n as_o they_o have_v need_v last_o it_o must_v be_v do_v with_o a_o eye_n to_o christ_n matth._n 10.42_o 43._o whosoever_o receive_v a_o prophet_n in_o the_o name_n of_o a_o prophet_n shall_v receive_v a_o prophet_n reward_n and_o he_o that_o give_v a_o cup_n of_o cold_a water_n to_o drink_v to_o one_o of_o these_o little_a one_o in_o the_o name_n of_o a_o disciple_n he_o shall_v not_o lose_v his_o reward_n and_o so_o much_o shall_v serve_v for_o the_o instance_n yea_o but_o will_v some_o say_v what_o if_o i_o live_v in_o a_o church_n where_o these_o thing_n be_v not_o do_v i_o answer_v that_o yet_o we_o must_v not_o forsake_v the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n if_o the_o principal_a and_o essential_a matter_n be_v in_o some_o competent_a measure_n provide_v for_o we_o must_v not_o separate_v from_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n much_o be_v to_o be_v bear_v and_o suffer_v rather_o than_o that_o be_v commit_v both_o in_o the_o party_n that_o do_v those_o thing_n special_o in_o the_o tolerate_n and_o yield_v to_o these_o thing_n of_o those_o that_o be_v not_o to_o be_v actor_n and_o doer_n of_o they_o there_o be_v some_o difference_n betwixt_o the_o doer_n and_o the_o sufferer_n when_o a_o man_n be_v a_o actor_n and_o doer_n in_o these_o thing_n if_o that_o be_v impose_v upon_o he_o which_o be_v against_o his_o conscience_n he_o sin_n in_o do_v of_o it_o as_o if_o the_o minister_n be_v to_o wear_v a_o garment_n etc._n etc._n he_o be_v better_o leave_v his_o ministry_n than_o sin_n against_o his_o conscience_n but_o the_o sufferer_n they_o have_v no_o reason_n to_o forbear_v come_v to_o the_o lord_n table_n for_o that_o because_o they_o be_v no_o actor_n in_o it_o and_o so_o much_o of_o the_o instance_n as_o also_o of_o this_o matter_n of_o church-government_n the_o nineteen_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n the_o last_o point_n we_o handle_v concern_v the_o church_n be_v of_o the_o government_n of_o it_o it_o which_o be_v finish_v it_o remain_v that_o we_o come_v now_o to_o the_o six_o general_a point_n propound_v namely_o to_o the_o privilege_n of_o the_o church_n a_o privilege_n be_v a_o matter_n of_o benefit_n or_o special_a favour_n grant_v to_o one_o or_o more_o person_n or_o company_n or_o such_o like_a which_o general_o other_o be_v debar_v from_o for_o so_o the_o nature_n and_o use_n of_o the_o word_n among_o we_o seem_v to_o require_v first_o that_o the_o matter_n of_o a_o privilege_n be_v a_o matter_n of_o benefit_n or_o else_o it_o will_v be_v a_o burden_n or_o disparagement_n and_o no_o easement_n nor_o prerogative_n and_o so_o it_o be_v a_o privilege_n rather_o to_o be_v without_o it_o therefore_o it_o must_v be_v a_o matter_n of_o benefit_n second_o it_o must_v be_v appropriate_a to_o those_o party_n to_o who_o it_o be_v grant_v that_o be_v it_o must_v be_v free_a to_o they_o and_o every_o of_o they_o to_o enjoy_v and_o peculiar_a to_o they_o alone_o other_o must_v be_v abridge_v and_o debar_v from_o it_o this_o be_v the_o use_n of_o the_o word_n among_o we_o in_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o it_o be_v otherwise_o use_v in_o profane_a author_n but_o we_o speak_v in_o our_o own_o language_n and_o therefore_o we_o speak_v of_o it_o as_o it_o be_v in_o use_n among_o us._n now_o in_o speak_v of_o the_o privilege_n of_o the_o church_n observation_n we_o will_v handle_v these_o two_o point_n first_o that_o the_o church_n have_v her_o privilege_n second_o what_o these_o privilege_n be_v for_o the_o first_o it_o offer_v itself_o natural_o to_o we_o by_o way_n of_o observation_n and_o therefore_o take_v it_o thus_o the_o church_n of_o god_n have_v her_o privilege_n that_o be_v there_o be_v certain_a excellent_a privilege_n belong_v to_o the_o true_a visible_a church_n which_o all_o that_o be_v of_o the_o church_n and_o they_o alone_a have_v right_a and_o interest_n in_o and_o be_v deny_v to_o all_o other_o doct._n for_o proof_n hereof_o it_o be_v say_v in_o psal_n 147._o last_o verse_n he_o have_v not_o deal_v so_o with_o every_o nation_n that_o be_v he_o have_v not_o deal_v so_o with_o any_o nation_n the_o prophet_n speak_v there_o of_o god_n deal_v towards_o israel_n then_o and_o by_o
consequence_n of_o his_o deal_n towards_o his_o church_n for_o ever_o now_o god_n have_v many_o nation_n in_o the_o world_n beside_o israel_n and_o he_o deal_v merciful_o and_o gracious_o and_o bountiful_o with_o they_o all_o and_o give_v they_o food_n and_o raiment_n and_o health_n and_o life_n and_o all_o but_o so_o as_o with_o israel_n that_o be_v so_o merciful_o and_o so_o bountiful_o he_o deal_v not_o with_o any_o nation_n no_o he_o have_v not_o deal_v so_o with_o any_o nation_n under_o the_o sun_n as_o with_o they_o and_o as_o god_n deal_v with_o they_o so_o he_o deal_v with_o his_o church_n from_o time_n to_o time_n he_o vouchsafe_v they_o more_o excellent_a privilege_n than_o all_o the_o world_n beside_o and_o in_o the_o 1_o peter_n 2.9_o you_o be_v a_o peculiar_a people_n that_o be_v such_o a_o people_n as_o the_o lord_n have_v endue_v with_o many_o excellent_a privilege_n proper_a and_o peculiar_a to_o they_o alone_o and_o psal_n 83.3_o they_o be_v call_v god_n secret_a one_o what_o be_v that_o but_o private_a one_o and_o what_o be_v privilege_n but_o certain_a condition_n grant_v to_o some_o private_a state_n or_o person_n so_o then_o the_o church_n be_v god_n secret_a one_o as_o who_o shall_v say_v he_o grant_v they_o many_o excellent_a privilege_n which_o none_o other_o be_v partaker_n of_o and_o in_o exod._n 19.5_o the_o church_n be_v call_v god_n chief_a treasure_n it_o be_v true_a that_o all_o the_o earth_n be_v the_o lord_n and_o be_v all_o full_a of_o his_o treasure_n but_o his_o church_n be_v his_o chief_a treasure_n silver_n have_v her_o prerogative_n above_o all_o base_a mettle_n and_o gold_n his_o prerogative_n above_o silver_n but_o pearl_n and_o precious_a jewel_n be_v a_o chief_a treasury_n and_o have_v prerogative_n above_o all_o the_o rest_n sodom_n be_v a_o goodly_a city_n like_o eden_n and_o egypt_n be_v a_o fat_a and_o fruitful_a soil_n bâ—t_o they_o be_v nothing_o to_o canaan_n for_o that_o flow_v with_o milk_n and_o honey_n milk_n and_o honey_n be_v the_o best_a and_o sweet_a thing_n canaan_n flow_v with_o these_o that_o be_v have_v great_a abundance_n of_o they_o niniveb_n be_v a_o great_a and_o famous_a city_n babel_n be_v the_o glory_n and_o pride_n of_o kingdom_n isaiah_n 13.19_o but_o these_o be_v nothing_o to_o jerusalem_n that_o be_v the_o holy_a city_n the_o city_n of_o the_o great_a king_n the_o joy_n of_o the_o whole_a earth_n psal_n 48.1.2_o to_o go_v forward_o bashan_n be_v a_o high_a mountain_n but_o zion_n be_v far_o beyond_o that_o psal_n 68.15.16_o all_o these_o as_o they_o be_v true_a in_o the_o story_n so_o be_v they_o in_o the_o type_n all_o other_o place_n be_v inferior_a to_o god_n church_n the_o scripture_n forbear_v not_o the_o name_n of_o privilege_n in_o effect_n and_o apply_v it_o in_o this_o very_a case_n rom._n 3.1.2_o what_o be_v the_o preferment_n of_o the_o jew_n &_o c_o the_o lord_n question_n it_o there_o and_o answer_v it_o himself_o that_o none_o may_v doubt_v of_o it_o much_o every_o manner_n of_o way_n as_o who_o shall_v say_v they_o have_v privilege_n and_o preferment_n and_o they_o be_v not_o scant_v of_o they_o much_o that_o be_v many_o and_o great_a and_o that_o not_o in_o one_o kind_n but_o every_o way_n it_o be_v speak_v there_o only_o of_o the_o jew_n but_o by_o analogy_n of_o faith_n it_o may_v be_v apply_v to_o the_o whole_a church_n john_n 1.12_o to_o they_o that_o receive_v he_o to_o they_o he_o give_v power_n or_o prerogative_n to_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n here_o be_v a_o prerogative_n give_v and_o what_o be_v that_o to_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n this_o be_v a_o privilege_n of_o all_o privilege_n for_o he_o that_o have_v this_o privilege_n to_o be_v god_n child_n have_v with_o all_o free_a right_n and_o interest_n in_o all_o the_o blessing_n that_o can_v be_v afford_v to_o man_n such_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o 1_o cor._n 2.9_o that_o the_o eye_n have_v not_o see_v nor_o the_o ear_n hear_v neither_o can_v it_o enter_v into_o man_n heart_n where_o the_o apostle_n speak_v not_o only_o of_o thing_n to_o be_v enjoy_v in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v but_o even_o of_o the_o privilege_n of_o god_n child_n even_o in_o this_o life_n and_o isaiah_n 64.4_o since_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o world_n they_o have_v not_o hear_v nor_o understand_v with_o the_o â—are_n neither_o have_v the_o eye_n see_v any_o other_o god_n beside_o thou_o which_o do_v so_o to_o he_o that_o wait_v for_o he_o god_n do_v so_o for_o none_o as_o he_o do_v for_o his_o child_n reason_n the_o reason_n why_o the_o visible_a church_n have_v such_o privilege_n be_v these_o first_o every_o company_n and_o every_o city_n have_v certain_a privilege_n of_o their_o own_o therefore_o the_o church_n the_o company_n of_o the_o faithful_a the_o city_n of_o the_o great_a king_n must_v have_v she_o much_o more_o second_o the_o special_a favour_n and_o love_n which_o god_n do_v bear_v to_o his_o church_n be_v such_o that_o he_o can_v do_v no_o less_o for_o they_o those_o who_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n most_o favour_n on_o they_o they_o bestow_v the_o great_a privilege_n therefore_o who_o the_o king_n of_o king_n favour_n most_o of_o all_o that_o be_v the_o church_n he_o be_v to_o bestow_v on_o they_o great_a and_o better_a privilege_n than_o any_o king_n can_v give_v but_o god_n only_o or_o any_o subject_n can_v receive_v but_o god_n own_o darling_n three_o the_o church_n have_v many_o office_n to_o perform_v towards_o god_n in_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a duty_n as_o prayer_n and_o such_o like_a which_o they_o can_v possible_o perform_v unless_o they_o be_v by_o god_n own_o special_a privilege_n exempt_v from_o other_o employment_n and_o enable_v to_o these_o four_o their_o nearness_n to_o christ_n and_o their_o dependence_n on_o he_o require_v it_o they_o be_v his_o sheep_n and_o he_o be_v their_o shepherd_n and_o shall_v not_o he_o know_v they_o and_o so_o set_v his_o mark_n upon_o they_o and_o call_v they_o by_o name_n and_o lead_v they_o forth_o into_o green_a pasture_n etc._n etc._n shall_v not_o he_o guide_v and_o comfort_n and_o preserve_v and_o privilege_v they_o from_o such_o thing_n as_o other_o flock_n be_v subject_a unto_o yea_o their_o oneness_n with_o he_o require_v it_o he_o be_v the_o husband_n the_o church_n be_v his_o spouse_n they_o be_v one_o and_o shall_v not_o he_o give_v she_o a_o wedding_n ring_n his_o hand_n and_o his_o heart_n shall_v not_o he_o apparel_n and_o deck_v she_o and_o cherish_v she_o in_o his_o bosom_n and_o afford_v she_o his_o comfortable_a presence_n at_o bed_n and_o at_o board_n as_o we_o say_v and_o many_o other_o such_o privilege_n which_o none_o else_o can_v enjoy_v yea_o he_o be_v the_o head_n &_o the_o church_n be_v his_o body_n and_o shall_v not_o he_o enlive_v and_o quicken_v nourish_v direct_v defend_v and_o endue_v his_o body_n with_o all_o such_o privilege_n and_o grace_n as_o it_o be_v capable_a of_o so_o that_o their_o near_a dependence_n on_o christ_n and_o her_o oneness_n with_o he_o require_v that_o he_o bestow_v many_o excellent_a privilege_n on_o she_o which_o other_o may_v not_o enjoy_v five_o the_o merit_n of_o christ_n require_v it_o which_o be_v infinite_a in_o itself_o and_o whole_o impart_v to_o the_o church_n must_v needs_o purchase_v and_o procure_v from_o god_n many_o excellent_a privilege_n such_o as_o be_v fit_a for_o they_o six_o the_o church_n be_v separate_v from_o the_o communion_n state_n and_o condition_n of_o other_o in_o the_o world_n by_o their_o very_a call_v and_o be_v of_o the_o church_n therefore_o it_o be_v necessary_a that_o they_o shall_v have_v some_o notable_a privilege_n to_o be_v enjoy_v in_o that_o state_n in_o regard_n that_o they_o be_v deprive_v of_o such_o as_o be_v common_a to_o other_o seven_o and_o last_o many_o affliction_n be_v to_o be_v suffer_v and_o endure_v of_o the_o church_n not_o only_o in_o that_o state_n but_o even_o for_o it_o and_o therefore_o some_o excellent_a privilege_n be_v bestow_v upon_o they_o to_o comfort_v their_o heart_n and_o to_o make_v they_o a_o full_a amends_o for_o all_o the_o wrong_n cross_n and_o loss_n that_o thereby_o they_o undergo_v the_o use_n of_o the_o point_n be_v these_o use_v 1_o be_v it_o so_o that_o god_n have_v bestow_v so_o many_o excellent_a privilege_n upon_o the_o church_n then_o first_o this_o shall_v teach_v we_o to_o glorify_v god_n that_o do_v so_o merciful_o grace_v and_o glorify_v we_o and_o first_o in_o general_n we_o be_v to_o acknowledge_v with_o all_o thankfulness_n god_n special_a love_n and_o favour_n to_o his_o church_n that_o bestow_v such_o excellent_a privilege_n and_o royal_a prerogative_n upon_o it_o second_o in_o special_a we_o must_v acknowledge_v with_o
these_o privilege_n be_v sure_o humane_a they_o be_v more_o &_o great_a than_o can_v be_v speak_v or_o understand_v yet_o because_o though_o we_o do_v enjoy_v they_o they_o be_v not_o such_o a_o comfort_n to_o we_o except_o we_o know_v they_o therefore_o i_o will_v labour_v to_o give_v you_o some_o taste_n of_o they_o they_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n some_o be_v humane_a that_o be_v grant_v by_o man_n and_o some_o be_v divine_a grant_v by_o god_n himself_o first_o some_o be_v humane_a grant_v by_o man_n as_o by_o king_n and_o emperor_n counsel_n and_o state_n either_o politic_a or_o ecclesiastic_a yea_o sometime_o by_o heathenish_a state_n as_o well_o as_o christian_a for_o sometime_o god_n stir_v up_o heathen_a man_n to_o be_v beneficial_a to_o his_o church_n &_o these_o privilege_n be_v outward_a either_o of_o their_o person_n from_o war_n or_o of_o their_o good_n from_o tax_n or_o the_o place_n consecrat_fw-mi to_o religious_a use_n be_v free_v from_o arrest_n &_o such_o like_a hence_o come_v privilege_v place_n but_o these_o as_o they_o come_v from_o man_n so_o there_o be_v no_o such_o excellency_n nor_o comfort_n in_o they_o &_o they_o be_v intend_v only_o or_o chief_o to_o churchman_n as_o they_o call_v they_o that_o be_v the_o clergy_n but_o yet_o even_o in_o these_o thing_n let_v we_o observe_v god_n love_n to_o his_o church_n for_o as_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n that_o give_v israel_n favour_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o egyptian_n that_o they_o give_v they_o their_o jewel_n etc._n etc._n exod._n 11.3_o sort_n so_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n that_o enlarge_v the_o heart_n of_o those_o prince_n &_o state_n to_o be_v beneficial_a to_o his_o church_n but_o the_o privilege_n we_o seek_v be_v much_o more_o material_a &_o excellent_a and_o be_v common_a to_o the_o whole_a church_n people_n as_o well_o as_o minister_n &_o these_o be_v divine_a privilege_n grant_v immediate_o by_o god_n himself_o and_o these_o be_v of_o diverse_a sort_n general_o they_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n the_o church_n of_o god_n be_v privilege_v partly_o in_o respect_n of_o other_o and_o partly_o in_o respect_n of_o themselves_o in_o respect_n of_o other_o they_o be_v privilege_v first_o in_o regard_n of_o their_o friend_n enemy_n who_o god_n bless_v for_o they_o and_o also_o in_o regard_n of_o their_o enemy_n who_o god_n curse_v for_o their_o sake_n as_o in_o gen._n 12.3_o i_o will_v bless_v they_o that_o bless_v thou_o and_o curse_v they_o that_o curse_v thou_o yea_o they_o be_v privilege_v in_o respect_n of_o the_o world_n itself_o who_o substance_n &_o standard_n they_o be_v isaiah_n 6.13_o it_o be_v make_v and_o be_v preserve_v continue_v alter_v and_o shall_v be_v destroy_v for_o their_o sake_n as_o it_o be_v a_o great_a privilege_n of_o the_o ark_n of_o god_n that_o where_o it_o enter_v and_o be_v well_o esteem_v and_o use_v as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o house_n of_o obed_n edom_n the_o place_n and_o person_n be_v bless_v by_o it_o &_o where_o it_o be_v not_o worthy_o esteem_v as_o among_o the_o philstine_o they_o be_v accurse_v by_o it_o so_o it_o be_v a_o great_a privilege_n to_o the_o church_n that_o they_o that_o be_v friend_n unto_o it_o be_v bless_v by_o it_o at_o least_o in_o outward_a thing_n and_o that_o they_o that_o be_v enemy_n to_o it_o privilege_n be_v curse_v and_o plague_v for_o it_o second_o they_o be_v privilege_v chief_o in_o respect_n of_o themselves_o whereby_o they_o fare_v the_o better_a in_o their_o own_o person_n and_o these_o privilege_n be_v of_o two_o sort_n some_o concern_v their_o outward_a and_o temporal_a estate_n other_o concern_v their_o inward_a and_o spiritual_a estate_n first_o some_o concern_v their_o outward_a and_o temporal_a estate_n as_o first_o protection_n and_o defence_n against_o adversary_n isaiah_n 4.5_o 6._o there_o the_o church_n be_v call_v the_o glory_n and_o there_o be_v a_o promise_n of_o universal_a protection_n to_o it_o so_o also_o defence_n from_o ordinary_a evil_n that_o befall_v other_o as_o psal_n 91._o and_o likewise_o they_o be_v privilege_v in_o regard_n of_o victory_n over_o their_o enemy_n as_o psal_n 149._o verse_n the_o last_o that_o they_o may_v execute_v upon_o they_o the_o judgement_n that_o be_v write_v this_o honour_n shall_v be_v to_o all_o his_o saint_n last_o of_o all_o the_o continuance_n of_o the_o very_a outward_a be_v of_o the_o church_n through_o all_o age_n to_o the_o world_n end_n be_v a_o privilege_n to_o it_o as_o in_o psal_n 46.5.6_o the_o prophet_n say_v god_n be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o it_o therefore_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v move_v let_v the_o world_n do_v what_o it_o will_v yet_o it_o can_v deprive_v the_o church_n of_o the_o outward_a be_v of_o it_o it_o may_v wax_v and_o wane_n as_o the_o moon_n do_v yet_o as_o that_o have_v always_o a_o be_v so_o shall_v the_o church_n ever_o be_v these_o be_v temporal_a privilege_n the_o second_o sort_n be_v such_o member_n as_o concern_v our_o spiritual_a and_o eternal_a estate_n and_o they_o also_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n such_o as_o be_v common_a to_o all_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n hypocrite_n as_o well_o as_o true_a believer_n as_o the_o use_n and_o profession_n of_o the_o word_n sacrament_n prayer_n fast_v gift_n of_o the_o ministry_n profession_n of_o the_o gospel_n knowledge_n of_o god_n will_n and_o outward_a conformity_n and_o obedience_n thereto_o as_o also_o historical_a and_o temporary_a faith_n and_o some_o taste_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n heb._n 6.2_o and_o such_o other_o common_a gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n these_o in_o the_o godly_a tend_v to_o their_o eternal_a good_a but_o in_o the_o wicked_a and_o reprobate_a to_o their_o eternal_a condemnation_n second_o such_o as_o be_v proper_a to_o believer_n only_o kind_n as_o the_o spirit_n of_o adoption_n and_o such_o like_a and_o these_o be_v also_o of_o two_o sort_n first_o matter_n of_o present_a possession_n second_o matter_n of_o future_a certainty_n first_o matter_n of_o present_a possession_n and_o they_o consist_v of_o diverse_a kind_n first_o we_o be_v privilege_v in_o respect_n of_o god_n second_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o creature_n three_o in_o respect_n of_o god_n ordinary_a deal_n in_o the_o world_n four_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o work_n he_o do_v for_o we_o five_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o grace_n he_o work_v in_o we_o six_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o comfort_n he_o impart_v to_o we_o and_o last_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o liberty_n he_o give_v us._n first_o they_o be_v privilege_v in_o respect_n of_o god_n he_o be_v they_o and_o they_o be_v he_o god_n the_o father_n be_v their_o father_n master_n and_o preserver_n they_o be_v his_o child_n creature_n and_o charge_n jesus_n christ_n be_v their_o head_n they_o be_v his_o member_n he_o be_v their_o husband_n they_o be_v his_o spouse_n he_o be_v their_o saviour_n they_o be_v his_o redeem_a he_o be_v their_o advocate_n they_o be_v his_o client_n he_o he_o be_v their_o shepherd_n they_o be_v his_o sheep_n yea_o they_o in_o some_o sort_n be_v one_o with_o he_o and_o he_o with_o they_o so_o likewise_o the_o holy_a ghost_n he_o be_v their_o master_n they_o be_v his_o scholar_n he_o be_v their_o leader_n they_o be_v his_o follower_n he_o be_v their_o counsellor_n they_o be_v his_o client_n he_o be_v their_o sanctifier_n they_o be_v his_o temple_n he_o be_v their_o quickener_n they_o be_v his_o frame_n and_o workmanship_n to_o a_o new_a creature_n yea_o the_o whole_a bless_a trinity_n do_v most_o gracious_o concur_v by_o their_o personal_a action_n in_o every_o part_n of_o our_o salvation_n here_o be_v a_o singular_a privilege_n if_o we_o have_v no_o more_o but_o only_o this_o it_o be_v enough_o to_o stir_v we_o up_o to_o glorify_v god_n and_o to_o comfort_v we_o against_o all_o our_o present_a affliction_n how_o true_o then_o may_v we_o say_v with_o the_o prophet_n psal_n 144._o last_o bless_a be_v the_o people_n that_o be_v in_o such_o a_o case_n yea_o bless_a be_v the_o people_n who_o god_n be_v the_o lord_n second_o we_o be_v privilege_v in_o respect_n of_o the_o creature_n the_o holy_a angel_n be_v servant_n and_o attendant_n upon_o the_o church_n they_o be_v minister_a spirit_n send_v forth_o for_o their_o sake_n the_o saint_n in_o heaven_n acknowledge_v we_o to_o be_v member_n of_o their_o body_n the_o catholic_a church_n and_o do_v instant_o desire_v the_o full_a accomplishment_n of_o our_o salvation_n that_o they_o and_o we_o may_v be_v perfect_v together_o the_o saint_n on_o earth_n love_v we_o pray_v for_o we_o rejoice_v at_o our_o good_a sorrow_n at_o our_o harm_n the_o wicked_a of_o the_o world_n oftentimes_o reverence_n and_o admire_v we_o for_o our_o holiness_n and_o the_o good_a thing_n we_o have_v though_o otherwise_o we_o be_v most_o odious_a to_o they_o
and_o the_o anabaptist_n be_v here_o refute_v that_o hold_v this_o error_n that_o they_o offend_v not_o in_o manner_n sure_o this_o be_v a_o far_o high_a strain_n than_o ever_o the_o apostle_n attain_v to_o for_o they_o err_v all_o in_o manner_n they_o all_o forsake_v christ_n and_o flee_v matth._n 26.56_o but_o this_o be_v before_o the_o come_n down_o of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n upon_o they_o but_o do_v they_o so_o afterward_o yes_o even_o after_o they_o have_v receive_v the_o holy_a ghost_n they_o err_v in_o manner_n john_n the_o disciple_n who_o jesus_n love_v will_v have_v worship_v the_o angel_n reu._n 19.10_o and_o again_o even_o after_o admonition_n he_o will_v have_v do_v the_o like_a in_o chap._n 22.8_o and_o so_o very_o likely_a he_o do_v it_o after_o repentance_n too_o and_o so_o we_o see_v that_o peter_n be_v reprove_v to_o his_o face_n by_o paul_n for_o his_o sin_n galat._n 2._o if_o this_o be_v so_o in_o the_o green_a tree_n alas_o alas_o what_o shall_v it_o be_v in_o the_o dry_a when_o peter_n and_o john_n and_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o apostle_n have_v have_v their_o fall_n shall_v any_o puritan_n in_o the_o world_n be_v so_o shameless_a as_o to_o boast_v of_o perfection_n this_o point_n shall_v need_v no_o further_o refutation_n all_o god_n child_n from_o the_o first_o to_o the_o last_o will_v ondemne_v this_o assertion_n by_o their_o own_o contrary_n clamentable_a experience_n in_o the_o whole_a race_n of_o their_o life_n i_o mention_v this_o the_o rather_o because_o some_o papist_n anabaptist_n and_o familist_n be_v infect_v with_o this_o presumption_n at_o this_o day_n use_v 3_o last_o this_o serve_v for_o the_o refutation_n of_o papist_n that_o challenge_n to_o their_o church_n and_o head_n the_o pope_n a_o immunity_n yea_o a_o impossibility_n of_o err_v in_o doctrine_n as_o if_o it_o must_v of_o necessity_n be_v true_a whatsoever_o they_o hold_v whereas_o this_o we_o be_v able_a to_o show_v how_o that_o they_o have_v err_v from_o themselves_o in_o many_o thing_n hold_v one_o thing_n this_o year_n another_o thing_n the_o next_o and_o one_o contrary_a to_o the_o other_o so_o that_o except_o two_o contrary_n may_v be_v true_a they_o must_v needs_o err_v in_o the_o one_o or_o in_o the_o other_o but_o of_o this_o more_o shall_v be_v speak_v hereafter_o thus_o we_o have_v see_v the_o first_o point_n handle_v at_o large_a that_o the_o church_n militant_a howsoever_o it_o have_v many_o excellent_a privilege_n yet_o it_o be_v not_o so_o exempt_v from_o error_n but_o that_o it_o may_v and_o oftentimes_o do_v err_v both_o in_o doctrine_n and_o manner_n now_o let_v we_o come_v to_o the_o second_o observation_n and_o doct._n 2_o therein_o see_v how_o the_o church_n may_v not_o err_v the_o observation_n be_v this_o that_o the_o church_n militant_a be_v so_o guide_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n that_o though_o it_o be_v subject_a to_o error_n yet_o it_o can_v err_v fundamental_o obstinate_o final_o and_o general_o first_o not_o fundamental_o psal_n 62.2_o he_o be_v my_o strength_n and_o my_o salvation_n and_o my_o defence_n therefore_o i_o shall_v not_o much_o be_v move_v that_o be_v fundamental_o nor_o obstinate_o psal_n 19.13_o lord_n keep_v i_o from_o presumptuous_a sin_n nor_o final_o psal_n 55.22_o the_o lord_n will_v not_o suffer_v the_o righteous_a to_o fall_v for_o ever_o he_o may_v fall_v but_o not_o for_o ever_o nor_o general_o in_o all_o her_o part_n but_o still_o some_o be_v reserve_v that_o have_v not_o bow_v their_o knee_n to_o baal_n 1_o king_n 19.18_o these_o two_o final_o and_o general_o be_v never_o find_v in_o the_o true_a member_n of_o the_o militant_a church_n haply_o they_o may_v err_v fundamental_o and_o obstinate_o but_o never_o final_o and_o general_o psal_n 37.24_o though_o he_o fall_v yet_o shall_v he_o not_o be_v cast_v off_o which_o if_o it_o be_v understand_v of_o our_o outward_a preservation_n here_o as_o the_o text_n seem_v to_o intend_v it_o then_o much_o more_o of_o our_o preservation_n from_o sin_n and_o error_n that_o though_o we_o do_v fall_v yet_o not_o final_o for_o ever_o and_o psal_n 125.1_o they_o which_o trust_v in_o the_o lord_n be_v like_o mount_n zion_n which_o can_v be_v remove_v but_o stand_v fast_o for_o ever_o and_o this_o be_v clear_v by_o our_o saviour_n own_o mouth_n matth._n 16.18_o upon_o this_o rock_n will_v i_o build_v my_o church_n and_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o overcome_v it_o he_o say_v not_o shall_v not_o touch_v it_o but_o only_o not_o overcome_v it_o and_o psal_n 102._o last_o verse_n the_o child_n of_o thy_o servant_n shall_v continue_v and_o their_o seed_n shall_v stand_v fast_o in_o thy_o sight_n so_o then_o the_o church_n militant_a though_o haply_o it_o do_v fall_v fundamental_o and_o obstinate_o yet_o it_o can_v fall_v final_o and_o general_o the_o reason_n first_o it_o be_v christ_n promise_n that_o the_o reas_n 1_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o overcome_v it_o matth._n 16.18_o if_o there_o be_v no_o other_o reason_n this_o be_v sufficient_a reas_n 2_o but_o second_o the_o church_n be_v build_v upon_o a_o rock_n mat._n 16.8_o and_o therefore_o can_v fall_v matth._n 7.25_o reas_n 3_o three_o christ_n god_n and_o man_n knit_v and_o unite_v we_o and_o if_o god_n knit_v the_o knot_n who_o shall_v unknit_v it_o reas_n 4_o four_o chirst_n pray_v for_o we_o that_o we_o may_v not_o fall_v luk._n 22.23_o and_o he_o can_v be_v deny_v reas_n 5_o five_o the_o unchangeableness_n of_o god_n love_n he_o admit_v none_o to_o be_v of_o the_o church_n militant_a but_o who_o he_o love_v now_o who_o god_n love_v once_o he_o love_v to_o the_o end_n john_n 13._o reas_n 6_o six_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v another_o reason_n of_o it_o joh._n 16.13_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n be_v continual_o present_a with_o they_o enlighten_v quicken_a direct_n persuade_v and_o reclaim_v they_o from_o sin_n and_o error_n whereunto_o if_o we_o add_v the_o sufficiency_n of_o the_o scripture_n for_o all_o matter_n both_o for_o life_n and_o doctrine_n what_o other_o direction_n can_v we_o have_v or_o how_o can_v we_o err_v final_o and_o general_o reas_n 7_o the_o last_o reason_n be_v draw_v from_o god_n love_n and_o care_n of_o his_o own_o heavenly_a truth_n which_o if_o it_o be_v not_o believe_v at_o all_o it_o be_v much_o disparage_v and_o if_o it_o be_v believe_v any_o where_o then_o sure_o it_o must_v be_v in_o the_o church_n which_o be_v the_o pillar_n and_o ground_n of_o truth_n therefore_o still_o the_o truth_n be_v alive_a at_o least_o in_o some_o of_o the_o church_n so_o that_o the_o church_n can_v fall_v final_o and_o general_o for_o then_o the_o truth_n must_v fall_v too_o use_v the_o use_n be_v these_o the_o first_o use_n be_v for_o matter_n of_o comfort_n to_o the_o faithful_a that_o howsoever_o if_o we_o be_v leave_v to_o ourselves_o we_o be_v weak_a and_o dark_a and_o blind_a prone_a to_o sin_n and_o error_n and_o untoward_a to_o grace_v and_o goodness_n yet_o we_o see_v god_n grace_n be_v sufficient_a for_o we_o to_o keep_v we_o in_o his_o holy_a faith_n unto_o the_o end_n it_o be_v true_a that_o in_o regard_n of_o ourselves_o we_o be_v like_o silly_a sheep_n ready_a to_o be_v a_o prey_n to_o the_o bear_n and_o the_o wolf_n yet_o we_o have_v a_o heavenly_a shepherd_n our_o saviour_n christ_n and_o he_o have_v still_o a_o eye_n on_o we_o and_o look_n after_o we_o and_o rather_o than_o we_o shall_v be_v quite_o lose_v he_o will_v bring_v we_o home_o on_o his_o own_o shoulder_n luke_n 15._o satan_n may_v and_o do_v seek_v to_o devour_v we_o and_o to_o swallow_v we_o up_o quick_a but_o god_n have_v set_v he_o his_o stint_n so_o that_o neither_o altogether_o nor_o for_o ever_o he_o can_v prevail_v against_o we_o john_n 10.28.29_o christ_n know_v his_o sheep_n and_o he_o will_v give_v they_o eterternall_a life_n and_o they_o shall_v never_o perish_v etc._n etc._n if_o we_o be_v ignorant_a of_o any_o point_n god_n will_v reveal_v it_o if_o we_o be_v doubtful_a god_n will_v resolve_v it_o if_o we_o be_v out_o of_o the_o way_n he_o will_v admonish_v and_o reclaim_v we_o we_o shall_v hear_v a_o voice_n behind_o we_o say_v this_o be_v the_o way_n walk_v in_o it_o etc._n etc._n isaiah_n 30.21_o the_o second_o use_n be_v for_o reproof_n of_o the_o papist_n and_o use_v 2_o lutheran_n which_o hold_v that_o the_o very_o choose_a may_v fall_v away_o and_o that_o final_o which_o can_v be_v hold_v without_o blasphemy_n for_o by_o this_o they_o wrong_v god_n make_v his_o election_n to_o be_v a_o mere_a casual_a thing_n depend_v on_o man_n goodness_n and_o perseverance_n therein_o so_o likewise_o it_o be_v a_o exceed_a wrong_n to_o the_o faithful_a for_o if_o they_o may_v
moses_n hold_v up_o his_o hand_n israel_n prevail_v and_o when_o he_o let_v his_o hand_n down_o amaleck_n prevail_v so_o it_o be_v with_o we_o when_o we_o hold_v up_o our_o hand_n to_o god_n by_o prayer_n we_o shall_v prevail_v against_o our_o spiritual_a enemy_n but_o if_o we_o let_v down_o our_o hand_n neglect_v this_o duty_n this_o duty_n of_o prayer_n they_o will_v prevail_v against_o us._n the_o last_o duty_n which_o we_o be_v hence_o teach_v to_o practice_v be_v patience_n we_o must_v possess_v our_o soul_n with_o patience_n hold_v out_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o fight_n and_o be_v well_o content_a with_o our_o present_a portion_n sigh_v for_o deliverance_n and_o yet_o wait_v the_o lord_n good_a leisure_n with_o a_o expectation_n of_o help_n and_o comfort_n to_o all_o our_o cross_n and_o a_o seasonable_a and_o joyful_a deliverance_n from_o all_o our_o cross_n and_o a_o recompense_n in_o heaven_n with_o a_o crown_n of_o glory_n for_o all_o the_o cross_n and_o misery_n which_o we_o do_v here_o endure_v and_o so_o much_o for_o the_o first_o point_n that_o the_o church_n of_o god_n have_v many_o adversary_n etc._n etc._n many_o the_o second_o point_n be_v who_o and_o what_o these_o adversary_n be_v sure_o they_o be_v very_o many_o in_o number_n in_o general_n they_o be_v all_o they_o that_o be_v not_o of_o the_o church_n for_o so_o be_v our_o saviour_n rule_n luke_n 11.23_o he_o that_o be_v not_o with_o i_o be_v against_o i_o the_o particular_n be_v many_o and_o therefore_o not_o easy_o to_o be_v comprehend_v within_o one_o artificial_a division_n therefore_o take_v every_o one_o by_o themselves_o the_o first_o adversary_n or_o opposite_a be_v a_o false_a church_n that_o be_v such_o as_o pretend_v themselves_o to_o be_v the_o church_n when_o indeed_o they_o be_v not_o but_o be_v destitute_a of_o that_o which_o give_v the_o true_a be_v of_o the_o church_n that_o be_v of_o christ_n jesus_n want_v of_o discipline_n and_o such_o like_a material_a point_n may_v make_v a_o unwholesome_a and_o a_o unsound_a church_n but_o so_o long_o as_o christ_n jesus_n be_v true_o profess_v they_o be_v true_a church_n the_o turk_n and_o the_o jew_n be_v false_a church_n have_v a_o false_a be_v because_o christ_n be_v not_o profess_v by_o they_o sort_n the_o second_o sort_n be_v those_o that_o be_v not_o yet_o admit_v into_o the_o church_n and_o they_o be_v not_o only_a infidel_n and_o reprobate_n which_o never_o be_v nor_o ever_o shall_v be_v of_o the_o church_n but_o also_o god_n choose_v child_n before_o their_o call_n be_v bitter_a enemy_n of_o the_o church_n as_o the_o apostle_n paul_n he_o be_v as_o great_a a_o adversary_n against_o the_o church_n till_o he_o be_v call_v as_o the_o world_n can_v yield_v sort_n the_o three_o sort_n of_o opposite_n to_o the_o church_n be_v heretic_n they_o be_v such_o as_o stiff_o maintain_v any_o gross_a opinion_n against_o the_o faith_n profess_v in_o the_o church_n some_o such_o there_o be_v in_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n 1_o cor._n 11.19_o and_o these_o opposite_n be_v of_o all_o sort_n some_o be_v great_a heretic_n other_o less_a and_o according_o they_o be_v more_o or_o less_o opposite_a yet_o they_o be_v all_o adversary_n and_o that_o in_o a_o high_a degree_n even_o to_o the_o faith_n which_o be_v the_o life_n of_o the_o church_n at_o least_o in_o such_o particular_n as_o they_o oppose_v all_o the_o embracer_n of_o heresy_n be_v enemy_n but_o the_o broacher_n of_o they_o most_o of_o all_o the_o 4_o sort_n of_o opposite_n be_v schismatic_n sort_n those_o that_o make_v a_o division_n or_o rent_n in_o the_o church_n withdraw_v themselves_o from_o the_o outward_a fellowship_n of_o those_o that_o profess_v the_o save_a truth_n of_o these_o the_o apostle_n speak_v heb._n 10.34_o that_o they_o withdraw_v themselves_o to_o perdition_n these_o be_v dangerous_a adversary_n for_o they_o do_v not_o only_o make_v a_o rent_n in_o the_o church_n but_o as_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lie_v they_o divide_v 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and_o life_n if_o they_o continue_v steadfast_a in_o the_o truth_n the_o 7_o sort_n of_o opposite_n be_v hypocrite_n sort_n or_o counterfeit_v such_o as_o pretend_v religion_n when_o as_o yet_o they_o affect_v it_o not_o sincere_o and_o in_o truth_n they_o go_v to_o the_o church_n hear_v the_o word_n receive_v the_o sacrament_n etc._n etc._n but_o they_o do_v it_o not_o with_o a_o single_a and_o sincere_a affection_n if_o these_o be_v minister_n than_o they_o be_v false_a apostle_n such_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o 2_o cor._n 11.13_o that_o be_v deceitful_a worker_n and_o transform_v themselves_o into_o the_o apostle_n of_o christ_n or_o if_o they_o be_v of_o the_o people_n they_o be_v false_a brethren_n such_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o galat._n 2.4_o that_o be_v creep_v into_o the_o church_n to_o spy_v out_o our_o liberty_n these_o be_v the_o more_o dangerous_a enemy_n because_o they_o be_v so_o near_o to_o we_o as_o it_o be_v in_o a_o family_n there_o be_v most_o 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from_o the_o body_n they_o can_v have_v no_o communion_n with_o it_o and_o till_o such_o time_n as_o they_o repent_v and_o be_v reconcile_v to_o the_o church_n they_o be_v to_o be_v account_v of_o as_o opposite_n as_o heathen_n and_o as_o publican_n sort_n nine_o we_o come_v to_o those_o that_o be_v more_o spiritual_a enemy_n the_o world_n that_o be_v the_o people_n and_o fashion_n of_o the_o world_n the_o people_n of_o the_o world_n they_o hate_v we_o because_o we_o be_v none_o of_o their_o society_n as_o our_o saviour_n say_v john_n 15.19_o and_o the_o fashion_n of_o the_o world_n which_o we_o be_v not_o to_o yield_v unto_o in_o any_o hand_n fashion_v not_o yourselves_o according_o to_o the_o world_n say_v the_o apostle_n rom._n 12.2_o these_o be_v
the_o multitude_n of_o reas_n 2_o their_o enemy_n they_o be_v so_o great_a and_o swarm_v so_o over_o all_o the_o earth_n and_o therefore_o how_o can_v the_o faithful_a escape_n but_o that_o needs_o they_o must_v be_v assault_v every_o way_n that_o which_o one_o say_v not_o or_o do_v not_o against_o they_o another_o do_v satan_n be_v a_o hunter_n and_o the_o wicked_a be_v his_o hellhound_n and_o the_o faithful_a they_o be_v in_o the_o field_n of_o this_o world_n like_o a_o silly_a hare_n in_o the_o field_n beset_v about_o with_o hound_n in_o every_o corner_n so_o that_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o she_o to_o escape_v they_o but_o that_o still_o he_o be_v assault_v how_o can_v the_o faithful_a choose_v then_o but_o be_v assault_v every_o way_n reas_n 3_o three_o add_v to_o their_o multitude_n their_o malice_n and_o diligence_n that_o they_o snatch_v at_o all_o advantage_n and_o let_v not_o any_o opportunity_n slip_v to_o satisfy_v their_o blood_n thirsty_a malice_n reas_n 4_o four_o 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that_o they_o can_v accomplish_v it_o reas_n 6_o sixthly_a be_v it_o so_o that_o the_o faithful_a may_v be_v try_v as_o in_o the_o fire_n that_o if_o there_o be_v any_o blemish_n in_o they_o it_o may_v be_v purge_v and_o that_o their_o faith_n may_v appear_v much_o more_o precious_a then_o gold_n reas_n 7_o seventhly_a it_o be_v so_o that_o the_o wicked_a may_v make_v up_o the_o full_a measure_n of_o their_o sin_n and_o so_o a_o just_a and_o full_a measure_n of_o wrath_n and_o vengeance_n against_o their_o soul_n reas_n 8_o last_o it_o be_v so_o that_o the_o lord_n may_v glorify_v himself_o the_o more_o in_o the_o preservation_n of_o the_o one_o and_o the_o confusion_n of_o the_o other_o exod._n 9.16_o use_v 1_o the_o use_n of_o the_o point_n be_v these_o first_o this_o show_v we_o the_o exceed_a great_a danger_n that_o the_o church_n and_o every_o member_n thereof_o be_v subject_a to_o in_o this_o world_n there_o be_v no_o danger_n that_o can_v possible_o be_v imagine_v nor_o no_o one_o thing_n name_v in_o the_o world_n that_o a_o man_n may_v be_v endanger_v by_o that_o the_o faithful_a can_v safe_o say_v i_o be_o free_a from_o the_o danger_n of_o it_o see_v how_o many_o danger_n one_o silly_a soul_n be_v beset_v withal_o the_o apostle_n paul_n 2_o cor._n 11.26_o that_o be_v often_o in_o peril_n of_o water_n in_o peril_n of_o his_o own_o nation_n in_o peril_n among_o the_o gentile_n in_o peril_n in_o the_o city_n in_o peril_n in_o the_o wilderness_n in_o peril_n in_o the_o sea_n in_o peril_n among_o false_a brethren_n he_o be_v in_o peril_n every_o way_n and_o yet_o these_o be_v but_o danger_n beside_o which_o he_o have_v many_o forcible_a and_o cruel_a blow_n lay_v on_o he_o as_o we_o may_v see_v from_o the_o 23_o to_o the_o 28._o verse_n in_o labour_n more_o abundant_a in_o stripe_n above_o measure_n in_o prison_n more_o plenteous_o in_o death_n often_o etc._n etc._n many_o man_n marvel_v that_o the_o faithful_a be_v so_o dear_o belove_v as_o they_o be_v of_o god_n shall_v be_v so_o often_o foil_v that_o they_o shall_v fall_v into_o so_o many_o trouble_n yea_o oftentimes_o sinful_a and_o reproachful_a evil_n but_o if_o they_o can_v see_v but_o half_a the_o danger_n they_o be_v in_o they_o will_v rather_o marvel_v that_o they_o fall_v into_o no_o more_o yea_o that_o they_o be_v not_o utter_o overthrow_v and_o that_o they_o be_v not_o overthrow_v by_o their_o enemy_n no_o reason_n can_v be_v give_v but_o that_o lam._n 3.22_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n mercy_n that_o we_o be_v not_o consume_v and_o psalm_n 124.1.2_o 3._o except_o the_o lord_n have_v be_v on_o our_o side_n may_v israel_n now_o say_v except_o the_o lord_n have_v be_v on_o our_o side_n when_o man_n rise_v up_o against_o we_o they_o have_v swallow_v we_o up_o quick_a when_o their_o wrath_n be_v kindle_v against_o we_o and_o this_o be_v a_o gracious_a and_o a_o comfortable_a use_n which_o we_o be_v to_o make_v of_o all_o the_o straits_n that_o we_o be_v drive_v to_o in_o this_o life_n not_o so_o much_o to_o look_v on_o the_o multitude_n and_o greatness_n of_o the_o danger_n which_o we_o be_v in_o but_o on_o the_o merciful_a protection_n and_o all-sufficient_a grace_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n that_o do_v so_o uphold_v we_o that_o let_v our_o enemy_n do_v what_o they_o can_v and_o all_o that_o may_v be_v do_v yet_o we_o shall_v not_o be_v leave_v as_o a_o prey_n to_o be_v swallow_v up_o by_o they_o in_o the_o 2_o king_n 6.15_o 16_o 17._o the_o prophet_n elishae_n man_n when_o he_o see_v that_o they_o be_v compass_v about_o with_o a_o host_n he_o be_v strike_v with_o great_a fear_n and_o cry_v out_o alas_o master_n what_o shall_v we_o do_v but_o elisha_n answer_v fear_v not_o for_o they_o that_o be_v with_o we_o be_v more_o than_o they_o that_o be_v with_o they_o and_o when_o elisha_n have_v pray_v and_o that_o the_o lord_n have_v open_v his_o servant_n eye_n he_o see_v the_o mountain_n full_a of_o horse_n and_o chariot_n of_o fire_n round_o about_o his_o master_n and_o as_o it_o be_v with_o he_o so_o it_o be_v with_o we_o it_o be_v a_o great_a terror_n to_o we_o to_o see_v ourselves_o assault_v and_o compass_v about_o with_o our_o enemy_n and_o to_o see_v danger_n on_o every_o side_n but_o let_v we_o look_v about_o we_o and_o see_v also_o the_o merciful_a protection_n and_o all-sufficient_a grace_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n which_o embrace_v we_o on_o every_o side_n so_o that_o our_o enemy_n can_v no_o way_n prevail_v against_o we_o and_o this_o will_v be_v a_o great_a encouragement_n and_o comfort_n to_o we_o against_o all_o the_o assault_n that_o our_o enemy_n make_v against_o us._n use_v 2_o the_o second_o use_n teach_v we_o that_o see_v we_o have_v so_o many_o enemy_n that_o assault_n we_o every_o way_n than_o we_o shall_v hold_v fast_o by_o god_n and_o cleave_v steadfast_o and_o whole_o to_o he_o alone_o first_o by_o a_o lively_a confidence_n in_o his_o truth_n and_o promise_n and_o salvation_n with_o a_o assure_a persuasion_n that_o he_o will_v never_o fail_v we_o nor_o forsake_v we_o it_o be_v israel_n case_n and_o moses_n direction_n exod._n 14.13_o when_o their_o enemy_n be_v behind_o they_o and_o the_o red_a sea_n before_o they_o and_o the_o mountain_n on_o each_o side_n of_o they_o and_o no_o way_n for_o they_o to_o escape_v moses_n say_v to_o they_o fear_v not_o stand_v still_o and_o he_o hold_v the_o salvation_n of_o the_o lord_n which_o he_o will_v show_v to_o you_o this_o day_n etc._n etc._n and_o so_o the_o lord_n do_v deliver_v they_o there_o want_v neither_o will_n nor_o power_n on_o god_n part_n if_o there_o be_v not_o want_v of_o our_o apprehend_n and_o rely_v upon_o it_o as_o we_o must_v cleave_v unto_o god_n by_o confidence_n so_o second_o we_o must_v cleave_v to_o he_o by_o prayer_n for_o it_o be_v not_o enough_o for_o we_o to_o believe_v it_o but_o we_o must_v beg_v it_o too_o we_o must_v lift_v up_o our_o eye_n and_o heart_n to_o god_n in_o humble_a and_o hearty_a prayer_n for_o help_v and_o deliverance_n and_o we_o shall_v have_v it_o you_o shall_v see_v this_o course_n take_v and_o the_o success_n of_o it_o both_o together_o in_o the_o 2_o chron._n 32.20_o 22._o when_o senacherib_n come_v up_o with_o his_o host_n against_o jerusalem_n than_o hezechiah_n the_o king_n and_o the_o prophet_n esaiah_n pray_v against_o they_o and_o cry_v to_o heaven_n and_o the_o lord_n send_v a_o angel_n which_o destroy_v all_o the_o valiant_a man_n and_o prince_n of_o senacheribs_n host_n and_o save_v hezechiah_n and_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o jerusalem_n from_o the_o hand_n of_o senacherib_n king_n of_o ashur_n three_o we_o must_v cleave_v to_o god_n by_o use_v the_o
manage_v this_o fight_n with_o simple_a wisdom_n in_o holiness_n meekness_n compassion_n in_o obedience_n to_o god_n ordinance_n &c_n &c_n as_o before_o we_o have_v be_v teach_v if_o we_o have_v fail_v in_o the_o least_o of_o these_o let_v we_o be_v touch_v in_o our_o heart_n for_o it_o as_o david_n be_v in_o the_o 1_o sam._n 24.26_o when_o he_o have_v but_o cut_v off_o the_o lap_n of_o saul_n garment_n though_o he_o have_v not_o take_v away_o his_o life_n yet_o his_o heart_n smite_v he_o for_o this_o and_o let_v we_o for_o the_o time_n to_o come_v labour_n to_o reform_v wherein-soev_a we_o have_v fail_v and_o look_v better_o to_o our_o step_n ever_o after_o but_o if_o we_o have_v take_v these_o course_n and_o observe_v these_o direction_n than_o it_o may_v be_v a_o great_a comfort_n to_o we_o whatsoever_o the_o issue_n be_v whether_o we_o have_v overcome_v or_o not_o if_o we_o have_v overcome_v how_o bold_o may_v we_o go_v to_o god_n and_o give_v he_o thanks_n for_o his_o own_o victory_n and_o not_o for_o we_o because_o we_o have_v get_v it_o by_o his_o mean_n and_o course_n if_o they_o have_v overcome_v we_o yet_o we_o may_v have_v comfort_n in_o our_o foil_n that_o it_o have_v not_o be_v through_o our_o mis-behaviour_n we_o have_v do_v as_o god_n will_v have_v we_o and_o therefore_o there_o be_v good_a hope_n that_o though_o now_o we_o be_v overcome_v by_o our_o enemy_n yet_o at_o last_o we_o shall_v overcome_v they_o howsoever_o we_o be_v sure_a not_o to_o loose_v our_o crown_n because_o we_o have_v strive_v lawful_o for_o the_o crown_n be_v promise_v to_o they_o that_o strive_v lawful_o as_o well_o as_o to_o they_o that_o overcome_v use_v 2_o the_o second_o use_n be_v to_o teach_v every_o one_o of_o we_o to_o labour_v to_o be_v well_o fit_v prepare_v and_o furnish_v for_o this_o fight_n every_o one_o of_o we_o have_v a_o fight_n to_o make_v against_o our_o adversary_n either_o inward_o or_o outward_o or_o both_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v needful_a for_o we_o to_o provide_v and_o to_o be_v in_o a_o good_a readiness_n before_o hand_n reason_n teach_v we_o this_o for_o when_o once_o we_o know_v that_o we_o have_v enemy_n and_o that_o they_o have_v a_o purpose_n to_o invade_v the_o land_n we_o do_v present_o then_o get_v we_o more_o munition_n and_o weapon_n and_o all_o manner_n of_o furniture_n needful_a for_o our_o defence_n let_v grace_n then_o teach_v we_o and_o quicken_v we_o up_o to_o be_v as_o wise_a for_o the_o lord_n battle_n as_o we_o be_v for_o own_o our_o enemy_n be_v always_o assault_v we_o let_v we_o therefore_o get_v faith_n &_o wisdom_n and_o holiness_n compassion_n meekness_n and_o all_o manner_n of_o spiritual_a armour_n that_o we_o may_v defend_v ourselves_o and_o hold_v our_o own_o and_o stand_v fast_o and_o safe_a against_o all_o their_o assault_n and_o that_o we_o may_v be_v thus_o fit_v and_o provide_v first_o we_o must_v be_v well_o acquaint_v with_o god_n word_n for_o there_o the_o lord_n teach_v we_o how_o to_o 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the_o like_a case_n especial_o of_o the_o old_a beat_a soldier_n of_o jesus_n christ_n as_o of_o abraham_n job_n david_n paul_n and_o the_o like_a let_v we_o observe_v their_o oversight_n and_o their_o fail_n and_o shun_v they_o also_o observe_v their_o religious_a practice_n and_o course_n and_o follow_v they_o not_o doubt_v but_o god_n will_v bless_v they_o to_o thou_o as_o he_o do_v to_o they_o principal_o let_v we_o observe_v our_o captain_n jesus_n christ_n and_o follow_v his_o example_n as_o far_o as_o we_o can_v last_o let_v we_o be_v earnest_n with_o god_n from_o who_o every_o good_a thing_n come_v that_o as_o he_o have_v appoint_v we_o his_o soldier_n so_o he_o will_v furnish_v we_o with_o help_n fit_v thereunto_o and_o so_o much_o shall_v serve_v for_o this_o four_o point_n namely_o how_o the_o church_n behave_v and_o carry_v herself_o against_o her_o adversary_n the_o five_o and_o last_o point_n concern_v the_o adversary_n and_o opposite_n of_o the_o church_n be_v adversary_n how_o the_o lord_n in_o this_o case_n carry_v himself_o both_o towards_o the_o church_n and_o towards_o her_o adversary_n for_o the_o lord_n see_v and_o behold_v all_o on_o both_o side_n yea_o and_o he_o work_v on_o both_o side_n too_o though_o in_o a_o contrary_a manner_n he_o be_v for_o and_o with_o the_o church_n in_o mercy_n to_o deliver_v they_o and_o he_o be_v with_o the_o wicked_a in_o judgement_n to_o confound_v and_o overthrow_v they_o then_o the_o observation_n be_v this_o doctr._n that_o in_o all_o the_o battle_n that_o be_v manage_v betwixt_o the_o church_n and_o her_o adversary_n for_o god_n truth_n the_o lord_n so_o carry_v himself_o on_o both_o side_n and_o to_o both_o that_o he_o be_v altogether_o for_o and_o with_o the_o church_n to_o help_v and_o deliver_v they_o and_o altogether_o against_o their_o enemy_n to_o confound_v and_o destroy_v they_o so_o say_v the_o prophet_n psal_n 34.15_o 16._o the_o eye_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v upon_o the_o righteous_a and_o his_o ear_n be_v open_a to_o their_o cry_n but_o the_o face_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v against_o they_o that_o do_v evil_a to_o cut_v off_o their_o remembrance_n from_o the_o earth_n so_o in_o esa_n 66.5_o the_o prophet_n say_v hear_v you_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n all_o you_o that_o tremble_v at_o his_o word_n your_o brethren_n that_o cast_v you_o out_o for_o my_o name_n sake_n say_v let_v the_o lord_n be_v glorify_v but_o you_o shall_v appear_v to_o your_o joy_n atnd_v they_o shall_v be_v ashamed_a and_o phil._n 1.28_o in_o nothing_o fear_v your_o enemy_n which_o to_o they_o be_v a_o token_n of_o perdition_n and_o to_o you_o of_o salvation_n and_o that_o of_o god_n thus_o god_n be_v with_o the_o israelite_n to_o save_v they_o and_o with_o the_o egyptian_n to_o drown_v they_o in_o the_o red_a sea_n let_v we_o see_v this_o point_n prove_v a_o little_a more_o plain_o in_o particular_n god_n be_v with_o and_o for_o the_o faithful_a in_o many_o respect_n respect_n first_o as_o a_o party_n in_o the_o cause_n fight_v with_o they_o and_o for_o they_o reu._n 3.7_o michael_n and_o his_o angel_n fight_v etc._n etc._n and_o thus_o god_n be_v with_o his_o church_n either_o inward_o or_o outward_o inward_o teach_v they_o to_o fight_v psal_n 144.1_o and_o strengthen_v they_o and_o comfort_v they_o luk._n 22.43_o and_o defend_v they_o psal_n 118.13_o and_o give_v a_o blessing_n and_o good_a success_n to_o they_o or_o outward_o as_o supply_v they_o with_o mean_n and_o raise_v up_o friend_n and_o captain_n and_o such_o outward_a help_n thus_o he_o raise_v up_o joshua_n and_o other_o to_o deliver_v his_o church_n and_o so_o by_o minister_a to_o the_o faithful_a many_o gracious_a opportunity_n either_o to_o preserve_v themselves_o or_o to_o overthrow_v their_o enemy_n second_o god_n be_v with_o his_o church_n as_o a_o deliverer_n to_o save_v they_o from_o the_o hand_n of_o all_o their_o enemy_n so_o david_n acknowledge_v psal_n 70.5_o that_o god_n be_v his_o helper_n and_o deliverer_n and_o zach._n 2.8_o the_o lord_n promise_v to_o be_v a_o wall_n of_o fire_n about_o jerusalem_n and_o in_o the_o 9_o chapter_n and_o the_o 8._o vers_fw-la the_o lord_n say_v that_o he_o will_v camp_n about_o his_o house_n and_o no_o oppressor_n shall_v come_v upon_o they_o three_o he_o be_v with_o his_o church_n as_o a_o rewarder_n to_o crown_v they_o after_o the_o fight_n reu._n 2.10_o be_v thou_o faithful_a unto_o the_o death_n and_o i_o will_v give_v thou_o the_o crown_n of_o life_n 2_o tim._n 48._o i_o have_v fight_v a_o good_a fight_n say_v he_o apostle_n i_o have_v finish_v my_o course_n from_o hence_o forth_o be_v lay_v up_o for_o i_o a_o crown_n of_o rhteousnesse_n which_o the_o lord_n the_o righteous_a
judge_n shall_v give_v i_o that_o day_n thus_o the_o lord_n reward_n &_o crown_v we_o and_o for_o this_o end_n he_o count_v all_o our_o flitting_n and_o keep_v all_o our_o tear_n in_o his_o bottle_n and_o put_v they_o all_o in_o his_o register_n ps_n 56.8_o so_o we_o see_v that_o god_n be_v with_o and_o for_o his_o church_n to_o defend_v they_o first_o as_o a_o party_n in_o the_o cause_n second_o as_o a_o deliverer_n to_o save_v they_o from_o their_o enemy_n three_o as_o a_o rewarder_n to_o crown_v they_o after_o the_o fight_n way_n on_o the_o other_o side_n he_o be_v against_o their_o enemy_n and_o that_o many_o way_n nay_o every_o way_n first_o to_o deride_v they_o psal_n 37_o 12_o 13._o the_o wicked_a practise_v against_o the_o just_a and_o gnash_v his_o tooth_n at_o he_o but_o the_o lord_n shall_v laugh_v they_o to_o scorn_n etc._n etc._n and_o psal_n 2.4_o the_o lord_n shall_v have_v they_o in_o derision_n second_o to_o defeat_v they_o job_n 5.12_o he_o scatter_v the_o device_n of_o the_o crafty_a so_o that_o their_o hand_n can_v accomplish_v that_o which_o they_o enterpize_v psal_n 129.1_o 2._o they_o have_v oft_o time_n afflict_v i_o from_o my_o youth_n but_o they_o can_v not_o prevail_v against_o i_o isa_n 33.11_o 12._o and_o chap._n 8.10_o take_v council_n together_o yet_o it_o shall_v be_v bring_v to_o nought_o pronounce_v a_o decree_n yet_o it_o shall_v not_o stand_v for_o god_n be_v with_o us._n three_o to_o blind_v they_o as_o he_o do_v the_o sodomite_n gen._n 19.11_o and_o as_o he_o do_v the_o aramite_n 2_o king_n 6.18_o four_o the_o lord_n be_v against_o the_o adversary_n of_o his_o church_n to_o terrify_v they_o job_n 18.6_o the_o light_n shall_v be_v dark_a in_o his_o dwell_n etc._n etc._n thus_o he_o terrify_v moah_n and_o make_v they_o sore_o afraid_a of_o the_o israelite_n num._n 22.3_o and_o thus_o he_o terrify_v the_o aramite_n with_o the_o noise_n of_o a_o great_a army_n and_o make_v they_o fly_v when_o none_o pursue_v they_o 2_o king_n 7.6_o 7._o five_o he_o be_v sometime_o against_o they_o to_o turn_v their_o heart_n to_o his_o church_n that_o they_o shall_v be_v of_o their_o side_n thus_o deal_v he_o with_o paul_n act_v 9.1_o compare_v with_o the_o 20._o verse_n six_o he_o be_v against_o they_o to_o set_v one_o of_o they_o against_o another_o to_o sheathe_v his_o sword_n in_o his_o fellow_n bowel_n as_o he_o do_v the_o midianite_n judg._n 7.22_o and_o as_o he_o do_v the_o philistines_n 1_o sam._n 14.20_o seven_o to_o confound_v they_o isaiah_n 45.24_o all_o that_o provoke_v he_o shall_v be_v confound_v eight_o sometime_o god_n be_v against_o they_o to_o take_v many_o of_o they_o away_o esa_n 7.10_o nine_o he_o be_v always_o against_o they_o to_o punish_v they_o in_o diverse_a kind_n by_o water_n as_o he_o do_v the_o egyptian_n drown_v they_o exod._n 14.28_o or_o by_o fire_n consume_v they_o as_o he_o do_v the_o sodomite_n gen._n 19_o or_o by_o a_o angel_n destroy_v they_o as_o he_o do_v the_o camp_n of_o ashur_n esa_n 37.36_o or_o from_o heaven_n rain_v hailstone_n upon_o they_o as_o he_o do_v upon_o the_o five_o king_n joshua_n 10.11_o or_o by_o woman_n to_o be_v slay_v by_o they_o as_o sisera_n be_v by_o jael_n judg._n 4.21_o and_o abimeleck_n by_o a_o woman_n on_o the_o wall_n judge_n 9_o 53._o or_o by_o base_a creature_n to_o be_v annoy_v and_o devour_v by_o they_o as_o he_o do_v the_o egyptian_n exod._n 8.6_o and_o the_o 10.13_o and_o herod_n act_v 12.23_o for_o as_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o the_o world_n but_o the_o devil_n and_o his_o instrument_n take_v advange_v of_o it_o to_o fight_v against_o the_o faithful_a so_o on_o the_o other_o side_n there_o be_v nothing_o in_o the_o world_n but_o the_o lord_n take_v advange_v of_o it_o to_o fight_v against_o they_o last_o if_o they_o escape_v all_o these_o thing_n in_o this_o life_n yet_o they_o shall_v be_v sure_a that_o god_n will_v punish_v they_o to_o the_o full_a and_o pay_v they_o home_o in_o hell_n 2_o thes_n 1.6.9_o reas_n the_o reason_n of_o the_o point_n be_v these_o first_o that_o which_o the_o adversary_n do_v against_o the_o church_n they_o do_v against_o god_n himself_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n battle_n and_o not_o we_o as_o jahaziel_n say_v to_o jehosaphat_n 2_o chro._n 20.15_o and_o therefore_o he_o will_v manage_v it_o for_o the_o defence_n of_o his_o church_n and_o the_o destruction_n of_o their_o adversary_n he_o that_o touch_v the_o church_n touch_v the_o apple_n of_o god_n eye_n zach._n 2.8_o and_o joel_n 3.34_o the_o lord_n say_v to_o tyrus_n when_o they_o cast_v lot_n for_o his_o people_n what_o have_v thou_o to_o do_v with_o i_o and_o to_o saul_n act_v 9.4_o when_o he_o go_v to_o persecute_v the_o church_n saul_n saul_n why_o persecute_v thou_o i_o and_o 1_o king_n 19.22_o when_o zenacherib_n rail_v against_o jerusalem_n and_o lift_v up_o himself_o against_o they_o the_o lord_n say_v who_o have_v thou_o rail_v on_o etc._n etc._n even_o against_o the_o holy_a one_o of_o israel_n and_o in_o ezech._n 35._o from_o the_o 3._o to_o the_o 6._o verse_n the_o lord_n threaten_v against_o mount_n sire_n that_o because_o they_o have_v put_v the_o child_n of_o israel_n to_o flight_n by_o the_o sword_n therefore_o as_o i_o live_v say_v the_o lord_n i_o will_v prepare_v thou_o to_o blood_n that_o which_o the_o adversary_n do_v against_o the_o church_n they_o do_v it_o against_o god_n and_o therefore_o he_o will_v defend_v his_o church_n and_o punish_v and_o destroy_v they_o second_o it_o be_v his_o promise_n to_o the_o one_o that_o he_o will_v reas_n 2_o defend_v they_o and_o his_o threaten_n against_o the_o other_o that_o he_o will_v overthrow_v they_o esa_n 43.2_o when_o thou_o pass_v through_o the_o water_n i_o will_v be_v with_o thou_o exod._n 23.22_o i_o will_v be_v a_o enemy_n to_o thy_o enemy_n and_o afflict_v they_o that_o afflict_v thou_o zeph._n 3.19_o i_o will_v bruise_v all_o that_o afflict_v thou_o the_o three_o reason_n be_v god_n love_n to_o his_o church_n he_o reas_n 3_o love_v they_o dear_o and_o therefore_o will_v defend_v they_o zach._n 24_o 5_o 8._o the_o last_o reason_n be_v the_o justice_n of_o god_n against_o his_o enemy_n reas_n 4_o it_o be_v a_o just_a thing_n with_o god_n to_o recompense_v tribulation_n to_o they_o that_o trouble_v his_o church_n 2_o thes_n 1.6_o use_v 1_o the_o use_n of_o the_o point_n be_v these_o the_o first_o be_v for_o reproof_n and_o first_o it_o reprove_v the_o faithful_a themselves_o such_o of_o they_o as_o be_v suspicious_a and_o fearful_a to_o encounter_v with_o their_o adversary_n that_o think_v there_o be_v no_o way_n when_o their_o enemy_n assault_v they_o but_o desolation_n measure_v thing_n by_o sense_n and_o not_o by_o faith_n why_o the_o lord_n be_v with_o we_o to_o defend_v we_o why_o then_o shall_v we_o be_v afraid_a though_o ten_o thousand_o rose_n up_o against_o we_o second_o it_o reprove_v the_o presumptuous_a adversary_n that_o think_v when_o they_o prevail_v that_o god_n have_v forsake_v his_o church_n as_o psalm_n 71.11_o and_o matth._n 27.43_o or_o that_o he_o do_v not_o regard_v their_o trouble_n psalm_n 94.6_o 7._o or_o that_o he_o can_v not_o redress_v it_o 2_o chron._n 32.14_o last_o it_o reprove_v the_o graceless_a and_o carnal_a beholder_n that_o ascribe_v all_o to_o the_o mean_n and_o do_v not_o believe_v god_n hand_n to_o be_v all_o in_o all_o in_o defend_v his_o church_n and_o destroy_v their_o enemy_n the_o second_o use_n be_v for_o comfort_n to_o the_o faithful_a 2._o both_o in_o that_o god_n be_v with_o they_o to_o help_v they_o and_o then_o if_o he_o be_v with_o we_o who_o shall_v be_v against_o we_o and_o to_o give_v they_o a_o good_a issue_n and_o a_o plentiful_a reward_n as_o also_o in_o that_o god_n be_v against_o our_o enemy_n to_o confound_v they_o and_o all_o their_o course_n take_v in_o hand_n against_o us._n use_v 3_o last_o this_o be_v for_o terror_n to_o the_o wicked_a it_o be_v terror_n enough_o for_o they_o to_o know_v that_o god_n favour_v those_o who_o they_o persecute_v much_o more_o terror_n be_v it_o to_o they_o to_o know_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v bend_v against_o themselves_o with_o all_o his_o wrath_n and_o power_n to_o confound_v and_o destroy_v they_o i_o will_v shut_v up_o all_o with_o the_o speech_n of_o the_o prophet_n psalm_n 34.19_o great_a be_v the_o trouble_n of_o the_o righteous_a but_o the_o lord_n deliver_v they_o out_o of_o all_o the_o trouble_n of_o god_n child_n be_v great_a and_o many_o yet_o let_v we_o show_v ourselves_o to_o be_v righteous_a man_n justify_v by_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o we_o shall_v find_v it_o to_o be_v true_a as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o note_n that_o the_o
lord_n will_v be_v altogether_o with_o we_o to_o save_v and_o defend_v we_o and_o altogether_o against_o our_o enemy_n to_o confound_v and_o destroy_v they_o the_o three_o and_o twenty_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n have_v propound_v nine_o several_a head_n to_o be_v speak_v to_o concern_v the_o visible_a church_n we_o have_v through_o god_n assistance_n speak_v of_o seven_o of_o they_o it_o remain_v therefore_o now_o that_o we_o come_v to_o the_o eight_o namely_o the_o power_n and_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n it_o a_o point_n which_o be_v name_v and_o point_v at_o before_o among_o the_o privilege_n of_o the_o church_n for_o sure_o the_o power_n that_o god_n have_v endue_v the_o church_n withal_o be_v none_o of_o her_o small_a privilege_n if_o it_o be_v not_o one_o of_o her_o great_a as_o the_o great_a privilege_n of_o a_o king_n be_v his_o kingly_a power_n and_o authority_n then_o we_o point_v at_o it_o but_o we_o respite_v the_o full_a handle_n of_o it_o to_o this_o place_n partly_o because_o in_o the_o beginning_n we_o propound_v it_o as_o one_o of_o the_o principal_a head_n in_o this_o question_n but_o especial_o because_o it_o be_v both_o large_a and_o weighty_a large_a and_o so_o require_v weighty_a and_o so_o deserve_v worthy_o to_o be_v handle_v in_o a_o several_a title_n by_o itself_o it_o have_v also_o some_o affinity_n &_o nearness_n with_o the_o five_o head_n namely_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n for_o many_o of_o the_o same_o thing_n that_o be_v incident_a to_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n be_v also_o incident_a to_o the_o authority_n of_o it_o and_o such_o thing_n we_o will_v only_o touch_v as_o we_o meet_v with_o they_o refer_v you_o for_o further_a knowledge_n of_o they_o to_o those_o place_n that_o already_o they_o have_v be_v handle_v in_o but_o there_o be_v something_n belong_v to_o the_o power_n of_o the_o church_n which_o can_v not_o so_o fit_o be_v reduce_v to_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n and_o these_o be_v the_o point_n which_o god_n willing_a here_o we_o will_v speak_v unto_o the_o power_n and_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n i_o call_v it_o power_n and_o authority_n for_o in_o effect_n they_o be_v both_o one_o it_o be_v true_a that_o they_o be_v sometime_o distinguish_v and_o then_o this_o be_v the_o difference_n power_n signify_v a_o ability_n to_o do_v a_o thing_n and_o authority_n a_o warrant_n from_o god_n to_o exercise_v that_o ability_n but_o here_o they_o signify_v one_o and_o the_o same_o thing_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v plain_a because_o the_o church_n of_o all_o other_o sort_n do_v absolute_o deny_v herself_o to_o have_v any_o power_n to_o do_v aught_o but_o that_o which_o she_o have_v authority_n and_o warrant_n from_o god_n to_o do_v unto_o the_o point_n that_o i_o will_v speak_v of_o concern_v this_o matter_n be_v these_o first_o that_o the_o church_n of_o god_n have_v power_n and_o authority_n belong_v to_o it_o second_o what_o manner_n of_o power_n and_o authority_n this_o be_v and_o three_o what_o it_o be_v that_o she_o have_v power_n in_o power_n first_o that_o there_o be_v power_n and_o authority_n belong_v to_o the_o church_n for_o howsoever_o she_o be_v weak_a in_o outward_a force_n and_o contemptible_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o world_n and_o for_o the_o most_o part_n spurn_v out_o over-borne_v and_o tread_v under_o foot_n by_o the_o potentate_n of_o the_o earth_n and_o for_o the_o manage_v of_o any_o temporal_a administration_n or_o state_n able_a to_o do_v little_a and_o warrant_v to_o do_v less_o yet_o if_o she_o be_v take_v within_o she_o own_o element_n that_o be_v in_o church_n affair_n she_o be_v arm_v with_o much_o power_n and_o great_a authority_n every_o state_n and_o society_n have_v power_n and_o authority_n annex_v to_o it_o whereby_o it_o be_v uphold_v the_o church_n then_o be_v the_o worthy_a state_n and_o happy_a society_n that_o be_v have_v it_o reas_n 1_o much_o more_o for_o there_o be_v many_o office_n and_o duty_n of_o diverse_a kind_n and_o sort_n daily_a and_o necessary_o to_o be_v perform_v in_o the_o church_n weldoer_n must_v be_v encourage_v sin_n must_v be_v punish_v law_n must_v be_v execute_v order_n must_v be_v observe_v and_o obedience_n must_v be_v practise_v these_o and_o such_o like_a must_v be_v daily_o perform_v in_o the_o church_n now_o without_o power_n nothing_o can_v be_v do_v and_o without_o authority_n nothing_o must_v be_v do_v and_o therefore_o the_o church_n must_v have_v power_n and_o authority_n again_o the_o reas_n 2_o great_a and_o weighty_a work_n that_o be_v do_v in_o the_o world_n be_v do_v in_o the_o church_n the_o conscience_n command_v soul_n convert_v comfort_v and_o save_v god_n own_o life_n wrought_v into_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n christ_n and_o his_o kingdom_n of_o grace_n that_o be_v high_o advance_v satan_n kingdom_n and_o his_o power_n quail_v and_o subdue_v therefore_o the_o church_n must_v needs_o have_v great_a power_n to_o effect_v such_o great_a work_n last_o she_o must_v have_v this_o power_n reas_n 3_o and_o authority_n that_o she_o may_v be_v able_a to_o hold_v up_o her_o head_n against_o her_o adversary_n that_o do_v common_o and_o ordinary_o except_o against_o she_o say_v by_o what_o authority_n do_v you_o these_o thing_n as_o they_o do_v to_o our_o saviour_n matth._n 22.23_o and_o to_o moses_n exod._n 2.14_o who_o make_v thou_o a_o man_n of_o authority_n etc._n etc._n so_o that_o except_o she_o be_v furnish_v with_o sufficient_a authority_n there_o be_v no_o hope_n that_o they_o or_o their_o proceed_n shall_v find_v any_o acceptance_n the_o people_n be_v astonish_v at_o christ_n doctrine_n because_o he_o teach_v with_o authority_n and_o not_o as_o the_o scribe_n mat._n 7._o &_o mar._n 1.27_o he_o command_v even_o the_o foul_a spirit_n with_o authority_n and_o they_o obey_v he_o as_o who_o shall_v say_v if_o he_o have_v not_o command_v they_o with_o authority_n they_o will_v never_o have_v obey_v he_o they_o will_v know_v good_a cause_n why_o first_o this_o serve_v first_o to_o encourage_v the_o church_n to_o the_o do_v of_o use_n 1_o her_o duty_n in_o excecute_v god_n law_n and_o in_o advance_v his_o ordinance_n see_v she_o have_v power_n sufficient_a in_o she_o own_o hand_n to_o strengthen_v and_o countenance_v her_o preceeding_n and_o to_o make_v they_o effectual_a it_o will_v never_o grieve_v a_o man_n to_o bestow_v time_n and_o labour_n in_o good_a endeavour_n though_o with_o much_o danger_n and_o with_o many_o opdosition_n when_o he_o know_v beforehand_o that_o he_o have_v power_n and_o authority_n enough_o to_o be_v bear_v he_o out_o in_o it_o therefore_o this_o shall_v encourage_v the_o church_n in_o her_o duty_n herein_o and_o also_o this_o serve_v to_o reprove_v those_o that_o use_v 2_o light_o esteem_v of_o the_o church_n and_o of_o that_o which_o she_o do_v as_o if_o they_o be_v nothing_o worth_a but_o let_v such_o know_v that_o the_o church_n be_v a_o powerful_a worker_n and_o that_o that_o doctrine_n which_o she_o teach_v be_v a_o word_n of_o great_a power_n able_a to_o save_v or_o to_o destroy_v and_o the_o censure_n that_o she_o pass_v be_v censure_n of_o power_n able_a to_o kill_v or_o give_v life_n and_o whosoveuer_o withstand_v these_o shall_v find_v they_o matter_n of_o power_n to_o their_o destruction_n in_o hell_n if_o they_o be_v obstinate_a but_o whosoever_o obey_v they_o shall_v find_v power_n enough_o in_o they_o to_o bring_v they_o to_o god_n and_o to_o his_o kingdom_n so_o much_o for_o that_o first_o point_n assert_v the_o second_o point_n be_v what_o manner_n of_o power_n this_o be_v for_o this_o we_o must_v look_v well_o into_o lest_o mistake_v we_o go_v too_o far_o or_o come_v too_o short_a each_o be_v a_o dangerous_a error_n you_o shall_v understand_v therefore_o that_o this_o power_n be_v not_o humane_a but_o divine_a second_o not_o temporal_a but_o spiritual_a three_o that_o though_o it_o be_v spiritual_a yet_o it_o be_v bound_v and_o limit_v divine_a first_o it_o be_v not_o humane_a that_o be_v it_o be_v not_o of_o man_n though_o they_o be_v man_n that_o exercise_v it_o and_o howsoever_o where_o it_o be_v public_o practise_v it_o be_v usual_o and_o needful_o ratify_v at_o least_o permit_v by_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o temporal_a state_n yet_o it_o have_v not_o his_o power_n from_o man_n but_o it_o be_v divine_a and_o have_v his_o power_n direct_o from_o god_n himself_o the_o first_o beginning_n of_o this_o power_n be_v from_o he_o as_o we_o may_v see_v matth._n 10.1_o to_o 5._o where_o our_o saviour_n call_v his_o disciple_n and_o give_v they_o power_n to_o preach_v &_o to_o cast_v out_o devil_n and_o to_o heal_v the_o sick_a etc._n etc._n and_o the_o promise_n of_o more_o power_n be_v also_o from_o god_n as_o his_o
own_o free_a gift_n matth._n 16.19_o i_o will_v give_v unto_o thou_o the_o key_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n and_o whatsoever_o thou_o shall_v bind_v on_o earth_n shall_v be_v bind_v in_o heaven_n and_o so_o the_o performance_n of_o more_o power_n be_v from_o he_o as_o derive_v from_o his_o own_o patent_n matth._n 28.18.19_o go_v teach_v all_o nation_n etc._n etc._n teach_v they_o to_o observe_v all_o thing_n and_o lo_o i_o be_o with_o you_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n the_o church_n be_v furnish_v with_o power_n from_o christ_n even_o as_o he_o be_v from_o his_o father_n joh._n 20_o 21.22_o as_o my_o father_n send_v i_o even_o send_v i_o you_o etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o a_o more_o full_a increase_n of_o this_o power_n be_v from_o god_n too_o luke_n 24.49_o behold_v i_o send_v the_o promise_n of_o my_o father_n upon_o you_o but_o tarry_v you_o in_o the_o city_n of_o jerusalem_n until_o you_o be_v endue_v with_o power_n from_o on_o high_a and_o act_n 1.8_o you_o shall_v receive_v power_n after_o that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v come_v upon_o you_o these_o place_n prove_v that_o the_o power_n which_o the_o church_n be_v endue_v withal_o be_v not_o humane_a but_o divine_a confer_v god_n himself_o and_o the_o reason_n be_v plain_a because_o all_o power_n be_v from_o reas_n 1_o god_n rom._n 13.1_o and_o there_o be_v no_o power_n but_o from_o above_o as_o our_o saviour_n tell_v pilate_n he_o can_v have_v no_o power_n except_o it_o be_v give_v he_o from_o above_o if_o all_o power_n even_o the_o power_n which_o the_o wicked_a have_v be_v from_o god_n much_o more_o be_v the_o power_n and_o authority_n which_o the_o church_n have_v from_o god_n too_o and_o that_o after_o a_o special_a manner_n so_o much_o the_o more_o immediate_o as_o the_o church_n be_v more_o near_o join_v to_o christ_n than_o any_o other_o state_n whatsoever_o and_o to_o much_o the_o more_o right_o as_o christ_n be_v more_o right_o a_o spiritual_a king_n than_o a_o temporal_a as_o joh._n 18._o my_o kingdom_n be_v not_o of_o this_o world_n &c_n &c_n and_o so_o much_o the_o more_o proper_o as_o christ_n be_v the_o head_n and_o ruler_n of_o the_o church_n more_o proper_o then_o of_o the_o commonwealth_n and_o so_o much_o the_o more_o effectual_o as_o the_o lord_n do_v more_o magnify_v himself_o in_o church_n cause_n then_o in_o cause_n of_o the_o state_n this_o teach_v first_o that_o if_o the_o power_n and_o authority_n use_v 1_o which_o the_o church_n have_v be_v from_o god_n than_o we_o have_v the_o more_o and_o great_a assurance_n that_o it_o shall_v stand_v fast_o for_o ever_o against_o all_o opposition_n of_o man_n or_o devil_n as_o gamaliel_n say_v act_v 5.38.39_o if_o it_o be_v of_o god_n you_o can_v destroy_v it_o if_o it_o be_v of_o god_n so_o direct_o it_o must_v needs_o stand_v most_o firm_o above_o all_o other_o power_n whatsoever_o second_o it_o teach_v the_o church_n that_o they_o be_v the_o use_n 2_o more_o wary_a and_o careful_a in_o execute_v this_o power_n that_o they_o abuse_v not_o god_n own_o power_n to_o the_o satisfy_n of_o their_o own_o humour_n and_o lust_n but_o that_o they_o use_v it_o to_o that_o end_n god_n have_v appoint_v it_o that_o be_v to_o his_o glory_n and_o the_o church_n good_a three_o see_v this_o power_n be_v so_o direct_o from_o god_n than_o this_o teach_v we_o that_o it_o must_v be_v the_o more_o dutiful_o obey_v and_o submit_v to_o of_o they_o that_o live_v under_o it_o else_o if_o we_o despise_v it_o we_o despise_v not_o man_n but_o god_n as_o it_o be_v luk._n 10.16_o he_o that_o despise_v you_o despise_v i_o etc._n etc._n but_o you_o will_v say_v quest_n be_v then_o the_o church_n to_o be_v obey_v in_o all_o thing_n must_v all_o her_o say_n be_v believe_v all_o her_o law_n obey_v and_o all_o her_o proceed_n yield_v to_o as_o if_o they_o be_v god_n own_o proceed_n and_o so_o bind_v the_o conscience_n i_o answer_v answ_n no_o for_o sometime_o she_o say_v false_a thing_n and_o do_v that_o which_o be_v direct_o evil_a and_o therein_o we_o be_v altogether_o free_a from_o her_o authority_n as_o that_o be_v usurp_v and_o not_o from_o god_n and_o as_o she_o therein_o betray_v some_o frailty_n and_o infirmity_n and_o not_o exercise_v this_o divine_a power_n false_a but_o you_o will_v say_v how_o shall_v i_o know_v when_o she_o speak_v true_a or_o false_a when_o she_o do_v right_a or_o wrong_n i_o answer_v the_o lord_n have_v give_v both_o she_o and_o we_o the_o word_n to_o rule_v and_o measure_n thing_n by_o this_o be_v the_o rule_n that_o she_o must_v go_v by_o in_o her_o proceed_n and_o this_o be_v the_o rule_n that_o we_o must_v measure_v her_o proceed_n by_o but_o sometime_o the_o church_n enjoin_v thing_n in_o themselves_o indifferent_a neither_o simple_o good_a nor_o bad_a neither_o simple_o command_v nor_o forbid_v in_o the_o word_n in_o this_o the_o church_n be_v to_o be_v yield_v to_o for_o order_v sake_n as_o she_o have_v therein_o a_o general_a power_n from_o god_n but_o yet_o the_o conscience_n be_v not_o subject_a to_o they_o because_o the_o particular_a choice_n and_o determination_n of_o these_o indifferent_a thing_n be_v from_o themselves_o &_o out_o of_o their_o own_o lawful_a liberty_n i_o note_v this_o the_o rather_o because_o some_o not_o only_o in_o the_o popish_a church_n but_o among_o we_o too_o stick_v not_o to_o affirm_v that_o the_o church_n constitution_n in_o this_o latter_a kind_n be_v of_o divine_a authority_n and_o to_o be_v account_v as_o the_o constitution_n of_o god_n himself_o but_o i_o have_v show_v you_o how_o you_o be_v to_o receive_v and_o to_o submit_v to_o they_o for_o order_n sake_n &_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o general_a power_n she_o have_v from_o god_n in_o these_o thing_n spiritual_a the_o second_o branch_n of_o this_o second_o point_n be_v that_o this_o power_n be_v not_o temporal_a but_o spiritual_a and_o therefore_o it_o be_v not_o so_o often_o call_v a_o sword_n to_o smite_v or_o a_o sceptre_n to_o sway_v as_o key_n to_o open_v and_o shut_v and_o what_o do_v it_o open_a and_o shut_v even_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n matth._n 16.19_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v a_o spiritual_a power_n the_o civil_a magistrate_n have_v to_o do_v about_o our_o body_n good_n and_o outward_a state_n the_o church_n have_v to_o do_v with_o the_o soul_n and_o conscience_n and_o the_o inward_a man_n temporal_a power_n and_o authority_n serve_v to_o maintain_v a_o temporal_a life_n begin_v and_o end_v here_o spiritual_a power_n and_o authority_n maintain_v a_o spiritual_a life_n begin_v here_o but_o perfect_v and_o finish_v hereafter_o in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v temporal_a power_n rule_v by_o the_o law_n of_o man_n spiritual_a power_n rule_v only_o by_o the_o law_n of_o god_n temporal_a power_n fight_v and_o defend_v itself_o by_o the_o material_a sword_n and_o worldly_a policy_n spiritual_a power_n renounce_v these_o and_o therefore_o christ_n say_v to_o peter_n mat._n 26.52_o put_v up_o thy_o sword_n into_o his_o place_n for_o all_o that_o take_v the_o sword_n shall_v perish_v by_o the_o sword_n christ_n will_v not_o be_v defend_v by_o the_o sword_n spiritual_a power_n betake_v itself_o to_o better_a weapon_n to_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a weapon_n 2_o cor._n 10.4_o 5._o the_o weapon_n of_o our_o warfare_n say_v the_o apostle_n be_v not_o carnal_a but_o spiritual_a mighty_a through_o god_n &c_n &c_n they_o be_v not_o carnal_a but_o spiritual_a not_o weak_a but_o mighty_a and_o that_o not_o of_o themselves_o nor_o through_o the_o power_n of_o he_o that_o use_v they_o but_o through_o god_n and_o what_o be_v these_o weapon_n they_o be_v the_o word_n and_o the_o spirit_n faith_n repentance_n prayer_n etc._n etc._n it_o be_v true_a that_o sometime_o both_o these_o power_n do_v concur_v together_o in_o the_o church_n that_o be_v when_o the_o magistrate_n be_v christian_a and_o sure_o than_o god_n work_n go_v happy_o forward_a and_o then_o this_o be_v a_o bless_a thing_n both_o for_o our_o soul_n and_o body_n too_o if_o we_o have_v grace_n so_o to_o use_v it_o but_o though_o they_o do_v sometime_o concur_v yet_o they_o be_v never_o confound_v though_o they_o be_v not_o divide_v yet_o they_o be_v distinguish_v they_o must_v each_o of_o they_o keep_v in_o it_o be_v own_o rank_n and_o manage_v their_o several_a charge_n by_o several_a administration_n the_o church_n be_v not_o to_o usurp_v on_o the_o temporal_a power_n for_o that_o be_v flat_o forbid_v matth._n 20.15_o 16._o the_o gentile_n reign_v over_o they_o but_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v so_o among_o you_o say_v our_o saviour_n to_o his_o disciple_n and_o 1_o pet._n 5.3_o be_v not_o lord_n over_o god_n heritage_n nor_o be_v the_o temporal_a power_n to_o usurp_v the_o
spiritual_a for_o you_o see_v how_o vzziah_n be_v strike_v with_o leprosy_n for_o meddle_v with_o the_o priest_n office_n 2_o chron._n 26.16_o to_o the_o 19_o and_o it_o be_v well_o he_o escape_v so_o for_o by_o the_o law_n he_o deserve_a death_n numb_a 18.7_o word_n the_o three_o branch_n of_o the_o second_o point_n be_v that_o though_o it_o be_v a_o spiritual_a power_n yet_o it_o be_v not_o unbounded_a but_o it_o be_v limit_v and_o scantle_v within_o the_o bound_n of_o the_o word_n for_o the_o same_o god_n that_o have_v set_v mark_n and_o bound_n in_o the_o earth_n for_o the_o sea_n that_o it_o shall_v not_o overflow_v they_o job_n 38.11_o he_o have_v also_o prescribe_v in_o his_o word_n certain_a mark_n limit_n and_o bound_n for_o the_o power_n of_o the_o church_n and_o so_o far_o the_o church_n must_v go_v and_o no_o further_o the_o body_n and_o spouse_n have_v power_n to_o do_v many_o thing_n yet_o still_o they_o be_v to_o be_v rule_v by_o the_o direction_n of_o their_o head_n 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power_n and_o authority_n yet_o it_o be_v the_o great_a power_n on_o earth_n it_o reach_v not_o only_o to_o the_o people_n but_o king_n and_o prince_n must_v obey_v it_o i_o say_v they_o be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o the_o church_n though_o they_o be_v above_o the_o person_n that_o exercise_v this_o power_n as_o may_v appear_v in_o the_o example_n of_o david_n and_o nathan_n the_o person_n of_o nathan_n be_v subject_a to_o david_n and_o yet_o david_n subject_a to_o the_o power_n of_o his_o reproof_n second_o as_o it_o reach_v not_o only_o to_o the_o mean_a but_o to_o the_o high_a so_o it_o reach_v not_o only_o to_o the_o outward_a man_n but_o even_o to_o the_o inward_a also_o the_o very_a spirit_n and_o conscience_n though_o it_o be_v free_a from_o all_o other_o power_n yet_o it_o be_v subject_a to_o this_o i_o say_v not_o to_o the_o church_n itself_o but_o to_o that_o spiritual_a and_o divine_a power_n which_o it_o in_o christ_n name_n do_v exercise_v last_o whereas_o no_o other_o 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either_o to_o admit_v they_o as_o member_n or_o to_o repel_v and_o refuse_v they_o if_o you_o ask_v who_o be_v to_o be_v admit_v the_o answer_n be_v all_o those_o that_o be_v call_v act_v 2.39_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o you_o and_o your_o child_n and_o to_o many_o that_o be_v a_o far_o off_o even_o to_o as_o many_o as_o the_o lord_n our_o god_n shall_v call_v for_o see_v the_o promise_n belong_v to_o they_o and_o so_o they_o be_v for_o aught_o we_o know_v within_o the_o covenant_n than_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v admit_v into_o the_o bosom_n of_o the_o church_n and_o to_o be_v admit_v as_o member_n thereof_o if_o you_o ask_v how_o we_o shall_v know_v that_o they_o be_v call_v the_o answer_n be_v plain_a you_o shall_v know_v it_o by_o their_o profession_n of_o faith_n in_o the_o church_n and_o by_o their_o profession_n of_o repentance_n by_o their_o profession_n of_o faith_n as_o act_n 8.12_o 37._o as_o soon_o as_o they_o believe_v philip_n which_o preach_v the_o thing_n that_o concern_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o the_o name_n of_o jesus_n christ_n they_o be_v baptize_v both_o man_n and_o woman_n and_o verse_n 37._o philip_n say_v to_o the_o eunuch_n if_o thou_o believe_v with_o all_o thy_o heart_n thou_o may_v be_v baptize_v then_o he_o answer_v and_o say_v i_o believe_v that_o jesus_n christ_n be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n &c_n &c_n 38._o and_o he_o baptize_v he_o and_o so_o by_o the_o profession_n of_o repentance_n matth._n 3.6_o they_o be_v baptize_v of_o john_n confess_v their_o sin_n and_o both_o these_o you_o shall_v find_v together_o act_v 2.37.38_o when_o they_o be_v prick_v in_o their_o heart_n at_o peter_n sermon_n they_o say_v man_n and_o brethren_n what_o shall_v we_o do_v to_o be_v save_v peter_n say_v unto_o they_o amend_v your_o life_n and_o be_v baptize_v every_o one_o of_o you_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n for_o the_o remission_n of_o sin_n as_o if_o he_o have_v say_v repent_v and_o believe_v for_o amendment_n of_o life_n do_v necessary_o imply_v purpose_n of_o obedience_n and_o so_o the_o profession_n of_o repentance_n be_v a_o promise_n of_o obedience_n and_o this_o be_v precise_o require_v exod._n 19.5_o to_o the_o 8._o where_o the_o lord_n send_v to_o the_o people_n of_o israel_n to_o know_v whether_o they_o will_v obey_v he_o before_o he_o will_v enter_v into_o covenant_n with_o they_o to_o which_o agree_v the_o practice_n of_o josiah_n and_o the_o people_n in_o the_o case_n of_o reformation_n or_o renew_v their_o admission_n when_o they_o have_v break_v their_o covenant_n with_o god_n 2_o chron._n 34.31_o 32._o he_o renew_v the_o covenant_n betwixt_o god_n and_o his_o people_n and_o cause_v all_o that_o be_v find_v in_o jerusalem_n and_o in_o benjamin_n to_o stand_v to_o it_o if_o you_o ask_v what_o be_v the_o mean_n and_o act_n of_o admission_n the_o answer_n be_v that_o it_o be_v baptism_n admission_n mat._n 3.6_o act._n 8.37_o 38_o act_n 2.41_o they_o that_o glad_o receive_v the_o word_n be_v baptize_v and_o the_o same_o day_n there_o be_v add_v to_o the_o church_n above_o three_o thousand_o soul_n now_o this_o act_n be_v once_o receive_v be_v never_o to_o be_v recall_v though_o the_o covenant_n be_v afterward_o neglect_v and_o break_v for_o one_o entrance_n stand_v good_a for_o our_o whole_a estate_n in_o so_o much_o that_o if_o i_o fall_v after_o baptism_n and_o that_o so_o greivous_o as_o that_o i_o be_v cut_v off_o by_o the_o censure_n of_o the_o church_n yet_o if_o i_o return_v again_o away_o the_o covenant_n be_v to_o be_v renew_a but_o not_o baptism_n no_o more_o than_o circumcision_n in_o the_o former_a testament_n be_v to_o be_v renew_a
in_o the_o like_a case_n but_o if_o man_n be_v never_o before_o baptize_v then_o though_o they_o be_v of_o year_n of_o discretion_n yet_o they_o be_v to_o receive_v baptism_n but_o whether_o have_v the_o church_n power_n to_o compel_v man_n to_o be_v member_n no_o sure_o compel_v faith_n can_v be_v force_v upon_o any_o yet_o if_o the_o magistrate_n be_v christian_n he_o by_o his_o authority_n may_v and_o must_v compel_v man_n to_o come_v to_o the_o outward_a mean_n else_o we_o deny_v he_o the_o privilege_n of_o his_o authority_n and_o of_o our_o subjection_n so_o do_v josiah_n cause_v all_o that_o be_v find_v in_o jerusalem_n they_o and_o benjamin_n to_o stand_v to_o the_o covenant_n 2_o chron._n 34.32_o as_o they_o have_v power_n to_o admit_v into_o the_o church_n so_o they_o have_v power_n to_o repel_v and_o keep_v out_o and_o this_o we_o find_v to_o be_v plain_a act_v 8.36.37_o see_v here_o be_v water_n say_v the_o eunuch_n what_o do_v let_v i_o to_o be_v baptize_v philip_n say_v unto_o he_o if_o thou_o believe_v with_o all_o thy_o heart_n thou_o may_v etc._n etc._n as_o who_o shall_v say_v where_o faith_n be_v want_v it_o be_v a_o sufficient_a let_v to_o keep_v from_o baptism_n and_o so_o from_o be_v admit_v into_o the_o church_n but_o what_o shall_v child_n do_v then_o i_o answer_v they_o if_o they_o be_v the_o seed_n of_o the_o faithful_a be_v pre-supposed_n to_o be_v within_o the_o covenant_n and_o so_o they_o be_v to_o be_v repute_v as_o gen._n 17.7_o god_n say_v to_o abraham_n i_o will_v establish_v my_o covenant_n between_o i_o and_o there_o and_o thy_o seed_n after_o thou_o and_o act_n 3.29_o the_o promise_n be_v make_v to_o you_o and_o to_o your_o child_n say_v the_o apostle_n and_o so_o in_o the_o 1_o cor._n 7.14_o the_o unbelieve_a wife_n be_v sanctify_v by_o the_o believe_a husband_n etc._n etc._n else_o be_v your_o child_n unclean_a but_o now_o be_v they_o holy_a and_o therefore_o where_o child_n be_v tender_v by_o faithful_a parent_n to_o the_o church_n they_o must_v admit_v they_o so_o far_o as_o they_o have_v power_n and_o that_o be_v to_o baptism_n mark_v 10.13.14_o as_o it_o be_v with_o circumcision_n in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o law_n the_o child_n of_o the_o faithful_a all_o that_o be_v male_n be_v circumcise_v so_o it_o be_v in_o baptism_n which_o succeed_v in_o the_o room_n of_o that_o all_o the_o child_n of_o believe_a parent_n be_v to_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o it_o so_o you_o see_v the_o church_n have_v power_n over_o person_n that_o be_v not_o come_v in_o and_o that_o either_o to_o admit_v or_o repel_v they_o second_o out_o they_o have_v power_n over_o person_n as_o they_o be_v come_v in_o already_o and_o that_o either_o to_o keep_v they_o in_o or_o to_o cast_v they_o out_o to_o keep_v they_o in_o as_o in_o reu._n 3.11_o our_o saviour_n say_v to_o the_o angel_n of_o the_o church_n of_o philadelphia_n hold_v fast_o that_o thou_o have_v that_o no_o man_n take_v thy_o crown_n from_o thou_o and_o what_o be_v the_o angel_n crown_n but_o the_o faithful_a in_o that_o church_n so_o the_o apostle_n paul_n call_v the_o thesalonian_o his_v crown_n and_o how_o must_v he_o hold_v they_o fast_o and_o keep_v they_o in_o by_o confirm_v exhort_v reprove_v comfort_v and_o instruct_v they_o bear_v with_o their_o weakness_n admit_v they_o to_o the_o lord_n table_n and_o upon_o their_o repentance_n lose_v they_o from_o their_o sin_n so_o the_o church_n have_v power_n to_o cast_v out_o for_o their_o obstinacy_n in_o sin_n and_o so_o to_o bind_v they_o in_o the_o chain_n of_o everlasting_a damnation_n that_o the_o church_n have_v this_o power_n it_o be_v plain_a for_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v powerful_a each_o way_n it_o be_v the_o savour_n of_o life_n unto_o life_n unto_o some_o to_o other_o it_o be_v the_o savour_n of_o death_n unto_o death_n so_o the_o censure_n of_o the_o church_n be_v wonderful_a powerful_a john_n 20.23_o who_o sin_n you_o remit_v they_o be_v remit_v and_o who_o sin_n soever_o you_o retain_v they_o be_v retain_v say_v our_o saviour_n to_o his_o disciple_n and_o so_o we_o see_v how_o the_o church_n do_v cast_v out_o the_o incestuous_a man_n in_o 1_o cor._n 5.4_o 5._o and_o how_o they_o receive_v he_o in_o again_o in_o the_o 2_o cor._n 2.7_o 8._o displace_v the_o next_o point_n be_v the_o power_n that_o the_o church_n have_v over_o member_n as_o officer_n and_o herein_o the_o church_n have_v power_n to_o choose_v or_o refuse_v to_o place_n or_o displace_v to_o choose_v and_o place_n act_v 6.5_o and_o the_o say_v please_v the_o multitude_n and_o they_o choose_v stephen_n etc._n etc._n to_o refuse_v and_o displace_v as_o in_o act_n 8.21_o peter_n refuse_v simon_n magus_n when_o he_o will_v have_v buy_v gift_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o money_n and_o in_o the_o 1_o tim._n 5.11_o refuse_v young_a widow_n etc._n etc._n and_o in_o the_o 1_o king_n 2.27_o to_o the_o 35._o we_o may_v read_v how_o solomon_n displace_v and_o cast_v out_o abiather_n from_o the_o priest_n office_n but_o of_o this_o i_o have_v speak_v sufficient_o before_o the_o matter_n of_o church_n government_n and_o therefore_o as_o i_o promise_v i_o will_v refer_v you_o thither_o now_o in_o the_o second_o place_n scripture_n the_o church_n have_v power_n over_o thing_n and_o these_o thing_n be_v of_o diverse_a kind_n some_o be_v matter_n of_o substance_n some_o of_o circumstance_n the_o church_n power_n in_o matter_n of_o stubstance_n be_v either_o touch_v the_o scripture_n it_o sefe_n or_o in_o thing_n beside_o the_o scripture_n as_o touch_v the_o scripture_n and_o that_o be_v either_o touch_v the_o credit_n and_o authority_n of_o scripture_n or_o the_o sense_n of_o it_o first_o of_o the_o credit_n and_o authority_n of_o scripture_n which_o be_v call_v into_o question_n and_o much_o disparage_v not_o only_o by_o those_o that_o be_v without_o but_o even_o of_o those_o that_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v within_o and_o to_o be_v member_n of_o the_o church_n which_o shall_v most_o ligh_o esteem_v it_o some_o of_o of_o her_o champion_n as_o they_o pretend_v challenge_v at_o least_o a_o equal_a yea_o indeed_o a_o superior_a authority_n to_o the_o church_n above_o the_o scripture_n spripture_n and_o therefore_o the_o point_n to_o be_v discuse_v here_o be_v whether_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n be_v great_a than_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o scripture_n it_o be_v not_o deny_v but_o that_o the_o church_n have_v some_o authority_n concern_v scripture_n as_o we_o shall_v hear_v afterward_o but_o that_o it_o have_v authority_n equal_a with_o or_o above_o scripture_n be_v not_o to_o be_v grant_v i_o will_v draw_v this_o point_n into_o a_o observation_n doctr._n which_o shall_v be_v this_o that_o howsoever_o the_o church_n of_o god_n be_v endue_v with_o great_a power_n and_o authority_n from_o above_o yet_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n be_v not_o great_a than_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o scripture_n no_o it_o be_v not_o equal_a with_o it_o but_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o scripture_n be_v great_a and_o high_a than_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n here_o be_v two_o part_n of_o this_o observation_n first_o that_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n be_v not_o great_a than_o of_o the_o scripture_n second_o that_o the_o authority_n of_o scripture_n be_v great_a than_o of_o the_o church_n the_o same_o place_n that_o prove_v one_o prove_v both_o joh._n 4.39_o the_o woman_n of_o samariah_n have_v have_v conference_n with_o our_o saviour_n and_o believe_v he_o to_o be_v the_o messiah_n she_o go_v and_o tell_v it_o in_o the_o city_n and_o it_o be_v say_v in_o the_o 39_o verse_n that_o many_o of_o the_o samaritan_n believe_v in_o christ_n for_o the_o say_n of_o the_o woman_n but_o it_o be_v say_v in_o the_o 41._o verse_n that_o many_o more_o believe_v because_o of_o christ_n own_o word_n the_o voice_n of_o the_o woman_n what_o be_v it_o but_o the_o voice_n of_o the_o church_n she_o believe_v in_o christ_n herself_o propound_v he_o unto_o other_o which_o be_v the_o office_n of_o the_o church_n in_o this_o case_n well_o the_o people_n believe_v for_o her_o say_n but_o do_v they_o rest_v upon_o that_o as_o the_o chief_a authority_n of_o their_o faith_n no_o for_o verse_n 41._o many_o more_o believe_v for_o his_o own_o word_n and_o verse_n 42._o they_o that_o do_v believe_v for_o the_o say_n of_o the_o woman_n acknowledge_v a_o great_a and_o sure_a cause_n of_o their_o faith_n disclaim_v the_o former_a as_o insufficient_a now_o say_v they_o we_o believe_v not_o for_o thy_o say_n for_o we_o have_v hear_v he_o ourselves_o and_o know_v that_o this_o indeed_o be_v that_o christ_n the_o saviour_n of_o the_o world_n and_o be_v not_o christ_n voice_n to_o
we_o now_o the_o voice_n of_o the_o scripture_n therefore_o either_o they_o much_o wrong_v the_o woman_n voice_n in_o prefer_v christ_n before_n it_o or_o else_o the_o church_n be_v not_o of_o great_a authority_n than_o the_o scripture_n but_o the_o scripture_n of_o great_a authority_n than_o the_o church_n john_n 5.33_o to_o the_o 39_o john_n bare_a witness_n to_o the_o truth_n that_o christ_n be_v the_o messiah_n and_o his_o voice_n therein_o be_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o church_n but_o do_v our_o saviour_n rest_n there_o as_o if_o the_o truth_n be_v thereby_o sufficent_o confirm_v no_o he_o disclaim_v it_o in_o that_o respect_n verse_n 34._o i_o receive_v not_o the_o record_n of_o man_n and_o appeal_v to_o a_o high_a and_o great_a witness_n even_o to_o his_o father_n who_o do_v speak_v more_o sufficient_o for_o he_o and_o do_v not_o the_o father_n speak_v in_o the_o scripture_n so_o that_o as_o the_o testimony_n of_o john_n be_v not_o great_a than_o that_o of_o the_o father_n but_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o father_n great_a than_o of_o john_n so_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n be_v not_o great_a than_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o scripture_n but_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o scripture_n be_v great_a than_o that_o of_o the_o church_n and_o in_o the_o 39_o verse_n of_o that_o chapter_n he_o appeal_v from_o the_o testimony_n of_o john_n by_o name_n to_o scripture_n search_v the_o scripture_n for_o they_o testify_v of_o i_o as_o they_o be_v a_o great_a witness_n than_o the_o witness_n of_o john_n so_o in_o luke_n 16._o from_o verse_n 27._o to_o 31._o the_o rich_a man_n be_v in_o hell_n in_o torment_n entreat_v father_n abraham_n that_o lazarus_n may_v go_v and_o forewarn_v his_o brethren_n that_o they_o may_v not_o come_v into_o those_o torment_n no_o say_v abraham_n they_o have_v moses_n and_o the_o prophet_n and_o if_o they_o will_v not_o hear_v they_o they_o will_v not_o hear_v he_o the_o case_n be_v plain_a if_o lazarus_n have_v come_v to_o his_o brethren_n and_o tell_v they_o that_o they_o shall_v take_v heed_n of_o their_o brother_n course_n for_o he_o be_v now_o in_o hell_n in_o torment_n for_o their_o sin_n if_o he_o have_v do_v thus_o have_v not_o his_o voice_n be_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o church_n for_o what_o do_v the_o church_n but_o instruct_v exhort_v reprove_v and_o forewarn_v man_n from_o sin_n that_o so_o they_o may_v keep_v they_o from_o hell_n and_o yet_o abraham_n refer_v they_o to_o scripture_n as_o of_o great_a authority_n and_o if_o lazarus_n have_v come_v thus_o it_o have_v be_v by_o miracle_n too_o which_o will_v have_v add_v weight_n to_o his_o word_n and_o yet_o for_o all_o that_o he_o refer_v they_o to_o the_o scripture_n to_o moses_n and_o the_o prophet_n with_o a_o plain_a affirmation_n of_o great_a authority_n in_o they_o to_o persuade_v man_n from_o hell_n then_o if_o one_o have_v rise_v from_o the_o dead_a to_o persuade_v they_o the_o last_o place_n that_o i_o will_v add_v for_o proof_n of_o this_o point_n be_v in_o john_n 10.3.4_o the_o sheep_n of_o christ_n they_o follow_v christ_n that_o be_v the_o faithful_a they_o believe_v in_o he_o why_o because_o they_o know_v his_o voice_n as_o who_o shall_v say_v there_o be_v a_o secret_a skill_n that_o god_n have_v endue_v they_o withal_o whereby_o they_o discern_v the_o voice_n of_o christ_n from_o any_o other_o and_o that_o voice_n of_o he_o they_o hear_v and_o believe_v it_o why_o because_o the_o church_n tell_v they_o so_o no_o that_o be_v not_o it_o but_o because_o it_o be_v his_o voice_n and_o he_o have_v speak_v it_o so_o that_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n be_v not_o great_a than_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o scripture_n but_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o scripture_n be_v great_a than_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n this_o be_v a_o material_a point_n 246._o not_o only_o against_o the_o papist_n but_o even_o in_o our_o conscience_n that_o we_o may_v know_v what_o be_v the_o main_a ground_n which_o we_o be_v to_o rest_v upon_o the_o church_n or_o the_o scripture_n reas_n 1_o the_o reason_n be_v many_o first_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o foundation_n of_o the_o church_n ephes_n 2.20_o you_o be_v build_v upon_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n christ_n jesus_n himself_o be_v the_o chief_a corner_n stone_n that_o be_v you_o be_v build_v upon_o the_o scripture_n then_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o foundation_n and_o the_o church_n the_o build_n now_o we_o know_v that_o the_o foundation_n may_v and_o oft_o time_n do_v stand_v fast_o without_o the_o building_n but_o the_o building_n can_v stand_v at_o all_o without_o the_o foundation_n therefore_o the_o foundation_n be_v a_o far_o sure_a stay_n than_o the_o building_n and_o the_o scripture_n than_o the_o church_n reas_n 2_o second_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o immortal_a seed_n whereof_o the_o church_n be_v beget_v 1_o pet._n 1.23_o now_o which_o be_v great_a the_o seed_n that_o beget_v or_o the_o fruit_n that_o be_v thereof_o beget_v reas_n 3_o three_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o great_a authority_n to_o beget_v faith_n than_o christ_n own_o miracle_n and_o therefore_o of_o great_a authority_n than_o the_o church_n john_n 5.36_o to_o the_o 39_o our_o saviour_n appeal_v from_o the_o voice_n of_o john_n which_o be_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o church_n to_o his_o miracle_n as_o be_v of_o great_a authority_n and_o yet_o he_o appeal_v from_o his_o miracle_n to_o the_o scripture_n as_o be_v of_o great_a authority_n than_o they_o both_o and_o luke_n 16.31_o if_o they_o hear_v not_o moses_n and_o the_o prophet_n neither_o will_v they_o be_v persuade_v though_o one_o rise_v from_o the_o dead_a and_o 2_o pet._n 1.17_o 18_o 19_o miracle_n be_v of_o great_a authority_n than_o the_o church_n and_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o far_a greateâ—_n authority_n than_o miracle_n that_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o more_o great_a authority_n than_o the_o church_n i_o will_v make_v it_o plain_a by_o a_o simile_n in_o a_o family_n the_o wife_n be_v of_o more_o authority_n than_o the_o child_n her_o word_n shall_v stand_v when_o the_o child_n shall_v not_o stand_v yea_o but_o the_o husband_n word_n be_v of_o more_o authority_n than_o the_o wife_n for_o his_o shall_v stand_v when_o she_o shall_v not_o than_o it_o follow_v that_o the_o husband_n word_n must_v needs_o be_v of_o great_a authority_n than_o the_o child_n four_o that_o which_o speak_v true_a always_o must_v needs_o reas_n 4_o be_v of_o great_a credit_n then_o that_o which_o do_v speak_v true_a but_o sometime_o but_o the_o scripture_n speak_v always_o true_a in_o every_o tittle_n as_o the_o lord_n himself_o who_o can_v lie_v speak_v in_o every_o sentence_n of_o it_o all_o scripture_n be_v give_v by_o inspiration_n from_o god_n 2_o timoth._n 3.16_o but_o the_o church_n speak_v sometime_o false_a for_o every_o man_n be_v a_o liar_n rom._n 3.4_o therefore_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o great_a authority_n than_o the_o church_n or_o take_v it_o thus_o more_o plain_o god_n be_v to_o be_v believe_v before_o man_n but_o the_o voice_n of_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o voice_n of_o god_n himself_o and_o the_o voice_n of_o the_o church_n be_v but_o the_o voice_n of_o man_n therefore_o the_o voice_n of_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o great_a authority_n and_o be_v to_o be_v believe_v before_o the_o voice_n of_o the_o church_n five_o our_o assurance_n of_o any_o truth_n stand_v more_o on_o reas_n 5_o that_o into_o which_o it_o be_v last_o resolve_v then_o of_o that_o which_o be_v but_o a_o mean_n thereto_o be_v itself_o prove_v by_o it_o as_o for_o example_n if_o i_o be_v sure_a the_o king_n will_v give_v i_o a_o hundred_o pound_n because_o he_o have_v promise_v and_o past_o his_o word_n for_o it_o this_o promise_n be_v but_o the_o mean_a of_o this_o assurance_n that_o which_o my_o assurance_n be_v last_o resolve_v into_o be_v the_o honesty_n of_o the_o king_n for_o if_o i_o be_v not_o principal_o resolve_v on_o that_o his_o promise_n 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be_v believe_v beside_o the_o word_n gal._n 1.8_o reas_n 6_o last_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o faithful_a be_v answerable_a to_o this_o both_o of_o teacher_n and_o learner_n the_o teacher_n they_o have_v refer_v the_o people_n still_o for_o certain_a proof_n of_o the_o truth_n to_o the_o scripture_n esa_n 8.20_o to_o the_o law_n and_o to_o the_o testimony_n if_o they_o speak_v not_o according_a to_o this_o word_n it_o be_v because_o they_o have_v not_o light_a in_o they_o act_v 10.43_o to_o he_o give_v all_o the_o prophet_n witness_n say_v peter_n to_o cornelius_n refer_v the_o truth_n he_o teach_v to_o be_v try_v by_o the_o scripture_n and_o so_o this_o have_v be_v the_o practice_n of_o the_o learner_n act_n 17.11_o 12._o the_o man_n of_o berea_n seach_v the_o scripture_n to_o try_v whether_o the_o thing_n be_v so_o as_o paul_n have_v teach_v they_o and_o yet_o paul_n be_v a_o principal_a member_n of_o the_o church_n and_o in_o his_o doctrine_n he_o be_v special_o guide_v by_o the_o spirit_n more_o than_o ever_o any_o church_n be_v since_o and_o the_o berean_o be_v commend_v for_o this_o and_o not_o account_v curious_a so_o that_o the_o teacher_n and_o the_o learner_n have_v still_o refer_v themselves_o for_o the_o trial_n of_o the_o truth_n to_o the_o scripture_n and_o not_o to_o the_o church_n and_o therefore_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o scripture_n be_v great_a than_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n yea_o object_n but_o you_o will_v say_v so_o the_o scripture_n be_v usual_o refer_v to_o the_o censure_n of_o other_o scripture_n and_o yet_o that_o be_v no_o proof_n that_o therefore_o one_o scripture_n be_v of_o great_a authority_n than_o another_o how_o then_o do_v this_o prove_v that_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o great_a authority_n than_o the_o church_n i_o answer_v answ_n yes_o it_o prove_v the_o first_o ponit_fw-la of_o the_o observation_n plain_o that_o be_v that_o the_o church_n be_v not_o above_o the_o scripture_n which_o be_v the_o main_a 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themselves_o but_o god_n swear_v by_o himself_o because_o there_o be_v none_o great_a to_o swear_v by_o so_o likewise_o the_o church_n be_v refer_v to_o the_o scripture_n for_o trial_n because_o the_o scripture_n be_v high_a than_o the_o church_n but_o scripture_n be_v refer_v to_o scripture_n because_o there_o be_v none_o high_a to_o be_v refer_v to_o nor_o there_o can_v be_v two_o highest_n in_o one_o kind_n for_o that_o be_v against_o nature_n and_o reason_n too_o and_o therefore_o when_o the_o say_n of_o the_o church_n be_v refer_v to_o the_o approbation_n of_o scripture_n it_o be_v the_o refer_v of_o they_o to_o a_o high_a and_o so_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o scripture_n be_v great_a than_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n the_o use_n be_v these_o the_o first_o be_v matter_n of_o refutation_n use_v 1_o against_o the_o papist_n that_o usual_o disparage_v the_o holy_a scripture_n and_o set_v they_o down_o too_o low_a and_o dote_v on_o the_o church_n advance_v it_o too_o high_a their_o reach_n therein_o be_v not_o so_o much_o the_o love_n they_o bear_v to_o the_o church_n itself_o but_o that_o thereby_o they_o may_v exalt_v themselves_o and_o their_o own_o church_n and_o that_o their_o faith_n may_v be_v repute_v the_o only_a true_a save_a faith_n because_o their_o church_n teach_v it_o so_o that_o god_n and_o his_o word_n must_v go_v down_o that_o they_o may_v be_v lift_v up_o but_o if_o it_o be_v true_a that_o the_o church_n be_v above_o the_o scripture_n yet_o except_o they_o can_v prove_v their_o church_n to_o be_v the_o only_a true_a church_n of_o god_n which_o they_o be_v never_o able_a to_o do_v it_o help_v not_o their_o cause_n church_n it_o be_v strange_a to_o see_v and_o hear_v what_o monstrous_a and_o blasphemous_a speech_n and_o position_n many_o of_o they_o have_v deliver_v to_o this_o purpose_n as_o that_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o no_o more_o authority_n without_o the_o approbation_n of_o the_o church_n than_o esop_n fable_n oh_o horrible_a blasphemy_n there_o be_v some_o other_o of_o a_o better_a kind_n that_o be_v more_o modest_a that_o say_v that_o the_o scripture_n be_v to_o be_v fit_v to_o the_o time_n and_o the_o sense_n thereof_o be_v to_o be_v alter_v as_o the_o time_n alter_v other_o there_o be_v that_o say_v that_o the_o church_n be_v not_o bind_v to_o take_v the_o scripture_n as_o true_a without_o the_o allegation_n of_o the_o church_n and_o that_o the_o church_n have_v authority_n to_o reject_v or_o allow_v scripture_n and_o that_o you_o may_v know_v that_o by_o the_o church_n they_o mean_v their_o romish_a church_n and_o by_o that_o the_o pope_n harken_v how_o blasphemous_o they_o ascribe_v unto_o he_o all_o power_n in_o heaven_n and_o in_o earth_n that_o he_o may_v dispense_v against_o the_o apostle_n and_o their_o canon_n babylon_n and_o against_o all_o the_o commandment_n of_o god_n in_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n etc._n etc._n here_o the_o world_n may_v see_v that_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v that_o whore_n of_o babylon_n a_o impudent_a and_o shameless_a strumpet_n that_o set_v such_o a_o brazen_a face_n and_o belch_v out_o such_o whorish_a filthy_a blasphemy_n against_o god_n and_o his_o word_n the_o very_a name_n of_o these_o position_n be_v refutation_n enough_o for_o they_o in_o any_o christian_n judgement_n answer_v to_o come_v to_o their_o best_a position_n in_o this_o controversy_n position_n 1_o first_o the_o church_n say_v they_o be_v supreme_a judge_n in_o all_o controversy_n of_o religion_n but_o you_o see_v by_o this_o observation_n that_o it_o be_v not_o so_o god_n be_v high_a and_o the_o scripture_n be_v high_a the_o spirit_n indeed_o be_v the_o judge_n and_o the_o high_a judge_n speak_v open_o and_o plain_o in_o in_o the_o word_n and_o secret_o in_o the_o mind_n and_o heart_n of_o every_o believer_n 1._o joh._n 2_o 20_o 27._o you_o have_v anoyntment_n from_o that_o holy_a one_o and_o know_v all_o thing_n and_o again_o the_o same_o anoint_v teach_v you_o of_o all_o thing_n object_n yea_o but_o say_v they_o be_v not_o man_n send_v to_o the_o priest_n to_o inquire_v at_o their_o mouhe_n mal._n 2.7_o and_o be_v not_o the_o priest_n the_o high_a judge_n then_o answ_n i_o answer_v what_o be_v we_o to_o go_v to_o the_o priest_n for_o for_o the_o law_n not_o for_o their_o own_o judgement_n whereto_o if_o they_o speak_v we_o be_v to_o receive_v it_o yet_o not_o because_o it_o be_v their_o say_n but_o god_n law_n but_o haply_o they_o can_v deliver_v no_o other_o but_o god_n law_n that_o be_v flat_o contradict_v verse_n 8._o where_o the_o prophet_n say_v that_o they_o be_v go_v out_o of_o the_o way_n and_o have_v cause_v many_o to_o fall_v by_o the_o law_n yea_o but_o say_v they_o the_o high_a priest_n be_v the_o judge_n as_o we_o may_v see_v deut._n 17.8_o 12._o but_o he_o be_v to_o judge_v according_a to_o the_o law_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o verse_n 11._o so_o that_o except_o they_o will_v arrogate_v more_o to_o themselves_o than_o the_o messenger_n of_o the_o lord_n of_o host_n do_v under_o the_o law_n they_o can_v be_v judge_n nor_o judge_n of_o the_o scripture_n the_o second_o position_n of_o they_o be_v this_o position_n 2_o that_o whatsoever_o the_o church_n say_v we_o must_v take_v it_o as_o a_o law_n and_o obey_v it_o it_o be_v true_a that_o whatsoever_o the_o church_n say_v according_a the_o law_n and_o word_n of_o god_n we_o must_v obey_v it_o not_o otherwise_o obey_v the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n be_v to_o be_v obey_v as_o they_o sit_v in_o moses_n chair_n that_o be_v as_o they_o teach_v his_o doctrine_n matth._n 23_o 2_o 3._o but_o if_o they_o transgress_v and_o bring_v in_o the_o precept_n of_o man_n and_o their_o own_o tradition_n
it_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v that_o that_o faith_n which_o god_n have_v reveal_v in_o the_o body_n of_o the_o scripture_n must_v needs_o be_v the_o rule_n and_o square_v of_o all_o interpretation_n and_o so_o in_o the_o 2_o peter_n 1.20_o no_o pprophecy_n of_o scripture_n be_v of_o any_o private_a interpretation_n etc._n etc._n where_o interpretation_n of_o scripture_n be_v name_v and_o all_o private_a interpretation_n of_o scripture_n exclude_v now_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o private_a interpretation_n it_o be_v explain_v by_o the_o opposition_n vers_fw-la 21._o but_o holy_a man_n of_o god_n speak_v as_o they_o be_v move_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n so_o that_o every_o interpretation_n be_v forbid_v and_o condemn_v as_o ptivate_v that_o be_v not_o according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n that_o speak_v in_o scripture_n and_o see_v it_o fall_v in_o right_a with_o the_o observation_n as_o if_o it_o be_v the_o same_o word_n second_o the_o example_n of_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o faithful_a be_v plain_a for_o this_o nehem_n 8.7.8_o the_o text_n say_v they_o read_v in_o the_o book_n of_o the_o law_n and_o give_v the_o sense_n etc._n etc._n not_o that_o they_o do_v give_v a_o sense_n of_o their_o own_o but_o they_o give_v that_o sense_n that_o the_o lord_n himself_o therein_o intend_v and_o so_o cause_v they_o to_o understand_v it_o so_o in_o act._n 8.34_o 35._o the_o eunuch_n read_v that_o place_n esa_fw-la 53._o he_o be_v lead_v as_o a_o sheep_n to_o the_o slaughter_n etc._n etc._n he_o ask_v philip_n whether_o the_o prophet_n speak_v this_o of_o himself_o or_o of_o some_o other_o acknowledge_v thereby_o that_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o prophet_n himself_o must_v be_v the_o rule_n that_o he_o must_v go_v by_o in_o expound_v the_o prophet_n and_o act._n 17.11_o the_o berean_n take_v not_o the_o apostle_n word_n no_o far_o than_o it_o be_v consonant_a to_o the_o sense_n of_o scripture_n but_o they_o search_v the_o scripture_n daily_o whether_o those_o thing_n be_v so_o and_o our_o saviour_n himself_o submit_v himself_o to_o the_o same_o rule_n luke_n 24.27_o he_o expound_v moses_n and_o the_o prophet_n to_o they_o that_o be_v he_o do_v plain_o deliver_v their_o meaning_n for_o that_o be_v the_o right_a office_n of_o a_o interpreter_n as_o when_o two_o speak_v together_o be_v of_o a_o strange_a language_n the_o interpreter_n be_v to_o tell_v what_o each_o of_o they_o mean_v and_o this_o be_v the_o chief_a office_n that_o the_o church_n have_v concern_v scripture_n to_o interpret_v they_o she_o be_v then_o to_o give_v no_o other_o sense_n of_o they_o but_o that_o which_o be_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n and_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o scripture_n themselves_o this_o be_v true_a preach_n and_o this_o do_v our_o saviour_n luke_n 4.17.21_o he_o open_v the_o book_n and_o read_v in_o it_o and_o then_o expound_v it_o so_o much_o for_o the_o proof_n of_o the_o point_n the_o reason_n be_v these_o reas_n 1_o first_o what_o the_o church_n do_v according_a to_o her_o own_o will_n not_o follow_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o scripture_n they_o do_v it_o as_o natural_a man_n for_o so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v spiritual_a so_o far_o they_o follow_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n and_o deny_v themselves_o now_o the_o natural_a man_n perceive_v not_o the_o thing_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o flesh_n be_v enmity_n against_o god_n rom._n 8.7_o and_o when_o peter_n confess_v aright_o that_o our_o saviour_n be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n flesh_n and_o blood_n do_v not_o reveal_v this_o unto_o he_o matth._n 16.17_o and_o therefore_o if_o so_o be_v they_o will_v find_v out_o the_o truth_n in_o the_o scripture_n they_o must_v not_o consult_v with_o themselves_o but_o with_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n reas_n 2_o second_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n afford_v every_o man_n to_o interpret_v his_o own_o word_n accord_v to_o his_o own_o meaning_n special_o he_o that_o make_v law_n be_v to_o expound_v they_o and_o be_v not_o the_o scripture_n god_n own_o word_n and_o be_v not_o he_o the_o author_n of_o all_o the_o law_n and_o statute_n therein_o contain_v and_o shall_v we_o scantle_v god_n of_o that_o in_o this_o kind_n which_o be_v due_a to_o every_o man_n in_o the_o like_a kind_n shall_v every_o man_n expound_v his_o own_o word_n and_o interpret_v the_o law_n he_o make_v according_a to_o his_o own_o meaning_n and_o shall_v not_o god_n do_v so_o much_o more_o it_o be_v the_o apostle_n reason_n for_o the_o word_n of_o the_o prophet_n 2_o pet._n 1.20_o 21._o where_o he_o say_v that_o no_o pprophecy_n of_o scripture_n be_v of_o any_o private_a interpretation_n but_o holy_a man_n of_o god_n speak_v as_o they_o be_v move_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v it_o be_v god_n word_n and_o therefore_o not_o to_o be_v interpret_v after_o the_o will_n of_o man_n and_o it_o may_v as_o just_o be_v apply_v to_o all_o the_o scripture_n as_o to_o the_o prophet_n because_o they_o be_v all_o of_o god_n 2_o tim._n 3.16_o all_o give_v by_o inspiration_n from_o god_n therefore_o god_n be_v to_o expound_v they_o reas_n 3_o three_o it_o be_v so_o in_o the_o judgement_n of_o outward_a and_o carnal_a thing_n because_o they_o be_v of_o god_n therefore_o they_o be_v to_o be_v proceed_v and_o deal_v in_o after_o his_o will_n and_o not_o our_o own_o the_o judgement_n that_o man_n give_v be_v not_o his_o own_o but_o it_o be_v god_n judgement_n as_o jehosaphat_n say_v to_o the_o judge_n in_o the_o 2_o chron._n 19.6_o 7._o if_o it_o be_v so_o in_o civil_a thing_n that_o the_o judge_n must_v do_v nothing_o but_o that_o which_o god_n will_v have_v he_o to_o do_v because_o it_o be_v god_n judgement_n much_o more_o in_o religious_a judgement_n as_o about_o the_o sense_n of_o scripture_n it_o must_v needs_o be_v so_o for_o the_o life_n of_o natural_a reason_n be_v far_o more_o clear_a in_o the_o other_o than_o these_o yea_o the_o lord_n himself_o quote_v they_o both_o together_o in_o this_o case_n limit_v both_o alike_o deut._n 17.8_o to_o the_o 11._o if_o a_o controversy_n arise_v they_o must_v go_v unto_o the_o priest_n and_o unto_o the_o judge_n and_o what_o they_o inform_v according_a to_o the_o law_n that_o they_o must_v do_v reas_n 4_o four_o the_o church_n be_v the_o spouse_n of_o christ_n now_o the_o wife_n must_v be_v advise_v by_o her_o husband_n and_o not_o run_v on_o she_o own_o head_n so_o they_o be_v the_o sheep_n of_o christ_n and_o therefore_o to_o follow_v the_o shepherd_n voice_n and_o not_o to_o go_v before_o it_o frame_v it_o to_o their_o own_o fancy_n and_o the_o church_n have_v the_o promise_n of_o the_o spirit_n no_o further_o but_o as_o follow_v god_n word_n john_n 14.26_o reas_n 5_o five_o the_o church_n have_v err_v and_o that_o most_o dangerous_o in_o interpret_n of_o scripture_n and_o that_o be_v when_o they_o neglect_v to_o observe_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n and_o follow_v their_o own_o mind_n and_o therefore_o her_o own_o woeful_a experience_n may_v teach_v she_o this_o wisdom_n reas_n 6_o sixthly_a by_o this_o mean_v the_o scripture_n shall_v be_v and_o be_v occasional_o the_o author_n of_o all_o heresy_n for_o whence_o have_v they_o spring_v but_o from_o hence_o that_o man_n have_v take_v the_o scripture_n and_o misinterpret_v they_o in_o favour_n of_o their_o own_o opinion_n yea_o but_o what_o be_v this_o to_o the_o church_n that_o particular_a man_n have_v do_v this_o yes_o for_o if_o they_o may_v do_v it_o why_o not_o the_o other_o and_o these_o very_a heretic_n be_v of_o the_o church_n when_o they_o do_v thus_o misinterpret_v the_o scripture_n reas_n 7_o seventhly_a by_o this_o mean_n the_o church_n shall_v be_v find_v contrary_a or_o at_o least_o diverse_a from_o herself_o two_o several_a church_n expound_v the_o same_o scripture_n two_o contrary_a way_n yea_o one_o and_o the_o same_o church_n expound_v the_o same_o scripture_n now_o one_o way_n and_o now_o another_o way_n reas_n 8_o eight_o it_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o his_o instrument_n to_o handle_v the_o word_n deceitful_o make_v merchandise_n of_o it_o turn_v it_o to_o their_o own_o and_o other_o man_n affection_n as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v in_o the_o 2_o cor._n 2.17_o and_o 4.2_o whereas_o the_o apostle_n and_o god_n minister_n do_v otherwise_o they_o make_v god_n meaning_n plain_a in_o every_o man_n conscience_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n so_o it_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o his_o instrument_n to_o misapply_v scripture_n wrest_v it_o to_o error_n to_o their_o own_o destruction_n 2_o pet._n 3.16_o so_o they_o allege_v it_o quite_o against_o the_o meaning_n of_o god_n as_o satan_n do_v math._n 4_o 6._o last_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o
follow_v they_o not_o they_o break_v their_o oath_n what_o a_o snare_n do_v these_o man_n entangle_v themselves_o in_o last_o if_o they_o shall_v never_o err_v yet_o to_o swear_v to_o the_o word_n of_o man_n be_v to_o enthral_v our_o conscience_n to_o man_n which_o the_o lord_n alone_o be_v to_o have_v the_o command_n thereof_o dissent_n the_o last_o practice_n of_o they_o here_o reprove_v be_v that_o when_o the_o church_n dissent_v they_o rely_v final_o on_o the_o judgement_n of_o counsel_n and_o pope_n for_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o scripture_n whereas_o they_o be_v all_o but_o man_n and_o may_v err_v yea_o and_o have_v err_v one_o of_o they_o cross_v that_o which_o another_o have_v hold_v and_o therefore_o we_o must_v not_o tie_v the_o scripture_n to_o man_n humour_n no_o let_v god_n be_v true_a and_o every_o man_n a_o liar_n let_v god_n word_n expound_v itself_o and_o let_v not_o we_o tie_v it_o to_o the_o interpretation_n of_o man_n though_o they_o be_v never_o so_o many_o never_o so_o holy_a so_o learned_a so_o painful_a or_o so_o great_a in_o the_o church_n for_o that_o may_v be_v true_o say_v of_o counsel_n and_o father_n and_o without_o disgrace_n to_o the_o best_a of_o they_o that_o be_v speak_v of_o john_n baptist_n john_n 1.9_o that_o they_o be_v not_o the_o light_n but_o man_n that_o bear_v witness_n of_o the_o light_n use_v 2_o the_o second_o use_n be_v for_o instruction_n to_o teach_v we_o what_o we_o be_v to_o do_v in_o this_o case_n for_o now_o that_o we_o have_v overthrow_v the_o error_n of_o the_o adversary_n we_o must_v set_v up_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o this_o teach_v we_o wariness_n and_o care_n and_o conscience_n in_o meddle_v with_o the_o scripture_n and_o the_o sense_n thereof_o for_o we_o must_v know_v that_o god_n be_v dishonour_v when_o his_o word_n be_v mistake_v and_o belie_v when_o it_o be_v false_o interpret_v and_o we_o must_v know_v that_o god_n be_v make_v the_o author_n of_o sin_n and_o heresy_n when_o his_o word_n be_v pervert_v to_o the_o maintenance_n thereof_o and_o god_n himself_o be_v subject_v to_o man_n when_o man_n presume_v of_o himself_o to_o expound_v or_o to_o tie_v his_o meaning_n to_o other_o man_n interpretation_n brief_o it_o be_v light_n life_n and_o salvation_n if_o it_o be_v understand_v and_o believe_v aright_o else_o it_o be_v death_n and_o destruction_n and_o therefore_o we_o have_v need_n look_v well_o about_o we_o in_o meddle_v with_o the_o scripture_n and_o the_o sense_n thereof_o and_o carry_v ourselves_o wary_o careful_o and_o conscionable_o therein_o and_o that_o first_o in_o admit_v the_o exposition_n of_o other_o second_o in_o make_v exposition_n of_o our_o own_o first_o in_o admit_v the_o exposition_n of_o other_o we_o must_v not_o altogether_o look_v into_o they_o with_o other_o man_n eye_n but_o with_o our_o own_o 1._o we_o be_v not_o to_o take_v any_o exposition_n upon_o any_o man_n or_o any_o church_n bare_a word_n but_o we_o be_v to_o examine_v their_o ground_n and_o their_o reason_n whereby_o they_o be_v maintain_v but_o some_o may_v say_v if_o i_o examine_v their_o ground_n i_o make_v myself_o the_o judge_n of_o the_o sense_n of_o scripture_n and_o be_v i_o not_o as_o good_a rest_n on_o the_o church_n judgement_n as_o my_o own_o i_o answer_v first_o that_o if_o i_o do_v thus_o yet_o i_o do_v not_o proper_o censure_v the_o scripture_n but_o their_o ground_n second_o i_o answer_v that_o any_o church_n or_o any_o of_o the_o faithful_a may_v judge_v of_o the_o sense_n of_o scripture_n that_o be_v as_o be_v lead_v by_o it_o and_o follow_v it_o three_o i_o say_v we_o rest_v neither_o on_o our_o own_o judgement_n nor_o on_o the_o church_n but_o on_o the_o scripture_n and_o when_o the_o church_n judge_v according_a to_o they_o we_o must_v willing_o embrace_v it_o if_o she_o dissent_v from_o they_o we_o may_v and_o must_v make_v bold_a to_o dissent_v from_o she_o we_o have_v a_o excellent_a example_n in_o this_o case_n for_o the_o receive_n of_o exposition_n 18._o in_o that_o holy_a father_n austin_n who_o find_v a_o interpetation_n of_o cyprian_n a_o holy_a man_n too_o not_o so_o well_o agreeable_a to_o scripture_n and_o another_o of_o liconius_n a_o heretic_n on_o the_o same_o text_n more_o agreeable_a thereto_o refuse_v cyprian_n exposition_n though_o otherwise_o he_o great_o reverence_v he_o and_o receive_v that_o of_o liconius_n though_o otherwise_o he_o know_v he_o to_o be_v out_o of_o the_o right_a way_n and_o say_v pardon_v i_o cyprian_a i_o must_v leave_v thou_o here_o and_o take_v liconius_n exposition_n not_o because_o it_o be_v he_o but_o because_o it_o be_v god_n this_o be_v a_o ingenuous_a practice_n and_o this_o we_o must_v follow_v we_o must_v look_v into_o other_o man_n exposition_n with_o our_o own_o eye_n and_o examine_v their_o ground_n and_o that_o without_o respect_n of_o person_n second_o scripture_n in_o frame_v exposition_n of_o our_o own_o when_o we_o come_v to_o the_o scripture_n to_o seek_v the_o sense_n hereof_o we_o must_v not_o come_v as_o lord_n to_o command_v but_o as_o servant_n to_o obey_v not_o as_o master_n to_o teach_v what_o we_o will_v have_v it_o say_v but_o as_o scholar_n to_o learn_v what_o itself_o do_v say_v not_o as_o the_o speaker_n but_o as_o the_o interpreter_n to_o take_v that_o which_o be_v speak_v to_o our_o hand_n and_o that_o we_o may_v walk_v upright_o herein_o and_o take_v such_o a_o course_n as_o be_v please_v to_o god_n and_o worthy_a of_o the_o scripture_n and_o beneficial_a and_o comfortable_a to_o ourselves_o let_v we_o be_v rule_v by_o these_o direction_n they_o be_v very_o pithy_a &_o he_o that_o be_v rule_v by_o they_o god_n will_v reveal_v his_o meaning_n to_o they_o so_o far_o as_o shall_v be_v for_o their_o salvation_n 7._o there_o be_v some_o thing_n that_o we_o be_v to_o be_v rule_v by_o before_o we_o come_v to_o expound_v the_o scripture_n and_o some_o thing_n in_o the_o exposition_n of_o it_o and_o some_o rule_v we_o be_v to_o observe_v after_o it_o i_o labour_v to_o make_v this_o point_n plain_a because_o it_o be_v a_o main_a difference_n betwixt_o we_o and_o the_o papist_n and_o also_o because_o that_o without_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o sense_n of_o scripture_n we_o can_v be_v save_v first_o than_o we_o be_v to_o observe_v these_o direction_n before_o we_o take_v the_o scripture_n in_o hand_n and_o that_o be_v first_o we_o must_v go_v to_o god_n by_o prayer_n we_o must_v begin_v with_o god_n that_o he_o may_v begin_v with_o we_o and_o go_v on_o with_o we_o and_o lead_v we_o safe_a through_o to_o the_o end_n of_o our_o business_n pray_v with_o david_n psal_n 119.18_o lord_n open_a my_o eye_n that_o i_o may_v see_v the_o wonder_n of_o thy_o law_n pray_v for_o light_n and_o for_o the_o grace_n of_o illumination_n of_o he_o that_o be_v the_o father_n of_o light_n james_n 1.17_o for_o thyself_o be_v darkness_n and_o pray_v to_o he_o for_o wisdom_n james_n 1.5_o for_o all_o thy_o own_o wit_n in_o this_o case_n be_v foolishness_n and_o pray_v for_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n that_o he_o may_v be_v present_a with_o we_o and_o effectual_a unto_o we_o to_o instruct_v direct_v quicken_v and_o teach_v we_o for_o that_o which_o be_v in_o we_o be_v but_o flesh_n and_o nature_n and_o the_o natural_a man_n perceive_v not_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n 1_o cor._n 2.14_o and_o doubt_v not_o but_o that_o thou_o shall_v be_v hear_v and_o find_v good_a success_n for_o thou_o have_v god_n promise_n for_o it_o james_n 1.5_o if_o any_o man_n lack_v wisdom_n let_v he_o ask_v of_o god_n and_o it_o shall_v be_v give_v he_o luke_n 11.13_o the_o second_o rule_n we_o must_v be_v direct_v by_o herein_o be_v this_o we_o must_v have_v a_o reverend_a affection_n and_o conscionable_a respect_n to_o the_o word_n we_o must_v consider_v that_o it_o be_v god_n own_o voice_n one_o of_o the_o holy_a thing_n of_o god_n a_o most_o precious_a jewel_n bestow_v on_o the_o church_n touch_v it_o not_o with_o unwashen_n hand_n with_o unprepared_a heart_n handle_v it_o reverent_o religious_o and_o chary_o if_o we_o do_v thus_o nothing_o shall_v be_v more_o profitable_a unto_o we_o it_o shall_v be_v life_n and_o salvation_n if_o not_o nothing_o shall_v be_v more_o dangerous_a to_o we_o it_o shall_v be_v death_n and_o destruction_n 2_o cor._n 2.16_o three_o be_v not_o forestalled_n by_o prejudice_n that_o be_v dote_v not_o upon_o some_o conceit_n and_o be_v not_o wed_v to_o thy_o own_o opinion_n for_o this_o will_v prevent_v we_o of_o all_o the_o good_a that_o otherwise_o we_o may_v receive_v by_o the_o scripture_n we_o have_v a_o example_n of_o this_o in_o the_o jew_n who_o will_v not_o believe_v jesus_n christ_n to_o be_v the_o
shepherd_n and_o of_o christ_n luke_n 2.19_o 51._o she_o do_v ponder_v and_o keep_v these_o say_n in_o her_o heart_n and_o this_o will_v ripen_v our_o thought_n &_o digest_v our_o reading_n and_o conceit_n as_o chew_v the_o cud_n separate_v the_o refuse_n and_o turn_v the_o best_a into_o good_a nourishment_n the_o three_o duty_n be_v conference_n we_o must_v confer_v of_o the_o thing_n we_o read_v and_o hear_v as_o the_o two_o disciple_n do_v luke_n 24.4_o 32._o for_o this_o will_v revive_v our_o understanding_n and_o quicken_v our_o wit_n and_o wheâ—_n our_o reason_n and_o help_v our_o memory_n and_o establish_v our_o judgement_n and_o throw_v out_o the_o hide_a substance_n as_o it_o be_v from_o the_o husk_n and_o winnow_v away_o the_o chaff_n from_o the_o wheat_n and_o four_a to_o these_o we_o must_v add_v patience_n wait_v the_o lord_n leisure_n and_o tarry_v till_o he_o give_v the_o succsse_n and_o till_o he_o reveal_v his_o will_n to_o thou_o and_o thus_o do_v god_n will_v reveal_v it_o phil._n 3.15_o all_o this_o while_n that_o thou_o have_v be_v toil_a and_o strive_v expect_v and_o wait_v upon_o god_n and_o thou_o shall_v find_v the_o success_n in_o god_n good_a time_n thou_o have_v use_v the_o mean_n &_o daily_o labour_v and_o pray_v for_o the_o effect_n be_v sure_a it_o shall_v be_v reveal_v unto_o thou_o when_o it_o be_v best_o for_o thou_o and_o thou_o fit_a for_o it_o and_o if_o it_o shall_v never_o be_v reveal_v to_o thou_o yet_o thy_o former_a pain_n second_v with_o patience_n shall_v make_v thy_o state_n as_o good_a in_o god_n acceptance_n through_o christ_n as_o if_o thou_o have_v know_v it_o five_o that_o which_o strike_v the_o nail_n to_o the_o head_n be_v practice_v and_o experience_n a_o most_o certain_a guide_n in_o all_o point_v fundamental_a after_o we_o have_v do_v all_o the_o former_a rule_n we_o must_v add_v practice_n therefore_o practise_v religion_n in_o the_o observation_n of_o god_n way_n in_o affliction_n in_o temptation_n in_o the_o court_n of_o thy_o own_o conscience_n in_o thy_o daily_a watch_n in_o the_o continual_a course_n and_o term_v of_o thy_o life_n john_n 7_o 17._o if_o any_o man_n do_v his_o will_n he_o shall_v know_v of_o the_o doctrine_n whether_o it_o be_v of_o god_n or_o no_o act._n 5.32_o the_o holy_a ghost_n who_o god_n have_v give_v to_o they_o that_o obey_v he_o psal_n 119.100_o i_o understand_v more_o than_o the_o ancient_n because_o i_o have_v keep_v thy_o precept_n god_n will_v not_o see_v we_o err_v in_o judgement_n and_o practice_n too_o in_o such_o necessary_a point_n as_o he_o see_v we_o desire_v as_o well_o to_o obey_v as_o to_o learn_v and_o so_o much_o for_o the_o second_o use_n which_o teach_v we_o wariness_n and_o care_n and_o conscience_n in_o meddle_v with_o scripture_n use_v 3_o the_o three_o use_n teach_v we_o thankfulness_n to_o god_n that_o we_o live_v in_o those_o time_n of_o light_n wherein_o we_o have_v so_o many_o good_a help_n for_o the_o knowledge_n of_o scripture_n learning_n tongue_n science_n history_n wit_n all_o of_o they_o be_v at_o the_o high_a and_o ripe_a now_o and_o many_o godly_a man_n both_o at_o home_n and_o abroad_o yea_o many_o church_n have_v publish_v their_o judgement_n touch_v the_o sense_n of_o most_o place_n of_o scripture_n and_o therefore_o if_o man_n will_v be_v blind_a now_o let_v they_o be_v blind_a for_o ever_o let_v we_o take_v the_o benefit_n of_o these_o help_v thankful_o and_o sober_o and_o let_v we_o add_v to_o these_o the_o use_n of_o those_o seciall_a help_n before_o mention_v &_o then_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a that_o we_o shall_v err_v fundamental_o and_o final_o in_o any_o truth_n doctrine_n but_o there_o be_v diverse_a exception_n make_v against_o this_o doctrine_n object_n 1_o first_o say_v some_o all_o this_o while_n this_o be_v but_o private_a interpretation_n flat_o forbid_v 2_o peter_n 1.20_o answ_n i_o answer_v that_o be_v private_a which_o be_v of_o man_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o 21_o verse_n of_o that_o chapter_n so_o that_o our_o interpretation_n according_a to_o the_o former_a rule_n be_v frame_v out_o by_o the_o spirit_n be_v false_o call_v private_a that_o same_o spirit_n teach_v we_o which_o teach_v all_o the_o faithful_a second_o it_o be_v except_v 2._o that_o this_o be_v a_o detraction_n from_o the_o church_n i_o answer_v no_o for_o any_o private_a man_n that_o believe_v be_v of_o the_o church_n and_o as_o the_o church_n must_v try_v the_o spirit_n so_o must_v every_o believer_n 1_o cor._n 12.10_o and_o 1_o john_n 4.1_o and_o as_o the_o church_n have_v the_o promise_n of_o the_o spirit_n so_o have_v every_o believer_n and_o this_o be_v a_o sure_a rule_n the_o spirit_n do_v infallible_o teach_v every_o one_o of_o god_n choose_v first_o or_o last_v every_o thing_n needful_a for_o his_o salvation_n he_o use_v such_o mean_n as_o the_o lord_n have_v appoint_v philip_n 3.15_o it_o be_v so_o in_o manner_n therefore_o it_o be_v so_o in_o doctrine_n each_o be_v a_o part_n of_o the_o truth_n which_o god_n require_v and_o which_o the_o spirit_n lead_v we_o into_o psal_n 25.5_o lead_v i_o in_o thy_o truth_n and_o teach_v i_o for_o thou_o be_v the_o god_n of_o my_o salvation_n and_o psal_n 143.10_o teach_v i_o to_o do_v thy_o will_n for_o thou_o be_v my_o god_n every_o one_o of_o the_o faithful_a have_v the_o spirit_n to_o comfort_v they_o in_o their_o distress_n to_o help_v they_o in_o their_o temptation_n to_o persuade_v they_o to_o holiness_n and_o why_o not_o therefore_o to_o enlighten_v and_o teach_v they_o the_o truth_n ob._n 3_o three_o it_o be_v except_v how_o do_v you_o know_v whether_o such_o a_o interpretation_n be_v from_o god_n spirit_n or_o from_o your_o own_o fancy_n for_o any_o heretic_n can_v and_o will_v say_v as_o much_o as_o you_o answ_n 1_o i_o answer_v if_o the_o matter_n be_v necessary_a to_o salvation_n the_o promise_n of_o god_n put_v we_o out_o of_o all_o doubt_n john_n 16.13_o when_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n be_v come_v he_o will_v guide_v you_o into_o all_o truth_n second_o have_v thou_o seek_v and_o attain_v that_o interpretation_n by_o prayer_n then_o out_o of_o question_n the_o lord_n will_v not_o give_v thou_o scorpion_n and_o poison_n when_o thou_o ask_v fish_n error_n when_o thou_o ask_v the_o truth_n three_o do_v it_o concur_v with_o the_o article_n of_o faith_n not_o doubt_v of_o than_o it_o be_v the_o truth_n object_n 4_o four_o be_v it_o not_o more_o likely_a that_o a_o whole_a church_n special_o the_o doctor_n and_o pastor_n of_o it_o be_v so_o guide_v than_o a_o particular_a man_n and_o so_o be_v to_o be_v believe_v before_o he_o answ_n answer_v yes_o if_o they_o follow_v the_o former_a rule_n and_o yet_o then_o they_o be_v to_o be_v believe_v not_o so_o much_o because_o they_o be_v the_o church_n but_o because_o they_o be_v direct_v by_o those_o rule_n sometime_o one_o particular_a man_n or_o two_o follow_v these_o rule_n but_o the_o present_a church_n do_v not_o in_o this_o case_n the_o one_o or_o two_o be_v to_o be_v believe_v before_o the_o present_a church_n as_o in_o the_o time_n of_o wicklife_n husse_o and_o luther_n one_o or_o few_o then_o deliver_v the_o truth_n ought_v to_o be_v believe_v before_o the_o present_a church_n because_o they_o observe_v these_o rule_n sometime_o the_o church_n do_v observe_v these_o rule_n and_o particular_a man_n do_v so_o too_o &_o then_o either_o they_o concur_v and_o so_o the_o truth_n be_v direct_o deliver_v &_o receive_v or_o else_o they_o dissente_n and_o then_o rather_o follow_v the_o stream_n than_o one_o or_o two_o if_o there_o be_v no_o other_o reason_n to_o the_o contrary_a for_o sometime_o even_o in_o this_o case_n too_o one_o man_n may_v see_v more_o than_o many_o as_o paphnutius_fw-la in_o the_o council_n of_o nice_a again_o sometime_o the_o church_n observe_v these_o rule_n and_o some_o particular_a man_n do_v not_o so_o in_o this_o case_n particular_a man_n be_v right_a heretic_n and_o the_o other_o the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n 5._o five_o it_o be_v object_v that_o by_o this_o mean_v we_o all_o rest_n on_o our_o own_o judgement_n and_o so_o have_v no_o faith_n in_o god_n answ_n i_o answer_v our_o judgement_n in_o matter_n necessary_a to_o salvation_n be_v wrought_v in_o we_o by_o the_o letter_n &_o sense_n of_o scripture_n reveal_v by_o the_o spirit_n be_v not_o our_o own_o judgement_n indeed_o but_o god_n our_o frailty_n wherewith_o we_o be_v accompany_v be_v we_o only_a but_o we_o be_v endue_v with_o our_o judgement_n from_o god_n so_o that_o we_o rest_v on_o god_n judgement_n now_o and_o not_o our_o own_o every_o man_n must_v have_v faith_n of_o his_o own_o that_o be_v though_o not_o of_o his_o own_o by_o work_v
great_a say_v none_o other_o thing_n then_o that_o which_o the_o prophet_n and_o moses_n do_v say_v shall_v come_v that_o christ_n shall_v suffer_v &c_n &c_n and_o act_n 28.23_o he_o expound_v and_o testify_v the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n persuade_v they_o concern_v jesus_n both_o out_o of_o the_o law_n of_o moses_n and_o out_o of_o the_o prophet_n and_o 1_o cor._n 15.3.4_o i_o deliver_v unto_o you_o first_o of_o all_o that_o which_o i_o receive_v that_o be_v how_o that_o christ_n die_v for_o our_o sin_n according_a to_o the_o scripture_n &c_n &c_n and_o so_o apollo_n act_n 18.28_o mighty_o convince_v the_o jew_n and_o that_o public_o show_v by_o scripture_n that_o jesus_n be_v christ_n still_o the_o builder_n make_v the_o scripture_n their_o rule_n and_o line_n whereby_o they_o teach_v and_o this_o foundation_n in_o scripture_n be_v sometime_o set_v down_o in_o few_o word_n as_o in_o the_o 1_o cor._n 2.2_o jesus_n christ_n and_o he_o crucify_a sometime_o in_o more_o word_n as_o in_o the_o 1_o tim._n 3.16_o great_a be_v the_o mystery_n of_o godliness_n god_n be_v manifest_v in_o the_o flesh_n justify_v in_o the_o spirit_n see_v of_o angel_n preach_v unto_o the_o gentile_n believe_v on_o in_o the_o world_n and_o receive_v up_o into_o glory_n but_o this_o be_v the_o substance_n of_o all_o jesus_n christ_n god_n and_o man_n the_o only_a saviour_n of_o the_o world_n as_o he_o be_v reveal_v in_o the_o scripture_n the_o short_a be_v intend_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o so_o it_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v of_o we_o in_o this_o largeness_n and_o the_o large_a be_v sufficient_o comprise_v in_o this_o shortness_n and_o that_o this_o be_v the_o right_a foundation_n of_o the_o church_n first_o appear_v plain_o by_o the_o difference_n between_o christian_n and_o professor_n of_o other_o religion_n if_o a_o gentile_a or_o pagan_a dispute_n with_o a_o christian_a how_o happiness_n be_v to_o be_v attain_a we_o say_v by_o jesus_n christ_n they_o will_v reject_v he_o and_o say_v there_o be_v no_o christ_n and_o the_o ride_v we_o to_o think_v that_o he_o can_v make_v we_o happy_a so_o let_v a_o jew_n and_o a_o christian_a dispute_n about_o happiness_n we_o say_v by_o the_o true_a messiah_n jesus_n christ_n as_o he_o be_v thus_o reveal_v they_o say_v by_o the_o messiah_n but_o this_o jesus_n thus_o reveal_v say_v they_o be_v not_o he_o look_v into_o act_n 25_o 13._o to_o 19_o the_o matter_n there_o in_o question_n be_v this_o very_a foundation_n jesus_n and_o there_o be_v a_o gentile_a festus_n speak_v scornful_o of_o he_o &_o there_o be_v the_o jew_n deny_v he_o and_o oppose_v against_o he_o and_o there_o be_v paul_n a_o christian_n profess_v and_o avouch_v he_o and_o that_o no_o doubt_n as_o he_o be_v reveal_v in_o the_o scripture_n for_o that_o be_v always_o his_o manner_n before_o the_o like_a in_o effect_n we_o have_v in_o the_o 1_o cor._n 1.23.24_o there_o the_o jew_n and_o the_o gentile_a and_o the_o christian_a they_o all_o fight_n about_o the_o foundation_n christ_n to_o the_o jew_n he_o be_v a_o stumble_a block_n to_o the_o grecian_n foolishness_n but_o to_o they_o that_o be_v call_v the_o power_n of_o god_n to_o salvation_n say_v the_o apostle_n so_o we_o see_v plain_o this_o be_v the_o foundation_n jesus_n christ_n god_n and_o man_n the_o only_a saviour_n of_o the_o world_n as_o he_o be_v reveal_v in_o the_o scripture_n the_o resolution_n than_o be_v this_o resol_n those_o heretical_a assembly_n churcher_n that_o direct_o deny_v this_o foundation_n or_o any_o part_n thereof_o cease_v to_o be_v christian_n &_o be_v no_o more_o visible_a church_n but_o those_o that_o direct_o affirm_v the_o whole_a foundation_n and_o every_o part_n thereof_o though_o they_o do_v hold_v some_o erroneous_a position_n whereby_o they_o overthrow_v some_o part_n of_o the_o foundation_n by_o necessary_a consequence_n be_v yet_o to_o be_v hold_v true_a visible_a church_n mark_v the_o term_n of_o the_o resolution_n there_o be_v many_o byway_n there_o be_v but_o one_o right_a way_n it_o be_v easy_a to_o miss_v of_o the_o right_a way_n hard_o to_o hit_v it_o to_o deny_v direct_o any_o part_n of_o this_o foundation_n be_v enough_o to_o make_v such_o person_n no_o true_a visible_a church_n but_o to_o affirm_v one_o part_n world_n be_v not_o enough_o to_o make_v they_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n but_o they_o must_v affirm_v the_o whole_a and_o every_o part_n of_o the_o foundation_n now_o than_o we_o be_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o church_n according_a to_o their_o division_n and_o first_o of_o the_o greek_a church_n they_o be_v general_o disperse_v in_o most_o of_o the_o eastern_a part_n of_o the_o world_n and_o to_o speak_v plain_o god_n have_v in_o some_o sort_n even_o a_o visible_a church_n disperse_v in_o every_o part_n of_o the_o world_n at_o this_o day_n those_o that_o be_v most_o remote_a from_o we_o in_o the_o easterne_o part_n of_o the_o world_n be_v comprehend_v under_o the_o name_n of_o greek_a or_o eastern_a church_n because_o though_o neither_o their_o language_n be_v greek_a nor_o their_o situation_n altogether_o eastern_o yet_o they_o have_v receive_v their_o faith_n for_o the_o most_o part_n from_o the_o greek_a church_n there_o be_v christian_n among_o the_o east_n indian_n there_o be_v some_o there_o make_v public_a profession_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o christ_n as_o other_o do_v of_o judaism_n and_o mahometisme_n etc._n etc._n whether_o they_o be_v the_o beginning_n of_o faith_n as_o be_v but_o late_o plant_v among_o they_o or_o the_o remainder_n of_o faith_n as_o be_v plant_v of_o old_a i_o be_o not_o very_o certain_a 108._o nor_o be_v it_o much_o material_a so_o long_o as_o they_o believe_v in_o christ_n crucify_v and_o profess_v it_o so_o far_o as_o the_o lord_n have_v reveal_v unto_o they_o why_o may_v they_o not_o be_v acknowledge_v for_o true_a visible_a church_n in_o russia_n there_o be_v many_o profess_a christian_n that_o be_v after_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o greek_a church_n they_o be_v full_a of_o ignorance_n and_o superstition_n the_o lord_n enlighten_v they_o and_o purge_v they_o yet_o profess_v christ_n crucify_v their_o only_a saviour_n though_o by_o some_o consequence_n as_o mediation_n of_o saint_n they_o deny_v it_o they_o be_v not_o to_o be_v deny_v to_o be_v true_a visible_a church_n and_o so_o in_o ethiopia_n there_o be_v find_v great_a store_n of_o christian_n who_o though_o they_o be_v circumcise_v and_o taint_v with_o many_o gross_a error_n yet_o hold_v the_o foundation_n christ_n crucify_v for_o their_o salvation_n may_v just_o be_v acknowledge_v true_a church_n and_o so_o in_o many_o other_o eastern_o country_n as_o in_o persia_n and_o assyria_n there_o be_v many_o church_n of_o sundry_a name_n as_o the_o jacobite_n minorite_n &c_n &c_n but_o most_o of_o they_o be_v nestorian_n as_o be_v suspect_v to_o hold_v with_o nestorius_n that_o there_o be_v two_o person_n in_o christ_n which_o yet_o they_o have_v quit_v themselves_o of_o and_o they_o be_v only_o so_o call_v because_o they_o oppose_v most_o vehement_o against_o the_o contrary_a error_n of_o eutychus_n who_o hold_v confusion_n of_o nature_n in_o christ_n in_o armenia_n likewise_o be_v many_o christian_n who_o be_v general_o hold_v to_o be_v eutychans_n but_o they_o have_v also_o clear_v themselves_o but_o because_o they_o oppose_v the_o council_n of_o chalcedon_n which_o condemn_v that_o heresy_n all_o these_o believe_v and_o profess_v christ_n crucify_v and_o therefore_o howsoever_o all_o of_o they_o be_v either_o corrupt_a persecute_v scatter_a or_o disorderly_a yet_o far_o be_v it_o from_o we_o to_o deny_v they_o to_o be_v true_a church_n of_o god_n let_v we_o esteem_v they_o as_o brethren_n and_o magnify_v the_o lord_n for_o they_o and_o let_v we_o pity_v their_o defect_n and_o rejoice_v at_o their_o grace_n and_o let_v we_o entreat_v the_o lord_n for_o they_o as_o the_o church_n in_o cant_n 8_o 8._o do_v sometime_o for_o we_o let_v we_o pray_v to_o god_n to_o perfect_v the_o beginning_n of_o some_o of_o those_o church_n to_o build_v up_o the_o ruin_n of_o other_o and_o to_o purge_v away_o the_o error_n and_o corruption_n of_o they_o all_o that_o so_o if_o it_o be_v his_o bless_a will_n they_o may_v be_v glorious_a and_o flourish_a church_n even_o in_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o world_n and_o so_o much_o of_o these_o church_n that_o be_v general_o call_v greek_n church_n now_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o those_o which_o be_v more_o particular_o and_o proper_o call_v greek_n church_n doct._n lie_v in_o and_o about_o greece_n and_o these_o be_v more_o particular_o to_o be_v speak_v to_o and_o therefore_o we_o will_v handle_v they_o by_o way_n of_o observation_n which_o be_v this_o namely_o that_o the_o greek_a church_n even_o as_o they_o stand_v at_o this_o day_n
though_o they_o live_v under_o the_o miserable_a slavery_n of_o the_o turk_n yet_o be_v to_o be_v account_v true_a visible_a church_n we_o will_v take_v our_o pattern_n by_o that_o of_o constantinople_n where_o there_o be_v a_o patriarch_n at_o this_o day_n who_o have_v answer_v the_o objection_n both_o of_o the_o protestant_n and_o papist_n to_o their_o religion_n now_o there_o be_v a_o true_a church_n first_o because_o they_o affirm_v the_o foundation_n and_o every_o part_n thereof_o second_o their_o error_n do_v not_o direct_o overthrow_v the_o foundation_n nor_o any_o part_n thereof_o for_o the_o first_o they_o hold_v so_o much_o of_o the_o right_a catholic_a faith_n as_o may_v just_o entitle_v they_o to_o the_o name_n of_o a_o true_a church_n the_o whole_a creed_n that_o we_o profess_v they_o retain_v also_o in_o the_o interpretation_n of_o some_o point_n they_o differ_v somewhat_o from_o we_o but_o in_o the_o main_a substance_n they_o agree_v hold_v the_o foundation_n firm_a and_o sure_a christ_n jesus_n god_n and_o man_n the_o only_a saviour_n of_o the_o world_n etc._n etc._n they_o renounce_v the_o head-ship_n of_o the_o pope_n and_o many_o other_o point_n of_o popish_a religion_n they_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o direction_n of_o scripture_n though_o the_o interpretation_n thereof_o they_o will_v fetch_v most_o willing_o from_o their_o predecessor_n the_o greek_a father_n of_o who_o some_o being_n more_o sound_a other_o less_a their_o religion_n be_v not_o so_o sincere_a as_o it_o shall_v therefore_o the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o proof_n be_v whether_o their_o error_n be_v such_o as_o direct_o overthrow_v the_o foundation_n or_o any_o part_n thereof_o they_o be_v taint_v with_o the_o error_n of_o free_a will_n intercession_n of_o saint_n and_o transubstantiation_n and_o some_o other_o popish_a opinion_n which_o yet_o they_o do_v not_o maintain_v altogether_o so_o obstinate_o as_o the_o romish_a church_n do_v church_n but_o their_o main_a error_n be_v their_o deny_v of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n to_o proceed_v from_o the_o son_n from_o the_o father_n they_o acknowledge_v and_o by_o the_o son_n but_o from_o the_o son_n this_o they_o express_o deny_v now_o we_o know_v that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o god_n himself_o in_o his_o nature_n and_o in_o his_o person_n be_v a_o most_o profound_a and_o principal_a point_n in_o religion_n and_o very_o wary_o to_o be_v consider_v of_o every_o error_n therein_o be_v dangerous_a and_o fearful_a and_o near_o to_o blasphemy_n and_o this_o very_a error_n haply_o if_o it_o be_v thorough_o sift_v will_v be_v prove_v to_o overthrow_v by_o consequence_n the_o foundation_n yet_o see_v first_o it_o do_v not_o direct_o overthrow_v any_o part_n of_o it_o and_o see_v second_o we_o hear_v they_o do_v not_o either_o absolute_o oppose_v herein_o to_o the_o know_a truth_n or_o omit_v the_o search_n of_o scripture_n for_o it_o but_o profess_v that_o upon_o plain_a evidence_n of_o scripture_n they_o will_v yield_v and_o three_o see_v they_o hold_v the_o foundation_n and_o every_o part_n thereof_o in_o express_a word_n we_o dare_v hardly_o charge_v they_o for_o heretical_a church_n much_o less_o to_o be_v no_o true_a visible_a church_n at_o all_o but_o that_o man_n live_v in_o those_o church_n believe_v otherwise_o aright_o in_o christ_n crucify_v and_o repent_v of_o their_o manifold_a error_n and_o ignorances_n may_v be_v all_o save_v undoubted_o use_v 1_o the_o use_v of_o this_o point_n be_v these_o first_o it_o be_v matter_n of_o reproof_n and_o first_o of_o the_o papist_n and_o that_o in_o two_o point_n first_o in_o that_o they_o presume_v the_o church_n of_o rome_n to_o be_v the_o only_a true_a visible_a church_n affirm_v that_o no_o church_n be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n but_o they_o that_o be_v subject_a to_o the_o pope_n and_o have_v he_o to_o be_v their_o head_n we_o see_v here_o that_o these_o be_v true_a church_n and_o better_a than_o the_o popish_a church_n popish-church_n and_o yet_o be_v far_o from_o his_o jurisdiction_n yea_o they_o hate_v and_o defy_v it_o so_o that_o their_o definition_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n be_v false_a when_o they_o say_v that_o there_o be_v no_o true_a church_n but_o that_o which_o be_v gather_v under_o the_o head-ship_n of_o the_o pope_n whereas_o the_o greek_a church_n as_o we_o see_v be_v true_a church_n and_o yet_o not_o gather_v under_o that_o head_n it_o be_v true_a that_o in_o former_a time_n a_o patriarch_n of_o constantinople_n do_v in_o ambition_n seek_v the_o title_n of_o head_n or_o universal_a bishop_n and_o the_o pope_n of_o rome_n at_o that_o time_n withstand_v he_o say_v that_o whosoever_o take_v upon_o he_o that_o title_n shall_v be_v the_o forerunner_n of_o antichrist_n and_o it_o prove_v true_a for_o not_o long_o after_o one_o that_o succeed_v that_o pope_n take_v this_o title_n upon_o he_o and_o be_v indeed_o antichrist_n i_o say_v that_o a_o patriarch_n in_o ambition_n seek_v it_o but_o now_o he_o be_v bring_v low_o enough_o his_o head_n be_v under_o the_o yoke_n of_o the_o turk_n the_o adversary_n of_o god_n church_n who_o then_o think_v to_o be_v the_o head_n of_o all_o church_n but_o though_o he_o miss_v of_o that_o the_o church_n still_o continue_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n &_o be_v so_o to_o this_o day_n and_o yet_o never_o acknowledge_v the_o pope_n to_o be_v their_o head_n second_o answer_v it_o meet_v with_o they_o for_o their_o uncharitable_a censure_v of_o these_o church_n as_o no_o true_a church_n of_o god_n they_o be_v both_o heretical_a &_o schismatical_a say_v they_o what_o if_o they_o be_v so_o yet_o still_o they_o may_v be_v true_a church_n as_o we_o show_v before_o for_o heresy_n as_o i_o will_v not_o precise_o condemn_v they_o so_o neither_o can_v i_o altogether_o acquitte_v they_o but_o as_o for_o schism_n they_o be_v guilty_a of_o none_o rome_n but_o only_o they_o be_v rend_v from_o the_o romish_a church_n in_o particular_a so_o that_o here_o be_v the_o quarrel_n because_o they_o do_v not_o submit_v their_o neck_n under_o the_o pope_n yoke_n and_o see_v they_o and_o every_o particular_a church_n be_v a_o body_n within_o itself_o as_o that_o of_o rome_n i_o see_v no_o reason_n that_o their_o estate_n shall_v be_v judge_v schismatical_a bishop_n except_o they_o have_v depart_v when_o they_o have_v be_v member_n of_o that_o church_n but_o they_o be_v never_o subject_a to_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n one_o thing_n there_o be_v find_v in_o these_o greek_a church_n which_o the_o papist_n take_v in_o their_o state_n to_o be_v a_o chief_a note_n of_o the_o church_n and_o that_o be_v succession_n of_o bishop_n which_o be_v as_o currant_n in_o the_o church_n of_o constantinople_n and_o alexandria_n as_o in_o rome_n even_o from_o the_o apostle_n time_n succession_n in_o rome_n be_v a_o certain_a note_n and_o mark_v of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n and_o there_o be_v as_o good_a succession_n in_o the_o greek_a church_n as_o at_o rome_n and_o yet_o they_o say_v they_o be_v no_o church_n at_o all_o either_o let_v they_o disclaim_v this_o in_o the_o one_o or_o acknowledge_v it_o in_o the_o other_o i_o be_o persuade_v that_o the_o lord_n have_v preserve_v this_o succession_n in_o the_o greek_a church_n of_o purpose_n to_o abate_v the_o pride_n of_o the_o roman_a church_n build_v so_o direct_o upon_o that_o allegation_n it_o will_v else_o have_v be_v a_o far_o more_o colourable_a plea_n to_o the_o natural_a man_n but_o they_o deny_v the_o force_n of_o the_o use_v 2_o reason_n in_o other_o do_v plain_o answer_v themselves_o turk_n the_o second_o use_n teach_v we_o the_o great_a goodness_n of_o god_n and_o the_o care_n he_o have_v in_o the_o preservation_n of_o his_o church_n these_o greek_a church_n have_v live_v many_o a_o hundred_o year_n under_o the_o government_n and_o slavery_n of_o the_o turk_n that_o buy_v and_o sell_v they_o and_o their_o child_n and_o among_o the_o professor_n of_o mahomet_n the_o foul_a idol_n that_o the_o world_n afford_v in_o regard_n of_o government_n they_o live_v under_o what_o a_o heavy_a yoke_n be_v it_o what_o a_o bloody_a service_n how_o many_o persecution_n disgrace_n indignity_n tax_n and_o oppression_n horrible_a wrong_n and_o miserable_a slavery_n do_v they_o undergo_v they_o be_v buy_v sell_v imprison_a and_o put_v to_o death_n it_o can_v be_v speak_v what_o slavery_n they_o live_v in_o and_o yet_o behold_v god_n have_v uphold_v his_o church_n among_o they_o all_o to_o this_o day_n i_o dare_v say_v that_o israel_n preservation_n under_o the_o bondage_n of_o egypt_n so_o many_o hundred_o year_n be_v not_o more_o miraculous_a than_o this_o of_o these_o christian_n under_o the_o turk_n so_o likewise_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o religion_n of_o those_o that_o they_o be_v mix_v with_o it_o be_v a_o heavy_a yoke_n christ_n
they_o be_v mingle_v with_o the_o professor_n of_o mahomet_n which_o be_v a_o most_o pestilent_a religion_n &_o direct_o opposite_a to_o the_o christian_a faith_n admit_v no_o colour_n of_o reconciliation_n but_o if_o we_o believe_v in_o christ_n we_o must_v reject_v mahomet_n and_o if_o we_o believe_v in_o mahomet_n we_o must_v reject_v christ_n and_o yet_o the_o lord_n i_o say_v have_v show_v himself_o a_o ruler_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o his_o sore_a enemy_n preserve_v his_o faith_n and_o church_n even_o wheâ—e_v satan_n throne_n be_v world_n as_o he_o do_v the_o church_n of_o of_o pergamus_n reu._n 2.13_o second_o as_o it_o be_v a_o pestilent_a religion_n direct_o opposite_a to_o christ_n so_o consider_v that_o it_o general_o abound_v and_o swarm_n overspread_v a_o great_a part_n of_o the_o know_a world_n and_o yet_o in_o these_o place_n the_o lord_n have_v reserve_v a_o remnant_n that_o stick_v close_o unto_o he_o and_o that_o follow_v not_o the_o sway_n of_o the_o world_n as_o he_o have_v 7000._o in_o israel_n in_o the_o day_n of_o elias_n that_o have_v not_o bow_v their_o knee_n to_o baal_n rom._n 11.4_o so_o he_o have_v many_o thousand_o among_o they_o that_o have_v not_o bow_v the_o knee_n to_o mahomet_n three_o religion_n consider_v the_o pleasingness_n of_o that_o religion_n of_o mahomet_n a_o great_a enchanter_n of_o nature_n yet_o still_o the_o lord_n have_v preserve_v some_o that_o choose_v rather_o with_o moses_n to_o suffer_v adversity_n with_o the_o child_n of_o god_n then_o to_o enjoy_v for_o a_o season_n all_o the_o pleasure_n that_o ever_o mahomet_n can_v ever_o promise_v or_o bestow_v upon_o they_o sure_o we_o must_v needs_o acknowledge_v it_o to_o be_v a_o heavy_a judgement_n of_o god_n that_o such_o flourish_a church_n in_o achaia_n macedonia_n corinth_n ephesus_n etc._n etc._n shall_v come_v to_o that_o miserable_a ruin_n and_o desolation_n that_o mahomet_n us._n shall_v reign_v among_o they_o so_o general_o in_o christ_n own_o territory_n and_o let_v we_o know_v that_o it_o be_v for_o their_o unprofitablenes_n in_o the_o use_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o other_o mean_n of_o grace_n which_o god_n so_o free_o offer_v they_o and_o let_v we_o consider_v of_o it_o and_o fear_n and_o labour_n to_o profit_v by_o the_o gospel_n and_o pray_v to_o god_n that_o the_o like_a befall_v not_o we_o for_o our_o unprofitablenesse_n this_o i_o say_v be_v a_o great_a judgement_n of_o god_n upon_o they_o and_o yet_o withal_o see_v how_o in_o wrath_n god_n remember_v mercy_n and_o in_o despite_n of_o satan_n turk_n and_o mahomet_n and_o other_o instrument_n he_o pluck_v out_o some_o as_o firebrand_n out_o of_o the_o fire_n to_o be_v professor_n of_o his_o save_a faith_n and_o member_n of_o his_o church_n and_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o they_o and_o so_o much_o of_o the_o greek_a church_n both_o improper_o and_o proper_o so_o call_v observation_n now_o we_o come_v to_o the_o western_a and_o latin_a church_n which_o be_v general_o of_o two_o sort_n some_o acknowledge_v the_o pope_n their_o head_n as_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n itself_o and_o sundry_a other_o that_o hold_v communion_n with_o that_o church_n both_o in_o doctrine_n and_o in_o all_o or_o most_o of_o the_o corruption_n thereof_o other_o renounce_v his_o headship_n and_o refuse_v to_o communicate_v in_o the_o deformity_n corruption_n and_o abuse_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v therefore_o call_v the_o reform_a church_n i_o shall_v not_o need_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o former_a in_o every_o particular_a look_v what_o be_v say_v of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n itself_o the_o same_o may_v be_v apply_v to_o all_o the_o rest_n as_o be_v the_o mother_n so_o be_v the_o daughter_n ezech._n 16.44_o we_o will_v deliver_v her_o state_n in_o two_o observation_n first_o we_o will_v show_v what_o may_v be_v say_v in_o charity_n and_o yet_o in_o truth_n and_o sound_a judgement_n for_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n second_o what_o may_v be_v say_v in_o zeal_n and_o yet_o in_o truth_n too_o and_o find_v judgement_n against_o it_o for_o the_o first_o the_o observation_n be_v this_o church_n doctr._n 1_o that_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n even_o as_o now_o it_o stand_v may_v in_o some_o sense_n be_v just_o repute_v and_o acknowledge_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n consider_v right_o of_o the_o note_n first_o we_o do_v not_o absolute_o say_v it_o be_v a_o true_a church_n but_o for_o aught_o we_o see_v it_o may_v in_o some_o sense_n be_v judge_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n second_o we_o say_v not_o a_o sound_a church_n no_o that_o we_o flat_o deny_v as_o untrue_a but_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n as_o a_o man_n though_o he_o be_v wound_v faint_a and_o die_v yet_o so_o long_o as_o there_o be_v any_o spark_n of_o life_n in_o he_o he_o be_v a_o true_a live_a man_n not_o a_o false_a though_o he_o be_v a_o unsound_a and_o die_a man_n church_n three_o we_o make_v a_o difference_n betwixt_o the_o papacy_n or_o the_o popish_a faction_n and_o some_o better_a spirit_n in_o that_o church_n which_o no_o doubt_n have_v a_o right_a belief_n and_o walk_v with_o a_o right_a foot_n in_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o gospel_n than_o the_o faction_n do_v and_o these_o be_v mingle_v together_o with_o the_o rest_n the_o whole_a may_v be_v call_v a_o â—â—ue_a church_n for_o their_o sake_n as_o be_v in_o our_o saviors_n time_n the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n be_v a_o faction_n in_o the_o church_n pretend_v religion_n and_o the_o true_a worship_n of_o god_n and_o yet_o sway_v all_o against_o the_o truth_n and_o sincerity_n of_o it_o in_o their_o course_n marry_o simeon_n anna_n zachary_n and_o elizabeth_n and_o a_o few_o more_o with_o who_o our_o saviour_n join_v or_o rather_o they_o with_o he_o as_o live_v member_n of_o god_n church_n and_o shall_v not_o the_o whole_a be_v right_o acknowledge_v to_o be_v a_o true_a church_n because_o of_o they_o doubtless_o it_o may_v and_o so_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n may_v right_o be_v acknowledge_v to_o be_v a_o true_a church_n in_o respect_n of_o some_o better_a spirit_n that_o be_v mix_v with_o they_o and_o not_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o papacy_n and_o popish_a faction_n alone_o the_o reason_n to_o prove_v they_o a_o true_a church_n be_v these_o first_o reas_n 1_o they_o have_v be_v a_o true_a church_n of_o god_n direct_o affirm_v every_o part_n of_o the_o foundation_n and_o they_o do_v not_o direct_o deny_v any_o part_n of_o it_o yea_o church_n in_o outward_a show_n of_o word_n they_o express_o affirm_v it_o still_o and_o therefore_o may_v true_o be_v acknowledge_v a_o true_a church_n that_o they_o have_v be_v a_o true_a church_n of_o god_n be_v plain_a enough_o rom._n 1.8_o but_o you_o will_v say_v that_o be_v no_o sound_n arguement_fw-fr that_o they_o be_v so_o still_o i_o answer_v that_o yet_o this_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v for_o it_o be_v a_o great_a matter_n that_o must_v make_v a_o congregation_n that_o have_v be_v a_o true_a church_n to_o become_v 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in_o outward_a show_n at_o least_o affirm_v the_o whole_a foundation_n and_o every_o part_n thereof_o but_o this_o they_o do_v they_o affirm_v the_o whole_a foundation_n at_o least_o in_o outward_a show_n and_o sound_v of_o word_n they_o profess_v the_o same_o scripture_n and_o the_o same_o creed_n that_o we_o do_v yea_o they_o profess_v in_o word_n the_o very_a same_o foundation_n before_o speak_v of_o in_o the_o very_a same_o term_n in_o effect_n look_v into_o the_o rhemists_n testament_n &_o you_o shall_v see_v that_o upon_o those_o place_n 1_o tim._n 2.5_o &_o 1_o john_n 1.7_o they_o acknowledge_v jesus_n christ_n to_o be_v the_o only_a saviour_n of_o the_o world_n and_o therefore_o they_o may_v in_o some_o sense_n be_v right_o acknowledge_v
a_o true_a visible_a church_n i_o grant_v that_o they_o come_v very_o near_o the_o root_n of_o faith_n and_o overthrow_v the_o foundation_n almost_o to_o the_o very_a ground_n mercy_n by_o the_o doctrine_n of_o justification_n by_o work_n which_o error_n if_o they_o will_v reclaim_v few_o or_o none_o of_o we_o will_v doubt_v but_o that_o they_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n yet_o this_o overthrow_v christ_n not_o direct_o but_o by_o consequence_n by_o consequence_n they_o do_v because_o if_o man_n merit_n justify_v than_o christ_n merit_n alone_o do_v not_o justify_v we_o but_o direct_o they_o do_v not_o for_o still_o they_o believe_v in_o christ_n their_o only_a saviour_n and_o they_o say_v that_o it_o be_v christ_n merit_n that_o make_v they_o merit_v they_o be_v not_o so_o gross_a in_o this_o point_n as_o they_o be_v yet_o still_o they_o be_v gross_a enough_o overthrow_v the_o foundation_n by_o consequence_n yet_o still_o by_o consequence_n only_o not_o direct_o and_o therefore_o still_o they_o may_v be_v repute_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n but_o you_o will_v say_v be_v it_o not_o as_o dangerous_a against_o a_o man_n salvation_n to_o deny_v christ_n by_o consequence_n as_o to_o deny_v he_o direct_o to_o shut_v he_o out_o at_o the_o backdoor_n as_o at_o the_o foredoor_n i_o answer_v it_o be_v not_o so_o great_a a_o sin_n yet_o i_o say_v he_o that_o do_v this_o deserve_v in_o god_n justice_n to_o be_v cut_v off_o from_o christ_n mercy_n as_o well_o as_o the_o other_o especial_o if_o he_o see_v the_o consequent_a but_o if_o he_o see_v it_o not_o it_o be_v not_o so_o foul_a a_o sin_n as_o to_o deny_v christ_n direct_o he_o that_o direct_o deny_v the_o foundation_n whether_o he_o see_v it_o or_o not_o be_v in_o certain_a state_n of_o damnation_n but_o he_o that_o deny_v it_o by_o consequence_n and_o see_v it_o not_o but_o yet_o do_v firm_o believe_v in_o christ_n so_o far_o as_o he_o know_v and_o be_v willing_a in_o reverence_n and_o humility_n to_o 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can_v suspect_v so_o much_o for_o the_o first_o reason_n the_o second_o reason_n be_v take_v from_o the_o comparison_n of_o reas_n 2_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n israel_n with_o other_o church_n in_o the_o same_o state_n compare_v she_o to_o the_o church_n of_o israel_n in_o exod._n 32.6_o there_o they_o fall_v to_o idolatry_n worship_v the_o calf_n and_o yet_o they_o be_v a_o true_a church_n still_o and_o in_o numb_a 25.3_o 9_o compare_v with_o the_o 1_o cor._n 3.8_o we_o see_v that_o they_o join_v themselves_o to_o baalpeor_n and_o commit_v fornication_n with_o the_o moabite_n thus_o they_o be_v very_o bad_a and_o yet_o a_o true_a church_n still_o look_v further_o into_o the_o time_n of_o jeroboam_fw-la that_o set_v up_o the_o calf_n and_o make_v all_o israel_n to_o sin_n so_o that_o god_n threaten_v to_o give_v they_o up_o for_o the_o sin_n of_o jeroboam_fw-la 1_o king_n 14.16_o and_o so_o in_o ahab_n time_n in_o the_o 1_o king_n 16.30_o ahab_n the_o son_n of_o omri_n do_v worse_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o lord_n than_o all_o that_o be_v before_o he_o and_o so_o a_o time_n be_v when_o there_o be_v no_o passove_a in_o israel_n for_o many_o year_n time_n and_o yet_o they_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n still_o so_o likewise_o compare_v it_o with_o the_o estate_n of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n in_o our_o saviour_n time_n it_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o apostasy_n and_o yet_o a_o true_a church_n the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n retain_v some_o notable_a truth_n be_v still_o to_o be_v hear_v matth._n 23.3_o and_o yet_o their_o leven_n to_o be_v take_v heed_n of_o matthew_n 16.6_o so_o that_o though_o they_o have_v many_o corrruption_n yet_o they_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n galatia_n the_o church_n of_o galatia_n retain_v circumcision_n whereby_o all_o profit_n and_o benefit_n by_o christ_n be_v utter_o m_o the_o void_a that_o be_v by_o consequence_n the_o apostle_n say_v galat._n 5.2_o that_o if_o we_o be_v circumcise_v christ_n shall_v profit_v we_o nothing_o and_o yet_o this_o be_v a_o true_a church_n still_o work_n and_o i_o dare_v say_v that_o circumcision_n do_v as_o near_o cut_v off_o from_o christ_n as_o justification_n by_o work_n by_o consequence_n they_o do_v both_o overthrow_v the_o foundation_n and_o so_o the_o church_n of_o sardis_n that_o have_v but_o a_o name_n to_o live_v and_o be_v dead_a revel_v 3.1_o be_v yet_o a_o true_a church_n now_o if_o all_o these_o be_v true_a church_n that_o be_v thus_o corrupe_v why_o may_v not_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n though_o it_o be_v idolatrous_a and_o have_v many_o other_o foul_a corruption_n sardis_n be_v in_o some_o sense_n repute_v a_o true_a visible_a reas_n 3_o church_n the_o three_o reasen_a be_v draw_v from_o the_o confession_n of_o many_o even_o of_o our_o best_a divine_n as_o luther_n calvin_n zanchey_n morney_n and_o other_o that_o be_v most_o fiery_a and_o fierce_a against_o the_o romish_a church_n hate_v their_o abomination_n with_o as_o perfect_a hatred_n and_o detestation_n as_o any_o and_o yet_o they_o confess_v she_o to_o be_v a_o true_a church_n though_o a_o corrupt_a church_n though_o a_o die_a church_n though_o her_o life_n hang_v but_o by_o a_o thread_n this_o they_o have_v confess_v of_o she_o i_o allege_v this_o not_o so_o much_o a_o reason_n to_o prove_v but_o rather_o as_o a_o qualification_n to_o mitigate_v the_o odiousness_n of_o this_o speech_n in_o the_o ear_n of_o many_o which_o do_v great_o reverence_v the_o judgement_n of_o these_o father_n and_o yet_o can_v endure_v to_o hear_v that_o the_o name_n of_o a_o true_a church_n shall_v be_v afford_v to_o rome_n reas_n 4_o last_o their_o baptism_n be_v true_a baptism_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v a_o true_a though_o a_o unsound_a visible_a church_n for_o the_o trueness_n of_o the_o church_n and_o of_o christ_n sacrament_n by_o they_o administer_v do_v necessary_o infer_v each_o other_o wheresoever_o there_o be_v a_o true_a sacrament_n right_o administer_v for_o the_o substance_n of_o it_o it_o there_o be_v a_o true_a church_n but_o baptism_n in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v right_o administer_v for_o the_o substance_n of_o it_o and_o therefore_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v a_o true_a church_n the_o error_n of_o rebaptisation_n of_o such_o as_o have_v be_v baptize_v by_o heretic_n do_v arise_v from_o the_o want_n of_o the_o due_a consideration_n of_o the_o very_a like_o point_n in_o those_o thing_n so_o much_o for_o the_o reason_n use_v 1_o the_o use_v be_v these_o first_o than_o this_o teach_v we_o answ_n that_o those_o be_v lawful_o baptize_v that_o have_v be_v baptize_v in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o that_o the_o baptism_n we_o receive_v from_o they_o be_v lawful_a baptism_n but_o some_o except_a and_o say_v that_o they_o that_o be_v baptise_a in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v baptize_v into_o their_o faith_n i_o answer_v no_o but_o they_o be_v baptize_v into_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o trinity_n and_o this_o be_v the_o singular_a wisdom_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n to_o keep_v they_o sound_v in_o that_o that_o be_v for_o the_o substance_n of_o baptism_n though_o otherwise_o they_o be_v general_o corrupt_a but_o you_o will_v say_v it_o be_v intend_v by_o they_o into_o their_o faith_n answ_n i_o answer_v first_o that_o their_o intent_n be_v so_o as_o be_v persuade_v their_o faith_n be_v the_o true_a christian_a faith_n and_o second_o i_o answer_v the_o minister_n intent_n make_v not_o the_o sacrament_n answerable_a to_o it_o but_o it_o be_v god_n work_n and_o he_o make_v it_o to_o a_o faithful_a receiver_n effectual_a to_o the_o use_n 2_o right_a use_n that_o he_o have_v ordain_v it_o unto_o ordination_n second_o it_o justify_v our_o ministry_n against_o the_o brownist_n and_o the_o papist_n
this_o those_o new_a convert_v act._n 2.40.47_o gather_v themselves_o together_o &_o separate_v from_o that_o froward_a generation_n they_o be_v mingle_v withal_o and_o paul_n act._n 18_o 8_o 9_o when_o some_o be_v harden_v and_o disobey_v speak_v evil_a of_o the_o way_n of_o god_n before_o the_o multitude_n he_o depart_v from_o they_o and_o separate_v the_o disciple_n the_o reason_n of_o this_o point_n be_v this_o reas_n there_o be_v a_o plain_a and_o manifest_a opposition_n betwixt_o god_n religion_n and_o they_o in_o many_o fundamental_a point_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v separate_v from_o they_o 2_o cor._n 6.15.16_o 17._o what_o concord_n have_v christ_n with_o belial_n or_o what_o part_n have_v the_o believer_n with_o the_o infidel_n or_o what_o agreement_n have_v the_o temple_n of_o god_n with_o idol_n wherefore_o come_v out_o from_o among_o they_o and_o separate_v yourselves_o say_v the_o lord_n etc._n etc._n i_o will_v make_v use_n of_o both_o the_o branch_n of_o the_o observation_n together_o together_o and_o the_o first_o use_n may_v be_v a_o preseruative_n to_o we_o against_o all_o the_o infection_n and_o enchantment_n of_o the_o popish_a church_n and_o all_o her_o follower_n and_o well_o willeâ—s_v they_o will_v pretend_v religion_n and_o the_o church_n yea_o the_o sound_a and_o the_o only_a catholic_a church_n and_o they_o will_v pretend_v holiness_n and_o mortification_n and_o what_o not_o but_o they_o be_v but_o pharisaical_a show_n paint_a sepulchre_n without_o but_o what_o be_v within_o full_a of_o dead_a man_n bone_n a_o world_n of_o rottenness_n and_o corruption_n in_o reu._n 17.4_o the_o whore_n of_o babylon_n be_v array_v in_o purple_a and_o a_o cup_n of_o gold_n be_v in_o her_o hand_n which_o be_v most_o pure_a &_o precious_a but_o let_v the_o spirit_n of_o man_n enter_v into_o a_o due_a consideration_n of_o her_o state_n and_o we_o shall_v see_v that_o within_o it_o be_v full_a of_o abomination_n and_o filthiness_n and_o now_o that_o we_o see_v what_o she_o be_v let_v we_o defy_v the_o papacy_n and_o hate_v all_o her_o corruption_n with_o a_o perfect_a hatred_n and_o be_v kindle_v in_o true_a zeal_n for_o the_o lord_n of_o host_n against_o they_o all_o and_o so_o long_o as_o we_o breath_n and_o that_o 〈◊〉_d be_v in_o we_o let_v we_o never_o cease_v to_o oppose_v against_o 〈…〉_z word_n and_o inâ—â—eed_n to_o the_o uttermost_a of_o our_o 〈…〉_z and_o so_o far_o as_o any_o of_o we_o wish_v well_o to_o zion_n let_v we_o labour_v by_o all_o good_a mean_n the_o utter_a ruin_n and_o overthrow_v of_o this_o filthy_a babylon_n there_o be_v no_o reconciliation_n to_o be_v dream_v of_o betwixt_o they_o and_o we_o us._n cassander_n and_o other_o of_o good_a note_n have_v attempt_v it_o in_o commiseration_n of_o the_o rent_n and_o disunion_n that_o be_v in_o christendom_n and_o that_o we_o may_v all_o join_v together_o against_o the_o pagan_a but_o all_o in_o vain_a it_o be_v discuss_v much_o on_o either_o side_n they_o will_v not_o yield_v to_o we_o we_o must_v not_o yield_v to_o they_o for_o there_o be_v no_o halt_n betwixt_o these_o two_o religion_n they_o if_o god_n be_v god_n follow_v he_o etc._n etc._n if_o the_o ark_n that_o be_v god_n holy_a religion_n and_o pure_a worship_n do_v stand_v then_o dagon_n that_o be_v the_o pope_n and_o popery_n must_v needs_o fall_v to_o the_o ground_n use_v 2_o second_o this_o serve_v to_o justify_v our_o separation_n from_o they_o justify_v we_o have_v neither_o offend_a god_n nor_o wrong_v ourselves_o nor_o they_o in_o it_o we_o have_v do_v nothing_o therein_o but_o what_o god_n have_v command_v the_o faithful_a practise_v and_o their_o own_o tyrannous_a proceed_n against_o we_o have_v force_v we_o unto_o except_o we_o will_v perish_v with_o they_o they_o charge_v we_o with_o schism_n but_o indeed_o the_o schism_n be_v not_o we_o it_o be_v schism_n in_o they_o to_o erect_v faction_n against_o the_o true_a church_n and_o to_o sway_v all_o with_o a_o strong_a hand_n against_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n and_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o faithful_a in_o former_a time_n rome_n and_o it_o be_v no_o schism_n to_o separate_z from_o such_o schismatics_n as_o they_o be_v we_o be_v of_o the_o church_n before_o when_o we_o be_v among_o they_o and_o we_o be_v of_o the_o church_n still_o then_o we_o be_v of_o a_o more_o impure_a church_n now_o of_o a_o sound_a we_o stedde_v from_o they_o as_o man_n do_v from_o the_o city_n for_o fear_n of_o infection_n beside_o since_o the_o council_n of_o trent_n there_o be_v much_o less_o colour_n of_o schism_n in_o we_o they_o then_o abandon_v we_o unjust_o we_o may_v just_o forsake_v they_o 1_o cor._n 7.15_o if_o the_o unbeliever_n depart_v let_v he_o depart_v but_o some_o will_v except_v thus_o do_v elias_n or_o elisha_n so_o by_o the_o jewish_a church_n 1._o though_o it_o be_v idolatrous_a i_o answer_v first_o it_o be_v avouch_v by_o some_o 1_o they_o do_v second_o but_o then_o the_o case_n be_v otherwise_o for_o they_o be_v then_o tie_v to_o one_o place_n of_o worship_n we_o be_v not_o so_o second_o some_o will_v except_v and_o say_v answ_n but_o you_o have_v communion_n with_o they_o be_v baptize_v at_o their_o hand_n i_o answer_v it_o be_v true_a but_o that_o be_v before_o we_o know_v thorough_o their_o corruption_n if_o our_o parent_n know_v they_o and_o yet_o bring_v we_o to_o their_o baptism_n whatsoever_o sin_n be_v in_o that_o be_v they_o not_o we_o and_o the_o sacrament_n be_v not_o thereby_o make_v to_o we_o ineffectual_a second_o we_o deny_v not_o communion_n with_o they_o in_o good_a thing_n as_o in_o baptism_n which_o be_v for_o substance_n sound_v among_o they_o three_o it_o teach_v we_o thankfulness_n to_o god_n that_o use_v 3_o have_v so_o discover_v and_o plain_o reveal_v they_o antichrist_n be_v a_o mystery_n of_o iniquity_n and_o so_o have_v in_o a_o mystery_n be_v carry_v a_o long_a time_n yea_o and_o to_o many_o thousand_o it_o be_v a_o mystery_n to_o this_o day_n but_o unto_o we_o bless_a be_v god_n it_o be_v open_v and_o display_v that_o we_o see_v and_o feel_v who_o be_v that_o antichrist_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o we_o be_v also_o deliver_v from_o they_o even_o from_o the_o darkness_n of_o egypt_n the_o cruelty_n of_o pharaoh_n and_o those_o romish_a task_n master_n and_o from_o the_o bondage_n and_o slavery_n that_o our_o body_n and_o conscience_n weâ—e_v detain_v in_o the_o lord_n offer_v most_o gracious_a mean_n luther_n king_n henry_n etc._n etc._n four_o rome_n this_o teach_v we_o what_o we_o be_v to_o think_v use_n 4_o of_o such_o as_o continue_v in_o that_o state_n be_v we_o to_o judge_v they_o no_o let_v the_o lord_n do_v that_o yet_o for_o satisfaction_n to_o the_o point_n i_o answer_v either_o they_o be_v such_o as_o hold_v correspondency_n with_o the_o state_n and_o then_o they_o be_v in_o a_o fearful_a and_o damnable_a case_n or_o else_o though_o they_o be_v there_o live_v among_o they_o they_o privy_o hate_v and_o shun_v their_o corruption_n and_o these_o like_o nicodemus_n sin_n of_o fearfulness_n or_o else_o they_o do_v not_o know_v their_o corruption_n at_o all_o and_o these_o sin_n of_o ignorance_n which_o if_o it_o be_v affect_v be_v a_o gross_a sin_n or_o else_o they_o be_v such_o as_o do_v profess_v public_o dislike_v of_o their_o chief_a abomination_n at_o the_o least_o and_o these_o be_v in_o the_o best_a case_n and_o through_o god_n mercy_n the_o 〈◊〉_d in_o a_o hopeful_a state_n five_o and_o last_o it_o teacheâ—_n we_o wise_o to_o dinstinguish_v of_o that_o whole_a body_n and_o to_o give_v the_o several_a part_n their_o right_n we_o have_v many_o bitter_a invective_n against_o they_o that_o they_o be_v apostate_n antichrist_n babylon_n &c_n &c_n which_o be_v direct_o to_o be_v understand_v of_o the_o papacy_n again_o we_o say_v they_o be_v a_o true_a church_n our_o sister_n &c_n &c_n this_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v direct_o of_o the_o believer_n among_o they_o though_o because_o they_o be_v mingle_v together_o each_o receive_v the_o other_o title_n our_o acknowledge_v that_o she_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n be_v no_o cause_n of_o boast_v to_o they_o or_o of_o fear_n in_o we_o that_o any_o shall_v be_v enamour_v with_o her_o beauty_n for_o look_v on_o her_o deformity_n and_o they_o be_v most_o ugly_a and_o our_o accusation_n that_o she_o be_v antichrist_n etc._n etc._n do_v not_o prejudice_n the_o faithful_a among_o they_o as_o if_o we_o do_v condemn_v every_o particular_a no_o she_o have_v some_o precious_a member_n and_o for_o their_o sake_n she_o be_v charitable_o to_o be_v censure_v of_o there_o be_v a_o woe_n belong_v to_o they_o that_o call_v evil_a good_a or_o good_a evil_n we_o prevent_v both_o these_o woe_n by_o this_o distinction_n the_o
consent_n prove_v not_o always_o a_o true_a church_n nor_o a_o true_a religion_n for_o then_o the_o jew_n shall_v be_v a_o true_a church_n and_o their_o religion_n true_a because_o they_o all_o consent_v to_o crucify_v christ_n and_o with_o one_o voice_n cry_v crucify_v he_o crucify_v he_o here_o be_v consent_n and_o yet_o in_o the_o bloody_a matter_n that_o ever_o be_v in_o the_o world_n and_o so_o on_o the_o contrary_a peter_n &_o paul_n and_o paul_n and_o barnabas_n shall_v be_v of_o a_o false_a church_n and_o a_o false_a religion_n because_o they_o dissent_v and_o contend_v sharp_o but_o this_o be_v nothing_o to_o overthrow_v the_o truth_n of_o their_o religion_n nor_o of_o the_o church_n they_o be_v member_n of_o yea_o we_o see_v oft_o time_n that_o the_o worst_a matter_n be_v carry_v with_o the_o great_a consent_n and_o the_o best_a with_o great_a dissension_n as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o body_n that_o be_v the_o sound_a body_n that_o strive_v most_o to_o expel_v hurtful_a humour_n so_o that_o be_v the_o sound_a church_n that_o be_v most_o exercise_v with_o bicker_n against_o the_o adversary_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o in_o the_o true_a church_n it_o be_v needful_a that_o there_o shall_v be_v dissension_n and_o heresy_n that_o those_o that_o be_v approve_v may_v be_v know_v 1_o cor._n 11.18_o 19_o so_o much_o be_v speak_v for_o the_o papist_n exception_n which_o they_o take_v against_o we_o for_o this_o dissension_n difference_n now_o second_o we_o be_v to_o show_v what_o use_n we_o be_v to_o make_v of_o these_o dissension_n and_o difference_n sure_o though_o we_o will_v not_o name_v they_o yet_o we_o may_v make_v many_o good_a use_n of_o they_o and_o first_o this_o shall_v stir_v up_o our_o bowel_n of_o compassion_n to_o mourn_v for_o the_o breach_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o to_o see_v the_o lord_n dishonour_v and_o his_o truth_n blaspheme_v and_o the_o church_n miserable_o distract_v by_o man_n infirmity_n frailty_n and_o dissension_n second_o this_o discover_v the_o devil_n malice_n that_o can_v not_o endure_v to_o see_v the_o work_n of_o god_n to_o go_v on_o prosperous_o forward_a but_o set_v even_o the_o builder_n themselves_o at_o variance_n to_o hinder_v they_o from_o building_n and_o from_o join_v together_o with_o one_o hand_n against_o the_o common_a adversary_n yea_o he_o carry_v they_o into_o such_o outrage_n of_o passion_n and_o speech_n that_o thereby_o their_o person_n and_o cause_n be_v much_o disgrace_v before_o the_o world_n so_o that_o if_o they_o be_v censure_v by_o his_o outrage_n they_o may_v seem_v rather_o to_o be_v of_o the_o devil_n then_o of_o god_n three_o here_o we_o may_v see_v the_o corruption_n and_o weakness_n if_o not_o wilfulness_n of_o man_n that_o rather_o than_o they_o will_v disclaim_v their_o error_n and_o put_v up_o disgraceful_a and_o opprobrious_a speech_n they_o pass_v not_o to_o set_v the_o whole_a church_n of_o god_n on_o fire_n four_o hence_o we_o learn_v the_o nature_n of_o truth_n that_o never_o come_v forth_o but_o encumber_v with_o many_o opposition_n both_o within_o and_o without_o and_o still_o mingle_v with_o some_o error_n and_o contention_n even_o in_o the_o chief_a professor_n themselves_o last_o hence_o we_o learn_v the_o power_n wisdom_n and_o goodness_n of_o god_n so_o that_o do_v restrain_v the_o rage_n of_o man_n and_o the_o malice_n of_o satan_n that_o howsoever_o we_o differ_v in_o some_o point_n yet_o we_o agree_v in_o the_o chief_a as_o in_o justification_n by_o faith_n alone_o and_o howsoever_o we_o differ_v among_o ourselves_o yet_o each_o of_o we_o agree_v against_o antichrist_n and_o popery_n with_o a_o common_a hand_n though_o not_o so_o thorough_o as_o otherwise_o we_o may_v do_v yet_o so_o as_o neither_o of_o we_o yield_v one_o jot_n to_o the_o papist_n though_o they_o expect_v long_o ere_o this_o to_o have_v devour_v both_o they_o and_o we_o as_o a_o prey_n or_o at_o least_o that_o they_o shall_v have_v sleep_v in_o a_o whole_a skin_n as_o we_o say_v work_v upon_o the_o advantage_n of_o our_o former_a dissension_n they_o the_o three_o point_n be_v what_o we_o be_v to_o esteem_v of_o these_o church_n notwithstanding_o these_o error_n and_o dissension_n surlev_n if_o we_o shall_v condemn_v they_o as_o false_a church_n we_o shall_v be_v very_o uncharitable_a and_o wicked_a for_o they_o have_v be_v the_o chief_a instrument_n under_o god_n of_o our_o call_n therefore_o far_o be_v it_o from_o we_o to_o deny_v they_o to_o be_v a_o true_a church_n beside_o we_o shall_v wrong_v they_o much_o for_o see_v they_o affirm_v direct_o the_o foundation_n and_o every_o part_n thereof_o there_o be_v no_o colour_n why_o we_o shall_v give_v such_o hard_a sentence_n against_o they_o therefore_o let_v we_o esteem_v they_o as_o brethren_n and_o acknowledge_v they_o to_o be_v god_n own_o church_n and_o let_v we_o commiserate_v their_o blindness_n and_o ignorance_n and_o let_v we_o bear_v with_o their_o infirmity_n and_o let_v we_o pass_v by_o the_o wrong_n they_o offer_v we_o and_o let_v we_o bless_v god_n for_o the_o good_a that_o be_v in_o they_o and_o let_v we_o entreat_v god_n to_o open_v their_o eye_n and_o to_o pacify_v their_o mind_n and_o to_o reconcile_v these_o unhappy_a difference_n that_o be_v betwixt_o we_o and_o to_o knit_v our_o heart_n together_o in_o the_o bond_n of_o peace_n that_o we_o may_v be_v all_o of_o one_o mind_n and_o judgement_n and_o speak_v one_o and_o the_o same_o thing_n and_o so_o much_o be_v speak_v concern_v the_o lutheran_n church_n church_n now_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o our_o own_o church_n which_o have_v be_v the_o special_a reach_n and_o shall_v be_v the_o final_a conclusion_n of_o this_o whole_a discourse_n we_o be_v general_o acknowledge_v by_o most_o protestant_a church_n that_o we_o be_v as_o well_o reform_v in_o doctrine_n as_o any_o church_n it_o be_v god_n great_a mercy_n to_o we_o that_o we_o be_v so_o reform_v in_o the_o best_a and_o weighty_a thing_n and_o it_o be_v no_o small_a comfort_n to_o we_o that_o we_o have_v the_o approbation_n of_o other_o church_n confess_v for_o we_o that_o we_o be_v a_o true_a church_n of_o god_n sound_a in_o the_o faith_n so_o that_o if_o we_o do_v fail_v in_o discipline_n as_o they_o say_v yet_o the_o substance_n be_v sound_n the_o danger_n be_v the_o less_o discipline_n make_v only_o for_o the_o beauty_n of_o a_o church_n but_o yet_o neither_o doâ—h_n the_o presence_n of_o it_o make_v a_o true_a church_n nor_o the_o absence_n of_o it_o can_v mar_v the_o life_n &_o be_v of_o a_o true_a church_n therefore_o if_o we_o be_v not_o reform_v herein_o as_o we_o shall_v for_o some_o reformation_n we_o have_v many_o point_n and_o part_n of_o discipline_n be_v far_o better_o among_o we_o then_o in_o the_o popish_a church_n yet_o as_o long_o as_o our_o faith_n be_v sound_a the_o life_n and_o be_v of_o our_o church_n be_v sound_a and_o good_a i_o will_v deliver_v the_o point_n by_o way_n of_o observation_n doctr._n and_o that_o be_v this_o the_o church_n of_o england_n even_o as_o now_o it_o stand_v though_o it_o be_v guilty_a of_o many_o sayling_n and_o weakness_n yet_o notwithstanding_o it_o be_v a_o true_a and_o in_o good_a measure_n a_o sound_a visible_a church_n of_o god_n first_o i_o do_v acknowledge_v many_o fayling_n &_o weakness_n in_o our_o church_n that_o i_o may_v not_o be_v mistake_v as_o if_o i_o shall_v smooth_v up_o the_o state_n of_o our_o church_n as_o many_o do_v with_o all_o be_v well_o when_o some_o thing_n be_v amiss_o or_o justify_v every_o particular_a because_o we_o have_v many_o good_a thing_n among_o we_o no_o if_o there_o be_v any_o baal_n among_o we_o let_v he_o plead_v for_o himself_o i_o will_v not_o plead_v for_o he_o second_o i_o say_v that_o it_o be_v not_o only_o a_o true_a but_o in_o some_o good_a measure_n a_o sound_a visible_a church_n to_o distinguish_v it_o from_o other_o measure_n church_n special_o from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n which_o in_o some_o sense_n as_o we_o show_v be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n but_o very_o unsound_a but_o we_o be_v true_a &_o sound_a too_o &_o that_o in_o some_o good_a measure_n the_o want_n of_o which_o difference_n right_o observe_v reason_n have_v cause_v many_o uncharitable_a censure_n to_o pass_v from_o we_o against_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n &_o from_o the_o separatist_n against_o we_o three_o i_o speak_v of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n indefinite_o which_o seem_v strange_a in_o some_o ear_n that_o the_o whole_a company_n of_o professor_n in_o england_n shall_v be_v call_v one_o church_n and_o so_o make_v a_o national_a church_n which_o say_v they_o be_v mere_o a_o humane_a invention_n not_o warrantable_a by_o the_o word_n but_o to_o justify_v this_o speech_n against_o their_o exception_n take_v these_o
therefore_o profess_v to_o believe_v and_o obey_v the_o same_o save_a faith_n which_o the_o invisible_a church_n do_v true_o believe_v and_o obey_v and_o which_o be_v of_o some_o among_o we_o true_o believe_v and_o obey_v therefore_o our_o church_n must_v needs_o be_v a_o true_a a_o sound_a visible_a church_n the_o three_o reason_n be_v draw_v from_o the_o effect_n of_o the_o reas_n 3_o doctrine_n and_o ministry_n of_o our_o church_n and_o be_v thus_o frame_v that_o church_n who_o doctrine_n and_o ministry_n by_o god_n blessing_n be_v so_o effectual_a that_o ordinary_o it_o work_v save_v faith_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o hearer_n be_v a_o true_a and_o in_o some_o good_a measure_n a_o sound_a visible_a church_n but_o the_o doctrine_n and_o ministry_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n by_o god_n blessing_n be_v so_o effectual_a that_o ordinary_o it_o work_v save_v faith_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o hearer_n and_o therefore_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v a_o true_a and_o a_o sound_a visible_a church_n the_o proposition_n be_v prove_v rom._n 10.17_o faith_n come_v by_o hear_v and_o hear_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n where_o the_o apostle_n prove_v that_o ordinary_o the_o word_n be_v powerful_a to_o beget_v faith_n in_o the_o â—earers_n be_v preach_v by_o such_o as_o be_v send_v of_o god_n verse_n 15._o and_o therefore_o our_o ministry_n do_v the_o same_o be_v a_o true_a ministry_n send_v of_o god_n and_o so_o our_o church_n a_o true_a and_o in_o some_o good_a measure_n a_o sound_a church_n of_o god_n but_o our_o adversary_n except_v against_o we_o that_o our_o minister_n be_v not_o send_v answ_n nor_o have_v a_o lawful_a call_n from_o god_n i_o answer_v the_o place_n prove_v that_o such_o who_o doctrine_n and_o ministry_n do_v ordinary_o work_v faith_n be_v send_v of_o god_n but_o such_o be_v we_o and_o therefore_o they_o be_v send_v of_o god_n 2._o and_o that_o our_o minister_n have_v a_o lawful_a send_n shall_v god_n willing_a be_v show_v hereafter_o they_o except_v again_o and_o say_v that_o in_o their_o assembly_n there_o be_v many_o more_o convert_v then_o in_o our_o church_n answ_n i_o answer_v be_v there_o any_o of_o these_o assembly_n such_o that_o in_o any_o one_o of_o they_o ordinary_o there_o be_v such_o effect_n if_o there_o be_v than_o that_o assembly_n be_v a_o church_n but_o if_o it_o be_v extraordinary_a than_o the_o exception_n be_v nothing_o to_o this_o purpose_n 3._o but_o they_o except_v again_o that_o other_o convert_v also_o by_o conference_n and_o disputation_n and_o that_o out_o of_o a_o visible_a church_n answ_n i_o answer_v do_v not_o that_o argue_v that_o such_o man_n embrace_v the_o save_a faith_n at_o least_o in_o profession_n and_o therefore_o when_o this_o be_v do_v by_o a_o ordinary_a ministry_n in_o a_o visible_a congregation_n do_v it_o not_o hence_o follow_v that_o such_o a_o assembly_n dot_v at_o least_o in_o profession_n hold_v the_o save_a faith_n &_o be_v so_o a_o true_a and_o in_o some_o good_a measure_n a_o sound_a visible_a church_n but_o the_o doctrine_n and_o ministry_n of_o our_o church_n work_v such_o effect_n and_o that_o ordinary_o as_o by_o daily_a experience_n appear_v and_o therefore_o our_o church_n be_v a_o true_a and_o in_o some_o good_a measure_n a_o sound_a visible_a church_n but_o say_v they_o answ_n it_o be_v not_o ordinary_a in_o our_o church_n but_o only_o extraordinary_a as_o it_o be_v among_o the_o papist_n i_o answer_v what_o be_v ordinary_a that_o be_v ordinary_a which_o be_v usual_o do_v and_o that_o by_o such_o mean_n as_o be_v ordain_v for_o that_o purpose_n but_o this_o be_v do_v by_o our_o doctrine_n and_o ministry_n which_o be_v the_o mean_v ordain_v to_o beget_v faith_n and_o be_v ordinary_o and_o usual_o do_v not_o now_o and_o then_o in_o one_o or_o two_o but_o it_o be_v do_v daily_o and_o many_o experiment_n confirm_v it_o as_o any_o may_v be_v a_o eye_n witness_n of_o it_o that_o live_v among_o we_o beside_o when_o a_o man_n be_v convert_v to_o god_n out_o of_o the_o office_n of_o the_o ministry_n as_o by_o conference_n disputation_n &c_n &c_n that_o they_o acknowledge_v to_o be_v ordinary_a else_o this_o be_v a_o mere_a cavil_n not_o oppose_v our_o proposition_n but_o where_o one_o be_v so_o win_v many_o be_v win_v by_o our_o ministery_n and_o therefore_o to_o deny_v this_o to_o be_v ordinary_a among_o we_o which_o oftentimes_o produce_v such_o effect_n and_o yet_o to_o allege_v the_o other_o as_o a_o ordinary_a mean_n which_o yet_o be_v but_o seldom_o so_o effectual_a be_v not_o ingenious_o nor_o sensible_o much_o less_o charitable_o do_v sure_o i_o be_o if_o that_o be_v ordinary_a then_o we_o be_v much_o more_o there_o be_v a_o especial_a promise_n to_o our_o public_a labour_n herein_o and_o therefore_o these_o reason_n consider_v it_o follow_v that_o our_o church_n be_v a_o true_a and_o a_o sound_a visible_a church_n the_o use_n be_v these_o first_o for_o instruction_n second_o diverse_o for_o reproof_n the_o use_n for_o instruction_n be_v these_o first_o be_v it_o so_o that_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v a_o true_a and_o a_o sound_a visible_a church_n then_o this_o teach_v we_o that_o lawful_o &_o safe_o it_o may_v be_v communicate_v withal_o england_n without_o dishonour_n to_o god_n or_o just_a offence_n to_o any_o of_o the_o faithful_a or_o danger_n to_o our_o own_o soul_n or_o scruple_n of_o conscience_n and_o this_o we_o must_v not_o only_o know_v but_o we_o must_v practice_v it_o all_o those_o that_o live_v within_o this_o land_n and_o so_o have_v opportunity_n to_o be_v member_n of_o our_o church_n they_o may_v and_o must_v come_v and_o join_v in_o communion_n with_o we_o and_o repair_v to_o our_o assembly_n and_o hear_v our_o minister_n and_o profess_v obedience_n to_o our_o faith_n god_n require_v this_o deut._n 12.5_o you_o shall_v seek_v the_o place_n which_o the_o lord_n thy_o god_n shall_v choose_v out_o of_o all_o your_o tribe_n to_o put_v his_o name_n there_o and_o there_o to_o dwell_v and_o thither_o thou_o shall_v come_v and_o as_o god_n command_v it_o so_o his_o child_n have_v practise_v it_o as_o david_n psal_n 26_o 5_o 6_o 8_o i_o have_v hate_v the_o assembly_n of_o the_o wicked_a i_o will_v wash_v my_o hand_n in_o innocency_n oh_o lord_n &_o compass_v thy_o altar_n oh_o lord_n i_o have_v love_v the_o habitation_n of_o thy_o house_n and_o the_o place_n where_o thy_o honour_n dwell_v and_o so_o the_o faithful_a that_o be_v new_o convert_v act._n 2.42_o continue_a in_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n and_o fellowship_n and_o break_v of_o bread_n and_o prayer_n and_o in_o the_o 47._o it_o be_v say_v the_o lord_n add_v to_o the_o church_n from_o day_n to_o day_n such_o as_o shall_v be_v save_v and_o therefore_o such_o as_o be_v not_o join_v to_o our_o church_n must_v resolve_v to_o join_v and_o those_o that_o be_v already_o join_v must_v continue_v their_o communion_n with_o she_o and_o there_o be_v also_o many_o particular_a motive_n to_o induce_v to_o it_o which_o i_o allege_v not_o as_o reason_n to_o prove_v direct_o that_o necessary_o we_o must_v join_v but_o they_o may_v serve_v only_o as_o persuasion_n to_o a_o man_n well_o affect_v and_o not_o carry_v away_o with_o prejudice_n church_n that_o he_o may_v safe_o communicate_v with_o our_o church_n first_o if_o there_o be_v no_o other_o motive_n but_o this_o it_o be_v sufficient_a we_o hold_v the_o foundation_n the_o second_o motive_n be_v this_o we_o have_v the_o whole_a doctrine_n of_o save_v faith_n teach_v among_o we_o and_o in_o some_o good_a measure_n true_o profess_v if_o any_o church_n can_v teach_v any_o one_o substantial_a article_n of_o sound_a religion_n that_o we_o profess_v not_o than_o we_o may_v more_o colourable_o be_v forsake_v but_o see_v it_o be_v not_o so_o there_o be_v no_o just_a cause_n or_o pretence_n but_o that_o they_o may_v communicate_v with_o we_o whither_o will_v they_o go_v we_o have_v the_o word_n of_o eternal_a life_n as_o peter_n say_v to_o our_o saviour_n john_n 6.68_o three_o we_o have_v a_o powerful_a ministry_n to_o exhort_v reprove_v comfort_n etc._n etc._n to_o beget_v faith_n where_o it_o be_v want_v to_o increase_v and_o confirm_v faith_n where_o it_o be_v begin_v to_o persuade_v man_n to_o holy_a obedience_n and_o to_o renounce_v their_o sin_n and_o to_o make_v restitution_n of_o wrong_n and_o to_o be_v sound_n in_o religion_n and_o to_o hunger_n and_o thirst_n after_o rightousnes_n and_o to_o be_v zealous_a for_o god_n glory_n and_o for_o all_o good_a duty_n and_o therefore_o we_o be_v â—o_o communicate_v with_o this_o church_n where_o the_o ministry_n be_v thus_o powerful_a and_o if_o we_o forsake_v she_o it_o be_v just_a with_o god_n to_o give_v we_o over_o to_o our_o former_a error_n
they_o it_o be_v a_o foolish_a doctrine_n of_o the_o papist_n that_o ignorance_n be_v the_o mother_n of_o devotion_n it_o must_v needs_o be_v a_o blind_a and_o graceless_a devotion_n in_o thâ—t_a mind_n where_o knowledge_n have_v not_o first_o enlighten_v the_o understanding_n let_v we_o now_o come_v to_o the_o four_o and_o last_o balance_n conscience_n and_o therein_o try_v our_o religion_n and_o they_o in_o these_o seven_o instance_n and_o that_o be_v the_o balance_n of_o comfort_n of_o conscience_n that_o be_v the_o true_a religion_n that_o bring_v sound_a comfort_n of_o conscience_n for_o that_o be_v the_o right_a gospel_n that_o bring_v glad_a tiding_n of_o peace_n to_o the_o afflict_a soul_n and_o agree_v direct_o with_o christ_n spiritual_a office_n isaiah_n 61.1_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v upon_o i_o therefore_o have_v the_o lord_n anoint_v i_o he_o have_v send_v i_o to_o preach_v good_a tiding_n to_o the_o poor_a to_o bind_v up_o the_o break_a heart_a &c_n &c_n and_o matth._n 11.28_o but_o the_o religion_n of_o our_o church_n bring_v sound_a comfort_n to_o the_o conscience_n and_o the_o popish_a religion_n do_v not_o so_o but_o rather_o purposely_o afflict_v man_n conscience_n then_o comfort_v they_o terrify_v they_o with_o a_o slavish_a fear_n nourish_v the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n and_o bring_v man_n back_o as_o it_o be_v to_o the_o law_n again_o therefore_o our_o religion_n be_v the_o true_a religion_n they_o be_v the_o false_a rule_n see_v this_o in_o the_o first_o instance_n weigh_v in_o this_o balance_n the_o sufficiency_n of_o the_o scripture_n set_v the_o conscience_n at_o rest_n as_o have_v all_o that_o be_v needful_a to_o be_v believe_v or_o do_v set_v plain_o before_o we_o in_o god_n book_n so_o that_o we_o need_v not_o wander_v after_o uncertainty_n and_o doubt_n but_o we_o may_v know_v what_o we_o must_v trust_v unto_o and_o the_o absolute_a command_n of_o scripture_n convince_v the_o conscience_n that_o it_o be_v well_o do_v and_o both_o together_o assure_v the_o conscience_n of_o he_o that_o endeavour_n true_o to_o frame_v himself_o thereunto_o that_o he_o be_v in_o the_o right_a way_n to_o heaven_n and_o in_o the_o certain_a state_n of_o grace_n and_o salvation_n second_o if_o all_o be_v of_o god_n free_a grace_n rule_n and_o not_o of_o man_n free_a will_n than_o we_o be_v singular_o comfort_v in_o that_o all_o our_o thought_n desire_n and_o work_n be_v not_o our_o own_o for_o than_o they_o will_v be_v loathsome_a to_o god_n who_o can_v bring_v a_o clean_a thing_n out_o of_o a_o unclean_a but_o they_o be_v god_n own_o do_n and_o they_o be_v the_o action_n of_o his_o own_o spirit_n and_o therefore_o can_v but_o be_v acceptable_a unto_o he_o three_o rule_n if_o justification_n be_v by_o faith_n alone_o without_o man_n merit_n than_o we_o have_v peace_n with_o god_n rom._n 5.1_o and_o then_o we_o have_v assurance_n of_o salvation_n be_v ground_v not_o on_o the_o sand_n of_o our_o own_o merit_n but_o on_o the_o immovable_a rock_n christ_n jesus_n and_o his_o righteousness_n and_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n and_o the_o free_a promise_n of_o mercy_n in_o he_o four_o if_o christ_n be_v our_o only_a advocate_n rule_n we_o have_v assurance_n to_o be_v hear_v john_n 16.23_o and_o 1_o john_n 5.14_o 15._o and_o rom._n 5.1_o 2._o for_o what_o can_v the_o lord_n deny_v his_o own_o son_n or_o we_o for_o his_o sake_n whereas_o if_o we_o have_v other_o advocat_n we_o know_v not_o whether_o they_o hear_v we_o yea_o of_o many_o we_o know_v not_o whether_o they_o be_v saint_n or_o no_o or_o if_o they_o do_v hear_v we_o yet_o we_o know_v not_o whether_o they_o will_v or_o can_v help_v we_o yea_o we_o have_v no_o sound_a warrant_n to_o pray_v to_o saint_n we_o know_v not_o whether_o the_o lord_n will_v be_v angry_a with_o we_o for_o such_o a_o unwarrantable_a course_n &_o so_o fare_v the_o worse_a for_o sodo_v among_o man_n rule_n five_o if_o we_o worship_v god_n in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n and_o not_o in_o image_n than_o we_o have_v assurance_n that_o we_o worship_v the_o true_a god_n and_o that_o after_o the_o true_a and_o right_a manner_n and_o this_o be_v the_o specifical_a difference_n of_o god_n religion_n from_o all_o other_o religion_n whatsoever_o whereas_o if_o we_o worship_v in_o or_o by_o a_o image_n we_o do_v still_o suspect_v whether_o we_o do_v well_o or_o no_o for_o even_o nature_n itself_o if_o it_o be_v well_o mark_v abhor_v that_o god_n shall_v be_v repute_v a_o material_a substance_n and_o therefore_o how_o can_v god_n be_v please_v rule_n that_o he_o shall_v be_v so_o resemble_v six_o if_o we_o celebrate_v the_o memorial_n of_o the_o lord_n death_n in_o our_o communion_n than_o the_o benefit_n of_o christ_n death_n be_v effectual_o settle_v to_o the_o believe_a soul_n by_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o comfort_n and_o strength_n of_o the_o bread_n and_o the_o sweetness_n and_o comfort_n of_o the_o wine_n in_o our_o stomach_n work_v a_o answerable_a correspondency_n by_o the_o thing_n signify_v rule_n to_o the_o soul_n and_o put_v we_o in_o possession_n of_o it_o last_o if_o we_o have_v the_o mean_n of_o salvation_n plain_o deliver_v unto_o we_o that_o we_o may_v see_v into_o they_o with_o our_o own_o eye_n and_o not_o dark_o as_o they_o be_v among_o the_o papist_n than_o we_o know_v what_o we_o worship_v john_n 4._o we_o walk_v in_o the_o light_n whereas_o they_o poor_a soul_n go_v on_o in_o the_o dark_a not_o know_v whither_o they_o go_v so_o we_o see_v in_o all_o these_o four_o balance_n that_o their_o religion_n be_v too_o light_a and_o we_o be_v down_o weight_n and_o so_o we_o see_v that_o they_o be_v just_o reprove_v for_o censure_v our_o church_n to_o be_v a_o false_a church_n because_o we_o have_v a_o false_a religion_n whereas_o they_o be_v the_o false_a and_o we_o be_v the_o true_a religion_n second_o it_o be_v for_o reproof_n of_o the_o separatist_n signify_v they_o be_v very_o clamorous_a and_o bitter_a against_o we_o but_o i_o purpose_v god_n willing_a brief_o to_o answer_v the_o sum_n of_o all_o their_o exception_n and_o to_o let_v all_o their_o bitter_a clamour_n alone_o their_o first_o exception_n be_v against_o the_o constitution_n of_o our_o church_n they_o say_v it_o have_v a_o false_a constitution_n and_o therefore_o be_v a_o false_a church_n but_o this_o be_v a_o false_a consequence_n and_o can_v never_o be_v prove_v there_o be_v many_o frog_n and_o mouse_n and_o other_o creature_n generate_v of_o putrefaction_n and_o yet_o be_v true_a frog_n though_o they_o be_v not_o produce_v by_o natural_a generation_n and_o he_o that_o out_o of_o the_o very_a stone_n can_v raise_v up_o child_n unto_o abraham_n be_v able_a to_o gather_v a_o church_n otherwise_o then_o by_o that_o which_o they_o call_v a_o true_a constitution_n so_o that_o the_o consequence_n be_v false_a and_o the_o antecedent_n be_v false_a too_o for_o our_o constitution_n through_o god_n mercy_n be_v true_a and_o sound_a constitution_n signify_v sometime_o the_o state_n which_o a_o thing_n be_v frame_v unto_o as_o the_o natural_a constitution_n of_o the_o body_n that_o be_v the_o state_n condition_n or_o dispensation_n which_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o nature_n it_o be_v endue_v with_o sometime_o it_o signify_v the_o act_n whereby_o it_o be_v to_o be_v frame_v as_o the_o natural_a constitution_n of_o the_o body_n that_o be_v the_o act_n of_o nature_n whereby_o it_o be_v constitute_v each_o of_o these_o be_v in_o the_o church_n as_o be_v a_o body_n in_o a_o borrow_a sense_n and_o the_o constitution_n of_o we_o be_v true_a in_o the_o first_o sense_n we_o have_v the_o word_n sacrament_n ministry_n and_o government_n and_o people_n profess_v the_o true_a religion_n and_o obedience_n thereunto_o and_o therefore_o what_o need_v we_o to_o inquire_v into_o the_o act_n whereby_o we_o be_v so_o constitute_v as_o thereby_o to_o disprove_v the_o truth_n of_o our_o church_n as_o for_o example_n when_o i_o come_v into_o a_o strange_a place_n that_o have_v the_o name_n of_o a_o city_n and_o there_o i_o see_v people_n corporation_n civil_a assembly_n law_n and_o order_n and_o a_o general_a profession_n of_o obedience_n thereunto_o shall_v not_o i_o hold_v that_o a_o true_a city_n though_o i_o know_v not_o how_o it_o be_v found_v and_o gather_v but_o if_o it_o be_v necessary_a to_o be_v inquire_v into_o in_o the_o second_o sense_n the_o constitution_n of_o our_o church_n be_v true_a and_o good_a in_o that_o sense_n also_o man_n be_v true_o call_v and_o gather_v among_o we_o by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n but_o say_v they_o they_o be_v not_o so_o gather_v at_o the_o first_o i_o answer_v first_o if_o they_o be_v not_o it_o be_v no_o prejudice_n to_o we_o we_o be_v so_o now_o
have_v from_o they_o yet_o it_o be_v before_o anti-christ_n there_o be_v many_o speech_n in_o the_o father_n of_o it_o but_o we_o retain_v it_o not_o as_o the_o papist_n do_v idolatrous_o no_o the_o imposer_n protest_v against_o that_o but_o for_o a_o ancient_a custom_n and_o that_o we_o may_v see_v they_o retain_v it_o not_o for_o superstition_n they_o have_v turn_v it_o out_o of_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n for_o it_o be_v use_v in_o that_o sacrament_n too_o so_o that_o though_o it_o be_v retrayn_v in_o the_o church_n yet_o not_o as_o a_o idolatrous_a or_o superstitious_a ceremony_n four_o they_o except_v against_o our_o ministry_n answer_v and_o say_v that_o we_o have_v a_o false_a ministry_n and_o therefore_o a_o false_a church_n i_o answer_v our_o ministry_n be_v a_o true_a ministry_n and_o justifiable_a if_o we_o look_v into_o all_o part_n of_o it_o we_o will_v justify_v it_o against_o they_o better_o than_o they_o can_v justify_v they_o against_o we_o but_o say_v they_o your_o ordination_n whence_o have_v you_o it_o but_o from_o the_o pope_n i_o answer_v first_o either_o it_o be_v extraordinary_a in_o luther_n and_o other_o and_o so_o they_o be_v thus_o call_v may_v ordain_v other_o or_o second_o else_o it_o be_v ordinary_a from_o the_o popish_a church_n as_o the_o sacrament_n of_o baptism_n be_v true_a among_o they_o and_o so_o acknowledge_v by_o the_o separatist_n so_o be_v ordination_n they_o hold_v that_o those_o that_o be_v baptize_v among_o they_o be_v lawful_o baptize_v and_o by_o the_o same_o reason_n we_o hold_v that_o they_o which_o be_v ordain_v minister_n among_o they_o have_v a_o lawful_a ordination_n then_o for_o their_o gift_n let_v any_o church_n show_v better_a gift_n than_o it_o have_v please_v god_n to_o bestow_v on_o our_o minister_n then_o look_v into_o the_o exercise_n of_o their_o gift_n it_o be_v true_a that_o we_o have_v many_o idle_a back_n and_o slow_a belly_n that_o will_v not_o labour_v but_o that_o be_v their_o personal_a fault_n but_o we_o have_v many_o public_a exercise_n and_o many_o minister_n that_o be_v extraordinary_a painful_a in_o preach_v read_v visit_v the_o sick_a etc._n etc._n last_o look_v into_o the_o effect_n of_o our_o ministry_n and_o we_o can_v show_v the_o scale_n of_o our_o ministry_n in_o many_o that_o be_v call_v and_o that_o ordinary_o by_o our_o public_a ministry_n and_o therefore_o our_o ordination_n be_v good_a answer_v last_o they_o except_v that_o we_o have_v a_o false_a people_n and_o therefore_o a_o false_a church_n they_o say_v our_o people_n be_v profane_o gather_v and_o live_v profane_o in_o our_o church_n for_o their_o gather_n i_o have_v answer_v before_o for_o their_o live_n profane_o i_o answer_v that_o do_v not_o make_v a_o false_a church_n i_o have_v show_v that_o there_o be_v more_o hypocrite_n in_o the_o church_n then_o true_a believer_n yea_o but_o say_v they_o these_o be_v open_o wicked_a and_o yet_o be_v admit_v into_o your_o church_n and_o to_o your_o sacrament_n i_o answer_v though_o they_o be_v wicked_a in_o their_o life_n yet_o they_o be_v not_o so_o in_o their_o profession_n and_o therefore_o there_o be_v no_o fault_n in_o we_o if_o upon_o their_o profession_n of_o repentance_n and_o obedience_n we_o admit_v they_o to_o the_o sacrament_n the_o fault_n be_v that_o they_o be_v not_o cast_v out_o for_o their_o open_a notorious_a sin_n by_o they_o that_o have_v authority_n and_o not_o that_o upon_o profession_n of_o repentance_n they_o be_v admit_v to_o the_o sacrament_n so_o that_o we_o see_v that_o all_o that_o they_o can_v except_v against_o we_o be_v for_o petty_a matter_n or_o else_o they_o be_v personal_a fault_n and_o therefore_o not_o to_o be_v charge_v upon_o the_o whole_a church_n for_o there_o be_v none_o of_o these_o fault_n but_o may_v be_v redress_v and_o by_o this_o government_n which_o be_v in_o our_o church_n if_o they_o be_v not_o it_o be_v man_n personal_a sin_n for_o by_o law_n there_o shall_v be_v a_o learned_a ministry_n and_o that_o those_o which_o sin_n open_o shall_v be_v cast_v out_o of_o the_o church_n &c_n &c_n and_o therefore_o let_v not_o this_o be_v charge_v on_o our_o church_n we_o have_v many_o abuse_n in_o our_o church_n as_o well_o as_o in_o other_o church_n and_o we_o be_v to_o entreat_v god_n to_o sweep_v they_o out_o but_o yet_o we_o be_v not_o thereupon_o to_o be_v condemn_v for_o a_o false_a church_n thus_o you_o see_v that_o our_o note_n stand_v true_a against_o all_o the_o exception_n both_o of_o the_o papist_n and_o the_o separatist_n namely_o that_o the_o church_n of_o england_n even_o as_o now_o it_o stand_v be_v through_o god_n mercy_n not_o only_o a_o true_a but_o a_o sound_a visible_a church_n finis_fw-la matth._n 28._o ruth_n 3.11_o first_o the_o order_n of_o the_o question_n be_v natural_a first_o in_o respect_n of_o god_n in_o the_o first_o question_n â—econdly_o in_o reâ—ect_n of_o christ_n three_o in_o respect_n of_o all_o the_o three_o question_n together_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o question_n be_v of_o great_a importance_n first_o for_o direction_n second_o for_o the_o confirmation_n of_o our_o faith_n three_o for_o the_o confute_v of_o adversary_n four_o for_o consolation_n the_o ignorance_n and_o mistake_n of_o the_o true_a church_n be_v exceed_o dangerous_a in_o four_o respect_n four_o general_a point_n concern_v the_o church_n 1._o the_o name_n vide_fw-la field_n lib._n 1._o p._n 12._o 15._o 16._o musculus_fw-la 555._o bullinger_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d intend_v three_o thing_n four_o division_n of_o calling_n first_o general_a and_o particular_a second_o extraordinary_a and_o ordinary_a three_o outward_a and_o inâ—ard_o four_o effectual_a and_o not_o effectual_a call_v not_o effectual_a five_o way_n the_o second_o general_a thing_n concern_v the_o church_n be_v the_o title_n many_o title_n give_v she_o for_o three_o reason_n the_o title_n be_v of_o two_o sort_n first_o absolute_a without_o reference_n to_o any_o thing_n else_o first_o a_o garden_n second_o a_o spring_n or_o fountain_n three_o a_o choose_a generation_n a_o royal_a priesthood_n a_o holy_a nation_n a_o peculiar_a people_n set_v at_o liberty_n two_o sort_n of_o title_n which_o concern_v the_o church_n be_v respective_a as_o it_o have_v reference_n to_o some_o other_o thing_n else_o and_o these_o be_v of_o five_o sort_n first_o such_o as_o be_v give_v to_o the_o church_n in_o respect_n of_o god_n and_o they_o be_v first_o god_n mountain_n second_o the_o city_n of_o god_n three_o the_o house_n of_o god_n four_o the_o temple_n of_o god_n five_o the_o people_n of_o god_n second_o such_o as_o have_v reference_n to_o christ_n and_o they_o be_v first_o his_o love_n second_o his_o sister_n three_o the_o spouse_n of_o christ_n four_o a_o queen_n five_o his_o sheep_n six_o his_o body_n seven_o my_o belove_a be_v i_o and_o i_o be_o he_o eight_o christ_n three_o such_o as_o be_v give_v with_o reference_n to_o the_o faithful_a and_o these_o be_v first_o the_o tower_n of_o the_o flock_n second_o the_o mother_n of_o we_o all_o four_o such_o as_o be_v give_v with_o reference_n to_o the_o world_n in_o general_n and_o these_o â—râ—_n first_o thâ—_n substance_n of_o the_o world_n second_o the_o joy_n of_o the_o whole_a earth_n three_o a_o lily_n among_o thorn_n five_o be_v such_o as_o have_v reference_n to_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n and_o these_o be_v first_o the_o pillar_n and_o ground_n of_o truth_n second_o a_o candlestick_n the_o church_n of_o god_n shadow_v in_o the_o law_n by_o the_o sanctuary_n or_o tabernacle_n in_o eight_o thing_n vide_fw-la piscat_fw-la in_o exo._n 25._o the_o glory_n of_o the_o church_n in_o four_o thing_n first_o in_o the_o profession_n second_o in_o her_o practice_n three_o in_o her_o order_n four_o in_o her_o unity_n the_o three_o general_a thing_n concern_v the_o church_n be_v the_o nature_n of_o it_o with_fw-mi reynolds_n thes_n p_o 642._o and_o rhem._n vesâ—â—m_n 1._o tim._n 3_o 10._o thâ—_n nature_n of_o the_o church_n describe_v by_o three_o thing_n first_o by_o the_o efficient_a cause_n second_o by_o their_o number_n three_o by_o the_o place_n where_o they_o be_v the_o holy_a angel_n be_v part_n of_o the_o true_a châ—_n prove_v and_o 〈…〉_z doctrine_n that_o christ_n be_v mediator_n for_o the_o angel_n and_o how_o the_o angel_n fall_v be_v personal_a the_o angel_n have_v their_o part_n in_o christ_n mediation_n in_o four_o thing_n in_o respect_n of_o thing_n do_v to_o we_o which_o redound_v to_o they_o and_o in_o diverse_a thing_n do_v more_o direct_o to_o themselves_o that_o part_n of_o god_n church_n and_o choose_a which_o consist_v of_o man_n and_o they_o be_v partly_o in_o heaven_n partly_o in_o earth_n first_o those_o that_o be_v in_o heaven_n second_o those_o which_o be_v in_o earth_n hyper._n
what_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v warrant_v warrant_n for_o the_o caution_n condition_n and_o carriage_n of_o the_o business_n be_v first_o more_o principal_a second_o inferior_a warrant_n second_o head_n and_o in_o it_o five_o rule_n the_o second_o rule_n that_o be_v uncomely_a in_o one_o place_n which_o be_v decent_a in_o another_o what_o be_v to_o be_v repute_v decent_a order_n extend_v itself_o to_o two_o thing_n first_o to_o thing_n to_o be_v do_v second_o to_o person_n the_o three_o rule_n three_o way_n how_o peace_n be_v endanger_v the_o four_o rule_n three_o way_n how_o this_o rule_n be_v break_v the_o five_o rule_n the_o three_o head_n and_o that_o be_v the_o end_n and_o there_o be_v two_o kind_n of_o they_o two_o grace_n necessary_a for_o this_o first_o wisdom_n second_o love_n when_o this_o rule_n be_v swerve_v from_o instance_n in_o divers_a duty_n proof_n be_v here_o use_v because_o omit_v before_o the_o six_o general_a thing_n concern_v the_o church_n viz._n the_o privilege_n of_o it_o in_o this_o head_n two_o point_n handle_v 1_o handle_v by_o way_n of_o observation_n reason_n 2_o thing_n handle_v viz._n the_o privilege_n of_o church_n and_o they_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n 1_o humane_a 2_o diâ—r_n these_o â—uers_a sort_n general_o of_o two_o sort_n 1._o in_o respect_n of_o other_o both_o friend_n and_o enemy_n 2._o in_o respect_n of_o themselves_o 1_o temporal_a privilege_n 2._o spiritual_a privilege_n thesis_n of_o two_o sort_n 1_o common_a to_o all_o the_o member_n 2._o proper_a to_o the_o true_a believer_n and_o these_o of_o two_o sort_n 1._o matter_n of_o present_a possession_n of_o diverse_a kind_n 4_o the_o work_v god_n do_v for_o the_o faithful_a 2._o matter_n of_o future_a certainty_n 2._o other_o special_a privilege_n add_v and_o entreat_v on_o 1._o concern_v the_o infallibe_n guidance_n of_o the_o church_n by_o god_n spirit_n and_o so_o whether_o the_o church_n can_v err_v or_o no_o either_o in_o manner_n or_o in_o doctrine_n or_o in_o both_o or_o in_o neither_o error_n of_o four_o sort_n 1._o what_o a_o fundamental_a error_n be_v error_n in_o small_a matter_n what_o they_o be_v difference_n btwâ—eene_v they_o that_o err_v in_o the_o foundation_n and_o they_o that_o err_v in_o small_a matter_n the_o second_o thing_n be_v concern_v the_o necessity_n of_o be_v a_o member_n of_o the_o church_n if_o ever_o we_o will_v attain_v salvation_n and_o so_o whether_o any_o may_v be_v save_v out_o of_o the_o church_n or_o no._n extra_n fidem_fw-la ecclesiae_fw-la morn_n 451._o the_o seven_o general_a head_n in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o church_n viz._n the_o adversary_n and_o opposite_n of_o it_o this_o handle_v in_o 5._o point_n â—_o thâ—_n 〈…〉_z that_o the_o church_n of_o god_n have_v many_o adversary_n to_o oppose_v it_o deliver_v in_o a_o doctrine_n stiâ—ting_v up_o to_o many_o duty_n the_o second_o point_n what_o these_o adversary_n be_v and_o they_o be_v many_o 2._o sort_n 3._o sort_n 4._o sort_n 5._o sort_n 6._o sort_n 7._o sort_n 8._o sort_n 9_o sort_n 10._o sort_n 11._o sort_n 12._o sort_n use_v 3_o the_o three_o point_n which_o be_v how_o these_o adversary_n oppose_v us._n the_o matter_n they_o strike_v at_o 1_o against_o the_o person_n of_o professor_n 2_o against_o their_o profession_n the_o manner_n of_o their_o opposition_n â—_o secret_o 2._o open_v 3._o the_o mean_n or_o weapon_n whereby_o they_o fight_v against_o god_n child_n 1_o carnal_a reason_n and_o therein_o 2._o religious_a pretence_n and_o herein_o 1._o scripture_n 2._o that_o they_o be_v the_o church_n 3._o miracle_n 3._o more_o gross_a deal_n the_o 4._o point_n how_o the_o church_n be_v to_o carry_v herself_o to_o her_o adversary_n 2._o thing_n to_o be_v do_v that_o we_o may_v be_v able_a to_o make_v a_o good_a fight_n what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v in_o it_o and_o therein_o 2._o thing_n the_o 2_o work_n to_o be_v do_v 2_o thing_n how_o it_o be_v to_o be_v do_v the_o 5_o point_n how_o the_o lord_n carry_v himself_o to_o his_o church_n and_o their_o adversary_n how_o god_n be_v with_o the_o say_v full_a in_o many_o respect_n how_o god_n be_v against_o the_o enemy_n his_o church_n many_o way_n use_v 2._o the_o 8._o general_a head_n of_o the_o church_n viz._n the_o power_n and_o auhority_n of_o it_o and_o in_o it_o 3._o thing_n to_o be_v speak_v unto_o 1._o that_o there_o be_v a_o power_n 2._o point_n what_o manner_n of_o power_n it_o be_v and_o in_o it_o thing_n assert_v 1_o that_o it_o be_v not_o humane_a but_o divine_a how_o we_o may_v know_v when_o the_o church_n speak_v true_a or_o false_a two_o thing_n assert_v that_o power_n of_o the_o church_n be_v not_o temporal_a but_o spiritual_a the_o 3._o thing_n assert_v that_o the_o power_n of_o the_o church_n be_v limit_v and_o scantle_v within_o the_o bound_n of_o the_o word_n the_o 4._o thing_n assert_v that_o the_o power_n of_o the_o church_n be_v the_o great_a power_n on_o earth_n king_n be_v under_o the_o power_n of_o the_o church_n though_o they_o be_v above_o the_o person_n that_o exercise_v it_o the_o 3_o point_n be_v what_o it_o be_v that_o the_o church_n have_v power_n in_o &_o it_o be_v double_a 1._o over_o person_n and_o that_o 1_o either_o as_o member_n either_o not_o come_v in_o to_o admit_v who_o be_v to_o be_v admit_v the_o act_n and_o mean_n of_o admission_n this_n not_o to_o be_v renew_a upon_o any_o fall_n away_o how_o far_o the_o magistrate_n may_v compel_v or_o to_o repel_v they_o or_o second_o as_o come_v in_o to_o keep_v they_o in_o or_o cast_v they_o out_o or_o three_o over_o member_n as_o officer_n to_o choose_v or_o refuse_v place_n or_o displace_v second_o the_o church_n have_v power_n over_o thing_n and_o these_o either_o matter_n of_o substance_n as_o touch_v the_o scripture_n and_o therein_o first_o touch_v the_o credit_n of_o the_o scripture_n and_o herein_o whether_o the_o authority_n of_o church_n be_v great_a than_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o spripture_n bellarmy_a de_fw-fr verbo_fw-la dei_fw-la interpret_v 246._o the_o blasphemous_a speech_n of_o the_o papist_n concern_v the_o scripture_n without_o the_o approbation_n of_o the_o church_n the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v that_o whore_n of_o babylon_n the_o best_a position_n of_o the_o papist_n in_o this_o controversy_n answer_v how_o the_o church_n be_v to_o be_v believe_v and_o obey_v answer_v reason_n against_o it_o reply_n how_o we_o must_v esteem_v of_o the_o scripture_n how_o we_o must_v esteem_v of_o the_o church_n 4._o way_n how_o we_o may_v know_v the_o scripture_n to_o be_v the_o scripture_n 6_o rule_n concern_v our_o believe_v what_o the_o church_n say_v of_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o scripture_n the_o second_o thing_n the_o church_n have_v power_n in_o about_o the_o scripture_n be_v thâ—_n sense_n of_o it_o and_o how_o far_o it_o have_v power_n therein_o hieron_n in_o epist_n ad_fw-la gelat_fw-la cap._n 1._o reprove_v first_o the_o opinion_n of_o the_o papist_n the_o scripture_n speak_v and_o have_v a_o voice_n how_o the_o church_n be_v the_o mouth_n of_o the_o scripture_n the_o scripture_n not_o dumb_a second_o their_o practice_n first_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o vulgar_a latin_a translation_n impose_v by_o they_o as_o the_o authentical_a text._n second_o in_o that_o all_o their_o expositor_n be_v slave_n and_o vassal_n to_o their_o church_n three_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o oath_n which_o general_o all_o papist_n recrue_v concern_v the_o exposition_n of_o the_o scripture_n the_o father_n do_v all_o general_o concur_v and_o yet_o miss_v in_o the_o right_n expound_v of_o the_o scripture_n four_o in_o that_o they_o rely_v upon_o the_o judgement_n of_o counsel_n and_o the_o popeâ—_n in_o case_n the_o church_n dissent_n first_o other_o man_n and_o the_o church_n exposition_n be_v to_o be_v examine_v by_o us._n ob._n answer_n 1._o rectract_n lib._n cap._n 18._o second_o in_o frame_v exposition_n of_o our_o own_o we_o must_v come_v not_o as_o master_n to_o teach_v but_o as_o scholar_n to_o learn_v to_o the_o scripture_n direction_n to_o walk_v and_o be_v rule_v by_o when_o we_o seek_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o scripture_n &_o they_o be_v of_o three_o sort_n 1_o some_o before_o we_o come_v to_o expound_v the_o scripture_n &_o they_o be_v 7._o thing_n to_o be_v observe_v in_o the_o business_n itself_o how_o we_o may_v consulie_o with_o god_n spirit_n what_o be_v the_o analogy_n of_o faith_n thing_n to_o be_v dove_n after_o diverse_a objection_n against_o this_o doctrine_n ob._n 2._o ob_fw-la 5._o of_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n in_o matter_n beside_o the_o scripture_n and_o what_o be_v to_o be_v hold_v therein_o the_o place_n that_o prove_v this_o be_v of_o four_o sort_n first_o such_o as_o ascribe_v thâ—s_a authority_n to_o god_n alone_o second_o such_o as_o commend_v
unto_o we_o the_o sufficiency_n script_n three_o such_o as_o forbid_v any_o addition_n to_o or_o detraction_n from_o the_o scripture_n four_o such_o as_o condemn_v all_o doctrine_n teach_v either_o without_o or_o beside_o the_o scripture_n rhemist_n 15_o act_n â—_o the_o papist_n say_v the_o church_n may_v coin_v new_a article_n of_o faith_n what_o authority_n the_o church_n have_v about_o article_n of_o faith_n hyper_n 6â—_n hyper_n 54._o second_o that_o the_o church_n make_v any_o book_n to_o be_v canonical_a scripture_n which_o the_o papist_n hold_v this_o confute_v by_o diverse_a reason_n three_o that_o the_o church_n have_v power_n to_o devise_v add_v diminish_v or_o alter_v any_o part_n of_o god_n worship_n which_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n have_v do_v prove_v by_o diverse_a thing_n four_o concern_v custom_n the_o father_n judgement_n concern_v custom_n five_o concern_v tradition_n how_o and_o in_o what_o sense_n tradition_n be_v to_o be_v receive_v answer_n to_o the_o popish_a tenant_n concern_v traditition_n answer_n 1._o ob._n answer_v wherein_o be_v show_v that_o the_o baptism_n of_o infant_n the_o change_n of_o the_o sabbath_n and_o that_o so_o many_o book_n be_v canonical_a scripture_n and_o be_v not_o have_v by_o tradition_n but_o prove_v by_o good_a consequence_n out_o of_o the_o scripture_n answ_n 2._o answ_n 3._o their_o proof_n out_o of_o 2_o thes_n 2.15_o answe_n answ_n 4._o the_o scripture_n the_o so_o only_o rule_v of_o say_v acknowledge_v to_o be_v by_o all_o church_n general_o second_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o only_a trial_n of_o every_o truth_n how_o every_o matter_n of_o substance_n be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o the_o scripture_n concern_v church_n power_n in_o matter_n of_o circumstance_n and_o they_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n one_o of_o miracle_n and_o what_o be_v to_o be_v hold_v concern_v the_o same_o second_o of_o discipline_n and_o this_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n either_o matter_n of_o discipline_n which_o be_v speak_v of_o before_o or_o second_o matter_n of_o ceremony_n and_o what_o the_o church_n have_v power_n to_o do_v therein_o the_o bound_n the_o church_n be_v to_o keep_v in_o ordain_v matter_n of_o ceremony_n 1._o 2._o use_v 2._o 1._o the_o nine_o general_a point_n concern_v the_o church_n viz._n the_o application_n of_o all_o that_o have_v be_v speak_v to_o all_o visible_a church_n in_o christendom_n that_o i_o know_v of_o the_o general_a division_n of_o all_o church_n that_o have_v be_v or_o be_v since_o our_o saviour_n time_n into_o eastern_a and_o westenrne_a and_o this_o according_a to_o their_o situation_n second_o according_a to_o their_o language_n and_o so_o some_o be_v greek_n and_o some_o latin_a church_n whether_o schismatical_a or_o heretical_a church_n may_v be_v account_v true_a visible_a church_n what_o a_o schismatic_a church_n be_v heretical_a church_n first_o what_o they_o be_v and_o when_o any_o particular_a man_n be_v to_o be_v repute_v a_o heretic_n heresy_n of_o 2._o sort_n first_o such_o as_o overthrow_v the_o foundation_n what_o this_o fundation_n be_v resol_n those_o that_o deny_v direct_o this_o foundation_n or_o any_o part_n thereof_o cease_v to_o be_v christian_n and_o be_v no_o more_o visible_a churcher_n the_o greek_a church_n be_v here_o speak_v of_o and_o what_o wear_v to_o think_v of_o they_o 1._o of_o the_o greek_a church_n general_o disperse_v in_o most_o at_o the_o eastern_a part_n of_o the_o world_n ortelius_n 100_o ortelius_n 97._o 98._o 108._o second_o the_o greek_a church_n which_o be_v more_o particular_o and_o proper_o so_o call_v and_o what_o we_o be_v to_o hold_v of_o they_o deliver_v in_o a_o observation_n doct._n the_o main_n error_n of_o the_o greek_a church_n the_o greek_a church_n better_a than_o the_o popish-church_n the_o papist_n unchatarible_v censure_v the_o greek_a church_n answer_v the_o greek_a church_n not_o guilty_a of_o schism_n from_o rome_n the_o greek_a church_n never_o subject_a to_o the_o roman_a church_n one_o note_n of_o the_o church_n as_o the_o papist_n account_v it_o be_v find_v in_o the_o greek_a church_n viz_o succession_n of_o bishop_n the_o goodness_n of_o god_n in_o perserue_v of_o his_o church_n see_v in_o the_o greek_a church_n under_o the_o turk_n the_o misery_n of_o the_o greek_a church_n under_o the_o turk_n in_o many_o particular_n in_o regard_n of_o their_o persecution_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o religion_n of_o the_o turk_n the_o religion_n of_o the_o turk_n 1._o a_o pestilent_a religion_n direct_o opposite_a to_o christ_n 2._o it_o overspread_v a_o great_a part_n of_o the_o know_a world_n 3._o it_o be_v a_o please_a religion_n for_o what_o it_o be_v that_o the_o lord_n suffer_v such_o famous_a church_n to_o come_v to_o ruin_v apply_v to_o us._n the_o western_a church_n and_o first_o of_o those_o that_o acknowledge_v the_o pope_n their_o head_n as_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o those_o that_o hold_v with_o she_o and_o what_o maâ—_n be_v say_v and_o hold_v of_o she_o deliver_v in_o two_o observation_n the_o church_n of_o rome_n as_o now_o it_o stand_v may_v in_o some_o sense_n be_v repute_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n a_o difference_n between_o the_o papacy_n or_o the_o popish_a â—action_n and_o some_o better_a spirit_n among_o they_o in_o regard_n of_o who_o the_o whole_a may_v be_v call_v a_o true_a church_n the_o popish_a church_n do_v not_o direct_o deny_v any_o part_n of_o the_o fundation_n but_o in_o outward_a show_n of_o word_n affirm_v it_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n have_v be_v a_o true_a church_n the_o papist_n by_o their_o doctrine_n of_o justification_n by_o work_n must_v overthrow_v the_o foundation_n they_o by_o this_o over_o throw_v christ_n not_o direct_o but_o by_o consequence_n quest_n answ_n it_o be_v not_o so_o great_a a_o sin_n to_o deny_v christ_n direct_o as_o by_o consequence_n yet_o he_o that_o do_v this_o deserve_v to_o be_v cut_v off_o from_o god_n mercy_n the_o church_n of_o rome_n compare_v with_o the_o church_n of_o israel_n 2._o with_o the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n in_o our_o saviour_n time_n with_o the_o church_n of_o galatia_n circumcision_n do_v as_o near_o by_o consequence_n cut_v off_o from_o christ_n as_o justification_n by_o work_n with_o the_o of_o church_n sardis_n baptism_n a_o true_a sacrament_n in_o rome_n and_o right_o administer_v there_o for_o the_o substance_n of_o it_o those_o that_o be_v baptize_v in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v lawful_o baptize_v ob_fw-la 1._o answ_n ob._n 2._o answ_n the_o ordinati_fw-la of_o our_o minister_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o yet_o a_o lawful_a ordination_n the_o question_n where_o the_o church_n be_v before_o luther_n time_n answer_v the_o inconvenience_n prevent_v by_o acknowledge_v that_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n may_v be_v account_v a_o true_a church_n what_o to_o think_v of_o our_o father_n that_o live_v in_o the_o popish_a church_n they_o of_o the_o popish_a church_n be_v to_o â—e_v â—udâ—ed_v rather_o misbeliever_n than_o unbeliever_n the_o 2._o observation_n wherein_o be_v further_o delire_v what_o may_v be_v say_v and_o hold_v further_o of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n the_o church_n of_o rome_n so_o corrupt_v that_o it_o be_v not_o lawful_a to_o join_v with_o she_o this_o that_o be_v speak_v against_o thou_o be_v in_o respect_n of_o the_o pope_n and_o popish_a factor_n corruption_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n reduce_v to_o 2._o sort_n 1._o matter_n of_o doctrine_n reduce_v to_o 1._o part_n of_o the_o doctrine_n four_o head_n 1_o concern_v scripture_n and_o their_o error_n therein_o three_o thing_n 1_o deny_v the_o sufficiency_n of_o the_o scripture_n 2_o pervert_v the_o truth_n of_o the_o scripture_n 3_o disannul_v the_o authority_n and_o credit_n of_o the_o scripture_n many_o way_n 1_o teach_v the_o apocryphal_a book_n to_o be_v canonical_a scripture_n second_o equal_v tradition_n of_o man_n with_o the_o write_a word_n of_o god_n three_o prefer_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n above_o the_o scripture_n two_o head_n wherein_o they_o orre_v in_o matter_n of_o doctrine_n viz_o concern_v the_o direct_a office_n of_o the_o mediator_n the_o papist_n say_v there_o be_v many_o mediator_n betwixt_o god_n and_o man_n the_o distinction_n of_o mediator_n of_o intercession_n and_o redemption_n answer_v two_o thing_n in_o a_o mediator_n to_o be_v mediator_n of_o intercession_n be_v peculiar_a to_o christ_n as_o well_o as_o to_o be_v mediator_n of_o redemption_n the_o popish_a shâ—ft_n off_o pray_v to_o the_o saint_n not_o as_o helper_n but_o as_o intercessor_n answer_v the_o popish_a reason_n for_o pray_v to_o the_o saint_n depart_v draw_v from_o our_o desire_v the_o saint_n on_o earth_n to_o pray_v for_o we_o answer_v the_o three_o head_n wherein_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n err_v in_o doctrine_n and_o that_o be_v concern_v image_n the_o church_n of_o rome_n a_o abominable_a whore_n deserve_v
on_o earth_n for_o the_o reas_n 4_o world_n sake_n that_o must_v stand_v till_o the_o appoint_a time_n of_o dissolution_n but_o it_o can_v stand_v long_o than_o the_o faithful_a be_v in_o it_o for_o who_o sake_n only_o it_o be_v uphold_v for_o the_o holy_a seed_n be_v the_o substance_n of_o the_o world_n as_o i_o show_v isa_n 6.13_o and_o therefore_o so_o long_o as_o the_o world_n stand_v they_o can_v be_v utter_o destroy_v five_o the_o church_n on_o earth_n be_v the_o nursery_n for_o heaven_n reas_n 5_o now_o in_o heaven_n be_v many_o mansion_n to_o be_v fill_v up_o every_o day_n therefore_o there_o must_v be_v a_o continual_a supply_n from_o the_o nursery_n on_o earth_n six_o there_o must_v be_v a_o continual_a war_n betwixt_o the_o reas_n 6_o seed_n of_o the_o serpent_n and_o the_o seed_n of_o the_o woman_n gen._n 3.15_o betwixt_o the_o wicked_a and_o the_o godly_a therefore_o as_o the_o wicked_a seed_n of_o the_o serpent_n and_o the_o seed_n of_o the_o woman_n gen._n 3.15_o betwixt_o the_o wicked_a and_o the_o godly_a therefore_o as_o the_o wicked_a the_o serpent_n seed_n shall_v be_v always_o on_o earth_n so_o likewise_o the_o faithful_a the_o woman_n seed_n shall_v be_v always_o on_o earth_n too_o use_v 1_o the_o use_n first_o this_o show_v the_o antiquity_n of_o the_o church_n that_o it_o have_v be_v from_o the_o beginning_n truth_n be_v elder_a than_o falsehood_n righteousness_n be_v before_o sin_n god_n church_n be_v ancient_a than_o all_o profane_a assembly_n whatsoever_o cain_n be_v ancient_a be_v of_o the_o malignant_a church_n but_o his_o parent_n the_o church_n in_o paradise_n be_v ancient_a eve_n and_o adam_n hearken_v to_o the_o voice_n of_o the_o serpent_n and_o so_o commit_v sin_n soon_o after_o the_o creation_n yet_o there_o be_v a_o time_n before_o their_o fall_n when_o they_o believe_v and_o rest_v on_o god_n and_o his_o word_n and_o be_v righteous_a the_o devil_n be_v a_o liar_n from_o the_o beginning_n yet_o god_n truth_n be_v in_o the_o begin_n before_o that_o â—ie_v else_o it_o can_v not_o have_v be_v pervert_v with_o his_o lye_n this_o serve_v first_o to_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o all_o gainsayer_n and_o adversary_n of_o god_n church_n that_o charge_v we_o with_o novelty_n to_o be_v a_o new_a sect_n and_o challenge_v antiquity_n to_o themselves_o that_o they_o be_v the_o ancient_a and_o true_a church_n which_o be_v both_o lie_v for_o they_o be_v the_o novellist_n not_o we_o we_o be_v from_o the_o beginning_n before_o they_o have_v any_o be_v so_o that_o we_o be_v more_o ancient_a than_o they_o and_o their_o religion_n be_v novelty_n and_o a_o new_a sect._n second_o it_o may_v serve_v to_o confirm_v we_o in_o the_o undoubted_a assurance_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o of_o that_o faith_n and_o religion_n which_o we_o profess_v that_o which_o be_v most_o ancient_a be_v most_o true_a as_o be_v immediate_o and_o original_o from_o the_o pure_a fountain_n the_o pure_a hand_n of_o god_n himself_o who_o be_v the_o ancient_a of_o day_n and_o contrary_o all_o religion_n which_o be_v less_o ancient_a be_v from_o some_o corrupt_a channel_n degenerate_a from_o the_o original_a sincerity_n now_o our_o religion_n which_o we_o profess_v be_v most_o ancient_a and_o most_o pure_a and_o therefore_o let_v all_o contrary_a doctrine_n and_o religion_n hide_v their_o head_n and_o be_v ashamed_a of_o themselves_o and_o yield_v the_o pre-eminence_n of_o pure_a truth_n to_o our_o religion_n that_o be_v most_o true_a and_o right_o ancient_a use_v 2_o second_o as_o this_o show_v the_o antiquity_n of_o the_o church_n so_o likewise_o it_o prove_v the_o perpetuity_n of_o it_o as_o it_o be_v from_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o world_n so_o it_o shall_v continue_v by_o succession_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n as_o it_o be_v before_o all_o other_o congregation_n so_o it_o shall_v see_v the_o rise_n and_o fall_v of_o all_o other_o congregation_n but_o itself_o shall_v continue_v one_o and_o the_o same_o by_o a_o continual_a succession_n where_o the_o father_n be_v go_v there_o child_n shall_v stand_v up_o in_o their_o stead_n and_o so_o child_n child_n to_o the_o world_n end_n there_o shall_v be_v many_o change_n and_o alteration_n from_o time_n to_o time_n yet_o still_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o church_n in_o all_o these_o change_n if_o the_o church_n fail_v in_o paradise_n it_o shall_v be_v find_v out_o of_o paradise_n if_o israel_n fall_v away_o yet_o judah_n shall_v stand_v if_o the_o jew_n be_v cast_v off_o yet_o the_o gentile_n shall_v be_v take_v in_o though_o popery_n turkism_n and_o judaism_n and_o paganism_n abound_v and_o fill_v the_o world_n and_o be_v up_o in_o arm_n against_o the_o church_n yet_o there_o be_v some_o corner_n in_o the_o world_n that_o god_n have_v reserve_v to_o shelter_v his_o church_n in_o wherein_o they_o shall_v be_v preserve_v both_o from_o their_o persecution_n and_o infection_n the_o three_o use_n be_v matter_n of_o comfort_n to_o the_o faithful_a use_v 3_o first_o in_o regard_n of_o themselves_o for_o they_o be_v the_o only_a people_n of_o continuance_n that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n they_o only_o be_v sure_a of_o their_o estate_n and_o none_o else_o it_o be_v true_a that_o the_o wicked_a may_v flourish_v a_o long_a time_n in_o great_a prosperity_n like_a to_o a_o green_a bay_a tree_n but_o in_o time_n and_o sometime_o very_o quick_o they_o shall_v vanish_v away_o like_a smoke_n and_o consume_v as_o the_o fat_a of_o lamb_n and_o nothing_o shall_v remain_v of_o they_o but_o the_o faithful_a shall_v stand_v fast_o for_o ever_o psal_n 102.28_o they_o may_v be_v afflict_v persecute_a and_o distress_a on_o every_o side_n yet_o they_o shall_v never_o be_v forsake_v nor_o give_v over_o utter_o as_o a_o prey_n to_o their_o enemy_n if_o the_o wicked_a murder_n some_o of_o they_o yet_o god_n will_v have_v some_o of_o they_o remain_v still_o let_v persecutor_n draw_v out_o the_o blood_n of_o god_n child_n as_o long_o as_o they_o will_v or_o can_v yet_o still_o there_o shall_v be_v find_v some_o that_o will_v offer_v themselves_o to_o their_o bloody_a hand_n for_o the_o maintenance_n of_o god_n truth_n as_o some_o be_v take_v away_o god_n will_v still_o send_v they_o a_o new_a supply_n so_o than_o it_o be_v comfort_n to_o they_o in_o regard_n of_o themselves_o that_o they_o shall_v never_o perish_v second_o it_o be_v comfort_n to_o they_o in_o regard_n of_o their_o posterity_n and_o of_o the_o church_n after_o they_o they_o need_v not_o say_v on_o their_o deathbed_n as_o worldling_n do_v what_o shall_v become_v of_o my_o child_n and_o good_n after_o i_o be_o go_v they_o need_v not_o say_v so_o of_o their_o spiritual_a good_n let_v god_n alone_o with_o they_o leave_v they_o to_o he_o the_o faithful_a seed_n shall_v be_v preserve_v and_o uphold_v by_o his_o fatherly_a providence_n to_o the_o world_n end_n and_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o they_o and_o as_o for_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n the_o gospel_n and_o the_o grace_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o themselves_o be_v seize_v on_o in_o their_o life_n time_n god_n will_v dispose_v of_o they_o to_o the_o right_a heir_n heir_n of_o his_o own_o beget_n add_v raise_v up_o he_o will_v find_v heir_n for_o they_o successive_o from_o age_n to_o age_n to_o the_o last_o end_n then_o christ_n jesus_n himself_o shall_v come_v and_o he_o shall_v stand_v last_o upon_o the_o earth_n and_o so_o the_o church_n shall_v be_v the_o first_o and_o the_o last_o the_o first_o adam_n the_o first_o man_n on_o earth_n begin_v the_o church_n on_o earth_n and_o the_o second_o adam_n the_o last_o man_n upon_o the_o earth_n finish_v it_o up_o by_o his_o personal_a presence_n have_v continue_v and_o maintain_v it_o by_o his_o own_o power_n from_o the_o first_o beginning_n to_o the_o world_n end_n and_o shall_v the_o church_n have_v a_o end_n then_o no_o though_o all_o thing_n be_v then_o at_o a_o end_n yet_o the_o church_n shall_v not_o yet_o be_v at_o a_o end_n but_o as_o it_o be_v for_o ever_o here_o so_o it_o shall_v continue_v for_o ever_o in_o heaven_n too_o and_o that_o in_o a_o far_o safe_a and_o happy_a and_o more_o glorious_a estate_n than_o ever_o it_o do_v in_o this_o world_n psal_n 102.28_o use_v 4_o the_o four_o use_n be_v for_o discouragement_n to_o wicked_a man_n and_o persecutor_n in_o that_o which_o they_o do_v against_o god_n church_n what_o can_v they_o do_v against_o it_o root_n it_o out_o as_o many_o time_n they_o say_v they_o will_v no_o do_v they_o what_o they_o can_v by_o themselves_o by_o their_o instrument_n they_o can_v never_o root_v it_o out_o let_v king_n and_o ruler_n and_o gentile_n and_o people_n fret_v and_o rage_n and_o band_n themselves_o together_o against_o the_o lord_n and_o