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
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
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
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 rule_n by_o which_o we_o be_v to_o govern_v our_o conscience_n or_o when_o we_o say_v that_o the_o law_n of_o god_n as_o reveal_v and_o contain_v in_o the_o bible_n be_v to_o we_o christian_n the_o just_a rule_n we_o be_v so_o to_o understand_v this_o proposition_n as_o to_o take_v into_o it_o not_o only_o all_o that_o be_v direct_o and_o express_o command_v or_o forbid_v by_o either_o of_o those_o law_n but_o also_o all_o that_o by_o plain_a collection_n of_o right_a reason_n in_o apply_v general_n to_o particular_n or_o compare_v one_o thing_n with_o another_o do_v appear_v to_o be_v command_v or_o forbid_v by_o they_o so_o that_o by_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n as_o it_o
upon_o which_o he_o act_v for_o according_a as_o this_o be_v so_o will_v his_o gild_n in_o act_v according_a to_o it_o be_v either_o great_a or_o less_o or_o none_o at_o all_o we_o do_v not_o say_v that_o a_o man_n be_v always_o guilty_a of_o a_o sin_n before_o god_n when_o upon_o a_o misinformation_n of_o judgement_n he_o omit_v that_o which_o god_n law_n have_v command_v or_o do_v that_o which_o god_n law_n have_v forbid_v no_o though_o these_o omission_n or_o action_n may_v be_v say_v to_o be_v sin_n in_o themselves_o that_o be_v as_o to_o the_o matter_n of_o they_o as_o be_v transgression_n of_o god_n law_n yet_o before_o we_o affirm_v that_o they_o will_v be_v impute_v to_o a_o man_n as_o such_o that_o be_v prove_v formal_o sin_n to_o he_o we_o first_o consider_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o action_n and_o the_o circumstance_n of_o the_o man._n if_o we_o find_v upon_o examination_n that_o the_o instance_n wherein_o god_n law_n be_v transgress_v be_v such_o a_o instance_n as_o even_o a_o honest_a mind_a man_n may_v well_o be_v suppose_v to_o mistake_v in_o and_o if_o we_o find_v likewise_o that_o the_o man_n have_v not_o sufficient_a mean_n for_o the_o inform_v himself_o aright_o as_o to_o this_o matter_n and_o that_o he_o have_v do_v all_o that_o he_o can_v do_v in_o his_o circumstance_n to_o understand_v his_o duty_n if_o in_o such_o a_o case_n as_o this_o he_o be_v mistake_v in_o his_o duty_n and_o act_n upon_o that_o mistake_n yet_o we_o do_v not_o say_v that_o the_o man_n be_v proper_o guilty_a of_o any_o sin_n in_o that_o action_n however_o that_o action_n be_v indeed_o contrary_a to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n on_o the_o contrary_n we_o believe_v he_o to_o be_v innocent_a as_o to_o this_o matter_n nor_o will_v god_n ever_o call_v he_o to_o a_o account_n for_o what_o he_o have_v do_v or_o omit_v in_o these_o circumstance_n and_o the_o reason_n and_o ground_n upon_o which_o we_o affirm_v this_o be_v plain_a and_o evident_a at_o the_o first_o hear_v no_o man_n can_v be_v oblige_v to_o do_v more_o than_o what_o be_v in_o his_o power_n to_o do_v and_o what_o ever_o a_o man_n be_v not_o oblige_v to_o do_v it_o be_v no_o sin_n in_o he_o if_o he_o do_v it_o not_o so_o that_o if_o a_o man_n do_v all_o that_o one_o in_o his_o circumstance_n can_v or_o shall_v do_v for_o the_o right_a understanding_n of_o his_o duty_n if_o he_o happen_v to_o be_v mistake_v that_o mistake_n can_v be_v impute_v to_o he_o as_o a_o sin_n because_o he_o be_v not_o oblige_v to_o understand_v better_o and_o if_o his_o mistake_n be_v no_o sin_n it_o be_v certain_a to_o act_n according_a to_o that_o mistake_n can_v be_v no_o sin_n neither_o so_o that_o the_o whole_a point_n of_o sin_v or_o not_o sin_v in_o follow_v a_o erroneous_a conscience_n lie_v here_o whether_o the_o man_n that_o be_v thus_o mispersuade_v be_v to_o be_v blame_v or_o not_o blame_v for_o his_o mispersuasion_n if_o the_o error_n he_o have_v take_v up_o do_v not_o proceed_v from_o his_o own_o fault_n and_o negligence_n but_o be_v the_o pure_a unavoidable_a effect_n of_o the_o circumstance_n in_o which_o he_o be_v place_v which_o circumstance_n we_o suppose_v he_o contribute_v nothing_o to_o but_o he_o be_v put_v into_o they_o by_o the_o disposition_n of_o divine_a providence_n then_o of_o what_o nature_n soever_o the_o error_n be_v he_o do_v not_o contract_v any_o guilt_n by_o any_o action_n which_o he_o do_v in_o pursuance_n of_o that_o error_n but_o if_o it_o be_v in_o his_o power_n to_o rectify_v that_o error_n if_o he_o have_v mean_n and_o opportunity_n to_o inform_v his_o conscience_n better_o and_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o action_n be_v such_o that_o it_o be_v his_o duty_n so_o to_o do_v so_o that_o he_o must_v be_v account_v guilty_a of_o a_o gross_a and_o criminal_a neglect_n in_o not_o do_v it_o in_o this_o case_n the_o man_n be_v a_o transgressor_n and_o accountable_a unto_o god_n as_o such_o for_o all_o the_o action_n that_o he_o do_v or_o omit_v contrary_a to_o god_n law_n while_o he_o act_v under_o that_o mistake_n or_o in_o pursuance_n of_o it_o and_o according_o as_o this_o neglect_n or_o carelessness_n be_v great_a or_o less_o so_o be_v the_o sinfulness_n of_o the_o action_n which_o he_o do_v in_o pursuance_n of_o it_o great_a or_o less_o likewise_o and_o this_o be_v a_o plain_a account_n of_o this_o matter_n so_o that_o we_o see_v there_o be_v no_o fatal_a unavoidable_a necessity_n lay_v upon_o any_o man_n to_o commit_v a_o sin_n by_o act_v according_a to_o his_o conscience_n but_o if_o at_o any_o time_n he_o be_v bring_v under_o those_o sad_a circumstance_n he_o bring_v that_o necessity_n upon_o himself_o god_n never_o put_v any_o man_n into_o such_o a_o condition_n but_o that_o he_o may_v do_v that_o duty_n which_o be_v require_v of_o he_o and_o be_v able_a to_o give_v a_o good_a account_n of_o his_o action_n but_o here_o be_v the_o thing_n man_n by_o their_o vice_n and_o wickedness_n by_o neglect_v the_o mean_n of_o instruction_n that_o be_v afford_v they_o and_o not_o use_v their_o reason_n and_o understanding_n as_o they_o shall_v do_v may_v suffer_v themselves_o to_o be_v bring_v under_o the_o bondage_n of_o such_o false_a and_o evil_a principle_n that_o they_o shall_v so_o long_o as_o they_o hold_v those_o principle_n fall_v into_o sin_n whether_o they_o act_n according_a to_o their_o conscience_n or_o act_n against_o it_o i_o have_v do_v with_o the_o general_a point_n concern_v conscience_n which_o i_o think_v needful_a to_o be_v premise_v as_o the_o ground_n and_o principle_n of_o our_o follow_a discourse_n i_o now_o come_v to_o that_o which_o i_o at_o first_o propose_v and_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o which_o all_o this_o be_v intend_v that_o be_v to_o speak_v to_o the_o case_n of_o those_o that_o separate_a from_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n upon_o this_o pretence_n that_o it_o be_v against_o their_o conscience_n to_o join_v with_o we_o in_o it_o now_o all_o that_o i_o conceive_v needful_a to_o be_v do_v in_o order_n to_o a_o full_a discussion_n of_o this_o case_n and_o give_v satisfaction_n about_o it_o be_v these_o two_o thing_n first_o to_o separate_a the_o pretence_n of_o conscience_n that_o be_v true_o and_o just_o make_v in_o this_o matter_n from_o the_o false_a one_o or_o to_o show_v who_o those_o be_v that_o can_v right_o plead_v conscience_n for_o their_o nonconformity_n and_o who_o those_o be_v that_o can_v second_o to_o inquire_v how_o far_o this_o plea_n of_o conscience_n when_o it_o be_v true_o make_v will_v justify_v any_o dissenter_n that_o continne_v in_o separation_n from_o the_o church_n as_o establish_v among_o we_o and_o what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v by_o such_o a_o person_n in_o order_n to_o his_o act_n with_o a_o safe_a and_o good_a conscience_n in_o this_o affair_n our_o first_o inquiry_n be_v what_o be_v require_v in_o order_n to_o any_o man_n true_o plead_v conscience_n for_o his_o refuse_v to_o join_v in_o communion_n with_o the_o establish_v church_n or_o who_o those_o person_n be_v that_o can_v with_o justice_n make_v that_o plea_n for_o themselves_o i_o think_v it_o very_o convenient_a to_o begin_v my_o disquisition_n here_o because_o by_o remove_v all_o the_o false_a pretence_n to_o conscience_n the_o controversy_n will_v be_v bring_v into_o a_o much_o less_o compass_n and_o the_o difficulty_n that_o arise_v will_v be_v more_o easy_o untie_v the_o truth_n be_v if_o the_o thing_n be_v examine_v i_o believe_v it_o will_v be_v find_v that_o the_o pretence_n to_o conscience_n in_o the_o matter_n we_o be_v talk_v of_o be_v as_o in_o many_o other_o case_n extend_v much_o far_a than_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v my_o meaning_n be_v that_o of_o all_o those_o who_o think_v fit_a to_o withdraw_v from_o our_o communion_n and_o to_o live_v in_o disobedience_n to_o the_o know_a law_n of_o the_o church_n and_o pretend_v conscience_n for_o so_o do_v in_o a_o great_a many_o of_o they_o it_o be_v not_o conscience_n but_o some_o other_o thing_n mistake_v for_o conscience_n which_o be_v the_o principle_n they_o act_n upon_o so_o that_o if_o the_o true_a plea_n of_o conscience_n be_v separate_v from_o those_o counterfeit_a one_o which_o usual_o usurp_v that_o name_n we_o shall_v not_o find_v either_o the_o person_n to_o be_v so_o many_o that_o refuse_v communion_n with_o we_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o conscience_n true_o so_o call_v nor_o the_o case_n to_o be_v so_o many_o in_o which_o they_o do_v refuse_v it_o upon_o that_o account_n now_o in_o order_n to_o the_o make_v such_o a_o separation_n or_o distinction_n between_o conscience_n true_o so_o call_v and_o the_o several_a pretence_n to_o it_o in_o this_o business_n of_o not_o conform_v to_o
old_a in_o their_o calm_a mood_n who_o declare_v we_o testify_v to_o all_o 1604._o brownist_n apol_n p._n 7._o an._n 1604._o man_n by_o these_o present_n that_o we_o have_v not_o forsake_v any_o one_o point_n of_o the_o true_a ancient_a apostolic_a faith_n profess_v in_o our_o land_n but_o hold_v the_o same_o ground_n of_o christian_a religion_n with_o they_o see_v more_o in_o baily_n dissuasive_a cap._n 2._o p._n 20_o 33._o and_o dr._n stillingfleet_n unreasonableness_n of_o separation_n part_n 1_o §_o 9_o p._n 31._o the_o presbyterian_o if_o i_o may_v so_o call_v they_o for_o distinction_n sake_n do_v own_o it_o so_o mr._n corbet_n the_o doctrine_n of_o faith_n and_o sacrament_n by_o 43._o discourse_n §_o 21_o p._n 43._o law_n establish_v be_v hearty_o receive_v by_o the_o nonconformist_n so_o mr._n baxter_n as_o for_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n 6._o preface_n to_o 5_o disp_n p._n 6._o the_o bishop_n and_o their_o follower_n from_o the_o first_o reformation_n begin_v by_o edw._n 6._o be_v sound_n in_o doctrine_n adhere_v to_o the_o augustan_n method_n express_v now_o in_o the_o article_n and_o homily_n they_o differ_v not_o in_o any_o considerable_a point_n from_o those_o who_o they_o call_v puritan_n the_o like_a be_v affirm_v by_o the_o independent_o the_o confession_n of_o the_o church_n of_o 106._o peace-off_a ing_z p._n 12._o see_v mr._n baxter_n defence_n of_o his_o cure_n part_v 1._o p._n 64._o and_o part_v 2._o p._n 3._o and_o wadsworth_n in_o his_o separation_n yet_o no_o schism_n p._n 60_o 62._o mr._n throughton_n apology_n for_o the_o nonconformist_n cap._n 3._o p._n 106._o england_n declare_v in_o the_o article_n of_o religion_n and_o herein_o what_o be_v pure_o doctrinal_a we_o full_o embrace_v 2._o as_o to_o the_o worship_n they_o own_v it_o for_o the_o matter_n and_o substance_n to_o be_v good_a and_o for_o edification_n so_o the_o old_a nonconformist_n as_o mr._n hildersham_n there_o be_v 121._o lecture_n 26._o on_o john_n p._n 121._o nothing_o in_o our_o assembly_n but_o we_o may_v receive_v profit_n by_o it_o etc._n etc._n and_o again_o there_o be_v nothing_o do_v in_o god_n public_a worship_n among_o we_o but_o what_o be_v do_v by_o the_o institution_n ordinance_n and_o commandment_n of_o the_o lord_n so_o among_o the_o present_a it_o be_v own_v by_o both_o presbyterian_o and_o independent_o by_o the_o former_a in_o the_o morning_n exercise_n 91._o continuat_fw-la morning_n exercise_n serm_v 4._o p._n 91._o why_o may_v it_o not_o be_v supposeable_a that_o christian_n may_v be_v move_v by_o reasonable_a consideration_n to_o attend_v the_o public_a form_n the_o substantial_a part_n of_o they_o be_v think_v agreeable_a to_o a_o divine_a institution_n though_o in_o some_o circumstantial_o too_o disagreeable_a so_o it_o be_v acknowledge_v that_o in_o 104._o throughton_n apol._n p._n 104._o private_a meeting_n the_o same_o doctrine_n and_o worship_n be_v use_v as_o in_o the_o parish_n church_n only_o some_o circumstance_n and_o ceremony_n omit_v by_o the_o latter_a we_o know_v full_a well_o that_o we_o 17._o peace-offering_a p._n 17._o differ_v in_o nothing_o from_o the_o whole_a form_n of_o religion_n establish_v in_o england_n but_o only_o in_o some_o few_o thing_n in_o outward_a worship_n but_o i_o shall_v have_v further_a occasion_n to_o treat_v of_o this_o under_o the_o three_o general_n 3._o as_o for_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o church_n 1._o it_o be_v acknowledge_v to_o be_v true_a and_o for_o substance_n the_o same_o which_o christ_n have_v establish_v so_o mr._n bradshaw_n i_o 16._o unreasonableness_n of_o the_o separation_n p._n 16._o affirm_v that_o the_o ministry_n of_o our_o church-assembly_n howsoever_o it_o may_v in_o some_o particular_a part_n of_o the_o execution_n haply_o be_v defective_a in_o some_o place_n be_v for_o the_o substance_n thereof_o that_o very_o same_o ministry_n which_o christ_n have_v set_v in_o his_o church_n this_o he_o speak_v as_o he_o say_v of_o those_o that_o do_v subscribe_v and_o conform_v according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o the_o state_n 2._o that_o they_o have_v all_o thing_n necessary_o belong_v to_o their_o office_n so_o the_o grave_n and_o modest_a confutation_n maintain_v the_o preach_n of_o the_o whole_a truth_n of_o god_n word_n 28._o grave_a and_o modest_a confutat_fw-la p._n 28._o and_o nothing_o but_o it_o the_o administration_n of_o the_o sacrament_n and_o of_o public_a prayer_n as_o they_o be_v of_o all_o part_n of_o the_o minister_n office_n prescribe_v in_o the_o word_n so_o they_o be_v all_o appoint_v to_o our_o minister_n by_o the_o law_n 3._o they_o own_o that_o all_o the_o defect_n in_o it_o whether_o in_o their_o call_n or_o administration_n do_v not_o nullify_v the_o office_n thus_o much_o mr._n bradshaw_n do_v contend_v for_o so_o many_o of_o our_o minister_n 37._o unreasonableness_n of_o separation_n p._n 27_o 37._o who_o in_o the_o book_n of_o ordination_n be_v call_v priest_n and_o deacon_n as_o in_o all_o point_n concern_v the_o substance_n of_o their_o ministry_n be_v qualify_v according_a to_o the_o intent_n of_o the_o law_n have_v their_o office_n calling_n adminstration_n and_o maintenance_n for_o the_o substance_n thereof_o ordain_v by_o christ_n and_o yet_o i_o deny_v not_o but_o there_o may_v be_v some_o accidental_a defect_n or_o superfluity_n in_o or_o about_o they_o all_o yet_o such_o as_o do_v not_o or_o can_v be_v prove_v to_o destroy_v the_o nature_n and_o substance_n of_o any_o of_o they_o this_o be_v maintain_v at_o large_a in_o the_o letter_n of_o the_o minister_n in_o old_a england_n etc._n etc._n p._n 86_o 87._o and_o the_o like_a be_v also_o affirm_v even_o by_o those_o of_o the_o 6._o apologet._n narration_n p._n 6._o congregational_a way_n so_o the_o brethren_n in_o their_o apology_n the_o unwarrantable_a power_n in_o church-governor_n do_v never_o work_v in_o any_o of_o we_o any_o other_o thought_n much_o less_o opinion_n but_o that_o the_o ministry_n thereof_o of_o the_o english_a church_n be_v a_o true_a ministry_n so_o mr._n cotton_n the_o 181._o cotton_n infant_n baptism_n p._n 181._o power_n whereby_o the_o minister_n in_o england_n do_v administer_v the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n be_v either_o spiritual_a and_o proper_a essential_a to_o their_o call_v or_o advantitious_a and_o accidental_a the_o former_a they_o have_v receive_v from_o christ_n etc._n etc._n the_o latter_a from_o the_o patron_n who_o present_v or_o the_o bishop_n who_o ordain_v etc._n etc._n whoever_o have_v a_o mind_n to_o see_v their_o ordination_n defend_v may_v consult_v jus_fw-la divinum_fw-la ministerii_fw-la evangelici_fw-la part_n 2_o p._n 12_o 16_o 17_o 25_o etc._n etc._n jus_fw-la divinum_fw-la regim_fw-la eccles_n p._n 264_o etc._n etc._n cawdry_n independency_n a_o great_a schism_n pag._n 116._o and_o his_o defence_n of_o it_o pag._n 35_o 37._o thus_o far_o therefore_o we_o see_v how_o far_o it_o be_v agree_v that_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v a_o true_a church_n in_o its_o doctrine_n worship_n and_o ministry_n but_o when_o we_o come_v to_o consider_v what_o the_o church_n be_v they_o own_o thus_o to_o be_v true_a there_o we_o shall_v find_v that_o they_o do_v differ_v the_o presbyterian_o general_o own_v a_o national_a church_n and_o have_v write_v much_o in_o the_o behalf_n of_o it_o as_o may_v be_v see_v in_o the_o book_n quote_v in_o the_o 172._o the_o the_o the_o jus_fw-la divinum_fw-la minist_n evang._n p_o 12_o etc._n etc._n brinsly_n church-remedy_n p_o 41_o 42._o cawdry_n independ_v a_o great_a schism_n p._n 60_o 89_o 172._o margin_n other_o look_v upon_o it_o as_o a_o prudential_a thing_n and_o what_o may_v lawful_o be_v comply_v with_o so_o mr._n tomb_n 3._o tomb_n tomb_n tomb_n theodulia_n or_o just_a defence_n §_o 15_o 16._o preface_n etc._n etc._n 9_o §_o 3._o it_o be_v no_o more_o against_o the_o gospel_n to_o term_v the_o believer_n of_o england_n the_o church_n of_o england_n than_o it_o be_v to_o term_v believer_n throughout_o the_o world_n the_o catholic_n church_n nor_o be_v it_o more_o unfit_a for_o we_o to_o term_v ourselves_o member_n of_o the_o catholic_n church_n nor_o be_v there_o need_v to_o show_v any_o institution_n of_o our_o lord_n more_o for_o the_o one_o than_o the_o other_o but_o those_o that_o will_v not_o own_v it_o to_o be_v a_o true_a church_n in_o respect_n of_o such_o a_o constitution_n or_o that_o speak_v doubtful_o of_o it_o do_v yet_o assert_v as_o much_o of_o the_o parish_n church_n it_o be_v acknowledge_v by_o all_o that_o the_o distribution_n into_o parish_n be_v not_o of_o divine_a but_o humane_a institution_n but_o withal_o its_o thought_n by_o some_o 42._o some_o some_o some_o crofton_n reformation_n not_o separation_n p._n 10._o and_o bethshemesh_n cloud_v p._n 101_o etc._n etc._n cawdrey_n independ_v a_o great_a schism_n p._n 132_o etc._n etc._n church-reformation_n p._n 42._o agreeable_a to_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o
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
from_o divine_a providence_n 2._o a_o necessity_n proceed_v from_o humane_a law_n which_o forbid_v it_o 3._o a_o necessity_n from_o the_o injury_n do_v to_o the_o public_a and_o 4._o when_o it_o be_v to_o our_o own_o great_a hindrance_n than_o help_n as_o when_o we_o must_v use_v none_o or_o do_v worse_o in_o these_o and_o the_o like_a case_n it_o become_v a_o duty_n and_o what_o be_v otherwise_o lawful_a be_v thereby_o make_v necessary_a and_o he_o that_o can_v join_v with_o a_o pure_a worship_n than_o what_o be_v public_o establish_v without_o the_o breach_n of_o humane_a law_n or_o the_o disturbance_n of_o the_o public_a peace_n or_o divide_v the_o church_n of_o god_n or_o the_o bring_n danger_n upon_o himself_o be_v as_o much_o where_o any_o of_o these_o or_o the_o like_a reason_n be_v restrain_v from_o so_o do_v as_o if_o it_o do_v proceed_v from_o natural_a or_o providential_a necessity_n that_o be_v the_o one_o he_o can_v do_v physical_o and_o natural_o the_o other_o he_o can_v do_v moral_o honest_o and_o prudent_o have_v thus_o far_o state_v the_o case_n and_o show_v that_o it_o be_v universal_o own_a by_o those_o that_o dissent_n from_o the_o church_n of_o england_n that_o communion_n in_o a_o worship_n not_o essential_o defective_a and_o corrupt_a be_v lawful_a and_o that_o it_o be_v a_o receive_a opinion_n that_o where_o better_a be_v not_o to_o be_v have_v it_o be_v a_o duty_n and_o that_o better_o be_v not_o to_o have_v where_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v have_v lawful_o i_o may_v free_o pass_v on_o but_o because_o there_o be_v a_o common_a objection_n against_o what_o have_v be_v say_v take_v from_o malac._n 1._o 14._o curse_a be_v the_o deceiver_n etc._n etc._n that_o vow_v and_o sacrifice_v to_o the_o lord_n a_o corrupt_a thing_n i_o shall_v brief_o return_v their_o answer_n to_o it_o and_o proceed_v to_o this_o the_o old_a nonconformist_n reply_n 1._o no_o argument_n can_v be_v 14._o letter_n of_o the_o the_o minist_n of_o old-england_n to_o those_o in_o new-engl_n p._n 14._o bring_v from_o this_o place_n to_o the_o purpose_n but_o by_o analogy_n which_o be_v a_o kind_n of_o argue_v of_o all_o other_o most_o ready_a at_o hand_n but_o liable_a to_o most_o exception_n and_o apt_a to_o draw_v aside_o if_o care_n be_v not_o have_v which_o in_o this_o case_n we_o find_v not_o to_o take_v the_o proportion_n in_o every_o material_a point_n just_a and_o true_a 2._o the_o corrupt_a 74._o ball_n be_v trial_n of_o the_o ground_n p._n 74._o sacrifice_n be_v that_o which_o the_o deceiver_n bring_v voluntary_o and_o out_o of_o neglect_n have_v a_o male_a in_o his_o flock_n but_o the_o faithful_a bring_v himself_o and_o his_o goodly_a desire_n according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n and_o as_o for_o corruption_n whether_o respect_v matter_n or_o form_n they_o be_v none_o of_o he_o they_o cleave_v not_o to_o his_o sacrifice_n to_o stain_v or_o pollute_v it_o etc._n etc._n 3._o he_o offer_v not_o a_o corrupt_a thing_n who_o offer_v the_o best_a he_o have_v 4._o it_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v say_v mr._n ball_n that_o what_o be_v 78._o trial_n of_o the_o ground_n etc._n etc._n c._n 4._o p._n 78._o simple_o best_a be_v not_o best_o in_o relation_n to_o this_o or_o that_o circumstance_n or_o end_n what_o be_v best_a in_o a_o time_n free_a be_v not_o best_o in_o a_o time_n not_o free_a it_o be_v grant_v say_v mr._n baxter_n that_o 85._o def._n of_o cure_n p._n 85._o we_o must_v offer_v god_n the_o best_a that_o we_o can_v do_v but_o not_o the_o best_a which_o we_o can_v do_v and_o many_o thing_n 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 before_o this_o text_n can_v be_v 86._o v._o burrough_n iren._n c._n 12._o p._n 86._o oppose_v to_o what_o have_v be_v say_v it_o must_v be_v prove_v 1._o that_o the_o thing_n in_o question_n be_v corruption_n as_o much_o prohibit_v as_o the_o blind_a and_o lame_a under_o the_o law_n 2._o that_o they_o be_v such_o as_o a_o person_n do_v choose_v and_o it_o be_v in_o his_o power_n to_o help_v and_o offer_v it_o when_o he_o have_v a_o male_a in_o his_o flock_n 3._o that_o such_o a_o corruption_n as_o affect_v not_o the_o substance_n of_o worship_n do_v yet_o alter_v the_o nature_n of_o it_o and_o make_v the_o whole_a to_o be_v a_o corrupt_a thing_n and_o abominable_a to_o god_n if_o these_o thing_n be_v not_o the_o objection_n reach_v not_o the_o case_n and_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n from_o that_o place_n for_o this_o objection_n i_o shall_v conclude_v this_o head_n with_o a_o remarkable_a say_v 5._o platform_n of_o discipline_n c._n 13._o §_o 5._o of_o the_o minister_n of_o new-england_n to_o separate_v from_o a_o church_n for_o some_o evil_n only_o conceive_v or_o indeed_o in_o the_o church_n which_o may_v and_o shall_v be_v tolerate_v and_o heal_v with_o a_o spirit_n of_o meekness_n and_o of_o which_o the_o church_n be_v not_o yet_o convince_v though_o perhaps_o himself_o be_v for_o this_o or_o the_o like_a reason_n to_o withdraw_v from_o public_a communion_n in_o word_n seal_n or_o censure_n be_v unlawful_a and_o sinful_a but_o suppose_v it_o may_v be_v unlawful_a to_o separate_v from_o a_o church_n for_o a_o defective_a and_o faulty_a worship_n yet_o it_o may_v be_v suppose_v that_o it_o may_v be_v lawful_a when_o it_o be_v for_o better_a edification_n and_o that_o we_o may_v choose_v what_o be_v for_o our_o edification_n before_o what_o be_v not_o and_o what_o be_v more_o for_o our_o edification_n before_o what_o be_v less_o for_o the_o decision_n of_o which_o case_n i_o shall_v show_v from_o they_o p._n 2._o that_o as_o defect_n and_o fault_n in_o worship_n so_o neither_o be_v the_o pretence_n of_o better_a edification_n a_o sufficient_a reason_n against_o communion_n with_o a_o church_n sometime_o they_o say_v it_o be_v no_o better_a than_o a_o mere_a pretence_n and_o imaginary_a a_o seem_a contentment_n of_o mind_n as_o one_o 58._o methermenent_fw-la p._n 71._o on_o john_n 4._o lect._n 58._o call_v it_o this_o mr._n hildersham_n take_v notice_n of_o some_o prefer_v other_o before_o their_o own_o pastor_n only_o because_o they_o show_v more_o zeal_n in_o their_o voice_n and_o gesture_n and_o phrase_n of_o speech_n and_o manner_n of_o delivery_n though_o haply_o the_o doctrine_n itself_o be_v nothing_o so_o wholesome_a or_o powerful_a or_o fit_a to_o edify_v their_o conscience_n as_o the_o doctrine_n of_o their_o own_o pastor_n be_v of_o such_o he_o say_v we_o may_v wish_v they_o more_o knowledge_n and_o judgement_n mr._n baxter_n observe_v the_o 359._o cure_v of_o diâ—is_n p._n 359._o same_o one_o think_v that_o this_o be_v the_o best_a way_n and_o another_o that_o the_o other_o be_v best_a and_o common_o appearance_n and_o a_o take_a tone_n and_o voice_n do_v more_o with_o they_o than_o solid_a evidence_n of_o truth_n therefore_o it_o be_v fit_a to_o have_v a_o right_a notion_n of_o edification_n which_o say_v a_o reverend_a person_n of_o late_a lie_v more_o in_o 95._o conâ—inuat_fw-la of_o morn_n exerc._n serm._n 4_o p._n 95._o the_o inform_v of_o our_o judgement_n and_o confirm_v our_o resolution_n than_o in_o the_o gust_n and_o relish_v of_o affection_n these_o as_o he_o say_v be_v indeed_o of_o great_a use_n to_o the_o other_o but_o without_o they_o be_v far_o from_o make_v a_o person_n better_o and_o leave_v he_o true_o edify_v again_o it_o may_v be_v and_o it_o be_v no_o better_o than_o a_o mere_a pretence_n when_o the_o fault_n be_v in_o themselves_o that_o complain_v they_o do_v not_o edify_v mr._n hildersham_n charge_v it_o upon_o such_o thou_o 58._o lect._n 28._o p_o 129._o and_o lect._n 58._o may_v receive_v profit_n if_o the_o fault_n be_v not_o in_o thyself_o by_o the_o mean_a of_o we_o that_o preach_v and_o he_o thus_o free_o again_o declare_v himself_o i_o be_o persuade_v there_o be_v never_o a_o minister_n that_o be_v of_o the_o most_o excellent_a gift_n if_o he_o have_v a_o godly_a heart_n but_o he_o can_v true_o say_v he_o never_o hear_v any_o faithful_a minister_n in_o his_o life_n that_o be_v so_o mean_a but_o he_o can_v discern_v some_o gift_n in_o he_o that_o be_v want_v in_o himself_o and_o can_v receive_v some_o profit_n by_o he_o and_o therefore_o they_o advise_v to_o cure_v the_o fault_n before_o they_o make_v use_v of_o this_o plea_n so_o the_o pious_a person_n abovesaid_a argue_v how_o shall_v thou_o profit_v by_o his_o ministry_n if_o thou_o come_v with_o prejudice_n without_o any_o reverence_n or_o delight_n unto_o it_o nor_o do_v scarce_o acknowledge_v god_n ordinance_n in_o it_o so_o mr._n jenkin_n direct_v labour_v for_o 19_o comment_fw-fr on_o judas_n v._o 19_o experimental_a benefit_n by_o the_o ordinance_n man_n
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 make_v a_o thing_n indifferent_a in_o nature_n or_o civil_a matter_n it_o do_v also_o the_o same_o in_o religious_a and_o in_o thing_n forbid_v by_o humane_a authority_n the_o not_o be_v require_v in_o scripture_n and_o in_o thing_n require_v by_o humane_a authority_n the_o not_o be_v forbid_v in_o scripture_n be_v a_o rule_n we_o may_v safe_o determine_v the_o case_n and_o judge_v of_o the_o lawfulness_n and_o indifferency_n of_o thing_n in_o divine_a worship_n by_o but_o i_o confess_v the_o question_n require_v a_o more_o parcicular_a answer_n because_o thing_n in_o their_o nature_n lawful_a and_o indifferent_a may_v yet_o in_o their_o use_n and_o application_n become_v unlawful_a as_o it_o be_v in_o civil_a case_n and_o secular_a matter_n to_o be_v cover_v or_o uncover_v be_v a_o thing_n in_o itself_o indifferent_a but_o to_o be_v cover_v in_o the_o presence_n of_o such_o of_o our_o better_n as_o custom_n and_o law_n have_v make_v it_o our_o duty_n to_o stand_v bare_a before_o 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
there_o be_v nothing_o answer_n indifferent_a in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n for_o then_o there_o be_v nothing_o in_o it_o matter_n of_o christian_a liberty_n 2._o a_o restraint_n of_o our_o liberty_n or_o recede_v from_o it_o be_v of_o itself_o no_o violation_n of_o it_o all_o person_n grant_v this_o in_o the_o latter_a and_o the_o most_o scrupulous_a be_v apt_a to_o plead_v that_o the_o strong_a aught_o to_o bear_v with_o the_o weak_a and_o to_o give_v no_o offence_n to_o they_o by_o indulge_v themselves_o in_o that_o liberty_n which_o other_o be_v afraid_a to_o take_v but_o now_o if_o a_o person_n may_v recede_v from_o his_o liberty_n and_o yet_o be_v bind_v so_o to_o do_v in_o the_o case_n of_o scandal_n and_o yet_o his_o liberty_n be_v not_o thereby_o infringe_v why_o may_v it_o not_o be_v also_o little_o infringe_v when_o restrain_v by_o other_o how_o can_v it_o be_v suppose_v that_o there_o shall_v be_v so_o vast_a a_o difference_n betwixt_o restraint_n and_o restraint_n and_o that_o he_o that_o be_v restrain_v by_o authority_n shall_v have_v his_o liberty_n prejudice_v and_o yet_o he_o that_o be_v restrain_v by_o another_o conscience_n 29._o 1_o cor._n 10._o 29._o as_o the_o apostle_n say_v shall_v keep_v entire_a and_o if_o it_o shall_v be_v say_v this_o be_v occasional_a but_o the_o other_o be_v perpetuate_v by_o the_o order_n perhaps_o of_o a_o church_n i_o answer_v that_o all_o order_n about_o indifferent_a thing_n be_v but_o temporary_a and_o be_v only_o intend_v to_o bond_n so_o long_o as_o they_o be_v for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o community_n and_o if_o they_o be_v for_o continuance_n that_o alter_v not_o the_o case_n for_o though_o the_o apostle_n know_v his_o own_o liberty_n and_o where_o there_o be_v just_a reason_n can_v insist_v upon_o it_o yet_o he_o do_v not_o suppose_v that_o can_v be_v damnify_v though_o for_o his_o whole_a life_n it_o be_v restrain_v for_o thus_o he_o resolve_v 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 which_o certain_o he_o will_v not_o have_v condescend_v to_o if_o such_o a_o practice_n be_v not_o reconcileable_a to_o his_o exhortation_n of_o stand_v fast_o in_o that_o liberty_n etc._n etc._n 3._o therefore_o to_o find_v out_o the_o tendency_n of_o his_o exhortation_n its_o fit_a to_o understand_v what_o christian_a liberty_n be_v and_o that_o be_v true_o no_o other_o than_o the_o liberty_n which_o mankind_n natural_o have_v before_o it_o be_v restrain_v by_o particular_a institution_n and_o which_o be_v call_v christian_a liberty_n in_o opposition_n to_o the_o jew_n which_o have_v it_o not_o under_o their_o law_n but_o be_v restrain_v from_o the_o practice_n and_o use_v of_o thing_n otherwise_o and_o in_o themselves_o lawful_a by_o severe_a prohibition_n now_o as_o all_o the_o world_n be_v then_o divide_v into_o jew_n and_o gentile_n so_o the_o liberty_n which_o the_o jew_n be_v before_o deny_v be_v call_v christian_n because_o by_o the_o come_n of_o christ_n all_o these_o former_a restraint_n be_v take_v off_o and_o all_o the_o world_n both_o jew_n and_o gentile_n do_v enjoy_v it_o and_o therefore_o when_o the_o apostle_n do_v exhort_v they_o to_o stand_v fast_o in_o it_o it_o be_v as_o the_o scope_n of_o the_o epistle_n do_v show_v to_o warn_v they_o against_o return_v to_o that_o jewish_a state_n and_o against_o those_o who_o hold_v it_o necessary_a for_o both_o jew_n and_o gentile_n still_o to_o observe_v all_o the_o rite_n and_o order_n of_o it_o now_o if_o the_o usage_n of_o a_o church_n be_v of_o the_o same_o kind_n or_o have_v the_o same_o tendency_n or_o be_v alike_o necessary_o impose_v as_o those_o of_o the_o moysaicall_a law_n than_o christian_n will_v be_v concern_v in_o the_o apostle_n exhortation_n but_o where_o these_o reason_n be_v not_o our_o liberty_n be_v not_o at_o all_o prejudice_v by_o compliance_n with_o they_o as_o long_o i_o say_v as_o they_o be_v neither_o peccant_a in_o their_o nature_n nor_o end_v nor_o number_n they_o be_v not_o unlawful_a to_o we_o nor_o be_v our_o liberty_n injure_v in_o the_o use_n of_o they_o and_o so_o i_o be_o bring_v to_o the_o last_o general_n which_o be_v v._o that_o there_o be_v nothing_o require_v in_o our_o church_n which_o be_v not_o either_o a_o duty_n in_o itself_o and_o so_o necessary_a to_o all_o christian_n or_o else_o what_o be_v indifferent_a and_o so_o may_v be_v lawful_o use_v by_o they_o by_o thing_n require_v i_o mean_v such_o as_o be_v use_v in_o the_o communion_n and_o service_n of_o our_o church_n and_o impose_v upon_o the_o lay-member_n of_o it_o for_o these_o be_v the_o thing_n my_o subject_n do_v more_o especial_o respect_n this_o be_v a_o subject_a too_o copious_a for_o i_o to_o follow_v through_o all_o the_o particular_n of_o it_o and_o indeed_o it_o will_v be_v needless_a for_o i_o to_o enlarge_v upon_o it_o if_o the_o foundation_n i_o have_v lay_v be_v good_a and_o the_o rule_n before_o give_v be_v fit_a measure_n for_o we_o to_o judge_n of_o the_o lawfulness_n or_o unlawfulness_n of_o thing_n by_o for_o by_o these_o we_o shall_v soon_o bring_v the_o cause_n to_o a_o issue_n i_o think_v there_o be_v nothing_o to_o be_v charge_v upon_o our_o church_n for_o be_v defective_a in_o any_o essential_a part_n of_o divine_a worship_n as_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v in_o its_o half-communion_n nor_o of_o any_o practice_n that_o be_v apparent_o inconsistent_a with_o or_o that_o do_v defeat_v the_o end_n of_o any_o institution_n as_o the_o same_o church_n do_v offend_v by_o have_v its_o service_n in_o a_o unknown_a tongue_n and_o in_o the_o multitude_n of_o its_o ceremony_n i_o think_v it_o will_v be_v acknowledge_v that_o the_o word_n of_o god_n be_v sincere_o and_o free_o preach_v the_o sacrament_n entire_o and_o true_o administer_v the_o prayer_n for_o matter_n inoffensive_a and_o good_a and_o therefore_o the_o matter_n in_o dispute_n be_v about_o the_o ministration_n of_o our_o worship_n and_o the_o manner_n of_o its_o performance_n and_o i_o think_v the_o thing_n of_o that_o kind_n object_v against_o refer_v either_o to_o time_n or_o form_n or_o gesture_n to_o time_n such_o be_v festival_n or_o day_n set_v apart_o for_o divine_a service_n to_o form_n such_o be_v our_o prayer_n and_o the_o administration_n of_o our_o sacrament_n to_o gesture_n as_o stand_v up_o at_o the_o creed_n or_o gospel_n and_o kneel_v at_o the_o lord_n supper_n but_o now_o all_o these_o be_v either_o natural_a or_o moral_a circumstance_n of_o action_n and_o which_o as_o i_o have_v show_v be_v inseparable_a from_o it_o of_o the_o former_a kind_n be_v day_n and_o gesture_n of_o the_o latter_a be_v form_n of_o administration_n and_o so_o upon_o the_o reason_n before_o give_v may_v be_v lawful_o determine_v and_o use_v again_o these_o be_v not_o forbid_v by_o any_o law_n either_o express_o or_o consequential_o and_o have_v nothing_o that_o be_v indecent_a disorderly_a or_o unedifying_a in_o they_o and_o which_o if_o any_o shall_v engage_v his_o own_o opinion_n and_o experience_n in_o he_o will_v be_v answer_v in_o the_o like_a kind_n and_o have_v the_o opinion_n and_o experience_n of_o thousand_o that_o live_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o these_o to_o contradict_v he_o and_o if_o there_o be_v nothing_o of_o this_o kind_a apparent_a or_o what_o can_v be_v plain_o prove_v as_o i_o be_o apt_a to_o believe_v there_o can_v then_o the_o proposition_n i_o have_v lay_v down_o need_v no_o further_a proof_n but_o if_o at_o last_o it_o must_v issue_v in_o thing_n inexpedient_a to_o christian_n or_o a_o unlawfulness_n in_o the_o imposure_n be_v either_o of_o these_o fit_a to_o be_v insist_v upon_o when_o the_o peace_n of_o one_o of_o the_o best_a church_n in_o the_o world_n be_v break_v by_o it_o a_o lamentable_a schism_n keep_v up_o and_o our_o religion_n bring_v into_o imminent_a hazard_n by_o both_o alas_o how_o near_o have_v we_o be_v to_o ruin_v and_o i_o wish_v i_o have_v no_o reason_n to_o say_v how_o near_o be_v we_o to_o it_o consider_v the_o indefatigable_a industry_n the_o unite_a endeavour_n the_o matchless_a policy_n of_o those_o that_o contrive_v and_o desire_v it_o can_v we_o think_v that_o we_o be_v safe_a as_o long_o as_o there_o be_v such_o a_o abide_a reason_n to_o make_v we_o suspect_v it_o and_o that_o our_o division_n be_v both_o foment_v and_o make_v use_v of_o by_o they_o to_o destroy_v we_o and_o if_o this_o be_v our_o danger_n and_o union_n as_o necessary_a as_o desirable_a shall_v we_o yet_o make_v the_o breach_n wide_o or_o irreparable_a by_o a_o obstinate_a contention_n god_n forbid_v o_o pray_v for_o the_o peace_n of_o jerusalem_n they_o shall_v prosper_v that_o love_n thou_o let_v peace_n be_v within_o thy_o wall_n and_o prosperity_n within_o thy_o
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
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 accuracy_n in_o metaphysic_n so_o that_o if_o a_o thing_n be_v find_v to_o be_v decent_a orderly_a and_o for_o edification_n though_o we_o be_v assure_v it_o do_v spring_n from_o humane_a institution_n we_o think_v it_o to_o be_v lawful_a and_o that_o humane_a institution_n can_v make_v that_o unlawful_a which_o be_v find_v by_o use_n and_o experience_n to_o be_v for_o decency_n and_o order_n again_o we_o think_v that_o those_o thing_n which_o in_o kind_n be_v necessary_a to_o humane_a act_n in_o all_o case_n and_o comely_a and_o grave_a in_o worship_n as_o well_o as_o out_o of_o it_o may_v be_v appropriate_v to_o worship_n and_o that_o the_o appropriation_n of_o place_n time_n and_o habit_n to_o worship_n do_v not_o therefore_o make_v such_o place_n time_n and_o habit_n unlawful_a to_o be_v use_v and_o if_o thing_n indifferent_a in_o themselves_o be_v unlawful_a in_o worship_n we_o conclude_v it_o must_v be_v when_o divine_a institution_n be_v pretend_v for_o what_o be_v humane_a 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 iâ—_n 1._o prop._n 1._o divine_a worship_n that_o be_v mere_o of_o humane_a institution_n his_o argument_n be_v fetch_v from_o the_o nature_n of_o thâ—_n thing_n plead_v for_o they_o viz._n decency_n order_n edification_n as_o say_v he_o 1._o we_o can_v apprehend_v it_o in_o the_o power_n of_o man_n tâ—_n 11._o pag_n 11._o create_v a_o decency_n the_o great_a emperor_n wear_v aâ—_n antic_a habit_n will_v not_o make_v it_o decent_a till_o it_o coulâ—_n prescribe_v or_o have_v obtain_v a_o common_a consent_n this_o â—_o the_o rather_o mention_v because_o it_o be_v a_o argument_n much_o iâ—_n vogue_n among_o those_o that_o will_v artificial_o handlâ—_n this_o matter_n but_o here_o let_v i_o ask_v they_o what_o it_o be_v create_v a_o decency_n he_o say_v the_o law_n of_o nature_n and_o prescription_n common_a consent_n and_o the_o guise_n of_o country_n but_o how_o begin_v that_o prescription_n whence_o arise_v that_o consent_n whether_o from_o chance_n or_o institution_n or_o what_o be_v it_o whence_o iâ—_n arise_v if_o it_o be_v find_v to_o be_v decent_a certain_o if_o it_o begin_v in_o one_o of_o these_o institution_n be_v the_o more_o noble_a of_o thâ—_n two_o and_o the_o less_o disputable_a and_o then_o it_o will_v be_v harâ—_n to_o conceive_v how_o that_o which_o come_v by_o chance_n shall_v be_v sawful_a and_o that_o which_o come_v by_o institution_n shall_v be_v unlawful_a but_o 2._o if_o prescription_n and_o common_a consent_n and_o the_o guise_n of_o country_n be_v the_o measure_n of_o decency_n may_v not_o these_o thing_n also_o be_v the_o measure_n of_o it_o in_o the_o church_n and_o in_o thing_n relate_v to_o divine_a worship_n and_o be_v not_o the_o custom_n of_o the_o church_n of_o god_n a_o reason_n as_o sufficient_a to_o conclude_v we_o in_o this_o matter_n as_o the_o grave_n and_o civil_a custom_n of_o a_o nation_n or_o 3._o be_v there_o any_o church_n on_o this_o side_n rome_n that_o by_o a_o sic_fw-la volo_fw-la do_v stamp_v a_o decency_n upon_o its_o institution_n without_o respect_n to_o prescription_n and_o the_o custom_n of_o church_n or_o that_o can_v do_v it_o by_o his_o way_n of_o express_v himself_o he_o will_v make_v the_o argument_n great_a as_o if_o to_o create_v a_o decency_n be_v a_o invasion_n of_o god_n prerogative_n we_o can_v apprehend_v it_o in_o the_o power_n of_o man_n to_o create_v a_o decency_n the_o great_a emperor_n etc._n etc._n but_o if_o a_o decency_n arise_v from_o the_o guise_n of_o country_n and_o prescription_n and_o common_a consent_n it_o may_v be_v question_v whether_o according_a to_o he_o god_n himself_o can_v then_o create_v a_o decency_n and_o by_o his_o authority_n make_v that_o to_o be_v at_o once_o which_o require_v time_n and_o custom_n as_o he_o say_v to_o produce_v and_o form_v it_o so_o high_a do_v the_o power_n of_o a_o little_a school-subtilty_n and_o imagination_n sometime_o transport_v man_n that_o their_o argument_n vanish_v out_o of_o fight_n and_o be_v lose_v to_o all_o those_o that_o converse_v with_o what_o be_v gross_a and_o tangible_a but_o 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
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
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_v 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 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 recommence_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 to_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 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 15._o the_o case_n of_o infant-baptism_n in_o five_o question_n etc._n etc._n 16._o the_o charge_n of_o scandal_n and_o give_v offence_n by_o conformity_n refell_v etc._n etc._n 17._o the_o case_n of_o lay-communion_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n consider_v 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 5._o a_o discourse_n concern_v a_o guide_n in_o matter_n of_o faith_n with_o respect_n especial_o to_o the_o romish_a pretence_n of_o the_o necessity_n of_o such_o a_o one_o as_o be_v infallible_a a_o discourse_n concern_v conscience_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 to_o join_v in_o it_o be_v state_v and_o discuss_v london_n print_v for_o fincham_n gardiner_n at_o the_o white-horse_n in_o ludgate-street_n 1684._o a_o discourse_n of_o conscience_n with_o respect_n to_o those_o that_o separate_a from_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n upon_o the_o pretence_n of_o it_o etc._n etc._n there_o be_v nothing_o more_o in_o our_o mouth_n than_o conscience_n and_o yet_o there_o be_v few_o thing_n we_o have_v general_o take_v less_o pain_n to_o understand_v we_o sit_v down_o too_o often_o with_o this_o that_o it_o be_v something_o within_o we_o we_o do_v not_o know_v what_o which_o we_o be_v to_o obey_v in_o all_o that_o it_o suggest_v to_o we_o and_o we_o trouble_v ourselves_o no_o further_o about_o it_o by_o which_o mean_n it_o frequent_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o though_o we_o have_v espouse_v very_o dangerous_a error_n or_o happen_v to_o be_v engage_v in_o very_o sinful_a practice_n yet_o believe_v and_o act_v as_o we_o say_v according_a to_o our_o conscience_n we_o do_v not_o only_o think_v ourselves_o perfect_o right_a and_o safe_a while_o we_o continue_v in_o this_o state_n but_o be_v effectual_o arm_v against_o all_o sort_n of_o argument_n and_o endeavour_n that_o can_v be_v use_v for_o the_o bring_v we_o to_o a_o better_a mind_n this_o be_v too_o visible_a in_o many_o case_n but_o in_o none_o more_o than_o in_o the_o case_n of_o those_o that_o at_o this_o day_n separate_a from_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n as_o it_o be_v establish_v among_o we_o though_o the_o law_n of_o the_o land_n both_o ecclesiastical_a and_o civil_a do_v oblige_v they_o to_o join_v in_o our_o communion_n though_o many_o argument_n be_v offer_v to_o convince_v they_o not_o only_o that_o they_o lawful_o may_v but_o that_o they_o be_v bind_v to_o do_v it_o though_o they_o themselves_o be_v sensible_a that_o manifold_n and_o grievous_a mischief_n and_o danger_n do_v ensue_v from_o this_o breach_n of_o communion_n and_o these_o unnatural_a division_n both_o to_o the_o christian_a religion_n in_o general_n and_o to_o our_o reform_a religion_n in_o particular_a yet_o if_o to_o all_o these_o thing_n a_o man_n can_v reply_v that_o he_o be_v satisfy_v in_o his_o conscience_n that_o he_o do_v well_o in_o refuse_v his_o obedience_n to_o the_o law_n or_o that_o he_o be_v not_o satisfy_v in_o his_o conscience_n that_o he_o ought_v to_o join_v with_o we_o upon_o such_o term_n as_o be_v require_v this_o single_a pretence_n shall_v be_v often_o think_v a_o sufficient_a answer_n both_o to_o law_n and_o argument_n a_o strange_a thing_n this_o be_v that_o conscience_n which_o among_o other_o end_n be_v give_v to_o mankind_n for_o a_o preservative_n and_o security_n of_o the_o public_a peace_n for_o the_o more_o effectual_o oblige_v man_n to_o unity_n and_o obedience_n to_o law_n yet_o shall_v often_o be_v a_o mean_n of_o set_v they_o at_o distance_n and_o prove_v a_o shelter_n for_o disobedience_n and_o disorder_n that_o god_n shall_v command_v we_o to_o obey_v our_o governor_n in_o all_o lawful_a thing_n for_o conscience_n sake_n and_o yet_o that_o we_o shall_v disobey_v they_o in_o lawful_a thing_n for_o conscience_n sake_n too_o it_o be_v the_o design_n of_o this_o discourse_n to_o examine_v what_o there_o be_v in_o this_o plea_n that_o be_v so_o often_o make_v by_o our_o dissenter_n for_o their_o not_o comply_v with_o the_o law_n viz._n that_o it_o be_v against_o their_o conscience_n so_o to_o do_v and_o to_o show_v in_o what_o case_n this_o plea_n be_v just_o make_v and_o in_o what_o case_n not_o and_o where_o it_o be_v just_o make_v how_o far_o it_o will_v justify_v any_o man_n separation_n and_o how_o far_o it_o will_v not_o and_o all_o this_o in_o order_n to_o the_o possess_v those_o who_o be_v concern_v with_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o great_a necessity_n that_o lie_v upon_o they_o of_o use_v their_o most_o serious_a endeavour_n to_o inform_v their_o conscience_n aright_o in_o these_o matter_n before_o they_o prefume_v to_o think_v they_o can_v separate_a from_o we_o with_o a_o good_a conscience_n which_o be_v all_o we_o desire_v of_o they_o for_o it_o be_v not_o our_o business_n to_o persuade_v any_o man_n to_o conform_v against_o his_o conscience_n but_o to_o convince_v every_o man_n how_o dangerous_a it_o may_v be_v to_o follow_v a_o misinform_a conscience_n but_o before_o i_o enter_v upon_o this_o disquisition_n it_o will_v be_v necessary_a in_o the_o first_o place_n to_o prepare_v my_o way_n by_o lay_v down_o the_o ground_n and_o principle_n i_o mean_v to_o proceed_v upon_o and_o here_o that_o i_o may_v take_v in_o all_o thing_n that_o be_v needful_a to_o be_v know_v beforehand_o about_o this_o matter_n i_o shall_v treat_v distinct_o of_o these_o five_o head_n 1_o of_o the_o nature_n of_o conscience_n 2_o of_o the_o rule_n of_o conscience_n and_o under_o that_o 3_o of_o the_o power_n of_o humane_a law_n to_o oblige_v the_o conscience_n 4_o and_o particular_o in_o the_o instance_n of_o church_n communion_n 5_o of_o the_o authority_n of_o conscience_n or_o how_o far_o a_o man_n be_v oblige_v to_o be_v guide_v by_o his_o conscience_n in_o his_o action_n i._o and_o first_o as_o for_o the_o nature_n of_o conscience_n the_o true_a way_n to_o find_v out_o that_o will_v be_v not_o so_o much_o to_o inquire_v into_o the_o signification_n of_o the_o word_n conscience_n or_o the_o several_a scholastical_a definition_n of_o it_o as_o to_o consider_v what_o every_o man_n do_v real_o mean_a by_o that_o word_n when_o he_o have_v occasion_n to_o make_v use_n of_o it_o for_o if_o it_o
be_v a_o rule_n of_o conscience_n we_o be_v not_o only_o to_o understand_v the_o prime_a head_n and_o most_o general_a dictate_v of_o it_o which_o be_v but_o a_o few_o but_o also_o all_o the_o necessary_a deduction_n from_o those_o head_n and_o by_o the_o law_n of_o scripture_n as_o it_o be_v the_o rule_n of_o conscience_n we_o be_v not_o only_o to_o understand_v the_o express_a command_n and_o prohibition_n we_o meet_v with_o there_o in_o the_o letter_n of_o the_o text_n but_o all_o the_o thing_n likewise_o that_o by_o unavoidable_a consequence_n do_v follow_v from_o those_o command_n or_o prohibition_n in_o a_o word_n when_o we_o be_v deliberate_v with_o ourselves_o concern_v the_o goodness_n or_o badness_n the_o lawfulness_n or_o unlawfulness_n of_o this_o or_o the_o other_o particular_a action_n we_o be_v not_o only_o to_o look_v upon_o the_o letter_n of_o the_o law_n but_o to_o attend_v further_o to_o what_o that_o law_n may_v be_v suppose_v by_o a_o rational_a man_n to_o contain_v in_o it_o and_o if_o we_o be_v convince_v that_o the_o action_n we_o be_v deliberate_v about_o be_v command_v or_o forbid_v by_o direct_a inference_n or_o by_o parity_n of_o reason_n we_o ought_v to_o look_v upon_o it_o as_o a_o duty_n or_o a_o sin_n though_o it_o be_v not_o express_o command_v or_o forbid_v by_o the_o law_n in_o the_o letter_n of_o it_o and_o if_o neither_o by_o the_o letter_n of_o the_o law_n nor_o by_o consequence_n from_o it_o nor_o by_o parity_n of_o reason_n the_o action_n before_o we_o appear_v either_o to_o be_v command_v or_o forbid_v in_o that_o case_n we_o be_v to_o look_v upon_o it_o as_o a_o indifferent_a action_n which_o we_o may_v do_v or_o let_v alone_o with_o a_o safe_a conscience_n or_o to_o express_v the_o thing_n more_o proper_o we_o be_v to_o look_v upon_o it_o as_o a_o action_n in_o which_o our_o conscience_n be_v not_o so_o much_o concern_v as_o our_o prudence_n iii_o have_v thus_o give_v a_o account_n of_o the_o rule_n of_o conscience_n that_o which_o natural_o follow_v next_o to_o be_v consider_v with_o reference_n to_o our_o present_a design_n be_v what_o share_v humane_a law_n have_v in_o this_o rule_n of_o conscience_n whether_o they_o be_v a_o part_n of_o this_o rule_n and_o do_v real_o bind_v a_o man_n conscience_n to_o the_o observance_n of_o they_o or_o no_o which_o be_v our_o three_o general_n head_n now_o as_o to_o this_o our_o answer_n be_v that_o though_o the_o law_n of_o god_n be_v the_o great_a and_o indeed_o the_o only_a rule_n of_o conscience_n yet_o the_o law_n of_o man_n general_o speak_v do_v also_o bind_v the_o conscience_n and_o be_v a_o part_n of_o its_o rule_n in_o a_o secondary_a sense_n that_o be_v by_o virtue_n of_o and_o in_o subordination_n to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n i_o shall_v brief_o explain_v the_o meaning_n of_o this_o in_o the_o four_o follow_a proposition_n first_o there_o be_v nothing_o more_o certain_a than_o that_o the_o law_n of_o god_n as_o it_o be_v declare_v both_o by_o nature_n and_o scripture_n do_v command_v we_o to_o obey_v the_o law_n of_o men._n there_o be_v no_o one_o dictate_v of_o nature_n more_o obvious_a to_o we_o than_o this_o that_o we_o be_v to_o obey_v the_o government_n we_o live_v under_o in_o all_o honest_a and_o just_a thing_n for_o this_o be_v indeed_o the_o principal_a law_n and_o foundation_n of_o all_o society_n and_o it_o will_v be_v impossible_a either_o for_o kingdom_n or_o state_n for_o city_n or_o family_n to_o subsist_v or_o at_o least_o to_o maintain_v themselves_o in_o any_o tolerable_a degree_n of_o peace_n and_o happiness_n if_o this_o be_v not_o acknowledge_v a_o duty_n and_o then_o as_o for_o the_o law_n of_o god_n in_o scripture_n there_o be_v nothing_o more_o plain_o declare_v there_o than_z that_o it_o be_v god_n will_v and_o our_o duty_n to_o obey_v they_o that_o have_v the_o rule_n over_o we_o and_o to_o submit_v ourselves_o to_o every_o ordinance_n of_o man_n for_o the_o lord_n sake_n and_o to_o be_v subject_a not_o only_o for_o wrath_n but_o for_o conscience_n sake_n so_o that_o no_o man_n can_v doubt_v that_o he_o be_v real_o bind_v in_o duty_n to_o obey_v the_o law_n of_o man_n that_o be_v make_v by_o just_a and_o sufficient_a authority_n and_o consequent_o no_o man_n can_v doubt_v that_o humane_a law_n do_v real_o bind_v the_o conscience_n and_o be_v one_o part_n of_o the_o rule_n by_o which_o it_o be_v to_o be_v direct_v and_o govern_v but_o then_o have_v say_v this_o we_o add_v this_o far_a in_o the_o second_o place_n that_o humane_a law_n do_v not_o bind_v the_o conscience_n by_o any_o virtue_n in_o themselves_o but_o mere_o by_o virtue_n of_o god_n law_n who_o have_v command_v that_o we_o shall_v in_o all_o thing_n be_v subject_a to_o our_o lawful_a governor_n not_o only_o for_o wrath_n but_o for_o conscience_n sake_n conscience_n be_v not_o proper_o concern_v with_o any_o be_v in_o the_o world_n save_v god_n alone_o it_o have_v no_o superior_a but_o he_o for_o the_o very_a notion_n of_o it_o as_o i_o have_v often_o say_v be_v no_o other_o than_o our_o judgement_n of_o what_o thing_n we_o be_v bind_v to_o do_v by_o god_n law_n &_o what_o thing_n we_o be_v forbid_v to_o do_v by_o god_n law_n so_o that_o all_o the_o man_n in_o the_o world_n can_v bind_v any_o man_n conscience_n by_o virtue_n of_o any_o power_n or_o authority_n that_o be_v in_o they_o but_o now_o god_n have_v make_v it_o a_o everlasting_a law_n both_o by_o nature_n and_o scripture_n that_o we_o shall_v obey_v those_o who_o be_v set_v over_o we_o whether_o they_o be_v our_o parent_n or_o our_o master_n and_o much_o more_o our_o prince_n and_o the_o sovereign_n legislative_a power_n under_o who_o we_o live_v by_o virtue_n of_o this_o command_n of_o god_n and_o this_o only_a we_o be_v for_o ever_o bind_v in_o conscience_n to_o govern_v our_o action_n by_o the_o command_n that_o they_o impose_v upon_o we_o and_o those_o command_n of_o they_o be_v a_o rule_n though_o a_o consequential_a or_o a_o secondary_a rule_n by_o which_o we_o be_v to_o govern_v our_o conscience_n because_o they_o be_v the_o instance_n of_o our_o obedience_n to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n but_o then_o in_o the_o three_o place_n this_o be_v also_o to_o be_v remember_v that_o humane_a law_n do_v no_o far_o bind_v the_o conscience_n and_o be_v a_o rule_n of_o it_o than_o as_o they_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n if_o any_o law_n or_o command_v of_o man_n do_v clash_n with_o any_o law_n of_o god_n that_o be_v if_o it_o be_v either_o evil_a in_o itself_o or_o contradictory_n to_o the_o duty_n of_o christian_n as_o lay_v down_o in_o the_o scripture_n in_o that_o case_n that_o law_n or_o command_n by_o what_o humane_a authority_n soever_o it_o be_v make_v or_o give_v do_v not_o bind_v our_o conscience_n nor_o be_v any_o rule_n of_o our_o action_n on_o the_o contrary_n we_o be_v not_o at_o any_o rate_n to_o yield_v obedience_n to_o it_o but_o we_o be_v here_o reduce_v to_o the_o apostle_n case_n and_o must_v act_n as_o they_o do_v that_o be_v we_o must_v obey_v god_n rather_o than_o man_n and_o we_o sin_n if_o we_o do_v not_o for_o since_o god_n only_o have_v proper_a and_o direct_a authority_n over_o our_o conscience_n and_o humane_a power_n only_o by_o delegation_n from_o he_o and_o since_o god_n have_v not_o give_v any_o commission_n to_o the_o most_o sovereign_a prince_n upon_o earth_n to_o alter_v his_o law_n or_o to_o impose_v any_o thing_n upon_o his_o subject_n that_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o they_o it_o follow_v by_o necessary_a consequence_n that_o no_o man_n can_v be_v oblige_v to_o obey_v any_o law_n of_o man_n far_o than_o they_o be_v agreeable_a to_o and_o consistent_a with_o the_o law_n of_o god_n there_o be_v yet_o a_o four_o thing_n necessary_a to_o be_v take_v in_o for_o the_o clear_n the_o point_n we_o be_v upon_o and_o that_o be_v this_o that_o though_o humane_a law_n general_o speak_v may_v be_v say_v to_o bind_v the_o conscience_n and_o to_o be_v a_o part_n of_o its_o rule_n yet_o we_o do_v not_o assert_v that_o every_o humane_a law_n though_o it_o do_v not_o interfere_v with_o any_o of_o god_n law_n do_v at_o all_o time_n and_o in_o all_o case_n oblige_v every_o man_n conscience_n to_o active_a obedience_n to_o it_o so_o as_o that_o he_o sin_v against_o god_n if_o he_o transgress_v it_o no_o it_o will_v be_v a_o very_a hard_a thing_n to_o affirm_v this_o and_o i_o do_v not_o know_v what_o manamong_n we_o upon_o these_o term_n will_v be_v innocent_a thus_o much_o i_o believe_v we_o may_v safe_o lay_v down_o as_o a_o truth_n that_o where_o either_o the_o matter_n of_o the_o law_n be_v of_o such_o a_o nature_n
that_o the_o public_a or_o some_o private_a person_n shall_v suffer_v damage_n or_o inconvenience_n by_o our_o not_o observe_v it_o or_o second_o though_o the_o law_n as_o to_o the_o matter_n of_o it_o be_v never_o so_o trifle_a nay_o though_o perhaps_o all_o thing_n consider_v it_o be_v a_o inconvenient_a law_n yet_o if_o the_o manner_n of_o our_o not_o obey_v it_o be_v such_o as_o gives_z offence_n to_o our_o superior_n or_o to_o any_o other_o that_o be_v either_o argue_v a_o contempt_n of_o authority_n or_o set_v a_o ill_a example_n before_o our_o fellow_n subject_n i_o say_v in_o either_o of_o these_o case_n the_o transgression_n of_o a_o humane_a law_n render_v a_o man_n guilty_a of_o a_o fault_n as_o well_o as_o obnoxious_a to_o the_o penalty_n of_o that_o law_n but_o out_o of_o these_o two_o case_n i_o must_v confess_v i_o do_v not_o see_v how_o a_o pure_o humane_a law_n do_v oblige_v the_o conscience_n or_o how_o the_o transgression_n of_o it_o do_v make_v a_o man_n guilty_a of_o sin_n before_o god_n for_o it_o be_v certain_a if_o we_o secure_v these_o two_o point_n that_o be_v to_o say_v the_o good_a of_o the_o public_a and_o of_o private_a person_n and_o wâ—th_v all_o the_o sacredness_n and_o respect_n which_o be_v due_a to_o authority_n which_o be_v likewise_o in_o order_n to_o the_o public_a good_a we_o answer_v all_o the_o end_n for_o which_o the_o power_n of_o make_v law_n or_o lay_v command_n upon_o inferior_n be_v commit_v by_o god_n to_o mankind_n so_o that_o though_o it_o be_v true_a that_o humane_a law_n do_v oblige_v the_o conscience_n yet_o it_o be_v also_o true_a that_o a_o great_a many_o case_n may_v and_o do_v happen_v in_o which_o a_o man_n may_v act_n contrary_a to_o a_o pure_o humane_a law_n and_o yet_o not_o be_v a_o sinner_n before_o god_n always_o suppose_v as_o i_o say_v there_o be_v no_o contempt_n or_o refractoryness_n express_v towards_o the_o governor_n nor_o no_o scandal_n or_o ill_a example_n give_v to_o other_o by_o the_o action_n for_o if_o there_o be_v either_o of_o these_o in_o the_o case_n i_o dare_v not_o acquit_v the_o man_n from_o be_v a_o transgressor_n of_o god_n law_n in_o the_o instance_n wherein_o he_o transgress_v the_o law_n of_o men._n for_o this_o be_v that_o which_o we_o insist_v upon_o that_o the_o authority_n of_o our_o governor_n ought_v to_o be_v hold_v and_o esteem_v very_o sacred_a both_o because_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o the_o public_a good_a require_v it_o shall_v be_v so_o and_o herefore_o wherever_o they_o do_v peremptory_o lay_v their_o command_n upon_o we_o we_o be_v bind_v in_o conscience_n so_o far_o to_o comply_v as_o not_o to_o contest_v the_o matter_n with_o they_o nor_o to_o seem_v to_o do_v it_o and_o though_o their_o command_n as_o to_o the_o matter_n of_o they_o be_v never_o so_o slight_a nay_o though_o they_o shall_v prove_v real_o inconvenient_a either_o to_o ourselves_o or_o the_o public_a yet_o if_o they_o stand_v upon_o they_o if_o they_o persist_v in_o require_v our_o obedience_n to_o they_o we_o must_v yield_v we_o must_v obey_v always_o suppose_v they_o be_v not_o against_o god_n law_n for_o we_o be_v at_o no_o hand_n either_o to_o affront_v their_o authority_n ourselves_o or_o to_o encourage_v other_o by_o our_o example_n to_o do_v it_o for_o to_o do_v either_o of_o these_o thing_n be_v a_o great_a evil_n to_o the_o publtck_n than_o our_o obedience_n to_o a_o inconvenient_a law_n can_v easy_o be_v iu._n and_o now_o it_o be_v time_n for_o we_o to_o apply_v what_o have_v be_v say_v in_o general_n concern_v the_o rule_n of_o conscience_n and_o the_o obligation_n of_o humane_a law_n to_o the_o particular_a matter_n here_o before_o we_o that_o be_v the_o business_n of_o church_n communion_n the_o obligation_n of_o conscience_n to_o which_o in_o such_o manner_n as_o the_o law_n have_v appoint_v be_v the_o four_o general_a head_n we_o be_v to_o consider_v this_o point_n of_o the_o obligation_n to_o communion_n with_o the_o church_n as_o by_o law_n establish_v have_v be_v large_o handle_v by_o several_a learned_a man_n of_o our_o church_n and_o particular_o it_o be_v the_o argument_n of_o one_o of_o those_o discourse_n which_o have_v late_o be_v write_v for_o the_o sake_n of_o our_o dissenter_n thither_o therefore_o i_o refer_v the_o reader_n for_o full_a satisfaction_n about_o this_o matter_n be_v only_o just_a to_o touch_v upon_o it_o here_o as_o one_o of_o the_o principle_n we_o take_v for_o grant_v and_o shall_v proceed_v upon_o in_o the_o follow_a discourse_n and_o here_o the_o proposition_n we_o lie_v down_o be_v this_o that_o it_o be_v every_o man_n duty_n and_o consequent_o every_o man_n be_v bind_v in_o conscience_n to_o join_v in_o communion_n with_o that_o church_n which_o be_v establish_v by_o law_n in_o the_o place_n where_o he_o live_v so_o long_o as_o that_o church_n be_v a_o true_a sound_a part_n of_o the_o catholic_n church_n and_o there_o be_v nothing_o impose_v or_o require_v as_o a_o condition_n of_o communicate_v with_o it_o that_o be_v repugnant_a to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n or_o the_o appointment_n of_o jesus_n christ_n this_o proposition_n be_v evident_a not_o only_o because_o it_o necessary_o follow_v from_o the_o forego_n principle_n which_o be_v that_o every_o man_n be_v bind_v in_o conscience_n to_o obey_v the_o law_n of_o man_n that_o be_v not_o contrary_a to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o consequent_o a_o man_n be_v bind_v to_o obey_v in_o ecclesiastical_a matter_n as_o well_o as_o civil_a unless_o it_o can_v be_v show_v that_o christ_n have_v forbid_v all_o humane_a authority_n whether_o ecclesiastical_a or_o civil_a to_o make_v any_o law_n or_o order_n about_o religion_n which_o i_o believe_v never_o be_v or_o can_v be_v show_v but_o it_o be_v evident_a upon_o another_o account_n which_o i_o desire_v may_v be_v consider_v we_o be_v all_o real_o bind_v by_o the_o law_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o nature_n of_o his_o religion_n to_o preserve_v as_o much_o as_o in_o uslye_v the_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n which_o unity_n do_v consist_v not_o only_o in_o profess_v the_o same_o faith_n but_o join_v together_o with_o our_o brethren_n under_o common_a governor_n in_o the_o same_o religious_a communion_n of_o worship_n and_o sacrament_n and_o therefore_o whoever_o break_v this_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n by_o withdraw_v his_o obedience_n from_o those_o church_n governor_n which_o god_n have_v set_v over_o he_o in_o the_o place_n where_o he_o live_v and_o separate_v from_o the_o establish_v religious_a assembly_n of_o christian_n under_o those_o governor_n do_v real_o transgress_v the_o law_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o be_v guilty_a of_o that_o sin_n of_o schism_n which_o be_v so_o very_a much_o caution_v against_o and_o so_o high_o condemn_v in_o the_o scripture_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n unless_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n it_o do_v appear_v to_o the_o man_n who_o thus_o withdraw_v and_o separate_v that_o there_o be_v something_o require_v of_o he_o in_o those_o assembly_n and_o by_o those_o governor_n and_o that_o as_o a_o term_n and_o condition_n of_o hold_v communion_n with_o they_o which_o he_o can_v submit_v to_o without_o sin_n and_o this_o point_n i_o do_v hearty_o wish_v be_v well_o consider_v by_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n they_o do_v seem_v often_o to_o look_v upon_o this_o business_n of_o come_v to_o church_n and_o join_v with_o we_o in_o prayer_n and_o sacrament_n no_o otherwise_o to_o bind_v their_o conscience_n than_o other_o pure_o humane_a law_n they_o think_v they_o owe_v no_o obedience_n to_o the_o law_n in_o these_o matter_n different_a from_o that_o which_o they_o yield_v to_o any_o common_a act_n of_o parliament_n and_o therefore_o no_o wonder_n they_o often_o make_v so_o slight_a a_o business_n of_o they_o but_o this_o be_v a_o great_a mistake_n there_o be_v much_o more_o in_o these_o thing_n than_o this_o come_v to_o the_o withdraw_v our_o communion_n from_o the_o church_n carry_v a_o far_o great_a guilt_n in_o it_o than_o the_o violate_v any_o law_n that_o be_v pure_o humane_a for_o though_o we_o do_v ready_o grant_v that_o all_o the_o circumstance_n of_o public_a worship_n enjoin_v in_o the_o church_n as_o for_o instance_n the_o time_n the_o gesture_n the_o form_n of_o prayer_n the_o method_n of_o read_v the_o scripture_n and_o administer_a the_o sacrament_n as_o also_o the_o habit_n of_o the_o minister_n that_o be_v to_o officiate_v be_v all_o of_o humane_a institution_n and_o may_v be_v alter_v and_o vary_a at_o the_o discretion_n of_o our_o governor_n yet_o the_o public_a worship_n itself_o under_o public_a lawful_a governor_n be_v of_o divine_a appointment_n and_o no_o man_n can_v renounce_v it_o without_o sin_v against_o jesus_n christ_n as_o well_o as_o offend_a against_o
the_o ecclesiastical_a law_n a_o humane_a law_n ground_v upon_o a_o divine_a or_o to_o speak_v more_o proper_o a_o divine_a law_n modify_v or_o clothe_v with_o several_a circumstance_n of_o man_n appointment_n do_v create_v another_o kind_n of_o obligation_n upon_o every_o subject_a than_o a_o law_n that_o be_v pure_o humane_a that_o be_v to_o say_v a_o law_n the_o matter_n of_o which_o be_v neither_o good_a nor_o evil_a in_o itself_o but_o perfect_o indifferent_a in_o the_o former_a case_n we_o must_v yield_v obedience_n to_o the_o law_n as_o to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n however_o it_o come_v clothe_v with_o circumstance_n of_o man_n appointment_n in_o the_o other_o case_n we_o only_o yield_v obedience_n as_o to_o the_o command_n of_o man_n and_o for_o no_o other_o reason_n than_o that_o god_n in_o general_n have_v oblige_v we_o to_o obey_v our_o superior_n to_o make_v this_o a_o little_a plain_o let_v we_o for_o instance_n take_v the_o business_n of_o pay_v tribute_n and_o custom_n in_o this_o nation_n in_o which_o case_n there_o be_v a_o complication_n of_o a_o divine_a law_n with_o a_o humane_a as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o case_n we_o be_v now_o upon_o that_o every_o subject_n shall_v pay_v tribute_n to_o who_o tribute_n be_v due_a custom_n to_o who_o custom_n be_v due_a be_v a_o law_n of_o god_n as_o be_v a_o branch_n both_o of_o natural_a and_o christian_a justice_n but_o out_o of_o what_o good_n we_o shall_v pay_v tribute_n or_o custom_n or_o what_o proportion_n of_o those_o good_n shall_v be_v pay_v this_o be_v not_o define_v either_o by_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n or_o the_o law_n of_o the_o gospel_n but_o be_v leave_v to_o the_o determination_n of_o the_o municipal_a law_n of_o every_o kingdom_n but_o now_o because_o humane_a authority_n do_v interpose_v in_o this_o affair_n and_o settle_v what_o every_o man_n be_v to_o pay_v to_o the_o king_n and_o out_o of_o what_o commodity_n do_v it_o therefore_o follow_v that_o if_o a_o man_n can_v by_o fraud_n or_o concealment_n detain_v the_o king_n right_o from_o he_o that_o he_o incur_v no_o other_o guilt_n for_o this_o but_o only_o the_o transgress_a of_o a_o act_n of_o parliament_n and_o the_o be_v obnoxious_a to_o the_o penalty_n in_o case_n he_o be_v detect_v no_o certain_o for_o all_o that_o the_o custom_n in_o that_o manner_n and_o form_n be_v settle_v upon_o the_o king_n by_o humane_a law_n only_o yet_o the_o matter_n of_o that_o law_n be_v a_o point_n of_o natural_a justice_n between_o man_n and_o man_n the_o man_n that_o be_v thus_o guilty_a aught_o to_o look_v upon_o himself_o as_o a_o offender_n against_o the_o divine_a law_n as_o a_o unjust_a person_n before_o god_n and_o his_o willingness_n to_o submit_v to_o the_o forfeiture_n of_o his_o good_n will_v not_o render_v he_o less_o unjust_a or_o more_o excusable_a the_o case_n be_v much_o the_o same_o as_o to_o the_o matter_n we_o have_v now_o before_o we_o it_o be_v not_o a_o mere_a humane_a law_n or_o act_n of_o parliament_n that_o oblige_v we_o to_o keep_v the_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n to_o bring_v our_o child_n to_o be_v make_v christian_n by_o baptism_n to_o meet_v together_o at_o solemn_a time_n for_o the_o profession_n of_o our_o faith_n for_o the_o worship_a god_n for_o the_o commemorate_n the_o death_n of_o our_o saviour_n in_o the_o sacrament_n of_o his_o supper_n all_o this_o be_v tie_v upon_o we_o by_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n these_o thing_n be_v as_o much_o require_v of_o we_o by_o god_n as_o christian_n as_o it_o be_v require_v that_o we_o shall_v pay_v the_o king_n and_o every_o man_n what_o be_v due_a to_o they_o if_o we_o will_v not_o be_v dishonest_a &_o unjust_a it_o be_v true_a that_o the_o particular_a form_n and_o modes_n and_o circumstance_n of_o do_v these_o thing_n be_v not_o command_v nor_o prescribe_v by_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n in_o this_o instance_n of_o church_n communion_n no_o more_o than_o they_o be_v prescribe_v by_o the_o law_n of_o god_n in_o the_o other_o instance_n i_o give_v but_o they_o be_v leave_v entire_o to_o the_o prudence_n and_o discretion_n of_o the_o governor_n that_o god_n have_v set_v over_o we_o in_o ecclesiastical_a matter_n just_a as_o they_o be_v in_o the_o other_o but_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n these_o thing_n thus_o clothe_v by_o humane_a authority_n as_o to_o their_o circumstance_n yet_o be_v for_o the_o matter_n of_o they_o bind_v upon_o we_o by_o christ_n himself_o we_o can_v no_o more_o deny_v our_o obedience_n to_o the_o public_a law_n about_o they_o than_o we_o can_v in_o the_o other_o instance_n i_o have_v name_v and_o that_o man_n may_v as_o well_o for_o instance_n purge_v himself_o from_o the_o imputation_n of_o knavery_n before_o god_n that_o will_v contrive_v a_o way_n of_o his_o own_o for_o the_o pay_v his_o just_a debt_n contrary_a to_o what_o the_o law_n of_o the_o land_n have_v declare_v to_o be_v just_a and_o honest_a as_o any_o man_n can_v acquit_v himself_o from_o the_o sin_n of_o schism_n before_o god_n that_o will_v choose_v a_o way_n of_o his_o own_o for_o the_o public_a worship_n different_a from_o and_o in_o opposition_n to_o what_o the_o law_n of_o the_o church_n have_v prescribe_v always_o suppose_v that_o the_o worship_n establish_v be_v command_v by_o just_a authority_n and_o there_o be_v nothing_o require_v in_o it_o as_o a_o condition_n of_o communion_n that_o be_v against_o the_o law_n of_o jesus_n christ_n the_o sum_n of_o all_o this_o be_v that_o it_o be_v every_o man_n duty_n by_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n as_o well_o as_o the_o law_n of_o man_n to_o worship_n god_n in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o church_n so_o long_o as_o there_o be_v nothing_o require_v in_o that_o worship_n that_o can_v just_o offend_v the_o conscience_n of_o a_o wise_a and_o good_a christian_n and_o therefore_o there_o be_v more_o in_o depart_v from_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n when_o we_o can_v lawful_o hold_v it_o than_o mere_o the_o violation_n of_o a_o statute_n or_o a_o humane_a law_n for_o we_o can_v do_v it_o without_o break_v the_o law_n of_o god_n nay_o so_o much_o be_v it_o against_o the_o law_n of_o god_n to_o do_v this_o that_o i_o think_v no_o authority_n upon_o earth_n can_v warrant_v it_o so_o that_o even_o if_o there_o be_v a_o law_n make_v which_o shall_v ordain_v that_o wilful_a causeless_a separation_n from_o the_o establish_v church_n shall_v be_v allow_v and_o tolerate_v and_o no_o man_n shall_v be_v call_v to_o a_o account_n for_o it_o yet_o nevertheless_o such_o a_o separation_n will_v still_o be_v a_o schism_n will_v still_o be_v a_o sin_n against_o god_n for_o no_o humane_a law_n can_v make_v that_o lawful_a which_o god_n law_n have_v forbid_v there_o now_o only_o remain_v our_o last_o general_a head_n about_o conscience_n to_o be_v speak_v to_o and_o then_o we_o have_v do_v with_o our_o preliminary_a point_n and_o that_o be_v concern_v the_o authority_n of_o conscience_n or_o how_o far_o a_o man_n be_v oblige_v to_o follow_v or_o be_v guide_v by_o his_o conscience_n in_o his_o action_n when_o we_o speak_v of_o the_o obligation_n of_o conscience_n or_o of_o be_v bind_v in_o conscience_n to_o do_v or_o not_o to_o do_v a_o action_n it_o sufficient_o appear_v from_o what_o have_v be_v say_v that_o we_o can_v mean_v no_o more_o by_o these_o phrase_n than_o this_o that_o we_o be_v convince_v in_o our_o judgement_n that_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o do_v this_o or_o the_o other_o action_n because_o we_o believe_v that_o god_n have_v command_v it_o or_o we_o be_v persuade_v in_o our_o judgement_n that_o we_o ought_v to_o forbear_v this_o or_o the_o other_o action_n because_o we_o believe_v that_o god_n have_v forbid_v it_o this_o now_o be_v that_o which_o we_o mean_v by_o the_o obligation_n of_o conscience_n here_o we_o come_v to_o inquire_v how_o far_o this_o persuasion_n or_o judgement_n of_o we_o concern_v what_o be_v our_o duty_n and_o what_o be_v sinful_a have_v authority_n over_o we_o how_o far_o it_o do_v oblige_v we_o to_o act_n or_o not_o act_n according_a to_o it_o now_o in_o order_n to_o the_o resolve_v of_o this_o we_o must_v take_v notice_n that_o our_o judgement_n concern_v what_o god_n have_v command_v or_o forbid_v or_o leave_v indifferent_a be_v either_o true_a or_o false_a we_o either_o make_v a_o right_a judgement_n of_o our_o duty_n or_o we_o make_v a_o wrong_a one_o in_o the_o former_a case_n we_o call_v our_o judgement_n a_o right_a conscience_n in_o the_o latter_a we_o call_v it_o a_o erroneous_a conscience_n as_o for_o those_o case_n where_o we_o doubt_v and_o hesitate_n and_o know_v not_o well_o how_o to_o make_v any_o judgement_n at_o all_o which_o be_v that_o we_o call_v a_o doubt_v conscience_n but_o indeed_o
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
form_n other_o doubt_v about_o the_o lawfulness_n of_o our_o ceremony_n or_o our_o way_n of_o administer_a the_o sacrament_n and_o other_o it_o may_v be_v about_o other_o thing_n none_o of_o they_o can_v indeed_o say_v that_o any_o of_o these_o thing_n do_v go_v against_o their_o conscience_n or_o that_o they_o believe_v the_o use_n of_o they_o to_o be_v unlawful_a for_o that_o be_v the_o case_n of_o a_o resolve_a conscience_n with_o which_o we_o have_v nothing_o here_o to_o do_v but_o they_o be_v undetermined_a and_o uncertain_a whether_o they_o be_v lawful_a or_o no_o and_o so_o long_o as_o they_o continue_v under_o this_o suspense_n of_o judgement_n they_o dare_v not_o join_v in_o our_o worship_n fear_v they_o will_v sin_v against_o god_n if_o they_o shall_v now_o of_o those_o that_o thus_o doubt_v there_o may_v be_v two_o sort_n there_o be_v some_o perhaps_o that_o have_v only_o a_o single_a doubt_n in_o this_o matter_n that_o be_v to_o say_v they_o make_v a_o doubt_n whether_o they_o may_v lawful_o join_v with_o we_o so_o long_o as_o those_o suspect_a condition_n be_v require_v of_o they_o but_o they_o make_v no_o doubt_n but_o be_v very_o well_o satisfy_v that_o they_o may_v lawful_o separate_a from_o we_o again_o there_o be_v other_o that_o doubt_v on_o both_o side_n as_o they_o have_v good_a reason_n to_o do_v that_o be_v as_o they_o doubt_v on_o one_o hand_n whether_o the_o term_n of_o our_o communion_n be_v not_o sinful_a so_o they_o doubt_v on_o the_o other_o hand_n whether_o it_o be_v not_o sinful_a to_o separate_a upon_o account_n of_o those_o term_n now_o of_o these_o likewise_o there_o may_v be_v two_o sort_n some_o perhaps_o be_v equal_o doubtful_a whether_o the_o term_n of_o our_o communion_n be_v lawful_a or_o no._n other_o doubt_v unequal_o that_o be_v be_v more_o incline_v to_o believe_v that_o they_o be_v sinful_a than_o that_o they_o be_v lawful_a that_o now_o which_o be_v to_o be_v inquire_v into_o be_v what_o be_v most_o reasonable_a and_o adviseable_a in_o point_n of_o conscience_n to_o be_v do_v in_o each_o of_o these_o case_n now_o as_o to_o the_o first_o of_o these_o case_n where_o a_o man_n have_v only_o a_o doubt_n on_o one_o side_n and_o that_o be_v whether_o he_o may_v lawful_o communicate_v with_o we_o but_o he_o have_v no_o doubt_n that_o he_o may_v lawful_o separate_a to_o this_o i_o say_v two_o thing_n first_o that_o the_o man_n doubt_v only_o on_o one_o side_n in_o this_o matter_n do_v not_o make_v it_o more_o safe_a for_o he_o to_o separate_a than_o if_o he_o have_v doubt_v on_o both_o side_n because_o indeed_o if_o he_o must_v doubt_v at_o all_o it_o be_v his_o duty_n he_o be_v bind_v to_o doubt_n on_o both_o side_n and_o he_o be_v guilty_a of_o gross_a and_o criminal_a ignorance_n of_o the_o law_n of_o god_n if_o he_o do_v not_o and_o if_o so_o than_o his_o doubt_v only_o on_o one_o side_n do_v not_o alter_v the_o case_n but_o it_o must_v have_v the_o same_o resolution_n as_o if_o it_o be_v a_o double_a doubt_n proper_o so_o call_v if_o it_o be_v say_v that_o it_o be_v a_o constant_a rule_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n and_o we_o have_v allow_v it_o as_o such_o that_o in_o case_n where_o a_o man_n have_v only_o a_o doubt_n on_o one_o side_n of_o a_o action_n it_o be_v more_o safe_a to_o choose_v that_o side_n on_o which_o he_o have_v no_o doubt_n than_o that_o other_o concern_v which_o he_o doubt_v i_o do_v ready_o grant_v it_o but_o than_o it_o be_v to_o be_v remember_v that_o that_o rule_n be_v always_o intend_a and_o do_v only_o obtain_v in_o such_o case_n where_o a_o man_n may_v certain_o without_o danger_n of_o sin_v forbear_v that_o action_n of_o the_o lawfulness_n of_o which_o he_o doubt_v though_o he_o can_v without_o danger_n of_o sin_v do_v the_o action_n so_o long_o as_o he_o doubt_v about_o it_o but_o now_o in_o our_o case_n here_o it_o be_v evident_a to_o all_o man_n that_o be_v not_o wilful_o blind_a that_o as_o there_o may_v be_v a_o danger_n of_o sin_v if_o a_o man_n shall_v conform_v with_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n so_o there_o be_v certain_o a_o danger_n of_o sin_v nay_o and_o we_o say_v a_o much_o great_a danger_n if_o a_o man_n do_v not_o conform_v so_o that_o that_o rule_n have_v here_o no_o place_n at_o all_o the_o truth_n be_v our_o case_n if_o it_o be_v right_o put_v be_v this_o a_o man_n be_v here_o suppose_a to_o reason_n thus_o with_o himself_o i_o be_o very_a well_o satisfy_v in_o my_o own_o mind_n and_o i_o make_v no_o doubt_n at_o all_o that_o i_o may_v lawful_o and_o without_o danger_n of_o sin_n cut_v myself_o off_o from_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o church_n which_o yet_o by_o his_o christianity_n he_o be_v bind_v to_o maintain_v and_o preserve_v as_o far_o as_o he_o can_v and_o i_o may_v likewise_o lawful_o and_o without_o danger_n of_o sin_v live_v in_o a_o constant_a disobedience_n and_o refractariness_n to_o all_o that_o authority_n that_o god_n have_v set_v over_o i_o too_o which_o yet_o by_o as_o plain_a law_n as_o any_o be_v in_o nature_n or_o the_o gospel_n he_o be_v bind_v to_o be_v subject_a i_o say_v i_o be_o satisfy_v in_o my_o own_o mind_n that_o i_o may_v lawful_o do_v both_o these_o thing_n but_o i_o be_o very_o unsatisfied_a and_o doubtful_a whether_o in_o my_o present_a circumstance_n it_o be_v not_o my_o duty_n thus_o to_o do_v so_o as_o that_o i_o shall_v sin_n if_o i_o do_v not_o what_o now_o will_v any_o prudent_a man_n say_v to_o this_o case_n why_o certain_o he_o will_v say_v this_o that_o he_o who_o can_v doubt_v after_o this_o fashion_n be_v either_o a_o very_a ill_a man_n or_o a_o very_a ignorant_a one_o and_o that_o such_o a_o man_n do_v a_o great_a deal_n more_o stand_n in_o need_n of_o good_a advice_n and_o wholesome_a instruction_n about_o the_o plain_a duty_n of_o christianity_n than_o of_o rule_n and_o direction_n how_o to_o behave_v himself_o in_o doubtful_a case_n because_o indeed_o the_o best_a rule_n of_o that_o kind_n be_v not_o to_o his_o case_n so_o long_o as_o he_o continue_v thus_o ignorant_a and_o if_o he_o shall_v observe_v they_o yet_o that_o will_v not_o justify_v his_o act_n if_o it_o shall_v indeed_o prove_v contrary_a to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n because_o it_o be_v both_o in_o his_o power_n and_o it_o be_v his_o duty_n to_o know_v better_o a_o man_n right_o proceed_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o a_o doubt_v conscience_n in_o a_o case_n where_o he_o be_v entangle_v by_o a_o wilful_o eroneous_a one_o will_v no_o more_o discharge_v he_o from_o sin_n as_o to_o his_o soul_n if_o he_o do_v a_o evil_a action_n than_o the_o second_o concoction_n though_o never_o so_o regular_a can_v rectify_v the_o error_n of_o the_o first_o as_o to_o his_o body_n but_o second_o though_o that_o which_o i_o have_v now_o offer_v be_v the_o proper_a answer_n to_o the_o case_n before_o we_o yet_o there_o be_v this_o further_a to_o be_v say_v to_o it_o viz._n though_o we_o shall_v suppose_v that_o the_o law_n of_o god_n have_v not_o oblige_v we_o to_o keep_v the_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n or_o to_o obey_v our_o lawful_a superior_n but_o have_v leave_v it_o as_o a_o indifferent_a matter_n and_o that_o there_o be_v no_o danger_n at_o all_o in_o forbear_v these_o thing_n but_o the_o only_a danger_n be_v in_o do_v they_o so_o that_o the_o doubt_v about_o conformity_n shall_v have_v perfect_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o single_a doubt_n as_o it_o be_v put_v in_o the_o case_n i_o say_v now_o even_o upon_o this_o supposition_n it_o will_v bear_v a_o just_a dispute_n whether_o conformity_n or_o nonconformity_n be_v the_o more_o eligible_a side_n nay_o i_o say_v further_o that_o if_o the_o rule_n i_o lay_v down_o about_o a_o single_a doubt_n be_v true_a it_o will_v appear_v that_o as_o thing_n now_o stand_v it_o be_v more_o reasonable_a for_o a_o man_n to_o obey_v the_o law_n and_o communicate_v with_o the_o church_n so_o long_o as_o he_o have_v only_o a_o bare_a doubt_n about_o the_o lawfulness_n of_o these_o thing_n than_o to_o disobey_v and_o separate_a for_o thus_o i_o argue_v though_o in_o a_o single_a doubt_v the_o rule_n be_v that_o a_o man_n shall_v choose_v that_o side_n of_o a_o action_n concern_v which_o he_o have_v no_o doubt_n rather_o than_o that_o concern_v which_o he_o doubt_v yet_o as_o be_v say_v before_o that_o rule_n be_v always_o to_o be_v understand_v with_o this_o proviso_n that_o all_o other_o consideration_n in_o the_o case_n be_v equal_a if_o it_o shall_v happen_v that_o a_o very_a great_a good_a may_v be_v compass_v or_o a_o very_a great_a evil_n may_v be_v avoid_v by_o act_v on_o the_o doubtful_a side_n that_o very_a consideration_n
have_v weight_n enough_o with_o a_o wise_a man_n to_o turn_v the_o balance_n on_o that_o side_n and_o to_o make_v that_o which_o abstract_o consider_v be_v a_o doubtful_a case_n to_o be_v clear_a and_o plain_a when_o it_o come_v clothe_v with_o such_o circumstance_n as_o i_o give_v instance_n in_o the_o case_n of_o usury_n and_o law_n suit_v and_o twenty_o more_o may_v be_v add_v to_o they_o if_o it_o be_v to_o any_o purpose_n if_o this_o now_o be_v admit_v for_o truth_n we_o have_v a_o plain_a resolution_n of_o the_o case_n before_o we_o and_o that_o be_v this_o there_o be_v so_o many_o great_a advantage_n both_o to_o the_o kingdom_n and_o to_o a_o man_n self_n to_o be_v obtain_v by_o worship_v god_n in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o church_n and_o likewise_o so_o many_o both_o public_a and_o private_a mischief_n and_o inconvenience_n that_o be_v consequent_a upon_o separation_n that_o if_o in_o any_o case_n these_o consideration_n have_v weight_n enough_o to_o overbalance_n a_o simple_a doubt_n about_o the_o lawfulness_n of_o a_o action_n they_o will_v certain_o have_v sufficient_a weight_n in_o this_o case_n and_o that_o man_n who_o be_v not_o sway_v by_o they_o do_v not_o act_n so_o reasonable_o as_o he_o may_v do_v for_o my_o part_n i_o shall_v think_v it_o very_o foolish_o do_v of_o any_o man_n that_o so_o long_o as_o he_o be_v utter_o uncertain_a whether_o he_o be_v in_o the_o right_n or_o in_o the_o wrong_n as_o every_o one_o that_o doubt_v be_v shall_v be_v so_o confident_a of_o his_o point_n as_o to_o venture_v upon_o it_o no_o less_o a_o stake_n than_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o kingdom_n where_o he_o live_v and_o the_o security_n of_o the_o religion_n establish_v and_o withal_o his_o own_o ease_n and_o liberty_n and_o last_o the_o fortune_n also_o of_o his_o posterity_n and_o yet_o such_o a_o wise_a venture_n as_o this_o do_v every_o one_o among_o we_o make_v that_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o a_o bare_a doubt_n about_o the_o lawfuless_a of_o the_o thing_n enjoin_v in_o our_o communion_n do_v persist_v in_o disobedience_n to_o the_o government_n and_o separation_n from_o the_o church_n i_o wish_v this_o be_v well_o consider_v by_o our_o doubt_v dissenter_n they_o be_v wise_a enough_o as_o to_o the_o world_n in_o other_o matter_n it_o be_v to_o be_v desire_v that_o they_o will_v be_v as_o wise_a in_o this_o and_o if_o they_o be_v i_o dare_v say_v it_o will_v not_o at_o all_o prejudice_n their_o wisdom_n as_o to_o the_o other_o world_n it_o will_v be_v but_o little_a either_o to_o their_o comfort_n or_o their_o reputation_n at_o the_o long_o run_v to_o have_v it_o say_v of_o they_o that_o beside_o the_o disturbance_n they_o have_v all_o along_o occasion_v to_o the_o public_a peace_n and_o unity_n they_o have_v also_o bring_v their_o estate_n and_o family_n into_o danger_n of_o ruin_n by_o the_o just_a prosecution_n of_o law_n they_o have_v draw_v upon_o themselves_o and_o all_o this_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o a_o cause_n which_o they_o themselves_o must_v confess_v they_o be_v altogether_o uncertain_a and_o unresolved_a about_o but_o this_o will_v appear_v much_o clear_a when_o we_o have_v set_v the_o doubt_n about_o conformity_n upon_o the_o right_a foot_n viz._n considere_v it_o as_o a_o double_a doubt_n as_o indeed_o it_o be_v in_o its_o own_o nature_n which_o i_o come_v now_o to_o do_v in_o the_o second_o place_n there_o be_v other_o dissenter_n who_o as_o they_o have_v good_a reason_n do_v doubt_n on_o both_o side_n of_o this_o question_n as_o they_o doubt_v on_o one_o hand_n whether_o it_o be_v not_o a_o sin_n to_o conform_v to_o our_o worship_n because_o there_o be_v several_a thing_n in_o it_o which_o they_o suspect_v to_o be_v unlawful_a so_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n they_o doubt_v whether_o it_o be_v not_o their_o duty_n to_o conform_v to_o it_o because_o the_o law_n of_o the_o church_n and_o of_o the_o land_n do_v require_v they_o so_o to_o do_v and_o of_o these_o as_o i_o say_v there_o be_v likewise_o two_o sort_n some_o perhaps_o be_v equal_o doubtful_a whether_o the_o term_n of_o our_o communion_n be_v lawful_a or_o no_o and_o consequent_o must_v doubt_v equal_o whether_o they_o be_v bind_v to_o conform_v or_o no._n other_o doubt_v unequal_o that_o be_v to_o say_v of_o the_o two_o it_o appear_v more_o probable_a to_o they_o that_o our_o communion_n be_v sinful_a than_o that_o it_o be_v a_o duty_n now_o as_o to_o the_o first_o of_o these_o case_n the_o answer_n be_v very_o short_a and_o it_o be_v this_o we_o have_v before_o prove_v by_o many_o argument_n that_o in_o a_o case_n of_o a_o pure_a doubt_n about_o the_o lawfulness_n of_o a_o action_n where_o the_o probability_n on_o both_o side_n be_v pretty_a equal_a in_o that_o case_n the_o command_n of_o authority_n do_v always_o turn_v the_o balance_n on_o its_o own_o side_n so_o as_o that_o it_o be_v not_o only_o reasonable_a for_o the_o man_n to_o do_v that_o in_o obedience_n to_o authority_n of_o the_o lawfulness_n of_o which_o he_o doubt_v but_o it_o be_v his_o duty_n to_o do_v it_o he_o sin_n if_o he_o do_v not_o for_o this_o i_o refer_v my_o reader_n to_o the_o three_o general_n head_n of_o this_o discourse_n the_o only_a difficulty_n therefore_o be_v in_o the_o other_o case_n where_o the_o doubt_n be_v unequal_a and_o here_o the_o case_n be_v this_o as_o the_o man_n apprehend_v himself_o in_o danger_n of_o sin_v if_o he_o do_v not_o come_v to_o church_n and_o obey_v the_o law_n so_o he_o apprehend_v himself_o in_o a_o great_a danger_n of_o sin_v if_o he_o do_v because_o it_o do_v appear_v more_o probable_a to_o he_o that_o our_o communion_n be_v sinful_a than_o that_o it_o be_v a_o duty_n and_o a_o great_a probobility_n caeteris_fw-la paribus_fw-la be_v always_o to_o be_v choose_v before_o a_o less_o but_o to_o this_o likewise_o we_o be_v ready_o provide_v of_o a_o answer_n from_o the_o forego_n discourse_n viz._n that_o though_o it_o shall_v be_v suppose_v that_o in_o such_o a_o case_n as_o this_o where_o the_o balance_n be_v so_o far_o incline_v one_o way_n the_o authority_n of_o our_o superior_n alone_o will_v not_o have_v weight_n enough_o to_o cast_v it_o on_o its_o own_o side_n yet_o in_o this_o particular_a case_n of_o church_n communion_n there_o be_v so_o many_o other_o argument_n to_o be_v draw_v from_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o great_a sin_n and_o the_o more_o dreadful_a consequence_n of_o disobey_v the_o law_n than_o of_o obey_v they_o as_o will_n with_o any_o impartial_a conscientious_a man_n outweigh_v all_o the_o probability_n on_o the_o other_o side_n so_o long_o as_o they_o be_v not_o so_o great_a as_o to_o create_v a_o persuasion_n and_o make_v it_o reasonable_a for_o he_o rather_o to_o conform_v how_o strong_a soever_o his_o doubt_n be_v about_o the_o lawfulness_n of_o conformity_n so_o long_o as_o it_o be_v but_o a_o doubt_n then_o to_o continue_v in_o separation_n vide_fw-la three_o proposition_n about_o a_o double_a doubt_n pag._n 27._o this_o be_v the_o issue_n upon_o which_o we_o will_v try_v the_o point_n before_o we_o and_o i_o refuse_v no_o indifferent_a man_n that_o will_v but_o have_v the_o patience_n to_o hear_v what_o we_o have_v to_o say_v to_o be_v umpire_n between_o we_o and_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n as_o to_o this_o controversy_n in_o the_o first_o place_n let_v we_o suppose_v and_o admit_v that_o the_o man_n who_o have_v these_o doubt_n and_o suspicion_n about_o the_o lawfulness_n of_o our_o establish_v worship_n do_v real_o doubt_v on_o the_o true_a side_n and_o that_o he_o will_v indeed_o be_v a_o transgressor_n of_o the_o law_n of_o god_n if_o he_o shall_v conform_v to_o it_o but_o than_o it_o must_v be_v admit_v likewise_o that_o that_o law_n of_o god_n which_o forbid_v these_o thing_n in_o dispute_n be_v wonderful_o obscure_o declare_v there_o be_v no_o direct_a prohibition_n either_o in_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n or_o the_o book_n of_o god_n about_o those_o thing_n that_o be_v now_o contest_v so_o that_o the_o unlawfulness_n of_o they_o be_v only_o to_o be_v conclude_v from_o consequence_n and_o those_o consequence_n likewise_o be_v so_o obscure_a that_o the_o catholic_n church_n from_o christ_n time_n till_o our_o reformation_n be_v whole_o ignorant_a of_o they_o for_o though_o it_o do_v appear_v that_o either_o these_o or_o the_o like_a usage_n have_v always_o be_v in_o the_o church_n yet_o it_o do_v not_o appear_v in_o all_o that_o compass_n of_o time_n either_o that_o any_o particular_a church_n ever_o condemn_v they_o as_o sinful_a or_o indeed_o that_o any_o particular_a christian_a do_v ever_o separate_a from_o the_o church_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o they_o and_o even_o at_o this_o day_n these_o consequence_n by_o which_o they_o be_v prove_v unlawful_a
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
favourable_a interpretation_n upon_o thing_n to_o take_v they_o by_o the_o best_a handle_n and_o not_o strain_v thing_n on_o purpose_n that_o they_o may_v cavil_v the_o more_o plausible_o and_o raise_v more_o considerable_a objection_n against_o they_o we_o must_v not_o make_v personal_a accidental_a fault_n nor_o any_o thing_n a_o pretence_n for_o our_o leave_v the_o communion_n of_o our_o church_n which_o arise_v only_o from_o the_o necessary_a condition_n and_o temper_n of_o all_o humane_a affair_n that_o nothing_o here_o be_v absolute_o perfect_a 6._o and_o last_o if_o you_o can_v by_o these_o and_o other_o the_o like_a consideration_n not_o now_o to_o be_v mention_v get_v rid_v of_o and_o conquer_v your_o scruple_n then_o be_v advise_v to_o lay_v they_o aside_o to_o throw_v they_o out_o of_o your_o mind_n as_o dangerous_a temptation_n and_o act_v positive_o against_o they_o but_o here_o i_o easy_o imagine_v some_o ready_a present_o to_o ask_v i_o do_v you_o persuade_v we_o to_o conform_v to_o the_o order_n of_o the_o church_n though_o we_o be_v not_o satisfy_v in_o our_o mind_n concern_v they_o i_o answer_v that_o i_o think_v this_o the_o best_a advice_n that_o can_v be_v give_v to_o such_o scrupulous_a person_n it_o will_v be_v a_o endless_a infinite_a thing_n and_o communion_n with_o any_o church_n will_v be_v altogether_o unpracticable_a if_o every_o private_a christian_a be_v oblige_v to_o suspend_v join_v himself_o to_o it_o till_o he_o be_v perfect_o satisfy_v about_o the_o reasonableness_n and_o expediency_n of_o all_o that_o be_v require_v or_o be_v in_o use_n in_o that_o church_n for_o indeed_o private_a person_n be_v by_o no_o mean_n proper_a judge_n of_o what_o be_v fit_a and_o convenient_a in_o the_o administration_n of_o church-government_n discipline_n or_o public_a worship_n no_o more_o than_o they_o be_v of_o matter_n of_o state_n or_o the_o reasonableness_n of_o all_o civil_a law_n common_a people_n general_o have_v neither_o patience_n to_o consider_v nor_o judgement_n to_o weigh_v all_o circumstance_n nor_o wisdom_n to_o choose_v that_o which_o be_v best_a these_o thing_n of_o a_o public_a nature_n belong_v only_o to_o our_o superior_n and_o governor_n and_o if_o they_o appoint_v what_o be_v unfit_a indecent_a or_o inconvenient_a they_o only_o be_v accountable_a for_o it_o it_o be_v not_o the_o fault_n of_o those_o that_o join_v with_o such_o worship_n or_o yield_v to_o such_o injunction_n not_o plain_o sinful_a for_o the_o sake_n of_o peace_n and_o order_n i_o know_v therefore_o no_o better_o rule_n for_o the_o direct_n and_o quiet_v man_n conscience_n than_o this_o that_o as_o to_o all_o such_o matter_n as_o relate_v to_o public_a order_n and_o decent_a administration_n of_o god_n worship_n they_o shall_v without_o any_o superstitious_a fearfulness_n comply_v with_o the_o custom_n of_o the_o church_n they_o live_v in_o never_o trouble_v themselves_o nor_o curious_o examine_v what_o be_v best_a and_o fit_a as_o long_o as_o there_o be_v nothing_o enjoin_v or_o do_v which_o after_o due_a enquiry_n appear_v to_o we_o contrary_a to_o any_o law_n of_o god_n thus_o st._n augustin_n direct_v we_o in_o that_o often_o quote_v place_n where_o he_o tell_v we_o he_o know_v no_o better_a course_n for_o a_o serious_a prudent_a christian_n to_o take_v in_o matter_n of_o rite_n and_o custom_n than_o to_o follow_v the_o church_n example_n where_o he_o be_v for_o whatsoever_o be_v prescribe_v neither_o against_o faith_n or_o manner_n be_v a_o matter_n in_o its_o self_n indifferent_a and_o to_o be_v observe_v according_a to_o the_o custom_n of_o those_o he_o live_v among_o this_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o counsel_n st._n ambrose_n bishop_n of_o milan_n give_v he_o when_o he_o be_v send_v by_o his_o mother_n to_o inquire_v his_o judgement_n about_o the_o saturday_n fast_o when_o i_o be_o at_o rome_n say_v the_o bishop_n i_o fast_o on_o the_o sabbath_n but_o at_o milan_n i_o do_v not_o so_o thou_o likewise_o when_o thou_o come_v to_o any_o church_n observe_v its_o custom_n if_o thou_o will_v neither_o be_v a_o offence_n to_o they_o nor_o have_v they_o be_v so_o to_o thou_o which_o st._n augustin_n ever_o after_o look_v upon_o as_o a_o oracle_n from_o heaven_n i_o do_v not_o by_o this_o encourage_v man_n to_o venture_v blindfold_a on_o sin_n or_o to_o neglect_v any_o reasonable_a care_n of_o their_o action_n but_o if_o people_n raise_v all_o the_o difficulty_n and_o objection_n they_o can_v start_v before_o they_o proceed_v to_o a_o resolution_n about_o thing_n that_o have_v no_o manifest_a impiety_n in_o they_o nor_o be_v plain_o nor_o by_o any_o easy_a consequence_n contrary_a to_o the_o reveal_v will_n of_o god_n this_o can_v but_o occasion_v infinite_a perplexity_n and_o trouble_v to_o man_n mind_n and_o there_o be_v but_o few_o thing_n they_o shall_v be_v able_a to_o do_v with_o a_o safe_a and_o quiet_a conscience_n shall_v all_o those_o that_o have_v some_o little_a argument_n against_o the_o sign_n of_o the_o cross_n puzzle_v themselves_o with_o the_o objection_n usual_o urge_v against_o infant_n baptism_n and_o defer_v baptise_v their_o child_n till_o they_o be_v full_o satisfy_v about_o it_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o the_o baptise_v of_o infant_n will_v soon_o be_v as_o much_o scruple_v at_o as_o the_o cross_v they_o now_o be_v but_o there_o be_v no_o apparent_a evil_n in_o it_o it_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o the_o church_n we_o live_v in_o it_o be_v no_o where_n forbid_v in_o scripture_n this_o ordinary_o be_v sufficient_a warrant_n for_o what_o we_o do_v before_o we_o separate_v from_o a_o church_n or_o refuse_v to_o comply_v with_o its_o order_n we_o ought_v to_o be_v full_o satisfy_v and_o persuade_v of_o the_o unlawfulness_n of_o what_o be_v require_v that_o it_o be_v forbid_v by_o god_n because_o by_o leave_v the_o communion_n of_o any_o church_n we_o pass_v sentence_n upon_o and_o condemn_v it_o which_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v do_v upon_o light_n and_o doubtful_a cause_n but_o there_o be_v not_o the_o same_o necessity_n that_o we_o shall_v be_v thus_o full_o satisfy_v about_o our_o conformity_n to_o all_o thing_n prescribe_v by_o the_o church_n we_o may_v presume_v they_o to_o be_v innocent_a unless_o they_o plain_o appear_v to_o we_o otherwise_o the_o judicious_a and_o learned_a bishop_n sanderson_n thus_o express_v it_o in_o his_o four_o sermon_n ad_fw-la clerum_fw-la the_o law_n take_v every_o man_n for_o a_o good_a man_n and_o true_a till_o his_o truth_n and_o honesty_n be_v legal_o disprove_v and_o as_o our_o saviour_n sometime_o say_v he_o that_o be_v not_o against_o we_o be_v for_o we_o so_o in_o these_o matter_n he_o speak_v of_o those_o ceremony_n that_o for_o order_n sake_n and_o to_o add_v the_o great_a solemnity_n to_o sacred_a action_n be_v appoint_v in_o the_o church_n we_o be_v to_o believe_v all_o thing_n to_o be_v lawful_a for_o we_o to_o do_v which_o can_v be_v show_v by_o good_a evidence_n either_o of_o scripture_n or_o reason_n to_o be_v unlawful_a if_o any_o one_o be_v afraid_a that_o this_o principle_n once_o imbibe_v will_v introduce_v popery_n make_v people_n greedy_o swallow_v and_o without_o any_o examination_n submit_v to_o every_o thing_n their_o superior_n please_v to_o impose_v upon_o they_o let_v he_o only_o consider_v which_o we_o all_o agree_v in_o that_o there_o be_v many_o thing_n in_o the_o popish_a worship_n and_o religion_n manifest_o evil_a and_o forbid_v by_o the_o reveal_v will_n of_o god_n which_o render_v our_o separation_n from_o they_o necessary_a and_o so_o consequent_o justifiable_a whereas_o the_o thing_n object_v against_o in_o our_o church_n be_v at_o worst_a only_a doubtful_a and_o suspicious_a or_o rather_o not_o so_o good_a and_o expedient_a as_o may_v be_v devise_v and_o this_o sure_o make_v a_o wide_a difference_n in_o the_o case_n but_o do_v not_o st._n paul_n say_v rom._n 14._o 19_o i_o know_v and_o be_o persuade_v by_o the_o lord_n jesus_n that_o there_o be_v nothing_o unclean_a of_o itself_o but_o to_o he_o that_o esteem_v any_o thing_n unclean_a it_o be_v unclean_a do_v not_o he_o express_o tell_v we_o that_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n that_o be_v whatever_o we_o do_v without_o a_o full_a persuasion_n of_o the_o lawfulness_n of_o it_o though_o it_o be_v not_o so_o in_o itself_o yet_o be_v a_o sin_n in_o he_o that_o do_v it_o against_o his_o conscience_n and_o do_v not_o the_o apostle_n say_v he_o that_o doubt_v be_v damn_v if_o he_o eat_v before_o he_o be_v convince_v that_o it_o may_v be_v do_v i_o desire_v here_o therefore_o only_o to_o be_v right_o understand_v and_o then_o these_o thing_n be_v soon_o reconcile_v 1._o when_o i_o speak_v of_o a_o scrupulous_a conscience_n i_o suppose_v the_o person_n tolerable_o well_o persuade_v of_o the_o lawfulness_n of_o what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v but_o yet_o he_o
for_o fear_n of_o offence_n and_o again_o in_o the_o same_o place_n hic_fw-la charitatis_fw-la rationem_fw-la haberi_fw-la decet_fw-la sed_fw-la usque_fw-la ad_fw-la arras_n our_o charity_n to_o our_o brother_n ought_v to_o be_v limit_v by_o this_o that_o we_o do_v not_o for_o his_o sake_n displease_v god_n the_o very_o best_a thing_n and_o action_n may_v be_v pervert_v by_o man_n of_o ill-disposed_a or_o weak_a mind_n false_a consequence_n and_o unjust_a inference_n may_v be_v strain_v from_o they_o as_o we_o know_v the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o the_o gospel_n be_v abuse_v into_o a_o argument_n for_o licentiousness_n and_o christ_n himself_o be_v say_v to_o be_v set_v for_o the_o fall_n of_o many_o st._n luke_n 2._o 24._o but_o still_o this_o do_v not_o cancel_v our_o obligation_n to_o universal_a obedience_n to_o god_n law_n nor_o can_v it_o alter_v the_o nature_n of_o good_a and_o evil_n duty_n and_o sin_n which_o be_v no_o such_o uncertain_a contingent_a thing_n as_o to_o depend_v upon_o the_o construction_n other_o shall_v make_v of_o our_o action_n or_o the_o conclusion_n they_o shall_v draw_v from_o they_o god_n almighty_a in_o the_o make_n of_o his_o law_n have_v a_o perfect_a comprehension_n of_o all_o the_o accidental_a event_n that_o may_v happen_v either_o through_o the_o weakness_n or_o wickedness_n of_o man_n and_o we_o must_v not_o think_v ourselves_o to_o be_v wise_a than_o god_n take_v upon_o ourselves_o to_o dispense_v with_o his_o command_n without_o any_o allowance_n from_o he_o as_o if_o himself_o have_v not_o foresee_v those_o inconvenience_n which_o may_v arise_v from_o our_o do_v our_o duty_n it_o can_v therefore_o never_o be_v that_o obedience_n to_o god_n shall_v give_v any_o real_a scandal_n and_o whatever_o offence_n may_v be_v take_v at_o my_o do_v of_o my_o duty_n it_o be_v a_o contradiction_n to_o imagine_v it_o imputable_a to_o i_o as_o a_o sin_n or_o fault_n for_o it_o be_v to_o suppose_v one_o to_o disobey_v god_n in_o obey_v he_o but_o they_o alone_o be_v chargeable_a who_o be_v offend_v by_o it_o now_o by_o the_o express_a command_n of_o god_n we_o be_v oblige_v to_o obey_v the_o lawful_a injunction_n of_o our_o superior_n whether_o civil_a or_o ecclesiastical_a and_o if_o any_o be_v so_o hardy_a as_o to_o deny_v this_o they_o must_v seek_v for_o another_o bible_n out_o of_o which_o to_o judge_v of_o god_n will_n for_o there_o be_v hardly_o any_o one_o duty_n of_o religion_n more_o plain_o command_v more_o frequent_o and_o earnest_o press_v in_o the_o new_a testament_n than_o quiet_a and_o peaceable_a subjection_n to_o authority_n both_o in_o church_n and_o state_n in_o all_o thing_n lawful_a and_o that_o not_o only_o to_o avoid_v punishment_n but_o for_o conscience_n sake_n and_o to_o refuse_v obedience_n in_o such_o thing_n be_v a_o sin_n against_o the_o five_o commandment_n that_o the_o conformity_n require_v by_o our_o church_n contain_v not_o any_o thing_n in_o it_o unlawful_a must_v be_v grant_v as_o i_o have_v already_o observe_v by_o all_o those_o who_o make_v use_v of_o this_o plea_n of_o scandal_n from_o all_o which_o the_o necessary_a conclusion_n be_v since_o we_o may_v not_o redeem_v a_o scandal_n by_o disobedience_n to_o god_n since_o god_n have_v plain_o require_v our_o submission_n to_o those_o who_o he_o have_v set_v over_o we_o in_o all_o thing_n lawful_a since_o it_o be_v acknowledge_v by_o those_o i_o now_o discourse_v with_o that_o conformity_n to_o the_o church_n be_v enjoin_v by_o a_o competent_a authority_n and_o be_v lawful_a i_o say_v the_o necessary_a conclusion_n be_v that_o no_o man_n can_v with_o a_o good_a conscience_n refuse_v to_o conform_v only_o for_o fear_n of_o scandal_n our_o dissent_v brethren_n when_o they_o be_v urge_v with_o this_o argument_n neither_o do_v nor_o can_v deny_v any_o of_o the_o premise_n they_o must_v confess_v that_o no_o sin_n may_v be_v commit_v upon_o any_o account_n whatsoever_o and_o that_o a_o man_n be_v not_o bind_v to_o provide_v for_o his_o brother_n safety_n by_o wound_v his_o own_o soul_n they_o can_v deny_v but_o that_o god_n have_v command_v we_o to_o be_v subject_a to_o lawful_a authority_n in_o all_o thing_n lawful_a but_o then_o to_o evade_v the_o force_n of_o this_o reason_n they_o have_v endeavour_v to_o load_v the_o conclusion_n with_o some_o seem_a difficulty_n and_o absurdity_n which_o they_o pretend_v follow_v from_o this_o principle_n that_o we_o be_v bind_v to_o obey_v notwithstanding_o the_o scandal_n that_o may_v ensue_v upon_o it_o the_o chief_a of_o these_o i_o shall_v mention_v and_o brief_o return_v a_o answer_n to_o they_o 1._o it_o be_v plead_v that_o those_o precept_n which_o contain_v only_a ritual_n be_v to_o give_v place_n to_o those_o which_o do_v concern_v the_o welfare_n of_o man_n body_n and_o much_o more_o to_o those_o which_o do_v respect_v the_o welfare_n of_o our_o brother_n soul_n so_o that_o when_o both_o together_o can_v be_v observe_v we_o must_v neglect_v or_o violate_v the_o former_a to_o observe_v the_o latter_a that_o this_o be_v true_a even_o of_o some_o command_v give_v by_o god_n himself_o to_o which_o purpose_n our_o saviour_n do_v produce_v that_o say_n of_o the_o prophet_n hosea_n i_o will_v have_v mercy_n and_o not_o sacrifice_n now_o if_o sacrifice_n prescribe_v by_o god_n himself_o which_o be_v so_o considerable_a a_o part_n of_o the_o divine_a worship_n under_o moses_n law_n yet_o be_v to_o give_v place_n to_o act_n of_o mercy_n how_o much_o more_o be_v the_o positive_a injunction_n of_o man_n that_o concern_v only_o the_o external_o and_o circumstantial_o of_o religion_n to_o yield_v to_o the_o royal_a and_o indispensable_a law_n of_o charity_n of_o which_o this_o duty_n of_o not_o give_v offence_n to_o other_o be_v such_o a_o eminent_a part_n thus_o say_v mr._n jean_n in_o his_o second_o part_n of_o scholastical_a divinity_n what_o law_n of_o any_o earthly_a wight_n whatsoever_o concern_v ceremony_n can_v be_v more_o obligatory_a than_o the_o command_v of_o god_n touch_v the_o external_o of_o his_o worship_n and_o service_n and_o yet_o it_o be_v his_o will_n and_o pleasure_n that_o these_o external_o of_o his_o worship_n shall_v be_v lay_v aside_o for_o the_o performance_n of_o outward_a work_n of_o mercy_n if_o therefore_o the_o sacred_a ordinance_n of_o god_n be_v to_o give_v way_n unto_o work_n of_o mercy_n unto_o the_o body_n of_o man_n sure_o then_o much_o more_o be_v the_o trash_n of_o human_a invention_n to_o yield_v unto_o a_o work_n of_o mercy_n to_o the_o soul_n of_o men._n in_o answer_n to_o this_o it_o be_v ready_o acknowledge_v that_o when_o there_o do_v happen_v any_o such_o interfering_n between_o two_o command_n of_o god_n the_o one_o positive_a the_o other_o moral_a the_o positive_a aught_o always_o to_o give_v place_n to_o the_o moral_a and_o by_o the_o same_o reason_n the_o positive_a command_n of_o our_o superior_n ought_v certain_o to_o give_v way_n to_o the_o moral_a command_n of_o god_n which_o be_v of_o eternal_a and_o immutable_a obligation_n they_o cease_v to_o bind_v we_o either_o in_o case_n of_o absolute_a necessity_n or_o when_o they_o plain_o hinder_v our_o performance_n of_o any_o moral_a duty_n to_o god_n or_o our_o neighbour_n and_o the_o church_n be_v presume_v to_o dispense_v with_o its_o order_n as_o god_n almighty_n do_v allow_v the_o neglect_n of_o his_o own_o positive_a institution_n in_o such_o circumstance_n but_o then_o this_o be_v only_o where_o the_o necessity_n be_v urgent_a and_o extreme_a the_o sin_n we_o must_v otherwise_o commit_v evident_a and_o certain_a and_o at_o last_o our_o obedience_n be_v dispense_v withal_o only_o for_o that_o one_o time_n thus_o in_o a_o case_n of_o necessity_n our_o saviour_n st._n matth._n 12._o 5._o acquit_v david_n and_o his_o follower_n of_o all_o blame_n who_o be_v ready_a to_o perish_v for_o hunger_n do_v eat_v of_o the_o shewbread_n which_o otherwise_o be_v not_o lawful_a for_o they_o to_o eat_v but_o have_v they_o take_v a_o particular_a fancy_n to_o that_o bread_n and_o refuse_v to_o have_v eat_v of_o any_o other_o because_o that_o best_a agree_v with_o their_o stomach_n and_o be_v most_o please_a to_o their_o palate_n can_v we_o think_v our_o saviour_n will_v have_v so_o easy_o excuse_v they_o or_o which_o be_v near_o to_o our_o case_n because_o god_n do_v prefer_v act_n of_o mercy_n before_o sacrifice_n where_o both_o can_v not_o be_v do_v yet_o this_o will_v not_o have_v justify_v any_o man_n whole_o leave_v off_o sacrifice_v or_o refuse_v to_o do_v it_o at_o jerusalem_n invent_v another_o way_n of_o worship_n as_o more_o expedient_a than_o sacrifice_a or_o choose_v another_o place_n to_o sacrifice_n in_o which_o may_v be_v more_o convenient_a for_o all_o the_o jew_n than_o that_o city_n be_v we_o may_v leave_v our_o prayer_n forsake_v the_o church_n to_o save_v
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 scandalâ—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
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 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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
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
from_o thence_o on_o supposition_n you_o can_v make_v good_a proof_n of_o it_o it_o be_v plain_a your_o design_n in_o all_o this_o talk_n be_v to_o justify_v if_o not_o a_o total_a yet_o a_o partial_a separation_n you_o do_v indeed_o to_o conceal_v nothing_o of_o your_o candour_n after_o all_o acknowledge_v 7._o acknowledge_v acknowledge_v acknowledge_v p._n 7._o that_o you_o be_v very_o far_o from_o think_v that_o there_o be_v not_o multitude_n of_o holy_a and_o learned_a man_n in_o our_o ecclesia_fw-la loquens_fw-la that_o in_o these_o thing_n be_v of_o another_o mind_n and_o therefore_o i_o hope_v you_o will_v not_o excuse_v separation_n from_o their_o church_n nay_o you_o say_v 9_o say_v say_v say_v p._n 9_o that_o hundred_o of_o the_o speak_a church_n be_v as_o we_o believe_v as_o far_o from_o symbolise_v with_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n you_o mean_v in_o doctrine_n as_o the_o article_n and_o that_o in_o this_o thing_n a_o separation_n from_o the_o silent_a as_o well_o as_o this_o part_n of_o the_o speak_a church_n must_v needs_o be_v high_o sinful_a and_o in_o thus_o declare_v you_o condemn_v the_o generality_n of_o those_o that_o separate_a it_o be_v well_o know_v that_o communion_n with_o those_o who_o you_o will_v acknowledge_v to_o be_v orthodox_n divine_n and_o those_o which_o you_o account_v heterodox_n be_v much_o alike_o boggle_v at_o but_o i_o fear_v when_o all_o be_v do_v you_o condemn_v only_a separation_n in_o heart_n from_o these_o orthodox_n man_n your_o undertake_n in_o your_o 8_o page_n make_v i_o fear_v this_o viz._n that_o all_o the_o valuable_a person_n in_o presbyterian_a and_o independent_a congregation_n shall_v give_v any_o reasonable_a assurance_n that_o they_o be_v not_o in_o heart_n divide_v from_o a_o single_a person_n in_o the_o church_n of_o england_n that_o speak_v in_o matter_n concern_v doctrine_n as_o our_o church_n do_v in_o her_o article_n but_o if_o you_o think_v that_o all_o the_o communion_n you_o be_v oblige_v to_o hold_v with_o these_o divines_n be_v only_o that_o of_o the_o heart_n that_o be_v think_v they_o orthodox_n and_o love_v they_o as_o such_o but_o allow_v it_o to_o be_v lawful_a to_o refuse_v to_o worship_n god_n with_o they_o nay_o and_o not_o so_o much_o as_o to_o hear_v they_o we_o thank_v you_o for_o nothing_o this_o be_v such_o church_n communion_n as_o will_v well_o consist_v with_o rend_v and_o tear_v the_o church_n in_o piece_n but_o i_o pray_v do_v not_o think_v that_o all_o this_o while_n i_o take_v it_o for_o grant_v that_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o separate_v from_o the_o congregation_n of_o those_o divine_n who_o we_o take_v to_o be_v in_o some_o point_v heterodox_n nay_o upon_o supposition_n that_o your_o ecclesia_fw-la loquens_fw-la do_v as_o general_o depart_v from_o the_o doctrine_n of_o our_o church_n as_o the_o pharisee_n in_o our_o saviour_n time_n do_v from_o the_o law_n of_o moses_n i_o shall_v be_v far_o from_o grant_v that_o separation_n from_o their_o congregation_n be_v lawful_a except_o there_o be_v a_o constraint_n lay_v upon_o we_o to_o subscribe_v to_o their_o heterodox_n opinion_n till_o you_o can_v prove_v that_o our_o saviour_n allow_v of_o the_o jew_n separation_n from_o the_o pharisee_n which_o you_o never_o can_v but_o the_o contrary_n who_o can_v show_v he_o bid_v his_o disciple_n indeed_o to_o beware_v of_o the_o leaven_n of_o the_o pharisee_n and_o so_o be_v we_o to_o beware_v of_o the_o leaven_n of_o such_o heterodox_n teacher_n but_o not_o so_o to_o beware_v of_o it_o as_o not_o to_o come_v within_o their_o church_n for_o that_o that_o caution_n of_o our_o saviour_n be_v not_o to_o be_v so_o interpret_v appear_v not_o only_o from_o his_o own_o practice_n who_o be_v far_o from_o be_v a_o separatist_n from_o the_o jewish_a temple_n or_o synagogue_n and_o by_o what_o he_o say_v mat._n 23._o 2_o 3._o in_o the_o last_o paragraph_n of_o your_o 9th_o page_n you_o return_v to_o speak_v more_o direct_o to_o our_o author_n and_o first_o you_o reflect_v upon_o these_o word_n in_o his_o book_n p._n 24._o but_o i_o be_o so_o far_o from_o take_v it_o for_o grant_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 there_o be_v no_o transgression_n etc._n etc._n to_o this_o you_o say_v that_o it_o be_v a_o obvious_a beg_v the_o question_n and_o it_o may_v be_v so_o if_o our_o author_n stop_v here_o but_o he_o thus_o proceed_v 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 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of_o the_o thing_n 2._o because_o this_o distinction_n be_v make_v by_o the_o apostle_n who_o be_v of_o the_o seed_n of_o abraham_n a_o hebrew_n of_o the_o hebrew_n and_o by_o consequence_n very_o well_o qualify_v to_o understand_v the_o difference_n betwixt_o the_o jewish_a oeconomy_n as_o a_o church_n and_o as_o a_o commonwealth_n first_o i_o say_v there_o be_v a_o ground_n for_o such_o a_o distinction_n in_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n as_o be_v evident_a to_o any_o man_n who_o be_v capable_a of_o consider_v the_o difference_n betwixt_o the_o church-christian_a before_o and_o after_o its_o union_n with_o the_o empire_n before_o its_o union_n with_o the_o empire_n it_o subsist_v by_o itself_o pure_o as_o a_o church_n above_o three_o hundred_o year_n in_o a_o state_n of_o persecution_n from_o christ_n unto_o constantine_n the_o great_a and_o just_o so_o the_o jewish_a church_n for_o above_o four_o hundred_o year_n subsist_v by_o itself_o in_o a_o state_n of_o peregrination_n and_o captivity_n from_o abraham_n unto_o moses_n who_o bring_v they_o out_o of_o egypt_n and_o give_v they_o the_o law_n but_o second_o as_o there_o be_v ground_n for_o this_o distinction_n in_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n so_o be_v it_o in_o effect_n make_v by_o the_o apostle_n gal._n 3._o 17._o this_o i_o say_v that_o the_o covenant_n that_o be_v before_o confirm_v of_o god_n with_o abraham_n in_o christ_n the_o law_n which_o be_v four_o hundred_o and_o thirty_o year_n after_o can_v disannul_v that_o it_o shall_v make_v the_o promise_n to_o abraham_n of_o none_o effect_v here_o be_v a_o plain_a difference_n make_v between_o the_o covenant_n or_o promise_v which_o god_n make_v with_o abraham_n and_o his_o seed_n when_o he_o separate_v he_o from_o the_o world_n unto_o himself_o and_o that_o political_a one_o which_o he_o afterward_o make_v with_o the_o jew_n when_o he_o give_v they_o the_o law_n and_o this_o difference_n be_v also_o observe_v rom._n 4._o 13._o the_o promise_n that_o he_o shall_v be_v the_o heir_n of_o the_o world_n be_v not_o give_v to_o abraham_n or_o to_o his_o seed_n through_o the_o law_n but_o through_o the_o righteousness_n of_o faith_n for_o if_o they_o which_o be_v of_o the_o law_n be_v heir_n faith_n be_v make_v void_a and_o the_o promise_n be_v of_o no_o effect_n from_o these_o word_n which_o distinguish_v so_o plain_o between_o the_o covenant_n which_o god_n make_v with_o abraham_n or_o the_o promise_n which_o he_o make_v unto_o he_o and_o the_o law_n it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o jewish_a church_n pure_o consider_v as_o a_o church_n be_v to_o be_v date_v from_o the_o covenant_n which_o god_n make_v with_o abraham_n and_o therefore_o in_o the_o second_o place_n the_o way_n to_o find_v out_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o abrahamical_a or_o pure_a jewish_a church_n be_v to_o consider_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o covenant_n or_o promise_v upon_o which_o it_o be_v found_v and_o if_o we_o examine_v the_o scripture_n we_o shall_v find_v that_o it_o be_v a_o evangelical_n covenant_n for_o substance_n the_o same_o with_o that_o which_o be_v since_o make_v betwixt_o god_n and_o we_o through_o christ_n this_o will_v appear_v upon_o a_o review_n of_o those_o scripture_n which_o teach_v we_o that_o faith_n be_v the_o condition_n of_o this_o abrahamical_a covenant_n that_o it_o be_v make_v with_o 3._o with_o with_o with_o fide_fw-la autem_fw-la stare_v justitiam_fw-la &_o illic_fw-la esse_fw-la vitam_fw-la praedictam_fw-la est_fw-la apud_fw-la habbaccuc_fw-la justus_n autem_fw-la ex_fw-la fide_fw-la vivet_fw-la ind_n abraham_n pater_fw-la gentium_fw-la credidit_fw-la in_o genes_n credidit_fw-la abraham_n deo_fw-la &_o deputatum_fw-la est_fw-la ei_fw-la ad_fw-la justitiam_fw-la item_n paulus_n ad_fw-la galatas_fw-la abraham_n credidit_fw-la deo_fw-la &_o deputatum_fw-la est_fw-la ei_fw-la ad_fw-la justitiam_fw-la cognoscitis_fw-la ergo_fw-la qui_fw-la ex_fw-la fide_fw-la sunt_fw-la hi_o sunt_fw-la silij_fw-la abrahae_fw-la providens_fw-la autem_fw-la scriptura_fw-la quia_fw-la ex_fw-la fide_fw-la etc._n etc._n cyprian_n advers._fw-la judaeos_fw-la judaeos_fw-la à _fw-la deo_fw-la recessisse_fw-la successisse_fw-la vero_fw-la in_o eorum_fw-la locum_fw-la christianos_n fide_fw-la dominum_fw-la promerentes_fw-la &_o de_fw-fr omnibus_fw-la gentibus_fw-la ac_fw-la toto_fw-la orbe_fw-la venientes_fw-la cyprian_a ad_fw-la quirin_n testim_fw-la l._n 3._o abraham_n as_o the_o father_n of_o the_o faithful_a and_o in_o he_o with_o all_o believer_n with_o his_o spiritual_a as_o well_o as_o carnal_a seed_n proceed_v from_o he_o by_o spiritual_a as_o well_o as_o natural_a generation_n and_o that_o the_o blessing_n or_o promise_n of_o this_o covenant_n belong_v unto_o they_o upon_o the_o same_o account_n of_o their_o faith_n to_o this_o purpose_n speak_v the_o apostle_n in_o the_o four_o chapter_n of_o his_o epistle_n to_o the_o roman_n from_o the_o 9th_o to_o the_o 15_o verse_n come_v then_o this_o blessedness_n of_o justification_n by_o faith_n upon_o the_o circumcision_n only_o or_o upon_o the_o uncircumcision_n also_o for_o we_o say_v that_o faith_n be_v reckon_v to_o abraham_n for_o righteousness_n how_o be_v it_o then_o reckon_v when_o he_o be_v in_o circumcision_n or_o in_o uncircumcision_n not_o in_o circumcision_n but_o in_o uncircumcision_n and_o he_o receive_v the_o sign_n of_o circumcision_n a_o seal_n of_o the_o promise_v make_v to_o the_o righteousness_n of_o faith_n which_o he_o have_v be_v yet_o uncircumcised_a that_o so_o believe_v before_o circumcision_n he_o may_v be_v the_o father_n both_o of_o all_o they_o that_o believe_v though_o they_o be_v not_o circumcise_v that_o righteousness_n may_v be_v impute_v unto_o they_o also_o as_o his_o child_n and_o the_o father_n of_o circumcision_n to_o they_o who_o be_v not_o of_o the_o circumcision_n only_o but_o who_o also_o walk_v in_o the_o step_v of_o that_o faith_n of_o our_o father_n abraham_n which_o he_o have_v be_v yet_o uncircumcised_a for_o the_o promise_n that_o he_o shall_v be_v the_o heir_n of_o the_o world_n in_o his_o posterity_n be_v not_o to_o abraham_n or_o his_o seed_n through_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o law_n but_o through_o the_o righteousness_n which_o come_v of_o faith_n for_o if_o they_o only_a which_o be_v of_o the_o law_n be_v heir_n his_o faith_n so_o much_o celebrate_a be_v make_v void_a and_o the_o promise_v make_v to_o it_o of_o no_o effect_n so_o gal._n 3._o from_o the_o 5_o to_o the_o 10_o verse_n he_o therefore_o that_o minister_v unto_o you_o the_o extraordinary_a gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o work_v miracle_n among_o you_o do_v he_o it_o by_o the_o work_n of_o the_o law_n or_o by_o the_o faith_n which_o you_o have_v hear_v preach_v even_o as_o it_o be_v write_v of_o 38._o of_o of_o of_o quoniam_fw-la autem_fw-la &_o in_o abraham_n praefigurabatur_fw-la fides_fw-la nostra_fw-la &_o quoniam_fw-la patriarcha_fw-la nostrae_fw-la fidei_fw-la &_o velut_fw-la propheta_fw-la fuit_fw-la plenisfimè_fw-la apostolus_fw-la docuit_fw-la in_o eâ_fw-la epistolâ_fw-la quae_fw-la est_fw-la ad_fw-la galatas_fw-la dicens_fw-la qui_fw-la ergo_fw-la tribuit_fw-la vobis_fw-la spiritum_fw-la &_o operatur_fw-la virtutes_fw-la in_o vobis_fw-la irenaeus_n lib._n 4._o cap._n 38._o abraham_n he_o believe_v god_n and_o it_o be_v impute_v unto_o he_o for_o righteousness_n know_v you_o therefore_o that_o they_o which_o be_v the_o child_n of_o faith_n the_o same_o be_v the_o child_n of_o abraham_n and_o god_n in_o the_o scripture_n foresee_v that_o he_o will_v justify_v the_o heathen_a through_o faith_n preach_v before_o the_o gospel_n unto_o abraham_n say_v in_o thou_o shall_v all_o nation_n be_v bless_v so_o then_o they_o which_o be_v the_o child_n of_o faith_n be_v bless_v with_o faithful_a abraham_n who_o be_v the_o father_n of_o they_o that_o believe_v afterward_o in_o verse_n 26._o now_o to_o abraham_n or_o his_o seed_n or_o race_n be_v the_o promise_v of_o god_n make_v he_o i._n e._n god_n or_o moses_n his_o penman_n say_v not_o to_o seed_n or_o race_n as_o if_o there_o be_v divers_a of_o they_o but_o to_o thy_o seed_n i._n e._n to_o one_o of_o thy_o seed_n which_o be_v christ_n and_o this_o i_o say_v that_o the_o abrahamical_a covenant_n that_o be_v before_o confirm_v by_o god_n in_o christ_n the_o law_n which_o be_v four_o hundred_o and_o thirty_o year_n after_o can_v disannul_v that_o it_o shall_v make_v the_o promise_n make_v unto_o abraham_n of_o none_o effect_n from_o all_o these_o text_n put_v together_o it_o be_v plain_a that_o the_o abrahamical_a covenant_n upon_o which_o the_o jewish_a church_n as_o such_o be_v found_v be_v of_o a_o spiritual_a evangelical_n nature_n and_o perfect_o verify_v and_o fulfil_v in_o jesus_n christ_n who_o be_v make_v of_o the_o seed_n of_o abraham_n and_o in_o who_o all_o the_o family_n of_o the_o earth_n be_v bless_v and_o who_o day_n abraham_n himself_o see_v and_o rejoice_v it_o be_v far_a evident_a from_o they_o that_o this_o covenant_n be_v make_v with_o abraham_n as_o the_o father_n
place_n of_o the_o type_n but_o as_o one_o positive_a institution_n succeed_v in_o the_o place_n of_o another_o and_o this_o also_o be_v necessary_a to_o be_v foreknow_v by_o the_o reader_n because_o the_o anabaptist_n endeavour_v to_o shift_v off_o the_o force_n of_o many_o good_a argument_n which_o otherwise_o be_v not_o to_o be_v evade_v by_o say_v that_o circumcision_n under_o the_o old_a testament_n be_v a_o type_n of_o baptism_n under_o the_o new_a now_o to_o show_v that_o circumcision_n be_v not_o a_o type_n but_o only_o the_o forerunner_n of_o baptism_n we_o must_v note_v that_o strict_o and_o proper_o speak_v there_o be_v the_o same_o difference_n betwixt_o the_o type_n and_o the_o antitype_n as_o betwixt_o the_o shadow_n and_o the_o substance_n or_o betwixt_o a_o man_n and_o his_o picture_n in_o a_o glass_n 18._o glass_n glass_n glass_n deinde_fw-la quod_fw-la maximè_fw-la advertendum_fw-la id_fw-la inter_fw-la antitypum_fw-la &_o typum_fw-la interest_n quod_fw-la quae_fw-la revera_fw-la in_o antitypo_n vis_fw-la in_o est_fw-la ea_fw-la non_fw-la nisi_fw-la specie_fw-la tenus_fw-la aut_fw-la gradu_fw-la longè_fw-la exiliori_fw-la in_o typo_n extiterit_fw-la enimvero_fw-la quamvis_fw-la typus_fw-la nonnunquam_fw-la rem_fw-la aliquam_fw-la cum_fw-la antitypo_n svo_fw-la communem_fw-la habuerit_fw-la ea_fw-la tamen_fw-la res_fw-la multò_fw-la minùs_fw-la in_o typo_n quam_fw-la in_o antitypo_n semper_fw-la valet_fw-la ita_fw-la ut_fw-la vis_fw-la rei_fw-la adumbrantis_fw-la virtutis_fw-la in_o adumbratâ_fw-la repertae_fw-la nil_fw-la nisi_fw-la symbolica_fw-la quaedam_fw-la species_n aut_fw-la tam_fw-la exilis_fw-la gradus_fw-la fuerit_fw-la ut_fw-la pro_fw-la umbrâ_fw-la quâdam_fw-la haberi_fw-la possit_fw-la outramus_n de_fw-fr sacrif_n l._n 2._o c._n 18._o insomuch_o that_o what_o be_v real_o literal_o and_o proper_o in_o the_o antitype_n and_o of_o perfect_a efficacy_n and_o power_n be_v general_o but_o symbolical_o and_o representative_o in_o the_o type_n and_o figurative_a of_o something_o which_o do_v in_o a_o more_o noble_a perfect_a eminent_a and_o efficacious_a manner_n belong_v to_o the_o antitype_n than_o it_o do_v to_o it_o thus_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o legal_a sacrifice_n be_v but_o shadow_n and_o representation_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o purge_n and_o cleanse_v virtue_n in_o their_o blood_n serve_v to_o the_o purify_n of_o the_o flesh_n be_v also_o but_o a_o faint_a and_o umbratical_a resemblance_n of_o the_o more_o noble_a and_o efficacious_a cleanse_a virtue_n of_o his_o blood_n which_o purge_v the_o conscience_n from_o dead_a work_n so_o the_o brazen_a serpent_n be_v but_o a_o shadow_n or_o symbol_n of_o christ_n upon_o the_o cross_n and_o the_o heal_a virtue_n which_o belong_v to_o it_o be_v but_o a_o figure_n or_o shadow_n of_o that_o more_o eminent_a and_o powerful_o heal_a virtue_n which_o be_v in_o jesus_n christ_n but_o the_o case_n be_v not_o so_o betwixt_o circumcision_n and_o baptism_n because_o circumcision_n have_v no_o symbolical_a likeness_n with_o baptism_n nor_o any_o thing_n belong_v to_o it_o common_a with_o baptism_n which_o do_v not_o as_o literal_o proper_o full_o and_o eminent_o belong_v unto_o it_o as_o unto_o baptism_n itself_o for_o first_o be_v baptism_n a_o sacrament_n of_o initiation_n into_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n under_o the_o gospel_n so_o be_v circumcision_n before_o and_o under_o the_o law_n be_v baptism_n now_o a_o seal_n of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o faith_n so_o be_v circumcision_n then_o do_v it_o proper_o and_o effectual_o confirm_v and_o establish_v the_o covenant_n betwixt_o god_n and_o we_o now_o so_o do_v circumcision_n then_o as_o it_o be_v write_v you_o shall_v circumcise_v the_o flesh_n of_o your_o foreskin_n and_o it_o shall_v be_v a_o token_n of_o the_o covenant_n betwixt_o i_o and_o you_o baptism_n do_v nothing_o under_o the_o gospel_n which_o circumcision_n do_v not_o as_o proper_o and_o effectual_o under_o the_o law_n this_o be_v then_o as_o absolute_a and_o real_a a_o sacrament_n as_o that_o now_o be_v this_o do_v then_o as_o real_o initiate_v true_a believer_n as_o that_o now_o do_v it_o never_o be_v a_o umbratical_a sacrament_n or_o shadow_n of_o another_o sacrament_n it_o never_o do_v umbratical_o initiate_v believer_n or_o umbratical_o and_o in_o show_n and_o similitude_n only_o confirm_v the_o covenant_n betwixt_o god_n and_o the_o seed_n of_o abraham_n and_o therefore_o can_v not_o be_v a_o type_n of_o baptism_n no_o more_o than_o the_o broad_a seal_n of_o england_n 300_o year_n ago_o be_v a_o type_n of_o this_o according_o it_o be_v never_o mention_v in_o the_o new_a testament_n as_o a_o type_n of_o baptism_n nor_o baptism_n as_o the_o antitype_n of_o it_o but_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o only_a typical_a adumbration_n which_o be_v find_v of_o it_o in_o the_o gospel_n be_v such_o thing_n which_o have_v some_o symbolical_a likeness_n with_o it_o and_o be_v fit_v upon_o that_o account_n to_o be_v type_n thereof_o the_o first_o be_v the_o baptise_v of_o the_o israelite_n in_o the_o ox._n the_o the_o the_o mare_fw-la autem_fw-la illud_fw-la sacramentum_fw-la baptismi_fw-la fuisse_fw-la declarat_fw-la beatus_fw-la apostolus_fw-la dicens_fw-la nolo_fw-la enim_fw-la vos_fw-la ignorare_fw-la et_fw-la addidit_fw-la dicens_fw-la haec_fw-la autem_fw-la omne_fw-la figurae_fw-la nostrae_fw-la sunt_fw-la cyprian_a ep._n 69._o ed._n ox._n red-sea_n 1_o cor._n 10._o 2._o where_o the_o red-sea_n be_v a_o type_n of_o the_o water_n of_o baptism_n their_o pass_v through_o it_o when_o they_o be_v deliver_v from_o pharaoh_n and_o his_o host_n a_o type_n of_o our_o pass_v through_o that_o and_o of_o our_o deliverance_n thereby_o from_o the_o devil_n and_o his_o angel_n and_o their_o captain_n and_o deliverer_n moses_n a_o type_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n the_o second_o be_v the_o save_n of_o noah_n and_o his_o family_n in_o the_o ark_n the_o like_a figure_n whereunto_o say_v the_o apostle_n even_o baptism_n do_v also_o save_v we_o etc._n we_o we_o we_o item_n petrus_n ipse_fw-la quoque_fw-la demonstrans_fw-la etc._n etc._n cyprian_n ep._n 74._o ad_fw-la pompeium_n contra_fw-la epist_n stephani_fw-la &_o in_o firmilian_a ep._n contra_fw-la eandem_fw-la epist_n ad_fw-la cyprian_n &_o in_o ep._n 69._o quod_fw-la &_o petrus_n ostendens_fw-la unam_fw-la ecclesiam_fw-la esse_fw-la etc._n etc._n 1_o pet._n 3._o 21._o here_o it_o be_v plain_a that_o the_o water_n of_o the_o flood_n be_v a_o shadow_n of_o the_o water_n of_o baptism_n the_o ark_n a_o type_n of_o the_o church_n and_o that_o the_o pass_v of_o the_o ark_n through_o the_o water_n do_v prefigure_v our_o pass_n through_o the_o water_n of_o baptism_n in_o the_o ark_n of_o the_o church_n but_o as_o for_o circumcision_n it_o have_v nothing_o in_o it_o symbolical_a of_o baptism_n nor_o be_v it_o a_o umbratical_a but_o a_o real_a confignation_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n every_o way_n as_o real_a and_o substantial_a a_o ordinance_n as_o baptism_n now_o be_v and_o therefore_o succeed_v in_o the_o room_n of_o it_o not_o as_o the_o antitype_n do_v in_o the_o place_n of_o the_o type_n but_o as_o one_o absolute_a ordinance_n or_o positive_a institution_n do_v in_o the_o place_n of_o another_o according_a to_o the_o apostle_n who_o say_v unto_o the_o colossian_n in_o who_o also_o you_o be_v circumcise_a with_o the_o circumcision_n make_v without_o hand_n in_o put_v off_o the_o body_n of_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o flesh_n by_o the_o circumcision_n of_o christ_n have_v be_v bury_v with_o he_o in_o baptism_n col._n 2._o 11_o 12._o but_o in_o the_o second_o place_n if_o we_o consider_v the_o original_a of_o baptism_n as_o a_o jewish_a institution_n we_o shall_v find_v it_o very_o improbable_a that_o circumcision_n shall_v be_v a_o type_n of_o it_o because_o a_o type_n proper_o speak_v be_v a_o 18._o a_o a_o a_o typus_fw-la quatenus_fw-la vox_fw-la ista_fw-la sensum_fw-la habet_fw-la theologicum_fw-la ita_fw-la definiri_fw-la posse_fw-la videtur_fw-la ut_fw-la sit_fw-la futuri_fw-la alicujus_fw-la symbolum_n quoddam_fw-la aut_fw-la exemplum_fw-la ita_fw-la à _fw-la deo_fw-la comparatum_fw-la ut_fw-la ipsius_fw-la plane_n instituto_fw-la futurum_fw-la illud_fw-la praefiguret_n quod_fw-la autem_fw-la ita_fw-la praefiguratur_fw-la illud_fw-la antitypus_fw-la dici_fw-la solet_fw-la outramus_fw-la de_fw-la sacrificiis_fw-la l._n 1._o cap._n 18._o symbol_n of_o something_o future_a or_o a_o exemplar_n appoint_v under_o the_o old_a testament_n to_o prefigure_v something_o under_o the_o new_a but_o baptism_n be_v itself_o of_o jewish_a institution_n under_o the_o old_a testament_n and_o by_o consequence_n can_v not_o be_v typify_v and_o prefigure_v by_o circumcision_n with_o which_o it_o be_v coexistent_a and_o use_v with_o it_o for_o many_o year_n together_o in_o the_o jewish_a church_n the_o jewish_a church_n make_v it_o a_o ceremony_n of_o initiate_a proselyte_n unto_o the_o law_n and_o our_o saviour_n like_v the_o institution_n continue_v the_o use_n of_o it_o and_o make_v it_o the_o only_a ceremony_n of_o initiate_a proselyte_n unto_o the_o gospel_n superad_v unto_o it_o the_o complete_a nature_n of_o a_o initiatory_a
indian_a church_n in_o coulan_n and_o crangonor_n and_o about_o maliapur_n plant_v by_o st._n thomas_n both_o which_o practice_n infant-baptism_n though_o in_o all_o probability_n they_o never_o have_v it_o one_o from_o the_o other_o or_o both_o from_o any_o three_o church_n it_o be_v very_o incredible_a that_o god_n shall_v suffer_v all_o church_n in_o all_o the_o part_n of_o the_o world_n to_o fall_v into_o one_o and_o the_o same_o practice_n which_o certain_o be_v a_o church-destroying_a practice_n if_o the_o apostle_n and_o their_o assistant_n do_v not_o baptise_v infant_n but_o only_o grow_v person_n one_o may_v easy_o imagine_v that_o god_n may_v suffer_v all_o church_n to_o fall_v into_o such_o a_o harmless_a practice_n as_o that_o of_o infant-communion_n or_o that_o the_o father_n of_o the_o church_n may_v comply_v with_o the_o religious_a fondness_n of_o the_o people_n in_o bring_v their_o child_n to_o the_o sacrament_n as_o we_o do_v with_o bring_v they_o to_o prayer_n but_o that_o god_n shall_v let_v they_o all_o not_o preserve_v any_o one_o for_o a_o monument_n of_o apostolical_a purity_n fall_v into_o a_o practice_n which_o destroy_v the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n be_v at_o least_o a_o thousand_o time_n more_o incredible_a than_o that_o the_o apostle_n without_o a_o prohibition_n from_o christ_n to_o the_o contrary_a and_o no_o such_o prohibition_n be_v extant_a in_o the_o new_a testament_n shall_v baptise_v infant_n according_a to_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o jewish_a church_n but_o in_o the_o four_o place_n what_o account_n can_v rational_o be_v give_v why_o the_o jewish_a christian_n who_o be_v offend_v at_o the_o neglect_n of_o circumcision_n shall_v not_o have_v be_v much_o more_o offend_v if_o the_o apostle_n have_v refuse_v to_o initiate_v child_n under_o the_o new_a testament_n which_o have_v always_o be_v initiate_v under_o the_o old_a be_v it_o reasonable_a to_o believe_v that_o those_o who_o complain_v so_o much_o mere_o because_o the_o apostle_n teach_v the_o jew_n which_o live_v among_o the_o gentile_n that_o they_o shall_v not_o circumcise_v their_o child_n will_v not_o have_v complain_v much_o more_o if_o they_o have_v not_o baptise_a they_o but_o quite_o exclude_v they_o like_o the_o infant_n of_o unbeliever_n from_o admission_n into_o the_o church_n it_o must_v in_o all_o probability_n have_v gall_v they_o very_o much_o to_o see_v their_o child_n treat_v like_o the_o child_n of_o mere_a stranger_n and_o to_o have_v have_v no_o visible_a difference_n put_v between_o the_o infant_n of_o those_o that_o embrace_v and_o those_o that_o resist_v the_o faith_n for_o they_o always_o look_v upon_o pagan_a child_n as_o common_a and_o unclean_a but_o upon_o their_o own_o as_o separate_a and_o holy_a and_o st._n paul_n make_v the_o same_o distinction_n between_o they_o 1_o cor._n 7._o 14._o but_o have_v the_o apostle_n teach_v that_o the_o child_n of_o those_o who_o be_v in_o covenant_n with_o god_n have_v no_o more_o right_a unto_o baptismal_a initiation_n than_o the_o child_n of_o idolater_n who_o be_v out_o of_o the_o covenant_n they_o have_v teach_v a_o doctrine_n which_o certain_o will_v have_v offend_v they_o more_o than_o all_o they_o preach_v against_o circumcision_n and_o keep_v the_o ceremonial_a law_n wherefore_o since_o we_o never_o read_v among_o their_o many_o complaint_n upon_o the_o alteration_n of_o the_o jew_n custom_n that_o they_o complain_v of_o their_o child_n not_o be_v initiate_v by_o baptism_n it_o be_v a_o great_a presumption_n that_o the_o apostle_n and_o their_o assistant_n baptise_a their_o child_n than_o the_o want_n of_o a_o express_a example_n of_o infant-baptism_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n be_v that_o they_o baptise_a they_o not_o have_v now_o show_v first_o that_o infant_n be_v not_o uncapable_a of_o baptism_n second_o that_o they_o be_v not_o exclude_v from_o it_o by_o christ_n but_o that_o on_o the_o contrary_a we_o have_v very_o convince_a reason_n to_o presume_v that_o the_o baptism_n of_o infant_n as_o well_o as_o of_o grow_v person_n be_v intend_v by_o he_o let_v we_o now_o proceed_v to_o make_v a_o fair_a and_o impartial_a enquiry_n upon_o the_o three_o question_n quest_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 baptise_a and_o this_o consider_v what_o i_o have_v say_v upon_o the_o former_a question_n must_v be_v determine_v in_o the_o negative_a whether_o we_o consider_v infant-baptism_n only_o as_o a_o thing_n lawful_a and_o allowable_a or_o as_o a_o thing_n high_o requisite_a or_o necessary_a to_o be_v do_v i_o know_v very_o well_o that_o my_o adversary_n in_o this_o controversy_n will_v be_v apt_a to_o deny_v this_o distinction_n betwixt_o lawful_a and_o necessary_a as_o acknowledge_v nothing_o in_o religious_a matter_n to_o be_v lawful_a but_o what_o be_v necessary_a according_a to_o that_o common_a principle_n imbibe_v by_o all_o sort_n of_o dissenter_n that_o nothing_o be_v to_o be_v appoint_v in_o religious_a matter_n but_o what_o be_v command_v by_o some_o precept_n or_o direct_v unto_o by_o some_o special_a example_n in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n hence_o they_o ordinary_o say_v can_v you_o show_v we_o any_o precept_n or_o example_n for_o baptise_v infant_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n if_o you_o can_v we_o will_v grant_v that_o the_o appointment_n of_o it_o be_v lawful_a but_o if_o you_o can_v we_o disallow_v it_o as_o unlawful_a nay_o as_o a_o usurpation_n and_o will_v never_o be_v of_o a_o church_n which_o so_o usurp_v it_o over_o the_o conscience_n of_o men._n this_o way_n of_o argue_v be_v plausible_a to_o the_o vulgar_a and_o will_v be_v very_o good_a be_v there_o such_o a_o principle_n in_o the_o scripture_n as_o this_o from_o whence_o they_o argue_v viz._n that_o nothing_o be_v to_o be_v appoint_v in_o religious_a matter_n but_o what_o be_v warrant_v by_o precept_n or_o example_n in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n wherefore_o as_o the_o man_n with_o who_o i_o have_v to_o deal_v in_o this_o controversy_n be_v general_o person_n of_o good_a natural_a understanding_n so_o in_o the_o first_o place_n i_o beg_v they_o to_o consider_v that_o there_o be_v no_o such_o rule_n in_o the_o scripture_n as_o this_o and_o therefore_o those_o who_o teach_v it_o for_o a_o scripture-rule_a or_o precept_n do_v themselves_o impose_v upon_o man_n conscience_n as_o bad_a as_o papist_n and_o like_o they_o and_o the_o pharisee_n of_o old_a teach_v the_o tradition_n of_o man_n for_o doctrine_n of_o god_n on_o the_o contrary_a the_o gospel_n tell_v we_o that_o sin_n be_v the_o transgression_n of_o a_o law_n and_o that_o where_o there_o be_v no_o law_n there_o be_v no_o transgression_n and_o according_a to_o this_o plain_a and_o intelligible_a rule_n though_o the_o baptise_v of_o infant_n be_v not_o command_v in_o the_o scripture_n yet_o the_o church_n will_v have_v power_n and_o authority_n to_o appoint_v it_o upon_o supposition_n that_o it_o be_v not_o forbid_v second_o i_o desire_v they_o to_o consider_v the_o absurdity_n of_o this_o pretend_a scripture-rule_a in_o that_o it_o take_v away_o the_o distinction_n betwixt_o bare_o lawful_a or_o allowable_a and_o necessary_a and_o leave_v no_o negative_a mean_n betwixt_o necessary_a and_o sinful_a but_o make_v thing_n forbid_v and_o thing_n not_o command_v to_o be_v the_o very_a same_o three_o i_o desire_v they_o to_o consider_v what_o a_o slavish_a principle_n this_o be_v and_o how_o inconsistent_a it_o be_v with_o the_o free_a and_o manly_a nature_n of_o the_o christian_a religion_n under_o which_o we_o shall_v be_v in_o a_o far_o more_o servile_a and_o childish_a condition_n than_o the_o jew_n be_v under_o the_o law_n which_o as_o it_o be_v evident_a from_o the_o feast_n of_o purim_n and_o from_o the_o institution_n of_o baptism_n among_o the_o jew_n allow_v private_a person_n to_o practice_n and_o the_o church_n to_o appoint_v thing_n of_o a_o religious_a nature_n which_o god_n have_v not_o command_v to_o be_v do_v last_o i_o entreat_v they_o to_o consider_v how_o utter_o impracticable_a this_o pretend_a principle_n be_v as_o may_v be_v prove_v from_o the_o contrary_a practice_n of_o all_o those_o who_o advance_v it_o against_o ecclesiastical_a authority_n and_o particular_o from_o their_o own_o practice_n in_o baptise_v grow_v person_n who_o be_v breed_v up_o from_o infant_n in_o the_o christian_a religion_n and_o in_o admit_v woman_n to_o the_o lords-supper_n who_o be_v not_o admit_v to_o the_o passover_n nor_o paschal-cup_n of_o blessing_n without_o any_o precept_n or_o precedent_n for_o so_o do_v in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n this_o little_a well_o consider_v be_v enough_o to_o obviate_v all_o objection_n against_o my_o first_o assertion_n viz._n that_o it_o be_v not_o lawful_a to_o separate_v from_o a_o church_n which_o appoint_v infant_n to_o be_v baptise_a upon_o supposition_n that_o infant-baptism_n be_v bare_o lawful_a and_o
a_o table_n for_o we_o and_o set_v before_o we_o the_o bread_n of_o life_n we_o will_v not_o come_v and_o feed_v upon_o it_o with_o joy_n and_o thankfulness_n the_o end_n a_o catalogue_n of_o book_n and_o sermon_n write_v by_o the_o reverend_n dr._n tillotson_n dean_n of_o canterbury_n viz._n 1_o sermon_n preach_v upon_o several_a occasion_n in_o two_o volume_n in_o octavo_n 2._o the_o rule_n of_o faith_n etc._n etc._n 3._o a_o sermon_n preach_v on_o the_o 5_o of_o november_n 1678._o at_o st._n margaret_n westminster_n before_o the_o honourable_a house_n of_o commons_o upon_o st._n luke_n 9_o 55_o 56._o but_o he_o turn_v and_o rebuke_v they_o and_o say_v you_o know_v not_o what_o manner_n of_o spirit_n you_o be_v of_o for_o the_o son_n of_o man_n be_v not_o come_v to_o destroy_v man_n life_n but_o to_o save_v they_o 4._o a_o sermon_n preach_v at_o the_o first_o general_n meet_v of_o the_o gentleman_n and_o other_o in_o and_o near_a london_n who_o be_v bear_v within_o the_o county_n of_o york_n upon_o john_n 13._o 34_o 35._o a_o new_a commandment_n i_o give_v unto_o you_o that_o you_o love_v one_o another_o etc._n etc._n 5._o a_o sermon_n preach_v before_o the_o king_n at_o whitehall_n april_n four_o 1679_o upon_o 1_o john_n 4._o 1._o belove_a believe_v not_o every_o spirit_n but_o try_v the_o spirit_n whether_o they_o be_v of_o god_n etc._n etc._n 6._o a_o sermon_n preach_v before_o the_o king_n at_o whitehall_n april_n 2d_o 1680_o upon_o joshua_n 24._o 15._o if_o it_o seem_v evil_a unto_o you_o to_o serve_v the_o lord_n choose_v you_o this_o day_n who_o you_o will_v serve_v 7._o the_o lawfulness_n and_o obligation_n of_o oath_n a_o sermon_n preach_v at_o the_o assize_n hold_v at_o kingston_n upon_o thames_n july_n 21._o 1681_o upon_o heb._n 6._o 16._o and_o a_o oath_n for_o confirmation_n be_v to_o they_o a_o end_n of_o all_o strife_n 8._o sermon_n preach_v at_o the_o funeral_n of_o the_o reverend_n mr._n thomas_n gouge_n november_n four_o 1681_o with_o a_o account_n of_o his_o life_n upon_o luke_n 20._o 37_o 38._o now_o that_o the_o dead_a be_v raise_v even_o moses_n show_v at_o the_o bush_n etc._n etc._n 9_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 preach_v in_o two_o sermon_n upon_o 1_o cor._n 11._o 26_o 27_o 28._o for_o as_o oft_o as_o you_o eat_v this_o bread_n and_o drink_v this_o cup_n you_o do_v show_v the_o lord_n death_n till_o he_o come_v etc._n etc._n 10._o a_o sermon_n preach_v at_o the_o funeral_n of_o the_o reverend_a benjamin_n whichcot_n d._n d._n and_o minister_n of_o st._n laurence_n jewry_n london_n may_v 24_o 1683_o upon_o 2_o cor._n v._o 6._o wherefore_o we_o be_v always_o confident_a know_v that_o whilst_o we_o be_v at_o home_n in_o the_o body_n we_o be_v absent_a from_o the_o lord_n sell_v by_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 advertisement_n of_o book_n the_o work_n of_o the_o learned_a dr._n isaac_n barrow_n late_a master_n of_o trinity_n college_n in_o cambridge_n publish_v by_o the_o reverend_n dr._n tillotson_n dean_n of_o canterbury_n in_o two_o volume_n in_o folio_n the_o first_o contain_v thirty_o two_o sermon_n preach_v upon_o several_a occasion_n a_o exposition_n of_o the_o lord_n prayer_n and_o the_o decalogue_n a_o learned_a treatise_n of_o the_o pope_n supremacy_n a_o discourse_n concern_v the_o unity_n of_o the_o church_n also_o some_o account_n of_o the_o life_n of_o the_o author_n with_o alphabetical_a table_n the_o second_o volume_n contain_v sermon_n and_o exposition_n upon_o all_o the_o apostle_n creed_n with_o a_o alphabetical_a table_n and_o to_o which_o may_v be_v also_o add_v the_o life_n of_o the_o author_n sermon_n preach_v upon_o several_a occasion_n by_o the_o right_n reverend_a father_n in_o god_n john_n wilkins_n d._n d._n and_o late_a lord_n bishop_n of_o chester_n never_o print_v before_o print_a for_o william_n rogers_n at_o the_o sun_n against_o s._n dunstan_n church_n in_o fleetstreet_n the_o case_n of_o kneel_v at_o the_o holy_a sacrament_n state_v &_o resolve_v part_n i._n wherein_o these_o query_n be_v consider_v i._o whether_o kneel_v at_o the_o sacrament_n be_v contrary_a to_o any_o express_a command_n of_o christ_n oblige_v to_o the_o observance_n of_o a_o different_a gesture_n ii_o whether_o kneel_v be_v not_o a_o deviation_n from_o that_o example_n which_o our_o lord_n set_v we_o at_o the_o first_o institution_n iii_o whether_o kneel_v be_v not_o unsuitable_a and_o repugnant_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n as_o be_v no_o table-gesture_n 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 1683._o the_o case_n whether_o it_o be_v lawful_a to_o receive_v the_o holy_a sacrament_n kneel_v the_o resolution_n of_o the_o most_o weighty_a and_o considerable_a doubt_n which_o may_v in_o point_n of_o conscience_n arise_v about_o this_o matter_n and_o do_v at_o present_a much_o influence_n the_o mind_n and_o practice_n of_o many_o honest_a and_o well-meaning_a dissenter_n will_v depend_v upon_o the_o resolution_n of_o these_o follow_a query_n 1._o whether_o kneel_v in_o the_o act_n of_o receive_v the_o holy_a sacrament_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o the_o land_n be_v not_o contrary_a to_o some_o express_a law_n of_o christ_n oblige_v to_o the_o observance_n of_o a_o different_a posture_n 2._o whether_o kneel_v be_v not_o a_o deviation_n from_o that_o example_n which_o our_o lord_n set_v we_o at_o the_o first_o institution_n 3._o whether_o kneel_v be_v not_o altogether_o unsuitable_a and_o repugnant_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o sacrament_n as_o be_v no_o table-gesture_n 4._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 5._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 1._o whether_o kneel_v in_o the_o act_n of_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n in_o obedience_n to_o the_o law_n of_o the_o land_n be_v not_o a_o transgression_n against_o some_o express_a law_n of_o christ_n which_o oblige_v we_o to_o observe_v another_o gesture_n for_o satisfaction_n in_o this_o point_n our_o only_a recourse_n must_v be_v to_o the_o holy_a scripture_n contain_v in_o the_o book_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n wherein_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o divine_a law_n deliver_v and_o enact_v by_o our_o bless_a saviour_n be_v collect_v and_o record_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o if_o there_o be_v any_o command_n there_o extant_a concern_v the_o use_n of_o any_o particular_a gesture_n in_o the_o act_n of_o receive_v the_o lord_n supper_n we_o shall_v upon_o a_o diligent_a enquiry_n be_v sure_a to_o find_v it_o but_o before_o i_o give_v in_o my_o answer_n i_o ready_o grant_v thus_o much_o by_o way_n of_o preface_n whatsoever_o be_v enjoin_v and_o appoint_v by_o god_n to_o be_v prepetual_o use_v by_o all_o christian_n throughout_o all_o age_n without_o any_o alteration_n that_o can_v never_o be_v nullify_v or_o alter_v by_o any_o earthly_a power_n or_o authority_n whatsoever_o when_o once_o the_o supreme_a lawgiver_n and_o governor_n of_o the_o world_n have_v any_o way_n signify_v and_o declare_v that_o such_o and_o such_o positive_a law_n shall_v be_v perpetual_o and_o unalterable_o observe_v than_o those_o law_n though_o in_o their_o own_o nature_n and_o with_o respect_n to_o the_o subject_a matter_n of_o they_o they_o be_v changeable_a must_v remain_v in_o full_a force_n and_o can_v admit_v of_o no_o change_n from_o the_o law_n of_o men._n it_o will_v be_v a_o piece_n of_o intolerable_a pride_n and_o the_o most_o dare_a presumption_n for_o any_o earthly_a prince_n any_o council_n any_o society_n of_o man_n whatsoever_o to_o oppose_v the_o know_a will_n of_o the_o sovereign_a lord_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n in_o this_o case_n nothing_o can_v take_v off_o the_o force_n and_o obligation_n of_o such_o law_n but_o the_o same_o divine_a authority_n which_o first_o pass_v they_o into_o law_n thus_o much_o be_v grant_v and_o premise_v i_o return_v this_o answer_n to_o the_o question_v propose_v god_n have_v be_v so_o far_o from_o establish_v the_o unalterable_a use_n of_o any_o particular_a gesture_n in_o the_o act_n of_o receive_v that_o among_o all_o the_o sacred_a record_n of_o his_o will_n there_o be_v not_o any_o express_a command_n to_o determine_v our_o practice_n one_o way_n or_o other_o we_o be_v leave_v perfect_o at_o our_o
this_o so_o that_o they_o shall_v only_o respect_v sit_v as_o he_o do_v why_o shall_v we_o not_o think_v ourselves_o oblige_v to_o do_v all_o that_o he_o do_v at_o the_o same_o time_n as_o well_o as_o this_o for_o example_n if_o these_o word_n may_v be_v interpret_v thus_o do_v this_o that_o be_v sit_v as_o christ_n do_v why_o not_o thus_o also_o do_v this_o that_o be_v celebrate_v the_o sacrament_n in_o a_o upper_a room_n in_o a_o private_a house_n late_o at_o night_n or_o the_o evening_n after_o a_o full_a supper_n 20._o supper_n supper_n supper_n mat._n 26._o 20._o in_o the_o company_n of_o 11_o or_o 12_o at_o most_o 14._o mar._n 14._o 17._o luke_n 22._o 14._o and_o they_o only_a man_n with_o their_o head_n cover_v according_a to_o the_o custom_n of_o those_o country_n and_o with_o unleavened_a bread_n there_o lie_v as_o great_a a_o obligation_n upon_o all_o christian_n to_o observe_v all_o these_o circumstance_n in_o imitation_n of_o our_o lord_n by_o virtue_n of_o these_o word_n do_v this_o as_o there_o do_v to_o sit._n so_o that_o this_o argument_n violent_o recoil_v upon_o those_o that_o urge_v it_o and_o prove_v a_o great_a deal_n more_o than_o they_o be_v willing_a to_o have_v it_o it_o conclude_v strong_o against_o their_o own_o practice_n and_o the_o liberty_n they_o take_v in_o omit_v some_o thing_n and_o press_v the_o necessary_a observance_n of_o other_o upon_o a_o reason_n which_o equal_o oblige_v to_o all_o but_o i_o desire_v our_o dissent_v brethren_n who_o may_v be_v answ_n two_o of_o the_o same_o persuasion_n with_o these_o scotchman_n to_o take_v this_o further_a consideration_n along_o with_o they_o which_o i_o think_v will_v turn_v the_o scale_n and_o make_v deep_a impression_n upon_o tender_a conscience_n and_o oblige_v they_o to_o observe_v most_o of_o the_o other_o circumstance_n which_o they_o omit_v rather_o than_o this_o of_o sit_v which_o they_o so_o earnest_o press_v and_o contend_v for_o all_o those_o forementioned_a circumstance_n except_o the_o two_o last_o which_o too_o be_v general_o allow_v among_o learned_a man_n on_o all_o side_n be_v express_o mention_v in_o the_o gospel_n and_o be_v without_o dispute_n observe_v by_o christ_n at_o the_o institution_n of_o the_o sacrament_n but_o the_o particular_a gesture_n use_v by_o he_o at_o that_o time_n be_v not_o express_o mention_v and_o what_o it_o be_v be_v very_o disputable_a and_o dubious_a as_o i_o shall_v evince_v by_o and_o by_o under_o the_o second_o query_n how_o then_o can_v any_o man_n think_v himself_o oblige_v in_o conscience_n by_o the_o force_n of_o these_o word_n do_v this_o to_o do_v what_o christ_n be_v not_o where_o express_o say_v to_o do_v and_o not_o oblige_v to_o do_v what_o the_o scripture_n affirm_v he_o real_o do_v why_o that_o which_o be_v dark_a and_o dubious_a shall_v be_v make_v a_o infallible_a rule_n of_o conscience_n and_o that_o which_o be_v plain_o and_o evident_o set_v down_o in_o scripture_n shall_v have_v no_o force_n nor_o be_v esteem_v any_o rule_n at_o all_o these_o be_v question_n i_o confess_v beyond_o my_o capacity_n and_o surpass_v my_o skill_n to_o resolve_v it_o be_v clear_a from_o st._n paul_n in_o the_o forecited_a place_n that_o answ_n iii_o those_o word_n of_o our_o lord_n do_v this_o do_v respect_n only_o the_o verse_n 1_o cor._n 11._o 23_o 4_o 5_o 6_o 27_o 28._o verse_n bread_n and_o wine_n which_o signify_v the_o body_n and_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o those_o other_o action_n there_o specify_v by_o he_o which_o be_v essential_a to_o the_o right_n and_o due_a celebration_n of_o that_o holy_a feast_n for_o when_o it_o be_v say_v do_v this_o in_o remembrance_n of_o i_o and_o this_o do_v you_o as_o oft_o as_o you_o drink_v it_o in_o remembrance_n of_o i_o and_o as_o oft_o as_o you_o eat_v this_o bread_n and_o drink_v this_o cup_n you_o do_v show_v the_o lord_n death_n till_o he_o come_v it_o be_v plain_a that_o do_v this_o must_v be_v restrain_v to_o the_o sacramental_a action_n there_o mention_v and_o not_o extend_v to_o the_o gesture_n of_o which_o the_o apostle_n speak_v not_o a_o word_n our_o lord_n institute_v the_o sacrament_n in_o remembrance_n of_o his_o death_n and_o passion_n and_o not_o in_o remembrance_n of_o his_o gesture_n in_o administer_a it_o and_o consequent_o do_v this_o be_v a_o general_a command_n oblige_v we_o only_o to_o such_o particular_a action_n and_o rite_n as_o he_o have_v institute_v and_o make_v necessary_a to_o be_v use_v in_o order_n to_o this_o great_a end_n viz._n to_o signify_v and_o represent_v his_o death_n and_o that_o bloody_a sacrifice_n which_o he_o offer_v to_o his_o father_n on_o the_o cross_n for_o we_o miserable_a sinner_n upon_o the_o whole_a matter_n i_o think_v we_o may_v certain_o conclude_v that_o there_o be_v not_o a_o tittle_n of_o a_o command_n in_o the_o whole_a new_a testament_n to_o oblige_v we_o to_o receive_v the_o lord_n supper_n in_o any_o particular_a posture_n and_o if_o any_o be_v so_o scrupulous_a after_o all_o as_o not_o to_o receive_v it_o in_o any_o other_o gesture_n but_o what_o be_v express_o command_v they_o must_v never_o receive_v it_o as_o long_o as_o they_o live_v and_o then_o i_o leave_v this_o to_o their_o serious_a consideration_n how_o they_o will_v be_v ever_o able_a to_o excuse_v their_o neglect_n of_o a_o know_v necessary_a duty_n such_o as_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n be_v before_o god_n the_o father_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n who_o love_v we_o so_o much_o as_o to_o send_v his_o son_n to_o be_v a_o propitiation_n for_o our_o sin_n how_o they_o will_v ever_o answer_v to_o their_o crucify_a saviour_n their_o live_n and_o die_v in_o the_o breach_n of_o a_o express_a command_n of_o his_o give_v a_o little_a before_o his_o passion_n to_o do_v this_o in_o remembrance_n of_o he_o mere_o because_o the_o gesture_n prescribe_v by_o authority_n be_v cross_v to_o their_o private_a will_n and_o fancy_n but_o not_o to_o the_o mind_n and_o will_n of_o god_n 2._o for_o the_o further_a proof_n and_o confirmation_n of_o this_o assertion_n that_o there_o be_v no_o express_a command_n in_o scripture_n for_o the_o use_n of_o any_o particular_a gesture_n in_o the_o act_n of_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n i_o will_v appeal_v to_o the_o judgement_n and_o practice_n of_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n and_o all_o the_o reform_a church_n in_o europe_n 1._o to_o begin_v with_o our_o nonconforming_a brethren_n there_o be_v a_o great_a many_o serious_a and_o sincere-hearted_n person_n among_o they_o who_o profess_v that_o be_v they_o leave_v to_o their_o liberty_n and_o not_o tie_v up_o by_o the_o law_n to_o kneel_v at_o the_o sacrament_n they_o can_v with_o a_o safe_a conscience_n use_v that_o gesture_n as_o well_o as_o any_o other_o and_o they_o further_o tell_v we_o that_o they_o be_v willing_a and_o ready_a to_o communicate_v with_o we_o provide_v we_o will_v administer_v the_o sacrament_n to_o they_o either_o sit_v or_o stand_v that_o be_v any_o way_n but_o that_o which_o be_v impose_v by_o law_n for_o the_o rule_n by_o which_o they_o conduct_v their_o conscience_n in_o this_o matter_n be_v this_o thing_n in_o their_o own_o nature_n indifferent_a which_o be_v not_o where_o command_v or_o prohibit_v by_o god_n in_o scripture_n can_v nor_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v restrain_v and_o limit_v by_o any_o power_n or_o authority_n of_o man_n and_o therefore_o all_o such_o thing_n which_o god_n leave_v free_a for_o we_o to_o do_v or_o not_o to_o do_v without_o sin_n become_v sinful_a to_o we_o when_o impose_v by_o humane_a authority_n it_o be_v remote_a from_o my_o business_n to_o show_v how_o weak_a and_o false_a a_o principle_n this_o be_v and_o of_o what_o mischievous_a consequence_n to_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n and_o for_o that_o reason_n i_o will_v pass_v it_o by_o but_o thus_o much_o may_v be_v infer_v from_o this_o tenent_n to_o my_o purpose_n that_o they_o who_o hold_v and_o urge_v it_o as_o a_o reason_n why_o they_o can_v receive_v kneel_v which_o otherwise_o they_o can_v safe_o do_v plain_o own_o that_o as_o to_o the_o gesture_n in_o the_o act_n of_o receive_v it_o be_v in_o its_o own_o nature_n indifferent_a and_o leave_v free_a by_o god_n for_o we_o to_o use_v or_o refuse_v as_o we_o think_v fit_a and_o by_o necessary_a consequence_n that_o there_o be_v no_o express_a command_n give_v by_o god_n for_o the_o use_n of_o any_o particular_a gesture_n it_o can_v not_o be_v a_o matter_n of_o indifferency_n to_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n who_o principle_n this_o be_v if_o there_o be_v no_o law_n of_o man_n to_o kneel_v at_o the_o sacrament_n and_o now_o there_o be_v such_o a_o law_n it_o can_v not_o be_v indifferent_a to_o they_o whether_o they_o receive_v sit_v or_o stand_v as_o they_o profess_v it_o be_v if_o
not_o oblige_v all_o christian_n to_o a_o like_a practice_n 1._o because_o naked_a example_n without_o some_o rule_n or_o note_v add_v to_o they_o to_o signify_v that_o it_o be_v the_o mind_n and_o will_n of_o god_n to_o have_v they_o constant_o follow_v and_o perpetual_o imitate_v by_o we_o have_v not_o the_o force_n of_o a_o law_n perpetual_o oblige_v the_o conscience_n thus_o in_o our_o present_a case_n though_o our_o lord_n do_v sit_v at_o the_o sacrament_n yet_o his_o example_n alone_o do_v not_o become_v a_o everlasting_a rule_n for_o all_o age_n to_o observe_v because_o he_o have_v no_o where_o discover_v his_o bind_a will_n and_o pleasure_n in_o this_o particular_a and_o consequent_o since_o he_o have_v leave_v we_o in_o the_o dark_a we_o may_v act_v contrary_a to_o his_o will_n and_o intention_n when_o we_o so_o zealous_o press_v and_o follow_v his_o example_n especial_o in_o this_o matter_n relate_v to_o gesture_n for_o even_o under_o the_o law_n where_o all_o other_o circumstance_n of_o time_n place_n habit_n and_o the_o ceremony_n relate_v to_o divine_a worship_n be_v with_o great_a particularity_n describe_v this_o of_o gesture_n be_v leave_v free_a and_o undetermined_a god_n never_o oblige_v they_o to_o use_v any_o particular_a gesture_n in_o any_o particular_a part_n of_o his_o worship_n but_o leave_v it_o to_o their_o choice_n whether_o to_o kneel_v or_o stand_v or_o bow_v down_o their_o head_n and_o body_n or_o fall_v prostrate_a on_o the_o earth_n to_o use_v all_o or_o any_o one_o of_o these_o as_o custom_n and_o their_o own_o pious_a prudence_n shall_v prompt_v and_o direct_v they_o see_v then_o that_o the_o gesture_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n be_v never_o determine_v under_o the_o law_n since_o it_o be_v and_o be_v in_o its_o own_o nature_n a_o mutable_a ceremony_n in_o the_o service_n of_o god_n it_o remain_v so_o unto_o this_o day_n our_o lord_n leave_v it_o as_o he_o find_v it_o unless_o it_o can_v be_v prove_v that_o he_o have_v by_o some_o command_n or_o note_n of_o immutability_n fix_v and_o determine_v it_o to_o all_o succeed_a age_n but_o because_o no_o such_o command_n or_o note_n be_v to_o be_v find_v therefore_o we_o be_v not_o tie_v in_o conscience_n to_o a_o strict_a imitation_n of_o his_o example_n a_o few_o instance_n will_v clear_v this_o point_n our_o lord_n be_v not_o baptise_a till_o 23._o luke_n 3._o 23._o he_o be_v about_o thirty_o year_n of_o age_n but_o this_o example_n be_v not_o esteem_v by_o the_o generality_n of_o dissenter_n a_o law_n or_o warrant_n for_o we_o to_o defer_v our_o baptism_n so_o long_o so_o he_o institute_v the_o sacrament_n a_o little_a before_o his_o death_n but_o be_v there_o no_o obligation_n upon_o we_o to_o receive_v it_o but_o when_o we_o be_v near_o our_o grave_n and_o under_o a_o prospect_n of_o death_n he_o also_o institute_v and_o administer_v the_o sacrament_n after_o a_o full_a meal_n in_o a_o upper_a room_n to_o man_n only_o do_v his_o bare_a example_n oblige_v we_o to_o observe_v punctual_o all_o these_o circumstance_n or_o no_o if_o it_o do_v why_o do_v our_o brethren_n of_o the_o separation_n take_v the_o liberty_n to_o depart_v from_o his_o example_n in_o these_o thing_n if_o his_o example_n lay_v no_o necessity_n upon_o we_o to_o follow_v it_o in_o these_o particular_n how_o do_v sit_v become_v necessary_a bare_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o his_o example_n i_o desire_v they_o therefore_o serious_o and_o impartial_o to_o examine_v this_o matter_n and_o see_v if_o they_o can_v assign_v any_o reason_n for_o this_o liberty_n they_o take_v of_o follow_v the_o example_n of_o our_o saviour_n in_o some_o thing_n and_o not_o in_o other_o where_o there_o be_v no_o other_o rule_n to_o guide_v they_o i_o believe_v they_o will_v be_v constrain_v to_o do_v one_o of_o these_o two_o thing_n either_o to_o withdraw_v their_o suit_n against_o kneel_v and_o quit_v their_o own_o principle_n or_o condemn_v their_o own_o practice_n as_o shameful_o repugnant_a to_o it_o 2._o the_o bare_a example_n of_o christ_n be_v no_o warrant_n for_o we_o to_o act_v by_o because_o the_o great_a end_n and_o usefulness_n of_o that_o glorious_a example_n he_o leave_v we_o consist_v in_o this_o viz._n that_o it_o show_v the_o possibility_n and_o clear_v up_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o law_n and_o excite_v and_o encourage_v we_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o they_o it_o put_v the_o rule_n into_o activity_n and_o set_v it_o forth_o to_o the_o life_n it_o be_v to_o our_o life_n as_o exhortation_n be_v to_o doctrine_n it_o thrust_v we_o forward_o to_o do_v that_o which_o we_o be_v oblige_v in_o conscience_n to_o do_v before_o whatsoever_o our_o lord_n have_v command_v we_o to_o do_v in_o that_o only_o we_o be_v necessary_o bind_v to_o imitate_v he_o but_o where_o there_o be_v no_o precept_n there_o be_v no_o necessity_n we_o may_v do_v it_o if_o we_o will_v and_o if_o we_o can_v innocent_o as_o in_o the_o case_n of_o a_o single_a life_n but_o we_o be_v not_o under_o constraint_n and_o a_o indispensable_a obligation_n he_o have_v command_v we_o to_o be_v meek_a and_o lowly_a to_o be_v just_a and_o merciful_a to_o be_v patient_n under_o all_o our_o trouble_n and_o affliction_n to_o follow_v peace_n with_o all_o man_n to_o be_v ever_o content_v and_o resign_v to_o the_o will_n of_o our_o heavenly_a father_n in_o all_o state_n and_o condition_n of_o life_n and_o the_o life_n and_o in_o all_o these_o thing_n he_o become_v a_o example_n to_o we_o that_o we_o may_v follow_v his_o step_n he_o command_v we_o to_o do_v what_o he_o perform_v himself_o and_o that_o which_o we_o be_v concern_v in_o if_o we_o will_v walk_v sure_o be_v first_o to_o look_v for_o our_o rule_n and_o then_o for_o our_o encouragement_n to_o look_v unto_o jesus_n the_o author_n and_o finisher_n of_o our_o faith_n it_o be_v true_a indeed_o we_o be_v command_v in_o scripture_n to_o follow_v the_o example_n of_o the_o apostle_n so_o far_o forth_o as_o they_o follow_v christ_n and_o the_o example_n of_o our_o lord_n be_v make_v the_o touchstone_n to_o try_v all_o other_o by_o but_o than_o if_o we_o will_v know_v what_o be_v out_o duty_n we_o must_v bring_v his_o example_n to_o the_o rule_n for_o as_o to_o preach_v christ_n and_o to_o preach_v the_o gospel_n to_o obey_v christ_n and_o obey_v the_o 6._o 1_o cor._n 11._o 1._o act_n 5._o 42._o act_n 11._o 20._o marc._n 16._o 15._o heb._n 5._o 9_o 2_o thess_n 1._o 8._o col._n 2._o 6._o gospel_n be_v phrase_n of_o alike_a import_n it_o scripture_n so_o in_o like_a manner_n to_o follow_v christ_n be_v all_o one_o with_o follow_v the_o gospel-rule_n or_o do_v as_o christ_n do_v in_o obedience_n to_o his_o command_n the_o sum_n of_o all_o be_v this_o a_o example_n may_v help_v to_o interpret_v a_o law_n but_o of_o itself_o it_o be_v no_o law_n against_o a_o rule_n no_o example_n be_v a_o competent_a warrant_n and_o if_o the_o example_n be_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n it_o be_v not_o the_o example_n but_o the_o rule_n that_o be_v the_o measure_n of_o our_o action_n 3._o the_o bare_a example_n of_o christ_n be_v no_o warrant_n for_o we_o to_o go_v by_o because_o he_o be_v a_o extraordinary_a person_n and_o do_v many_o thing_n which_o we_o can_v and_o many_o which_o we_o must_v not_o do_v he_o fast_v 40_o day_n and_o 40_o night_n and_o spend_v whole_a night_n in_o prayer_n he_o wrought_v many_o miracle_n to_o prove_v the_o truth_n of_o his_o doctrine_n and_o his_o divine_a authority_n by_o that_o he_o be_v the_o messiah_n the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o saviour_n of_o mankind_n he_o be_v a_o prophetical_a priest_n by_o which_o office_n he_o be_v oblige_v to_o teach_v we_o the_o whole_a mind_n of_o god_n in_o all_o thing_n necessary_a to_o faith_n and_o salvation_n and_o to_o offer_v up_o himself_o as_o a_o propitiatory_a sacrifice_n for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o world_n nothing_o we_o shall_v quick_o experiment_n will_v be_v more_o vain_a and_o foolish_a than_o attempt_n of_o a_o imitation_n in_o some_o thing_n and_o nothing_o more_o wicked_a than_o to_o think_v and_o believe_v we_o may_v and_o aught_o to_o follow_v his_o example_n in_o other_o to_o die_v to_o sin_n and_o crucify_v the_o flesh_n with_o its_o affection_n and_o lust_n be_v a_o good_a way_n as_o the_o scripture_n teach_v and_o warrant_v of_o imitate_v our_o lord_n death_n in_o a_o spiritual_a sense_n so_o to_o die_v rather_o than_o deny_v the_o faith_n and_o dishonour_v our_o saviour_n be_v great_a and_o praiseworthy_a but_o to_o die_v for_o sin_n either_o our_o own_o or_o other_o man_n to_o propose_v a_o meritorious_a death_n to_o ourselves_o and_o by_o way_n of_o expiation_n be_v a_o sin_n of_o so_o deep_a a_o stain_n that_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n
terrible_a mystery_n the_o royal_a spiritual_n holy_a formidable_a tremendous_a table_n the_o bread_n and_o wine_n after_o consecration_n be_v in_o their_o language_n call_v the_o most_o mysterious_a most_o holy_a food_n and_o nutriment_n the_o most_o holy_a thing_n and_o the_o place_n where_o the_o table_n stand_v the_o most_o holy_a part_n of_o the_o temple_n in_o allusion_n to_o that_o of_o the_o jewish_a temple_n to_o which_o the_o jew_n pay_v the_o high_a reverence_n the_o bread_n in_o particular_a they_o style_v the_o bread_n of_o god_n the_o cup_n the_o holy_a and_o mysterious_a the_o royal_a and_o dreadful_a cup._n the_o primitive_a bishop_n and_o holy_a father_n advise_v the_o communicant_n to_o reverence_n these_o holy_a mystery_n to_o come_v with_o fear_n and_o tremble_v with_o sorrow_n and_o shame_n with_o silence_n and_o downcast_a eye_n to_o keep_v their_o joy_n within_o and_o to_o approach_v the_o table_n with_o all_o the_o sign_n and_o expression_n of_o reverence_n and_o humility_n imaginable_a how_o can_v these_o speech_n consist_v with_o that_o social_n familiar_a carriage_n at_o the_o sacrament_n which_o the_o patron_n of_o the_o table-gesture_n contend_v for_o as_o the_o privilege_n of_o guest_n and_o the_o prerogative_n of_o the_o lord_n table_n for_o a_o conclusion_n of_o this_o whole_a matter_n i_o desire_v our_o nonconform_a brethren_n serious_o to_o consider_v two_o or_o three_o question_n which_o i_o shall_v propound_v to_o they_o and_o endeavour_v to_o frame_v a_o honest_a and_o impartial_a answer_n as_o in_o the_o presence_n of_o god_n who_o search_v our_o heart_n and_o tri_v our_o reins_o they_o be_v not_o of_o a_o captious_a nature_n start_v to_o puzzle_v the_o cause_n or_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o contention_n god_n know_v my_o heart_n i_o have_v no_o such_o design_n through_o this_o whole_a discourse_n but_o they_o be_v plain_a and_o easy_a to_o be_v resolve_v almost_o at_o first_o sight_n qu._n i._o whether_o of_o two_o or_o three_o gesture_n which_o be_v all_o agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o sacrament_n any_o one_o be_v not_o to_o be_v choose_v and_o use_v by_o we_o when_o we_o can_v use_v another_o without_o break_v the_o peace_n and_o unity_n of_o that_o church_n wherein_o we_o live_v qu._n ii_o whether_o it_o can_v consist_v with_o piety_n or_o prudence_n to_o expose_v yourselves_o and_o family_n to_o danger_n and_o the_o lash_n of_o the_o law_n when_o nothing_o be_v command_v but_o what_o be_v consistent_a with_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o sacrament_n though_o not_o to_o your_o fancy_n and_o desire_n qu._n iii_o whether_o we_o be_v not_o as_o christian_n oblige_v by_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o the_o example_n of_o our_o saviour_n to_o deny_v ourselves_o many_o thing_n that_o be_v otherwise_o lawful_a for_o we_o 8._o rom._n 15._o 2._o 3_o 8._o to_o do_v and_o use_v and_o be_v high_o please_v and_o grateful_a to_o we_o for_o the_o good_a and_o edification_n of_o our_o neighbour_n if_o so_o how_o much_o more_o when_o the_o public_a good_a and_o welfare_n of_o both_o church_n and_o state_n depend_v upon_o such_o self-denial_n qu._n iu._n whether_o it_o be_v pious_o do_v of_o you_o to_o choose_v never_o to_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n and_o so_o deprieve_v yourselves_o of_o the_o spiritual_a benefit_n of_o that_o heavenly_a feast_n rather_o than_o part_v with_o a_o civil_a circumstance_n such_o as_o a_o table-gesture_n be_v it_o be_v the_o custom_n of_o our_o country_n to_o sit_v at_o feast_n but_o few_o man_n be_v so_o mad_a as_o to_o refuse_v to_o eat_v stand_v and_o go_v hungry_a away_o when_o they_o have_v no_o room_n to_o sit_v down_o why_o shall_v we_o not_o be_v as_o prudent_a at_o this_o spiritual_a feast_n in_o the_o concern_v of_o our_o soul_n as_o we_o be_v in_o those_o of_o our_o body_n put_v the_o case_n we_o be_v strict_o prohibit_v by_o the_o law_n of_o the_o land_n the_o use_n of_o a_o table_n or_o a_o tablecloth_n at_o this_o holy_a feast_n and_o we_o can_v not_o receive_v with_o that_o convenience_n as_o now_o we_o may_v will_v you_o end_v your_o day_n in_o a_o continual_a refusal_n and_o never_o receive_v the_o sacrament_n i_o do_v know_v how_o far_o passion_n and_o prejudice_n and_o the_o heat_n of_o disputation_n may_v blind_v and_o transport_v man_n but_o if_o they_o will_v calm_o consider_v this_o matter_n and_o hearken_v to_o reason_n they_o will_v find_v nothing_o to_o justify_v the_o total_a neglect_n of_o this_o ordinance_n by_o i_o be_o very_o apt_a to_o think_v they_o will_v be_v of_o my_o mind_n for_o i_o declare_v to_o all_o the_o world_n rather_o than_o not_o receive_v at_o all_o the_o comfortable_a sacrament_n of_o our_o bless_a saviour_n body_n and_o blood_n i_o will_v receive_v it_o on_o a_o tombstone_n on_o the_o ground_n in_o a_o church_n or_o in_o a_o field_n if_o all_o other_o thing_n that_o be_v essential_a to_o it_o be_v right_o observe_v and_o perform_v if_o any_o of_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n shall_v upon_o this_o question_n think_v as_o i_o do_v viz._n that_o there_o be_v no_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o a_o table_n in_o this_o case_n which_o the_o custom_n of_o our_o country_n require_v at_o ordinary_a feast_n he_o will_v also_o at_o the_o same_o time_n see_v there_o be_v no_o absolute_a necessity_n of_o a_o table-gesture_n and_o that_o we_o may_v receive_v worthy_o without_o either_o the_o one_o or_o the_o other_o finis_fw-la book_n print_v for_o fincham_n gardiner_z 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 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 some_o consideration_n about_o the_o case_n of_o scandal_n or_o give_v offence_n to_o weak_a brethren_n 15._o the_o case_n of_o infant-baptism_n in_o five_o question_n etc._n etc._n 16._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 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 some_o seasonable_a reflection_n on_o the_o discovery_n of_o the_o late_a plot_n be_v a_o sermon_n preach_v on_o that_o occasion_n by_o w._n sherlock_n d._n d._n rector_n of_o st._n george_n buttolph-lane_n london_n king_n david_n deliverance_n or_o the_o conspiracy_n of_o absalon_n and_o achitophel_n defeat_v in_o a_o sermon_n preach_v on_o the_o day_n of_o thanksgiving_n appoint_v for_o the_o discovery_n of_o the_o late_a fanatical_a plot._n by_o thomas_n long_o b._n d._n one_o of_o the_o
to_o idolatry_n but_o here_o a_o few_o thing_n must_v be_v premise_v to_o prevent_v cavil_n and_o mistake_v 1._o i_o take_v it_o for_o grant_v that_o indifferent_a thing_n may_v be_v lawful_o thing_n see_v the_o case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n use_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n this_o be_v suppose_v in_o the_o present_a question_n for_o otherwise_o it_o will_v be_v sinful_a in_o we_o to_o kneel_v whether_o that_o gesture_n have_v be_v ever_o use_v or_o abuse_v by_o idolater_n or_o no._n 2._o i_o grant_v that_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n be_v to_o be_v preserve_v pure_a 443._o see_v dr._n fal._n lib._n eccles_n p._n 443._o from_o all_o sinful_a mixture_n and_o defilement_n whatsoever_o whether_o of_o idolatry_n or_o superstition_n and_o that_o thing_n otherwise_o indifferent_a which_o either_o in_o the_o design_n of_o they_o that_o use_v they_o or_o in_o their_o own_o present_a tendency_n do_v direct_o promote_v or_o propagate_v such_o corruption_n do_v in_o that_o case_n become_v thing_n unlawful_a to_o follow_v idolater_n in_o what_o they_o think_v or_o do_v amiss_o to_o follow_v they_o general_o in_o what_o they_o do_v without_o other_o reason_n than_o only_o the_o like_n we_o have_v to_o the_o pattern_n of_o their_o example_n which_o like_v do_v intimate_v a_o more_o universal_a approbation_n than_o be_v allowable_a in_o these_o case_n i_o think_v with_o the_o reverend_n mr._n hooker_n conformity_n 165._o hook_n ecles_n pol._n l._n 4._o p._n 165._o with_o idolater_n be_v evil_a and_o blame-worthy_a in_o any_o christian_a church_n but_o except_v these_o case_n it_o be_v not_o sinful_a or_o blame-worthy_a in_o any_o society_n of_o christian_n to_o agree_v with_o idolater_n in_o opinion_n or_o practice_n and_o to_o use_v the_o same_o rite_n which_o they_o abuse_v and_o consequent_o our_o church_n be_v not_o to_o be_v blame_v or_o charge_v with_o idolatry_n for_o her_o agreement_n with_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n in_o use_v the_o same_o ceremony_n unless_o it_o can_v be_v prove_v that_o the_o church_n of_o england_n do_v abuse_v the_o say_a ceremony_n to_o sinful_a end_n or_o that_o the_o ceremony_n use_v and_o appoint_v by_o our_o church_n natural_o tend_v to_o promote_v the_o corruption_n practise_v in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o be_v ill_o design_v or_o that_o she_o do_v not_o follow_v the_o general_a rule_n of_o god_n word_n the_o direction_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o appoint_v and_o enjoin_v the_o use_n of_o ceremony_n as_o be_v godly_a comely_a profitable_a but_o overlook_v all_o this_o have_v a_o eye_n pure_o to_o the_o example_n of_o idolatrous_a papist_n in_o what_o they_o do_v amiss_o now_o this_o i_o be_o sure_a can_v never_o be_v make_v good_a against_o our_o church_n who_o have_v sufficient_o vindicate_v herself_o by_o the_o open_a declaration_n she_o have_v print_v to_o the_o world_n from_o all_o accusation_n of_o this_o nature_n let_v but_o any_o man_n consult_v the_o article_n of_o religion_n 18._o art_n 20._o art_n 34._o canon_n 18._o the_o preface_n to_o the_o book_n of_o common-prayer_n just_a after_o the_o act_n of_o uniformity_n the_o two_o excellent_a discourse_n that_o follow_v it_o concen_v the_o service_n of_o the_o church_n and_o ceremony_n and_o the_o reason_n she_o have_v publish_v at_o the_o end_n of_o the_o communion-service_n for_o enjoin_v her_o communicant_n to_o receive_v kneel_v i_o say_v let_v any_o man_n peruse_v these_o and_o he_o will_v receive_v ample_a satisfaction_n that_o our_o governor_n in_o church_n and_o state_n in_o appoint_v the_o use_n of_o ceremony_n do_v not_o steer_v by_o the_o example_n of_o idolater_n nor_o enjoin_v they_o out_o of_o any_o ill_a design_n or_o to_o any_o ill_a end_n but_o be_v conduct_v by_o the_o light_n of_o god_n word_n the_o rule_n of_o prudence_n and_o charity_n the_o example_n of_o the_o holy_a apostle_n and_o the_o practice_n of_o pure_a antiquity_n these_o thing_n be_v premise_v i_o proceed_v to_o prove_v this_o assertion_n that_o it_o be_v not_o sinful_a to_o use_v such_o thing_n and_o rite_n as_o either_o have_v be_v or_o be_v notorious_o abuse_v to_o idolatry_n or_o which_o be_v all_o one_o that_o to_o kneel_v in_o the_o act_n of_o receive_v according_a to_o the_o custom_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n be_v not_o therefore_o sinful_a because_o it_o have_v be_v and_o be_v notorious_o abuse_v to_o idolatry_n for_o these_o reason_n 1._o in_o general_n no_o abuse_n of_o any_o gesture_n though_o it_o be_v in_o the_o most_o manifest_a idolatry_n do_v render_v that_o gesture_n simple_o evil_a and_o for_o ever_o after_o unlawful_a to_o be_v use_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n upon_o that_o account_n for_o the_o abuse_n of_o a_o thing_n suppose_v the_o lawful_a use_n of_o it_o and_o if_o any_o thing_n otherwise_o lawful_a become_v sinful_a by_o a_o abuse_n of_o it_o then_o it_o be_v plain_a that_o it_o be_v not_o in_o its_o own_o nature_n sinful_a but_o by_o accident_n and_o with_o respect_n to_o somewhat_o else_o this_o be_v clear_a from_o scripture_n for_o if_o rite_n and_o ceremony_n after_o they_o have_v be_v abuse_v by_o idolater_n become_v absolute_o evil_a and_o unlawful_a to_o be_v use_v at_o all_o than_o the_o jew_n sin_v in_o offer_v sacrifice_n erect_v altar_n burn_a incense_n to_o the_o god_n of_o heaven_n bow_v down_o themselves_o before_o he_o wearing_z a_o linen_n garment_n in_o the_o time_n of_o divine_a worship_n and_o observe_v other_o thing_n and_o rite_n which_o the_o heathen_n observe_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o their_o false_a go_n no_o say_v the_o dissenter_n we_o except_v all_o such_o rite_n as_o be_v command_v or_o approve_v of_o by_o god_n and_o such_o be_v all_o those_o forementioned_a but_o say_v i_o it_o be_v a_o silly_a exception_n and_o avail_v nothing_o for_o if_o the_o abuse_n of_o a_o thing_n to_o idolatry_n make_v it_o absolute_o sinful_a and_o unlawful_a to_o be_v use_v at_o all_o then_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o destroy_v that_o relation_n and_o what_o have_v be_v once_o abuse_v must_v ever_o remain_v so_o that_o be_v a_o infinite_a power_n can_v undo_v what_o have_v be_v do_v and_o clear_v it_o from_o ever_o have_v be_v abuse_v and_o therefore_o i_o conclude_v from_o the_o command_n and_o approbation_n of_o god_n that_o a_o bare_a conformity_n with_o idolater_n in_o use_v those_o rite_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o the_o true_a god_n which_o they_o practice_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o idol_n be_v not_o simple_o sinful_a or_o formal_a idolatry_n for_o if_o it_o have_v god_n have_v oblige_v the_o child_n of_o israel_n by_o his_o express_a command_n to_o commit_v sin_n and_o to_o do_v what_o he_o strict_o and_o severe_o prohibit_v in_o other_o place_n in_o truth_n such_o a_o position_n will_v plain_o make_v god_n the_o author_n of_o sin_n 2._o this_o position_n that_o the_o idolatrous_a abuse_n of_o any_o thing_n render_v the_o use_n of_o it_o sinful_a to_o all_o that_o know_v it_o be_v attend_v with_o very_o mischievous_a consequence_n and_o effect_n first_o it_o intrench_v great_o upon_o christian_a liberty_n as_o dear_a to_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n as_o the_o apple_n of_o their_o eye_n and_o i_o wonder_v they_o be_v not_o sensible_a of_o it_o at_o other_o time_n they_o affirm_v that_o no_o earthly_a power_n can_v right_o restrain_v the_o use_n of_o those_o thing_n which_o god_n have_v leave_v free_a and_o indifferent_a and_o that_o those_o thing_n which_o otherwise_o be_v lawful_a become_v sinful_a when_o impose_v and_o enjoin_v by_o lawful_a authority_n and_o yet_o these_o very_a man_n give_v that_o power_n to_o stranger_n both_o heathen_n and_o papist_n which_o they_o take_v away_o from_o their_o own_o rightful_a prince_n and_o lawful_a superior_n a_o idolater_n may_v yoke_v they_o when_o a_o protestant_a prince_n must_v not_o touch_v they_o and_o what_o more_o heavy_a and_o intolerable_a yoke_n can_v be_v clap_v on_o our_o neck_n than_o this_o that_o another_o man_n abuse_n of_o any_o thing_n to_o idolatry_n though_o in_o its_o own_o nature_n indifferent_a and_o leave_v free_a by_o god_n render_v the_o use_n of_o it_o sinful_a whether_o this_o be_v not_o a_o violation_n of_o christian_a liberty_n let_v st._n paul_n determine_v who_o tell_v we_o that_o to_o the_o pure_a all_o thing_n be_v pure_a and_o affirm_v it_o lawful_a to_o eat_v of_o such_o thing_n as_o have_v be_v offer_v to_o idol_n and_o to_o eat_v whatsoever_o be_v 29._o 1_o cor._n 10._o 25_o 27_o 28_o 29._o sell_v in_o the_o shambles_n and_o what_o reason_n be_v there_o why_o a_o gesture_n shall_v be_v more_o defile_v by_o idolater_n than_o meat_n which_o they_o have_v offer_v up_o in_o sacrifice_n to_o idol_n and_o why_o shall_v one_o be_v sinful_a and_o idolatrous_a to_o use_v and_o not_o the_o other_o certain_o st._n paul_n will_v never_o have_v grant_v they_o
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 any_o of_o our_o dissent_v brethren_n shall_v receive_v thus_o much_o satisfaction_n from_o what_o i_o have_v write_v that_o by_o kneel_v in_o the_o act_n of_o receive_v they_o transgress_v no_o know_a law_n of_o god_n nor_o act_v contrary_a to_o our_o bless_a saviour_n example_n that_o they_o do_v nothing_o but_o what_o become_v they_o and_o be_v very_o suitable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n nothing_o but_o what_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o universal_a church_n in_o the_o first_o and_o pure_a age_n i_o do_v see_v what_o other_o scruple_n about_o kneel_v shall_v block_n up_o their_o way_n to_o the_o lord_n table_n and_o hinder_v they_o from_o communicate_v with_o we_o there_o be_v a_o sort_n of_o man_n i_o confess_v who_o separate_v from_o our_o church_n upon_o who_o i_o despair_v of_o do_v good_a by_o any_o attempt_n of_o this_o nature_n and_o they_o be_v such_o who_o scruple_n arise_v from_o a_o vicious_a principle_n not_o from_o the_o 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
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 our_o heart_n and_o life_n i_o do_v not_o pronounce_v this_o to_o be_v the_o case_n of_o those_o who_o object_n to_o we_o that_o we_o have_v a_o unprofitable_a ministry_n but_o i_o doubt_v not_o to_o demonstrate_v that_o the_o sermon_n which_o be_v general_o preach_v by_o the_o ministry_n in_o this_o city_n to_o who_o inhabitant_n i_o principal_o write_v be_v such_o that_o they_o may_v profit_v by_o they_o if_o it_o be_v not_o their_o own_o fault_n and_o then_o leave_v they_o to_o judge_n of_o themselves_o as_o they_o see_v cause_n i_o suppose_v we_o be_v all_o agree_v or_o may_v easy_o agree_v what_o it_o be_v to_o profit_v by_o sermon_n for_o we_o agree_v that_o the_o holy_a scripture_n contain_v all_o thing_n necessary_a to_o our_o salvation_n and_o therefore_o when_o they_o be_v right_o open_v and_o due_o apply_v in_o a_o sermon_n so_o that_o the_o hearer_n improve_v either_o in_o christian_a knowledge_n or_o in_o faith_n or_o in_o well-doing_n than_o they_o profit_v by_o that_o sermon_n now_o if_o any_o man_n do_v not_o improve_v in_o these_o by_o the_o help_n of_o the_o sermon_n which_o he_o may_v hear_v in_o our_o church_n and_o the_o fault_n lie_v in_o the_o sermon_n it_o must_v be_v either_o in_o the_o matter_n of_o it_o or_o in_o the_o manner_n for_o none_o i_o presume_v will_v be_v so_o bold_a as_o to_o affirm_v that_o god_n spirit_n do_v not_o accompany_v a_o sermon_n which_o want_v nothing_o belong_v to_o either_o of_o these_o the_o preacher_n also_o be_v due_o qualify_v and_o thanks_o be_v to_o god_n there_o be_v none_o that_o dare_v now_o complain_v of_o a_o idle_a scandalous_a insufficient_a ministry_n about_o this_o city_n but_o instead_o of_o that_o they_o that_o be_v wont_a to_o have_v those_o word_n in_o their_o mouth_n have_v take_v up_o the_o complaint_n of_o a_o unedifying_a whereby_o we_o have_v gain_v this_o great_a point_n that_o they_o have_v no_o colour_n to_o pretend_v the_o person_n who_o preach_v be_v unsanctified_a and_o therefore_o god_n do_v not_o bless_v his_o ministry_n but_o the_o fault_n must_v lie_v if_o there_o be_v any_o in_o the_o sermon_n itself_o and_o that_o in_o the_o matter_n of_o which_o it_o consist_v or_o in_o the_o manner_n of_o its_o delivery_n i._o and_o as_o for_o the_o former_a of_o these_o i_o can_v scarce_o think_v that_o any_o dissenter_n when_o he_o serious_o consider_v will_v except_v against_o our_o sermon_n upon_o that_o account_n they_o be_v take_v out_o of_o the_o holy_a scripture_n which_o be_v the_o foundation_n of_o our_o religion_n and_o with_o such_o care_n to_o find_v out_o their_o true_a sense_n and_o proper_a meaning_n that_o perhaps_o they_o be_v never_o more_o clear_o open_v and_o right_o apply_v than_o they_o be_v now_o adays_o in_o our_o church_n i_o be_o sure_a all_o that_o heavenly_a truth_n which_o be_v deliver_v to_o our_o first_o parent_n when_o they_o be_v about_o to_o be_v expel_v out_o of_o paradise_n which_o god_n repeat_v in_o his_o promise_n to_o abraham_n 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 separation_n yet_o even_o these_o be_v not_o so_o often_o treat_v of_o as_o matter_n of_o general_a concernment_n to_o all_o party_n of_o christian_n whatsoever_o for_o the_o great_a drift_n of_o our_o preacher_n seem_v to_o be_v to_o instruct_v the_o people_n in_o the_o truth_n and_o to_o make_v they_o good_a particular_o to_o give_v they_o right_a notion_n of_o god_n which_o be_v the_o very_a bottom_n of_o all_o religion_n know_v that_o error_n and_o superstition_n will_v fall_v of_o themselves_o without_o a_o particular_a confutation_n for_o they_o be_v support_v by_o nothing_o but_o ignorance_n and_o naughty_a affection_n which_o will_v uphold_v they_o against_o all_o the_o argument_n whereby_o they_o can_v be_v assault_v unless_o man_n mind_n be_v inform_v and_o possess_v with_o such_o a_o right_a sense_n of_o thing_n as_o alter_v their_o will_n and_o affection_n and_o turn_v they_o to_o a_o unfeigned_a love_n of_o god_n and_o goodness_n which_o seem_v to_o i_o to_o be_v the_o 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