thy_o reply_n to_o i_o thus_o say_v but_o let_v i_o ask_v william_n rogers_n and_o they_o that_o take_v his_o part_n have_v george_n fox_n show_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o a_o careless_a loose_a libertine_n or_o dark_a spirit_n let_v that_o man_n come_v forth_o in_o the_o whole_a nation_n that_o can_v just_o charge_v he_o with_o such_o a_o spirit_n from_o his_o childhood_n this_o seem_v a_o challenge_n make_v by_o john_n blaickle_v on_o thy_o behalf_n and_o approve_v by_o thou_o since_o it_o be_v send_v by_o thou_o to_o i_o annex_v to_o thy_o reply_n unto_o i_o and_o therefore_o i_o be_o concern_v thus_o to_o answer_n that_o if_o thou_o will_v acknowledge_v that_o the_o publication_n of_o lie_n the_o make_v use_n of_o a_o certificate_n in_o thy_o favour_n give_v forth_o by_o a_o man_n that_o thou_o thyself_o know_v know_v nothing_o of_o some_o of_o the_o matter_n whereof_o by_o the_o word_n of_o his_o testimony_n he_o undertake_v to_o clear_v thou_o give_v instruction_n to_o other_o to_o perform_v duty_n and_o yet_o take_v liberty_n direct_o to_o violate_v the_o same_o thyself_o as_o if_o thou_o will_v have_v friend_n follow_v thy_o word_n but_o not_o thy_o example_n be_v the_o fruit_n of_o a_o careless_a loose_a libertine_n or_o dark_a spirit_n than_o i_o be_o the_o man_n in_o this_o nation_n who_o be_o ready_a to_o come_v forth_o to_o charge_v thou_o with_o the_o fruit_n of_o a_o careless_a loose_a libertine_n dark_a spirit_n and_o to_o justify_v the_o charge_n against_o thou_o and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o shall_v at_o that_o time_n very_o free_o give_v thou_o liberty_n to_o take_v copy_n of_o what_o be_v prepare_v against_o thou_o as_o aforesaid_a after_o the_o read_n thereof_o in_o such_o a_o assembly_n as_o we_o may_v agree_v upon_o and_o to_o be_v plain_a i_o can_v but_o for_o the_o clear_n of_o my_o conscience_n tell_v thou_o that_o if_o thourefuse_v to_o come_v forth_o on_o this_o challenge_n occasion_v as_o aforesaid_a i_o hope_v all_o friend_n who_o shall_v come_v to_o the_o knowledge_n hereof_o will_v be_v on_o their_o watch_n that_o they_o may_v escape_v the_o snare_n in_o which_o many_o have_v be_v catch_v through_o the_o belief_n of_o lie_v publish_v by_o thou_o and_o that_o none_o for_o the_o future_a will_v account_v that_o all_o friend_n disunity_n with_o thou_o be_v a_o infallible_a demonstration_n of_o be_v out_o of_o unity_n with_o the_o lord_n and_o his_o people_n i_o be_o thy_o friend_n william_n rogers_n in_o the_o abovesaid_a letter_n to_o g._n f._n together_o with_o what_o i_o have_v write_v precede_v the_o same_o be_v contain_v as_o much_o as_o at_o present_a i_o be_o free_a to_o comunicate_v unto_o you_o until_o such_o time_n i_o may_v understand_v whether_o my_o line_n may_v be_v by_o you_o deem_v worthy_a your_o notice_n which_o if_o it_o be_v my_o desire_n be_v that_o i_o may_v hear_v from_o you_o in_o write_v touch_v the_o matter_n present_v to_o your_o view_n and_o as_o i_o say_v before_o if_o any_o thing_n shall_v be_v with_o you_o to_o propose_v unto_o i_o and_o it_o shall_v appear_v that_o which_o may_v be_v approve_v by_o the_o witness_n of_o god_n in_o my_o conscience_n i_o have_v this_o faith_n that_o then_o a_o constraint_n will_v be_v upon_o my_o spirit_n to_o submit_v thereto_o for_o conscience_n sake_n i_o be_o your_o friend_n william_n rogers_n there_o be_v a_o postscript_n add_v which_o i_o omit_v to_o take_v copy_n of_o but_o sudden_o after_o remember_v it_o i_o note_v that_o to_o the_o best_a of_o my_o remembrance_n it_o be_v to_o this_o purpose_n have_v you_o obtain_v a_o meeting_n of_o the_o friend_n of_o the_o city_n as_o be_v desire_v i_o shall_v if_o it_o have_v be_v propose_v ready_o assent_v to_o the_o read_n among_o they_o of_o the_o manuscript_n prepare_v to_o the_o aforesaid_a remonstrance_n i_o never_o receive_v any_o answer_n neither_o have_v i_o understand_v that_o it_o be_v at_o any_o time_n communicate_v by_o those_o unto_o who_o it_o be_v send_v unto_o any_o other_o friend_n within_o the_o city_n of_o london_n one_o thing_n more_o yet_o worthy_a observation_n viz._n that_o george_n fox_n have_v no_o inclination_n to_o meet_v i_o for_o which_o many_o evidence_n may_v have_v be_v produce_v have_v there_o be_v occasion_n but_o lest_o any_o one_o shall_v think_v it_o a_o unjust_a reflection_n i_o desire_v that_o what_o follow_v may_v be_v due_o weigh_v william_n rogers_n to_o daniel_n smith_n of_o marlborough_n bristol_n the_o 13_o of_o the_o four_o month_n 1680._o daniel_n smith_n understanding_n that_o thou_o have_v some_o word_n with_o g._n f._n concern_v i_o and_o that_o in_o relation_n to_o my_o proposition_n of_o give_v he_o a_o meeting_n before_o friend_n to_o the_o end_n that_o if_o he_o be_v guilty_a of_o any_o thing_n reproachful_a to_o the_o truth_n he_o may_v condemn_v it_o if_o not_o he_o may_v be_v clear_v i_o think_v meet_v to_o request_v thou_o to_o send_v i_o a_o few_o line_n signify_v what_o his_o answer_n be_v to_o that_o proposition_n and_o forasmuch_o as_o thou_o appear_v a_o plain_a man_n and_o account_v to_o the_o best_a of_o my_o remembrance_n that_o my_o proposition_n be_v rational_a i_o hope_v thou_o will_v answer_v this_o my_o request_n etc._n etc._n thy_o love_a friend_n william_n rogers_n now_o follow_v so_o much_o of_o daniel_n smith_n answer_n as_o relate_v to_o the_o above_o request_n malborough_n the_o 6_o of_o 5_o mo._n 1680._o william_n rogers_n friend_n thou_o i_o receive_v and_o this_o account_n i_o can_v give_v thou_o thy_o charge_n concern_v george_n fox_n write_v by_o thou_o at_o calf_n i_o give_v to_o he_o and_o show_v thy_o mind_n concern_v a_o hear_n and_o he_o judge_v it_o will_v prove_v but_o a_o jangle_n as_o it_o be_v at_o bristol_n etc._n etc._n daniel_n smith_n the_o above_o say_v few_o line_n from_o daniel_n smith_n the_o elder_a in_o answer_n to_o i_o compare_v with_o g._n f_n silence_n to_o what_o i_o have_v write_v to_o he_o desire_v a_o meeting_n and_o his_o neglect_n to_o give_v answer_n unto_o two_o letter_n send_v unto_o he_o by_o john_n rance_n and_o write_v on_o purpose_n to_o entreat_v he_o to_o give_v a_o meeting_n clear_o show_v that_o george_n fox_n have_v no_o mind_n to_o concern_v himself_o to_o meet_v i_o and_o therefore_o i_o have_v no_o reason_n at_o my_o last_o be_v in_o london_n to_o attend_v and_o wait_v for_o george_n fox_n come_v to_o the_o city_n to_o conclude_v much_o more_o might_n in_o truth_n be_v write_v to_o evidence_n the_o matter_n intend_v by_o this_o postscript_n which_o at_o present_a i_o shall_v omit_v have_v this_o faith_n and_o confidence_n that_o as_o in_o conscience_n i_o have_v be_v concern_v to_o prepare_v and_o publish_v this_o treatise_n and_o at_o this_o moment_n and_o conclusion_n have_v the_o answer_n of_o peace_n in_o my_o bosom_n so_o there_o will_v be_v a_o service_n for_o the_o lord_n his_o truth_n and_o people_n therein_o and_o though_o some_o may_v make_v lie_v their_o refuge_n evil_a insinuation_n and_o false_a construction_n their_o defence_n to_o abuse_v both_o it_o and_o i_o and_o other_o friend_n in_o truth_n concern_v as_o well_o as_o to_o cover_v the_o head_n of_o deceit_n and_o to_o uphold_v that_o which_o the_o lord_n as_o i_o firm_o believe_v have_v determine_v to_o bring_v down_o into_o the_o dust_n yet_o my_o faith_n be_v that_o the_o lord_n in_o his_o due_a time_n will_v discover_v the_o skirt_n of_o such_o and_o take_v away_o the_o unjust_a reproach_n from_o off_o his_o peculiar_a people_n and_o cause_n 〈◊〉_d vengeance_n and_o indignation_n to_o take_v hold_n on_o the_o adversary_n and_o give_v unto_o those_o who_o be_v obedient_a unto_o that_o spirit_n in_o which_o the_o election_n stand_v a_o increase_n of_o the_o ancient_a love_n peace_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o everlasting_a light_n so_o that_o be_v enable_v to_o sit_v down_o together_o under_o their_o own_o vine_n and_o figtree_n where_o none_o shall_v make_v they_o afraid_a they_o will_v be_v make_v partaker_n notwithstanding_o all_o false_a prophecy_n and_o imaginary_a vision_n of_o the_o joy_n of_o god_n salvation_n to_o the_o consolation_n of_o one_o another_o soul_n in_o the_o lord_n amen_o amen_n say_v my_o soul_n william_n rogers_n dated_n bristol_n the_o 3d._n of_o the_o 9th_o mo._n 1680._o bristol_n the_o 8_o of_o novemb_n 1680._o notwithstanding_o that_o all_o this_o treatise_n except_v the_o postscript_n index_n and_o errata_fw-la be_v already_o print_v yet_o as_o a_o further_a evidence_n of_o my_o readiness_n to_o meet_v george_n fox_n and_o his_o decline_v thereof_o i_o think_v meet_v to_o insert_v this_o additional_a postscript_n a_o friend_n from_o london_n advise_v i_o that_o my_o proceed_v to_o print_v be_v much_o discourse_v of_o in_o the_o city_n of_o london_n
reality_n member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n because_o this_o light_n in_o which_o we_o have_v believe_v do_v reveal_v unto_o we_o that_o those_o who_o be_v but_o in_o the_o gentile_a nature_n and_o have_v come_v no_o further_o than_o the_o outward_a court_n that_o be_v give_v to_o the_o gentile_n may_v have_v all_o the_o outward_a mark_n and_o sign_n of_o a_o member_n of_o their_o church_n and_o yet_o know_v very_o little_a of_o the_o wash_n by_o the_o water_n of_o regeneration_n and_o sanctification_n through_o the_o spirit_n which_o every_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n that_o be_v build_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n come_v to_o be_v witness_n of_o and_o therefore_o when_o our_o opposer_n who_o profess_v not_o the_o truth_n will_v reflect_v upon_o we_o on_o this_o wise_a you_o be_v a_o confuse_a people_n you_o gather_v not_o into_o church-fellowship_n you_o have_v no_o certain_a way_n to_o know_v one_o another_o to_o be_v member_n of_o the_o church_n as_o we_o have_v and_o why_o do_v you_o not_o put_v forth_o your_o creed_n that_o so_o we_o may_v know_v what_o and_o how_o many_o the_o article_n of_o your_o faith_n be_v and_o what_o you_o stand_v for_o and_o what_o you_o stand_v against_o the_o best_a answer_n that_o ever_o as_o we_o can_v understand_v we_o be_v capable_a to_o give_v in_o truth_n unto_o such_o be_v this_o the_o true_a church_n be_v in_o god_n who_o be_v the_o author_n and_o finisher_n of_o our_o faith_n we_o have_v believe_v in_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o his_o grace_n unto_o which_o if_o we_o be_v obedient_a according_a to_o the_o respective_a measure_n thereof_o give_v of_o god_n and_o receive_v by_o we_o we_o then_o have_v the_o witness_v of_o god_n in_o our_o conscience_n give_v evidence_n that_o we_o be_v of_o the_o true_a brotherhood_n and_o of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o first_o bear_v who_o name_n be_v write_v in_o heaven_n though_o we_o do_v not_o allege_v any_o outward_a mark_n and_o sign_n whereby_o our_o body_n be_v temple_n wherein_o the_o holy_a ghost_n do_v dwell_v ought_v to_o be_v account_v within_o the_o pale_a of_o the_o true_a church_n and_o albeit_o no_o outward_a society_n of_o man_n among_o we_o call_v themselves_o the_o church_n have_v put_v forth_o any_o certain_a number_n of_o article_n of_o faith_n with_o this_o testimony_n that_o every_o one_o that_o profess_v himself_o a_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n ought_v so_o to_o believe_v or_o else_o not_o be_v account_v of_o the_o true_a church_n yet_o many_o of_o our_o friend_n unto_o who_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v divine_a understanding_n have_v write_v divers_a book_n according_a as_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n have_v move_v upon_o their_o heart_n out_o of_o which_o the_o sound_a doctrine_n we_o hold_v and_o stand_v for_o may_v be_v collect_v though_o other_o so_o repute_v may_v through_o weakness_n have_v err_v to_o conclude_v as_o to_o this_o particular_a we_o further_o thus_o testify_v in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n there_o be_v babe_n young_a man_n and_o father_n there_o be_v the_o weak_a and_o the_o strong_a suppose_v a_o weak_a brother_n faith_n differ_v from_o his_o brethren_n must_v he_o be_v account_v a_o fool_n or_o a_o hypocrite_n nay_o nay_o charity_n measure_v not_o so_o we_o find_v this_o very_a case_n happen_v among_o the_o roman_n and_o what_o say_v paul_n in_o that_o case_n read_v rom._n 14.3_o 4_o 22_o 23._o and_o there_o paul_n thus_o advise_v let_v not_o he_o that_o eat_v despise_v he_o that_o eat_v not_o and_o let_v not_o he_o that_o eat_v not_o judge_v he_o which_o eat_v for_o god_n have_v receive_v he_o who_o be_v thou_o that_o condemne_v another_o man_n servant_n to_o his_o own_o master_n he_o stand_v or_o fall_v have_v thou_o faith_n have_v it_o to_o thyself_o he_o that_o doubt_v be_v condemn_v if_o he_o eat_v because_o he_o eat_v not_o of_o faith_n and_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n hence_o it_o be_v evident_a the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n differ_v in_o their_o faith_n he_o that_o do_v eat_v be_v not_o to_o be_v judge_v because_o he_o be_v receive_v of_o god_n he_o that_o do_v not_o eat_v be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v judge_v that_o the_o apostle_n condemn_v the_o very_a eat_n while_o there_o be_v a_o doubt_n though_o the_o abstain_v from_o eat_v be_v the_o fruit_n of_o weakness_n we_o now_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o conscience_n of_o every_o impartial_a reader_n in_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n to_o weigh_v and_o consider_v whether_o it_o can_v be_v service_n to_o the_o truth_n and_o agreeable_a to_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o spirit_n at_o this_o day_n for_o any_o person_n under_o the_o name_n of_o quaker_n to_o give_v forth_o this_o doctrine_n it_o be_v folly_n and_o hypocrisy_n to_o profess_v ourselves_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n and_o yet_o not_o believe_v thus_o as_o the_o true_a church_n believe_v though_o the_o giver_n forth_o thereof_o may_v to_o this_o purpose_n also_o declare_v as_o to_o give_v the_o publisher_n thereof_o his_o due_a he_o have_v that_o they_o never_o do_v preach_v up_o such_o a_o position_n as_o a_o great_a argument_n to_o enforce_v people_n into_o their_o faith_n sect_n v._o what_o we_o stand_v for_o viz._n truth_n and_o righteousness_n and_o that_o christ_n government_n may_v be_v exalt_v in_o every_o heart_n under_o which_o we_o be_v instruct_v not_o to_o depend_v on_o man_n but_o on_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o god_n grace_n a_o testimony_n against_o tithe_n and_o for_o meet_v together_o in_o time_n of_o persecution_n the_o neglect_n whereof_o may_v be_v the_o fruit_n of_o weakness_n or_o disobedience_n the_o government_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o law_n thereof_o be_v inward_a some_o part_n of_o the_o fruit_n bring_v forth_o under_o the_o say_a government_n be_v describe_v a_o objection_n relate_v to_o the_o secure_v any_o part_n of_o a_o man_n estate_n on_o a_o foresight_n of_o a_o praemunire_n or_o fine_n for_o meet_v answer_v have_v thus_o far_o ease_v ourselves_o it_o be_v with_o we_o in_o short_a to_o inform_v the_o reader_n what_o we_o stand_v for_o and_o what_o we_o stand_v against_o that_o so_o the_o understanding_n impartial_a reader_n who_o can_v be_v principled_a to_o shut_v out_o all_o reason_n and_o all_o wisdom_n notwithstanding_o public_a exhortation_n to_o the_o contrary_a as_o if_o wisdom_n and_o reason_n of_o all_o kind_n be_v condemnable_a may_v perceive_v more_o clear_o what_o we_o be_v and_o what_o we_o be_v not_o that_o than_o which_o chief_o we_o stand_v for_o be_v truth_n and_o righteousness_n and_o that_o christ_n government_n may_v be_v exalt_v in_o every_o heart_n which_o may_v be_v branch_v forth_o into_o many_o particular_a doctrine_n and_o practice_n but_o forasmuch_o as_o that_o have_v large_o be_v treat_v on_o by_o many_o ancient_a &_o honourable_a friend_n to_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n who_o be_v instrument_n in_o god_n hand_n to_o gather_v we_o into_o the_o belief_n of_o his_o light_n and_o sufficiency_n of_o his_o grace_n though_o since_o fall_v asleep_o and_o that_o we_o intend_v more_o particular_o to_o treat_v thereon_o in_o the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o treatise_n we_o shall_v not_o much_o enlarge_v thereon_o in_o this_o part_n yet_o think_v it_o necessary_a for_o the_o sake_n of_o some_o here_o to_o signify_v that_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n for_o which_o we_o stand_v under_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n have_v instruct_v we_o not_o to_o depend_v on_o man_n for_o teach_v but_o on_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o god_n grace_n nor_o yet_o to_o put_v into_o the_o mouth_n of_o false_a prophet_n or_o hireling_n shepherd_n and_o on_o this_o foot_n we_o have_v have_v a_o testimony_n against_o pay_v of_o tithe_n as_o be_v that_o antichristian-yoak_n which_o in_o the_o dark_a night_n of_o apostasy_n have_v be_v spread_v over_o nation_n and_o as_o we_o come_v to_o believe_v in_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n and_o to_o depend_v upon_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o to_o know_v the_o benefit_n of_o our_o assemble_v ourselves_o together_o to_o wait_v upon_o the_o lord_n for_o the_o arise_v of_o his_o pure_a immortal_a life_n to_o the_o refresh_n and_o consolate_v our_o immortal_a soul_n we_o have_v be_v make_v willing_a praise_n be_v to_o our_o god_n to_o continue_v the_o assemble_v of_o ourselves_o together_o wait_v upon_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o day_n of_o persecution_n and_o hour_n of_o trial_n though_o suffering_n may_v therefore_o attend_v believe_v that_o whatsoever_o society_n of_o people_n have_v be_v in_o the_o life_n of_o christianity_n and_o yet_o shall_v for_o fear_n of_o man_n or_o the_o law_n of_o man_n forsake_v the_o assemble_v of_o themselves_o together_o as_o the_o manner_n of_o some_o have_v be_v in_o day_n past_a when_o the_o will_n of_o the_o lord_n
6.53_o john_n 6.53_o when_o he_o say_v except_o you_o eat_v of_o the_o flesh_n of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n and_o drink_v his_o blood_n you_o have_v no_o life_n in_o you_o for_o though_o christ_n so_o say_v yet_o he_o do_v not_o intend_v that_o there_o can_v be_v a_o profit_v as_o to_o the_o growth_n of_o the_o inward_a man_n by_o eat_v outward_a flesh_n no_o more_o than_o the_o child_n of_o light_n do_v at_o this_o day_n believe_v that_o the_o eat_v of_o the_o outward_a bread_n can_v nourish_v the_o immortal_a soul_n 6.63_o joh._n 6.63_o and_o therefore_o christ_n say_v it_o be_v the_o spirit_n that_o quicken_v the_o flesh_n profit_v nothing_o chap._n xi_o touch_v justification_n and_o salvation_n through_o faith_n in_o christ_n what_o the_o scripture_n say_v touch_v justification_n and_o salvation_n we_o own_v viz._n 8.30_o rom._n 8.30_o that_o the_o call_v of_o god_n be_v justify_v and_o that_o this_o justification_n be_v free_o by_o his_o grace_n through_o the_o redemption_n 25._o rom._n 3.24_o 25._o that_o be_v in_o jesus_n christ_n by_o faith_n in_o his_o blood_n for_o the_o remission_n of_o sin_n that_o be_v past_a and_o that_o 2.11_o tit._n 2.11_o salvation_n be_v bring_v through_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n that_o have_v appear_v unto_o all_o men._n object_n this_o sense_n of_o you_o can_v be_v deny_v because_o your_o language_n agree_v with_o the_o holy_a scripture_n but_o the_o question_n be_v whether_o your_o mean_v thereby_o be_v that_o you_o own_o a_o justification_n of_o person_n or_o a_o state_n of_o salvation_n attainable_a through_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n not_o only_o without_o a_o infusion_n of_o righteousness_n but_o also_o by_o a_o pardon_n of_o sin_n and_o accept_v of_o person_n as_o perfect_o righteous_a at_o the_o tribunal_n of_o god_n not_o for_o any_o work_v wrought_v in_o they_o or_o do_v by_o they_o but_o for_o christ_n sake_n not_o by_o impute_v the_o act_n of_o faith_n or_o any_o pretend_a light_n or_o principle_n within_o they_o or_o any_o of_o their_o evangelical_n obedience_n to_o he_o as_o their_o righteousness_n before_o god_n but_o by_o accept_n and_o impute_v the_o obedience_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o christ_n for_o they_o and_o to_o they_o and_o whether_o or_o no_o you_o do_v not_o account_v that_o justification_n and_o sanctification_n be_v all_o one_o and_o the_o same_o thing_n because_o sanctification_n be_v inseparable_o join_v with_o justification_n 1_o cor._n 6.11_o which_o if_o you_o shall_v we_o can_v but_o take_v you_o therein_o to_o err_v because_o in_o justification_n god_n impute_v the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n to_o we_o rom._n 4.6_o 8._o but_o in_o sanctification_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n infuse_v grace_n into_o we_o and_o enable_v to_o the_o exercise_n thereof_o ezek._n 36.27_o answ_n the_o objection_n seem_v to_o be_v raise_v by_o such_o as_o have_v put_v their_o meaning_n on_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n when_o in_o truth_n they_o can_v say_v that_o by_o the_o revelation_n 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of_o god_n by_o these_o our_o word_n nothing_o which_o we_o of_o ourselves_o be_v capable_a to_o perform_v our_o mean_v be_v not_o only_o a_o exclusion_n of_o all_o legal_a performance_n which_o the_o apostle_n in_o their_o epistle_n plentiful_o hint_v at_o but_o also_o of_o all_o other_o outward_a duty_n and_o performance_n of_o what_o nature_n and_o kind_a soever_o that_o our_o outward_a man_n be_v of_o ability_n without_o the_o assistance_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o act_v and_o bring_v forth_o and_o if_o any_o from_o these_o word_n in_o the_o objection_n viz._n wrought_v in_o they_o act_n of_o faith_n evangelical_n obedience_n etc._n etc._n shall_v conclude_v that_o the_o very_a work_n and_o action_n which_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n we_o be_v enable_v to_o bring_v forth_o be_v of_o no_o advantage_n towards_o eternal_a salvation_n but_o that_o it_o be_v through_o faith_n alone_o attainable_a we_o then_o thus_o answer_v that_o the_o word_n faith_n in_o the_o scripture_n may_v be_v take_v in_o a_o twofold_a sense_n the_o one_o be_v a_o faith_n that_o be_v not_o without_o a_o further_a growth_n accompany_v with_o the_o salvation_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o can_v be_v the_o faith_n intend_v in_o the_o objection_n the_o other_o be_v faith_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n for_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o this_o faith_n be_v unto_o salvation_n and_o so_o must_v be_v that_o intend_a in_o the_o objection_n but_o then_o this_o inconsistency_n with_o truth_n plain_o appear_v in_o the_o objection_n viz._n a_o reliance_n on_o faith_n exclude_v work_v wrought_v by_o the_o spirit_n the_o inconsistency_n lie_v here_o wheresoever_o a_o lively_a faith_n unto_o salvation_n be_v manifest_v it_o be_v accompany_v with_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o evangelical_n obedience_n which_o be_v as_o inseparable_a each_o from_o other_o as_o sanctification_n and_o justification_n in_o the_o objection_n be_v confess_v to_o be_v we_o shall_v now_o prove_v to_o evince_v against_o all_o opposer_n the_o truth_n of_o what_o we_o have_v assert_v first_o that_o there_o be_v a_o faith_n which_o without_o a_o further_a growth_n be_v not_o accompany_v with_o the_o salvation_n of_o god_n be_v evident_a from_o the_o word_n of_o paul_n rom._n 13.11_o for_o now_o be_v our_o salvation_n near_o than_o when_o we_o believe_v which_o clear_o show_v that_o the_o scripture_n inform_v we_o of_o a_o belief_n or_o faith_n attain_v by_o such_o as_o be_v not_o arrive_v unto_o nor_o yet_o witness_n of_o the_o salvation_n of_o god_n they_o be_v only_o come_v near_a unto_o it_o than_o when_o they_o first_o believe_v but_o not_o come_v at_o it_o and_o no_o doubt_n but_o this_o belief_n or_o faith_n speak_v of_o by_o the_o apostle_n be_v a_o faith_n on_o christ_n that_o be_v to_o say_v that_o he_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n etc._n etc._n for_o so_o to_o believe_v be_v the_o work_n encourage_v in_o the_o beginning_n according_a as_o appear_v by_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n unto_o the_o multitude_n john_n 6.29_o this_o be_v the_o work_n of_o god_n that_o you_o believe_v on_o he_o who_o he_o have_v send_v and_o this_o be_v say_v by_o christ_n in_o answer_n to_o this_o question_n propose_v to_o he_o by_o the_o multitude_n what_o shall_v we_o do_v that_o we_o may_v work_v the_o work_n of_o god_n 18._o phil._n 1.15_o 16_o 17_o 18._o beside_o we_o find_v the_o apostle_n rejoice_v that_o christ_n be_v preach_v though_o by_o some_o it_o be_v of_o envy_n and_o strife_n and_o in_o pretence_n and_o no_o doubt_n his_o end_n be_v that_o the_o son_n of_o man_n may_v come_v to_o believe_v that_o christ_n be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o that_o the_o messiah_n that_o be_v wait_v for_o be_v come_v of_o who_o there_o be_v a_o expectation_n 4.25_o john_n 4.25_o that_o he_o shall_v tell_v we_o all_o thing_n and_o so_o when_o the_o son_n of_o man_n whether_o jew_n or_o gentile_n be_v come_v so_o far_o as_o to_o believe_v that_o christ_n be_v that_o messiah_n that_o be_v to_o come_v there_o be_v ground_n of_o hope_n that_o they_o may_v in_o due_a time_n come_v to_o witness_v the_o obedience_n of_o faith_n unto_o righteousness_n the_o author_n to_o the_o hebrew_n tell_v we_o 12.2_o heb._n 12.2_o that_o jesus_n be_v the_o author_n and_o finisher_n of_o our_o faith_n no_o doubt_v this_o be_v not_o a_o work_n do_v in_o a_o moment_n or_o twinkle_v of_o a_o eye_n for_o though_o he_o be_v the_o author_n and_o object_n of_o every_o true_a christian_n faith_n yet_o we_o learn_v from_o the_o holy_a scripture_n that_o such_o as_o believe_v that_o jesus_n be_v the_o lord_n stand_v in_o need_n of_o many_o 24._o many_o rom._n 13.13_o 14._o heb._n 10.23_o 24._o exhortation_n reproof_n and_o instruction_n and_o that_o god_n make_v use_v of_o instrument_n to_o build_v they_o up_o in_o the_o most_o holy_a
fellowship_n with_o the_o child_n of_o light_n be_v not_o inconsistent_a with_o that_o form_n that_o the_o power_n of_o god_n may_v lead_v into_o for_o i_o be_o a_o witness_n for_o many_o year_n past_a even_o to_o this_o day_n that_o such_o meeting_n have_v be_v serviceable_a to_o answer_v those_o righteous_a ends._n but_o if_o the_o member_n of_o any_o such_o meeting_n shall_v by_o their_o practice_n therein_o not_o only_o assume_v as_o some_o there_o be_v who_o to_o my_o knowledge_n have_v too_o manifest_o so_o do_v but_o continue_v to_o assume_v another_o place_n in_o the_o body_n than_o that_o wherein_o god_n have_v place_v they_o or_o shall_v endeavour_v so_o to_o establish_v outward_a indispensible_a rule_n and_o order_n therein_o relate_v to_o conscience_n as_o that_o such_o of_o the_o brethren_n who_o submit_v not_o thereunto_o shall_v be_v account_v not_o of_o the_o body_n though_o they_o see_v it_o not_o their_o duty_n it_o may_v be_v just_o with_o the_o lord_n as_o a_o token_n of_o his_o indignation_n and_o displeasure_n to_o withdraw_v his_o refresh_a presence_n from_o such_o assembly_n and_o then_o their_o meeting_n may_v become_v as_o useless_a as_o a_o body_n without_o a_o spirit_n be_v but_o yet_o robert_n barclay_n undertake_v to_o describe_v the_o order_n of_o the_o government_n and_o how_o far_o it_o extend_v and_o also_o testify_v the_o ancient_a apostolic_a order_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v re-establisht_a among_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n notwithstanding_o which_o his_o say_n i_o affirm_v they_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o many_o thing_n with_o respect_n to_o church-discipline_n wherein_o the_o scripture_n treat_v of_o those_o thing_n give_v forth_o by_o christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n be_v silent_a and_o be_v not_o find_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o some_o other_o thing_n which_o be_v either_o practise_v exhort_v to_o or_o command_v by_o the_o apostle_n second_o i_o affirm_v that_o as_o christ_n kingdom_n be_v not_o of_o this_o world_n so_o the_o member_n of_o christ_n church_n have_v not_o power_n in_o case_n of_o difference_n arise_v among_o themselves_o touch_v outward_a thing_n to_o assume_v jurisdiction_n over_o the_o property_n and_o worldly_a concern_v each_o of_o other_o when_o not_o choose_v for_o that_o service_n by_o the_o consent_n of_o the_o member_n differ_v and_o yet_o i_o do_v say_v it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o fellow-member_n that_o be_v at_o variance_n to_o refer_v by_o mutual_a choice_n their_o cause_n unto_o other_o brethren_n but_o yet_o r._n b._n say_v as_o a_o people_n gather_v together_o by_o the_o lord_n unto_o the_o same_o faith_n etc._n etc._n that_o we_o have_v power_n and_o authority_n to_o decide_v and_o remove_v these_o thing_n three_o i_o affirm_v that_o nothing_o can_v become_v a_o right_n and_o christian_a bond_n upon_o believer_n to_o be_v exercise_v in_o any_o practical_a duty_n relate_v to_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n and_o matter_n of_o conscience_n until_o convince_v by_o the_o witness_n of_o god_n in_o their_o conscience_n of_o the_o service_n thereof_o four_o that_o the_o belief_n of_o certain_a principle_n and_o doctines_n though_o believe_v through_o the_o force_n of_o truth_n on_o the_o understanding_n and_o practice_n depend_v thereon_o be_v not_o the_o very_a bond_n by_o which_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n be_v become_v center_a into_o the_o fellowship_n of_o christ_n body_n nor_o yet_o the_o cause_n that_o gather_v they_o but_o the_o spirit_n be_v the_o bond_n and_o in_o the_o best_a sense_n such_o principle_n etc._n etc._n be_v but_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o bond_n and_o the_o cause_n that_o gather_v they_o be_v god_n love_n that_o the_o sentence_n and_o judgement_n of_o any_o man_n or_o man_n whatsoever_o relate_v to_o matter_n of_o conscience_n ought_v not_o at_o this_o day_n to_o be_v give_v forth_o but_o by_o way_n of_o recomendation_n to_o every_o man_n conscience_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n and_o that_o when_o the_o conscience_n be_v sensible_a that_o god_n witness_v therein_o do_v answer_n thereto_o than_o the_o conscience_n be_v bind_v and_o not_o before_o but_o yet_o r._n b._n tell_v we_o that_o principle_n and_o doctrine_n believe_v through_o the_o force_n of_o truth_n on_o the_o understanding_n and_o practice_n necessary_o depend_v thereon_o be_v the_o term_n that_o have_v draw_v we_o together_o and_o the_o very_a bond_n by_o which_o we_o become_v center_a into_o one_o body_n and_o fellowship_n or_o be_v link_v to_o the_o body_n and_o the_o cause_n that_o gather_v we_o as_o in_o his_o treatise_n page_n 48_o 49_o may_v appear_v and_o whether_o in_o r._n b_n sense_n the_o centure_z of_o a_o part_n of_o christ_n body_n ought_v not_o to_o become_v a_o bond_n on_o all_o the_o member_n and_o that_o in_o case_n of_o conscience_n too_o i_o refer_v the_o reader_n to_o peruse_v his_o six_o section_n five_o i_o affirm_v that_o the_o qualification_n of_o a_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n be_v sanctification_n through_o the_o spirit_n that_o where_o any_o number_n of_o such_o be_v assemble_v together_o in_o christ_n name_n though_o but_o of_o the_o lesser_a rank_n in_o the_o body_n there_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n that_o before_o such_o a_o assembly_n case_n of_o difference_n may_v be_v bring_v which_o may_v be_v beside_o the_o gift_n or_o capacity_n of_o such_o to_o determine_v and_o judge_n and_o therefore_o infallible_a judgement_n which_o be_v unalterable_o seat_v in_o the_o spirit_n in_o some_o case_n may_v be_v want_v to_o appear_v through_o any_o one_o member_n in_o such_o assembly_n as_o proper_o may_v be_v call_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n but_o yet_o r._n b._n say_v in_o his_o treatise_n page_n 68_o that_o there_o never_o will_v nor_o can_v be_v want_v in_o case_n of_o controversy_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o give_v judgement_n through_o some_o or_o other_o in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n so_o long_o as_o any_o assembly_n can_v proper_o or_o in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n be_v so_o term_v sixthly_a since_o it_o be_v common_o repute_v that_o none_o but_o papist_n pretend_v tradition_n to_o justify_v their_o action_n wherein_o the_o scripture_n be_v silent_a and_o that_o we_o have_v no_o precedent_n in_o the_o scripture_n that_o the_o apostle_n and_o elder_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n do_v take_v upon_o they_o to_o determine_v controversy_n arise_v among_o the_o apostle_n and_o elder_n in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n touch_v case_n of_o conscience_n without_o the_o assent_n of_o the_o differ_v party_n who_o especial_o if_o equal_v and_o once_o at_o unity_n and_o their_o case_n matter_n of_o conscience_n arise_v from_o occasional_a differ_a sense_n and_o judgement_n have_v by_o the_o law_n of_o divine_a nature_n equal_a right_o to_o nominate_v a_o part_n of_o those_o who_o shall_v have_v the_o hear_n of_o such_o case_n therefore_o i_o affirm_v if_o any_o 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be_v and_o be_v in_o the_o lord_n hand_n build_v up_o to_o which_o i_o say_v the_o consideration_n that_o christ_n be_v the_o truth_n and_o the_o great_a power_n of_o god_n and_o that_o a_o establish_n in_o the_o faith_n can_v proper_o be_v term_v a_o build_n up_o of_o faith_n give_v i_o occasion_n to_o treat_v a_o little_a touch_v the_o word_n establish_v and_o build_v up_o we_o know_v from_o the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n in_o ourselves_o as_o well_o as_o from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n without_o we_o that_o we_o may_v be_v instrument_n in_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o build_v up_o one_o another_o in_o the_o most_o holy_a faith_n in_o christ_n the_o truth_n the_o power_n of_o god_n but_o it_o be_v neither_o agreeable_a to_o the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n in_o we_o nor_o yet_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n without_o we_o for_o any_o to_o account_v themselves_o of_o ability_n to_o establish_v god_n power_n for_o its_o that_o by_o which_o the_o world_n be_v make_v now_o 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truth_n hereof_o under_o the_o first_o covenant_n which_o be_v outward_a the_o mind_n of_o god_n be_v manifest_v to_o the_o people_n from_o the_o priest_n lip_n which_o be_v to_o preserve_v knowledge_n and_o this_o covenant_n do_v consist_v in_o divers_a outward_a ordinance_n etc._n etc._n establish_v and_o impose_v upon_o the_o people_n until_o the_o time_n of_o reformation_n under_o the_o second_o covenant_n be_v the_o new_a covenant_n or_o gospel_n dispensation_n the_o mind_n and_o will_n of_o god_n be_v manifest_v in_o his_o people_n through_o the_o revelation_n of_o his_o spirit_n according_a to_o that_o of_o paul_n rom._n 1.19_o that_o which_o may_v be_v know_v of_o god_n be_v manifest_v in_o they_o christ_n also_o say_v john_n 14.26_o the_o comforter_n which_o be_v the_o holy_a ghost_n who_o the_o father_n will_v send_v in_o my_o name_n he_o shall_v teach_v you_o all_o thing_n the_o law_n under_o this_o covenant_n be_v write_v in_o the_o heart_n heb._n 8.10_o 11._o i_o will_v write_v my_o law_n in_o their_o heart_n &_o they_o shall_v not_o teach_v every_o man_n his_o neighbour_n and_o every_o man_n his_o brother_n say_v know_v the_o lord_n for_o all_o shall_v know_v i_o etc._n etc._n here_o be_v not_o the_o least_o ground_n of_o encouragement_n for_o any_o man_n under_o the_o new_a covenant_n which_o be_v not_o to_o be_v like_a unto_o the_o old_a to_o pretend_v that_o god_n spirit_n do_v or_o will_v lead_v any_o to_o establish_v outward_a order_n relate_v to_o matter_n of_o conscience_n as_o the_o order_n of_o the_o gospel_n for_o if_o that_o which_o be_v to_o be_v know_v of_o god_n be_v manifest_v in_o we_o than_o though_o it_o may_v be_v needful_a to_o stir_v up_o according_a as_o the_o lord_n shall_v move_v in_o his_o servant_n the_o pure_a mind_n in_o we_o that_o so_o we_o may_v be_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o what_o god_n require_v through_o the_o maifestation_n of_o himself_o in_o we_o there_o be_v no_o need_n to_o establish_v any_o thing_n without_o 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swine_n flesh_n or_o the_o halt_n and_o blind_a for_o a_o sacrifice_n under_o the_o first_o covenant_n do_v for_o though_o many_o may_v be_v so_o weak_a as_o not_o to_o know_v the_o difference_n between_o the_o two_o covenant_n in_o some_o respect_n yet_o there_o be_v few_o of_o the_o lord_n people_n call_v quaker_n but_o have_v this_o undoubted_a truth_n seal_v in_o their_o heart_n that_o none_o of_o their_o outward_a practice_n under_o the_o exercise_n of_o christ_n government_n find_n acceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n but_o as_o they_o have_v a_o evidence_n in_o their_o conscience_n that_o therein_o they_o answer_v the_o measure_n of_o truth_n in_o themselves_o paul_n write_v to_o the_o colossian_n thus_o say_v as_o you_o have_v receive_v christ_n jesus_n the_o lord_n so_o walk_v in_o he_o root_v and_o build_v up_o
of_o god_n spirit_n to_o publish_v unto_o the_o world_n for_o god_n be_v overrule_v by_o timothy_n a_o son_n when_o according_a to_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n he_o ought_v to_o be_v rule_v by_o paul_n the_o father_n nay_o perhaps_o by_o one_o that_o be_v of_o much_o lesser_a rank_n in_o the_o body_n if_o so_o be_v he_o have_v a_o word_n of_o exhortation_n on_o the_o behalf_n of_o god_n truth_n &_o be_v usual_o exercise_v therein_o in_o public_a but_o suppose_v no_o such_o obstruction_n have_v or_o may_v appear_v yet_o i_o query_n whether_o it_o look_v like_o a_o part_n of_o christ_n government_n for_o timothy_n the_o son_n to_o be_v admit_v as_o a_o judge_n over_o the_o write_n of_o paul_n who_o as_o a_o father_n beget_v he_o unto_o the_o truth_n paul_n 1_o cor._n 12._o treat_v of_o the_o diversity_n of_o gift_n by_o one_o and_o the_o same_o spirit_n mention_v several_a of_o they_o viz._n the_o word_n of_o wisdom_n the_o word_n of_o knowledge_n faith_n gift_n of_o healing_n work_v 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will_v therein_o make_v a_o breach_n on_o that_o christian-liberty_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v preserve_v inviolable_a in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n nay_o if_o peradventure_o there_o shall_v be_v some_o among_o they_o who_o gift_n be_v to_o discern_v spirit_n and_o so_o according_o give_v their_o approabation_n or_o disapprobation_n it_o become_v not_o other_o not_o gift_v therein_o to_o concern_v themselves_o because_o their_o duty_n be_v if_o paul_n counsel_n be_v good_a to_o wait_v on_o their_o own_o gift_n and_o though_o such_o may_v declare_v they_o have_v unity_n therewith_o in_o the_o life_n yet_o that_o may_v be_v only_o the_o fruit_n of_o their_o lip_n or_o of_o a_o hasty_a spirit_n that_o may_v have_v zeal_n without_o knowledge_n when_o the_o matter_n wherewith_o they_o declare_v themselves_o at_o unity_n be_v without_o the_o compass_n of_o their_o gift_n knowledge_n or_o capacity_n to_o judge_n of_o but_o yet_o i_o will_v not_o be_v understand_v that_o it_o be_v 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which_o therein_o he_o assert_n for_o truth_n moreover_o when_o i_o consider_v that_o all_o miscarriage_n in_o write_n approve_v at_o that_o assembly_n do_v not_o only_o become_v the_o error_n of_o a_o particular_a person_n but_o of_o that_o assembly_n also_o &_o not_o only_o so_o but_o peradventure_o may_v be_v reflect_v though_o unworthy_o on_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n on_o a_o common_a presumption_n that_o have_v past_o the_o test_n of_o that_o meeting_n the_o whole_a church_n approve_v thereof_o i_o be_o even_o ready_a to_o query_n whether_o it_o be_v not_o better_a to_o let_v every_o man_n stand_v or_o fall_v to_o his_o own_o master_n in_o this_o respect_n unless_o some_o better_a expedient_a may_v be_v find_v than_o such_o a_o one_o as_o have_v admit_v of_o such_o erroneous_a assertion_n as_o to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o truth_n be_v contain_v in_o r._n b_n treatise_n and_o if_o any_o one_o shall_v object_v and_o say_v what_o will_v not_o thou_o submit_v to_o the_o sentence_n of_o such_o apostle_n with_o who_o the_o word_n of_o wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n dwell_v yes_o very_o i_o shall_v and_o aught_o so_o to_o do_v if_o my_o faith_n be_v such_o as_o certain_o to_o believe_v they_o be_v such_o apostle_n to_o i_o but_o not_o before_o read_v 2_o cor._n 10.13_o 14_o 15_o 16._o from_o all_o which_o i_o do_v according_a to_o truth_n thus_o conclude_v that_o it_o be_v groundless_o assert_v by_o r._n b._n in_o the_o sense_n i_o take_v his_o line_n to_o import_v viz._n with_o respect_n to_o outward_a order_n that_o the_o ancient_a apostolic_a order_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v re-establish_v among_o the_o people_n of_o god_n call_v quaker_n yet_o i_o do_v testify_v that_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n ought_v to_o be_v exercise_v in_o and_o over_o his_o church_n and_o that_o though_o the_o order_n of_o this_o government_n be_v not_o so_o describe_v as_o that_o by_o any_o outward_a rule_n or_o write_a prescription_n as_o a_o sufficient_a mean_n man_n may_v exact_o walk_v therein_o yet_o i_o be_o persuade_v that_o there_o be_v many_o of_o god_n people_n among_o those_o who_o in_o derision_n be_v call_v quaker_n that_o have_v be_v so_o obedient_a unto_o that_o grace_n which_o have_v be_v give_v they_o according_a to_o the_o gift_n of_o christ_n as_o that_o it_o may_v be_v true_o say_v of_o they_o that_o they_o be_v establish_v in_o the_o faith_n of_o god_n elect_n and_o that_o they_o be_v in_o subjection_n according_a to_o their_o measure_n to_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n which_o by_o the_o authority_n of_o his_o own_o power_n and_o spirit_n he_o have_v establish_v in_o their_o inward_a part_n so_o that_o through_o that_o obedience_n which_o be_v of_o faith_n other_o obedience_n avail_v not_o they_o be_v exercise_v themselves_o according_a to_o the_o leading_n of_o
spring_v through_o a_o inward_a departure_n from_o the_o anoint_v in_o themselves_o obedience_n whereunto_o according_a to_o the_o respective_a measure_n of_o grace_n give_v of_o god_n and_o receive_v by_o each_o member_n be_v a_o manifestation_n of_o that_o wherein_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o body_n stand_v and_o as_o the_o apostasy_n enter_v no_o doubt_n but_o the_o tradition_n and_o rudiment_n of_o man_n come_v to_o be_v exalt_v against_o which_o the_o apostle_n paul_n caution_v the_o colossian_n say_v col._n 2.8_o beware_v lest_o there_o be_v any_o that_o spoil_v you_o through_o the_o tradition_n of_o man_n according_a to_o the_o rudiment_n of_o the_o world_n and_o not_o after_o christ_n but_o yet_o notwithstanding_o i_o question_v whether_o any_o have_v be_v great_a pretender_n to_o unity_n than_o those_o who_o have_v be_v exalt_v the_o tradition_n of_o man_n and_o shall_v leave_v it_o to_o the_o judicious_a reader_n to_o consider_v whether_o a_o sufficient_a evidence_n hereof_o appear_v not_o in_o divers_a apostatise_v lord_n apostatise_v note_n *_o man_n of_o prejudice_v spirit_n may_v conclude_v that_o i_o herein_o strike_v at_o the_o true_a church_n god_n forbid_v i_o shall_v so_o do_v for_o the_o true_a church_n never_o exalt_v the_o tradition_n and_o rudiment_n of_o man_n for_o though_o the_o apostle_n say_v in_o 2_o thes_n 2.15_o hold_v the_o tradition_n which_o you_o have_v be_v teach_v yet_o his_o very_a prayer_n in_o the_o next_o verse_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v establish_v they_o in_o every_o good_a word_n and_o work_n show_v that_o his_o desire_n be_v not_o that_o any_o shall_v follow_v the_o tradition_n of_o any_o further_a than_o the_o lord_n may_v establish_v they_o therein_o and_o this_o be_v far_o from_o follow_v the_o rudiment_n and_o tradition_n of_o man_n of_o impose_v his_o tradition_n otherwise_o than_o according_a as_o they_o shall_v be_v establish_v therein_o by_o the_o lord_n church_n profess_v christianity_n wherein_o be_v establish_v by_o outward_a mean_n what_o be_v to_o be_v believe_v and_o what_o be_v to_o be_v practise_v and_o yet_o doubtless_o as_o remote_a from_o the_o unity_n wherein_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o light_n do_v consist_v as_o the_o east_n be_v from_o the_o west_n and_o so_o in_o their_o unity_n be_v but_o outward_a have_v find_v no_o more_o acceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n than_o the_o unworthy_a eater_n do_v while_o they_o discern_v not_o the_o lord_n body_n many_o of_o god_n people_n yet_o in_o the_o body_n be_v witness_n that_o one_o part_n of_o that_o testimony_n which_o accompany_v the_o servant_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o those_o latter_a day_n be_v against_o outward_a form_n tradition_n prescription_n decree_n ordinance_n of_o man_n with_o relation_n to_o matter_n spiritual_a and_o divine_a and_o wherein_o the_o conscience_n of_o god_n people_n may_v be_v concern_v as_o be_v those_o rudiment_n of_o the_o world_n out_o of_o which_o he_o have_v determine_v to_o gather_v his_o people_n for_o to_o the_o child_n of_o light_n they_o appear_v more_o agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n and_o tenor_n of_o the_o first-covenant_n than_o the_o second_o and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o to_o establish_v his_o church_n on_o the_o rock_n christ_n that_o so_o as_o they_o receive_v he_o they_o may_v walk_v in_o he_o according_a to_o their_o respective_a measure_n of_o grace_n give_v they_o of_o god_n to_o profit_v withal_o and_o which_o as_o the_o apostle_n declare_v be_v sufficient_a for_o they_o now_o inasmuch_o as_o the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n have_v be_v that_o what_o god_n lead_v out_o of_o he_o usual_o lead_v not_o into_o again_o i_o appeal_v to_o god_n witness_v in_o all_o conscience_n whether_o a_o indispensable_a establishment_n of_o outward_a order_n prescription_n and_o decree_n for_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o walk_v by_o and_o submit_v unto_o at_o this_o day_n and_o wherein_o the_o liberty_n of_o their_o conscience_n may_v be_v invade_v of_o which_o my_o meaning_n be_v no_o other_o liberty_n than_o what_o the_o gospel_n allow_v do_v not_o seem_v to_o exalt_v that_o sort_n of_o unity_n wherein_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o saint_n in_o light_n do_v not_o consist_v and_o so_o consequent_o may_v become_v the_o mean_n to_o draw_v the_o mind_n of_o god_n people_n outward_a and_o to_o cause_v they_o to_o look_v at_o outward_a thing_n under_o the_o notition_n of_o thing_n establish_v in_o the_o church_n more_o than_o to_o the_o anoint_v in_o themselves_o let_v god_n witness_v in_o every_o conscience_n judge_n objection_n but_o perhaps_o some_o may_v object_v and_o say_v may_v not_o a_o false_a liberty_n get_v strength_n by_o a_o plea_n for_o a_o gospel-liberty_n i_o answer_v nay_o for_o such_o a_o plea_n be_v righteous_a sin_n and_o iniquity_n which_o be_v a_o false_a liberty_n can_v get_v strength_n thereby_o and_o though_o i_o do_v confess_v the_o enemy_n of_o man_n soul_n may_v make_v use_n thereof_o as_o the_o devil_n do_v make_v use_n of_o scripture_n when_o he_o tempt_v christ_n to_o throw_v himself_o down_o from_o the_o pinnacle_n of_o the_o temple_n say_v the_o lord_n shall_v give_v his_o angel_n charge_v concern_v thou_o yet_o it_o be_v not_o reasonable_a to_o conclude_v a_o just_a plea_n can_v strengthen_v any_o in_o a_o fleshly_a liberty_n but_o the_o tempter_n may_v if_o he_o prevail_v however_o i_o can_v see_v it_o yet_o to_o be_v my_o duty_n to_o cease_v to_o do_v good_a though_o another_o may_v pretend_v that_o thereby_o evil_a may_v abound_v and_o since_o r._n b._n speak_v page_z 28._o of_o a_o false_a pretence_n of_o liberty_n and_o that_o as_o i_o take_v his_o line_n to_o import_v with_o respect_n to_o disobedience_n to_o certain_a thing_n ordain_v relate_v to_o order_n in_o the_o church_n it_o be_v with_o i_o to_o describe_v what_o that_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n be_v which_o be_v according_a to_o the_o gospel_n and_o in_o order_n thereunto_o it_o be_v necessary_a to_o consider_v that_o the_o gospel_n be_v glad-tiding_n of_o salvation_n which_o be_v not_o attain_v but_o by_o witness_v the_o end_n for_o which_o christ_n be_v manifest_a in_o the_o flesh_n and_o that_o be_v to_o save_v people_n from_o their_o sin_n hence_o i_o conclude_v a_o pleafor_a a_o gospel_n liberty_n of_o conscience_n be_v a_o plea_n for_o a_o freedom_n of_o the_o conscience_n from_o sin_n and_o so_o consequent_o a_o plea_n for_o a_o false_a liberty_n of_o conscience_n be_v that_o which_o plead_v for_o sin_n objection_n i_o be_o yet_o sensible_a that_o some_o may_v yet_o further_o thus_o object_n the_o difference_n lie_v not_o here_o for_o we_o find_v many_o who_o contend_v for_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n to_o plead_v against_o all_o sin_n and_o that_o many_o who_o will_v not_o have_v it_o extend_v so_o large_a as_o thou_o seem_v to_o plead_v for_o do_v also_o plead_v against_o all_o sin_n and_o therefore_o thy_o distinction_n do_v not_o yet_o satisfy_v to_o this_o then_o i_o thus_o say_v the_o true_a professor_n of_o religion_n say_v heaven_n be_v the_o mark_v they_o aim_v at_o and_o that_o this_o be_v not_o attainable_a without_o peace_n of_o conscience_n and_o that_o every_o man_n must_v give_v a_o account_n of_o himself_o to_o god_n hence_o the_o law_n of_o divine_a nature_n teach_v we_o that_o since_o we_o must_v give_v account_n for_o ourselves_o we_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v impose_v upon_o but_o suffer_v to_o believe_v for_o ourselves_o and_o whosoever_o on_o that_o score_n and_o no_o evil_a end_n claim_v a_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n it_o ought_v to_o be_v grant_v he_o and_o this_o be_v not_o contrary_a to_o that_o liberty_n which_o the_o gospel_n allow_v if_o then_o any_o who_o deny_v all_o plea_n for_o sin_n rest_v dissatisfy_v in_o their_o conscience_n touch_v certain_a order_n ordain_v by_o some_o for_o the_o church_n to_o practice_v and_o refuse_v the_o practice_n thereof_o on_o this_o score_n that_o they_o have_v no_o faith_n touch_v their_o service_n in_o the_o church_n this_o can_v proper_o be_v call_v a_o plea_n under_o a_o false_a pretence_n of_o liberty_n but_o rather_o a_o just_a and_o righteous_a plea_n according_a to_o that_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n which_o the_o gospel_n allow_v to_o conclude_v let_v we_o all_o watch_n against_o that_o spirit_n that_o will_v insinuate_v a_o belief_n that_o we_o ought_v to_o follow_v the_o command_n tradition_n and_o example_n of_o man_n when_o god_n witness_v in_o our_o conscience_n answer_v not_o otherwise_o such_o insinuation_n though_o none_o of_o the_o ancient_a labourer_n in_o the_o primitive_a gather_n may_v either_o stand_v by_o or_o own_o the_o same_o may_v make_v way_n for_o man_n principled_a as_o r._n b._n by_o his_o small_a treatise_n seem_v to_o be_v to_o assume_v authority_n to_o command_n and_o rule_n not_o only_o over_o such_o their_o brethren_n who_o they_o have_v be_v
instrumental_a to_o gather_v though_o in_o r._n b_n sense_n as_o be_v before_o manifest_v such_o be_v the_o fit_a to_o rule_v over_o those_o who_o they_o have_v beget_v to_o the_o truth_n but_o also_o over_o the_o labour_n of_o other_o and_o then_o style_v themselves_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n though_o not_o guide_v by_o the_o unerring_a spirit_n so_o to_o do_v and_o then_o also_o pretend_v that_o they_o have_v power_n in_o case_n that_o be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n to_o give_v positive_a sentence_n obliege_v believer_n to_o obey_v receive_v and_o own_o the_o same_o and_o that_o it_o be_v disobedience_n to_o god_n not_o to_o submit_v to_o the_o positive_a sentence_n and_o decisive_n judgement_n of_o any_o assembly_n or_o some_o or_o other_o of_o they_o which_o in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n may_v be_v term_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n though_o we_o see_v it_o not_o and_o so_o by_o degree_n may_v endeavour_v to_o divest_v christ_n of_o his_o government_n and_o prerogative_n who_o alone_o be_v lord_n over_o the_o conscience_n and_o by_o his_o spirit_n in_o we_o be_v become_v our_o only_a lawgiver_n and_o who_o alone_o by_o the_o influence_a virtue_n of_o his_o own_o spirit_n be_v able_a to_o bring_v unto_o that_o love_n and_o unity_n which_o through_o the_o life_n of_o righteousness_n find_v exceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n of_o life_n william_n rogers_n have_v now_o do_v with_o the_o citation_n of_o what_o be_v write_v in_o answer_n to_o the_o aforesaid_a book_n of_o government_n and_o consider_v that_o in_o the_o first_o section_n thereof_o the_o author_n as_o be_v already_o cite_v and_o observe_v write_v of_o a_o sort_n of_o person_n that_o will_v needs_o be_v innovator_n and_o give_v to_o change_n and_o introduce_v new_a doctrine_n and_o practice_n not_o only_o differ_v but_o contrary_a to_o what_o be_v deliver_v in_o the_o beginning_n and_o in_o page_n thirteen_o seem_v reflect_o to_o treat_v on_o such_o kind_n of_o language_n as_o this_o i_o must_v stay_v till_o i_o be_v convince_v as_o if_o such_o language_n be_v knock_v down_o in_o the_o beginning_n and_o as_o may_v reasonable_o be_v take_v from_o the_o scope_n of_o the_o say_a book_n to_o reflect_v on_o such_o among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n who_o be_v not_o so_o zealous_o affect_v with_o the_o outward_a form_n of_o government_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o church-government_n pretend_v to_o be_v establish_v among_o they_o as_o the_o author_n or_o approver_n of_o his_o book_n be_v we_o think_v it_o necessary_a to_o cite_v a_o testimony_n publish_v in_o print_n by_o isaac_n penington_n the_o young_a in_o the_o year_n one_o thousand_o six_o hundred_o and_o sixty_o be_v a_o part_n of_o a_o discourse_n entitle_v the_o authority_n and_o government_n which_o christ_n exclude_v out_o of_o his_o church_n etc._n etc._n and_o as_o it_o lie_v all_o together_o word_n for_o word_n and_o not_o take_v by_o part_n and_o piece_n here_o and_o there_o our_o end_n in_o cite_v this_o testimony_n be_v that_o the_o impartial_a reader_n may_v consider_v whether_o the_o say_a testimony_n have_v any_o coherence_n with_o that_o part_n of_o the_o say_a book_n of_o government_n which_o be_v object_v against_o by_o we_o or_o do_v contradict_v any_o subject_a matter_n that_o we_o have_v treat_v upon_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o say_v isaac_n penington_n the_o young_a now_o follow_v the_o apostle_n and_o minister_n of_o christ_n come_v from_o christ_n with_o a_o message_n of_o life_n and_o salvation_n with_o a_o testimony_n concern_v the_o good_a will_n of_o god_n and_o his_o love_n to_o mankind_n point_v out_o the_o way_n from_o death_n to_o life_n from_o bondage_n to_o liberty_n from_o wrath_n and_o destruction_n to_o peace_n and_o salvation_n what_o they_o have_v see_v what_o they_o have_v feel_v what_o they_o have_v taste_v what_o they_o have_v handle_v what_o they_o have_v find_v redeem_v and_o deliver_v they_o that_o they_o declare_v abroad_o to_o other_o as_o they_o be_v move_v as_o they_o be_v send_v as_o they_o be_v guide_v and_o assist_v now_o that_o which_o they_o preach_v to_o be_v man_n conscience_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n they_o open_v the_o truth_n which_o they_o know_v they_o give_v their_o testimony_n in_o the_o move_a lead_v and_o power_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o they_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o same_o spirit_n to_o demonstrate_v it_o to_o man_n conscience_n as_o it_o please_v they_o be_v nothing_o they_o can_v do_v nothing_o they_o can_v convert_v any_o man_n to_o god_n but_o the_o power_n that_o speak_v by_o they_o the_o same_o power_n work_v in_o other_o man_n conscience_n at_o its_o pleasure_n and_o here_o be_v the_o begin_n of_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o heart_n when_o his_o truth_n carry_v conviction_n with_o it_o to_o the_o conscience_n and_o the_o conscience_n be_v draw_v to_o yield_v itself_o up_o to_o he_o than_o he_o lay_v his_o yoke_n upon_o it_o and_o take_v upon_o he_o the_o guide_n of_o it_o he_o cherish_v it_o he_o cleanse_v it_o he_o comfort_v it_o he_o order_v it_o at_o his_o pleasure_n and_o he_o alone_o preserve_v it_o pure_a chaste_a gentle_a meek_a and_o pliable_a to_o the_o impression_n of_o his_o spirit_n and_o as_o the_o conscience_n be_v keep_v single_a and_o tender_a to_o christ_n so_o his_o government_n increase_v therein_o but_o as_o it_o become_v hard_a or_o subject_n to_o man_n will_n so_o another_o spirit_n get_v dominion_n over_o it_o therefore_o the_o great_a work_n of_o the_o minister_n of_o christ_n be_v to_o keep_v the_o conscience_n open_a to_o christ_n and_o to_o preserve_v man_n from_o receive_v any_o truth_n of_o christ_n as_o from_o they_o further_o than_o the_o spirit_n open_v or_o to_o imitate_v any_o of_o their_o practice_n further_o than_o the_o spirit_n lead_v guide_n and_o persuade_v they_o for_o person_n be_v exceed_o prone_a to_o receive_v thing_n as_o truth_n from_o those_o who_o they_o have_v a_o high_a opinion_n of_o and_o to_o imitate_v their_o practice_n and_o so_o hurt_v their_o own_o growth_n and_o endanger_v their_o soul_n for_o if_o i_o receive_v a_o truth_n before_o the_o lord_n by_o his_o spirit_n make_v it_o manifest_a to_o i_o i_o lose_v my_o guide_n and_o follow_v but_o the_o counsel_n of_o the_o flesh_n which_o be_v exceed_o greedy_a of_o receive_v truth_n and_o run_v into_o religious_a practice_n without_o the_o spirit_n therefore_o the_o main_a thing_n in_o religion_n be_v to_o keep_v the_o conscience_n pure_a to_o the_o lord_n to_o know_v the_o guide_n to_o follow_v the_o guide_n to_o receive_v from_o he_o that_o light_v whereby_o i_o be_o to_o walk_v and_o not_o to_o take_v thing_n for_o truth_n because_o other_o see_v they_o to_o be_v truth_n but_o wait_v till_o the_o spirit_n make_v they_o manifest_v to_o i_o nor_o to_o run_v into_o worship_n duty_n performance_n or_o practice_n because_o other_o be_v lead_v thither_o but_o to_o wait_v till_o the_o spirit_n lead_v i_o thither_o 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now_o query_n of_o g._n f._n whether_o these_o body_n which_o the_o apostle_n paul_n term_v the_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n be_v not_o the_o same_o in_o which_o the_o holy_a ghost_n dwell_v and_o the_o life_n of_o jesus_n be_v manifest_v and_o if_o so_o then_o according_a to_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n mortal_a and_o convertible_a unto_o dust_n and_o whether_o or_o no_o a_o exclusion_n of_o all_o mortal_a bodse_n whatsoever_o from_o be_v concern_v as_o member_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v christ_n body_n be_v not_o the_o very_a ready_a way_n whereby_o all_o liberty_n and_o looseness_n that_o be_v please_v to_o the_o mortal_a body_n may_v be_v indulge_v and_o nourish_v and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o whether_o the_o man_n and_o woman_n meeting_n will_v not_o fall_v of_o course_n and_o so_o no_o such_o place_n where_o those_o who_o as_o george_n fox_n say_v be_v heir_n of_o the_o power_n may_v go_v to_o in_o order_n to_o the_o take_n of_o their_o possession_n as_o george_n foxe_n language_n in_o his_o aforesaid_a letter_n be_v it_o be_v further_a to_o be_v observe_v that_o g._n f._n have_v not_o yet_o do_v with_o these_o word_n turn_v to_o dust_n but_o proceed_v ask_v john_n wilkinson_n this_o question_n must_v that_o which_o sanctifi_v god_n be_v turn_v to_o dust_n i_o think_v john_n thou_o have_v own_v christ_n to_o be_v the_o sanctifier_n of_o all_o who_o be_v great_a than_o moses_n and_o the_o end_n of_o moses_n but_o john_n wherein_o have_v not_o i_o sanctify_v the_o lord_n to_o this_o we_o answer_v if_o g._n f._n who_o be_v a_o mortal_a man_n be_v capable_a to_o sanctify_v the_o lord_n as_o in_o his_o own_o sense_n by_o his_o follow_a word_n he_o seem_v to_o be_v why_o do_v he_o so_o impertinent_o let_v his_o pen_n run_v by_o way_n of_o reflection_n on_o john_n wilkinson_n for_o use_v scripture-language_n so_o seasonable_a and_o so_o pertinent_a as_o he_o do_v doubtless_o the_o reason_n be_v a_o fretful_a peevish_a angry_a spirit_n then_o possess_v g._n f._n so_o that_o we_o may_v in_o his_o own_o language_n use_v in_o his_o letter_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n say_v to_o he_o it_o be_v a_o spirit_n that_o do_v not_o know_v what_o it_o will_v be_v at_o itself_o but_o if_o g._n f._n have_v not_o be_v capable_a to_o sanctify_v the_o lord_n he_o be_v manifest_v a_o scoffer_n to_o ask_v the_o aforesaid_a question_n viz._n but_o john_n wherein_o have_v not_o i_o sanctify_v the_o lord_n however_o let_v his_o mind_n sense_n mean_v or_o end_v in_o so_o query_v be_v what_o it_o will_v we_o shall_v undertake_v to_o give_v thereto_o this_o answer_n viz._n g._n f._n have_v not_o sanctify_v the_o lord_n in_o write_v his_o book_n of_o woman_n meeting_n which_o consist_v of_o ninety_o six_o page_n in_o octavo_n and_o in_o all_o the_o book_n throughout_o we_o do_v not_o find_v above_o half_a a_o side_n and_o that_o also_o scatter_a here_o and_o there_o that_o treat_v of_o that_o service_n for_o which_o the_o meeting_n of_o woman_n be_v chief_o understand_v to_o be_v hold_v and_o that_o the_o drift_n and_o scope_n of_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o book_n seem_v to_o be_v chief_o for_o proof_n of_o woman_n offer_v sacrifice_n preach_v teach_v exhort_v admonish_a prophesy_v govern_v judge_a sing_v dance_a play_v upon_o music_n and_o that_o micah_n mother_n a_o idolatrous_a woman_n speak_v of_o judge_n 17_o be_v a_o virtuous_a one_o and_o that_o the_o assembly_n of_o the_o woman_n do_v continue_v among_o the_o jew_n till_o they_o go_v into_o transgression_n but_o yet_o quote_v for_o proof_n of_o the_o last_o assertion_n only_o 2_o king_n 23._o which_o mention_n nothing_o to_o his_o purpose_n of_o woman_n meeting_n more_o than_o that_o good_a king_n josiah_n break_v down_o the_o house_n of_o the_o sodomite_n that_o be_v in_o the_o house_n of_o the_o lord_n where_o the_o woman_n weave_v hang_n for_o the_o grove_n which_o good_a king_n josiah_n burn_v neither_o do_v we_o believe_v that_o he_o have_v sanctify_v the_o lord_n in_o accuse_v john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n for_o tyth-payer_n or_o connive_v at_o other_o pay_v for_o they_o as_o in_o his_o aforesaid_a letter_n he_o as_o we_o take_v it_o do_v though_o they_o be_v therein_o esteem_v to_o be_v great_o abuse_v and_o misrepresent_v and_o we_o never_o understand_v it_o can_v be_v prove_v against_o they_o but_o that_o which_o aggravate_v g._n f_n sin_n be_v that_o he_o have_v be_v guilty_a of_o advise_v two_o person_n to_o buy_v their_o tithe_n which_o be_v equal_a to_o a_o continual_a payment_n viz._n nathaniel_n crip_n of_o the_o county_n of_o gloucester_n for_o one_o and_o robert_n arch_n live_v but_o a_o few_o mile_n from_o the_o say_a crip_n for_o another_o as_o they_o be_v ready_a to_o testify_v unto_o any_o inquire_v reader_n and_o as_o in_o the_o twenty-first_a section_n of_o part._n of_o note_v it_o be_v the_o second_o part_v of_o the_o manuscript_n first_o mention_v in_o the_o preface_n to_o the_o first_o part._n this_o second_o part_n by_o their_o testimony_n appear_v g._n f._n tell_v john_n wilkinson_n thus_o but_o that_o whereby_o you_o may_v come_v into_o unity_n it_o must_v be_v in_o the_o unlimited_a power_n and_o spirit_n and_o light_n that_o do_v first_o convince_v you_o and_o bring_v you_o into_o unity_n and_o meet_v without_o prescription_n of_o your_o elder_n or_o deacon_n or_o your_o member_n so_o your_o way_n to_o come_v into_o unity_n be_v to_o come_v to_o the_o light_n and_o spirit_n that_o do_v first_o convince_v you_o and_o judge_n and_o condemn_v this_o spirit_n that_o have_v lead_v you_o into_o separation_n with_o all_o its_o work_n since_o and_o then_o in_o that_o spirit_n there_o be_v no_o fear_n of_o imposition_n and_o in_o another_o place_n of_o the_o say_a letter_n g._n f._n say_v i_o tell_v you_o that_o if_o you_o do_v not_o come_v to_o that_o which_o do_v first_o convince_v you_o and_o bring_v all_o other_o who_o you_o have_v draw_v into_o a_o separation_n with_o you_o to_o condemn_v it_o the_o blood_n of_o all_o they_o will_v be_v require_v at_o your_o hand_n and_o that_o be_v and_o be_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n to_o you_o and_o will_v stand_v and_o be_v seal_v these_o sentence_n of_o g._n f._n do_v lead_v we_o unto_o these_o necessary_a observation_n first_o that_o the_o way_n to_o come_v into_o unity_n be_v to_o come_v to_o the_o unlimited_a spirit_n and_o light_n that_o do_v first_o convince_v they_o and_o bring_v they_o into_o unity_n have_v g._n f._n end_v his_o method_n for_o unity_n here_o he_o will_v have_v say_v that_o which_o will_v have_v answer_v god_n witness_v in_o our_o conscience_n but_o though_o he_o talk_v of_o come_v to_o the_o unlimited_a spirit_n yet_o his_o follow_a language_n seem_v a_o design_n so_o far_o as_o he_o be_v capable_a to_o limit_v the_o spirit_n by_o add_v these_o word_n viz._n and_o judge_n and_o condemn_v this_o spirit_n that_o have_v lead_v you_o into_o a_o separation_n with_o all_o its_o work_n since_o by_o which_o compare_v his_o say_a word_n with_o his_o aforesaid_a letter_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n date_v the_o 23_o d._n of_o the_o 8_o the_o month_n 76._o we_o take_v he_o to_o mean_v all_o those_o daper_n give_v forth_o since_o the_o outward_a separation_n which_o be_v without_o any_o exception_n and_o compare_v with_o the_o matter_n occasion_v the_o say_v outward_a separation_n seem_v to_o import_n that_o in_o g._n f_n sense_n the_o ancient_a friend_n of_o truth_n must_v of_o necessity_n be_v depart_v from_o the_o light_n and_o spirit_n if_o they_o can_v conform_v to_o some_o outward_a method_n in_o relation_n to_o the_o management_n of_o some_o outward_a affair_n that_o some_o of_o his_o troublesome_a party_n will_v impose_v on_o the_o choose_a friend_n for_o the_o outward_a service_n of_o truth_n oh_o gross_a darkness_n but_o that_o which_o seem_v to_o manifest_v his_o darkness_n yet_o more_o gross_a be_v this_o his_o letter_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n inform_v we_o that_o such_o mean_v as_o his_o word_n to_o we_o import_n such_o with_o who_o he_o be_v at_o unity_n need_v no_o outward_a prescription_n that_o be_v write_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o one_o another_o heart_n to_o gather_v they_o withal_o on_o this_o we_o observe_v that_o unless_o another_o thing_n preserve_v those_o who_o be_v gather_v than_o that_o which_o gather_v they_o there_o be_v then_o no_o need_n of_o outward_a prescription_n for_o those_o that_o be_v gather_v unto_o who_o only_o the_o government_n contend_v for_o reach_v and_o if_o so_o which_o in_o truth_n can_v be_v deny_v why_o must_v these_o ancient_a friend_n who_o have_v be_v convince_v by_o the_o light_n and_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v reckon_v have_v and_o such_o who_o god_n will_v blast_v
ninety_o four_o mile_n to_o london_n out_o of_o all_o the_o throng_n of_o his_o other_o occasion_n or_o if_o in_o london_n to_o wait_v for_o george_n fox_n come_n thither_o when_o near_o it_o to_o ask_v he_o by_o word_n of_o mouth_n that_o which_o have_v be_v before_o ask_v by_o write_v and_o no_o answer_n give_v signify_v the_o least_o assent_n to_o meet_v as_o hereafter_o will_v appear_v this_o indeed_o will_v be_v a_o very_a ready_a way_n to_o bring_v outward_a blast_v according_a to_o the_o prophecy_n of_o some_o of_o my_o opposer_n if_o they_o can_v but_o create_v a_o belief_n in_o i_o that_o on_o i._o c_n notice_n that_o g._n f._n will_v be_v in_o london_n i_o must_v then_o run_v after_o he_o and_o attend_v upon_o he_o on_o no_o other_o foot_n but_o to_o know_v whether_o he_o will_v meet_v i_o without_o any_o assurance_n that_o he_o will_v be_v willing_a notwithstanding_o i_o have_v labour_v and_o endeavour_v so_o long_o before_o to_o obtain_v it_o and_o all_o in_o vain_a on_o this_o occasion_n two_o thing_n be_v worthy_a of_o some_o enquiry_n first_o whether_o george_n fox_n be_v real_o so_o dignify_v as_o that_o it_o be_v a_o additional_a error_n in_o one_o who_o he_o account_v a_o lose_a sheep_n not_o to_o run_v after_o and_o wait_v on_o he_o if_o he_o be_v in_o reality_n the_o great_a apostle_n of_o christ_n as_o esteem_v by_o some_o methinks_v he_o shall_v have_v in_o his_o remembrance_n the_o parable_n speak_v of_o by_o christ_n touch_v leave_v the_o ninety_o nine_o sheep_n to_o seek_v the_o one_o that_o be_v lose_v and_o so_o account_v it_o his_o duty_n to_o seek_v after_o much_o more_o be_v ready_a to_o meet_v one_o account_v a_o lose_a sheep_n that_o have_v be_v so_o desirous_a to_o meet_v he_o as_o i_o have_v be_v second_o whether_o james_n claypoole_n be_v in_o reality_n so_o dignify_v as_o that_o on_o his_o notice_n it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o a_o friend_n have_v a_o concern_n upon_o he_o relate_v to_o george_n fox_n to_o ride_v ninety_o four_o 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friend_n in_o the_o beginning_n be_v turn_v to_o the_o light_n in_o their_o own_o conscience_n as_o their_o guide_n but_o when_o it_o please_v the_o lord_n to_o gather_v so_o great_a a_o number_n into_o the_o knowledge_n and_o belief_n of_o the_o truth_n as_o be_v in_o few_o year_n gather_v than_o the_o heavenly_a motion_n come_v upon_o g._n f._n as_o the_o lord_n anoint_v and_o choose_v have_v the_o care_n of_o the_o church_n as_o be_v the_o great_a apostle_n of_o christ_n jesus_n and_o as_o one_o who_o the_o lord_n have_v ordain_v to_o be_v in_o that_o place_n among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n in_o this_o our_o day_n as_o moses_n be_v among_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n in_o his_o day_n to_o set_v forth_o method_n and_o form_n of_o church_n government_n and_o to_o establish_v monthly_o and_o quarterly_o meeting_n of_o man_n and_o of_o woman_n distinct_a from_o man_n and_o these_o meeting_n since_o be_v call_v the_o church_n who_o counsel_n advice_n and_o judgement_n as_o occasion_n 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raise_v up_o a_o prophet_n like_o unto_o moses_n who_o the_o people_n be_v to_o hear_v in_o all_o thing_n deut._n 18.15_o this_o prophet_n speak_v of_o be_v christ_n jesus_n who_o in_o the_o fullness_n of_o time_n appear_v upon_o the_o earth_n and_o than_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o man_n to_o hearken_v unto_o his_o voice_n since_o he_o ascend_v on_o high_a the_o father_n according_a to_o the_o testimony_n of_o his_o son_n christ_n have_v send_v unto_o we_o the_o comforter_n the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n who_o be_v to_o lead_v and_o guide_v we_o into_o all_o truth_n this_o spirit_n we_o witness_v to_o be_v in_o we_o according_a to_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o scripture_n it_o shall_v be_v in_o you_o our_o testimony_n now_o be_v that_o it_o be_v
not_o agreeable_a to_o the_o second_o covenant_n to_o expect_v that_o any_o one_o shall_v be_v ordain_v of_o god_n to_o be_v among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n like_v unto_o moses_n save_o christ_n jesus_n our_o lord_n and_o master_n who_o by_o his_o spiritual_a appearance_n in_o we_o be_v become_v our_o leader_n and_o lawgiver_n and_o therefore_o we_o have_v no_o ground_n to_o believe_v that_o any_o one_o mortal_a man_n aught_o to_o assume_v that_o place_n among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n at_o this_o day_n as_o moses_n by_o the_o appointment_n of_o god_n do_v among_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n in_o his_o day_n especial_o if_o we_o do_v but_o consider_v that_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o lord_n through_o his_o prophet_n jeremiah_n jer._n 31.33_o 34._o with_o relation_n to_o that_o time_n and_o dispensation_n of_o the_o new_a covenant_n under_o which_o we_o be_v be_v on_o this_o wise_a i_o will_v put_v my_o law_n in_o their_o inward_a part_n and_o write_v it_o in_o their_o heart_n 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church_n but_o also_o such_o as_o profess_v the_o truth_n aught_o to_o believe_v as_o this_o church_n believe_v have_v he_o so_o express_v himself_o testimony_n will_v have_v arisen_a as_o a_o flood_n against_o such_o darkness_n for_o this_o will_v have_v plain_o appear_v to_o we_o to_o have_v open_v a_o door_n whereby_o that_o babylonish_n rubbish_n which_o we_o have_v be_v long_o testify_v against_o may_v have_v be_v exalt_v in_o one_o day_n and_o to_o be_v very_o plain_a we_o can_v but_o now_o declare_v that_o we_o be_v full_o satisfy_v in_o our_o conscience_n that_o by_o this_o very_a door_n a_o body_n of_o strife_n contention_n emulation_n malice_n and_o envy_n together_o with_o a_o rend_v divide_v separate_a spirit_n from_o the_o truth_n be_v enter_v among_o many_o hundred_o who_o before_o walk_v together_o with_o we_o in_o a_o heavenly_a union_n and_o fellowship_n in_o the_o life_n of_o righteousness_n which_o doubtless_o may_v if_o it_o have_v not_o already_o occasion_n many_o 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meeting_n have_v not_o often_o consist_v of_o such_o member_n and_o be_v like_o so_o to_o do_v while_o the_o door_n be_v open_a for_o any_o under_o the_o aforesaid_a qualification_n to_o sit_v there_o as_o it_o yet_o be_v we_o recommend_v to_o the_o serious_a consideration_n of_o the_o impartial_a reader_n and_o if_o so_o we_o desire_v they_o further_a to_o weigh_v and_o consider_v first_o whether_o it_o can_v be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o truth_n to_o account_v every_o thing_n act_v and_o do_v by_o every_o such_o meeting_n to_o be_v the_o product_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o according_o to_o be_v submit_v to_o second_o whether_o the_o judge_n of_o some_o conscientious_o refuse_v to_o submit_v to_o be_v dark_a leaven_a rend_v divide_v or_o separate_a spirit_n because_o they_o refuse_v be_v not_o the_o fruit_n of_o that_o spirit_n that_o will_v remove_v we_o from_o that_o teacher_n that_o can_v be_v remove_v into_o a_o corner_n to_o follow_v the_o dictate_v of_o fallible_a 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so_o foolish_a as_o to_o concern_v ourselves_o with_o those_o who_o be_v not_o of_o we_o none_o of_o which_o be_v according_a to_o the_o import_n of_o the_o say_a book_n of_o government_n as_o we_o take_v it_o exclude_v from_o such_o meeting_n nor_o yet_o to_o give_v judgement_n therein_o witness_n page_n 79_o and_o 82._o of_o the_o say_a book_n and_o since_o we_o be_v now_o treat_v of_o those_o meeting_n we_o be_v not_o without_o a_o sense_n but_o that_o some_o may_v be_v ready_a thus_o to_o query_n viz._n what_o order_n be_v either_o prescribe_v or_o use_v whereby_o the_o sense_n of_o such_o meeting_n be_v collect_v to_o this_o we_o say_v a_o eminent_a person_n profess_v truth_n be_v at_o bristol_n do_v take_v occasion_n to_o signify_v at_o a_o mens-meeting_a hold_v in_o that_o city_n to_o this_o effect_n that_o in_o london_n and_o other_o part_n of_o this_o nation_n where_o such_o meeting_n be_v usual_o hold_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o generality_n have_v be_v take_v for_o the_o 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on_o this_o wise_a choose_v from_o among_o you_o the_o faithful_a yet_o such_o a_o limitation_n we_o have_v cause_n to_o believe_v will_v not_o now_o be_v bear_v by_o some_o it_o be_v well_o if_o the_o ground_n thereof_o in_o our_o opposer_n be_v not_o to_o bring_v in_o the_o multitude_n if_o they_o can_v and_o that_o under_o a_o pretence_n that_o all_o friend_n in_o truth_n may_v have_v free_a access_n that_o so_o the_o generality_n may_v be_v on_o their_o side_n for_o of_o late_a man_n meeting_n be_v know_v to_o consist_v of_o many_o such_o who_o if_o any_o aught_o to_o be_v govern_v be_v much_o fit_a to_o be_v govern_v then_o appear_v as_o governor_n and_o who_o we_o be_v well_o satisfy_v in_o our_o conscience_n will_v of_o themselves_o be_v more_o modest_a than_o to_o appear_v in_o such_o meeting_n as_o governor_n be_v they_o not_o prompt_v to_o be_v there_o the_o secret_a end_n thereof_o as_o we_o have_v cause_n to_o doubt_v be_v for_o the_o carry_v on_o that_o which_o we_o 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give_v by_o we_o that_o any_o one_o man_n or_o man_n shall_v take_v upon_o he_o or_o they_o to_o rule_v and_o govern_v in_o such_o meeting_n but_o our_o expectation_n be_v that_o every_o member_n shall_v there_o appear_v in_o subjection_n to_o christ_n the_o head_n and_o high_a power_n unto_o which_o as_o member_n of_o his_o body_n we_o owe_v obedience_n in_o this_o sense_n we_o ready_o embrace_v the_o counsel_n to_o meet_v together_o to_o serve_v but_o not_o to_o bear_v rule_n over_o one_o another_o conscience_n and_o the_o matter_n intend_v by_o we_o to_o be_v transact_v in_o those_o meeting_n and_o by_o other_o also_o as_o far_o as_o we_o understand_v be_v chief_o to_o take_v care_n of_o the_o poor_a the_o fatherless_a and_o the_o widow_n and_o that_o if_o any_o profess_v the_o truth_n and_o dishonour_v the_o same_o by_o profane_a and_o evil_a conversation_n we_o may_v by_o such_o way_n and_o mean_n as_o the_o lord_n on_o every_o occasion_n may_v direct_v not_o then_o think_v that_o 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whereby_o as_o great_a darkness_n may_v be_v bring_v over_o the_o people_n as_o ever_o be_v in_o any_o age_n under_o the_o profession_n of_o christian_a religion_n objection_n but_o perhaps_o some_o person_n may_v thus_o object_n we_o can_v but_o have_v more_o charity_n for_o some_o at_o least_o of_o those_o who_o be_v concern_v in_o these_o thing_n you_o strike_v at_o and_o can_v believe_v they_o intend_v a_o imposition_n on_o any_o of_o our_o conscience_n for_o when_o we_o have_v be_v in_o meeting_n with_o they_o we_o have_v be_v witness_n that_o the_o life_n have_v be_v raise_v and_o our_o soul_n have_v be_v refresh_v through_o their_o ministry_n and_o in_o their_o epistle_n they_o tell_v we_o how_o eminent_o the_o lord_n appear_v among_o they_o unto_o which_o we_o can_v but_o give_v credit_n because_o when_o they_o be_v with_o we_o the_o life_n in_o we_o answer_n to_o the_o life_n in_o they_o as_o face_n answer_v face_n in_o a_o glass_n but_o when_o those_o who_o they_o oppose_v do_v speak_v than_o deadness_n dryness_n and_o barrenness_n appear_v beside_o many_o of_o the_o minister_a friend_n have_v exhort_v we_o and_o as_o they_o say_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o we_o ought_v to_o shut_v out_o jealousy_n the_o reason_v and_o the_o wisdom_n tell_v we_o as_o before_o be_v hint_v that_o the_o apostasy_n shall_v never_o enter_v the_o generality_n more_o and_o that_o we_o ought_v to_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o the_o brethren_n answ_n this_o objection_n may_v seem_v very_o weighty_a with_o some_o especial_o such_o who_o may_v conclude_v that_o if_o they_o be_v of_o the_o true_a brotherhood_n the_o lord_n will_v give_v they_o a_o inward_a sense_n when_o they_o wait_v upon_o he_o whereby_o a_o testimony_n according_a to_o the_o truth_n may_v arise_v from_o they_o in_o every_o case_n wherein_o they_o may_v concern_v their_o thought_n but_o alas_o it_o be_v either_o the_o fruit_n of_o weakness_n or_o presumption_n so_o to_o conclude_v with_o respect_n to_o every_o brother_n in_o what_o estate_n soever_o which_o have_v be_v sufficient_o evidence_v to_o we_o by_o the_o fruit_n of_o those_o who_o have_v take_v upon_o they_o to_o judge_v the_o merit_n of_o a_o cause_n without_o hear_v of_o both_o party_n of_o which_o more_o anon_o beside_o if_o we_o do_v but_o consider_v that_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n do_v testify_v there_o be_v diversity_n of_o gift_n diversity_n of_o administration_n and_o operation_n and_o yet_o by_o the_o same_o spirit_n it_o be_v sufficient_a to_o prompt_v we_o to_o be_v so_o serious_a and_o weighty_a in_o this_o day_n of_o trial_n as_o to_o be_v find_v wait_v every_o one_o in_o his_o own_o gift_n that_o so_o all_o may_v be_v preserve_v and_o not_o meddle_v with_o thing_n that_o be_v too_o high_a for_o they_o he_o that_o be_v not_o
spiritual_a guide_n and_o teacher_n which_o be_v infailible_n and_o can_v be_v remove_v into_o a_o corner_n with_o confidence_n than_o may_v we_o conclude_v that_o none_o such_o will_n ever_o more_o boast_n of_o the_o possession_n which_o they_o have_v take_v as_o heir_n of_o the_o gospel_n with_o respect_n to_o thing_n that_o be_v without_o second_o as_o to_o this_o part_n of_o the_o aforesaid_a objection_n viz._n that_o nothing_o but_o dryness_n deadness_n and_o barrenness_n appear_v in_o those_o who_o be_v oppose_v by_o such_o with_o who_o thou_o be_v at_o unity_n we_o say_v this_o seem_v not_o strange_a unto_o we_o for_o the_o apostle_n thus_o testify_v we_o be_v unto_o god_n a_o sweet_a savour_n of_o christ_n in_o they_o that_o be_v save_v and_o in_o they_o that_o perish_v to_o the_o one_o we_o be_v the_o savour_n of_o death_n unto_o death_n and_o to_o the_o other_o the_o savour_n of_o life_n unto_o life_n this_o give_v we_o occasion_n to_o put_v every_o one_o that_o have_v or_o 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of_o understanding_n above_o many_o of_o their_o brethren_n and_o have_v and_o yet_o do_v as_o far_o as_o ever_o we_o know_v appear_v sound_n in_o doctrine_n and_o as_o blameless_a in_o life_n and_o conversation_n as_o any_o friend_n we_o have_v ever_o know_v and_o so_o can_v run_v with_o the_o current_n of_o the_o time_n we_o desire_v therefore_o that_o every_o one_o of_o the_o opposer_n of_o or_o judge_n over_o such_o will_v yet_o more_o thorough_o search_v their_o own_o conscience_n and_o in_o a_o godly_a jealousy_n over_o themselves_o put_v these_o query_n unto_o their_o own_o heart_n and_o try_v thing_n in_o the_o equal_a balance_n have_v not_o i_o many_o time_n hear_v unsound_a doctrine_n and_o behold_v disorder_n and_o confusion_n bring_v forth_o even_o in_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n by_o those_o who_o cry_v against_o dark_a separate_a spirit_n and_o yet_o not_o be_v a_o reproof_n thereto_o conclude_v notwithstanding_o that_o there_o do_v a_o freshness_n and_o life_n appear_v have_v not_o i_o be_v often_o affect_v with_o a_o outward_a tone_n and_o strength_n of_o lung_n when_o there_o have_v be_v little_a to_o the_o information_n and_o building_n up_o one_o another_o in_o the_o most_o holy_a faith_n have_v not_o i_o be_v better_o content_v to_o hear_v a_o thunder_a kind_n of_o voice_n cry_v out_o against_o a_o separate_a spirit_n though_o without_o distinction_n when_o not_o a_o word_n be_v speak_v to_o show_v the_o way_n to_o the_o kingdom_n than_o to_o hear_v the_o way_n of_o eternal_a life_n plain_o demonstrate_v by_o a_o soft_a and_o moderate_a voice_n we_o know_v there_o be_v great_a cause_n for_o many_o to_o put_v these_o question_n to_o their_o conscience_n and_o to_o be_v cool_a in_o spirit_n that_o so_o they_o may_v have_v a_o answer_n from_o the_o lord_n who_o appearance_n be_v not_o in_o the_o strong_a wind_n but_o in_o the_o still_a voice_n sect_n iv_o a_o answer_n to_o the_o three_o position_n deducible_a from_o a_o objection_n raise_v towards_o the_o conclusion_n of_o the_o first_o section_n viz._n that_o it_o be_v folly_n and_o hypocrisy_n to_o profess_v ourselves_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n and_o yet_o not_o believe_v thus_o as_o the_o true_a church_n believe_v to_o this_o we_o say_v we_o be_v altogether_o dissatisfy_v especial_o when_o we_o consider_v what_o a_o body_n of_o darkness_n have_v enter_v under_o the_o belief_n of_o this_o position_n we_o must_v believe_v as_o the_o church_n believe_v among_o the_o professor_n of_o christianity_n in_o age_n past_a as_o well_o as_o at_o this_o present_a day_n that_o such_o language_n can_v become_v the_o mouth_n or_o pen_n of_o any_o one_o that_o profess_v not_o only_a faith_n in_o christ_n but_o also_o that_o such_o his_o faith_n be_v ground_v upon_o the_o inward_a manifestation_n and_o revelation_n of_o god_n spirit_n in_o himself_o mark_v we_o say_v in_o himself_o those_o who_o be_v account_v apostate_n christian_n have_v from_o such_o assembly_n which_o they_o call_v their_o church_n set_v forth_o their_o creed_n by_o which_o it_o may_v be_v know_v what_o the_o member_n of_o their_o church_n do_v and_o aught_o to_o believe_v and_o since_o it_o be_v so_o that_o no_o person_n be_v able_a to_o make_v out_o that_o ever_o any_o assembly_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o true_a church_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n have_v publish_v their_o creed_n by_o which_o we_o mean_v a_o certain_a number_n of_o article_n of_o faith_n recommend_v they_o as_o those_o thing_n which_o every_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n ought_v to_o believe_v or_o else_o not_o be_v account_v a_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n we_o can_v account_v it_o unreasonable_a if_o any_o one_o that_o like_v not_o the_o language_n touch_v believe_v as_o the_o true_a church_n believe_v shall_v ask_v the_o publisher_n thereof_o this_o question_n have_v thou_o not_o speak_v this_o with_o respect_n to_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n as_o those_o who_o thou_o accounte_v the_o true_a church_n and_o if_o so_o be_v it_o not_o folly_n to_o talk_v of_o believe_v as_o this_o church_n believe_v when_o no_o assembly_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o this_o church_n have_v to_o this_o day_n declare_v and_o publish_v their_o creed_n for_o the_o end_n aforesaid_a nay_o may_v it_o not_o further_o be_v say_v we_o know_v how_o papist_n and_o protestant_n describe_v their_o church_n but_o at_o the_o day_n wherein_o that_o which_o occasion_n this_o present_a discourse_n be_v give_v forth_o it_o be_v not_o discover_v by_o any_o repute_a quaker_n public_o in_o print_n that_o we_o know_v of_o who_o or_o be_v the_o true_a church_n be_v with_o respect_n to_o visible_a person_n more_o than_o what_o be_v to_o this_o effect_n give_v forth_o by_o the_o author_n occasion_v this_o present_a discourse_n viz._n that_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n be_v the_o church_n wherein_o we_o do_v not_o take_v his_o meaning_n to_o be_v that_o all_o call_v quaker_n be_v the_o church_n of_o god_n but_o the_o elect_a among_o they_o for_o he_o also_o say_v the_o church_n signify_v the_o elect_n and_o so_o the_o reader_n be_v leave_v without_o any_o certain_a description_n who_o or_o where_o this_o church_n be_v with_o respect_n to_o visible_a person_n since_o the_o elect_a among_o they_o be_v not_o outward_o describe_v for_o the_o clear_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o the_o open_n of_o the_o understanding_n of_o such_o as_o may_v be_v muddle_v about_o this_o matter_n it_o be_v with_o we_o thus_o to_o testify_v it_o be_v well_o know_v that_o it_o please_v the_o lord_n to_o reach_v unto_o many_o of_o our_o conscience_n at_o the_o begin_n of_o this_o latter_a day_n that_o have_v dawn_v among_o we_o whereby_o we_o come_v to_o believe_v in_o the_o everlasting_a light_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o as_o other_o hold_v forth_o the_o visible_a order_n and_o write_a faith_n of_o a_o visible_a church_n to_o be_v as_o a_o lantern_n to_o their_o path_n and_o as_o a_o ground_n of_o their_o faith_n so_o this_o light_n of_o christ_n be_v preach_v up_o as_o a_o lantern_n to_o our_o path_n and_o as_o the_o ground_n of_o our_o faith_n and_o then_o as_o our_o understanding_n come_v to_o be_v more_o and_o more_o open_v we_o clear_o see_v that_o as_o other_o church_n have_v outward_a mark_n and_o token_n whereby_o a_o man_n may_v manifest_v himself_o to_o be_v a_o member_n of_o their_o church_n when_o receive_v into_o society_n with_o their_o church_n so_o we_o who_o have_v believe_v in_o the_o light_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n and_o have_v the_o evidence_n in_o ourselves_o that_o we_o be_v of_o the_o true_a brotherhood_n and_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n be_v at_o a_o loss_n infallible_o to_o manifest_v unto_o other_o by_o any_o outward_a mark_n or_o token_n that_o we_o be_v in_o
be_v they_o shall_v not_o forbear_v may_v thereby_o come_v to_o lose_v their_o strength_n in_o the_o lord_n for_o that_o we_o believe_v it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o every_o christian_a to_o think_v nothing_o too_o dear_a to_o offer_v up_o for_o the_o lord_n when_o he_o command_v or_o call_v for_o it_o mark_n we_o do_v not_o say_v at_o every_o time_n that_o any_o informer_n that_o thirst_v after_o our_o ruin_n and_o estate_n through_o malice_n especial_o when_v not_o prompt_v thereto_o by_o such_o as_o be_v minister_n of_o the_o law_n call_v for_o it_o but_o we_o say_v when_o the_o lord_n command_v or_o call_v for_o it_o and_o if_o peradventure_o any_o shall_v be_v so_o overcome_v as_o through_o disobedience_n fear_v or_o weakness_n not_o to_o stand_v steadfast_a to_o the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n in_o the_o day_n of_o trial_n even_o in_o that_o manner_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v it_o be_v then_o the_o duty_n of_o those_o that_o be_v strong_a to_o deal_v gentle_o with_o such_o and_o in_o that_o charity_n speak_v of_o by_o the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 13._o that_o bear_v all_o thing_n that_o endure_v all_o thing_n endeavour_v to_o convince_v they_o of_o such_o their_o weakness_n that_o so_o their_o faith_n and_o strength_n in_o the_o truth_n may_v come_v to_o increase_v and_o not_o be_v so_o remote_a from_o bear_v the_o infirmity_n of_o the_o weak_a which_o be_v the_o apostle_n counsel_n to_o those_o who_o be_v strong_a as_o instead_o thereof_o to_o publish_v such_o their_o weakness_n by_o way_n of_o recrimination_n through_o the_o nation_n especial_o while_o such_o weakness_n may_v true_o be_v term_v want_v of_o sight_n or_o clear_a conviction_n we_o also_o do_v believe_v that_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n be_v a_o inward_a government_n that_o the_o law_n thereof_o be_v inward_a and_o that_o the_o only_a place_n wherein_o they_o be_v to_o be_v exalt_v be_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n for_o that_o christ_n appearance_n be_v there_o to_o be_v wait_v for_o and_o that_o this_o government_n can_v be_v establish_v by_o man_n because_o it_o be_v already_o on_o christ_n shoulder_n and_o he_o that_o sit_v on_o the_o throne_n of_o david_n be_v to_o establish_v it_o notwithstanding_o it_o be_v well_o know_v that_o some_o call_v quaker_n by_o write_v under_o their_o hand_n have_v declare_v themselves_o to_o be_v the_o establisher_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o holy_a order_n of_o truth_n we_o also_o do_v believe_v that_o those_o who_o have_v live_v under_o this_o government_n of_o christ_n bring_v forth_o the_o peaceable_a fruit_n of_o righteousness_n strive_v not_o for_o pre-eminence_n nor_o yet_o like_o the_o gentile_n exercise_n lordship_n over_o one_o another_o but_o be_v meek_a gentle_a humble_a and_o easy_a to_o be_v entreat_v ready_a to_o pass_v by_o and_o forgive_v offence_n even_o as_o god_n for_o christ_n sake_n have_v forgive_v we_o and_o so_o show_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o that_o love_n whereof_o christ_n our_o lord_n and_o master_n do_v declare_v when_o he_o say_v by_o this_o shall_v all_o man_n know_v that_o you_o be_v my_o disciple_n if_o you_o love_v one_o another_o but_o on_o the_o contrary_a we_o can_v but_o testify_v that_o those_o who_o be_v so_o far_o from_o follow_v peace_n with_o all_o man_n which_o be_v the_o apostle_n counsel_n as_o to_o raise_v contention_n among_o their_o brethren_n endeavour_v to_o make_v they_o offender_n for_o those_o thing_n which_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o all-seeing_a god_n be_v no_o offence_n do_v not_o appear_v to_o be_v subject_a unto_o christ_n government_n though_o they_o may_v style_v themselves_o establisher_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o holy_a order_n of_o truth_n object_n but_o perhaps_o some_o may_v here_o object_n how_o come_v you_o and_o those_o your_o opposer_n who_o run_v against_o you_o as_o dark_a leaven_a superate_v spirit_n thus_o to_o disagree_v for_o certain_a we_o be_v that_o we_o have_v hear_v they_o testify_v to_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o god_n grace_n in_o opposition_n to_o the_o teach_n of_o man_n magnify_v the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n as_o the_o guide_n to_o the_o father_n and_o bear_v witness_n against_o tyth-payer_n and_o fleer_n in_o time_n of_o persecution_n answ_n yes_o very_o we_o believe_v so_o too_o but_o yet_o we_o be_v not_o of_o those_o who_o can_v hold_v a_o unity_n with_o such_o who_o sometime_o tell_v we_o we_o must_v walk_v according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o god_n grace_n in_o ourselves_o and_o that_o magnify_v the_o sufficiency_n thereof_o as_o the_o only_a unerring_a rule_n and_o yet_o be_v judge_v their_o brethren_n because_o they_o can_v have_v a_o eye_n to_o some_o outward_a rule_n and_o order_n give_v forth_o by_o such_o who_o have_v say_v look_v not_o unto_o we_o but_o unto_o the_o lord_n when_o at_o the_o same_o time_n such_o as_o may_v be_v so_o judge_v shall_v solemu_o affirm_v it_o reach_v not_o to_o their_o conscience_n unto_o which_o all_o paper_n outward_a rule_n and_o prescription_n be_v to_o be_v bring_v that_o so_o by_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n therein_o they_o may_v be_v try_v and_o not_o our_o conscience_n bring_v unto_o paper_n or_o any_o thing_n outward_a to_o be_v a_o bond_n thereon_o before_o a_o inward_a conviction_n from_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n receive_v neither_o can_v we_o be_v at_o unity_n with_o the_o appearance_n of_o that_o spirit_n in_o any_o one_o that_o villify_v other_o for_o fleer_n in_o time_n of_o persecution_n backbiting_a instead_o of_o endeavour_v to_o restore_v in_o the_o spirit_n of_o meekness_n such_o when_o such_o a_o one_o have_v appear_v a_o fleer_v at_o such_o like_a time_n himself_o neither_o can_v we_o be_v at_o unity_n with_o the_o appearance_n of_o that_o spirit_n be_v it_o in_o whosoever_o it_o will_v that_o can_v recriminate_a man_n as_o tyth-payer_n who_o have_v be_v faithful_a in_o their_o testimony_n relate_v to_o tithe_n and_o yet_o advise_v a_o friend_n to_o purchase_v tithe_n which_o be_v g._n f_n case_n with_o relation_n to_o his_o advice_n unto_o nathaniel_n crip_n and_o robert_n arch_n according_a as_o be_v treat_v on_o and_o prove_v by_o certificate_n under_o their_o hand_n record_v in_o the_o 21th_o section_n of_o the_o manuscript_n first_o mention_v in_o the_o preface_n ready_a to_o be_v see_v we_o be_v now_o sensible_a that_o some_o of_o our_o opposer_n may_v take_v occasion_n from_o a_o part_n of_o our_o fore_n go_v word_n thus_o to_o object_n obj._n this_o your_o language_n of_o offer_v up_o all_o seem_v not_o according_a to_o the_o sense_n of_o some_o to_o square_v with_o the_o practice_n of_o secure_v any_o part_n of_o your_o estate_n when_o you_o foresee_v a_o probability_n of_o incur_v a_o praemunire_n or_o be_v fine_v for_o meet_v which_o as_o report_n say_v have_v be_v the_o case_n of_o some_o of_o you_o and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o that_o you_o have_v justify_v the_o same_o notwithstanding_o some_o who_o we_o account_v faithful_a have_v in_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n declare_v against_o it_o instance_v the_o word_n of_o christ_n when_o he_o say_v unto_o peter_n get_v thou_o behind_o i_o satan_n thou_o be_v a_o offence_n to_o i_o for_o thou_o savory_a not_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v of_o god_n which_o be_v so_o speak_v by_o christ_n because_o peter_n say_v unto_o he_o be_v it_o far_o from_o thou_o lord_n this_o shall_v not_o be_v unto_o thou_o meaning_n as_o the_o context_n show_n that_o he_o will_v not_o have_v jesus_n go_v to_o jerusalem_n there_o to_o sufer_v though_o it_o be_v manifest_v to_o he_o that_o he_o must_v go_v thither_o and_o suffer_v etc._n etc._n read_v mat._n 16.21_o 22_o 23._o and_o so_o by_o consequence_n it_o appear_v that_o christ_n reprove_v that_o spirit_n which_o exhort_v to_o save_v self_n beside_o it_o be_v well_o know_v that_o on_o this_o occasion_n the_o rebellion_n and_o condemn_a action_n of_o saul_n in_o save_v agag_n and_o he_o best_a of_o the_o sheep_n and_o ox_n alive_a be_v a_o part_n of_o what_o by_o the_o commandment_n of_o the_o lord_n he_o take_v of_o the_o amalakite_n have_v frequent_o be_v bring_v as_o a_o instance_n against_o some_o of_o you_o to_o show_v that_o all_o aught_o to_o be_v offer_v up_o read_v 1_o sam._n 15._o answ_n forasmuch_o as_o this_o very_a objection_n have_v be_v make_v use_n of_o as_o a_o prevail_a argument_n to_o affect_v some_o ignorant_a people_n against_o the_o friend_n of_o truth_n it_o be_v needful_a it_o shall_v receive_v a_o particular_a answer_n and_o observation_n which_o now_o follow_v peter_n word_n have_v a_o tendency_n to_o divert_v christ_n from_o what_o he_o know_v to_o be_v his_o duty_n saul_n action_n be_v know_v and_o confess_v rebellion_n in_o save_v that_o which_o be_v no_o part_n of_o his_o own_o proper_a substance_n but_o
a_o prey_n obtain_v by_o commission_n from_o god_n and_o that_o with_o a_o severe_a command_n to_o destroy_v all_o and_o therefore_o we_o ready_o confess_v that_o if_o any_o among_o we_o have_v endeavour_v to_o divert_v another_o from_o what_o he_o know_v to_o be_v his_o duty_n or_o have_v in_o save_v any_o part_n of_o that_o substance_n which_o god_n command_v to_o be_v destroy_v act_v contrary_a to_o his_o know_a duty_n it_o be_v just_o to_o be_v condemn_v and_o the_o scripture_n before-cited_n may_v in_o that_o case_n be_v term_v a_o proper_a allusion_n thereto_o but_o alas_o this_o be_v far_o remote_a from_o the_o case_n reflect_v on_o because_o some_o person_n therein_o concern_v have_v receive_v no_o command_n from_o god_n to_o the_o contrary_a nor_o yet_o have_v save_v any_o thing_n which_o the_o lord_n command_v to_o destroy_v and_o therefore_o such_o may_v just_o thus_o say_v how_o dare_v thou_o to_o judge_v the_o friend_n of_o truth_n and_o servant_n of_o the_o lord_n for_o that_o wherein_o they_o be_v not_o judge_v of_o the_o lord_n beside_o it_o be_v worthy_a observation_n that_o if_o any_o shall_v go_v beyond_o their_o proper_a gift_n and_o line_n of_o right_a understanding_n and_o in_o that_o state_n offer_v up_o their_o all_z when_o the_o lord_n call_v not_o for_o it_o but_o instead_o thereof_o a_o company_n of_o informer_n and_o that_o also_o by_o illegal_a way_n to_o devour_v it_o on_o their_o lust_n this_o offer_v may_v have_v no_o more_o acceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n under_o this_o dispensation_n of_o the_o new_a covenant_n than_o the_o offer_n of_o the_o blind_a and_o the_o lame_a under_o the_o first_o covenant_n have_v and_o indeed_o it_o may_v not_o be_v unnecessary_a far_o to_o confide_v the_o end_n wherefore_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v we_o steward_n of_o worldly_a estate_n doubtless_o it_o be_v and_o be_v that_o therewith_o we_o may_v maintain_v our_o family_n and_o have_v a_o due_a regard_n to_o the_o poor_a the_o fatherless_a and_o the_o widow_n that_o be_v or_o may_v be_v object_n of_o charity_n and_o therefore_o it_o may_v well_o be_v deem_v not_o contrary_a to_o the_o truth_n lawful_o to_o preserve_v the_o same_o for_o the_o end_n for_o which_o it_o be_v give_v and_o to_o endeavour_v by_o all_o lawful_a way_n and_o mean_n to_o prevent_v the_o spoiler_n design_v of_o possess_v our_o estate_n to_o consume_v it_o on_o their_o lust_n and_o indeed_o charity_n oblige_v we_o to_o suppose_v that_o these_o very_a consideration_n occasion_v g._n f._n to_o advice_n mary_n penington_n to_o secure_v worldly_a estate_n from_o the_o hand_n of_o such_o who_o be_v suppose_v in_o a_o persecute_v spirit_n to_o thirst_n after_o it_o though_o of_o herself_o if_o what_o g._n f._n have_v write_v in_o relation_n to_o this_o matter_n be_v to_o be_v credit_v she_o have_v no_o inclination_n to_o remove_v her_o movable_a good_n in_o order_n to_o secure_v it_o and_o if_o any_o shall_v question_v the_o truth_n of_o this_o relate_v to_o g._n f._n and_o mary_n penington_n we_o thereto_o say_v that_o sufficient_a witness_n to_o prove_v marry_o peningtons_n confession_n thereof_o can_v be_v now_o produce_v beside_o g._n f._n be_v charge_v therewith_o do_v not_o in_o his_o answer_n write_v deny_v it_o this_o our_o answer_n may_v in_o probability_n occasion_n from_o some_o another_o objection_n on_o this_o wise_a obj._n this_o be_v but_o a_o subtle_a evasion_n of_o that_o which_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o all_o friend_n for_o the_o testimony_n of_o faithful_a friend_n and_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n in_o answer_n to_o peter_n and_o of_o samuel_n to_o saul_n will_v stand_v over_o the_o head_n of_o such_o dark_a spirit_n as_o you_o be_v answ_n this_o objection_n contain_v such_o language_n wherewith_o we_o be_v well_o acquaint_v from_o the_o mouth_n of_o our_o opposer_n may_v thus_o in_o truth_n be_v answer_v that_o it_o can_v no_o more_o stand_v over_o our_o head_n than_o the_o word_n of_o some_o priest_n urge_v abraham_n payment_n of_o tithe_n out_o of_o spoil_n he_o obtain_v in_o war_n gen._n 14.20_o can_v stand_v over_o the_o head_n of_o friend_n refuse_v to_o pay_v tithe_n of_o those_o land_n which_o be_v their_o inheritance_n or_o proper_a purchase_n and_o no_o part_n of_o spoil_n obtain_v in_o war._n those_o who_o will_v not_o receive_v this_o as_o a_o full_a answer_n to_o evidence_n the_o weakness_n of_o the_o last_o objection_n but_o tenacious_o persist_v in_o assert_v that_o the_o say_a objection_n be_v reasonable_a and_o that_o from_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n and_o saul_n will_v undoubted_o give_v just_a occasion_n to_o confirm_v the_o sense_n of_o our_o common_a enemy_n viz._n that_o there_o be_v among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n who_o make_v of_o the_o scripture_n a_o mere_a nose_n of_o wax_n for_o though_o the_o scripture_n mention_v not_o any_o command_n from_o god_n to_o abraham_n to_o pay_v unto_o melchisedeck_v the_o ten_o of_o his_o spoil_n yet_o doubtless_o he_o therein_o do_v according_a to_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n even_o as_o saul_n will_v have_v do_v have_v he_o destroy_v all_o according_a to_o the_o command_n of_o god_n and_o if_o what_o be_v practise_v by_o abraham_n may_v be_v take_v to_o be_v a_o incumbent_a duty_n on_o christian_n at_o this_o day_n even_o as_o our_o opposer_n will_v have_v what_o saul_n ought_v to_o have_v practise_v according_a to_o the_o command_n of_o god_n to_o be_v exemplary_a at_o this_o day_n yet_o it_o be_v apparent_a that_o both_o one_o and_o tother_o have_v a_o real_a relation_n to_o what_o be_v obtain_v in_o war_n and_o so_o no_o proper_a precedent_n either_o to_o pay_v a_o ten_o part_n or_o to_o offer_v up_o the_o nine_o part_n with_o the_o ten_o of_o that_o estate_n which_o be_v our_o inheritance_n or_o proper_a purchase_n this_o we_o be_v far_a sensible_a may_n also_o occasion_v another_o objection_n to_o this_o purpose_n viz._n obj._n your_o discourse_n seem_v to_o encourage_v the_o avoid_n all_o suffer_v and_o then_o how_o in_o this_o our_o day_n shall_v that_o testimony_n of_o the_o apostle_n be_v fullfil_v viz._n all_o that_o will_v live_v godly_a in_o christ_n jesus_n shall_v suffer_v persecution_n 2_o tim._n 3.12_o answ_n to_o this_o we_o answer_v our_o former_a discourse_n encourage_v the_o assemble_v ourselves_o together_o though_o not_o to_o put_v into_o the_o mouth_n of_o informer_n at_o their_o will_n and_o pleasure_n and_o doubtless_o few_o so_o weak_a but_o do_v know_v that_o suffering_n of_o divers_a kind_n may_v therefore_o attend_v so_o that_o unless_o we_o be_v discourager_n of_o assemble_v together_o to_o wait_v upon_o the_o lord_n we_o can_v reasonable_o be_v understand_v to_o encourage_v the_o avoid_n all_o suffering_n and_o though_o paul_n word_n seem_v so_o positive_a and_o general_a yet_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o spirit_n through_o paul_n may_v be_v more_o particular_a viz._n in_o relation_n to_o time_n season_n and_o person_n wherein_o the_o lord_n may_v suffer_v the_o adversary_n to_o exercise_v some_o of_o his_o people_n for_o the_o trial_n of_o their_o faith_n and_o patience_n and_o not_o strict_o mean_v that_o if_o a_o man_n have_v not_o suffer_v persecution_n therefore_o he_o have_v not_o live_v godly_a in_o christ_n jesus_n for_o who_o dare_v to_o be_v so_o uncharitable_a as_o to_o conclude_v that_o none_o who_o be_v fall_v asleep_o that_o taste_v not_o of_o persecution_n in_o their_o day_n nor_o have_v occasion_n offer_v for_o the_o spoil_n of_o their_o good_n for_o the_o gospel_n sake_n dye_v in_o the_o faith_n of_o god_n elect_n and_o of_o the_o number_n of_o those_o who_o live_v godly_a in_o christ_n jesus_n especial_o since_o we_o know_v it_o have_v be_v the_o practice_n of_o some_o who_o have_v be_v apt_a to_o reflect_v as_o aforesaid_a to_o use_v divers_a way_n and_o mean_n according_a to_o the_o best_a of_o their_o skill_n and_o understanding_n to_o prevent_v the_o stroke_n of_o persecution_n in_o their_o day_n moreover_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o paul_n word_n to_o felix_n etc._n etc._n act_n 26.29_o i_o will_v to_o god_n that_o not_o only_o thou_o but_o also_o all_o that_o hear_v i_o this_o day_n be_v both_o almost_o and_o altogether_o such_o as_o i_o be_o except_o these_o bond_n do_v clear_o show_v that_o persecution_n be_v not_o such_o a_o absolute_a companion_n to_o a_o true_a christian_a as_o that_o without_o it_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a to_o live_v godly_a in_o christ_n jesus_n because_o no_o doubt_n but_o paul_n be_v then_o in_o that_o state_n of_o godliness_n and_o so_o also_o will_v those_o on_o who_o behalf_n he_o so_o speak_v have_v be_v have_v paul_n desire_n be_v answer_v notwithstanding_o he_o except_v the_o bond_n he_o then_o be_v in_o by_o reason_n of_o persecution_n and_o forasmuch_o as_o we_o know_v some_o of_o our_o opposer_n
understand_v the_o most_o pertinent_a argument_n may_v be_v produce_v to_o prove_v church-government_n or_o a_o government_n in_o some_o member_n or_o member_n over_o the_o rest_n mat._n 18.15_o 16_o 17._o we_o find_v christ_n thus_o say_v moreover_o if_o thy_o brother_n shall_v trespass_v against_o thou_o go_v tell_v he_o his_o fault_n if_o he_o will_v not_o hear_v thou_o take_v with_o thou_o one_o or_o two_o and_o if_o he_o shall_v neglect_v to_o hear_v they_o tell_v it_o to_o the_o church_n but_o if_o he_o neglect_v to_o hear_v the_o church_n let_v he_o be_v unto_o thou_o as_o a_o heathen_a man_n very_o i_o say_v unto_o you_o whatsoever_o you_o shall_v bind_v in_o earth_n shall_v be_v bind_v in_o heaven_n compare_v this_o scripture_n touch_v the_o trespass_n of_o one_o brother_n against_o another_o with_o what_o paul_n write_v 1_o cor._n 2.4_o dare_v any_o of_o you_o have_v a_o matter_n against_o another_o go_v to_o law_n before_o the_o unjust_a do_v you_o not_o know_v that_o the_o saint_n shall_v judge_v the_o world_n if_o than_o you_o have_v judgement_n of_o thing_n pertain_v to_o this_o life_n set_v they_o to_o judge_v who_o be_v least_o esteem_v in_o the_o church_n we_o reasonable_o conclude_v that_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o apostle_n only_o hint_v at_o either_o personal_a offence_n or_o difference_n touch_v worldly_a matter_n and_o that_o therein_o the_o duty_n of_o the_o church_n be_v only_o to_o exhort_v to_o submit_v to_o their_o counsel_n which_o if_o they_o do_v not_o they_o may_v just_o be_v esteem_v as_o heathen_a man_n but_o this_o be_v nothing_o to_o the_o purpose_n of_o those_o who_o have_v approve_v a_o plea_n for_o such_o a_o church-government_n as_o claim_v a_o power_n of_o decide_v matter_n relate_v to_o conscience_n and_o outward_a thing_n also_o on_o the_o occasion_n of_o difference_n raise_v touch_v worldly_a estate_n and_o that_o other_o ought_v to_o obey_v such_o decision_n which_o in_o its_o natural_a consequence_n have_v as_o we_o take_v it_o no_o less_o tendency_n than_o to_o claim_v power_n over_o our_o property_n as_o well_o as_o conscience_n we_o be_v now_o sensible_a that_o many_o friend_n who_o have_v not_o be_v acquaint_v with_o the_o secret_a cause_n of_o all_o the_o difference_n among_o friend_n will_v be_v even_o startle_v at_o this_o and_o be_v ready_a to_o query_n be_v there_o any_o such_o among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n we_o answer_v yes_o very_o and_o that_o those_o who_o may_v be_v account_v christian_n too_o viz._n those_o who_o approve_v in_o the_o second_o day_n meet_v at_o london_n the_o before-cited_n book_n of_o r._n b._n relate_v to_o government_n in_o the_o church_n we_o shall_v begin_v first_o with_o the_o matter_n of_o conscience_n the_o title_n of_o the_o six_o section_n thereof_o run_v thus_o how_o far_a this_o government_n do_v extend_v in_o matter_n spiritual_a and_o pure_o conscientious_a and_o then_o treat_v thereon_o the_o author_n thus_o say_v in_o which_o the_o great_a question_n be_v how_o far_o in_o such_o case_n the_o church_n may_v give_v positive_a order_n or_o rule_n and_o so_o proceed_v to_o ask_v this_o question_n viz._n whether_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v power_n in_o any_o case_n that_o be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n to_o give_v a_o positive_a sentence_n or_o decision_n which_o may_v be_v obligatory_a upon_o believer_n be_v then_o go_v on_o thus_o answer_v viz._n i_o answer_v affirmative_o she_o have_v which_o be_v compare_v with_o what_o he_o write_v page_n 68_o of_o his_o say_a book_n on_o this_o wise_a viz._n that_o their_o de_fw-fr facto_fw-la give_v a_o positive_a sentence_n in_o such_o case_n will_v not_o import_v tyranny_n and_o usurpation_n neither_o will_v the_o pretence_n of_o any_o contradict_v they_o or_o refuse_v to_o submit_v on_o the_o account_n they_o see_v it_o not_o excuse_v they_o of_o be_v guilty_a of_o disobey_v god_n clear_o show_v to_o we_o his_o meaning_n to_o be_v that_o in_o some_o case_n the_o conscience_n of_o believer_n ought_v to_o be_v bind_v by_o the_o positive_a sentence_n of_o other_o without_o leave_v any_o liberty_n for_o a_o believer_n to_o refuse_v to_o submit_v on_o account_n of_o not_o see_v it_o his_o duty_n to_o submit_v this_o mean_v and_o government_n over_o the_o conscience_n of_o believer_n we_o take_v to_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o principle_n of_o truth_n and_o liberty_n we_o have_v in_o christ_n jesus_n for_o that_o no_o outward_a sentence_n or_o matter_n whatsoever_o can_v oblige_v the_o conscience_n to_o be_v approve_v this_o or_o that_o exercise_n or_o practice_n or_o to_o be_v in_o the_o belief_n of_o this_o or_o that_o judgement_n sentence_n or_o decree_n until_o such_o time_n that_o the_o conscience_n through_o the_o inshining_a of_o christ_n light_n therein_o come_v to_o be_v satisfy_v and_o thereby_o to_o be_v bind_v and_o obleige_v and_o though_o we_o find_v the_o author_n to_o the_o hebrew_n chap._n 13._o verse_n 7._o say_v on_o this_o wise_a remember_v they_o which_o have_v the_o rule_n over_o you_o yet_o he_o do_v not_o say_v such_o who_o have_v the_o rule_n be_v the_o church_n but_o discribe_v they_o in_o the_o next_o follow_v word_n to_o be_v such_o who_o have_v speak_v unto_o they_o the_o word_n of_o god_n so_o that_o if_o any_o authority_n be_v give_v to_o any_o to_o rule_v as_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n it_o appear_v from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n to_o be_v unto_o such_o who_o have_v speak_v the_o word_n of_o god_n unto_o they_o over_o who_o they_o have_v the_o rule_n and_o therefore_o can_v be_v no_o precedent_n or_o proof_n that_o mix_v and_o uncertain_a assembly_n as_o to_o number_n and_o qualification_n may_v call_v themselves_o the_o church_n and_o under_o that_o notion_n give_v forth_o order_n rule_n and_o sentence_n tell_v the_o rest_n of_o those_o who_o they_o may_v account_v their_o fellow-member_n it_o be_v your_o duty_n to_o obey_v though_o you_o pretend_v you_o see_v it_o not._n beside_o it_o do_v not_o appear_v that_o those_o who_o speak_v the_o word_n of_o god_n do_v give_v forth_o any_o sentence_n by_o virtue_n of_o their_o authority_n that_o may_v become_v a_o bond_n on_o the_o conscience_n before_o conviction_n by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o why_o because_o it_o be_v by_o that_o grace_n that_o the_o heart_n come_v to_o be_v establish_v according_a as_o the_o author_n to_o the_o hebrew_n write_v verse_n 9_o of_o the_o same_o chapter_n for_o it_o be_v a_o good_a thing_n that_o the_o heart_n be_v establish_v with_o grace_n but_o perhaps_o some_o may_v quote_v paul_n 2_o thes_n 3.6_o who_o thus_o say_v now_o we_o command_v you_o brethren_n in_o the_o name_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n that_o you_o withdraw_v yourselves_o from_o every_o brother_n that_o walk_v disorderly_a and_o not_o after_o the_o tradition_n which_o he_o receive_v of_o we_o to_o this_o we_o say_v paul_n in_o the_o follow_a verse_n give_v the_o reaon_n for_o the_o urge_v obedience_n to_o his_o precept_n viz._n for_o you_o yourselves_o know_v how_o you_o ought_v to_o follow_v we_o hence_o we_o may_v conclude_v that_o their_o heart_n be_v so_o establish_v in_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n as_o that_o the_o knowledge_n of_o their_o duty_n become_v a_o great_a obligation_n upon_o they_o than_o paul_n command_n verse_n the_o 14_o of_o the_o same_o chap._n paul_n say_v if_o any_o man_n obey_v not_o our_o word_n by_o this_o epistle_n note_v that_o man_n and_o have_v no_o company_n with_o he_o that_o he_o may_v be_v ashamed_a this_o may_n some_o say_v seem_v very_o positive_a to_o imply_v that_o god_n have_v give_v authority_n to_o some_o to_o rule_v in_o the_o church_n our_o answer_n to_o this_o be_v paul_n word_n relate_v to_o such_o of_o who_o verse_n 11_o 12_o 13._o of_o the_o same_o chapter_n he_o say_v we_o hear_v that_o there_o be_v some_o among_o you_o that_o walk_v inordinate_o and_o work_v not_o at_o all_o but_o be_v busy-bodye_n therefore_o they_o that_o be_v such_o we_o command_v and_o exhort_v by_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n that_o they_o work_v with_o quietness_n and_o eat_v their_o own_o bread_n and_o you_o brethren_n be_v not_o weary_a in_o well-doing_n and_o then_o he_o exhort_v verse_n 14_o if_o any_o man_n obey_v not_o our_o word_n by_o this_o epistle_n note_v that_o man_n and_o have_v no_o company_n with_o he_o this_o clear_o show_v what_o the_o apostle_n have_v relation_n unto_o viz._n to_o that_o necessary_a and_o commandable_a duty_n mention_v in_o verse_n the_o 11_o that_o such_o who_o be_v busybody_n walk_v inordinate_o may_v not_o in_o their_o busy_a inordinate_a spirit_n eat_v the_o bread_n of_o other_o but_o work_n that_o they_o may_v eat_v their_o own_o bread_n be_v this_o command_n of_o the_o apostle_n obey_v by_o many_o of_o those_o who_o run_v
by_o the_o same_o rule_n he_o that_o savour_v the_o thing_n of_o god_n may_v easy_o perceive_v that_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o spirit_n through_o paul_n unto_o those_o philippian_n be_v that_o those_o who_o be_v come_v to_o a_o state_n of_o perfection_n shall_v walk_v by_o that_o rule_n whereunto_o they_o have_v attain_v but_o those_o who_o have_v not_o attain_v so_o far_o and_o be_v otherwise-minded_n be_v to_o wait_v for_o the_o revelation_n of_o the_o son_n and_o now_o to_o conclude_v as_o to_o this_o objection_n we_o have_v this_o further_a to_o add_v that_o we_o do_v know_v many_o of_o our_o opposer_n or_o at_o least_o such_o who_o be_v not_o at_o unity_n with_o we_o have_v very_o confident_o make_v use_n of_o such_o discourse_n as_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o last_o recite_v objection_n to_o induce_v we_o to_o follow_v outward_a prescription_n and_o order_n though_o not_o convince_v of_o its_o service_n which_o occasion_n we_o to_o be_v jealous_a that_o in_o process_n of_o time_n the_o enemy_n may_v so_o enter_v in_o at_o this_o door_n as_o that_o darkness_n may_v more_o general_o overshadow_v again_o than_o it_o yet_o do_v though_o our_o hope_n in_o god_n be_v that_o he_o will_v lay_v such_o a_o constraint_n on_o many_o of_o those_o who_o eye_n be_v open_a behold_v the_o approach_v apostasy_n as_o that_o they_o may_v be_v raise_v in_o a_o sense_n of_o god_n indignation_n and_o appear_v as_o lion_n on_o the_o behalf_n of_o the_o lion_n of_o the_o tribe_n of_o juda_n to_o oppose_v every_o appearance_n of_o that_o spirit_n which_o will_v be_v exalt_v self_n or_o any_o form_n observation_n prescription_n or_o order_n to_o be_v as_o a_o bond_n on_o the_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n when_o by_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n their_o alone_a lawgiver_n they_o be_v not_o full_o persuade_v thereof_o in_o their_o own_o conscience_n which_o undoubted_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o spirit_n through_o paul_n when_o he_o write_v unto_o the_o roman_n chap._n 14._o verse_n 5_o 23._o let_v every_o man_n be_v full_o persuade_v in_o his_o own_o mind_n for_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n and_o to_o come_v a_o little_a close_o to_o the_o matter_n in_o hand_n it_o be_v too_o too_o evident_a that_o nonconformity_n to_o outward_a prescription_n be_v take_v as_o a_o mark_n of_o apostasy_n even_o among_o those_o who_o have_v be_v under_o the_o profession_n of_o truth_n of_o which_o many_o instance_n too_o too_o large_a here_o to_o insert_v may_v be_v produce_v which_o be_v now_o forbear_v because_o we_o suppose_v there_o be_v very_o few_o among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n for_o who_o sake_n this_o be_v chief_o write_v who_o be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o truth_n hereof_o beside_o it_o have_v be_v a_o observation_n of_o late_a that_o these_o question_n or_o question_n to_o the_o like_a import_n have_v be_v frequent_o ask_v by_o such_o with_o who_o we_o can_v be_v at_o unity_n in_o all_o thing_n viz._n be_v you_o for_o woman_n meeting_n 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by_o many_o as_o a_o sufficient_a token_n of_o a_o dark_a leaven_a rend_v divide_v spirit_n and_o mere_o as_o we_o take_v it_o form_n a_o apprehension_n that_o the_o form_n they_o stand_v for_o be_v thereby_o strike_v at_o though_o the_o service_n will_v be_v effectual_o perform_v in_o another_o method_n as_o experience_n in_o the_o county_n of_o westmoreland_n and_o wilts_n have_v of_o late_o testify_v for_o be_v it_o not_o so_o that_o great_a stress_n be_v lay_v upon_o the_o outward_a form_n of_o thing_n prescribe_v to_o be_v practise_v how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o j._n s._n be_v article_v against_o by_o robert_n barrow_n and_o twenty_o six_o person_n more_o in_o the_o north_n on_o this_o wise_a viz._n j._n s._n speak_v among_o many_o friend_n of_o the_o danger_n of_o form_n because_o of_o the_o consequence_n that_o may_v follow_v say_v that_o among_o the_o christian_n of_o old_a the_o difference_n that_o do_v arise_v be_v about_o form_n which_o can_v not_o be_v seasonable_a word_n when_o we_o be_v establish_v the_o church_n in_o the_o holy_a order_n of_o truth_n much_o more_o may_v be_v collect_v from_o the_o article_n be_v forty_o four_o in_o number_n exhibit_v by_o robert_n barrow_n and_o twenty_o six_o person_n as_o aforesaid_a to_o show_v how_o earnest_o and_o zealous_o the_o very_a outward_a form_n of_o thing_n be_v contend_v for_o which_o occasion_n we_o in_o all_o seriousness_n of_o spirit_n thus_o to_o say_v may_v the_o lord_n god_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n so_o preserve_v his_o people_n that_o they_o may_v not_o be_v ensnare_v by_o those_o who_o have_v raise_v so_o great_a contention_n about_o the_o outward_a form_n of_o thing_n prescribe_v to_o be_v practise_v among_o the_o professor_n of_o truth_n lest_o they_o with_o they_o prove_v to_o be_v boaster_n proud_a blasphemer_n false_a accuser_n despiser_n of_o those_o that_o be_v good_a which_o be_v the_o very_a mark_n and_o token_n of_o those_o who_o have_v a_o form_n of_o godliness_n but_o deny_v the_o power_n thereof_o from_o who_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v to_o turn_v away_o and_o how_o far_o these_o mark_v rest_n upon_o many_o of_o those_o who_o so_o earnest_o contend_v for_o their_o outward_a form_n we_o leave_v to_o the_o impartial_a reader_n with_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n to_o judge_n when_o he_o have_v thorough_o inform_v himself_o of_o their_o fruit_n oh_o friend_n the_o serious_a consideration_n of_o these_o thing_n bow_v we_o before_o the_o lord_n and_o in_o a_o sense_n of_o his_o mercy_n to_o we_o we_o can_v no_o long_o keep_v silent_a but_o in_o his_o fear_n declare_v that_o our_o conscience_n be_v concern_v for_o the_o cause_n of_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n and_o since_o it_o be_v so_o that_o a_o ill_a use_n be_v make_v of_o that_o spirit_n of_o forbearance_n and_o condescension_n which_o we_o be_v sensible_a have_v be_v use_v by_o many_o of_o our_o brethren_n it_o be_v now_o become_v our_o portion_n to_o unburthen_v ourselves_o of_o that_o which_o have_v be_v our_o burden_n believe_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v not_o only_o arisen_a but_o will_v yet_o more_o and_o more_o arise_v against_o that_o spirit_n that_o will_v exalt_v itself_o over_o the_o heritage_n of_o god_n endeavour_v to_o rule_v over_o their_o conscience_n whenas_o christ_n alone_o be_v lord_n thereof_o it_o may_v now_o be_v worthy_a our_o observation_n to_o consider_v whether_o any_o encouragement_n be_v give_v by_o our_o lord_n and_o master_n christ_n jesus_n while_o on_o earth_n unto_o his_o disciple_n to_o become_v ruler_n one_o over_o another_o we_o find_v that_o he_o exhort_v his_o disciple_n judge_v not_o that_o you_o be_v not_o judge_v be_v not_o you_o call_v rabbi_n for_o one_o be_v your_o master_n even_o christ_n and_o all_o you_o be_v brethren_n but_o he_o that_o be_v great_a among_o you_o shall_v be_v your_o servant_n and_o whosoever_o shall_v exalthimself_n shall_v be_v abase_v and_o he_o that_o shall_v humble_v himself_o shall_v be_v exalt_v here_o be_v no_o ground_n to_o believe_v that_o christ_n intend_v that_o when_o he_o be_v depart_v his_o disciple_n shall_v be_v exalt_v themselves_o one_o over_o another_o as_o governor_n and_o ruler_n and_o if_o we_o consult_v the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n we_o shall_v find_v that_o though_o his_o disciple_n have_v a_o dependency_n upon_o he_o while_o in_o his_o bodily_a appearance_n to_o be_v their_o leader_n yet_o he_o tell_v they_o john_n 16.7.13_o it_o be_v expedient_a for_o you_o that_o i_o go_v away_o for_o if_o i_o go_v not_o away_o the_o comforter_n will_v not_o come_v unto_o you_o but_o if_o i_o depart_v i_o will_v send_v he_o unto_o you_o and_o he_o will_v guide_v you_o into_o all_o truth_n for_o he_o shall_v not_o speak_v of_o himself_o have_v it_o be_v so_o that_o christ_n jesus_n intend_v the_o
exaltation_n of_o one_o of_o his_o disciple_n as_o a_o head_n or_o supreme_a unto_o who_o the_o rest_n ought_v to_o have_v have_v a_o eye_n in_o a_o more_o peculiar_a manner_n than_o ordinary_a he_o will_v have_v undoubted_o signify_v so_o much_o but_o doubtless_o he_o see_v that_o their_o eye_n and_o dependency_n be_v too_o much_o on_o his_o outward_a and_o bodily_a appearance_n and_o therefore_o signify_v it_o be_v expedient_a i_o go_v hence_o that_o the_o comforter_n come_v agreeable_a to_o which_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o apostle_n word_n though_o we_o have_v know_v christ_n after_o the_o flesh_n yet_o henceforth_o know_v we_o he_o no_o more_o that_o be_v to_o say_v after_o the_o flesh_n no_o more_o all_o which_o do_v clear_o demonstrate_v unto_o we_o it_o be_v not_o according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o under_o this_o administration_n we_o shall_v have_v our_o eye_n out_o unto_o man_n but_o that_o our_o great_a dependency_n shall_v be_v on_o that_o comforter_n the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n which_o christ_n testify_v the_o father_n will_v send_v in_o his_o name_n to_o teach_v we_o all_o thing_n and_o that_o this_o comforter_n shall_v be_v in_o we_o and_o therefore_o on_o this_o occasion_n it_o be_v with_o we_o to_o give_v this_o further_a testimony_n that_o every_o member_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n be_v through_o the_o death_n of_o christ_n make_v dead_a unto_o any_o other_o law_n save_o the_o law_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n manifest_v through_o the_o arise_v of_o christ_n by_o his_o appearance_n in_o every_o such_o member_n and_o so_o as_o particular_a member_n be_v become_v marry_v unto_o he_o and_o have_v all_o fellowship_n each_o with_o other_o in_o the_o spirit_n those_o who_o be_v such_o aught_o to_o demean_v themselves_o each_o towards_o other_o full_a of_o love_n charity_n bowel_n of_o compassion_n long-suffer_v forbearance_n meekness_n humility_n patience_n gentleness_n and_o of_o all_o other_o virtue_n that_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n but_o as_o to_o obedience_n every_o member_n owe_v that_o unto_o christ_n his_o head_n unto_o who_o every_o thought_n according_a to_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o apostle_n paul_n ought_v to_o be_v bring_v into_o obedience_n sect_n viii_o a_o manifestation_n that_o the_o variance_n have_v original_o rise_v from_o a_o different_a sense_n touch_v g._n f._n the_o general_n meeting_n or_o womens-meeting_n etc._n etc._n the_o end_n for_o which_o womens-meeting_n be_v assent_v to_o on_o the_o whole_a matter_n the_o great_a variance_n among_o some_o once_o at_o unity_n we_o have_v cause_n to_o know_v have_v rise_v from_o a_o different_a sense_n touch_v one_o some_o or_o all_o of_o these_o three_o particular_n follow_v the_o first_o relate_v to_o george_n fox_n that_o have_v take_v upon_o he_o to_o give_v forth_o direction_n and_o instruction_n to_o other_o and_o his_o proceed_n the_o second_o to_o the_o general_n meet_v and_o their_o proceed_n the_o three_o to_o woman_n meeting_n and_o their_o proceed_n as_o to_o the_o first_o we_o say_v many_o there_o be_v among_o we_o who_o affirm_v that_o they_o have_v more_o than_o ordinary_a cause_n to_o believe_v that_o many_o profess_v the_o truth_n do_v look_v upon_o g._n f._n as_o one_o who_o the_o lord_n in_o these_o latter_a day_n have_v raise_v up_o and_o set_v in_o the_o like_a place_n among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n as_o moses_n be_v among_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n and_o that_o whosoever_o shall_v oppose_v he_o shall_v never_o prosper_v which_o we_o be_v persuade_v have_v so_o overawe_v many_o that_o they_o become_v sacrificer_n of_o their_o own_o sense_n and_o understanding_n to_o the_o will_n of_o man_n and_o doubtless_o on_o this_o foot_n many_o may_v think_v those_o who_o tell_v he_o his_o book_n about_o womens-meeting_n be_v notorious_o erroneous_a will_v never_o prosper_v though_o they_o have_v evidence_v it_o to_o be_v so_o to_o his_o face_n and_o that_o in_o the_o view_n of_o several_a hundred_o of_o friend_n at_o a_o meeting_n assent_v to_o by_o himself_o and_o those_o of_o party_n with_o he_o when_o at_o bristol_n in_o the_o 12_o month_n 1677._o as_o one_o instance_n of_o the_o error_n of_o the_o say_a book_n take_v this_o pag._n 43._o he_o thus_o say_v and_o be_v not_o micah_n mother_n a_o virtuous_a woman_n read_v judge_n 17._o and_o see_v what_o she_o say_v to_o her_o son_n and_o a_o few_o line_n after_o he_o say_v so_o these_o and_o such_o woman_n be_v record_v for_o their_o wisdom_n and_o their_o virtue_n and_o their_o faith_n for_o our_o part_n we_o can_v understand_v that_o any_o thing_n of_o wisdom_n virtue_n or_o faith_n be_v record_v touch_v michah_n mother_n unless_o blessing_n or_o curse_v out_o of_o one_o mouth_n from_o a_o idolatrous_a woman_n may_v be_v account_v the_o fruit_n thereof_o many_o other_o thing_n may_v be_v quote_v out_o of_o his_o say_a book_n notorious_o erroneous_a and_o therefore_o will_v certain_o remain_v on_o record_n to_o his_o shame_n until_o he_o repent_v and_o it_o be_v not_o his_o proselit_v party_n say_v none_o shall_v prosper_v that_o oppose_v he_o nor_o yet_o his_o say_n that_o he_o know_v what_o he_o do_v and_o see_v it_o will_v be_v a_o stumbling-block_n for_o so_o william_n rogers_n positive_o affirm_v he_o do_v say_v to_o he_o will_v excuse_v he_o in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o lord_n for_o we_o firm_o believe_v that_o unless_o he_o repent_v he_o will_v become_v despise_v and_o vile_a before_o the_o people_n even_o as_o the_o lord_n make_v those_o priest_n in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o law_n who_o as_o the_o prophet_n say_v mal._n 2.8_o 9_o cause_v many_o to_o stumble_v to_o be_v therefore_o despise_v and_o vile_a before_o all_o the_o people_n we_o know_v he_o have_v be_v a_o instrument_n to_o cause_n many_o to_o condemn_v their_o fail_n we_o desire_v that_o he_o may_v be_v so_o ingenious_a as_o once_o to_o confess_v his_o own_o second_o we_o be_v persuade_v some_o other_o have_v look_v upon_o the_o general_n meet_v as_o that_o unto_o which_o they_o ought_v to_o have_v a_o eye_n be_v principled_a to_o receive_v own_o and_o stand_v by_o whatsoever_o come_v from_o thence_o as_o the_o oracle_n of_o god_n without_o bring_v the_o matter_n they_o appear_v at_o unity_n with_o to_o the_o test_n of_o christ_n light_n in_o their_o own_o conscience_n and_o no_o marvel_n if_o such_o as_o be_v principled_a to_o shut_v out_o reason_n wisdom_n and_o jealousy_n without_o distinction_n thus_o do_v and_o when_o any_o paper_n be_v give_v forth_o by_o that_o meeting_n or_o g._n f._n such_o as_o be_v at_o unity_n with_o they_o bring_v they_o to_o the_o man_n meeting_n for_o outward_a business_n which_o oft_o time_n occasion_n strife_n and_o contention_n the_o one_o party_n account_v themselves_o oblige_v as_o we_o take_v it_o to_o receive_v and_o stand_v by_o what_o come_v from_o they_o the_o other_o party_n do_v the_o same_o also_o when_o it_o reach_v to_o the_o witness_n of_o god_n in_o their_o conscience_n as_o matter_n proper_a to_o be_v bring_v to_o such_o meeting_n but_o if_o not_o they_o can_v receive_v it_o though_o a_o angel_n from_o heaven_n bring_v it_o then_o the_o other_o party_n account_v this_o the_o fruit_n of_o a_o jealous_a dark_a leaven_a spirit_n and_o thus_o contention_n and_o debate_n have_v arisen_a even_o among_o those_o who_o former_o before_o the_o outward_a form_n of_o government_n be_v so_o much_o plead_v for_o walk_v together_o in_o peace_n and_o concord_n three_o there_o be_v among_o many_o friend_n a_o difference_n touch_v the_o meeting_n of_o woman_n separate_v from_o the_o man_n which_o though_o not_o hitherto_o treat_v on_o yet_o it_o may_v not_o be_v improper_a to_o be_v speak_v to_o on_o this_o occasion_n but_o first_o we_o think_v it_o necessary_a to_o answer_v this_o question_n which_o natural_o seem_v to_o arise_v for_o the_o information_n of_o the_o reader_n viz._n how_o come_v those_o meeting_n first_o to_o be_v hold_v and_o for_o what_o end_n to_o this_o we_o answer_v that_o g._n f._n so_o far_o as_o we_o understand_v exhort_v thereto_o and_o the_o end_v thereof_o in_o sum_n be_v to_o take_v care_n of_o the_o poor_a in_o some_o case_n the_o metre_n themselves_o according_a to_o their_o freedom_n bear_v freedom_n note_v this_o method_n of_o raise_v money_n for_o that_o service_n be_v though_o very_o unreasonable_a because_o it_o reach_v not_o all_o by_o who_o the_o charge_n of_o the_o outward_o poor_a member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n aught_o to_o be_v bear_v raise_v money_n which_o cause_v the_o charge_n to_o light_n much_o on_o some_o who_o be_v most_o constant_a in_o meet_v while_o other_o for_o want_v of_o another_o method_n to_o collect_v money_n be_v very_o little_o concern_v in_o the_o charge_n of_o the_o poor_a but_o in_o
process_n of_o time_n some_o friend_n think_v it_o necessary_a that_o marriage_n may_v be_v propose_v to_o the_o woman_n meeting_n but_o yet_o several_a friend_n in_o divers_a country_n will_v not_o assent_v that_o the_o distinct_a meeting_n of_o woman_n shall_v be_v concern_v in_o marriage_n at_o length_n several_a of_o those_o who_o have_v appear_v for_o those_o distinct_a meeting_n to_o be_v concern_v say_v article_n say_v note_v it_o appear_v in_o a_o reply_n write_v against_o john_n story_n be_v and_o john_n wilkinson_n answer_n to_o the_o 44_o article_n this_o be_v that_o which_o g._n f._n exhort_v to_o in_o the_o beginning_n and_o bless_v be_v the_o lord_n the_o faithful_a see_v a_o necessity_n and_o cause_n to_o propose_v the_o marraige_n to_o the_o faithful_a man_n and_o woman_n meeting_n and_o whether_o their_o sight_n be_v not_o dark_a that_o see_v not_o the_o necessity_n of_o propose_v their_o marriage_n to_o the_o faithful_a man_n and_o woman_n in_o their_o distinct_a 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study_v peace_n as_o servant_n to_o one_o lord_n and_o master_n jesus_n christ_n the_o righteous_a one_o who_o by_o his_o inshining_a light_n be_v become_v our_o lawgiver_n that_o so_o the_o ancient_a love_n towards_o all_o our_o brethren_n in_o the_o truth_n may_v be_v witness_v and_o renew_v each_o towards_o other_o to_o the_o consolation_n of_o one_o another_o soul_n in_o the_o lord_n have_v thus_o far_o proceed_v to_o manifest_v a_o part_n of_o those_o thing_n touch_v which_o the_o faithful_a be_v at_o unity_n and_o the_o way_n and_o mean_n whereby_o that_o unity_n be_v break_v we_o think_v meet_v now_o to_o cite_v a_o epistle_n perfixt_v to_o the_o historical_a manuscript_n make_v mention_n of_o in_o the_o preface_n to_o this_o treatise_n be_v a_o proper_a testimony_n on_o this_o occasion_n for_o and_o
all_o man_n be_v to_o praise_v he_o or_o to_o speak_v of_o his_o wonder_n for_o they_o be_v altogether_o past_o find_v out_o than_o i_o weep_v great_o and_o desire_v only_o that_o he_o will_v permit_v i_o to_o sit_v at_o his_o foot_n and_o he_o swear_v unto_o i_o by_o himself_o that_o he_o will_v deliver_v i_o from_o all_o my_o trouble_n within_o &_o without_o and_o true_o it_o be_v his_o own_o free_a promise_n for_o i_o dare_v not_o ask_v it_o of_o he_o but_o be_v content_v to_o have_v wait_v still_o in_o my_o sorrowful_a condition_n all_o the_o day_n of_o my_o life_n that_o i_o have_v to_o spend_v among_o men._n but_o what_o shall_v i_o say_v i_o be_o content_v with_o his_o will_n and_o rest_n at_o his_o foot_n friend_n i_o be_o constrain_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o endless_a love_n to_o warn_v you_o all_o that_o you_o may_v forbear_v judge_v of_o any_o man_n any_o more_o upon_o any_o pretence_n whatsoever_o but_o commit_v all_o judgement_n to_o the_o son_n for_o he_o cry_v in_o i_o 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drive_v you_o to_o look_v out_o at_o other_o and_o in_o that_o time_n it_o will_v gather_v strength_n and_o kindle_v a_o great_a fire_n in_o you_o which_o be_v not_o easy_o put_v out_o which_o many_o at_o this_o day_n may_v know_v edward_n burrough_n though_o many_o thing_n be_v very_o worthy_a notice_n from_o the_o abovecited_a line_n give_v forth_o through_o the_o servant_n of_o the_o lord_n edward_n burrough_n and_o obvious_a enough_o to_o many_o yet_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o some_o it_o be_v think_v meet_a to_o take_v notice_n of_o two_o particular_a matter_n which_o seem_v very_o pertinent_a on_o this_o occasion_n first_o that_o some_o of_o the_o young_a unlearned_a dog_n not_o well_o acquaint_v with_o the_o master_n manner_n in_o gather_v the_o sheep_n do_v run_v from_o the_o flock_n with_o fierceness_n after_o the_o sheep_n that_o stay_v behind_o and_o do_v affrighten_v they_o and_o bite_v some_o of_o they_o neither_o will_v they_o be_v lead_v nor_o yet_o stay_v at_o home_n 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lord_n when_o the_o lord_n have_v not_o speak_v by_o they_o nor_o yet_o to_o appear_v as_o if_o they_o be_v send_v of_o god_n to_o gather_v the_o flock_n or_o to_o proclaim_v themselves_o keeper_n of_o other_o folk_n vineyard_n when_o they_o have_v not_o keep_v their_o own_o vineyard_n by_o which_o it_o appear_v that_o the_o will_n of_o the_o lord_n touch_v such_o have_v be_v that_o they_o shall_v harken_v unto_o the_o word_n of_o reproof_n and_o be_v lead_v by_o his_o spirit_n which_o if_o they_o have_v they_o will_v have_v stay_v at_o home_n until_o they_o have_v be_v instruct_v and_o learned_a in_o the_o school_n of_o christ_n but_o yet_o notwithstanding_o some_o have_v contrary_a hereunto_o go_v abroad_o and_o their_o great_a work_n have_v be_v to_o cry_v out_o against_o honest_a friend_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o dark_a spirit_n levened_a spirit_n troubler_n of_o israel_n corah_n judas_n etc._n etc._n just_a like_a unto_o those_o young_a unlearned_a dog_n signify_v in_o the_o parable_n that_o will_v not_o be_v lead_v but_o will_v be_v go_v abroad_o and_o bark_v at_o the_o lamb_n to_o affrighten_v they_o be_v ready_a to_o devour_v they_o for_o as_o in_o the_o parable_n it_o be_v say_v there_o have_v be_v something_o of_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o wolf_n in_o they_o but_o bless_v be_v the_o lord_n many_o be_v witness_n that_o of_o late_a some_o of_o they_o have_v be_v as_o in_o chain_n and_o fetter_n of_o iron_n so_o that_o they_o be_v not_o able_a to_o prey_n upon_o those_o who_o be_v upon_o the_o rock_n christ_n who_o doubtless_o in_o his_o own_o time_n will_v fulfil_v his_o purpose_n on_o they_o oh_o that_o all_o concern_v herein_o at_o this_o day_n will_v serious_o consider_v &_o proceed_v no_o far_o in_o
which_o the_o enemy_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n have_v spread_v before_o he_o since_o his_o first_o come_v forth_o to_o preach_v the_o light_n etc._n etc._n to_o concern_v himself_o so_o much_o as_o he_o have_v against_o some_o that_o can_v own_v a_o urge_n with_o severity_n his_o direction_n or_o prescription_n on_o god_n faithful_a people_n and_o in_o particular_a to_o appear_v a_o persecutor_n of_o such_o which_o can_v certain_o be_v prove_v against_o he_o if_o endeavour_v unjust_o to_o take_v away_o a_o man_n good_a name_n and_o reputation_n can_v be_v term_v such_o to_o this_o the_o answer_n be_v as_o the_o serpent_n beguile_v eve_n so_o eve_n beguile_v adam_n in_o prevail_v upon_o he_o to_o eat_v of_o the_o forbid_v fruit_n which_o she_o have_v eat_v and_o the_o argument_n use_v by_o the_o serpent_n to_o tempt_v eve_n be_v this_o you_o shall_v be_v as_o go_n even_o so_o be_v we_o persuade_v that_o there_o have_v not_o be_v want_v unto_o he_o to_o speak_v comparitive_o a_o tempt_a eve_n which_o have_v be_v too_o aspire_v after_o such_o a_o state_n which_o with_o respect_n to_o humble_v self-denying_a persecute_a member_n of_o christ_n church_n be_v neither_o fit_a nor_o president_v and_o yet_o it_o be_v to_o be_v doubt_v that_o this_o aspire_a mind_n have_v have_v so_o much_o place_n with_o he_o as_o that_o he_o have_v take_v too_o much_o upon_o he_o which_o have_v occasion_v rent_n and_o division_n among_o the_o flock_n and_o sometime_o to_o pretend_v that_o he_o have_v see_v thing_n in_o the_o vision_n of_o the_o almighty_a which_o have_v be_v no_o other_o than_o the_o imagination_n of_o his_o own_o heart_n and_o have_v give_v way_n thereto_o and_o find_v a_o fear_n upon_o friend_n through_o a_o tender_a respect_n unto_o he_o to_o judge_n or_o dislike_v what_o he_o may_v bring_v forth_o under_o pretence_n of_o the_o motion_n of_o the_o spirit_n it_o in_o probability_n increase_v his_o confidence_n especial_o when_o he_o consider_v what_o have_v be_v write_v unto_o he_o by_o some_o friend_n in_o the_o day_n of_o their_o infancy_n which_o be_v in_o such_o language_n as_o be_v suitable_a to_o a_o aspire_a mind_n may_v tend_v to_o his_o hurt_n at_o length_n his_o fame_n grow_v so_o great_a as_o that_o among_o some_o weak_a friend_n it_o become_v even_o as_o a_o proverb_n that_o none_o will_v prosper_v who_o shall_v oppose_v he_o this_o by_o other_o have_v clear_o be_v see_v to_o be_v a_o subtle_a way_n to_o oblige_v all_o such_o as_o shall_v so_o believe_v to_o be_v servant_n to_o his_o will_n and_o for_o aught_o we_o know_v this_o persuasion_n have_v the_o more_o easy_o obtain_v he_o the_o repute_n with_o some_o of_o be_v set_v by_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o like_a place_n among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n at_o this_o dayas_n moses_n have_v among_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n in_o his_o day_n and_o this_o we_o doubt_v be_v the_o occasion_n that_o the_o rebellion_n of_o corah_n dathan_n and_o abiram_n be_v much_o treat_v on_o to_o affrighten_v simple_a people_n in_o our_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n of_o god_n since_o the_o division_n among_o friend_n especial_o in_o those_o place_n where_o g._n f_n paper_n relate_v to_o church-government_n have_v little_a place_n but_o alas_o those_o who_o be_v sound_a in_o the_o faith_n can_v be_v affright_v with_o such_o thing_n no_o more_o than_o they_o can_v be_v convince_v with_o the_o sight_n of_o such_o false_a certificate_n on_o certificate_n note_v the_o reader_n may_v peruse_v the_o five_o part_n of_o the_o christian_a quaker_n and_o therein_o the_o say_a certificate_n be_v more_o large_o treat_v on_o record_v in_o the_o 21_o section_n of_o the_o manuscript_n first_o mention_v in_o the_o preface_n and_o ready_a for_o perusal_n of_o any_o friend_n desire_v the_o sight_n thereof_o as_o of_o late_o have_v be_v spread_v abroad_o in_o his_o favour_n to_o render_v he_o a_o innocent_a man_n and_o to_o acquit_v he_o from_o the_o gild_n of_o some_o matter_n of_o fact_n lay_v to_o his_o charge_n when_o the_o certifier_n know_v nothing_o at_o all_o thereof_o and_o of_o this_o he_o himself_o can_v not_o be_v ignorant_a though_o the_o occasion_n of_o spread_v such_o certificate_n abroad_o if_o he_o know_v what_o be_v contain_v therein_o which_o will_v have_v be_v prove_v to_o his_o face_n have_v he_o be_v but_o so_o just_a to_o the_o cause_n of_o truth_n as_o to_o have_v submit_v to_o a_o hear_n according_a as_o be_v desire_v and_o in_o the_o preface_n signify_v before_o friend_n of_o thing_n reproachful_a to_o the_o truth_n whereof_o he_o be_v guilty_a but_o notwithstanding_o all_o this_o we_o dare_v not_o say_v that_o his_o preach_v the_o light_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o his_o travel_n abroad_o as_o well_o as_o the_o preach_a the_o light_n by_o other_o his_o fellow-servant_n in_o the_o beginning_n with_o he_o be_v not_o the_o ministration_n give_v they_o of_o god_n for_o at_o the_o sound_n thereof_o many_o face_n gather_v paleness_n horror_n and_o amazement_n seize_v many_o who_o then_o become_v sensible_a of_o their_o lose_a state_n and_o condition_n while_o they_o be_v admire_v their_o teacher_n and_o busy_v in_o outward_a ordinance_n more_o than_o in_o the_o cross_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o day_n wherein_o many_o be_v not_o only_o so_o strike_v with_o amazement_n but_o through_o faith_n receive_v the_o testimony_n give_v touch_v the_o light_n of_o christ_n may_v true_o be_v term_v the_o day_n of_o their_o infancy_n in_o the_o truth_n and_o so_o the_o more_o likely_a to_o be_v prevail_v upon_o by_o the_o enemy_n who_o in_o that_o day_n as_o in_o age_n past_a seek_v how_o he_o may_v destroy_v that_o tenderness_n to_o the_o truth_n which_o be_v so_o beget_v for_o it_o be_v certain_o know_v that_o many_o who_o eye_n ought_v to_o have_v be_v unto_o the_o creator_n admire_v and_o give_v glory_n unto_o he_o for_o his_o gift_n of_o grace_n and_o ministration_n of_o light_n then_o reveal_v do_v on_o a_o sudden_a admire_v the_o creature_n in_o such_o a_o abundant_a manner_n as_o if_o not_o only_o the_o plant_n and_o water_v be_v by_o he_o but_o the_o increase_v also_o and_o in_o that_o day_n some_o who_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v as_o watchman_n in_o the_o house_n of_o israel_n be_v concern_v thereat_o and_o jealous_a with_o a_o godly_a jealousy_n and_o though_o at_o present_a it_o be_v not_o with_o we_o to_o declare_v what_o that_o jealousy_n be_v yet_o if_o the_o tree_n may_v be_v know_v by_o its_o fruit_n we_o may_v with_o boldness_n affirm_v that_o the_o then_o admire_v the_o creature_n may_v be_v true_o parallel_v with_o that_o state_n out_o of_o which_o the_o lord_n through_o the_o ministration_n of_o light_n or_o spirit_n of_o life_n have_v lead_v many_o at_o that_o day_n who_o have_v so_o learned_a the_o truth_n as_o according_a to_o the_o testimony_n thereof_o to_o have_v their_o eye_n to_o the_o light_n within_o viz._n the_o light_n of_o christ_n and_o not_o instead_o thereof_o to_o any_o outward_a person_n through_o who_o among_o other_o brethren_n the_o ministration_n of_o light_n be_v reveal_v but_o yet_o notwithstanding_o some_o there_o be_v as_o before_o be_v signify_v that_o admire_v the_o creature_n which_o not_o only_o become_v unto_o they_o a_o snare_n but_o it_o be_v much_o to_o be_v doubt_v unto_o the_o creature_n also_o that_o be_v admire_v for_o the_o acceptation_n of_o more_o respect_n than_o be_v meet_v stand_v in_o the_o same_o ground_n with_o the_o offer_v thereof_o and_o it_o be_v too_o much_o to_o be_v fear_v that_o the_o imprudent_a acceptation_n of_o what_o be_v undue_o offer_v have_v beget_v a_o spirit_n of_o pride_n and_o exaltation_n in_o g._n f._n which_o the_o lord_n be_v determine_v for_o his_o namesake_n to_o bring_v into_o the_o dust_n and_o if_o he_o do_v but_o serious_o mind_n his_o state_n and_o condition_n and_o be_v but_o more_o ready_a to_o appear_v little_a in_o his_o own_o eye_n than_o to_o be_v account_v great_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o other_o and_o not_o give_v way_n to_o such_o a_o false_a imagination_n that_o true_a judgement_n be_v commit_v to_o he_o in_o all_o thing_n which_o can_v now_o be_v testify_v be_v speak_v by_o he_o and_o that_o at_o that_o time_n wherein_o his_o judgement_n be_v know_v to_o be_v false_a and_o that_o he_o may_v take_v a_o liberty_n know_o to_o put_v stumble_v block_n in_o the_o way_n of_o god_n people_n and_o yet_o be_v justify_v therein_o it_o therein_o note_v when_o william_n rogers_n discourse_v with_o he_o touch_v this_o particular_a passage_n in_o his_o book_n of_o woman_n meeting_n and_o be_v not_o micahs_n mother_n a_o virtuous_a woman_n read_v judge_n 17_o and_o then_o a_o few_o line_n after_o though_o she_o be_v a_o idolatrous_a woman_n say_v these_o and_o such_o
mark_n for_o the_o price_n of_o the_o high_a call_n of_o god_n in_o christ_n jesus_n which_o denote_v that_o there_o be_v a_o state_n attainable_a beyond_o that_o state_n of_o perfection_n whereunto_o he_o have_v then_o attain_v moreover_o that_o the_o scripture_n in_o other_o part_n thereof_o denote_v a_o state_n of_o perfection_n be_v plain_a from_o these_o follow_a testimony_n among_o many_o other_o record_v therein_o 6.40_o luk._n 6.40_o but_o every_o one_o that_o be_v perfect_a shall_v be_v as_o his_o master_n 5.48_o mat._n 5.48_o be_v you_o therefore_o perfect_a as_o your_o father_n which_o be_v in_o heaven_n be_v perfect_a obj._n this_o perfect_a state_n which_o you_o speak_v of_o we_o ready_o confess_v unto_o so_o far_o as_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v signify_v unto_o we_o therein_o because_o it_o be_v the_o very_a language_n of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n but_o yet_o we_o be_v dissatisfy_v that_o the_o mean_v of_o the_o spirit_n by_o this_o perfect_a estate_n be_v such_o a_o state_n as_o therein_o to_o cease_v from_o sin_n answer_n to_o this_o we_o answer_v that_o such_o a_o construction_n can_v hold_v in_o truth_n unless_o truth_n shall_v lead_v to_o impeach_v our_o heavenly_a father_n as_o guilty_a of_o sin_n which_o can_v be_v for_o the_o very_a word_n be_v be_v you_o perfect_a as_o your_o father_n which_o be_v in_o heaven_n be_v perfect_a beside_o it_o be_v a_o undoubted_a truth_n that_o a_o cessation_n from_o action_n manifest_v to_o be_v sinful_a be_v the_o duty_n of_o all_o profess_v christianity_n and_o we_o can_v but_o have_v so_o much_o charity_n for_o all_o so_o profess_v as_o that_o none_o such_o will_v deny_v this_o but_o if_o any_o shall_v they_o will_v therein_o deny_v the_o end_n for_o which_o christ_n be_v manifest_v in_o the_o flesh_n which_o be_v to_o destroy_v the_o work_n of_o the_o devil_n which_o be_v sin_n 3.8_o 1_o joh._n 3.8_o according_a to_o this_o testimony_n of_o the_o apostle_n he_o that_o commit_v sin_n be_v of_o the_o devil_n for_o the_o devil_n sin_v from_o the_o beginning_n for_o this_o purpose_n the_o son_n of_o god_n be_v manifest_v that_o he_o may_v destroy_v the_o work_n of_o the_o devil_n obj._n this_o also_o we_o can_v deny_v be_v the_o express_a testimony_n of_o the_o apostle_n but_o yet_o since_o scripture_n ought_v to_o be_v compare_v with_o scripture_n when_o there_o be_v a_o seem_a contradiction_n as_o on_o this_o occasion_n we_o suppose_v there_o be_v we_o therefore_o say_v that_o we_o do_v not_o believe_v that_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v according_a to_o what_o the_o express_a word_n seem_v to_o hold_v forth_o in_o this_o case_n 1._o because_o we_o do_v not_o understand_v from_o the_o scripture_n but_o that_o the_o saint_n be_v subject_a to_o fail_v and_o that_o many_o of_o they_o do_v fail_v 2._o 1.7_o 1_o john_n 1.7_o though_o the_o apostle_n testify_v that_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n cleanse_v from_o all_o sin_n yet_o this_o have_v be_v interpret_v to_o be_v only_o from_o the_o gild_n and_o not_o from_o the_o act_n of_o all_o sin_n so_o as_o to_o cease_v therefrom_o whilst_o on_o this_o side_n the_o grave_n which_o doubtless_o be_v the_o reason_n wherefore_o we_o find_v these_o testimony_n record_v in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n 9_o ephes_n 2.8_o 9_o by_o grace_n you_o be_v save_v through_o faith_n and_o that_o not_o of_o yourselves_o it_o be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n not_o of_o work_n lest_o any_o man_n shall_v boast_v thereby_o imply_v as_o if_o salvation_n through_o faith_n may_v be_v obtain_v though_o good_a work_n be_v want_v and_o so_o consequent_o sin_n commit_v instead_o thereof_o since_o it_o be_v irrational_a to_o conclude_v that_o whilst_o man_n be_v in_o the_o body_n he_o can_v cease_v from_o work_v both_o good_a and_o evil._n in_o many_o thing_n we_o offend_v all_o 3.2_o jam._n 3.2_o if_o we_o say_v we_o have_v no_o sin_n we_o deceive_v ourselves_o and_o the_o truth_n be_v not_o in_o we_o 1.8_o 1_o joh._n 1.8_o ans_fw-fr as_o to_o the_o first_o reason_n contain_v in_o the_o objection_n that_o the_o saint_n be_v subject_a to_o fail_v and_o that_o many_o of_o they_o do_v fail_v we_o say_v that_o this_o do_v not_o contradict_v any_o thing_n assert_v by_o we_o for_o we_o have_v declare_v that_o we_o do_v not_o believe_v that_o there_o be_v any_o such_o perfect_a state_n attainable_a on_o this_o side_n the_o grave_a wherein_o it_o be_v not_o needful_a for_o man_n to_o watch_v etc._n etc._n that_o he_o may_v be_v preserve_v etc._n etc._n but_o if_o through_o unwatchfulness_n which_o be_v a_o plain_a neglect_n of_o what_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o all_o true_a christian_n according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n what_o i_o say_v unto_o you_o i_o say_v unto_o all_o watch_n any_o one_o come_v either_o to_o fall_v away_o from_o that_o good_a state_n whereunto_o he_o have_v attain_v or_o else_o not_o to_o attain_v unto_o that_o state_n which_o be_v attainable_a this_o can_v be_v a_o sound_a argument_n to_o prove_v the_o matter_n against_o we_o intend_v by_o the_o objection_n viz._n that_o man_n can_v cease_v from_o sin_n no_o more_o than_o the_o not_o go_v of_o some_o traveller_n to_o a_o certain_a land_n when_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n to_o go_v or_o the_o return_v of_o other_o from_o the_o same_o land_n after_o according_a to_o their_o duty_n through_o travel_v arrive_v there_o be_v a_o argument_n that_o it_o be_v impossble_a to_o go_v thither_o and_o there_o remain_v to_o the_o end_n of_o our_o day_n to_o the_o second_o reason_n contain_v in_o the_o aforesaid_a objection_n we_o say_v it_o be_v needful_a to_o distinguish_v what_o sort_n of_o work_n be_v exclude_v as_o unnecessary_a to_o accompany_v that_o faith_n through_o which_o salvation_n be_v and_o what_o sort_n of_o work_n be_v necessary_a for_o though_o the_o language_n of_o paul_n exclude_v work_n yet_o james_n tell_v we_o 26._o jam._n 2.20_o 26._o that_o faith_n without_o work_n be_v dead_a and_o no_o doubt_n but_o the_o testimony_n of_o these_o two_o apostle_n have_v be_v understand_v to_o be_v repugnant_a and_o contradictory_n each_o to_o other_o and_o on_o this_o foot_n different_a mean_n to_o the_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n have_v be_v hold_v forth_o whenas_o if_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o spirit_n through_o they_o both_o be_v but_o right_o understand_v there_o will_v then_o be_v no_o seem_a occasion_n to_o declare_v their_o testimony_n contradictory_n each_o to_o other_o for_o the_o clear_n therefore_o of_o this_o matter_n we_o shall_v distinguish_v touch_v work_n treat_v on_o by_o paul_n and_o james_n there_o be_v two_o sort_n of_o work_n treat_v on_o by_o paul_n the_o one_o be_v work_n of_o the_o law_n that_o by_o the_o one_o offer_v of_o christ_n as_o a_o eternal_a sacrifice_n unto_o god_n whereby_o the_o law_n of_o commandment_n be_v abolish_v be_v exclude_v as_o unnecessary_a to_o accompany_v that_o faith_n which_o be_v unto_o salvation_n for_o otherwise_o though_o the_o salvation_n of_o god_n through_o christ_n be_v extend_v as_o well_o to_o the_o believe_v gentile_a as_o the_o believe_a jew_n yet_o the_o jew_n may_v have_v whereof_o to_o glory_v contrary_a to_o the_o apostle_n testimony_n gal._n 6.14_o 15._o god_n forbid_v that_o i_o shall_v glory_v save_v in_o the_o cross_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n by_o who_o the_o world_n be_v crucify_v unto_o i_o and_o i_o unto_o the_o world_n for_o in_o christ_n jesus_n neither_o circumcision_n nor_o uncircumcision_n avail_v any_o thing_n but_o a_o new_a creature_n and_o therefore_o do_v the_o apostle_n paul_n testify_v that_o by_o the_o work_v of_o the_o law_n no_o flesh_n shall_v be_v justify_v and_o so_o no_o doubt_n but_o the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n be_v that_o sort_n of_o work_n which_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n through_o that_o wise_a apostle_n paul_n signify_v when_o he_o say_v and_o that_o in_o relation_n to_o such_o as_o be_v once_o dead_a in_o trespass_n and_o sin_n but_o then_o quicken_v and_o become_v new_a creature_n by_o grace_n be_v you_o save_v through_o faith_n 9_o ephes_n 2.8_o 9_o and_o that_o not_o of_o yourselves_o it_o be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n not_o of_o work_n lest_o any_o man_n shall_v boast_v the_o other_o sort_n of_o work_n be_v of_o the_o gospel_n and_o may_v proper_o be_v term_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o obedience_n of_o faith_n which_o indeed_o be_v the_o very_a end_n wherefore_o paul_n testify_v that_o he_o have_v receive_v his_o apostleship_n and_o that_o the_o mystery_n keep_v secret_a since_o the_o world_n begin_v be_v reveal_v read_v rom._n chap._n 1.5_o and_o chap._n 16.25_o 26._o and_o no_o doubt_n but_o that_o those_o very_a work_n which_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o obedience_n of_o faith_n be_v the_o work_v intend_v by_o the_o spirit_n through_o paul_n so_o
that_o by_o this_o light_n which_o speak_v condemnation_n and_o judgement_n unto_o all_o false_a witness_n and_o covenant-breaker_n when_o in_o truth_n they_o have_v covenant_v their_o conscience_n be_v bind_v to_o speak_v the_o truth_n and_o to_o keep_v their_o covenant_n beyond_o what_o be_v possible_a by_o thousand_o of_o oath_n and_o therefore_o from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o they_o have_v a_o testimony_n against_o such_o formal_a proceed_n whereby_o the_o credit_n of_o their_o yea_o and_o nay_o seem_v to_o be_v call_v in_o question_n have_v this_o sense_n that_o oath_n be_v original_o introduce_v not_o to_o be_v a_o bond_n on_o the_o child_n of_o light_n who_o be_v restore_v out_o of_o the_o fall_n do_v keep_v their_o place_n and_o habitation_n in_o the_o unchangeable_a truth_n and_o light_n of_o righteousness_n but_o rather_o for_o those_o who_o be_v defile_v have_v or_o may_v make_v shipwreck_n of_o faith_n and_o of_o a_o good_a conscience_n which_o seem_v clear_o agree_v with_o the_o testimony_n of_o chrisostome_n juramentum_fw-la intravit_fw-la cum_fw-la malum_fw-la accresceret_fw-la cum_fw-la homines_fw-la fraud_n svas_fw-la exercerent_fw-la cum_fw-la omne_fw-la fundamenta_fw-la aversa_fw-la essent_fw-la juramentum_fw-la originem_fw-la svam_fw-la accepit_fw-la ex_fw-la defectu_fw-la veritatis_fw-la a_o oath_n enter_v when_o evil_a increase_v when_o man_n utter_v their_o deceit_n when_o all_o foundation_n be_v overturn_v a_o oath_n take_v its_o beginning_n from_o the_o fail_v of_o truth_n and_o though_o it_o be_v clear_o manifest_v that_o a_o denial_n to_o swear_v in_o any_o case_n be_v agreeable_a unto_o the_o manifestation_n of_o christ_n light_n within_o as_o other_o truth_n hold_v forth_o be_v yet_o i_o can_v but_o testify_v that_o those_o who_o understanding_n have_v be_v so_o enlighten_v have_v always_o have_v a_o regard_n unto_o every_o instrument_n through_o which_o the_o conscience_n have_v be_v awaken_v to_o close_o with_o that_o appearance_n in_o themselves_o and_o doubtless_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n have_v be_v in_o this_o case_n so_o instrumental_a unto_o many_o as_o that_o a_o diligent_a enquiry_n at_o god_n witness_n or_o light_n within_o have_v through_o wait_v upon_o the_o lord_n be_v make_v in_o this_o matter_n and_o so_o the_o answer_n from_o christ_n light_n in_o the_o conscience_n have_v be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o express_a doctrine_n of_o christ_n which_o be_v so_o strict_o lay_v down_o as_o that_o no_o room_n be_v leave_v for_o the_o least_o objection_n as_o be_v evident_a in_o these_o very_a word_n swear_v not_o at_o all_o which_o doctrine_n by_o the_o apostle_n james_n be_v thus_o testify_v unto_o but_o above_o all_o thing_n my_o brethren_n swear_v not_o neither_o by_o heaven_n neither_o by_o the_o earth_n neither_o by_o any_o other_o oath_n 5.12_o jam._n 5.12_o but_o let_v your_o yea_o be_v yea_o and_o your_o nay_o nay_o lest_o you_o fall_v into_o condemnation_n chap._n viii_o touch_v tithe_n the_o payment_n of_o tithe_n as_o a_o maintenance_n to_o that_o priesthood_n which_o we_o be_v lead_v to_o testify_v against_o at_o our_o first_o convincement_n of_o the_o truth_n be_v general_o deny_v as_o that_o which_o in_o truth_n can_v not_o be_v own_v though_o the_o claimer_n thereof_o have_v pretend_v thereto_o sometime_o by_o divine_a right_n and_o sometime_o by_o humane_a institution_n and_o sometime_o by_o both_o as_o to_o a_o claim_n by_o divine_a right_n though_o they_o be_v so_o due_a under_o the_o first_o covenant_n yet_o that_o can_v be_v convince_o urge_v from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n under_o a_o gospel-dispensation_n for_o the_o author_n to_o the_o hebrew_n thus_o inform_v we_o they_o that_o be_v of_o the_o son_n of_o levi_n who_o receive_v the_o office_n of_o the_o priesthood_n have_v a_o commandment_n to_o take_v tithe_n of_o the_o people_n according_a to_o the_o law_n heb._n 7.5_o but_o verse_n 12._o he_o thus_o say_v the_o priesthood_n be_v change_v there_o be_v make_v of_o necessity_n a_o change_n also_o of_o the_o law_n and_o verse_n the_o 18_o of_o the_o same_o chapter_n he_o thus_o say_v there_o be_v very_o a_o disannul_n of_o the_o commandment_n go_v before_o which_o clear_o evidence_n that_o since_o the_o law_n be_v change_v and_o the_o commandment_n disannul_v by_o which_o tithe_n be_v pay_v the_o payment_n thereof_o by_o virtue_n of_o that_o law_n cease_v and_o so_o all_o claim_n thereto_o by_o divine_a right_n since_o no_o gospel-institution_n can_v be_v quote_v cease_v also_o moreover_o we_o find_v that_o tertullian_n who_o live_v about_o two_o hundred_o year_n after_o christ_n do_v thus_o write_v 1_o apologetic_n cap._n 39_o neque_fw-la pretio_fw-la ulla_fw-la res_fw-la dei_fw-la constat_fw-la etiam_fw-la siquod_fw-la arcae_fw-la genus_fw-la est_fw-la non_fw-fr de_fw-fr oneraria_fw-it summâ_fw-la quasi_fw-la redemptae_fw-la religionis_fw-la congregatur_fw-la modicum_fw-la unusquisque_fw-la stipem_fw-la menstruâ_fw-la die_fw-la vel_fw-la cum_fw-la velit_fw-la &_o si_fw-la modo_fw-la velit_fw-la &_o si_fw-la modo_fw-la possit_fw-la opponit_fw-la nam_fw-la nemo_fw-la compellitur_fw-la sed_fw-la sponte_fw-la confert_fw-la haec_fw-la quasi_fw-la deposita_fw-la pietatis_fw-la sunt_fw-la that_o be_v neither_o be_v any_o thing_n of_o god_n purchase_v with_o a_o price_n also_o if_o there_o be_v any_o kind_n of_o treasury_n it_o be_v not_o gather_v by_o a_o collection_n that_o be_v chargeable_a or_o that_o may_v be_v impose_v as_o if_o it_o be_v the_o price_n of_o a_o ransom_v religion_n every_o one_o lay_v by_o a_o moderate_a stipend_n monthly_o or_o when_o he_o will_v and_o if_o so_o be_v it_o please_v he_o and_o if_o so_o be_v he_o can_v for_o no_o body_n be_v compel_v but_o bestow_v of_o his_o own_o accord_n these_o be_v as_o it_o be_v thing_n commit_v in_o trust_n for_o pious_a use_v selden_n that_o great_a antiquary_n of_o his_o time_n also_o inform_v we_o in_o these_o word_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n further_o to_o justify_v what_o i_o affirm_v take_v this_o of_o epiphanius_n bishop_n of_o constance_n in_o cyprus_n that_o about_o the_o year_n ccclxxx_o write_v against_o the_o heresy_n of_o the_o primitive_a time_n when_o he_o tell_v we_o of_o the_o tessaresdecatitae_fw-la or_o those_o which_o think_v the_o holy_a easter_n must_v be_v keep_v on_o the_o fourteen_o moon_n according_a to_o the_o law_n give_v to_o the_o jew_n for_o their_o passcover_v and_o that_o because_o they_o apprehend_v that_o the_o keep_v it_o otherwise_o be_v subject_a to_o the_o curse_n of_o the_o law_n he_o say_v that_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d that_o be_v they_o do_v all_o thing_n or_o agree_v general_o with_o the_o church_n save_v that_o they_o be_v too_o much_o herein_o addict_v to_o the_o jewish_a custom_n and_o in_o his_o argument_n against_o they_o he_o show_v that_o the_o curse_n have_v not_o reference_n only_o to_o the_o passeover_n but_o also_o to_o circumcision_n to_o tithe_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d to_o offering_n wherefore_o as_o he_o go_v on_o if_o they_o escape_v one_o curse_n by_o keep_v their_o easter_n according_a to_o their_o law_n of_o the_o passeover_n they_o thrust_v they_o into_o many_o other_o for_o say_v he_o they_o shall_v find_v they_o also_o curse_v that_o be_v not_o circumcise_a and_o they_o curse_a that_o pay_n not_o tithe_n and_o they_o curse_a that_o offer_n not_o at_o jerusalem_n let_v any_o man_n now_o consider_v if_o this_o bishop_n that_o be_v least_o unacquainted_a with_o the_o custom_n of_o the_o christian_a church_n understand_v not_o clear_o that_o no_o necessity_n or_o know_a use_n of_o payment_n be_v among_o christian_n in_o that_o time_n of_o tithe_n no_o more_o than_o of_o circumcision_n or_o offer_v at_o jerusalem_n do_v he_o not_o plain_o reckon_v it_o as_o a_o thing_n not_o only_o not_o in_o christian_a use_n but_o even_o equal_v it_o with_o what_o be_v certain_o abrogate_a be_v not_o his_o objection_n short_o thus_o why_o do_v you_o not_o observe_v circumcision_n and_o tything_n and_o offering_n also_o at_o jerusalem_n which_o be_v all_o subject_n to_o the_o like_a curse_n and_o because_o some_o kind_n of_o offering_n indeed_o be_v in_o use_n among_o christian_n therefore_o in_o the_o objection_n he_o provident_o tie_v they_o to_o jerusalem_n but_o of_o tything_n he_o speak_v as_o general_a as_o of_o circumcision_n observe_v his_o own_o context_n which_o i_o here_o give_v that_o the_o able_a reader_n be_v judgement_n may_v be_v free_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d that_o be_v so_o that_o if_o they_o avoid_v one_o curse_n they_o shall_v fall_v under_o many_o other_o for_o such_o shall_v be_v also_o find_v accurse_a as_o be_v uncircumcised_a such_o accurse_a as_o tithe_n not_o and_o they_o be_v also_o accurse_v in_o the_o old_a law_n that_o offer_v not_o at_o jerusalem_n i_o now_o come_v to_o examine_v whether_o a_o claim_n by_o humane_a institution_n be_v warrantable_a as_o a_o reward_n to_o a_o gospel-minister_n to_o run_v through_o the_o many_o institution_n
verse_n 64._o but_o notwithstanding_o we_o will_v not_o be_v understand_v positive_o to_o affirm_v that_o christ_n intend_v not_o a_o baptism_n of_o water_n 4.2_o joh._n 4.2_o as_o needful_a to_o be_v administer_v by_o some_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o weakness_n of_o the_o people_n for_o a_o season_n because_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o not_o only_a christ_n disciple_n before_o he_o be_v crucify_a when_o it_o appear_v not_o that_o they_o have_v any_o power_n to_o baptise_v with_o the_o spirit_n do_v baptise_v but_o also_o that_o some_o after_o that_o time_n of_o his_o be_v crucify_a 37._o act._n 8.16_o 29_o 36_o 37._o be_v baptize_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n and_o yet_o they_o have_v not_o receive_v the_o holy_a ghost_n which_o be_v compare_v with_o what_o be_v write_v touch_v the_o eunuch_n and_o philip_n 38.39_o act._n 38.39_o who_o by_o the_o spirit_n be_v bid_v to_o go_v near_o and_o join_v himself_o to_o the_o eunuch_n chariot_n do_v clear_o import_v that_o water_n baptism_n be_v use_v as_o well_o after_o the_o crucify_a of_o christ_n as_o before_o but_o whether_o by_o virtue_n of_o any_o command_n from_o christ_n so_o to_o do_v be_v yet_o the_o question_n and_o uncertain_a from_o any_o positive_a scripture_n however_o suppose_v that_o the_o baptism_n of_o water_n be_v the_o baptism_n intend_v by_o christ_n in_o the_o word_n go_v teach_v all_o nation_n baptise_v they_o etc._n etc._n it_o then_o seem_v natural_o to_o follow_v that_o this_o be_v but_o a_o confirmation_n of_o john_n ministry_n and_o that_o be_v a_o legal_a administration_n but_o for_o a_o season_n and_o not_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n and_o be_v not_o that_o baptism_n wherewith_o john_n testify_v 2.4_o luk._n 25.49_o act._n 1.4_o act._n 2.4_o christ_n shall_v baptise_v which_o be_v with_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o with_o fire_n especial_o if_o we_o do_v but_o consider_v that_o christ_n be_v not_o yet_o ascend_v after_o which_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o father_n be_v to_o be_v fulfil_v viz._n the_o pover_v forth_o of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n which_o undoubted_o be_v the_o baptism_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o that_o every_o baptism_n in_o the_o name_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n be_v not_o that_o baptism_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o be_v clear_o signify_v act._n 8.15_o 16._o who_o when_o they_o be_v come_v down_o pray_v for_o they_o that_o they_o may_v receive_v the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o as_o yet_o he_o be_v fall_v on_o one_o of_o they_o only_o they_o be_v baptize_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n all_o which_o be_v due_o weigh_v it_o be_v rational_a to_o conclude_v that_o the_o baptism_n of_o water_n ought_v to_o end_v in_o time_n and_o that_o these_o word_n and_o lo_o i_o be_o with_o you_o unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n be_v no_o sufficient_a ground_n to_o believe_v that_o the_o baptism_n of_o water_n be_v thereby_o intend_v to_o continue_v as_o a_o ordinance_n of_o god_n unto_o the_o dissolution_n of_o all_o thing_n but_o can_v nor_o so_o much_o be_v say_v as_o already_o be_v to_o evidence_n that_o the_o continuance_n thereof_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n be_v not_o the_o meaning_n of_o christ_n unto_o his_o disciple_n yet_o it_o may_v be_v affirm_v that_o the_o word_n themselves_o in_o the_o greek_a tongue_n if_o we_o compare_v scripture_n with_o scripture_n will_v not_o hold_v forth_o such_o a_o interpretation_n for_o the_o sentence_n and_o lo_o i_o be_o with_o you_o always_o unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n be_v in_o greek_a thus_o express_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o may_v proper_o be_v render_v thus_o and_o lo_o i_o be_o with_o you_o every_o day_n unto_o the_o consummation_n of_o the_o age._n this_o interpretation_n be_v compare_v with_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n unto_o john_n when_o he_o be_v forbid_v by_o john_n to_o be_v baptize_v by_o he_o say_v suffer_v it_o to_o be_v so_o now_o for_o thus_o it_o become_v we_o to_o fulfil_v all_o righteousness_n clear_o show_v that_o christ_n do_v not_o by_o that_o commission_n intend_v a_o continuation_n of_o that_o administration_n unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n but_o rather_o that_o as_o other_o shadow_n type_n figure_n and_o pattern_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n under_o the_o law_n be_v to_o have_v a_o end_n in_o time_n so_o the_o baptism_n of_o water_n be_v a_o type_n of_o the_o baptism_n by_o his_o spirit_n be_v also_o to_o have_v a_o end_n in_o time_n and_o this_o interpretation_n be_v clear_o evidence_v from_o the_o scripture_n itself_o to_o be_v according_a to_o truth_n for_o we_o find_v the_o author_n to_o the_o hebrew_n thus_o testify_v heb._n 9.24_o 25_o 26._o christ_n be_v not_o enter_v into_o the_o holy_a place_n make_v with_o hand_n which_o be_v the_o figure_n of_o the_o true_a but_o into_o heaven_n itself_o now_o to_o appear_v in_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n for_o we_o nor_o yet_o that_o he_o shall_v offer_v himself_o often_o as_o the_o high_a priest_n enter_v into_o the_o holy_a place_n every_o year_n with_o blood_n of_o other_o for_o than_o must_v he_o often_o have_v suffer_v since_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n but_o now_o once_o in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n have_v he_o appear_v to_o put_v away_o sin_n by_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o himself_o on_o this_o scripture_n it_o be_v thus_o observe_v that_o the_o time_n of_o christ_n appear_v to_o put_v away_o sin_n by_o the_o sacrifice_n of_o himself_o be_v term_v in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n and_o so_o translate_v from_o the_o greek_a word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o may_v proper_o be_v translate_v in_o the_o consummation_n of_o age_n experience_n tell_v we_o as_o well_o as_o the_o signification_n of_o word_n that_o these_o word_n be_v not_o so_o intelligible_o translate_v as_o they_o may_v since_o it_o now_o relate_v to_o time_n above_o sixteen_o hundred_o year_n past_a now_o forasmuch_o as_o we_o find_v that_o in_o this_o sentence_n and_o lo_o i_o be_o with_o you_o always_o unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n the_o same_o greek_n word_n be_v render_v to_o signify_v the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n as_o be_v in_o the_o aforesaid_a quotation_n to_o the_o hebrew_n which_o relate_v to_o a_o time_n above_o sixteen_o hundred_o year_n past_a save_v only_o that_o the_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d in_o matthew_n be_v the_o singular_a number_n and_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d to_o the_o hebrew_n the_o plural_a there_o be_v no_o reason_n to_o conclude_v that_o christ_n commission_n to_o baptise_v be_v intend_v to_o continue_v as_o a_o ordinance_n under_o the_o gospel-dispensation_n until_o the_o consummation_n of_o all_o thing_n and_o as_o a_o further_a evidence_n that_o this_o interpretation_n be_v the_o very_a truth_n it_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v that_o the_o word_n world_n in_o this_o sentence_n before_o cite_v viz._n since_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n be_v render_v in_o greek_n not_o by_o the_o same_o word_n as_o the_o word_n world_n in_o the_o two_o other_o sentence_n be_v viz._n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o may_v be_v true_o render_v a_o age_n or_o the_o time_n of_o a_o man_n life_n but_o by_o the_o word_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o proper_o signify_v the_o world_n viz._n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d can_v no_o more_o be_v say_v to_o render_v christ_n word_n in_o matthew_n not_o sufficient_a ground_n to_o practice_v water-baptism_n at_o this_o day_n as_o a_o gospel-ordinance_n it_o be_v sufficient_a to_o every_o impartial_a reader_n unto_o who_o god_n have_v give_v divine_a understanding_n in_o relation_n to_o this_o matter_n but_o since_o we_o find_v that_o after_o christ_n ascension_n it_o be_v use_v for_o a_o season_n we_o think_v it_o necessary_a to_o add_v that_o our_o faith_n be_v that_o the_o practice_n thereof_o be_v chief_o by_o way_n of_o condescension_n to_o those_o who_o be_v weak_a and_o not_o easy_o bring_v off_o from_o the_o observation_n of_o outward_a ordinance_n to_o have_v their_o eye_n unto_o christ_n jesus_n the_o great_a ordinance_n of_o god_n unto_o salvation_n and_o this_o spirit_n of_o condescension_n seem_v to_o be_v in_o paul_n when_o he_o say_v 22._o 1_o cor._n 9.20_o 21_o 22._o unto_o the_o jew_n i_o become_v as_o a_o jew_n that_o i_o may_v gain_v the_o jew_n to_o they_o that_o be_v under_o the_o law_n as_o under_o the_o law_n that_o i_o may_v gain_v they_o that_o be_v under_o the_o law_n to_o they_o that_o be_v without_o law_n as_o without_o law_n be_v not_o without_o law_n to_o god_n but_o under_o the_o law_n to_o christ_n that_o i_o may_v gain_v they_o that_o be_v without_o law_n to_o the_o weak_a i_o become_v as_o weak_a that_o i_o may_v gain_v the_o weak_a i_o be_o make_v all_o thing_n to_o
all_o man_n that_o i_o may_v by_o all_o mean_n save_o some_o and_o this_o i_o do_v for_o the_o gospel_n sake_n but_o to_o return_v it_o be_v evident_a that_o john_n testify_v concern_v christ_n and_o himself_o on_o this_o wise_a 3.30_o joh._n 3.30_o he_o must_v increase_v but_o i_o must_v decrease_v which_o if_o the_o whole_a scope_n of_o the_o scripture_n relate_v to_o baptism_n be_v consider_v seem_v clear_o to_o hint_n that_o therein_o john_n speak_v not_o with_o respect_n to_o his_o person_n but_o that_o administration_n of_o water-baptism_n whereof_o he_o be_v a_o minister_n moreover_o we_o find_v the_o apostle_n paul_n testify_v 17._o 1_o cor._n 1.14_o 15_o 17._o i_o thank_v god_n i_o baptize_v none_o of_o you_o but_o crispus_n and_o gaius_n lest_o any_o shall_v say_v i_o have_v baptize_v in_o my_o own_o name_n and_o i_o baptize_v also_o the_o house_n of_o stephanus_n beside_o i_o know_v not_o whether_o i_o baptise_a any_o other_o for_o christ_n send_v i_o not_o to_o baptise_v but_o to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n which_o be_v compare_v with_o what_o he_o write_v unto_o the_o ephesian_n 6._o eph._n 4.4_o 5_o 6._o there_o be_v one_o body_n one_o spirit_n even_o as_o you_o be_v call_v in_o one_o hope_n of_o your_o call_v one_o lord_n one_o faith_n one_o baptism_n one_o god_n and_o father_n of_o all_o and_o with_o what_o he_o write_v to_o the_o colossian_n where_o circumcision_n be_v equallise_v with_o baptism_n 12._o col._n 2.11_o 12._o its_o clear_a to_o every_o enlighten_v eye_n that_o paul_n be_v by_o the_o spirit_n lead_v to_o exalt_v one_o only_a baptism_n which_o doubtless_o be_v the_o baptism_n of_o the_o spirit_n unto_o which_o he_o give_v testimony_n when_o he_o write_v to_o the_o corinthian_n on_o this_o wise_a 12.13_o 1_o cor._n 12.13_o for_o by_o one_o spirit_n be_v we_o all_o baptise_a into_o one_o body_n whether_o we_o be_v jew_n or_o gentile_n whether_o we_o be_v bond_n or_o free_a and_o have_v be_v all_o make_v to_o drink_v into_o one_o spirit_n more_o may_v be_v write_v on_o this_o subject_a from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n to_o evidence_n the_o matter_n intend_v but_o at_o present_a we_o shall_v forbear_v further_a to_o enlarge_v thereon_o chap._n x._o touch_v the_o supper_n of_o the_o lord_n with_o his_o disciple_n the_o night_n before_o he_o be_v betray_v forasmuch_o as_o the_o child_n of_o light_n among_o those_o call_v quaker_n have_v be_v repute_v apostutise_v from_o the_o true_a faith_n and_o disowners_n of_o gospel_n ordinance_n not_o only_o because_o since_o they_o have_v believe_v in_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o god_n grace_n give_v by_o god_n and_o inward_o receive_v by_o they_o they_o have_v not_o be_v find_v in_o the_o outward_a practice_n of_o water_n baptism_n of_o which_o in_o the_o last_o chapter_n we_o have_v already_o treat_v but_o also_o for_o that_o they_o as_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v not_o principled_a to_o meet_v together_o at_o some_o certain_a appoint_a time_n and_o season_n to_o break_v bread_n and_o drink_n wine_n as_o that_o which_o according_a to_o the_o repute_a institution_n of_o christ_n they_o ought_v to_o do_v in_o a_o more_o solemn_a manner_n than_o at_o other_o time_n and_o then_o term_v such_o their_o eat_n and_o drink_v the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n or_o communion_n and_o participation_n of_o the_o body_n and_o blood_n of_o christ_n it_o be_v therefore_o think_v meet_v at_o this_o time_n to_o treat_v somewhat_o on_o this_o subject_a evidence_a that_o the_o doctrine_n publish_v by_o christ_n at_o his_o last_o supper_n be_v own_v by_o we_o and_o in_o order_n thereunto_o it_o be_v thus_o observe_v when_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n the_o night_n before_o he_o be_v betray_v be_v eat_v the_o passover_n with_o he_o the_o evangelist_n thus_o declare_v 20._o luk._n 22.19_o 20._o and_o he_o take_v bread_n and_o give_v thanks_o and_o break_v it_o and_o give_v unto_o they_o say_v this_o be_v my_o body_n which_o be_v give_v for_o you_o this_o do_v in_o remembrance_n of_o i_o likewise_o also_o the_o cup_n after_o supper_n say_v this_o cup_n be_v the_o new_a testament_n in_o my_o blood_n which_o be_v shed_v for_o you_o the_o aforesaid_a word_n this_o do_v in_o remembrance_n of_o i_o be_v the_o only_a sentence_n speak_v by_o christ_n whereof_o the_o scripture_n make_v mention_v whereby_o the_o institution_n of_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n so_o call_v may_v be_v pretend_v to_o be_v prove_v from_o which_o word_n it_o natural_o follow_v that_o christ_n disciple_n be_v to_o do_v something_o which_o he_o then_o do_v which_o undoubted_o be_v to_o give_v thanks_o and_o break_v bread_n in_o remembrance_n of_o he_o and_o according_a to_o this_o command_n we_o believe_v it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o every_o christian_a both_o in_o eat_v and_o drink_v to_o receive_v the_o same_o with_o thankful_a heart_n and_o to_o be_v not_o only_o at_o such_o time_n and_o season_n but_o at_o other_o time_n also_o in_o the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o benefit_n whereof_o the_o faithful_a be_v partaker_n through_o the_o death_n of_o christ_n and_o those_o who_o thus_o believe_v and_o thus_o practice_v which_o the_o faithful_a people_n of_o god_n among_o those_o call_v quaker_n do_v own_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n at_o his_o last_o supper_n and_o if_o we_o say_v no_o more_o we_o have_v say_v enough_o to_o evidence_n what_o we_o have_v undertake_v to_o do_v viz._n that_o the_o doctrine_n publish_v by_o christ_n at_o his_o last_o supper_n be_v own_v by_o we_o but_o since_o it_o be_v so_o that_o divers_a place_n of_o scripture_n have_v be_v take_v by_o many_o profess_v christianity_n to_o signify_v that_o the_o primitive_a christian_n be_v find_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o administer_a and_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o supper_n so_o call_v it_o be_v further_o signify_v what_o may_v be_v pretend_v to_o be_v say_v in_o favour_n thereof_o after_o christ_n ascend_v act_n 2._o it_o appear_v that_o after_o the_o pour_v forth_o of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n peter_n stand_v up_o and_o preach_v unto_o the_o jew_n at_o which_o sermon_n there_o be_v add_v unto_o the_o church_n about_o three_o thousand_o touch_v who_o verse_n the_o 42._o it_o be_v thus_o say_v and_o they_o continue_v steadfast_o in_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n and_o fellowship_n and_o in_o break_v of_o bread_n and_o in_o prayer_n no_o doubt_n but_o this_o be_v take_v for_o a_o manifest_a proof_n of_o the_o use_n of_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o supper_n so_o call_v as_o practise_v by_o the_o professor_n of_o christianity_n at_o this_o day_n but_o whether_o on_o sufficient_a ground_n be_v now_o the_o question_n for_o our_o part_n we_o testify_v it_o appear_v groundless_a to_o we_o for_o verse_n the_o 44th_o it_o be_v say_v all_o that_o believe_v be_v together_o and_o have_v all_o thing_n common_a and_o verse_n the_o 46th_o thus_o and_o they_o continue_v daily_o with_o one_o accord_n in_o the_o temple_n and_o break_v bread_n from_o house_n to_o house_n do_v eat_v their_o own_o meat_n with_o gladness_n and_o singleness_n of_o heart_n praise_v god_n these_o scripture_n be_v due_o weigh_v clear_o manifest_a that_o as_o often_o as_o they_o do_v cat_n they_o have_v all_o thing_n common_a and_o praise_v god_n and_o that_o here_o be_v no_o ground_n to_o believe_v that_o the_o daily_o break_v of_o bread_n there_o speak_v of_o have_v a_o relation_n to_o daily_o solemn_a appoint_a meeting_n wherein_o the_o apostle_n do_v take_v bread_n bless_v break_v it_o and_o distribute_v it_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o a_o sign_n unto_o they_o that_o they_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n whereby_o the_o soul_n be_v nourish_v but_o rather_o that_o at_o those_o opportunity_n their_o outward_a body_n and_o hunger_n be_v refresh_v and_o satisfy_v which_o in_o the_o apostle_n paul_n sense_n be_v not_o eat_v of_o the_o lord_n supper_n as_o be_v manifest_a 1_o cor._n 11.20_o 21_o 22_o 33_o 34._o moreover_o if_o we_o do_v but_o compare_v the_o aforesaid_a scripture_n act_v 2.42_o 46._o with_o what_o be_v write_v act_n 6._o from_o the_o begin_n to_o the_o seven_o verse_n it_o be_v rational_a to_o conclude_v that_o in_o their_o daily_a break_a bread_n from_o house_n to_o house_n no_o other_o institution_n ordinance_n or_o sacrament_n be_v hint_v at_o than_o what_o be_v neglect_v towards_o the_o grecian_a widow_n mention_v act_n 6.1_o which_o neglect_v occasion_v a_o choice_n of_o seven_o deacon_n because_o it_o be_v not_o judge_v reasonable_a that_o the_o apostle_n shall_v leave_v the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o serve_v table_n which_o service_n there_o hint_v at_o be_v doubtless_o a_o ministration_n of_o outward_a food_n for_o the_o nourishment_n of_o the_o outward_a man_n and_o not_o the_o nourishment_n of_o the_o soul_n act_n 20.7_o
it_o be_v thus_o say_v and_o upon_o the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n when_o the_o disciple_n come_v together_o to_o break_v bread_n paul_n preach_v unto_o they_o ready_a to_o depart_v on_o the_o morrow_n and_o continue_v his_o speech_n until_o midnight_n and_o in_o the_o follow_a verse_n it_o be_v signify_v that_o when_o paul_n come_v up_o again_o from_o take_v up_o a_o young_a man_n who_o as_o paul_n be_v long_o preach_v sink_v down_o with_o sleep_n and_o fall_v down_o from_o the_o three_o loft_n and_o be_v take_v up_o dead_a and_o have_v break_v bread_n and_o eat_v and_o talk_v a_o long_a time_n even_o until_o break_v of_o day_n he_o depart_v on_o this_o scripture_n it_o may_v be_v observe_v that_o no_o mention_n be_v make_v that_o the_o aforesaid_a break_v of_o bread_n be_v do_v in_o pursuance_n of_o any_o institution_n make_v by_o christ_n at_o his_o last_o supper_n nor_o yet_o that_o the_o end_n thereof_o be_v that_o they_o may_v be_v on_o that_o occasion_n in_o a_o more_o solemn_a commemoration_n of_o the_o death_n of_o christ_n than_o at_o other_o time_n wherein_o they_o may_v refresh_v their_o outward_a man_n with_o carnal_a food_n and_o therefore_o though_o i_o can_v but_o have_v so_o much_o charity_n for_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n as_o to_o believe_v that_o when_o they_o do_v so_o eat_v as_o aforesaid_a they_o be_v in_o the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o benefit_n through_o christ_n death_n as_o every_o true_a christian_n ought_v to_o be_v and_o more_o especial_o whilst_o participate_v of_o his_o mercy_n yet_o the_o scripture_n already_o name_v seem_v no_o rational_a proof_n of_o any_o such_o solemn_a institution_n make_v by_o christ_n which_o many_o under_o the_o profession_n of_o christianity_n pretend_v to_o have_v practise_v 1_o cor._n 10.16_o the_o cup_n of_o blessing_n which_o we_o bless_v be_v it_o not_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n the_o bread_n which_o we_o break_v be_v it_o not_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n consider_v the_o mind_n of_o the_o spirit_n through_o the_o apostle_n in_o the_o very_a same_o epistle_n we_o appeal_v unto_o such_o who_o be_v know_v in_o the_o mystery_n of_o god_n kingdom_n whether_o it_o be_v not_o unreasonable_a to_o take_v the_o mean_v of_o the_o spirit_n to_o be_v that_o this_o have_v a_o tendency_n to_o encourage_v outward_a meeting_n wherein_o outward_a bread_n ought_v to_o be_v break_v and_o communicate_v as_o a_o sign_n of_o be_v partaker_n of_o christ_n body_n or_o to_o prove_v any_o solemn_a institution_n make_v by_o christ_n more_o than_o what_o may_v as_o well_o be_v allege_v from_o the_o word_n of_o john_n to_o be_v then_o institute_v by_o christ_n when_o he_o say_v john_n 6.51_o 56._o i_o be_o the_o live_a bread_n which_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n if_o any_o man_n eat_v of_o this_o bread_n he_o shall_v live_v for_o ever_o he_o that_o eat_v my_o flesh_n and_o drink_v my_o blood_n dwell_v in_o i_o and_o i_o in_o he_o for_o we_o find_v the_o apostle_n paul_n in_o the_o very_a next_o verse_n thus_o signify_v for_o we_o be_v many_o be_v one_o bread_n and_o one_o body_n for_o we_o be_v partaker_n of_o that_o one_o bread_n this_o one_o bread_n whereof_o the_o apostle_n speak_v be_v not_o outward_a bread_n but_o christ_n and_o his_o church_n dwell_v each_o in_o other_o according_a to_o the_o aforesaid_a testimony_n of_o christ_n he_o that_o eat_v my_o flesh_n and_o drink_v my_o blood_n dwell_v in_o i_o and_o i_o in_o he_o 1_o cor._n 11.23_o 24_o 25_o 26._o paul_n thus_o say_v for_o i_o have_v receive_v of_o the_o lord_n that_o which_o also_o i_o deliver_v unto_o you_o that_o the_o lord_n jesus_n the_o same_o night_n in_o which_o he_o be_v betray_v take_v bread_n and_o when_o he_o have_v give_v thanks_o he_o break_v it_o and_o say_v take_v eat_v this_o be_v my_o body_n which_o be_v break_v for_o you_o this_o do_v in_o remembrance_n of_o i_o after_o the_o same_o manner_n also_o he_o take_v the_o cup_n when_o he_o have_v sup_v say_v this_o cup_n be_v the_o new_a testament_n in_o my_o blood_n this_o do_v you_o as_o often_o as_o you_o drink_v it_o in_o remembrance_n of_o i_o for_o as_o often_o as_o you_o eat_v this_o bread_n and_o drink_v this_o cup_n you_o do_v show_v the_o lord_n death_n till_o he_o come_v this_o scripture_n be_v take_v as_o a_o pertinent_a proof_n for_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o supper_n so_o call_v as_o a_o gospel_n ordinance_n the_o first_o thing_n needful_a to_o be_v consider_v in_o order_n to_o the_o have_v a_o right_a understanding_n of_o the_o mind_n of_o the_o spirit_n through_o paul_n in_o this_o matter_n be_v the_o occasion_n whereon_o it_o be_v write_v which_o be_v signify_v from_o ver_fw-la 17._o to_o 23._o of_o the_o same_o chapter_n from_o whence_o it_o appear_v that_o the_o corinthian_n come_v not_o together_o for_o the_o better_a but_o for_o the_o worse_o for_o that_o when_o they_o come_v together_o paul_n hear_v there_o be_v division_n among_o they_o and_o that_o in_o eat_v every_o one_o take_v before_o the_o other_o his_o own_o supper_n and_o that_o one_o be_v hungry_a and_o another_o drunken_a and_o that_o this_o be_v not_o to_o eat_v the_o lord_n supper_n and_o then_o proceed_v to_o relate_v what_o he_o have_v deliver_v unto_o they_o as_o a_o evidence_n that_o their_o practice_n be_v not_o to_o be_v justify_v or_o own_v from_o any_o thing_n deliver_v unto_o they_o by_o he_o it_o be_v now_o necessary_a to_o consider_v what_o may_v and_o what_o may_v not_o be_v infer_v as_o pertinent_a to_o the_o matter_n in_o hand_n from_o what_o paul_n deliver_v to_o the_o corinth_n it_o can_v be_v infer_v that_o those_o who_o worthy_o do_v eat_v of_o that_o bread_n and_o drink_v of_o that_o cup_n mention_v verse_n 24_o 25._o which_o we_o will_v not_o deny_v to_o be_v outward_a be_v after_o the_o receive_n thereof_o make_v partaker_n of_o christ_n body_n for_o though_o ver_fw-la 27._o the_o apostle_n thus_o say_v whosoever_o shall_v eat_v this_o bread_n and_o drink_v this_o cup_n of_o the_o lord_n unworthy_o shall_v be_v guilty_a of_o the_o body_n and_o blood_n of_o the_o lord_n yet_o he_o do_v not_o on_o this_o occasion_n say_v that_o the_o worthy_a receiver_n be_v partaker_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n and_o why_o but_o because_o that_o be_v not_o the_o declare_a end_n what_o then_o be_v the_o declare_a end_n the_o end_n from_o paul_n word_n seem_v to_o be_v to_o show_v the_o lord_n death_n till_o he_o come_v for_o verse_n 26._o he_o thus_o say_v for_o as_o often_o as_o you_o eat_v this_o bread_n and_o drink_v this_o cup_n you_o do_v show_v the_o lord_n death_n till_o he_o come_v in_o remembrance_n whereof_o man_n may_v be_v and_o yet_o no_o partaker_n of_o his_o body_n and_o as_o to_o these_o word_n till_o he_o come_v they_o may_v reasonable_o be_v take_v to_o relate_v to_o his_o come_n to_o man_n in_o spirit_n and_o if_o so_o there_o be_v no_o pretence_n from_o paul_n word_n that_o such_o aught_o to_o continue_v in_o the_o aforesaid_a practice_n for_o the_o remembrance_n of_o christ_n death_n who_o be_v witness_n of_o his_o come_n in_o the_o spirit_n by_o which_o as_o live_v member_n of_o his_o spiritual_a body_n they_o be_v attain_v unto_o the_o end_n wherefore_o a_o remembrance_n of_o his_o death_n be_v account_v needful_a and_o as_o to_o these_o word_n whosoever_o shall_v eat_v this_o bread_n and_o drink_v this_o cup_n of_o the_o lord_n unworthy_o shall_v be_v guilty_a of_o the_o body_n and_o blood_n of_o the_o lord_n it_o may_v be_v say_v that_o no_o command_n be_v herein_o contain_v to_o prove_v that_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o supper_n so_o call_v ought_v to_o be_v or_o to_o have_v be_v practise_v but_o yet_o we_o confess_v that_o from_o these_o word_n it_o be_v rational_a to_o conclude_v that_o paul_n have_v a_o sense_n that_o some_o may_v take_v occasion_n to_o meet_v together_o to_o break_v bread_n and_o to_o drink_v and_o forasmuch_o as_o the_o use_n thereof_o be_v abuse_v it_o may_v be_v a_o necessary_a caution_n in_o paul_n to_o signify_v that_o the_o unworthy_a eater_n be_v guilty_a of_o the_o body_n and_o blood_n of_o christ_n because_o if_o they_o make_v conscience_n thereof_o as_o doubtless_o those_o who_o so_o practise_v will_v profess_v they_o do_v even_o as_o some_o other_o make_v conscience_n of_o observe_v a_o day_n the_o abuse_n thereof_o can_v not_o but_o become_v sin_n unto_o they_o by_o which_o the_o just_a be_v crucify_a and_o therefore_o such_o might_n as_o just_o be_v account_v guilty_a of_o the_o body_n and_o blood_n of_o christ_n as_o those_o who_o have_v taste_v of_o the_o good_a word_n of_o god_n be_v by_o their_o fall_v away_o
he_o never_o advise_v to_o the_o erect_v the_o same_o the_o sixty_o six_o subscriber_n in_o their_o paper_n be_v find_v accuse_v john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n to_o this_o effect_n viz._n that_o they_o have_v evil_a design_n and_o persevere_v in_o they_o by_o word_n write_v and_o practice_n that_o they_o despise_v heavenly_a dignity_n that_o they_o set_v up_o continue_v and_o promote_v false_a and_o pernicious_a jealousy_n murmur_n and_o secret_a smiting_n and_o that_o thereby_o they_o be_v darken_v in_o their_o vnderfranding_n that_o through_o the_o power_n of_o the_o enemy_n of_o the_o king_n of_o righteousness_n his_o peace_n they_o set_v up_o a_o kind_n of_o standard_n of_o separation_n from_o that_o bless_a fellowship_n and_o communion_n that_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n sweet_o possess_v together_o to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o god_n his_o truth_n and_o people_n that_o they_o go_v on_o in_o opposition_n &_o evil_a smite_v against_o the_o faithful_a brethren_n and_o practice_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n that_o the_o offering_n of_o their_o gift_n be_v not_o a_o peace_n but_o a_o division-offering_a that_o they_o be_v obstinate_a and_o obdurate_a and_o go_v into_o self-will_n that_o they_o cast_v tender_a love_n behind_o their_o back_n among_o the_o say_v sixty_o six_o subscriber_n we_o read_v the_o name_n of_o four_o person_n inhabit_v the_o city_n of_o bristol_n by_o which_o they_o become_v accuser_n since_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n be_v not_o before_o they_o at_o any_o time_n as_o judge_n in_o their_o cause_n and_o so_o have_v be_v person_n who_o at_o some_o time_n have_v assemble_v with_o we_o in_o the_o aforesaid_a meeting_n hold_v for_o relief_n of_o the_o poor_a etc._n etc._n within_o the_o say_a city_n of_o bristol_n where_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n have_v often_o publish_v the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n for_o above_o twenty_o year_n to_o our_o knowledge_n they_o have_v be_v desire_v to_o appoint_v a_o 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accusation_n shall_v be_v exclude_v from_o be_v judge_n with_o other_o friend_n and_o so_o what_o issue_n this_o matter_n may_v admit_v among_o we_o be_v at_o present_a uncertain_a and_o whether_o this_o be_v christian-like_a we_o appeal_v to_o god_n witness_v in_o all_o conscience_n we_o observe_v that_o in_o the_o say_a paper_n the_o subscriber_n exhort_v friend_n to_o be_v zealous_a for_o the_o lord_n and_o to_o stand_v up_o in_o his_o spirit_n and_o power_n for_o the_o peace_n of_o his_o church_n which_o exhortation_n in_o itself_o be_v sound_a and_o wholesome_a but_o we_o be_v very_o jealous_a that_o the_o say_a paper_n have_v notwithstanding_o give_v life_n to_o a_o contentious_a spirit_n for_o on_o the_o fifteen_o instant_a be_v the_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n john_n story_n come_v to_o our_o meeting_n and_o almost_o immediate_o after_o he_o have_v sit_v down_o there_o be_v one_o stand_v up_o who_o as_o we_o can_v prove_v declare_v unity_n with_o the_o say_a paper_n give_v 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in_o order_n to_o the_o silence_v of_o one_o declare_v yet_o it_o ought_v to_o have_v be_v with_o respect_n to_o one_o in_o unity_n with_o the_o church_n but_o as_o we_o say_v he_o own_v not_o john_n story_n so_o to_o be_v and_o so_o it_o may_v reasonable_o be_v conclude_v that_o his_o hypocrisy_n be_v not_o only_o thereby_o make_v manifest_a but_o also_o his_o discourse_n be_v consider_v that_o he_o have_v no_o revelation_n to_o declare_v from_o god_n on_o that_o occasion_n to_o the_o people_n but_o yet_o john_n story_n observe_v how_o he_o introduce_v his_o discourse_n not_o as_o a_o open_a opposer_n of_o his_o word_n do_v for_o the_o people_n sake_n and_o that_o he_o may_v administer_v no_o occasion_n of_o discord_n give_v way_n and_o in_o a_o few_o word_n after_o draw_v to_o a_o conclusion_n but_o francis_n lea_n discourse_n be_v such_o both_o morning_n and_o afternoon_n as_o give_v occasion_n both_o to_o professor_n and_o profane_a public_o to_o manifest_a that_o we_o be_v now_o 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opposer_n of_o francis_n lea_n further_a than_o francis_n lea_n own_o word_n oppose_v himself_o and_o yet_o after_o william_n rogers_n have_v end_v francis_n lea_n in_o a_o rude_a manner_n pour_v out_o judgement_n against_o william_n rogers_n call_v he_o rebel_n and_o use_v that_o very_a language_n as_o be_v use_v to_o elimas_n the_o sorcerer_n and_o this_o be_v become_v a_o common_a talk_n among_o professor_n and_o profane_a in_o country_n as_o well_o as_o city_n which_o we_o and_o many_o friend_n more_o do_v account_v the_o fruit_n of_o great_a malice_n and_o un-christian-like_a deal_v for_o we_o know_v not_o any_o thing_n wherein_o william_n rogers_n have_v forfeit_v his_o reputation_n as_o a_o man_n or_o a_o christian_n these_o thing_n consider_v and_o that_o also_o it_o be_v not_o make_v appear_v to_o our_o conscience_n that_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n be_v guilty_a of_o such_o crime_n and_o offence_n as_o be_v lay_v to_o their_o charge_n which_o if_o they_o be_v we_o also_o shall_v disow_v they_o we_o dare_v not_o as_o we_o say_v before_o own_o the_o say_a judgement_n to_o be_v righteous_a nor_o yet_o deny_v the_o say_a john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n lest_o we_o sin_n against_o god_n and_o despise_v those_o unto_o who_o a_o dispensation_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n be_v commit_v and_o now_o our_o counsel_n to_o the_o sixty_o six_o subscriber_n be_v that_o they_o mind_v the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n by_o call_v in_o their_o paper_n for_o we_o be_v well_o satisfy_v that_o their_o paper_n be_v not_o give_v forth_o from_o the_o motion_n of_o god_n spirit_n and_o if_o any_o of_o the_o sixty_o six_o subscriber_n as_o man_n lean_v upon_o other_o have_v assert_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n when_o the_o lord_n have_v not_o speak_v by_o they_o and_o that_o to_o defame_v the_o
whole_o impertinent_a in_o this_o case_n because_o though_o they_o seem_v ground_v on_o the_o scripture_n to_o evidence_n a_o judgement_n on_o the_o merit_n of_o a_o cause_n yet_o there_o be_v nothing_o say_v in_o all_o those_o query_n intimate_v that_o such_o a_o judgement_n on_o the_o merit_n of_o the_o cause_n be_v without_o a_o hear_v and_o as_o to_o the_o latter_a part_n of_o the_o query_n we_o can_v say_v that_o flee_v in_o time_n of_o persecution_n or_o countenance_v tythe-payer_n be_v a_o put_v away_o faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n in_o all_o that_o may_v so_o do_v for_o that_o may_v be_v the_o fruit_n of_o weakness_n and_o ignorance_n in_o some_o at_o which_o god_n may_v wink_v and_o of_o unfaithfulness_n in_o othersome_a but_o whether_o it_o have_v be_v the_o fruit_n of_o weakness_n or_o unfaithfulness_n in_o g._n f._n to_o be_v so_o great_a a_o incourager_n in_o these_o two_o practice_n touch_v which_o peruse_v the_o 5_o part_v of_o the_o christian-quaker_n we_o will_v not_o determine_v however_o we_o may_v conclude_v that_o it_o must_v be_v one_o of_o they_o if_o such_o practice_n be_v contrary_a as_o they_o say_v to_o the_o testimony_n in_o the_o beginning_n for_o our_o conscience_n be_v satisfy_v from_o sufficient_a evidence_n that_o he_o have_v be_v large_o guilty_a in_o these_o two_o case_n and_o since_o we_o have_v cause_n to_o believe_v he_o be_v a_o countenancer_n of_o this_o kind_n of_o work_n it_o be_v admire_v by_o some_o that_o his_o party_n be_v not_o more_o careful_a than_o to_o bring_v forth_o such_o thing_n as_o so_o evident_o do_v cast_v a_o line_n of_o reflection_n on_o he_o and_o they_o the_o espouser_n of_o that_o cause_n which_o we_o may_v take_v to_o be_v his_o and_z that_o on_o sufficient_a ground_n as_o from_o the_o four_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n may_v appear_v and_o not_o the_o cause_n of_o truth_n especial_o when_o to_o reflect_v on_o such_o as_o be_v not_o guilty_a thereof_o as_o we_o take_v john_n 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same_o chapter_n christ_n the_o son_n say_v i_o can_v of_o myself_o do_v nothing_o as_o i_o hear_v i_o judge_v and_o my_o judgement_n be_v just_a because_o i_o seek_v not_o my_o own_o will._n we_o may_v now_o query_n whether_o god_n have_v give_v unto_o jasper_n batt_n and_o the_o rest_n who_o have_v judge_v without_o a_o hear_v a_o great_a and_o large_a commission_n as_o judge_n than_o to_o christ_n who_o inform_v we_o that_o as_o he_o hear_v he_o judge_v and_o whether_o among_o the_o jew_n more_o justice_n be_v not_o offer_v to_o christ_n when_o in_o his_o favour_n it_o be_v say_v by_o nicodemus_n john_n 7.31_o do_v our_o law_n judge_v any_o man_n before_o it_o hear_v he_o beside_o we_o find_v christ_n exhort_v his_o disciple_n math._n 7.1_o judge_v not_o that_o you_o be_v not_o judge_v rom._n 14.10_o but_o why_o do_v thou_o judge_v thy_o brother_n why_o do_v thou_o set_v at_o nought_o thy_o brother_n have_v these_o scripture_n be_v right_o apply_v we_o firm_o believe_v jasper_n 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distinguish_v between_o the_o precious_a and_o the_o vile_a and_o through_o the_o word_n of_o god_n patience_n be_v make_v partaker_n of_o the_o joy_n of_o his_o salvation_n william_n rogers_n on_o behalf_n of_o himself_o and_o other_o friend_n in_o truth_n concern_v the_o three_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n &_o innovator_n manifest_v that_o there_o be_v but_o two_o sort_n of_o government_n own_v by_o the_o child_n of_o light_n or_o christian-quaker_n one_o be_v the_o outward_a government_n under_o which_o we_o live_v unto_o the_o law_n whereof_o we_o owe_v either_o active_a or_o passive_a obedience_n and_o ought_v not_o by_o outward_a force_n to_o endeavour_v deliverance_n from_o under_o such_o law_n as_o we_o have_v or_o may_v term_v oppressive_a the_o other_o be_v the_o inward_a government_n of_o christ_n who_o alone_o be_v lord_n over_o the_o conscience_n which_o be_v not_o represent_v by_o person_n visible_a by_o carnal_a eye_n 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in_o isa_n 9.6_o it_o be_v thus_o say_v and_o the_o government_n shall_v be_v upon_o his_o shoulder_n and_o his_o name_n shall_v be_v call_v wonderful_a councillor_n etc._n etc._n second_o because_o it_o be_v whole_o repugnant_a to_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n in_o our_o conscience_n that_o the_o weight_n of_o a_o government_n that_o be_v spiritual_a and_o everlasting_a the_o law_n whereof_o be_v write_v in_o the_o heart_n and_o wherein_o nothing_o but_o true_a judgement_n and_o justice_n have_v be_v be_v and_o shall_v be_v execute_v for_o evermore_o shall_v rest_v upon_o any_o man_n or_o man_n as_o a_o governor_n or_o governor_n over_o other_o since_o there_o be_v no_o man_n nor_o man_n but_o be_v subject_n through_o temptation_n to_o err_v if_o they_o watch_v not_o and_o therefore_o we_o may_v well_o say_v much_o less_o on_o any_o such_o one_o man_n though_o term_v by_o some_o the_o great_a apostle_n of_o christ_n who_o action_n towards_o his_o brethren_n have_v be_v find_v injurious_a to_o they_o undeserved_o and_o reproachful_a to_o the_o truth_n nor_o yet_o upon_o any_o such_o assembly_n as_o the_o usual_a general_n meet_v so_o term_v though_o improper_o of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n be_v because_o the_o metre_n have_v usual_o consist_v of_o uncertain_a number_n of_o uncertain_a qualify_v person_n that_o take_v upon_o they_o so_o to_o assemble_v while_o other_o behold_v the_o ill_a consequence_n of_o their_o meeting_n conscientious_o forbear_v to_o join_v with_o they_o three_o because_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n have_v their_o eye_n so_o much_o on_o his_o outward_a and_o bodily_a appearance_n as_o that_o christ_n their_o lord_n and_o master_n see_v it_o meet_v to_o tell_v they_o in_o these_o word_n joh._n 16.7_o it_o be_v expedient_a for_o you_o that_o i_o go_v away_o and_o when_o he_o so_o say_v he_o do_v not_o then_o tell_v they_o nor_o yet_o at_o any_o time_n before_o or_o after_o i_o will_v commissionate_v some_o man_n or_o assembly_n of_o man_n in_o my_o stead_n that_o so_o you_o may_v have_v your_o eye_n unto_o and_o expect_v write_a order_n from_o him_z or_o they_o to_o walk_v by_o and_o to_o lead_v you_o into_o all_o truth_n but_o john_n give_v they_o a_o reason_n for_o his_o so_o say_v in_o these_o word_n joh._n 16.7_o for_o if_o i_o go_v not_o away_o the_o comforter_n will_v not_o come_v but_o if_o i_o depart_v i_o will_v send_v he_o unto_o you_o mean_v the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n which_o as_o he_o promise_v shall_v abide_v with_o they_o for_o ever_o and_o shall_v be_v in_o they_o which_o undoubted_o be_v in_o order_n to_o the_o exaltation_n of_o his_o government_n in_o the_o heart_n and_o that_o they_o may_v have_v their_o whole_a dependency_n on_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n which_o as_o before_o be_v signify_v christ_n promise_v shall_v abide_v with_o they_o forever_o and_o so_o this_o may_v true_o be_v term_v that_o everlasting_a unerring_a unchangeable_a governor_n unto_o which_o the_o subject_n of_o christ_n kingdom_n owe_v obedience_n and_o why_o so_o but_o because_o under_o it_o the_o promise_n of_o christ_n be_v that_o they_o shall_v be_v guide_v into_o all_o truth_n according_a as_o be_v plain_o signify_v from_o these_o follow_a word_n speak_v by_o christ_n himself_o joh._n 16.13_o i_o have_v yet_o many_o thing_n to_o say_v unto_o you_o but_o you_o can_v bear_v they_o now_o howbeit_o when_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n be_v come_v he_o will_v guide_v you_o into_o all_o truth_n for_o he_o shall_v not_o speak_v of_o himself_o but_o whatsoever_o he_o shall_v hear_v that_o shall_v he_o speak_v here_o be_v no_o room_n leave_v for_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o contend_v about_o form_n of_o government_n or_o who_o shall_v be_v governor_n under_o christ_n government_n for_o if_o the_o spirit_n that_o be_v in_o we_o and_o that_o be_v to_o remain_v with_o we_o forever_o shall_v guide_v we_o into_o all_o truth_n than_o our_o dependency_n ought_v to_o be_v thereon_o that_o so_o thereby_o we_o may_v be_v lead_v into_o all_o truth_n or_o else_o we_o can_v manifest_v ourselves_o to_o be_v obedient_a subject_n unto_o christ_n under_o his_o government_n that_o he_o be_v exalt_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o men._n the_o consideration_n of_o these_o thing_n lead_v we_o to_o give_v this_o testimony_n that_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n either_o from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n without_o we_o or_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o we_o to_o believe_v that_o any_o christian_a professor_n can_v in_o truth_n affirm_v that_o there_o be_v outward_a prescription_n and_o order_n give_v forth_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n through_o any_o one_o or_o more_o mortal_a man_n in_o this_o our_o day_n which_o other_o ought_v to_o obey_v and_o follow_v of_o which_o more_o anon_o in_o answer_n to_o r._n b_n book_n of_o government_n whether_o they_o see_v it_o their_o duty_n or_o no_o and_o if_o they_o do_v not_o may_v therefore_o come_v under_o the_o curse_n and_o partake_v of_o the_o same_o judgement_n from_o god_n which_o happen_v to_o corah_n dathan_n and_o abiram_n for_o their_o rebellion_n against_o moses_n and_o though_o the_o sin_n of_o corah_n etc._n etc._n have_v frequent_o in_o our_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n be_v speak_v of_o and_o intend_v as_o we_o have_v take_v it_o to_o be_v as_o a_o proper_a citation_n to_o describe_v the_o state_n of_o such_o as_o on_o a_o conscientious_a score_n can_v submit_v unto_o the_o outward_a order_n of_o one_o man_n yet_o we_o testify_v that_o such_o sort_n of_o insinuate_a and_o threaten_a language_n seem_v much_o more_o agreeable_a to_o the_o first_o covenant_n than_o the_o second_o under_o which_o we_o be_v and_o when_o countenance_v or_o speak_v by_o any_o expect_v such_o a_o submission_n it_o than_o seem_v to_o savour_v of_o a_o spirit_n that_o speak_v of_o himself_o and_o not_o what_o he_o have_v hear_v from_o the_o great_a lord_n and_o master_n jesus_n christ_n and_o so_o consequent_o from_o another_o spirit_n than_o that_o which_o christ_n promise_v he_o will_v send_v for_o christ_n own_o word_n signify_v he_o shall_v not_o speak_v of_o himself_o moreover_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o corah_n and_o his_o company_n rebel_v against_o moses_n who_o be_v king_n in_o jesuran_n and_o a_o leader_n of_o israel_n and_o through_o who_o the_o lord_n give_v forth_o his_o law_n to_o the_o people_n but_o we_o know_v that_o none_o can_v according_a to_o truth_n at_o this_o day_n pretend_v that_o any_o other_o governor_n be_v raise_v up_o among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n to_o be_v like_a unto_o moses_n who_o we_o ought_v to_o hear_v in_o all_o thing_n save_v christ_n jesus_n who_o by_o his_o spirit_n manifest_v in_o every_o subject_a of_o his_o kingdom_n be_v thereby_o become_v their_o lawgiver_n and_o while_o they_o be_v obedient_a thereunto_o they_o may_v in_o truth_n be_v reckon_v to_o be_v of_o the_o number_n of_o those_o that_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n because_o they_o may_v then_o true_o be_v term_v such_o as_o walk_v not_o after_o the_o flesh_n but_o the_o spirit_n and_o to_o such_o according_a to_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n there_o be_v no_o condemnation_n objection_n this_o discourse_n touch_v government_n may_v occasion_v some_o to_o raise_v this_o objection_n we_o understand_v that_o many_o call_v quaker_n do_v hold_v monthly_a and_o quarterly-meeting_n of_o man_n and_o also_o of_o woman_n distinct_a from_o man_n about_o their_o church_n affair_n and_o that_o these_o meeting_n be_v repute_v to_o be_v establish_v on_o certain_a day_n that_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v alter_v by_o one_o man_n among_o they_o that_o have_v pretend_v he_o be_v move_v of_o god_n so_o to_o do_v and_o that_o the_o same_o person_n have_v by_o his_o paper_n spread_v abroad_o in_o divers_a part_n of_o the_o nation_n signify_v that_o none_o but_o loose_a spirit_n and_o such_o as_o tend_v to_o looseness_n pretend_v to_o set_v up_o a_o better_a way_n or_o to_o alter_v they_o to_o another_o day_n for_o fear_v of_o corruption_n in_o observe_v a_o day_n and_o that_o it_o be_v but_o from_o a_o corrupt_a spirit_n of_o darkness_n which_o god_n will_v blast_v and_o that_o some_o call_v these_o meeting_n the_o government_n of_o christ_n set_v up_o among_o they_o and_o establish_v by_o the_o power_n of_o god_n to_o take_v care_n of_o the_o church_n affair_n and_o that_o true_a judgement_n and_o justice_n which_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o christ_n government_n may_v be_v execute_v to_o this_o we_o answer_v we_o confess_v there_o have_v be_v and_o yet_o may_v be_v such_o meeting_n but_o if_o any_o think_v they_o have_v be_v or_o be_v establish_v by_o any_o one_o man_n or_o that_o therein_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n be_v set_v up_o any_o otherwise_o than_o as_o any_o
in_o he_o establish_v in_o the_o faith_n col._n 2.6_o 7._o and_o then_o the_o very_a next_o verse_n say_v beware_v lest_o any_o man_n spoil_v you_o through_o the_o tradition_n of_o man_n according_a to_o the_o rudimnet_n of_o the_o world_n and_o not_o after_o christ_n if_o the_o follow_a outward_a decree_n precept_n sentence_n decisive_n judgement_n or_o tradition_n of_o any_o sort_n of_o the_o church_n have_v be_v in_o paul_n '_o eye_n a_o real_a and_o certain_a indication_n of_o be_v establish_v in_o the_o faith_n or_o root_v in_o christ_n or_o that_o it_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o the_o church_n to_o be_v establish_v outward_a indispensible_a order_n relate_v to_o the_o conscience_n of_o believer_n i_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o judicious_a reader_n to_o savour_n whether_o paul_n will_v have_v so_o immediate_o and_o as_o it_o be_v in_o one_o breath_n caution_v they_o to_o beware_v of_o be_v spoil_v through_o the_o tradition_n of_o man_n etc._n etc._n without_o a_o further_a caution_n to_o take_v heed_n lest_o they_o shall_v account_v the_o command_n sentence_n decree_n or_o tradition_n of_o the_o church_n such_o these_o thing_n consider_v and_o compare_v with_o the_o measure_n of_o light_n in_o ourselves_o i_o be_o satisfy_v it_o be_v not_o agreeable_a to_o truth_n for_o any_o man_n or_o assembly_n of_o man_n to_o attempt_v a_o outward_a indispensible_a establishment_n of_o outward_a order_n rule_n and_o decree_n relate_v to_o matter_n of_o conscience_n under_o the_o new_a covenant_n as_o the_o order_n rule_n and_o decree_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n moreover_o if_o christ_n do_v stand_v in_o need_n of_o assistance_n to_o establish_v his_o government_n how_o be_v it_o possible_a that_o man_n who_o day_n be_v but_o as_o a_o span_n long_o shall_v be_v capable_a to_o establish_v that_o government_n of_o who_o increase_n there_o shall_v be_v no_o end_n but_o so_o it_o be_v that_o he_o do_v not_o stand_v in_o need_n thereof_o for_o the_o son_n that_o be_v give_v shall_v order_n his_o government_n and_o establish_v it_o with_o judgement_n and_o with_o justice_n even_o from_o henceforth_o and_o forever_o read_v isa_n 9.6_o 7._o beside_o if_o we_o do_v but_o consider_v where_o and_o after_o what_o manner_n the_o second_o appearance_n of_o christ_n have_v be_v and_o yet_o be_v to_o be_v expect_v and_o wait_v for_o those_o who_o know_v the_o truth_n as_o preach_v receive_v and_o believe_v among_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n in_o the_o beginning_n do_v know_v that_o his_o second_o appearance_n have_v be_v and_o yet_o be_v to_o be_v expect_v and_o wait_v for_o in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o man_n and_o the_o manner_n of_o his_o appearance_n have_v be_v and_o be_v by_o his_o spirit_n in_o we_o this_o have_v often_o be_v testify_v and_o that_o in_o opposition_n to_o those_o who_o have_v be_v look_v for_o his_o second_o come_v in_o some_o outward_a bodily_a appearance_n to_o reign_v as_o lord_n and_o king_n i_o now_o appeal_v to_o god_n witness_v in_o all_o conscience_n whether_o the_o outward_a establishment_n of_o outward_a government_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o christ_n government_n do_v not_o seem_v to_o square_v more_o with_o the_o principle_n of_o such_o who_o look_v for_o his_o second_o come_v in_o some_o outward_a bodily_a appearance_n than_o with_o the_o principle_n of_o those_o who_o conclude_v his_o second_o come_v to_o be_v by_o his_o spiritual_a appearance_n in_o the_o heart_n and_o whether_o it_o be_v not_o inconsistent_a with_o right_a reason_n and_o truth_n to_o conclude_v that_o christ_n jesus_n the_o lord_n will_v establish_v his_o government_n otherwise_o than_o by_o his_o spirit_n and_o in_o the_o heart_n where_o his_o appearance_n have_v be_v and_o be_v to_o be_v expect_v and_o wait_v for_o and_o since_o it_o be_v undoubted_o so_o that_o of_o the_o increase_n of_o christ_n government_n there_o shall_v be_v no_o end_n i_o can_v understand_v to_o what_o end_v any_o man_n shall_v concern_v himself_o to_o consider_v how_o far_o it_o may_v extend_v yet_o r.b._n have_v so_o do_v witness_v his_o 37_o page_n where_o he_o thus_o say_v it_o be_v next_o to_o be_v consider_v in_o what_o case_n and_o how_o far_o it_o may_v extend_v to_o which_o i_o can_v but_o thus_o reply_v those_o who_o be_v not_o puff_v up_o with_o spiritual_a pride_n or_o zeal_n without_o knowledge_n may_v easy_o discern_v from_o such_o kind_n of_o language_n a_o spirit_n that_o will_v limit_v the_o holy_a one_o of_o israel_n by_o put_v bound_n unto_o that_o government_n of_o who_o increase_n there_o shall_v be_v no_o end_n and_o though_o i_o speak_v of_o man_n inability_n to_o establish_v christ_n government_n yet_o i_o will_v not_o be_v understand_v as_o one_o accuse_v the_o aforesaid_a author_n or_o any_o else_o to_o assert_v man_n ability_n so_o to_o do_v for_o i_o know_v not_o any_o man_n that_o will_v pretend_v themselves_o in_o that_o case_n other_o than_o instrument_n in_o god_n hand_n but_o yet_o this_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v that_o since_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n to_o believe_v that_o god_n everwill_v make_v use_n of_o man_n under_o the_o new_a covenant_n to_o establish_v outward_a indespensible_a order_n rule_n or_o decree_n to_o be_v as_o a_o measuring-line_n whereby_o those_o who_o be_v under_o christ_n government_n shall_v be_v know_v therefore_o it_o be_v reasonable_a to_o conclude_v that_o the_o endeavour_n of_o such_o who_o may_v exercise_v themselves_o therein_o may_v proceed_v from_o no_o better_a power_n than_o that_o ability_n which_o be_v of_o man._n and_o notwithstanding_o he_o have_v consider_v how_o far_o it_o extend_v yet_o i_o find_v not_o that_o he_o have_v make_v any_o mention_n of_o the_o business_n or_o at_o least_o a_o part_n of_o the_o business_n of_o one_o considerable_a meeting_n which_o be_v a_o part_n of_o that_o government_n or_o order_n which_o he_o pretend_v to_o describe_v and_o that_o be_v a_o meet_v hold_v every_o second_o day_n of_o the_o week_n wherein_o writing_n treat_v of_o divine_a matter_n and_o which_o be_v intend_v by_o the_o author_n for_o public_a view_n be_v first_o view_v in_o order_n to_o a_o approbation_n or_o the_o contrary_a more_o contrary_a witness_v the_o paper_n at_o the_o latter_a end_n of_o this_o three_o part_n sign_v by_o charles_n marshal_n and_o thirty_o six_o more_o at_o which_o meeting_n his_o treatise_n be_v past_a which_o give_v occasion_n to_o treat_v a_o little_a of_o that_o meeting_n since_o those_o of_o that_o meeting_n be_v as_o well_o concern_v in_o the_o say_a treatise_n as_o he_o that_o write_v it_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n as_o far_o as_o i_o remember_v be_v whole_o silent_a as_o to_o any_o such_o service_n act_v in_o any_o meeting_n among_o the_o primitive_a christian_n and_o therefore_o i_o do_v not_o understand_v that_o there_o can_v be_v any_o real_a ground_n or_o tolerable_a pretence_n that_o this_o be_v a_o part_n of_o the_o ancient_a apostolic_a order_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n we_o find_v the_o apostle_n act_v 3._o direct_v to_o choose_v seven_o man_n full_a of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n to_o take_v care_n that_o the_o widow_n shall_v not_o be_v neglect_v in_o the_o daily_a ministration_n if_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o the_o apostle_n day_n direct_v to_o choose_v a_o certain_a select_a well_o qualify_v number_n of_o man_n for_o such_o a_o service_n as_o doubtless_o it_o do_v it_o be_v against_o right_a reason_n to_o suppose_v that_o the_o apostle_n will_v in_o their_o day_n have_v leave_v the_o consideration_n of_o such_o weighty_a matter_n as_o treatise_n of_o thing_n relate_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o the_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n to_o the_o approbation_n of_o a_o uncertain_a unselected_a assembly_n for_o such_o i_o call_v that_o meeting_n wherein_o many_o of_o the_o write_n of_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n intend_v for_o public_a view_n be_v approve_v or_o disapprove_v 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declare_v the_o intent_n of_o his_o mind_n and_o be_v not_o the_o slip_n of_o his_o tongue_n or_o pen_n but_o how_o unreasonable_a it_o be_v that_o matter_n of_o worldly_a property_n and_o thing_n relate_v to_o conscience_n shall_v be_v decide_v by_o such_o assembly_n without_o a_o election_n for_o that_o service_n by_o the_o party_n differ_v i_o shall_v leave_v it_o to_o the_o judicious_a impartial_a reader_n to_o savour_n have_v elsewhere_o in_o this_o follow_a treatise_n plain_o evidence_v that_o there_o may_v be_v such_o assembly_n and_o yet_o not_o own_v by_o the_o lord_n for_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o may_v be_v remote_a from_o give_v righteous_a judgement_n tho_o r._n b._n say_v god_n spirit_n will_v never_o bewant_v in_o such_o assembly_n and_o whereas_o some_o may_v be_v so_o charitable_a as_o to_o conclude_v r._n b._n intend_v not_o by_o his_o word_n that_o any_o shall_v assume_v authority_n to_o decide_v difference_n relate_v to_o outward_a thing_n without_o 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can_v account_v sound_a language_n if_o paul_n testimony_n phil._n 1.15_o 18._o be_v sound_a who_o say_v some_o preach_v christ_n of_o envy_n and_o strife_n what_o then_o notwithstanding_o every_o way_n whether_o in_o pretence_n or_o in_o truth_n christ_n be_v preach_v and_o i_o therein_o rejoice_v yea_o and_o will_v rejoice_v second_o that_o to_o pretend_v want_n of_o clearness_n in_o sight_n will_v not_o excuse_v any_o from_o disobedience_n to_o god_n who_o submit_v not_o to_o the_o sentence_n of_o a_o assembly_n or_o some_o or_o other_o of_o they_o which_o may_v in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n be_v term_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o be_v ready_a to_o judge_v their_o brethren_n as_o apostatise_v from_o the_o truth_n if_o they_o walk_v not_o according_a to_o the_o line_n and_o measure_n of_o other_o though_o they_o have_v no_o faith_n therein_o contrary_a to_o that_o of_o paul_n who_o to_o the_o corinthian_n say_v 1_o cor._n 10.15_o have_v hope_n when_o your_o faith_n be_v increase_v that_o we_o shall_v be_v enlarge_v by_o you_o according_a to_o our_o rule_n and_o whether_o these_o be_v not_o of_o that_o number_n who_o bring_v another_o gospel_n than_o what_o we_o have_v already_o receive_v and_o so_o subject_a themselves_o to_o the_o curse_n while_o they_o be_v endeavour_v to_o manifest_v other_o accurse_v let_v god_n witness_v in_o all_o judge_n there_o be_v at_o this_o day_n who_o seem_v to_o make_v no_o distinction_n between_o such_o as_o will_v have_v no_o iniquity_n reprove_v and_o those_o who_o conscientious_o scruple_n to_o submit_v to_o the_o dictate_v of_o other_o till_o their_o understanding_n be_v illuminate_v these_o be_v of_o that_o number_n who_o divide_v not_o aright_o and_o seem_v so_o void_a of_o charity_n as_o not_o to_o distinguish_v between_o the_o precious_a and_o the_o vile_a for_o though_o it_o be_v so_o that_o paul_n in_o thes_n 3.6_o a_o scripture_n quote_v by_o r._n b._n thus_o say_v now_o we_o command_v you_o brethren_n in_o the_o name_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n that_o you_o withdraw_v yourselves_o from_o every_o brother_n that_o walk_v disorderly_a and_o not_o after_o the_o tradition_n which_o he_o receive_v of_o we_o and_o then_o comment_n upon_o it_o what_o more_o positive_a than_o this_o and_o yet_o the_o apostle_n be_v not_o here_o a_o imposer_n to_o which_o i_o thus_o say_v that_o this_o scripture_n be_v no_o warrant_n for_o any_o to_o follow_v the_o command_n or_o tradition_n of_o other_o at_o this_o day_n until_o convince_v of_o the_o truth_n and_o real_a service_n of_o obedience_n to_o such_o command_n or_o tradition_n which_o be_v evident_a by_o the_o reason_n that_o paul_n in_o the_o follow_a verse_n give_v for_o the_o urge_v obedience_n to_o his_o precept_n viz._n for_o you_o yourselves_o know_v how_o that_o you_o ought_v to_o follow_v we_o so_o the_o knowledge_n of_o their_o duty_n be_v the_o bond_n rather_o than_o paul_n command_n verse_n 14._o of_o the_o same_o chapter_n be_v another_o scripture_n quote_v by_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n page_n 27._o paul_n say_v if_o any_o man_n obey_v not_o our_o word_n by_o this_o epistle_n note_v that_o man_n and_o have_v no_o company_n with_o he_o that_o he_o may_v be_v ashamed_a this_o relate_v to_o such_o of_o who_o paul_n verse_n 11_o 12_o 13_o of_o the_o same_o chapter_n say_v we_o have_v hear_v that_o there_o be_v some_o among_o you_o that_o walk_v inordinate_o and_o work_v not_o at_o all_o but_o be_v busi-body_n therefore_o they_o that_o be_v such_o we_o command_v and_o exhort_v by_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n that_o they_o work_v with_o quietness_n and_o eat_v their_o own_o bread_n and_o you_o brother_n be_v not_o weary_a in_o well_o do_v and_o then_o he_o exhort_v verse_n 14._o if_o any_o man_n obey_v not_o our_o say_v etc._n etc._n which_o plain_o relate_v that_o to_o so_o undoubted_a &_o necessary_a a_o duty_n mention_v verse_n 11._o that_o such_o who_o be_v busi-body_n walk_v inordinate_o may_v not_o in_o their_o busy_a inordinate_a spirit_n eat_v the_o bread_n of_o other_o but_o work_n that_o they_o may_v eat_v their_o own_o bread_n but_o whosoever_o they_o be_v that_o shall_v bring_v such_o scripture_n as_o these_o to_o manifest_v that_o we_o ought_v to_o submit_v to_o the_o outward_a form_n prescription_n ceremonial_a dictate_v or_o decisive_a sentence_n of_o other_o when_o they_o be_v or_o may_v be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n and_o that_o there_o lie_v a_o obligation_n in_o point_n of_o duty_n to_o obey_v in_o every_o or_o any_o of_o such_o thing_n though_o we_o see_v it_o not_o show_v themselves_o a_o sort_n of_o busybody_n want_v work_n paul_n 1_o cor._n 14.37_o a_o scripture_n quote_v by_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n thus_o say_v if_o any_o man_n think_v himself_o to_o be_v a_o prophet_n or_o spiritual_n let_v he_o acknowledge_v that_o the_o thing_n that_o i_o write_v unto_o you_o be_v the_o commandment_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o verse_n 34._o of_o the_o same_o chapter_n paul_n say_v let_v your_o woman_n keep_v silence_n in_o the_o church_n etc._n etc._n here_o be_v a_o positive_a proof_n that_o woman_n ought_v to_o be_v silent_a in_o the_o church_n and_o that_o by_o the_o command_n of_o paul_n and_o therefore_o i_o think_v it_o shall_v be_v a_o shame_n for_o such_o who_o plead_v for_o woman_n speak_v in_o the_o church_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o for_o their_o service_n with_o respect_n to_o exercise_n in_o discipline_n to_o pin_v so_o much_o as_o to_o i_o appear_v the_o aforesaid_a author_n do_v in_o his_o treatise_n on_o the_o word_n command_v use_v by_o paul_n when_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o god_n grace_n and_o truth_n which_o the_o child_n of_o light_n have_v receive_v they_o have_v and_o do_v testify_v and_o that_o according_a to_o truth_n notwithstanding_o what_o paul_n say_v and_o have_v command_v that_o together_o that_o note_v i_o will_v not_o hereby_o be_v understand_v to_o justify_v all_o woman_n that_o have_v speak_v in_o our_o meeting_n because_o many_o of_o they_o have_v of_o late_o be_v so_o rude_a in_o their_o opposition_n to_o john_n story_n as_o that_o i_o take_v it_o to_o be_v a_o mere_a scandal_n to_o religion_n and_o be_o persuade_v that_o by_o paul_n command_n the_o meaning_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v not_o positive_o according_a as_o his_o own_o word_n seem_v to_o intiate_v not_o only_o because_o the_o prophet_n joel_n 2.28_o prophesy_v that_o the_o lord_n will_v pour_v out_o of_o his_o spirit_n upon_o son_n and_o daughter_n and_o that_o they_o shall_v prophesy_v but_o also_o for_o that_o in_o the_o same_o chapter_n 1_o cor._n 14._o he_o exhort_v the_o church_n who_o doubless_a consist_v of_o woman_n as_o well_o as_o man_n to_o covet_v spiritual_a gift_n but_o rather_o that_o they_o may_v prophesy_v say_v you_o may_v all_o prophesy_v one_o by_o one_o all_o which_o consider_v it_o be_v rational_a to_o take_v the_o mind_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o he_o that_o there_o be_v some_o unruly_a disorderly_a woman_n then_o in_o the_o church_n as_o in_o these_o our_o day_n be_v who_o then_o have_v need_n as_o some_o now_o have_v to_o be_v warn_v to_o keep_v silence_n though_o other_o that_o have_v receive_v a_o revelation_n from_o god_n may_v declare_v the_o same_o in_o the_o church_n when_o meet_v together_o woman_n as_o well_o as_o man_n and_o man_n as_o well_o as_o woman_n may_v speak_v in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n according_a to_o their_o respective_a measure_n when_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n move_v and_o since_o as_o the_o apostle_n paul_n himself_o testify_v 1_o cor._n 10.8_o that_o his_o authority_n be_v give_v he_o for_o edification_n and_o not_o for_o destruction_n i_o can_v but_o be_v more_o charitable_a than_o to_o think_v paul_n ever_o use_v the_o word_n command_v ordain_v tradition_n and_o such_o like_a on_o any_o other_o account_n but_o that_o the_o church_n shall_v be_v follower_n of_o he_o according_a as_o in_o their_o own_o measure_n they_o have_v a_o sense_n or_o savour_n that_o he_o be_v a_o follower_n of_o christ_n and_o not_o otherwise_o which_o compare_v phil._n 3.17_o with_o 2_o cor._n 10.13_o 14_o 15_o 16._o do_v evident_o appear_v the_o forementioned_a scripture_n to_o the_o philipian_o thus_o say_v brethren_n be_v follower_n together_o of_o i_o and_o mark_v they_o that_o walk_v so_o as_o you_o have_v we_o for_o a_o ensample_n that_o to_o the_o corinth_n say_v but_o we_o will_v not_o boast_v of_o thing_n without_o our_o measure_n but_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o rule_n which_o god_n have_v distribute_v to_o we_o a_o measure_n to_o reach_v even_o unto_o you_o for_o we_o stretch_v not_o ourselves_o beyond_o our_o measure_n etc._n etc._n not_o boast_v of_o thing_n without_o our_o measure_n that_o be_v other_o man_n labour_n but_o have_v hope_n when_o
the_o positive_a sentence_n and_o dicision_n of_o the_o church_n in_o matter_n of_o conscience_n may_v bind_v believer_n it_o be_v so_o remote_a from_o it_o that_o it_o need_v no_o explanation_n to_o show_v it_o so_o nay_o i_o may_v reasonable_o query_n whether_o this_o scripture_n be_v to_o ordinary_a capacity_n plain_a to_o the_o purpose_n that_o paul_n himself_o intend_v for_o if_o we_o consult_v the_o light_n it_o do_v not_o tell_v we_o that_o a_o delivery_n to_o satan_n may_v be_v a_o expedient_a whereby_o to_o learn_v not_o to_o blaspheme_n if_o by_o the_o word_n satan_n be_v mean_v the_o devil_n as_o be_v usual_o understand_v the_o last_o scripture_n he_o quote_v for_o proof_n be_v joh._n 2.10_o if_o there_o come_v any_o unto_o you_o and_o bring_v not_o this_o doctrine_n receive_v he_o not_o into_o your_o house_n neither_o bid_v he_o rejoice_v for_o so_o say_v the_o aforesaid_a author_n the_o greek_a have_v it_o here_o also_o no_o mention_n be_v make_v of_o any_o positive_a sentence_n or_o decision_n of_o the_o church_n nor_o yet_o the_o import_n thereof_o by_o any_o natural_a consequence_n and_o therefore_o we_o will_v consider_v what_o the_o word_n doctrine_n be_v relative_a to_o the_o forego_v verse_n tell_v we_o thus_o whosoever_o transgress_v and_o abide_v not_o in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n have_v not_o god_n it_o be_v now_o necessary_a to_o consider_v what_o be_v christ_n doctrine_n it_o be_v well_o describe_v by_o his_o sermon_n in_o the_o mount_n mat._n 5.6_o chapter_n wherein_o there_o be_v not_o the_o least_o title_n to_o countenance_v this_o sentence_n that_o the_o positive_a sentence_n or_o decision_n of_o the_o church_n in_o matter_n of_o conscience_n may_v be_v obligatory_a on_o believer_n nay_o in_o that_o very_a case_n mat._n 18.15_o 16._o where_o it_o be_v say_v if_o thy_o brother_n trespass_n against_o thou_o go_v tell_v he_o his_o fault_n if_o he_o hear_v thou_o not_o take_v with_o thou_o one_o or_o two_o if_o he_o hear_v not_o they_o tell_v it_o to_o the_o church_n if_o he_o refuse_v to_o hear_v the_o church_n let_v he_o be_v unto_o thou_o as_o a_o heathen_a man._n the_o scripture_n do_v not_o say_v that_o sentence_n ought_v to_o be_v obligatory_a on_o all_o other_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n who_o may_v be_v no_o way_n concern_v either_o in_o the_o admonition_n or_o sentence_n to_o look_v upon_o he_o as_o a_o heathen_a man_n but_o it_o say_v let_v he_o be_v unto_o thou_o as_o a_o heathen_a man._n christ_n doctrine_n also_o be_v that_o when_o he_o shall_v depart_v hence_o the_o father_n will_v send_v the_o comforter_n the_o holy_a ghost_n which_o say_v he_o shall_v teach_v you_o all_o thing_n he_o do_v not_o say_v the_o judgement_n of_o the_o church_n must_v be_v obligatory_a on_o all_o believer_n nor_o yet_o that_o the_o church_n shall_v teach_v they_o all_o thing_n for_o it_o be_v evident_a by_o the_o apostle_n writing_n that_o they_o themselves_o have_v need_v of_o teach_v these_o thing_n due_o weigh_v i_o do_v according_a to_o truth_n conclude_v that_o the_o three_o forego_v scripture_n which_o he_o have_v quote_v do_v no_o way_n import_v to_o prove_v the_o matter_n he_o intend_v beside_o i_o remember_v only_o one_o example_n of_o decisive_n judgement_n or_o sentence_n give_v in_o the_o scripture_n by_o the_o apostle_n and_o elder_n who_o do_v it_o not_o as_o assume_v authority_n so_o to_o do_v say_v we_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o we_o have_v power_n to_o decide_v without_o your_o assent_n but_o what_o they_o do_v be_v by_o assent_n of_o the_o differ_v party_n which_o assent_n be_v worthy_a to_o be_v note_v by_o such_o who_o say_v as_o r._n b._n have_v we_o bold_o aver_v we_o have_v power_n to_o decide_v and_o that_o speak_v nothing_o in_o favour_n of_o what_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n seem_v to_o drive_v at_o when_o he_o say_v and_o be_v not_o this_o obligatory_a on_o all_o the_o member_n but_o rather_o the_o contrary_a and_o that_o be_v in_o the_o 15_o of_o the_o act_n where_o a_o dissension_n be_v signify_v between_o paul_n and_o barnabas_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n and_o certain_a of_o the_o sect_n of_o the_o pharisee_n who_o believe_v and_o teach_v unless_o you_o be_v circumcise_a after_o the_o manner_n of_o moses_n you_o can_v be_v save_v on_o the_o other_o hand_n in_o answer_n to_o this_o question_n the_o apostle_n and_o elder_n agree_v that_o circumcision_n be_v not_o fit_a to_o be_v lay_v on_o the_o gentile_n which_o be_v believer_n who_o never_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n nor_o yet_o have_v any_o faith_n touch_v the_o same_o yet_o do_v not_o say_v that_o their_o sentence_n shall_v or_o aught_o to_o be_v obligatory_a on_o all_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n nor_o yet_o that_o those_o jew_n who_o practise_v circumcision_n after_o they_o believe_v shall_v desist_v the_o same_o for_o than_o it_o may_v have_v be_v look_v upon_o as_o obligatory_a on_o such_o believe_a jew_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o that_o sentence_n do_v plain_o agree_v with_o the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n receive_v among_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n in_o the_o beginning_n viz._n to_o walk_v according_a to_o the_o measure_n receive_v for_o the_o apostle_n and_o elder_n well_o know_v that_o according_a as_o paul_n say_v to_o the_o roman_n chap._n 14.5_o 23._o it_o be_v necessary_a for_o every_o one_o to_o be_v full_o persuade_v in_o their_o own_o mind_n and_o that_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n and_o so_o can_v not_o suffer_v their_o sentence_n have_v they_o have_v power_n so_o to_o do_v to_o be_v a_o bond_n on_o those_o jew_n who_o make_v conscience_n of_o practise_v circumcision_n after_o they_o have_v believe_v to_o forbear_v the_o same_o and_o as_o to_o the_o gentile_n it_o do_v plain_o appear_v that_o the_o decisive_n judgement_n of_o the_o apostle_n etc._n etc._n with_o respect_n to_o that_o controversy_n touch_v circumcision_n be_v not_o a_o bond_n upon_o they_o contrary_a but_o according_a to_o their_o faith_n and_o therefore_o this_o example_n can_v be_v no_o precedent_n or_o warrant_v for_o any_o to_o submit_v to_o the_o sentence_n or_o decisive_n judgement_n of_o any_o whatsoever_o wherein_o there_o be_v no_o faith_n much_o less_o to_o conclude_v that_o the_o conscience_n ought_v to_o be_v bind_v for_o it_o be_v no_o more_o in_o the_o power_n of_o believer_n or_o any_o else_o to_o force_v a_o assent_n of_o their_o own_o conscience_n to_o the_o sentence_n and_o decisive_n judgement_n of_o other_o though_o pretend_v themselves_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n without_o a_o invisible_a operation_n and_o conviction_n thereon_o through_o which_o alone_o its_o capable_a to_o be_v bind_v than_o it_o be_v in_o our_o power_n so_o to_o alter_v the_o outward_a shape_v of_o our_o face_n as_o to_o make_v they_o like_v unto_o other_o mens_fw-la from_o who_o they_o vary_v moreover_o when_o i_o consider_v how_o innumerable_a controversy_n have_v a_o rise_v touch_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n and_o the_o decree_n that_o have_v be_v bring_v forth_o touch_v matter_n of_o conscience_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n in_o age_n past_a and_o that_o the_o like_a controversy_n in_o probability_n may_v arise_v at_o this_o day_n shall_v any_o number_n of_o person_n whatsoever_o assemble_v and_o not_o only_o say_v we_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n but_o also_o thus_o we_o have_v power_n to_o bind_v and_o lose_v and_o upon_o that_o foot_n give_v forth_o positive_a sentence_n and_o decesive_a judgement_n in_o case_n that_o be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n in_o order_n to_o be_v obligatory_a upon_o believer_n i_o can_v but_o query_n especial_o since_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n have_v not_o preach_v up_o this_o doctrine_n you_o must_v believe_v as_o the_o church_n believe_v but_o have_v commend_v their_o testimony_n on_o the_o behalf_n of_o truth_n to_o every_o man_n conscience_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n that_o therein_o they_o may_v be_v manifest_v i_o say_v i_o can_v but_o query_n where_o lie_v the_o service_n to_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n for_o any_o to_o concern_v themselves_o to_o treat_v on_o such_o subject_n as_o may_v give_v occasion_n to_o receive_v the_o weak_a to_o doutbfnl_n disputation_n for_o though_o christ_n say_v what_o you_o bound_v in_o earth_n shall_v be_v bind_v in_o heaven_n yet_o we_o do_v not_o find_v in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n that_o the_o apostle_n or_o any_o assembly_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n ever_o make_v use_n of_o that_o expression_n to_o show_v their_o authority_n as_o christ_n church_n but_o rather_o labour_v to_o beget_v people_n unto_o god_n that_o so_o they_o may_v become_v member_n of_o christ_n body_n which_o be_v the_o church_n and_o be_v in_o
aught_o to_o believe_v and_o though_o there_o have_v be_v so_o many_o diversity_n of_o creed_n in_o the_o world_n according_a to_o the_o various_a apprehension_n of_o divers_a assembly_n assume_v to_o themselves_o the_o title_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n yet_o to_o this_o day_n i_o find_v not_o among_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n that_o any_o certain_a number_n of_o article_n of_o faith_n be_v give_v forth_o from_o any_o general_a assembly_n or_o particular_a congregation_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n as_o their_o creed_n and_o as_o a_o measuring-line_n by_o which_o those_o who_o be_v either_o in_o or_o depart_v from_o the_o faith_n may_v be_v know_v and_o the_o reason_n hereof_o be_v evident_a because_o it_o be_v against_o the_o fundamental_a principle_n viz._n the_o light_n to_o exalt_v any_o other_o measuring-line_n than_o that_o by_o which_o we_o be_v baptise_a into_o the_o one_o body_n of_o christ_n viz._n the_o spirit_n have_v thus_o promise_v as_o a_o more_o particular_a answer_n to_o the_o question_n i_o thus_o say_v i_o confess_v the_o true_a church_n be_v in_o the_o true_a faith_n and_o every_o member_n thereof_o be_v in_o some_o measure_n at_o least_o of_o the_o same_o faith_n that_o all_o the_o elect_a of_o god_n be_v of_o so_o that_o it_o may_v in_o truth_n be_v say_v every_o member_n of_o the_o church_n do_v in_o some_o measure_n believe_v as_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o member_n do_v i_o say_v in_o some_o measure_n because_o as_o there_o be_v diversity_n of_o gift_n and_o operation_n so_o also_o be_v there_o difference_n in_o measure_n of_o faith_n and_o therefore_o do_v the_o apostle_n wise_o say_v to_o this_o purpose_n let_v he_o that_o prophesi_v prophesy_v according_a to_o the_o proportion_n of_o faith_n rom._n 12.6_o but_o shall_v any_o arise_v to_o say_v it_o be_v folly_n and_o hypocrisy_n to_o professone_n self_n a_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n &_o yet_o not_o believe_v thus_o as_o the_o true_a church_n believe_v without_o any_o further_a explanation_n of_o the_o word_n or_o of_o what_o be_v intend_v thereby_o such_o may_v subject_v themselves_o to_o censure_v for_o by_o the_o word_n true_a church_n in_o this_o sentence_n and_o yet_o not_o believe_v thus_o as_o the_o true_a church_n believe_v will_v be_v understand_v the_o rest_n of_o the_o member_n from_o who_o one_o or_o more_o differ_v in_o faith_n now_o there_o may_v happen_v to_o be_v a_o weak_a brother_n who_o faith_n in_o some_o particular_a matter_n may_v be_v otherwise_o than_o the_o rest_n of_o his_o brethren_n be_v this_o case_n happen_v among_o the_o roman_n to_o who_o paul_n thus_o write_v rom._n 14.3_o 4_o 22_o 23._o let_v not_o he_o that_o eat_v despise_v he_o that_o eat_v not_o and_o let_v not_o he_o that_o eat_v not_o judge_v he_o that_o eat_v for_o god_n have_v receive_v he_o who_o be_v thou_o that_o condemne_v another_o man_n servant_n to_o his_o own_o master_n he_o stand_v or_o fall_v have_v thou_o faith_n have_v it_o to_o thyself_o he_o that_o doubt_v be_v condemn_v if_o he_o eat_v because_o he_o eat_v not_o of_o faith_n and_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n here_o a_o diversity_n of_o faith_n be_v evident_a and_o that_o between_o brethren_n and_o member_n of_o the_o church_n and_o yet_o neither_o appear_v to_o be_v fool_n or_o hypocrite_n he_o that_o do_v eat_v be_v not_o to_o be_v judge_v because_o he_o be_v receive_v of_o god_n and_o he_o that_o do_v not_o eat_v be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v judge_v that_o the_o apostle_n condemn_v the_o very_a eat_v while_o there_o be_v a_o doubt_n though_o the_o abstinence_n be_v the_o fruit_n of_o weakness_n these_o thing_n consider_v i_o appeal_v to_o god_n witness_v in_o all_o conscience_n whether_o truth_n can_v be_v serve_v at_o this_o day_n by_o assert_v under_o the_o name_n of_o one_o call_v a_o quaker_n such_o principle_n as_o give_v occasion_n of_o jealousy_n that_o this_o doctrine_n be_v promote_a among_o we_o we_o must_v believe_v thus_o as_o the_o church_n believe_v without_o remove_v those_o objection_n which_o for_o want_v of_o a_o explanation_n may_v necessary_o follow_v it_o be_v a_o true_a say_n that_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o the_o church_n that_o be_v build_v upon_o the_o rock_n christ_n and_o that_o the_o elect_n can_v be_v deceive_v but_o notwithstanding_o it_o be_v thus_o say_v yet_o we_o know_v that_o particular_a member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v err_v objection_n yet_o some_o may_v be_v ready_a to_o object_n and_o say_v write_v say_v note_n this_o objection_n be_v so_o lay_v to_o â—n_n in_o the_o same_o book_n wherein_o the_o last_o answer_v query_n be_v write_v though_o some_o particular_a member_n may_v be_v liable_a to_o err_v it_o be_v neither_o reasonable_a nor_o just_a to_o conclude_v the_o whole_a body_n or_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v liable_a to_o err_v to_o this_o i_o say_v god_n forbid_v that_o the_o whole_a church_n of_o christ_n shall_v err_v yet_o i_o say_v neither_o the_o light_n within_o we_o nor_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n without_o we_o do_v evidence_n that_o any_o member_n one_o more_o than_o another_o be_v by_o any_o peculiar_a election_n exempt_v from_o be_v liable_a to_o err_v no_o more_o than_o particular_a person_n be_v from_o all_o eternity_n elect_v and_o other_o reprobate_v and_o so_o it_o appear_v to_o i_o that_o the_o promise_n be_v not_o with_o respect_n that_o some_o shall_v continue_v still_o faithful_a and_o not_o liable_a to_o err_v though_o other_o be_v liable_a thereto_o shall_v err_v but_o with_o respect_n to_o every_o member_n of_o the_o church_n while_o establish_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n so_o that_o not_o only_o a_o part_n of_o the_o church_n but_o every_o member_n thereof_o whilst_o build_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n shall_v be_v so_o preserve_v as_o that_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o any_o one_o of_o they_o and_o this_o seem_v to_o i_o to_o be_v evident_a from_o the_o very_a connection_n of_o the_o word_n of_o the_o scripture_n mat._n 16.18_o and_o upon_o this_o rock_n i_o will_v build_v my_o church_n and_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o it_o that_o be_v against_o the_o church_n build_v and_o while_o remain_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n but_o if_o any_o assembly_n through_o unwatchfulness_n and_o disobedience_n depart_v from_o the_o rock_n christ_n whereon_o they_o be_v build_v then_o in_o that_o state_n they_o can_v proper_o be_v call_v the_o church_n build_v and_o remain_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n and_o so_o have_v be_v liable_a to_o be_v overcome_v the_o gate_n of_o hell_n do_v prevail_v and_o therefore_o though_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o any_o one_o member_n of_o christ_n church_n while_o abide_v in_o the_o seed_n in_o which_o the_o election_n stand_v and_o to_o which_o the_o promise_n be_v can_v be_v deceive_v yet_o notwithstanding_o i_o affirm_v that_o every_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n and_o if_o every_o member_n than_o the_o whole_a church_n be_v liable_a to_o err_v if_o they_o wait_v not_o in_o and_o keep_v not_o unto_o that_o in_o which_o their_o preservation_n stand_v christ_n say_v watch_n and_o pray_v that_o you_o enter_v not_o into_o temptation_n this_o be_v speak_v not_o with_o respect_n to_o some_o particular_a member_n in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v liable_a to_o err_v and_o as_o if_o there_o be_v other_o that_o be_v not_o and_o therefore_o its_o reasonable_a to_o conclude_v that_o all_o may_v through_o temptation_n be_v in_o danger_n to_o err_v if_o they_o watch_v not_o but_o yet_o my_o faith_n be_v that_o a_o remnant_n will_v be_v preserve_v so_o watchful_a as_o that_o be_v build_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v never_o prevail_v against_o they_o these_o thing_n be_v due_o weigh_v and_o consider_v what_o great_a abuse_n have_v be_v make_v of_o scripture_n that_o speak_v to_o this_o purpose_n that_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o what_o they_o bound_v or_o loose_v on_o earth_n shall_v be_v bind_v or_o lose_v in_o heaven_n and_o that_o also_o to_o maintain_v a_o antichristian_a yoke_n of_o bondage_n under_o the_o pretence_n of_o christ_n church_n say_v that_o it_o can_v err_v it_o appear_v not_o much_o more_o like_a one_o call_v a_o quaker_n if_o we_o consult_v the_o write_n of_o some_o of_o those_o ancient_a and_o honourable_a labourer_n who_o be_v instrument_n in_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o turn_v thousand_o unto_o the_o light_n within_o we_o as_o the_o unerring_a guide_n to_o treat_v on_o such_o scripture_n if_o apply_v to_o outward_a and_o settle_a assembly_n as_o such_o as_o be_v not_o
birth_n from_o run_v into_o duty_n catch_v of_o open_n and_o lay_v hold_n of_o promise_n and_o to_o feel_v the_o heir_n bear_v of_o the_o immortal_a seed_n to_o who_o all_o belong_v and_o the_o other_o birth_n never_o afterward_o get_v up_o above_o he_o but_o be_v subdue_v and_o bring_v into_o subjection_n again_o say_v the_o apostle_n take_v heed_n of_o do_v any_o thing_n doubt_o be_v not_o forward_a be_v not_o hasty_a wait_v for_o the_o lead_n wait_v for_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v sure_o thou_o receive_v what_o thou_o receive_v in_o the_o faith_n and_o practise_v what_o thou_o practise_v in_o the_o faith_n for_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n be_v a_o error_n from_o the_o principle_n of_o life_n which_o be_v to_o guide_v and_o thereby_o thou_o lose_v ground_n and_o dishonour_v christ_n and_o come_v under_o condemnation_n and_o so_o the_o apostle_n warn_v believer_n to_o take_v heed_n of_o draw_v one_o another_o on_o too_o fast_o or_o of_o judge_v one_o another_o in_o such_o thing_n as_o some_o of_o they_o may_v have_v light_a in_o other_o not_z he_o that_o eat_v not_o to_o judge_v he_o that_o do_v not_o eat_v and_o he_o that_o do_v not_o eat_v not_o to_o judge_v he_o that_o do_v eat_v yea_o in_o matter_n of_o worship_n he_o that_o observe_v a_o day_n and_o keep_v a_o sabbath_n not_o to_o judge_v he_o that_o observe_v not_o a_o day_n or_o keep_v not_o a_o sabbath_n for_o the_o jew_n which_o be_v true_o convert_v yet_o be_v hard_a to_o be_v draw_v off_o from_o the_o observation_n of_o their_o sabbath_n and_o can_v hardly_o bear_v with_o the_o believe_a gentile_n who_o be_v never_o teach_v to_o keep_v their_o sabbath_n with_o they_o but_o be_v teach_v to_o esteem_v every_o day_n and_o sanctify_v it_o to_o the_o lord_n rom._n 14.5_o and_o those_o who_o esteem_v every_o day_n and_o dedicate_v it_o to_o the_o lord_n cease_v from_o sin_n and_o rest_v to_o he_o for_o under_o the_o gospel_n we_o be_v not_o to_o set_v up_o a_o new_a type_n but_o to_o enter_v by_o faith_n into_o the_o true_a rest_n which_o be_v the_o substance_n of_o what_o the_o other_o signify_v can_v hardly_o bear_v with_o they_o who_o observe_v a_o day_n even_o in_o the_o apostle_n day_n christian_n be_v too_o apt_a to_o strive_v after_o a_o wrong_a unity_n and_o uniformity_n in_o outward_a practice_n and_o observation_n and_o to_o judge_v one_o another_o unrighteous_o in_o those_o thing_n and_o mark_v it_o be_v not_o the_o different_a practice_n from_o one_o another_o that_o break_v the_o peace_n and_o the_o unity_n but_o the_o judge_n of_o one_o another_o because_o of_o different_a practice_n he_o that_o keep_v not_o a_o day_n may_v unite_v in_o the_o same_o spirit_n in_o the_o same_o life_n in_o the_o same_o love_n with_o he_o that_o keep_v a_o day_n and_o he_o who_o keep_v a_o day_n may_v unite_v in_o heart_n and_o soul_n with_o the_o same_o spirit_n and_o life_n in_o he_o who_o keep_v not_o a_o day_n but_o he_o that_o judge_v the_o other_o because_o of_o either_o of_o these_o err_v from_o the_o spirit_n from_o the_o love_n from_o the_o life_n and_o so_o break_v the_o bond_n of_o unity_n and_o he_o that_o draw_v another_o to_o any_o practice_n before_o the_o life_n in_o his_o own_o particular_a lead_v he_o do_v as_o much_o as_o in_o he_o lie_v to_o destroy_v the_o soul_n of_o that_o person_n verse_n 15._o this_o be_v the_o apostle_n rule_n for_o every_o one_o to_o perform_v single_o to_o the_o lord_n what_o he_o do_v and_o not_o for_o one_o to_o meddle_v with_o the_o light_n or_o conscience_n of_o another_o undervalue_v his_o brother_n or_o judge_v he_o because_o his_o light_n and_o practice_n differ_v from_o he_o verse_n 10._o of_o that_o 14_o chap._n but_o every_o one_o to_o keep_v close_o to_o their_o own_o measure_n of_o light_n even_o to_o that_o proportion_n of_o faith_n and_o knowledge_n which_o god_n of_o his_o mercy_n have_v bestow_v on_o they_o and_o here_o be_v the_o true_a unity_n in_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o inward_a life_n and_o not_o in_o a_o outward_a uniformity_n that_o be_v not_o necessary_a in_o the_o apostle_n day_n nor_o be_v it_o necessary_a now_o and_o that_o eye_n which_o so_o dote_v upon_o it_o overlook_v the_o one_o thing_n which_o be_v necessary_a man_n keep_v close_o to_o god_n the_o lord_n will_v lead_v they_o on_o fast_o enough_o and_o give_v they_o light_v fast_o enough_o for_o he_o take_v care_n of_o such_o and_o know_v what_o light_n and_o what_o practice_n be_v most_o proper_a for_o they_o but_o for_o man_n to_o walk_v on_o fast_a than_o the_o lord_n hold_v forth_o light_a to_o they_o this_o overturn_v they_o raise_v up_o a_o wrong_a thing_n in_o they_o and_o the_o true_a birth_n hereby_o come_v to_o suffer_v to_o shrink_v and_o be_v drive_v back_o and_o oh_o how_o sweet_a and_o pleasant_a be_v it_o to_o the_o true_o spiritual_a eye_n to_o see_v several_a sort_n of_o believer_n several_a form_n of_o christian_n in_o the_o school_n of_o christ_n every_o one_o learning_n their_o own_o lesson_n perform_v their_o own_o peculiar_a service_n and_o know_v own_v and_o love_v one_o another_o in_o their_o several_a place_n and_o different_a performance_n to_o their_o master_n to_o who_o they_o be_v to_o give_v a_o account_n and_o not_o to_o quarrel_v with_o one_o another_o about_o their_o different_a practice_n rom._n 14.4_o for_o this_o be_v the_o true_a ground_n of_o love_n and_o unity_n not_o that_o such_o a_o man_n walk_v and_o do_v just_a as_o i_o do_v but_o because_o i_o feel_v the_o same_o spirit_n of_o life_n in_o he_o and_o in_o that_o he_o walk_v in_o his_o rank_n in_o his_o own_o order_n in_o his_o proper_a way_n and_o place_n of_o subjection_n to_o that_o and_o this_o be_v far_o more_o please_a to_o i_o than_o if_o he_o walk_v just_a in_o that_o tract_n wherein_o i_o walk_v nay_o so_o far_o as_o i_o be_o spiritual_a i_o can_v so_o much_o as_o desire_v that_o he_o shall_v do_v so_o until_o he_o be_v particular_o lead_v thereto_o by_o the_o same_o spirit_n which_o lead_v i_o and_o he_o that_o know_v what_o it_o be_v to_o receive_v any_o truth_n from_o the_o spirit_n and_o to_o be_v lead_v into_o practice_n by_o the_o spirit_n and_o how_o prone_a the_o fleshly_a man_n be_v to_o make_v haste_n and_o how_o dangerous_a that_o haste_n be_v will_v not_o be_v forward_o to_o press_v his_o knowledge_n or_o practice_n upon_o other_o but_o rather_o wait_v patient_o till_o the_o lord_n fit_v they_o for_o the_o receive_n thereof_o and_o fear_v lest_o they_o shall_v receive_v and_o practice_v too_o soon_o even_o in_o that_o part_n which_o can_v serve_v the_o lord_n and_o this_o i_o can_v true_o say_v concern_v myself_o i_o never_o find_v my_o spirit_n forward_o to_o draw_v any_o either_o to_o any_o thing_n i_o believe_v to_o be_v true_a or_o to_o any_o practice_n or_o way_n of_o worship_n i_o observe_v or_o walk_v in_o but_o desire_v that_o the_o power_n and_o leading_n of_o life_n may_v go_v before_o they_o and_o be_v afraid_a lest_o man_n shall_v receive_v thing_n from_o my_o hand_n and_o not_o from_o the_o lord_n yea_o and_o this_o i_o very_o well_o remember_v that_o when_o i_o walk_v in_o the_o way_n of_o independency_n as_o it_o have_v be_v common_o call_v i_o have_v more_o unity_n with_o more_o love_n towards_o such_o as_o be_v single-hearted_n in_o other_o way_n and_o practice_n of_o worship_n who_o spirit_n i_o have_v some_o feel_n of_o in_o the_o true_a simplicity_n and_o in_o the_o life_n than_o with_o divers_a of_o such_o who_o be_v very_o know_v and_o zealous_a in_o that_o way_n of_o independency_n in_o who_o a_o wrong_a thing_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n have_v get_v up_o which_o have_v cause_v they_o to_o swerve_v from_o the_o life_n and_o from_o the_o simplicity_n so_o that_o the_o true_a church_n government_n be_v in_o the_o spirit_n and_o over_o the_o conscience_n as_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n the_o great_a care_n must_v be_v to_o keep_v it_o within_o its_o bound_n that_o nothing_o else_o govern_v but_o the_o spirit_n and_o that_o the_o government_n be_v extend_v only_o unto_o that_o which_o be_v to_o be_v govern_v first_o care_n must_v be_v have_v that_o nothing_o govern_v in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n but_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n that_o nothing_o else_o teach_v nothing_o else_o exhort_v nothing_o else_o admonish_v and_o reprove_v nothing_o else_o cut_v off_o and_o cast_v out_o every_o minister_n in_o the_o church_n be_v to_o watch_v over_o his_o own_o spirit_n that_o it_o intrude_v not_o into_o the_o work_n of_o god_n that_o it_o take_v not_o upon_o it_o to_o be_v the_o teacher_n the_o exhorte_a the_o reprover_n etc._n etc._n and_o
of_o my_o brethren_n as_o his_o very_a conclusion_n intimate_v and_o in_o divers_a other_o place_n may_v be_v observe_v and_o it_o will_v aggravate_v this_o injury_n do_v by_o he_o the_o more_o that_o the_o reader_n may_v observe_v as_o well_o in_o his_o own_o letter_n as_o in_o what_o be_v above_o mention_v that_o this_o his_o censure_n be_v build_v upon_o his_o own_o mistake_n so_o that_o i_o hope_v all_o who_o consider_v these_o thing_n will_v acknowledge_v a_o sufficient_a answer_n be_v hereby_o return_v and_o albeit_o i_o myself_o be_v full_o satify_v yet_o i_o shall_v not_o have_v churl_v the_o pain_n of_o a_o particular_a disquisition_n of_o every_o thing_n in_o order_n as_o assert_v by_o he_o albeit_o he_o have_v not_o do_v that_o to_o i_o if_o i_o have_v not_o a_o aversion_n from_o multiply_a controversy_n of_o this_o kind_n for_o the_o desire_n i_o have_v to_o avoid_v that_o sort_n of_o work_n and_o not_o for_o any_o strength_n of_o argumentation_n i_o observe_v in_o w._n r_n paper_n have_v stop_v i_o from_o so_o do_v but_o if_o any_o do_v apprehend_v that_o strength_n of_o reason_n in_o his_o paper_n as_o to_o judge_n i_o be_v unable_a to_o answer_v or_o that_o this_o be_v not_o satisfactory_a it_o will_v but_o evidence_n the_o weakness_n of_o their_o own_o understanding_n to_o the_o more_o judicious_a and_o i_o shall_v not_o think_v much_o to_o bear_v their_o censure_n for_o i_o value_v more_o my_o own_o inward_a peace_n and_o that_o of_o my_o brethren_n than_o to_o obtain_v a_o applause_n of_o my_o natural_a capacity_n wherein_o if_o any_o judge_n w._n r._n do_v surpass_v i_o i_o shall_v not_o therewith_o be_v trouble_v for_o i_o more_o and_o more_o see_v the_o excellency_n of_o the_o simplicity_n that_o be_v in_o truth_n and_o of_o that_o unity_n that_o it_o lead_v to_o and_o thence_o do_v more_o earnest_o than_o ever_o desire_n to_o witness_v all_o that_o be_v of_o and_o from_o self_n crucify_a in_o i_o and_o bring_v into_o true_a subjection_n to_o the_o cross_n of_o christ_n that_o there_o alone_o may_v be_v my_o rejoice_v wherein_o i_o be_o at_o unity_n with_o all_o those_o who_o make_v self_n of_o no_o reputation_n for_o the_o seed_n sake_n that_o the_o prosperity_n of_o truth_n may_v be_v advance_v and_o the_o peace_n of_o israel_n preserved_n robert_n barclay_n the_o reader_n may_v now_o take_v notice_n that_o robert_n barclay_n do_v not_o only_o spread_v abroad_o a_o explanatory_a postscript_n to_o his_o book_n of_o government_n but_o also_o therewith_o two_o other_o paper_n add_v thereto_o this_o title_n here_o now_o follow_v william_n rogers_n his_o own_o letter_n concern_v this_o matter_n and_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o brethren_n who_o be_v witness_n to_o what_o pass_v between_o he_o and_o i_o on_o which_o i_o observe_v first_o that_o the_o brethren_n give_v the_o judgement_n be_v but_o a_o part_n of_o the_o meeting_n second_o that_o the_o say_a letter_n be_v pretend_v to_o be_v i_o though_o i_o never_o sign_v any_o letter_n or_o paper_n whereof_o what_o he_o have_v give_v forth_o be_v copy_n yet_o must_v confess_v that_o when_o at_o that_o meeting_n he_o declare_v himself_o by_o the_o word_n of_o his_o mouth_n to_o be_v otherwise_o principled_a than_o i_o know_v his_o book_n do_v teach_v i_o do_v intend_v the_o best_a i_o can_v with_o a_o clear_a conscience_n to_o send_v forth_o among_o friend_n of_o my_o own_o accord_n the_o most_o favourable_a account_n of_o he_o and_o that_o meeting_n as_o i_o can_v that_o so_o if_o possible_a breach_n then_o break_v forth_o among_o friend_n may_v be_v heal_v but_o of_o this_o more_o anon_o when_o i_o come_v to_o make_v my_o observation_n on_o the_o aforesaid_a letter_n and_o judgement_n yet_o at_o present_a i_o think_v it_o proper_a before_o i_o cite_v the_o say_a letter_n and_o judgement_n to_o notify_v the_o reader_n that_o by_o the_o little_a add_v thereto_o it_o appear_v that_o r._n b._n have_v send_v it_o abroad_o and_o forasmuch_o as_o in_o the_o say_a letter_n it_o be_v signify_v in_o these_o word_n although_o robert_n barclay_n have_v give_v these_o explication_n of_o his_o meaning_n yet_o the_o very_a explication_n as_o he_o say_v be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o his_o book_n it_o be_v rational_a to_o conclude_v that_o robert_n barclay_n if_o he_o be_v then_o to_o be_v believe_v be_v then_o principled_a as_o the_o say_a letter_n declare_v he_o to_o be_v and_o how_o his_o postscript_n will_v now_o bespeak_v his_o credit_n i_o know_v not_o since_o he_o therein_o do_v not_o declare_v himself_o principled_a according_o to_o the_o expliation_n give_v in_o the_o say_a letter_n of_o his_o word_n notwithstanding_o in_o the_o say_a postscript_n he_o thus_o declare_v and_o albeit_o these_o thing_n which_o be_v chief_o scruple_v at_o by_o any_o be_v sufficient_o clear_v by_o w._n r_n own_o letter_n yet_o that_o all_o may_v be_v satisfy_v in_o have_v they_o from_o my_o own_o hand_n i_o be_o free_a to_o signify_v thus_o as_o to_o they_o from_o these_o word_n what_o rational_a man_n can_v have_v expect_v less_o than_o a_o confirmation_n of_o the_o sense_n give_v in_o the_o say_a letter_n but_o how_o remote_a he_o be_v from_o that_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o will_v be_v sufficient_o obvious_a to_o every_o impartial_a understand_a reader_n that_o on_o perusal_n of_o the_o say_a letter_n hereafter-cited_n his_o postscript_n and_o the_o annex_v observation_n will_v give_v they_o all_o but_o their_o due_a weight_n and_o if_o thereto_o they_o add_v a_o due_a consideration_n of_o his_o book_n of_o government_n no_o question_n but_o he_o will_v then_o appear_v like_o a_o man_n with_o three_o face_n have_v on_o the_o sheep_n clothing_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o briery_a thicket_n who_o wile_v strive_v to_o get_v out_o thereof_o be_v the_o more_o and_o more_o entangle_v and_o though_o by_o one_o part_n of_o the_o conclusion_n of_o his_o postscript_n r._n b._n seem_v desirous_a of_o unity_n with_o such_o as_o rejoice_v in_o the_o cross_n of_o christ_n make_v self_n of_o no_o reputation_n and_o that_o he_o value_v more_o his_o inward_a peace_n than_o to_o obtain_v a_o applause_n of_o his_o natural_a capacity_n wherein_o as_o his_o own_o word_n be_v if_o any_o judge_n w._n r._n do_v surpass_v i_o i_o shall_v not_o therewith_o be_v trouble_v yet_o in_o his_o apology_n for_o his_o not_o make_v a_o particular_a disquisition_n of_o every_o thing_n in_o order_n as_o assert_v by_o i_o he_o thus_o say_v but_o if_o any_o do_v apprehend_v that_o strength_n of_o reason_n in_o his_o paper_n as_o to_o judge_n i_o be_v unable_a to_o answer_v or_o that_o this_o be_v not_o satisfactory_a it_o will_v but_o evidence_n the_o weakness_n of_o their_o own_o understanding_n to_o the_o more_o judicious_a which_o be_v no_o great_a sign_n that_o he_o be_v one_o who_o desire_v to_o make_v self_n of_o no_o reputation_n especial_o if_o compare_v with_o this_o his_o expression_n which_o my_o first_o observation_n have_v relate_v to_o and_o that_o to_o maintain_v principle_n obvious_o erroneous_a viz._n i_o have_v never_o find_v occasion_n to_o repent_v or_o retract_v any_o thing_n from_o the_o matter_n or_o principle_n there_o assert_v by_o i_o mean_v his_o book_n of_o government_n but_o have_v the_o testimony_n and_o approbation_n of_o god_n light_n and_o spirit_n in_o my_o heart_n for_o my_o work_n and_o service_n in_o that_o matter_n for_o my_o own_o part_n i_o be_o persuade_v that_o the_o law_n of_o charity_n be_v accompany_v with_o no_o such_o rule_n as_o to_o prompt_v any_o rational_a christian_a and_o conscientious_a man_n to_o conclude_v that_o r._n b._n consider_v his_o capacity_n be_v free_a from_o offer_v a_o wilful_a violation_n to_o his_o own_o knowledge_n reason_n and_o understanding_n both_o as_o a_o man_n and_o christian_n and_o that_o to_o keep_v up_o his_o name_n and_o repute_n or_o else_o for_o some_o other_o more_o sinister_a end_n for_o which_o may_v the_o lord_n in_o his_o due_a time_n give_v he_o repentance_n to_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o then_o i_o can_v but_o believe_v that_o the_o lord_n will_v lay_v a_o constraint_n upon_o he_o to_o bear_v testimony_n in_o plain_a against_o the_o erroneous_a principle_n which_o he_o have_v be_v find_v a_o asserter_n and_o promotor_n of_o the_o copy_n of_o the_o aforesaid_a letter_n term_v to_o be_v my_o letter_n together_o also_o with_o the_o paper_n contain_v according_a to_o r._n b_n title_n thereon_o give_v as_o aforesaid_a the_o judgement_n of_o the_o brethren_n who_o be_v witness_n to_o what_o pass_v between_o he_o and_o i_o do_v now_o follow_v to_o which_o be_v add_v my_o observation_n on_o both_o manifest_v the_o error_n of_o those_o who_o subscribe_v the_o judgement_n and_o concern_v themselves_o as_o the_o first_o publisher_n the_o
give_v that_o judgement_n have_v not_o then_o peruse_v it_o and_o as_o to_o their_o say_n it_o be_v to_o the_o great_a derogation_n of_o the_o christian_a authority_n of_o the_o say_a meeting_n mean_v the_o second_o day_n meet_v i_o have_v this_o to_o say_v that_o i_o never_o understand_v that_o friend_n own_v any_o authority_n in_o any_o of_o our_o meeting_n as_o a_o christian_a authority_n but_o the_o power_n of_o god_n which_o be_v invisible_a and_o can_v be_v diminish_v and_o therefore_o i_o may_v well_o query_n whether_o it_o be_v not_o great_a weakness_n in_o any_o to_o conclude_v that_o i_o be_o capable_a to_o do_v any_o action_n which_o can_v either_o lessen_v diminish_v or_o take_v from_o that_o authority_n and_o i_o hope_v none_o of_o the_o say_a subscriber_n be_v so_o remote_a from_o truth_n and_o a_o good_a understanding_n as_o to_o conclude_v that_o the_o second_o day_n meeting_n have_v any_o authority_n give_v they_o by_o man_n but_o if_o any_o shall_v be_v so_o weak_a i_o must_v tell_v such_o that_o as_o i_o never_o give_v it_o any_o so_o be_o whole_o uncapable_a by_o write_v to_o lessen_v it_o if_o they_o have_v any_o and_o whereas_o it_o be_v say_v that_o the_o objection_n of_o the_o say_v william_n rogers_n lay_v not_o so_o much_o against_o the_o matter_n and_o substance_n of_o the_o say_v robert_n barcly_n book_n as_o against_o the_o way_n of_o express_v some_o passage_n therein_o this_o i_o say_v be_v untrue_a my_o objection_n be_v against_o the_o very_a matter_n and_o substance_n of_o some_o thing_n contain_v in_o his_o book_n on_o the_o whole_a matter_n i_o have_v this_o to_o say_v i_o can_v not_o obtain_v a_o meeting_n of_o friend_n to_o be_v choose_v by_o robert_n barclay_n and_o myself_o though_o the_o person_n immediate_o concern_v which_o agree_v not_o with_o the_o example_n of_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n read_v act_n 15.1_o 2._o and_o that_o the_o aforesaid_a eminent_a preacher_n as_o the_o mouth_n of_o other_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n obstruct_v and_o though_o in_o the_o meeting_n hold_v friend_n deportment_n be_v grave_a orderly_a and_o inoffensive_a as_o to_o i_o ward_n whilst_o the_o debate_n on_o my_o objection_n hold_v yet_o i_o be_o great_o satisfy_v that_o by_o the_o publication_n of_o the_o say_v two_o paper_n every_o impartial_a reader_n that_o will_v be_v at_o the_o pain_n serious_o to_o weigh_v the_o say_v paper_n this_o answer_n and_o robert_n barcaly_n book_n and_o postscript_n may_v easy_o discern_v the_o error_n of_o robert_n barclay_n and_o charles_n marshal_n with_o the_o thirty_o six_o subscriber_n but_o those_o who_o will_v have_v a_o eye_n to_o paper_n and_o book_n for_o the_o writer_n sake_n more_o than_o for_o the_o matter_n contain_v therein_o may_v in_o time_n come_v to_o have_v their_o understanding_n so_o veil_v as_o to_o be_v bring_v to_o worship_v image_n and_o to_o esteem_v virtue_n esteem_v see_v george_n fox_n his_o book_n of_o woman_n meeeting_n wherein_o he_o query_n and_o be_v not_o micah_n mother_n a_o virtuous_a woman_n read_v judge_n 17_o and_o then_o a_o few_o line_n of_o these_o and_o such_o like_a woman_n be_v record_v for_o their_o wisdom_n and_o their_o virtue_n michah_n mother_n a_o virtuous_a woman_n in_o israel_n though_o she_o cause_v a_o molten_n image_n and_o a_o grave_v image_n to_o be_v make_v and_o put_v in_o the_o house_n of_o her_o son_n judges_z 17._o if_o any_o shall_v be_v offend_v at_o these_o line_n let_v such_o exhort_v charles_n martial_n and_o the_o other_o thirty_o six_o subscriber_n concern_v to_o make_v better_a use_v for_o time_n to_o come_v of_o so_o much_o condescension_n as_o appear_v in_o i_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o robert_n barclay_n who_o i_o once_o account_v my_o brother_n when_o i_o perceive_v from_o the_o word_n of_o robert_n barclay_n mouth_n that_o he_o appear_v a_o better_a principled_a man_n than_o his_o line_n import_v william_n rogers_n the_o four_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n &_o innovator_n wherein_o a_o relation_n be_v give_v of_o several_a proceed_n since_o george_n fox_n wife_n cause_v a_o paper_n date_v the_o 21_o the_o of_o the_o 11_o the_o m_o on_o 1672._o to_o be_v read_v against_o john_n story_n in_o a_o quarterly-meeting_a in_o westmoreland_n therein_o signify_v that_o he_o judge_v the_o power_n of_o god_n as_o it_o break_v forth_o in_o hymn_n or_o spiritual_a song_n and_o be_v chief_o to_o discover_v that_o george_n for_o have_v erroneous_o concern_v himself_o in_o the_o division_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n which_o therefore_o may_v serve_v for_o a_o warn_v to_o the_o child_n of_o light_n that_o their_o dependency_n may_v not_o be_v on_o g._n f._n a_o mislead_v fallible_a man_n nor_o yet_o on_o any_o mortal_a man_n man_n or_o name_v whatsoever_o save_o the_o name_n of_o jesus_n who_o be_v give_v of_o the_o father_n to_o be_v salvation_n unto_o the_o end_v of_o the_o earth_n by_o william_n rogers_n hosea_n 9.7_o the_o day_n of_o visitation_n be_v come_v the_o day_n of_o recompense_n be_v come_v israel_n shall_v know_v it_o the_o prophet_n be_v a_o fool_n the_o spiritual_a man_n be_v mad_a for_o the_o abundance_n of_o thy_o iniquity_n and_o great_a hatred_n print_a in_o the_o year_n 1680._o the_o four_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n and_o innovator_n etc._n etc._n this_o small_a treatise_n be_v chief_o design_v to_o be_v communicate_v unto_o those_o who_o profess_v the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n jesus_n the_o son_n of_o the_o eternal_a god_n by_o his_o light_n in_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o man_n to_o be_v a_o sufficient_a guide_n unto_o the_o father_n of_o life_n the_o faith_n of_o such_o be_v that_o those_o who_o receive_v this_o appearance_n or_o gift_n of_o god_n so_o as_o to_o live_v and_o walk_v according_a to_o the_o divine_a motion_n and_o dictate_v thereof_o shall_v come_v to_o know_v the_o salvation_n of_o god_n through_o christ_n jesus_n their_o lawgiver_n lord_n and_o saviour_n it_o be_v public_o know_v that_o this_o principle_n of_o truth_n have_v be_v hold_v forth_o and_o own_a by_o those_o who_o in_o derision_n have_v be_v call_v quaker_n of_o who_o it_o may_v be_v now_o say_v to_o the_o great_a grief_n and_o exercise_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o faithful_a follower_n of_o christ_n among_o they_o that_o though_o the_o principle_n in_o which_o such_o of_o they_o who_o have_v receive_v from_o god_n a_o divine_a and_o spiritual_a knowledge_n have_v believe_v be_v unchangeable_a yet_o the_o enemy_n have_v so_o prevail_v as_o that_o the_o seed_n of_o dissension_n and_o discord_n sow_o among_o they_o have_v take_v so_o deep_a root_n as_o that_o their_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n in_o several_a part_n of_o this_o nation_n have_v become_v the_o stage_n of_o contention_n to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o god_n his_o truth_n and_o people_n and_o in_o divers_a part_n of_o this_o nation_n it_o be_v repute_v that_o george_n fox_n be_v at_o least_o one_o of_o the_o chief_a abettor_n of_o one_o party_n and_o john_n story_n of_o another_o but_o how_o far_o that_o report_n may_v with_o respect_n to_o g._n f._n have_v credit_n with_o other_o beside_o myself_o i_o shall_v leave_v to_o the_o sense_n and_o savour_n of_o the_o understanding_n impartial_a reader_n when_o he_o have_v thorough_o peruse_v this_o treatise_n and_o though_o from_o their_o name_n mention_v in_o the_o title-page_n some_o may_v be_v in_o expectation_n that_o the_o difference_n between_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n with_o respect_n to_o the_o present_a separation_n in_o some_o part_n of_o this_o nation_n may_v be_v treat_v on_o at_o large_a yet_o that_o be_v not_o my_o present_a design_n or_o purpose_v though_o i_o must_v confess_v that_o matter_n be_v at_o large_a collect_v and_o impartial_o state_v and_o lie_v ready_a by_o i_o for_o the_o press_n and_o in_o probability_n may_v come_v forth_o or_o at_o least_o a_o part_n thereof_o more_o than_o what_o be_v in_o this_o four_o part_n contain_v in_o its_o proper_a time_n and_o season_n unless_o the_o lord_n shall_v be_v please_v to_o change_v the_o heart_n of_o the_o persecute_v opposer_n of_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n and_o other_o servant_n of_o the_o lord_n unto_o who_o the_o truth_n be_v as_o dear_a as_o ever_o and_o that_o the_o door_n may_v be_v open_v again_o in_o our_o public_a assembly_n for_o worship_n of_o god_n whereby_o those_o who_o have_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o publish_v in_o the_o demonstration_n of_o his_o power_n and_o spirit_n may_v not_o be_v so_o frequent_o obstruct_v by_o the_o airy_a imaginary_a and_o empty_a discourse_n of_o such_o as_o have_v pretend_v to_o have_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o declare_v when_o
it_o have_v evident_o appear_v the_o lord_n have_v not_o speak_v by_o they_o if_o so_o be_v the_o tree_n may_v at_o this_o day_n be_v know_v by_o its_o fruit_n as_o well_o as_o in_o day_n past_a but_o rather_o that_o the_o word_n of_o the_o prophet_n be_v fulfil_v if_o not_o fulfil_v in_o they_o when_o he_o say_v the_o prophet_n be_v a_o fool_n the_o spiritual_a man_n be_v mad_a for_o the_o multitude_n of_o thy_o iniquity_n and_o great_a hatred_n hos_fw-la 9.7_o for_o i_o be_o a_o live_a witness_n that_o imagination_n have_v so_o possess_v the_o head_n and_o heart_n of_o many_o that_o travel_v under_o the_o notion_n of_o minister_a friend_n as_o that_o instead_o of_o manifest_v a_o divine_a understanding_n in_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n or_o speak_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n in_o season_n they_o have_v bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o a_o unsound_a mind_n show_v forth_o no_o better_a resemblance_n or_o evidence_n of_o be_v minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n that_o divide_v the_o word_n aright_o than_o the_o confuse_a chaos_n before_o the_o creation_n of_o god_n be_v of_o the_o beauty_n and_o order_n that_o now_o be_v in_o it_o and_o for_o my_o own_o part_n i_o be_o well_o satisfy_v and_o that_o on_o sufficient_a ground_n too_o large_a to_o insert_v that_o either_o the_o multitude_n of_o iniquity_n or_o great_a hatred_n through_o the_o influence_n of_o g._n f._n possess_v the_o heart_n of_o such_o be_v the_o occasion_n thereof_o but_o notwithstanding_o my_o design_n be_v not_o as_o i_o say_v before_o to_o treat_v at_o large_a on_o the_o present_a difference_n between_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n with_o respect_n to_o the_o present_a separation_n in_o some_o part_n of_o this_o nation_n yet_o since_o i_o be_o also_o satisfy_v and_o that_o on_o sufficient_a ground_n that_o g._n f._n have_v be_v one_o of_o those_o very_a person_n occasion_v the_o difference_n to_o arise_v unto_o the_o height_n they_o now_o be_v or_o at_o least_o a_o countenancer_n 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flock_n and_o that_o many_o a_o simple_a honest-hearted_n friend_n to_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n have_v receive_v and_o believe_v lie_n and_o slanderous_a false_a report_n against_o many_o brethren_n undeserved_o to_o the_o betray_n of_o their_o simplicity_n and_o love_n to_o the_o truth_n and_o fill_v their_o heart_n with_o hatred_n enmity_n and_o prejudice_n and_o of_o this_o be_o i_o as_o well_o satisfy_v as_o i_o be_o that_o there_o be_v a_o god_n in_o heaven_n before_o who_o both_o he_o and_o all_o the_o son_n of_o man_n must_v come_v to_o judgement_n and_o that_o the_o blood_n of_o many_o such_o if_o they_o perish_v before_o true_a repentance_n will_v be_v lay_v at_o g._n f_o '_o s._n door_n otherwise_o i_o shall_v not_o have_v appear_v to_o discover_v the_o say_v g._n f._n as_o in_o conscience_n i_o be_o now_o constrain_v to_o do_v and_o therefore_o a_o warn_v be_v now_o proclaim_v unto_o all_o such_o that_o they_o redeem_v their_o time_n because_o the_o day_n be_v evil_a and_o proceed_v no_o further_o to_o receive_v and_o believe_v lie_n and_o scandalous_a report_n against_o such_o who_o they_o have_v once_o account_v honourable_a on_o the_o credit_n of_o g._n f._n as_o a_o man_n that_o for_o several_a year_n past_a have_v not_o err_v for_o many_o be_v this_o day_n witness_n that_o his_o action_n have_v render_v he_o a_o erroneous_a man._n and_o for_o as_o much_o as_o he_o have_v refuse_v to_o give_v that_o satisfaction_n for_o his_o error_n as_o in_o the_o like_a case_n he_o have_v prescribe_v for_o other_o it_o have_v increase_v the_o concern_v of_o my_o conscience_n to_o discover_v the_o same_o and_o that_o also_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o the_o simple_a and_o honest-hearted_n and_o that_o those_o innocent_a and_o tender_a child_n that_o be_v grow_v up_o from_o the_o loin_n of_o believe_a parent_n etc._n etc._n may_v in_o their_o tender_a year_n be_v awaken_v and_o warn_v that_o they_o may_v not_o be_v captivate_v in_o the_o like_o snare_n and_o so_o breed_v up_o in_o a_o mere_a form_n and_o affect_v with_o airy_a imagination_n which_o have_v no_o tendency_n to_o open_v their_o understanding_n thereby_o to_o give_v unto_o they_o the_o knowledge_n of_o those_o principle_n of_o truth_n which_o the_o faithful_a by_o the_o spirit_n have_v be_v lead_v to_o own_o and_o hold_v forth_o nor_o yet_o the_o way_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n that_o so_o their_o footstep_n may_v be_v direct_v into_o the_o path_n of_o peace_n and_o they_o come_v to_o know_v a_o lively_a feel_n and_o sense_n of_o that_o immortal_a power_n and_o spirit_n by_o which_o the_o everlasting_a god_n who_o way_n be_v unchangeable_a reach_v unto_o many_o in_o the_o beginning_n when_o the_o very_a thought_n of_o be_v embondaged_a again_o with_o the_o beggarly_a element_n and_o rudiment_n of_o this_o world_n or_o of_o have_v our_o eye_n or_o dependency_n on_o any_o mortal_a man_n be_v loathsome_a i_o shall_v now_o proceed_v to_o lay_v down_o a_o few_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v in_o some_o measure_n a_o evidence_n to_o i_o that_o my_o aforesaid_a sense_n touch_v g._n f._n be_v true_a refer_v the_o reader_n for_o further_a satisfaction_n to_o the_o first_o and_o five_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n and_o innovator_n first_o i_o take_v notice_n of_o seven_o question_n which_o be_v send_v unto_o john_n wilkinson_n by_o robert_n barrow_n and_o other_o who_o say_v they_o be_v desire_v by_o g._n f._n so_o to_o do_v the_o query_n be_v as_o follow_v together_o with_o the_o substance_n of_o the_o answer_n thereunto_o query_n 1_o whether_o do_v thou_o say_v concern_v that_o paper_n send_v down_o to_o the_o quarterly-meeting_a at_o kendal_n that_o it_o come_v from_o the_o female_a answ_n i_o remember_v no_o such_o word_n yet_o be_v great_o trouble_v at_o a_o name_n a_o note_v this_o be_v that_o paper_n mention_v in_o the_o title-page_n that_o g._n p_n wife_n cause_v to_o be_v read_v in_o a_o quarterly-meeting_a and_o be_v give_v forth_o in_o her_o name_n paper_n from_o the_o female_a read_v with_o grievous_a accusation_n against_o our_o faithful_a brother_n john_n story_n which_o as_o i_o say_v great_o trouble_v i_o and_o many_o beside_o i_o know_v his_o clearness_n from_o such_o thing_n and_o know_v his_o vessel_n fill_v with_o the_o power_n of_o god_n in_o abide_v in_o his_o house_n qu._n 2._o whether_o do_v thou_o say_v at_o the_o quarterly-meeting_a at_o kendal_n to_o margaret_n fox_n what_o ground_n or_o foundation_n have_v friend_n to_o practice_v thing_n which_o be_v impose_v by_o man_n or_o in_o the_o will_n of_o man_n which_o the_o scripture_n give_v no_o authority_n or_o warrant_v for_o or_o word_n to_o that_o effect_n answ_n the_o word_n as_o state_v in_o this_o question_n i_o do_v not_o speak_v to_o m._n f._n yet_o the_o substance_n i_o own_o for_o the_o truth_n in_o it_o qu._n 3._o whether_o do_v thou_o read_v or_o consent_n to_o be_v read_v in_o the_o latter-end_a of_o a_o quarterly-meeting_a at_o kendal_n a_o paper_n of_o anthony_n pearson_n or_o other_o that_o direct_v or_o advise_v that_o the_o way_n of_o truth_n shall_v be_v as_o the_o way_n of_o a_o ship_n in_o the_o sea_n or_o such_o like_a answ_n nay_o but_o if_o they_o mean_v no_o impression_n of_o form_n leave_v behind_o i_o like_v it_o well_o qu._n 4._o whether_o do_v thou_o advise_v that_o paper_n of_o condemnation_n shall_v not_o be_v record_v answ_n nay_o i_o have_v no_o occasion_n to_o advise_v but_o my_o advice_n be_v and_o be_v that_o condemnation_n shall_v not_o stand_v on_o our_o deacon_n book_n to_o posterity_n according_a as_o the_o meet_v agree_v unto_o because_o fail_n in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n have_v prove_v weapon_n for_o the_o man_n of_o sin_n to_o fight_v with_o against_o perfection_n
the_o truth_n those_o who_o refuse_v so_o to_o assent_v may_v be_v subject_a to_o a_o excommunication_n by_o g._n e._n and_o his_o adherent_n from_o the_o meeting_n of_o the_o men._n beside_o it_o have_v be_v a_o observation_n of_o late_a that_o these_o question_n or_o question_n to_o the_o like_a import_n have_v be_v frequent_o ask_v by_o such_o with_o who_o we_o can_v be_v at_o unity_n in_o all_o thing_n viz._n be_v you_o for_o womens-meeting_n mean_v distinct_a womens-meeting_n from_o man_n among_o who_o under_o pretence_n of_o take_v care_n of_o the_o poor_a another_o thing_n seem_v to_o be_v more_o chief_o aim_v at_o as_o anon_o will_v be_v make_v appear_v be_v you_o for_o record_v condemnation_n mean_v thereby_o whether_o the_o party_n who_o have_v condemn_v their_o fail_n and_o through_o the_o mercy_n of_o the_o lord_n have_v be_v restore_v and_o their_o offence_n blot_v out_o and_o forgive_v by_o he_o assent_v thereto_o or_o no_o be_v you_o for_o settle_a mouthly_a and_o quarterly-meeting_n touch_v outward_a business_n since_o those_o who_o will_v have_v meeting_n as_o occasion_n offer_v be_v account_v designer_n to_o throw_v down_o all_o meeting_n for_o outward_a business_n relate_v to_o the_o affair_n of_o truth_n and_o when_o these_o or_o such_o like_a question_n have_v be_v ask_v of_o friend_n in_o truth_n that_o can_v not_o answer_v thereto_o yea_o we_o be_v sensible_a that_o it_o have_v be_v take_v by_o many_o adherent_n to_o g._n f._n as_o a_o sufficient_a token_n of_o a_o dark_a leaven_a rend_v divide_v spirit_n and_o mere_o as_o we_o take_v it_o from_o a_o apprehension_n that_o the_o form_n they_o stand_v for_o be_v thereby_o strike_v at_o though_o the_o service_n will_v be_v effectual_o perform_v in_o another_o method_n as_o experience_n in_o the_o county_n of_o westmoreland_n and_o wilts_n have_v of_o late_o testify_v for_o be_v it_o not_o so_o that_o great_a stress_n be_v lay_v upon_o the_o outward_a form_n of_o thing_n prescribe_v to_o be_v practise_v how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o john_n story_n be_v article_v against_o by_o robert_n barrow_n of_o kendal_n and_o twenty-six_a other_o person_n as_o in_o the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o manuscript_n this_o mean_v the_o aforesaid_a historical_a manuscript_n treatise_n section_n the_o four_o appear_v on_o this_o wise_a in_o the_o five_o article_n viz._n john_n story_n speak_v among_o many_o friend_n of_o the_o danger_n of_o form_n because_o of_o the_o consequence_n that_o may_v follow_v say_v that_o among_o the_o christian_n of_o old_a the_o difference_n that_o do_v arise_v be_v about_o form_n which_o can_v not_o be_v seasonable_a word_n when_o we_o be_v establish_v the_o church_n in_o the_o holy_a order_n of_o truth_n much_o more_o may_v be_v collect_v from_o the_o article_n be_v forty-four_a in_o number_n exhibit_v by_o the_o aforesaid_a robert_n barrow_n etc._n etc._n to_o show_v how_o earnest_o and_o zealous_o the_o very_a outward_a form_n of_o thing_n be_v contend_v for_o which_o occasion_n we_o in_o all_o seriousness_n of_o spirit_n thus_o to_o say_v may_v the_o lord_n god_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n so_o preserve_v his_o people_n that_o they_o may_v not_o be_v ensnare_v by_o those_o who_o have_v raise_v so_o great_a contention_n about_o the_o outward_a form_n of_o thing_n prescribe_v to_o be_v practise_v among_o the_o professor_n of_o truth_n lest_o they_o with_o they_o prove_v to_o be_v boaster_n proud_a blasphemous_a false_a accuser_n despiser_n of_o those_o that_o be_v good_a which_o be_v the_o very_a mark_n and_o token_n of_o those_o who_o have_v a_o form_n of_o godliness_n but_o deny_v the_o power_n thereof_o from_o who_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v to_o turn_v away_o and_o how_o far_o these_o mark_v rest_n upon_o many_o of_o those_o who_o so_o earnest_o contend_v for_o their_o outward_a form_n we_o leave_v to_o the_o impartial_a reader_n with_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n to_o judge_n when_o he_o have_v thorough_o peruse_v this_o manuscript_n this_o mean_v the_o aforesaid_a historical_a manuscript_n treatise_n especial_o the_o second_o part._n oh_o friend_n the_o serious_a consideration_n of_o these_o thing_n bow_v we_o before_o the_o lord_n and_o in_o a_o sense_n of_o his_o mercy_n to_o we_o we_o can_v no_o long_o keep_v silence_n but_o in_o his_o fear_n declare_v unto_o all_o that_o our_o conscience_n be_v concern_v for_o the_o cause_n of_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n and_o since_o it_o be_v so_o that_o a_o ill_a use_n be_v make_v of_o that_o spirit_n of_o forbearance_n and_o condescension_n which_o we_o be_v sensible_a have_v be_v use_v by_o many_o of_o our_o brethren_n it_o be_v now_o become_v our_o portion_n to_o unburthen_v ourselves_o of_o that_o which_o have_v be_v our_o burden_n believe_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v not_o only_a arisen_n but_o will_v yet_o more_o and_o more_o arise_v against_o that_o spirit_n that_o will_v exalt_v itself_o over_o the_o heritage_n of_o god_n endeavour_v to_o rule_v over_o their_o conscience_n whenas_o christ_n alone_o be_v lord_n thereof_o it_o may_v be_v now_o worthy_a our_o observation_n to_o consider_v whether_o any_o encouragement_n be_v give_v by_o our_o lord_n and_o master_n christ_n jesus_n whilst_o on_o earth_n unto_o his_o disciple_n to_o become_v ruler_n one_o over_o another_o we_o find_v that_o he_o exhort_v his_o disciple_n judge_v not_o that_o you_o be_v not_o judge_v be_v not_o you_o call_v rabbi_n 23.8_o matth._n 7.1_o &_o 23.8_o for_o one_o be_v your_o master_n even_o christ_n and_o all_o you_o be_v brethren_n but_o he_o that_o be_v great_a among_o you_o shall_v be_v your_o servant_n and_o whosoever_o shall_v exalt_v himself_o shall_v be_v abase_v and_o he_o that_o shall_v humble_v himself_o shall_v be_v exalt_v here_o be_v no_o good_a ground_n to_o believe_v that_o christ_n intend_v that_o when_o he_o be_v depart_v his_o disciple_n shall_v be_v exalt_v themselves_o one_o over_o another_o as_o governor_n and_o ruler_n and_o if_o we_o 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and_o therefore_o signify_v it_o be_v expedient_a i_o go_v hence_o that_o the_o comforter_n come_v agreeable_a to_o which_o be_v the_o apostle_n word_n though_o we_o have_v know_v christ_n after_o the_o flesh_n yet_o henceforth_o know_v we_o he_o no_o more_o that_o be_v to_o say_v after_o the_o flesh_n no_o more_o all_o which_o do_v clear_o demonstrate_v unto_o we_o it_o be_v not_o according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o under_o this_o administration_n we_o shall_v have_v our_o eye_n out_o unto_o man_n but_o that_o our_o great_a dependency_n shall_v be_v on_o that_o comforter_n the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n which_o christ_n testify_v the_o father_n will_v send_v in_o his_o name_n to_o teach_v we_o all_o thing_n and_o that_o this_o comforter_n shall_v be_v in_o we_o and_o therefore_o on_o this_o occasion_n it_o be_v with_o we_o to_o give_v this_o further_a testimony_n that_o every_o member_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n be_v through_o the_o death_n of_o christ_n make_v dead_a 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far_o the_o citation_n out_o of_o the_o aforesaid_a manuscript_n and_o now_o to_o return_v again_o to_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o matter_n contain_v in_o the_o aforesaid_a query_n it_o be_v evident_a that_o grant_v the_o answer_n of_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n to_o be_v true_a it_o render_v they_o innocent_a man_n so_o far_o as_o relate_v to_o the_o matter_n query_v and_o yet_o it_o be_v too_o plain_a to_o i_o that_o this_o give_v not_o g._n f._n satisfaction_n to_o which_o i_o intend_v to_o speak_v more_o particular_o here_o after_o and_o forasmuch_o as_o it_o can_v not_o be_v just_o according_a to_o his_o own_o rule_n who_o have_v often_o exhort_v friend_n to_o follow_v report_n until_o the_o author_n be_v find_v to_o conceal_v the_o informer_n have_v the_o answer_n of_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n give_v he_o satisfaction_n than_o i_o query_n whether_o it_o be_v not_o much_o more_o unjust_a to_o conceal_v they_o when_o the_o answer_n give_v not_o 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be_v by_o he_o intend_v to_o be_v urge_v with_o severity_n upon_o any_o of_o god_n faithful_a people_n but_o as_o instruction_n and_o direction_n commend_v to_o the_o church_n etc._n etc._n which_o be_v dislike_v by_o many_o friend_n unto_o who_o the_o knowledge_n thereof_o come_v i_o be_v the_o more_o concern_v to_o query_n of_o g._n f._n when_o i_o have_v opportunity_n whether_o he_o own_v that_o sense_n give_v of_o john_n story_n on_o that_o occasion_n and_o thereupon_o be_v in_o his_o house_n at_o swarthmore_n before_o the_o meeting_n at_o drawell_n occasion_v by_o the_o say_a difference_n in_o the_o north_n i_o speak_v to_o he_o of_o it_o which_o occasion_v he_o to_o call_v for_o the_o answer_n wherein_o i_o affirm_v it_o be_v and_o when_o the_o passage_n relate_v thereto_o be_v produce_v i_o also_o well_o remember_v that_o he_o speak_v not_o one_o word_n to_o condemn_v the_o same_o nor_o yet_o to_o manifest_v the_o least_o disapprobation_n thereof_o which_o serious_o ponder_v 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barrow_n and_o those_o other_o who_o concern_v themselves_o about_o the_o aforesaid_a query_n and_o proceed_n therein_o and_o we_o believe_v if_o g._n f._n shall_v be_v interrogated_a touch_v it_o that_o he_o will_v disow_v that_o it_o be_v do_v by_o his_o authority_n or_o approbation_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o such_o i_o desire_v they_o serious_o to_o consider_v the_o observation_n which_o i_o make_v on_o these_o follow_a word_n mention_v in_o a_o postscript_n to_o a_o certificate_n write_v by_o john_n blaikling_n own_o be_v one_o of_o those_o concern_v with_o robert_n barrow_n touch_v the_o query_n and_o proceed_n thereon_o in_o favour_n of_o g._n f._n cite_v towards_o the_o latter-end_a of_o the_o five_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n viz._n what_o do_v you_o think_v to_o do_v with_o your_o vain_o attempt_v
our_o way_n be_v before_o the_o devil_n be_v and_o all_o the_o word_n way_n and_o all_o apostate_n and_o will_v be_v when_o they_o be_v go_v and_o this_o i_o tell_v thou_o and_o them_o but_o these_o word_n of_o thou_o be_v not_o from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n nor_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n for_o i_o know_v no_o new_a way_n nor_o new_a form_n carry_v on_o with_o church-authority_n as_o thou_o reproachful_o say_v but_o here_o thou_o have_v manifest_v thy_o separate_a spirit_n and_o mind_n for_o the_o authority_n of_o our_o man_n and_o womens-meeting_n be_v the_o power_n of_o christ_n jesus_n who_o be_v the_o new_a and_o live_a way_n and_o never_o change_v and_o all_o man_n and_o woman_n that_o believe_v in_o his_o light_n and_o receive_v he_o he_o give_v they_o power_n to_o become_v the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o such_o be_v heir_n of_o the_o power_n which_o be_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o meeting_n and_o they_o ought_v free_o to_o come_v and_o go_v to_o that_o which_o they_o be_v heir_n of_o without_o your_o imposition_n or_o opposition_n and_o all_o that_o receive_v he_o in_o the_o light_n he_o give_v they_o power_n and_o they_o be_v heir_n of_o his_o power_n and_o his_o life_n so_o they_o be_v heir_n of_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o man_n and_o womens-meeting_n and_o every_o man_n and_o woman_n that_o be_v a_o heir_n have_v right_o to_o the_o authority_n and_o they_o have_v take_v their_o possession_n and_o be_v take_v their_o possession_n and_o you_o in_o your_o separate_a spirit_n from_o the_o divine_a light_n of_o christ_n say_v your_o choose_a man_n and_o they_o who_o you_o have_v give_v power_n unto_o and_o say_v usurper_n of_o authority_n have_v come_v among_o your_o choose_a man_n who_o you_o have_v give_v no_o power_n unto_o and_o that_o none_o shall_v sit_v among_o your_o choose_a man_n neither_o of_o your_o own_o county_n nor_o other_o but_o to_o tell_v their_o message_n and_o go_v their_o way_n and_o so_o this_o kind_n of_o church-order_n among_o 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and_o manage_v the_o same_o by_o his_o own_o and_o family_n labour_v have_v no_o more_o nor_o less_o land_n than_o at_o first_o nor_o yet_o be_v his_o outward_a estate_n add_v to_o or_o diminish_v from_o since_o that_o time_n to_o the_o value_n of_o twentyfive_a round_n to_o this_o day_n he_o travel_n often_o alone_o without_o a_o companion_n but_o at_o all_o time_n without_o any_o attendant_n as_o his_o proper_a servant_n and_o content_v with_o the_o mean_a of_o meat_n and_o drink_n that_o the_o house_n wherein_o he_o usual_o lodge_v afford_v his_o conversation_n lowly_a and_o meek_a and_o take_v not_o upon_o he_o to_o give_v forth_o a_o outward_a directory_n for_o the_o child_n of_o light_a to_o walk_v by_o nor_o yet_o be_v ever_o know_v to_o write_v to_o any_o that_o if_o they_o be_v in_o the_o light_n and_o power_n of_o god_n they_o will_v come_v to_o he_o when_o he_o send_v for_o they_o as_o to_o g._n f._n he_o be_v a_o poor_a shoemaker_n and_o of_o mean_a parentage_n have_v 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though_o the_o apostle_n thus_o exhort_v little_a child_n keep_v yourselves_o from_o idol_n yet_o thy_o book_n touch_v womens-meeting_n etc._n etc._n very_a scandalous_a to_o the_o truth_n and_o worthy_a in_o several_a particular_n to_o be_v judge_v and_o condemn_v inform_v we_o as_o if_o micah_n mother_n speak_v of_o judge_n 17._o when_o she_o give_v money_n to_o make_v a_o grave_v image_n to_o be_v worship_v be_v a_o virtuous_a woman_n for_o touch_v she_o thou_o have_v thus_o write_v and_o be_v not_o micah_n mother_n a_o virtuous_a woman_n read_v judge_n 17._o and_o see_v what_o she_o say_v to_o she_o son_n and_o in_o a_o few_o line_n after_o thou_o thus_o testifyes_n these_o and_o such_o like_a woman_n be_v record_v to_o posterity_n for_o their_o wisdom_n and_o virtue_n see_v thy_o book_n pag._n 43_o 44._o three_o though_o there_o be_v endeavour_n to_o send_v paper_n to_o and_o fro_o to_o bespatter_n john_n story_n for_o go_v out_o of_o a_o meeting_n when_o the_o persecutor_n come_v 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to_o thou_o when_o thou_o send_v for_o they_o i_o understand_v not_o for_o thou_o in_o thy_o best_a estate_n be_v but_o a_o member_n of_o the_o christ_n of_o god_n unto_o who_o we_o be_v all_o to_o come_v when_o he_o call_v and_o if_o any_o shall_v affirm_v that_o thou_o have_v and_o do_v retain_v thy_o place_n yet_o in_o that_o case_n thou_o can_v be_v but_o a_o fellow-servant_n accountable_a unto_o the_o christ_n of_o god_n as_o every_o member_n of_o the_o body_n whereof_o christ_n be_v head_n be_v have_v thou_o forget_v how_o thou_o have_v testify_v against_o james_n naylor_n spirit_n who_o great_a fall_n be_v his_o own_n or_o at_o least_o not_o reprove_v the_o woman_n when_o they_o cry_v with_o a_o carnal_a tongue_n hosanna_n to_o he_o and_o have_v thou_o no_o sense_n that_o its_o gross_a ignorance_n and_o thick_a darkness_n for_o any_o to_o look_v upon_o thou_o as_o that_o prophet_n who_o the_o lord_n by_o his_o servant_n moses_n prophesy_v he_o will_v raise_v up_o like_v unto_o 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faithful_a friend_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o dark_a spirit_n and_o whether_o otherwise_o the_o prophecy_n of_o those_o who_o have_v prophesy_v blast_v and_o wither_v outward_o may_v not_o quick_o come_v to_o pass_v where_o persecution_n be_v the_o aforesaid_a query_n my_o desire_n be_v that_o thou_o george_n fox_n may_v answer_v that_o so_o the_o simplehearted_n friend_n may_v plain_o know_v what_o thy_o judgement_n be_v in_o thing_n of_o this_o nature_n for_o i_o have_v cause_n to_o believe_v that_o many_o such_o be_v at_o this_o day_n draw_v into_o the_o belief_n and_o practice_n of_o some_o thing_n for_o which_o they_o have_v no_o sufficient_a ground_n from_o the_o conviction_n of_o conscience_n in_o themselves_o but_o rather_o as_o prompt_v thereto_o by_o such_o who_o be_v like_a unto_o those_o who_o lie_v heavy_a burden_n on_o other_o which_o they_o themselves_o will_v not_o touch_v with_o their_o little_a finger_n but_o bless_v be_v the_o lord_n there_o be_v eye_n that_o see_v 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last_o spring_n that_o thou_o know_v what_o thou_o do_v in_o that_o quotation_n of_o micha_n mother_n that_o idolatrous_a woman_n though_o thou_o rendr_v she_o as_o one_o record_v for_o her_o wisdom_n and_o her_o dirtue_n and_o that_o thou_o see_v it_o will_v be_v a_o stumbling-block_n i_o therefore_o can_v but_o take_v this_o opportunity_n serious_o to_o put_v it_o to_o thy_o conscience_n do_v thou_o think_v thou_o have_v do_v well_o to_o put_v a_o stumble_v block_n before_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n do_v thou_o think_v a_o blessing_n can_v attend_v such_o a_o action_n in_o thou_o when_o christ_n himself_o have_v pronounce_v a_o general_a woe_n against_o those_o who_o be_v guilty_a thereof_o oh_o george_n consider_v before_o it_o be_v quite_o too_o late_o do_v not_o continue_v a_o instrument_n to_o raise_v division_n strife_n and_o contention_n among_o the_o professor_n of_o the_o truth_n for_o if_o thou_o do_v the_o loss_n of_o many_o soul_n may_v be_v lay_v at_o thy_o door_n 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prove_v it_o or_o bring_v teltimony_n under_o the_o hand_n of_o a_o credible_a friend_n in_o truth_n that_o mary_n penington_n do_v signify_v so_o much_o as_o be_v query_v in_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o query_n and_o also_o prove_v or_o bring_v under_o the_o hand_n of_o a_o credible_a friend_n in_o truth_n to_o who_o thou_o g._n f._n speak_v according_a as_o be_v query_v in_o the_o latter_a part_n ii_o whether_o thou_o g._n f._n do_v not_o advise_v nathaniel_z crip_n of_o the_o county_n of_o gloucester_n to_o buy_v his_o eythe_n both_o of_o priest_n and_o impropriator_n if_o thou_o deny_v it_o i_o will_v undertake_v to_o prove_v it_o or_o bring_v it_o under_o the_o hand_n of_o nathaniel_n crip_n that_o thou_o so_o do_v bristol_n the_o 20_o of_o the_o seven_o month_n 1678._o william_n rogers_n the_o aforesaid_a answer_n be_v read_v in_o the_o man_n meet_v of_o friend_n of_o the_o city_n of_o bristol_n at_o which_o some_o of_o the_o party_n with_o g._n f._n seem_v very_o uneasy_a 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commit_v to_o prove_v woman_n meeting_n as_o g._n f._n have_v do_v that_o will_v be_v account_v watchman_n watch_v for_o good_a healer_n of_o breach_n remover_n of_o stumbling-block_n and_o yet_o appear_v watcher_n for_o evil_a and_o not_o for_o good_a increaser_n of_o difference_n by_o add_v fuel_n to_o the_o fire_n and_o cast_v stumbling-block_n in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o simple_a that_o appear_v reprover_n of_o such_o to_o tythe-payer_n who_o ever_o bear_v a_o faithful_a testimony_n against_o it_o and_o yet_o advise_v other_o to_o buy_v their_o tithe_n that_o say_v god_n have_v give_v they_o infallible_a judgement_n in_o all_o thing_n and_o yet_o appear_v notorious_o fallible_a how_o far_o thou_o g.f._n be_v concern_v in_o such_o thing_n as_o these_o will_v appear_v in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o lord_n when_o every_o man_n word_n and_o work_n must_v be_v bring_v to_o judgement_n for_o i_o sirm_o believe_v thou_o be_v the_o man_n that_o have_v be_v guilty_a in_o all_o these_o thing_n from_o these_o last_o word_n george_n fox_n page_n the_o second_o thus_o say_v and_o thou_o have_v many_o query_n upon_o my_o epistle_n and_o on_o thy_o conclusion_n say_v thou_o believe_v that_o i_o be_o the_o man_n that_o be_v guilty_a of_o they_o all_o so_o by_o this_o it_o appear_v they_o be_v charge_n against_o i_o this_o construction_n of_o g._n f._n be_v utter_o wrong_a for_o my_o word_n from_o whence_o he_o draw_v that_o conclusion_n can_v in_o common_a sense_n and_o according_a to_o the_o connexion_n of_o word_n so_o import_n they_o be_v only_o relative_a to_o the_o precede_a matter_n contain_v in_o a_o distinct_a paragraph_n after_o i_o have_v do_v with_o the_o query_n but_o yet_o i_o will_v not_o have_v any_o to_o think_v that_o i_o ask_v one_o question_n as_o have_v no_o ground_n so_o to_o query_n moreover_o it_o be_v observable_a my_o aforesaid_a word_n will_v not_o amount_v unto_o a_o charge_n because_o to_o believe_v and_o to_o charge_n be_v two_o distinct_a thing_n for_o a_o man_n may_v believe_v a_o charge_n and_o yet_o have_v no_o hand_n in_o give_v the_o charge_n but_o a_o man_n can_v honest_o charge_v another_o and_o yet_o pretend_v he_o do_v not_o believe_v the_o charge_n g._n f_n manifest_a weakness_n do_v not_o end_v here_o for_o suppose_v his_o construction_n have_v be_v my_o mean_v he_o may_v then_o have_v just_o accuse_v i_o of_o folly_n but_o not_o just_o have_v render_v i_o one_o charge_v he_o with_o false_a accusation_n as_o on_o this_o occasion_n he_o have_v do_v since_o the_o query_n be_v not_o answer_v by_o i_o without_o which_o no_o certain_a accusation_n can_v be_v real_o manifest_v because_o question_n may_v be_v answer_v in_o truth_n sometime_o by_o yea_o and_o sometime_o by_o nay_o on_o this_o false_a assertion_n g._n f._n be_v become_v guilty_a of_o as_o many_o lie_n as_o my_o query_n before_o propose_v be_v in_o number_n viz._n thirteen_o beside_o if_o g._n f_n judgement_n manifest_a in_o his_o reply_n touch_v i_o viz._n that_o i_o have_v manifest_v madness_n and_o folly_n be_v true_a yet_o my_o folly_n have_v not_o be_v so_o great_a as_o to_o write_v one_o lie_v eight_o time_n over_o and_o thirteen_o particular_a lie_n and_o all_o on_o the_o foot_n of_o two_o false_a assertion_n beside_o many_o more_o as_o hereafter_o in_o this_o my_o reply_n will_v appear_v and_o that_o also_o dotectable_a from_o the_o view_n of_o my_o paper_n and_o g._n f_n answer_n thereto_o as_o he_o have_v do_v i_o will_v not_o adventure_v to_o say_v this_o in_o he_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o madness_n and_o folly_n though_o it_o be_v evident_a he_o do_v not_o heed_n what_o he_o write_v and_o in_o the_o most_o charitable_a construction_n that_o i_o can_v put_v thereon_o the_o reason_n he_o so_o do_v as_o i_o take_v it_o spring_v from_o a_o imagination_n possess_v his_o heart_n that_o he_o conclude_v whatever_n first_o arise_v in_o his_o mind_n on_o the_o sight_n or_o hear_n of_o any_o thing_n be_v fit_a to_o be_v bring_v forth_o and_o stand_v by_o and_o true_o it_o be_v to_o be_v doubt_v the_o like_a imagination_n have_v possess_v many_o among_o who_o i_o take_v john_n blaykle_v to_o be_v one_o by_o give_v forth_o a_o false_a certificate_n to_o cover_v g._n f._n in_o his_o defence_n of_o a_o lie_n against_o the_o truth_n of_o which_o more_o anon_o i_o now_o come_v to_o signify_v that_o g._n f_n send_v those_o query_n be_v more_o like_o the_o action_n of_o a_o friend_n to_o a_o company_n of_o hireling_n priest_n than_o the_o action_n of_o one_o friend_n to_o a_o meeting_n of_o friend_n account_v by_o some_o the_o church_n and_o that_o what_o i_o write_v by_o way_n of_o answer_n to_o he_o by_o name_n be_v more_o plain_a than_o his_o smite_v in_o general_a term_n so_o far_o as_o query_n may_v be_v call_v smite_v neither_o be_v my_o read_v my_o answer_n in_o the_o man_n meet_v against_o my_o former_a declare_a sense_n and_o judgement_n though_o g._n f._n do_v so_o insinuate_v instance_v the_o case_n of_o thomas_n cam_n which_o be_v remote_a from_o his_o purpose_n 1._o because_o thomas_n cam_n be_v never_o oppose_v by_o i_o or_o any_o that_o i_o know_v of_o to_o read_v any_o paper_n in_o the_o mens_fw-la meeting_n and_o 2._o when_o a_o agreement_n be_v appoint_v between_o thomas_n cam_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n in_o order_n to_o prove_v john_n wilkinson_n a_o encourager_n of_o wickedness_n friend_n be_v not_o willing_a to_o hear_v thomas_n cam_n read_v paper_n to_o prove_v other_o man_n wicked_a not_o present_a because_o the_o business_n of_o the_o meeting_n be_v to_o prove_v john_n wilkinson_n wicked_a and_o though_o it_o be_v not_o proper_a for_o one_o friend_n to_o bring_v forth_o accusation_n against_o another_o friend_n in_o order_n to_o obtain_v a_o judgement_n against_o the_o accuse_v behind_o his_o back_n which_o be_v the_o case_n of_o john_n blaykling_n and_o twenty_o five_o more_o accuser_n and_o informer_n against_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n in_o order_n to_o have_v nine_o person_n choose_v by_o those_o informer_n to_o sit_v in_o judgement_n on_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n when_o they_o refuse_v to_o own_o their_o authority_n over_o they_o yet_o if_o one_o that_o have_v profess_v the_o truth_n have_v send_v abroad_o his_o paper_n have_v a_o tendency_n to_o put_v one_o friend_n against_o another_o about_o secure_v outward_a estate_n when_o he_o have_v advise_v the_o like_a and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o have_v make_v lie_v his_o refuge_n thereby_o abuse_v honest_a man_n that_o can_v submit_v to_o his_o will_n it_o be_v proper_a enough_o for_o i_o or_o any_o that_o may_v have_v a_o concern_v of_o conscience_n as_o i_o have_v to_o discover_v the_o fruit_n of_o such_o a_o deceive_v betray_v spirit_n though_o behind_o the_o back_n of_o he_o in_o who_o it_o appear_v but_o shall_v i_o choose_v nine_o person_n and_o summon_v g._n f._n before_o they_o as_o judges_z over_o he_o without_o his_o assent_n and_o if_o he_o will_v not_o own_v their_o authority_n proceed_v to_o accuse_v and_o obtain_v such_o judge_n to_o judge_v the_o matter_n and_o spread_v that_o judgement_n over_o a_o nation_n to_o his_o defamation_n right_a or_o wrong_n it_o will_v not_o add_v to_o my_o credit_n though_o i_o may_v quote_v nine_a who_o have_v be_v take_v to_o be_v of_o the_o party_n with_o g._n f._n for_o a_o precedent_n in_o the_o very_a like_o case_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o may_v also_o quote_v several_a other_o judge_v i_o with_o respect_n to_o my_o answer_n to_o g._n f._n without_o either_o hear_n what_o i_o can_v say_v to_o manifest_v the_o reasonableness_n of_o my_o so_o write_v or_o g._n f._n to_o plead_v his_o innocency_n to_o all_o the_o matter_n write_v by_o way_n of_o reflection_n on_o he_o and_o whereas_o g._n f._n say_v that_o i_o say_v to_o bray_n daily_o that_o i_o send_v it_o mean_v my_o answer_n to_o g._n f._n three_o week_n before_o it_o be_v read_v in_o the_o meeting_n i_o say_v that_o be_v utter_o false_a it_o be_v probable_a i_o may_v acquaint_v he_o it_o be_v write_v so_o long_o before_o or_o leave_v some_o time_n before_o with_o charles_n jones_n senior_a of_o bristol_n to_o be_v send_v to_o g._n f._n for_o so_o i_o do_v but_o he_o desire_v more_o time_n to_o consider_v whether_o he_o will_v send_v it_o or_o no_o than_o i_o be_v willing_a to_o grant_v page_n 32th_o of_o george_n fox_n manuscript_n he_o thus_o say_v here_o it_o be_v evident_a thou_o have_v fulfil_v my_o former_a word_n that_o these_o thy_o pretend_a query_n be_v all_o of_o they_o real_a charge_n see_v here_o thou_o say_v thou_o firm_o believe_v that_o i_o be_o the_o man_n that_o have_v be_v guilty_a of_o all_o these_o thing_n beforementioned_a and_o
we_o never_o know_v that_o he_o have_v flinch_v but_o have_v endure_v patient_o as_o also_o the_o know_a care_n that_o have_v be_v upon_o he_o for_o the_o preserve_v and_o encourage_v of_o all_o by_o word_n and_o pattern_n to_o stand_v in_o time_n of_o persecution_n and_o this_o we_o think_v fit_a to_o insert_v as_o person_n concern_v for_o the_o vindication_n of_o our_o dear_a friend_n george_n fox_n innocency_n in_o this_o case_n which_o we_o have_v do_v according_a to_o the_o best_a of_o our_o knowledge_n and_o remembrance_n who_o never_o see_v any_o just_a occasion_n for_o such_o a_o charge_n as_o william_n rogers_n have_v so_o wicked_o asperse_v he_o with_o john_n ware_n and_o twenty_o seven_o person_n more_o i_o now_o come_v to_o make_v some_o observation_n on_o the_o above_o certificate_n they_o render_v i_o false_a charge_v and_o seem_v concern_v to_o vindicate_v g._n f_n innocency_n in_o this_o case_n yet_o they_o have_v do_v it_o but_o at_o a_o very_a poor_a rate_n much_o like_o the_o perjure_a informer_n that_o on_o the_o late_a act_n have_v appear_v against_o friend_n for_o first_o they_o say_v it_o be_v a_o false_a charge_n which_o be_v a_o positive_a testimony_n against_o i_o wherein_o they_o undertake_v to_o prove_v such_o a_o negative_a which_o be_v impossible_a to_o be_v prove_v by_o they_o unless_o they_o have_v be_v eye_n witness_n of_o what_o george_n fox_n do_v in_o every_o meeting_n in_o time_n of_o persecution_n at_o the_o meetinghouse_n in_o broad-mead_n that_o i_o also_o be_v present_a at_o but_o that_o by_o their_o certificate_n it_o seem_v they_o dare_v not_o say_v for_o when_o they_o come_v to_o disprove_v i_o by_o particular_a evidence_n they_o then_o thus_o say_v we_o be_v general_o all_o of_o we_o at_o all_z or_o most_o of_o the_o meeting_n at_o which_o george_n fox_n be_v here_o and_o that_o we_o never_o know_v or_o can_v remember_v that_o ever_o any_o persecutor_n come_v up_o the_o stair_n while_o george_n fox_n be_v speak_v i_o appeal_v now_o to_o every_o impartial_a understanding_n reader_n whether_o my_o charge_v of_o he_o for_o step_v down_o on_o a_o sudden_a and_o hasten_v out_o of_o the_o meeting_n must_v be_v wrong_a because_o they_o never_o know_v another_o matter_n of_o fact_n relate_v to_o other_o or_o whether_o it_o do_v follow_v that_o the_o persecutor_n do_v not_o come_v up_o the_o stair_n at_o no_o such_o meeting_n because_o they_o do_v know_v or_o remember_v the_o matter_n when_o not_o assign_v to_o any_o meeting_n wherein_o they_o dare_v say_v that_o they_o be_v present_a they_o say_v that_o i_o have_v charge_v george_n fox_n to_o be_v one_o of_o the_o great_a fleer_n in_o time_n of_o persecution_n of_o any_o that_o i_o know_v profess_v the_o truth_n and_o account_v by_o other_o a_o faithful_a friend_n herein_o they_o as_o i_o take_v it_o and_o as_o i_o be_o persuade_v all_o impartial_a reader_n will_v false_o charge_v i_o my_o word_n be_v these_o and_o if_o report_n be_v true_a this_o be_v but_o very_o little_a of_o what_o may_v at_o large_a be_v manifest_v to_o prove_v he_o one_o of_o the_o great_a fleer_n etc._n etc._n in_o time_n of_o persecution_n that_o ever_o i_o know_v profess_v the_o truth_n and_o esteem_v by_o other_o a_o faithful_a friend_n three_o they_o say_v that_o i_o for_o confirmation_n thereof_o bring_v a_o instance_n of_o a_o meeting_n here_o at_o brastol_a which_o george_n fox_n be_v present_a at_o about_o 15_o year_n since_o etc._n etc._n this_o also_o can_v be_v take_v to_o be_v a_o true_a charge_n from_o my_o word_n not_o only_o be_v cause_n i_o do_v not_o positive_o charge_v he_o to_o be_v one_o of_o the_o great_a fleer_n in_o time_n of_o persecution_n etc._n etc._n but_o also_o because_o i_o do_v not_o signify_v the_o time_n at_o which_o the_o meeting_n be_v hold_v though_o they_o say_v it_o be_v about_o 15_o year_n since_o and_o so_o it_o appear_v that_o they_o be_v detect_v of_o several_a lie_n by_o compare_v their_o testimony_n with_o what_o i_o have_v write_v this_o occasion_n i_o to_o observe_v that_o they_o do_v not_o say_v they_o never_o know_v or_o can_v remember_v that_o he_o step_v down_o and_o hasten_v out_o of_o the_o meeting_n at_o a_o back-pair_n of_o stair_n which_o be_v the_o matter_n wherewith_o i_o charge_v he_o with_o the_o sight_n of_o my_o own_o eye_n and_o other_o also_o on_o this_o occasion_n and_o this_o also_o i_o know_v that_o his_o so_o departure_n be_v a_o very_a considerable_a time_n before_o the_o meeting_n break_v up_o and_o be_v it_o not_o so_o that_o these_o false_a witness-bearer_n be_v conscious_a to_o themselves_o that_o about_o fifteen_o year_n since_o george_n fox_n so_o do_v as_o i_o say_v my_o eye_n be_v witness_v of_o what_o reason_n shall_v they_o have_v for_o limit_v my_o charge_n to_o that_o time_n i_o shall_v now_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o conscience_n of_o all_o impartial_a reader_n to_o consider_v whether_o john_n ware_n and_o the_o other_o twenty_o seven_o person_n do_v not_o just_o deserve_v the_o title_n of_o false-witness-bearer_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o since_o george_n fox_n in_o his_o answer_n to_o i_o have_v signify_v on_o this_o occasion_n that_o he_o believe_v there_o be_v many_o in_o bristol_n that_o will_v witness_v against_o this_o false_a charge_n it_o be_v not_o rational_a to_o suppose_v that_o the_o aforesaid_a john_n ware_n and_o the_o other_o twenty_o seven_o subscriber_n have_v be_v by_o he_o betray_v to_o affirm_v whereof_o they_o know_v not_o and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o their_o testimony_n be_v lame_a and_o not_o sufficient_a to_o serve_v his_o turn_n not_o only_o for_o the_o reason_n aforesaid_a but_o also_o because_o they_o do_v not_o so_o much_o as_o affirm_v that_o the_o meeting_n hold_v about_o fifteen_o year_n since_o be_v in_o the_o time_n of_o persecution_n and_o that_o he_o stay_v therein_o until_o the_o meet_v end_v one_o thing_n more_o be_v observable_a g._n f._n inform_v i_o some_o say_v my_o paper_n be_v not_o worth_a answer_v to_o which_o i_o say_v doubtless_o these_o word_n come_v from_o some_o of_o george_n fox_n be_v party_n and_o since_o george_n fox_n have_v act_v contrary_a to_o their_o sense_n and_o write_v six_o sheet_n of_o paper_n in_o answer_n to_o one_o of_o i_o what_o be_v become_v of_o their_o unity_n now_o and_o whether_o this_o show_v not_o that_o they_o be_v in_o confusion_n among_o themselves_o especial_o since_o g._n f._n in_o his_o answer_n say_v the_o less_o i_o do_v take_v notice_n of_o they_o because_o i_o know_v they_o to_o be_v detect_v be_v by_o george_n fox_n rule_n those_o who_o matter_n not_o what_o they_o say_v etc._n etc._n be_v exercise_v by_o this_o spirit_n that_o make_v some_o like_a devil_n witness_v his_o before-cited_n word_n speak_v as_o he_o be_v walk_v in_o nathaniel_n crip_n his_o chamber_n which_o occasion_n i_o to_o query_n from_o his_o word_n all_o false_a and_o malicious_a charge_n whether_o by_o his_o own_o rule_n he_o have_v not_o manifest_v himself_o to_o be_v exercise_v by_o the_o same_o spirit_n for_o have_v he_o be_v a_o man_n that_o have_v take_v care_n to_o have_v affirm_v nothing_o but_o the_o truth_n he_o will_v not_o have_v be_v the_o publisher_n as_o well_o as_o author_n of_o so_o many_o lie_v and_o falsehood_n whereof_o to_o his_o shame_n he_o be_v detect_v all_o false_a malicious_a charge_n whenas_o he_o have_v not_o only_o write_v six_o sheet_n of_o paper_n for_o the_o copy_n deliver_v i_o contain_v so_o many_o by_o way_n of_o answer_n which_o be_v a_o take_a notice_n thereof_o at_o a_o large_a rate_n but_o also_o it_o appear_v that_o many_o of_o they_o which_o by_o his_o general_a expression_n he_o account_v false_a charge_n be_v not_o in_o his_o particular_a answer_n deny_v to_o be_v true_a but_o rather_o a_o own_n thereof_o be_v plain_o imply_v from_o his_o word_n as_o be_v already_o manifest_v this_o i_o take_v to_o be_v one_o sign_n or_o token_n that_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n by_o his_o servant_n john_n wilkinson_n be_v fulfil_v i_o now_o come_v to_o take_v notice_n that_o g._n f._n accuse_v i_o that_o i_o threaten_v the_o constable_n at_o their_o peril_n not_o to_o meddle_v with_o any_o thing_n of_o i_o within_o door_n etc._n etc._n this_o i_o say_v be_v a_o false_a charge_n my_o word_n on_o that_o occasion_n be_v to_o this_o purpose_n the_o door_n be_v open_a the_o good_n in_o the_o house_n be_v i_o they_o may_v go_v in_o and_o there_o be_v enough_o but_o then_o i_o also_o tell_v they_o that_o if_o they_o do_v meddle_v etc._n etc._n before_o i_o speak_v with_o the_o justice_n i_o shall_v lay_v that_o injustice_n at_o their_o door_n because_o of_o right_n i_o ought_v to_o be_v first_o hear_v before_o my_o good_n ought_v to_o be_v
part_n p._n 7_o 8._o see_v also_o the_o 3_o d._n part_n p._n 7_o 8._o the_o general-assemble_o of_o the_o cburch_n of_o the_o first-born_a 3_o d._n part_n p._n 74_o 78._o member_n of_o christ_n body_n not_o certain_o describable_a by_o outward_a mark_n and_o token_n outward_a order_n insufficient_a for_o their_o conservation_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 57_o 58._o no_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n one_o more_o than_o another_o be_v exempt_v from_o be_v liable_a to_o err_v pag._n 75_o 76_o 77_o 78._o n_n  _fw-fr o_fw-fr obedience_n what_o kind_n of_o obedience_n find_v acceptance_n &_o what_o not_o 3_o d._n part_n p._n 26_o 33._o see_v church-government_n though_o the_o obedience_n of_o christ_n make_v many_o righteous_a yet_o it_o be_v no_o proof_n that_o any_o be_v or_o can_v be_v make_v partaker_n of_o that_o righteousness_n while_o sin_n reign_v in_o the_o mortal_a body_n 2_o d._n part_n p._n 67_o 68_o opposer_n from_o a_o objection_n raise_v occasion_n be_v take_v to_o show_v the_o difference_n between_o we_o and_o our_o opposer_n though_o our_o language_n relate_v to_o principle_n and_o practice_n in_o some_o thing_n agree_v 1_o st_o part_n p._n 30_o 31._o order_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n and_o can_v be_v establish_v by_o man_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 25._o outward_a order_n the_o establisher_n thereof_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o christ_n government_n invader_n of_o christ_n prerogative_n 1_o st_o part_n p._n 4._o reason_n give_v why_o they_o be_v unsuitable_a to_o be_v account_v a_o part_n of_o christ_n government_n 3_o d._n prt_n p._n 6_o 7_o 8_o 9_o 11_o 23_o 24._o see_v 1_o st_o part_n p_o 6_o 7_o 8._o see_v church-government_n p_o perfection_n every_o gift_n of_o god_n be_v perfect_a no_o such_o perfect_a state_n attainable_a wherein_o it_o be_v not_o needful_a for_o man_n to_o watch_n 2_o d._n part_n p._n 14._o a_o cessation_n from_o sin_n attainable_a 2_o d._n part_n p._n 14_o 15_o 16_o 19_o 20._o persecution_n a_o objection_n touch_v secure_v outward_a estate_n in_o time_n of_o persecution_n christ_n word_n to_o peter_n and_o saul_n action_n of_o save_v agag_n be_v instance_a be_v answer_v 1_o st_o part_n p._n 30_o to_o 36._o plain-language_n on_o what_o ground_n use_v 2_o d._n part_n p._n 34._o power_n of_o decision_n of_o difference_n by_o robert_n barclay_n word_n import_v a_o jurisdiction_n in_o such_o as_o he_o account_v the_o church_n over_o property_n 3._o part_n p._n 35._o observation_n on_o the_o say_a sense_n show_v the_o inconsistency_n thereof_o with_o truth_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 35_o to_o 41._o power_n to_o bound_v and_o loose_v be_v not_o from_o christ_n word_n so_o far_o as_o from_o the_o scripture_n we_o learn_v plead_v by_o the_o apostle_n or_o any_o assembly_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o christ_n church_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 66_o 67._o principle_n repute_a by_o robert_n barclay_n the_o bond_n by_o which_o we_o become_v centre_v into_o one_o body_n meaning_n christ_n body_n the_o church_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 54._o his_o assertion_n and_o argument_n refute_v p._n 54_o to_o 59_o the_o like_a he_o say_v touch_v practice_n and_o doctrine_n p._n 54._o professor_n of_o christianity_n how_o they_o come_v to_o disagree_v touch_v some_o religious_a matter_n whenas_o while_o they_o keep_v to_o scripture-language_n they_o agree_v in_o principle_n term_v fundamental_a that_o be_v relative_a to_o the_o matter_n wherein_o they_o differ_v 2_o d._n part_n p._n 69_o 70._o prophet_n raise_v like_o unto_o moses_n be_v christ_n jesus_n and_o no_o other_o be_v own_v by_o we_o like_v unto_o moses_n under_o the_o second_o covenant_n but_o christ_n jesus_n 1_o st_o part_n p._n 10_o 11._o qui_fw-fr  _fw-fr r_o reign_n of_o christ_n be_v by_o his_o spirit_n in_o the_o heart_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 4._o robert_n barclay_n a_o answer_n to_o his_o book_n of_o government_n manifest_v erroneous_a doctrine_n hold_v forth_o by_o he_o 3_o d._n part_n p._n 15_o to_o 88_o the_o chief_a matter_n discourse_v of_o in_o the_o say_a answer_n p._n 19_o 20_o 21_o 22_o 23._o robert_n barclay_n postscript_n to_o the_o say_a book_n by_o way_n of_o epistle_n to_o friend_n wherein_o he_o affirm_v that_o he_o never_o find_v occasion_n to_o repent_v or_o retract_v any_o thing_n from_o the_o matter_n and_o principles_n there_o assert_v by_o he_o and_o further_o also_o that_o though_o the_o thing_n chief_o scruple_v at_o be_v as_o he_o say_v clear_v by_o will_n m._o rogers_n his_o own_o letter_n yet_o that_o all_o may_v be_v satisfy_v by_o have_v they_o from_o his_o own_o hand_n he_o be_v free_a to_o write_v his_o postscript_n william_n rogers_n his_o observation_n adjoin_v to_o the_o say_a postscript_n show_v first_o that_o robert_n barclay_n justify_v his_o book_n second_o that_o the_o pretend_a letter_n of_o william_n rogers_n be_v by_o robert_n barclay_n acknowledge_v to_o contain_v robert_z barclay_n sense_n and_o explication_n of_o the_o matter_n scruple_v in_o his_o book_n three_o that_o his_o postscript_n be_v write_v that_o all_o may_v have_v his_o sense_n of_o the_o matter_n chief_o scruple_v under_o his_o own_o hand_n according_a to_o the_o explication_n give_v in_o william_n rogers_n his_o pretend_a letter_n four_o that_o notwithstanding_o all_o this_o the_o explication_n in_o the_o say_a letter_n be_v not_o to_o be_v find_v in_o his_o book_n nor_o yet_o all_o of_o they_o in_o his_o postscript_n neither_o do_v his_o postscript_n and_o book_n agree_v nor_o yet_o either_o of_o they_o with_o truth_n in_o many_o thing_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 99_o to_o 124._o rule_v see_v church-government_n s_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n see_v kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o justification_n satan_n the_o qualification_n of_o such_o who_o satan_n have_v make_v use_n of_o to_o rend_v and_o divide_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n viz._n such_o as_o have_v zeal_n without_o knowledge_n such_o as_o have_v knowledge_n without_o zeal_n and_o other_o that_o have_v abound_v in_o confidence_n without_o either_o knowledge_n or_o zeal_n 1_o st_o part_n p._n 69_o to_o 78._o schism_n the_o ground_n thereof_o and_o some_o mark_n by_o which_o it_o be_v know_v 3_o d._n part_n p._n 41_o 42._o scripture_n may_v be_v a_o instrument_n through_o the_o spirit_n whereby_o faith_n in_o christ_n may_v be_v attain_v unto_o 2_o d._n part_n p._n 3_o 4._o and_o albeit_o they_o have_v be_v own_v by_o we_o and_o our_o ancient_a friend_n to_o be_v a_o rule_n yet_o we_o have_v not_o own_v they_o to_o be_v the_o infallible_a rule_n but_o instead_o thereof_o the_o spirit_n and_o yet_o they_o have_v be_v of_o late_o strain_v by_o robert_n barclay_n to_o make_v they_o the_o rule_n to_o rule_v over_o our_o brethren_n p._n 48_o 49_o 50_o 51._o see_v church-government_n sentence_n or_o degree_n of_o any_o assembly_n though_o pretend_v themselves_o the_o church_n in_o matter_n relate_v to_o conscience_n no_o bond_n upon_o believer_n without_o inward_a conviction_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 58_o 61_o 62._o see_v believer_n sin_n see_v perfection_n spirit_n what_o be_v mean_v by_o this_o kind_n of_o our_o opposer_n language_n viz._n dark_a leaven_a rend_v divide_v separate_a spirit_n 1_o st_o part_n p._n 6._o spiritual_a matter_n cognizable_a by_o the_o government_n hold_v forth_o by_o robert_n barclay_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 53._o swear_v under_o the_o gospel-dispensation_n not_o lawful_a in_o any_o case_n 2_o d._n part_n 37_o 38_o 39_o submission_n to_o any_o assembly_n that_o in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n may_v be_v term_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v so_o plead_v for_o by_o robert_n barclay_n as_o that_o want_n of_o sight_n shall_v not_o excuse_v be_v guilty_a of_o disobey_v god_n 3_o d._n pare_v p._n 69._o that_o sense_n refute_v his_o perversion_n of_o the_o scripture_n cite_v discover_v 3_o d._n part_n p._n 69_o to_o 80._o supper_n of_o the_o lord_n the_o night_n before_o he_o be_v betray_v p._n 51._o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n at_o that_o supper_n own_v p._n 51_o 52._o scripture_n repute_v to_o relate_v to_o that_o practice_n explain_v p._n 52_o to_o 61._o t_o testimony_n in_o what_o case_n these_o word_n let_v th'testimony_n of_o friend_n arise_v have_v be_v notorious_o abuse_v 1_o st_o part_n p._n 18_o 19_o tradition_n see_v church-government_n tree_n of_o knowledge_n of_o good_a and_o evil_a can_v proper_o be_v a_o comparison_n to_o represent_v knowledge_n that_o be_v devilish_a or_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v evil_a 2_o d._n part_n p._n 28_o 29._o tithe_n no_o gospel-maintenance_n to_o a_o gospel-ministry_n 2_o d._n part_n p._n 40_o to_o 44._o u_o unity_n divers_a thing_n lay_v down_o wherein_o the_o faithful_a be_v at_o unity_n 1_o st_o part_n p._n 2_o 3_o 4._o in_o what_o sense_n the_o apostle_n exhort_v thereto_o 1_o st_o part_n p._n 36_o 37._o inconvenience_n attend_v this_o doctrine_n no_o unity_n but_o in_o conformity_n 1_o st_o part_n p._n 72_o 73._o a_o universal_a establish_v unity_n with_o respect_n to_o faith_n and_o discipline_n relate_v to_o believer_n in_o christ_n by_o outward_a instrument_n be_v inconsi_v with_o gospel-liberty_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 82_o to_o 86._o see_v believer_n the_o mark_n of_o a_o member_n of_o christ_n church_n in_o unity_n with_o the_o body_n be_v a_o inward_a invisible_a mark_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 83_o 84._o w_n war_n not_o lawful_a to_o be_v enter_v into_o by_o we_o to_o work_v our_o own_o deliverance_n from_o under_o oppressive_a law_n and_o magistrate_n 2_o d._n part_n p._n 30_o 31_o 32._o weak_a believer_n may_v be_v receive_v to_o doubtful_a disputation_n by_o assign_v the_o decision_n of_o controversy_n to_o the_o church_n since_o contention_n may_v arise_v who_o or_o where_n they_o be_v 3_o d._n part_n p._n 59_o 60._o wisdom_n from_o above_o and_o that_o which_o be_v not_o from_o above_o be_v describe_v wisdom_n which_o we_o have_v as_o creature_n be_v not_o that_o wisdom_n which_o by_o the_o apostle_n be_v term_v sensual_a and_o devilish_a but_o be_v give_v we_o of_o god_n 2_o d._n part_n p._n 21_o to_o 25._o woman_n have_v receive_v a_o revelation_n to_o utter_v in_o the_o church_n may_v speak_v unruly_a disorderly_a woman_n may_v be_v warn_v to_o be_v silent_a even_o as_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n so_o to_o be_v in_o the_o church_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 52._o work_n what_o sort_n be_v necessary_a to_o salvation_n and_o what_o not_o work_v speak_v of_o by_o the_o apostle_n james_n be_v the_o same_o sort_n of_o work_n speak_v of_o by_o the_o apostle_n paul_n 2_o d._n part_n p._n 16_o 17_o 18_o 19_o write_n for_o public_a view_n by_o who_o approve_v or_o else_o not_o to_o be_v print_v 3_o d._n part_n p._n 29_o 30_o reason_n against_o the_o method_n of_o such_o approbation_n and_o limitation_n 3_o d._n part_n p._n 29_o 30_o 31_o 32._o x_o  _fw-fr y_fw-fr  _fw-fr z_o zeal_n without_o knowledge_n some_o part_n of_o the_o fruit_n thereof_o describe_v 1_o st_o part_n pag._n 70_o 71_o 72_o 73._o zeal_n according_a to_o knowledge_n accept_v by_o god_n 1_o st_o part_n p._n 70._o a_o part_n of_o the_o qualification_n of_o such_o as_o be_v endue_v with_o it_o 1_o st_o part_n p._n 77._o the_o postscript_n follow_v the_o preface_n be_v add_v to_o clear_v the_o truth_n as_o well_o as_o myself_o from_o this_o pretend_a argument_n against_o my_o print_n viz._n that_o i_o come_v up_o to_o london_n to_o read_v a_o charge_n behind_o george_n fox_n be_v back_o and_o that_o though_o i_o pretend_v a_o readiness_n to_o meet_v he_o i_o have_v no_o desire_n thereto_o which_o give_v i_o occasion_n to_o lay_v down_o several_a observation_n and_o reason_n invalidate_v the_o pretend_a argument_n together_o with_o a_o letter_n write_v by_o i_o to_o james_n claypoole_n and_o three_o other_o friend_n in_o london_n to_o cover_v a_o remonstrance_n to_o the_o friend_n of_o london_n all_o on_o purpose_n that_o they_o may_v use_v their_o interest_n to_o cause_n george_n fox_n to_o submit_v to_o a_o hear_v that_o so_o if_o possible_a some_o expedient_a may_v have_v be_v find_v to_o satisfy_v my_o conscience_n otherwise_o than_o by_o print_v which_o i_o acquaint_v they_o of_o as_o well_o as_o george_n fox_n and_o that_o i_o intend_v to_o proceed_v therein_o unless_o so_o much_o notice_n shall_v be_v take_v of_o my_o call_n for_o justice_n against_o the_o reproachful_a action_n and_o trespass_n of_o george_n fox_n as_o that_o he_o may_v be_v bring_v to_o a_o hear_v before_o friend_n to_o the_o end_n that_o if_o guilty_a he_o may_v give_v satisfaction_n if_o not_o he_o may_v be_v quit_v there_o be_v also_o signify_v in_o the_o say_a postscript_n several_a thing_n which_o be_v clear_a evidence_n that_o george_n fox_n will_v not_o assent_v to_o any_o meeting_n for_o the_o aforesaid_a end_n which_o come_v to_o my_o knowledge_n i_o be_v then_o free_a of_o all_o concern_v to_o solicit_v he_o more_o either_o by_o word_n or_o write_n for_o a_o meeting_n and_o have_v no_o further_a bond_n upon_o i_o to_o forbear_v proceed_v to_o print_v as_o expeditious_a as_o i_o can_v william_n rogers_n