this Question you grant that a laying on of hands is a principle of Religion and a part of the foundation of Christian building Heb. 5. 12. 6. 1 2. And your Reason is because the Holy Spirit by this Penman doth Reckon it amongst those principles of Religion as repentance faith Baptisme the Resurrection and eternal Judgment and these granted by all under the least profession of Christianity to be the foundation-Doctrines I have thought good to minde your Reason because it doth fully prove laying on of hands to be a principle of Religion and a part of the foundation of Christian building And therefore in the first place it is well that the Word of the Lord hath so much weight upon you that you dare not deny it but that you do confess it to be a foundation-principle a part of the foundation of Christian building I am glad to see you thus far own the truth which makes me hope you may in time come to a fuller acknowledgement thereof and to see wherein you are mistaken and that when your demises and denials will be found too light being weighed in the Balance of the Sanctuary 2. I shall examine which of those laying on of hands you say is not and cannot be that meant Heb. 6. 2. And first you say it cannot be meant of laying on hands for healing and that for these Reasons 1. Because the gift of healing by laying on of hands is now ceased But you might better have answered because this laying on of hands was never laid down a foundation-principle and this is that which if you please may be work for you or others who are more of that minde then you are to make appear that ever it was so laid down as a foundation-principle As for laying on of hands for healing I do grant that no one ought to do unless he is partaker of that gift of healing and so your second Reason is very true 2. Because a foundation-principle concerns the whole every part of the building to support and uphold it And therefore I say if there were any that had this particular gift of faith the healing of one particular member could not concern the whole body as a principle How doth this confute Mr Harrisons Arguments in the 8 page of his book which he draws from Mark 16. and the 18 v. that laying on of hands for healing is the principle mentioned Heb. 6. 2. but that book of his was fully answered by Mr Griffith 3. I would have you know that this was not the way those that did believe and were Baptized did wait upon Christ in for healing for amongst them as a Church miracles were not wrought but for the conviction of unbelievers 1 Cor. 14. 22. For signs were not for those who did believe but for those that believed not But the way of God for believers to wait upon him in in the time of sickness was prayer and anointing with Oile as in the beginning of my book I have discovered But secondly you say that laying on of hands for giving the Extraordinary gifts of the Holy Spirit cannot be here meant and that for these Reasons 1. Because the power of giving the Extraordinary gifts of the Holy Spirit is now ceased 2. Because this laying on of hands cannot be the principle Heb. 6. because that laying on of hands is there called a Doctrine vers. 1. and 2. 3. Because if this laying on of hands to wit upon believers Baptized as such were the principle then this Church of the Hebrews the first constituted Church of Christ in all the New Testament after Christs Ascention which is say you the same with that in Acts the first and second Chapters had wanted a principle in Religion which were very absurd to Imagine These be your Reasons that the laying on of hands we practise cannot be that meant Heb. 6. 2. Unto these Reasons as the Lord shall help me I shall particularly give answer First taking notice that here is still affirmed that which never will be proved but is already disproved that laying on of hands was only for the giving the Miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit Therefore I say as I have made to appear the giving of the Extraordinary gifts of the Holy Spirit was never assigned the end of this Ordinance But you say the power of giving the Holy Spirit in the Extraordinary gifts thereof is now ceased 1. To which I answer first if the Apostles had power to give the Holy Spirit through laying on of hands then they had through the preaching of the Word but though through their preaching the Word the Holy Spirit was given Acts 10. 44. as well as through laying on of hands Acts 19. 6. yet it was never in the Apostles power to bestow it upon any as is Ignorantly imagined and as I have already made to appear and therefore so to think were absurd and ridiculous for it is the gift of God Acts 5. 32. and Acts 8. 20. 2. I answer you do much mistake your selves for the power of giving the Holy Spirit is not ceased for Gods hand is not shortened he is the same yesterday to day and for ever he that is unchangeable is the giver thereof the Lord Jesus received of his Father this promise and this promise he hath given and doth give and will yet make good unto his people Ezech. 39. 29. Acts 2. 38 39. But to strengthen your Reason you say that this appears to be ceased by the practise thereof at this day for though so many persons have hands laid upon them to this end yet those Extraordinary gifts have never followed to any one of them but both they and the administrators are and remain as other men Answ. First minde your absurdity the power is not ceased God is the same 2. Whereas you say we practise it to this end I answer That here again you are mistaken though in your last Chapter you are pleased to say that some of us do so which is that I never yet heard to be the Judgment of any in this practise and therefore I suppose you wrong us 3. But you say For all this practise we remain as other men I answer It is very true but we may easily see your sore which I wish the Lord may heal among you and that is this if you could see a sign or a wonder you would believe But take heed you may not be as unworthy of it as the generation unto whom Christ spake Mat. 12. 38 39. 16 1 2 3. and 4. For my self it was my Judgment and practise in this way of God that I ought to be obedient not for what I should receive but because the Lord Jesus taught and left such a way for believers to wait upon him in Yet I would have you know I did never yeeld obedience unto Christ in any of his wayes but I did indeavour to exercise faith upon him therein and that for his presence and blessing with
is discovered to pervert it or to turn you aside from following of it know this is but one of Satans old plots and deceitful workings and marvel not that he works in good men in our dayes for this is certain that if persons dissent from truth so far they serve for his design which is alwayes against the truth which is the Law of God that which God hath commanded thus he wrought in the Prophet of the Lord who told a lye in the Name of the Lord unto which the young Prophet yeilded contrary to what God had Commanded him 1 King 13. 18 and was destroyed of a Lyon know he many times makes use of good men to carry on his design therefore though you may judge they are good men that speak against a truth of the Lord let not that turn you aside knowing it is your duty to be a follower of him in what he hath spoken that doth relate to the worship of God or your duty in your conversation which doth concern you as you are believers and would be partakers of the promises especially those things that are principles of your faith and Religion yea principles of the worship and service of that God whom we profess to fear yea and to obey And take heed of those who teach you only to believe that unto which you ought to manifest your obedience to the great God Such persons who call that which Christ taught and whereunto believers were obedient a Doctrine but not a practise such words are corrupt but let us know this that so far as Christ hath taught us we ought to be obedient and therefore let your obedience be manifest to all men For the Lord is at hand to give recompence unto you and let not the opposition which truth meets withal be a stumbling-block unto you You may see how easily confusion and errour take place upon the hearts of men this day O let truth have place upon your Souls O it grieves my Soul to see how easily that which hath but a colour or shew of truth from the Scriptures takes place upon the hearts of men and many Professors this day and yet that which is real truth hath little entertainment in the World What 's the Reason was not this alwayes it 's too low it 's too mean it 's too plain it is indeed without the wisdome of man and therefore finds little entertainment amongst men Alas saith the Wiseman what 's a little water this is a poor thing others have as low an esteem of laying on of hands besides it 's a riddle unto them thus God makes foolishness the wisdome of this World But now some do say Did we see these Ordinances to continue we should willingly obey I Answer Do you think the Scribes and Pharisees would not have made as large a Profession as this when they rejected the Counsel of God against themselves being not Baptized Luke 7. 30. or do you not think that those who are short of any truth if they profess any thing but will as readily make this Objection as your selves yet will this excuse them or would the Iews ignorance of the Lord of life excuse their Crucifying the Lord of Glory 1 Cor. 2. 8. surely no Therefore know it 's your duty to seek after truth and to yeild obedience to it Christ requires it of you therefore come in unto him and be willing to take upon you his yoak and despised wayes and be sure you shall be no losers by it Now the Lord help you you that have put on Christ by Baptisme to read what I have written in this book without prejudice and with a heart lifted up to God for wisdome to direct to give you to see truth from errour And that this truth which I do principally mind and drive at to wit laying on of hands upon believers Baptized as such may have the Spirit of God making of it forth unto your Souls in the Reading and Consideration thereof that so you may be followers of God therein is the Prayer of him who is willing to serve you for truths sake WILLIAM RIDER ERRATA Page 1. line 8. for the Spirit read the Holy Spirit p. 42. l. 13. for excuse read enough p. 46. l. 11. for their read then p. 59. l. 3. for his read this p. 100. l. 5. for praise read prise p. 112. l. 7. for would read do p. 147. l. 8. for do affirm read we do affirm p. 152. l. 14. for was enjoyned read was there enjoyned p. 159. l. 17. for I read you A DISCOVERY Of Layings on of hands according to the wisdom of God given under the several considerations thereof minded in the New Testament THE Scripture of the New Testament speaks of laying on of hands upon three several accounts or ends First upon Baptized believers as such To the end they might receive the Spirit which is the promise of God unto them as Acts the 8. and Acts 19. 2. On Ministers to the end they might be separated to the work of the Ministry Acts 6. 6 13 3. 1 Tim. 4. 14 5. 22 vers. 3. On the sick for healing to the end they might recover as Mark 16. 18. Acts 28. 8 vers. I shall as the Lord shall help me speak somthing to the two last briefly and then to the first I shall be more large it being the duty of all believers to submit unto and that which is chiefly in my eye in this discourse First of the laying on of hands for healing it was a particular gift of faith which the Lord Jesus did promise to give unto his people as is plain from Mark 16. 17 18 vers. These signes shall follow them that believe in my Name they shall cast out Devils they shall speak with new tongues they shall take up Serpents and if they drink any deadly thing it shall not hurt them they shall lay hands on the sick and they shall recover in which enumeration of signs we find laying on of hands for healing which signs as the Spirit of the Lord teacheth us were given for those who believed not 1 Cor. 14. 22 vers. But this promise of healing by laying on of hands as we may observe the Lord made good upon many of his people as believers in the Church of Corinth who were partakers of this gift which they were to go forth in the practise thereof according as the Apostle Paul did Acts 28. 8 vers. yea as Christ himself Mark 6. 5 vers. Luk. 4. 40 vers. Object But now some may say Was this practise to continue amongst believers to which take this two-fold answer First If the gift be continued that is of healing then this practise for we cannot Act unless we have received 2. If any have or shall receive such a gift of faith they are to go forth in the practise thereof for gifts are given to profit withal that is for the good of others 1 Cor. 12. 7 vers. therefore if any one have received such
a gift he is to be up and doing to administer the same Query But some may say Is there no Ordinance that the Lord Jesus Christ hath left unto his people to wait upon him in for healing in the time of sickness Answer Yes and that is prayer and anoynting with Oile in the Name of the Lord this is left as an Ordinance or way unto believers to wait upon the Lord in in the time of sickness wherein the Elders of the Church of Christ ought to administer as is manifest from Iam. 5. 14 15 vers. Is any sick amongst you let him call for the Elders of the Church and let them pray over him anoynting him with Oile in the Name of the Lord and the prayer of faith shall save the sick and the Lord shall raise him up and if he have committed sins they shall be forgiven him From whence we may observe that this duty is injoyned by the Apostle upon those that are sick Herein the soul ought to wait upon God and in this way to look up unto God for healing But Oh! the evil of professors in this our day who run to the Physitian but not to God but few wait upon God in his way the Lord complained of this of old as a great evil as the 2 Kings 1. 16 vers. yea we may see this was Asa's sin 2 Chro. 16. 12 vers. though he were in much affliction yet he sought not unto the Lord but to the Physitian And is not this the sin of many Professors in this our day O! that God would make them sensible thereof and make this word of use to them that they may look more up unto God that they may exercise more faith upon him for healing that if they can but with the poor Woman Mark 5. 26 27 28 vers. touch the hem of Christs garment for there is much vertue still in him Object Some will say We cannot see this way to continue in the Church of Christ amongst believers unless we did see the effect thereof Answer First If you Judge of the minde of God that which is laid down your duty by the effect you may run your selves into many temptations as the Jews of old did when they saw not the glory of the last Temple to be so great as the glory of the first Temple was Hag. 2. 3 vers. they were discouraged in the work of the Lord which God required and so indeed this temptation got upon them as in the first Chapter the second verse The time is not come the time that the Lords House should be built but the Lord for this reproves them with Judgments as you may see in the 4 5 and 6 verses and after by his servant Haggai exhorteth them unto the work as in the 8 verse and incourageth them unto it in the 13 vers. Then spake Haggai in the Lords Message unto the people saying I am with you saith the Lord and in the second Chapter 5 vers. According to the word that I covenanted with you when you came up out of Egypt so my Spirit remaineth amongst you fear you not So I say God is a God in Covenant with believers his truths are sealed by the blood of Christ O then take heed of questioning his faithfulness in making good his promise from whence doth this proceed our looking for such and such effects but indeed from our unbelief not believing the promise of God therefore take heed of judging the minde of God by the effects for in so doing you will make the way of God of no force or weight for souls obedience 2. How can you see the effect of that you have never yet attained unto nor believed therefore I may say to you as the Lord Jesus did unto the Jews If you will do his will you shall know of the Doctrine Iohn 7. 17. 3. What effect have you seen of the laying on of hands upon persons to office it is true as many write and do say laying on of hands is a resignation of a person or persons to office therefore they instance Moses laying on his hands upon Ioshua Numb. 27. 23 vers. but you shall find a more excellent effect that which fitted him for that work which he was called unto as Deut. 34. 9 vers. Ioshua the Son of Nun was full of the Spirit of wisdom for Moses had laid his hands upon him Learn from hence that as it is Gods way so he meets with his people therein and as in that Ordinance of laying on of hands upon persons to office so also in this of anointing with Oile For his wayes are not in vain unto his people 4. Those who have waited upon God in this Ordinance have found the effect thereof they have met with God therein they have seen his faithfulness been partaker of his grace received healing not onely to their bodies but also to their souls this effect some poor souls who waited upon God in this way have been partakers of so that they are able to bear witness to this truth and also to set to their seals that God is true a faithful God meeting with those who wait upon him in his way therefore I may say of this truth of Christ as one may say of the new Wine in the cluster Isai. 65. 8 vers. Destroy it not for a blessing is in it 5. We do not so much minde in our waiting upon God in this way to see an immediate work of healing which is that which too many doat upon and so like Thomas unless they see a sign they will not believe Iohn 20. 25 vers. But we do chiefly mind our duty believing that it shall not be in vain our waiting upon him therein so leaving the effect of it unto God who knows best when to give in mercyes to his people Now this may be matter of information especially to those who look upon laying on of hands for healing to be the anointing with Oile spoken of by the Apostle Iames that they are and were two distinct things the one being a particular gift of the Spirit which a person might receive of healing immediately by the laying on of hands as the Apostle Paul did Acts 28. 8 vers. and many others also The other an Ordinance of Christ wherein the Ministry of the Church were to act and that not by vertue of any particular gift but of their ministerial office and therefore saith the Apostle Iam. 5. Let him call for the Elders of the Church and let them pray over him anointing him with Oile in the Name of the Lord wherein they ought as in all other appointments to look up unto the Lord for a blessing leaving the giving forth of his grace to the poor soul unto himself 2. By what hath been said is reproved the ignorance of the people of God this day that have been long reading and learning of the Scripture and yet are ignorant of this command and likewise those that are Teachers and Leaders of congregations
God hath set some in the Church first Apostles c. so Christ did ascend and gave gifts unto men and that some to be Apostles as well as other offices in the Church Ephes. 4. 8. compared with the 11. vers. Object But now some may say Christ did chuse Apostles he chose Twelve which he called Apostles therefore they ceasing the office ceased Answer To which I Answer that this was before Christ ascended but after he ascended he gave some Apostles that is to that work to lay the foundation Ephes. 4. 11 vers. and so Paul and Barnabas were Apostles Acts 14. 4. and 14. vers. and others also spoken of in the 2 Cor. 8. 23. vers. 1 Cor. 14. 1. compared with 6. and 9. vers. He that doth authoritatively as the first Apostles or by vertue of the authority of the Church of Christ lay the foundation of the service of God he is properly an Apostle he doth the work of an Apostle for other foundation no man can lay that is to be approved of by the Lord yet other men may lay the same even preach the same Doctrine of Christ which he did c. Thirdly Of laying on of hands upon Baptized believers as such to the end they might receive the Spirit THat laying on of hands upon Baptized believers as such is one part of their obedience to the Lord which he requires of them an Ordinance of the Lord Jesus Christ I shall thus prove unto you First because it is a saying of our Lord Jesus Christ that which he taught and that for believers obedience as well as repentance faith and Baptisme see Heb. 6. 1 2. Many persons do say If we could but see where ever Christ taught it Surely we should not gainsay it O that now they would consider for their conviction this Scripture Heb. 6. 1. vers. where the Apostle calls it the Doctrine or Teaching of Christ and a more sufficient witness that Christ taught it we cannot have then the Apostle is The Doctrine of Christ that which he taught as he did repentance faith resurrection and eternal judgment Now consider Doctrine doth imply teaching and teaching doth infer practise that so believers might learn for teaching and learning are relations as a Father and Child the one infers the other Now to inforce this reason for our obedience we may consider these three things First what the Apostle saith in Acts 3. 22. vers. where we are injoyned to a hearing of Christ in all things and that also from the danger that will follow our neglect as in the 23 verse 2. In that it is placed amongst those foundation-principles Hebr. 6. 1 2. and that in the midst of them as if the Spirit of the Lord did foresee the opposition that would be made against this truth 3. Because it is one of Christs first teachings and therefore those words in Heb. 6. 1. may be rendered the beginning-word of Christ the A.B.C. of a Christian one of those first lessons that believers then did learn and now should learn which is this to wait upon God in this way of his for the Spirit of promise which is their right whereby they might be inabled as they do desire to do him service Object But now unto this some object and say that all things that Christ did and said we are not to be followers of him in as to raise the dead to command the winde to cease and the like Answer To which I answer though this may be true yet what is this to the purpose Because we are not to say in all things as he did therefore we must say in nothing as he did neither as he taught us this is error with a witness We grant that in all things we are not to do and say as Christ did But yet in all things that does relate to the worship and service of God as repentance faith and Baptism or our duty in our conversation we are to do as he hath said for unto this God himself commands us see Luke 9. 35. Acts 3. 22. Him shall ye hear in all things c. Object Further to make voyd this reason some object and say that Christ taught the resurrection of the dead and eternal Judgment as well as laying on of hands but that is only to be believed the resurrection and Judgment we know we cannot practise Answ. To which I answer first This is that we ought as believers to do if possible we can to attain to the resurrection of the dead Phil. 3. 11. 2. That Christ taught it we grant and that it is for our obedience we do also affirm and that is so far as he requires it 3. I do hope you do also know that so far as Christ hath taught us we ought to be obedient to him that which he taught which was Notional we ought to believe that which he taught which was practical we ought to obey Now consider laying on of hands is a practical Doctrine as is manifest by the Apostles actings and the Saints obedience Acts 8. 17. Acts 19. 6. Now let the opposers of this truth of Christ shew where ever laying on of hands was taught by Christ as the resurrection and eternal Judgment only to be believed and then they will say and do somthing to their purpose Object But say some In Heb. 6. 1. the Apostle calls it a Doctrine but not a practise and so by this would make voyd this way of God Answ. This objection was answered by Doctor Chamberlain in his dispute with Captain Kiffin as you may see in the 10th page of his book where saith Doctor Chamberlain Because the Apostle calls it a Doctrine therefore so far from being not practised that it ought the rather to be practised for without practising no learning Again saith he you wrest this Scripture whereas the express purpose of the Holy Spirit is To teach Doctrines that so believers might do what is taught For the proof of which he cites Mat. 28. 20. Mat. 7. 21 24. Ioh. 13. 17. and 15. 14. Iam. 22. 23 24 25. Phil. 4. 9. and many other places yet saith he you wrest it to the direct contrary and you say therefore it is called a Doctrine that it might not be practised for indeed so much such an objection doth import But Mr Perry in his book of Animadversions in answer to Doctor Chamberlain pag. 14. as he doth therein conceive that which is true so he doth suppose that where in he is mistaken and that is to think and so to write that Doctor Chamberlain minded Mr Kiffens wresting of the Scriptures above mentioned whereas indeed we may plainly see in his book and in this I have written of his words that he minded him of wresting Heb. 6. 1. which was the ground of this objection and therefore we may take notice that the Scriptures above mentioned do sufficient prove what Doctor Chamberlain brought them for which was this that Heb. 6. 1. was wrested by Mr Kiffin from
and more then Baptism for so much the Text doth hold forth and being added they continued in the Apostles Doctrine and so it is plain as it is part of the foundation so it followed Baptisme as you may see by the practise thereof Acts 8. 17 19. Chapter 6. 7. 3. Reason Because as Christ and his Apostles did teach it so they taught it as a principle of the foundation of the service of God a foundation-principle of that service wherein they were to live to the Glory of God and upon which they were to stand to go on to perfection read Heb. 6. 1 2. When Moses was to build a Tabernacle unto God he had a strict charge that he should do every thing according to the pattern the Lord had given him Exod. 25. 40. and so afterward when Solomon was to build the Temple he likewise was to do it according to the pattern which David had received by the Spirit and as it is said which he was made to understand by the hand of God upon him the first of Chron. 28. 11 12. and 19. Now as Moses and Solomon were not left at liberty to follow their own understanding but were faithfull to make all things according to the pattern of Gods will So neither were the Apostles but also were faithful stewards of the will and commands of the Lord Jesus the first of Cor. 4. 1. which Jesus the Christ likewise was a Messenger and the great Prophet of the eternal God whose word is Gods will unto his people Acts 7. 37. and who as a Son even as Moses a Servant was faithful over his own house Heb 3. 2. Who was faithful to him that appointed him even as Moses was faithfull in all his house Even as Moses as Moses was faithful to do every thing exactly according to the pattern so was the Lord Jesus Christ faithfull unto him who did appoint him And surely this considered we may easily see there is not less exactness and circumspection to be used now in times of the Gospel in building a Spiritual house unto God then there was under the Law in that which was typical for that exactness under the Law served but as an example or shadow of Heavenly things that is to say Spiritual or Gospel-things Heb. 8. 5. Now this being a foundation-principle it ought to be laid in every Church of Christ for it is no way consonant to truth for a man to think ever to make a lasting building either in Spirituals or Civils without a good foundation for saith David Psal. 11. 3. If the foundations be destroyed what can the righteous do read Luke 6. 49. This being a principle of Gods chusing to be laid in the beginning or foundation of his service How doth it concern us and all those who put to their hands to erect and constitute a Church unto Christ to do whatever they do as much as in them lies according to the pattern given by God that in building they leave out no part of his foundation for a principle is a main support unto the building especially where God himself layes it 4. Reason Because laying on of hands is an oracle of God one of those commands that God gave unto his Church read Heb. 5. 12. with Heb. 6. 1 2. saith the Apostle You have need to be taught again which be the first principles of the oracles of God that is of his Commands for so the word oracle doth imply as you may see Acts 7. 38. This is he that was in the Church in the Wilderness with the Angel which spake to him in the Mount Sinai and with our Fathers who received the lively oracles to give unto us that is the whole word of the Law or Commands of God declared unto his people by the mouth of Moses for their obedience as also Rom. 3. 1 2 vers. bears witness unto this What advantage then hath the Iew or what profit is there of circumcision much every way because unto them were committed the Oracles of God Where by Oracles is signified the whole Law committed unto them as in Heb. 5. 12. the word Oracles being in the plural number doth signifie the whole will of God committed to believers the Doctrine of Christ and the beginning of the Oracles of God is the first part of Christ his Doctrine the things which Christ first revealed and preached to them as the Apostle bears witness Heb. 6. 1 2 verses Yea the word Oracle doth hold forth the counsel of God which is the will and minde of God unto his people for their obedience therefore saith the Apostle 1 Pet. 4. 11. If any man speak let him speak as an Oracle of God that is as the will and minde of God for souls obedience the Apostle Paul tells the Ephesians Acts 20. 20 vers. that he kept back nothing that was profitable unto them and in the 27 vers. that he had declared unto them the whole Counsel of God a part whereof was laying on of hands it being that he taught and practised among them as Acts 19. 6. Object But now to turn aside this truth saith Mr Collier in his book of Right Constitution in the 76 page Oracles do not alwayes imply commands though all commands are Oracles yet all Oracles are not commands Answer Two which I answer that though all commands are Oracles and all Oracles are not commands yet what is this unto the purpose doth this prove that laying on of hands is not one of those Oracles that are the commands of the Lord Jesus Christ for was it not reckoned with and so left upon record as that which Christ did teach with repentance faith and Baptism resurrection and eternal Judgment as the foundation of the service of God to every believing Soul Heb. 6. 1 2. was it not that which the Apostles taught that unto which Baptized believers as such were obedient as Act. 8. 17. 19. 6. this considered were excuse to answer this objection But surely the weakness of this objection is discovered if we consider Mr Colliers reasoning in the 78 page of his book saith he The word truly read both in Heb. 5. 12. and 6. 1. is not the principles but the begining of the Oracles of God and the word of the begining of Christ and so cites the Greek words to hold forth not principles of the doctrine but beginning of the word the same as in the 1 Iohn 1. In the begining was the word c. To which I answer that it is easily discovered and I think upon second consideration himself will grant that the word signifies principles as well as beginnings although I do grant that in other places it may so signifie and in this place to be so rendred may not be altogether improper Yet I must tell him and I would have others minde it that as he saith if the words be truly read they do so signifie so I say If the words have their proper sence given to them they
may be left without excuse Object But yet some will and do say The Apostles did lay on hands by vertue of a particular gift which God had given them to give the Spirit Answ. The Apostles did never lay on hands by vertue of those particular gifts they had received but by vertue of their ministerial office for laying on of hands being an Ordinance of Christ a way unto believers as Baptisme or other of his appointments The Apostles did never officiate in them by vertue of any particular gift neither any other Minister of the Gospel but by vertue of their ministerial office as they were called of God to administer in those wayes to his people and so did leaving the effect thereof unto God c. Object But some do say the Apostles by laying on of hands did give the Spirit Answ. First though this be one of their greatest Objections and Blocks against which they Stumble Yet our greatest opposers are herein divided for though some do affirm that the Apostles had power to give the Spirit yet others of them cannot so believe and who would think men of such parts and wisdome as they are should so affirm but that indeed the carnal minde of man will ever oppose the things of God 2. I answer and that positively that the Apostles by laying on of hands did give the Spirit of God no more in this Ordinance then Peter did in the preaching of the Word Acts 10. 44. While he spake the Word the Holy Spirit fell on all them that heard it and they spake with Tongues and glorified God VVhy so it was that while Peter Iohn and Paul were exercised in this Ordinance even laying on of hands God gave his Spirit to his people But alas what is Peter Iohn and Paul but Ministers by whom they believed the one may Plant and the other VVater but it 's God that must give the increase 1 Cor. 3. 5 6. And surely this what gifts Christ is pleased to convey through Ministers is not by any power that is in them as is plainly discovered from Acts 3. 12. Neither was it ever in the Apostles power to give the Spirit of promise unto any man and so the Apostle plainly declares unto me in his answer to Simon Magus who certainly did think as too many do this day that the Apostles had power to give the Spirit and therefore he offered them mony for that gift or power the Apostle thereby seeing the corruption of his heart saith unto him Thy mony perish with thee because thou thinkest the gift of God may be obtained with mony Acts 8. 18 19 20. 3. Further take notice that this power or prerogative of giving the Spirit the Lord Jesus Christ alwayes keeps in his own hands he giveth it to whom he pleaseth as you may plainly see by these Scriptures Acts 2. 32 33. This Iesus hath God raised up whereof we are al witnesses therefore being by the right hand of God exalted and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit he hath shed forth this which you now see and hear Mark this he hath done it even this Jesus but not the Apostles And saith our Saviour Iohn 14. 16 17. I will pray the Father and he shall give you another Comforter Even the Spirit of truth and in the 26 vers. But the Comforter which is the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my Name the 15. 26. vers. But when the Comforter is come whom saith Christ I will send unto you from the Father Even the Spirit of truth Luke 11. 13. and Acts 5. 32. saith the Apostle We are witnesses of these things and so is the Holy Spirit whom God hath given to them that obey him By all which places it is plainly manifest that this power or prerogative of giving the Spirit the Lord Jesus Christ and God the Father alwayes keep in their own hands c. 4. It is further â—anifest that it was not in the Apostles power to give the Holy Spirit of promise and that from the administration of the Ordinance Acts 8. 15. When Peter and John came down to Samaria they prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit VVhich doth discover it was not in their power to give it but they prayed for them that so indeed God would give it to them according to his promise Again as it is manifest that this power belongs unto the Lord Jesus Christ he having received of his Father this promise of the Holy Spirit and so gives it forth upon his people So likewise we may observe that he also gives the gifts or operations thereof or the Spirit of God doth work and operate in poor Souls according to his wisdom For as there are members of the body of Christ so every member hath it's office given him of God this the Apostle plainly discovers 1 Corinth the 12 Chapter in the 4. 5 6 7 8 9 10. saith he There are diversities of gifts but the same Spirit and there are differences of administrations but the same Lord and there are diversities of operations but it is the same God which worketh all in all but the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every one to profit withall for to one is given by the Spirit the Word of wisdome and so he goes on making mention of the gifts and operations thereof and in the 18 vers. thus declareth But now hath God set the members in the body as it hath pleased him again saith he in the 27. and 28. vers. Now you are the body of Christ and members in particular and God hath set some in the Church first the Apostles secondly Prophets c. From all which as before we may minde that as the Spirit of God is given to every believing obedient Soul and this by the Lord so every ones gift or office likewise proceeds from him Again saith the Apostle Ephes. 4. 7. speaking of the Church But unto every one of us is given grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ Now if any should say How would this appear the Apostle makes answer vers. the 8. Because he ascended up on high he led speaking of Christ Captivity captive and gave gifts unto men and vers. the 11. it 's said he gave some to be Apostles and some Prophets and some Evangelists and some Pastors and Teachers and this for the good of the body of Christ and this work of Christ of giving his Spirit unto men to be continued so long as the Saints are to be perfected and the body of Christ to receive edification as we may plainly see from the 12. and 13. verses So that to say the Apostles had power to give the Holy Spirit or Spirit of promise is untrue absurd and ridiculous Object Again some there are who make this a great obstacle in the way thereby hindering poor Souls from their obedience even the Words of the Apostle Acts 8. 16. for as yet he
prove that the end of this Ordinance is the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit And their great Reason is because the Samaritans Acts the 8. were such as did believe vers. 12. and did receive the Word of God vers. 14. and were Baptized vers. 16. all this say they could not be unless they had already received the ordinary measures of the Spirit Answ. First I cannot but take notice how this Reason doth hold forth that there is no receiving of the Holy Spirit by that Soul who is already Partaker of the Spirit but what is in an Extraordinary manner which how false this is I shall leave to the Experience of believers to prove yea to the Raisers of this Reason if so be they have the Spirit of God 2. VVhereas they say we cannot believe without the Spirit I Answer that unto those who do believe who receive the VVord of God and are Baptized is the promise of the Spirit made see Galat. 3. 14. that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith VVhy we cannot believe without the Spirit yet through believing those that do believe are made partakers of the promise thereof see likewise Iohn 7. 38 39. saith our Saviour he that believeth on me out of his belly shall flow Rivers of living water this he spake of the Spirit which they that did believe should receive from whence I might Reason as before But further we may observe that this promise of the Spirit the Apostle doth annex unto faith and Baptisme Acts 2. 38. where saith the Apostle Repent and be Baptized for the Remission of sins and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit Query Now I would Query of you was this promise proper onely to some believers or all believers if you say To some as your principle must lead you to for you must either tye it to some in the Apostles times or else to the time of the first Apostles who received the Word at the mouth of Christ to give unto us then I Answer Answ. The following words may stop your mouths for the promise hath a larger extent then you dream of it was unto them and their Children and all that are afar of even to as many as the Lord our God shall call From whence I minde the promise of the Spirit is as much ours according to the wise disposing of God who knows best in what manner to bestow it on his people as it was theirs And whereas you boast of parts and gifts beyond those that have practised this Ordinance yet let me tell you that herein is much vanity and your boasting is not good For though God injoyne us to the use of Ordinances yet himself is not tyed thereunto therefore if your gifts be greater learn to make a right use of them for Gods glory and his peoples comfort and not to oppose the truth Surely there will be one day a sad account given of the gifts God hath given unto men who will be found that in stead of making a right and good improvement of them for Gods glory and his peoples comfort and incouragement they have made a contrary use of them and that to their trouble and discouragement and with their lyes have made the hearts of the righteous sad Ezek. 13. 22. I do believe there were in the Apostles dayes those that boasted as much of gifts as your selves which caused a disesteem of the Apostles among the Churches 1 Cor. 4. 10. saith the Apostle Paul speaking of himself and of Apollo who were Apostles of Christ as you may see comparing the 6 vers. with the 9. 10 vers. We are fools for Christs sake but you are wise in Christ we are weak but you are strong you are honourable but we are despised So others they had a Name to live and others they said they were Rich and had need of nothing but God had a reckoning with them Rev. 3. 1 2 3. and the 16. and 17. verses So there is in this our day those who are great opposers of some truths you your selves profess and yet in parts and gifts not inferior unto you but alas what Reasoning is this the learned Scribes and Pharisees in Christs time cryed out Ioh. 7. 49. those that knew not the Law were cursed as if indeed wisdome must only centre in their brests or dy with them Now hath not your boasting of gifts something of this nature in it to beget a disesteem in believers hearts of this truth spiritual gifts are such things believers should covet after for they are very useful 1 Cor. 14. 1. But surely this parts and gifts without wisdome which is profitable to direct to make a right and good use of them doth but puff up the soul as is too apparent this day Therefore our desire is not so much to minde the measure of receiving as making a good use of what we do receive and keeping close to the appointments of our God wherein is our safety because he hath there promised his presence and will there give forth his loves Esa. 64. 5. Cant. 7. 12. So that I hope those that have not their hearts prejudiced against this truth of Christ may plainly see your mistake in making that the end of this Ordinance which is not though it may be an effect or fruit thereof as I have already proved it was likewise an effect or fruit of other Ordinances of Christ as of Preaching and Prayer But let 's further consider is not this a wile whereby Satan labours to make void this truth of Christ as he hath done to others thus cunningly he works when Baptisme as to the right subjects and practise thereof is found out O saith he it is to believers and their Children and why for circumcision was to Abraham and his seed and thus would keep up that old relick and Pillar of Babylon and that practise which from the beginning it was not so Neither is now blessed be God the mystery of Iniquity so secret But that God hath abundantly discovered her and made bare the skirts thereof and it is now through the good hand of God plainly discovered that there is now no seed of Abraham according to the flesh but the natural Jews who are beloved for their Fathers sake yet have no right to promise or Ordinances without believing in our Lord Jesus Christ until the Word of God be fulfilled that is the time expired that the fulness of the Gentiles being come in then all Israel shall be saved according as it is written Rom. 11. Chapt. There are other reasons which they do urge though to as little purpose but the substance of them being answered in this and fully confuted in my book I shall passe them over and proceed to their second Chapter Which doth contain according to their Judgments which of those laying on of hands is not and cannot be meant Heb. 6. 2. Now before you resolve
Layings on of Hands ASSERTED Or A plain discovery of the truth thereof under those several considerations minded in the New Testament 1. Vpon persons for healing with a Brief discovery of that Ordinance of Christ to wit anointing with Oile 2. Vpon persons to Office 3. Vpon Believers Baptized as such and that principle of Christs Doctrine cleared for their obedience With Objections Answered to each particular To which is annexed A Confutation of four Chapters written by some person or persons in opposition to this principle of the Doctrine of Christ to wit laying on of hands upon believers Baptized as such wherein the weakness of their Reasons against the truth is plainly discovered and the truth further asserted and vindicated By WILLIAM RIDER Servant to the Church of Christ Printed for the Author and are to be sold by R. Moon at the seven Stars in Pauls-Church-yard near the great North door 1656. To all those in this Nation or elsewhere who upon the Profession of their faith have been Baptized in the Name of the Lord Jesus MY BRETHREN THough my Prayer unto God is that what I have written may tend to the establishing of those who have already been obedient yet unto you I do chiefly recommend this following discourse and my Reason is Because it doth more principally concern you it being a discovery of part of the minde of Christ yea part of the foundation of his service whereunto the greatest Number of you have not yet been obedient And now my Brethren you that by Baptisme have declared your selves to be followers of the Lord Iesus Christ I do Begg and intreat of you to Examine your principles and see whether or no you have obeyed Christ according to the Commission he gave to his Disciples Mat. 28. 20. Wherein you are injoyned the Observation of all things he commanded for your obedience according to his Teaching being forty dayes with his Apostles and Disciples after his Resurrection in which time he gave Commandments unto his Apostles whom he had chosen and was speaking unto them of the things pertaining to the Kingdome of God Acts 1. 2 3. vers. I beseech you consider have you obeyed the form of Doctrine Rom. 6. 18. which you shall finde laid down in Heb. 6. 1 2. See I pray you whether the beginning-Word of Christ is that you have received whether you stand upon that foundation the Doctrine of Christ and his Apostles upon which the first Churches were built Ephes. 2. 20. Heb. 6. 1. Consider God in these last dayes hath spoken unto us by his Son Heb. 1. 2. the Lord Iesus Christ is our great Doctor the Prophet whom Moses spake of Acts 3. 21. therefore we must learn of him we must hear him in all things Therefore know it is your duty to be followers of God according to your Profession in Baptisme and to Act in no way but what Christ hath appointed for you Even that way whose foundation is upon the lips of Christ which he also hath appointed a foundation for us to build upon Wherefore examine if you have laid your foundation with this Corner-stone with Repentance from dead works faith towards God the Doctrine of Baptismes and laying on of hands the Resurrection of the dead and eternal Iudgement Whether these be the principles of your Religion Heb. 6. 1 2. Consider wherein you are defective in these principles are you not in Repentance I wish I could not charge you herein yet I must tell you the Hire of the Harlot is found amongst you the burden of which your poor Brethren have long mourned under and suffered for I know it is not the practise of all of you yet those that do it were never to this day disowned by you O! that you would therefore try your selves have you turned your selves from the vain worships of the men of this World and from such who teach for Doctrines mens traditions are you according to your Profession of Christ in Baptism dead to the rudiments of this World Col. 2. 20. Why know it is your duty not only to cleanse your selves from Temporal but Spiritual delfiements 2 Cor. 7. 1. and as you are not to act any thing contrary to the Law of righteousness in your Conversation so to do nothing in the worship of God but by rule for that which hath proceeded from our Lord Iesus Christ is the rule for Saints to walk by Know this that all the misery and sin in the World came in at this door viz. by hearkning to Reason the wisdome of the flesh against that which God hath spoken it is mans deformity to walk according to his own invention and at last as experience doth teach will prove his own destruction Surely God will not indure to be prescribed by his Creatures no it hath been wickedness in those that have done it and God hath found it out but he takes pleasure in them that fear him and teaches them in his wayes Psa. 25. 12. but when men change his Laws and Ordinances although it proceeds from no wicked intent yet it provokes him to Iudgment as it did in Uzza 1 Chro. 15. therefore learn to know the voyce of Christ for his Sheep hear it and they follow him It hath been the work of Satan and his Instruments such who first did forsake the right way whom God gave up unto strong delusions to believe lyes because they received not the truth in the love thereof to corrupt the Word of God and to change his Laws and to set up their posts by the posts of God or rather in their stead and who knows not that knows Christ that now all his endeavours are to make voyd those truths and the right way of the Lord either in whole or in part if he cannot keep people wholly in blindness he will labour to insnare them through pretended wayes of light which is indeed darkness O! how doth he now perswade the poor soul that either the wayes of God are not now to be practised or else the practise of them is but an indifferent thing O! let 's beware of this deceit for he that saith I know him and keepeth not his commandments is a lyer and the truth is not in him 1 John 2. 4. therefore I desire you to examine your selves and see wherein you are short of obeying the voice of Christ being careful of receiving any thing but what is recorded the Word of the Lord and be also as careful of rejecting any thing that is his will And wherein he speaks unto you as you are Baptized believers know it is your duty to be obedient to be followers of him to set shoulders to his work for unto that this day you are called that the foundation in Sion may again be laid the Walls of Jerusalem may be again repaired and then they that be of thee shall build the old waste places Isai. 58. 11. Let not the wisdome of man beguile you whereby he labours when any truth of God
that know the will of God yet walk not in the practise thereof It likewise reproves those congregations that have for some season looked upon themselves as Churches of Christ and yet want this order among them Oh that they would consider the reason why they are short in this particular that they might see whether or no the Lord have not a controversie with them for their neglect and their opposition against one principle of his Doctrine that which Christ taught unto which believers as believers were obedient which is a great transgression their neglecting to hear Christ in that saying of his which is the last particular of laying on of hands I have minded as I shall indeavour in it's place by the Lords assistance to make forth unto you Secondly Of laying on of hands upon persons to office THis was likewise an Ordinance or way of God by which those persons who were called to office by the Church of Christ were set apart and so indeed are to be set apart as it was the practise of the first Churches and of those who first trusted in Christ whose footsteps we are to follow in this way they went see Acts 13. 3 vers. And when they had fasted and prayed and laid their hands on them to wit Paul and Barnabas they sent them away From whence observe and that first the work it was great it was to the Ministry according to what the Lord had spoken concerning Paul that he was a chosen vessel and that to preach the Gospel unto the Gentiles as you may see in the 26 of the Acts 15. 16 17 vers. so the work was great to the performance of which they would need much of the power and presence of the Lord with them therefore they fasted and prayed and layed their hands on them c. 2. Observe the persons who laid on hands they were the Prophets and Teachers in this Church as in the 1 and 2 verses So likewise somtimes it was done by the Apostles themselves as Acts 6. 6 vers. so also by Paul and Barnabas who were called as before to the office of Apostles to lay the foundation to do the work of an Apostle Acts 14. 23 vers. so also by Timothy who was the first Bishop of the Church of Ephesus 1 Tim. 5. 22. vers. and also Titus Tit. 1. 5. vers. so likewise by the Presbytery the Company of Eldership in the Church who were by the Church of Christ called to officiate in the wayes of God unto his people by whom Timothy was ordained a Bishop 1 Timot. 4. 14. vers. So that we see this way of God and the manner of the performance thereof in some small measure discovered I shall give but this touch of this second thing minded and that for this reason Because our opposers of laying on of hands upon believers as believers have owned the laying on of hands upon officers though in a disorderly manner they have gone forth in the practise thereof as will appear First from what Mr. Collier writes in his book of Right Constitution pag. 31. where saith he the qualifications of Elders and Deacons are expressed 1 Timot. 3. Answ. I have read of Bishops and Deacons and of Apostles and Elders who were Deacons but never of Elders and Deacons My reason is because a Deacon is an Elder in the Church 2. This discovers according to their practise what they have set persons apart for as their pastoral Charge in the Church of Christ they were set apart for Elders so also as Ministers of the Gospel they were ordained for Elders though their great disorder is in building before the foundation was rightly laid yet observe the wise mistaken in their proceeding though by this practise of theirs with fair words they have stopped the mouths of many poor souls who were clearing themselves from such disorder as they were in they stopped their consciences with this that they are under laying on of hands as well as those that do practise it upon believers as believers I say In this how confused have they appeared in their setting persons apart for Elders not knowing or at least not minding that in the word Elders is comprehended all officers in the Church with the Ministerial work also 1 Pet. 5. 1 vers. 2 Epistle Iohn 1. vers. 3. 1. vers. and so Elders is distinguished into several offices in the Church as Bishops and Deacons the Deacons were to be men full of the Holy Spirit and faith so indeed fit for the work of the Lord among his people as well as Bishops and so were Elders in the Church see Acts 6. 6. vers. and Act. 15. 22. vers. where the Deacons spoken of in the 6 Chapter are called Elders in the 15 Chapter again Philip 1. 1. vers. where the Apostle writeth to the Saints with the Bishops and Deacons so Paul to Timothy writes of the qualifications of the Bishops and Deacons not Elders and Deacons you shall never in all the Scripture find Elders and Deacons expressed So that I hope this may be a word of use unto them however it will be unto the Church of Christ though from a weak and unworthy instrument I shall now leave them as to this but as for the ordination it self they having now at last come forth in the practise thereof they must stand to maintain it and therefore knowing their abilities I shall leave them to contend for this truth with those if there be any that do oppose it it being that I do believe and have allowed of therefore I shall only take notice of one or two objections made by some and then proceed to the third thing minded Objection Some there are who say there are no Apostles now they laid hands upon persons to office then therefore that practise is deased To which I shall give this two-fold answer 1. That those who were not Apostles as to their call But Bishops or Pastors of Churches were exhorted to walk in this way Tit. 1. 5. vers. 1 Tim. 5. 22. vers. yea Prophets and Teachers by the authority of the Church of Christ may lay on hands Acts 13. 1 2 3 vers. 2. By this appears a great mistake in the understanding of many men according to this objection Object That the Ministry of the Apostles is ceased I Answer The office of an Apostle is the first office in the Church of Christ and that is to lay the foundation the foundation of the service of God therefore saith Paul I have laid the foundation 1 Cor. 3. 10. vers. the foundation that is the Lord Jesus Christ in his Doctrine that which Christ and his Apostles did teach upon which the Church of Christ was built see Ephes. 2. 20. which foundation was the beginning-Word of Christ that which persons ought to know and to believe before they are sit for the service of God But now that this viz. to lay the foundation is the first office in the house of God see the 1 Corint 12. 28 vers.
we have no command for the laying on of hands Answ. Now that we have a command appears First from Christs teaching of it there is a positive Command for what he taught as a part of his service we are injoyned to be obedient unto but Christ did teach this as a part of his service yea as a principal part thereof not onely relating to the building but to the foundation of the building which is of more weight as Heb. 6. 1 2. Now that this we are commanded to observe see how full that Scripture comes upon us Acts 3. 22. A Prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your Brethren like unto me him shall you hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you yea this command is followed with a curse if we obey not verse 23. And it shall come to passe that every Soul which will not hear that Prophet shall be destroyed from amongst the people 2. Answer VVe have a command and that also from the Apostles teaching and practise of it that they did teach it and practise it you have already heard in the second Reason Now as they did teach it and practise it see how positive the command lies upon us Phil. 4. 9. Those things which you have both learned and received and heard and seen in me do and the God of love and peace shall be with you also minde 2 Thes. 2. 15. Therefore Brethren stand fast and hold the Traditions which you have been taught whether by Word or our Epistle Now beloved this was one of those things or of those traditions the Apostles had delivered to the Churches yea one of those things they had both heard learned and received and seen in Paul which the Apostle commands them to do to be exercised in to hold fast and this is Pauls exhortation unto Timothy and that by way of command 2 Tim. 2. 2. The things thou hast heard of me amongst many witnesses the same commit thou unto faithful men that they may be able to teach others also Now this was one things that Timothy had heard and learned of Paul and that which he received from him as is plainly manifest in the 5 Reason Object But now whereas some may object and say that Pauls laying on his hands upon Timothy was to office Answ. I answer that it was not to office but for the receiving of the promised Spirit which promised Spirit God did so pour forth upon Timothy that he was made according to the Prophecies that went before of him a good Souldier of Christ one fit to war in his Kingdome to be exercised in the work of the Lord the ministerial office therefore saith the Apostle 1 Tim. 1. 18. This charge I commit unto thee son Timothy according to the Prophecies that went before of thee that thou by them mightest War a good warfare This charge to wit that you shall finde in the 3 vers. to be this that he should charge some they should preach no other Doctrine and whereas he saith according to the Prophesies that went before of thee that thou by them mightest War a good warfare that was those revelations that God manifested unto some of his people whereby he discovered Timothy to be one whom he had chosen to the work of the Ministry and so by them that was those Prophesies the Apostle was assured that his calling was of God and that his blessing would accompany him So that when Paul laid his hands upon him he received the Holy Spirit and that in such manner as that he was fitted abundantly for the work of the Lord which when this was manifested and he had by the people of God or Church of Christ a call thereunto he was by the laying on of hands of the Eldership or Presbytery set apart for the work of the Ministry as you may see 1 Tim. 4. 14. So that it is plainly manifest that by the imposition of Pauls hands Timothy received the Spirit in the gifts thereof 2 Tim. 1. 6. And by the imposition of the hands of the Eldership he was separated to the work of the Ministry according to the Prophesies that went before of him 1 Tim. 4. 14. 3. We have a command and that from the Commission the Lord Jesus gave his Disciples Mat. 28. 20. Teaching them to wit those that believe and are Baptised to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you From whence this truth appears That if Christ did command the Apostles to lay on hands they were to teach those whom they should Baptize to submit thereunto as the words do plainly manifest Teaching them to observe But Christ did command the Apostles to lay on hands For what they did in any service of Christ unto believers as such was by the command or authority of the Lord Jesus and therefore say they 1 Cor. 4. 1. Let a man so account of us as of the Ministers of Christ and Stewards of the Mysteries of God and in the 14 Chap. v. 37. If any man think himself to be a Prophet or Spiritual let him acknowledge the things I write unto you are Commandments of the Lord this was the account they gave of their authority And it is observable I never knew that opposer yet of this truth of Christ that durst affirm the Apostles had no command for laying on of hands So that I say if they had a command for laying on of hands the Observation thereof was taught by them and is that which God by vertue of his Commission given doth require of us for saith Christ Teaching them that is those that are Baptized to observe all things whatsoever I have Commanded you Object But now some will say Laying on of hands is not there expressed Answ. I answer Though it be not expressed it is plainly implyed for whatsoever the Apostles did teach and practise was by vertue of their Commission received from Christ But this they did teach Heb. 5. 12. and also practise Acts 8. 17. and 19. 6. and therefore it was by vertue of their Commission received from Christ And their very manner of teaching and practising discovers it to be the mind and Command of God unto believers as such 1. Because they taught it as a first principle or beginning-Word of Christ unto young believers and therefore it 's reckoned up milk for Babes Heb. 6. 1. 5. 12. 2. Because they taught it as a principle of the foundation of the service of Christ and that as repentance faith Baptisme Resurrection and eternal Iudgement Heb. 6. 1 2. 3. Because they taught it as that which Christ taught unto them or gave in charge unto them as he appointed them to be Stewards of the mysteries of God and therefore they witness it the Doctrine or teaching of Christ Heb. 6. 1. that which they had received from him even the Lord Jesus Christ So that from the Commission doth likewise appear the force also of this obedience whereby those that resist the truth
was fallen upon none of them From whence they perswade themselves and labour to perswade others that the Apostles did lay on hands by vertue of a particular gift or power which God had given them to give his Spirit Now for the removing of this stumbling-block I answer First If you consider what hath been spoken to the last Objection you may plainly see that the Apostles did not lay on hands by vertue of any particular gift but of their ministerial office Neither was it ever in their power to give the Spirit of God to any man as hath been plainly manifested 2. Whereas the Apostle saith for as yet he was falne upon none of them it discovers to us that it was an usuall thing in the Apostles dayes for the Spirit of God to be given and that in more then an ordinary manner and therefore well might Luke thus write this parenthesis in the discourse of this Ordinance for as yet he was fallen upon none of them 3. Again thirdly VVhereas Luke useth these words for as yet he was falne upon none of them it might very well be taken notice of For though Philip had wrought great works in the City of Samaria as in the 6. and 7. verses of this Chapter Acts 8. insomuch that God bore witness from Heaven to those things that Philip spake that there was great joy in that City and that Simon Magus who of long time with his Sorceries had bewitched the people believed and was Baptized yet there was no givings forth of the Spirit of God so immediately as at other times as for instance when Peter preached the VVord Acts 10. 44. even while he was speaking the Holy Spirit fell on them that heard it Object Some do say Why did not Philip lay hands upon the Samaritans as well as Baptize them and from hence they reason that though Philip was instrumental for their conversion yet Peter and Iohn must lay hands upon them and so by such reasonings as this laying on of hands must be laid aside Answ. First let us examine hath not this reasoning much of this nature in it to set up Peter Iohn and Paul that so indeed we may come to think of them above that which is meet as if they had power to do that they had not but for this some hath been already reproved 1 Cor. 1. 12. Now this I say saith the Apostle that every one of you say I am of Paul and I of Apollo c. and in the 3 Chapt. 5 vers. Who is Paul and who is Apollo but Ministers by whom ye believed Even as the Lord gave to every man Oh! that we could therefore cease from man whose breath is in his Nostrils and give glory to God looking up onely unto him who is the giver of every good and perfect gift 2. May there not be or is there not already too many who make as great a noyse to the crying down of Baptisme as this Objection doth of laying on of hands that in regard of Philip who did work Miracles and Ananias who had an immediate Commission to Baptize Paul as well as the Apostles for what they did O say many persons none but those that were immediately authorized and did work Miracles did Baptize therefore your Baptisme is not right because you work no Miracles and hence they conceive no Baptisme but the Baptisme of the Spirit which they think the Apostles gave unto those persons upon whom they laid on hands 3. The great thing in Answer unto this question is to shew why Philip did not lay hands on those persons whom he converted and Baptized and now if this Reason could truly be rendred something of satisfaction possibly unto many persons would appear But for my part though persons are never satisfied I dare not presume to know above what is written and therefore why he did not lay hands upon those persons he did Baptize I dare not positively determine But this I know and herein is my satisfaction that the work was done and I do believe the Apostles are as good an example and the thing is of as much weight if not more as if Philip had done it But Oh! what weak reasoning is here yet concurring with the rest to make voyd the truth I shall appeal to any mans conscience whether this be a sufficient ground to keep any soul from the doing of his duty because he cannot see why Philip did not lay on hands Surely you or I may suppose many things but which of us is able to determine which is truth amongst all therefore it is good for us to keep close unto this that it is Gods way that wherein the Apostles as Ministers of the Gospel did administer and that whereunto believers Baptized as such were obedient that it was taught unto them as milk for Babes and that it was a principle of Christs Doctrine a beginning-word of Christ unto believers and herein let us quiet our selves not seeking a reason for that the Lord doth not give us lest we are carried captive by our carnal imaginations and so split our selves against the truth c. Query But now some may say If we practise this Ordinance where is the ground for our faith seeing whatever is not of faith is sin Answ. First in all our Actions I do grant it is good for us to have a ground for what we do especially in the service of God in which service we are to walk by rule And here I wish that those who walk in mixt Communions would consider what VVord of God they have to bear them out in that practise whether ever Christ left such a rule to walk by But secondly I answer The ground of our faith in this Ordinance is the Word of the Lord which doth not only as you have heard discover unto us this Ordinance to be the mind of God unto believers a way wherein he requires their obedience but it likewise discovers the very end of this Ordinance to be the promise of God which promise God first made unto Abraham as the Apostle bears witness Gal. 3. 14. that the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith VVhy we cannot believe without the Spirit yet through believing it is that we are made partakers thereof even of the promise which is the Spirit which promise God renewed and more plainly discovered by the Prophet Ioel Ioel 2. 28 29. which the Apostle takes notice of Acts 2. 16. this was likewise hinted forth by Iohn the Baptist Mark 1. 8. I indeed Baptize you with water but he shall Baptize you with the Holy Spirit and this our Saviour himself declared Iohn 7. 38 39. He that believeth on me out of his Belly shall flow Rivers of living Water this he spake of the Spirit which they that did believe should receive Now as hath been declared they could not believe without the Spirit yet through believing the promise of
the Spirit is made good unto poor souls And this promise of the Spirit the Apostle doth annex unto faith and Baptisme as the right and portion of every believing obedient soul Acts 2. 38. Repent and be Baptized for the Remission of sins and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit From which Scriptures it is manifest that the promise of the Spirit is made unto believers Baptized as such and therefore the Apostle in the 39 vers. doth apply it unto believers Baptized as such as their right and portion For the promise is unto you and to your Children and to all that are afar off even as many as the Lord our God shall call Which promise of God in general was the ground of the Apostles assurance of faith in this particular that God would give his Spirit in this his own appointment to his people So that a better ground to Act upon in any way or service of God we cannot have then the Word and promise of God is Therefore in the next place for your incouragement in this Ordinance consider these few things obedience to God is First that which makes a soul capable of knowing the mind of God therefore saith our Saviour to the Jews If you will do his will you shall know of the Doctrine 2. Obedience unto Christ is that whereby believers do enter friendship with the Lord Jesus Christ even as by their profession they do enter battle or wage war with the greatest Enemy Even the Dragon spoken of in Rev. 12. 17. who is there said to make war with the Woman and the Remnant of her seed which keep the commands of God and have the Testimony of Iesus Why so I say they do enter by their obedience unto Christ the greatest friendship that possible can be in the World Iohn 15. 14. You are my friends saith Christ if you do whatsoever I command you 3. There is much incouragement to this duty from the end of this Ordinance The Spirit of God is that the soul stands in continual need of yea the usefulness of the Spirit of God is very much discovered First in that it is the Teacher of the Saints the first Epistle of Iohn 2. 27. But the anointing which you have received of him abideth in you and you need not that any man teach you but as the anointing teacheth you Why it is the office of the Holy Spirit to be the Teacher of Gods people Iohn 14. 26. But the Comforter which is the Holy Spirit whom the Father will send in my Name he shall teach you all things and bring all things to your remembrance whatsoever I have said unto you Secondly as he is their Teacher so he is their Comforter yea and their Remembrancer as in this 26 vers. So likewise he is their Guide and their Leader Gal. 5. 18. so he is their strength Ephes. 3. 16. yea by the Spirit they have boldness at the Throne of grace Gal. 4. 6. Because ye are Sons God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts crying Abba Father So also it is their assistance at the Throne of grace Rom. 8. 26. saith the Apostle We know not what to pray for as we ought but the Spirit helpeth our infirmities Oh! how useful is the Spirit of God unto poor souls it 's a quickning Spirit and therein also it is very useful the people of God are apt to deadness and coldness in the things of God therefore saith the Apostle Rom. 8. 11. But if the Spirit of him that raised up Christ from the dead dwell in you he that raised up Christ from the dead shall quicken your mortal bodyes by his Spirit that dwelleth in you Again it 's by the Spirit that we must mortifie corruption the deeds of the body as in the 13 vers. Many other particulars may be minded wherein the usefulness of the Spirit of God doth consist therefore let these considerations incourage us to wait upon God in this his way 4. We have incouragement to wait upon God in his way even in this Ordinance and that from the general promises in the Scripture Gal. 3. 16. 2 Cor. 1. 20. Luke 11. 13. 5. A fifth ground of incouragement may be drawn from the Reasons why the Spirit of God is given forth unto poor souls and that first from the souls being in Covenant with the Lord for among the many precious promises of the new Covenant this you shall finde to be one Ezek. 36. 27. I will put my Spirit within you and cause you to walk in my statutes and ye shall keep my Judgments and do them this Reason the Apostle also Renders Gal. 4. 6. Because you are Sons God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son c. Secondly from souls obedience the promise is made unto such Acts 2. 38. 5. 32. such as walk in obedience shall certainly be partakers of the Spirit of promise 6. Another ground of incouragement I shall mention may be taken from the Necessity of the Spirits being given with it's gifts and fruits amongst the people of God and that may be 1. Either first for the Glory of God 1 Cor. 12. 3. Iohn 4. 14. Rom. 12. 11. 2. For the general good of the people of God according to these Scriptures 1 Cor. 12. 7. The manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal and so he goes on discovering in the 8 9 10. vers. the several gifts and fruits of the Spirit from whence proceeds the usefulness of the members of the body of Christ one unto another the Spirit of God dividing to every man severally as he will as in the 11. vers. So that the Eye cannot say unto the hand I have no need of thee Neither the head to the feet I have no need of thee vers. 21. and the Reason is given vers. 25. that there should be no schisme or division in the body but that the members should have the same care one of another read also 14. Chapt. 12 vers. and Ephes. 4. 12. 3. For our particular good and help according to these Scriptures Iud. 20. 1 Pet. 1. 22. Gal. 5. 5. and the 16. Therefore now let these incourage you to make use of that means God hath appointed even this Ordinance wherein his people were made partakers of his Spirit Query But now some do Question What grounds we have that practise laying on of hands to separate from those who are Baptized for say they could you have Communion with us we could with you Answ. To which I answer and that first Considering the frames of your Spirits your denial of the truth calling it error and delusion a Doctrine from beneath an invention of the Devil that which is our own tradition a post we would set up by the posts of God that for which we have no better ground then the Common-prayer-book A new administration which never was either taught or commanded by Christ in all the new Testament
from hence I would Query by what rule of Christ it is that you could have Communion with us and the case being thus we can any longer Communicate with you For my part I must profess before the Lord and before the whole World that how to satisfie my conscience and maintain the truth of God in such Communion I know not if I could I should do it I know it 's that they reflect upon us that we want love to them as the ground why we cannot Communicate with them But the Lord he is Judge and he knows that it 's our love to the truth of Christ and the order he hath prescribed in his house that will not suffer us Especially as the case stands with them as is before minded And therefore if there be any love in them towards us let us be partakers of those weighty Reasons grounded upon the Word of truth which may convince us that it is our duty still to have Communion with them notwithstanding their opposition against this truth Object But by this some may say It seems that if they did not oppose the truth you could Communicate with them Answ. I answer No for we have no such custome neither the Churches of Christ Search the Scriptures and see if ever Christ left such a rule to walk by or that God allowed or approved of any such practise We are glad to hear where there is any so moderate as not to oppose it and it is not burden some to us to wait upon God in his way labouring their convincement and imbracing of the truth for it is that which is their duty as well as Baptisme and a part of the foundation of the house of God as well as repentance and faith and therefore to build with them without this principle in the foundation were to presume to do that we have no warrant for and to make a breach in that order God hath appointed and that in the very foundation of his service 2. I Answer that we have good ground to maintain separation from those though Baptized that deny this Ordinance of laying on of hands and that 1. Because we are Commanded to keep the Ordinances as they were delivered 2 Thes. 2. 15. Therefore Brethren standfast and hold the Traditions which you have been taught whether by Word or our Epistle and herein were the Corinthians praised by the Apostle which is also written for our Example 1 Cor. 11. 2. Now I praise you Brethren that you remember me in all things and keep the Ordinances as I delivered them unto you From whence it is manifest that to keep the Ordinances as they were delivered is that which is praise-worthy to the Saints well pleasing unto God and the will and minde of God unto his people But to Communicate with those that do deny the laying on of hands will put us out of that capacity this our experience doth witness to us VVe might speak much unto this of the opposition we had when I was in such a condition 2. Because from those persons who do not hold the Ordinances as they were delivered we are commanded to withdraw 2 Thes. 3. 6. Now we command you Brethren in the Name of our Lord Iesus Christ that you withdraw your selves from every Brother that walketh disorderly and not after the Tradition you have received of us yea a good ground we have to observe this Command from their opposition in that they raile print speak and dispute against the truth calling it a Doctrine from beneath a counterfeit thing which gives us a good ground to observe the Apostles Exhortation 1 Tim. 6. 5. From such withdraw thyself and certainly as we are to withdraw from those who are evil in their Conversation so likewise from those who do declare against that which is part of the worship of God yea a foundation-principle of his service 3. Because laying on of hands is a foundation-Doctrine a principle upon which a right constituted Church of Christ is built Heb. 6. 1 2. A Doctrine which was not notionally as many say but practically imbraced by the first Churches as the Hebrews the Samaritans and the Ephesians which were exactly built according to the direction of Christ himself Now this is generally received that though there may be Communion with persons where differences are in circumstantials yet not where they are in fundamentals and for this reason those who are Baptized have refused Communion with the Independants because they erre in a fundamental point therefore they cannot build with them and is not this reason strong for us because laying on of hands is a foundation-Doctrine or principle as well as Repentance faith Baptismes and Resurrection and eternal Judgement therefore this being a foundation-principle we ought not to build with those who are destroyers thereof and therefore for this Reason we ought not to Communicate with them 4. Because they live in the Breach of and in opposition against a Command of God Even this beginning-word of Christ and so indeed to partake with them were to make our selves guilty of their sin Now that they are such that they do so live is plainly manifest by their writing printing preaching and disputing Thus opposing this Law oracle of God Heb. 5. 12. and as they do thus live in the Breach of a Command of God an oracle and a principle of Christ Doctrine so certain it is that we cannot have Communion with them without transgressing the Command of the Spirit of God where we are exhorted to withdraw from such 1 Tim. 6. 3 4 5. 5. Because where there is not an uniting in the principles of the foundation of the service of Christ there can be no safe or comfortable Communion for indeed Union is the ground of Communion Amos 3. 3. Can two walk together except they are agreed and saith our Saviour Wherein two of you shall agree on Earth as touching any thing that you shall ask it shall be done for them of my Father which is in Heaven Mat. 18. 19. from whence it is plain that where there is no Union no Agreement there can be no fellowship no walking together no asking the Father for any thing for consider how can we ask the Spirit of God to be given and that according to his promise with or among them who do oppose the means to wit laying on of hands it's abomination unto them and therefore how can we have Communion with them or they with us Surely if things were rightly considered our separating from them will be found upon as good ground if not better then their separating from the Independants so called for wherein do they differ but in Baptizing the practise of Baptisme they deny not though not rightly performed nor applyed But the practise of laying on of hands upon believers Baptized as such is denyed by our opposers Object But now some may say Though I am satisfied that laying on of hands is an Ordinance of Christ yet they
are good men that I have Communion with such among whom I have found much comfort therefore I cannot withdraw from them 1. We may take notice as this is an Objection made by some amongst the Baptized people so likewise by some that are Baptized who walk with the Independents so called O say they they are good men and we walk lovingly together therefore we cannot withdraw from them not considering that in this they have no rule of Christ and that God never gave unto persons such Liberty of loving each other as that thereby his wayes and truths should be rejected and neglected by them 2. To the Objection I answer that by this thou doest discover how little thy love is to the Lord Jesus Christ and his wayes and how low an esteem thou hast of them that thou preferrest thy love to the Creature before thy love to thy Creator It is true it is that which is thy duty to love those with whom thou hast Communion yea thy Enemies but in this thy loving of them thou must know that thou art to walk according to the Law or rule of Christ towards them for thy love towards them must be subordinate to thy love unto God and his truth and to this purpose Christ speaks Mat. 16. Luke 14. 26. that if any man loved Father or Mother more then him he is not worthy of him yea if a man doth not hate his own life if once it come in Competition with Christ or any one of his Laws that he can rather part with truth then deny his life he cannot be Christs Disciple Thou oughtest to praise thy duty in its place and to perform it but if once it come in Competition with Christ or his truth that thou must either suffer the truth of Christ to fall or else be accounted of by some that thou hast little love in thee towards them I say if thou preferrest thy love towards them before the truth that notwithstanding Christ calls upon thee to be a follower of him yet thou wilt not because it may make a breach in thy love towards them thou discoverst thy self to have little love in thee towards Christ and that thou art mistaken in thy right loving of them For thou canst not better love them then to be faithful unto God wherein thou wilt give them a good example for that which is thy duty in this particular ought also to be theirs if so convinced of the truth as thou art Especially in the consideration of this that there are several persons amongst them that have Apostatized from this truth and Doctrine of Christ that have declared for it and have been obedient unto Christ therein but now deny it and are great opposers of it which if thou hadst not ground from the Scripture to maintain separation from them upon any other account thou couldst not according to order Communicate with them Object But say some I dare not deny them to be a Church of Christ as they say you do and therefore they will charge me as they have done others that I do greatly sin in departing from them 1. I Answer do thou follow Christ in his Word according to the form and order appointed by him in his house and though they charge thee with departing from them God will Justifie thee for it is not their crying the Temple of Lord the Temple of the Lord that will excuse their disobedience Ier. 7. 4. for when truth is declared he commands all men to receive it and therefore when it once comes to thy Soul he requires thy obedience For to what end doth God manifest his truth by any poor Soul by any of his people but that others should be obedient consider was it not ever that which followed that old principle of confusion wherewith poor Souls were frighted by them if possible they could into that state wherein both matter and form subjects and order were all contrary to the minde of God Oh! what a noise and cry did they make after poor Souls who for conscience towards God did separate from them O say they they leave the Church and O! what a great evil would they make of this thereby possessing the people as if they had done very wickedly Not to go for further instance Was not this the practise of the Bishops and Prelates and after them the Presbyterians then the Independants and now it is come to be the practise of the Baptized people whereby it is manifest that this is but one of the last shifts of a confused principle When they cannot overturn the truth they will labour to lay stumbling blocks in the wayes of Gods people 2. I Answer though they look upon themselves to be a Church of Christ yet thou by the light of truth manifested to thy Soul doest see that they are short in a principle of the foundation thereof Is not the Church of Christ the house of God and is not Repentance faith Baptismes laying on of hands the Resurrection of the dead and eternal Judgement the foundation thereof see Heb. 6. 1 2. what will you say to make void this truth will you say as many do Christ is the foundation but is he any otherwise a foundation then in his Doctrine as he is declared and is not this his Doctrine or Teaching doth not the Apostle Heb. 6. 1. call it the Doctrine of Christ and is not his Doctrine one with himself Surely Christ his truth are one so far as a Soul knows Christ he will walk in obedience to him and doth not their disobedience to this way of the Lord discover the disorder they are in that indeed they build before the foundation is rightly layed denying a principle thereof 3. Whereas they say we deny them to be a Church it is not true For we desire not to enter Judgement in things that are too deep for us But this is that we have said and do still say let them prove themselves a Church of Christ which if they can so do we can prove them short in a foundation-principle of the service thereof and so disorderly For consider is it according to the rule of Christ to admit of persons though Baptized to Communion that shall say of a principle of the foundation of the service of God upon which he should stand to go on to perfection It is a lye that which Christ never taught though it be in so many words declared Surely such a practise God will never own neither dare we lest he disown us But here I shall take liberty to write Mr. Colliers own Argument for the discovering of a true Church of Christ in the first Page of his book of Right constitution saith he A true visible Church of Christ consisteth both of matter and form or of subjects and order for saith he it is Christs Kingdome and those subjects must be such visibly as Christ owns and that form and order according to Christs Rule or else saith he it cannot be
Christs Church Surely if what Mr. Collier writes and this truth of Christ to wit laying on of hands were rightly weighed what could he have spoken more against himself and for us in this case therefore let 's try seeing he hath thus spoken whether he doth own the form and order of Christs house which is plainly manifest he doth not for in that book as you may see from the 70 Page to the end thereof he opposes a principle of his Doctrine a part of the foundation of the service of Christ but I wish the Lord may give him and others to see this truth of Christ that they may be followers of him therein I shall now conclude leaving what I have written to the Judgments of all to whom it shall come desiring that they would with the noble Bereans search the Scriptures to see if what I have said be so or no that they would seriously weigh as in the sight of God the things laid down in this discourse having their Eyes up towards God knowing what is written That they which seek the Lord understand all things Prov. 28. 5. Further my desire is that if in their Consciences they do finde any convictions of the truth herein asserted they would take heed of opposing of it and that lest they be found fighters against God The End An ANSWER To a discourse containing 4 Chapters in opposition to this principle of Christs Doctrine to wit laying on of hands upon believers Baptized as such I Having almost ended my former discourse for the press it being a discovery and vindication of the truth there was presented to my hands a book having no Name thereunto consisting of two sheets of paper put forth as it doth appear unto me by several persons in opposition to this Ordinance of the Lord Jesus Christ to wit laying on of hands upon believers Baptized as such To which as the Lord shall help me with as much soberness and moderation taking as little notice as possible I can of their reproachful speeches of us and of the truth according to the measure I have received having this opportunity give a brief answer thereunto hoping it may more tend to the Conviction of persons it being particularly answered although the substance thereof is already answered in my book likewise not doubting but that other Servants of Christ who may be more able will as God shall give opportunity more fully vindicate his truth from the opposers thereof Their book as I have already said doth consist of 4 Chapters First of the several ends of laying on of hands 2. What laying on of hands is not and cannot be meant Heb. 6. 2 vers. 3. What laying on of hands is and must be meant there 4. That the laying on of hands practised by some in these dayes on all Baptized believers was never Instituted Commanded nor practised at all by Jesus Christ or his Apostles in all the New Testament Now their first Chapter contains according to their Judgement the several ends of laying on of hands and they are three 1. For healing of the sick 2. For ministring or giving the Extraordinary gifts of the Holy Spirit 3. For ordaining and appointing of Officers Unto the first and last of these I shall not now speak having spoken my Judgement and Conscience of them in the beginning of my book which I do hope is according unto truth And therefore shall now take a little notice of what is written as to the other particular desiring the Reader to consider of what I have written to the other two in the beginning of my book And now whereas they lay down and thereby would affirm that laying on of hands was for giving the Extraordinary gifts of the Holy Spirit and for the proof of this they say that Peter and Iohn to this end laid their hands upon them at Samaria Acts 8. 17 18 19. I answer first that the end of this Ordinance is missed by the Author or Authors of this book for the end of this Ordinance is the promised Spirit which God will give to all those who from the heart obey his Doctrine are followers of his teaching for the gift of the Spirit is the promise of God to all those who do obey him Acts 2. 38 5. 32 vers. which promise of the Spirit is the end of this Ordinance which end also was assigned thereunto see Acts 8. 15. and to which end the Apostles did administer it that those persons to wit beleevers who by their obedience were under this promise of God might receive it of God whose gift this was and who alone not the Apostles did communicate it unto his people as these Scriptures do witness Ephes. 4. 6. Acts 5. 32. 2. 33. Mat. 3. 11. Iohn 14. 16 17. 15. 26. 16. 7. 2. I Answer that the giving the Extraordinary gifts of the Spirit was never propounded as an end of laying on of hands neither can our opposers prove it that persons by the submission to this Ordinance should be partakers of the miraculous gifts of the Holy Spirit or that persons were to expect this or that particular gift thereof but that as before they might be partaker of the Spirit of promise that whereas now they were to joyne themselves according to their profession with the body of Christ so they might Act in the body according to the will of God Object But now some may say By laying on of hands they received the Holy Spirit in an Extraordinary manner Answ. That they did receive the Holy Spirit in more then an ordinary manner by laying on of hands I do grant but that the Extraordinary gifts of the Holy Spirit is the end of this Ordinance I do deny For did they receive the Holy Spirit in a more then ordinary manner through this Ordinance Acts 19. 6. So they did through the preaching of the Word Acts 10. 44. yea and through prayer Acts 4. 31. which if considered we shall finde the Extraordinary gifts of the Holy Spirit to be the end no more of laying on of hands then of preaching the Word and Prayer they may be an effect or fruit of each of them but not the end for poor Souls by their obedience unto Christ are made partakers of the Spirit of promise which is the Producer of such effects or fruits in them 3. We may observe that the foundation of this discourse being missed and in the first place that which is untrue affirmed to wit that laying on of hands was for giving the Extraordinary gifts of the Spirit it 's no marvail they should run themselves into so many mistaken understandings of those that practise it and the hard Censures they put upon them with their Erronious Judgments about this truth which I pray God forgive them for they know not what they do and so I might put an end to their first Chapter only I shall take a little notice of the weight of those Reasons which they bring to