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nature_n case_n dispute_v great_a 19 3 2.0856 3 false
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ID Title Author Corrected Date of Publication (TCP Date of Publication) STC Words Pages
A33791 A Collection of cases and other discourses lately written to recover dissenters to the communion of the Church of England by some divines of the city of London ; in two volumes ; to each volume is prefix'd a catalogue of all the cases and discourses contained in this collection. 1685 (1685) Wing C5114; ESTC R12519 932,104 1,468

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palace_n amen_n the_o end_n a_o vindication_n of_o the_o case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n use_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n in_o answer_n to_o a_o book_n entitle_v the_o case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n use_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n examine_v state_v on_o the_o behalf_n of_o the_o dissenter_n and_o calm_o argue_v london_n print_v by_o h._n hill_n for_o fincham_n gardner_n at_o the_o white-horse_n in_o ludgate-street_n 1684._o a_o vindication_n of_o the_o case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n use_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n among_o some_o tract_n publish_v within_o the_o year_n for_o the_o resolution_n of_o such_o doubt_n as_o the_o dissenter_n from_o our_o church_n plead_v for_o refuse_v communion_n with_o it_o there_o be_v one_o that_o respect_v the_o use_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n this_o some_o one_o of_o our_o brethren_n choose_v to_o examine_v and_o to_o begin_v his_o debate_n 2._o case_n examine_v p._n 2._o with_o in_o the_o 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the_o be_v not_o command_v be_v a_o branch_n of_o such_o thing_n as_o be_v indifferent_a and_o if_o he_o will_v maintain_v it_o he_o must_v do_v it_o upon_o no_o less_o absurdity_n than_o the_o say_n a_o thing_n indifferent_a be_v forbid_v or_o which_o be_v the_o same_o that_o indifferent_a thing_n be_v such_o as_o be_v either_o forbid_v or_o not_o forbid_v but_o let_v we_o abstract_n the_o case_n of_o thing_n not_o command_v from_o this_o consequence_n and_o take_v it_o as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o tract_n 20._o case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n p._n 20._o aforesaid_a a_o objection_n and_o answer_n and_o yet_o then_o we_o shall_v see_v what_o a_o imperfect_a account_n our_o author_n give_v of_o it_o he_o say_v what_o our_o author_n say_v be_v no_o more_o than_o have_v 25._o case_n examine_v p._n
one_o and_o the_o other_o if_o we_o state_n the_o case_n we_o say_v the_o rule_n we_o be_v to_o guide_v ourselves_o by_o be_v those_o of_o the_o apostle_n of_o decency_n order_n and_o edification_n and_o we_o trouble_v not_o ourselves_o nice_o to_o consider_v whether_o the_o decency_n arise_v from_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n or_o from_o common_a usage_n or_o prescription_n or_o institution_n since_o we_o think_v that_o decency_n may_v arise_v from_o any_o and_o it_o matter_n not_o from_o what_o cause_n the_o thing_n proceed_v nor_o how_o it_o come_v to_o be_v decent_a when_o it_o be_v now_o think_v and_o find_v to_o be_v so_o and_o as_o little_a curious_a arewe_n about_o the_o first_o reason_n of_o order_n and_o edification_n for_o we_o be_v so_o little_a speculative_a in_o matter_n of_o practice_n that_o we_o think_v the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n and_o unity_n among_o christian_n be_v much_o more_o fit_a to_o determine_v we_o in_o these_o case_n than_o all_o the_o 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and_o when_o the_o thing_n suit_n not_o the_o nature_n or_o defeat_v the_o end_n etc._n case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n p._n 24_o etc._n etc._n of_o divine_a worship_n or_o for_o the_o like_a reason_n which_o i_o in_o the_o controvert_v tract_n do_v insist_v upon_o but_o now_o on_o the_o contrary_a by_o what_o may_v be_v collect_v from_o he_o it_o appear_v to_o be_v the_o sense_n of_o his_o position_n 1._o that_o nothing_o of_o humane_a institution_n be_v to_o be_v admit_v or_o may_v lawful_o be_v use_v in_o divine_a worship_n for_o thus_o he_o say_v they_o must_v be_v thing_n necessary_a to_o all_o humane_a act_n or_o convenient_a for_o they_o as_o humane_a act_n or_o comely_a for_o all_o humane_a act_n etc._n etc._n 2._o that_o nothing_o though_o necessary_a or_o convenient_a or_o comely_a aught_o to_o be_v use_v in_o and_o much_o less_o be_v appropriate_v to_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n for_o they_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v in_o worship_n only_o as_o they_o have_v a_o reference_n to_o such_o humane_a acts._n in_o the_o consideration_n of_o these_o i_o shall_v 1._o consider_v how_o he_o attempt_v to_o prove_v it_o 2._o endeavour_v to_o discover_v the_o mistake_n and_o vindicate_v the_o argument_n and_o instance_n produce_v in_o the_o case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n to_o the_o contrary_a from_o his_o exception_n these_o be_v the_o chief_a thing_n that_o all_o his_o discourse_n be_v found_v upon_o and_o that_o be_v scatter_v through_o it_o but_o though_o they_o be_v rather_o suppose_v than_o prove_v by_o he_o and_o therefore_o to_o use_v his_o own_o word_n i_o may_v light_o pass_v they_o over_o and_o expect_v till_o he_o have_v justify_v they_o yet_o because_o i_o will_v make_v somewhat_o of_o it_o i_o shall_v collect_v from_o the_o hint_n he_o give_v what_o it_o be_v that_o he_o do_v think_v may_v be_v say_v for_o they_o as_o for_o the_o first_o of_o these_o that_o nothing_o be_v to_o be_v use_v i●_n 1._o prop._n 1._o divine_a worship_n that_o be_v mere_o of_o 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suppose_v it_o be_v not_o in_o the_o power_n of_o man_n to_o create_v a_o decency_n yet_o order_n may_v be_v order_n without_o those_o dilatory_a reason_n of_o custom_n and_o prescription_n and_o therefore_o what_o hold_v against_o establish_v decency_n by_o institution_n will_v not_o hinder_v but_o that_o order_n may_v be_v thereby_o establish_v therefore_o 2._o he_o further_o argue_v from_o the_o nature_n of_o decency_n and_o order_n that_o thing_n of_o mere_a humane_a institution_n be_v not_o capable_a of_o that_o plea._n we_o can_v understand_v say_v he_o nothing_o ibid._n ibid._n by_o orderly_a and_o according_a to_o order_n but_o without_o confusion_n by_o decency_n we_o can_v understand_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v oppose_v to_o sordid_o nor_o can_v we_o think_v of_o any_o action_n that_o be_v not_o decent_a if_o the_o contrary_a to_o it_o be_v not_o indecent_a so_o than_o nothing_o ought_v to_o be_v do_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n but_o what_o may_v be_v do_v without_o confusion_n etc._n etc._n of_o which_o nature_n can_v nothing_o be_v that_o be_v idle_a and_o superfluous_a etc._n etc._n i_o be_v at_o a_o great_a loss_n at_o first_o to_o find_v out_o the_o drift_n of_o all_o this_o but_o upon_o consideration_n i_o think_v it_o contain_v these_o thing_n 1._o that_o it_o be_v unlawful_a to_o ordain_v or_o use_v any_o thing_n superfluous_a in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n 2._o that_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o for_o order_n decency_n and_o edification_n be_v superfluous_a 3._o that_o nothing_o be_v decent_a if_o the_o contrary_a to_o it_o be_v not_o indecent_a it_o be_v the_o last_o of_o these_o we_o be_v now_o concern_v in_o which_o by_o the_o help_n of_o the_o great_a manager_n of_o this_o argument_n may_v be_v better_o understand_v hammond_n ames_n be_v fresh_a suit_n &_o answer_v to_o bp._n morton_n
leen_n offer_v in_o sacrifice_n by_o the_o gentile_n to_o their_o daemon_n which_o i_o shall_v have_v occasion_n to_o explain_v at_o large_a hereafter_o to_o you_o but_o it_o be_v equal_o applicable_a to_o all_o thing_n of_o the_o like_a indifferent_a nature_n and_o there_o be_v two_o rule_n lay_v down_o by_o he_o there_o which_o man_n ought_v to_o govern_v themselves_o by_o in_o the_o use_n of_o such_o thing_n 1._o the_o first_o be_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n v._o 31._o whatsoever_o therefore_o you_o do_v whether_o you_o eat_v or_o drink_v do_v all_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n i._n e._n whatever_o you_o do_v in_o these_o thing_n be_v sure_a you_o have_v respect_n to_o the_o law_n and_o will_n of_o god_n and_o take_v heed_n that_o you_o violate_v none_o of_o the_o divine_a commandment_n either_o by_o what_o you_o do_v or_o what_o you_o refuse_v to_o do_v in_o thing_n of_o this_o nature_n for_o this_o be_v the_o true_a notion_n and_o meaning_n of_o do_v all_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n i._n e._n keep_v we_o close_o to_o the_o observance_n of_o those_o law_n and_o rule_n that_o he_o have_v command_v we_o for_o then_o god_n be_v most_o true_o glorify_v by_o we_o when_o we_o express_v a_o great_a sense_n of_o his_o sovereignty_n and_o law_n in_o all_o that_o we_o do_v but_o this_o by_o the_o way_n the_o second_o rule_n be_v charity_n and_o respect_n to_o the_o benefit_n and_o advantage_n of_o those_o we_o converse_v with_o and_o live_v among_o that_o we_o neither_o grieve_v nor_o injure_v they_o by_o any_o thing_n that_o we_o do_v or_o neglect_v to_o do_v and_o this_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o these_o word_n so_o often_o quote_v by_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n give_v none_o offence_n neither_o to_o the_o jew_n nor_o to_o the_o gentile_n nor_o to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n this_o be_v that_o rule_n of_o our_o action_n in_o all_o indifferent_a thing_n which_o i_o have_v choose_v to_o consider_v in_o this_o discourse_n and_o the_o rather_o because_o we_o have_v some_o contest_v with_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n about_o it_o there_o have_v be_v great_a talk_n about_o scandal_n and_o give_v offence_n to_o weak_a and_o tender_a conscience_n by_o conformty_n and_o compliance_n with_o all_o those_o thing_n which_o the_o church_n of_o england_n require_v in_o her_o liturgy_n and_o among_o all_o the_o other_o argument_n and_o pretence_n against_o it_o this_o have_v be_v press_v to_o serve_v in_o the_o cause_n either_o to_o add_v some_o real_a weight_n to_o the_o rest_n or_o at_o least_o to_o add_v to_o their_o number_n though_o to_o tell_v you_o plain_o i_o think_v it_o be_v only_o to_o make_v a_o show_n and_o to_o render_v the_o bulk_n of_o their_o exception_n the_o big_a that_o this_o be_v summon_v to_o the_o muster_n and_o not_o for_o any_o real_a weight_n that_o there_o be_v in_o it_o to_o serve_v the_o cause_n however_o whatever_o there_o be_v in_o it_o a_o great_a noise_n be_v make_v with_o it_o and_o as_o a_o mighty_a noise_n have_v be_v make_v about_o scandal_n and_o great_a pain_n use_v to_o wrest_v the_o notion_n of_o it_o to_o serve_v man_n purpose_n in_o these_o thing_n so_o great_a art_n have_v be_v employ_v to_o accommodate_v it_o to_o the_o present_a purpose_n and_o to_o fright_v man_n with_o the_o guilt_n and_o danger_n of_o it_o from_o comply_v with_o the_o institution_n of_o the_o church_n which_o as_o be_v pretend_v be_v so_o very_o great_a a_o scandal_n and_o offence_n to_o weak_a conscience_n two_o great_a and_o popular_a plea_n against_o the_o liturgy_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n and_o the_o ceremony_n retain_v by_o it_o have_v be_v these_o tenderness_n and_o scruple_n of_o conscience_n in_o some_o and_o fear_v of_o scandal_n and_o give_v offence_n to_o such_o in_o other_o some_o man_n have_v plead_v their_o own_o scruple_n and_o want_v of_o sufficient_a conviction_n and_o information_n and_o excuse_v their_o omission_n of_o these_o thing_n from_o that_o say_n of_o the_o apostle_n rom._n 14._o 23._o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n and_o some_o have_v allege_v their_o fear_n of_o scandal_n and_o offend_a other_o and_o plead_v that_o in_o bar_n of_o their_o compliance_n from_o these_o word_n of_o the_o same_o apostle_n give_v none_o offence_n etc._n etc._n how_o much_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o first_o place_n be_v mistake_v and_o how_o false_a the_o consequence_n that_o be_v make_v from_o it_o be_v i_o be_o not_o now_o oblige_v to_o show_v my_o province_n at_o this_o time_n be_v about_o the_o second_o this_o place_n that_o i_o have_v now_o quote_v in_o order_n to_o which_o i_o intend_v to_o do_v these_o two_o thing_n 1._o show_v that_o this_o place_n be_v not_o at_o all_o concern_v in_o our_o present_a question_n nor_o will_v serve_v that_o purpose_n that_o the_o dissenter_n from_o our_o church_n allege_v it_o for_o 2._o that_o if_o it_o be_v it_o will_v conclude_v against_o they_o and_o their_o practice_n in_o the_o present_a case_n betwixt_o we_o 1._o i_o begin_v with_o the_o first_o which_o be_v to_o show_v that_o this_o place_n be_v not_o concern_v in_o our_o present_a case_n nor_o pertinent_o urge_v by_o our_o brethren_n against_o their_o conformity_n to_o the_o present_a rite_n and_o usage_n of_o the_o church_n and_o this_o i_o may_v do_v from_o two_o thing_n mistake_v great_o in_o the_o application_n of_o this_o text._n 1._o the_o true_a notion_n of_o scandal_n and_o offence_n here_o mention_v 2._o the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n to_o which_o it_o be_v apply_v which_o be_v vast_o different_a from_o what_o man_n scruple_n or_o forbear_v in_o our_o case_n 1._o from_o the_o true_a notion_n of_o scandal_n and_o offence_n that_o be_v mention_v in_o this_o place_n and_o in_o many_o other_o place_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n i_o do_v not_o intend_v here_o a_o large_a discourse_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o scandal_n in_o the_o general_n or_o a_o remove_n and_o rectify_v those_o many_o common_a mistake_n in_o the_o world_n about_o it_o but_o only_o to_o observe_v so_o much_o as_o will_v be_v sufficient_a to_o my_o present_a purpose_n 1._o then_o i_o observe_v that_o as_o there_o be_v only_o two_o notion_n of_o scandal_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n so_o there_o be_v only_o two_o case_n in_o which_o man_n be_v proper_o and_o primary_o capable_a of_o be_v guilty_a of_o it_o i_o mean_v in_o give_v it_o to_o other_o 1._o the_o first_o notion_n of_o scandal_n be_v that_o it_o be_v a_o snare_n or_o a_o gin_n by_o which_o man_n be_v entrap_v and_o draw_v into_o some_o plain_a sin_n and_o wickedness_n in_o which_o sense_n it_o be_v use_v in_o many_o place_n and_o particular_o in_o that_o famous_a speech_n of_o our_o saviour_n matth._n 18._o 6._o to_o 10._o and_o man_n do_v then_o give_v offence_n or_o scandalize_v other_o when_o they_o do_v that_o which_o direct_o and_o in_o its_o own_o nature_n tend_v to_o induce_v other_o either_o to_o do_v that_o which_o god_n have_v forbid_v and_o be_v a_o sin_n or_o omit_v that_o which_o he_o have_v command_v and_o be_v a_o plain_a duty_n both_o which_o man_n may_v do_v several_a way_n which_o it_o be_v not_o now_o so_o very_o needful_a to_o reckon_v up_o single_o 2._o the_o second_o notion_n of_o scandal●is_n that_o it_o be_v some_o just_a cause_n of_o grief_n or_o trouble_n to_o other_o in_o their_o christian_a course_n and_o that_o which_o hinder_v they_o from_o walk_v in_o it_o with_o that_o cheerfulness_n and_o security_n that_o they_o otherwise_o will_v according_a to_o which_o sense_n it_o be_v render_v offence_n in_o this_o and_o many_o other_o text_n of_o scripture_n i._n e._n some_o just_a cause_n of_o offence_n of_o trouble_n or_o grief_n give_v to_o another_o by_o something_o that_o he_o see_v we_o either_o omit_v or_o do_v in_o this_o sense_n it_o be_v use_v in_o many_o place_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n not_o for_o that_o which_o be_v a_o direct_a occasion_n of_o another_o man_n sin_n but_o a_o just_a cause_n of_o his_o grief_n and_o sorrow_n and_o discouragement_n in_o the_o way_n of_o duty_n so_o it_o be_v use_v particular_o joh._n 16._o 1._o and_o rom._n 14._o 15._o it_o be_v express_v by_o grieve_v and_o in_o this_o sense_n man_n give_v offence_n to_o other_o when_o either_o by_o do_v or_o neglect_v something_o themselves_o they_o give_v just_a cause_n of_o sorrow_n or_o grief_n to_o other_o and_o discourage_v they_o in_o their_o christian_a course_n and_o occasion_n to_o they_o some_o trouble_n and_o grief_n of_o mind_n that_o otherwise_o may_v be_v free_a from_o 2._o have_v observe_v this_o therefore_o i_o proceed_v in_o the_o second_o place_n to_o observe_v that_o neither_o of_o these_o notion_n of_o scandal_n can_v be_v accommodate_v to_o our_o present_a case_n nor_o can_v
can_v charge_v the_o church_n with_o any_o plain_a degeneracy_n or_o open_a apostasy_n from_o the_o doctrine_n or_o practice_n of_o the_o scripture_n when_o any_o particular_a church_n degenerate_v plain_o either_o in_o doctrine_n or_o worship_n there_o i_o be_o not_o concern_v to_o determine_v how_o far_o she_o forfeit_v all_o that_o respect_n that_o she_o may_v otherwise_o claim_v from_o man_n nor_o how_o much_o the_o credit_n of_o a_o single_a person_n may_v vie_v with_o she_o perhaps_o when_o the_o church_n be_v degenerate_v into_o arrianism_n the_o judgement_n of_o athanasius_n and_o some_o few_o other_o bishop_n be_v more_o to_o be_v regard_v than_o that_o of_o a_o whole_a synod_n and_o in_o the_o horrid_a apostasy_n of_o the_o roman_a church_n perhaps_o the_o single_a doctrine_n of_o john_n huss_n be_v preferable_a to_o that_o of_o the_o whole_a council_n of_o constance_n but_o still_o in_o both_o these_o case_n or_o any_o other_o parallel_a one_o that_o respect_v derive_v itself_o not_o from_o their_o person_n but_o be_v whole_o owe_v to_o truth_n and_o the_o holy_a scripture_n that_o stand_v with_o they_o but_o bless_v be_v god_n this_o be_v not_o our_o case_n our_o church_n do_v challenge_v and_o triumph_v over_o all_o charge_n of_o any_o such_o apostasy_n and_o all_o the_o dispute_v and_o contest_v with_o she_o by_o any_o of_o these_o man_n be_v about_o thing_n confess_o doubtful_a and_o such_o as_o be_v in_o their_o own_o nature_n indifferent_a thing_n about_o which_o to_o say_v the_o least_o it_o be_v as_o possible_a that_o single_a person_n may_v err_v and_o mistake_v as_o it_o be_v for_o the_o church_n unless_o in_o this_o also_o as_o in_o many_o other_o instance_n man_n fall_v in_o with_o the_o gross_a tenet_n in_o popery_n that_o single_a person_n may_v more_o reasonable_o pretend_v to_o infallibility_n than_o the_o whole_a church_n every_o man_n deride_v and_o think_v he_o can_v baffle_v all_o the_o pretence_n of_o the_o bishop_n of_o rome_n to_o infallibility_n and_o therefore_o shall_v blush_v and_o be_v ashamed_a of_o his_o own_o either_o arrogate_a it_o to_o himself_o or_o ascribe_v it_o to_o another_o for_o the_o truth_n be_v i_o do_v not_o see_v but_o his_o pretence_n be_v as_o just_a as_o another_o man_n i_o e._n indeed_o they_o be_v both_o monstrous_o unreasonable_a and_o yet_o alas_o this_o be_v not_o the_o least_o source_n of_o the_o unhappiness_n of_o this_o age_n nor_o need_v i_o be_v condemn_v for_o stay_v a_o little_a while_n to_o drop_v a_o tear_n upon_o it_o man_n turn_v dictator_n in_o religion_n and_o impose_v their_o own_o dream_n as_o magisterial_o upon_o their_o follower_n as_o if_o they_o be_v oracular_a and_o i_o be_o persuade_v their_o disciple_n hang_v as_o much_o upon_o their_o single_a authority_n and_o confidence_n and_o yield_v as_o absolute_a and_o implicit_a faith_n to_o all_o their_o doctrine_n as_o ever_o any_o poor_a papist_n against_o who_o they_o exclaim_v so_o tragical_o for_o blind_a obedience_n and_o faith_n they_o be_v keep_v in_o as_o absolute_a subjection_n to_o their_o placit_n and_o dare_v no_o more_o read_v and_o consult_v book_n that_o be_v write_v to_o inform_v they_o than_o a_o poor_a papist_n dare_n let_v a_o prohibit_v book_n be_v see_v in_o his_o house_n by_o a_o father_n of_o the_o inquisition_n if_o ever_o people_n follow_v their_o leader_n blindfold_a these_o man_n do_v they_o will_v not_o hear_v any_o thing_n against_o they_o they_o have_v their_o person_n in_o admiration_n and_o i_o wish_v i_o can_v not_o say_v of_o some_o for_o filthy_a lucre_n sake_n or_o at_o least_o some_o mean_a reason_n equivalent_a thereto_o they_o will_v not_o so_o much_o as_o submit_v to_o mean_n of_o information_n they_o common_o say_v they_o be_v satisfy_v already_o and_o the_o single_a bluster_a of_o one_o of_o their_o own_o rabbi_n shall_v signify_v more_o with_o they_o than_o all_o the_o argument_n of_o the_o most_o learned_a and_o sober_a man_n live_v beside_o but_o i_o be_o insensible_o draw_v aside_o from_o my_o chief_a subject_n which_o be_v not_o to_o treat_v so_o much_o of_o a_o respect_n of_o credit_n and_o faith_n as_o of_o tenderness_n and_o charity_n which_o be_v certain_o as_o just_o due_a from_o we_o to_o the_o church_n as_o to_o any_o private_a person_n whatsoever_o and_o it_o can_v but_o be_v as_o unreasonable_a to_o fail_v in_o the_o one_o as_o in_o the_o other_o it_o be_v every_o whit_n as_o unjust_a for_o man_n to_o be_v more_o regardless_o of_o grieve_v and_o trouble_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n as_o it_o be_v foolish_a and_o unreasonable_a to_o set_v up_o one_o single_a man_n opinion_n against_o that_o of_o many_o other_o that_o be_v in_o the_o same_o circumstance_n and_o advantage_n of_o knowledge_n and_o every_o way_n both_o as_o know_v and_o as_o upright_o as_o himself_o whatever_o consideration_n there_o be_v to_o determine_v our_o charity_n to_o single_a person_n there_o be_v the_o same_o at_o least_o to_o make_v it_o necessary_a towards_o the_o church_n and_o as_o strong_a reason_n to_o restrain_v we_o from_o offend_v the_o one_o as_o the_o other_o whatever_o become_v a_o argument_n in_o one_o case_n be_v equal_o so_o also_o in_o the_o other_o and_o if_o it_o be_v not_o as_o effectual_a with_o we_o we_o be_v partial_a in_o the_o law_n and_o distinguish_v without_o any_o reason_n but_o those_o of_o our_o own_o partial_a and_o unjust_a respect_n let_v man_n be_v please_v to_o look_v into_o the_o scripture_n and_o consult_v the_o practice_n of_o our_o lord_n himself_o or_o his_o apostle_n after_o he_o and_o their_o thought_n will_v soon_o be_v resolve_v in_o this_o matter_n they_o will_v find_v the_o one_o call_v for_o as_o much_o deference_n and_o respect_n to_o the_o church_n as_o to_o private_a person_n and_o the_o other_o upon_o all_o occasion_n as_o careful_a to_o pay_v it_o and_o in_o all_o case_n extreme_o careful_a not_o to_o give_v offence_n to_o it_o in_o any_o thing_n whatsoever_o as_o be_v easy_a to_o show_v in_o instance_n enough_o that_o be_v plain_a and_o obvious_a to_o all_o that_o read_v and_o can_v scarce_o pass_v unobserved_a by_o any_o this_o be_v the_o first_o consideration_n and_o i_o appeal_v to_o all_o if_o it_o be_v not_o a_o very_a easy_a postulatum_fw-la a_o very_a modest_a and_o reasonable_a intimation_n and_o yet_o i_o assure_v you_o it_o be_v a_o good_a point_n gain_v and_o a_o very_a good_a step_n towards_o our_o peace_n be_v man_n hearty_a in_o their_o concession_n of_o it_o will_v man_n pay_v but_o the_o same_o deference_n to_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o her_o constitution_n as_o they_o ready_o do_v to_o their_o own_o single_a opinion_n or_o the_o confident_a suggestion_n of_o some_o admire_a leader_n we_o may_v quick_o hope_v to_o see_v some_o end_n of_o our_o question_n and_o dispute_n and_o will_v they_o be_v but_o as_o tender_v of_o give_v any_o offence_n to_o the_o public_a as_o they_o be_v of_o do_v so_o to_o every_o little_a person_n of_o their_o own_o party_n we_o may_v begin_v to_o hope_v that_o the_o constitution_n of_o our_o church_n may_v gain_v some_o respect_n and_o some_o measure_n of_o peaceableness_n and_o modesty_n bless_v the_o inhabitant_n of_o this_o nation_n once_o more_o 2._o but_o this_o be_v too_o little_a to_o suggest_v and_o the_o lesser_a part_n of_o what_o i_o will_v propose_v to_o consideration_n upon_o this_o subject_a and_o therefore_o in_o the_o second_o place_n i_o desire_v it_o may_v be_v consider_v whether_o we_o ought_v not_o to_o have_v a_o great_a respect_n to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n than_o to_o any_o single_a or_o private_a person_n whatsoever_o and_o true_o i_o think_v this_o be_v as_o reasonable_a a_o postulatum_fw-la as_o the_o other_o and_o that_o which_o will_v be_v as_o soon_o grant_v true_a by_o all_o that_o due_o consider_v thing_n in_o all_o thing_n whatsoever_o the_o public_a require_v more_o respect_n from_o we_o than_o any_o private_a person_n and_o the_o welfare_n 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who_o it_o be_v they_o join_v with_o and_o who_o cause_n they_o advance_v while_o they_o thus_o decry_v our_o liturgy_n and_o advance_v their_o own_o extempore_o prayer_n in_o the_o room_n of_o it_o they_o will_v at_o last_o see_v cause_n to_o retract_v a_o mistake_n which_o none_o but_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n will_v have_v cause_n to_o thank_v they_o for_o case_n vi_o whether_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o comply_v with_o the_o use_n of_o public_a form_n s_o when_o they_o be_v impose_v in_o answer_n to_o which_o a_o very_a few_o word_n will_v suffice_v for_o it_o have_v be_v already_o prove_v that_o the_o use_n of_o public_a form_n be_v universal_o lawful_a there_o be_v nothing_o either_o in_o scripture_n or_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n that_o forbid_v it_o but_o a_o great_a deal_n in_o both_o that_o approve_v and_o warrant_v it_o so_o that_o now_o the_o question_n be_v no_o more_o than_o this_o whether_o a_o lawful_a thing_n when_o impose_v may_v be_v lawful_o comply_v with_o 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england_n make_v by_o the_o papist_n ask_v of_o we_o the_o question_n where_o be_v our_o religion_n before_o luther_n 2._o the_o difference_n of_o the_o case_n between_o the_o separation_n of_o protestant_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o the_o separation_n of_o dissenter_n from_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 3._o the_o protestant_a resolution_n of_o faith_n etc._n etc._n a_o answer_n to_o the_o dissenter_n objection_n against_o the_o common_a prayer_n and_o some_o other_o part_n of_o divine-service_n prescribe_v in_o the_o liturgy_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n london_n print_v for_o t._n basset_n at_o the_o george_n in_o fleetstreet_n b._n take_v at_o the_o ship_n in_o st._n paul_n churchyard_n and_o f._n gardiner_n at_o the_o white-horse_n in_o ludgate-street_n 1684._o a_o answer_n to_o the_o dissenter_n objection_n against_o the_o common_a prayer_n and_o some_o other_o part_n of_o divine_a service_n prescribe_v in_o the_o liturgy_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 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that_o all_o of_o they_o may_v serious_o and_o impartial_o look_v over_o the_o ground_n upon_o which_o they_o have_v keep_v up_o the_o separation_n for_o i_o be_o persuade_v that_o their_o objection_n against_o our_o communion_n be_v not_o of_o that_o consequence_n ●s_a to_o justify_v their_o forsake_v it_o and_o that_o themselves_o will_v discern_v it_o if_o they_o will_v consider_v our_o answer_n with_o the_o same_o meekness_n and_o charity_n wherewith_o we_o offer_v they_o i_o have_v with_o great_a pleasure_n read_v some_o short_a discourse_n late_o publish_v that_o tend_v to_o this_o purpose_n the_o good_a spirit_n where_o with_o they_o be_v write_v seem_v to_o be_v a_o very_a likely_a mean_n of_o convey_v the_o argument_n with_o all_o its_o advantage_n into_o the_o mind_n of_o those_o that_o shall_v take_v the_o pain_n to_o read_v they_o and_o though_o i_o think_v that_o which_o have_v be_v say_v already_o be_v enough_o to_o satisfy_v judicious_a man_n yet_o by_o the_o 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the_o canon_n and_o liturgy_n have_v be_v to_o those_o of_o the_o discipline_n they_o draw_v up_o reason_n 44._o reason_n reason_n reason_n id._n ib._n p._n 116._o a._n 44._o against_o the_o directory_n of_o church_n government_n by_o presbyter_n they_o afterward_o print_v a_o open_a remonstrance_n against_o presbytery_n of_o which_o the_o assembly_n complain_v to_o 189._o ib._n a._n 45._o p._n 189._o the_o house_n as_o of_o a_o scandalous_a libel_n and_o there_o be_v those_o who_o reproach_v the_o presbyterian_o in_o the_o same_o phrase_n in_o which_o they_o have_v give_v vent_n to_o their_o displeasure_n against_o the_o liturgy_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n the_o minister_n of_o lancashire_n 20._o lancashire_n lancashire_n lancashire_n harm_n consent_n p._n 20._o complain_v concern_v they_o that_o they_o have_v compare_v the_o covenant_n to_o the_o alcoran_n of_o the_o turk_n and_o mass_n of_o the_o papist_n and_o service-book_n of_o the_o prelate_n as_o likewise_o that_o they_o say_v it_o be_v a_o brazen-serpent_n fit_a to_o be_v break_v in_o piece_n and_o ground_n to_o powder_n rather_o than_o that_o man_n shall_v fall_v down_o and_o worship_n it_o among_o the_o disciplinarian_o some_o be_v confident_a of_o success_n one_o of_o they_o 29._o they_o they_o they_o mr._n s._n symp._n in_o serm._n of_o reform_v a._n 1643._o p._n 29._o for_o he_o be_v not_o then_o go_v over_o to_o the_o part_n of_o the_o independent_o express_v his_o assurance_n in_o these_o most_o unbecoming_a word_n before_o the_o commons_o it_o will_v say_v he_o bring_v such_o a_o blot_n on_o god_n as_o he_o shall_v never_o wipe_v out_o if_o your_o poor_a prayer_n shall_v be_v turn_v into_o your_o own_o bosom_n that_o prayer_n for_o reformation_n a_o speech_n not_o fit_a to_o have_v be_v repeat_v if_o it_o be_v not_o necessary_a to_o learn_v sobriety_n of_o wisdom_n from_o the_o remembrance_n of_o extravagance_n in_o former_a time_n other_o accknowledged_a their_o hope_n but_o do_v not_o dissemble_v their_o fear_n six_o year_n ago_o say_v a_o person_n eminent_a 36._o eminent_a eminent_a eminent_a d._n john_n arr._n in_o ser._n call_v the_o great_a wonder_n etc._n etc._n before_o the_o commons_o a._n 1646._o p._n 36._o among_o they_o after_o this_o parliament_n have_v sit_v a_o while_n it_o be_v general_o believe_v that_o the_o woman_n the_o church_n be_v fall_v into_o her_o travel_n but_o she_o continue_v still_o in_o pain_n insomuch_o as_o they_o begin_v to_o think_v she_o have_v not_o go_v her_o full_a time_n and_o earnest_o desire_v she_o may_v because_o they_o fear_v nothing_o more_o than_o a_o abortive_a reformation_n other_o do_v open_o confess_v that_o their_o hope_n be_v not_o answer_v and_o that_o the_o state_n of_o religion_n be_v much_o decline_v the_o minister_n of_o the_o province_n of_o london_n 31._o london_n london_n london_n testim_fw-la to_o truth_n of_o jesus_n christ_n subscribe_v dec._n 14._o 1647._o p_o 31._o use_v upon_o this_o occasion_n these_o passionate_a word_n instead_o of_o a_o reformation_n we_o may_v say_v with_o sigh_n what_o our_o enemy_n say_v of_o we_o heretofore_o with_o scorn_n we_o have_v a_o deformation_n in_o religion_n those_o independent_o who_o adhere_v to_o that_o part_n of_o the_o house_n which_o join_v with_o the_o army_n prevail_v for_o a_o season_n but_o they_o also_o be_v disturb_v by_o those_o who_o go_v under_o the_o name_n of_o lilburnist_n leveller_n agitator_n 168._o agitator_n agitator_n agitator_n see_v hist_n of_o indep_n 2_o part_n p_o 168._o then_o likewise_o gerard_n wynstanly_n etc._n wynstanly_n wynstanly_n wynstanly_n in_o mystof_n godlin_n etc._n etc._n anno._n 1649._o wyn_v in_o saint_n paradise_n c._n 5._o p._n 54._o etc._n etc._n publish_v the_o principle_n of_o quakerism_n discourse_v or_o rather_o repeat_v the_o dream_n of_o his_o imagination_n in_o such_o expression_n as_o these_o if_o you_o look_v for_o the_o resurrection_n of_o jesus_n christ_n you_o must_v know_v that_o the_o spirit_n within_o the_o flesh_n be_v the_o jesus_n christ_n every_o man_n have_v the_o light_n of_o the_o father_n within_o himself_o which_o be_v the_o mighty_a man_n christ_n jesus_n then_o enthusiasm_n excite_v in_o part_n by_o the_o common_a pretence_n of_o a_o extraordinary_a light_n reveal_v as_o of_o a_o sudden_a in_o those_o day_n in_o england_n break_v forth_o into_o open_a distraction_n then_o joseph_n salmon_n a_o present_a member_n of_o the_o army_n publish_v his_o blasphemy_n and_o defend_v his_o immorality_n he_o justify_v himself_o and_o those_o of_o his_o way_n say_v 430._o say_v say_v say_v whitl_n memoirs_fw-fr a_o 1649._o p._n 430._o that_o it_o be_v god_n who_o do_v swear_v in_o they_o and_o that_o it_o be_v their_o liberty_n to_o keep_v company_n with_o woman_n for_o their_o lust_n wyke_n his_o disciple_n ibid._n disciple_n disciple_n disciple_n id._n ibid._n kiss_v a_o soldier_n three_o time_n and_o say_v i_o breathe_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n into_o thou_o salmon_n himself_o print_v a_o pamphlet_n call_v a_o rout_n in_o which_o he_o set_v forth_o his_o villainous_a self_n as_o the_o christ_n of_o god_n say_v etc._n say_v say_v say_v salmon_n be_v rout._n in_o pref._n and_o p._n 10_o 11_o etc._n etc._n i_o be_o willing_a to_o become_v sin_n for_o you_o though_o the_o lord_n in_o i_o know_v no_o sin_n we_o love_v to_o sweat_v drop_n of_o blood_n under_o all_o man_n offence_n we_o shall_v see_v of_o the_o travel_n of_o our_o soul_n enthusiasm_n though_o not_o in_o this_o rankness_n of_o it_o be_v now_o open_o favour_v by_o cromwell_n himself_o who_o together_o with_o six_o soldier_n pray_v and_o preach_v at_o whitehal_o 153._o whitehal_o whitehal_o whitehal_o on_o sund._n after_o east_n day_n ann._n 1649._o h._n of_o indep_n part_n 2._o p._n 153._o his_o own_o temper_n be_v warm_v with_o fit_n of_o enthusiasm_n 366._o enthusiasm_n enthusiasm_n enthusiasm_n see_v view_n of_o the_o late_a trouble_n p._n 366._o and_o he_o confess_v it_o to_o a_o person_n of_o condition_n c._n condition_n condition_n condition_n e._n m._n i._o c._n from_o who_o i_o receive_v it_o as_o do_v other_o yet_o live_v that_o he_o pray_v according_a to_o extraordinary_a impulse_n and_o that_o not_o feel_v such_o impulse_n which_o he_o call_v supernatural_a he_o do_v forbear_v to_o pray_v oftentimes_o for_o several_a day_n together_o in_o process_n of_o time_n his_o house_n of_o commons_o and_o he_o himself_o be_v public_o disturb_v by_o that_o wild_a spirit_n in_o the_o rasing_n of_o which_o they_o have_v be_v so_o unhappy_o instrumental_a a_o quaker_n come_v to_o the_o door_n of_o the_o house_n 592._o house_n house_n house_n whitl_n memoirs_fw-fr a._n 1654._o p._n 592._o and_o draw_v his_o sword_n and_o cut_v those_o nigh_v he_o and_o say_v he_o be_v inspire_v by_o the_o holy_a spirit_n to_o kill_v every_o man_n who_o sit_v in_o that_o convention_n and_o he_o himself_o be_v not_o only_o conspire_v against_o by_o those_o who_o call_v themselves_o the_o free_a and_o well-affected_n people_n of_o england_n 606._o england_n england_n england_n see_v their_o declar._n in_o a._n 1655._o in_o whilt_n me._n p._n 606._o but_o open_o bespatter_v by_o the_o ink_n of_o the_o quaker_n in_o several_a pamphlet_n 56._o pamphlet_n pamphlet_n pamphlet_n see_v ed._n burrough_n trumpet_n of_o the_o lord_n sound_v p._n 2._o a._n 56._o and_o by_o their_o clamour_n affront_v in_o his_o own_o chapel_n where_o before_o his_o face_n they_o give_v bold_a interruption_n to_o his_o preacher_n 4._o preacher_n preacher_n preacher_n whilt_n memoirs_fw-fr p._n 62._o 4._o other_o historical_a memorial_n may_v be_v here_o produce_v relate_v to_o the_o hopeful_a rise_n and_o mighty_a progress_n and_o equal_a declension_n of_o the_o disciplinarian_a party_n but_o in_o such_o case_n i_o choose_v rather_o to_o take_v off_o my_o pen_n than_o to_o lean_v too_o hear_v upon_o it_o yet_o the_o nature_n of_o my_o argument_n do_v necessary_o lead_v i_o to_o the_o former_a remark_n and_o if_o useful_a truth_n smart_v let_v gild_n suffer_v a_o cure_n and_o not_o kick_v against_o the_o charitable_a reporter_n in_o sum_n the_o long_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v dissettled_a the_o great_a daily_a grow_v the_o confusion_n and_o the_o division_n of_o sect_n be_v multiply_v not_o unlike_a to_o that_o of_o wind_n in_o the_o mariner_n compass_n in_o which_o artist_n have_v increase_v the_o partition_n from_o four_o to_o two_o and_o thirty_o insomuch_o that_o the_o very_a distraction_n which_o be_v among_o we_o do_v in_o some_o measure_n prepare_v the_o way_n for_o the_o return_n of_o the_o king_n and_o the_o restitution_n of_o the_o church_n man_n find_v no_o other_o common_a bottom_n on_o which_o the_o interest_n of_o religion_n and_o civil_a peace_n may_v be_v establish_v now_o if_o the_o dissenter_n can_v not_o then_o when_o so_o fair_a opportunity_n be_v in_o their_o hand_n carry_v on_o their_o cause_n to_o any_o tolerable_a settlement_n much_o less_o
thing_n enjoin_v we_o must_v separate_a at_o this_o time_n from_o all_o the_o reform_a church_n in_o the_o world_n for_o there_o be_v none_o of_o these_o which_o do_v not_o require_v the_o use_n of_o such_o thing_n as_o we_o shall_v judge_v cause_n enough_o to_o depart_v from_o they_o nay_o when_o we_o have_v once_o separate_v from_o the_o church_n of_o england_n upon_o this_o account_n we_o must_v then_o separate_a from_o one_o another_o and_o every_o man_n must_v be_v a_o church_n by_o himself_o for_o it_o be_v impossible_a that_o any_o society_n whether_o mere_o humane_a or_o christian_a shall_v subsist_v without_o the_o orderly_a determination_n of_o some_o indifferent_a thing_n and_o sure_o we_o can_v never_o hope_v to_o maintain_v our_o separation_n upon_o such_o a_o principle_n as_o will_v not_o only_o part_v we_o from_o all_o the_o church_n that_o be_v or_o ever_o be_v and_o tear_n christendom_n into_o ten_o thousand_o piece_n but_o scarce_o leave_v we_o so_o much_o as_o the_o notion_n of_o a_o church_n and_o make_v christian_a communion_n absolute_o impracticable_a let_v we_o not_o give_v those_o of_o rome_n the_o pleasure_n of_o see_v that_o church_n which_o have_v always_o oppose_v they_o with_o the_o great_a vigour_n and_o be_v the_o constant_a mark_n of_o their_o envy_n quite_o ruin_v or_o extreme_o weaken_v by_o a_o pernicious_a mistake_n that_o will_v divide_v and_o divide_v we_o again_o and_o again_o and_o never_o make_v any_o end_n of_o divide_v let_v we_o show_v at_o least_o that_o well_o be_v we_o incline_v unto_o peace_n by_o come_v as_o far_o as_o we_o can_v and_o if_o there_o shall_v be_v any_o thing_n that_o we_o may_v possible_o suspect_v to_o be_v unlawful_a let_v not_o this_o hinder_v we_o from_o join_v in_o those_o other_o holy_a office_n in_o which_o we_o have_v not_o any_o pretence_n of_o a_o doubt_n let_v not_o our_o groundless_a scruple_v at_o a_o ceremony_n or_o two_o fright_v we_o from_o the_o whole_a worship_n of_o god_n against_o which_o we_o have_v not_o any_o exception_n and_o for_o those_o that_o esteem_v our_o communion_n in_o all_o particular_n utter_o unlawful_a which_o i_o suppose_v be_v but_o very_o few_o and_o i_o know_v they_o have_v but_o very_o slight_a argument_n for_o the_o severe_a judgement_n they_o pass_v upon_o we_o if_o they_o will_v meet_v let_v they_o do_v it_o in_o the_o most_o private_a manner_n that_o they_o can_v without_o any_o vain_a ostentation_n of_o their_o number_n which_o can_v be_v any_o satisfaction_n to_o their_o conscience_n but_o may_v make_v their_o adherent_n over_o forward_a and_o bold_a and_o tend_v to_o the_o create_v of_o jealousy_n in_o the_o government_n and_o while_o they_o be_v upon_o these_o term_n they_o can_v reasonable_o expect_v any_o connivance_n they_o may_v soon_o hope_v for_o it_o from_o his_o majesty_n wont_a and_o often_o experience_a clemency_n when_o they_o shall_v make_v it_o appear_v that_o their_o dissent_n be_v modest_a and_o humble_a and_o such_o as_o have_v no_o other_o but_o a_o religious_a design_n in_o it_o than_o when_o they_o assume_v a_o high_a degree_n of_o confidence_n and_o think_v to_o extort_v indulgency_n by_o clamour_n and_o discontent_n and_o resolve_v to_o assemble_v open_o in_o opposition_n to_o a_o royal_a command_n as_o if_o it_o be_v a_o piece_n of_o christian_a fortitude_n to_o outbrave_v authority_n these_o be_v but_o ill_a method_n of_o court_v the_o favour_n of_o a_o prince_n but_o i_o hope_v for_o the_o future_a we_o shall_v all_o upon_o all_o occasion_n behave_v ourselves_o as_o become_v good_a subject_n and_o sober_a christian_n and_o make_v no_o disturbance_n neither_o on_o a_o civil_a nor_o ecclesiastical_a account_n let_v it_o pity_v we_o at_o last_o to_o see_v the_o ghastly_a wound_n that_o be_v still_o renew_v by_o the_o continuance_n of_o our_o division_n let_v we_o have_v some_o compassion_n on_o a_o bleed_a church_n that_o be_v ready_a to_o faint_a and_o in_o eminent_a danger_n of_o be_v make_v a_o prey_n to_o her_o enemy_n by_o the_o unnatural_a heat_n and_o animosity_n of_o those_o that_o shall_v support_n and_o defend_v she_o why_o shall_v we_o leave_v she_o thus_o desolate_a and_o forlorn_a when_o her_o present_a exigency_n require_v our_o most_o cordial_a assistance_n if_o the_o condition_n of_o her_o communion_n be_v such_o as_o god_n law_n do_v not_o allow_v we_o may_v forsake_v she_o that_o have_v forsake_v he_o but_o since_o this_o can_v be_v object_v against_o she_o since_o she_o exact_v not_o forbid_v thing_n of_o we_o let_v we_o strengthen_v her_o hand_n by_o our_o unanimous_a agreement_n and_o since_o we_o do_v not_o condemn_v her_o doctrine_n let_v we_o not_o despise_v her_o worship_n since_o the_o substantial_o of_o religion_n be_v the_o same_o let_v not_o the_o circumstance_n of_o external_a order_n and_o discipline_n be_v any_o long_o a_o occasion_n of_o difference_n among_o we_o and_o so_o shall_v we_o bring_v glory_n to_o god_n a_o happy_a peace_n to_o a_o divide_a church_n a_o considerable_a security_n to_o the_o protestant_a religion_n and_o probable_o defeat_v the_o subtle_a practice_n of_o rome_n which_o now_o stand_v gape_v after_o all_o and_o hope_n by_o our_o distraction_n to_o repair_v the_o loss_n she_o have_v suffer_v by_o the_o reformation_n may_v the_o wisdom_n of_o heaven_n make_v all_o wicked_a purpose_n unsuccessful_a and_o the_o bless_a spirit_n of_o love_n heal_v all_o our_o breach_n and_o prosper_v the_o charitable_a endeavour_n of_o those_o that_o follow_v after_o peace_n amen_n finis_fw-la a_o resolution_n of_o some_o case_n of_o conscience_n which_o respect_n church-communion_n viz._n i._o whether_o to_o communicate_v with_o some_o church_n especial_o in_o such_o a_o divide_a state_n of_o the_o church_n be_v a_o necessary_a duty_n incumbent_a on_o all_o christian_n ii_o whether_o constant_a communion_n be_v a_o necessary_a duty_n where_o occasional_a communion_n be_v lawful_a iii_o whether_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o communicate_v with_o two_o church_n which_o be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o separation_n from_o each_o other_o the_o second_o edition_n london_n print_v by_o henry_n hill_n jun._n for_o fincham_n gardiner_n at_o the_o white_a horse_n in_o ludgate-street_n 1683._o a_o resolution_n of_o some_o case_n of_o conscience_n which_o respect_n church-communion_n in_o order_n to_o state_n such_o case_n as_o particular_o relate_v to_o church-communion_n with_o all_o possible_a clearness_n it_o will_v be_v necessary_a to_o premise_v a_o brief_a explication_n of_o some_o word_n which_o must_v be_v use_v in_o question_n of_o this_o nature_n but_o be_v not_o so_o common_o understand_v as_o 1._o what_o be_v mean_v by_o a_o church_n and_o a_o christian_a church_n 2._o what_o church_n communion_n be_v 3._o what_o be_v mean_v by_o fix_a communion_n and_o by_o occasional_a communion_n first_o what_o be_v mean_v by_o a_o church_n now_o the_o plain_a description_n i_o can_v give_v of_o a_o church_n be_v this_o that_o the_o church_n be_v a_o body_n or_o society_n of_o man_n separate_v from_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o world_n and_o unite_v to_o god_n and_o to_o themselves_o by_o a_o divine_a covenant_n i_o shall_v brief_o explain_v this_o description_n to_o fit_v it_o to_o the_o mean_a understanding_n 1._o then_o a_o church_n be_v a_o body_n or_o society_n of_o man_n for_o i_o speak_v only_o of_o the_o church_n in_o this_o world_n and_o therefore_o shall_v not_o enter_v into_o that_o dispute_n in_o what_o sense_n angel_n belong_v to_o the_o church_n and_o when_o i_o call_v the_o church_n a_o body_n or_o society_n of_o man_n i_o oppose_v a_o body_n to_o single_a individual_n or_o particular_a man_n and_o to_o a_o confuse_a multitude_n without_o any_o order_n or_o union_n among_o themselves_o for_o though_o the_o church_n consist_v of_o particular_a man_n and_o when_o their_o number_n be_v increase_v of_o great_a multitude_n yet_o the_o church_n consist_v of_o such_o particular_a man_n not_o consider_v in_o a_o private_a and_o separate_a capacity_n but_o as_o unite_v into_o a_o regular_a society_n which_o be_v call_v a_o body_n in_o allusion_n to_o the_o natural_a body_n in_o which_o all_o the_o part_n and_o member_n be_v unite_v in_o a_o exact_a order_n eph._n 4._o 16._o 1_o cor._n 12._o 15_o 16_o etc._n etc._n for_o god_n be_v not_o the_o author_n of_o confusion_n but_o of_o peace_n as_o in_o all_o the_o church_n of_o the_o saint_n and_o if_o the_o mean_a society_n can_v subsist_v without_o order_n wherein_o their_o strength_n and_o beauty_n and_o usefulness_n consist_v much_o less_o the_o church_n of_o god_n which_o be_v a_o society_n institute_v for_o the_o most_o spiritual_a and_o supernatural_a ends._n and_o therefore_o we_o find_v that_o god_n ordain_v a_o most_o exact_a order_n and_o government_n in_o the_o jewish_a church_n which_o for_o the_o great_a strength_n and_o unity_n he_o form_v into_o a_o
in_o that_o place_n and_o where_o i_o be_o only_o occasional_o there_o i_o can_v only_o communicate_v occasional_o also_o but_o to_o meet_v with_o the_o distemper_n of_o this_o age_n and_o to_o remove_v those_o apology_n some_o man_n make_v for_o their_o schism_n it_o be_v necessary_a to_o make_v this_o a_o question_n for_o in_o this_o divide_a state_n of_o the_o church_n there_o be_v a_o great_a many_o among_o we_o who_o think_v they_o can_v maintain_v constant_a communion_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n as_o constant_a and_o fix_a member_n who_o yet_o upon_o some_o occasion_n think_v they_o may_v communicate_v with_o we_o in_o all_o part_n of_o worship_n and_o actual_o do_v so_o now_o when_o these_o man_n who_o be_v fix_v member_n as_o they_o call_v it_o of_o separate_a church_n think_v fit_a sometime_o to_o communicate_v in_o all_o part_n of_o worship_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n we_o charitable_o suppose_v that_o man_n who_o pretend_v to_o so_o much_o tenderness_n of_o conscience_n and_o care_n of_o their_o soul_n will_v do_v nothing_o not_o so_o much_o as_o once_o which_o they_o believe_v or_o suspect_v to_o be_v sinful_a at_o the_o time_n when_o they_o do_v it_o and_o therefore_o we_o conclude_v that_o those_o who_o communicate_v occasional_o with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n do_v thereby_o declare_v that_o they_o believe_v there_o be_v nothing_o sinful_a in_o our_o communion_n and_o we_o thank_v they_o for_o this_o good_a opinion_n they_o express_v of_o our_o church_n and_o earnest_o desire_v to_o know_v how_o they_o can_v justify_v their_o ordinary_a separation_n from_o such_o a_o church_n as_o require_v no_o sinful_a term_n of_o communion_n if_o any_o thing_n less_o than_o sinful_a term_n of_o communion_n can_v justify_v a_o separation_n than_o there_o can_v be_v no_o end_n of_o separation_n and_o catholick-communion_n be_v a_o impossible_a and_o impracticable_a notion_n that_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n neither_o be_v one_o body_n nor_o ever_o can_v be_v for_o if_o man_n be_v not_o bind_v to_o communicate_v with_o a_o church_n which_o observe_v our_o saviour_n insttution_n without_o any_o such_o corrupt_a mixture_n as_o make_v its_o communion_n sinful_a then_o there_o be_v no_o bound_n to_o be_v set_v to_o the_o fancy_n of_o man_n but_o they_o may_v new_a model_n church_n and_o divide_v and_o subdivide_v without_o any_o end_n be_v that_o a_o sound_n and_o orthodox_n part_v of_o the_o catholick-church_n which_o have_v nothing_o sinful_a in_o its_o communion_n if_o it_o be_v not_o pray_v what_o be_v it_o that_o make_v any_o church_n sound_v and_o orthodox_n if_o it_o be_v upon_o what_o account_n be_v it_o lawful_a to_o separate_a from_o a_o sound_n and_o orthodox_n church_n and_o may_v we_o not_o by_o the_o same_o reason_n separate_a from_o the_o whole_a catholic_n church_n as_o from_o any_o sound_a part_n of_o it_o nay_o do_v not_o that_o man_n separate_a from_o the_o whole_a catholic_n church_n who_o separate_v from_o any_o sound_a part_n of_o it_o for_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n be_v but_o one_o and_o he_o that_o divide_v and_o break_v this_o union_n separate_v himself_o from_o the_o whole_a body_n except_v the_o independency_n of_o church_n which_o i_o have_v prove_v above_o to_o be_v schism_n in_o the_o very_a notion_n of_o it_o the_o great_a plea_n for_o separation_n from_o a_o church_n which_o have_v nothing_o sinful_a in_o its_o communion_n be_v the_o pretence_n of_o great_a edification_n and_o pure_a ordinance_n but_o these_o be_v such_o plea_n as_o must_v expose_v the_o church_n to_o eternal_a schism_n because_o there_o be_v no_o certain_a rule_n to_o judge_v of_o these_o matter_n but_o the_o various_a and_o uncertain_a fancy_n of_o men._n what_o they_o like_v best_a that_o shall_v be_v most_o for_o their_o edification_n and_o these_o shall_v be_v pure_a ordinance_n and_o till_o man_n can_v agree_v these_o matter_n among_o themselves_o which_o they_o be_v never_o likely_a to_o do_v till_o they_o can_v all_o agree_v in_o the_o same_o diet_n or_o in_o their_o judgement_n and_o opinion_n about_o beauty_n decency_n fitness_n convenience_n they_o may_v and_o will_v divide_v without_o end_n and_o if_o the_o peace_n and_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n be_v so_o necessary_a a_o duty_n it_o be_v certain_a these_o principle_n which_o be_v so_o destructive_a to_o peace_n and_o unity_n must_v be_v false_a as_o to_o consider_v these_o thing_n particular_o but_o very_o brief_o what_o pure_a administration_n and_o ordinance_n will_v man_n have_v than_o those_o of_o our_o saviour_n own_o institution_n without_o any_o corrupt_a and_o sinful_a mixture_n to_o spoil_v their_o virtue_n and_o efficacy_n as_o we_o suppose_v be_v acknowledge_v by_o those_o who_o occasional_o communicate_v in_o all_o part_n of_o our_o worship_n that_o there_o be_v nothing_o sinful_a in_o it_o the_o purity_n of_o divine_a administration_n must_v consist_v in_o their_o agreement_n with_o the_o institution_n that_o there_o be_v neither_o any_o such_o defect_n or_o addition_n as_o alter_v their_o nature_n and_o destroy_v their_o virtue_n for_o the_o efficacy_n of_o gospel_n ordinance_n depend_v upon_o their_o institution_n not_o upon_o particular_a mode_n of_o administration_n which_o be_v not_o express_o command_v in_o the_o gospel_n and_o he_o who_o desire_v great_a purity_n of_o ordinance_n than_o their_o conformity_n to_o their_o institution_n who_o think_v that_o baptism_n and_o the_o lord_n supper_n lose_v their_o efficacy_n unless_o they_o be_v administer_v in_o that_o way_n which_o they_o themselves_o best_o like_a be_v guilty_a of_o gross_a superstition_n and_o attribute_v the_o virtue_n of_o sacrament_n to_o the_o manner_n of_o their_o administration_n not_o to_o their_o divine_a institution_n and_o what_o man_n talk_v of_o great_a edification_n be_v general_o as_o little_a understand_v as_o the_o other_o for_o edification_n be_v build_v up_o and_o be_v apply_v to_o the_o church_n consider_v as_o god_n house_n and_o temple_n and_o it_o be_v a_o odd_a way_n of_o build_v up_o the_o temple_n of_o god_n by_o divide_v and_o separate_v the_o part_n of_o it_o from_o each_o other_o this_o one_o thing_n well_o consider_v viz._n that_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d edification_n or_o building_n according_a to_o the_o scripture_n notion_n of_o it_o do_v always_o primary_o refer_v to_o or_o at_o least_o include_v church-unity_n and_o communion_n be_v sufficient_a to_o convince_v any_o man_n what_o a_o ill_a way_n it_o be_v to_o seek_v for_o great_a edification_n in_o break_v the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n by_o schism_n and_o separation_n and_o therefore_o i_o shall_v make_v it_o plain_o appear_v that_o this_o be_v the_o true_a scripture_n notion_n of_o edification_n and_o to_o that_o end_n shall_v consider_v the_o most_o material_a place_n where_o this_o word_n be_v use_v now_o the_o most_o proper_a signification_n of_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o our_o translator_n render_v by_o edification_n be_v a_o house_n or_o building_n and_o this_o be_v the_o proper_a sense_n wherein_o it_o belong_v to_o the_o christian_a church_n you_o be_v god_n husbandry_n you_o be_v god_n building_n that_o be_v the_o church_n be_v 9_o 1_o cor._n 3._o 9_o god_n house_n or_o building_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d thus_o the_o same_o apostle_n tell_v we_o that_o in_o christ_n the_o whole_a building_n 21._o eph._n 2._o 21._o i._n e._n the_o whole_a christian_a church_n fit_o frame_v together_o grow_v unto_o a_o holy_a temple_n in_o the_o lord_n 42._o matth._n 21._o 42._o hence_o the_o governor_n of_o the_o church_n be_v call_v builder_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o the_o apostle_n be_v call_v labourer_n 11._o act_n 4._o 11._o together_o with_o god_n in_o erect_v this_o spiritual_a building_n and_o st._n paul_n call_v himself_o a_o master_n builder_n hence_o 9_o 1_o cor._n 3._o 9_o the_o increase_n growth_n and_o advance_n towards_o perfection_n 10._o 10._o in_o the_o church_n be_v call_v the_o building_n or_o edification_n of_o it_o for_o this_o reason_n st._n paul_n commend_v prophesy_v or_o expound_v the_o scripture_n before_o speak_v in_o unknown_a tongue_n without_o a_o interpreter_n because_o 5._o 1_o cor._n 14._o 5._o by_o this_o the_o church_n receive_v building_n or_o edification_n all_o these_o spiritual_a gift_n which_o be_v bestow_v 12._o v._o 12._o on_o the_o christian_n be_v for_o the_o building_n and_o edify_v of_o the_o church_n the_o apostolical_a power_n in_o church_n censure_n be_v for_o edification_n not_o for_o destruction_n 10._o 2_o cor._n 10._o 8._o 12._o 19_o 13._o 10._o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d to_o build_v and_o not_o to_o pull_v down_o that_o be_v to_o preserve_v the_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n entire_a and_o its_o communion_n pure_a and_o we_o may_v observe_v that_o this_o edification_n be_v primary_o apply_v to_o the_o church_n that_o the_o church_n
say_v nothing_o that_o the_o divine_a spirit_n confine_v his_o influence_n and_o operation_n to_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n in_o such_o conformity_n not_o only_o make_v such_o conformity_n necessary_a to_o salvation_n but_o impute_v to_o the_o church_n the_o damnation_n of_o many_o thousand_o of_o soul_n who_o may_v expect_v to_o be_v save_v upon_o other_o term_n that_o the_o divine_a spirit_n confine_v his_o influence_n ordinary_o to_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n i_o do_v assert_v but_o that_o this_o be_v in_o conformity_n to_o the_o church_n of_o england_n i_o do_v not_o assert_v for_o conformity_n to_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v not_o essential_a to_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o catholic_n church_n for_o every_o church_n have_v authority_n to_o prescribe_v its_o own_o rite_n and_o ceremony_n of_o worship_n in_o conformity_n to_o the_o general_a rule_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o therefore_o though_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n be_v necessary_a to_o entitle_v man_n to_o the_o ordinary_a influence_n of_o god_n grace_n and_o consequent_o be_v necessary_a to_o salvation_n yet_o conformity_n to_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v not_o necessary_a to_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n because_o christian_n who_o live_v under_o the_o government_n and_o jurisdiction_n of_o other_o church_n may_v and_o do_v preserve_v the_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n without_o conformity_n to_o the_o church_n of_o england_n obedience_n indeed_o and_o subjection_n to_o church-authority_n in_o all_o lawful_a thing_n be_v necessary_a to_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n and_o necessary_a to_o salvation_n and_o consequent_o it_o be_v a_o necessary_a duty_n to_o conform_v to_o all_o the_o lawful_a and_o innocent_a custom_n of_o the_o church_n wherein_o we_o live_v but_o this_o do_v not_o make_v the_o particular_a law_n of_o conformity_n which_o be_v different_a in_o different_a church_n to_o be_v necessary_a to_o salvation_n unless_o you_o will_v say_v the_o church_n have_v no_o authority_n but_o only_o in_o thing_n absolute_o necessary_a to_o salvation_n which_o destroy_v all_o the_o external_a order_n and_o discipline_n of_o the_o church_n and_o charge_v all_o the_o church_n in_o the_o world_n with_o destroy_v man_n soul_n if_o any_o person_n be_v so_o humorsom_n and_o peevish_a as_o to_o break_v communion_n with_o they_o for_o such_o reason_n but_o such_o kind_n of_o cavil_n as_o these_o you_o may_v find_v answer_v at_o large_a in_o the_o vindication_n of_o the_o defence_n and_o thither_o i_o refer_v you_o if_o you_o desire_v to_o see_v any_o more_o of_o it_o thus_o sir_n i_o have_v with_o great_a patience_n answer_v your_o question_n not_o that_o they_o need_v or_o deserve_v any_o answer_n but_o that_o you_o may_v not_o think_v yourself_o too_o much_o despise_v nor_o other_o weak_a people_n think_v your_o question_n unanswered_a and_o now_o i_o have_v give_v you_o a_o answer_n i_o shall_v take_v the_o confidence_n to_o give_v you_o a_o little_a ghostly_a counsel_n too_o which_o you_o need_v a_o great_a deal_n more_o than_o a_o answer_n i_o have_v not_o trouble_v my_o head_n to_o inquire_v scrupulous_o who_o you_o be_v nor_o do_v i_o use_v to_o trust_v common_a fame_n in_o such_o matter_n but_o though_o i_o know_v not_o you_o yet_o i_o perceive_v you_o know_v i_o and_o if_o as_o you_o say_v you_o have_v often_o 1._o p._n 1._o hear_v i_o with_o great_a satisfaction_n and_o as_o you_o hope_v not_o without_o edify_v thereby_o i_o think_v it_o will_v have_v become_v you_o to_o have_v treat_v i_o with_o a_o little_a more_o civility_n than_o you_o have_v do_v if_o it_o be_v in_o your_o nature_n to_o be_v civil_a to_o a_o clergyman_n and_o i_o wish_v more_o for_o your_o own_o sake_n than_o for_o i_o you_o have_v do_v so_o for_o i_o thank_v god_n i_o have_v learn_v not_o only_o by_o the_o precept_n and_o example_n of_o my_o great_a master_n but_o by_o frequent_a trial_n to_o go_v through_o good_a report_n and_o evil_a report_n and_o to_o bear_v the_o most_o invidious_a and_o spiteful_a reflection_n with_o a_o equal_a mind_n but_o as_o contemptible_a as_o a_o clergyman_n be_v now_o these_o thing_n will_v be_v account_v for_o another_o day_n for_o it_o be_v very_o evident_a that_o you_o have_v a_o great_a spite_n at_o the_o whole_a order_n whatever_o personal_a kindness_n you_o may_v have_v for_o some_o man_n they_o be_v but_o a_o herd_n of_o clergyman_n and_o you_o know_v no_o other_o use_n of_o a_o bishop_n but_o to_o oversee_v admonish_v and_o censure_v those_o who_o be_v apt_a to_o preface_n preface_n go_v beyond_o their_o due_a bound_n i_o confess_v this_o way_n of_o raillery_n be_v grow_v very_o fashionable_a and_o i_o perceive_v you_o be_v resolve_v to_o be_v in_o the_o mode_n and_o to_o be_v a_o accomplish_a gentleman_n but_o i_o never_o know_v a_o man_n that_o be_v serious_o religious_a who_o dare_v affront_v the_o servant_n for_o their_o master_n sake_n but_o you_o sir_n be_v in_o the_o very_a height_n of_o the_o fashion_n and_o think_v their_o office_n as_o contemptible_a as_o their_o person_n general_o be_v think_v to_o be_v you_o hope_v to_o be_v save_v without_o understand_v the_o notion_n of_o church-government_n as_o it_o be_v intreague_v by_o clergyman_n of_o all_o side_n and_o i_o hope_v you_o may_v be_v save_v without_o understand_v a_o great_a many_o other_o thing_n beside_o church-government_n or_o else_o i_o doubt_v your_o salvation_n may_v be_v hazardous_a but_o this_o be_v too_o plain_a a_o contempt_n of_o all_o church-authority_n for_o though_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n have_v usurp_v a_o unlimited_a and_o tyrannical_a power_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o church-government_n yet_o what_o have_v the_o sound_a church_n of_o england_n as_o you_o own_v it_o do_v what_o occasion_n do_v i_o give_v for_o this_o censure_n who_o have_v express_o confine_v the_o exercise_n of_o church-authority_n to_o church-communion_n to_o receive_v in_o and_o put_v out_o of_o the_o church_n and_o if_o 39_o resol_n of_o case_n p._n 39_o the_o church_n be_v no_o society_n i_o will_v desire_v to_o know_v what_o it_o be_v and_o if_o be_v a_o society_n how_o can_v any_o society_n subsist_v without_o authority_n in_o some_o person_n to_o receive_v in_o and_o to_o shut_v out_o of_o the_o society_n but_o the_o truth_n be_v though_o you_o pretend_v to_o be_v in_o communion_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n you_o make_v the_o church_n itself_o a_o very_a needless_a and_o insignificant_a thing_n for_o you_o know_v no_o necessity_n of_o communicate_v with_o any_o church_n you_o will_v not_o allow_v it_o to_o be_v schism_n to_o separate_a from_o the_o church_n you_o think_v it_o a_o pretty_a indifferent_a thing_n whether_o man_n be_v baptise_a or_o not_o or_o by_o who_o they_o be_v baptise_a what_o your_o opinion_n be_v about_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n i_o do_v not_o know_v though_o if_o you_o be_v consistent_a with_o yourself_o i_o doubt_v that_o be_v a_o very_a indifferent_a ceremony_n too_o true_o to_o deal_v plain_o with_o you_o i_o think_v you_o have_v more_o need_n to_o be_v teach_v your_o catechism_n than_o to_o set_v up_o for_o a_o writer_n of_o book_n and_o let_v i_o in_o time_n warn_v you_o what_o the_o consequence_n of_o this_o way_n you_o be_v in_o be_v likely_a to_o be_v which_o be_v no_o less_o than_o a_o contempt_n of_o all_o reveal_v and_o institute_v religion_n and_o consequent_o of_o christianity_n natural_a religion_n may_v subsist_v without_o any_o positive_a institution_n but_o reveal_v religion_n never_o do_v and_o never_o can_v for_o when_o god_n transact_v with_o mankind_n in_o the_o way_n of_o a_o visible_a covenant_n there_o must_v be_v some_o visible_a minister_n and_o visible_a sacrament_n of_o this_o covenant_n and_o when_o the_o evangelical_n minister_n and_o sacrament_n fall_v into_o contempt_n man_n must_v think_v mean_o of_o christianity_n and_o return_v to_o what_o they_o call_v natural_a religion_n which_o be_v a_o religion_n without_o a_o priest_n and_o without_o a_o sacrifice_n which_o can_v save_v a_o sinner_n but_o by_o uncovenant_v grace_n and_o mercy_n which_o no_o man_n can_v be_v sure_a of_o and_o which_o no_o man_n shall_v find_v who_o reject_v a_o priest_n and_o sacrifice_n of_o god_n provide_v and_o to_o convince_v you_o of_o this_o you_o may_v observe_v that_o the_o contempt_n of_o the_o notion_n of_o a_o church_n of_o the_o evangelical_n priesthood_n and_o sacrament_n be_v original_o owe_v to_o deist_n and_o socinian_n to_o those_o who_o profess_v to_o believe_v in_o god_n and_o to_o worship_v he_o according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o natural_a religion_n but_o believe_v nothing_o at_o all_o of_o christ_n or_o to_o those_o who_o profess_v to_o believe_v in_o christ_n but_o believe_v he_o only_o to_o be_v a_o mere_a man_n and_o a_o great_a reformer_n of_o natural_a
this_o head_n we_o may_v observe_v that_o though_o these_o reverend_a person_n do_v go_v upon_o different_a reason_n according_a to_o the_o principle_n they_o espouse_v they_o agree_v not_o in_o the_o constitution_n of_o church_n etc._n etc._n yet_o they_o all_o agree_v that_o the_o parochial_a church_n be_v or_o may_v be_v as_o i_o have_v observe_v before_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n that_o communion_n with_o such_o church_n be_v lawful_a and_o that_o we_o be_v to_o go_v as_o far_o as_o we_o can_v towards_o communion_n with_o they_o though_o they_o differ_v about_o the_o notion_n of_o hear_v as_o whether_o it_o be_v a_o act_n of_o communion_n and_o about_o the_o call_v of_o those_o they_o hear_v yet_o they_o all_o agree_v in_o the_o lawfulness_n of_o it_o and_o therefore_o to_o separate_v whole_o in_o this_o ordinance_n and_o from_o the_o parochial_a church_n as_o no_o church_n be_v equal_o condemn_v by_o all_o 3._o they_o hold_v that_o they_o be_v not_o to_o separate_v from_o a_o church_n for_o unlawful_a thing_n if_o the_o thing_n account_v unlawful_a be_v not_o of_o so_o heinous_a a_o nature_n as_o to_o unchurch_n a_o church_n and_o affect_v the_o vital_n of_o religion_n or_o be_v not_o impose_v as_o necessary_a term_n of_o communion_n 1._o if_o the_o corruption_n be_v such_o as_o do_v not_o unchurch_n a_o church_n or_o affect_v the_o vital_a part_n of_o religion_n so_o say_v mr._n tomb_n not_o every_o nor_o many_o corruption_n 48._o theodulia_n answer_v to_o preface_n §_o 23._o p._n 47_o 48._o of_o some_o kind_n do_v unchurch_n there_o be_v many_o in_o faith_n worship_n and_o conversation_n in_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n and_o some_o of_o the_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n &c_n aid_n blake_n be_v vindiciae_fw-la foed_n c._n 31._o p._n 229_o &c_n &c_n who_o yet_o be_v golden_a candlestick_n amid_o who_o christ_n do_v walk_v but_o such_o general_n avow_a unrepented_a of_o error_n in_o faith_n as_o overthrow_v the_o foundation_n of_o christian_a faith_n to_o wit_n christ_n the_o only_a mediator_n betwixt_o god_n and_o man_n and_o salvation_n by_o he_o corruption_n of_o worship_n by_o idolatry_n in_o life_n by_o evil_a manner_n as_o be_v utter_o inconsistent_a with_o christianity_n till_o which_o in_o whole_a or_o in_o part_n they_o be_v not_o unchurch_v for_o till_o then_o the_o corruption_n be_v tolerable_a and_o so_o afford_v no_o just_a reason_n to_o dissolve_v the_o church_n or_o to_o depart_v from_o it_o so_o mr._n brinsly_n 50._o arraignment_n of_o schism_n p._n 50._o suppose_v some_o just_a grievance_n may_v be_v find_v among_o we_o yet_o be_v they_o tolerable_a if_o so_o then_o be_v separation_n on_o this_o ground_n intolerable_a unwarrantable_a in_o as_o much_o as_o it_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v but_o upon_o a_o very_a great_a and_o weighty_a cause_n and_o that_o when_o there_o be_v no_o remedy_n so_o mr._n noyes_n private_a brethren_n may_v not_o 78._o temple_n measure_v p._n 78._o separate_v from_o church_n or_o church-ordinance_n which_o be_v not_o fundamental_o defective_a neither_o in_o doctrine_n or_o manner_n heresy_n or_o profaneness_n to_o all_o which_o add_v the_o testimony_n of_o dr._n owen_n and_o mr._n cotton_n the_o former_a assert_n that_o many_o error_n in_o 76._o evangelical_n love_n p._n 76._o doctrine_n disorder_n in_o sacred_a administration_n irregular_a walk_v in_o conversation_n with_o neglect_n and_o abuse_v of_o discipline_n in_o ruler_n may_v fall_v out_o in_o some_o church_n and_o yet_o not_o evacuate_v their_o church-state_n or_o give_v sufficient_a warrant_n to_o leave_v their_o communion_n and_o separate_v from_o they_o the_o latter_a say_v 156._o exposit_n on_o 1_o epist_n john_n p._n 156._o unless_o you_o find_v in_o the_o church_n blasphemy_n or_o idolatry_n or_o persecution_n i._n e._n such_o as_o force_n they_o to_o leave_v the_o communion_n there_o be_v no_o just_a ground_n of_o separation_n this_o be_v universal_o own_a but_o if_o any_o one_o shall_v yet_o continue_v unconvince_v let_v he_o but_o peruse_v the_o catalogue_n of_o the_o fault_n of_o nine_o church_n in_o scripture_n collect_v by_o mr._n baxter_n and_o i_o persuade_v myself_o he_o will_v think_v the_o conclusion_n infer_v from_o it_o to_o be_v just_a and_o reasonable_a observe_v say_v he_o that_o no_o etc._n cure_v of_o church_n division_n dir._n 5._o p._n 40_o etc._n etc._n one_o member_n be_v in_o all_o these_o scripture_n or_o any_o other_o command_v to_o come_v out_o and_o separate_v from_o any_o of_o all_o these_o church_n as_o if_o their_o communion_n in_o worship_n be_v unlawful_a and_o therefore_o before_o you_o separate_v from_o any_o as_o judge_v communion_n with_o they_o unlawful_a be_v sure_a that_o you_o bring_v great_a reason_n for_o it_o than_o any_o of_o these_o recite_v be_v 2._o they_o be_v not_o to_o separate_v if_o the_o corruption_n be_v not_o so_o make_v the_o condition_n of_o communion_n that_o they_o must_v necessary_o and_o unavoidable_o communicate_v in_o they_o mr._n vines_n speak_v plain_o to_o both_o of_o these_o 239._o on_o the_o sacrament_n p._n 239._o the_o church_n may_v be_v corrupt_v many_o way_n in_o doctrine_n ordinance_n worship_n etc._n etc._n and_o there_o be_v degree_n of_o this_o corruption_n the_o doctrine_n in_o some_o remote_a point_n the_o worship_n in_o some_o ritual_n of_o man_n invention_n or_o custom_n how_o many_o church_n do_v we_o find_v thus_o corrupt_v and_o yet_o no_o separation_n of_o christ_n from_o the_o jewish_a church_n nor_o any_o commandment_n to_o the_o godly_a of_o corinth_n etc._n etc._n to_o separate_v i_o must_v in_o such_o a_o case_n avoid_v the_o corruption_n hold_v the_o communion_n but_o if_o corruption_n invade_v the_o fundamental_o the_o foundation_n of_o doctrine_n be_v destroy_v the_o worship_n be_v become_v idolatrous_a and_o what_o be_v above_o all_o if_o the_o church_n impose_v such_o law_n of_o her_o communion_n as_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n of_o do_v or_o approve_v thing_n unlawful_a in_o that_o case_n come_v out_o of_o babylon_n the_o church_n of_o protestant_n so_o separate_v from_o rome_n but_o if_o the_o thing_n be_v not_o of_o so_o heinous_a a_o nature_n nor_o thus_o strict_o require_v than_o communion_n with_o a_o church_n under_o defect_n be_v lawful_a and_o may_v be_v a_o duty_n so_o say_v mr._n corbet_n in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o present_a nonconformist_n we_o hold_v not_o ourselves_o oblige_v to_o forsake_v a_o 33._o account_v of_o the_o principle_n of_o n._n c._n p._n 8._o and_o discourse_v of_o relig._n §_o 16._o p._n 33._o true_a church_n as_o no_o church_n for_o the_o corruption_n and_o disorder_n find_v therein_o or_o to_o separate_v from_o its_o worship_n for_o the_o tolerable_a fault_n thereof_o while_o our_o personal_a profession_n of_o some_o error_n or_o practice_n of_o some_o evil_n be_v not_o require_v as_o the_o term_n of_o our_o communion_n and_o mr._n burrough_n himself_o do_v grant_v as_o much_o and_o more_o for_o he_o say_v 163._o irenicum_fw-la c._n 23._o p._n 162_o 163._o where_o these_o cause_n be_v not_o viz._n the_o be_v constrain_v to_o profess_v believe_v or_o practice_v contrary_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o faith_n or_o be_v deprive_v of_o mean_n altogether_o necessary_a or_o most_o expedient_a to_o salvation_n but_o men_n may_v communicate_v without_o sin_n profess_v the_o truth_n and_o enjoy_v all_o ordinance_n as_o the_o freeman_n of_o christ_n man_n must_v not_o separate_v from_o a_o church_n though_o there_o be_v corruption_n in_o it_o to_o gather_v into_o a_o new_a church_n which_o may_v be_v more_o pure_a and_o in_o some_o respect_v more_o comfortable_a and_o as_o though_o such_o corruption_n shall_v be_v impose_v as_o term_n of_o communion_n yet_o if_o not_o actual_o impose_v upon_o we_o our_o communicate_v in_o the_o true_a part_n of_o god_n worship_n be_v never_o the_o worse_o for_o the_o say_a imposition_n as_o long_o as_o we_o do_v not_o communicate_v in_o those_o corruption_n as_o mr._n bradshaw_n do_v argue_v so_o 103._o unreasonableness_n of_o the_o separation_n p._n 103._o though_o they_o shall_v be_v impose_v and_o be_v unavoidable_a to_o all_o that_o be_v in_o communion_n that_o be_v not_o a_o sufficient_a reason_n for_o a_o total_a separation_n as_o it_o be_v also_o own_a for_o say_v one_o when_o the_o corruption_n of_o a_o church_n be_v such_o as_o 12._o jerubbaal_n p._n 12._o that_o one_o can_v communicate_v with_o she_o without_o sin_n unavoidable_o that_o seem_v to_o i_o to_o be_v a_o just_a ground_n though_o not_o of_o a_o positive_a yet_o of_o a_o negative_a though_o not_o of_o a_o total_a yet_o of_o a_o partial_a separation_n i._n e._n it_o may_v be_v a_o just_a ground_n for_o the_o lesser_a but_o be_v not_o so_o for_o the_o great_a suppose_v then_o the_o corruption_n in_o a_o church_n not_o to_o be_v of_o a_o heinous_a nature_n not_o respect_v the_o fundamental_o of_o religion_n
separate_v to_o those_o church_n which_o they_o account_v better_o because_o they_o never_o find_v those_o where_o they_o be_v before_o to_o they_o good_a find_v the_o set_n up_o christ_n in_o your_o heart_n by_o the_o ministry_n and_o then_o you_o dare_v to_o account_v it_o antichristian_a thus_o one_o in_o a_o farewell_n sermon_n speak_v of_o suppose_a defect_n in_o a_o 456._o england_n remembrancer_n serm._n 16._o p._n 456._o church_n do_v advise_v his_o auditor_n enlarge_v your_o care_n and_o pain_n in_o your_o preparation_n a_o right_a stomach_n make_v good_a nourishment_n of_o a_o indifferent_a meal_n you_o may_v be_v warm_a though_o in_o a_o cold_a air_n and_o room_n than_o you_o have_v former_o be_v if_o you_o will_v put_v on_o more_o clothes_n before_o you_o come_v watch_v your_o heart_n more_o narrow_o and_o speak_v thing_n to_o your_o heart_n more_o than_o you_o have_v do_v ecclesiast_fw-la 10._o 10._o if_o the_o iron_n be_v blunt_a then_o must_v he_o put_v to_o more_o strength_n but_o suppose_v it_o be_v real_o for_o edification_n yet_o this_o they_o declare_v be_v no_o sufficient_a reason_n for_o separation_n so_o mr._n burrough_n if_o you_o be_v join_v to_o a_o pastor_n 85._o iren._n c._n 12._o p._n 85._o so_o as_o you_o believe_v he_o be_v set_v over_o you_o by_o christ_n to_o be_v a_o pastor_n to_o you_o though_o this_o man_n have_v mean_a gift_n than_o other_o and_o it_o will_v be_v more_o comfortable_a for_o you_o to_o have_v another_o pastor_n yet_o this_o be_v not_o enough_o to_o cause_v you_o to_o desert_n he_o who_o christ_n have_v set_v over_o you_o and_o so_o the_o minister_n in_o new-england_n 5._o platform_n c._n 13._o §_o 5._o deliver_v their_o mind_n to_o separate_v from_o a_o church_n for_o great_a enlargement_n with_o just_a grief_n to_o the_o church_n be_v unlawful_a and_o sinful_a so_o when_o this_o question_n be_v put_v be_v they_o not_o at_o all_o time_n oblige_v to_o use_v the_o mean_n which_o be_v most_o edify_v it_o be_v answer_v by_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n they_o may_v say_v at_o all_o time_n when_o they_o have_v nothing_o to_o outweigh_v 91._o continuat_fw-la of_o morn_n exerc._n serm._n 4._o p._n 91._o their_o own_o edification_n so_o that_o edification_n may_v be_v outweigh_v and_o then_o it_o can_v be_v no_o stand_v and_o sufficient_a reason_n so_o mr._n burrough_n declare_v in_o this_o 86._o irenic_n c._n 12._o p._n 85_o 86._o case_n man_n must_v consider_v not_o only_o what_o the_o thing_n be_v in_o its_o own_o nature_n but_o what_o it_o be_v to_o they_o how_o it_o stand_v in_o reference_n to_o their_o relation_n it_o be_v not_o enough_o to_o say_v the_o thing_n be_v in_o itself_o better_a but_o be_v it_o better_o in_o all_o the_o reference_n i_o have_v and_o it_o have_v be_v it_o better_o in_o regard_n of_o other_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o public_a for_o the_o help_v i_o in_o all_o my_o relation_n may_v it_o not_o help_v one_o way_n and_o hinder_v many_o way_n of_o the_o same_o opinion_n be_v mr._n baxter_n many_o thing_n say_v he_o 85._o defence_n part_v 1._o p._n 85._o must_v concur_v and_o especial_o a_o respect_n to_o the_o public_a good_a to_o know_v which_o be_v the_o best_a so_o that_o edification_n be_v not_o to_o be_v adjudge_v of_o alone_a our_o own_o improvement_n be_v not_o to_o determine_v we_o in_o our_o action_n and_o especial_o not_o with_o respect_n to_o church-communion_n for_o then_o other_o reason_n do_v give_v law_n to_o it_o and_o over-rule_v it_o thus_o we_o see_v those_o that_o dissent_v from_o the_o church_n in_o other_o thing_n agree_v with_o she_o in_o this_o and_o they_o give_v several_a reason_n and_o argument_n for_o it_o first_o if_o we_o be_v sure_o we_o can_v not_o profit_v yet_o we_o must_v arg._n 1_o come_v to_o do_v homage_n to_o god_n and_o show_v reverence_n to_o his_o 309._o lect._n 28._o p._n 129_o 309._o ordinance_n this_o be_v mr._n hildersham_n opinion_n second_o the_o leave_v a_o church_n for_o better_a edification_n arg._n 2_o be_v build_v upon_o a_o false_a and_o dangerous_a principle_n which_o be_v that_o we_o must_v always_o choose_v the_o best_a so_o mr._n burrough_n to_o hold_v what_o be_v in_o itself_o best_a must_v be_v choose_v 87._o irenic_n c._n 12._o p._n 84_o 87._o and_o do_v not_o weigh_v circumstance_n or_o reference_n be_v a_o divide_v principle_n and_o afterward_o he_o say_v a_o christian_a without_o compare_v one_o thing_n with_o another_o will_v hack_v and_o hew_v and_o disturb_v himself_o and_o other_o in_o the_o way_n of_o religion_n i_o believe_v some_o of_o you_o have_v know_v those_o who_o whatsoever_o they_o have_v conceive_v to_o be_v better_a than_o other_o they_o have_v present_o follow_v with_o all_o eagerness_n 78_o of_o this_o v._o ball_n be_v trial_n c._n 4._o p._n 75_o 76_o 78_o never_o consider_v circumstance_n reference_n or_o consequence_n but_o the_o thing_n be_v good_a it_o must_v be_v do_v yet_o be_v weary_v with_o this_o they_o have_v after_o grow_v loose_a in_o as_o great_a a_o excess_n the_o other_o way_n three_o this_o principle_n of_o better_a edification_n if_o follow_v arg._n 3_o will_v bring_v in_o confusion_n so_o mr._n hildersham_n 66._o lect._n 66._o this_o factious_a disposition_n of_o the_o hearer_n of_o god_n word_n have_v in_o all_o age_n be_v the_o cause_n of_o much_o confusion_n in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o great_o hinder_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n this_o say_v mr._n brinsly_n the_o moderate_a author_n of_o the_o late_a irenicum_fw-la mr._n burrough_n 48._o arraignment_n of_o schism_n p._n 48._o will_n by_o no_o mean_n allow_v but_o condemn_v as_o the_o direct_a way_n to_o bring_v in_o all_o kind_n of_o disorder_n and_o confusion_n into_o the_o church_n and_o i_o think_v none_o who_o be_v judicious_a but_o will_v therein_o subscribe_v to_o he_o it_o will_v not_o be_v amiss_o to_o transcribe_v his_o own_o word_n it_o be_v in_o itself_o a_o better_a thing_n to_o enjoy_v a_o ministry_n 85._o burrough_n iren._n c._n 12._o p._n 85._o of_o the_o most_o eminent_a gift_n and_o grace_n than_o one_o of_o low_a but_o if_o this_o shall_v be_v make_v a_o rule_n that_o a_o man_n who_o be_v under_o a_o pastor_n who_o be_v faithful_a and_o in_o some_o good_a measure_n gift_v upon_o another_o man_n come_v into_o the_o country_n that_o be_v more_o eminent_a he_o shall_v forsake_v his_o pastor_n and_o join_v to_o the_o other_o and_o if_o after_o this_o still_o a_o more_o eminent_a man_n come_v he_o shall_v leave_v the_o former_a and_o join_v to_o he_o and_o by_o the_o same_o law_n a_o pastor_n who_o have_v a_o good_a people_n yet_o if_o other_o be_v more_o likely_a to_o receive_v more_o good_a he_o may_v leave_v his_o own_o people_n and_o go_v to_o they_o what_o confusion_n and_o disorder_n will_v there_o be_v continual_o in_o the_o church_n this_o be_v condemn_v also_o by_o the_o new-england_n minister_n this_o mr._n cawdrey_n do_v expose_v if_o a_o man_n may_v lawful_o 50._o platform_n pref._n p._n 7._o etc._n etc._n 13._o §_o 1._o independ_v a_o schism_n p._n 50._o separate_v from_o a_o true_a church_n etc._n etc._n only_o with_o a_o good_a mind_n to_o serve_v god_n in_o church-institution_n true_a or_o conceit_v by_o his_o own_o light_n all_o the_o sectary_n and_o separatist_n donatist_n brownist_n in_o the_o world_n may_v be_v justify_v this_o say_v another_o speak_v of_o hear_v 74._o methermeneut_n p._n 72_o 74._o for_o this_o reason_n be_v a_o church-destroying_a principle_n sure_o if_o one_o member_n be_v not_o fix_v than_o not_o another_o nor_o another_o etc._n etc._n and_o then_o not_o the_o pastor_n nor_o teacher_n and_o so_o farewell_n churches_n four_o this_o will_v be_v endless_a so_o mr._n burrough_n arg._n 4_o man_n must_v not_o separate_v from_o a_o church_n though_o there_o 163._o irenic_n c._n 23._o p._n 163._o be_v corruption_n in_o it_o to_o gather_v into_o a_o new_a church_n which_o may_v be_v more_o pure_a and_o in_o some_o respect_v more_o comfortable_a first_o because_o we_o never_o find_v the_o saint_n in_o scripture_n separate_v or_o raise_v church_n in_o such_o a_o case_n and_o second_o there_o will_v be_v no_o continuance_n in_o church-fellowship_n if_o this_o be_v admit_v for_o what_o church_n be_v so_o pure_a and_o have_v all_o thing_n so_o comfortable_a but_o within_o a_o while_n another_o church_n will_v be_v more_o pure_a and_o some_o thing_n will_v be_v more_o comfortable_a there_o and_o he_o conclude_v with_o this_o prudent_a maxim_n the_o general_a peace_n of_o the_o church_n shall_v be_v more_o regard_v than_o some_o comfortable_a accommodation_n to_o ourselves_o so_o mr._n baxter_n 85._o defence_n part_v 1._o p._n 85._o what_o if_o twenty_o minister_n be_v one_o able_a than_o another_o in_o their_o several_a degree_n do_v it_o
to_o lay_v down_o our_o sin_n and_o instead_o of_o block_v up_o the_o way_n aga_v any_o by_o scandalous_a live_n invite_v and_o allure_v they_o all_o in_o by_o exemplary_a holiness_n and_o purity_n and_o this_o i_o be_o sure_a how_o short_a soever_o my_o discourse_n come_v of_o will_v be_v a_o full_a answer_n to_o and_o a_o perfect_a confutation_n of_o this_o objection_n finis_fw-la the_o case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n use_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n propose_v and_o state_v by_o consider_v these_o question_n qu._n i._n whether_o thing_n indifferent_a though_o not_o prescribe_v may_v be_v lawful_o use_v in_o divine_a worship_n or_o whether_o there_o be_v any_o thing_n indifferent_a in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n qu._n ii_o whether_o a_o restraint_n of_o our_o liberty_n in_o the_o use_n of_o such_o indifferent_a thing_n be_v a_o violation_n of_o it_o london_n print_v by_o t._n moor_n &_o j._n ashburne_n for_o fincham_n gardiner_n at_o the_o white-horse_n in_o ludgate-street_n 1683._o book_n print_v for_o fincham_n gardiner_z a_o continuation_n and_o vindication_n of_o the_o defence_n of_o dr._n stillingfleet_n unreasonableness_n of_o separation_n in_o answer_n to_o mr._n baxter_n and_o mr._n job_n etc._n etc._n consideration_n of_o present_a use_n consider_v the_o danger_n result_v from_o the_o change_n of_o our_o church-government_n 1._o a_o persuasive_a to_o communion_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 2._o a_o resolution_n of_o some_o case_n of_o conscience_n which_o respect_n church-communion_n 3._o the_o case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n use_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n propose_v and_o state_v by_o consider_v these_o question_n etc._n etc._n 4._o a_o discourse_n about_o edification_n 5._o the_o resolution_n of_o this_o case_n of_o conscience_n whether_o the_o church_n of_o england_n symbolise_n so_o far_o as_o it_o do_v with_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n make_v it_o unlawful_a to_o hold_v communion_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 6._o a_o letter_n to_o anonymus_fw-la in_o answer_n to_o his_o three_o letter_n to_o dr_n sherlock_n about_o church-communion_n 7._o certain_a case_n of_o conscience_n resolve_v concern_v the_o lawfulness_n of_o join_v with_o form_n of_o prayer_n in_o public_a worship_n in_o two_o part_n 8._o the_o case_n of_o mix_a communion_n whether_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o separate_v from_o a_o church_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o promiscuous_a congregation_n and_o mix_v communion_n 9_o a_o answer_n to_o the_o dissenter_n objection_n against_o the_o common_a prayer_n and_o some_o other_o part_n of_o divine_a service_n prescribe_v in_o the_o liturgy_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 10._o the_o case_n of_o kneel_v at_o the_o holy_a sacrament_n state_v and_o resolve_v etc._n etc._n the_o first_o part._n 11._o certain_a case_n of_o conscience_n &c_n &c_n the_o second_o part._n 12._o a_o discourse_n of_o profit_v by_o sermon_n and_o go_v to_o hear_v where_o man_n think_v they_o can_v profit_v most_o 13._o a_o serious_a exhortation_n with_o some_o important_a advice_n relate_v to_o the_o late_a case_n about_o conformity_n recommend_v to_o the_o present_a dissenter_n from_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 14._o a_o argument_n for_o union_n etc._n etc._n 15._o the_o case_n kneel_v at_o the_o sacrament_n the_o second_o part_n 16._o some_o consideration_n about_o the_o case_n of_o scandal_n or_o give_v offence_n to_o weak-bretheren_n 17._o the_o case_n of_o infant-baptism_n in_o five_o question_n etc._n etc._n 1._o a_o discourse_n about_o the_o charge_n of_o novelty_n upon_o the_o reform_a church_n of_o england_n make_v by_o the_o papist_n ask_v of_o we_o the_o question_n where_o be_v our_o religion_n before_o luther_n 2._o a_o discourse_n about_o tradition_n show_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o it_o and_o what_o tradition_n be_v to_o be_v receive_v and_o what_o tradition_n be_v to_o be_v reject_v 3._o the_o difference_n of_o the_o case_n between_o the_o separation_n of_o protestant_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o the_o separation_n of_o dissenter_n from_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 4._o the_o protestant_a resolution_n of_o faith_n etc._n etc._n question_n q._n whether_o thing_n not_o prescribe_v in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n may_v be_v lawful_o use_v in_o divine_a worship_n before_o i_o proceed_v to_o the_o case_n itself_o it_o will_v be_v fit_a to_o consider_v what_o the_o thing_n be_v which_o the_o question_n more_o immediate_o respect_n for_o the_o better_a understanding_n of_o which_o we_o may_v observe_v 1._o that_o there_o be_v essential_a part_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o which_o be_v either_o by_o nature_n or_o revelation_n so_o determine_v that_o they_o be_v in_o all_o age_n necessary_a in_o natural_a religion_n such_o be_v the_o object_n of_o it_o which_o must_v be_v divine_a such_o be_v the_o acknowledgement_n of_o honour_n and_o reverence_n due_a and_o peculiar_a to_o those_o object_n as_o prayer_n etc._n etc._n and_o in_o the_o christian_a religion_n such_o be_v the_o sacrament_n of_o baptism_n and_o the_o lord_n supper_n these_o be_v always_o to_o be_v the_o same_o in_o the_o church_n 2._o there_o be_v other_o thing_n relate_v to_o divine_a worship_n which_o be_v arbitrary_a and_o variable_a and_o determine_v according_a to_o circumstance_n as_o gesture_n place_n etc._n etc._n as_o to_o the_o former_a be_v grant_v by_o the_o contend_a party_n that_o they_o be_v all_o already_o prescribe_v and_o that_o nothing_o in_o that_o kind_n can_v be_v add_v to_o what_o be_v already_o prescribe_v nor_o can_v any_o thing_n so_o prescribe_v be_v alter_v or_o abolish_v nothing_o now_o can_v be_v make_v necessary_a and_o bind_v to_o all_o person_n place_n and_o age_n that_o be_v not_o so_o from_o the_o begin_n of_o christianity_n and_o nothing_o that_o be_v once_o make_v so_o by_o divine_a authority_n can_v be_v render_v void_a or_o unnecessary_a by_o any_o other_o therefore_o the_o question_n be_v to_o be_v apply_v to_o the_o latter_a and_o then_o be_v no_o other_o than_o whether_o thing_n in_o their_o own_o nature_n indifferent_a though_o not_o prescribe_v in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n may_v be_v lawful_o use_v in_o divine_a worship_n or_o whether_o there_o be_v any_o thing_n indifferent_a in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n towards_o the_o resolution_n of_o which_o i_o shall_v 1._o inquire_v into_o the_o nature_n and_o state_n the_o notion_n of_o thing_n indifferent_a 2._o show_v that_o thing_n indifferent_a may_v be_v lawful_o use_v in_o divine_a worship_n 3._o consider_v how_o we_o may_v know_v what_o thing_n be_v indifferent_a in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n 4._o how_o we_o be_v to_o determine_v ourselves_o in_o the_o use_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n so_o apply_v 5._o show_v that_o there_o be_v nothing_o require_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n in_o our_o church_n but_o what_o be_v either_o necessary_a in_o itself_o and_o so_o bind_v to_o all_o christian_n or_o what_o be_v indifferent_a and_o so_o may_v be_v lawful_o use_v by_o they_o 1._o i_o shall_v inquire_v into_o the_o nature_n and_o state_n the_o notion_n of_o thing_n indifferent_a in_o do_v of_o which_o we_o be_v to_o observe_v that_o all_o thing_n with_o reference_n to_o practice_n be_v reducible_a to_o these_o three_o head_n first_o duty_n second_o sin_n three_o neither_o duty_n nor_o sin_n duty_n be_v either_o so_o moral_o and_o in_o its_o own_o nature_n or_o make_v so_o by_o divine_a and_o positive_a command_n sin_n be_v so_o in_o its_o own_o nature_n or_o make_v and_o declare_v to_o be_v such_o by_o divine_a and_o positive_a prohibition_n neither_o duty_n nor_o sin_n be_v that_o which_o no_o law_n either_o of_o nature_n or_o revelation_n have_v determine_v and_o be_v usual_o know_v by_o the_o name_n of_o indifferent_a that_o be_v it_o be_v of_o a_o middle_a nature_n partake_v in_o itself_o of_o neither_o extreme_n and_o may_v be_v indifferent_o use_v or_o forbear_v as_o in_o reason_n and_o prudence_n shall_v be_v think_v meet_v thing_n of_o this_o kind_a the_o apostle_n call_v lawfal_v 1_o cor._n 10._o 23_o etc._n etc._n because_o they_o be_v the_o subject_n of_o no_o law_n and_o what_o be_v therefore_o lawful_a to_o we_o and_o which_o without_o sin_n we_o may_v either_o choose_v or_o refuse_v thus_o the_o apostle_n do_v determine_v rom._n 4._o 15._o where_o no_o law_n be_v there_o be_v no_o transgression_n that_o be_v it_o can_v be_v no_o transgression_n to_o omit_v that_o which_o the_o law_n do_v not_o enjoin_a nor_o to_o do_v that_o which_o it_o do_v not_o forbid_v for_o else_o that_o will_v be_v a_o duty_n which_o the_o law_n do_v not_o enjoin_a and_o that_o will_v be_v a_o sin_n which_o it_o do_v not_o forbid_v which_o be_v in_o effect_n to_o say_v there_o be_v a_o law_n where_o there_o be_v none_o or_o that_o duty_n and_o sin_n be_v so_o without_o respect_n to_o any_o law_n but_o now_o if_o duty_n be_v duty_n because_o its_o enjoined_n and_o
sin_n be_v sin_n because_o it_o be_v fordidden_v then_o indifferent_a be_v indifferent_a because_o it_o neither_o enjoy_v nor_o forbid_v for_o as_o to_o make_v it_o a_o duty_n there_o need_v a_o command_n and_o to_o make_v it_o a_o sin_n there_o need_v a_o prohibition_n so_o where_o there_o be_v neither_o command_n nor_o prohibition_n it_o be_v neither_o duty_n nor_o sin_n and_o must_v be_v therefore_o indifferent_a lawful_a and_o free_n so_o that_o we_o may_v as_o well_o know_v by_o the_o silence_n of_o the_o law_n what_o be_v indifferent_a as_o we_o may_v know_v by_o its_o authority_n what_o be_v a_o duty_n or_o a_o sin_n and_o i_o have_v no_o more_o reason_n to_o think_v that_o a_o duty_n or_o a_o sin_n which_o it_o take_v no_o notice_n of_o since_o all_o obligation_n arise_v from_o a_o law_n than_o that_o not_o to_o be_v a_o duty_n or_o a_o sin_n which_o it_o do_v the_o nature_n of_o lawful_a thing_n be_v as_o much_o determine_v so_o to_o be_v by_o the_o want_n of_o such_o authority_n as_o that_o of_o necessary_a be_v determine_v by_o it_o and_o he_o that_o shall_v say_v that_o be_v a_o duty_n or_o a_o sin_n which_o be_v not_o so_o make_v and_o declare_v by_o any_o law_n may_v as_o well_o say_v that_o be_v no_o duty_n or_o sin_n which_o there_o be_v a_o law_n about_o to_o conclude_v there_o must_v be_v a_o law_n to_o make_v it_o a_o transgression_n and_o the_o want_n of_o a_o law_n do_v necessary_o suppose_v it_o to_o be_v none_o and_o what_o there_o be_v no_o law_n for_o or_o against_o remain_v indifferent_a in_o itself_o and_o lawful_a to_o we_o as_o for_o instance_n suppose_v there_o shall_v be_v a_o dispute_n concern_v day_n set_v apart_o for_o the_o service_n and_o worship_n of_o god_n how_o must_v this_o be_v determine_v but_o by_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n or_o revelation_n and_o how_o shall_v we_o be_v resolve_v in_o the_o case_n but_o by_o consider_v what_o the_o law_n enjoin_v or_o forbid_v in_o it_o if_o we_o find_v it_o not_o enjoin_v it_o can_v be_v of_o itself_o no_o duty_n if_o we_o find_v it_o not_o forbid_v it_o can_v be_v of_o itself_o no_o sin_n and_o consequent_o it_o be_v lawful_a and_o indifferent_a and_o in_o what_o we_o neither_o sin_n by_o omit_v nor_o observe_v so_o the_o apostle_n conclude_v rom._n 14._o 6._o he_o that_o regard_v a_o day_n regard_v it_o unto_o the_o lord_n and_o he_o that_o regard_v not_o the_o day_n unto_o the_o lord_n he_o do_v not_o regard_v it_o that_o be_v there_o be_v no_o law_n require_v it_o and_o so_o make_v the_o observation_n of_o it_o necessary_a and_o no_o law_n forbid_v it_o and_o so_o make_v the_o observation_n of_o it_o sinful_a and_o therefore_o christian_n be_v at_o liberty_n to_o observe_v or_o not_o to_o observe_v it_o as_o they_o please_v and_o in_o both_o they_o do_v well_o if_o so_o be_v they_o have_v a_o regard_n to_o the_o lord_n in_o it_o 2._o i_o shall_v show_v that_o there_o be_v thing_n indifferent_a in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n and_o that_o such_o thing_n though_o not_o prescribe_v may_v be_v lawful_o use_v in_o it_o it_o be_v allow_v by_o all_o that_o there_o be_v no_o command_n to_o be_v expect_v about_o the_o natural_a circumstance_n of_o action_n and_o which_o the_o service_n can_v be_v celebrate_v without_o such_o as_o time_n and_o place_n and_o that_o these_o be_v leave_v to_o humane_a prudence_n to_o fix_v and_o determine_v but_o what_o those_o natural_a circumstance_n be_v be_v not_o so_o universal_o agree_v to_o and_o if_o they_o be_v such_o as_o aforesaid_a that_o be_v such_o as_o the_o action_n can_v be_v perform_v without_o than_o it_o will_v very_o much_o serve_v to_o justify_v most_o of_o the_o thing_n in_o dispute_n and_o defend_v our_o church_n in_o the_o use_n and_o practice_n of_o they_o for_o what_o be_v there_o almost_o in_o that_o kind_n among_o we_o which_o be_v not_o natural_o or_o moral_o necessary_a to_o the_o action_n and_o if_o time_n and_o place_n fall_v under_o humane_a determination_n because_o they_o be_v natural_o necessary_a then_o why_o not_o also_o gesture_n and_o habit_n which_o worship_n can_v no_o more_o natural_o be_v celebrate_v without_o than_o the_o former_a and_o consequent_o a_o surplice_n or_o kneel_v and_o stand_v may_v be_v alike_o lawful_o determine_v and_o use_v as_o time_n for_o assemble_v together_o and_o a_o church_n to_o assemble_v and_o officiate_v in_o and_o what_o natural_a circumstance_n be_v to_o a_o natural_a action_n that_o be_v moral_a circumstance_n to_o a_o moral_a action_n and_o there_o be_v moral_a as_o necessary_a to_o a_o moral_a action_n as_o there_o be_v natural_a necessary_a to_o a_o natural_a action_n as_o for_o example_n what_o time_n and_o place_n be_v to_o natural_a that_o be_v method_n and_o order_n to_o moral_a and_o religious_a act_n and_o can_v no_o more_o be_v separate_v from_o these_o than_o the_o other_o can_v be_v separate_v from_o the_o former_a and_o therefore_o the_o method_n and_o order_n of_o administration_n in_o divine_a worship_n where_o not_o otherwise_o determine_v and_o appoint_v by_o god_n may_v as_o well_o be_v determine_v by_o man_n as_o time_n and_o place_n with_o respect_n to_o the_o nature_n end_n and_o use_v of_o the_o service_n so_o that_o the_o exception_n make_v against_o humane_a appointment_n in_o divine_a worship_n viz._n that_o all_o but_o natural_a circumstance_n must_v have_v a_o divine_a command_n to_o legitimate_a their_o use_n and_o that_o whatever_o be_v not_o prescribe_v be_v therefore_o prohibit_v be_v of_o no_o service_n to_o they_o that_o plead_v it_o and_o it_o remain_v good_a so_o far_o notwithstanding_o that_o there_o be_v thing_n indifferent_a in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n and_o that_o the_o outward_a order_n and_o administration_n of_o it_o be_v leave_v to_o christian_a prudence_n and_o this_o i_o shall_v more_o particular_o prove_v 1._o from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o rule_v lay_v down_o in_o the_o gospel_n relate_v to_o the_o administration_n of_o divine_a worship_n which_o except_o what_o refer_v to_o the_o element_n etc._n etc._n in_o the_o sacrament_n be_v take_v from_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n and_o so_o always_o be_v oblige_v to_o all_o age_n under_o the_o several_a variation_n and_o form_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o will_v be_v always_o so_o to_o all_o christian_n in_o the_o world_n viz._n such_o as_o respect_v order_n decency_n and_o edification_n insist_v upon_o 1_o cor._n 14._o 26_o 40._o so_o that_o we_o be_v no_o otherwise_o bind_v than_o as_o bind_v by_o these_o measure_n and_o where_o not_o bind_v by_o they_o we_o be_v free_a for_o as_o in_o former_a age_n from_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o world_n where_o revelation_n do_v not_o interpose_v as_o it_o do_v under_o the_o moysaicall_a dispensation_n all_o person_n be_v leave_v at_o liberty_n and_o if_o so_o be_v they_o have_v a_o respect_n to_o those_o natural_a rule_n may_v choose_v what_o way_n they_o please_v for_o the_o regulation_n of_o divine_a worship_n so_o when_o under_o the_o gospel_n we_o have_v no_o other_o than_o those_o natural_a rule_n except_o as_o above_o except_v the_o particular_a circumstrnce_n be_v as_o much_o now_o the_o matter_n of_o our_o free_a choice_n as_o they_o be_v then_o and_o this_o or_o that_o may_v be_v use_v and_o observe_v as_o the_o case_n require_v and_o occasion_n serve_v so_o that_o if_o ever_o there_o be_v thing_n indifferent_a in_o god_n worship_n and_o the_o administration_n of_o it_o be_v leave_v to_o the_o consideration_n and_o prudence_n of_o mankind_n it_o be_v so_o still_o since_o the_o gospel_n keep_v to_o those_o eternal_a rule_n which_o even_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n have_v invariable_o establish_v and_o which_o if_o it_o ever_o be_v sufficient_a for_o the_o guide_n of_o the_o church_n of_o god_n in_o those_o particular_n be_v certain_o so_o when_o the_o nature_n of_o man_n be_v improve_v by_o new_a help_n and_o so_o he_o be_v more_o capable_a of_o judge_v what_o may_v be_v suitable_a to_o that_o essential_a worship_n which_o god_n have_v prescribe_v under_o the_o gospel_n and_o to_o he_o who_o that_o worship_n be_v direct_v to_o but_o then_o that_o which_o confirm_v this_o be_v that_o those_o rule_n be_v also_o general_a and_o such_o as_o will_v in_o their_o use_n and_o end_n respect_v all_o people_n in_o the_o world_n the_o apostle_n in_o all_o their_o discourse_n upon_o this_o subject_n rare_o do_v descend_v to_o particular_n and_o in_o what_o they_o do_v show_v how_o far_o custom_n and_o charity_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o thing_n ought_v to_o govern_v we_o as_o in_o the_o case_n of_o man_n be_v uncover_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n for_o which_o the_o apostle_n do_v argue_v not_o from_o institution_n but_o the_o nature_n and_o decency_n
if_o it_o be_v not_o make_v use_n of_o in_o all_o sacred_a matter_n where_o eire_n be_v to_o be_v use_v yet_o it_o be_v most_o holy_a and_o when_o atonement_n be_v to_o be_v make_v by_o incense_n the_o coal_n be_v to_o be_v take_v from_o thence_o 46._o thence_o thence_o thence_o leu._n 16._o 12_o 46._o and_o therefore_o sure_o be_v as_o peculiar_a to_o those_o office_n as_o the_o incense_n and_o to_o be_v as_o constant_o use_v in_o they_o as_o never_o to_o be_v use_v in_o any_o other_o and_o it_o will_v yet_o make_v it_o more_o evident_a if_o it_o be_v consider_v 4._o that_o just_a before_o there_o be_v a_o account_n give_v of_o the_o extraordinary_a way_n by_o which_o this_o fire_n be_v light_v for_o the_o text_n say_v there_o come_v out_o a_o fire_n from_o before_o the_o lord_n and_o consume_v upon_o the_o altar_n the_o burnt-offering_a etc._n etc._n and_o immediate_o 24._o leu._n 9_o 24._o follow_v the_o relation_n of_o nadab_n miscarriage_n now_o for_o what_o reason_n be_v these_o thing_n so_o close_o connect_v but_o to_o show_v wherein_o they_o offend_v for_o before_o it_o be_v the_o office_n of_o aaron_n son_n to_o put_v fire_n upon_o the_o altar_n and_o now_o through_o inadvertency_n or_o presumption_n attempt_v 7._o leu._n 1._o 7._o to_o do_v as_o former_o when_o there_o have_v be_v this_o declaration_n from_o heaven_n to_o the_o contrary_a they_o suffer_v for_o it_o 5._o it_o appear_v further_a from_o the_o conformity_n betwixt_o the_o punishment_n and_o the_o sin_n as_o there_o come_v fire_n from_o before_o the_o lord_n and_o consume_v the_o burnt-offering_a to_o teach_v they_o what_o fire_n for_o the_o future_a to_o make_v use_n of_o so_o upon_o their_o transgression_n there_o come_v out_o fire_n from_o the_o lord_n and_o devour_v they_o to_o teach_v other_o how_o dangerous_a it_o be_v to_o do_v otherwise_o than_o he_o have_v command_v so_o that_o it_o seem_v to_o i_o to_o be_v like_o the_o case_n of_o vzzah_n when_o 2._o 1_o chron._n 13._o 7._o 10._o ch_z 15._o 2._o they_o carry_v the_o ark_n in_o a_o cart_n which_o the_o levite_n be_v to_o have_v bear_v upon_o their_o shoulder_n and_o it_o be_v not_o a_o offer_n without_o a_o command_n but_o otherwise_o than_o command_v that_o be_v their_o fault_n and_o without_o doubt_n they_o may_v with_o no_o more_o offence_n have_v take_v what_o fire_n they_o will_v for_o their_o incense_n than_o what_o wood_n they_o please_v for_o their_o fire_n if_o there_o have_v be_v no_o more_o direction_n about_o the_o one_o than_o the_o other_o but_o to_o proceed_v in_o the_o other_o place_n of_o scripture_n where_o this_o phrase_n of_o not_o command_v be_v to_o be_v meet_v with_o it_o be_v also_o so_o apply_v to_o thing_n forbid_v as_o to_o what_o be_v call_v abomination_n which_o be_v the_o worship_v of_o strange_a god_n the_o sun_n moon_n and_o star_n and_o 35._o deut._n 17_o 34._o jer._n 7._o 31._o ch._n 19_o 5._o ch._n 32._o 35._o the_o host_n of_o heaven_n to_o the_o build_n the_o high_a place_n 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that_o be_v not_o otherwise_o unlawful_a than_o because_o not_o command_v but_o when_o it_o be_v always_o speak_v of_o thing_n plain_o prohibit_v it_o be_v a_o sign_n that_o it_o be_v rather_o god_n forbid_v that_o make_v they_o unlawful_a than_o his_o not_o command_v but_o it_o may_v still_o be_v say_v why_o shall_v then_o the_o phrase_n be_v use_v at_o all_o in_o such_o matter_n and_o why_o shall_v the_o case_n be_v thus_o represent_v if_o not_o command_v be_v not_o the_o same_o with_o prohibit_v to_o this_o i_o answer_v 1._o that_o all_o thing_n prohibit_v be_v by_o consequence_n not_o command_v but_o it_o follow_v not_o that_o all_o thing_n not_o command_v be_v prohibit_v if_o it_o be_v forbid_v to_o offer_v strange_a fire_n than_o it_o be_v a_o thing_n not_o command_v for_o otherwise_o the_o same_o thing_n will_v be_v forbid_v and_o command_v but_o if_o it_o have_v be_v a_o thing_n not_o command_v only_o it_o will_v not_o by_o be_v so_o have_v be_v any_o more_o prohibit_v than_o the_o wood_n that_o be_v to_o be_v burn_v upon_o the_o altar_n now_o it_o be_v with_o respect_n to_o the_o former_a that_o thing_n prohibit_v be_v call_v thing_n not_o command_v and_o not_o with_o respect_n to_o the_o latter_a 2._o indeed_o the_o phrase_n not_o command_v be_v only_o a_o meiosis_n or_o soft_a way_n of_o speak_v when_o more_o be_v understand_v than_o express_v a_o figure_n usual_a in_o all_o author_n and_o language_n that_o i_o know_v of_o and_o what_o be_v frequent_o to_o be_v meet_v with_o in_o scripture_n thus_o it_o be_v give_v as_o a_o character_n of_o a_o hypocritical_a people_n they_o choose_v that_o in_o which_o i_o delight_v not_o 12._o isai_n 66_o 3._o 4_o ch._n 65._o 3_o 12._o which_o be_v but_o another_o word_n for_o what_o be_v say_v in_o the_o verse_n before_o their_o soul_n delight_v in_o their_o abomination_n or_o idolatry_n and_o when_o the_o apostle_n will_v describe_v the_o evil_a state_n of_o the_o gentile_a world_n by_o the_o most_o heinous_a and_o flagitious_a crime_n such_o as_o fornication_n covetousness_n 29._o rom._n 1._o 28._o 29._o laciviousness_n envy_n murder_n and_o what_o not_o he_o say_v of_o these_o that_o they_o be_v thing_n not_o convenient_a and_o it_o be_v as_o evident_a that_o the_o phrase_n not_o command_v be_v of_o the_o like_a kind_n when_o the_o thing_n its_o apply_v to_o be_v alike_o notorous_a and_o abominable_a but_o it_o be_v further_a object_v that_o it_o be_v say_v in_o scripture_n object_n two_o you_o shall_v not_o add_v unto_o the_o word_n which_o i_o command_v you_o neither_o 2._o deut._n 4._o 2._o shall_v you_o diminish_v aught_o from_o it_o and_o that_o our_o saviour_n condemn_v the_o practice_n of_o the_o scribe_n in_o this_o kind_n conclude_v in_o vain_a do_v they_o worship_v i_o teach_v for_o 9_o matth._n 15._o 9_o doctrine_n the_o commandment_n of_o men._n from_o whence_o it_o may_v be_v collect_v 1._o that_o all_o thing_n not_o command_v by_o god_n in_o his_o word_n be_v addition_n to_o it_o 2._o that_o such_o addition_n be_v altogether_o unlawful_a to_o this_o i_o reply_v answer_v 1._o if_o they_o mean_v by_o add_v to_o the_o word_n the_o do_v what_o that_o forbid_v and_o by_o diminish_v the_o neglect_v of_o what_o that_o require_v as_o the_o next_o word_n do_v intimate_v and_o be_v plain_o the_o sense_n otherwise_o 32._o otherwise_o otherwise_o otherwise_o deut_n 12._o 32._o when_o it_o be_v no_o 6._o deut._n 4._o 4_o 6._o soon_o say_v what_o thing_n soever_o i_o command_v you_o observe_v to_o do_v it_o but_o it_o immediate_o follow_v thou_o shall_v not_o add_v thereto_o nor_o diminish_v from_o it_o it_o be_v what_o we_o willing_o condemn_v according_a to_o that_o of_o our_o saviour_n whosoever_o shall_v break_v one_o of_o these_o least_o commandment_n and_o shall_v teach_v 19_o matth._n 5._o 19_o man_n so_o he_o shall_v be_v call_v least_o in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n 2._o if_o they_o mean_v by_o add_v the_o appoint_v somewhat_o else_o instead_o of_o what_o god_n have_v appoint_v as_o jeroboam_n do_v the_o feast_n of_o the_o eight_o month_n and_o by_o diminish_v the_o take_n away_o what_o god_n have_v command_v as_o ahaz_n do_v the_o altar_n and_o laver_n etc._n etc._n this_o be_v what_o we_o condemn_v 17._o 2_o king_n 16._o 14_o 17._o also_o and_o do_v blame_v in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n whilst_o they_o feed_v the_o people_n with_o legend_n instead_o of_o scripture_n and_o take_v away_o both_o that_o and_o the_o cup_n from_o the_o laity_n 3._o if_o they_o mean_v by_o add_v the_o add_v insolent_a exposition_n to_o the_o command_n by_o which_o the_o end_n of_o it_o be_v frustrate_v this_o our_o saviour_n condemn_v in_o the_o pharisee_n why_o
service_n be_v many_o yet_o they_o be_v sufficient_o describe_v in_o their_o law_n and_o it_o be_v but_o consult_v that_o or_o those_o who_o office_n and_o employment_n it_o be_v to_o be_v well_o verse_v in_o it_o and_o they_o may_v be_v present_o inform_v and_o as_o soon_o see_v it_o as_o the_o book_n be_v lay_v open_a this_o they_o all_o agree_v in_o but_o it_o be_v not_o so_o under_o the_o gospel_n and_o there_o be_v no_o great_a proof_n of_o it_o than_o the_o several_a scheme_n draw_v up_o for_o discipline_n and_o order_n by_o those_o that_o have_v be_v of_o that_o opinion_n and_o make_v some_o attempt_n to_o describe_v they_o and_o then_o when_o thing_n be_v thus_o dark_a and_o obscure_a so_o hard_o to_o trace_v and_o discover_v that_o it_o have_v thus_o perplex_v and_o baffle_v those_o that_o have_v make_v it_o their_o business_n to_o bring_v these_o thing_n within_o scripture_n rule_n how_o perplex_v must_v they_o be_v that_o be_v not_o skill_v in_o it_o and_o as_o i_o have_v above_o show_v must_v all_o their_o day_n live_v in_o the_o communion_n it_o be_v likely_a of_o no_o church_n since_o though_o a_o church_n shall_v have_v nothing_o in_o it_o but_o what_o be_v prescribe_v yet_o it_o will_v take_v up_o a_o great_a deal_n of_o time_n to_o examine_v and_o more_o to_o be_v satisfy_v that_o all_o in_o it_o be_v prescribe_v 3._o i_o shall_v consider_v how_o we_o may_v know_v what_o thing_n be_v indifferent_a in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n i_o may_v answer_v to_o this_o that_o we_o may_v know_v what_o be_v indifferent_a in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n by_o the_o same_o rule_n that_o we_o may_v know_v what_o be_v indifferent_a out_o of_o worship_n that_o be_v if_o the_o thing_n to_o be_v inquire_v after_o be_v neither_o require_v nor_o forbid_v for_o the_o nature_n of_o indifferency_n be_v always_o the_o same_o and_o what_o it_o be_v in_o one_o kind_n or_o instance_n it_o be_v in_o all_o and_o if_o the_o want_n of_o a_o law_n to_o require_v or_o forbid_v do_v 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will_v be_v unlawful_a and_o it_o will_v be_v no_o excuse_n for_o such_o a_o omission_n and_o contempt_n that_o the_o thing_n be_v in_o itself_o indifferent_a and_o then_o much_o more_o will_v this_o hold_v where_o the_o case_n be_v of_o a_o high_a nature_n as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n where_o thing_n in_o themselves_o indifferent_a may_v become_v ridiculous_a absurd_a and_o profane_a and_o argue_v rather_o contempt_n of_o god_n than_o reverence_n for_o he_o in_o the_o person_n use_v they_o again_o the_o thing_n may_v though_o grave_a and_o pertinent_a yet_o be_v so_o numerous_a that_o they_o may_v obscure_v and_o oppress_v the_o service_n and_o confound_v and_o distract_v the_o mind_n that_o shall_v attend_v to_o the_o observation_n of_o they_o and_o so_o for_o one_o reason_n or_o another_o be_v not_o to_o be_v allow_v in_o the_o solemnity_n of_o religion_n therefore_o in_o answer_n to_o the_o question_n i_o shall_v add_v 1._o that_o thing_n indifferent_a be_v so_o call_v from_o their_o general_a nature_n and_o not_o as_o if_o in_o practice_n and_o use_v and_o all_o manner_n of_o case_n they_o always_o be_v so_o and_o never_o unlawful_a for_o that_o they_o may_v be_v by_o accident_n and_o circumstance_n be_v lawful_a or_o unlawful_a expedient_a or_o inexpedient_a as_o they_o be_v use_v and_o apply_v 2._o i_o observe_v that_o there_o be_v several_a law_n which_o thing_n indifferent_a do_v respect_n and_o that_o may_v be_v require_v or_o forbid_v by_o one_o law_n which_o be_v not_o forbid_v or_o require_v by_o another_o and_o that_o may_v be_v indifferent_a in_o one_o state_n which_o be_v unlawful_a in_o another_o and_o by_o pass_v out_o of_o one_o into_o the_o other_o may_v cease_v to_o be_v indifferent_a and_o therefore_o when_o we_o say_v thing_n be_v indifferent_a we_o must_v understand_v of_o what_o rank_n they_o be_v and_o what_o law_n they_o do_v respect_n as_o for_o example_n humane_a conversation_n and_o religious_a worship_n be_v different_a rank_n to_o which_o thing_n be_v refer_v and_o therefore_o what_o may_v be_v indifferent_a in_o conversation_n may_v be_v unlawful_a in_o worship_n thus_o to_o interchange_n discourse_v about_o common_a affair_n be_v a_o thing_n lawful_a in_o itself_o and_o useful_a in_o its_o place_n but_o when_o practise_v in_o the_o church_n and_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o religious_a solemnity_n be_v criminal_a this_o distinction_n of_o rank_n and_o state_n of_o thing_n be_v useful_a and_o necessary_a to_o be_v observe_v and_o which_o if_o observe_v will_v have_v prevent_v the_o objection_n make_v by_o some_o that_o if_o a_o church_n or_o authority_n may_v command_v indifferent_a thing_n than_o they_o may_v require_v we_o to_o pray_v stand_v upon_o the_o head_n etc._n etc._n for_o that_o though_o indifferent_a in_o another_o case_n be_v not_o in_o that_o as_o be_v unsuitable_a to_o it_o 3._o therefore_o we_o must_v come_v to_o some_o rule_n in_o divine_a worship_n by_o which_o we_o may_v know_v what_o thing_n in_o their_o nature_n indifferent_a be_v therein_o also_o indifferent_a and_o may_v be_v lawful_o use_v it_o be_v not_o enough_o to_o plead_v they_o be_v indifferent_a in_o themselves_o as_o some_o unwary_o do_v and_o therefore_o present_o they_o may_v be_v use_v for_o by_o the_o same_o reason_n a_o person_n may_v spit_v in_o another_o face_n may_v keep_v on_o his_o hat_n before_o the_o king_n etc._n etc._n the_o spit_n and_o be_v cover_v be_v in_o their_o nature_n indifferent_a but_o now_o as_o there_o be_v certain_a rule_n which_o we_o be_v to_o respect_v in_o common_a and_o civil_a conversation_n and_o which_o even_o in_o that_o case_n do_v tie_v we_o up_o in_o the_o use_n of_o thing_n otherwise_o indifferent_a so_o it_o be_v as_o reasonable_a and_o must_v be_v much_o more_o allow_v that_o there_o be_v some_o rule_n of_o the_o like_a nature_n which_o we_o must_v have_v a_o regard_n to_o in_o the_o administration_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o as_o in_o common_a matter_n the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n in_o action_n the_o end_n in_o conversation_n the_o circumstance_n be_v to_o be_v heed_v viz._n time_n place_n person_n as_o when_o where_o before_o who_o we_o be_v cover_v or_o uncover_v etc._n etc._n so_o in_o sacred_a matter_n the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n in_o the_o decency_n and_o solemnity_n of_o the_o worship_n the_o end_n for_o which_o it_o be_v appoint_v in_o the_o edification_n of_o the_o church_n and_o the_o peace_n glory_n security_n of_o that_o in_o its_o order_n be_v to_o be_v respect_v and_o according_a to_o these_o rule_n and_o the_o circumstance_n of_o thing_n be_v we_o to_o judge_n of_o the_o indifferency_n lawfulness_n or_o expediency_n of_o thing_n use_v in_o the_o service_n of_o god_n and_o as_o they_o do_v make_v for_o or_o against_o and_o do_v approach_n to_o or_o recede_v from_o these_o character_n so_o they_o be_v to_o be_v reject_v or_o observe_v and_o the_o more_o or_o less_o esteem_v but_o yet_o we_o be_v not_o come_v to_o a_o conclusion_n for_o 1._o these_o be_v general_a rule_n and_o so_o the_o particular_n be_v nor_o so_o easy_o point_v to_o 2._o decency_n and_o edification_n and_o order_n be_v as_o be_v observe_v before_o variable_a and_o uncertain_a and_o depend_v upon_o circumstance_n and_o so_o in_o their_o nature_n not_o easy_o determine_v and_o 3._o person_n have_v very_o different_a opinion_n about_o what_o be_v decent_a edify_v and_o orderly_o as_o in_o the_o apostle_n time_n in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n some_o be_v for_o and_o other_o against_o the_o observation_n of_o day_n and_o in_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n some_o doubtless_o be_v for_o be_v cover_v other_o for_o be_v uncover_v in_o divine_a worship_n and_o therefore_o there_o be_v somewhat_o further_o requisite_a to_o give_v satisfaction_n
in_o the_o point_n and_o by_o which_o we_o may_v be_v able_a to_o judge_n what_o be_v decent_a edify_v and_o orderly_o as_o well_o as_o we_o be_v by_o what_o be_v decent_a etc._n etc._n to_o determine_v what_o be_v fit_a to_o be_v use_v in_o religious_a worship_n and_o this_o we_o may_v be_v help_v in_o by_o consider_v 1._o that_o some_o thing_n make_v so_o eminent_o for_o or_o be_v so_o notorious_o opposite_a to_o these_o rule_n that_o common_a reason_n will_v be_v able_a forthwith_o to_o judge_n of_o they_o and_o to_o declare_v for_o or_o against_o they_o so_o when_o the_o lovefeast_n and_o the_o lord_n supper_n be_v appoint_v for_o the_o testify_a and_o increase_n of_o mutual_a charity_n if_o one_o take_v his_o supper_n before_o another_o it_o be_v to_o make_v it_o rather_o a_o private_a 21._o 1_o cor._n 11_o 20_o 21._o meal_n than_o a_o religious_a feast_n and_o so_o be_v a_o notorious_a breach_n of_o order_n and_o christian_a fellowship_n so_o a_o tumultuous_a speak_n of_o many_o together_o be_v less_o for_o edification_n and_o have_v more_o of_o confusion_n than_o the_o orderly_o speak_v of_o one_o by_o one_o and_o service_n in_o a_o unknown_a tongue_n do_v less_o conduce_v to_o edification_n than_o when_o it_o it_o be_v in_o a_o language_n vulgar_o know_v and_o understand_v 27._o 1_o cor._n 14._o 16._o 17_o 26_o 27._o this_o be_v a_o case_n that_o reason_n as_o well_o as_o the_o apostle_n do_v determine_v to_o our_o hand_n and_o which_o mankind_n will_v with_o one_o consent_n soon_o agree_v to_o be_v it_o not_o for_o a_o certain_a church_n in_o the_o wotld_v that_o carry_v those_o of_o its_o communion_n against_o sense_n reason_n and_o nature_n for_o its_o own_o advantage_n 2._o but_o there_o be_v other_o thing_n which_o be_v not_o so_o clear_a and_o evident_a and_o so_o the_o case_n need_v further_a consideration_n for_o the_o clear_n of_o which_o we_o may_v observe_v 1._o that_o we_o be_v not_o so_o much_o to_o judge_n of_o decency_n order_n and_o edification_n asunder_o as_o together_o these_o have_v a_o mutual_a relation_n to_o and_o dependence_n upon_o each_o other_o so_o it_o be_v well_o observe_v by_o st._n chrysostom_n that_o 26._o chrys_n in_o 1_o cor._n ch._n 14._o 40._o 1_o cor._n 14._o 26._o nothing_o do_v so_o much_o edify_v as_o order_n peace_n and_o love_n and_o the_o apostle_n when_o he_o have_v reprove_v the_o disorder_n of_o their_o service_n in_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n conclude_v it_o let_v all_o thing_n be_v do_v to_o edify_v the_o not_o observe_v of_o this_o be_v the_o occasion_n of_o very_o great_a mistake_v in_o this_o matter_n for_o person_n when_o they_o will_v judge_v of_o edification_n consider_v present_o what_o they_o conceive_v do_v most_o improve_v they_o in_o knowledge_n or_o any_o particular_a grace_n and_o have_v no_o further_a consideration_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o this_o throw_v down_o the_o bound_n of_o public_a order_n and_o bring_v all_o into_o confusion_n and_o for_o edify_v as_o they_o apprehend_v themselves_o do_o disturb_v if_o not_o destroy_v the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o render_v the_o mean_n use_v in_o it_o ineffectual_a to_o themselves_o and_o other_o thus_o again_o they_o judge_v of_o what_o be_v decent_a and_o indecent_a and_o conclude_v that_o there_o be_v no_o indecency_n in_o sit_v suppose_v at_o the_o sacrament_n or_o the_o prayer_n but_o they_o mistake_v in_o such_o a_o conception_n whilst_o what_o be_v against_o public_a order_n and_o practice_n be_v for_o that_o reason_n indecent_a be_v there_o no_o other_o reason_n to_o make_v it_o so_o so_o that_o if_o we_o will_v judge_v aright_o of_o either_o of_o these_o we_o must_v judge_v of_o they_o together_o and_o as_o order_n alone_o be_v not_o enough_o to_o make_v a_o thing_n decent_a which_o be_v in_o itself_o indecent_a so_o decency_n or_o particular_a edification_n be_v not_o enough_o to_o recommend_v that_o which_o be_v not_o to_o be_v introduce_v or_o obtain_v without_o the_o disturbance_n and_o overthrow_n of_o public_a order_n and_o peace_n 2._o when_o the_o case_n be_v not_o apparent_a we_o shall_v rather_o judge_v by_o what_o be_v contrary_a than_o by_o what_o be_v agreeable_a to_o those_o rule_n we_o know_v better_a what_o thing_n be_v not_o than_o what_o they_o be_v and_o if_o christian_n shall_v never_o agree_v to_o any_o thing_n in_o the_o external_n administration_n of_o divine_a worship_n till_o they_o agree_v in_o the_o notion_n of_o decency_n order_n and_o edification_n or_o till_o they_o can_v prove_v that_o the_o thing_n use_v or_o require_v to_o be_v use_v in_o a_o church_n do_v exact_o agree_v to_o the_o notion_n and_o definition_n of_o it_o worship_n must_v never_o be_v administer_v or_o the_o great_a part_n of_o christian_n must_v exclude_v themselves_o from_o it_o and_o yet_o this_o must_v be_v do_v before_o it_o can_v be_v positive_o say_v unless_o in_o thing_n very_o manifest_a that_o this_o be_v decent_a or_o that_o be_v orderly_o etc._n etc._n these_o thing_n as_o i_o have_v say_v be_v variable_a and_o depend_v upon_o circumstance_n and_o so_o person_n must_v needs_o be_v wonderful_o confound_v if_o they_o come_v to_o nicety_n and_o insist_v upon_o they_o and_o therefore_o as_o we_o better_o know_v what_o be_v indecent_a than_o decent_a disorderly_o than_o orderly_a against_o than_o for_o edification_n so_o it_o be_v better_a to_o take_v the_o course_n abovesaid_a in_o judge_v about_o it_o as_o for_o instance_n if_o we_o will_v inquire_v into_o the_o decency_n of_o the_o posture_n to_o be_v use_v in_o the_o lord_n supper_n or_o the_o edification_n that_o may_v arise_v from_o it_o some_o will_v say_v its_o best_a to_o receive_v it_o in_o the_o posture_n frequent_o use_v in_o the_o devotion_n of_o the_o ancient_a church_n of_o stand_v or_o incurvation_n other_o will_v choose_v sit_v as_o the_o dissent_v party_n among_o we_o and_o some_o foreign_a church_n other_o be_v for_o the_o posture_n of_o kneel_v use_v in_o we_o and_o many_o more_o and_o all_o with_o some_o show_n of_o reason_n in_o these_o different_a case_n it_o may_v not_o perhaps_o be_v so_o easy_a for_o a_o person_n educate_v in_o a_o different_a way_n from_o what_o be_v practise_v and_o prescribe_v to_o judge_n of_o the_o decency_n or_o edification_n but_o if_o he_o find_v it_o not_o indecent_a or_o destructive_a of_o piety_n and_o of_o the_o end_n for_o which_o the_o ordinance_n be_v institute_v he_o be_v therewith_o to_o satisfy_v himself_o st._n austin_n put_v alike_o case_n and_o give_v the_o like_a answer_n some_o church_n fast_o on_o the_o saturday_n 118._o epist_n 118._o because_o christ_n body_n be_v then_o in_o the_o grave_a and_o he_o in_o a_o state_n of_o humiliation_n other_o do_v eat_v on_o the_o saturday_n both_o because_o that_o day_n god_n rest_v from_o his_o work_n and_o christ_n rest_v in_o the_o grave_a and_o how_o in_o such_o a_o case_n to_o determine_v ourselves_o both_o in_o opinion_n and_o practice_n that_o father_n thus_o direct_v if_o say_v he_o what_o be_v join_v be_v not_o against_o faith_n or_o good_a manner_n it_o be_v to_o be_v account_v indifferent_a and_o i_o may_v add_v if_o it_o be_v not_o indecent_a disorderly_a and_o destructive_a of_o piety_n its_o lawful_a 3._o if_o the_o case_n be_v not_o apparent_a and_o we_o can_v easy_o find_v out_o how_o the_o thing_n use_v and_o enjoin_v in_o a_o church_n be_v decent_a etc._n etc._n we_o be_v to_o consider_v that_o we_o be_v in_o or_o oblige_v to_o be_v of_o a_o church_n and_o that_o these_o thing_n do_v respect_v such_o a_o society_n and_o therefore_o be_v to_o be_v cautious_a how_o we_o condemn_v this_o or_o that_o for_o indecent_a confuse_a and_o inexpedient_a when_o we_o see_v christian_n agree_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o they_o and_o such_o who_o for_o other_o thing_n we_o can_v condemn_v when_o we_o find_v if_o we_o argue_v against_o it_o they_o argue_v for_o it_o and_o produce_v experience_n against_o experience_n and_o reason_n against_o reason_n and_o that_o we_o have_v a_o whole_a church_n against_o our_o particular_a conception_n of_o thing_n of_o this_o nature_n we_o shall_v be_v apt_a to_o think_v the_o fault_n may_v be_v in_o ourselves_o and_o that_o it_o be_v for_o want_v of_o understanding_n and_o insight_n for_o want_v of_o use_n and_o trial_n and_o by_o reason_n of_o some_o prejudices_fw-la or_o profession_n that_o we_o thus_o differ_v in_o our_o judgement_n from_o they_o we_o see_v what_o little_a thing_n do_v determine_v man_n ordinary_o in_o these_o matter_n how_o addict_v some_o be_v to_o their_o own_o way_n and_o custom_n and_o forward_o to_o like_a or_o condemn_v according_a to_o their_o education_n which_o do_v form_v their_o conception_n and_o fix_v their_o inclination_n how_o prone_a again_o other_o be_v to_o novelty_n and_o innovation_n so_o st._n
25._o be_v many_o time_n say_v viz._n that_o by_o thing_n not_o command_v be_v mean_v thing_n forbid_v and_o have_v nothing_o to_o prove_v it_o by_o but_o only_o that_o the_o thing_n mention_v in_o scripture_n to_o which_o that_o phrase_n be_v apply_v be_v thing_n forbid_v as_o idolatry_n etc._n etc._n though_o what_o he_o produce_v out_o of_o the_o case_n be_v sufficient_a 20._o case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n p._n 20._o yet_o he_o extreme_o forget_v himself_o when_o he_o say_v nothing_o but_o only_o since_o in_o the_o page_n he_o quote_v there_o be_v two_o argument_n that_o be_v soon_o flipe_v than_o answer_v but_o however_o what_o have_v he_o to_o reply_v to_o that_o which_o have_v be_v many_o time_n say_v he_o grant_v it_o be_v true_a and_o be_v this_o nothing_o towards_o the_o proof_n of_o it_o what_o fit_a way_n have_v we_o to_o find_v out_o the_o meaning_n of_o a_o phrase_n than_o to_o consider_v the_o several_a place_n where_o it_o be_v use_v or_o to_o ascertain_v the_o sense_n of_o it_o than_o to_o show_v that_o it_o be_v always_o alike_o apply_v to_o such_o a_o case_n or_o thing_n but_o in_o answer_n to_o this_o he_o ask_v why_o be_v such_o thing_n express_v to_o we_o in_o this_o phrase_n as_o not_o command_v only_o one_a i_o answer_v they_o be_v not_o thus_o express_v as_o not_o command_v only_o for_o the_o thing_n say_v to_o be_v not_o command_v be_v either_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n or_o in_o scripture_n absolute_o forbid_v as_o i_o have_v show_v and_o he_o grant_v and_o therefore_o to_o limit_v the_o phrase_n as_o if_o there_o be_v no_o more_o intend_v in_o it_o than_o that_o the_o thing_n be_v not_o command_v as_o the_o word_n only_o imply_v and_o not_o also_o forbid_v be_v to_o thwart_v scripture_n as_o well_o as_o my_o reason_n from_o it_o 2_o if_o we_o take_v the_o phrase_n as_o it_o be_v yet_o there_o his_o question_n why_o be_v they_o thus_o express_v and_o not_o command_v be_v of_o no_o importance_n for_o suppose_v we_o can_v give_v no_o reason_n for_o such_o a_o use_n of_o it_o that_o will_v not_o be_v sufficient_a to_o question_v the_o thing_n as_o long_o as_o we_o find_v it_o constant_o so_o use_v and_o apply_v but_o 3_o be_v there_o no_o reason_n offer_v no_o account_n give_v of_o it_o let_v he_o peruse_v the_o tract_n he_o oppose_v as_o sure_o he_o do_v and_o he_o will_v find_v it_o express_o undertake_v and_o two_o reason_n give_v for_o it_o as_o 1._o thing_n forbid_v be_v 23._o case_n of_o indiff_n thing_n pag._n 23._o call_v not_o command_v because_o all_o thing_n prohibit_v be_v by_o consequence_n not_o command_v and_o not_o è_fw-la contra_fw-la 2._o it_o be_v by_o way_n of_o meiosis_n etc._n etc._n but_o these_o though_o to_o the_o purpose_n in_o hand_n be_v not_o i_o be_o afraid_a to_o he_o well!_o let_v we_o consider_v 4_o what_o account_v our_o author_n himself_o give_v at_o last_o of_o this_o 1._o say_v he_o thing_n forbid_v in_o scripture_n be_v say_v to_o be_v not_o command_v to_o let_v we_o know_v the_o do_v of_o a_o thing_n not_o command_v in_o god_n worship_n be_v gild_n enough_o sure_o not_o so_o great_a as_o to_o do_v a_o thing_n notorious_o 20._o case_n indiff_n thing_n pag._n 20._o forbid_v as_o i_o there_o show_v sure_o it_o can_v be_v no_o gild_n at_o all_o to_o do_v a_o thing_n not_o command_v if_o not_o also_o forbid_v because_o as_o he_o own_v there_o be_v indifferent_a thing_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n and_o what_o be_v indifferent_a thing_n but_o thing_n not_o command_v as_o well_o as_o not_o forbid_v 2._o he_o say_v it_o be_v so_o express_v because_o the_o gild_n of_o the_o sin_n of_o idolatry_n and_o superstition_n lie_v in_o this_o that_o it_o be_v a_o thing_n not_o command_v have_v god_n command_v those_o thing_n they_o have_v be_v a_o true_a worship_n and_o acceptable_a in_o which_o assertion_n of_o he_o he_o gross_o mistake_v first_o as_o to_o the_o nature_n of_o idolatry_n and_o superstition_n when_o he_o say_v the_o guilt_n of_o they_o lay_v in_o this_o that_o they_o be_v thing_n not_o command_v whereas_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o they_o be_v sin_n because_o forbid_v for_o what_o be_v superstition_n but_o the_o dread_v of_o that_o which_o be_v not_o to_o be_v dread_v as_o the_o greek_a word_n show_v such_o as_o the_o sign_n of_o heaven_n divination_n and_o daemon_n and_o even_o the_o unreasonable_a and_o inordinate_a fear_n of_o god_n himself_o when_o we_o fear_v 2._o jer._n 10._o 2._o offend_v he_o in_o what_o be_v not_o offensive_a to_o he_o and_o what_o be_v idolatry_n but_o the_o give_v divine_a honour_n to_o that_o which_o be_v not_o god_n or_o prohibit_v honour_n to_o the_o true_a and_o only_o god_n these_o be_v thing_n manifest_o forbid_v second_o it_o be_v yet_o a_o grosser_n error_n which_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o reason_n he_o give_v for_o it_o viz._n that_o have_v god_n command_v those_o thing_n they_o have_v be_v a_o true_a worship_n and_o acceptable_a a_o assertion_n first_o that_o confound_v the_o nature_n of_o thing_n that_o make_v vice_n and_o virtue_n alike_o and_o no_o otherwise_o discriminate_v but_o by_o god_n write_v law_n as_o if_o idolatry_n and_o superstition_n be_v not_o evil_a antecedent_n to_o all_o revelation_n and_o which_o be_v so_o where_o revelation_n be_v not_o as_o well_o as_o where_o it_o be_v second_o from_o hence_o it_o follow_v that_o those_o thing_n may_v be_v acceptable_a to_o god_n which_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n do_v tend_v to_o drive_v religion_n out_o of_o the_o world_n and_o that_o may_v be_v true_a worship_n which_o will_v unavoidable_o debase_v the_o deity_n in_o the_o thought_n of_o mankind_n for_o so_o do_v idolatry_n and_o superstition_n as_o for_o the_o instance_n he_o there_o take_v notice_n of_o i_o shall_v reserve_v they_o to_o a_o more_o convenient_a place_n conclus_fw-la 2._o if_o thing_n indifferent_a be_v such_o as_o be_v neither_o conclus_fw-la command_v nor_o forbid_v and_o that_o thing_n be_v not_o unlawful_a because_o not_o command_v than_o thing_n thus_o indifferent_a and_o not_o command_v be_v not_o addition_n to_o the_o word_n 24._o case_n of_o indiff_n thing_n p._n 24._o of_o god_n and_o the_o place_n usual_o insist_v upon_o must_v be_v understand_v according_a to_o the_o sense_n i_o give_v of_o they_o and_o which_o may_v serve_v as_o a_o sufficient_a reply_n to_o what_o he_o have_v 26._o case_n examine_v p._n 26._o say_v upon_o that_o head_n but_o yet_o because_o he_o have_v offer_v somewhat_o in_o another_o place_n that_o look_v like_o a_o argument_n i_o shall_v here_o consider_v it_o he_o argue_v thus_o if_o obedience_n be_v want_v the_o salt_n be_v want_v to_o the_o sacrifice_n 4._o pag._n 4._o of_o our_o god_n which_o as_o we_o humble_o conceive_v leave_v no_o more_o room_n for_o perfective_a than_o corruptive_a addition_n to_o divine_a worship_n etc._n etc._n what_o can_v be_v a_o act_n of_o obedience_n to_o god_n but_o what_o he_o have_v command_v whether_o he_o have_v forbid_v it_o or_o no_o if_o we_o bid_v our_o servant_n go_v a_o mile_n and_o he_o go_v two_o possible_o hope_v to_o do_v we_o service_n in_o it_o we_o hope_v his_o go_v the_o second_o mile_n be_v no_o act_n of_o obedience_n though_o we_o do_v not_o forbid_v he_o in_o matter_n of_o this_o nature_n no_o act_n of_o supererogation_n be_v allowable_a because_o it_o can_v be_v no_o obedience_n in_o answer_n to_o which_o it_o will_v be_v necessary_a to_o resolve_v this_o question_n q._n whether_o the_o do_v of_o any_o thing_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n without_o a_o command_n be_v a_o sinful_a addition_n to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n i_o answer_v that_o if_o the_o question_n be_v understand_v of_o the_o proper_a and_o essential_a part_n of_o worship_n if_o i_o may_v so_o speak_v than_o we_o grant_v it_o and_o say_v that_o he_o that_o shall_v institute_v any_o thing_n in_o that_o kind_n without_o divine_a institution_n do_v challenge_v god_n prerogative_n to_o himself_o and_o because_o the_o rule_n be_v sufficient_a all_o such_o perfective_a be_v corruptive_a addition_n as_o he_o speak_v to_o both_o rule_n and_o worship_n it_o be_v as_o if_o a_o servant_n when_o bid_v to_o go_v a_o mile_n he_o go_v two_o possible_o hope_v to_o do_v service_n in_o it_o for_o in_o matter_n of_o this_o nature_n no_o supererogation_n be_v allowable_a thus_o far_o his_o comparison_n hold_v as_o to_o matter_n of_o the_o same_o nature_n and_o design_v to_o the_o same_o end_n and_o esteem_v to_o be_v of_o the_o same_o use_n as_o the_o go_n of_o two_o mile_n for_o one_o with_o a_o intent_n to_o do_v as_o good_a service_n and_o be_v as_o well_o if_o not_o better_o approve_v for_o so_o do_v but_o if_o the_o question_n be_v
3._o §._o 3._o know_v what_o thing_n be_v indifferent_a in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n the_o main_a thing_n he_o herein_o object_n against_o respect_v edification_n in_o handle_v of_o which_o he_o thus_o sum_v up_o my_o sense_n of_o it_o our_o author_n will_v not_o have_v we_o judge_v of_o edification_n from_o what_o most_o improve_v christian_n in_o 33._o case_n examine_v pag._n 33._o knowledge_n and_o grace_n but_o from_o what_o tend_v most_o to_o public_a order_n as_o if_o i_o speak_v of_o order_n in_o opposition_n to_o and_o as_o exclusive_a of_o a_o christian_n improvement_n whereas_o i_o plain_o say_v and_o he_o acknowledge_v it_o that_o we_o be_v not_o so_o much_o to_o judge_v of_o they_o asunder_o as_o together_o the_o meaning_n and_o design_n of_o what_o i_o say_v be_v to_o show_v that_o christian_n be_v to_o consider_v themselves_o as_o member_n of_o a_o church_n and_o so_o to_o have_v a_o tender_a regard_n to_o communion_n with_o it_o and_o not_o to_o think_v their_o own_o edification_n a_o sufficient_a reason_n to_o break_v the_o peace_n and_o order_n of_o it_o to_o this_o he_o say_v several_a thing_n in_o answer_n to_o which_o it_o will_v be_v convenient_a to_o give_v a_o clear_a representation_n and_o state_n of_o the_o case_n which_o i_o shall_v do_v in_o these_o proposition_n 1._o we_o must_v consider_v that_o edification_n be_v not_o the_o lay_v a_o foundation_n but_o a_o build_n upon_o it_o and_o so_o there_o be_v not_o the_o same_o reason_n for_o the_o break_a order_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o edification_n as_o there_o be_v for_o the_o sake_n of_o thing_n absolute_o necessary_a to_o salvation_n and_o that_o which_o will_v warrant_v and_o do_v oblige_v to_o the_o one_o will_v not_o warrant_v nor_o oblige_v to_o the_o other_o this_o will_v serve_v to_o show_v the_o little_a force_n there_o be_v in_o what_o this_o reverend_a author_n confident_o assert_n we_o know_v and_o be_v assure_v that_o no_o man_n to_o keep_v up_o any_o such_o human_a 34._o pag._n 34._o bound_n of_o order_n ought_v to_o omit_v mean_n by_o which_o he_o may_v improve_v his_o own_o soul_n in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o christ_n or_o the_o exercise_n of_o his_o habit_n of_o grace_n by_o which_o assertion_n of_o his_o he_o make_v edification_n and_o improvement_n in_o knowledge_n etc._n etc._n as_o necessary_a as_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o fundamental_o of_o religion_n 2._o we_o must_v consider_v as_o i_o then_o observe_v that_o order_n be_v a_o mean_n of_o edification_n and_o therefore_o if_o there_o happen_v 36._o case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n p._n 36._o a_o dispute_n betwixt_o observe_v order_n and_o improvement_n in_o knowledge_n or_o grace_n it_o be_v betwixt_o mean_n and_o mean_n betwixt_o what_o be_v for_o edification_n in_o one_o way_n and_o what_o be_v for_o it_o in_o another_o and_o not_o betwixt_o what_o be_v for_o and_o what_o 35._o case_n examine_v pag._n 35._o be_v against_o edification_n as_o he_o will_v have_v it_o understand_v 3._o we_o must_v observe_v that_o when_o there_o be_v a_o dispute_n betwixt_o mean_n and_o mean_n the_o less_o be_v to_o give_v place_n to_o the_o great_a and_o what_o be_v most_o for_o edification_n be_v to_o yield_v to_o that_o which_o be_v least_o 4._o that_o for_o that_o reason_n the_o edification_n of_o the_o church_n and_o the_o welfare_n of_o the_o whole_a be_v to_o be_v prefer_v before_o the_o spiritual_a advantage_n of_o any_o particular_a member_n for_o what_o the_o less_o be_v to_o the_o great_a that_o be_v a_o member_n to_o the_o church_n and_o if_o a_o person_n can_v serve_v and_o improve_v himself_o without_o damage_n to_o the_o public_a he_o be_v rather_o to_o sit_v down_o without_o that_o improvement_n than_o to_o do_v mischief_n to_o the_o community_n for_o the_o obtain_n it_o and_o as_o long_o as_o he_o be_v not_o without_o mean_n sufficient_a for_o salvation_n he_o be_v in_o that_o case_n to_o recede_v from_o some_o further_a attainment_n in_o do_v which_o for_o so_o good_a a_o end_n he_o be_v acceptable_a to_o god_n and_o approve_v of_o man_n so_o that_o however_o our_o author_n may_v 18._o rom._n 14._o 18._o seem_v to_o shelter_v himself_o under_o the_o phrase_n of_o human_a order_n yet_o as_o long_o as_o no_o church_n can_v subsist_v without_o it_o and_o he_o 35._o case_n examine_v p._n 34._o 35._o that_o take_v away_o order_n take_v away_o the_o church_n and_o he_o that_o say_v a_o person_n ought_v to_o throw_v it_o down_o to_o improve_v his_o soul_n take_v away_o order_n he_o must_v pardon_v i_o if_o i_o think_v that_o he_o talk_v without_o consideration_n for_o he_o that_o talk_v of_o edification_n of_o particular_a soul_n in_o a_o distinct_a notion_n from_o the_o build_n they_o up_o as_o member_n of_o a_o church_n or_o of_o member_n of_o a_o church_n without_o be_v unite_v as_o a_o church_n or_o of_o a_o church_n without_o any_o mean_n to_o unite_v it_o do_v to_o return_v he_o his_o own_o word_n but_o discourse_n of_o build_v castle_n in_o the_o air_n and_o what_o he_o will_v be_v loath_a his_o own_o congregation_n if_o he_o have_v one_o shall_v at_o every_o turn_n put_v into_o practice_n of_o all_o which_o if_o this_o will_v not_o etc._n case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n p._n 41_o 42._o case_n of_o lay-commun_a p_o 39_o etc._n etc._n convince_v he_o i_o shall_v desire_v he_o impartial_o to_o view_v the_o place_n of_o scripture_n quote_v by_o himself_o from_o the_o apostle_n as_o also_o what_o be_v say_v before_o in_o the_o controvert_v tract_n and_o he_o have_v not_o yet_o answer_v or_o have_v be_v since_o discourse_v of_o in_o another_o case_n the_o four_o enquiry_n in_o the_o tract_n aforesaid_a be_v how_o 4._o §._o 4._o we_o be_v to_o determine_v ourselves_o in_o the_o use_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n under_o which_o head_n i_o show_v what_o respect_n be_v to_o be_v give_v to_o authority_n whether_o ecclestiastical_a or_o civil_a in_o answer_n to_o which_o our_o author_n take_v up_o the_o case_n of_o 39_o case_n examine_v p._n 39_o imposition_n and_o propound_v two_o question_n which_o in_o effect_n be_v these_o q._n 1._o whether_o there_o be_v any_o authority_n in_o church_n or_o state_n to_o determine_v the_o thing_n which_o god_n have_v leave_v indifferent_a to_o his_o people_n q._n 2._o whether_o in_o case_n they_o make_v any_o such_o law_n the_o people_n may_v without_o sin_n obey_v they_o as_o for_o the_o first_o he_o say_v there_o and_o elsewhere_o we_o 40._o pag._n 5._o 9_o 17._o 32._o 40._o can_v conceive_v how_o it_o be_v possible_a that_o in_o thing_n of_o divine_a worship_n thing_n of_o a_o indifferent_a nature_n shall_v be_v the_o matter_n of_o any_o human_a determination_n and_o again_o that_o in_o matter_n of_o worship_n no_o superior_n may_v restrain_v what_o god_n have_v leave_v at_o liberty_n we_o be_v not_o immediate_o concern_v in_o this_o first_o question_n for_o our_o business_n be_v to_o consider_v not_o so_o much_o the_o extent_n of_o our_o superior_n power_n in_o what_o case_n they_o may_v lawful_o command_v as_o in_o what_o we_o may_v lawful_o obey_v but_o yet_o because_o he_o have_v herein_o offer_v somewhat_o like_o a_o argument_n and_o because_o the_o clear_n of_o this_o will_v make_v way_n for_o the_o second_o i_o shall_v take_v it_o into_o consideration_n to_o render_v his_o argument_n the_o more_o complete_a i_o shall_v repair_v to_o a_o forego_v part_n of_o his_o book_n and_o make_v use_n of_o that_o in_o conjunction_n with_o what_o he_o say_v here_o and_o he_o thus_o represent_v it_o we_o can_v be_v full_o of_o our_o brother_n mind_n that_o in_o the_o 9_o pag._n 9_o worship_n of_o god_n superior_n may_v determine_v circumstance_n which_o god_n have_v leave_v at_o liberty_n god_n leave_v it_o at_o liberty_n to_o the_o jew_n to_o take_v a_o lamb_n or_o a_o kid_n turtle-dove_n or_o young-pigeon_n etc._n etc._n we_o offer_v it_o to_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o whole_a reasonable_a world_n whether_o moses_n after_o this_o may_v have_v make_v a_o law_n command_v the_o jew_n to_o use_v none_o but_o kid_n and_o only_a turtle-dove_n etc._n etc._n for_o it_o have_v be_v a_o controlment_n of_o the_o divine_a wisdom_n if_o not_o let_v not_o our_o b._n think_v it_o strange_a if_o we_o judge_v the_o same_o of_o word_n in_o prayer_n which_o god_n have_v leave_v at_o liberty_n etc._n etc._n this_o be_v a_o argument_n i_o find_v offer_v long_o since_o by_o dr._n ames_n 300._o ames_n ames_n ames_n fresh_a suit_n part_n 2._o p._n 300._o and_o which_o be_v so_o considerable_a in_o our_o author_n opinion_n that_o he_o often_o repeat_v it_o elsewhere_o 41._o elsewhere_o elsewhere_o elsewhere_o pag._n 17._o 30._o 32._o 39_o 41._o in_o answer_n to_o this_o one_a i_o shall_v consider_v the_o case_n under_o the_o law_n
and_o how_o far_o what_o he_o have_v say_v will_v hold_v good_a 2_o i_o shall_v show_v that_o there_o be_v not_o that_o parity_n betwixt_o the_o case_n then_o and_o the_o case_n now_o as_o to_o render_v that_o unlawful_a now_o which_o will_v have_v be_v unlawful_a then._n one_a i_o shall_v consider_v the_o case_n then_o and_o i_o doubt_v not_o to_o affirm_v it_o will_v have_v be_v no_o controlment_n of_o the_o divine_a wisdom_n for_o moses_n and_o aaron_n to_o have_v enjoin_v the_o jew_n in_o some_o circumstance_n to_o have_v take_v a_o kid_n or_o a_o turtle_n only_o as_o when_o it_o be_v for_o a_o public_a convenience_n and_o necessity_n there_o be_v somewhat_o of_o this_o kind_n of_o equity_n in_o the_o first_o establishment_n of_o it_o so_o the_o poor_a be_v to_o bring_v such_o of_o these_o as_o he_o can_v get_v and_o mr._n 30._o leu._n 14._o 30._o pool_n say_v these_o bird_n be_v appoint_v for_o the_o relief_n of_o 14._o on_o leu._n 1._o 14._o the_o poor_a who_o can_v bring_v no_o better_o and_o certain_o he_o that_o grant_v it_o be_v to_o be_v leave_v to_o the_o discretion_n and_o convenience_n 30._o pag._n 30._o of_o the_o offerer_n which_o to_o determine_v as_o our_o author_n do_v shall_v not_o deny_v the_o like_a power_n to_o superior_n for_o a_o public_a convenience_n and_o benefit_n nor_o can_v this_o be_v to_o blot_v out_o as_o his_o phrase_n be_v what_o god_n have_v write_v as_o 17._o pag._n 17._o long_o as_o they_o do_v it_o not_o in_o opposition_n to_o his_o authority_n 2_o suppose_v that_o where_o god_n have_v write_v or_o his_o as_o he_o say_v and_o that_o to_o command_v the_o use_n of_o one_o of_o they_o alone_o have_v in_o that_o case_n be_v a_o controlment_n of_o his_o wisdom_n yet_o the_o case_n then_o be_v not_o parallel_v to_o we_o for_o 1._o the_o case_n be_v then_o determine_v it_o be_v indeed_o a_o lamb_n or_o a_o kid_n but_o so_o as_o no_o other_o beast_n a_o turtle_n or_o a_o pigeon_n but_o so_o as_o no_o other_o bird_n be_v to_o be_v use_v instead_o of_o they_o but_o now_o though_o there_o be_v the_o or_o under_o the_o gospel_n yet_o it_o be_v without_o such_o restraint_n for_o we_o be_v free_a through_o the_o whole_a kind_n and_o nothing_o determine_v we_o but_o a_o consonancy_n to_o the_o general_a rule_n it_o be_v so_o a_o or_o and_o a_o alias_o that_o nothing_o of_o the_o kind_n be_v except_v so_o say_v our_o author_n himself_o in_o prayer_n god_n have_v leave_v stand_v sit_v or_o 30._o pag._n 30._o kneel_v to_o our_o choice_n and_o conveniency_n etc._n etc._n he_o have_v leave_v we_o at_o liberty_n what_o word_n to_o use_v what_o method_n or_o order_n to_o observe_v etc._n etc._n 2._o as_o the_o disjunction_n be_v then_o determine_v so_o the_o very_a disjunction_n itself_o be_v of_o divine_a institution_n and_o the_o liberty_n they_o have_v to_o choose_v one_o of_o the_o two_o as_o well_o as_o the_o restraint_n of_o not_o choose_v any_o but_o one_o of_o the_o two_o be_v from_o the_o special_a law_n of_o god_n and_o then_o for_o authority_n to_o have_v determine_v what_o god_n have_v leave_v free_a have_v some_o show_n of_o controlment_n of_o the_o divine_a wisdom_n especial_o if_o it_o have_v be_v require_v as_o our_o author_n somewhere_o suppose_v that_o they_o shall_v never_o have_v 9_o pag._n 9_o offer_v any_o other_o but_o one_o sort_n of_o they_o but_o under_o the_o gospel_n it_o be_v otherwise_o for_o the_o disjunction_n the_o or_n and_o the_o alias_o do_v not_o proceed_v from_o divine_a institution_n but_o from_o the_o nature_n of_o thing_n and_o sometime_o from_o human_a art_n and_o contrivance_n as_o when_o wash_v be_v command_v for_o i_o shall_v not_o contend_v about_o it_o all_o the_o particular_n be_v comprehend_v and_o the_o person_n may_v be_v dip_v or_o sprinkle_v or_o have_v water_n pour_v on_o he_o as_o he_o observe_v so_o in_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n the_o posture_n 22._o pag._n 22._o of_o the_o primitive_a church_n not_o of_o mere_a stand_n as_o he_o mistake_v i_o but_o of_o stand_v as_o i_o say_v by_o way_n 35._o pag._n 35._o of_o incurvation_n or_o sit_v or_o kneel_v be_v all_o comprehend_v under_o the_o general_a species_n of_o posture_n again_o sometime_o this_o or_o and_o alias_o proceed_v from_o human_a art_n and_o contrivance_n hence_o the_o diversity_n of_o habit_n as_o a_o gown_n cloak_n surplice_n now_o when_o this_o disjunction_n do_v proceed_v not_o from_o divine_a institution_n but_o from_o the_o reason_n aforesaid_a and_o that_o there_o be_v no_o special_a command_n of_o god_n to_o interpose_v determine_v restrain_v or_o disjoin_v it_o can_v be_v no_o controlment_n of_o the_o wisdom_n or_o authority_n of_o god_n for_o a_o church_n to_o interpose_v restrain_v or_o determine_v these_o matter_n in_o his_o worship_n this_o be_v plain_a in_o the_o case_n of_o meat_n and_o drink_n in_o which_o under_o the_o law_n there_o be_v a_o restraint_n a_o or_o and_o alias_o this_o and_o not_o that_o and_o there_o be_v still_o a_o or_o arise_v from_o the_o nature_n of_o these_o thing_n and_o yet_o a_o determination_n or_o restraint_n herein_o be_v no_o controlment_n of_o the_o divine_a wisdom_n as_o it_o may_v have_v be_v under_o the_o law_n because_o there_o be_v no_o institution_n that_o do_v interpose_v and_o the_o case_n must_v be_v the_o same_o in_o divine_a worship_n in_o which_o since_o there_o be_v no_o institution_n about_o these_o matter_n it_o be_v no_o sin_n to_o act_n in_o the_o same_o way_n that_o be_v it_o be_v no_o sin_n for_o authority_n to_o limit_v and_o determine_v and_o for_o other_o to_o be_v limit_v and_o determine_v which_o bring_v i_o to_o the_o next_o question_n q._n 2._o whether_o in_o case_n such_o thing_n be_v determine_v people_n may_v without_o sin_n obey_v upon_o this_o our_o author_n speak_v very_o various_o sometime_o determine_v for_o authority_n against_o the_o principle_n 38._o principle_n principle_n principle_n p._n 7._o 38._o sometime_o for_o the_o principle_n against_o authority_n 30._o authority_n authority_n authority_n p._n 9_o 30._o and_o at_o last_o leave_v it_o problematical_a and_o say_v they_o be_v divide_v upon_o it_o among_o themselves_o 40._o themselves_o themselves_o themselves_o p._n 39_o 40._o i_o think_v not_o myself_o at_o present_a concern_v to_o show_v the_o absurdity_n of_o this_o principle_n as_o how_o if_o this_o be_v true_a the_o same_o thing_n must_v be_v lawful_a and_o unlawful_a according_a as_o they_o be_v require_v or_o forbid_v by_o our_o superior_n etc._n etc._n but_o shall_v only_o consider_v what_o he_o offer_v on_o its_o behalf_n 1._o he_o say_v they_o may_v not_o in_o this_o case_n obey_v without_o sin_n because_o nature_n teach_v we_o not_o to_o part_v with_o all_o our_o natural_a liberty_n 2._o because_o we_o have_v a_o command_n to_o stand_v fast_o in_o the_o liberty_n etc._n etc._n as_o to_o the_o former_a i_o only_o say_v and_o that_o be_v enough_o that_o nature_n teach_v we_o and_o do_v oblige_v we_o to_o part_v with_o some_o of_o our_o liberty_n in_o community_n and_o they_o be_v far_o from_o be_v require_v to_o part_n with_o all_o in_o we_o and_o so_o if_o his_o argument_n have_v any_o thing_n in_o it_o it_o have_v nothing_o in_o it_o as_o to_o our_o case_n for_o the_o second_o i_o leave_v he_o to_o what_o be_v say_v by_o way_n 46._o case_n of_o indiff_n thing_n p._n 46._o of_o prevention_n in_o the_o tract_n he_o oppose_v and_o which_o he_o shall_v have_v answer_v before_o he_o have_v make_v use_n of_o this_o as_o a_o argument_n all_o that_o he_o have_v except_v against_o upon_o that_o subject_n be_v the_o notion_n i_o lay_v down_o of_o christian_a liberty_n which_o i_o say_v be_v no_o other_o than_o the_o liberty_n which_o mankind_n have_v before_o it_o be_v restrain_v by_o particular_a institution_n and_o he_o give_v this_o reason_n against_o it_o for_o in_o that_o viz._n natural_a 40._o case_n exam._n p._n 40._o liberty_n we_o must_v not_o stand_v fast_o because_o divine_a institution_n have_v restrain_v we_o in_o it_o etc._n etc._n neither_o have_v christ_n restore_v we_o to_o any_o such_o liberty_n in_o answer_n to_o this_o i_o shall_v consider_v what_o natural_a liberty_n be_v and_o then_o what_o liberty_n it_o be_v that_o the_o apostle_n do_v treat_v of_o as_o to_o the_o former_a it_o be_v no_o other_o but_o the_o free_a use_n or_o disuse_n of_o thing_n indifferent_a whether_o out_o of_o or_o in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n as_o to_o the_o latter_a it_o be_v no_o other_o than_o a_o freedom_n from_o the_o jewish_a yoke_n of_o bondage_n and_o that_o law_n that_o gendr_v to_o it_o as_o the_o whole_a current_n of_o the_o apostle_n discourse_n do_v show_v and_o therefore_o it_o can_v be_v with_o respect_n to_o no_o other_o condition_n than_o
that_o which_o mankind_n will_v have_v be_v have_v there_o be_v no_o such_o particular_a institution_n and_o be_v in_o before_o that_o institution_n it_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o law_n and_o the_o injoin_v of_o it_o by_o divine_a institution_n so_o as_o it_o become_v necessary_a to_o they_o that_o make_v it_o a_o yoke_n and_o a_o 18._o act._n 15._o 18._o yoke_n intolerable_a and_o it_o be_v a_o freedom_n from_o that_o law_n that_o constitute_v the_o liberty_n which_o the_o apostle_n treat_v of_o in_o that_o epistle_n and_o if_o it_o be_v also_o to_o be_v take_v as_o our_o author_n will_v have_v it_o for_o a_o freedom_n in_o matter_n of_o worship_n from_o any_o thing_n but_o what_o be_v of_o divine_a institution_n that_o be_v a_o secondary_a sense_n and_o which_o may_v be_v take_v from_o some_o parity_n of_o reason_n betwixt_o case_n and_o case_n but_o be_v not_o the_o apostle_n nor_o the_o primary_n sense_n of_o it_o but_o take_v it_o how_o we_o will_v in_o this_o or_o the_o other_o i_o there_o show_v that_o the_o apostle_n exhortation_n be_v of_o no_o use_n to_o they_o that_o 47._o case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n pag._n 47._o plead_v it_o against_o submission_n to_o authority_n in_o indifferent_a thing_n when_o impose_v in_o or_o about_o divine_a worship_n i_o be_o now_o come_v to_o the_o last_o general_a head_n of_o the_o aforesaid_a 5._o §._o 5._o tract_n which_o contain_v a_o short_a account_n of_o the_o thing_n require_v in_o our_o church_n as_o they_o be_v either_o duty_n or_o indifferent_a and_o for_o a_o enforcement_n of_o that_o and_o conclusion_n of_o the_o whole_a i_o shall_v brief_o show_v how_o far_o this_o reverend_a author_n consent_v to_o or_o by_o his_o concession_n must_v be_v bind_v to_o acknowledge_v it_o indeed_o he_o sometime_o do_v tell_v we_o that_o nine_o part_n of_o ten_o of_o all_o dissenter_n say_v they_o can_v comply_v with_o thing_n require_v in_o the_o english_a 38._o case_n examine_v pag._n 3._o 36._o 38._o liturgy_n because_o they_o believe_v the_o thing_n sinful_a and_o unlawful_a and_o elsewhere_o two_o hardly_o of_o a_o hundred_o think_v they_o indifferent_a but_o whether_o our_o author_n be_v of_o that_o number_n or_o at_o least_o have_v reason_n so_o to_o be_v i_o shall_v leave_v to_o his_o own_o conscience_n as_o to_o himself_o and_o to_o his_o concession_n as_o to_o other_o in_o which_o i_o shall_v observe_v the_o method_n take_v in_o the_o aforesaid_a tract_n where_o i_o say_v all_o thing_n object_v against_o may_v be_v refer_v to_o posture_n form_n and_o time_n and_o show_v these_o to_o be_v natural_a or_o moral_a circumstance_n of_o action_n and_o inseparable_a from_o it_o now_o in_o general_n he_o grant_v what_o be_v such_o may_v be_v lawful_o use_v and_o if_o we_o 14._o pag._n 14._o come_v to_o particular_n he_o do_v at_o last_o yield_v it_o as_o for_o posture_n what_o more_o scruple_v and_o oppose_v than_o kneel_v at_o the_o sacrament_n yet_o of_o this_o he_o say_v there_o 22._o pag._n 22._o be_v no_o command_n in_o it_o and_o it_o be_v indifferent_a that_o in_o all_o probability_n our_o saviour_n administer_v it_o kneel_v and_o sit_v 12._o pag._n 12._o backward_o upon_o his_o leg_n that_o no_o dissenter_n refuse_v it_o 36._o pag._n 36._o because_o it_o be_v not_o decent_a but_o because_o it_o be_v a_o posture_n of_o adoration_n that_o our_o church_n do_v not_o intend_v it_o as_o a_o homage_n to_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n there_o real_o present_a but_o declare_v that_o to_o do_v it_o as_o to_o the_o bread_n be_v a_o idolatry_n to_o 13._o pag._n 12_o 13._o be_v abhor_v and_o in_o conclusion_n tell_v we_o that_o those_o that_o hesitate_n in_o that_o point_n fear_v a_o posture_n of_o adoration_n use_v by_o idolatrous_a papist_n which_o be_v a_o consideration_n of_o no_o moment_n as_o have_v be_v already_o show_v as_o to_o form_n of_o prayer_n he_o say_v god_n have_v jest_v we_o 30._o pag._n 30._o at_o liberty_n what_o word_n to_o use_v and_o further_o that_o for_o conceive_a prayer_n we_o know_v no_o body_n say_v no_o other_o must_v be_v use_v 22._o pag._n 22._o in_o god_n worship_n and_o if_o so_o than_o form_n may_v be_v lawful_o use_v in_o it_o but_o suppose_v any_o scruple_n the_o use_n of_o they_o 18._o case_n of_o indiff_n p._n 18._o he_o say_v however_o we_o know_v no_o reason_n but_o people_n may_v hear_v they_o if_o any_o scruple_n the_o use_n of_o they_o he_o may_v yet_o 22._o case_n exam._n p._n 22._o have_v communion_n with_o the_o church_n we_o hope_v though_o he_o do_v not_o act_n in_o it_o as_o a_o minister_n as_o to_o time_n he_o say_v the_o law_n of_o nature_n direct_v and_o for_o festival_n such_o as_o purim_n among_o the_o jew_n he_o 29._o pag._n 29._o say_v it_o be_v general_o command_v under_o the_o precept_n of_o 26._o pag._n 26._o give_v thanks_o for_o public_a mercy_n last_o be_v the_o thing_n require_v unlawful_a because_o impose_v he_o answer_v some_o of_o we_o include_v sure_o himself_o be_v not_o of_o that_o mind_n nay_o he_o affirm_v that_o the_o most_o 39_o pag._n 39_o sober_a dissenter_n will_v agree_v in_o these_o thing_n that_o be_v natural_a 7._o pag._n 7._o circumstance_n to_o obey_v the_o command_n of_o superior_n provide_v it_o be_v not_o such_o as_o by_o circumstance_n be_v make_v sinful_a but_o if_o imposition_n will_v make_v they_o sinful_a such_o a_o command_n must_v not_o have_v be_v obey_v so_o that_o in_o the_o conclusion_n i_o see_v no_o reason_n why_o our_o reverend_a brother_n and_o the_o dissenter_n he_o defend_v and_o that_o in_o all_o thing_n as_o he_o say_v agree_v to_o the_o doctrine_n profess_v in_o the_o article_n 1._o pag._n 1._o of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n shall_v dissent_v from_o the_o liturgy_n and_o ceremony_n of_o it_o as_o far_o as_o lay-communion_n be_v concern_v in_o they_o nor_o why_o he_o shall_v tell_v we_o so_o much_o of_o goal_n and_o session_n and_o judicature_n and_o of_o the_o suffering_n they_o endure_v when_o if_o these_o thing_n be_v true_a 44._o pag._n 41_o 44._o it_o be_v for_o not_o do_v what_o they_o lawful_o can_v it_o be_v no_o wonder_n when_o such_o withhold_v communion_n from_o the_o church_n and_o set_v up_o other_o church_n against_o it_o that_o some_o call_v they_o as_o he_o complain_v perverse_a and_o contumacious_a person_n abide_v abide_v and_o other_o call_v they_o damnable_a schismatic_n and_o 1._o pag._n 1._o be_v so_o bold_a as_o to_o say_v that_o such_o a_o separation_n from_o that_o church_n be_v a_o separation_n from_o christ_n and_o it_o be_v likely_a he_o will_v meet_v with_o such_o that_o will_v speak_v very_o severe_a thing_n of_o his_o follow_a appeal_n to_o god_n judge_n o_o thou_o righteous_a judge_n between_o these_o people_n and_o those_o who_o thus_o pursue_v 44._o pag._n 41_o 44._o they_o i_o be_o far_o from_o one_o god_n be_v my_o witness_n that_o be_v a_o smiter_n of_o his_o fellow-servant_n as_o he_o call_v they_o nor_o 41._o pag._n 41._o will_v have_v any_o one_o do_v what_o he_o very_o believe_v be_v unlawful_a but_o i_o do_v think_v it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o all_o to_o do_v what_o they_o lawful_o can_v to_o hear_v ready_o and_o consider_v impartial_o what_o may_v be_v offer_v for_o their_o satisfaction_n and_o to_o suffer_v patient_o where_o they_o can_v receive_v it_o this_o i_o think_v every_o true_o conscientious_a person_n will_v do_v and_o i_o shall_v question_v his_o conscience_n that_o do_v it_o not_o certain_o to_o return_v he_o his_o own_o word_n if_o our_o brethren_n have_v any_o value_n for_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n for_o the_o good_a and_o ibid._n ibid._n peace_n of_o other_o soul_n for_o the_o preserve_v the_o protestant_a religion_n for_o the_o union_n of_o protestant_n against_o popish_a adversary_n for_o any_o thing_n indeed_o that_o be_v good_a and_o lovely_a they_o will_v rather_o break_v than_o any_o long_o draw_v this_o see_v of_o contention_n and_o will_v do_v as_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lie_v for_o the_o repair_n of_o those_o breach_n which_o must_v be_v confess_v be_v no_o less_o dangerous_a than_o scandalous_a to_o our_o religion_n the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n be_v not_o meat_n and_o drink_n but_o righteousness_n and_o peace_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n finis_fw-la errata_fw-la pag._n 3._o l._n 13._o r._n i_o shall_v p._n 30._o l._n antepenult_n r._n imply_v p._n 31._o l._n 6._o r._n expression_n p._n 39_o marg._n add_v to_o lightfoot_n hor._n in_o matth._n and_o mark_n p._n 46._o l._n 17._o 1._o government_n book_n print_v for_o fincham_n gardiner_z 1._o a._n a_o persuasive_a 〈…〉_o with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 2._o a_o resolution_n of_o some_o case_n of_o conscience_n which_o respect_n church-communion_n 3._o the_o case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n use_v in_o the_o
to_o do_v or_o not_o to_o do_v in_o the_o latter_a it_o be_v a_o man_n mind_n reflect_v upon_o what_o he_o have_v do_v or_o not_o do_v and_o judge_v whether_o he_o be_v innocent_a or_o culpable_a in_o the_o matter_n he_o reflect_v upon_o i_o do_v not_o know_v how_o to_o give_v a_o clear_a account_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o conscience_n in_o general_a than_o this_o i_o have_v now_o give_v this_o i_o believe_v be_v the_o natural_a notion_n that_o all_o man_n have_v of_o it_o and_o there_o be_v no_o expression_n in_o scripture_n about_o it_o but_o what_o do_v confirm_v this_o notion_n if_o indeed_o we_o put_v epithet_n to_o conscience_n and_o talk_v of_o a_o good_a conscience_n or_o a_o evil_a conscience_n a_o tender_a conscience_n or_o a_o sear_v conscience_n or_o the_o like_a then_o it_o include_v more_o both_o in_o scripture_n and_o in_o common_a language_n than_o i_o have_v now_o mention_v but_o to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o those_o thing_n i_o be_o not_o now_o concern_v as_o be_v without_o the_o limit_n of_o our_o present_a enquiry_n ii_o and_o now_o we_o be_v sufficient_o prepare_v for_o our_o second_o general_a point_n which_o be_v touch_v the_o rule_n of_o conscience_n if_o indeed_o after_o what_o we_o have_v already_o say_v it_o be_v not_o superfluous_a to_o insist_v upon_o that_o it_o appear_v plain_o by_o what_o i_o have_v represent_v that_o conscience_n must_v always_o have_v a_o rule_n which_o it_o be_v to_o follow_v and_o by_o which_o it_o be_v to_o be_v govern_v for_o since_o conscience_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o man_n judgement_n concern_v action_n as_o good_a or_o bad_a or_o indifferent_a it_o be_v certain_a that_o a_o man_n must_v have_v some_o measure_n to_o proceed_v by_o in_o order_n to_o the_o frame_v such_o a_o judgement_n about_o action_n that_o be_v to_o say_v there_o must_v be_v something_o distinct_a from_o the_o man_n himself_o that_o make_v action_n to_o be_v good_a or_o bad_a or_o indifferent_a and_o from_o which_o by_o apply_v particular_a action_n to_o it_o or_o compare_v they_o with_o it_o a_o man_n may_v be_v able_a to_o judge_n whether_o they_o be_v of_o the_o one_o sort_n or_o the_o other_o now_o this_o whatever_o it_o be_v be_v that_o which_o we_o call_v the_o rule_n of_o conscience_n and_o so_o much_o it_o be_v its_o rule_n that_o conscience_n can_v be_v no_o far_o a_o safe_a guide_n than_o as_o it_o follow_v that_o rule_n if_o now_o it_o be_v ask_v what_o this_o rule_n of_o conscience_n be_v or_o what_o that_o be_v which_o make_v a_o difference_n between_o action_n as_o to_o the_o moral_a goodness_n or_o badness_n of_o they_o the_o answer_n to_o it_o be_v obvious_a to_o every_o body_n that_o it_o can_v be_v nothing_o else_o but_o the_o law_n of_o god_n for_o nothing_o can_v be_v a_o duty_n but_o what_o god_n law_n have_v make_v so_o and_o nothing_o can_v be_v a_o sin_n but_o what_o god_n law_n have_v forbid_v the_o very_a notion_n of_o sin_n be_v that_o it_o be_v a_o transgression_n of_o the_o law_n and_o last_o we_o call_v a_o thing_n lawful_a or_o indifferent_a upon_o this_o very_a account_n that_o there_o be_v no_o law_n of_o god_n either_o command_v or_o forbid_v it_o and_o where_o there_o be_v no_o law_n there_o be_v no_o transgression_n so_o that_o undeniable_o the_o great_a nay_o i_o say_v the_o only_a rule_n by_o which_o conscience_n be_v to_o be_v govern_v be_v the_o law_n of_o god_n consider_v either_o as_o it_o command_v action_n or_o forbid_v they_o or_o as_o it_o neither_o command_v they_o nor_o forbid_v they_o but_o in_o order_n to_o the_o give_v a_o more_o distinct_a account_n of_o this_o rule_n of_o conscience_n there_o be_v this_o needful_a to_o be_v inquire_v into_o viz._n in_o what_o sense_n we_o take_v or_o what_o we_o mean_v by_o the_o law_n of_o god_n when_o we_o say_v it_o be_v the_o rule_n of_o conscience_n now_o to_o this_o our_o answer_n be_v that_o by_o the_o law_n of_o god_n we_o here_o understand_v god_n will_n for_o the_o government_n of_o man_n action_n in_o what_o way_n soever_o that_o will_n be_v declare_v to_o they_o now_o the_o will_n of_o god_n be_v declare_v to_o man_n two_o way_n either_o by_o nature_n or_o by_o revelation_n so_o that_o the_o just_a and_o adequate_a rule_n of_o conscience_n be_v make_v up_o of_o two_o part_n the_o law_n of_o nature_n and_o god_n reveal_v law_n by_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n we_o mean_v those_o principle_n of_o good_a and_o evil_a just_a and_o unjust_a which_o god_n have_v stamp_v upon_o the_o mind_n of_o all_o man_n in_o the_o very_a constitution_n of_o their_o nature_n there_o be_v some_o thing_n eternal_o good_a in_o themselves_o such_o as_o to_o worship_n god_n to_o honour_v our_o parent_n to_o stand_v to_o our_o covenant_n to_o live_v peaceable_o in_o the_o government_n from_o which_o we_o receive_v protection_n and_o the_o contrary_a to_o these_o will_v be_v eternal_o evil_a the_o head_n of_o all_o which_o thing_n thus_o good_a in_o themselves_o be_v write_v so_o plain_o and_o legible_o in_o the_o mind_n of_o mankind_n that_o there_o be_v no_o man_n who_o be_v come_v to_o the_o use_n of_o his_o reason_n but_o must_v of_o necessity_n be_v convince_v that_o to_o practise_v these_o thing_n will_v always_o be_v his_o duty_n and_o not_o to_o practise_v they_o will_v always_o be_v evil_a and_o a_o sin_n now_o all_o these_o head_n and_o principle_n put_v together_o be_v that_o we_o call_v the_o law_n of_o nature_n and_o this_o be_v all_o the_o rule_n of_o conscience_n that_o mankind_n have_v before_o god_n be_v please_v to_o discover_v his_o will_n by_o more_o particular_a revelation_n and_o this_o be_v that_o law_n which_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o when_o he_o say_v that_o the_o gentile_n who_o have_v not_o the_o law_n of_o moses_n yet_o have_v a_o law_n write_v in_o their_o heart_n by_o their_o act_v according_a to_o which_o or_o contrary_a to_o which_o their_o conscience_n do_v bear_v witness_n to_o they_o and_o do_v either_o accuse_v they_o or_o excuse_v they_o but_o than_o second_o to_o we_o christian_n god_n to_o this_o law_n of_o nature_n have_v superad_v a_o reveal_v law_n which_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o book_n of_o holy_a scripture_n which_o reveal_v law_n yet_o be_v not_o whole_o of_o a_o different_a kind_n from_o the_o former_a nor_o do_v it_o at_o all_o void_a the_o obligation_n of_o it_o but_o only_o thus_o god_n have_v in_o his_o reveal_v law_n declare_v the_o precept_n of_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n more_o certain_o and_o accurate_o than_o before_o he_o have_v give_v great_a force_n and_o strength_n to_o they_o than_o they_o have_v before_o by_o the_o sanction_n of_o great_a reward_n and_o punishment_n he_o have_v likewise_o herein_o perfect_v the_o law_n of_o nature_n and_o have_v oblige_v we_o in_o point_n of_o duty_n to_o more_o and_o high_a instance_n of_o virtue_n than_o nature_n do_v strict_o oblige_v we_o to_o and_o last_o he_o have_v add_v some_o positive_a law_n for_o we_o to_o observe_v which_o be_v not_o at_o all_o contain_v in_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n as_o for_o instance_n to_o believe_v in_o jesus_n christ_n in_o order_n to_o salvation_n to_o make_v all_o our_o application_n to_o god_n in_o the_o name_n of_o that_o mediator_n christ_n jesus_n to_o enter_v into_o a_o christian_a society_n by_o baptism_n and_o to_o exercise_n communion_n with_o that_o society_n by_o partake_v of_o the_o lord_n supper_n and_o this_o be_v that_o law_n which_o we_o christian_n be_v oblige_v to_o as_o well_o as_o to_o the_o law_n of_o our_o nature_n and_o which_o as_o it_o be_v a_o summary_n of_o all_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n so_o indeed_o be_v it_o a_o summary_n of_o all_o our_o duty_n so_o that_o if_o any_o man_n will_v call_v it_o the_o great_a or_o only_a rule_n of_o christian_a conscience_n i_o shall_v not_o much_o oppose_v he_o provide_v that_o this_o be_v always_o remember_v that_o in_o the_o three_o place_n when_o we_o say_v that_o the_o natural_a and_o reveal_v law_n of_o god_n be_v the_o just_a 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to_o what_o be_v good_a or_o evil_a though_o we_o shall_v take_v that_o for_o a_o duty_n which_o be_v real_o a_o sin_n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a that_o for_o a_o sin_n which_o be_v real_o a_o duty_n yet_o so_o long_o as_o we_o be_v thus_o persuade_v it_o will_v be_v high_o criminal_a in_o we_o to_o act_n in_o contradiction_n to_o this_o persuasion_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o this_o be_v evident_a because_o by_o so_o do_v we_o wilful_o act_n against_o the_o best_a light_n which_o at_o present_a we_o have_v for_o the_o direction_n of_o our_o action_n and_o consequent_o our_o will_n be_v as_o faulty_a and_o as_o wicked_a in_o consent_v to_o such_o action_n as_o if_o we_o have_v have_v true_a notion_n of_o thing_n we_o be_v to_o remember_v that_o the_o rule_n of_o our_o duty_n whatever_o it_o be_v in_o itself_o can_v touch_v or_o affect_v our_o action_n but_o by_o the_o mediation_n of_o our_o conscience_n that_o be_v no_o far_o than_o as_o it_o be_v apprehend_v by_o we_o or_o as_o we_o do_v understand_v and_o remember_v it_o so_o that_o when_o all_o be_v do_v the_o immediate_a guide_n of_o our_o action_n can_v be_v nothing_o but_o our_o conscience_n our_o judgement_n and_o persuasion_n concern_v the_o goodness_n or_o badness_n or_o indifferency_n of_o thing_n it_o be_v true_a in_o all_o those_o instance_n where_o we_o be_v mistake_v our_o conscience_n prove_v but_o a_o very_a bad_a and_o unsafe_a guide_n because_o it_o have_v itself_o lose_v its_o way_n in_o not_o follow_v its_o rule_n as_o it_o shall_v have_v do_v but_o however_o our_o guide_n still_o it_o be_v and_o we_o have_v no_o other_o guide_n of_o our_o action_n but_o that_o and_o if_o we_o may_v lawful_o refuse_v to_o be_v guide_v by_o it_o in_o one_o instance_n we_o may_v with_o as_o much_o reason_n reject_v its_o guidance_n in_o all_o what_o be_v the_o notion_n that_o any_o of_o we_o have_v of_o a_o wilful_a sin_n or_o a_o sin_n against_o knowledge_n but_o this_o that_o we_o have_v do_v otherwise_o than_o we_o be_v convince_v to_o be_v our_o duty_n at_o the_o same_o time_n that_o we_o do_v so_o and_o what_o other_o measure_n have_v we_o of_o any_o man_n sincerity_n or_o hypocrisy_n but_o only_o this_o that_o he_o act_v according_a to_o the_o best_a of_o his_o judgement_n or_o that_o he_o do_v not_o act_n according_a to_o what_o he_o pretend_v to_o believe_v we_o do_v not_o indeed_o say_v that_o every_o one_o be_v a_o good_a man_n that_o act_n according_a to_o his_o judgement_n or_o that_o he_o be_v to_o be_v commend_v for_o all_o action_n that_o be_v do_v in_o pursuance_n of_o his_o persuasion_n no_o we_o measure_v virtue_n and_o vice_n by_o the_o rule_n according_a to_o which_o a_o man_n ought_v to_o act_n as_o well_o as_o by_o the_o man_n intention_n in_o act_v but_o however_o we_o all_o agree_v that_o that_o man_n be_v a_o knave_n that_o in_o any_o instance_n act_v contrary_a to_o that_o which_o he_o take_v to_o be_v his_o duty_n and_o in_o pass_v this_o sentence_n we_o have_v no_o regard_n to_o this_o whether_o the_o man_n be_v right_o or_o mistake_v in_o his_o judgement_n for_o be_v his_o judgement_n right_o or_o wrong_n true_a or_o false_a it_o be_v all_o one_o as_o to_o his_o honesty_n in_o act_v or_o not_o act_v according_o to_o it_o he_o that_o have_v a_o false_a persuasion_n of_o thing_n so_o long_o as_o that_o persuasion_n continue_v be_v often_o as_o well_o satisfy_v that_o he_o be_v in_o the_o right_n as_o if_o his_o persuasion_n be_v true_a that_o be_v he_o be_v oftentimes_o as_o confident_a when_o he_o be_v in_o a_o error_n as_o when_o he_o be_v in_o the_o right_n and_o therefore_o we_o can_v but_o conclude_v that_o he_o who_o be_v under_o a_o mistake_n will_v be_v tempt_v to_o act_n contrary_a to_o his_o judgement_n will_v certain_o upon_o the_o same_o temptation_n act_n contrary_a to_o it_o be_v his_o judgement_n never_o so_o well_o inform_v and_o therefore_o his_o will_n be_v as_o bad_a in_o the_o one_o case_n as_o in_o the_o other_o he_o be_v equal_o a_o sinner_n as_o to_o the_o wilfulness_n of_o the_o crime_n though_o indeed_o in_o other_o respect_n there_o will_v be_v a_o great_a difference_n in_o the_o case_n this_o i_o believe_v be_v the_o sense_n of_o all_o man_n in_o this_o matter_n if_o a_o man_n for_o instance_n shall_v of_o a_o jew_n become_v a_o christian_a while_o yet_o in_o his_o heart_n he_o believe_v that_o the_o messiah_n be_v not_o yet_o come_v and_o that_o our_o lord_n jesus_n be_v a_o impostor_n or_o if_o a_o papist_n shall_v too_o serve_v some_o private_a end_n renounce_v the_o communion_n of_o the_o roman_a church_n and_o join_v with_o we_o while_o yet_o he_o be_v persuade_v that_o the_o roman_a church_n be_v the_o only_a catholic_n church_n and_o that_o our_o reform_a church_n be_v heretical_a or_o schismatical_a though_o now_o there_o be_v none_o of_o we_o will_v deny_v that_o the_o man_n in_o both_o these_o case_n have_v make_v a_o good_a change_n as_o have_v change_v a_o false_a religion_n for_o a_o true_a one_o yet_o for_o all_o that_o i_o dare_v say_v we_o shall_v all_o agree_v they_o be_v both_o of_o they_o great_a villain_n and_o hypocrite_n for_o make_v that_o change_n because_o they_o make_v it_o not_o upon_o honest_a principle_n and_o in_o pursuance_n of_o their_o judgement_n but_o in_o direct_a contradiction_n to_o both_o nay_o i_o dare_v say_v we_o shall_v all_o of_o we_o think_v better_o of_o a_o ignorant_a well_o meaning_n protestant_n that_o be_v seduce_v by_o the_o persuasion_n and_o artifices_fw-la of_o a_o cunning_a popish_a factor_n do_v real_o out_o of_o conscience_n abandon_v our_o communion_n and_o go_v over_o to_o the_o romanist_n as_o think_v they_o to_o be_v the_o safe_a i_o say_v we_o shall_v all_o of_o we_o entertain_v a_o more_o favourable_a opinion_n of_o such_o a_o man_n in_o such_o a_o case_n though_o real_o here_o the_o change_n be_v make_v from_o a_o true_a keligion_n to_o a_o false_a one_o than_o we_o shall_v of_o either_o of_o the_o other_o man_n i_o have_v before_o name_v all_o this_o put_v together_o be_v abundant_o sufficient_a to_o show_v that_o no_o man_n can_v in_o any_o case_n act_n against_o his_o judgement_n or_o persuasion_n but_o he_o be_v guilty_a of_o sin_n in_o so_o do_v but_o then_o our_o second_o proposition_n be_v this_o the_o mistake_n of_o a_o man_n judgement_n may_v be_v of_o such_o a_o nature_n that_o as_o it_o will_v be_v a_o sin_n to_o act_n against_o his_o judgement_n so_o it_o will_v likewise_o be_v a_o sin_n to_o act_n according_a to_o it_o for_o what_o authority_n soever_o a_o man_n conscience_n have_v over_o he_o it_o can_v never_o bear_v he_o out_o if_o he_o do_v a_o
evil_a thing_n in_o compliance_n with_o it_o my_o judgement_n be_v as_o we_o have_v say_v the_o guide_n of_o my_o action_n but_o it_o may_v through_o my_o negligence_n be_v so_o far_o misguide_v itself_o as_o that_o if_o i_o follow_v it_o it_o will_v lead_v i_o into_o the_o most_o horrid_a crime_n in_o the_o world_n and_o will_v it_o be_v a_o sufficient_a excuse_n or_o justification_n of_o my_o action_n in_o such_o a_o case_n to_o say_v that_o indeed_o herein_o i_o do_v but_o act_n according_a to_o my_o persuasion_n no_o very_o i_o may_v as_o certain_o be_v damn_v without_o repentance_n for_o act_v according_a to_o my_o judgement_n in_o some_o case_n where_o it_o be_v mistake_v as_o i_o shall_v be_v for_o act_v contrary_a to_o it_o in_o other_o case_n where_o it_o be_v right_o inform_v and_o the_o reason_n of_o this_o be_v very_o plain_a it_o be_v not_o my_o judgement_n or_o persuasion_n that_o make_v good_a or_o evil_a right_a or_o wrong_n justice_n or_o injustice_n virtue_n or_o vice_n but_o it_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o thing_n themselves_o and_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o of_o man_n under_o that_o command_v or_o forbid_v thing_n that_o make_v they_o so_o if_o the_o moral_a goodness_n or_o badness_n of_o action_n be_v to_o be_v measure_v by_o man_n opinion_n and_o persuasion_n then_o good_a and_o evil_a duty_n and_o sin_n will_v be_v the_o most_o various_a uncertain_a thing_n in_o the_o world_n they_o will_v change_v their_o nature_n as_o often_o as_o man_n change_v their_o opinion_n and_o that_o which_o to_o day_n be_v a_o virtue_n to_o morrow_n will_v be_v a_o crime_n and_o that_o which_o in_o one_o man_n will_v be_v a_o heroical_o good_a action_n will_v in_o another_o man_n be_v a_o prodigious_a piece_n of_o villainy_n though_o yet_o there_o be_v no_o difference_n in_o the_o action_n itself_o or_o in_o the_o circumstance_n of_o the_o man_n that_o do_v it_o save_v only_o the_o difference_n of_o opinion_n but_o such_o consequence_n as_o these_o be_v intolerable_a nor_o indeed_o do_v man_n either_o talk_v or_o think_v after_o this_o manner_n every_o man_n when_o he_o speak_v of_o good_a or_o evil_a lawful_a or_o unlawful_a mean_v some_o certain_a fix_a thing_n which_o it_o be_v not_o in_o his_o power_n to_o alter_v the_o nature_n and_o property_n of_o that_o action_n be_v good_a and_o a_o duty_n which_o be_v either_o so_o in_o itself_o or_o make_v so_o by_o some_o positive_a law_n of_o god_n and_o that_o action_n be_v evil_a and_o a_o sin_n that_o be_v forbid_v by_o god_n in_o either_o of_o these_o way_n so_o that_o unless_o it_o be_v in_o our_o power_n to_o change_v the_o nature_n of_o thing_n or_o to_o alter_v the_o law_n of_o god_n it_o will_v unavoidable_o follow_v that_o we_o shall_v be_v for_o ever_o oblige_v to_o do_v some_o action_n and_o to_o forbear_v other_o whatever_o our_o judgement_n concern_v they_o be_v and_o consequent_o we_o may_v be_v guilty_a of_o sin_n if_o in_o these_o instance_n we_o act_n contrary_a to_o this_o obligation_n though_o at_o the_o same_o time_n it_o shall_v happen_v that_o we_o be_v firm_o persuade_v that_o we_o ought_v so_o to_o do_v and_o thus_o be_v our_o proposition_n full_o prove_v but_o then_o for_o the_o further_o clear_v of_o it_o i_o desire_v it_o may_v be_v take_v notice_n of_o that_o we_o do_v not_o thus_o lay_v it_o down_o that_o every_o mistake_n of_o judgement_n about_o good_a or_o evil_a do_v involve_v a_o man_n in_o sin_n if_o he_o act_n according_a to_o that_o mistake_n but_o only_o thus_o the_o mistake_n of_o a_o man_n judgement_n may_v be_v of_o such_o a_o nature_n that_o as_o it_o will_v be_v a_o a_o sin_n in_o he_o to_o act_n against_o it_o so_o it_o will_v likewise_o be_v sin_n to_o act_n according_a to_o it_o it_o be_v not_o every_o error_n in_o moral_n that_o bring_v a_o man_n under_o the_o necessity_n of_o sin_v if_o he_o pursue_v it_o in_o his_o action_n a_o man_n conscience_n may_v mistake_v its_o rule_n in_o a_o hundred_o instance_n and_o yet_o he_o may_v safe_o enough_o act_n according_a to_o it_o and_o the_o reason_n be_v because_o a_o man_n may_v entertain_v a_o great_a many_o mistake_v and_o false_a notion_n of_o his_o duty_n and_o act_n according_a to_o they_o too_o and_o yet_o in_o such_o action_n he_o shall_v not_o transgress_v any_o law_n of_o god_n now_o this_o that_o i_o say_v hold_v chief_o in_o these_o two_o inslance_n for_o example_n in_o the_o first_o place_n if_o a_o man_n believe_v a_o thing_n to_o be_v command_v by_o god_n which_o yet_o indeed_o be_v not_o but_o neither_o be_v it_o forbid_v as_o if_o a_o man_n shall_v think_v himself_o oblige_v to_o retire_v himself_o from_o his_o business_n seven_o time_n or_o three_o time_n a_o day_n for_o the_o purpose_n of_o devotion_n or_o to_o give_v half_a of_o his_o yearly_o income_n to_o pious_a and_o charitable_a use_n if_o he_o can_v do_v it_o without_o prejudice_n to_o his_o family_n now_o in_o this_o case_n he_o be_v certain_o mistake_v in_o his_o duty_n for_o the_o law_n of_o god_n have_v not_o bind_v he_o up_o to_o such_o measure_n in_o either_o of_o these_o instance_n but_o yet_o because_o god_n have_v not_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n lay_v any_o command_n upon_o he_o to_o the_o contrary_a it_o be_v certain_a he_o may_v in_o both_o these_o instance_n act_n according_a to_o this_o mistake_n without_o any_o gild_n in_o the_o world_n nay_o so_o long_o as_o that_o mistake_n continue_v he_o be_v bind_v to_o act_n according_o again_o in_o the_o second_o place_n if_o a_o man_n believe_v a_o thing_n to_o be_v forbid_v by_o god_n law_n which_o yet_o be_v not_o but_o neither_o be_v it_o command_v as_o for_o instance_n if_o a_o man_n think_v that_o he_o ought_v by_o virtue_n of_o a_o divine_a command_n to_o abstain_v from_o all_o meat_n that_o be_v strangle_v or_o have_v blood_n in_o they_o or_o if_o he_o believe_v it_o unlawful_a to_o play_n at_o card_n or_o die_n or_o that_o it_o be_v forbid_v by_o god_n word_n to_o let_v out_o money_n at_o interest_n why_o in_o all_o these_o case_n he_o may_v follow_v his_o opinion_n though_o it_o be_v a_o false_a one_o without_o sin_n nay_o he_o be_v bind_v to_o follow_v it_o because_o it_o be_v the_o dictate_v of_o his_o conscience_n however_o his_o conscience_n be_v mistake_v and_o the_o reason_n be_v plain_a because_o though_o he_o be_v mistake_v in_o his_o judgement_n about_o these_o matter_n yet_o since_o god_n have_v not_o by_o any_o law_n forbid_v these_o thing_n there_o be_v no_o transgression_n follow_v upon_o act_v according_a to_o such_o a_o mistake_n but_o then_o in_o other_o case_n where_o a_o man_n mistake_n happen_v to_o be_v of_o such_o a_o nature_n as_o that_o he_o can_v act_n according_a to_o his_o conscience_n but_o he_o transgress_v some_o law_n of_o god_n by_o which_o conscience_n ought_v to_o be_v govern_v as_o for_o instance_n when_o a_o man_n look_v upon_o that_o as_o a_o lawful_a action_n or_o as_o a_o duty_n which_o god_n have_v forbid_v or_o look_v upon_o that_o as_o a_o sin_n or_o at_o least_o a_o indifferent_a action_n which_o god_n have_v command_v here_o it_o be_v that_o the_o mistake_n become_v dangerous_a and_o in_o such_o case_n the_o man_n be_v bring_v into_o that_o sad_a dilemma_n we_o have_v be_v represent_v viz._n that_o if_o he_o act_n according_a to_o his_o persuasion_n he_o transgress_v god_n law_n and_o so_o be_v a_o sinner_n upon_o that_o account_n if_o he_o act_v against_o his_o persuasion_n than_o he_o be_v self_n condemn_v and_o very_o guilty_a before_o god_n upon_o that_o account_n well_o but_o be_v there_o no_o avoid_n of_o this_o must_v it_o be_v lay_v down_o as_o a_o constant_a universal_a truth_n that_o in_o all_o case_n where_o a_o man_n judgement_n happen_v to_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o his_o duty_n command_v or_o forbid_v a_o action_n he_o must_v of_o necessity_n sin_n whether_o he_o act_n or_o not_o act_n according_a to_o that_o judgement_n if_o indeed_o he_o act_n against_o his_o conscience_n it_o be_v ready_o grant_v he_o sin_n but_o it_o seem_v very_o hard_a that_o he_o shall_v be_v under_o a_o necessity_n of_o sin_v when_o he_o act_v according_a to_o it_o especial_o when_o he_o be_v perfect_o ignorant_a of_o or_o mistake_v in_o the_o law_n against_o which_o he_o offend_v this_o be_v indeed_o the_o great_a difficulty_n that_o occur_v in_o this_o matter_n and_o for_o the_o untie_n it_o i_o lay_v down_o this_o three_o general_a proposition_n viz._n that_o the_o great_a thing_n to_o be_v attend_v to_o in_o this_o case_n of_o a_o man_n follow_v a_o mistake_a judgement_n be_v the_o culpableness_n or_o inculpableness_n the_o faultiness_n or_o innocence_n of_o the_o mistake_n
be_v may_v by_o what_o he_o here_o find_v offer_v towards_o his_o satisfaction_n either_o be_v prevail_v with_o to_o lay_v aside_o his_o doubt_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o our_o communion_n or_o at_o least_o be_v convince_v that_o it_o be_v more_o reasonable_a and_o safe_a to_o communicate_v with_o we_o doubt_v as_o he_o do_v than_o to_o continue_v in_o separation_n from_o we_o in_o handle_v this_o case_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n i_o shall_v observe_v the_o same_o method_n i_o do_v in_o the_o former_a discourse_n because_o indeed_o i_o can_v think_v of_o a_o better_a that_o be_v i_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o give_v a_o account_n of_o these_o four_o thing_n i._o of_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n and_o how_o it_o be_v distinguish_v from_o the_o other_o kind_n of_o conscience_n ii_o of_o the_o rule_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n or_o what_o measure_v a_o man_n be_v to_o proceed_v by_o for_o the_o determine_v himself_o in_o a_o doubtful_a case_n iii_o of_o the_o power_n that_o humane_a law_n ecclesiastical_a or_o civil_a have_v to_o overrule_a a_o man_n doubt_n in_o any_o matter_n iv_o of_o the_o authority_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n i._n e._n whether_o at_o all_o or_o how_o far_o a_o man_n be_v oblige_v by_o it_o these_o four_o head_n do_v i_o think_v take_v in_o all_o the_o difficulty_n that_o be_v in_o the_o case_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n i._o i_o begin_v with_o the_o first_o head_n the_o nature_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n in_o speak_v to_o which_o i_o shall_v treat_v of_o these_o three_o thing_n 1._o of_o doubt_v in_o general_n 2._o of_o such_o doubt_n as_o do_v affect_v or_o concern_v a_o man_n conscience_n 3._o of_o the_o difference_n between_o the_o doubt_v conscience_n and_o the_o scrupulous_a 1._o as_o to_o the_o first_o of_o these_o which_o be_v concern_v the_o nature_n of_o doubt_v in_o general_a we_o may_v take_v notice_n that_o a_o man_n be_v proper_o say_v to_o doubt_v when_o he_o can_v give_v his_o assent_n to_o either_o part_n of_o a_o contradiction_n that_o be_v can_v make_v a_o judgement_n whether_o the_o thing_n he_o be_v consider_v be_v so_o or_o be_v not_o so_o but_o through_o the_o equal_a or_o at_o least_o fair_a probability_n that_o be_v on_o both_o side_n of_o the_o question_n continue_v irresolute_a and_o undetermined_a now_o perhaps_o he_o think_v this_o side_n the_o more_o probable_a and_o by_o and_o by_o the_o other_o but_o he_o be_v uncertain_a as_o to_o both_o and_o can_v fix_v upon_o either_o so_o that_o a_o doubt_v mind_n be_v not_o more_o usual_o than_o proper_o resemble_v to_o a_o balance_n which_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o equal_a weight_n which_o be_v put_v into_o both_o scale_n be_v not_o cast_v on_o either_o side_n but_o hang_v in_o the_o same_o posture_n or_o wave_n up_o and_o down_o without_o either_o scale_n come_v to_o the_o bottom_n nevertheless_o in_o a_o doubtful_a case_n a_o man_n may_v lean_v more_o to_o one_o side_n of_o the_o question_n than_o the_o other_o and_o yet_o continue_v doubtful_a still_o just_o as_o there_o may_v be_v so_o much_o more_o weight_n put_v into_o one_o scale_n than_o the_o other_o as_o will_v be_v sufficient_a to_o incline_v the_o balance_n more_o to_o that_o side_n while_o yet_o that_o weight_n be_v not_o so_o considerable_a as_o to_o be_v able_a perfect_o to_o turn_v it_o so_o as_o to_o carry_v down_o the_o scale_n to_o the_o usual_a mark_n of_o down-weight_n and_o there_o to_o settle_v it_o there_o be_v indeed_o this_o difference_n between_o these_o two_o thing_n that_o a_o balance_n through_o the_o exact_a equality_n of_o the_o weight_n put_v into_o each_o scale_n may_v be_v so_o poise_v as_o to_o hang_v perfect_o in_o oequilibrio_n without_o inclination_n either_o way_n and_o continue_v so_o to_o do_v but_o it_o will_v be_v difficult_a if_o not_o impossible_a to_o put_v a_o case_n or_o a_o question_n where_o a_o man_n mind_n after_o all_o thing_n consider_v be_v so_o perfect_o indifferent_a to_o both_o side_n of_o it_o as_o not_o to_o be_v more_o incline_v to_o choose_v one_o than_o the_o other_o when_o once_o there_o appear_v so_o much_o more_o evidence_n on_o one_o side_n of_o the_o doubtful_a case_n that_o the_o mind_n be_v enable_v to_o determine_v itself_o and_o to_o give_v a_o settle_a assent_n on_o that_o side_n than_o the_o man_n cease_v to_o doubt_v any_o long_o for_o that_o which_o be_v a_o doubt_n before_o be_v now_o turn_v into_o a_o persuasion_n and_o if_o it_o be_v a_o case_n wherein_o conscience_n be_v concern_v that_o which_o be_v before_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n be_v now_o change_v into_o a_o resolve_a conscience_n here_o to_o resume_v our_o former_a comparison_n the_o balance_n no_o long_o hang_v in_o oequilibrio_n or_o move_v unsetle_o this_o way_n or_o that_o way_n but_o be_v plain_o turn_v and_o fix_v on_o one_o side_n it_o be_v true_a in_o this_o case_n a_o man_n do_v not_o always_o determine_v himself_o with_o the_o same_o degree_n of_o persuasion_n or_o satisfaction_n to_o his_o own_o mind_n sometime_o the_o evidence_n be_v so_o strong_a as_o to_o command_v a_o entire_a assent_n of_o his_o understanding_n a_o assent_n so_o full_a that_o it_o have_v not_o the_o least_o mixture_n of_o doubtfulness_n in_o it_o and_o this_o we_o call_v a_o assurance_n or_o a_o full_a persuasion_n at_o other_o time_n the_o evidence_n may_v be_v of_o force_n enough_o to_o gain_v a_o assent_n but_o yet_o not_o so_o strong_a a_o assent_n as_o to_o exclude_v all_o doubt_n of_o the_o contrary_a and_o this_o kind_n of_o assent_n we_o call_v a_o opinion_n or_o a_o probable_a persuasion_n and_o something_o like_o this_o we_o may_v observe_v in_o the_o balance_n the_o scale_n that_o preponderates_n be_v not_o always_o carry_v down_o with_o the_o same_o force_n and_o briskness_n but_o according_a as_o the_o weight_n that_o turn_v the_o balance_n be_v great_a or_o less_o so_o in_o proportion_n it_o may_v plain_o be_v discern_v that_o the_o scale_n descend_v either_o more_o strong_o and_o nimble_o or_o more_o weak_o and_o slow_o but_o still_o in_o both_o these_o case_n the_o man_n have_v form_v a_o judgement_n of_o the_o point_n the_o balance_n be_v turn_v and_o where_o ever_o this_o happen_v there_o be_v a_o end_n of_o the_o doubt_n or_o aequilibrium_fw-la and_o consequent_o if_o it_o be_v in_o a_o case_n that_o concern_v a_o man_n conscience_n it_o cease_v to_o be_v any_o long_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n and_o become_v resolve_v and_o determine_v though_o perhaps_o not_o full_o satisfy_v and_o free_a from_o all_o kind_n of_o doubt_n and_o scruple_n about_o that_o thing_n 2._o and_o thus_o much_o of_o doubt_v in_o general_n i_o now_o come_v to_o consider_v it_o with_o respect_n to_o conscience_n i._n e._n to_o inquire_v how_o far_o or_o in_o what_o case_n a_o man_n conscience_n be_v affect_v with_o his_o doubt_n which_o be_v our_o second_o point_n under_o this_o head_n there_o be_v a_o thousand_o case_n in_o which_o a_o man_n may_v be_v doubtful_a as_o to_o which_o his_o conscience_n shall_v be_v no_o way_n concern_v a_o man_n doubt_n may_v indeed_o be_v as_o various_a as_o be_v the_o object_n he_o have_v to_o consider_v and_o to_o make_v a_o judgement_n of_o and_o therefore_o unless_o we_o will_v say_v that_o every_o thing_n that_o a_o man_n think_v of_o or_o say_v or_o do_v affect_v his_o conscience_n we_o must_v not_o say_v that_o every_o doubt_n do_v as_o a_o man_n conscience_n be_v not_o touch_v nor_o affect_v with_o any_o thing_n but_o his_o own_o action_n so_o neither_o do_v a_o man_n doubt_n affect_v or_o touch_v his_o conscience_n any_o further_a than_o they_o concern_v his_o action_n so_o that_o doubt_n about_o matter_n of_o mere_a speculation_n as_o whether_o such_o a_o proposition_n be_v true_a or_o false_a and_o likewise_o doubt_v about_o matter_n of_o fact_n as_o whether_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v do_v or_o not_o do_v which_o do_v not_o relate_v to_o the_o government_n of_o a_o man_n own_o action_n these_o doubt_n do_v not_o concern_v his_o conscience_n as_o a_o man_n conscience_n be_v not_o affect_v with_o his_o own_o action_n under_o any_o other_o notion_n or_o consideration_n than_o only_o as_o god_n law_n be_v to_o regulate_v they_o viz._n as_o they_o be_v either_o command_v by_o that_o law_n or_o forbid_v by_o it_o so_o neither_o do_v a_o man_n doubt_n concern_v his_o action_n affect_v his_o conscience_n any_o far_a or_o upon_o any_o other_o account_n than_o only_o as_o god_n law_n may_v be_v transgress_v by_o do_v or_o not_o do_v the_o action_n he_o doubt_v of_o that_o be_v as_o he_o may_v sin_v against_o god_n either_o by_o omit_v the_o action_n when_o god_n law_n have_v command_v it_o or_o by_o do_v it_o when_o god_n law_n have_v
it_o but_o on_o the_o other_o side_n he_o have_v no_o doubt_n but_o be_v very_o well_o assure_v that_o he_o may_v lawful_o let_v it_o alone_o or_o on_o the_o contrary_a he_o be_v very_o well_o satisfy_v that_o the_o action_n be_v lawful_a and_o that_o he_o may_v do_v it_o but_o he_o doubt_n whether_o god_n law_n have_v not_o make_v it_o a_o duty_n so_o that_o he_o can_v lawful_o omit_v it_o this_o be_v that_o which_o we_o call_v a_o single_a doubt_n we_o call_v that_o a_o double_a doubt_n where_o a_o man_n doubt_n on_o both_o side_n of_o a_o action_n that_o be_v to_o say_v he_o doubt_v on_o one_o side_n whether_o he_o be_v not_o bind_v to_o do_v this_o action_n god_n law_n for_o any_o thing_n he_o know_v make_v it_o a_o duty_n but_o on_o the_o other_o side_n so_o be_v the_o action_n circumstantiate_v with_o respect_n to_o he_o or_o he_o with_o respect_n to_o it_o that_o he_o doubt_n whether_o he_o be_v not_o bind_v to_o forbear_v the_o action_n as_o it_o be_v now_o present_v to_o he_o god_n law_n have_v for_o any_o thing_n he_o know_v forbid_v it_o so_o that_o he_o be_v at_o a_o loss_n what_o to_o do_v because_o he_o fear_v he_o may_v sin_v whether_o he_o do_v the_o action_n or_o do_v it_o not_o i_o say_v it_o will_v be_v impossible_a to_o put_v any_o doubtful_a case_n wherein_o a_o man_n conscience_n be_v concern_v which_o will_v not_o fall_v under_o one_o of_o these_o two_o head_n i._o now_o as_o to_o the_o case_n of_o a_o single_a doubt_n we_o may_v thus_o apply_v the_o general_n rule_n that_o when_o a_o man_n doubt_v only_o on_o one_o side_n of_o a_o action_n there_o it_o be_v more_o reasonable_a to_o choose_v that_o side_n of_o the_o action_n concern_v which_o he_o have_v no_o doubt_n than_o the_o other_o concern_v which_o he_o doubt_v suppose_v all_o other_o consideration_n be_v equal_a and_o here_o come_v in_o that_o famous_a maxim_n which_o have_v obtain_v both_o among_o christian_n and_o heathen_n quod_fw-la dubitas_fw-la ne_fw-la feceris_fw-la which_o with_o the_o restriction_n i_o have_v now_o mention_v will_v for_o ever_o be_v good_a advice_n in_o all_o case_n of_o this_o nature_n it_o must_v needs_o be_v unreasonable_a to_o venture_v upon_o any_o action_n where_o a_o man_n have_v the_o least_o fear_n or_o suspicion_n that_o it_o be_v possible_a he_o may_v transgress_v some_o law_n of_o god_n by_o it_o when_o it_o be_v in_o his_o power_n to_o act_n without_o any_o fear_n or_o suspicion_n of_o that_o kind_n suppose_v all_o along_o this_o consideration_n of_o the_o possibility_n of_o offend_v by_o this_o action_n be_v not_o overbalance_v and_o so_o the_o fear_n of_o it_o remove_v by_o other_o consideration_n which_o the_o circumstance_n of_o the_o action_n do_v suggest_v thus_o for_o instance_n here_o be_v a_o man_n doubt_n whether_o it_o be_v allowable_a in_o a_o christian_n to_o drink_v a_o health_n or_o put_v out_o money_n to_o interest_n or_o to_o go_v to_o law_n as_o have_v converse_v with_o such_o man_n or_o such_o book_n as_o do_v condemn_v these_o practice_n and_o that_o not_o without_o some_o colour_n from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n the_o man_n be_v not_o indeed_o so_o convince_v by_o their_o discourse_n as_o to_o have_v take_v up_o any_o opinion_n or_o persuasion_n that_o these_o practice_n be_v unlawful_a nor_o will_v he_o censure_v any_o man_n that_o use_v they_o because_o he_o see_v there_o be_v as_o good_a man_n and_o for_o any_o thing_n he_o know_v as_o good_a argument_n for_o the_o other_o side_n but_o he_o be_v not_o so_o clear_a in_o his_o judgement_n about_o these_o point_n as_o to_o be_v able_a to_o pronounce_v any_o thing_n positive_o concern_v they_o either_o way_n he_o can_v say_v that_o he_o believe_v they_o lawful_a though_o he_o be_v not_o persuade_v that_o they_o be_v unlawful_a which_o be_v the_o true_a state_n of_o a_o doubt_v mind_n now_o in_o these_o and_o all_o other_o such_o like_a case_n the_o rule_n be_v plain_a that_o while_o a_o man_n judgement_n continue_v thus_o in_o suspense_n it_o be_v more_o reasonable_a for_o he_o to_o forbear_v these_o practice_n for_o there_o be_v no_o pretence_n of_o obligation_n upon_o he_o from_o god_n law_n to_o engage_v in_o any_o of_o they_o and_o why_o shall_v he_o rash_o throw_v himself_o into_o danger_n by_o venture_v upon_o a_o action_n concern_v which_o he_o be_v uncertain_a whether_o it_o be_v lawful_a or_o no_o he_o run_v no_o hazard_n by_o forbear_v these_o thing_n but_o if_o he_o practise_v they_o he_o do_v thus_o far_o be_v right_a but_o then_o as_o i_o say_v this_o be_v always_o to_o be_v understand_v with_o this_o proviso_n caeteris_fw-la paribus_fw-la for_o if_o there_o shall_v happen_v to_o be_v such_o other_o consideration_n in_o the_o action_n as_o have_v force_n enough_o to_o overbalance_n this_o consideration_n of_o uncertainty_n it_o will_v then_o be_v reasonable_a to_o choose_v that_o side_n of_o the_o action_n concern_v which_o i_o do_v before_o doubt_n rather_o than_o that_o of_o which_o i_o have_v no_o doubt_n at_o all_o thus_o if_o the_o man_n that_o make_v a_o question_n about_o any_o of_o the_o three_o thing_n i_o before_o mention_v shall_v light_v into_o such_o circumstance_n that_o for_o instance_n he_o must_v either_o drink_v such_o a_o single_a health_n or_o a_o quarrel_n be_v like_a to_o ensue_v nay_o and_o that_o perhaps_o to_o the_o danger_n of_o some_o of_o the_o life_n of_o the_o company_n or_o again_o that_o he_o have_v no_o mean_n of_o improve_n his_o money_n in_o which_o his_o whole_a fortune_n consist_v in_o any_o other_o way_n but_o by_o that_o of_o usury_n so_o that_o he_o and_o his_o family_n must_v in_o time_n starve_v unless_o they_o be_v maintain_v by_o this_o course_n or_o last_o if_o a_o orphan_n be_v trust_v to_o his_o care_n and_o the_o estate_n of_o that_o orphan_n be_v so_o entangle_v that_o he_o must_v be_v put_v upon_o the_o necessity_n either_o of_o wage_n a_o law_n suit_n for_o the_o clear_n it_o or_o suffer_v his_o near_a relation_n commit_v to_o his_o charge_n to_o be_v defraud_v of_o his_o right_n i_o say_v if_o the_o case_n happen_v to_o be_v thus_o circumstantiate_v he_o that_o before_o doubt_v in_o general_n whether_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o drink_v a_o health_n or_o to_o put_v out_o money_n to_o usury_n or_o to_o engage_v in_o law-suit_n may_v i_o shall_v think_v certain_o satisfy_v himself_o that_o it_o be_v not_o only_o lawful_a but_o expedient_a in_o this_o particular_a case_n notwithstanding_o his_o general_n doubt_v to_o do_v any_o of_o these_o thing_n and_o if_o he_o be_v a_o wise_a man_n he_o will_v make_v no_o scruple_n of_o act_v according_o indeed_o he_o can_v be_v well_o excuse_v if_o he_o do_v not_o thus_o act._n for_o it_o will_v not_o be_v sufficient_a to_o say_v i_o doubt_v whether_o these_o practice_n be_v lawful_a or_o unlawful_a and_o therefore_o i_o dare_v not_o engage_v in_o they_o why_o man_n if_o you_o only_o doubt_v about_o they_o you_o do_v by_o this_o ackonwledge_n that_o for_o any_o thing_n you_o know_v they_o may_v be_v lawful_a as_o well_o as_o that_o for_o any_o thing_n you_o know_v they_o may_v be_v unlawful_a and_o if_o you_o be_v thus_o in_o aequilibrio_fw-la sure_o such_o press_a consideration_n as_o those_o which_o be_v present_v in_o this_o case_n aught_o to_o turn_v the_o balance_n otherwise_o i_o do_v not_o know_v how_o you_o will_v answer_v either_o to_o yourself_o or_o the_o world_n for_o the_o consequence_n that_o may_v ensue_v for_o my_o part_n in_o such_o case_n as_o these_o i_o shall_v think_v that_o nothing_o less_o than_o a_o belief_n or_o persuasion_n that_o the_o thing_n in_o question_n be_v unlawful_a will_v justify_v a_o man_n prudence_n in_o act_v on_o that_o side_n which_o he_o call_v the_o safe_o and_o which_o have_v not_o these_o circumstance_n happen_v will_v real_o have_v be_v so_o to_o conclude_v if_o a_o great_a good_a may_v be_v compass_v or_o a_o great_a evil_n may_v be_v avoid_v by_o do_v a_o thing_n concern_v which_o we_o have_v a_o general_n speculative_a doubt_n whether_o it_o be_v lawful_a or_o no_o this_o very_a consideration_n be_v in_o reason_n sufficient_a to_o silence_v the_o doubt_n that_o be_v it_o be_v enough_o to_o persuade_v we_o that_o it_o be_v not_o only_o lawful_a but_o advisable_a to_o do_v that_o in_o the_o present_a circumstance_n which_o before_o and_o out_o of_o those_o circumstance_n we_o doubt_v in_o general_a whether_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o be_v do_v or_o no._n ii_o and_o thus_o much_o concern_v the_o rule_n by_o which_o we_o be_v to_o proceed_v in_o the_o case_n of_o a_o single_a doubt_n i_o now_o come_v to_o consider_v that_o which_o we_o call_v a_o double_a doubt_n and_o to_o show_v what_o be_v to_o be_v
table_n because_o he_o be_v indeed_o in_o such_o a_o state_n and_o disposition_n of_o mind_n as_o render_v he_o habitual_o qualify_v for_o the_o performance_n of_o that_o duty_n but_o this_o as_o i_o say_v be_v not_o the_o question_n before_o we_o we_o here_o suppose_v the_o man_n either_o through_o want_n of_o mean_n of_o instruction_n or_o through_o strong_a prejudices_fw-la from_o education_n or_o the_o like_a to_o be_v incapable_a at_o present_a of_o this_o satisfaction_n and_o to_o be_v in_o great_a perplexity_n on_o both_o side_n and_o that_o which_o we_o be_v to_o inquire_v into_o be_v to_o which_o side_n of_o the_o doubtful_a case_n he_o must_v determine_v himself_o shall_v he_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n doubt_v as_o he_o do_v or_o shall_v he_o forbear_v it_o doubt_v as_o he_o do_v now_o i_o say_v a_o man_n have_v no_o other_o way_n of_o come_v to_o a_o resolution_n of_o this_o question_n but_o by_o apply_v the_o rule_v i_o before_o lay_v down_o to_o his_o present_a case_n which_o may_v be_v do_v in_o this_o manner_n since_o the_o man_n we_o speak_v of_o doubt_v that_o he_o sin_n whether_o he_o come_v to_o the_o sacrament_n or_o forbear_v the_o first_o thing_n to_o be_v consider_v be_v on_o which_o side_n he_o doubt_v least_o or_o which_o side_n appear_v to_o he_o most_o likely_a and_o probable_a to_o be_v free_a from_o the_o danger_n of_o sin_v for_o if_o all_o other_o thing_n in_o the_o case_n be_v equal_a the_o balance_n be_v to_o be_v turn_v on_o that_o side_n according_a to_o our_o first_o proposition_n now_o if_o our_o present_a question_n be_v put_v upon_o this_o issue_n i_o be_o confident_a the_o man_n who_o case_n i_o be_o represent_v will_v think_v it_o more_o reasonable_a to_o repair_v to_o the_o sacrament_n even_o in_o that_o evil_a posture_n he_o take_v himself_o to_o be_v than_o customary_o to_o abstain_v from_o it_o because_o by_o thus_o do_v he_o do_v certain_o follow_v the_o more_o probable_a and_o the_o less_o doubtful_a or_o dangerous_a side_n of_o the_o question_n for_o it_o be_v evident_a he_o can_v pretend_v to_o be_v half_a so_o certain_a of_o this_o particular_a viz._n that_o he_o be_v unprepared_a for_o the_o sacrament_n which_o be_v the_o reason_n of_o his_o abstain_v as_o he_o be_v certain_a in_o the_o general_n that_o it_o be_v his_o duty_n to_o frequent_v it_o if_o indeed_o the_o man_n be_v a_o person_n of_o ill_a life_n and_o manner_n or_o if_o he_o have_v be_v late_o guilty_a of_o any_o notorious_a wilful_a sin_n and_o come_v to_o the_o lord_n table_n with_o that_o sin_n upon_o his_o conscience_n unrepented_a of_o then_o i_o will_v grant_v he_o have_v some_o reason_n to_o believe_v that_o he_o be_v as_o much_o in_o danger_n of_o sin_v by_o receive_v unworthy_o as_o by_o withdraw_v himself_o from_o god_n ordinance_n but_o the_o case_n here_o be_v not_o so_o the_o man_n be_v real_o a_o honest_a well-meaning_a christian_a nor_o have_v he_o do_v any_o thing_n of_o late_a which_o can_v give_v he_o any_o suspicion_n of_o his_o have_v forfeit_v that_o title_n only_o through_o his_o mistake_n about_o the_o notion_n of_o preparation_n for_o the_o sacrament_n he_o apprehend_v he_o be_v not_o qualify_v as_o he_o ought_v to_o be_v though_o yet_o if_o most_o other_o be_v to_o be_v judge_n of_o his_o condition_n they_o will_v say_v he_o be_v why_o certain_o in_o this_o case_n it_o must_v be_v evident_a to_o the_o man_n that_o he_o run_v a_o great_a danger_n of_o transgress_v the_o law_n of_o god_n by_o absent_v himself_o from_o the_o communion_n especial_o if_o he_o do_v it_o customary_o than_o if_o he_o shall_v come_v to_o it_o with_o all_o his_o fear_n and_o doubt_n about_o he_o for_o as_o i_o say_v his_o fear_n and_o doubt_n of_o his_o own_o unworthiness_n can_v possible_o be_v so_o well_o ground_v as_o his_o fear_n and_o doubt_n that_o he_o sin_n against_o god_n by_o habitual_o deny_v his_o attendance_n on_o that_o great_a christian_a service_n for_o those_o be_v found_v on_o the_o express_a law_n of_o the_o gospel_n the_o other_o be_v found_v only_o on_o uncertain_a conjectural_a surmise_n about_o his_o own_o condition_n that_o be_v to_o say_v he_o be_v certain_a that_o he_o be_v bind_v to_o take_v frequent_a opportunity_n of_o pay_v his_o homage_n to_o jesus_n christ_n in_o the_o sacrament_n but_o he_o can_v pretend_v to_o have_v such_o assurance_n in_o his_o case_n that_o he_o be_v unqualify_v for_o pay_v that_o homage_n but_o second_o let_v we_o suppose_v the_o doubt_n be_v equal_a on_o both_o side_n that_o be_v to_o say_v that_o the_o man_n have_v as_o much_o reason_n to_o believe_v that_o he_o be_v a_o unworthy_a receiver_n if_o he_o receive_v at_o all_o as_o he_o have_v reason_n to_o believe_v that_o it_o be_v a_o sin_n in_o he_o if_o he_o do_v not_o receive_v which_o yet_o can_v hardly_o be_v suppose_v in_o our_o case_n but_o let_v we_o suppose_v it_o nay_o if_o you_o please_v let_v we_o suppose_v the_o man_n do_v certain_o sin_n whether_o he_o recive_v or_o forbear_v here_o than_o this_o come_v to_o be_v consider_v which_o of_o these_o two_o sin_n be_v the_o least_o to_o receive_v unworthy_o yet_o out_o of_o a_o sense_n of_o duty_n or_o not_o to_o receive_v at_o all_o for_o on_o which_o side_n soever_o this_o last_o sin_n happen_v to_o be_v to_o that_o side_n the_o man_n be_v to_o determine_v himself_o according_a to_o our_o second_o rule_n it_o be_v eternal_o reasonable_a that_o of_o two_o evil_n we_o shall_v choose_v the_o least_o when_o we_o can_v avoid_v both_o now_o put_v the_o case_n before_o we_o upon_o this_o issue_n there_o need_v no_o more_o to_o be_v do_v for_o the_o resolve_v it_o than_o only_o to_o ask_v this_o general_a question_n which_o be_v the_o great_a sin_n of_o these_o two_o for_o a_o man_n to_o omit_v a_o know_a duty_n and_o so_o to_o break_v a_o know_a law_n of_o god_n for_o conscience_n sake_n or_o to_o yield_v obedience_n to_o that_o law_n for_o conscience_n sake_n when_o yet_o it_o so_o happen_v that_o a_o man_n can_v do_v that_o without_o break_v another_o law_n of_o god_n in_o the_o manner_n of_o his_o performance_n of_o that_o duty_n for_o my_o part_n i_o shall_v think_v that_o the_o man_n who_o do_v this_o last_o though_o he_o can_v be_v say_v to_o be_v innocent_a yet_o be_v he_o guilty_a in_o a_o far_o less_o degree_n than_o the_o man_n that_o practise_v the_o former_a and_o a_o great_a deal_n more_o be_v to_o be_v say_v in_o his_o justification_n let_v we_o suppose_v two_o man_n both_o of_o they_o conscious_a to_o themselves_o that_o as_o thing_n stand_v with_o they_o they_o be_v not_o in_o a_o fit_a condition_n so_o much_o as_o to_o say_v their_o prayer_n or_o to_o perform_v any_o other_o act_n of_o religious_a worship_n as_o they_o ought_v to_o do_v now_o one_o of_o these_o man_n do_v upon_o this_o account_n forbear_v all_o prayer_n both_o public_a and_o private_a neither_o use_v his_o closet_n nor_o frequent_v the_o church_n the_o other_o have_v such_o a_o sense_n of_o what_o both_o natural_a religion_n and_o christianity_n do_v oblige_v he_o to_o in_o this_o matter_n that_o he_o dare_v not_o forbear_v his_o usual_a office_n either_o in_o public_a or_o private_a though_o yet_o he_o believe_v he_o sinful_o perform_v they_o if_o the_o question_n now_o be_v put_v which_o of_o these_o two_o be_v the_o better_a man_n or_o the_o least_o offender_n i_o dare_v say_v that_o all_o man_n will_v give_v their_o judgement_n in_o favour_n of_o the_o latter_a though_o yet_o no_o wise_a man_n will_v think_v that_o this_o person_n be_v to_o be_v excuse_v for_o live_v at_o such_o a_o rate_n that_o he_o can_v say_v his_o prayer_n without_o sin_n this_o judgement_n i_o say_v man_n will_v pass_v in_o this_o case_n and_o there_o be_v a_o great_a deal_n of_o reason_n for_o it_o for_o certain_o no_o indisposition_n that_o a_o man_n have_v contract_v of_o what_o nature_n soever_o will_v take_v off_o from_o his_o obligation_n to_o obey_v the_o law_n of_o god_n if_o a_o man_n can_v do_v his_o duty_n so_o well_o as_o he_o ought_v he_o must_v at_o least_o do_v it_o as_o well_o as_o he_o can_v and_o therefore_o let_v his_o circumstance_n be_v what_o they_o will_v he_o must_v needs_o be_v less_o criminal_a in_o perform_v a_o know_a duty_n in_o the_o best_a manner_n that_o his_o condition_n will_v allow_v he_o though_o with_o many_o and_o deserve_a reflection_n upon_o his_o own_o vnworthiness_n than_o in_o whole_o omit_v or_o disuse_v that_o duty_n because_o a_o neglect_n in_o the_o manner_n of_o perform_v a_o duty_n be_v a_o less_o fault_n than_o to_o neglect_v the_o substance_n of_o it_o let_v this_o now_o that_o i_o have_v say_v be_v apply_v to_o our_o
in_o great_a danger_n to_o lose_v that_o sense_n of_o virtue_n and_o religion_n that_o he_o now_o have_v upon_o his_o spirit_n because_o he_o deny_v himself_o the_o use_n of_o those_o mean_n and_o help_v which_o be_v most_o principal_o necessary_a for_o the_o preserve_n and_o maintain_v it_o now_o i_o say_v suppose_v all_o other_o thing_n in_o the_o case_n equal_a this_o very_a consideration_n alone_o will_v prevail_v with_o a_o reasonable_a man_n to_o come_v to_o the_o sacrament_n rather_o than_o forbear_v it_o even_o at_o the_o same_o time_n that_o he_o mighty_o doubt_v whether_o he_o shall_v not_o receive_v unworthy_o thus_o have_v i_o give_v a_o large_a exemplification_n of_o all_o our_o rule_n concern_v a_o double_a doubt_n in_o this_o instance_n of_o receive_v the_o holy_a communion_n if_o i_o have_v dwell_v too_o long_o upon_o this_o subject_a i_o hope_v the_o frequency_n and_o the_o importance_n of_o the_o case_n will_v in_o some_o measure_n excuse_v i_o iii_o have_v thus_o prepare_v our_o way_n by_o settle_v the_o notion_n and_o the_o rule_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n i_o come_v now_o more_o direct_o to_o the_o main_a business_n that_o be_v before_o we_o and_o that_o be_v to_o give_v a_o account_n what_o share_n humane_a law_n ecclesiastical_a or_o civil_a have_v in_o the_o rule_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n or_o what_o power_n they_o have_v to_o over-rule_v a_o man_n doubt_n in_o any_o case_n which_o according_a to_o the_o method_n i_o propose_v be_v the_o three_o general_n enquiry_n i_o be_o to_o resolve_v this_o be_v indeed_o the_o great_a point_n that_o be_v dispute_v between_o we_o and_o those_o of_o the_o separation_n nay_o i_o may_v say_v it_o be_v the_o point_n upon_o which_o that_o whole_a controversy_n turn_v so_o far_o as_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n be_v concern_v in_o it_o and_o therefore_o i_o shall_v discuss_v it_o as_o careful_o as_o i_o can_v but_o yet_o in_o such_o a_o general_a way_n as_o that_o what_o i_o have_v to_o offer_v may_v serve_v for_o all_o other_o doubtful_a case_n of_o this_o nature_n as_o well_o as_o this_o which_o we_o be_v now_o concern_v in_o their_o assertion_n general_o be_v this_o general_o i_o say_v for_o there_o be_v some_o of_o the_o dissenter_n and_o those_o as_o learned_a and_o eminent_a as_o any_o who_o have_v declare_v themselves_o of_o another_o opinion_n viz._n that_o wherever_o a_o man_n doubt_v concern_v the_o lawfulness_n of_o a_o action_n that_o very_o doubt_v of_o he_o be_v a_o sufficient_a reason_n to_o make_v he_o forbear_v that_o action_n though_o lawful_a authority_n have_v command_v it_o on_o the_o other_o side_n our_o assertion_n be_v that_o wherever_o lawful_a authority_n have_v command_v a_o action_n that_o command_n be_v general_o speak_v a_o sufficient_a warrant_n for_o a_o man_n to_o do_v that_o action_n though_o he_o doubt_n whether_o in_o itself_o it_o be_v lawful_a or_o no._n that_o i_o may_v speak_v clear_o to_o this_o point_n i_o shall_v first_o premise_v some_o thing_n in_o order_n to_o our_o more_o distinct_a understanding_n the_o state_n of_o the_o question_n second_o i_o shall_v show_v the_o ground_n and_o reason_n of_o our_o assertion_n three_o i_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o answer_v the_o chief_a argument_n that_o be_v bring_v on_o the_o other_o side_n i._o what_o i_o think_v needful_a to_o be_v premise_v for_o the_o right_n apprehend_v the_o state_n of_o the_o question_n i_o shall_v comprise_v in_o these_o follow_a particular_n by_o which_o it_o may_v be_v easy_o discern_v how_o far_o we_o agree_v with_o the_o dissenter_n in_o this_o matter_n and_o in_o what_o we_o differ_v from_o they_o first_o we_o do_v ready_o own_v with_o they_o that_o no_o authority_n upon_o earth_n can_v oblige_v its_o subject_n to_o do_v any_o action_n which_o the_o law_n of_o god_n have_v forbid_v or_o to_o forbear_v any_o action_n which_o the_o law_n of_o god_n have_v command_v second_o we_o agree_v likewise_o with_o they_o in_o this_o that_o wherever_o any_o subject_n have_v take_v up_o a_o opinion_n or_o persuasion_n that_o such_o a_o action_n which_o his_o governor_n have_v oblige_v he_o to_o be_v against_o the_o law_n of_o god_n though_o it_o be_v a_o false_a opinion_n or_o persuasion_n yet_o it_o will_v so_o far_o bind_v he_o that_o he_o can_v in_o that_o instance_n obey_v their_o law_n without_o offend_a god_n but_o then_o we_o say_v on_o the_o other_o hand_n that_o though_o he_o can_v obey_v without_o sin_n so_o long_o as_o this_o persuasion_n continue_v yet_o he_o be_v at_o the_o same_o time_n guilty_a of_o sin_n in_o disobey_v if_o he_o shall_v prove_v to_o be_v mistake_v suppose_v that_o it_o be_v through_o his_o own_o fault_n that_o he_o fall_v into_o that_o mistake_n three_o we_o acknowledge_v further_o that_o in_o a_o case_n where_o a_o man_n can_v be_v say_v to_o be_v persuade_v that_o the_o particular_a action_n enjoin_v by_o authority_n be_v a_o sinful_a action_n but_o only_o he_o doubt_v whether_o it_o be_v so_o or_o no_o 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affirm_v it_o in_o our_o present_a case_n of_o obey_v authority_n for_o it_o be_v certain_a that_o many_o man_n be_v and_o i_o believe_v all_o man_n may_v be_v satisfy_v that_o in_o a_o pure_o doubtful_a case_n it_o be_v not_o only_o more_o reasonable_a but_o their_o duty_n to_o obey_v their_o superior_n well_o but_o it_o will_v be_v say_v do_v not_o we_o here_o talk_v contradiction_n can_v a_o man_n have_v faith_n about_o a_o action_n that_o be_v be_v resolve_v in_o his_o own_o conscience_n that_o such_o a_o action_n be_v to_o be_v do_v or_o may_v lawful_o be_v do_v and_o yet_o doubt_v concern_v it_o at_o the_o same_o time_n i_o answer_v this_o be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v a_o contradiction_n that_o it_o be_v a_o case_n that_o every_o day_n happen_v where_o a_o man_n have_v a_o doubt_n on_o both_o side_n as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o instance_n before_o we_o a_o man_n often_o have_v very_o great_a doubt_n of_o the_o lawfulness_n of_o this_o or_o the_o other_o action_n when_o he_o 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meaning_n be_v it_o be_v not_o necessary_a in_o order_n to_o a_o man_n have_v faith_n about_o a_o action_n that_o all_o his_o doubt_n concern_v that_o action_n shall_v be_v destroy_v it_o be_v abundant_o sufficient_a that_o they_o be_v overbalance_v that_o which_o i_o will_v say_v be_v this_o wherever_o a_o man_n have_v such_o a_o degree_n of_o persuasion_n touch_v any_o action_n he_o be_v deliberate_v about_o that_o he_o believe_v it_o more_o advisable_a to_o a_o reasonable_a man_n all_o thing_n consider_v to_o do_v than_o action_n than_o to_o forbear_v it_o such_o a_o man_n have_v all_o the_o faith_n that_o be_v needful_a to_o the_o do_v that_o action_n with_o a_o safe_a conscience_n though_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n he_o may_v have_v such_o doubt_n concern_v that_o action_n as_o will_v perhaps_o be_v too_o hard_a for_o he_o to_o resolve_v and_o will_v create_v he_o likewise_o some_o trouble_n and_o uneasiness_n in_o the_o do_n of_o it_o though_o indeed_o to_o speak_v proper_o i_o think_v these_o ought_v not_o any_o long_a to_o be_v call_v doubt_n after_o they_o be_v thus_o overrule_v or_o overbalance_v but_o rather_o to_o go_v under_o the_o name_n and_o notion_n of_o pure_a scruple_n which_o the_o casuist_n of_o all_o persuasion_n do_v not_o only_o allow_v but_o advise_v that_o a_o man_n shall_v act_v against_o in_o plain_a english_a that_o doubtfulness_n about_o a_o action_n which_o st._n paul_n speak_v of_o and_o which_o he_o censure_v as_o a_o sin_n be_v such_o a_o doubtfulness_n as_o after_o the_o action_n be_v do_v render_v the_o man_n self-condemned_n his_o conscience_n can_v not_o but_o reproach_v he_o for_o do_v as_o he_o do_v but_o now_o in_o our_o case_n the_o man_n be_v not_o at_o all_o self-condemned_n because_o he_o have_v the_o testimony_n of_o his_o conscience_n that_o he_o have_v act_v according_a to_o the_o best_a of_o his_o judgement_n and_o discretion_n though_o he_o act_v with_o a_o doubt_n yet_o he_o be_v satisfy_v he_o have_v make_v the_o most_o reasonable_a choice_n that_o he_o can_v in_o his_o circumstance_n and_o wherever_o a_o man_n do_v so_o he_o both_o act_n in_o faith_n and_o without_o any_o danger_n of_o condemnation_n from_o his_o own_o conscience_n so_o that_o after_o all_o the_o bustle_n that_o be_v make_v about_o do_v or_o forbear_v a_o action_n with_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n you_o see_v there_o be_v no_o great_a intricacy_n in_o the_o case_n nor_o any_o necessity_n of_o sin_v on_o both_o hand_n always_o suppose_v a_o man_n to_o be_v sincere_a and_o honest_a for_o if_o he_o be_v real_o so_o he_o will_v always_o do_v that_o which_o he_o judge_v most_o according_a to_o his_o duty_n or_o at_o least_o that_o which_o he_o judge_v to_o be_v consistent_a with_o it_o and_o wherever_o a_o man_n do_v thus_o it_o be_v certain_a he_o act_v with_o a_o safe_a conscience_n notwithstanding_o any_o doubt_v he_o may_v have_v about_o the_o action_n because_o more_o than_o the_o former_a a_o man_n can_v do_v and_o more_o than_o the_o latter_a he_o be_v not_o bind_v to_o do_v as_o for_o what_o sin_n a_o erroneous_a conscience_n may_v engage_v a_o man_n in_o or_o what_o troublesome_a reflection_n a_o melancholy_a imagination_n may_v occasion_v to_o he_o in_o these_o case_n i_o be_o not_o to_o answer_v for_o they_o they_o be_v of_o another_o consideration_n iv_o have_v thus_o large_o treat_v of_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n and_o of_o the_o rule_n by_o which_o a_o man_n be_v to_o act_n whenever_o it_o happen_v and_o that_o both_o when_o he_o be_v leave_v at_o his_o own_o liberty_n and_o when_o he_o be_v under_o the_o the_o command_v of_o other_o all_o that_o remain_v to_o be_v do_v be_v to_o speak_v something_o about_o the_o authority_n or_o obligation_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n which_o be_v our_o four_o and_o last_o general_n head_n but_o in_o truth_n the_o discussion_n of_o this_o may_v very_o well_o be_v spare_v after_o what_o i_o have_v say_v relate_v to_o this_o argument_n in_o several_a place_n of_o the_o forego_n discourse_n particular_o under_o my_o last_n head_n however_o i_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o give_v some_o account_n of_o this_o point_n though_o i_o intend_v it_o a_o very_a short_a one_o because_o indeed_o what_o i_o have_v to_o offer_v be_v not_o so_o much_o any_o new_a matter_n as_o a_o application_n of_o the_o principle_n i_o have_v before_o lay_v down_o to_o our_o present_a purpose_n the_o point_n in_o question_n be_v concern_v the_o authority_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n or_o whether_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n do_v bind_v at_o all_o and_o how_o far_o in_o answer_n to_o this_o i_o say_v in_o general_a it_o be_v certain_a that_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n of_o itself_o lay_v no_o obligation_n at_o all_o upon_o a_o man_n any_o way_n indeed_o it_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o contradiction_n to_o suppose_v that_o it_o shall_v for_o i_o pray_v what_o be_v the_o notion_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n but_o this_o that_o a_o man_n be_v uncertain_a or_o unresolved_a in_o his_o mind_n whether_o as_o to_o this_o particular_a action_n he_o be_v bind_v or_o not_o bind_v to_o suppose_v now_o that_o a_o man_n be_v oblige_v in_o conscience_n either_o way_n by_o virtue_n of_o this_o doubt_n be_v plain_o to_o suppose_v that_o a_o man_n take_v himself_o to_o be_v bind_v while_o yet_o at_o the_o same_o time_n he_o be_v dispute_v with_o himself_o whether_o he_o be_v bind_v or_o no._n to_o speak_v this_o plain_a if_o i_o can_v since_o conscience_n as_o i_o have_v often_o say_v be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o man_n judgement_n concern_v action_n whether_o they_o be_v duty_n or_o sin_n or_o indifferent_a and_o since_o the_o law_n of_o god_n command_v or_o forbid_v action_n or_o neither_o command_v or_o forbid_v they_o be_v the_o only_a rule_n by_o which_o a_o man_n can_v judge_v what_o action_n be_v duty_n and_o what_o be_v sin_n and_o what_o be_v indifferent_a it_o plain_o follow_v that_o a_o man_n can_v be_v bind_v in_o conscience_n to_o do_v any_o action_n which_o it_o do_v not_o appear_v to_o he_o that_o god_n law_n have_v some_o way_n or_o other_o command_v and_o make_v a_o duty_n or_o to_o forbear_v any_o action_n which_o he_o be_v not_o convince_v in_o his_o judgement_n that_o god_n law_n have_v some_o where_n or_o other_o forbid_v and_o so_o make_v a_o sin_n and_o therefore_o since_o in_o a_o case_n where_o a_o man_n be_v pure_o doubtful_a he_o can_v be_v suppose_v to_o have_v any_o such_o conviction_n that_o the_o law_n of_o god_n do_v either_o command_n or_o forbid_v the_o action_n doubt_v of_o for_o if_o he_o have_v he_o will_v no_o long_o doubt_n it_o follow_v likewise_o by_o undeniable_a consequence_n that_o a_o man_n conscience_n
be_v not_o bind_v on_o either_o side_n of_o the_o action_n but_o he_o may_v either_o do_v it_o or_o forbear_v it_o with_o a_o safe_a conscience_n so_o that_o if_o there_o be_v any_o obligation_n at_o all_o upon_o a_o man_n to_o act_n thus_o rather_o than_o otherwise_o in_o a_o doubtful_a case_n that_o obligation_n must_v arise_v upon_o one_o of_o these_o two_o account_n viz._n either_o there_o be_v some_o law_n of_o god_n concern_v a_o doubt_v conscience_n which_o have_v tie_v a_o man_n up_o to_o such_o precise_a measure_n of_o act_v or_o at_o least_o a_o man_n have_v a_o persuasion_n that_o there_o be_v some_o such_o law_n of_o god_n now_o i_o grant_v that_o in_o both_o these_o case_n there_o do_v a_o direct_a obligation_n pass_v upon_o the_o man_n conscience_n but_o than_o it_o be_v to_o be_v remember_v that_o this_o obligation_n do_v not_o arise_v from_o the_o man_n be_v doubtful_a in_o his_o conscience_n but_o from_o his_o be_v resolve_v in_o his_o conscience_n that_o be_v to_o say_v if_o there_o be_v real_o any_o such_o law_n of_o god_n it_o be_v the_o obligation_n of_o a_o right_a conscience_n or_o if_o there_o be_v not_o but_o the_o man_n only_a judge_n that_o there_o be_v it_o be_v then_o the_o obligation_n of_o a_o erroneous_a conscience_n but_o as_o for_o the_o obligation_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n there_o be_v no_o such_o thing_n the_o great_a therefore_o or_o indeed_o the_o only_a point_n that_o be_v to_o be_v inquire_v into_o in_o order_n to_o the_o resolution_n of_o our_o present_a question_n be_v this_o whether_o there_o be_v any_o law_n of_o god_n which_o do_v determine_v our_o action_n one_o way_n or_o other_o in_o the_o case_n of_o a_o doubt_n and_o what_o that_o law_n be_v now_o in_o answer_n to_o this_o inquiry_n i_o say_v that_o it_o do_v not_o appear_v that_o there_o be_v any_o express_a law_n of_o god_n in_o holy_a scripture_n that_o have_v lay_v any_o obligation_n upon_o we_o as_o to_o this_o particular_a of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n either_o one_o way_n or_o other_o the_o only_a text_n that_o i_o know_v of_o which_o be_v think_v to_o make_v for_o this_o purpose_n be_v the_o two_o passage_n in_o the_o 14_o of_o the_o roman_n which_o i_o have_v before_o large_o give_v a_o account_n of_o viz._n that_o in_o the_o 5_o verse_n let_v every_o man_n be_v full_o persuade_v in_o his_o own_o mind_n and_o that_o other_o in_o the_o last_o verse_n he_o that_o doubt_v be_v damn_v if_o he_o eat_v because_o he_o eat_v not_o of_o faith_n but_o now_o i_o think_v i_o have_v make_v it_o plain_a by_o several_a argument_n that_o these_o text_n do_v not_o at_o all_o concern_v our_o present_a case_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n proper_o so_o call_v so_o that_o there_o be_v no_o express_a particular_a law_n of_o god_n in_o scripture_n about_o act_v with_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n we_o seem_v to_o be_v leave_v as_o to_o that_o affair_n to_o the_o general_a law_n of_o god_n as_o they_o be_v declare_v whether_o by_o nature_n or_o scripture_n now_o the_o most_o that_o any_o man_n can_v be_v oblige_v to_o by_o the_o general_a law_n of_o god_n whether_o natural_a or_o reveal_v in_o the_o case_n of_o a_o doubt_n be_v only_o these_o two_o thing_n first_o to_o use_v his_o endeavour_n to_o get_v himself_o as_o well_o instruct_v in_o his_o duty_n as_o his_o circumstance_n and_o opportunity_n will_v allow_v he_o and_o second_o where_o he_o be_v at_o a_o loss_n for_o information_n in_o that_o case_n to_o act_n as_o reasonable_o as_o he_o can_v i_o do_v not_o say_v that_o a_o man_n in_o every_o doubtful_a case_n that_o happen_v be_v strict_o oblige_v to_o thus_o much_o but_o i_o say_v it_o be_v impossible_a he_o shall_v be_v oblige_v to_o more_o because_o indeed_o more_o than_o this_o he_o can_v do_v and_o no_o man_n can_v be_v oblige_v to_o more_o than_o be_v in_o his_o power_n wherever_o therefore_o a_o man_n in_o a_o doubtful_a case_n take_v care_n to_o observe_v these_o two_o thing_n he_o act_v with_o a_o safe_a conscience_n however_o he_o may_v act_v doubt_o in_o that_o case_n thus_o far_o i_o think_v we_o be_v clear_a beyond_o exception_n but_o it_o may_v be_v some_o will_v not_o be_v satisfy_v with_o this_o account_n of_o our_o point_n but_o will_v be_v put_v a_o far_a question_n we_o have_v before_o lay_v down_o several_a rule_n about_o a_o man_n act_v in_o a_o doubtful_a case_n the_o sum_n of_o all_o which_o come_v to_o no_o more_o than_o what_o we_o have_v now_o say_v viz._n that_o in_o every_o doubtful_a case_n a_o man_n be_v to_o act_v as_o reasonable_o as_o he_o can_v the_o question_n now_o be_v whether_o a_o man_n be_v strict_o bind_v in_o conscience_n always_o to_o follow_v this_o rule_n or_o which_o be_v to_o the_o same_o effect_n whether_o a_o man_n in_o a_o matter_n concern_v which_o he_o have_v only_o a_o pure_a doubt_n may_v not_o without_o sin_n indifferent_o choose_v either_o side_n of_o the_o action_n though_o yet_o perhaps_o one_o side_n do_v appear_v to_o he_o more_o reasonable_a or_o more_o safe_a than_o the_o other_o this_o question_n be_v indeed_o more_o curious_a than_o useful_a but_o however_o since_o it_o proper_o fall_v under_o the_o argument_n we_o be_v now_o treat_v of_o and_o tend_v somewhat_o to_o the_o clear_n of_o it_o i_o shall_v venture_v to_o say_v something_o to_o it_o only_o i_o declare_v beforehand_o that_o i_o mean_v not_o in_o what_o i_o shall_v say_v to_o assert_v any_o thing_n dogmatical_o but_o only_o to_o propose_v in_o order_n to_o further_a examination_n and_o withal_o that_o whether_o that_o which_o we_o say_v be_v true_a or_o false_a it_o do_v not_o at_o all_o affect_v the_o merit_n of_o the_o main_a cause_n we_o have_v undertake_v that_o now_o which_o i_o have_v to_o say_v to_o this_o question_n be_v this_o that_o though_o it_o be_v eternal_o fit_a and_o natural_a and_o conduce_v to_o a_o man_n happiness_n both_o in_o this_o world_n and_o the_o other_o that_o he_o shall_v in_o all_o case_n and_o especial_o in_o doubtful_a case_n govern_v his_o action_n by_o the_o best_a reason_n that_o he_o have_v and_o certain_o the_o wise_a and_o the_o better_a any_o man_n be_v the_o more_o steady_o will_v he_o pursue_v this_o rule_n yet_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n i_o dare_v not_o say_v that_o a_o man_n be_v strict_o bind_v in_o conscience_n so_o to_o do_v so_o as_o that_o he_o be_v proper_o guilty_a of_o sin_n if_o he_o do_v not_o my_o reason_n be_v this_o because_o there_o be_v no_o law_n of_o god_n which_o do_v oblige_v we_o in_o all_o case_n to_o do_v that_o which_o be_v best_o and_o if_o we_o be_v not_o bind_v to_o do_v always_o that_o which_o be_v best_a we_o be_v not_o bind_v to_o do_v always_o that_o which_o be_v most_o reasonable_a for_o certain_o that_o which_o be_v best_a be_v always_o most_o reasonable_a and_o if_o we_o be_v not_o bind_v to_o do_v that_o which_o be_v most_o reasonable_a much_o less_o be_v we_o bind_v to_o do_v that_o which_o be_v safe_a because_o that_o which_o be_v safe_a be_v not_o always_o either_o best_a or_o most_o reasonable_a and_o if_o there_o be_v no_o law_n of_o god_n that_o do_v oblige_v we_o to_o any_o of_o these_o thing_n than_o it_o be_v certain_a we_o do_v not_o sin_n if_o we_o act_n otherwise_o for_o where_o there_o be_v no_o law_n there_o be_v no_o transgression_n now_o that_o the_o first_o of_o these_o principle_n be_v true_a we_o have_v as_o good_a proof_n as_o can_v be_v desire_v viz._n the_o authority_n of_o st._n paul_n who_o have_v in_o the_o seven_o of_o the_o first_o of_o the_o corinthian_n thus_o determine_v and_o if_o that_o be_v true_a the_o other_o two_o must_v needs_o be_v so_o likewise_o because_o they_o follow_v from_o it_o by_o unavoidable_a consequence_n take_v now_o this_o for_o grant_v i_o ask_v what_o law_n do_v a_o man_n transgress_v that_o in_o a_o pure_o doubtful_a case_n choose_v either_o side_n indifferent_o without_o respect_n to_o what_o be_v safe_a or_o most_o reasonable_a always_o suppose_v that_o the_o side_n he_o choose_v be_v not_o in_o itself_o evil_a and_o forbid_a by_o god_n i_o say_v according_a to_o these_o principle_n he_o transgress_v no_o law_n at_o all_o and_o consequent_o can_v proper_o be_v say_v to_o sin_n at_o all_o if_o the_o man_n be_v at_o all_o guilty_a it_o be_v upon_o one_o of_o these_o account_n viz._n either_o because_o he_o act_v against_o the_o dictate_v of_o his_o conscience_n or_o because_o he_o act_v against_o the_o law_n of_o god_n in_o prefer_v that_o which_o be_v less_o reasonable_a and_o safe_a before_o that_o which_o be_v more_o so_o now_o upon_o the_o former_a account_n he_o be_v not_o at_o all_o guilty_a for_o his_o
be_v not_o discover_v by_o our_o governor_n either_o in_o church_n or_o state_n no_o nor_o by_o as_o learned_a and_o religious_a divine_n of_o all_o persuasion_n as_o any_o in_o the_o world_n the_o most_o divine_n by_o far_o the_o most_o and_o those_o as_o pious_a and_o as_o able_a as_o any_o be_v clear_o of_o opinion_n that_o there_o be_v nothing_o unlawful_a in_o our_o worship_n but_o that_o on_o the_o contrary_a all_o thing_n therein_o prescribe_v be_v at_o least_o innocent_a and_o free_a from_o sin_n if_o not_o pure_a and_o apostolical_a so_o that_o if_o it_o shall_v at_o last_o prove_v that_o they_o be_v all_o mistake_v yet_o the_o law_n of_o god_n which_o forbid_v these_o thing_n be_v so_o very_o obscure_a and_o the_o sense_n of_o it_o so_o hardly_o to_o be_v find_v out_o it_o be_v a_o great_a presumption_n that_o a_o man_n may_v very_o innocent_o and_o inculpable_o be_v ignorant_a of_o it_o and_o if_o so_o it_o will_v be_v a_o very_a little_a or_o no_o sin_n at_o all_o in_o he_o to_o act_v against_o it_o because_o if_o it_o be_v not_o his_o duty_n to_o know_v this_o law_n it_o can_v be_v his_o sin_n that_o his_o practice_n be_v not_o according_a to_o it_o and_o if_o it_o be_v his_o duty_n to_o know_v it_o yet_o it_o be_v so_o obscure_o deliver_v and_o only_o to_o be_v gather_v by_o such_o remote_a consequence_n it_o can_v at_o most_o be_v but_o a_o sin_n of_o ignorance_n in_o a_o ordinary_a person_n where_o so_o many_o of_o the_o best_a guide_n be_v mistake_v if_o he_o shall_v transgress_v it_o and_o then_o far_o this_o must_v likewise_o be_v consider_v that_o if_o conformity_n to_o our_o liturgy_n and_o worship_n shall_v prove_v a_o sin_n in_o any_o instance_n yet_o the_o evil_a consequence_n of_o it_o extend_v no_o far_o than_o the_o man_n person_n that_o be_v guilty_a of_o it_o there_o be_v no_o damage_n arise_v either_o to_o the_o christian_a religion_n or_o to_o the_o public_a interest_n of_o the_o kingdom_n by_o any_o man_n be_v a_o conformist_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_a as_o thing_n stand_v with_o we_o unity_n and_o conformity_n to_o the_o establish_v way_n seem_v to_o bring_v a_o great_a advantage_n to_o both_o as_o i_o hint_v before_o and_o to_o be_v a_o probable_a mean_n to_o secure_v we_o from_o many_o danger_n with_o which_o our_o reform_a religion_n and_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o kingdom_n be_v threaten_v well_o but_o now_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n let_v we_o suppose_v the_o contrary_a side_n of_o the_o question_n to_o be_v true_a viz._n that_o our_o governor_n in_o this_o matter_n be_v in_o the_o right_n and_o we_o be_v in_o the_o wrong_n that_o there_o be_v nothing_o require_v of_o we_o in_o the_o church_n of_o england_n as_o a_o term_n of_o communion_n but_o what_o be_v very_o innocent_a and_o lawful_a however_o it_o be_v our_o misfortune_n to_o doubt_v that_o there_o be_v and_o in_o a_o zealous_a indulgence_n to_o these_o doubt_n we_o take_v the_o liberty_n to_o live_v in_o open_a disobedience_n to_o our_o lawful_a governous_a and_o to_o break_v the_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n into_o which_o we_o be_v baptise_a i_o say_v admit_v the_o thing_n to_o be_v thus_o what_o kind_n of_o sin_n shall_v we_o be_v guilty_a of_o then_o why_o certain_o we_o be_v guilty_a of_o no_o less_o a_o sin_n than_o causeless_o divide_v the_o body_n of_o christ_n against_o which_o we_o be_v so_o severe_o caution_v in_o the_o new_a testament_n we_o be_v guilty_a of_o the_o breach_n of_o as_o plain_a law_n as_o any_o be_v in_o the_o bible_n viz._n of_o all_o those_o that_o oblige_v we_o to_o keep_v the_o unity_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o bond_n of_o peace_n that_o command_v we_o to_o obey_v those_o that_o be_v over_o we_o in_o the_o lord_n to_o be_v subject_a to_o the_o high_a power_n to_o submit_v to_o every_o ordinance_n of_o man_n for_o the_o lord_n sake_n to_o be_v subject_a not_o only_o for_o wrath._n but_o for_o conscience_n sake_n i_o say_v these_o plain_a law_n we_o disobey_v for_o conscience_n sake_n and_o we_o disobey_v they_o too_o in_o such_o instance_n where_o we_o have_v the_o whole_a catholic_n church_n of_o old_a and_o far_o the_o great_a and_o the_o best_a part_n of_o the_o present_a church_n of_o a_o different_a persuasion_n from_o we_o well_o but_o as_o if_o this_o be_v not_o enough_o what_o be_v the_o consequence_n of_o this_o our_o sin_n for_o by_o the_o consequence_n of_o a_o sin_n the_o greatness_n of_o it_o be_v always_o to_o be_v estimate_v i_o speak_v as_o to_o the_o material_a part_n of_o it_o with_o which_o we_o be_v here_o concern_v why_o they_o be_v most_o terrible_a and_o dreadful_a both_o with_o respect_n to_o ourselves_o and_o other_o by_o this_o unnatual_a separation_n we_o do_v for_o any_o thing_n we_o know_v put_v ourselves_o out_o of_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o catholic_n church_n and_o consequent_o out_o of_o the_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o ordinary_a mean_n of_o salvation_n we_o maintain_v and_o keep_v up_o division_n and_o disorder_n in_o the_o church_n and_o lend_v a_o help_a hand_n to_o all_o those_o animosity_n and_o hatred_n all_o that_o bitter_a contention_n and_o strife_n and_o uncharitableness_n which_o have_v long_o tear_v the_o very_a bowel_n of_o christ_n church_n and_o give_v occasion_n to_o that_o deluge_n of_o atheism_n and_o profaneness_n and_o impiety_n which_o have_v overspread_v the_o face_n of_o it_o we_o put_v affront_v upon_o our_o lawful_a governor_n who_o shall_v be_v in_o the_o place_n of_o god_n to_o we_o we_o give_v scandal_n to_o all_o our_o brethren_n that_o make_v a_o conscience_n of_o live_v peaceable_o and_o pious_o and_o last_o as_o we_o offer_v a_o very_a fair_a handle_n and_o pretence_n to_o all_o discontent_a and_o factious_a man_n to_o practice_n against_o the_o best_a of_o government_n so_o we_o take_v the_o most_o effectual_a course_n to_o ruin_n the_o best_a constitute_v church_n in_o the_o world_n and_o with_o it_o the_o reform_a religion_n in_o this_o kingdom_n this_o now_o be_v the_o nature_n and_o these_o be_v the_o consequence_n of_o our_o separation_n from_o the_o establish_v church_n among_o we_o i_o leave_v it_o to_o any_o indifferent_a man_n to_o determine_v whether_o any_o doubt_n about_o the_o lawfulness_n of_o our_o communion_n though_o that_o doubt_v be_v back_v with_o great_a probability_n than_o do_v appear_v on_o the_o other_o side_n nay_o if_o you_o will_v with_o all_o the_o probability_n that_o can_v consist_v with_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o doubt_n can_v have_v weight_n enough_o to_o balance_n against_o such_o a_o sin_n and_o such_o consequence_n as_o separation_n in_o our_o case_n do_v involve_v a_o man_n in_o i_o think_v there_o be_v no_o unconcerned_a person_n but_o will_v pronounce_v that_o suppose_v where_o there_o be_v doubt_n on_o both_o side_n a_o man_n be_v to_o choose_v that_o side_n on_o which_o there_o be_v the_o least_o appearance_n of_o sin_n he_o be_v in_o this_o case_n certain_o bind_v to_o choose_v communion_n with_o the_o establish_v church_n rather_o than_o separation_n from_o it_o and_o that_o be_v all_o i_o contend_v for_o but_o now_o after_o all_o this_o be_v say_v it_o must_v be_v acknowledge_v that_o if_o there_o be_v any_o man_n who_o have_v other_o apprehension_n of_o these_o matter_n and_o that_o after_o a_o consideration_n of_o all_o thing_n that_o be_v to_o be_v say_v for_o or_o against_o conformity_n it_o do_v appear_v to_o he_o upon_o the_o whole_a matter_n both_o more_o probable_a that_o our_o communion_n be_v sinful_a than_o that_o it_o be_v a_o duty_n and_o withal_o that_o to_o communicate_v with_o we_o will_v involve_v he_o in_o a_o great_a sin_n and_o in_o worse_a consequence_n than_o to_o continue_v in_o separation_n i_o say_v if_o any_o man_n have_v so_o unfortunate_a a_o understanding_n as_o to_o make_v such_o a_o estimate_n of_o thing_n we_o must_v acknowledge_v that_o according_a to_o all_o the_o rule_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n such_o a_o man_n be_v rather_o to_o continue_v a_o nonconformist_n than_o to_o obey_v the_o law_n of_o the_o king_n and_o the_o church_n but_o then_o let_v he_o look_v to_o it_o for_o his_o act_n in_o this_o case_n according_a to_o the_o best_a rule_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n will_v not_o as_o i_o say_v before_o at_o all_o acquit_v he_o either_o of_o the_o gild_n or_o consequence_n of_o criminal_a schism_n and_o disobedience_n suppose_v that_o indeed_o he_o be_v all_o along_o under_o a_o mistake_n as_o we_o say_v he_o certain_o be_v and_o that_o there_o be_v nothing_o require_v in_o our_o communion_n that_o he_o may_v not_o honest_o and_o lawful_o comply_v with_o as_o there_o certain_o be_v not_o unless_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n the_o man_n fall_v into_o these_o mistake_n without_o any_o fault_n
of_o he_o and_o god_n almighty_a who_o be_v the_o judge_n of_o all_o man_n heart_n and_o circumstance_n do_v know_v he_o have_v not_o mean_n and_o opportunity_n to_o understand_v better_o finis_fw-la errata_fw-la pag._n 27._o l._n 7._o for_o annot_v cavoid_v r._n can_v avoid_v p._n 35._o l._n 3._o for_o this_o last_o r._n the_o least_o p._n 43._o l._n 28._o after_o spiritual_a add_v by_o do_v the_o former_a p._n 61._o l._n 1._o r._n because_o p._n 62._o l._n penult_n r._n chrysostome_n p._n 66._o l._n 9_o r._n no_o wise_a p._n 94._o l._n 19_o r._n probability_n advertisement_n 1._o a_o discourse_n concern_v conscience_n the_o first_o part._n wherein_o a_o account_n be_v give_v of_o the_o nature_n and_o rule_n and_o obligation_n of_o it_o and_o the_o case_n of_o those_o who_o separate_a from_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n as_o by_o law_n establish_v upon_o this_o pretence_n that_o it_o be_v against_o their_o conscience_n tojoyn_v in_o it_o be_v state_v and_o discuss_v 2._o a_o resolution_n of_o this_o case_n viz._n whether_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o separate_a from_o the_o public_a worship_n of_o god_n in_o the_o parochial_a assembly_n of_o england_n upon_o that_o new_a pretence_n which_o some_o man_n make_v of_o the_o case_n be_v much_o alter_v now_o from_o what_o it_o be_v when_o the_o puritan_n write_v against_o the_o brownist_n and_o the_o presbyterian_o against_o the_o independent_a 3._o resolution_n of_o two_o case_n of_o conscience_n in_o two_o discourse_n the_o first_o of_o the_o lawfulness_n of_o compliance_n with_o all_o the_o ceremony_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n the_o second_o of_o the_o necessity_n of_o the_o use_n of_o common-prayer_n in_o public_a a_o discourse_n about_o a_o scrupulous_n conscience_n contain_v some_o plain_a direction_n for_o the_o cure_v of_o it_o london_n print_v for_o t._n basset_n at_o the_o george_n in_o fleetstreet_n and_o b._n take_v at_o the_o ship_n in_o st._n paul_n churchyard_n 1684._o a_o discourse_n about_o a_o scrupulous_a conscience_n etc._n etc._n it_o be_v not_o my_o design_n in_o the_o follow_a discourse_n to_o expose_v or_o upbraid_v the_o weakness_n of_o any_o of_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n but_o rather_o charitable_o to_o contribute_v what_o i_o can_v towards_o the_o heal_n and_o cure_v of_o it_o and_o this_o i_o take_v for_o grant_v that_o we_o can_v do_v great_a service_n either_o to_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n or_o soul_n of_o man_n than_o by_o all_o prudent_a mean_n to_o root_v those_o needless_a scruple_n out_o of_o their_o mind_n which_o have_v be_v the_o occasion_n of_o such_o unchristian_a separation_n and_o dangerous_a division_n among_o we_o at_o first_o begin_v and_o still_o maintain_v general_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o such_o thing_n as_o i_o very_o believe_v a_o well-instructed_n conscience_n need_v not_o be_v concern_v or_o disturb_v about_o here_o i_o shall_v first_o show_v what_o i_o understand_v by_o a_o scrupulous_a conscience_n then_o observe_v some_o few_o thing_n concern_v it_o and_o last_o offer_v some_o plain_a rule_n and_o mean_n by_o which_o we_o may_v best_o get_v rid_v of_o it_o first_o what_o be_v a_o scrupulous_a conscience_n now_o conscience_n as_o it_o be_v a_o rule_n of_o our_o action_n be_v nothing_o else_o but_o a_o man_n mind_n or_o judgement_n concern_v the_o moral_a goodness_n or_o evil_n lawfulness_n or_o unlawfulness_n of_o thing_n and_o as_o this_o judgement_n be_v either_o true_a or_o false_a so_o be_v our_o conscience_n either_o good_a and_o well-grounded_n or_o erroneous_a the_o divine_a law_n make_v know_v to_o we_o either_o by_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n or_o plain_a scripture_n or_o direct_a consequence_n from_o it_o such_o as_o any_o honest_a man_n may_v understand_v be_v the_o rule_n of_o conscience_n or_o of_o that_o judgement_n we_o make_v of_o the_o lawfulness_n or_o unlawfulness_n of_o thing_n so_o that_o our_o conscience_n be_v a_o safe_a rule_n and_o guide_n of_o action_n no_o further_o than_o as_o itself_o be_v direct_v and_o warrant_v by_o the_o law_n of_o god_n 1._o a_o good_a and_o well_o ground_a conscience_n be_v when_o we_o careful_o abstain_v from_o whatever_o god_n have_v forbid_v do_v neglect_v do_v any_o thing_n which_o he_o have_v command_v and_o as_o for_o other_o mat_n leave_v indifferent_a and_o at_o liberty_n we_o do_v they_o or_o forbea_n do_v of_o they_o according_a as_o the_o rule_n of_o obedience_n to_o superior_n prudence_n and_o charity_n do_v require_v this_o be_v the_o health_n and_o sound_a state_n of_o the_o mind_n 2._o a_o erroneous_a conscience_n be_v when_o we_o judge_v that_o to_o be_v evil_a or_o unnecessary_a which_o god_n have_v express_o command_v and_o be_v our_o duty_n or_o that_o to_o be_v good_a and_o necessary_a which_o he_o have_v plain_o forbid_v and_o be_v real_o sinful_a now_o our_o conscience_n can_v alter_v the_o nature_n of_o thing_n that_o which_o be_v our_o duty_n remain_v so_o and_o we_o sin_n by_o omit_v it_o notwithstanding_o we_o in_o our_o conscience_n think_v it_o unlawful_a to_o be_v do_v and_o what_o be_v real_o evil_a continue_v such_o and_o be_v sin_n in_o we_o however_o our_o conscience_n tell_v we_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o do_v it_o and_o the_o fault_n be_v more_o or_o less_o compassionable_a and_o pardonable_a as_o the_o cause_n of_o the_o error_n be_v more_o or_o less_o voluntary_a and_o avoidable_o this_o be_v a_o grievous_a disease_n and_o deadly_a sickness_n of_o the_o mind_n when_o we_o thus_o gross_o err_v in_o our_o judgement_n and_o act_n according_a to_o our_o mistake_a opinion_n of_o thing_n 3._o a_o scrupulous_a conscience_n be_v conversant_a about_o thing_n in_o their_o own_o nature_n indifferent_a and_o it_o consist_v either_o in_o strict_o tie_v up_o ourselves_o to_o some_o thing_n which_o god_n have_v no_o where_o command_v as_o the_o pharisee_n make_v great_a conscience_n of_o wash_v before_o they_o do_v eat_v and_o abundance_n of_o other_o unnecessary_a rite_n and_o usage_n they_o have_v of_o man_n own_o invent_v and_o devise_v which_o they_o as_o religious_o nay_o more_o careful_o observe_v than_o the_o indisputable_a command_n of_o god_n himself_o or_o in_o a_o conscientious_a abstain_v from_o something_n which_o be_v not_o forbid_v nor_o any_o way_n unlawful_a touch_v not_o taste_v not_o handle_v not_o doubt_v and_o fear_v where_o no_o fear_n be_v think_v that_o they_o shall_v as_o much_o offend_v god_n by_o eat_v some_o kind_n of_o meat_n wear_v some_o garment_n as_o they_o shall_v do_v be_v they_o guilty_a of_o murder_n and_o adultery_n which_o be_v the_o case_n of_o many_o among_o we_o who_o by_o such_o scrupulosity_n about_o little_a matter_n seem_v more_o precise_a and_o austere_a than_o other_o good_a and_o honest_a christian_n be_v or_o themselves_o need_v or_o aught_o to_o be_v far_o be_v it_o from_o i_o by_o any_o thing_n i_o shall_v now_o say_v to_o discourage_v the_o great_a and_o tender_a care_n any_o christian_n can_v take_v to_o keep_v himself_o from_o all_o sin_n from_o all_o occasion_n and_o temptation_n to_o it_o from_o the_o least_o appearance_n of_o evil_a of_o what_o be_v real_o such_o and_o to_o do_v any_o thing_n that_o be_v in_o itself_o sinful_a out_o of_o confidence_n that_o it_o be_v lawful_a be_v far_o worse_a and_o a_o more_o grievous_a offence_n than_o to_o abstain_v from_o many_o thing_n which_o be_v true_o lawful_a out_o of_o a_o opinion_n that_o they_o be_v sinful_a notwithstanding_o this_o i_o can_v but_o reckon_v it_o the_o chief_a policy_n of_o the_o devil_n the_o grand_a enemy_n of_o all_o that_o be_v good_a when_o he_o can_v persuade_v we_o that_o there_o be_v nothing_o at_o all_o sinful_a or_o unlawful_a than_o to_o make_v we_o suspect_v every_o thing_n for_o such_o or_o at_o least_o that_o there_o be_v great_a danger_n of_o displease_v god_n by_o the_o most_o indifferent_a and_o innocent_a action_n by_o these_o mean_n ensnare_a and_o entangle_v man_n conscience_n and_o render_v religion_n a_o most_o troublesome_a burden_n to_o they_o a_o scrupulous_a conscience_n therefore_o start_v and_o boggle_n where_o there_o be_v no_o real_a evil_a or_o mischief_n be_v afraid_a of_o omit_v or_o do_v what_o may_v be_v omit_v or_o do_v without_o sin_n which_o i_o know_v not_o how_o better_a to_o illustrate_v than_o by_o those_o unaccountable_a antipathy_n or_o prejudices_fw-la that_o some_o man_n have_v against_o some_o sort_n of_o meat_n or_o live_a creature_n which_o have_v not_o the_o least_o harm_n or_o hurt_v in_o they_o yet_o be_v so_o offensive_a and_o dreadful_a to_o such_o person_n that_o they_o fly_v from_o they_o as_o they_o will_v from_o a_o tiger_n or_o bear_n and_o avoid_v they_o as_o they_o will_v do_v the_o plague_n or_o poison_n just_o thus_o do_v some_o man_n run_v out_o of_o the_o church_n at_o the_o sight_n of_o a_o
or_o leave_v out_o of_o it_o till_o all_o party_n among_o we_o be_v satisfy_v which_o indeed_o can_v never_o be_v effect_v as_o it_o do_v consist_v in_o our_o become_a more_o true_o christian_n in_o our_o life_n and_o temper_n they_o be_v our_o vicious_a disposition_n more_o than_o our_o different_a apprehension_n that_o keep_v we_o at_o such_o a_o distance_n let_v the_o term_n of_o communion_n with_o the_o church_n be_v what_o they_o will_v yet_o as_o long_o as_o man_n retain_v the_o same_o quarrelsome_a mind_n and_o industrious_o seek_v for_o doubt_n and_o scruple_n and_o be_v glad_a to_o find_v they_o and_o prefer_v their_o own_o private_a opinion_n and_o judgement_n before_o the_o wisdom_n and_o authority_n of_o all_o their_o governor_n whether_o civil_a or_o ecclesiastical_a it_o be_v plain_a our_o division_n and_o animosity_n will_v not_o can_v cease_v but_o this_o lead_v i_o to_o the_o last_o thing_n i_o design_v to_o discourse_v of_o which_o be_v to_o propound_v to_o you_o the_o best_a way_n and_o mean_n by_o which_o man_n may_v get_v rid_v of_o and_o ease_v their_o mind_n of_o such_o scruple_n where_o i_o shall_v especial_o consider_v those_o that_o relate_v to_o our_o communicate_v with_o our_o parish-church_n you_o must_v not_o expect_v that_o i_o shall_v descend_v to_o and_o answer_v the_o particular_a exception_n which_o hinder_v man_n from_o constant_a communion_n with_o we_o but_o only_o in_o general_n i_o shall_v crave_v leave_n to_o advise_v some_o few_o thing_n which_o will_v mighty_o tend_v to_o the_o remove_v those_o doubt_n and_o scruple_n that_o yet_o detain_v so_o many_o in_o a_o state_n of_o utter_a separation_n from_o we_o or_o at_o least_o discourage_v their_o total_a and_o hearty_a join_v with_o we_o which_o charitable_a design_n and_o attempt_v however_o unsuccessful_a i_o may_v be_v in_o it_o yet_o can_v i_o hope_v be_v unacceptable_a to_o any_o who_o conscience_n be_v pester_v with_o such_o scruple_n since_o i_o endeavour_v only_o to_o deliver_v they_o from_o those_o mistake_v which_o beside_o the_o disservice_n they_o do_v to_o religion_n and_o the_o protestant_a interest_n do_v also_o expose_v they_o to_o trouble_v and_o danger_n from_o the_o public_a law_n and_o civil_a magistrate_n of_o many_o rule_n that_o may_v be_v give_v in_o this_o case_n i_o shall_v insist_v only_o on_o these_o follow_v 1._o we_o shall_v take_v great_a care_n to_o beget_v and_o cherish_v in_o our_o mind_n the_o most_o high_a and_o worthy_a and_o honourable_a thought_n of_o god_n almighty_n this_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o all_o religion_n and_o as_o our_o apprehension_n of_o god_n be_v such_o for_o the_o most_o part_n will_v be_v his_o worship_n and_o service_n according_o as_o we_o conceive_v of_o his_o nature_n so_o shall_v we_o judge_v what_o thing_n be_v most_o please_v to_o he_o as_o also_o what_o they_o be_v that_o be_v most_o offensive_a and_o distasteful_a to_o he_o now_o consider_v i_o beseech_v you_o can_v that_o man_n have_v become_v and_o excellent_a thought_n of_o the_o divine_a nature_n who_o imagine_v that_o god_n regard_v any_o particular_a gesture_n habit_n and_o posture_n so_o far_o as_o that_o the_o acceptance_n of_o our_o service_n and_o worship_n shall_v depend_v upon_o such_o circumstance_n of_o our_o religious_a action_n when_o with_o all_o humility_n and_o true_a devotion_n of_o heart_n a_o sincere_a christian_a prostrate_v himself_o at_o the_o throne_n of_o god_n grace_n and_o with_o earnest_a desire_n and_o affection_n beg_v those_o good_a thing_n that_o be_v according_a to_o god_n mind_n and_o will_n can_v we_o believe_v that_o the_o father_n of_o our_o spirit_n shall_v refuse_v and_o reject_v his_o petition_n because_o it_o be_v deliver_v in_o a_o certain_a prescribe_a form_n of_o word_n shall_v his_o importunate_a renew_a request_n fail_v of_o success_n because_o he_o still_o use_v the_o same_o expression_n and_o read_v his_o prayer_n out_o of_o a_o book_n be_v god_n please_v with_o variety_n of_o word_n or_o the_o copiousness_n of_o our_o invention_n or_o the_o elegancy_n of_o our_o phrase_n and_o style_n be_v it_o not_o the_o heart_n and_o inward_a frame_n of_o spirit_n that_o god_n principal_o respect_v in_o all_o our_o prayer_n or_o can_v we_o think_v so_o mean_o of_o god_n that_o he_o shall_v shut_v his_o ear_n against_o the_o unite_a prayer_n of_o his_o people_n because_o offend_v at_o the_o colour_n of_o the_o garment_n in_o which_o the_o minister_n officiate_n suppose_v two_o person_n both_o with_o equal_a preparation_n with_o true_a repentance_n and_o faith_n to_o approach_v the_o lord_n table_n one_o of_o they_o out_o of_o a_o deep_a sense_n of_o his_o unworthiness_n to_o receive_v so_o great_a blessing_n and_o out_o of_o a_o grateful_a acknowledgement_n of_o the_o benefit_n therein_o confer_v upon_o he_o take_v the_o sacrament_n upon_o his_o knee_n in_o the_o humble_a posture_n the_o other_o sit_v or_o stand_v can_v you_o think_v that_o the_o sacrament_n be_v effectual_a or_o beneficial_a or_o that_o god_n bless_v it_o only_o to_o he_o that_o sit_v or_o that_o it_o will_v not_o have_v be_v of_o the_o same_o advantage_n to_o he_o if_o he_o also_o have_v receive_v it_o kneel_v to_o surmise_v any_o such_o thing_n be_v sure_o to_o dishonour_n god_n as_o if_o he_o be_v a_o low_a poor_a humoursome_a be_v like_o a_o father_n that_o shall_v disinherit_v his_o child_n though_o in_o all_o respect_n most_o dutiful_a to_o he_o and_o every_o way_n deserve_v his_o great_a kindness_n only_o because_o he_o do_v not_o like_o his_o complexion_n or_o the_o colour_n of_o his_o hair_n the_o wise_a and_o great_a any_o person_n be_v to_o who_o we_o address_v ourselves_o the_o less_o he_o will_v stand_v upon_o little_a punctilio_n under_o the_o jewish_a law_n the_o minute_a circumstance_n of_o worship_n be_v exact_o describe_v and_o determine_v by_o god_n himself_o and_o it_o be_v not_o ordinary_o lawful_a for_o the_o priest_n at_o all_o to_o vary_v from_o they_o but_o it_o be_v necessary_a then_o that_o it_o shall_v be_v thus_o because_o the_o jewish_a worship_n be_v typical_a of_o what_o be_v to_o come_v hereafter_o and_o those_o many_o nice_a observance_n that_o be_v appoint_v be_v not_o command_v for_o themselves_o as_o if_o there_o be_v any_o excellency_n in_o they_o but_o they_o be_v shadow_n of_o thing_n to_o come_v which_o be_v all_o now_o do_v away_o by_o the_o gospel_n and_o the_o bring_n in_o of_o everlasting_a righteousness_n the_o only_a thing_n always_o please_v to_o god_n and_o agreeable_a to_o his_o nature_n it_o be_v a_o spiritual_a rational_a service_n god_n now_o expect_v from_o we_o and_o delight_n in_o and_o he_o must_v look_v upon_o god_n as_o a_o very_a fond_a and_o captious_a be_v who_o can_v persuade_v himself_o that_o our_o prayer_n and_o thanksgiving_n and_o other_o act_n of_o worship_n though_o we_o be_v most_o hearty_a and_o devout_a in_o they_o yet_o shall_v be_v reject_v by_o he_o only_o because_o of_o some_o particular_a habit_n or_o gesture_n we_o use_v which_o be_v neither_o dishonourable_a to_o god_n nor_o unsuitable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o those_o religious_a performance_n such_o mean_a thought_n of_o god_n be_v the_o true_a ground_n of_o all_o superstition_n when_o we_o think_v to_o court_v and_o please_v he_o by_o make_v great_a conscience_n about_o little_a thing_n and_o so_o it_o have_v be_v true_o observe_v that_o there_o be_v far_o more_o superstition_n in_o conscientious_a abstain_v from_o that_o which_o god_n have_v no_o where_n forbid_v than_o there_o be_v in_o do_v that_o which_o god_n have_v not_o command_v a_o man_n may_v certain_o do_v what_o god_n have_v not_o command_v and_o yet_o never_o think_v to_o flatter_v god_n by_o it_o nor_o place_v any_o religion_n in_o it_o but_o he_o may_v do_v it_o only_o out_o of_o obedience_n to_o his_o superior_n for_o outward_a order_n and_o decency_n for_o which_o end_n our_o ceremony_n be_v appoint_v and_o so_o there_o be_v no_o superstition_n in_o they_o but_o now_o a_o man_n can_v out_o of_o conscience_n refuse_v to_o do_v what_o god_n have_v not_o forbid_v and_o be_v by_o lawful_a authority_n require_v of_o he_o but_o he_o must_v think_v to_o please_v god_n by_o such_o abstain_v and_o in_o this_o conceit_n of_o please_v or_o humour_v god_n by_o indifferent_a thing_n consist_v the_o true_a spirit_n of_o superstition_n 2._o lay_v out_o your_o great_a care_n and_o zeal_n about_o the_o necessary_a and_o substantial_a duty_n of_o religion_n and_o this_o will_v make_v you_o less_o concern_v about_o thing_n of_o a_o inferior_a and_o indifferent_a nature_n as_o on_o the_o one_o hand_n our_o fierce_a dispute_n and_o debate_n about_o little_a thing_n and_o circumstance_n be_v apt_a to_o eat_v out_o the_o heart_n and_o life_n of_o religion_n so_o on_o the_o other_o side_n mind_v those_o thing_n most_o in_o
have_v take_v due_a care_n to_o inform_v other_o right_o of_o the_o matter_n and_o warn_v they_o of_o the_o danger_n till_o i_o have_v endeavour_v to_o rectify_v their_o judgement_n concern_v the_o innocency_n of_o my_o action_n and_o intention_n and_o give_v they_o notice_n of_o the_o evil_a that_o may_v possible_o by_o my_o action_n happen_v to_o they_o if_o i_o dig_v a_o pit_n or_o lay_v a_o block_n in_o the_o way_n whereby_o other_o not_o know_v any_o thing_n of_o it_o be_v hurt_v and_o wound_v here_o i_o stand_v chargeable_a with_o it_o and_o be_o guilty_a in_o cause_v they_o to_o fall_v but_o if_o they_o be_v plain_o and_o often_o tell_v of_o it_o and_o be_v forewarn_v yet_o will_v run_v into_o the_o danger_n they_o be_v then_o only_o to_o thank_v themselves_o and_o it_o be_v pure_o their_o own_o fault_n now_o if_o it_o be_v thus_o in_o case_n that_o be_v liable_a to_o suspicion_n and_o misinterpretation_n it_o hold_v much_o more_o in_o our_o ceremony_n and_o the_o order_n of_o our_o church_n where_o the_o offence_n that_o be_v take_v at_o they_o arise_v not_o so_o much_o from_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o injunction_n as_o from_o man_n gross_a ignorance_n misconceit_n or_o perverseness_n thus_o man_n be_v no_o long_o weak_a in_o scripture_n sense_n than_o they_o be_v inculpable_o ignorant_a or_o which_o be_v all_o one_o the_o plea_n of_o weakness_n be_v go_v after_o that_o sufficient_a instruction_n have_v be_v give_v or_o offer_v to_o they_o and_o other_o allowance_n make_v according_a to_o man_n different_a capacity_n of_o understanding_n this_o shall_v suffice_v for_o the_o first_o thing_n propound_v to_o show_v what_o be_v the_o true_a notion_n of_o a_o weak_a brother_n 2_o i_o proceed_v to_o give_v you_o a_o account_n what_o it_o be_v to_o offend_v such_o a_o one_o because_o i_o write_v for_o the_o use_n of_o the_o common_a people_n only_o i_o shall_v not_o trouble_v they_o with_o the_o several_a signification_n of_o the_o greek_a word_n which_o be_v translate_v scandal_n or_o offence_n nor_o distinct_o consider_v the_o several_a place_n of_o scripture_n where_o it_o be_v use_v only_o so_o far_o as_o plain_o to_o show_v first_o that_o people_n be_v general_o mistake_v in_o the_o sense_n they_o have_v of_o it_o second_o what_o it_o be_v true_o to_o offend_v or_o give_v offence_n 1._o that_o people_n be_v general_o mistake_v about_o the_o sense_n of_o offend_v or_o give_v offence_n for_o by_o it_o they_o common_o understand_v displease_v or_o grieve_v another_o and_o make_v he_o angry_a with_o they_o and_o so_o consequent_o they_o think_v themselves_o in_o conscience_n bind_v to_o forbear_v all_o those_o thing_n which_o godly_a person_n do_v not_o like_a or_o approve_v of_o or_o be_v contrary_n to_o their_o fancy_n and_o judgement_n it_o be_v notorious_a that_o most_o of_o the_o ordinary_a sort_n of_o dissenter_n who_o assign_v this_o as_o the_o reason_n of_o their_o not_o conform_v to_o the_o establish_v law_n of_o the_o church_n because_o by_o do_v so_o they_o shall_v offend_v their_o brethren_n mean_v nothing_o else_o by_o it_o but_o that_o they_o shall_v fall_v into_o disgrace_n with_o incur_v the_o displeasure_n and_o provoke_v the_o anger_n of_o those_o with_o who_o they_o have_v hold_v communion_n for_o a_o long_a time_n in_o religious_a exercise_n they_o good_a man_n will_v be_v mighty_o trouble_v and_o vex_v to_o see_v or_o hear_v such_o a_o sad_a thing_n and_o this_o be_v take_v by_o many_o among_o they_o for_o a_o heinous_a crime_n even_o the_o same_o which_o st._n paul_n call_v scandalize_a a_o weak_a brother_n to_o do_v any_o thing_n which_o may_v chance_v to_o put_v any_o of_o their_o godly_a brethren_n out_o of_o humour_n the_o occasion_n of_o this_o false_a apprehension_n be_v in_o all_o likelihood_n the_o ambiguity_n of_o our_o english_a word_n offend_v which_o be_v use_v in_o the_o translation_n of_o our_o bibles_n in_o our_o language_n it_o signify_v to_o displease_v or_o to_o do_v something_o which_o another_o dislike_n but_o the_o greek_a word_n which_o be_v so_o render_v signify_v to_o lay_v a_o stumble_a block_n in_o the_o way_n of_o another_o which_o cause_v he_o to_o fall_v or_o to_o ensnare_v and_o deceive_v he_o into_o something_o that_o be_v evil_a as_o i_o shall_v show_v more_o large_o present_o we_o must_v not_o therefore_o interpret_v the_o place_n of_o scripture_n where_o offend_v or_o offence_n be_v find_v by_o the_o common_a importance_n of_o the_o word_n among_o we_o but_o by_o the_o undoubted_a signification_n of_o the_o original_a word_n which_o all_o learned_a man_n agree_v to_o have_v quite_o another_o sense_n it_o must_v not_o be_v conceal_v that_o there_o be_v one_o place_n in_o the_o famous_a fourteen_o chapter_n of_o the_o roman_n that_o seem_v to_o favour_v this_o popular_a conceit_n v._o 15._o if_o thy_o brother_n be_v grieve_v with_o thy_o meat_n now_o walk_v thou_o not_o charitable_o and_o it_o be_v the_o only_a one_o i_o know_v of_o that_o sound_v this_o way_n but_o sure_o it_o be_v more_o reasonable_a that_o this_o one_o verse_n shall_v be_v interpret_v by_o all_o the_o other_o place_n of_o scripture_n about_o this_o matter_n than_o all_o the_o rest_n explain_v agreeable_o to_o this_o single_a verse_n nay_o it_o sufficient_o appear_v that_o by_o grieve_v our_o brother_n be_v not_o mean_v displease_v he_o or_o make_v he_o sorry_a or_o sad_a but_o wound_v or_o hurt_v he_o and_o so_o it_o be_v use_v to_o denote_v that_o which_o cause_v grief_n or_o sorrow_n for_o in_o the_o very_a next_o word_n it_o follow_v destroy_v not_o he_o with_o thy_o meat_n for_o who_o christ_n die_v and_o what_o be_v here_o express_v by_o grieve_v be_v v._o 13._o call_v put_v a_o stumbling-block_n or_o a_o occasion_n to_o fall_v and_o v._o 21._o it_o be_v good_a neither_o to_o eat_v flesh_n nor_o drink_v wine_n nor_o any_o thing_n whereby_o thy_o brother_n stumble_v or_o be_v offend_v or_o be_v make_v weak_a all_o which_o signify_v the_o same_o with_o be_v grieve_v to_o be_v offend_v or_o grieve_v be_v not_o to_o be_v trouble_v at_o what_o another_o have_v do_v out_o of_o pity_n and_o concern_v for_o his_o soul_n but_o to_o receive_v hurt_v ourselves_o from_o it_o be_v by_o it_o draw_v or_o deceive_v into_o some_o sin_n and_o our_o own_o fall_n occasion_v by_o what_o our_o brother_n have_v do_v be_v that_o which_o create_v the_o grief_n and_o trouble_n but_o because_o this_o mistake_n do_v so_o general_o prevail_v among_o many_o as_o i_o hope_v well_o dispose_v people_n who_o think_v that_o they_o must_v not_o do_v any_o thing_n at_o which_o good_a man_n be_v displease_v or_o grieve_v i_o shall_v offer_v these_o few_o thing_n to_o their_o consideration_n 1._o that_o thus_o to_o censure_v and_o condemn_v the_o action_n and_o to_o be_v displease_v and_o angry_a with_o the_o person_n of_o those_o that_o differ_v from_o they_o or_o refuse_v any_o long_a to_o join_v with_o they_o in_o their_o separate_a congregation_n be_v a_o great_a instance_n of_o peevishness_n and_o uncharitableness_n and_o be_v that_o very_a sin_n which_o st._n paul_n often_o warn_v his_o weak_a believer_n against_o viz._n that_o they_o shall_v not_o rash_o judge_v those_o who_o know_v their_o duty_n and_o understand_v their_o christian_a liberty_n better_o than_o themselves_o this_o seem_v to_o be_v the_o same_o with_o that_o argument_n the_o papist_n use_v to_o persuade_v man_n into_o or_o to_o keep_v they_o in_o their_o communion_n as_o the_o safe_a way_n to_o heaven_n since_o they_o so_o confident_o damn_v all_o man_n who_o though_o never_o so_o unjust_o they_o thrust_v out_o of_o their_o church_n because_o some_o of_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n be_v so_o froward_a and_o unmerciful_a in_o their_o censure_n and_o so_o fond_a of_o their_o own_o way_n as_o to_o brand_v all_o that_o return_v to_o the_o church_n with_o the_o infamous_a name_n of_o apostate_n time-servers_a man_n that_o have_v make_v shipwreck_n of_o faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o have_v forsake_v christ_n for_o fear_n of_o persecution_n and_o the_o like_a therefore_o all_o those_o who_o be_v convince_v of_o the_o lawfulness_n of_o conformity_n yet_o ought_v still_o to_o continue_v with_o they_o in_o their_o separation_n lest_o they_o provoke_v and_o irritate_fw-la their_o anger_n and_o displeasure_n against_o they_o and_o thus_o any_o company_n of_o man_n that_o shall_v join_v together_o and_o resolve_v to_o quarrel_v with_o all_o that_o do_v not_o as_o they_o do_v or_o that_o shall_v leave_v their_o society_n must_v oblige_v all_o for_o ever_o to_o remain_v with_o they_o for_o fear_n of_o give_v they_o offence_n if_o what_o i_o do_v be_v not_o evil_a in_o itself_o it_o can_v become_v such_o because_o another_o man_n be_v causeless_o angry_a with_o i_o for_o do_v of_o it_o let_v
communion_n be_v the_o sin_n of_o schism_n and_o that_o be_v a_o sin_n of_o the_o black_a dye_n and_o great_a guilt_n note_v the_o in_o scripture_n for_o a_o act_n of_o carnality_n a_o work_n of_o the_o flesh_n and_o of_o the_o devil_n for_o the_o necessity_n of_o our_o come_n to_o church_n and_o worship_v god_n in_o the_o same_o public_a place_n with_o our_o neighbour_n and_o submit_v to_o the_o government_n discipline_n and_o custom_n of_o that_o particular_a church_n we_o live_v in_o do_v not_o depend_v only_o upon_o the_o statute_n of_o the_o realm_n which_o enforce_v it_o and_o the_o command_n of_o the_o civil_a magistrate_n who_o require_v it_o but_o by_o the_o law_n of_o our_o religion_n all_o needless_a separation_n or_o division_n among_o christian_n break_v into_o little_a party_n and_o faction_n from_o whence_o come_v strife_n envy_v confusion_n and_o every_o evil_a work_n be_v to_o be_v most_o careful_o avoid_v as_o the_o very_a bane_n of_o christianity_n the_o rend_n of_o christ_n body_n and_o as_o utter_o destructive_a not_o only_o of_o the_o peace_n but_o of_o the_o be_v of_o a_o church_n so_o that_o shall_v all_o the_o law_n about_o conformity_n and_o against_o conventicle_n be_v rescind_v and_o void_v shall_v the_o magistrate_n indulge_v or_o connive_v at_o the_o separate_a assembly_n yet_o still_o this_o will_v not_o make_v our_o join_n with_o they_o not_o to_o be_v sinful_a since_o to_o preserve_v the_o unity_n of_o christian_n and_o one_o communion_n be_v the_o necessary_a duty_n of_o every_o member_n of_o the_o church_n and_o it_o can_v never_o be_v think_v a_o justifiable_a thing_n to_o cut_v off_o ourselves_o from_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n or_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n out_o of_o compliance_n with_o any_o err_a or_o ignorant_a brethren_n but_o the_o sinfulness_n of_o withdraw_a from_o the_o communion_n of_o our_o church_n either_o total_o or_o in_o part_n have_v be_v so_o evident_o show_v in_o some_o late_a discourse_n write_v on_o that_o subject_n that_o i_o do_v despair_n of_o convince_a those_o of_o the_o danger_n of_o it_o who_o can_v withstand_v the_o force_n of_o all_o that_o have_v be_v already_o offer_v to_o they_o i_o only_o conclude_v thus_o much_o that_o there_o be_v far_o more_o of_o the_o sin_n of_o uncharitableness_n in_o such_o separation_n and_o division_n than_o there_o can_v be_v in_o all_o the_o offence_n that_o be_v imagine_v to_o be_v give_v by_o our_o conformity_n from_o what_o i_o have_v already_o at_o large_a discourse_v it_o plain_o follow_v that_o they_o be_v thing_n mere_o indifferent_a not_o only_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n but_o also_o in_o respect_n to_o we_o in_o the_o use_n of_o which_o we_o be_v oblige_v to_o consider_v the_o weakness_n of_o our_o brethren_n what_o be_v our_o duty_n must_v be_v do_v though_o scandal_n follow_v it_o what_o be_v evil_a and_o sinful_a aught_o to_o be_v leave_v undo_v upon_o the_o score_n of_o a_o great_a obligation_n than_o that_o of_o scandal_n but_o now_o in_o matter_n wherein_o our_o practice_n be_v not_o determine_v by_o any_o command_n we_o ought_v so_o to_o exercise_v our_o liberty_n as_o if_o possible_a to_o avoid_v give_v any_o offence_n to_o our_o brethren_n this_o be_v a_o undoubted_a part_n of_o that_o charity_n which_o one_o christian_a ought_v always_o to_o be_v ready_a to_o show_v to_o another_o by_o admonition_n instruction_n good_a example_n and_o by_o the_o forbearance_n of_o thing_n lawful_a at_o which_o he_o forsee_v his_o neighbour_n out_o of_o weakness_n will_v be_v apt_a to_o be_v scandalize_v to_o endeavour_v to_o prevent_v his_o fall_n into_o any_o sin_n or_o mischief_n and_o this_o we_o teach_v and_o press_v upon_o our_o people_n as_o much_o as_o dissenter_n themselves_o can_v in_o obedience_n to_o st._n paul_n rule_n about_o meat_n and_o day_n thing_n neither_o in_o themselves_o good_a or_o evil_n nor_o determine_v by_o any_o authority_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v every_o way_n a_o proper_a instance_n wherein_o christian_n may_v exercise_v their_o charity_n and_o compassion_n one_o to_o the_o other_o and_o in_o such_o case_n st._n paul_n declare_v that_o he_o will_v rather_o whole_o forego_v his_o liberty_n than_o by_o these_o indifference_n endanger_v the_o soul_n of_o his_o brother_n as_o in_o that_o famous_a place_n 1_o cor._n 8._o 13._o if_o meat_n make_v my_o brother_n to_o offend_v i_o will_v eat_v no_o flesh_n while_o the_o world_n stand_v lest_o i_o make_v my_o brother_n to_o offend_v where_o by_o flesh_n and_o meat_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v such_o as_o have_v be_v offer_v unto_o idol_n which_o though_o lawful_a for_o a_o christian_n to_o eat_v at_o common_a meal_n yet_o the_o apostle_n will_v whole_o abstain_v from_o rather_o than_o wound_v the_o weak_a conscience_n of_o a_o brother_n if_o i_o by_o the_o law_n of_o charity_n as_o the_o reverend_a bishop_n taylour_n say_v great_a exemp_n p._n 420_o must_v rather_o quit_v my_o own_o good_n than_o suffer_v my_o brother_n to_o perish_v much_o rather_o must_v i_o quit_v my_o privilege_n and_o we_o shall_v ill_o die_v for_o our_o brother_n who_o will_v not_o lose_v a_o meal_n to_o prevent_v his_o sin_n or_o change_v a_o dish_n to_o save_v his_o soul_n and_o if_o the_o thing_n be_v indifferent_a to_o we_o yet_o it_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v indifferent_a to_o we_o whether_o our_o brother_n live_v or_o die_v after_o this_o manner_n do_v we_o profess_v ourselves_o ready_a to_o do_v or_o forbear_v any_o thing_n in_o our_o own_o power_n to_o win_v and_o gain_v our_o dissent_v brethren_n to_o the_o church_n we_o grant_v that_o those_o who_o conform_v be_v oblige_v by_o this_o law_n of_o charity_n not_o needless_o to_o vex_v and_o exasperate_v our_o dissenter_n nor_o to_o do_v any_o thing_n which_o they_o be_v not_o bind_v to_o do_v that_o may_v estrange_v they_o more_o from_o the_o church_n but_o to_o restrain_v themselves_o in_o the_o use_n of_o that_o liberty_n god_n and_o the_o law_n have_v leave_v they_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o peace_n and_o out_o of_o condescension_n to_o their_o brethren_n we_o dare_v not_o indeed_o omit_v any_o duty_n we_o owe_v to_o god_n or_o our_o superior_n either_o in_o church_n or_o state_n nor_o can_v we_o think_v it_o fit_a and_o reasonable_a that_o our_o apostolical_a government_n excellent_a liturgy_n orderly_a worship_n of_o god_n use_v in_o our_o church_n shall_v all_o be_v present_o condemn_v and_o lay_v aside_o as_o soon_o as_o some_o weak_a man_n take_v offence_n at_o they_o but_o in_o all_o other_o thing_n subject_a to_o our_o own_o order_n and_o disposal_n we_o acknowledge_v ourselves_o bind_v to_o please_v our_o brother_n for_o his_o good_a unto_o edification_n i_o only_o add_v here_o that_o this_o very_a rule_n of_o yield_v to_o our_o brother_n in_o thing_n indifferent_a and_o undetermined_a aught_o to_o have_v some_o restriction_n and_o limitation_n several_a of_o which_o be_v mention_v by_o mr._n jean_n who_o i_o have_v so_o often_o name_v as_o first_o that_o we_o be_v not_o to_o forbear_v these_o indifferent_a thing_n where_o there_o be_v only_o a_o possibility_n of_o scandal_n but_o where_o the_o scandal_n consequent_a be_v probable_a for_o otherwise_o we_o shall_v be_v at_o a_o utter_a loss_n and_o uncertainty_n in_o all_o our_o action_n and_o never_o know_v what_o to_o do_v second_o our_o weak_a brethren_n must_v have_v some_o probable_a ground_n for_o their_o imagination_n that_o what_o we_o do_v be_v evil_a and_o sinful_a or_o else_o we_o must_v wear_v no_o ribbon_n nor_o put_v off_o our_o hat_n but_o come_v all_o to_o thou_o and_o thou_o and_o for_o this_o exception_n he_o give_v this_o substantial_a reason_n that_o if_o we_o be_v to_o abstain_v from_o all_o indifferent_a thing_n in_o which_o another_o without_o probable_a ground_n imagine_v that_o there_o be_v sin_n the_o servitude_n of_o christian_n under_o the_o gospel_n will_v be_v far_o great_a and_o more_o intolerable_a than_o that_o of_o the_o jew_n under_o the_o moysaicall_a administration_n three_o this_o must_v be_v understand_v of_o indifferent_a thing_n that_o be_v of_o no_o very_a great_a importance_n for_o if_o it_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o some_o weight_n and_o moment_n as_o yield_v i_o some_o great_a profit_n i_o must_v only_o for_o a_o while_o forbear_v it_o until_o my_o brother_n be_v better_a inform_v last_o we_o must_v not_o whole_o betray_v our_o christian_a liberty_n to_o please_v peevish_a and_o froward_a people_n or_o to_o humour_v our_o neighbour_n in_o a_o erroneous_a and_o superstitious_a opinion_n for_o which_o he_o quote_v mr._n calvin_n who_o in_o his_o comment_n upon_o 1_o cor._n 8._o 13._o tell_v of_o some_o foolish_a interpreter_n that_o leave_v to_o christian_n almost_o no_o use_n at_o all_o of_o thing_n indifferent_a upon_o pretence_n to_o avoid_v the_o offence_n of_o superstitious_a
we_o be_v say_v to_o give_v offence_n to_o other_o in_o either_o of_o these_o sense_n by_o conform_v to_o the_o institution_n and_o rite_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 1._o not_o in_o the_o first_o sense_n for_o that_o can_v only_o be_v in_o one_o or_o both_o of_o these_o two_o case_n either_o first_o by_o do_v that_o which_o be_v essential_o and_o in_o its_o own_o nature_n evil_a and_o a_o sin_n or_o second_o by_o do_v that_o which_o be_v direct_o a_o temptation_n and_o a_o snare_n to_o induce_v another_o to_o do_v that_o which_o be_v a_o sin_n now_o if_o it_o can_v be_v show_v that_o comply_v with_o the_o rite_n and_o service_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v give_v offence_n in_o either_o of_o these_o sense_n than_o i_o here_o profess_v i_o will_v myself_o immediate_o turn_v their_o proselyte_n and_o renounce_v conformity_n and_o protest_v against_o it_o for_o ever_o 1._o it_o have_v scarce_o ever_o yet_o be_v so_o much_o as_o intimate_v that_o the_o church_n of_o england_n require_v any_o thing_n as_o a_o condition_n of_o communion_n with_o she_o that_o be_v essential_o evil_a none_o of_o our_o adversary_n that_o i_o know_v of_o have_v yet_o dare_v to_o charge_v her_o doctrine_n with_o falsehood_n or_o her_o discipline_n with_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v in_o itself_o evil_a and_o when_o any_o shall_v adventure_v to_o do_v it_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o he_o will_v find_v enough_o to_o enter_v the_o list_n with_o he_o even_o our_o bitter_a enemy_n of_o the_o romish_a communion_n have_v dare_v to_o charge_v we_o no_o further_o in_o either_o of_o these_o but_o only_o that_o we_o be_v defective_a in_o both_o and_o reject_v many_o thing_n which_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n as_o they_o pretend_v have_v believe_v and_o practise_v in_o the_o ancient_a and_o primitive_a age_n of_o it_o they_o will_v rather_o choose_v to_o call_v we_o schismatic_n than_o heretic_n or_o to_o prove_v we_o heretic_n not_o because_o we_o believe_v or_o teach_v any_o thing_n for_o necessary_a doctrine_n which_o be_v false_a but_o rather_o because_o we_o do_v not_o teach_v or_o believe_v all_o thing_n that_o be_v christian_a and_o true_a neither_o do_v they_o charge_v our_o liturgy_n and_o service_n or_o form_n of_o worship_n with_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v material_o evil_a no_o nor_o redundant_fw-la but_o only_o deficient_a in_o many_o usage_n and_o rite_n which_o they_o pretend_v to_o be_v apostolical_a and_o if_o our_o own_o brethren_n must_v be_v more_o spiteful_a and_o bitter_a against_o we_o than_o our_o worst_a adversary_n let_v they_o look_v to_o it_o that_o even_o they_o become_v not_o their_o accuser_n at_o the_o great_a day_n but_o yet_o thanks_o be_v to_o god_n they_o have_v not_o adventure_v to_o do_v this_o and_o will_v be_v unsuccessful_a enough_o when_o they_o do_v it_o and_o therefore_o themselves_o free_v we_o from_o give_v any_o offence_n in_o our_o conformity_n in_o this_o sense_n of_o give_v offence_n i._n e._n do_v any_o thing_n which_o be_v formal_o a_o sin_n ourselves_o and_o thereby_o induce_v other_o into_o the_o same_o evil_n by_o join_v with_o we_o 2._o neither_o second_o do_v i_o see_v any_o one_o sin_n that_o conformity_n be_v direct_o introductive_a of_o or_o a_o temptation_n unto_o and_o i_o will_v believe_v it_o will_v puzzle_v the_o most_o curious_a and_o inquisitive_a to_o find_v out_o any_o such_o i_o have_v so_o much_o charity_n for_o my_o dear_a mother_n the_o church_n and_o so_o much_o duty_n i_o thank_v god_n yet_o leave_v in_o i_o as_o to_o dare_v to_o justify_v she_o from_o this_o imputation_n i_o be_o sure_a she_o intend_v no_o sin_n in_o what_o she_o do_v nor_o know_v of_o any_o evil_n that_o her_o communion_n will_v betray_v any_o man_n into_o all_o that_o she_o design_n in_o her_o doctrine_n be_v to_o teach_v the_o truth_n as_o it_o be_v in_o jesus_n and_o to_o keep_v close_o to_o that_o symbol_n of_o faith_n which_o be_v once_o deliver_v unto_o the_o saint_n and_o what_o she_o intend_v and_o aim_v at_o in_o her_o liturgy_n and_o discipline_n be_v by_o the_o one_o to_o keep_v man_n from_o innovate_a and_o corrupt_v that_o faith_n or_o debauch_v it_o in_o their_o manner_n and_o detain_v it_o in_o unrighteousness_n and_o by_o the_o other_o to_o direct_v they_o to_o worship_n god_n in_o such_o a_o way_n as_o be_v suitable_a to_o his_o own_o nature_n and_o to_o the_o principle_n of_o such_o a_o holy_a religion_n and_o thereby_o conciliate_v that_o grace_n that_o may_v enable_v they_o to_o live_v so_o as_o the_o worship_n of_o such_o a_o god_n and_o the_o belief_n of_o such_o a_o religion_n require_v and_o oblige_v they_o to_o do_v i_o must_v confess_v in_o one_o thing_n the_o church_n of_o england_n may_v be_v a_o occasion_n of_o a_o great_a deal_n of_o sin_n in_o the_o world_n but_o it_o be_v such_o as_o will_v as_o little_a advantage_n our_o brethren_n to_o have_v it_o grant_v as_o it_o will_v be_v any_o disparagement_n or_o disadvantage_n to_o be_v cause_v by_o it_o i_o mean_v in_o be_v a_o occasion_n of_o all_o that_o in_o and_o guilt_n that_o all_o those_o bring_v upon_o themselves_o that_o rail_v and_o cry_v out_o so_o much_o upon_o it_o that_o separate_a and_o divide_v from_o it_o and_o studious_o maintain_v and_o keep_v up_o a_o unreasonable_a and_o downright_a schism_n against_o it_o but_o certain_o all_o man_n will_v see_v that_o this_o be_v a_o offence_n only_o take_v and_o not_o give_v and_o ought_v no_o more_o to_o be_v object_v against_o the_o church_n than_o murder_n and_o adultery_n theft_n and_o robbery_n ought_v to_o be_v charge_v upon_o the_o law_n of_o god_n that_o declare_v the_o same_o to_o be_v sin_n be_v there_o no_o such_o thing_n as_o the_o constitution_n of_o a_o church_n these_o man_n will_v not_o be_v guilty_a of_o schism_n and_o unjust_a separation_n from_o it_o but_o so_o if_o there_o be_v no_o law_n there_o will_v be_v no_o transgression_n and_o adulterer_n may_v as_o well_o accuse_v the_o law_n for_o their_o sin_n in_o one_o case_n as_o schismatic_n can_v accuse_v the_o constitution_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o other_o they_o be_v both_o in_o this_o case_n equal_o culpable_a i._n e._n indeed_o not_o at_o all_o in_o a_o word_n and_o to_o conclude_v this_o period_n if_o piety_n and_o become_a expression_n of_o devotion_n in_o the_o public_a worship_n of_o god_n if_o gravity_n decency_n and_o order_n in_o the_o office_n of_o religion_n and_o if_o engage_v man_n to_o a_o due_a respect_n and_o regard_n to_o the_o rule_n of_o the_o gospel_n be_v sin_n or_o evil_n to_o be_v eschew_v and_o dread_v by_o man_n then_o i_o will_v grant_v that_o conformity_n to_o the_o church_n of_o england_n may_v possible_o give_v offence_n in_o this_o sense_n of_o give_v of_o it_o but_o if_o not_o i_o do_v not_o see_v any_o reason_n to_o apprehend_v or_o fear_v any_o danger_n at_o all_o of_o it_o by_o these_o consideration_n it_o will_v appear_v we_o be_v free_a from_o give_v offence_n by_o our_o conformity_n to_o the_o rule_n of_o our_o church_n in_o this_o first_o sense_n of_o scandal_n and_o give_v offence_n 2._o i_o proceed_v therefore_o now_o to_o inquire_v if_o we_o can_v clear_v ourselves_o sufficient_o from_o it_o in_o the_o second_o notion_n of_o these_o thing_n also_o and_o this_o i_o think_v will_v best_a and_o most_o plain_o be_v determine_v by_o consider_v what_o can_v be_v think_v just_a cause_n of_o sorrow_n and_o grief_n to_o a_o good_a man_n or_o a_o reasonable_a discouragement_n or_o hindrance_n to_o he_o in_o his_o way_n of_o duty_n i_o mean_v still_o cause_n of_o these_o give_v to_o he_o by_o another_o now_o these_o i_o think_v i_o may_v reduce_v pretty_a safe_o to_o these_o three_o head_n 1._o some_o dishonour_n offer_v to_o god_n and_o his_o religion_n 2._o the_o wickedness_n and_o profaneness_n of_o man_n 3._o the_o make_v the_o way_n of_o religion_n and_o duty_n more_o cumbersome_a and_o difficult_a than_o otherwise_o it_o will_v be_v these_o be_v great_a and_o just_a cause_n of_o offence_n and_o grief_n to_o a_o good_a man_n it_o can_v but_o great_o afflict_v a_o good_a man_n to_o behold_v his_o god_n who_o he_o adore_v and_o honour_n and_o love_v above_o all_o thing_n affront_v and_o dishonour_v his_o law_n violate_v his_o authority_n contemn_v and_o trample_v upon_o by_o dare_v and_o foolish_a man_n river_n of_o water_n say_v the_o holy_a psalmist_n run_v down_o my_o eye_n because_o man_n keep_v not_o thy_o law_n psal_n 119._o 136._o and_o it_o can_v but_o be_v cause_n of_o the_o like_a sorrow_n to_o such_o a_o man_n to_o see_v other_o man_n for_o who_o he_o have_v a_o great_a and_o concern_v charity_n and_o who_o he_o love_v as_o his_o own_o soul_n to_o live_v in_o sin_n
asperse_v what_o they_o separate_v from_o and_o so_o man_n be_v inevitable_o betray_v into_o envy_n and_o bitter_a rail_n into_o strife_n and_o contention_n and_o all_o those_o evil_n that_o such_o thing_n be_v natural_o productive_a of_o and_o i_o be_o sure_a it_o be_v a_o sore_a grief_n and_o trouble_n and_o a_o offence_n in_o the_o second_o notion_n of_o it_o to_o many_o good_a man_n who_o can_v but_o be_v grieve_v great_o to_o see_v the_o institution_n of_o christ_n so_o disregard_v the_o great_a duty_n and_o service_n of_o religion_n so_o slight_v and_o neglect_v and_o to_o behold_v the_o peace_n and_o welfare_n of_o the_o church_n which_o cost_v the_o saviour_n of_o the_o world_n so_o dear_a and_o be_v so_o great_o belove_v by_o he_o so_o very_o little_o consult_v or_o rather_o purposely_o betray_v to_o behold_v man_n allow_v themselves_o nay_o glory_n in_o such_o damnable_a sin_n destroy_v their_o soul_n by_o the_o guilt_n of_o they_o and_o wilful_o forfeit_v the_o benefit_n of_o all_o that_o christ_n have_v do_v and_o suffer_v for_o they_o and_o last_o to_o see_v the_o way_n of_o religion_n so_o perplex_v with_o idle_a question_n and_o make_v intricate_a by_o needless_a dispute_n and_o to_o see_v so_o many_o unreasonable_a controversy_n start_v and_o such_o eager_a quarrel_n among_o christian_n which_o the_o best_a man_n sometime_o have_v much_o ado_n to_o weather_n and_o get_v over_o so_o as_o they_o shall_v do_v these_o be_v the_o thing_n that_o make_v many_o sad_a and_o ache_a heart_n among_o those_o who_o god_n have_v not_o make_v sad_a and_o these_o be_v the_o effect_n of_o the_o sad_a division_n and_o separation_n among_o we_o these_o therefore_o be_v the_o scandal_n and_o the_o thing_n that_o so_o much_o offend_v and_o these_o be_v the_o division_n for_o which_o there_o be_v such_o search_n of_o heart_n at_o this_o day_n i_o will_v to_o god_n some_o man_n will_v serious_o consider_v thing_n they_o may_v then_o possible_o begin_v to_o reflect_v upon_o themselves_o and_o their_o own_o action_n and_o perhaps_o see_v cause_n to_o take_v some_o part_n of_o that_o reproach_n upon_o themselves_o which_o they_o be_v please_v so_o prodigal_o to_o cast_v upon_o we_o 2._o but_o i_o have_v another_o thing_n yet_o to_o show_v the_o error_n of_o apply_v this_o speech_n of_o the_o apostle_n to_o our_o case_n for_o as_o there_o be_v a_o mistake_n in_o the_o notion_n of_o scandal_n and_o offence_n so_o there_o be_v too_o in_o those_o thing_n to_o which_o the_o give_a offence_n here_o relate_v and_o they_o be_v vast_o different_a from_o those_o thing_n in_o the_o church_n that_o we_o conform_v unto_o by_o which_o the_o offence_n be_v pretend_v to_o be_v give_v the_o difference_n i_o mean_v be_v this_o that_o however_o they_o may_v be_v thing_n in_o their_o own_o nature_n equal_o indifferent_a yet_o the_o superven_a command_n from_o lawful_a authority_n may_v make_v a_o vast_a difference_n between_o they_o those_o thing_n to_o which_o this_o text_n relate_v be_v indifferent_a and_o undetermined_a too_o no_o humane_a law_n have_v take_v cognizance_n of_o they_o but_o the_o institution_n or_o ceremony_n of_o the_o church_n in_o which_o it_o be_v pretend_v we_o give_v offence_n be_v thing_n already_o determine_v by_o the_o law_n of_o man_n and_o such_o as_o a_o lawful_a authority_n have_v bind_v we_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o i_o shall_v not_o need_v to_o have_v any_o controversy_n i_o hope_v with_o any_o about_o the_o nature_n of_o they_o nor_o will_v any_o of_o the_o tragical_a outcry_n against_o they_o prove_v they_o essential_o evil_a though_o some_o man_n have_v be_v teach_v to_o call_v they_o rag_n of_o rome_n instance_n of_o superstition_n and_o relic_n of_o idolatry_n these_o be_v word_n of_o course_n and_o art_n of_o rail_v which_o proclaim_v indeed_o the_o rancour_n and_o malice_n of_o some_o man_n spirit_n but_o do_v not_o change_v the_o nature_n of_o thing_n and_o certain_o a_o strange_a that_o shall_v hear_v all_o this_o outcry_n and_o at_o last_o find_v the_o thing_n declaim_v so_o against_o be_v but_o pure_a mode_n and_o circumstance_n of_o thing_n he_o will_v either_o great_o question_v the_o judgement_n and_o honesty_n of_o some_o man_n or_o at_o least_o conclude_v that_o a_o little_a thing_n will_v serve_v those_o man_n to_o quarrel_n with_o that_o be_v resolve_v either_o to_o find_v fault_n or_o to_o make_v they_o 2._o nor_o second_o shall_v i_o need_v here_o to_o dispute_v whether_o such_o thing_n may_v be_v enjoin_v by_o a_o lawful_a authority_n in_o the_o service_n of_o god_n this_o have_v be_v do_v full_o already_o by_o a_o more_o learned_a hand_n to_o which_o i_o have_v nothing_o here_o to_o add_v but_o that_o our_o brethren_n and_o all_o the_o several_a denomination_n of_o they_o do_v the_o same_o thing_n themselves_o and_o sufficient_o confute_v their_o own_o objection_n so_o hard_o be_v it_o for_o they_o to_o frame_v any_o argument_n against_o we_o which_o may_v not_o like_o a_o two-edged_a weapon_n wound_v themselves_o and_o time_n be_v when_o some_o of_o they_o find_v it_o sad_o true_a the_o argument_n that_o they_o have_v use_v against_o the_o church_n of_o england_n other_o gall_v their_o own_o side_n with_o and_o they_o be_v force_v to_o think_v those_o answer_n good_a for_o they_o which_o they_o will_v not_o allow_v to_o be_v so_o for_o we_o against_o they_o and_o what_o deal_v that_o be_v i_o leave_v other_o to_o judge_n 3._o no_o nor_o three_o do_v i_o think_v it_o worth_a the_o while_n to_o stay_v to_o answer_v that_o trifle_a objection_n that_o this_o command_n of_o man_n alter_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n and_o sure_o the_o church_n of_o england_n think_v they_o more_o than_o indifferent_a or_o else_o it_o will_v not_o lay_v so_o much_o weight_n upon_o they_o nor_o make_v so_o very_o great_a a_o stir_n about_o they_o it_o be_v a_o great_a mistake_n to_o think_v that_o the_o command_a of_o thing_n indifferent_a make_v any_o alteration_n in_o the_o nature_n of_o they_o it_o alter_v they_o indeed_o with_o respect_n to_o we_o and_o our_o practice_n but_o the_o thing_n remain_v the_o same_o and_o the_o church_n command_v they_o as_o thing_n fit_v to_o be_v do_v but_o indifferent_a still_o in_o their_o nature_n and_o so_o the_o church_n of_o england_n declare_v they_o to_o be_v after_o her_o command_v they_o and_o her_o public_a declaration_n and_o rubric_n sufficient_o acquit_v she_o from_o all_o such_o thought_n and_o if_o man_n will_v not_o believe_v she_o own_o protestation_n but_o still_o pretend_v that_o she_o believe_v contrary_a to_o what_o she_o solemn_o profess_v it_o be_v but_o another_o instance_n of_o some_o man_n ingenuity_n and_o candour_n towards_o she_o and_o need_v not_o be_v count_v strange_a in_o this_o age._n nor_o be_v she_o stand_v so_o stiff_o as_o man_n speak_v for_o these_o thing_n any_o argument_n of_o her_o think_v otherwise_o of_o they_o for_o however_o a_o ceremony_n be_v in_o itself_o a_o small_a thing_n yet_o faction_n and_o disobedience_n be_v a_o great_a one_o and_o aught_o with_o all_o care_n to_o be_v suppress_v and_o that_o church_n need_v not_o be_v blame_v for_o its_o sharpness_n against_o dissension_n about_o these_o which_o have_v already_o by_o sad_a experience_n find_v that_o gratify_a faction_n in_o these_o have_v in_o the_o issue_n be_v the_o utter_a overthrow_n of_o her_o whole_a constitution_n if_o any_o church_n may_v be_v excuse_v in_o this_o certain_o this_o may_v which_o have_v already_o feel_v the_o smart_n of_o indulge_v in_o they_o and_o can_v but_o be_v concern_v when_o it_o see_v the_o same_o practice_n pursue_v again_o and_o that_o too_o by_o those_o very_a man_n who_o trample_v upon_o she_o with_o so_o much_o cruelty_n and_o scorn_n in_o the_o late_a time_n of_o her_o visitation_n the_o beginning_n of_o strife_n say_v solomon_n be_v as_o when_o one_o let_v out_o a_o river_n and_o so_o we_o have_v find_v faction_n in_o these_o thing_n to_o be_v also_o and_o therefore_o no_o wonder_n if_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o church_n apply_v itself_o with_o so_o much_o care_n and_o quickness_n to_o obstruct_v the_o small_a beginning_n in_o that_o as_o man_n do_v to_o repair_v the_o least_o breach_n in_o those_o bank_n which_o keep_v in_o the_o water_n of_o the_o other_o 4._o nor_o fourthly_a do_v i_o think_v i_o have_v any_o pertinent_a occasion_n here_o to_o assert_v the_o obligation_n of_o humane_a law_n or_o to_o dispute_v whether_o they_o oblige_v the_o conscience_n of_o man_n in_o thing_n that_o god_n have_v leave_v undetermined_a we_o need_v but_o consult_v scripture_n for_o this_o which_o will_v be_v plain_a so_o long_o as_o the_o 13_o chapter_n of_o the_o epistle_n to_o the_o roman_n and_o the_o first_o epistle_n of_o st._n peter_n shall_v remain_v in_o the_o
to_o grieve_v or_o offend_v some_o private_a person_n than_o to_o trouble_v and_o disturb_v and_o endanger_v the_o constitution_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n which_o we_o must_v needs_o do_v if_o at_o every_o private_a person_n pleasure_n we_o take_v upon_o we_o a_o liberty_n to_o dispense_v with_o the_o command_n and_o institution_n of_o it_o and_o this_o be_v a_o rule_n that_o not_o only_o all_o wise_a nation_n but_o even_o all_o man_n still_o act_v by_o in_o case_n that_o be_v any_o way_n like_o to_o this_o all_o nation_n prefer_v the_o public_a good_a before_o the_o private_a and_o think_v it_o much_o better_a that_o some_o single_a person_n suffer_v inconvenience_n than_o that_o the_o public_a be_v endanger_v and_o have_v ever_o set_v the_o worst_a character_n upon_o those_o man_n that_o have_v sacrifice_v the_o good_a of_o their_o country_n to_o their_o own_o private_a ambition_n and_o revenge_n and_o never_o regard_v what_o confusion_n and_o mischief_n thus_o bring_v upon_o it_o so_o they_o may_v please_v and_o gratify_v their_o own_o passion_n all_o the_o world_n have_v ever_o hate_v and_o reproach_v these_o as_o monster_n of_o man_n and_o i_o hope_v we_o in_o time_n shall_v learn_v to_o do_v so_o also_o nay_o we_o see_v nothing_o more_o common_a among_o the_o wise_a nation_n than_o to_o punish_v single_a person_n for_o the_o correction_n and_o good_a of_o the_o whole_a and_o many_o time_n to_o cut_v off_o those_o who_o crime_n in_o their_o own_o nature_n be_v not_o so_o great_a and_o who_o seem_v fair_o capable_a of_o mercy_n only_o to_o be_v example_n and_o warning_n to_o other_o and_o to_o deter_v they_o from_o any_o thing_n by_o which_o the_o public_a may_v be_v endanger_v and_o which_o be_v but_o the_o least_o step_n to_o the_o dissolution_n of_o its_o government_n and_o we_o shall_v see_v all_o man_n act_v by_o this_o rule_n too_o in_o their_o own_o concern_v even_o any_o of_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n themselves_o they_o do_v not_o suffer_v every_o particular_a person_n to_o neglect_v and_o speak_v against_o their_o establishment_n but_o choose_v rather_o to_o punish_v and_o molest_v they_o than_o endanger_v their_o whole_a constitution_n and_o they_o prefer_v their_o own_o body_n and_o the_o health_n of_o it_o before_o any_o particular_a member_n they_o ready_o gash_n and_o cut_v one_o to_o save_v all_o yea_o and_o will_v have_v a_o putrid_a and_o mortify_a member_n take_v off_o rather_o than_o it_o shall_v endanger_v the_o good_a of_o the_o whole_a body_n so_o true_a be_v it_o that_o the_o more_o public_a good_a aught_o to_o be_v prefer_v to_o the_o more_o private_a and_o that_o all_o man_n natural_o yield_v a_o great_a respect_n to_o the_o whole_a society_n than_o they_o do_v to_o any_o single_a member_n of_o it_o and_o that_o the_o same_o rule_n ought_v to_o be_v observe_v by_o we_o in_o our_o present_a case_n of_o give_v offence_n i_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o make_v evident_a both_o by_o plain_a warrant_n of_o scripture_n and_o by_o some_o proper_a consideration_n which_o all_o man_n allow_v the_o reasonableness_n of_o in_o other_o case_n 1._o i_o begin_v first_o with_o search_v what_o warrant_v for_o this_o we_o can_v find_v in_o holy_a scripture_n either_o in_o the_o precept_n and_o direction_n of_o it_o or_o in_o the_o life_n and_o action_n of_o those_o who_o be_v propose_v there_o to_o our_o imitation_n and_o first_o as_o for_o precept_n and_o direction_n i_o think_v that_o of_o st._n paul_n gal._n 6._o 10._o to_o be_v very_o plain_a and_o a_o firm_a foundation_n for_o what_o i_o be_o upon_o as_o we_o have_v therefore_o opportunity_n let_v we_o do_v good_a to_o all_o especial_o to_o those_o of_o the_o household_n of_o faith_n where_o it_o be_v plain_a the_o apostle_n not_o only_o allow_v but_o enjoin_v we_o to_o make_v a_o difference_n in_o our_o charity_n and_o to_o show_v this_o upon_o all_o occasion_n rather_o to_o the_o household_n of_o faith_n i._n e._n to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n than_o to_o any_o other_o person_n or_o person_n whatsoever_o this_o place_n be_v full_a and_o direct_o come_v up_o to_o our_o present_a case_n and_o the_o pretence_n make_v about_o it_o for_o charity_n be_v as_o direct_v and_o plain_a a_o duty_n as_o the_o not_o give_v offence_n it_o be_v as_o strict_o enjoin_v as_o the_o other_o and_o the_o neglect_n of_o charity_n be_v as_o severe_o threaten_v as_o the_o give_a offence_n be_v or_o can_v be_v and_o yet_o for_o all_o this_o when_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o any_o other_o person_n whatever_o come_v in_o competition_n and_o be_v candidate_n for_o our_o charity_n we_o ought_v to_o show_v it_o unto_o that_o and_o not_o unto_o these_o and_o the_o same_o reason_n that_o determine_v thus_o our_o charity_n will_v determine_v as_o well_o our_o care_n of_o not_o give_v offence_n especial_o since_o this_o be_v a_o proper_a and_o principal_a act_n of_o charity_n and_o no_o one_o that_o i_o know_v of_o more_z so_o this_o will_v be_v a_o sufficient_a answer_n to_o all_o the_o tragical_a story_n of_o the_o sin_n of_o scandal_n and_o the_o great_a necessity_n of_o not_o give_v it_o to_o any_o we_o be_v express_o charge_v not_o to_o give_v offence_n and_o so_o we_o be_v express_o charge_v above_o all_o thing_n to_o put_v on_o charity_n in_o give_v offence_n we_o must_v have_v a_o regard_n to_o the_o mean_a person_n in_o the_o church_n and_o a_o woe_n be_v denounce_v against_o he_o that_o offend_v a_o little_a one_o and_o so_o we_o be_v in_o charity_n command_v too_o and_o a_o woe_n threaten_v to_o he_o that_o shut_v up_o his_o bowel_n of_o compassion_n from_o the_o mean_a servant_n of_o god_n yea_o this_o be_v command_v even_o to_o the_o creature_n below_o we_o and_o yet_o for_o all_o this_o we_o must_v prefer_v the_o church_n before_o all_o other_o and_o if_o it_o shall_v so_o happen_v that_o charity_n can_v not_o be_v show_v unto_o both_o we_o ought_v to_o determine_v our_o respect_n and_o charity_n to_o the_o church_n and_o to_o suspend_v the_o act_n of_o it_o unto_o the_o other_o and_o must_v do_v so_o too_o in_o our_o charity_n of_o not_o offend_v or_o grieve_v the_o church_n unless_o some_o disproportion_n can_v be_v show_v in_o this_o from_o the_o other_o act_n of_o charity_n or_o some_o reason_n here_o to_o alter_v the_o case_n which_o i_o be_o very_o sure_a can_v this_o place_n alone_o if_o there_o be_v none_o other_o sufficient_o determine_v this_o case_n and_o that_o we_o be_v warrant_v also_o by_o the_o precedent_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n to_o act_v by_o this_o rule_n the_o action_n of_o those_o great_a man_n who_o life_n be_v there_o record_v for_o our_o imitation_n do_v show_v we_o the_o life_n of_o our_o bless_a saviour_n be_v a_o good_a example_n for_o we_o in_o this_o as_o well_o as_o in_o all_o other_o instance_n of_o duty_n that_o be_v incumbent_n on_o we_o we_o find_v he_o in_o every_o thing_n pay_v a_o mighty_a deference_n to_o the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n and_o studious_o avoid_v to_o give_v any_o displeasure_n or_o offence_n unto_o they_o and_o this_o in_o many_o thing_n which_o they_o themselves_o have_v introduce_v without_o any_o express_a warrant_n or_o command_n from_o god_n as_o be_v easy_a to_o show_v and_o have_v be_v by_o many_o learned_a man_n of_o late_a but_o there_o be_v one_o instance_n which_o come_v pretty_a well_o up_o to_o our_o present_a case_n and_o that_o be_v his_o pay_a tribute_n of_o which_o you_o have_v the_o story_n matth._n 17._o 27._o there_o be_v no_o doubt_n but_o by_o this_o he_o may_v give_v some_o offence_n in_o this_o loose_a notion_n of_o offence_n i._n e._n occasion_n some_o trouble_n in_o his_o follower_n by_o own_v himself_o a_o stranger_n and_o pay_v tribute_n as_o such_o nevertheless_o he_o choose_v to_o do_v that_o rather_o than_o to_o give_v any_o offence_n to_o the_o public_a notwithstanding_o that_o we_o offend_v they_o not_o etc._n etc._n whether_o the_o person_n he_o be_v so_o careful_a here_o not_o to_o offend_v be_v the_o roman_a government_n or_o the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n it_o be_v all_o one_o to_o our_o present_a case_n if_o it_o be_v the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n than_o we_o see_v he_o be_v more_o careful_a not_o to_o offend_v they_o than_o his_o own_o follower_n but_o if_o it_o be_v the_o government_n of_o the_o roman_n it_o conclude_v more_o strong_o for_o we_o and_o for_o our_o present_a case_n where_o the_o government_n be_v christian_n and_o that_o of_o the_o church_n and_o of_o the_o kingdom_n one_o and_o the_o same_o where_o we_o can_v offend_v the_o church_n but_o we_o must_v offend_v the_o government_n and_o civil_a power_n too_o under_o who_o protection_n and_o favour_n it_o be_v establish_v and_o who_o canon_n it_o have_v adopt_v
will_v suggest_v enough_o to_o he_o neither_o god_n nor_o religion_n can_v be_v so_o much_o concern_v in_o the_o one_o as_o in_o the_o other_o nor_o can_v the_o soul_n of_o man_n or_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o world_n be_v so_o much_o endanger_v by_o private_a offence_n as_o by_o those_o against_o the_o public_a church_n man_n guilt_n be_v high_a and_o more_o injurious_a to_o themselves_o and_o the_o effect_n be_v more_o dangerous_a and_o mischievous_a to_o other_o which_o be_v another_o good_a consideration_n to_o sway_v man_n in_o this_o case_n for_o a_o wise_a man_n will_v weigh_v the_o probable_a effect_n of_o what_o he_o do_v and_o where_o a_o honest_a and_o uninstruct_v man_n be_v uncertain_a whether_o he_o may_v do_v or_o forbear_v such_o thing_n and_o after_o his_o enquiry_n remain_v scrupulous_a and_o unresolved_a it_o be_v a_o good_a mean_n to_o determine_v himself_o by_o to_o consider_v as_o well_o as_o he_o can_v what_o the_o effect_n and_o consequence_n of_o what_o he_o be_v go_v to_o do_v or_o forbear_v in_o all_o likelihood_n will_v be_v and_o that_o which_o he_o see_v attend_v with_o a_o train_n of_o the_o worse_o and_o more_o mischievous_a consequence_n disargue_v itself_o and_o pronounce_v its_o own_o condemnation_n and_o by_o these_o effect_n he_o may_v make_v as_o true_a a_o difference_n as_o if_o the_o plain_a essence_n and_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n be_v naked_a unto_o his_o view_n 3._o offend_a the_o church_n of_o god_n be_v offend_v those_o to_o who_o we_o owe_v more_o duty_n than_o we_o do_v unto_o any_o private_a party_n whatsoever_o i_o confess_v charity_n and_o respect_n and_o all_o the_o possible_a ininstance_n of_o it_o we_o owe_v to_o every_o private_a person_n with_o who_o we_o converse_v and_o to_o who_o we_o be_v any_o way_n relate_v and_o god_n have_v make_v all_o this_o matter_n of_o plain_a duty_n but_o it_o be_v a_o great_a deal_n more_o than_o this_o that_o we_o owe_v those_o that_o be_v over_o we_o in_o the_o lord_n and_o his_o whole_a church_n even_o as_o much_o more_o as_o we_o owe_v of_o deference_n and_o duty_n of_o obedience_n and_o submission_n to_o a_o father_n and_o a_o governor_n and_o those_o that_o god_n and_o nature_n have_v set_v above_o we_o above_o that_o common_a charity_n and_o duty_n that_o we_o be_v to_o owe_v to_o one_o that_o be_v in_o all_o respect_v our_o equal_a the_o law_n of_o all_o nation_n consider_v we_o under_o great_a obligation_n to_o our_o parent_n and_o to_o our_o country_n than_o to_o any_o single_a person_n whatsoever_o and_o make_v injure_v of_o a_o father_n or_o our_o prince_n more_o heinous_a than_o do_v the_o same_o to_o a_o common_a person_n upon_o the_o same_o level_n with_o we_o and_o i_o be_o sure_a the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o religion_n too_o consider_v we_o as_o member_n of_o the_o church_n and_o call_v the_o governor_n of_o it_o our_o father_n in_o christ_n let_v we_o know_v what_o great_a duty_n we_o owe_v to_o they_o and_o of_o how_o much_o great_a guilt_n it_o must_v needs_o be_v to_o offend_v they_o than_o our_o fellow-christian_n or_o any_o party_n in_o which_o we_o can_v be_v engage_v there_o be_v a_o complication_n of_o sin_n and_o guilt_n in_o the_o one_o when_o there_o be_v but_o the_o breach_n of_o common_a charity_n in_o the_o other_o i_o deny_v not_o but_o man_n may_v join_v themselves_o to_o such_o a_o party_n and_o make_v another_o man_n their_o guide_n and_o commit_v themselves_o to_o the_o conduct_n of_o he_o and_o thereby_o oblige_v themselves_o to_o more_o duty_n than_o they_o owe_v to_o other_o but_o this_o be_v duty_n of_o their_o own_o choice_n and_o the_o failure_n in_o it_o a_o sin_n of_o their_o own_o cause_v and_o do_v no_o more_o supercede_v their_o original_n and_o primer_n obligation_n which_o god_n and_o nature_n have_v lay_v on_o they_o than_o the_o be_v faithful_a to_o a_o company_n of_o banditi_n will_v excuse_v disloyalty_n to_o our_o prince_n and_o country_n or_o than_o give_v a_o gift_n to_o the_o corban_n among_o the_o jew_n will_v atone_v undutifulness_n to_o a_o want_a parent_n however_o man_n may_v divide_v themselves_o from_o the_o church_n of_o which_o providence_n and_o religion_n have_v make_v they_o member_n and_o enter_v themselves_o into_o separate_a faction_n yet_o they_o must_v remember_v that_o they_o owe_v duty_n to_o it_o still_o that_o no_o voluntary_a and_o second_o compact_n of_o their_o own_o can_v dissolve_v their_o primitive_a obligation_n or_o their_o care_n to_o continue_v faithful_a to_o the_o one_o expiate_v their_o regardless_o offend_v of_o the_o other_o for_o they_o do_v owe_v more_o duty_n to_o the_o one_o than_o to_o the_o other_o what_o they_o pretend_v to_o owe_v to_o one_o be_v contract_v by_o themselves_o but_o what_o they_o owe_v to_o the_o other_o be_v bind_v on_o they_o by_o the_o sacred_a and_o strong_a tie_n of_o religion_n and_o providence_n and_o this_o be_v another_o good_a argument_n to_o determine_v a_o scrupulous_a person_n in_o this_o matter_n if_o he_o be_v in_o doubt_n which_o he_o have_v best_a to_o offend_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n or_o his_o own_o private_a party_n and_o know_v not_o by_o what_o consideration_n to_o determine_v his_o resolution_n let_v he_o in_o god_n name_n consider_v to_o which_o he_o owe_v most_o what_o the_o law_n of_o god_n make_v his_o duty_n to_o the_o one_o more_o than_o to_o the_o other_o and_o then_o if_o he_o be_v honest_a and_o single-eyed_n he_o will_v soon_o be_v able_a to_o resolve_v his_o scruple_n and_o know_v what_o choice_n he_o ought_v to_o make_v 4._o offend_a the_o church_n of_o god_n be_v true_o a_o grievous_a scandal_n and_o a_o offence_n in_o the_o true_a gospel-notion_n of_o it_o but_o the_o offend_a particular_a person_n may_v possible_o not_o be_v so_o that_o which_o i_o mean_v be_v this_o the_o church_n of_o god_n we_o may_v be_v sure_o will_v not_o take_v offence_n but_o upon_o just_a reason_n but_o other_o man_n may_v call_v that_o a_o offence_n to_o they_o which_o real_o be_v not_o if_o we_o do_v that_o which_o grieve_v and_o injure_v the_o whole_a church_n than_o we_o do_v proper_o offend_v and_o be_v guilty_a of_o scandal_n in_o the_o true_a notion_n of_o it_o but_o if_o we_o only_o offend_v some_o private_a person_n of_o our_o own_o party_n they_o may_v call_v that_o a_o offence_n which_o be_v not_o so_o for_o every_o grieve_n and_o offend_v of_o another_o in_o that_o sense_n of_o the_o word_n be_v not_o a_o formal_a scandal_n as_o i_o hint_v before_o and_o have_v be_v since_o this_o make_v clear_a by_o a_o better_a pen._n and_o to_o apply_v this_o to_o our_o present_a matter_n in_o debate_n this_o be_v real_o so_o in_o our_o case_n of_o conformity_n the_o refusal_n of_o it_o and_o separate_v ourselves_o from_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n be_v true_o that_o give_v of_o offence_n which_o the_o gospel_n condemn_v it_o be_v lay_v a_o snare_n in_o the_o way_n of_o man_n entrap_a they_o into_o that_o damnable_a sin_n of_o schism_n it_o be_v a_o obstruct_v the_o effect_n of_o religion_n and_o a_o direct_a hindrance_n of_o that_o concord_n and_o love_n that_o unanimity_n and_o peace_n that_o it_o so_o strict_o call_v for_o among_o christian_n and_o design_n to_o render_v the_o world_n happy_a by_o but_o you_o may_v challenge_v any_o dissent_v person_n to_o show_v how_o anger_v some_o private_a person_n and_o a_o single_a party_n of_o schismatic_n can_v be_v a_o scandal_n to_o they_o or_o to_o name_v any_o one_o sin_n that_o it_o be_v temptation_n to_o they_o to_o commit_v and_o to_o instance_n that_o prejudice_n or_o disservice_n that_o it_o do_v to_o christian_a religion_n it_o be_v possible_a i_o must_v confess_v that_o grief_n and_o anger_n at_o such_o a_o person_n conformity_n may_v irritate_fw-la and_o provoke_v man_n to_o some_o thing_n that_o be_v evil_a but_o then_o i_o say_v that_o this_o be_v the_o fault_n of_o they_o that_o be_v angry_a and_o not_o he_o with_o who_o they_o be_v causeless_o offend_v it_o may_v be_v take_v a_o offence_n on_o their_o part_n but_o not_o give_v it_o by_o he_o for_o if_o we_o must_v call_v every_o thing_n a_o offence_n that_o any_o man_n do_v pervert_v into_o a_o occasion_n of_o evil_n there_o will_v scarce_o any_o no_o not_o the_o best_a action_n of_o man_n escape_v that_o denomination_n this_o methinks_v be_v a_o very_a material_a consideration_n and_o aught_o always_o to_o sway_v with_o man_n in_o this_o case_n and_o if_o man_n can_v not_o determine_v themselves_o in_o it_o by_o other_o reason_n yet_o they_o may_v by_o this_o they_o shall_v consider_v which_o be_v most_o likely_a to_o judge_v true_a what_o be_v scandal_n and_o what_o be_v not_o and_o when_o both_o side_n say_v they_o be_v offend_v
sin_n be_v not_o thus_o deadly_a for_o in_o many_o thing_n we_o offend_v all_o and_o as_o for_o those_o sin_n which_o the_o regenerate_v commit_v through_o humane_a frailty_n only_o they_o be_v not_o thereby_o put_v into_o a_o state_n of_o damnation_n and_o though_o all_o sin_n be_v in_o its_o own_o nature_n deadly_a or_o damnable_a yet_o through_o the_o mercy_n of_o god_n and_o the_o merit_n of_o christ_n sin_n of_o mere_a infirmity_n be_v not_o impute_v to_o true_a believer_n and_o therefore_o not_o deadly_a to_o they_o but_o there_o be_v some_o sin_n so_o heinous_a that_o he_o who_o commit_v they_o be_v thereby_o put_v into_o a_o damnable_a state_n and_o till_o he_o recover_v himself_o by_o true_a repentance_n and_o actual_a reformation_n he_o can_v upon_o any_o good_a ground_n promise_n to_o himself_o that_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n do_v not_o abide_v upon_o he_o and_o it_o be_v of_o such_o sin_n as_o these_o that_o this_o passage_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v as_o appear_v by_o deadly_a sin_n be_v add_v to_o fornication_n from_o fornication_n and_o all_o other_o deadly_a sin_n good_a lord_n deliver_v we_o so_o that_o this_o petition_n seem_v to_o be_v of_o the_o same_o nature_n with_o that_o of_o the_o psalmist_n keep_v back_o thy_o servant_n also_o from_o presumptuous_a sin_n let_v not_o they_o have_v dominion_n over_o i_o then_o shall_v i_o be_v upright_o and_o i_o shall_v be_v innocent_a from_o the_o great_a transgression_n psal_n 19_o 13._o whereas_o therefore_o these_o word_n of_o the_o litany_n seem_v to_o suppose_v that_o some_o sin_n be_v not_o deadly_a we_o shall_v be_v very_o unjust_a to_o make_v such_o a_o construction_n of_o they_o as_o if_o they_o employ_v that_o some_o sin_n be_v in_o their_o own_o nature_n venial_a and_o so_o slight_a that_o they_o will_v be_v forgive_v without_o any_o consideration_n for_o as_o i_o have_v show_v we_o may_v hold_v that_o distinction_n which_o the_o word_n suppose_v and_o yet_o retain_v that_o protestant_a doctrine_n that_o no_o sin_n be_v forgive_v but_o through_o the_o mercy_n of_o god_n and_o the_o merit_n and_o mediation_n of_o christ_n again_o some_o be_v offend_v with_o our_o pray_n against_o sudden_a death_n but_o why_o shall_v we_o not_o by_o sudden_a death_n understand_v our_o be_v take_v out_o of_o this_o world_n when_o we_o be_v not_o fit_a to_o die_v for_o sometime_o a_o thing_n be_v say_v to_o be_v sudden_a to_o we_o when_o we_o be_v not_o prepare_v for_o it_o and_o in_o this_o sense_n can_v any_o good_a christian_a find_v fault_n with_o the_o petition_n but_o suppose_v that_o by_o sudden_a death_n we_o mean_v what_o be_v common_o understand_v by_o it_o that_o be_v a_o death_n of_o which_o a_o man_n have_v not_o the_o least_o warning_n by_o sickness_n be_v there_o not_o reason_n why_o even_o good_a man_n may_v desire_v not_o to_o die_v sudden_o may_v they_o not_o when_o they_o find_v themselves_o draw_v towards_o their_o end_n by_o their_o good_a instruction_n and_o admonition_n make_v impression_n upon_o their_o friend_n companion_n and_o relation_n to_o the_o better_n of_o they_o may_v not_o their_o counsel_n be_v more_o effectual_a with_o they_o than_o ever_o they_o be_v before_o and_o be_v it_o not_o reasonable_a to_o believe_v they_o will_v be_v so_o as_o for_o themselves_o may_v not_o the_o warning_n they_o have_v of_o approach_v death_n be_v improve_v to_o make_v they_o more_o fit_a to_o die_v than_o they_o be_v in_o their_o perfect_a health_n in_o a_o word_n he_o that_o think_v himself_o to_o have_v sufficient_o perfect_v holiness_n in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n and_o not_o to_o stand_v in_o need_n of_o those_o act_n of_o self-examination_n humiliation_n and_o devotion_n by_o which_o good_a man_n improve_v the_o warning_n of_o death_n which_o mortal_a sickness_n or_o extreme_a age_n give_v they_o let_v he_o suspend_v his_o act_n and_o refuse_v to_o join_v with_o we_o when_o we_o pray_v god_n to_o deliver_v we_o from_o sudden_a death_n there_o be_v yet_o another_o objection_n which_o i_o shall_v not_o have_v name_v but_o that_o some_o of_o the_o dissenter_n who_o seem_v to_o understand_v very_o little_a of_o religion_n by_o make_v it_o have_v it_o often_o in_o their_o mouth_n that_o be_v when_o we_o pray_v to_o be_v deliver_v by_o the_o mystery_n of_o christ_n holy_a incarnation_n etc._n etc._n by_o his_o agony_n and_o bloody_a sweat_n by_o his_o cross_n and_o passion_n etc._n etc._n and_o by_o the_o come_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n they_o say_v some_o of_o they_o that_o this_o be_v swear_v some_o that_o it_o be_v conjure_v and_o i_o know_v not_o what_o for_o which_o saying_n favour_v of_o great_a profaneness_n they_o ought_v to_o be_v severe_o rebuke_v and_o that_o be_v all_o the_o answer_n they_o shall_v have_v be_v it_o not_o that_o some_o of_o they_o may_v be_v gross_o ignorant_a of_o the_o true_a sense_n of_o these_o petition_n and_o therefore_o i_o say_v that_o they_o may_v easy_o suppose_v if_o they_o will_v give_v their_o mind_n to_o it_o that_o we_o pray_v to_o be_v deliver_v through_o the_o save_v efficacy_n of_o christ_n incarnation_n and_o passion_n etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o i_o do_v not_o take_v this_o to_o be_v the_o principal_a meaning_n or_o that_o which_o be_v intend_v for_o i_o conceive_v that_o to_o be_v this_o that_o when_o we_o say_v by_o the_o mystery_n of_o thy_o holy_a incarnation_n and_o by_o thy_o cross_n and_o passion_n etc._n etc._n good_a lord_n deliver_v we_o we_o implore_v christ_n who_o have_v already_o show_v such_o inestimable_a goodness_n towards_o we_o by_o take_v our_o nature_n to_o his_o divinity_n to_o die_v upon_o the_o cross_n to_o be_v bury_v to_o rise_v again_o to_o ascend_v into_o heaven_n and_o there_o to_o intercede_v with_o the_o father_n for_o we_o and_o by_o send_v the_o holy_a ghost_n to_o qualify_v the_o apostle_n for_o their_o great_a work_n of_o carry_v the_o word_n of_o salvation_n into_o the_o world_n i_o say_v we_o implore_v he_o who_o have_v already_o do_v such_o mighty_a thing_n for_o our_o salvation_n and_o we_o plead_v with_o he_o by_o that_o goodness_n which_o he_o have_v already_o give_v we_o such_o great_a demonstration_n of_o by_o those_o wonder_n of_o mercy_n that_o he_o have_v wrought_v for_o we_o that_o he_o will_v now_o go_v on_o to_o deliver_v we_o by_o his_o powerful_a grace_n from_o these_o evil_n which_o we_o pray_v against_o and_o this_o be_v so_o reasonable_a so_o devout_a and_o affectionate_a so_o humble_a and_o thankful_a a_o way_n of_o pray_v that_o i_o be_o sorry_a that_o any_o who_o call_v themselves_o believer_n shall_v be_v so_o ignorant_a as_o not_o to_o understand_v it_o or_o so_o profane_a and_o unlike_a what_o they_o pretend_v to_o be_v as_o to_o deride_v it_o though_o god_n do_v not_o need_v to_o be_v put_v in_o mind_n of_o his_o former_a benefit_n towards_o we_o yet_o it_o be_v fit_a for_o we_o to_o mention_v they_o in_o our_o most_o earnest_a prayer_n not_o only_o because_o we_o be_v to_o make_v a_o grateful_a acknowledgement_n of_o they_o to_o he_o but_o likewise_o because_o by_o this_o mean_v we_o encourage_v ourselves_o to_o ask_v in_o faith_n since_o he_o who_o unasked_a have_v do_v such_o great_a thing_n for_o we_o will_v not_o fail_v upon_o our_o earnest_n and_o humble_a prayer_n which_o himself_o also_o have_v require_v to_o give_v we_o all_o other_o good_a thing_n that_o we_o need_v and_o to_o deliver_v we_o from_o all_o real_a evil_n of_o which_o we_o be_v in_o danger_n i_o proceed_v next_o to_o consider_v whether_o there_o be_v any_o just_a cause_n to_o find_v fault_n with_o the_o read_n of_o the_o apocryphal_a lesson_n in_o our_o church_n and_o 1._o it_o must_v be_v acknowledge_v by_o those_o who_o allow_v the_o usefulness_n of_o sermon_n and_o catechise_n in_o the_o church_n that_o those_o chapter_n may_v be_v read_v in_o the_o church_n though_o they_o be_v not_o divine_o inspire_v write_n since_o no_o sober_a man_n will_v pretend_v that_o the_o minister_n preach_v or_o catechise_n by_o inspiration_n but_o if_o other_o good_a instruction_n may_v be_v read_v or_o recite_v in_o the_o church_n beside_o the_o word_n of_o god_n itself_o why_o may_v not_o some_o lesson_n out_o of_o the_o apocryphal_a book_n be_v read_v which_o contain_v excellent_a rule_n of_o good_a life_n and_o exhortation_n and_o encouragement_n to_o virtue_n and_o piety_n especial_o since_o those_o writing_n be_v great_o esteem_v by_o the_o church_n in_o its_o pure_a age_n when_o they_o and_o other_o humane_a write_n be_v also_o public_o read_v as_o well_o as_o the_o holy_a scripture_n 2._o if_o it_o be_v say_v that_o those_o chapter_n of_o canonical_a scripture_n which_o be_v omit_v in_o the_o calendar_n will_v be_v more_o profitable_o read_v instead_o of_o the_o apocryphal_a chapter_n it_o ought_v
that_o a_o church_n be_v guilty_a of_o sin_n in_o agree_v in_o some_o indifferent_a thing_n with_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n that_o i_o must_v needs_o profess_v i_o have_v often_o wonder_v how_o this_o shall_v become_v a_o question_n see_v whatsoever_o be_v of_o a_o indifferent_a nature_n as_o it_o be_v not_o command_v so_o neither_o be_v it_o forbid_v by_o any_o moral_a or_o positive_a law_n and_o where_o there_o be_v no_o law_n the_o apostle_n say_v there_o be_v no_o transgression_n sin_n be_v according_a to_o his_o definition_n the_o transgression_n of_o the_o law_n and_o whereas_o certain_a circumstance_n will_v make_v thing_n that_o in_o themselves_o be_v neither_o duty_n nor_o sin_n to_o be_v either_o duty_n or_o sin_n and_o to_o fall_v by_o consequence_n under_o some_o divine_a command_n or_o prohibition_n i_o have_v admire_v how_o this_o circumstance_n of_o a_o indifferent_a thing_n be_v being_n use_v by_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n can_v be_v think_v to_o alter_v the_o nature_n of_o that_o thing_n and_o make_v it_o cease_v to_o be_v indifferent_a and_o become_v sinful_a but_o that_o it_o do_v so_o be_v endeavour_v to_o be_v prove_v by_o that_o general_a prohibition_n to_o the_o israelite_n of_o imitate_v the_o do_n of_o the_o egyptian_n and_o canaanite_n in_o those_o word_n leu._n 18._o 2._o after_o the_o do_n of_o the_o land_n of_o egypt_n wherein_o you_o dwell_v shall_v you_o not_o do_v and_o after_o the_o do_n of_o the_o land_n of_o canaan_n whither_o i_o bring_v you_o shall_v you_o not_o do_v neither_o shall_v you_o walk_v in_o their_o ordinance_n this_o place_n divers_a of_o the_o defender_n of_o nonconformity_n have_v lay_v great_a weight_n upon_o as_o a_o proof_n of_o the_o sinfulness_n of_o symbolise_v with_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n even_o in_o indifferent_a thing_n but_o i_o choose_v to_o forbear_v the_o name_v of_o any_o who_o arguing_n i_o purpose_v to_o inquire_v into_o because_o i_o will_v prevent_v if_o it_o be_v possible_a the_o least_o suspicion_n in_o the_o reader_n that_o i_o design_n in_o this_o performance_n to_o expose_v any_o man_n weakness_n in_o particular_a or_o that_o i_o be_o therein_o act_v by_o any_o personal_a pique_n now_o then_o as_o to_o the_o text_n now_o cite_v not_o to_o insist_v upon_o the_o fallaciousness_n of_o argue_v without_o mighty_a caution_n from_o law_n give_v by_o moses_n to_o the_o israelite_n so_o as_o to_o infer_v the_o obligation_n of_o christian_n who_o be_v under_o a_o dispensation_n so_o different_a from_o they_o and_o in_o circumstance_n so_o vast_o differ_v from_o those_o they_o be_v in_o i_o say_v not_o to_o insist_v upon_o the_o fallaciousness_n of_o this_o way_n of_o argue_v which_o all_o consider_a person_n must_v needs_o be_v aware_a of_o if_o this_o general_a prohibition_n be_v not_o at_o all_o to_o be_v limit_v than_o it_o will_v follow_v from_o thence_o that_o the_o israelite_n may_v have_v no_o usage_n whatsoever_o in_o common_a with_o the_o egyptian_n or_o canaanite_n and_o therefore_o in_o as_o general_a term_n as_o the_o prohibition_n run_v our_o brethren_n must_v needs_o acknowledge_v that_o there_o be_v a_o restriction_n therein_o intend_v it_o be_v the_o most_o absurd_a thing_n to_o imagine_v that_o the_o israelite_n be_v so_o bind_v up_o by_o god_n as_o to_o be_v oblige_v to_o a_o unlikeness_n to_o those_o people_n in_o all_o their_o action_n for_o as_o the_o apostle_n say_v of_o the_o christian_n if_o they_o be_v never_o to_o company_n with_o wicked_a man_n they_o must_v needs_o go_v out_o of_o the_o world_n we_o may_v say_v of_o the_o israelite_n in_o reference_n to_o this_o case_n of_o they_o they_o then_o must_v needs_o have_v go_v out_o of_o the_o world_n now_o if_o this_o general_a prohibition_n after_o their_o do_n you_o shall_v not_o do_v be_v to_o be_v limit_v and_o restrain_v what_o way_n have_v we_o to_o do_v it_o but_o by_o consider_v the_o context_n and_o confine_v the_o restriction_n to_o those_o particular_n prohibit_v in_o the_o follow_a verse_n but_o i_o need_v not_o show_v that_o the_o particular_n forbid_v in_o all_o these_o viz._n from_o v._n 5_o to_o the_o 24_o be_v not_o thing_n of_o a_o indifferent_a nature_n but_o incestuous_a copulation_n and_o other_o abominable_a act_n of_o uncleanness_n and_o god_n do_v express_o enough_o thus_o restrain_v that_o general_a prohibition_n in_o the_o 24_o v._o in_o these_o word_n defile_v not_o yourselves_o in_o any_o of_o these_o thing_n for_o in_o all_o these_o the_o nation_n be_v defile_v which_o i_o cast_v out_o before_o you_o but_o those_o that_o allege_v this_o text_n to_o the_o foresay_a purpose_n will_v not_o hear_v of_o the_o general_a proposition_n be_v thus_o limit_v by_o the_o context_n as_o apparent_a as_o it_o be_v that_o it_o necessary_o must_v because_o say_v they_o we_o find_v that_o god_n forbid_v the_o israelite_n in_o other_o place_n to_o imitate_v heathen_n in_o thing_n of_o a_o indifferent_a and_o innocent_a nature_n to_o this_o i_o answer_v first_o that_o suppose_v this_o be_v so_o it_o do_v not_o from_o thence_o follow_v that_o god_n intend_v to_o forbid_v such_o imitation_n in_o this_o place_n the_o contrary_a be_v so_o manifest_a as_o we_o have_v see_v but_o second_o that_o god_n have_v any_o where_o prohibit_v the_o israelite_n to_o symbolize_v with_o heathen_n in_o thing_n of_o a_o mere_a indifferent_a and_o innocent_a nature_n i_o mean_v that_o he_o have_v make_v it_o unlawful_a to_o they_o to_o observe_v any_o such_o custom_n of_o the_o heathen_n mere_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o their_o be_v like_o they_o be_v a_o very_a great_a mistake_n which_o will_v appear_v by_o consider_v those_o place_n which_o be_v produce_v for_o it_o one_o be_v deut._n 14._o 1._o you_o shall_v not_o cut_v yourselves_o nor_o make_v any_o baldness_n between_o your_o eye_n for_o the_o dead_a now_o as_o to_o the_o former_a of_o these_o prohibit_v thing_n who_o see_v not_o that_o it_o be_v unnatural_a and_o therefore_o not_o indifferent_a and_o as_o to_o the_o latter_a viz._n the_o disfigure_v of_o themselves_o by_o cut_v off_o their_o kickshaw_n this_o be_v not_o mere_o a_o indifferent_a thing_n neither_o it_o be_v a_o custom_n at_o funeral_n much_o disbecoming_a the_o people_n of_o god_n which_o will_v make_v they_o look_v as_o if_o they_o sorrow_v for_o the_o dead_a as_o man_n without_o hope_n another_o place_n insist_v upon_o for_o the_o same_o purpose_n be_v leu._n 19_o 19_o thou_o shall_v not_o let_v thy_o cattle-gender_n with_o a_o divers_a kind_n thou_o shall_v not_o sow_v thy_o ground_n with_o mingle_a seed_n nor_o shall_v a_o garment_n of_o linen_n and_o woollen_a come_v upon_o thou_o now_o these_o three_o it_o be_v say_v be_v thing_n of_o so_o indifferent_a a_o nature_n that_o none_o can_v be_v more_o indifferent_a i_o answer_v it_o be_v ready_o grant_v but_o where_o be_v it_o say_v that_o these_o thing_n be_v forbid_v because_o the_o heathen_n use_v they_o maimonides_n indeed_o as_o i_o learn_v from_o grotius_n say_v that_o the_o egyptian_n use_v these_o mixture_n of_o seed_n and_o of_o linen_n and_o woollen_a in_o many_o of_o their_o magical_a exploit_n but_o it_o be_v universal_o acknowledge_v that_o these_o thing_n among_o many_o other_o be_v forbid_v to_o the_o jew_n as_o mystical_a instruction_n in_o moral_a duty_n i_o have_v find_v no_o other_o text_n make_v use_v of_o to_o prove_v mere_a indifferent_a thing_n to_o have_v be_v forbid_v the_o israelite_n only_o in_o regard_n of_o heathen_n use_v they_o which_o make_v more_o for_o this_o purpose_n than_o these_o two_o do_v nor_o hardly_o another_o that_o make_v so_o much_o but_o if_o there_o be_v never_o so_o many_o it_o be_v not_o worth_a our_o while_n to_o concern_v ourselves_o now_o with_o they_o because_o though_o we_o shall_v suppose_v a_o great_a number_n of_o instance_n of_o such_o thing_n as_o be_v forbid_v those_o people_n for_o no_o other_o reason_n but_o because_o the_o egyptian_n or_o canaanites_n use_v they_o yet_o this_o will_v signify_v nothing_o to_o the_o prove_v our_o church_n symbolise_v with_o that_o of_o rome_n in_o indifferent_a thing_n to_o be_v unlawful_a because_o there_o be_v not_o the_o like_a reason_n why_o in_o such_o thing_n we_o may_v not_o symbolize_v with_o papist_n that_o there_o be_v why_o the_o jew_n shall_v be_v forbid_v to_o symbolize_v in_o such_o with_o those_o heathen_n for_o there_o can_v not_o be_v too_o great_a a_o distance_n and_o unlikeness_n between_o those_o people_n and_o these_o in_o their_o usage_n in_o regard_n of_o their_o strange_o vehement_a inclination_n to_o their_o superstitious_a and_o idolatrous_a practice_n and_o upon_o this_o account_n the_o distance_n be_v make_v wide_o as_o our_o brethren_n themselves_o will_v acknowledge_v between_o the_o jew_n and_o the_o pagan_n than_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v between_o
absolve_v by_o commission_n from_o god_n more_o than_o declarative_o i_o mean_v i_o know_v no_o one_o that_o make_v the_o priest_n absolution_n to_o be_v other_o in_o effect_n than_o declarative_a though_o it_o signify_v more_o than_o if_o pronounce_v by_o a_o layman_n nor_o your_o four_o that_o the_o natural_a body_n and_o blood_n of_o christ_n be_v in_o the_o element_n of_o bread_n and_o wine_n real_o our_o church-catechism_n say_v that_o the_o body_n and_o blood_n of_o christ_n be_v very_o and_o indeed_o take_v and_o receive_v by_o the_o faithful_a in_o the_o lord_n supper_n and_o i_o know_v no_o divine_a of_o we_o that_o explain_v this_o otherwise_o than_o thus_o that_o believer_n feed_v on_o the_o body_n and_o blood_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o lord_n supper_n as_o true_o and_o real_o as_o they_o do_v on_o the_o element_n but_o not_o after_o a_o corporal_a and_o carnal_a manner_n but_o after_o a_o spiritual_a viz._n by_o apply_v to_o themselves_o the_o benefit_n of_o christ_n death_n by_o faith_n and_o i_o presume_v you_o will_v neither_o assert_v this_o to_o be_v popish_a doctrine_n nor_o deny_v that_o it_o be_v true_a doctrine_n nor_o do_v i_o know_v any_o one_o of_o our_o divine_n that_o hold_v your_o five_o proposition_n for_o it_o may_v not_o be_v call_v a_o doctrine_n viz._n that_o our_o conformable_a congregation_n be_v no_o better_a than_o conventicle_n where_o the_o minister_n read_v not_o the_o communion_n service_n at_o the_o altar_n which_o you_o assert_v to_o be_v tantamount_n to_o the_o allow_v of_o prayer_n in_o a_o unknown_a tongue_n because_o in_o multitude_n of_o congregation_n the_o people_n can_v hear_v a_o line_n from_o he_o i_o say_v i_o know_v of_o no_o divine_a of_o our_o church_n that_o ever_o assert_v that_o such_o congregation_n as_o the_o forementioned_a be_v no_o better_o than_o conventicle_n there_o be_v indeed_o late_o a_o foolish_a book_n publish_v to_o prove_v they_o conventicle_n but_o it_o be_v strong_o conjecture_v that_o this_o book_n be_v write_v by_o a_o certain_a layman_n and_o what_o church_n he_o be_v of_o i_o can_v say_v nor_o be_v it_o a_o pin_n matter_n to_o know_v but_o i_o may_v as_o much_o suspect_v he_o to_o be_v a_o protestant_a dissenter_n as_o a_o popish_a upon_o the_o score_n of_o that_o his_o position_n it_o be_v nothing_o of_o kin_n to_o the_o allow_v of_o prayer_n in_o a_o unknown_a tongue_n for_o as_o there_o be_v not_o one_o of_o your_o multitude_n of_o congregation_n wherein_o the_o people_n can_v hear_v a_o line_n from_o he_o that_o read_v at_o the_o communion_n table_n except_o you_o mean_v wherein_o every_o one_o of_o the_o people_n can_v for_o i_o doubt_v not_o the_o major_a part_n can_v in_o all_o where_o the_o minister_n have_v a_o voice_n to_o be_v well_o hear_v from_o the_o pulpit_n so_o all_o that_o be_v read_v be_v know_v before_o to_o those_o who_o be_v not_o stranger_n to_o our_o prayer_n or_o at_o least_o they_o may_v have_v book_n to_o enable_v they_o to_o go_v along_o with_o the_o minister_n whether_o they_o can_v or_o can_v hear_v distinct_o one_o sentence_n from_o he_o nor_o do_v i_o know_v any_o one_o of_o our_o divine_n that_o have_v ever_o teach_v your_o 6_o doctrine_n that_o whole_a christ_n be_v under_o each_o element_n which_o you_o intimate_v be_v the_o only_a foundation_n on_o which_o the_o sacrilegious_a romish_a practice_n stand_v but_o if_o i_o can_v believe_v that_o doctrine_n to_o be_v true_a i_o shall_v notwithstanding_o judge_v it_o a_o intolerable_a thing_n to_o refuse_v the_o cup_n to_o the_o laity_n against_o the_o express_a institution_n of_o our_o lord_n nor_o know_v i_o any_o divine_a of_o ou_fw-fr church_n guilty_a of_o the_o seven_o particular_a of_o your_o charge_n viz._n that_o there_o be_v those_o who_o interpret_v the_o ten_o commandment_n so_o as_o that_o he_o who_o will_v ever_o be_v save_v must_v do_v a_o great_a many_o work_n of_o supererogation_n and_o if_o i_o do_v know_v any_o one_o that_o so_o interpret_v the_o commandment_n as_o to_o make_v any_o one_o such_o work_n necessary_a to_o salvation_n i_o will_v not_o call_v he_o a_o papist_n for_o it_o but_o a_o ignoramus_n who_o understand_v not_o the_o word_n supererogation_n nor_o know_v i_o any_o one_o that_o teach_v original_a sin_n thereby_o understand_v corruption_n of_o nature_n to_o be_v rather_o our_o misfortune_n than_o our_o fault_n which_o be_v your_o 8_o doctrine_n nor_o consequent_o that_o concupiscence_n be_v no_o sin_n which_o be_v your_o 9th_o nor_o your_o 10_o that_o man_n have_v a_o power_n in_o his_o own_o will_n to_o choose_v and_o do_v what_o be_v spiritual_o good_a i._n e._n without_o the_o assistence_n of_o divine_a grace_n and_o with_o this_o assistence_n i_o hope_v you_o dissenter_n do_v all_o hold_v it_o nor_o know_v i_o any_o one_o of_o our_o divine_n who_o teach_v that_o we_o be_v not_o account_v righteous_a before_o god_n or_o justify_v only_o for_o the_o merit_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v that_o there_o be_v any_o other_o meritorious_a cause_n of_o our_o justification_n beside_o the_o active_a and_o passive_a obedience_n of_o christ_n nor_o your_o 11_o that_o we_o be_v not_o justify_v by_o faith_n alone_o understanding_n by_o faith_n not_o a_o dead_a but_o a_o live_a faith_n that_o purefy_v the_o heart_n and_o work_n by_o love_n nor_o your_o 12_o that_o good_a work_n must_v go_v before_o justification_n and_o be_v not_o the_o fruit_n of_o faith_n but_o faith_n itself_o for_o i_o know_v no_o one_o of_o our_o church_n that_o assert_n more_o than_o this_o that_o a_o sincere_a resolution_n to_o obey_v all_o god_n commandment_n must_v in_o order_n of_o nature_n go_v before_o justification_n nor_o your_o 13_o that_o there_o be_v no_o eternal_a predestination_n of_o person_n to_o life_n and_o the_o mean_n tend_v thereunto_o i_o know_v of_o none_o of_o our_o church_n that_o have_v ever_o teach_v this_o doctrine_n as_o you_o have_v express_v it_o nor_o any_o worse_a than_o this_o that_o eternal_a predestination_n to_o life_n be_v not_o irrespective_a or_o absolute_a which_o no_o article_n of_o our_o church_n say_v it_o be_v and_o abundance_n of_o you_o dissenter_n hold_v this_o doctrine_n as_o well_o as_o church_n of_o england_n man_n and_o thus_o have_v i_o go_v over_o all_o the_o doctrine_n contradictory_n to_o the_o 39_o article_n teach_v by_o your_o ecclesia_fw-la loquens_fw-la you_o i_o say_v for_o she_o be_v not_o we_o and_o i_o declare_v again_o that_o i_o know_v of_o no_o divine_a of_o our_o church_n that_o teach_v or_o hold_v such_o doctrine_n if_o you_o know_v any_o as_o one_o will_v think_v you_o do_v very_o many_o i_o pray_v name_n they_o you_o say_v we_o spare_v any_o name_n in_o these_o case_n but_o be_v you_o entreat_v not_o to_o spare_v they_o but_o if_o you_o will_v be_v prevail_v with_o we_o shall_v very_o shrewd_o guess_v at_o the_o reason_n sir_n to_o deal_v free_o with_o you_o i_o can_v but_o wonder_n at_o your_o adventure_n into_o the_o world_n this_o other_o celeusma_n since_o the_o author_n of_o the_o former_a have_v so_o ill_a success_n and_o must_v needs_o have_v repent_v he_o hearty_o of_o that_o undertake_n all_o that_o have_v considerative_o read_v his_o answerer_n i_o be_o confident_a be_v convince_v that_o after_o a_o great_a cry_n little_a wool_n appear_v or_o rather_o none_o at_o all_o nor_o can_v such_o be_v ignorant_a what_o foul_a play_n be_v use_v to_o make_v our_o divine_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n broach_v heresy_n and_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o you_o yourself_o have_v blush_v at_o it_o if_o you_o have_v ever_o read_v the_o parallela_fw-la imparia_fw-la sive_fw-la specimen_fw-la fidei_fw-la celeusmaticae_n can_v you_o catch_v we_o thus_o deal_v with_o the_o book_n of_o your_o author_n as_o we_o have_v be_v deal_v with_o by_o that_o author_n and_o some_o other_o that_o may_v be_v name_v we_o shall_v at_o another_o kind_n of_o rate_n have_v be_v expose_v than_o they_o have_v be_v but_o sir_n for_o god_n sake_n let_v we_o make_v as_o much_o conscience_n of_o vile_a calumny_n than_o which_o there_o be_v not_o a_o more_o express_a transgression_n of_o the_o law_n of_o god_n nor_o of_o the_o very_a light_n of_o nature_n as_o of_o obedience_n to_o authority_n in_o such_o thing_n as_o no_o divine_a law_n can_v be_v produce_v against_o and_o nothing_o but_o strain_a and_o far-fetched_a consequence_n and_o for_o god_n sake_n also_o let_v we_o at_o length_n be_v persuade_v to_o have_v so_o great_a a_o concern_v for_o our_o common_a religion_n as_o to_o give_v over_o expose_v it_o by_o such_o unchristian_a do_n to_o the_o scorn_n and_o derision_n of_o our_o common_a enemy_n but_o i_o can_v take_v my_o leave_n of_o this_o heavy_a charge_n of_o you_o till_o i_o have_v ask_v you_o what_o you_o infer_v
prejudicial_a to_o man_n soul_n and_o contribute_v unspeakable_o more_o to_o the_o impurity_n both_o of_o man_n heart_n and_o life_n than_o the_o impure_a ordinance_n you_o so_o complain_v of_o and_o therefore_o all_o good_a and_o pious_a church_n of_o england_n man_n can_v but_o say_v how_o happy_a shall_v we_o not_o only_o think_v ourselves_o but_o indeed_o be_v will_v our_o brethren_n but_o leave_n dispute_v with_o such_o mighty_a concern_v about_o little_a thing_n and_o thing_n that_o be_v perfect_o harmless_a and_o innocent_a will_v make_v no_o more_o sin_n than_o god_n and_o their_o bless_a saviour_n have_v make_v will_v be_v as_o fearful_a of_o culpable_o disobey_v authority_n as_o of_o culpable_o obey_v it_o will_v be_v as_o thankful_a that_o they_o be_v in_o no_o worse_a circumstance_n as_o they_o be_v full_a of_o complaint_n that_o they_o be_v in_o no_o better_a will_v take_v as_o much_o pain_n to_o satisfy_v themselves_o how_o far_o they_o may_v lawful_o hold_v communion_n with_o our_o church_n as_o how_o far_o they_o may_v lawful_o separate_a from_o it_o will_v be_v as_o willing_a to_o read_v those_o book_n that_o be_v write_v in_o the_o defence_n of_o the_o thing_n enjoin_v by_o our_o church_n as_o to_o read_v those_o which_o be_v write_v in_o opposition_n to_o they_o will_v as_o impartial_o consider_v the_o vast_a distance_n between_o our_o church_n and_o that_o of_o rome_n as_o thus_o dwell_v upon_o the_o most_o inconsiderable_a agreement_n that_o be_v between_o they_o which_o our_o author_n have_v convince_o to_o any_o unprejudiced_a person_n prove_v to_o be_v no_o justifiable_a pretence_n for_o separation_n and_o if_o we_o will_v well_o digest_v those_o excellent_a word_n of_o the_o apostle_n rom._n 14._o 17_o 18._o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n be_v not_o meat_n or_o drink_n but_o righteousness_n peace_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n for_o he_o that_o in_o these_o thing_n serve_v christ_n be_v acceptable_a to_o god_n and_o approve_a of_o man_n and_o if_o we_o will_v follow_v after_o the_o thing_n that_o make_v for_o 19_o v._o 19_o peace_n and_o thing_n wherein_o one_o may_v edify_v another_o and_o last_o if_o we_o will_v at_o length_n be_v persuade_v to_o let_v all_o bitterness_n and_o wrath_n and_o anger_n and_o 32._o eph._n 4._o 31_o 32._o clamour_n and_o evil_a speak_n against_o one_o another_o be_v put_v away_o from_o we_o with_o all_o malice_n and_o to_o be_v kind_a and_o affectionate_a one_o to_o another_o notwithstanding_o the_o difference_n of_o apprehension_n tender_v heart_v forgive_a one_o another_o even_o as_o god_n for_o christ_n sake_n have_v forgive_v we_o i_o say_v if_o we_o can_v once_o be_v bring_v to_o this_o temper_n we_o shall_v be_v unspeakable_o more_o happy_a than_o those_o thing_n you_o express_v so_o passionate_a a_o desire_n of_o can_v possible_o make_v we_o and_o without_o this_o bless_a temper_n we_o shall_v be_v miserable_a wretch_n though_o there_o be_v no_o agreement_n in_o any_o one_o rite_n between_o rome_n and_o we_o and_o though_o our_o ordinance_n be_v as_o pure_a as_o it_o be_v your_o wish_n to_o have_v they_o nor_o will_v our_o bid_n the_o great_a defiance_n to_o the_o antichrist_n in_o the_o roman_a chair_n one_o whit_n avail_v we_o while_o the_o spiritual_a antichrist_n which_o be_v the_o worse_a of_o the_o two_o continue_v possess_v of_o his_o seat_n in_o our_o heart_n and_o so_o sir_n i_o hearty_o bid_v you_o farewell_o errata_fw-la page_n 19_o lin._n 12._o read_v in_o their_o great_a p._n 27._o l._n 30._o deal_n p._n 32._o l._n 1._o read_v be_v so_o contrive_v finis_fw-la book_n sell_v by_o r._n horn_n t._n basset_n r._n chiswell_n b._n tooke_n brabazon_n aylmer_n w._n rogers_n and_o f._n gardiner_n 1._o a_o persuasive_a to_o communion_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 2._o a_o resolution_n of_o some_o case_n of_o conscience_n which_o respect_n church-communion_n 3._o the_o case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n use_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n propose_v and_o state_v by_o consider_v these_o question_n etc._n etc._n 4._o a_o discourse_n about_o edification_n 5._o the_o resolution_n of_o this_o case_n of_o conscience_n whether_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v symbolise_v so_o far_o as_o it_o do_v with_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n make_v it_o unlawful_a to_o hold_v communion_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 6._o a_o letter_n to_o anonymus_fw-la in_o answer_n to_o his_o three_o letter_n to_o dr._n sherlock_n about_o church-communion_n 7._o certain_a case_n of_o conscience_n resolve_v concern_v the_o lawfulness_n of_o join_v with_o form_n of_o prayer_n in_o public_a worship_n in_o two_o part_n 8._o the_o case_n of_o mix_a communion_n whether_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o separate_a from_o a_o church_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o promiscuous_a congregation_n and_o mix_a communion_n 9_o a_o answer_n to_o the_o dissenter_n objection_n against_o the_o common_a prayer_n and_o some_o other_o part_n of_o divine_a service_n prescribe_v in_o the_o liturgy_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 10._o the_o case_n of_o kneel_v at_o the_o holy_a sacrament_n state_v and_o resolve_v etc._n etc._n in_o two_o part_n 11._o a_o discourse_n of_o profit_v by_o sermon_n and_o of_o go_v to_o hear_v where_o man_n think_v they_o can_v profit_v most_o 12._o a_o serious_a exhortation_n with_o some_o important_a advice_n relate_v to_o the_o late_a case_n about_o conformity_n recommend_v to_o the_o present_a dissenter_n from_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 13._o a_o argument_n for_o union_n take_v from_o the_o true_a interest_n of_o those_o dissenter_n in_o england_n who_o profess_v and_o call_v themselves_o protestant_n 14._o the_o case_n of_o lay-communion_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n consider_v 15._o a_o persuasive_a to_o frequent_v communion_n in_o the_o holy_a sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n 16._o some_o consideration_n about_o the_o case_n of_o scandal_n or_o give_v offence_n to_o the_o weak_a brethren_n 17._o the_o case_n of_o infant-baptism_n in_o five_o question_n etc._n etc._n 18._o the_o charge_n of_o scandal_n and_o give_v offence_n by_o conformity_n refell_v and_o reflect_v back_o upon_o separation_n etc._n etc._n 19_o a_o defence_n of_o the_o resolution_n of_o this_o case_n viz._n whether_o the_o church_n of_o england_n symbolise_n so_o far_o as_o it_o do_v with_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n make_v it_o unlawful_a to_o hold_v communion_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n in_o answer_n to_o a_o book_n entitle_v a_o modest_a examination_n of_o that_o resolution_n the_o case_n of_o infant-baptism_n in_o five_o question_n i._o whether_o infant_n be_v uncapable_a of_o baptism_n ii_o whether_o infant_n be_v exclude_v from_o baptism_n by_o christ_n iii_o whether_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o separate_v from_o a_o church_n which_o appoint_v infant_n to_o be_v baptize_v iv_o whether_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o christian_a parent_n to_o bring_v their_o child_n unto_o baptism_n v._o whether_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o communicate_v with_o believer_n who_o be_v baptise_a in_o their_o infancy_n london_n print_v by_o t._n hodgkin_n for_o tho._n basset_n at_o the_o george_n in_o fleetstreet_n benj._n take_v at_o the_o ship_n in_o st._n paul_n churchyard_n 1685._o the_o case_n of_o infant-baptism_n the_o previous_a discourse_n the_o better_a to_o prepare_v the_o mind_n of_o my_o reader_n for_o what_o i_o shall_v say_v in_o this_o discourse_n about_o infant-baptism_n i_o think_v it_o requisite_a to_o premise_v a_o short_a introduction_n first_o concern_v the_o original_a and_o second_o concern_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o jewish_a church_n three_o concern_v the_o initiatory_a sacrament_n into_o it_o and_o the_o person_n that_o be_v capable_a of_o initiation_n and_o last_o concern_v the_o alteration_n of_o it_o from_o the_o mosaic_a into_o the_o christian_a oeconomy_n or_o to_o express_v myself_o more_o plain_o in_o the_o 6._o the_o the_o the_o heb._n 2._o 5_o 6._o scripture-phrase_n concern_v the_o alteration_n of_o the_o house_n of_o moses_n into_o the_o house_n of_o christ_n as_o for_o the_o original_a of_o the_o jewish_a church_n it_o be_v to_o be_v refer_v unto_o abraham_n the_o 11._o the_o the_o the_o rom._n 4._o 11._o father_n of_o the_o faithful_a pure_o consider_v as_o a_o church_n but_o if_o it_o be_v consider_v as_o a_o commonwealth_n or_o as_o a_o church_n under_o such_o a_o political_a regulation_n than_o it_o be_v to_o be_v refer_v unto_o moses_n who_o be_v call_v even_o by_o heathen_a writer_n the_o 7._o the_o the_o the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d sect._n 7._o legislator_n of_o the_o jew_n these_o two_o consideration_n of_o the_o jewish_a church_n pure_o as_o a_o church_n and_o as_o a_o commonwealth_n or_o as_o a_o church_n under_o such_o a_o mixture_n with_o a_o commonwealth_n ought_v heedful_o to_o be_v distinguish_v 1._o because_o there_o be_v ground_n for_o such_o a_o distinction_n in_o the_o nature_n
&_o pap._n of_o the_o presbyt_fw-la p._n 31._o before_o these_o unhappy_a war_n begin_v yield_v to_o the_o lay_v aside_o of_o the_o cross_n and_o make_v many_o material_a alteration_n etc._n etc._n they_o have_v not_o those_o apprehension_n of_o these_o thing_n that_o they_o be_v unalterable_a and_o obligatory_a upon_o all_o christian_n as_o such_o or_o that_o the_o lay_v they_o aside_o for_o the_o bring_n about_o some_o great_a good_n will_v be_v offensive_a to_o god_n i_o will_v to_o god_n our_o brethren_n at_o least_o will_v but_o meet_v we_o thus_o far_o as_o to_o throw_v off_o those_o superstitious_a prejudices_fw-la they_o may_v have_v conceive_v against_o they_o and_o think_v that_o as_o the_o lay_v they_o aside_o will_v not_o be_v displease_v to_o god_n so_o the_o use_n of_o they_o can_v be_v so_o neither_o forgive_v the_o expression_n of_o superstitious_a prejudices_fw-la for_o i_o must_v suppose_v we_o put_v too_o high_a a_o value_n upon_o indifferent_a rite_n when_o we_o think_v that_o either_o the_o use_n or_o rejection_n of_o they_o will_v recommend_v we_o to_o god_n unless_o there_o be_v other_o accident_n of_o obedience_n or_o disobedience_n to_o authority_n that_o will_v alter_v the_o case_n otherwise_o the_o imagination_n we_o may_v have_v of_o please_v or_o displease_v god_n in_o any_o of_o these_o thing_n must_v look_v like_o what_o the_o greek_n express_v superstition_n by_o i_o mean_v a_o causeless_a dread_n of_o god_n it_o be_v a_o passage_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d in_o calvin_n that_o it_o be_v equal_o superstitious_a to_o condemn_v thing_n indifferent_a as_o unholy_a and_o to_o command_v they_o as_o if_o they_o be_v holy_a it_o be_v infinite_o precept_n in_o 2_o precept_n a_o noble_a conquest_n over_o ourselves_o a_o proper_a regain_n that_o christian_a liberty_n to_o which_o we_o be_v redeem_v and_o will_v be_v of_o far_o happy_a consequence_n to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n to_o possess_v ourselves_o with_o such_o notion_n of_o god_n and_o of_o indifferent_a thing_n as_o to_o believe_v we_o can_v recommend_v ourselves_o to_o he_o in_o the_o least_o measure_n by_o scruple_v what_o he_o have_v interpose_v no_o command_n to_o make_v they_o either_o obligatory_a or_o unlawful_a finis_fw-la a_o catalogue_n of_o the_o several_a case_n etc._n etc._n 1._o a_o persuasive_a to_o communion_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 2._o a_o resolution_n of_o some_o case_n of_o conscience_n which_o respect_n church-communion_n 3._o the_o case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n use_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n propose_v and_o state_v by_o consider_v these_o question_n etc._n etc._n 4._o a_o discourse_n about_o edification_n 5._o the_o resolution_n of_o this_o case_n of_o conscience_n whether_o the_o church_n of_o england_n symbolise_n so_o far_o as_o it_o do_v with_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n make_v it_o unlawful_a to_o hold_v communion_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 6._o a_o letter_n to_o anonymus_fw-la in_o answer_n to_o his_o three_o letter_n to_o dr._n sherlock_n about_o church-communion_n 7._o certain_a case_n of_o conscience_n resolve_v concern_v the_o lawfulness_n of_o join_v with_o form_n of_o prayer_n in_o public_a worship_n in_o two_o part_n 8._o the_o case_n of_o mix_a communion_n whether_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o separate_a from_o a_o church_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o promiscuous_a congregation_n and_o mix_a communion_n 9_o a_o answer_n to_o the_o dissenter_n objection_n against_o the_o common_a prayer_n and_o some_o other_o part_n of_o divine_a service_n prescribe_v in_o the_o liturgy_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 10._o the_o case_n of_o kneel_v at_o the_o holy_a sacrament_n state_v and_o resolve_v etc._n etc._n the_o first_o part._n 11._o certain_a case_n of_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n the_o second_o part._n 12._o a_o discourse_n of_o profit_v by_o sermon_n and_o of_o go_v to_o hear_v where_o man_n think_v they_o can_v profit_v most_o 13._o a_o serious_a exhortation_n with_o some_o important_a advice_n relate_v to_o the_o late_a case_n about_o conformity_n recommend_v to_o the_o present_a dissenter_n from_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 14._o a_o argument_n for_o union_n take_v from_o the_o true_a interest_n of_o those_o dissenter_n in_o england_n who_o profess_v and_o call_v themselves_o protestant_n 15._o the_o case_n of_o kneel_v at_o the_o holy_a sacrament_n state_v and_o resolve_v the_o second_o part._n 16._o the_o case_n of_o ●ay-communion_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n consider_v 17._o a_o persuasive_a to_o frequent_v communion_n etc._n etc._n 18._o a_o defence_n of_o the_o resolution_n of_o this_o case_n viz._n whether_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v symbolise_v so_o far_o as_o it_o do_v with_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n make_v it_o unlawful_a to_o hold_v communion_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n in_o answer_n to_o a_o book_n entitle_v a_o modest_a examination_n of_o that_o resolution_n 19_o the_o case_n of_o compel_a man_n to_o the_o holy_a sacrament_n 1._o a_o discourse_n about_o the_o charge_n of_o novelty_n upon_o the_o reform_a church_n of_o england_n make_v by_o the_o papist_n ask_v of_o we_o the_o question_n where_o be_v our_o religion_n before_o luther_n 2._o a_o discourse_n about_o tradition_n show_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o it_o and_o what_o tradition_n be_v to_o be_v receive_v and_o what_o tradition_n be_v to_o be_v reject_v 3._o the_o difference_n of_o the_o case_n between_o the_o separation_n of_o protestant_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o the_o separation_n of_o dissenter_n from_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 4._o the_o protestant_a resolution_n of_o faith_n etc._n etc._n 5._o a_o discourse_n concern_v a_o guide_n in_o matter_n of_o faith_n etc._n etc._n 6._o a_o discourse_n concern_v invocation_n of_o saint_n 7._o a_o discourse_n concern_v the_o unity_n of_o the_o catholic_n church_n maintain_v in_o the_o church_n of_o england_n a_o persuasive_a to_o frequent_a communion_n in_o the_o holy_a sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n london_n print_v by_o m._n flesher_n for_o brabazon_n aylmer_n at_o the_o three_o pigeon_n against_o the_o royal_a exchange_n in_o cornhill_n and_o william_n rogers_n at_o the_o sun_n against_o st._n dunstan_n church_n in_o fleetstreet_n 1684._o a_o persuasive_a to_o frequent_a communion_n my_o design_n in_o this_o argument_n be_v from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o this_o sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n and_o of_o the_o perpetual_a use_n of_o it_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n to_o awaken_v man_n to_o a_o sense_n of_o their_o duty_n and_o the_o great_a obligation_n which_o lie_v upon_o they_o to_o the_o more_o frequent_a receive_n of_o it_o and_o there_o be_v the_o great_a need_n to_o make_v man_n sensible_a of_o their_o duty_n in_o this_o particular_a because_o in_o this_o last_o age_n by_o the_o unwary_a discourse_n of_o some_o concern_v the_o nature_n of_o this_o sacrament_n and_o the_o danger_n of_o receive_v it_o unworthy_o such_o doubt_n and_o fear_n have_v be_v raise_v in_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n as_o utter_o to_o deter_v many_o and_o in_o a_o great_a measure_n to_o discourage_v almost_o the_o generality_n of_o christian_n from_o the_o use_n of_o it_o to_o the_o great_a prejudice_n and_o danger_n of_o man_n soul_n and_o the_o visible_a abatement_n of_o piety_n by_o the_o gross_a neglect_n of_o so_o excellent_a a_o mean_n of_o our_o growth_n and_o improvement_n in_o it_o and_o to_o the_o mighty_a scandal_n of_o our_o religion_n by_o the_o general_a disuse_n and_o contempt_n of_o so_o plain_a and_o solemn_a a_o institution_n of_o our_o bless_a lord_n and_o saviour_n therefore_o i_o shall_v take_v occasion_n as_o brief_o and_o clear_o as_o i_o can_v to_o treat_v of_o these_o four_o point_n first_o of_o the_o perpetuity_n of_o this_o institution_n this_o the_o apostle_n signify_v when_o he_o say_v that_o by_o eat_v this_o 26._o 1_o cor._n 11._o 26._o bread_n and_o drink_v this_o cup_n we_o do_v show_v the_o lord_n death_n till_o he_o come_v second_o of_o the_o obligation_n that_o lie_v upon_o all_o christian_n to_o a_o frequent_a observance_n of_o this_o institution_n this_o be_v signify_v in_o that_o expression_n of_o the_o apostle_n as_o often_o as_o you_o eat_v this_o bread_n and_o drink_v this_o cup_n which_o expression_n consider_v and_o compare_v together_o with_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o primitive_a church_n do_v imply_v a_o obligation_n upon_o christian_n to_o the_o frequent_a receive_n of_o this_o sacrament_n three_o i_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o satisfy_v the_o objection_n and_o scruple_n which_o have_v be_v raise_v in_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n and_o particular_o of_o many_o devout_a and_o sincere_a christian_n to_o their_o great_a discouragement_n from_o their_o receive_v this_o sacrament_n at_o least_o so_o frequent_o as_o they_o ought_v which_o objection_n be_v chief_o ground_v upon_o what_o the_o apostle_n say_v wherefore_o whosoever_o
can_v allot_v any_o more_o time_n for_o a_o solemn_a preparation_n for_o it_o than_o they_o do_v for_o any_o other_o part_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o consequent_o that_o the_o apostle_n when_o he_o bid_v the_o corinthian_n examine_v themselves_o can_v mean_v no_o more_o than_o that_o consider_v the_o nature_n and_o end_n of_o this_o institution_n they_o shall_v come_v to_o it_o with_o great_a reverence_n and_o reflect_v upon_o their_o former_a miscarriage_n in_o this_o matter_n shall_v be_v careful_a upon_o this_o admonition_n to_o avoid_v they_o for_o the_o future_a and_o to_o amend_v what_o have_v be_v amiss_o which_o to_o do_v require_v rather_o resolution_n and_o care_n than_o any_o long_a time_n of_o preparation_n i_o speak_v this_o that_o devout_a person_n may_v not_o be_v entangle_v in_o a_o apprehension_n of_o a_o great_a necessity_n than_o real_o there_o be_v of_o a_o long_a and_o solemn_a preparation_n every_o time_n they_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n the_o great_a necessity_n that_o lie_v upon_o man_n be_v to_o live_v as_o become_v christian_n and_o then_o they_o can_v never_o be_v absolute_o unprepared_a nay_o i_o think_v this_o to_o be_v a_o very_a good_a preparation_n and_o i_o see_v not_o why_o man_n shall_v not_o be_v very_o well_o satisfy_v with_o it_o unless_o they_o intend_v to_o make_v the_o same_o use_n of_o the_o sacrament_n that_o many_o of_o the_o papist_n do_v of_o confession_n and_o absolution_n which_o be_v to_o quit_v with_o god_n once_o or_o twice_o a_o year_n that_o so_o they_o may_v begin_v to_o sin_n again_o upon_o a_o new_a score_n but_o because_o the_o examination_n of_o ourselves_o be_v a_o thing_n so_o very_o useful_a and_o the_o time_n which_o man_n be_v wont_a to_o set_v apart_o for_o their_o preparation_n for_o the_o sacrament_n be_v so_o advantageous_a a_o opportunity_n for_o the_o practice_n of_o it_o therefore_o i_o can_v but_o very_o much_o commend_v those_o who_o take_v this_o occasion_n to_o search_v and_o try_v their_o way_n and_o to_o call_v themselves_o to_o a_o more_o solemn_a account_n of_o their_o action_n because_o this_o aught_o to_o be_v do_v sometime_o and_o i_o know_v no_o fit_a time_n for_o it_o than_o this_o and_o perhaps_o some_o will_v never_o find_v time_n to_o recollect_v themselves_o and_o to_o take_v the_o condition_n of_o their_o soul_n into_o serious_a consideration_n be_v it_o not_o upon_o this_o solemn_a occasion_n the_o sum_n of_o what_o i_o have_v say_v be_v this_o that_o suppose_v a_o person_n to_o be_v habitual_o prepare_v by_o a_o religious_a disposition_n of_o mind_n and_o the_o general_a course_n of_o a_o good_a life_n this_o more_o solemn_a actual_a preparation_n be_v not_o always_o necessary_a and_o it_o be_v better_o when_o there_o be_v a_o opportunity_n to_o receive_v without_o it_o than_o not_o to_o receive_v at_o all_o but_o the_o great_a our_o actual_a preparation_n be_v the_o better_a for_o no_o man_n can_v examine_v himself_o too_o often_o and_o understand_v the_o state_n of_o his_o soul_n too_o well_o and_o exercise_v repentance_n and_o renew_v the_o resolution_n of_o a_o good_a life_n too_o frequent_o and_o there_o be_v perhaps_o no_o fit_a opportunity_n for_o the_o do_v of_o all_o this_o than_o when_o we_o approach_v the_o lord_n table_n there_o to_o commemorate_v his_o death_n and_o to_o renew_v our_o covenant_n with_o he_o to_o live_v as_o become_v the_o gospel_n all_o the_o reflection_n i_o shall_v now_o make_v upon_o this_o discourse_n shall_v be_v from_o the_o consideration_n of_o what_o have_v be_v say_v earnest_o to_o excite_v all_o that_o profess_v and_o call_v themselves_o christian_n to_o a_o due_a preparation_n of_o themselves_o for_o this_o holy_a sacrament_n and_o a_o frequent_a participation_n of_o it_o according_a to_o the_o intention_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n in_o the_o institution_n of_o it_o and_o the_o undoubted_a practice_n of_o christian_n in_o the_o primitive_a and_o best_a time_n when_o man_n have_v more_o devotion_n and_o few_o scruple_n about_o their_o duty_n if_o we_o do_v in_o good_a earnest_n believe_v that_o this_o sacrament_n be_v institute_v by_o our_o lord_n in_o remembrance_n of_o his_o die_a love_n we_o can_v but_o have_v a_o very_a high_a value_n and_o esteem_v for_o it_o upon_o that_o account_n methinks_v so_o often_o as_o we_o read_v in_o the_o institution_n of_o it_o those_o word_n of_o our_o dear_a lord_n do_v this_o in_o remembrance_n of_o i_o and_o consider_v what_o he_o who_o say_v they_o do_v for_o we_o this_o die_a charge_n of_o our_o best_a friend_n shall_v stick_v with_o we_o and_o make_v a_o strong_a impression_n upon_o our_o mind_n especial_o if_o we_o add_v to_o these_o those_o other_o word_n of_o his_o not_o long_o before_o his_o death_n great_a love_n than_o this_o have_v no_o man_n that_o a_o man_n lie_v down_o his_o life_n for_o his_o friend_n you_o be_v my_o friend_n if_o you_o do_v whatsoever_o i_o command_v you_o it_o be_v a_o wonderful_a love_n which_o he_o have_v express_v to_o we_o and_o worthy_a to_o be_v have_v in_o perpetual_a remembrance_n and_o all_o that_o he_o expect_v from_o we_o by_o way_n of_o thankful_a acknowledgement_n be_v to_o celebrate_v the_o remembrance_n of_o it_o by_o the_o frequent_a participation_n of_o this_o bless_a sacrament_n and_o shall_v this_o charge_n lay_v upon_o we_o by_o he_o who_o lay_v down_o his_o life_n for_o we_o lay_v no_o obligation_n upon_o we_o to_o the_o solemn_a remembrance_n of_o that_o unparalleled_a kindness_n which_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o so_o many_o blessing_n and_o benefit_n to_o we_o it_o be_v a_o sign_n we_o have_v no_o great_a sense_n of_o the_o benefit_n when_o we_o be_v so_o unmindful_a of_o our_o benefactor_n as_o to_o forget_v he_o day_n without_o number_n the_o obligation_n he_o have_v lay_v upon_o we_o be_v so_o vast_o great_a not_o only_o beyond_o all_o requital_n but_o beyond_o all_o expression_n that_o if_o he_o have_v command_v we_o some_o very_a grievous_a thing_n we_o ought_v with_o all_o the_o readiness_n and_o cheerfulness_n in_o the_o world_n to_o have_v do_v it_o how_o much_o more_o when_o he_o have_v impose_v upon_o we_o so_o easy_a a_o commandment_n a_o thing_n of_o no_o burden_n but_o of_o immense_a benefit_n when_o he_o have_v only_o say_v to_o we_o eat_v o_o friend_n and_o drink_v o_o belove_v when_o he_o only_o invite_v we_o to_o his_o table_n to_o the_o best_a and_o most_o delicious_a feast_n that_o we_o can_v partake_v of_o on_o this_o side_n heaven_n if_o we_o serious_o believe_v the_o great_a blessing_n which_o be_v there_o exhibit_v to_o we_o and_o ready_a to_o be_v confer_v upon_o we_o we_o shall_v be_v so_o far_o from_o neglect_v they_o that_o we_o shall_v hearty_o thank_v god_n for_o every_o opportunity_n he_o offer_v to_o we_o of_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o such_o benefit_n when_o such_o a_o price_n be_v put_v into_o our_o hand_n shall_v we_o want_v heart_n to_o make_v use_n of_o it_o methinks_v we_o shall_v long_o with_o david_n who_o see_v but_o the_o shadow_n of_o these_o blessing_n to_o be_v satisfy_v with_o the_o good_a thing_n of_o god_n house_n and_o to_o draw_v near_o his_o altar_n and_o shall_v cry_v out_o with_o he_o o_o when_o shall_v i_o come_v and_o appear_v before_o thou_o my_o soul_n long_v you_o even_o faint_v for_o the_o court_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o my_o flesh_n cry_v out_o for_o the_o live_a god_n and_o if_o we_o have_v a_o just_a esteem_n of_o thing_n we_o shall_v account_v it_o the_o great_a infelicity_n and_o judgement_n in_o the_o world_n to_o be_v debar_v of_o this_o privilege_n which_o yet_o we_o do_v deliberate_o and_o frequent_o deprive_v ourselves_o of_o we_o exclaim_v against_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n with_o great_a impatience_n and_o with_o a_o very_a just_a indignation_n for_o rob_v the_o people_n of_o half_a of_o this_o bless_a sacrament_n and_o take_v from_o they_o the_o cup_n of_o blessing_n the_o cup_n of_o salvation_n and_o yet_o we_o can_v patient_o endure_v for_o some_o month_n nay_o year_n to_o exclude_v ourselves_o whole_o from_o it_o if_o no_o such_o great_a benefit_n and_o blessing_n belong_v to_o it_o why_o do_v we_o complain_v of_o they_o for_o hinder_v we_o of_o any_o part_n of_o it_o but_o if_o there_o do_v why_o do_v we_o by_o our_o own_o neglect_n deprive_v ourselves_o of_o the_o whole_a in_o vain_a do_v we_o bemoan_v the_o decay_n of_o our_o grace_n and_o our_o slow_a progress_n and_o improvement_n in_o christianity_n whilst_o we_o wilful_o despise_v the_o best_a mean_n of_o our_o growth_n in_o goodness_n well_o do_v we_o deserve_v that_o god_n shall_v send_v leanness_n into_o our_o soul_n and_o make_v they_o to_o consume_v and_o pine_v away_o in_o perpetual_a doubt_v and_o trouble_n if_o when_o god_n himself_o do_v spread_v so_o bountiful_a
the_o secret_a language_n and_o discourse_n of_o every_o devout_a christian_a at_o this_o holy_a feast_n and_o with_o these_o kind_n of_o meditation_n he_o refresh_v and_o delight_v himself_o so_o that_o from_o the_o whole_a we_o may_v conclude_v that_o the_o lord_n supper_n be_v in_o its_o own_o nature_n true_o and_o proper_o a_o feast_n though_o vast_o different_a from_o common_a and_o ordinary_a feast_n throughout_o even_o in_o those_o thing_n wherein_o it_o seem_v to_o be_v like_o they_o as_o to_o the_o several_a name_n and_o phrase_n by_o which_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o be_v describe_v they_o be_v figurative_a and_o borrow_v from_o civil_a entertainment_n but_o although_o it_o have_v receive_v the_o same_o name_n and_o be_v represent_v by_o phrase_n that_o proper_o suit_n to_o ordinary_a feast_n yet_o the_o lord_n supper_n differ_v in_o its_o nature_n from_o civil_a banquet_n as_o much_o as_o heaven_n and_o earth_n body_n and_o spirit_n differ_v in_o they_o as_o to_o the_o bread_n and_o wine_n which_o we_o see_v and_o taste_v they_o be_v only_a sign_n and_o type_n of_o the_o true_a spiritual_a feast_n and_o serve_v to_o raise_v our_o mind_n to_o and_o whet_v the_o appetite_n of_o our_o soul_n after_o celestial_a and_o heavenly_a enjoyment_n thus_o much_o may_v suffice_v to_o inform_v we_o what_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n be_v consider_v bare_o as_o a_o feast_n 2._o for_o a_o further_a discovery_n of_o its_o nature_n we_o be_v to_o be_v mind_v that_o it_o be_v a_o feast_n upon_o a_o sacrifice_n for_o sin_n wherein_o we_o be_v particular_o to_o commemorate_v the_o 26._o 1_o cor._n 11._o 26._o death_n of_o christ_n by_o way_n of_o expiation_n for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o world_n 3._o it_o be_v institute_v in_o honour_n of_o our_o lord_n our_o great_a benefactor_n and_o redeemer_n where_o we_o meet_v to_o preserve_v a_o eternal_a memory_n of_o his_o wondrous_a work_n to_o bless_v and_o praise_v he_o and_o speak_v good_a of_o his_o name_n and_o thus_o partake_v of_o the_o lord_n supper_n be_v a_o proper_a act_n of_o christian_a worship_n perform_v to_o our_o saviour_n it_o be_v the_o worship_n of_o god_n manifest_v in_o our_o flesh_n and_o of_o our_o crucify_a lord_n who_o submit_v himself_o to_o a_o vile_a and_o torment_a death_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o we_o vile_a and_o miserable_a sinner_n 4._o the_o lord_n supper_n be_v a_o mysterious_a rite_n of_o religious_a worship_n which_o as_o it_o respect_v god_n the_o father_n have_v the_o virtue_n and_o efficacy_n of_o a_o thanksgiving_n and_o a_o prayer_n as_o the_o sacrifice_n under_o the_o law_n have_v for_o our_o desire_n and_o affection_n may_v be_v signify_v by_o action_n as_o well_o as_o word_n and_o by_o ceremony_n as_o well_o as_o speech_n and_o with_o respect_n to_o this_o notion_n and_o end_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n it_o be_v ancient_o style_v the_o liturgy_n and_o the_o eucharist_n which_o last_o name_n as_o it_o be_v give_v to_o it_o in_o the_o most_o tryph._n ignat._n ep._n ad_fw-la ephes_n justin_n mar._n in_o dial._n eum_fw-la tryph._n early_a age_n of_o the_o church_n so_o it_o still_o retain_v the_o same_o among_o all_o the_o christian_a church_n to_o this_o day_n 5._o the_o lord_n supper_n be_v institute_v to_o be_v a_o foederal_n or_o covenant_v rite_n between_o god_n and_o all_o worthy_a communicant_n where_o by_o permit_v we_o to_o eat_v and_o 24._o luk._n 22._o 19_o 1_o cor._n 11._o 24._o drink_v at_o his_o table_n he_o signify_v that_o we_o be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o peace_n and_o friendship_n and_o in_o a_o covenant-relation_n with_o he_o and_o we_o by_o come_v to_o his_o table_n and_o eat_v and_o drink_v in_o his_o presence_n do_v own_o he_o to_o be_v our_o god_n and_o saviour_n and_o in_o effect_n plight_v our_o troth_n to_o he_o and_o swear_v fidelity_n and_o allegiance_n to_o he_o we_o take_v the_o sacrament_n upon_o it_o as_o we_o ordinary_o say_v that_o we_o will_v not_o henceforth_o live_v unto_o ourselves_o but_o to_o he_o alone_o that_o die_v for_o we_o and_o give_v himself_o for_o we_o a_o offer_n and_o a_o sacrifice_n to_o god_n for_o a_o sweet_a smell_a savour_n 6._o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n be_v institute_v for_o this_o further_a end_n viz._n to_o be_v a_o mean_n to_o convey_v and_o apply_v to_o we_o the_o merit_n of_o that_o sacrifice_n which_o christ_n offer_v for_o sinner_n on_o the_o cross_n and_o as_o a_o pledge_n to_o assure_v we_o thereof_o 7._o it_o be_v institute_v to_o be_v a_o sacred_a bond_n of_o unity_n and_o concord_n among_o all_o christian_n to_o engage_v and_o dispose_v we_o to_o love_v one_o another_o as_o our_o lord_n love_v we_o who_o think_v not_o his_o life_n too_o dear_a nor_o his_o blood_n too_o much_o to_o part_v with_o for_o our_o sake_n this_o be_v a_o short_a and_z so_o far_o as_o it_o serve_v my_o present_a design_n a_o full_a account_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n if_o the_o reader_n desire_v to_o see_v these_o thing_n which_o i_o have_v but_o touch_v upon_o more_o large_o prove_v and_o explain_v let_v he_o for_o his_o satisfaction_n consult_v those_o two_o excellent_a discourse_n among_o many_o other_o that_o pass_v under_o these_o name_n viz._n 1._o the_o christian_a sacrifice_n 2._o discourse_v of_o religious_a sherlock_n set_a forth_o by_o 1._o dr._n patri●_n 2._o dr._n sherlock_n assembly_n howsoever_o by_o what_o have_v be_v say_v it_o appear_v that_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n be_v of_o a_o complicate_v nature_n and_o institute_v for_o various_a end_n that_o it_o be_v vast_o different_a both_o in_o its_o nature_n and_o end_n from_o civil_a and_o ordinary_a feast_n and_o therefore_o i_o conclude_v that_o we_o be_v not_o at_o this_o religious_a feast_n to_o guide_v ourselves_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o common_a table-fellowship_n but_o by_o more_o religious_a and_o spiritual_a consideration_n which_o lead_v i_o to_o the_o second_o thing_n propose_v for_o the_o resolution_n of_o the_o present_a case_n 2._o that_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n do_v not_o absolute_o require_v and_o necessary_o oblige_v we_o to_o observe_v a_o table-gesture_n in_o order_n to_o a_o right_n and_o worthy_a receive_v of_o it_o the_o reason_n that_o i_o shall_v offer_v for_o the_o proof_n of_o this_o be_v these_o 1._o if_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o sacrament_n consider_v as_o a_o feast_n necessary_o require_v a_o table-gesture_n than_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o sacrament_n consider_v as_o a_o feast_n equal_o conclude_v for_o all_o other_o formality_n which_o be_v either_o essential_a to_o all_o civil_a feast_n whatsoever_o or_o to_o all_o feast_n as_o they_o obtain_v among_o we_o for_o if_o sit_v be_v necessary_a pure_o because_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o feast_n require_v it_o than_o all_o other_o circumstance_n which_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o feast_n require_v will_v be_v equal_o necessary_a too_o but_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n will_v by_o no_o mean_n allow_v of_o this_o nor_o think_v themselves_o oblige_v to_o observe_v all_o other_o formality_n though_o equal_o suitable_a and_o agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o feast_n as_o sit_v be_v though_o for_o what_o good_a reason_n i_o be_o perfect_o in_o the_o dark_a for_o 1._o as_o they_o omit_v many_o thing_n at_o the_o sacrament_n that_o be_v as_o agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o feast_n as_o the_o table-gesture_n be_v so_o they_o observe_v several_a modes_n and_o circumstance_n which_o be_v not_o agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o feast_n as_o the_o custom_n of_o our_o country_n stand_v for_o instance_n at_o our_o common_a and_o ordinary_a feast_n it_o be_v very_o suitable_a and_o agreeable_a to_o laugh_v to_o talk_v and_o discourse_v together_o to_o congratulate_v one_o another_o welfare_n to_o inquire_v of_o the_o state_n of_o absent_a friend_n and_o acquaintance_n to_o sit_v with_o the_o head_n cover_v to_o eat_v plentiful_o and_o drink_v frequent_o to_o carve_v and_o drink_v to_o one_o another_o it_o be_v further_a necessary_a and_o convenient_a that_o at_o such_o feast_n the_o guest_n shall_v be_v well_o attend_v with_o servant_n and_o waiter_n who_o be_v not_o allow_v to_o sit_v down_o at_o the_o table_n with_o ●hose_n who_o be_v invite_v it_o be_v agreeable_a that_o the_o guest_n shall_v if_o they_o please_v help_v themselves_o and_o their_o friend_n where_o they_o like_v and_o yet_o these_o and_o many_o other_o thing_n of_o this_o nature_n though_o very_o suitable_a to_o and_o common_o practise_v at_o our_o ordinary_a feast_n be_v not_o allow_v of_o nor_o practise_v by_o nor_o urge_v as_o necessary_a to_o be_v observe_v at_o the_o sacrament_n by_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n but_o why_o they_o shall_v plead_v for_o and_o urge_v the_o necessity_n of_o a_o common_a table-gesture_n
as_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o feast_n or_o a_o banquet_n and_o at_o the_o same_o time_n think_v there_o lie_v no_o necessity_n at_o all_o upon_o they_o to_o observe_v other_o formality_n equal_o agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o civil_a feast_n and_o warrant_v by_o custom_n as_o much_o as_o sit_v be_v the_o great_a knot_n of_o the_o question_n and_o that_o which_o puzzle_v i_o i_o confess_v to_o untie_v 2._o they_o observe_v several_a modes_n and_o circumstance_n at_o the_o sacrament_n which_o be_v not_o agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o feast_n or_o supper_n nor_o to_o the_o customary_a way_n of_o feast_v among_o we_o for_o example_n the_o sacrament_n say_v they_o be_v a_o feast_n a_o supper_n and_o require_v a_o feast_n a_o supper-gesture_n and_o then_o too_o say_v i_o it_o require_v a_o suppertime_n it_o be_v call_v in_o scripture_n the_o lord_n supper_n and_o it_o be_v institute_v the_o same_o night_n in_o which_o he_o be_v betray_v and_o it_o be_v clear_a that_o our_o lord_n administer_v it_o at_o even_o and_o that_o late_a at_o the_o close_a of_o the_o paschal_n feast_n now_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o supper_n according_a to_o common_a use_n and_o acception_n require_v the_o evening_n or_o night_n as_o the_o proper_a and_o peculiar_a season_n for_o it_o and_o yet_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n make_v no_o scruple_n of_o communicate_v at_o noon_n it_o be_v not_o agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o feast_n that_o one_o of_o the_o guest_n and_o the_o principal_a one_o too_o shall_v fill_v out_o the_o wine_n and_o break_v the_o bread_n and_o distribute_v it_o to_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o society_n but_o this_o the_o dissenter_n general_o allow_v of_o and_o practice_n at_o the_o holy_a communion_n it_o be_v not_o agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o feast_n to_o sit_v from_o the_o table_n disperse_v up_o and_o down_o the_o room_n in_o all_o public_a feast_n there_o be_v several_a table_n provide_v when_o one_o be_v not_o big_a enough_o to_o receive_v the_o guest_n and_o yet_o the_o dissenter_n general_o receive_v in_o their_o pew_v scatter_v up_o and_o down_o the_o church_n and_o think_v one_o table_n be_v sufficient_a though_o not_o capable_a of_o receive_v the_o twenty_o part_n of_o the_o communicant_n in_o some_o large_a parish_n and_o numerous_a assembly_n and_o where_o they_o be_v few_o in_o number_n that_o they_o may_v come_v up_o to_o and_o sit_v at_o the_o table_n they_o general_o be_v against_o it_o especial_o the_o presbyterian_o and_o think_v they_o be_v not_o oblige_v to_o observe_v that_o formality_n though_o constant_o practise_v at_o common_a and_o civil_a entertainment_n it_o be_v by_o no_o mean_n agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o feast_n to_o be_v sorrowful_a to_o mourn_v and_o grieve_v at_o a_o feast_n be_v as_o indecent_a and_o unsuitable_a as_o to_o laugh_v at_o a_o funeral_n but_o sure_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n will_v not_o say_v that_o to_o come_v to_o the_o sacrament_n with_o a_o penitent_a and_o a_o break_a spirit_n to_o come_v with_o a_o hearty_a sorrow_n for_o all_o our_o sin_n which_o cause_v much_o pain_n and_o torment_n to_o our_o dear_a and_o great_a friend_n our_o ever-blessed_n redeemer_n to_o reflect_v upon_o the_o agony_n of_o his_o soul_n in_o the_o garden_n the_o bitterness_n of_o his_o deadly_a cup_n the_o torture_n he_o endure_v on_o the_o cross_n with_o a_o deep_a sympathy_n and_o trouble_v for_o the_o occasion_n they_o will_v not_o sure_o i_o say_v affirm_v that_o such_o a_o disposition_n of_o heart_n and_o mind_n be_v improper_a and_o unsuitable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o this_o holy_a feast_n which_o we_o solemnize_v in_o commemoration_n of_o his_o death_n for_o our_o sake_n i_o make_v no_o doubt_n but_o all_o pious_a dissenter_n bring_v along_o with_o they_o to_o the_o sacrament_n such_o a_o temper_n but_o this_o they_o ought_v not_o to_o do_v if_o their_o rule_n hold_v good_a viz._n that_o at_o this_o feast_n we_o ought_v to_o be_v guide_v by_o the_o rule_n of_o common_a table-fellowship_n 2._o the_o nature_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n do_v not_o necessary_o require_v a_o common_a table-gesture_n because_o it_o be_v not_o of_o the_o same_o nature_n with_o common_a and_o ordinary_a feast_n it_o be_v very_o ill_a logic_n as_o well_o as_o ill_a divinity_n to_o argue_v from_o natural_a and_o civil_a thing_n to_o spiritual_a to_o conclude_v that_o because_o they_o agree_v in_o their_o name_n they_o be_v of_o the_o same_o nature_n for_o example_n when_o any_o man_n who_o have_v lead_v a_o loose_a sensual_a wicked_a life_n be_v awaken_v and_o excite_v by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n to_o consider_v and_o take_v up_o to_o mind_v heavenly_a thing_n and_o to_o breath_n after_o god_n and_o christ_n and_o eternity_n to_o alter_v his_o mind_n and_o his_o manner_n and_o lead_v quite_o another_o life_n from_o what_o he_o do_v before_o this_o person_n be_v in_o scripture-phrase_n say_v to_o be_v regenerate_v and_o bear_v again_o but_o if_o we_o will_v go_v about_o to_o judge_v of_o the_o true_a nature_n of_o regeneration_n and_o the_o new_a birth_n pure_o by_o the_o correspondency_n it_o hold_v with_o the_o natural_a birth_n and_o argue_v from_o the_o natural_a to_o the_o spiritual_a we_o shall_v entertain_v very_o gross_a and_o silly_a conception_n of_o regeneration_n and_o great_o mistake_v the_o nature_n of_o it_o how_o ridiculous_a will_v it_o be_v to_o prescribe_v the_o same_o rule_n to_o be_v observe_v by_o a_o new_a convert_n or_o a_o newborn_a babe_n in_o a_o spiritual_a sense_n in_o order_n to_o his_o spiritual_a nourishment_n and_o growth_n in_o grace_n as_o be_v prescribe_v and_o practise_v towards_o infant_n and_o newborn_a babe_n in_o a_o natural_a sense_n for_o the_o maintenance_n and_o preservation_n of_o their_o natural_a life_n and_o strength_n as_o that_o they_o shall_v be_v swath_v and_o enter_v into_o a_o milk-dyet_n and_o yet_o this_o be_v every_o way_n as_o reasonable_a as_o to_o prescribe_v sit_v as_o necessary_a to_o the_o worthy_a receive_v of_o the_o sacrament_n which_o be_v a_o spiritual_a feast_n because_o it_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o civil_a feast_n or_o which_o amount_v to_o the_o same_o thing_n because_o it_o be_v call_v a_o feast_n therefore_o it_o be_v of_o the_o same_o nature_n with_o ordinary_a and_o common_a feast_n and_o consequent_o such_o a_o gesture_n and_o behaviour_n as_o be_v necessary_a and_o requisite_a to_o these_o be_v also_o requisite_a and_o necessary_a to_o the_o lord_n supper_n 3._o the_o nature_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n consider_v as_o a_o feast_n do_v not_o necessary_o require_v and_o oblige_v we_o to_o use_v a_o common_a tale-gesture_n in_o order_n to_o right_n and_o worthy_a receive_v because_o in_o the_o judgement_n and_o practice_n of_o numerous_a dissenter_n it_o may_v be_v worthy_o receive_v stand_v thus_o the_o presbyterian_o and_o all_o their_o writer_n who_o have_v engage_v against_o kneel_v do_v not_o condemn_v stand_v as_o sinful_a and_o unlawful_a nor_o esteem_v such_o as_o use_v it_o unworthy_a receiver_n on_o that_o account_n and_o yet_o stand_v be_v no_o common_a table-gesture_n if_o any_o shall_v yet_o urge_v the_o necessity_n of_o sit_v as_o the_o object_n only_o agreeable_a gesture_n to_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o sacrament_n consider_v as_o a_o feast_n and_o that_o to_o use_v any_o other_o gesture_n will_v profane_v the_o ordinance_n i_o offer_v this_o to_o be_v consider_v as_o a_o good_a answer_n that_o answer_n the_o passover_n be_v call_v a_o feast_n by_o god_n himself_o who_o 14._o exod._n 12._o 14._o institute_v it_o and_o yet_o he_o command_v the_o child_n of_o israel_n to_o celebrate_v it_o in_o egypt_n after_o this_o manner_n with_o 11._o ver._n 11._o their_o loin_n gird_v their_o shoe_n on_o their_o foot_n and_o their_o staff_n in_o their_o hand_n all_o sign_n of_o haste_n indeed_o but_o no_o feast_n or_o table-gesture_n either_o among_o the_o jew_n or_o the_o egyptian_n to_o say_v that_o god_n enjoin_v gesture_n unsuitable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o that_o ordinance_n be_v to_o call_v in_o question_n the_o wisdom_n and_o the_o knowledge_n and_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n as_o not_o act_v upon_o a_o right_a understanding_n of_o and_o in_o conformity_n to_o the_o true_a nature_n of_o thing_n it_o be_v all_o one_o as_o to_o suppose_v that_o god_n after_o he_o have_v create_v a_o reasonable_a creature_n will_v enjoin_v he_o to_o do_v something_o that_o be_v disagreeable_a to_o his_o nature_n and_o reason_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n to_o say_v that_o the_o feast_n of_o the_o passover_n do_v in_o its_o nature_n admit_v of_o several_a gesture_n be_v to_o yield_v all_o that_o i_o desire_v for_o then_o the_o sacrament_n consider_v as_o a_o feast_n will_v admit_v of_o several_a too_o and_o consequent_o do_v not_o oblige_v
prebendary_n of_o exon._n the_o case_n of_o kneel_v at_o the_o holy_a sacrament_n state_v &_o resolve_v part_n ii_o wherein_o these_o query_n be_v consider_v iv_o whether_o kneel_v command_v in_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v not_o contrary_a to_o the_o general_a practice_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o first_o and_o pure_a age_n v._o whether_o it_o be_v unlawful_a for_o we_o to_o receive_v kneel_v because_o this_o gesture_n be_v first_o introduce_v by_o idolater_n and_o be_v still_o notorious_o abuse_v by_o the_o papist_n to_o idolatrous_a end_n and_o purpose_n london_n print_v for_o t._n basset_n at_o the_o george_n in_o fleetstreet_n and_o b._n take_v at_o the_o ship_n in_o st._n paul_n churchyard_n 1685._o query_n iu._n whether_o kneel_v command_v in_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v not_o contrary_a to_o the_o general_a practice_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o first_o and_o pure_a age_n the_o only_a way_n for_o any_o man_n to_o give_v or_o receive_v satisfaction_n in_o this_o point_n be_v diligent_o to_o consult_v the_o record_n of_o ancient_a time_n and_o from_o they_o make_v a_o faithful_a report_n of_o the_o custom_n and_o usage_n of_o the_o ancient_a catholic_n church_n for_o when_o once_o these_o be_v make_v manifest_a it_o will_v be_v very_o easy_a by_o compare_v thing_n together_o to_o discern_v whether_o they_o be_v consistent_a or_o contrary_a one_o to_o another_o whether_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n as_o to_o kneel_v at_o the_o sacrament_n be_v agreeable_a or_o repugnant_a to_o that_o of_o the_o primitive_a christian_n in_o answer_n therefore_o to_o this_o question_n my_o business_n be_v to_o give_v a_o plain_a historical_a account_n of_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o church_n in_o those_o early_a age_n of_o christianity_n from_o whence_o it_o may_v evident_o appear_v that_o the_o church_n of_o england_n by_o oblige_v her_o communicant_n to_o kneel_v do_v not_o oblige_v they_o to_o practice_v any_o thing_n but_o what_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o custom_n and_o practice_n of_o pure_a antiquity_n and_o this_o i_o will_v endeavour_v to_o do_v under_o these_o two_o general_a head_n 1._o it_o be_v high_o probable_a that_o the_o primitive_a church_n use_v to_o kneel_v in_o the_o act_n of_o receive_v the_o holy_a sacrament_n as_o our_o custom_n at_o present_a be_v 2._o it_o be_v most_o certain_a they_o use_v a_o adore_v posture_n but_o before_o i_o enter_v upon_o this_o undertake_n i_o will_v crave_v leave_n to_o premise_v somewhat_o concern_v this_o query_n in_o general_a and_o somewhat_o for_o explication_n of_o a_o term_n contain_v in_o it_o viz._n what_o we_o be_v to_o understand_v by_o the_o first_o and_o pure_a age_n as_o to_o the_o case_n itself_o in_o general_a it_o be_v of_o such_o a_o nature_n and_o require_v such_o a_o answer_n that_o not_o one_o among_o twenty_o thousand_o of_o the_o ordinary_a and_o common_a sort_n of_o people_n be_v due_o qualify_v to_o understand_v it_o and_o pass_v a_o true_a judgement_n upon_o it_o the_o merit_n of_o the_o cause_n be_v quite_o out_o of_o their_o reach_n and_o whether_o we_o be_v in_o the_o right_n or_o the_o wrong_n they_o know_v not_o but_o believe_v as_o they_o be_v teach_v and_o upon_o the_o credit_n of_o other_o who_o they_o suppose_v be_v able_a to_o inform_v they_o about_o such_o matter_n for_o in_o order_n to_o estimate_v the_o present_a case_n aright_o and_o as_o it_o ought_v it_o be_v necessary_a that_o a_o man_n have_v some_o competent_a knowledge_n of_o and_o insight_n into_o the_o custom_n and_o constitution_n of_o the_o ancient_a church_n the_o decree_n of_o council_n the_o work_n of_o the_o father_n and_o the_o original_a language_n wherein_o they_o write_v which_o i_o be_o sure_a few_o or_o none_o of_o the_o vulgar_a have_v attain_v to_o and_o true_o upon_o this_o very_a consideration_n i_o shall_v have_v pass_v this_o query_n by_o without_o take_v the_o least_o notice_n of_o it_o have_v i_o not_o in_o my_o converse_n with_o several_a dissent_v layman_n hear_v it_o start_v and_o plead_v in_o justification_n of_o their_o nonconformity_n to_o the_o custom_n and_o constitution_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n i_o confess_v i_o do_v a_o little_a wonder_n to_o find_v man_n make_v that_o a_o rule_n of_o conscience_n and_o bold_o rely_v and_o practice_v upon_o it_o which_o they_o do_v not_o at_o all_o understand_v to_o find_v this_o weapon_n put_v into_o the_o hand_n of_o ordinary_a and_o illiterate_a person_n not_o only_o to_o defend_v themselves_o against_o the_o command_n of_o their_o lawful_a superior_n and_o those_o who_o be_v set_v over_o they_o by_o god_n to_o be_v their_o ruler_n and_o guide_n in_o all_o such_o case_n especial_o where_o they_o be_v not_o able_a to_o guide_v and_o direct_v themselves_o but_o also_o to_o wound_v and_o murder_v the_o reputation_n of_o the_o national_a church_n as_o degenerate_v from_o all_o antiquity_n as_o introduce_v and_o impose_v novel_a custom_n and_o ceremony_n repugnant_a to_o the_o principle_n and_o practice_n of_o the_o first_o and_o pure_a age_n whether_o it_o be_v well_o do_v in_o nonconform_v minister_n to_o furnish_v the_o common_a people_n with_o such_o kind_n of_o argument_n as_o these_o so_o much_o out_o of_o their_o way_n and_o above_o their_o pitch_n and_o capacity_n i_o leave_v the_o honest_a part_n of_o the_o world_n to_o judge_v the_o 2_o thing_n i_o will_v premise_v be_v this_o suppose_v kneeling_z at_o the_o sacrament_n be_v never_o use_v by_o the_o ancient_a church_n yet_o such_o a_o objection_n be_v a_o wretched_a plea_n in_o the_o mouth_n of_o a_o dissenter_n to_o justify_v his_o nonconformity_n by_o as_o to_o this_o particular_a gesture_n for_o if_o kneel_v be_v a_o crime_n and_o unlawful_a because_o it_o be_v not_o use_v in_o primitive_a time_n sit_v at_o the_o sacrament_n be_v a_o much_o great_a for_o that_o be_v condemn_v as_o a_o irreverend_a posture_n as_o will_v appear_v by_o and_o by_o beside_o they_o themselves_o have_v a_o very_a little_a value_n for_o antiquity_n and_o in_o all_o thing_n almost_o run_v counter_a to_o it_o and_o one_o will_v think_v that_o they_o shall_v be_v very_o willing_a to_o receive_v kneel_v for_o that_o very_a reason_n which_o they_o produce_v against_o it_o that_o be_v because_o it_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o currant_n practice_n of_o all_o antiquity_n as_o they_o will_v make_v their_o party_n to_o believe_v this_o may_v be_v expect_v from_o they_o because_o they_o will_v not_o be_v persuade_v by_o any_o mean_n or_o entreaty_n to_o comply_v with_o such_o custom_n and_o ceremony_n of_o our_o church_n as_o be_v undoubted_o use_v by_o the_o ancient_a christian_n such_o as_o godfather_n and_o godmother_n the_o cross_n in_o baptism_n the_o ring_n in_o marriage_n the_o feast_n or_o holiday_n of_o christmas_n easter_n etc._n etc._n but_o instead_o of_o conformity_n to_o these_o thing_n they_o raise_v a_o hue_n and_o cry_n upon_o the_o church_n as_o popish_a and_o anti-christian_n for_o enjoin_v such_o ceremony_n and_o pretend_v they_o have_v much_o rather_o endure_v any_o extremity_n than_o submit_v their_o neck_n to_o such_o a_o intolerable_a yoke_n but_o how_o hard_o be_v the_o government_n put_v to_o it_o to_o please_v such_o humoursome_a person_n when_o our_o governor_n tread_v in_o the_o very_a step_n of_o the_o primitive_a bishop_n and_o bless_a martyr_n than_o they_o be_v popish_a and_o antichristian_a and_o the_o conscience_n of_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n will_v not_o suffer_v they_o to_o conform_v and_o at_o other_o time_n they_o can_v conform_v because_o they_o require_v they_o to_o do_v what_o be_v never_o require_v nor_o practise_v in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n throughout_o all_o precede_a generation_n till_o transubstantiation_n be_v establish_v in_o the_o world_n so_o that_o to_o follow_v antiquity_n be_v a_o great_a objection_n against_o conformity_n at_o some_o time_n and_o not_o to_o follow_v it_o as_o great_a at_o other_o when_o ever_o they_o please_v to_o make_v it_o so_o it_o be_v so_o say_v or_o do_v what_o one_o can_v to_o the_o contrary_n thus_o much_o concern_v the_o case_n in_o general_a let_v we_o now_o see_v the_o meaning_n of_o that_o phrase_n the_o first_o and_o pure_a age_n this_o i_o think_v may_v be_v easy_o make_v out_o from_o the_o write_n of_o those_o man_n who_o have_v stout_o defend_v sit_v or_o a_o common_a table-gesture_n who_o have_v deliver_v their_o mind_n with_o as_o much_o clearness_n and_o as_o roundly_o as_o one_o will_v wish_v concern_v this_o matter_n for_o thus_o the_o author_n of_o a_o book_n former_o cite_v affirm_v that_o antiquity_n be_v whole_o against_o we_o and_o the_o primitive_a church_n never_o 67._o dispute_v upon_o quest_n of_o kneel_v etc._n etc._n to_o the_o reader_n id_fw-la p._n 67._o so_o much_o as_o hear_v of_o kneel_v
remark_n the_o pretence_n of_o their_o convenient_a usefulness_n will_v be_v no_o better_a excuse_n on_o their_o behalf_n than_o be_v that_o plea_n for_o spare_v the_o best_a of_o the_o antalekite_n cattle_n that_o they_o may_v be_v a_o sacrifice_n when_o god_n have_v devote_v they_o to_o destruction_n for_o if_o god_n as_o they_o say_v have_v command_v that_o all_o such_o thing_n and_o rite_n shall_v be_v utter_o abolish_v as_o be_v of_o man_n devise_v and_o have_v be_v abuse_v to_o idolatry_n then_o the_o convenient_a usefulness_n of_o such_o place_n and_o thing_n will_v never_o bear_v they_o out_o 4_o if_o it_o be_v sinful_a to_o kneel_v at_o the_o sacrament_n because_o that_o cesture_n have_v be_v and_o be_v notorious_o abuse_v by_o papist_n to_o idolatrous_a end_n so_o also_o be_v sit_v which_o be_v contend_v for_o with_o so_o much_o show_v of_o zeal_n for_o the_o pope_n himself_o sit_v in_o the_o act_n of_o receive_v as_o be_v before_o note_v and_o if_o any_o credit_n be_v to_o be_v give_v to_o a_o doctor_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n for_o the_o same_o reason_n which_o our_o dissenter_n urge_v for_o sit_v viz._n because_o the_o apostle_n sit_v at_o the_o first_o institution_n and_o celebration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n if_o any_o inquire_v why_o the_o 4._o si_fw-mi quaeratur_fw-la quare_fw-la dominus_fw-la papa_n sedendo_fw-la communicate_v potest_fw-la dici_fw-la quod_fw-la hoc_fw-la sit_fw-la in_o recordationem_fw-la quod_fw-la beatus_fw-la petrus_n &_o alii_fw-la apostoli_fw-la sedendo_fw-la corpus_fw-la domini_fw-la in_o coena_fw-la ultima_fw-la acceperunt_fw-la alex._n hales_n tract_n de_fw-fr missa_fw-la par_fw-fr 2._o quest_n 10._o par_fw-fr 4._o pope_n receive_v sit_v it_o may_v be_v rereply_v that_o he_o use_v that_o gesture_n in_o remembrance_n of_o st._n peter_n and_o the_o ooth_a apostle_n who_o receive_v the_o body_n of_o our_o lord_n at_o the_o last_o supper_n sit_v to_o conclude_v if_o kneel_v be_v unlawful_a because_o it_o have_v be_v abuse_v to_o idolatry_n than_o we_o must_v never_o receive_v the_o holy_a sacrament_n for_o we_o must_v receive_v in_o some_o convenient_a posture_n such_o as_o kneel_v sit_v discumb_a stand_v and_o yet_o every_o one_o of_o these_o either_o have_v be_v or_o be_v notorious_o abuse_v by_o heathen_n and_o papist_n to_o idolatrous_a end_n i_o have_v now_o finish_v what_o i_o undertake_v and_o endeavour_v all_o that_o in_o i_o lie_v to_o satisfy_v all_o honest_a and_o peaceable_a dissenter_n that_o they_o may_v lawful_o and_o innocent_o kneel_v in_o the_o act_n of_o receive_v the_o holy_a sacrament_n what_o success_n this_o discourse_n will_v have_v i_o know_v not_o but_o this_o i_o be_o sure_a of_o it_o be_v well_o mean_v and_o if_o it_o be_v read_v with_o the_o same_o charity_n as_o it_o be_v write_v with_o a_o honest_a teachable_a mind_n a_o mind_n not_o please_v with_o its_o scruple_n i_o hope_v by_o god_n blessing_n it_o will_v do_v some_o good_a in_o the_o world_n and_o real_o if_o 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weakness_n of_o their_o understanding_n but_o the_o obstinacy_n of_o their_o will_n not_o from_o a_o great_a fear_n of_o offend_a god_n which_o keep_v pace_n with_o all_o their_o action_n for_o such_o i_o have_v as_o tender_v a_o compassion_n as_o any_o man_n but_o from_o humour_n self-conceit_n affectation_n of_o popular_a applause_n and_o the_o be_v think_v the_o wise_a and_o better_a man_n for_o find_v fault_n with_o every_o thing_n enjoin_v by_o lawful_a authority_n and_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v write_v in_o defence_n of_o it_o nor_o upon_o man_n who_o scruple_n against_o government_n by_o bishop_n the_o liturgy_n and_o rite_n of_o the_o church_n arise_v not_o from_o their_o conscience_n but_o their_o stomach_n from_o pride_n and_o ambition_n from_o private_a pique_n &_o disappointment_n in_o the_o state_n from_o hypocrisy_n and_o interest_n when_o the_o more_o they_o rail_v and_o except_v against_o ceremony_n the_o better_a trade_n they_o drive_v in_o the_o world_n from_o such_o as_o these_o i_o expect_v nothing_o but_o contempt_n and_o derision_n and_o that_o the_o medicine_n will_v be_v turn_v into_o poison_n for_o as_o a_o great_a man_n observe_v on_o prov._n 14._o 6._o he_o 230._o lord_n bacon_n advan_n of_o learn_v fol._n p_o 230._o that_o come_v to_o seek_v after_o knowledge_n with_o a_o mind_n to_o scorn_v and_o censure_n shall_v be_v sure_a to_o find_v matter_n enough_o for_o his_o humour_n but_o no_o matter_n for_o his_o instruction_n finis_fw-la for_o kneel_v i_o never_o yet_o hear_v any_o thing_n yet_o to_o prove_v it_o unlawful_a if_o there_o be_v any_o thing_n it_o must_v be_v either_o some_o word_n of_o god_n or_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o ordinance_n which_o be_v suppose_v to_o be_v contradict_v but_o 1_o there_o be_v no_o word_n of_o god_n for_o any_o gesture_n nor_o against_o any_o christ_n example_n can_v never_o be_v prove_v to_o oblige_v we_o more_o in_o this_o than_o in_o many_o other_o circumstance_n that_o be_v confess_v not_o obligatory_a as_o that_o he_o deliver_v but_o to_o minister_n and_o but_o to_o a_o family_n to_o twelve_o and_o after_o supper_n and_o on_o a_o thursday-night_n and_o in_o a_o upper_a room_n etc._n etc._n and_o his_o gesture_n be_v not_o such_o a_o sit_v as_o we_o and_o 2_o for_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o ordinance_n it_o be_v mix_v and_o if_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o take_v a_o pardon_n from_o the_o king_n upon_o our_o knee_n i_o know_v not_o what_o can_v make_v it_o unlawful_a to_o take_v a_o seal_a pardon_n from_o christ_n by_o his_o ambassador_n upon_o our_o knee_n mr._n baxter_n be_v christian_a directory_n par_fw-fr 2._o p._n 111._o quest_n 3._o §._o 40._o a_o discourse_n about_o edification_n in_o answer_n to_o a_o question_n whether_o it_o be_v lawful_a for_o any_o man_n to_o forsake_v the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n and_o go_v to_o the_o separate_a meeting_n because_o he_o can_v better_o edify_v there_o the_o second_o edition_n london_n print_v by_o j._n c._n and_o freeman_n collins_n for_o fincham_n gardiner_n at_o the_o white-horse_n in_o ludgate-street_n 1684._o a_o discourse_n about_o edification_n in_o answer_n to_o a_o question_n whether_o it_o be_v lawful_a for_o any_o man_n to_o forsake_v the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n and_o go_v to_o the_o separate_a meeting_n because_o he_o can_v better_o edify_v there_o answer_v it_o be_v unlawful_a to_o make_v this_o plain_a two_o thing_n must_v be_v consider_v first_o what_o sort_n of_o person_n this_o be_v who_o ask_v this_o question_n second_o what_o he_o mean_v by_o edification_n as_o to_o the_o person_n he_o be_v suppose_v to_o be_v one_o that_o be_v full_o satisfy_v that_o he_o may_v lawful_o communicate_v with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n that_o there_o be_v no_o term_n of_o communion_n put_v upon_o he_o but_o which_o he_o can_v comply_v withal_o with_o a_o good_a conscience_n that_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o it_o contrary_a to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n natural_a reason_n or_o plain_a consequence_n fetch_v from_o both_o or_o either_o and_o therefore_o he_o who_o think_v that_o there_o be_v some_o thing_n unlawful_a in_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v not_o concern_v in_o the_o question_n for_o he_o separate_v upon_o the_o account_n of_o unlawfulness_n and_o not_o edification_n only_o as_o be_v suppose_v in_o the_o question_n second_o by_o edification_n be_v mean_v a_o improvement_n of_o his_o spiritual_a condition_n in_o the_o full_a latitude_n whereinsoever_o it_o may_v true_o consist_v whether_o in_o the_o article_n of_o his_o faith_n which_o in_o the_o separate_a congregation_n be_v better_o teach_v more_o clear_o prove_v more_o fit_o apply_v to_o his_o practice_n and_o to_o support_v his_o hope_n of_o heaven_n or_o whether_o in_o the_o rule_n of_o life_n which_o be_v there_o more_o exact_o lay_v down_o and_o more_o
subject_n more_o love_v command_v equal_o bowel_n and_o affection_n and_o duty_n and_o honour_n master_n and_o servant_n husband_n and_o wife_n and_o all_o relation_n be_v keep_v in_o their_o just_a bound_n and_o privilege_n with_o other_o church_n we_o make_v good_a work_v necessary_a to_o salvation_n but_o think_v ourselves_o more_o modest_a and_o secure_a in_o take_v away_o arrogance_n and_o merit_n and_o advance_v the_o grace_n of_o christ_n with_o other_o man_n we_o cry_v up_o faith_n but_o not_o a_o hungry_a and_o a_o starve_a one_o but_o what_o be_v fruitful_a of_o good_a work_n and_o so_o have_v all_o that_o other_o contend_v for_o with_o great_a modesty_n and_o security_n 3._o how_o fit_o this_o church_n be_v constitute_v to_o excite_v true_a devotion_n when_o we_o make_v our_o address_n unto_o god_n we_o ought_v to_o have_v worthy_a and_o reverend_a conception_n of_o his_o nature_n a_o true_a sense_n and_o plain_a knowledge_n of_o the_o duty_n and_o of_o the_o want_v and_o necessity_n for_o which_o we_o pray_v to_o be_v supply_v all_o which_o our_o church_n to_o help_v our_o devotion_n plain_o set_v down_o describe_v god_n by_o all_o his_o attribute_n of_o just_a wise_a and_o lay_v forth_o the_o vice_n and_o infirmity_n of_o humane_a nature_n and_o that_o none_o else_o but_o god_n can_v cure_v our_o need_n when_o her_o son_n be_v to_o pray_v the_o matter_n of_o her_o petition_n be_v not_o nice_a and_o controvert_v trivial_a or_o word_n of_o a_o party_n but_o plain_a and_o substantial_a wherein_o all_o agree_v her_o word_n in_o prayer_n be_v neither_o rustic_a nor_o gay_a the_o whole_a composure_n neither_o too_o tedious_a nor_o too_o short_a decent_o order_v to_o help_v our_o memory_n and_o wander_a thought_n responsal_n and_o short_a collect_v in_o public_a devotion_n be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v her_o fault_n that_o they_o be_v her_o beauty_n and_o prudence_n there_o be_v few_o case_n and_o condition_n of_o humane_a life_n whether_o of_o a_o civil_a or_o spiritual_a nature_n which_o have_v not_o their_o proper_a prayer_n and_o particular_a petition_n for_o they_o at_o least_o as_o be_v proper_a for_o public_a devotion_n when_o we_o return_v our_o thanks_o we_o have_v proper_a office_n to_o inflame_v our_o passion_n to_o quicken_v our_o resentment_n to_o excite_v our_o love_n and_o to_o confirm_v our_o future_a obedience_n the_o best_a instance_n of_o gratitude_n when_o we_o commemorate_v the_o passion_n of_o christ_n we_o have_v a_o service_n fit_a to_o move_v our_o affection_n to_o assist_v our_o faith_n to_o enlarge_v our_o charity_n to_o show_v forth_o and_o exhibit_v christ_n and_o all_o his_o bloody_a suffering_n every_o way_n to_o qualify_v we_o to_o discharge_v that_o great_a duty_n she_o have_v indeed_o nothing_o to_o kindle_v a_o enthusiastic_a heat_n nor_o any_o thing_n that_o savour_v of_o rapture_n and_o ecstasy_n which_o common_o flow_v from_o temper_n or_o fraud_n but_o that_o which_o make_v we_o manly_a devout_a our_o judgement_n still_o guide_v our_o affection_n when_o we_o enter_v first_o into_o religion_n and_o go_v out_o of_o the_o world_n we_o have_v two_o proper_a office_n baptism_n and_o burial_n full_a of_o devotion_n to_o attend_v those_o purpose_n so_o that_o if_o any_o do_v not_o pray_v and_o give_v thanks_o communicate_v and_o live_v like_o a_o christian_a it_o be_v not_o because_o the_o service_n to_o promote_v these_o be_v too_o plain_a and_o hungry_a beggarly_a and_o mean_a but_o their_o own_o mind_n be_v not_o fit_o qualify_v before_o they_o use_v they_o bring_v but_o a_o honest_a mind_n to_o these_o part_n of_o devotion_n a_o true_a sense_n of_o god_n sober_a and_o good_a purpose_n and_o affection_n well_o dispose_v that_o which_o be_v plain_a will_v prove_v seraphical_a improve_v our_o judgement_n heighten_v our_o passion_n and_o make_v the_o church_n a_o choir_n of_o angel_n without_o which_o good_a disposition_n our_o devotion_n be_v but_o constitution_n or_o melancholy_a peevishness_n sullenness_n or_o devotion_n to_o a_o party_n a_o sacrifice_n that_o god_n will_v not_o acccept_v 4._o her_o order_n and_o discipline_n such_o be_v the_o capacity_n and_o manner_n of_o man_n not_o to_o be_v teach_v only_o by_o naked_a virtue_n a_o natural_a judgement_n or_o a_o immediate_a teach_v of_o god_n but_o by_o ministry_n and_o discipline_n decent_a ceremony_n and_o constitution_n and_o other_o external_a method_n these_o be_v the_o outward_a pale_n and_o guard_n the_o supply_n and_o help_v for_o the_o weakness_n of_o humane_a nature_n our_o church_n have_v fit_v and_o order_v these_o so_o well_o as_o neither_o to_o want_v or_o to_o abound_v not_o to_o make_v religion_n too_o gay_a nor_o leave_v her_o slove_z neither_o rude_a nor_o fantastic_a but_o be_v clothe_v in_o dress_n proper_a to_o a_o manly_a religion_n not_o to_o please_v or_o gratify_v our_o sense_n so_o as_o to_o fix_v there_o but_o to_o serve_v the_o reason_n and_o judgement_n of_o our_o mind_n there_o be_v none_o of_o our_o ceremony_n which_o good_a man_n and_o wise_a man_n have_v not_o judge_v decent_a and_o serviceable_a to_o the_o great_a end_n of_o religion_n and_o none_o of_o they_o but_o derive_v themselves_o from_o a_o very_a ancient_a family_n be_v use_v in_o most_o age_n and_o most_o of_o the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o have_v decency_n antiquity_n and_o usefulness_n to_o plead_v for_o they_o to_o help_v our_o memory_n to_o excite_v our_o affection_n to_o render_v our_o service_n orderly_a and_o comely_a be_v we_o indeed_o all_o soul_n and_o such_o seraphical_a saint_n and_o grow_v man_n as_o we_o make_v ourselves_o we_o may_v then_o plead_v against_o such_o external_a help_n but_o when_o we_o have_v nature_n of_o weakness_n and_o passion_n these_o outward_a help_n may_v be_v call_v very_o convenient_a if_o not_o general_o necessary_a and_o as_o our_o nature_n be_v mix_v of_o soul_n and_o body_n so_o must_v always_o our_o devotion_n be_v here_o and_o such_o god_n expect_v and_o be_v please_v with_o our_o church_n be_v neither_o defective_a in_o power_n and_o discipline_n have_v she_o her_o just_a due_n and_o other_o will_v do_v well_o to_o join_v with_o she_o in_o her_o wish_n that_o they_o may_v be_v restore_v which_o will_v turn_v all_o into_o confusion_n nor_o yet_o tyrannical_a want_v of_o authority_n breed_v as_o many_o if_o not_o more_o misery_n than_o tyranny_n or_o too_o much_o power_n both_o of_o they_o severe_a curse_n of_o a_o nation_n but_o her_o government_n like_o her_o clime_n be_v so_o well_o temper_v together_o that_o the_o member_n of_o this_o christian_a society_n may_v not_o be_v dissolute_a or_o rude_a with_o she_o nor_o her_o ruler_n insolent_a be_v constitute_v in_o the_o church_n with_o their_o different_a name_n and_o title_n not_o for_o lustre_n and_o greatness_n and_o secular_a purpose_n but_o for_o suppression_n of_o vice_n the_o maintain_n of_o faith_n peace_n order_n and_o all_o virtue_n the_o true_a edification_n of_o man_n soul_n and_o if_o those_o vice_n be_v not_o reprove_v and_o chastise_v which_o fall_v under_o her_o cognizance_n it_o be_v not_o the_o fault_n of_o her_o power_n but_o because_o by_o other_o way_n ill_o restrain_v unnecessary_a division_n from_o she_o hinder_v her_o discipline_n upon_o offender_n and_o so_o they_o hinder_v that_o edification_n which_o thy_o contend_v for_o this_o government_n be_v not_o modern_a particular_a or_o pure_o humane_a but_o apostolical_a primitive_a and_o universal_a to_o time_n as_o well_o as_o place_n till_o some_o private_a person_n for_o number_n learning_n or_o piety_n not_o to_o be_v equal_v to_o the_o good_a man_n of_o old_a who_o defend_v it_o and_o obey_v it_o and_o suffer_v for_o it_o out_o of_o some_o mistake_n of_o humane_a frailty_n and_o passion_n or_o bear_v down_o with_o the_o iniquity_n of_o the_o time_n begin_v to_o change_v it_o and_o declaim_v against_o it_o though_o so_o very_o fit_a and_o proper_a to_o promote_v christianity_n in_o the_o world_n this_o be_v a_o general_a account_n of_o that_o edification_n that_o be_v to_o be_v have_v in_o that_o church_n in_o which_o we_o live_v a_o more_o particular_a one_o will_v be_v too_o long_o for_o this_o discourse_n but_o thus_o much_o must_v be_v say_v that_o examine_v all_o her_o particular_a part_n and_o office_n you_o will_v find_v none_o of_o they_o light_n or_o superstitious_a novel_a or_o too_o numerous_a ill_o dispose_v or_o uncouth_a improper_a or_o burdensome_a no_o just_a cause_n for_o any_o to_o revolt_v from_o her_o communion_n but_o consider_v the_o present_a circumstance_n of_o christianity_n and_o man_n the_o best_a constitute_v church_n in_o the_o world_n if_o therefore_o edification_n be_v go_v on_o to_o perfection_n 3._o heb._n 6._o 1._o 2_o pet._n 3._o 18._o rom._n 15._o 2._o 1_o cor._n 14._o 3._o or_o grow_v in_o grace_n if_o it_o be_v do_v good_a to_o the_o soul_n of_o
many_o time_n be_v no_o more_o than_o a_o bright_a or_o a_o lower_a day_n can_v do_v act_v upon_o the_o animal_n spirit_n and_o a_o do_v of_o physic_n will_v do_v the_o same_o and_o if_o they_o carry_v the_o man_n no_o further_o improve_v no_o virtue_n in_o they_o they_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o downright_a flesh_n and_o blood_n and_o they_o be_v hot_a and_o cold_a high_a and_o low_a very_o changeable_a and_o uncertain_a according_a as_o the_o humour_n flow_v and_o as_o be_v the_o bodily_a temper_n of_o the_o man_n upon_o this_o account_n some_o be_v melt_v into_o tear_n and_o other_o be_v fire_v into_o rage_n and_o zeal_n their_o spirit_n like_o tinder_n easy_o catch_v the_o flame_n and_o these_o have_v happen_v in_o the_o worst_a of_o man_n serve_v only_o the_o design_n of_o fury_n and_o hypocrisy_n and_o can_v no_o more_o be_v call_v edification_n than_o the_o fire_n from_o the_o altar_n that_o may_v consume_v the_o temple_n zeal_n yet_o such_o mistake_n as_o these_o have_v be_v too_o common_a anger_n and_o revenge_n have_v be_v call_v zeal_n for_o god_n trade_n and_o interest_n have_v be_v baptise_a christianity_n fury_n and_o fume_n of_o the_o stomach_n have_v be_v think_v the_o divine_a spirit_n ridiculous_a look_n and_o unmanly_a posture_n have_v be_v fancy_v true_a act_n of_o devotion_n and_o when_o they_o themselves_o be_v please_v and_o in_o the_o good_a humour_n god_n be_v reconcile_v and_o when_o they_o be_v dull_a and_o heavy_a the_o spirit_n be_v withdraw_v and_o according_a as_o these_o heat_n and_o bodily_a passion_n be_v stir_v so_o the_o ministry_n be_v edify_v or_o unprofitable_a pale_a cheek_n and_o hollow_a look_n have_v be_v 16._o matth._n 6._o 16._o count_v sign_n of_o grace_n and_o the_o disease_n of_o their_o body_n pass_v for_o the_o virtue_n of_o their_o mind_n and_o when_o a_o doctrine_n have_v be_v so_o insinuate_v as_o to_o hit_v and_o favour_v these_o they_o be_v strange_o improve_v and_o have_v obtain_v a_o good_a degree_n in_o religion_n many_o of_o these_o may_v be_v beginning_n or_o occasion_n lead_v unto_o religion_n and_o may_v serve_v some_o good_a purpose_n in_o man_n that_o can_v manage_v they_o well_o but_o to_o cry_v up_o these_o for_o edification_n and_o go_v on_o unto_o perfection_n be_v to_o betray_v their_o people_n into_o the_o power_n of_o every_o cheat_n and_o impostor_n who_o have_v the_o knack_n to_o raise_v these_o heat_n which_o pass_v for_o reason_n and_o conviction_n of_o mind_n and_o most_o common_o be_v great_a hindrance_n to_o solid_a and_o sound_a reason_n plain_a discourse_n the_o true_a way_n to_o edification_n to_o make_v firm_a and_o last_a impression_n upon_o the_o mind_n while_o the_o silly_a and_o the_o weak_a who_o be_v most_o subject_a to_o these_o heat_n and_o cold_n the_o uncertain_a motion_n of_o their_o spirit_n be_v fickle_a and_o inconstant_a turn_v round_o in_o all_o religion_n such_o man_n be_v all_o sail_n be_v more_o easy_o toss_v about_o with_o every_o wind_n of_o doctrine_n 3._o argument_n to_o confirm_v the_o answer_n be_v that_o pretence_n of_o better_a edification_n will_v cause_v endless_a division_n in_o the_o church_n this_o question_n do_v suppose_v that_o every_o man_n must_v judge_v and_o so_o great_a a_o part_n of_o the_o world_n be_v ignorant_a and_o vicious_a partial_a and_o prejudice_v false_a and_o insincere_a to_o themselves_o and_o other_o they_o may_v run_v from_o teacher_n to_o teacher_n from_o presbyterian_a to_o independent_a from_o independent_a to_o anabaptist_n or_o quaker_n and_o never_o stop_v till_o they_o come_v at_o their_o grave_n to_o find_v out_o better_a edification_n ever_o learning_n and_o never_o come_v to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n ever_o seek_v and_o 7._o 2_o tim._n 3._o 7._o never_o satisfy_v till_o they_o find_v the_o pattern_n upon_o the_o mount_n or_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n be_v come_v down_o from_o above_o till_o they_o meet_v with_o such_o a_o perfect_a church_n as_o perhaps_o will_v never_o be_v here_o upon_o earth_n till_o her_o great_a master_n come_v the_o ignorant_a will_n easy_o mistake_v and_o who_o can_v know_v the_o heart_n and_o intention_n of_o the_o false_a and_o the_o hypocrite_n and_o the_o governor_n have_v nothing_o to_o do_v here_o to_o retrench_v this_o liberty_n which_o as_o they_o pretend_v be_v either_o bear_v with_o they_o or_o give_v they_o by_o god_n at_o this_o rate_n may_v not_o every_o single_a person_n be_v a_o church_n leave_v all_o other_o christian_a society_n fancy_v that_o he_o can_v better_o edify_v at_o home_n with_o the_o working_n of_o his_o own_o mind_n and_o some_o pretend_a infusion_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o he_o shall_v better_o meet_v with_o in_o his_o privacy_n and_o retirement_n than_o in_o a_o external_a and_o carnal_a ministry_n and_o crowd_n when_o once_o they_o have_v tear_v the_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n in_o piece_n and_o set_v up_o their_o more_o edify_v meeting_n in_o come_v whole_a shoal_n of_o vice_n envy_n and_o detraction_n strife_n and_o emulation_n murmur_n and_o complain_n fierceness_n and_o wrath_n and_o a_o great_a number_n of_o thing_n more_o prejudicial_a to_o the_o state_n of_o the_o kingdom_n the_o interest_n of_o family_n the_o good_a of_o friendship_n and_o all_o civil_a conversation_n a_o wonderful_a edification_n destroy_v the_o very_a soul_n of_o christianity_n the_o same_o principle_n that_o divide_v they_o from_o this_o church_n will_v crumble_v they_o into_o endless_a party_n and_o every_o little_a chip_n may_v call_v itself_o a_o building_n and_o so_o destroy_v all_o good_a government_n and_o discipline_n so_o necessary_a to_o propagate_v and_o preserve_v christianity_n in_o the_o world_n and_o shall_v i_o live_v to_o see_v that_o fatal_a day_n when_o the_o government_n in_o our_o church_n shall_v be_v dissolve_v and_o liberty_n give_v to_o every_o man_n upon_o pretence_n of_o better_a edification_n to_o choose_v his_o pastor_n and_o his_o church_n so_o many_o mischief_n and_o confusion_n will_v follow_v from_o it_o that_o if_o there_o be_v any_o regard_n to_o common_a christianity_n or_o sense_n of_o temporal_a happiness_n leave_v within_o their_o breast_n they_o will_v too_o late_o repent_v their_o schism_n as_o once_o in_o a_o great_a degree_n many_o of_o they_o do_v and_o beg_v upon_o their_o knee_n that_o the_o pale_a of_o this_o government_n in_o church_n may_v be_v set_v up_o again_o and_o they_o will_v receive_v it_o with_o all_o its_o pretend_a load_n of_o imposition_n this_o will_v certain_o follow_v from_o divide_v from_o the_o church_n to_o the_o laughter_n of_o rome_n and_o joy_n of_o all_o the_o enemy_n of_o our_o christian_a religion_n all_o this_o will_v be_v avoid_v if_o man_n be_v sensible_a of_o the_o heinous_a nature_n of_o schism_n which_o the_o apostle_n and_o all_o the_o ancient_a christian_n have_v paint_v forth_o in_o such_o black_a colour_n though_o other_o think_v our_o division_n in_o the_o church_n be_v no_o more_o than_o variety_n of_o company_n and_o livery_n in_o a_o city_n 4._o what_o great_a discouragement_n this_o be_v to_o a_o honest_a and_o true_o christian_a ministry_n when_o a_o pastor_n of_o our_o church_n shall_v diligent_o and_o faithful_o plain_o and_o devout_o unfold_v the_o article_n of_o faith_n and_o lay_v down_o rule_n for_o practice_n which_o will_v certain_o bring_v he_o to_o heaven_n yet_o his_o flock_n or_o charge_n one_o after_o another_o upon_o pretence_n of_o green_a pasture_n great_a knowledge_n better_a elocution_n delivery_n tone_n or_o the_o like_a to_o be_v have_v elsewhere_o shall_v run_v from_o he_o will_v it_o not_o cool_v his_o zeal_n check_v his_o labour_n and_o affront_v his_o person_n and_o office_n this_o may_v be_v do_v to_o the_o painful_a as_o well_o as_o idle_a to_o the_o judicious_a and_o learned_a as_o well_o as_o imprudent_a and_o ignorant_a pastor_n where_o the_o people_n shall_v have_v liberty_n of_o separation_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o edification_n the_o ill_a effect_n of_o this_o have_v turn_v upon_o their_o own_o minister_n and_o new_a government_n and_o the_o most_o judicious_a among_o they_o have_v sad_o complain_v of_o it_o former_o they_o petition_v for_o a_o painful_a and_o preach_a ministry_n but_o this_o pretence_n of_o better_a edification_n give_v denial_n to_o their_o own_o request_n such_o discouragement_n as_o these_o happen_v severe_o sometime_o to_o the_o best_a of_o pastor_n as_o well_o as_o the_o worst_a and_o they_o have_v no_o cure_n for_o this_o have_v put_v a_o power_n into_o the_o people_n hand_n which_o they_o can_v recall_v for_o neither_o king_n parliament_z bishop_n or_o pastor_n can_v tell_v they_o what_o be_v edification_n so_o well_o as_o themselves_o and_o be_v the_o pastor_n of_o the_o church_n to_o be_v so_o treat_v and_o trifle_v with_o who_o derive_v their_o office_n and_o authority_n from_o god_n to_o command_v and_o
persuade_v to_o rebuke_n and_o exhort_v and_o have_v the_o charge_n of_o soul_n commit_v to_o they_o for_o fancy_n peevishness_n and_o humour_n to_o be_v scorn_v and_o discountenance_v and_o have_v their_o ministry_n render_v useless_a and_o the_o sheep_n to_o govern_v the_o shepherd_n but_o what_o if_o our_o pastor_n be_v idle_a or_o remiss_a in_o his_o duty_n or_o corrupt_v in_o his_o faith_n and_o teach_v error_n instead_o of_o sound_a doctrine_n and_o we_o have_v no_o mean_n of_o edification_n what_o must_v we_o do_v must_v we_o take_v in_o poison_n for_o food_n or_o not_o be_v feed_v at_o all_o to_o be_v sure_a you_o must_v not_o run_v into_o schismatical_a separation_n it_o be_v more_o tolerable_a to_o go_v to_o other_o congregation_n of_o our_o communion_n that_o may_v be_v irregular_a but_o it_o be_v not_o schismatical_a but_o thanks_o be_v to_o god_n we_o have_v a_o government_n which_o upon_o a_o just_a and_o modest_a complaint_n will_v quicken_v the_o lazy_a and_o negligent_a correct_v the_o heretical_a pastor_n and_o restore_v to_o you_o true_a edification_n that_o this_o discourse_n may_v prevail_v upon_o such_o who_o make_v this_o question_n i_o desire_v to_o recommend_v these_o two_o follow_a thing_n which_o be_v very_o reasonable_a to_o their_o consideration_n 1._o that_o if_o they_o fancy_v any_o defect_n in_o our_o government_n they_o shall_v not_o hence_o conclude_v that_o they_o have_v not_o sufficient_a edification_n in_o the_o church_n to_o save_v their_o soul_n if_o upon_o a_o nice_a search_n and_o critical_a enquiry_n they_o think_v they_o have_v find_v some_o little_a flaw_n and_o defect_n improper_a phrase_n doubtful_a sense_n and_o some_o small_a omission_n in_o the_o matter_n of_o our_o prayer_n and_o discipline_n yet_o let_v they_o not_o conclude_v that_o these_o can_v weigh_v in_o the_o balance_n against_o the_o black_a sin_n of_o schism_n and_o separation_n and_o all_o its_o sad_a consequence_n which_o be_v excuse_v by_o nothing_o else_o but_o term_n of_o communion_n plain_o sinful_a have_v not_o divine_a service_n be_v accept_v which_o be_v less_o perfect_a and_o come_v not_o up_o to_o their_o rule_n as_o be_v plain_a in_o hezekiah_n passover_n which_o be_v not_o to_o the_o purification_n of_o the_o sanctuary_n yet_o the_o good_a king_n 20._o 2_o chron._n 30._o 18_o 19_o 20._o prayer_n and_o the_o necessity_n of_o the_o time_n prevail_v with_o god_n to_o heal_v the_o people_n that_o be_v to_o repute_v they_o clean_o and_o well_o prepare_v and_o their_o sacrifice_n and_o devotion_n good_a be_v there_o no_o reverence_n to_o be_v pay_v to_o the_o pious_a author_n of_o our_o service_n and_o reformation_n but_o to_o tell_v they_o they_o must_v divide_v from_o they_o be_v they_o now_o live_v for_o they_o can_v edify_v under_o that_o religion_n and_o government_n for_o which_o they_o die_v be_v there_o or_o will_v there_o ever_o be_v any_o government_n in_o the_o church_n so_o well_o frame_v and_o build_v but_o some_o curious_a surveyor_n can_v spy_v out_o some_o disproportion_n or_o ill_a shape_n especial_o if_o assist_v by_o ill_a nature_n emulation_n the_o spirit_n of_o pride_n and_o contention_n which_o be_v ever_o quick-sighted_a abroad_o and_o blind_a at_o home_n the_o difficulty_n of_o know_v what_o be_v utmost_a perfection_n and_o absolute_a purity_n of_o administration_n which_o till_o attain_v these_o man_n think_v they_o be_v not_o to_o rest_v in_o any_o church_n shall_v make_v they_o judge_v candid_o interpret_v fair_o and_o comply_v with_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o sinful_a to_o preserve_v peace_n and_o love_n when_o man_n in_o the_o english_a church_n be_v plain_o teach_v to_o believe_v well_o to_o live_v well_o and_o to_o die_v well_o and_o have_v good_a and_o proper_a office_n to_o serve_v these_o great_a purpose_n in_o order_n to_o their_o salvation_n what_o can_v they_o desire_v more_o to_o be_v better_o or_o more_o save_v we_o know_v not_o what_o it_o mean_v to_o leave_v such_o a_o communion_n upon_o such_o a_o account_n proceed_v from_o peevishness_n uncharitableness_n or_o some_o ill_a principle_n and_o be_v downright_a schism_n if_o ever_o there_o be_v schism_n in_o the_o world_n bring_v but_o a_o honest_a sincere_a and_o teachable_a mind_n and_o it_o will_v find_v improvement_n and_o advantage_n in_o office_n and_o administration_n full_a of_o spot_n and_o blemish_n far_o than_o they_o can_v pretend_v to_o find_v in_o the_o english_a church_n but_o if_o the_o mind_n be_v bias_v by_o a_o party_n or_o corrupt_v by_o design_n if_o its_o palate_n be_v vitiate_a the_o best_a food_n be_v coarse_a and_o insipid_a to_o it_o 2._o let_v edification_n be_v place_v in_o the_o substantial_a thing_n of_o religion_n some_o revolt_n from_o our_o church_n for_o thing_n wherein_o the_o pastor_n be_v sole_o concern_v and_o other_o for_o thing_n of_o decency_n and_o indifferency_n but_o these_o thing_n do_v not_o concern_v the_o case_n of_o edification_n that_o a_o right_a faith_n and_o a_o honest_a conversation_n be_v not_o teach_v in_o our_o church_n be_v only_o a_o scandal_n cast_v upon_o she_o to_o plead_v for_o their_o unjust_a separation_n for_o after_o she_o have_v plain_o and_o distinct_o teach_v the_o article_n of_o faith_n as_o be_v prove_v before_o with_o the_o same_o spirit_n and_o zeal_n she_o command_v and_o press_v justice_n humility_n mercy_n and_o every_o virtue_n that_o be_v necessary_a to_o a_o true_a christian_a life_n and_o both_o under_o the_o penalty_n of_o eternal_a damnation_n these_o and_o these_o alone_a do_v true_o edify_v the_o soul_n of_o man_n as_o be_v plain_a if_o we_o consider_v that_o our_o prayer_n and_o sacrament_n our_o church_n ceremony_n and_o discipline_n and_o all_o other_o part_n in_o religion_n be_v in_o order_n to_o and_o minister_v unto_o faith_n their_o head_n that_o work_v by_o love_n and_o the_o near_o these_o approach_n unto_o and_o the_o great_a service_n they_o do_v to_o this_o design_n the_o great_a degree_n they_o have_v in_o religion_n and_o more_o value_n be_v set_v upon_o they_o this_o be_v that_o religion_n which_o our_o first_o parent_n be_v of_o in_o his_o paradise_n and_o innocency_n noah_n and_o his_o posterity_n in_o their_o precept_n and_o pious_a man_n in_o different_a country_n before_o the_o law_n of_o moses_n thus_o serve_v god_n and_o the_o scope_n and_o aim_n of_o the_o jewish_a law_n with_o its_o temple_n and_o utensil_n its_o figure_n and_o ceremony_n be_v to_o discipline_n and_o teach_v man_n thus_o to_o be_v good_a with_o allowance_n to_o the_o nature_n of_o that_o people_n and_o the_o time_n they_o live_v in_o and_o the_o best_a and_o most_o know_a pagan_n think_v such_o a_o religion_n as_o this_o will_v most_o please_v god_n who_o therefore_o in_o some_o measure_n do_v accept_v it_o and_o reward_v it_o with_o great_a discovery_n as_o be_v plain_a 4._o act_n 8._o 27._o act_n 10._o 4._o in_o cornelius_n the_o queen_n of_o candaces_n treasurer_n and_o other_o who_o have_v not_o the_o law_n be_v a_o law_n unto_o themselves_o in_o such_o thing_n as_o these_o the_o kingdom_n of_o our_o messiah_n be_v to_o consist_v not_o in_o meat_n 17._o rom._n 14._o 17._o and_o drink_n but_o righteousness_n and_o peace_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n such_o a_o religion_n as_o this_o edify_v in_o so_o great_a a_o degree_n that_o it_o be_v the_o only_a condition_n and_o qualification_n for_o the_o upper_a world_n where_o though_o other_o great_a part_n of_o religion_n shall_v die_v with_o we_o righteousness_n gratitude_n love_n of_o god_n and_o glorify_a being_n and_o such_o like_a virtue_n be_v of_o a_o eternal_a nature_n shall_v be_v ingredient_n of_o our_o happiness_n and_o shall_v live_v with_o we_o for_o ever_o what_o can_v be_v just_o require_v in_o religion_n to_o improve_v man_n soul_n that_o be_v not_o find_v in_o this_o be_v it_o to_o recover_v the_o nature_n of_o man_n now_o deface_v righteousness_n and_o goodness_n proceed_v from_o faith_n their_o root_n will_v make_v we_o true_o good_a be_v it_o to_o give_v we_o a_o clear_a knowledge_n and_o worthy_a conception_n of_o god_n such_o a_o practical_a religion_n as_o this_o best_o prepare_v for_o great_a knowledge_n and_o in_o scripture-sence_n be_v know_v of_o he_o be_v it_o religion_n 4._o 1_o joh._n 2._o 4._o to_o love_n god_n the_o love_n of_o god_n consist_v in_o obedience_n to_o his_o precept_n submission_n to_o his_o will_n and_o resignation_n to_o his_o providence_n otherwise_o it_o be_v flattery_n and_o fondness_n be_v it_o the_o design_n of_o religion_n to_o bless_v mankind_n here_o and_o edify_v they_o in_o their_o different_a relation_n such_o a_o religion_n as_o this_o in_o our_o church_n will_v do_v all_o that_o and_o make_v the_o world_n a_o paradise_n once_o more_o this_o will_v give_v we_o the_o best_a character_n to_o judge_v by_o whether_o we_o shall_v be_v
stranger_n i_o mean_v who_o have_v see_v the_o world_n and_o have_v learn_v our_o language_n and_o hear_v and_o read_v the_o sermon_n that_o be_v common_o preach_v and_o print_v in_o this_o great_a city_n affirm_v there_o be_v not_o the_o like_a to_o be_v find_v in_o any_o church_n whatsoever_o god_n grant_v we_o be_v not_o deprive_v of_o such_o singular_a help_n by_o our_o contempt_n of_o they_o and_o that_o our_o candlestick_n be_v not_o remove_v out_o of_o its_o place_n because_o we_o withdraw_v ourselves_o from_o the_o light_n which_o it_o hold_v forth_o to_o we_o of_o which_o we_o be_v in_o very_o great_a danger_n if_o not_o know_v what_o it_o be_v true_o to_o profit_v by_o sermon_n we_o make_v no_o progress_n at_o all_o in_o the_o state_n of_o christianity_n but_o deceive_v our_o own_o soul_n in_o a_o vain_a opinion_n of_o our_o acquaintance_n with_o god_n and_o our_o bless_a saviour_n and_o the_o mystery_n of_o the_o gospel_n which_o have_v little_a or_o no_o effect_n upon_o 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isaac_n and_o jacob_n which_o he_o shadow_v and_o confirm_v in_o the_o law_n of_o moses_n illustrate_v by_o the_o oracle_n of_o the_o prophet_n and_o final_o fulfil_v in_o the_o incarnation_n birth_n life_n death_n resurrection_n and_o ascension_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o diffuse_v by_o the_o preach_a of_o the_o apostle_n and_o the_o power_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n all_o over_o the_o world_n be_v there_o so_o full_o and_o distinct_o teach_v that_o we_o may_v safe_o say_v the_o whole_a counsel_n of_o god_n will_n be_v at_o one_o time_n or_o other_o faithful_o declare_v among_o we_o and_o as_o that_o be_v declare_v complete_o so_o little_a else_o be_v meddle_v withal_o matter_n of_o controversy_n be_v as_o rare_o handle_v in_o our_o pulpit_n i_o believe_v as_o in_o any_o place_n of_o the_o world_n unless_o it_o be_v those_o which_o the_o present_a state_n of_o thing_n sometime_o make_v absolute_o necessary_a to_o fortify_v the_o people_n against_o popery_n and_o against_o 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they_o true_o desire_v and_o sincere_o seek_v and_o endeavour_v for_o what_o truth_n can_v they_o learn_v any_o where_o else_o which_o be_v not_o to_o be_v learn_v if_o they_o will_v attend_v upon_o god_n service_n there_o in_o our_o church_n what_o motive_n to_o believe_v or_o what_o argument_n to_o convince_v man_n of_o their_o duty_n which_o be_v not_o there_o represent_v and_o press_v what_o vice_n be_v there_o which_o do_v not_o there_o receive_v just_a correction_n what_o virtue_n that_o be_v not_o there_o most_o strong_o recommend_v which_o of_o the_o promise_n be_v not_o there_o apply_v to_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o faithful_a and_o where_o can_v man_n have_v better_a mean_n of_o know_v the_o terror_n of_o the_o lord_n as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v against_o all_o the_o impenitent_a and_o disobedient_a and_o if_o man_n can_v profit_v where_o such_o thing_n as_o these_o be_v constant_o manage_v to_o as_o much_o advantage_n as_o the_o skill_n of_o the_o preacher_n will_v enable_v he_o i_o be_o sure_a the_o fault_n must_v lie_v somewhere_o else_o than_o in_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o sermon_n ii_o yes_o will_v some_o say_v we_o allow_v the_o matter_n of_o they_o to_o be_v good_a enough_o but_o the_o manner_n of_o they_o be_v such_o that_o we_o can_v reap_v the_o like_a benefit_n by_o they_o that_o we_o do_v by_o other_o man_n preach_v who_o can_v conform_v to_o the_o church_n of_o england_n which_o if_o it_o be_v a_o just_a exception_n the_o fault_n must_v lie_v either_o in_o the_o composition_n of_o they_o or_o in_o their_o delivery_n after_o they_o be_v compose_v 1._o now_o if_o the_o composition_n of_o they_o be_v faulty_a it_o be_v because_o their_o method_n be_v not_o clear_a and_o perspicuous_a or_o the_o language_n not_o plain_a enough_o to_o convey_v the_o
brabant_n husbandry_n remain_v not_o now_o any_o long_a a_o question_n it_o be_v the_o advice_n of_o the_o jesuit_n contzen_n 9_o contzen_n contzen_n contzen_n contz_n polit._n l._n 2._o chap._n 18._o sect._n 9_o to_o make_v as_o much_o use_n of_o the_o division_n of_o enemy_n as_o of_o the_o agreement_n of_o friend_n after_o this_o manner_n it_o be_v that_o they_o manage_v themselves_o they_o endeavour_v to_o widen_v the_o breach_n in_o order_n to_o the_o introduce_v of_o popery_n into_o a_o divide_a nation_n they_o will_v have_v hope_n as_o long_o as_o we_o have_v division_n they_o will_v believe_v whilst_o they_o see_v the_o humour_n be_v in_o conflict_n that_o the_o body_n will_v be_v at_o last_o dissolve_v if_o they_o will_v hope_v for_o resettlement_n as_o they_o declare_v they_o do_v upon_o such_o inconsiderable_a ground_n as_o the_o print_n of_o a_o monasticon_fw-la 140._o monasticon_fw-la monasticon_fw-la monasticon_fw-la journal_n des_fw-fr scavans_n de_fw-fr l'_fw-fr ann._n 1665._o p._n 140._o or_o the_o provincial_n etc._n provincial_n provincial_n provincial_n journ_v &c_n &c_n de_fw-fr l'_fw-fr an._n 1666._o p._n 2●0_n 233._o etc._n etc._n of_o lynwood_n among_o we_o though_o in_o the_o quality_n of_o history_n rather_o than_o of_o title_n or_o law_n what_o will_v they_o not_o expect_v from_o our_o un_fw-we christian_n distemper_n and_o from_o our_o forbear_n of_o communion_n with_o the_o establish_a church_n as_o if_o it_o be_v the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n by_o this_o artifice_n it_o be_v that_o they_o gain_v proselyte_n they_o expose_v the_o protestant_n as_o a_o disunited_a people_n they_o demand_v of_o injudicious_a man_n how_o they_o can_v in_o prudence_n join_v with_o those_o who_o be_v at_o variance_n among_o themselves_o though_o at_o this_o time_n in_o the_o church_n of_o england_n itself_o there_o be_v much_o more_o agreement_n than_o in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n in_o which_o they_o say_v there_o be_v great_a number_n of_o more_o 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man._n ii_o second_o we_o beg_v of_o they_o that_o they_o will_v serious_o and_o impartial_o weigh_v and_o consider_v as_o well_o what_o be_v say_v on_o the_o one_o side_n as_o on_o the_o other_o this_o be_v a_o piece_n of_o justice_n that_o every_o one_o owe_v to_o truth_n and_o which_o indeed_o every_o man_n owe_v to_o himself_o that_o be_v not_o willing_a to_o be_v deceive_v to_o take_v up_o with_o prejudices_fw-la which_o education_n or_o long_a custom_n have_v instill_v into_o he_o or_o wherein_o any_o other_o art_n or_o method_n have_v engage_v he_o without_o strict_o inquire_v whether_o those_o prejudices_fw-la stand_v upon_o a_o firm_a foundation_n be_v to_o see_v only_o on_o one_o side_n to_o bind_v up_o one_o self_n in_o the_o judgement_n or_o opinion_n of_o any_o man_n that_o be_v not_o divinely-inspired_n and_o infallible_a or_o pertinacious_o to_o adhere_v to_o any_o party_n of_o man_n how_o plausible_a and_o specious_a soever_o their_o pretence_n may_v be_v without_o 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