&_o roman_n such_o as_o pythagoras_n socrates_n plato_n epicâ—etus_n cicero_n seneca_n nor_o as_o those_o of_o late_a date_n plutarch_n porphyry_n hierocles_n jamblicus_n but_o as_o that_o one_o sacrifice_n abolish_v the_o typical_a yet_o divine_o institute_v sacrifice_n much_o more_o those_o mock-sacrifice_n that_o there_o be_v no_o such_o now_o in_o the_o more_o famous_a religion_n in_o the_o world_n as_o divine_a oracle_n and_o prophecy_n absolve_v and_o finish_v in_o christ_n and_o the_o apostle_n silence_v all_o those_o fallacious_a one_o from_o below_o so_o the_o resplendent_a light_n of_o natural_a religion_n in_o the_o gospel-revelation_n since_o its_o prevalency_n in_o the_o world_n and_o that_o it_o be_v become_v the_o religion_n of_o nation_n seem_v to_o have_v dazzle_v natural_a reason_n that_o there_o be_v not_o the_o appearance_n of_o it_o as_o in_o former_a age_n but_o a_o kind_n of_o barbarity_n have_v invade_v as_o a_o thick_a darkness_n the_o world_n out_o of_o the_o goshen_n of_o christianity_n while_o the_o jew_n trust_v to_o the_o letter_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n not_o 15._o 2_o cor._n 3._o 15._o yet_o unveil_v to_o they_o in_o its_o glory_n and_o further_o obscure_v by_o rabbinick_n dotage_n and_o mahometan_n to_o the_o spite-prophet_n and_o his_o senseless_a koran_n set_v up_o by_o satan_n and_o permit_v by_o divine_a justice_n in_o opposition_n to_o the_o only_a true_a prophet_n the_o lord_n of_o life_n and_o glory_n and_o his_o everlasting_a gospel_n all_o beside_o these_o lie_v obscure_a and_o at_o a_o distance_n from_o we_o in_o a_o manner_n like_o a_o terra_fw-la incognita_fw-la in_o reason_n and_o religion_n have_v only_o some_o relational_a glimpse_n no_o body_n of_o their_o discourse_n in_o either_o a_o great_a argument_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o christian_a religion_n that_o have_v draw_v up_o all_o rational_a religion_n reason_n and_o learn_v within_o itself_o and_o under_o its_o own_o horizon_n for_o though_o for_o a_o time_n it_o please_v god_n to_o allow_v the_o notable_a effort_n of_o that_o sort_n of_o learning_n and_o in_o opposition_n to_o christianity_n one_o of_o his_o unsearchable_a judgement_n as_o in_o porphyry_n and_o hierocles_n yet_o be_v vanquish_v by_o the_o great_a light_n of_o the_o gospel_n since_o the_o day_n of_o constantine_n it_o have_v never_o rise_v in_o any_o other_o part_n of_o the_o world_n unchristianize_v to_o appear_v with_o any_o remarkable_a strength_n but_o all_o this_o do_v not_o diminish_v so_o much_o from_o natural_a religion_n as_o it_o bring_v it_o into_o question_n whether_o there_o be_v now_o such_o a_o thing_n in_o the_o world_n as_o natural_a religion_n without_o christianity_n nay_o indeed_o it_o may_v be_v doubt_v whether_o notwithstanding_o or_o even_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o those_o great_a name_n i_o just_a now_o record_v who_o be_v but_o a_o sort_n of_o parelian_a light_n to_o the_o true_a light_n of_o natural_a religion_n whether_o there_o be_v ever_o such_o a_o true_a copy_n of_o it_o as_o that_o of_o the_o book_n of_o job_n in_o any_o man_n heart_n life_n or_o writing_n that_o be_v without_o the_o help_n of_o divine_a illumination_n and_o yet_o natural_a religion_n be_v never_o the_o less_o natural_a nor_o the_o less_o feel_v and_o acknowledge_v to_o be_v so_o when_o beside_o such_o a_o proportion_n as_o be_v always_o ready_a to_o man_n not_o degenerate_a into_o beast_n be_v so_o preserve_v by_o god_n that_o he_o may_v not_o leave_v himself_o without_o witness_n nor_o man_n without_o 17._o luk._n 15._o 17._o mean_n in_o order_n to_o their_o conversion_n and_o recovery_n when_o i_o say_v beside_o this_o god_n restore_v to_o any_o man_n or_o number_n of_o man_n the_o perfection_n of_o it_o by_o his_o word_n or_o by_o particular_a illumination_n of_o his_o mind_n it_o be_v not_o the_o less_o natural_a even_o as_o the_o prodigal_n self_n he_o come_v to_o be_v not_o the_o less_o natural_a self_n because_o he_o have_v be_v so_o long_o a_o fugitive_n from_o it_o and_o it_o become_v necessary_a to_o he_o to_o be_v so_o restore_v so_o no_o less_o be_v natural_a religion_n natural_a because_o it_o be_v return_v by_o revelation_n after_o be_v lose_v and_o this_o carry_v the_o great_a use_n indeed_o of_o natural_a religion_n that_o whether_o it_o be_v that_o part_n of_o it_o by_o general_a providence_n preserve_v to_o the_o generality_n of_o man_n or_o by_o ordinary_a mean_n improve_v or_o whether_o by_o divine_a illumination_n and_o revelation_n it_o be_v give_v as_o it_o be_v anew_o yet_o we_o still_o find_v it_o natural_a and_o as_o it_o be_v our_o own_o proper_o belong_v to_o our_o nature_n and_o it_o come_v to_o we_o as_o by_o way_n of_o reminiscency_n of_o what_o we_o have_v once_o but_o have_v lose_v thus_o all_o the_o end_n of_o the_o earth_n 27._o psal_n 22._o 27._o shall_v remember_v and_o turn_v to_o the_o lord_n and_o as_o i_o have_v now_o state_v thing_n that_o which_o may_v seem_v a_o great_a objection_n against_o what_o i_o have_v discourse_v of_o natural_a religion_n will_v be_v more_o easy_o reconcile_v and_o it_o be_v take_v out_o of_o those_o place_n of_o the_o apostle_n john_n first_o what_o he_o record_v in_o his_o gospel_n that_o our_o saviour_n say_v he_o that_o honour_v not_o the_o son_n honour_v not_o the_o father_n that_o 10._o joh._n 5._o 23._o 1_o joh._n 2._o 23._o 2_o joh._n 9_o 10._o send_v he_o and_o in_o his_o epistle_n whoever_o deni_v the_o son_n have_v not_o the_o father_n and_o in_o his_o second_o epistle_n whoever_o transgress_v and_o abide_v not_o in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n have_v not_o god_n and_o if_o any_o man_n come_v and_o bring_v not_o this_o doctrine_n receive_v he_o not_o into_o your_o house_n neither_o bid_v he_o god_n speed_n for_o he_o that_o bid_v he_o god_n speed_n be_v partaker_n of_o his_o evil_a deed_n by_o all_o these_o say_n lay_v together_o it_o seem_v undeniable_a that_o even_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o that_o first_o and_o great_a principle_n of_o natural_a religion_n the_o believe_v in_o and_o adore_v the_o one_o god_n be_v make_v of_o no_o value_n by_o not_o acknowledge_v honour_v and_o believe_v in_o christ_n the_o son_n which_o be_v the_o principal_a point_n of_o divine_a revelation_n for_o the_o settle_n therefore_o this_o doubt_n these_o three_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v 1._o that_o after_o due_a instruction_n and_o explanation_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n it_o be_v as_o i_o have_v say_v so_o unite_v with_o natural_a religion_n that_o who_o ever_o have_v that_o in_o sincerity_n be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d set_v in_o a_o posture_n ready_a to_o receive_v and_o believe_v christianity_n so_o that_o if_o any_o one_o upon_o instruction_n commensurate_a to_o the_o understanding_n christian_n religion_n do_v not_o receive_v it_o he_o have_v not_o god_n he_o have_v not_o true_a natural_a religion_n in_o that_o fundamental_a point_n especial_o if_o he_o have_v have_v the_o preparation_n of_o divine_a revelation_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n as_o the_o jew_n to_o who_o these_o word_n be_v especial_o direct_v have_v yet_o still_o i_o suppose_v this_o case_n reserve_v to_o divine_a judgement_n and_o not_o to_o humane_a nor_o that_o such_o a_o unbeliever_n may_v be_v deal_v with_o by_o man_n or_o by_o magistratical_a authority_n as_o a_o atheist_n man_n can_v only_o deal_v with_o he_o by_o remonstrance_n out_o of_o scripture_n and_o reason_n flow_v from_o it_o 2._o the_o severity_n of_o the_o apostle_n have_v great_a force_n upon_o those_o who_o have_v receive_v christianity_n apostatise_v from_o it_o transgress_v and_o not_o abide_v in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n for_o it_o be_v most_o certain_a in_o the_o thing_n itself_o they_o have_v not_o nor_o can_v have_v natural_a religion_n that_o prove_v apostate_n from_o christianity_n understand_v so_o intimate_v to_o it_o 3._o this_o have_v yet_o much_o great_a force_n upon_o those_o who_o the_o apostle_n seem_v especial_o in_o his_o epistle_n to_o intend_v those_o who_o come_v with_o a_o high_a pretention_n of_o a_o extraordinary_a spirit_n of_o a_o immediate_a doctrine_n from_o heaven_n and_o yet_o bring_v not_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n for_o there_o be_v at_o that_o time_n such_o infallible_a proof_n and_o assurance_n of_o all_o sort_n to_o the_o apostle_n and_o that_o have_v descend_v down_o from_o they_o to_o we_o in_o sacred_a history_n we_o must_v needs_o conclude_v they_o may_v just_o anathematise_v in_o the_o high_a degree_n a_o angel_n from_o heaven_n that_o preach_v any_o other_o gospel_n they_o be_v most_o certain_a who_o ever_o 8._o gal._n 1._o 8._o call_v or_o proclaim_v christ_n lord_n be_v authorise_a to_o do_v so_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o that_o no_o man_n can_v by_o the_o 3._o 1_o cor._n 12._o 3._o same_o spirit_n declare_v he_o accurse_v see_v that_o spirit_n
it_o become_v one_o great_a family_n i_o know_v there_o may_v be_v some_o exception_n from_o this_o description_n of_o a_o nation_n which_o will_v have_v their_o force_n upon_o national_a religion_n also_o as_o it_o result_v from_o it_o for_o sometime_o one_o monarchy_n do_v as_o it_o be_v stride_v over_o more_o nation_n sometime_o one_o city_n or_o free_a town_n be_v distinguish_v from_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o world_n by_o one_o government_n one_o civil_a interest_n independent_a in_o its_o government_n in_o its_o proper_a interest_n upon_o any_o other_o now_o in_o such_o a_o monarchy_n as_o contain_v several_a people_n and_o nation_n under_o it_o it_o do_v not_o proper_o give_v name_n to_o a_o national_a religion_n while_o their_o interest_n law_n conversation_n and_o civil_a commerce_n be_v preserve_v and_o keep_v distinct_a as_o these_o be_v often_o allow_v to_o be_v under_o some_o conquer_a potentacy_n on_o the_o other_o side_n if_o a_o narrow_a compass_n of_o people_n than_o we_o proper_o call_v a_o nation_n viz._n a_o region_n a_o province_n a_o city_n have_v its_o interest_n its_o law_n its_o government_n conversation_n and_o commerce_n entire_a to_o itself_o it_o be_v as_o to_o the_o purpose_n we_o be_v now_o upon_o as_o it_o be_v a_o nation_n the_o sum_n than_o be_v this_o so_o far_o as_o humane_a society_n have_v draw_v any_o people_n or_o family_n into_o a_o close_a and_o more_o compact_a state_n of_o civil_a interest_n necessitude_n one_o to_o another_o and_o government_n run_v up_o to_o the_o high_a point_n of_o government_n in_o that_o compact_a state_n so_o far_o be_v the_o obligation_n of_o union_n in_o public_a religion_n draw_v upon_o they_o where_o these_o be_v free_a that_o attendance_n to_o union_n in_o religion_n be_v free_a also_o any_o further_a than_o the_o common_a truth_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o obligation_n of_o that_o bound_v even_o those_o at_o great_a distance_n and_o union_n one_o with_o another_o for_o thus_o religion_n may_v and_o aught_o to_o unite_v all_o the_o true_a professor_n of_o it_o at_o what_o remove_n soever_o from_o one_o another_o it_o may_v and_o ought_v also_o to_o pass_v upon_o whatever_o bond_n of_o union_n there_o be_v in_o the_o world_n but_o there_o be_v no_o such_o union_n as_o law_n commerce_n conversation_n common_a safety_n run_v all_o up_o to_o the_o supreme_a government_n over_o that_o conjunction_n to_o graft_v religion_n upon_o all_o else_o be_v but_o consent_n in_o the_o same_o unity_n of_o one_o god_n one_o lord_n one_o spirit_n one_o faith_n one_o baptism_n which_o make_v the_o catholic_n church_n one_o body_n and_o join_v with_o one_o another_o presential_o in_o the_o same_o acknowledgement_n of_o god_n when_o a_o concurrence_n of_o all_o thing_n necessary_a happen_v to_o fall_v out_o as_o can_v be_v suppose_v frequent_a in_o part_n remote_a one_o from_o another_o and_o of_o a_o divers_a lip_n or_o language_n the_o catholic_n church_n be_v indeed_o unite_a as_o humane_a nature_n be_v in_o one_o and_o the_o same_o true_a reason_n and_o thereupon_o a_o readiness_n of_o wise_a and_o learned_a man_n to_o correspond_v one_o with_o another_o at_o a_o distance_n or_o confer_v one_o with_o another_o if_o at_o any_o time_n suitable_a concurrence_n favour_v it_o or_o as_o the_o world_n much_o more_o the_o catholic_n church_n be_v a_o temple_n build_v to_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o creator_n and_o redeemer_n wherein_o all_o good_a man_n meet_v from_o one_o end_n of_o the_o heaven_n to_o the_o other_o in_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o same_o spirit_n and_o in_o the_o same_o kind_n of_o worship_n and_o if_o opportunity_n allow_v in_o the_o same_o actual_a worship_n the_o near_a therefore_o any_o part_n of_o the_o catholic_n church_n be_v by_o the_o neighbourhood_n of_o nation_n by_o the_o frequency_n of_o traffic_n the_o neareâ—_n the_o more_o frequent_a the_o correspondency_n be_v the_o mutual_a assistance_n may_v and_o aught_o to_o be_v but_o now_o in_o the_o dependency_n and_o interweaving_n of_o all_o civil_a interest_n in_o nation_n there_o be_v not_o only_o those_o voluntary_a and_o contingent_a correspondency_n but_o such_o as_o first_o grow_v out_o of_o the_o nature_n of_o humane_a society_n and_o bind_v of_o themselves_o to_o common_a true_a religion_n and_o then_o have_v the_o favour_n encouragement_n direction_n obligation_n of_o law_n and_o authority_n run_v like_o the_o same_o spirit_n into_o all_o the_o several_a part_n of_o a_o nation_n and_o recommend_v that_o national_a true_a religion_n as_o it_o stand_v in_o this_o union_n that_o be_v first_o command_v by_o god_n beside_o much_o more_o free_a ordinary_a actual_a meeting_n in_o one_o and_o the_o very_a same_o place_n and_o act_n of_o worship_n it_o be_v true_a indeed_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n allow_v our_o worldly_a calling_n and_o the_o provision_n of_o the_o present_a life_n and_o relation_n and_o therefore_o a_o neighbourhood_n whether_o it_o be_v the_o more_o populous_a of_o city_n or_o town_n or_o the_o more_o infrequent_a of_o village_n have_v the_o conveniency_n of_o more_o solemn_a and_o state_v meeting_n the_o ordinary_a fit_a season_n of_o the_o lordsday_n and_o other_o solemn_a time_n of_o worship_n thereupon_o national_a religion_n be_v general_o exercise_v in_o these_o lesser_a society_n even_o as_o the_o justice_n and_o execution_n of_o law_n and_o national_a authority_n must_v be_v bring_v home_o to_o man_n in_o their_o particular_a country_n and_o town_n and_o not_o rest_n in_o the_o capital_a city_n at_o a_o distance_n from_o their_o daily_a business_n and_o conversation_n and_o yet_o the_o standard_n of_o all_o thing_n national_a be_v general_o preserve_v there_o for_o the_o very_a sake_n of_o union_n even_o so_o of_o national_a religion_n not_o as_o religion_n for_o the_o standard_n of_o that_o be_v scripture_n only_o but_o as_o national_a so_o the_o agreement_n in_o it_o be_v deposit_v with_o all_o other_o national_a acts._n so_o that_o national_a religion_n have_v the_o advantage_n in_o these_o two_o thing_n first_o the_o naturalness_n and_o closeness_n of_o the_o union_n of_o a_o nation_n to_o all_o the_o interest_n of_o humane_a society_n and_o therein_o it_o imitate_v the_o nearness_n and_o closeness_n of_o family_n or_o lesser_a incorporation_n as_o much_o as_o can_v be_v consistent_a with_o the_o second_o thing_n viz_o the_o illustriousness_n magnificence_n honourableness_n of_o religion_n as_o seat_v in_o large_a body_n but_o especial_o as_o upon_o the_o sovereignty_n and_n supremacy_n of_o the_o great_a incorporation_n of_o mankind_n i_o shall_v only_o observe_v further_a that_o all_o this_o do_v most_o effectual_o exclude_v the_o pretence_n of_o a_o universal_a church-monarchy_n as_o hateful_a in_o religion_n as_o a_o universal_a state-monarchy_n in_o politic_n and_o civil_a liberty_n both_o of_o which_o be_v indeed_o tyranny_n the_o imaginary_a benefit_n of_o such_o sort_n of_o union_n be_v infinite_o toilsome_a and_o tedious_a while_o they_o be_v expect_v and_o always_o in_o the_o issue_n find_v impossible_a to_o be_v enjoy_v in_o their_o fruit_n but_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n while_o the_o pretender_n be_v labour_v for_o and_o grasp_a at_o so_o vast_a a_o power_n they_o fill_v the_o world_n with_o the_o lamentable_a effect_n of_o their_o ambition_n and_o do_v indeed_o destroy_v humane_a society_n because_o those_o law_n and_o band_n that_o tie_v it_o together_o be_v so_o overstrained_a fly_v in_o piece_n and_o i_o be_o sure_a nothing_o be_v more_o contrary_a to_o christianity_n than_o a_o universal_a head_n of_o religion_n here_o upon_o earth_n except_o christ_n himself_o with_o a_o ubiquity_n of_o holiness_n power_n and_o influence_n come_v down_o to_o reign_v upon_o it_o a_o universal_a union_n be_v indeed_o desirable_a and_o glorious_a if_o there_o be_v a_o omnipresence_n of_o virtue_n answerable_a to_o the_o administration_n but_o that_o be_v too_o great_a for_o any_o creature_n too_o great_a in_o the_o present_a state_n of_o the_o world_n religion_n and_o christian_a religion_n glide_v along_o with_o the_o civil_a union_n they_o find_v prepare_v as_o i_o shall_v present_o evince_v beyond_o which_o be_v nothing_o but_o usurpation_n i_o come_v now_o to_o the_o argument_n from_o scripture_n and_o reason_n for_o national_a religion_n not_o afford_v to_o any_o other_o figure_n of_o union_n in_o it_o the_o first_o argument_n shall_v be_v that_o i_o derive_v from_o this_o prayer_n i_o argum._n 2_o have_v choose_v to_o discourse_v this_o point_n upon_o and_o i_o lay_v it_o thus_o the_o prayer_n in_o which_o holy_a man_n speak_v as_o they_o be_v move_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n rest_n upon_o some_o great_a pillar_n and_o principle_n of_o divine_a truth_n and_o argument_n for_o particular_a case_n in_o which_o they_o pray_v be_v bring_v to_o those_o general_a principle_n by_o a_o understanding_n enlighten_v to_o understand_v in_o a_o humble_a sense_n even_o as_o god_n understand_v
the_o principle_n of_o protestant_a truth_n and_o peace_n in_o four_o treatise_n viz._n the_o true_a state_n of_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n in_o freedom_n from_o penal_a law_n and_o church-censure_n the_o obligation_n to_o national_a true_a religion_n the_o nature_n of_o scandal_n particular_o as_o it_o relate_v to_o indifferent_a thing_n a_o catholic_n catechism_n show_v the_o true_a ground_n upon_o which_o the_o catholic_n religion_n be_v ascertain_v zech._n 8._o 19_o love_v the_o truth_n and_o peace_n by_o tho._n beverley_n rector_n of_o lilley_n in_o hertfordshire_n london_n print_v for_o tho._n parkhurst_n and_o will._n miller_n at_o the_o bible_n and_o three_o crown_n in_o cheapside_n and_o the_o acorn_n in_o st._n paul_n churchyard_n 1683._o to_o the_o reader_n i_o have_v very_o sad_o observe_v the_o great_a distress_n of_o humane_a affair_n through_o miscarriage_n every_o way_n in_o point_n of_o religion_n for_o while_o the_o power_n of_o this_o world_n and_o ecclesiastic_a jurisdiction_n take_v it_o for_o their_o right_n to_o impose_v by_o severe_a penalty_n and_o dreadful_a censure_n what_o they_o think_v fit_a under_o so_o great_a a_o name_n they_o yet_o neither_o can_v assure_v any_o one_o they_o be_v not_o or_o do_v not_o use_v to_o be_v mistake_v in_o their_o recommendation_n or_o that_o all_o their_o authority_n or_o power_n shall_v excuse_v and_o acquit_v those_o that_o obey_v they_o when_o they_o appear_v before_o god_n tribunal_n so_o that_o it_o be_v impossible_a the_o judgement_n or_o conscience_n shall_v have_v any_o repose_n here_o on_o the_o other_o side_n some_o not_o only_o out_o of_o recoil_v for_o self-preservation_n or_o out_o of_o design_n but_o from_o furious_a wild_a principle_n have_v break_v out_o into_o public_a disturbance_n to_o make_v room_n for_o what_o they_o have_v proclaim_v as_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n to_o the_o great_a scandal_n of_o true_a religion_n the_o imbrue_v their_o hand_n very_o horrid_o in_o blood_n and_o the_o seem_a justification_n of_o utmost_a rigour_n against_o any_o pretence_n of_o religion_n except_o according_a to_o law_n beside_o all_o this_o private_a feud_n and_o animosity_n vehement_a and_o angry_a dispute_n be_v every_o where_o clamorous_a and_o people_n hereupon_o in_o great_a amuse_n what_o they_o shall_v believe_v or_o do_v now_o since_o there_o be_v no_o doubt_n all_o these_o evil_n be_v foresee_v by_o god_n there_o be_v as_o little_a doubt_n that_o there_o be_v sure_a remedy_n provide_v against_o they_o i_o have_v then_o upon_o the_o whole_a this_o account_n to_o give_v the_o reader_n that_o the_o observation_n of_o so_o many_o counter-cries_a of_o opinion_n such_o great_a exasperation_n in_o man_n affection_n such_o complaint_n of_o oppression_n of_o conscience_n by_o undue_a law_n such_o recrimination_n of_o faction_n sedition_n fanaticism_n not_o only_o among_o christian_n but_o among_o protestant_a christian_n and_o of_o the_o same_o common_a national_a interest_n move_v i_o to_o seek_v retirement_n to_o some_o rock_n of_o certainty_n that_o i_o may_v be_v at_o perfect_a peace_n upon_o in_o full_a satisfaction_n of_o judgement_n and_o composure_n of_o affection_n and_o have_v find_v natural_a religion_n as_o certain_a as_o our_o faculty_n and_o fundamental_a christianity_n in_o most_o thing_n of_o the_o same_o immediate_a certainty_n as_o natural_a in_o all_o thing_n after_o due_a exploration_n of_o the_o same_o final_a certainty_n i_o be_o so_o far_o at_o peace_n in_o my_o judgement_n as_o to_o have_v no_o doubt_n what_o be_v truth_n in_o relation_n to_o eternal_a happiness_n if_o ten_o thousand_o more_o of_o opinion_n encompass_v i_o round_o about_o so_o far_o at_o peace_n in_o my_o affection_n as_o not_o to_o be_v in_o commotion_n with_o any_o man_n that_o give_v testimony_n to_o christian_a charity_n that_o he_o be_v a_o strict_a observer_n of_o natural_a religion_n and_o fundamental_a christianity_n one_o essential_a rule_n of_o both_o which_o be_v love_n peace_n and_o mercy_n to_o all_o that_o be_v centre_v in_o this_o natural_a christian_a religion_n though_o they_o may_v adjoyn_v or_o refuse_v some_o eccentrick_a placit_n that_o do_v not_o harm_v the_o foundation_n last_o i_o be_o assure_v this_o very_a natural_a religion_n espouse_v by_o christianity_n well_o consider_v and_o observe_v will_v disarm_v the_o world_n of_o those_o instrument_n of_o cruelty_n in_o the_o cause_n of_o religion_n so_o extreme_o abhor_v by_o it_o whether_o use_v by_o angry_a supreme_a power_n or_o unjust_o take_v up_o by_o seditious_a ambitious_a or_o fanatic_a subject_n which_o cruelty_n man_n be_v say_v to_o borrow_v from_o wild_a beast_n no_o such_o be_v give_v by_o the_o gracious_a author_n of_o all_o thing_n to_o so_o excellent_a a_o nature_n as_o he_o make_v the_o humane_a and_o therefore_o most_o certain_o not_o by_o the_o redeemer_n nor_o his_o religion_n who_o come_v to_o fill_v the_o world_n with_o innocency_n goodness_n and_o peace_n after_o so_o great_a a_o invasion_n of_o barbarity_n and_o cruelty_n now_o have_v find_v this_o satisfaction_n myself_o i_o make_v offer_n of_o it_o if_o it_o may_v be_v the_o same_o to_o other_o ask_v only_o candid_a interpretation_n in_o particular_a management_n the_o main_a principle_n be_v above_o the_o need_n of_o pardon_n or_o the_o fear_n of_o indignation_n although_o the_o discourse_n be_v intend_v much_o short_a be_v not_o distinguish_v in_o the_o body_n of_o it_o into_o chapter_n or_o otherwise_o yet_o that_o the_o reader_n may_v have_v a_o guidance_n into_o the_o main_a design_n of_o it_o i_o have_v prefix_v this_o summary_n of_o head_n of_o discourse_n follow_v each_o other_o the_o content_n the_o introduction_n explain_v the_o text_n and_o show_v the_o merciful_a design_n of_o christianity_n against_o contrary_a appearance_n the_o always_o present_a way_n of_o determine_v doubt_n in_o religion_n 1._o to_o 8._o of_o natural_a religion_n as_o sure_a as_o our_o faculty_n and_o the_o examination_n of_o thing_n by_o it_o 10._o to_o 26._o of_o natural-religion_n unite_v by_o christian_a religion_n to_o and_o with_o itself_o as_o the_o only_a assurance_n and_o test_n of_o reveal_v religion_n and_o of_o the_o little_a value_n of_o ceremony_n in_o religion_n either_o natural_a or_o christian_n 27._o to_o 45._o of_o natural_a religion_n the_o only_a standard_n of_o humane_a penal_a law_n in_o religion_n 45._o to_o 79._o of_o the_o great_a use_n of_o natural_a religion_n in_o compose_v and_o decide_v difference_n in_o christian_a religion_n apply_v to_o some_o of_o the_o great_a controversy_n in_o it_o 80_o 82._o of_o the_o first_o principle_n of_o peace_n in_o christianity_n itself_o the_o important_a honourable_a business_n give_v as_o one_o rule_n to_o walk_v by_o wherein_o it_o engage_v all_o its_o disciple_n several_a way_n produce_v peace_n 88_o to_o 94._o of_o the_o grand_a principle_n of_o the_o union_n of_o christian_n into_o one_o body_n on_o which_o love_n and_o peace_n be_v infallible_o to_o ensue_v 95_o to_o 99_o of_o heresy_n and_o the_o nature_n of_o it_o cut_v off_o from_o that_o union_n exemplify_v in_o popery_n and_o whether_o the_o roman_a society_n be_v a_o true_a church_n of_o schism_n and_o its_o nature_n as_o it_o cut_v off_o from_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n 99_o to_o 110._o of_o the_o law_n for_o christian_n be_v embody_a in_o a_o catholic_n church_n in_o particular_a congregation_n or_o church_n and_o the_o order_n of_o both_o to_o national_a christian_n constitution_n of_o the_o great_a value_n the_o word_n of_o god_n give_v to_o public_a national_a religion_n require_v our_o utmost_a attemperation_n of_o ourselves_o to_o it_o consistent_o with_o conscience_n of_o the_o peace_n of_o christianity_n in_o relation_n to_o the_o ministerial_a presidency_n of_o it_o in_o relation_n to_o magistracy_n to_o universal_a goodness_n 121_o to_o 127._o a_o lamentation_n over_o the_o world_n unhappiness_n in_o relation_n to_o so_o excellent_a a_o thing_n as_o religion_n and_o christian_a religion_n 127._o a_o offerture_n for_o the_o amicable_a return_n of_o all_o protestant_n one_o to_o another_o within_o our_o english_a nation_n and_o the_o method_n of_o it_o 136._o errata_fw-la page_z 2_o l._n 28._o r._n action_n p._n 7._o l._n 25._o for_o thus_o r._n that_o p._n 17_o l._n 17._o blot_v they_o p._n 23_o l._n 1_o for_o they_o r._n that_o l._n 5._o for_o itself_o r._n themselves_o p._n 27._o l._n 32._o r._n appellation_n p._n 91._o l._n 37._o for_o they_o r._n that_o p._n 109._o l._n 7._o blot_n why_o l._n 10._o blot_n who_o be_v p._n 1220_o marg._n r._n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d p._n 141._o l._n 7._o r._n do_v isa._n xi_o 6_o 7_o 8_o 9_o the_o wolf_n also_o shall_v dwell_v with_o the_o lamb_n and_o the_o leopard_n shall_v lie_v down_o with_o the_o kid_n and_o the_o calf_n and_o the_o young_a lion_n and_o the_o fatle_a together_o and_o a_o little_a child_n shall_v lead_v they_o and_o
long_o mistake_v i_o perceive_v that_o god_n be_v no_o respecter_n of_o person_n but_o 34._o act_n 10._o 34._o in_o every_o nation_n he_o that_o fear_v god_n and_o work_v righteousness_n the_o two_o comprehensive_a part_n of_o this_o religion_n be_v accept_v of_o he_o why_o then_o shall_v mankind_n imbrue_v their_o hand_n and_o that_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o religion_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o those_o that_o be_v of_o the_o same_o religion_n they_o themselves_o be_v or_o aught_o to_o be_v and_o hold_v to_o contradiction_n to_o it_o what_o excellent_a person_n be_v job_n his_o three_o friend_n and_o elihu_n though_o out_o of_o the_o family_n of_o abraham_n i_o mean_v out_o of_o that_o part_n of_o it_o where_o god_n have_v more_o eminent_o fix_v his_o church_n and_o out_o of_o that_o line_n wherein_o all_o the_o family_n of_o the_o earth_n be_v to_o be_v bless_v how_o excellent_a the_o book_n of_o their_o religion_n and_o ratiocination_n upon_o it_o though_o the_o friend_n be_v mistake_v in_o urge_v too_o far_o as_o if_o present_a affliction_n be_v a_o detection_n from_o heaven_n of_o insincerity_n and_o apply_v it_o to_o job_n that_o most_o desirable_a book_n of_o holy_a scripture_n be_v undoubted_o by_o the_o special_a wisdom_n of_o god_n prepare_v as_o a_o treatise_n of_o natural_a theology_n raise_v to_o its_o own_o height_n through_o the_o assistance_n and_o inspiration_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o wherein_o most_o probable_o the_o sense_n of_o all_o the_o pious_a patriarch_n keep_v fresh_a and_o pure_a from_o corruption_n be_v maintain_v and_o improve_v upon_o the_o proper_a reason_n of_o natural_a religion_n for_o we_o meet_v with_o no_o intermixture_n of_o positive_a precept_n or_o rite_n except_o the_o historical_a relation_n of_o sacrifice_n in_o the_o beginning_n and_o end_n of_o the_o book_n a_o institution_n of_o god_n by_o which_o man_n be_v teach_v in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o world_n as_o soon_o as_o sin_n have_v enter_v it_o to_o look_v for_o atonement_n witâ—_n god_n through_o that_o great_a sacrifice_n of_o christ_n to_o be_v offer_v in_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n to_o who_o it_o be_v most_o probable_a job_n make_v somâ—_n very_o significant_a reference_n though_o according_a to_o the_o covertness_n of_o so_o great_a a_o mystery_n at_o that_o time_n but_o what_o point_n of_o natural_a religion_n even_o sense_n of_o natural_a corruption_n and_o the_o â—vil_n of_o sin_n of_o faith_n in_o divine_a mercy_n and_o repentance_n of_o godliness_n righteousness_n soberness_n fidelity_n chastity_n tempâ—rance_n charity_n and_o mercy_n to_o the_o poor_a be_v leave_v untouched_a what_o point_n relate_v to_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n against_o atheism_n idolatry_n a_o iniquity_n own_a to_o deserve_v punishment_n from_o a_o judge_n be_v not_o hâ—re_o state_v 28._o job_n 31._o 28._o prayer_n praise_n holy_a meditation_n discourse_n and_o attendance_n on_o the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o the_o knowledge_n of_o his_o way_n have_v here_o their_o frequent_a mention_n what_o severe_a reproof_n censure_n and_o condemnation_n of_o all_o wickedness_n do_v we_o meet_v with_o and_o which_o be_v most_o remarkable_a through_o the_o whole_a all_o be_v substantial_a nothing_o ceremonial_a how_o lovely_a be_v such_o a_o religion_n our_o saviour_n observe_v but_o some_o of_o the_o line_n of_o it_o in_o the_o young_a man_n in_o the_o gospel_n it_o be_v say_v he_o look_v upon_o he_o and_o love_v he_o 21._o mat._n 10._o 21._o and_o the_o scribe_n that_o have_v so_o much_o of_o the_o notion_n of_o it_o he_o commend_v as_o not_o far_o from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n viz._n from_o true_a christianity_n here_o and_o eternal_a salvation_n hereafter_o in_o this_o book_n of_o job_n we_o have_v also_o the_o true_a natural_a way_n of_o propagate_a religion_n and_o reconcile_a difference_n in_o it_o viz._n by_o discourse_n and_o argument_n only_o heinous_a offence_n and_o plain_a violation_n of_o duty_n in_o natural_a religion_n be_v cite_v to_o the_o magistrate_n tribunal_n i_o have_v insist_v so_o long_o upon_o this_o because_o we_o have_v not_o such_o another_o hypothesis_n in_o scripture_n such_o a_o body_n of_o natural_a religion_n such_o a_o form_n of_o sound_a word_n concern_v it_o give_v out_o by_o such_o master_n of_o assembly_n and_o yet_o not_o of_o that_o we_o may_v call_v the_o visible_a church_n at_o that_o time_n else_o indeed_o the_o whole_a scripture_n be_v full_a of_o natural_a religion_n from_o one_o end_n of_o it_o to_o the_o other_o and_o that_o which_o be_v least_o in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n concern_v it_o be_v great_a than_o all_o beside_o but_o no_o doubt_n there_o may_v be_v many_o other_o at_o that_o time_n and_o all_o along_o who_o be_v not_o of_o the_o jewish_a proselytism_n and_o yet_o great_a instance_n of_o this_o same_o natural_a piety_n for_o if_o elijah_n 18._o 1_o king_n 19_o 18._o who_o have_v a_o less_o compass_n to_o observe_v in_o and_o more_o probable_a opportunity_n of_o inquiry_n and_o even_o inspection_n yet_o be_v ignorant_a of_o seven_o thousand_o in_o israel_n that_o have_v not_o bow_v their_o knee_n to_o baal_n but_o think_v himself_o leave_v alone_o how_o much_o more_o may_v lie_v hide_v from_o our_o almost_o suspicion_n true_a worshipper_n of_o god_n according_a to_o natural_a religion_n all_o along_o elder_a time_n inspire_v and_o conduct_v to_o it_o by_o divine_a illumination_n nay_o who_o dare_v be_v so_o bold_a to_o define_v there_o be_v no_o such_o now_o for_o though_o it_o be_v most_o true_a there_o be_v no_o other_o name_n under_o the_o whole_a heaven_n give_v to_o man_n whereby_o they_o can_v be_v save_v but_o 12._o act_n 4._o 12._o the_o name_n of_o christ_n yet_o we_o be_v not_o sure_a that_o name_n must_v be_v express_o know_v but_o that_o the_o god_n of_o pardoning-mercy_n give_v and_o accept_v repentance_n unto_o life_n may_v by_o divine_a equity_n and_o favour_n be_v interpret_v god_n in_o christ_n in_o the_o behalf_n of_o man_n so_o address_v god_n as_o he_o be_v true_o so_o in_o himself_o yet_o ah_o lass_n we_o can_v stretch_v our_o charitable_a hope_n so_o as_o to_o think_v this_o the_o case_n of_o the_o generality_n of_o the_o nation_n that_o know_v not_o christ_n who_o lie_v in_o the_o valley_n of_o the_o shadow_n of_o death_n not_o only_o as_o ignorant_a of_o christ_n but_o as_o without_o god_n the_o true_a god_n in_o the_o world_n horrible_a corrupter_n of_o what_o they_o natural_o know_v that_o be_v of_o natural_a religion_n but_o as_o there_o be_v many_o leper_n and_o widow_n in_o the_o day_n of_o those_o two_o prophet_n 25._o luk._n 4._o 25._o but_o to_o one_o of_o each_o be_v they_o send_v so_o we_o may_v hope_v there_o be_v some_o instance_n of_o this_o divine_a bounty_n and_o grace_n if_o we_o can_v hope_v so_o but_o of_o few_o but_o these_o secret_a thing_n belong_v to_o the_o lord_n our_o god_n and_o it_o be_v safe_a not_o to_o presume_v too_o far_o on_o either_o 29._o deut._n 29._o 29._o side_n yet_o by_o the_o same_o charity_n we_o allow_v papist_n that_o the_o prevalency_n of_o true_o christian_a principle_n may_v antidote_n the_o poison_n of_o popery_n so_o the_o pregnancy_n of_o some_o natural_a principle_n rise_v up_o above_o all_o the_o refuse_v in_o such_o soul_n but_o oh_o lord_n thou_o only_o know_v yet_o some_o thing_n i_o dare_v be_v bold_a to_o affirm_v 1._o that_o if_o any_o man_n live_v upright_o as_o job_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o natural_a religion_n at_o its_o full_a extent_n and_o have_v the_o knowledge_n of_o christ_n offer_v he_o he_o will_v receive_v it_o upon_o the_o advantageous_a recommendation_n of_o it_o in_o god_n own_o time_n and_o way_n 2._o that_o if_o any_o man_n so_o obey_v the_o precept_n of_o natural_a religion_n and_o have_v not_o the_o revelation_n of_o christ_n the_o want_n of_o that_o revelation_n shall_v not_o be_v charge_v upon_o he_o so_o much_o as_o in_o the_o consequence_n of_o it_o 3._o that_o whoever_o understand_v natural_a religion_n must_v needs_o understand_v that_o sin_n be_v in_o the_o world_n that_o man_n be_v bear_v like_o the_o wild_a ass_n colt_n and_o drink_v iniquity_n like_o water_n and_o 14._o job_n 〈◊〉_d 16._o 13_o 14._o yet_o that_o god_n be_v patient_a speak_v once_o and_o twice_o in_o order_n to_o man_n conversion_n and_o repentance_n that_o therefore_o there_o be_v place_n for_o it_o in_o pardoning-mercy_n of_o which_o in_o god_n even_o humane_a nature_n itself_o have_v a_o sense_n natural_a religion_n can_v be_v ignorant_a of_o this_o for_o without_o it_o all_o service_n of_o god_n or_o application_n to_o he_o will_v be_v in_o vain_a and_o but_o like_o the_o service_n of_o devil_n yet_o i_o can_v but_o here_o take_v notice_n there_o be_v not_o such_o a_o learned_a world_n in_o moral_n as_o be_v heretofore_o among_o the_o grecian_n
right_n of_o earthly_a power_n not_o the_o retrench_a any_o of_o the_o freedom_n of_o natural_a religion_n not_o the_o impose_v any_o thing_n beside_o and_o beyond_o it_o by_o power_n or_o penalty_n not_o the_o forbid_a of_o reformation_n of_o any_o corruption_n invade_v it_o not_o the_o embargo_a any_o revelation_n from_o heaven_n consist_v with_o or_o perfect_a natural_a religion_n as_o all_o true_o such_o do_v only_o the_o power_n of_o require_v all_o to_o live_v in_o obedience_n to_o the_o punishment_n of_o those_o that_o disobey_v natural_a law_n but_o it_o may_v be_v further_o say_v god_n intend_v christianity_n shall_v be_v bring_v in_o not_o by_o might_n not_o by_o power_n but_o by_o tâ—e_v spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o believer_n in_o it_o shall_v seal_v it_o not_o with_o pleasure_n honour_n and_o outward_a advantage_n accrue_v to_o they_o by_o it_o but_o with_o their_o blood_n and_o suffering_n this_o be_v also_o most_o true_a it_o appear_v god_n do_v so_o intend_v but_o still_o if_o magistrate_n be_v entrust_v by_o god_n with_o make_v religion_n legal_a or_o not_o legal_a by_o their_o seal_n it_o be_v plain_a that_o divine_a ordination_n of_o magistracy_n be_v dishonour_v and_o debase_v by_o he_o that_o appoint_v it_o in_o that_o it_o be_v not_o at_o all_o take_a notice_n of_o in_o so_o great_a a_o affair_n of_o the_o divine_a kingdom_n and_o so_o far_o as_o they_o can_v judge_n who_o do_v not_o believe_v there_o be_v a_o real_a injury_n do_v to_o power_n and_o the_o suffering_n of_o christian_n be_v on_o that_o account_n just_a for_o who_o can_v know_v that_o for_o so_o long_a a_o time_n god_n have_v suspend_v that_o suppose_a ordination_n of_o he_o viz._n that_o no_o religion_n shall_v be_v bring_v into_o any_o state_n or_o kingdom_n that_o have_v not_o first_o the_o favour_n and_o licence_n of_o the_o law_n and_o magistrate_n of_o that_o state_n and_o kingdom_n but_o now_o suppose_v it_o be_v a_o state_v rule_n that_o beyond_o natural_a religion_n the_o magistrate_n power_n extend_v not_o but_o that_o be_v secure_v there_o be_v a_o freedom_n to_o subject_n of_o take_v care_n of_o their_o soul_n and_o wherein_o they_o have_v to_o do_v with_o god_n as_o of_o their_o body_n life_n or_o estate_n in_o private_a concern_v or_o as_o a_o philosopher_n have_v of_o choose_v what_o he_o think_v the_o best_a system_v and_o from_o the_o best_a author_n and_o that_o man_n may_v free_o reason_v herein_o still_o within_o the_o confinement_n of_o natural_a religion_n reverence_n of_o god_n and_o all_o just_a deference_n to_o man_n and_o than_o christian_a religion_n have_v a_o legal_a entrance_n offer_v no_o disregard_n to_o magistracy_n but_o take_v natural_a freedom_n to_o offer_v itself_o wherein_o its_o way_n be_v so_o prepare_v it_o than_o open_v itself_o with_o all_o that_o divine_a power_n and_o authority_n that_o can_v be_v refuse_v but_o under_o the_o great_a peril_n of_o eternal_a damnation_n thus_o proportionable_o the_o case_n be_v the_o same_o concern_v the_o reformation_n of_o christianity_n from_o popery_n we_o then_o that_o be_v christian_n and_o protestant_a christian_n have_v great_a reason_n to_o keep_v that_o door_n of_o the_o just_a and_o lawful_a propagation_n of_o religion_n not_o contrariant_n to_o natural_a religion_n as_o open_a as_o we_o can_v and_o to_o grant_v a_o quiet_a comprehensive_a of_o all_o offer_n that_o can_v be_v make_v keep_v within_o rule_n of_o natural_a religion_n reason_n and_o prudence_n it_o seem_v less_o hazard_n to_o admit_v those_o inconvenience_n attendant_a upon_o this_o liberty_n that_o through_o humane_a corruption_n run_v round_o with_o every_o thing_n than_o those_o great_a mischief_n of_o have_v christian_n or_o protestant_a religion_n violent_o keep_v out_o thus_o i_o have_v endeavour_v to_o clear_v that_o there_o be_v obligation_n lie_v upon_o man_n precedent_a to_o any_o right_n of_o humane_a authority_n viz._n of_o duty_n to_o god_n in_o obey_v god_n rather_o than_o man_n of_o the_o profession_n confession_n and_o publication_n of_o true_a religion_n however_o man_n forbid_v or_o scorn_v it_o of_o rational_a communication_n of_o truth_n as_o the_o apostle_n say_v we_o 12._o act._n 4._o 12._o can_v but_o speak_v the_o thing_n we_o have_v see_v and_o hear_v of_o charity_n to_o man_n soul_n in_o not_o conceal_v the_o tiding_n of_o salvation_n the_o righteousness_n and_o truth_n of_o god_n for_o certain_o david_n express_v himself_o according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o natural_a religion_n when_o he_o say_v i_o have_v preach_v righteousness_n in_o the_o great_a congregation_n i_o have_v not_o refrain_v my_o lip_n oh_o lord_n thou_o 10_o psal_n 40._o 9_o 10_o know_v i_o have_v not_o hide_v thy_o righteousness_n in_o my_o heart_n i_o have_v declare_v thy_o faithfulness_n and_o thy_o salvation_n i_o have_v not_o conceal_v thy_o lovingkindness_n and_o thy_o truth_n from_o the_o great_a congregation_n and_o moses_n when_o he_o say_v give_v ear_n oh_o you_o heaven_n and_o 3_o deut._n 32._o 1_o 2_o 3_o i_o will_v speak_v and_o hear_v oh_o earth_n the_o word_n of_o my_o mouth_n my_o doctrine_n shall_v drop_v as_o the_o rain_n my_o speech_n shall_v distil_v as_o the_o dew_n because_o i_o will_v publish_v the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n ascribe_v you_o greatness_n to_o our_o god_n yet_o from_o hence_o i_o do_v not_o suppose_v any_o man_n bind_v to_o go_v and_o preach_v to_o the_o great_a turk_n either_o the_o law_n of_o natural_a religion_n against_o any_o of_o the_o iniquity_n of_o that_o tyranny_n or_o folly_n of_o that_o superstition_n or_o the_o just_a and_o holy_a law_n and_o truth_n of_o christianity_n instead_o of_o his_o worse_a than_o aâ—ile_n alcoran_n every_o man_n be_v to_o measure_v his_o commission_n and_o the_o enablement_n he_o have_v receive_v from_o god_n for_o his_o work_n and_o not_o to_o venture_v upon_o thing_n beyond_o his_o line_n for_o even_o the_o apostle_n know_v their_o measure_n the_o measure_n of_o the_o rule_n distribute_v they_o by_o god_n a_o measure_n reach_v so_o far_o beyond_o which_o they_o do_v not_o stretch_v themselves_o in_o that_o famous_a place_n 2_o cor._n 10._o 13._o every_o man_n may_v compute_v the_o probable_a account_n his_o service_n will_v turn_v to_o in_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o salvation_n of_o man_n soul_n christ_n teach_v he_o to_o forbear_v when_o it_o be_v certain_a before_o hand_n his_o pearl_n will_v be_v tread_v under_o foot_n and_o himself_o 6._o mat._n 7._o 6._o rend_v and_o so_o i_o have_v finish_v what_o i_o think_v necessary_a to_o be_v speak_v upon_o this_o three_o argument_n and_o pass_v on_o to_o the_o four_o argum._n 4._o natural_a religion_n may_v well_o be_v the_o cement_n of_o universal_a peace_n since_o whatever_o can_v comport_v with_o the_o good_a of_o the_o universe_n or_o community_n be_v secure_v by_o it_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n so_o far_o as_o community_n be_v charge_v with_o it_o the_o peace_n and_o welfare_n of_o particular_a person_n the_o orderly_a posture_n of_o every_o man_n in_o his_o station_n and_o rank_n the_o just_a deference_n to_o magistracy_n and_o public_a authority_n the_o security_n of_o public_a peace_n and_o quiet_n the_o advancement_n of_o true_a religion_n in_o divine_a revelation_n now_o in_o every_o one_o of_o these_o i_o will_v consider_v what_o objection_n may_v be_v make_v against_o allow_v freedom_n in_o religion_n upon_o natural_a religion_n secure_v and_o the_o answer_n to_o they_o object_n 1._o every_o false_a religion_n or_o refusal_n of_o the_o true_a religion_n in_o a_o nation_n not_o vindicate_v by_o due_a severity_n upon_o offender_n be_v a_o offence_n against_o the_o divine_a majesty_n of_o a_o national_a gild_n and_o bring_v down_o national_a judgement_n answer_n the_o government_n of_o conscience_n be_v god_n peculiar_a no_o earthly_a power_n shall_v be_v charge_v with_o the_o obliquity_n and_o error_n of_o it_o any_o more_o than_o with_o the_o secret_a sin_n of_o man_n that_o be_v not_o know_v or_o those_o distemper_n of_o mind_n and_o spirit_n which_o come_v into_o no_o palpable_a instance_n can_v neither_o be_v convict_v nor_o sentence_v by_o man_n now_o mistake_v of_o man_n in_o religion_n not_o cognisable_v by_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n be_v to_o be_v reckon_v among_o the_o error_n of_o conscience_n and_o so_o be_v proper_o leave_v to_o god_n judgment-seat_n and_o the_o magistrate_n stand_v free_a it_o be_v therefore_o very_o observable_a prince_n be_v call_v nursing-fathers_n and_o queen_n nursing-mothers_n signify_v not_o a_o 23._o isa_n 49._o 23._o commanding-power_n but_o a_o tender_a insinuate_a cherish_v the_o encouragement_n from_o they_o that_o such_o a_o appellative_a carry_v with_o it_o in_o those_o that_o declare_v it_o in_o those_o that_o be_v to_o receive_v it_o the_o magistrate_n discharge_v this_o honourable_a trust_n may_v acquit_v himself_o and_o the_o community_n
before_o god_n from_o the_o guilt_n and_o destruction_n of_o those_o that_o may_v be_v yet_o heinous_o guilty_a before_o god_n as_o jonah_n mariner_n do_v from_o the_o blood_n of_o that_o prophet_n consign_v over_o to_o the_o sea_n by_o his_o own_o sentence_n oh_o lord_n lie_v not_o this_o man_n blood_n to_o our_o charge_n who_o have_v 14_o jon._n 1._o 14_o do_v all_o it_o please_v thou_o to_o command_v we_o when_o sovereign_n and_o nation_n have_v consider_v the_o wisdom_n rationality_n and_o heavenliness_n of_o proposal_n in_o religion_n and_o settle_v upon_o what_o they_o find_v of_o the_o high_a character_n as_o the_o religion_n of_o their_o nation_n by_o law_n to_o be_v establish_v to_o which_o they_o allow_v the_o encouragement_n of_o their_o public_a honour_n and_o maintanance_n and_o take_v care_n for_o the_o propagation_n of_o it_o by_o instruction_n argument_n reason_n and_o good_a example_n they_o have_v do_v all_o that_o god_n expect_v from_o they_o to_o do_v and_o so_o have_v deliver_v their_o own_o soul_n that_o which_o be_v of_o their_o free_a judgement_n and_o arbitrement_n as_o proper_a to_o they_o as_o to_z family_n and_o person_n to_o dispose_v of_o their_o own_o they_o have_v place_v as_o they_o think_v upon_o due_a consideration_n most_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o good_a of_o the_o people_n but_o to_o deprive_v man_n of_o their_o native_a right_n or_o to_o punish_v they_o in_o their_o person_n or_o estate_n who_o be_v not_o offender_n against_o natural_a religion_n for_o the_o sentiment_n of_o their_o mind_n of_o which_o they_o have_v only_o a_o humane_a judgement_n be_v not_o a_o power_n wherewith_o they_o think_v themselves_o invest_v of_o god_n and_o so_o forbear_v it_o this_o be_v indeed_o the_o religion_n of_o a_o nation_n of_o man_n a_o nation_n of_o christian_n a_o virtuous_a a_o honourable_a government_n and_o more_o hopeful_a to_o propagate_v true_a christianity_n than_o that_o which_o write_v its_o law_n in_o blood_n and_o this_o be_v to_o rule_v over_o man_n and_o not_o over_o beast_n bind_v up_o as_o man_n shall_v be_v with_o the_o cord_n of_o a_o man_n in_o natural_a religion_n in_o what_o be_v beyond_o that_o as_o revealed_z from_o god_n with_o band_n of_o love_n to_o serve_v the_o public_a blessed_n be_v the_o people_n who_o be_v in_o such_o a_o case_n bless_v be_v that_o people_n who_o god_n be_v thus_o the_o lord_n jehovah_n object_n 2._o what_o peace_n can_v there_o be_v in_o the_o world_n among_o private_a and_o particular_a person_n while_o there_o be_v several_a opinion_n in_o religion_n how_o many_o dispute_n and_o calumny_n and_o invective_n be_v continual_o fly_v up_o and_o down_o by_o reason_n of_o difference_n in_o religion_n and_o how_o much_o better_o be_v all_o compel_v into_o union_n answer_n all_o these_o evil_n be_v but_o so_o many_o argument_n of_o deprave_a nature_n which_o create_v its_o own_o occasion_n out_o of_o every_o thing_n and_o if_o the_o mischief_n of_o compulsion_n or_o the_o ill_a state_n even_o of_o those_o part_n of_o thâ—_n world_n where_o the_o voice_n of_o religion_n be_v all_o one_o laâ—â—â—â—ge_n be_v cast_v up_o i_o doubt_v they_o will_v be_v find_v to_o balance_v the_o worst_a that_o can_v be_v charge_v on_o difference_n in_o religion_n but_o yet_o natural_a religion_n and_o most_o evident_o christian_a religion_n be_v most_o severe_a and_o positive_a against_o all_o strife_n envy_n rail_n evil_a surmising_n and_o bend_v man_n upon_o peace_n love_n meekness_n quietness_n charity_n towards_o all_o man_n and_o especial_o christian_n as_o be_v after_o to_o be_v shâ—wn_v and_o therefore_o undoubted_o those_o evil_a effect_n where_o they_o grow_v to_o excess_n may_v be_v restrain_v by_o civil_a magistracy_n as_o in_o any_o other_o case_n and_o the_o rather_o that_o true_a religion_n so_o much_o disow_v they_o they_o be_v more_o inexcusable_a in_o that_o cause_n than_o any_o other_o for_o though_o we_o find_v scripture_n severe_a in_o its_o language_n in_o great_a case_n as_o st._n paul_n against_o the_o bigot_n of_o the_o law_n yet_o we_o must_v also_o consider_v the_o infallible_a spirit_n that_o guide_v sacred_a writer_n who_o alone_o know_v how_o to_o direct_v those_o sharp_a arrow_n and_o what_o effect_n they_o shall_v take_v object_n 3._o this_o clip_v off_o the_o royalty_n and_o prerogative_n of_o prince_n if_o they_o have_v not_o the_o command_n of_o man_n sentiment_n or_o at_o least_o of_o their_o outward_a action_n and_o practice_n in_o religion_n ans_fw-fr the_o unjust_a enlargement_n of_o earthly_a power_n into_o the_o divine_a sanctuary_n have_v be_v always_o fatal_a to_o prince_n vzziah_n rude_a entrance_n into_o it_o be_v punish_v by_o god_n with_o infamous_a leprosy_n herod_n let_v that_o sacrilegious_a acclamation_n it_o be_v 23_o 1_o chron._n 28._o 18_o 19_o act._n 12._o 22_o 23_o the_o voice_n of_o a_o god_n not_o of_o a_o man_n sink_v into_o he_o be_v present_o revenge_v with_o a_o dreadful_a hand_n of_o judgement_n humane_a power_n be_v safe_a keep_v itself_o within_o the_o verge_n of_o divine_a institution_n beyond_o that_o though_o it_o may_v seem_v great_a yet_o it_o become_v only_o like_o a_o swell_a wall_n the_o big_a it_o be_v the_o more_o ready_a to_o fall_v or_o a_o totter_a fence_n expatiate_v to_o ruin_v their_o honour_n be_v great_a in_o be_v nursing-fathers_n if_o god_n have_v intend_v civil_a magistracy_n to_o govern_v in_o any_o religion_n but_o natural_a they_o shall_v have_v have_v as_o certain_a rule_n to_o act_v by_o as_o they_o have_v in_o natural_a religion_n beside_o what_o be_v the_o good_a of_o be_v great_a master_n in_o religion_n except_o in_o that_o wherein_o god_n have_v show_v every_o man_n what_o be_v good_a see_v the_o great_a judgement_n wait_v for_o such_o thus_o the_o apostle_n james_n james_n 3._o 1._o my_o brethren_n be_v not_o many_o master_n imposer_n or_o prescriber_n in_o religion_n that_o be_v do_v not_o affect_v it_o know_v we_o shall_v receive_v a_o great_a judgement_n object_n 4._o but_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o govern_v with_o any_o security_n if_o governor_n hold_v not_o the_o reins_o of_o man_n conscience_n if_o they_o have_v not_o the_o rule_n of_o that_o helm_n that_o turn_v about_o so_o great_a body_n of_o people_n which_o way_n soever_o they_o that_o have_v that_o pylotry_n please_v with_o what_o vigour_n and_o courage_n be_v man_n animate_v while_o the_o principle_n and_o reward_n of_o religion_n be_v in_o their_o heart_n and_o eye_n if_o therefore_o the_o prince_n rule_v not_o in_o these_o his_o command_n be_v but_o cypher_n answer_v 1_o religion_n be_v too_o great_a and_o noble_a a_o thing_n to_o be_v but_o a_o expedient_a of_o government_n 2._o the_o history_n of_o christianity_n assure_v we_o no_o prince_n have_v have_v more_o obedient_a subject_n a_o more_o valiant_a soldiery_n than_o heathen_a prince_n of_o christian_n true_a religion_n know_v its_o obligation_n to_o government_n and_o pursue_v the_o law_n of_o it_o though_o that_o government_n have_v stand_v distinct_a from_o that_o true_a religion_n and_o this_o be_v the_o standing-rule_n of_o christian_n object_n 5._o but_o what_o tumult_n faction_n sedition_n have_v be_v raise_v under_o religious_a pretence_n when_o subject_n have_v not_o yield_v themselves_o to_o the_o empire_n of_o prince_n in_o religion_n answ_n these_o evil_n as_o they_o be_v false_o pretend_v by_o man_n of_o turbulence_n to_o be_v for_o the_o service_n of_o religion_n so_o they_o be_v unjust_o charge_v upon_o it_o there_o can_v be_v therefore_o no_o severity_n too_o great_a upon_o those_o that_o so_o abuse_v so_o excellent_a a_o thing_n but_o the_o sâ—mâ—_n care_n that_o secure_v against_o ambition_n sedition_n rebellion_n in_o one_o shape_n will_v do_v it_o in_o another_o without_o take_v away_o lawful_a liberty_n nor_o be_v there_o any_o remedy_n so_o specific_a against_o the_o great_a hypocrisy_n of_o cover_a rebellion_n with_o religion_n faction_n with_o faith_n as_o the_o severe_a regiment_n of_o man_n according_a to_o the_o indisputable_a law_n of_o natural_a religion_n and_o allowance_n of_o the_o great_a toleration_n in_o what_o no_o way_n contradict_v that_o for_o then_o be_v the_o artifice_n strong_a when_o it_o be_v plant_v in_o the_o oppression_n of_o man_n conscience_n so_o great_a a_o illegality_n against_o natural_a principle_n take_v away_o severe_a imposition_n and_o what_o have_v such_o politician_n to_o work_v upon_o object_n 6._o but_o what_o a_o hydra_n a_o many-headed_a monster_n of_o opinion_n will_v religion_n become_v by_o such_o a_o toleration_n answ_n 1._o severe_a natural_a religion_n enforce_v and_o strict_o pursue_v will_v so_o rebate_v man_n corruption_n beside_o the_o hope_n and_o expectation_n of_o divine_a blâ—ssing_n accompany_v so_o virtuous_a a_o government_n that_o there_o will_v be_v a_o much_o great_a retrenchment_n of_o opinion_n than_o can_v be_v
then_o call_v out_o of_o every_o nation_n convert_v into_o particular_a society_n and_o congregation_n i_o shall_v make_v a_o essay_n to_o level_v the_o line_n of_o they_o to_o nation_n and_o kingdom_n as_o they_o be_v unite_v into_o such_o conspicuous_a and_o illustrious_a body_n of_o mankind_n with_o their_o principality_n so_o form_v so_o compact_v and_o not_o only_o a_o diffuse_v catholic_n church_n or_o small_a and_o invisible_a congregational_a church_n 1._o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n can_v no_o way_n attain_v that_o greatness_n which_o it_o be_v prophesy_v and_o foretell_v it_o shall_v attain_v if_o it_o do_v not_o allow_v nation_n as_o nation_n to_o associate_v themselves_o in_o the_o profession_n of_o it_o if_o it_o only_o give_v right_o to_o private_a and_o particular_a church_n or_o congregation_n and_o a_o diffusive_a church_n that_o can_v no_o way_n congregate_v which_o though_o great_a in_o its_o spiritual_a union_n yet_o arise_v to_o no_o visible_a greatness_n but_o as_o it_o move_v into_o all_o part_n of_o the_o world_n congregate_n itself_o according_a to_o any_o of_o the_o law_n or_o advantage_n of_o humane_a society_n it_o fall_v into_o and_o find_v prepare_v for_o it_o the_o messiah_n then_o can_v never_o as_o be_v prophesy_v of_o he_o have_v his_o portion_n divide_v he_o with_o the_o great_a nor_o divide_v the_o spoil_n with_o the_o strong_a but_o must_v rest_v in_o a_o very_a low_a and_o under-condition_n of_o small_a private_a and_o particular_a assembly_n of_o his_o servant_n profess_v he_o but_o a_o national_a christian_n religion_n a_o religion_n as_o famous_a as_o the_o name_n of_o the_o most_o populous_a city_n and_o the_o great_a prince_n and_o their_o territory_n in_o honour_n to_o the_o lord_n anoint_v must_v not_o be_v allow_v no_o not_o according_o to_o his_o own_o designation_n for_o though_o the_o eminency_n of_o the_o doctrine_n and_o the_o appearance_n of_o god_n with_o it_o do_v infinite_o surmount_v all_o create_a greatness_n yet_o many_o place_n of_o scripture_n compare_v the_o honour_n and_o glory_n of_o christ_n as_o a_o prince_n over_o nation_n with_o other_o sovereignty_n and_o prefer_v he_o not_o only_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o heavenliness_n and_o eternity_n of_o it_o but_o as_o it_o obtain_v a_o interest_n and_o command_n in_o the_o world_n for_o it_o be_v a_o government_n over_o nation_n as_o nation_n over_o the_o law_n and_o principality_n of_o nation_n and_o not_o of_o one_o only_a but_o many_o nation_n not_o indeed_o in_o the_o way_n of_o worldly_a power_n but_o divine_a persuasion_n evidence_n of_o truth_n and_o reason_n virtue_n of_o holiness_n and_o goodness_n be_v the_o sceptre_n of_o this_o kingdom_n the_o weapon_n of_o this_o power_n and_o this_o mountain_n shall_v grow_v great_a and_o great_a till_o all_o the_o prophecy_n be_v exact_o fulfil_v in_o the_o sovereignty_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o low_a subjection_n of_o all_o kingdom_n to_o he_o the_o great_a mountain_n disappear_v and_o become_v nothing_o before_o he_o when_o the_o fullness_n of_o the_o jew_n and_o nation_n be_v come_v into_o he_o thus_o it_o be_v a_o mountain_n set_v upon_o the_o top_n of_o the_o mountain_n not_o only_o in_o the_o eminency_n of_o its_o doctrine_n but_o the_o profess_a subjection_n of_o the_o government_n of_o the_o world_n that_o be_v in_o scripture_n call_v mountain_n to_o it_o for_o his_o truth_n meekness_n and_o righteousness_n sake_n but_o if_o nation_n receive_v and_o flow_v into_o christianity_n sink_v it_o present_o into_o particular_a private_a assembly_n as_o it_o be_v while_n under_o persecution_n and_o that_o it_o shall_v be_v of_o no_o more_o public_a honour_n than_o at_o such_o time_n the_o mountain_n of_o the_o lord_n house_n shall_v not_o be_v above_o the_o hill_n but_o shade_v by_o they_o and_o that_o according_a to_o the_o very_a constitution_n of_o christianity_n itself_o for_o the_o supremacy_n stand_v aloft_o but_o the_o profession_n of_o christ_n retire_v into_o privacy_n yea_o the_o worship_n of_o the_o true_a god_n creator_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n which_o after_o the_o appearance_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n in_o the_o world_n be_v only_o in_o christ_n must_v be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v exalt_v as_o be_v everywhere_o signify_v that_o it_o must_v be_v abate_v and_o bring_v low_o by_o the_o depression_n and_o fall_v down_o of_o the_o mosaic_a frame_n for_o than_o it_o be_v settle_v upon_o one_o of_o the_o principality_n of_o the_o world_n and_o though_o it_o be_v now_o more_o diffuse_v yet_o if_o it_o not_o only_o be_v not_o but_o aught_o upon_o its_o own_o principle_n to_o be_v establish_v in_o and_o upon_o the_o public_a profession_n of_o a_o nation_n it_o have_v not_o nor_o can_v have_v such_o a_o eminency_n as_o among_o the_o jew_n when_o it_o have_v the_o awfulness_n and_o majestickness_n of_o a_o kingdom_n devote_v to_o that_o true_a worship_n make_v it_o thereby_o of_o much_o great_a notice_n in_o the_o world_n and_o if_o religion_n may_v be_v national_a even_o as_o nation_n themselves_o be_v unite_v in_o a_o way_n of_o order_n so_o must_v national_a religion_n also_o be_v by_o order_n compose_v into_o its_o nationalness_n and_o this_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o scripture_n and_o right_a reason_n but_o let_v this_o be_v no_o pretence_n to_o that_o tyranny_n in_o christian_a religion_n that_o great_a usurpation_n of_o popery_n for_o it_o be_v a_o sacrilegious_a displace_v the_o honour_n from_o christ_n upon_o oftentimes_o a_o most_o unworthy_a mortal_n those_o prince_n than_o that_o be_v minores_fw-la coronae_fw-la that_o lessen_v themselves_o by_o give_v their_o kingdom_n and_o power_n to_o the_o beast_n must_v needs_o diminish_v the_o honour_n of_o their_o profession_n of_o christianity_n see_v they_o have_v so_o far_o strip_v themselves_o of_o their_o principality_n that_o they_o have_v they_o not_o to_o dedicate_v to_o christ_n the_o retain_v their_o honour_n unvouch_v unviolate_a by_o any_o creature_n and_o present_v to_o the_o honour_n of_o christianity_n a_o supremacy_n unprostitute_v be_v the_o true_a glory_n do_v by_o christian_a prince_n to_o christianity_n 2._o if_o there_o be_v not_o the_o liberty_n allow_v to_o nation_n to_o espouse_v christianity_n to_o their_o government_n and_o to_o receive_v the_o honour_n to_o themselves_o of_o be_v religious_a and_o christian_n as_o nation_n the_o condition_n of_o nation_n be_v worse_a than_o that_o of_o the_o jew_n under_o the_o law_n for_o now_o people_n as_o in_o the_o body_n of_o a_o nation_n may_v not_o be_v so_o happy_a as_o to_o have_v the_o lord_n for_o their_o god_n they_o may_v not_o crown_v themselves_o with_o the_o chief_a glory_n of_o nation_n viz._n true_a religion_n moses_n we_o know_v often_o magnify_v the_o state_n of_o the_o jew_n to_o themselves_o in_o this_o particular_a viz._n the_o excellency_n of_o their_o religion_n he_o use_v it_o as_o a_o great_a argument_n that_o god_n love_v the_o nation_n he_o tell_v they_o it_o be_v their_o wisdom_n and_o honour_n before_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o nation_n round_o about_o they_o who_o have_v reason_n to_o defer_v to_o they_o that_o they_o be_v a_o great_a and_o a_o wise_a nation_n a_o understand_a people_n that_o have_v such_o etc._n deut._n 4._o 8_o etc._n etc._n statute_n and_o judgement_n now_o see_v christian_a religion_n have_v the_o undoubted_a evidence_n of_o wisdom_n truth_n and_o goodness_n not_o only_o so_o superior_a to_o all_o the_o religion_n in_o the_o world_n as_o to_o be_v the_o only_a true_a religion_n but_o much_o superior_a to_o that_o under_o administration_n of_o the_o true_a religion_n itself_o among_o the_o jew_n it_o must_v needs_o be_v the_o happiness_n of_o nation_n to_o enfranchise_v it_o as_o the_o public_a national_a religion_n by_o the_o same_o authority_n whereby_o they_o make_v valid_a any_o other_o law_n or_o act_n so_o as_o to_o become_v the_o act_n of_o the_o public_a and_o we_o have_v reason_n to_o believe_v those_o many_o expression_n of_o ephes_n 6._o eph._n 2._o 14._o c._n 3._o 6._o 2._o 14._o c._n 3._o 6._o break_v down_o the_o partition_n wall_n and_o admit_v all_o nation_n to_o be_v the_o people_n of_o god_n and_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d a_o body_n together_o be_v intend_v not_o only_o to_o signify_v that_o they_o may_v unite_v in_o lesser_a congregation_n but_o in_o the_o fullness_n of_o national_a association_n else_o they_o be_v not_o receive_v into_o the_o same_o freedom_n and_o immunity_n that_o the_o jew_n have_v nor_o can_v egypt_n and_o assyria_n be_v so_o equal_a with_o israel_n that_o israel_n shall_v be_v but_o a_o three_o with_o they_o who_o the_o lord_n of_o host_n shall_v bless_v all_o alike_o with_o no_o more_o variation_n than_o egypt_n my_o people_n assyria_n the_o work_n of_o my_o hand_n and_o israel_n my_o inheritance_n isa_n 19_o we_o may_v find_v christianity_n intend_v to_o embrace_v all_o
all_o that_o pierce_v he_o who_o very_a own_o eye_n shall_v see_v he_o as_o so_o pierce_v by_o they_o it_o be_v the_o appearance_n of_o man_n in_o their_o body_n of_o nation_n in_o their_o national_a capacity_n of_o all_o man_n and_o thing_n in_o their_o restitution_n for_o it_o be_v the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o regeneration_n mat._n 19_o 28._o to_o their_o former_a state_n that_o religion_n and_o piety_n may_v receive_v its_o recompense_n of_o glory_n that_o irreligion_n and_o wickedness_n may_v have_v its_o just_a reward_n of_o shame_n and_o punishment_n and_o that_o in_o the_o very_a circumstance_n wherein_o each_o be_v see_v and_o know_v and_o shall_v then_o be_v remember_v to_o â—ave_n stand_v here_o in_o the_o world_n though_o for_o the_o generality_n very_o different_a from_o the_o esteem_n and_o disesteem_v they_o then_o find_v last_o this_o representation_n of_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n be_v the_o most_o lively_a feeling_n and_o sensible_a engagement_n to_o speedy_a repentance_n and_o reformation_n that_o our_o sin_n may_v be_v blot_v out_o when_o the_o time_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o re-enlivening_a all_o thing_n shall_v come_v from_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o lord_n who_o will_v not_o take_v great_a care_n that_o when_o they_o be_v 19_o act_n 3_o 19_o seek_v for_o they_o may_v not_o be_v find_v who_o will_v not_o desire_v and_o so_o use_v the_o most_o effectual_a mean_n to_o appear_v in_o glory_n and_o not_o under_o shame_n and_o contempt_n this_o be_v also_o among_o the_o strong_a argument_n upon_o the_o most_o honourable_a personage_n and_o governor_n of_o a_o nation_n yea_o upon_o all_o that_o love_v the_o honour_n of_o their_o nation_n and_o desire_v the_o glory_n of_o it_o with_o the_o true_a public_a spirit_n to_o mind_v the_o promotion_n of_o sincere_a religion_n piety_n and_o goodness_n in_o themselves_o together_o with_o the_o state_n of_o the_o people_n time_n and_o government_n to_o which_o they_o belong_v since_o if_o they_o desire_v their_o nation_n renown_n in_o this_o world_n and_o that_o their_o management_n in_o it_o may_v be_v transmit_v fair_a in_o chronicle_n that_o they_o may_v live_v high_a in_o story_n how_o much_o more_o must_v they_o if_o at_o all_o serious_a desire_n to_o mâ—ke_v a_o honourable_a figure_n in_o that_o most_o illustrious_a representation_n of_o the_o last_o judgement_n and_o the_o eternal_a record_n of_o all_o thing_n they_o and_o their_o country_n together_o according_a to_o the_o station_n and_o relation_n wherein_o they_o have_v stand_v to_o it_o and_o the_o love_n they_o have_v bear_v to_o it_o and_o certain_o every_o good_a man_n desire_v by_o a_o immutable_a instinct_n by_o a_o law_n of_o goodness_n within_o himself_o to_o be_v good_a in_o a_o community_n and_o to_o be_v save_v in_o their_o salvation_n which_o he_o earnest_o aspire_v to_o in_o and_o with_o his_o own_o and_o his_o own_o in_o and_o with_o that_o yea_o though_o he_o be_v so_o low_a or_o mean_a in_o his_o fortune_n ability_n or_o discourse_n as_o not_o to_o be_v in_o any_o advantage_n for_o propagate_a true_a religion_n yâ—â—_n he_o have_v a_o inward_a force_n to_o it_o and_o as_o every_o good_a man_n rise_v in_o his_o stature_n and_o condition_n and_o influence_n in_o the_o nation_n to_o which_o he_o belong_v so_o in_o his_o service_n to_o the_o public_a religion_n but_o especial_o every_o eminent_a great_a true_o religious_a person_n of_o a_o public_a character_n and_o a_o lover_n of_o his_o nation_n have_v a_o most_o vehement_a and_o ardent_a desire_n not_o only_o of_o his_o own_o salvation_n but_o of_o the_o salvation_n of_o his_o nation_n of_o as_o many_o and_o great_a number_n of_o as_o universal_a a_o body_n of_o it_o as_o may_v be_v moses_n be_v so_o high_a in_o this_o that_o he_o desire_v to_o be_v blot_v out_o of_o god_n book_n of_o 32._o exod._n 32._o 32._o favour_n that_o he_o rather_o than_o his_o nation_n shall_v and_o the_o apostle_n paul_n for_o israel_n his_o national_a kindred_n wish_v to_o be_v anathema_n from_o christ_n the_o scruple_n of_o either_o of_o which_o i_o will_v not_o dispute_v be_v satisfy_v 3._o rom._n 9_o 3._o they_o express_v a_o high_a and_o mighty_a zeal_n for_o the_o national_a salvation_n and_o which_o in_o a_o degree_n be_v to_o be_v imitate_v by_o the_o best_a man_n therefore_o such_o person_n as_o moses_n paul_n and_o other_o of_o the_o worthy_n of_o nation_n and_o people_n that_o have_v be_v successful_a in_o bring_v many_o to_o righteousness_n and_o happiness_n shall_v have_v as_o our_o saviour_n speak_v rule_v over_o city_n proportionable_a to_o their_o service_n they_o shall_v for_o ever_o be_v exalt_v as_o prince_n over_o their_o people_n in_o eternal_a glory_n even_o as_o the_o apostle_n shall_v sit_v upon_o throne_n judge_v that_o be_v shall_v be_v ruler_n and_o governor_n over_o the_o twelve_o tribe_n of_o israel_n those_o that_o have_v not_o be_v successful_a as_o noah_n lot_n esay_n etc._n etc._n that_o have_v yet_o have_v the_o zeal_n the_o public_a spirit_n that_o be_v commensurable_a to_o the_o piety_n religion_n and_o salvation_n of_o their_o whole_a community_n shall_v not_o though_o israel_n be_v not_o gather_v yet_o spend_v their_o strength_n for_o nought_o their_o judgement_n be_v with_o the_o lord_n and_o their_o work_n with_o their_o god_n they_o shall_v be_v glorious_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o lord_n they_o shall_v 4_o isa_n 49._o 3_o 4_o be_v a_o sweet_a savour_n to_o god_n of_o true_a holiness_n and_o piety_n in_o they_o that_o perish_v even_o as_o in_o they_o that_o be_v save_v the_o glory_n and_o happiness_n shall_v accumulate_v upon_o themselves_o though_o it_o redound_v not_o on_o the_o nation_n god_n make_v they_o of_o themselves_o as_o it_o be_v a_o great_a nation_n in_o the_o blessedness_n of_o eternity_n as_o he_o promise_v moses_n if_o he_o will_v have_v be_v content_v with_o the_o destruction_n of_o that_o present_a nation_n of_o israel_n they_o be_v reckon_v as_o a_o nation_n by_o themselves_o and_o not_o of_o that_o community_n that_o perish_v for_o as_o the_o apostle_n say_v the_o lord_n know_v how_o to_o deliver_v the_o righteous_a out_o of_o temptation_n and_o so_o out_o of_o the_o infamy_n of_o a_o common_a corruption_n and_o especial_o that_o everlasting_a contempt_n and_o reserve_v the_o wicked_a to_o swallow_v it_o whole_o in_o themselves_o their_o reproach_n their_o lord_n will_v return_v upon_o they_o for_o ever_o it_o be_v turn_v off_o from_o himself_o and_o his_o servant_n but_o though_o there_o be_v a_o infinite_a wisdom_n in_o the_o divine_a judgement_n in_o rescue_v thus_o his_o own_o glory_n and_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o servant_n that_o have_v be_v unsuccessful_a in_o turn_v man_n to_o righteousness_n while_o they_o have_v be_v faithful_a with_o all_o their_o talent_n and_o in_o all_o their_o house_n yet_o the_o salvation_n of_o man_n and_o nation_n be_v the_o plain_a and_o manifest_a glory_n of_o god_n and_o of_o his_o most_o eminent_a servant_n those_o that_o be_v their_o convert_v be_v their_o hope_n now_o and_o their_o joy_n their_o rejoice_v their_o crown_n of_o 20._o 1_o thes_n 2._o 19_o 20._o rejoice_v in_o the_o presence_n of_o jesus_n christ_n at_o his_o come_n in_o that_o day_n only_o thus_o man_n of_o eminency_n in_o holiness_n be_v secure_v against_o loss_n if_o they_o save_v only_o their_o own_o soul_n while_o they_o endeavour_v the_o good_a of_o many_o that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v they_o be_v crown_v with_o those_o who_o god_n have_v give_v they_o as_o child_n by_o be_v instrument_n of_o their_o conversion_n on_o the_o other_o side_n they_o be_v assure_v of_o their_o reward_n with_o god_n in_o they_o that_o perish_v but_o further_a every_o man_n that_o be_v good_a in_o a_o nation_n though_o his_o interest_n be_v private_a may_v like_o the_o one_o poor_a wise_a man_n have_v do_v all_o he_o can_v to_o save_v a_o city_n and_o therefore_o shall_v not_o be_v forget_v here_o if_o he_o be_v 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probability_n of_o the_o national_a religion_n be_v surprise_v rule_n 2._o that_o in_o circumstantial_o of_o religion_n what_o be_v prepare_v and_o settle_v so_o that_o it_o can_v be_v alter_v by_o any_o private_a dispose_n nor_o allow_v to_o any_o private_a choice_n without_o scandal_n to_o the_o public_a every_o man_n shall_v consider_v his_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n on_o one_o side_n as_o on_o the_o other_o to_o preserve_v himself_o from_o scruple_n as_o in_o the_o apostle_n instance_n of_o eat_v there_o be_v liberty_n on_o one_o side_n to_o eat_v all_o thing_n but_o this_o do_v not_o determine_v to_o a_o necessity_n of_o eat_v that_o be_v not_o liberty_n if_o therefore_o there_o be_v a_o good_a reason_n a_o expediency_n not_o to_o eat_v the_o liberty_n be_v more_o conserve_v in_o not_o eat_v than_o in_o eat_v so_o it_o be_v in_o the_o use_n or_o not_o use_v of_o all_o indifferent_a thing_n where_o then_o as_o to_o the_o case_n we_o be_v now_o upon_o the_o advantage_n for_o public_a religion_n incline_v this_o way_n or_o that_o way_n to_o the_o use_n or_o not_o use_v of_o indifferent_a thing_n it_o be_v our_o great_a liberty_n to_o move_v ourselves_o that_o way_n and_o not_o to_o be_v deter_v with_o the_o suspicion_n of_o the_o loss_n of_o it_o by_o so_o do_v this_o seem_v to_o be_v the_o prophet_n zachariahs_n resolution_n concern_v the_o fast_n wherein_o those_o that_o will_v have_v they_o lay_v down_o and_o other_o will_v keep_v they_o still_o a_o foot_n differ_v he_o first_o show_v they_o of_o no_o value_n with_o god_n then_o bid_v they_o love_v the_o truth_n and_o peace_n zach._n 8._o 10._o for_o though_o outward_a form_n uniformity_n or_o variety_n in_o they_o be_v of_o no_o account_n in_o themselves_o with_o god_n but_o either_o way_n in_o the_o uniformity_n or_o the_o variety_n they_o that_o serve_v god_n in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n be_v accept_v of_o he_o yet_o the_o angry_a dissent_n and_o disagreement_n that_o disjoin_a the_o mind_n of_o man_n 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man_n heart_n answ_n whatever_o be_v indeed_o write_v in_o man_n heart_n must_v certain_o be_v from_o god_n see_v no_o create_v hand_n can_v write_v there_o the_o hand_n that_o make_v can_v alone_o ingrave_n it_o quest_n how_o then_o shall_v we_o make_v a_o judgement_n what_o be_v write_v upon_o the_o heart_n answ_n that_o which_o be_v universal_o acknowledge_v and_o amid_o all_o the_o difference_n in_o religion_n fall_v under_o no_o variation_n assure_v we_o it_o be_v place_v there_o by_o that_o supreme_a hand_n that_o alike_o fashion_v all_o man_n heart_n and_o especial_o see_v to_o this_o universal_a acknowledgement_n there_o be_v no_o temptation_n from_o the_o sensual_a and_o worst_a part_n of_o man_n it_o be_v against_o its_o interest_n but_o it_o spring_v from_o the_o wise_a and_o best_a part_n most_o unconcerned_a in_o this_o world_n or_o any_o of_o the_o brutish_a pleasure_n of_o it_o quest_n what_o principle_n do_v you_o account_v thus_o to_o be_v of_o natural_a religion_n 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world_n be_v if_o all_o the_o religion_n of_o the_o world_n be_v but_o reform_v to_o this_o natural_a true_a religion_n answ_n undoubted_o so_o for_o the_o state_n of_o it_o can_v not_o then_o be_v far_o from_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n all_o true_a religion_n whether_o natural_a or_o reveal_v be_v so_o close_o ally_v to_o itself_o for_o though_o reveal_v rises_z much_o high_a yet_o in_o a_o inseparable_a connexion_n with_o and_o in_o a_o continuation_n undivided_a from_o natural_a quest_n but_o as_o the_o state_n of_o the_o world_n be_v and_o have_v always_o be_v there_o seem_v to_o have_v be_v no_o effect_n of_o true_a natural_a religion_n answ_n very_o great_a in_o many_o respect_n 1._o to_o justify_v god_n in_o his_o deal_n with_o mankind_n that_o there_o have_v be_v such_o possibility_n of_o return_n to_o true_a religion_n lay_v up_o in_o they_o 2._o to_o be_v as_o sense_n in_o a_o man_n soul_n upon_o which_o all_o divine_a application_n may_v take_v either_o to_o conviction_n 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therefore_o desire_v the_o prosperity_n of_o it_o in_o this_o world_n so_o ought_v we_o to_o endeavour_v by_o all_o mean_v the_o eternal_a happiness_n of_o as_o many_o of_o it_o as_o we_o can_v by_o join_v with_o they_o and_o engage_v they_o in_o true_a religion_n quest_n i_o desire_v your_o second_o proposition_n answ_n it_o be_v this_o that_o in_o a_o political_a sense_n national_a religion_n be_v when_o magistrate_n and_o the_o body_n of_o the_o people_n join_v in_o the_o true_a religion_n and_o establish_v it_o by_o law_n and_o devote_v to_o it_o the_o most_o public_a advantage_n that_o the_o largeness_n and_o grandeur_n of_o such_o a_o nation_n have_v in_o their_o power_n fix_v character_n of_o civil_a honour_n and_o ample_a condition_n upon_o the_o ruler_n of_o the_o church_n and_o communicate_v to_o they_o magistratical_a power_n in_o thing_n pertain_v to_o the_o external_n defence_n honour_n and_o provision_n for_o the_o true_a religion_n as_o it_o be_v national_a all_o which_o 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and_o may_v claim_v his_o interest_n and_o property_n in_o it_o as_o in_o all_o thing_n else_o legal_o due_a to_o he_o and_o be_v not_o oblige_v upon_o the_o account_n of_o passive_a obedience_n to_o desert_n or_o relinquish_v his_o right_n in_o it_o any_o more_o than_o his_o righteous_a claim_n or_o title_n to_o any_o thing_n else_o he_o enjoy_v by_o law_n and_o yet_o trangress_v no_o rule_n of_o christianity_n but_o have_v the_o same_o obligation_n to_o defend_v that_o his_o right_n as_o any_o other_o right_o whatever_o so_o far_o as_o the_o law_n of_o the_o nation_n enable_v he_o nor_o can_v there_o be_v any_o resistance_n to_o government_n in_o so_o do_v even_o as_o there_o can_v be_v none_o but_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n and_o trust_n of_o subordinate_a magistrate_n to_o adhere_v to_o the_o law_n in_o the_o point_n of_o true_a religion_n as_o in_o all_o other_o case_n and_o of_o the_o supreme_a legislative_a power_n of_o a_o nation_n to_o foresee_v danger_n and_o prevent_v they_o 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to_o salvation_n not_o forcible_o except_o when_o natural_a religion_n be_v violate_v because_o patient_a instruction_n counsel_n and_o ratiocination_n be_v the_o divine_a method_n in_o give_v and_o work_v faith_n quest_n i_o now_o expect_v the_o last_o proposition_n answ_n i_o shall_v give_v you_o the_o last_o and_o therein_o conclude_v this_o whole_a enquiry_n and_o instruction_n and_o it_o be_v this_o the_o true_a religion_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n in_o a_o nation_n or_o city_n do_v overtop_v all_o the_o false_a and_o private_a religion_n in_o it_o and_o become_v in_o the_o sacred_a register_n the_o national_a religion_n in_o the_o sacred_a map_n the_o christian_n of_o achaia_n be_v achaia_n itself_o the_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n be_v the_o city_n themselves_o and_o whatever_o lesser_a difference_n or_o division_n this_o or_o that_o name_n of_o distinction_n may_v seem_v to_o make_v in_o national_a religion_n yet_o the_o true_a substantial_a religion_n in_o all_o of_o they_o shall_v be_v one_o national_a religion_n and_o become_v one_o rod_n and_o sceptre_n in_o the_o hand_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o nation_n be_v as_o one_o national_a tribe_n and_o church_n for_o let_v man_n do_v what_o they_o can_v against_o it_o true_a religion_n as_o it_o be_v the_o only_a public_a religion_n and_o no_o separation_n of_o man_n from_o it_o however_o call_v public_a can_v make_v it_o private_a so_o in_o what_o place_n soever_o it_o be_v it_o shall_v have_v the_o most_o public_a character_n and_o the_o true_a religion_n in_o all_o those_o that_o sincere_o profess_v it_o shall_v be_v one_o true_a public_a religion_n and_o those_o little_a difference_n shall_v not_o cleave_v it_o into_o more_o than_o one_o without_o the_o change_n of_o true_a religion_n itself_o there_o can_v be_v a_o schism_n of_o a_o deep_a sense_n in_o it_o if_o bitterness_n and_o animosity_n censoriousness_n and_o the_o persecute_v spirit_n be_v away_o god_n will_v gracious_o interpret_v scruple_n on_o one_o side_n to_o a_o jealousy_n for_o the_o purity_n of_o religion_n the_o freedom_n of_o the_o other_o to_o a_o desire_n to_o propagate_v it_o under_o the_o favour_n of_o law_n and_o thereby_o to_o be_v capable_a of_o do_v most_o good_n in_o heaven_n they_o now_o be_v all_o one_o and_o shall_v be_v one_o and_o the_o envy_n strife_n and_o contention_n which_o the_o good_a lord_n pardon_v shall_v be_v utter_o abolish_v this_o be_v the_o honour_n of_o true_a religion_n of_o public_a divine_a religion_n now_o the_o god_n of_o peace_n that_o bring_v again_o from_o the_o dead_a our_o lord_n jesus_n that_o great_a shepherd_n of_o the_o sheep_n by_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o everlasting_a covenant_n make_v his_o church_n and_o his_o church_n in_o this_o nation_n perfect_a in_o every_o good_a work_n to_o do_v his_o will_n work_v in_o it_o that_o which_o be_v well_o please_v in_o his_o sight_n through_o jesus_n christ_n to_o who_o be_v glory_n for_o ever_o and_o ever_o amen_n finis_fw-la errata_fw-la page_n 36._o l._n 20._o for_o scale_n read_v seal_v p._n 70._o l._n 9_o r._n record_n
the_o cow_n and_o the_o bear_n shall_v feed_v their_o young_a one_o shall_v lie_v down_o together_o and_o the_o lion_n shall_v eat_v straw_n like_o the_o ox_n and_o the_o suck_a child_n shall_v play_v on_o the_o hole_n of_o the_o asp_z and_o the_o wean_a child_n shall_v put_v his_o hand_n on_o the_o cockatrice_n den_fw-mi they_o shall_v not_o hurt_v nor_o destroy_v in_o all_o my_o holy_a mountain_n for_o the_o earth_n shall_v be_v full_a of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o lord_n as_o the_o water_n cover_v the_o sea_n this_o context_n be_v a_o high_a and_o eloquent_a declaration_n of_o the_o excellent_a peaceable_a and_o benign_a temper_n that_o christianity_n introduce_v into_o the_o world_n under_o the_o emblem_n of_o a_o general_a pacification_n between_o the_o mighty_a and_o the_o weak_a the_o arm_a and_o unarm_v the_o noxious_a and_o innocent_a the_o oppressive_a and_o oppress_a part_n of_o the_o creation_n and_o whether_o we_o look_v upon_o it_o as_o a_o description_n rise_v out_o of_o the_o rule_n and_o principle_n who_o natural_a and_o genuine_a effect_n where_o ever_o they_o take_v will_v be_v such_o as_o be_v here_o draw_v out_o or_o whether_o it_o be_v also_o a_o prophecy_n of_o what_o shall_v in_o some_o time_n at_o least_o come_v universal_o to_o pass_v that_o there_o shall_v be_v such_o a_o noble_a experiment_n of_o true_a christianity_n in_o the_o world_n as_o we_o have_v great_a reason_n to_o believe_v there_o shall_v and_o so_o whether_o the_o effect_n shall_v be_v throughout_o to_o conversion_n and_o the_o true_o christian_a change_n or_o whether_o it_o shall_v only_o smooth_a and_o polish_v many_o man_n who_o have_v not_o the_o true_a grace_n of_o god_n within_o but_o shall_v be_v ashamed_a in_o such_o a_o land_n of_o light_a to_o deal_v 10._o isa_n 26._o 10._o perverse_o and_o not_o to_o behold_v the_o majesty_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o that_o transcendent_a goodness_n and_o grace_n he_o appear_v in_o both_o in_o the_o command_v and_o great_a exemplar_n of_o yet_o so_o that_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o multitude_n of_o sincere_a convert_v to_o that_o state_n however_o we_o expound_v either_o of_o these_o they_o be_v both_o alike_o to_o the_o discourse_n intend_v it_o be_v undoubted_a that_o christanity_n always_o lay_v the_o ground_n and_o reason_n give_v the_o command_n and_o urge_v the_o precept_n inspire_v the_o temper_n here_o describe_v and_o do_v most_o effective_o in_o all_o time_n upon_o many_o though_o few_o comparative_o and_o in_o all_o reasonable_a hope_n shall_v upon_o the_o generality_n in_o some_o time_n so_o prevail_v in_o the_o world_n that_o all_o that_o belluine_n ferocious_a and_o savage_a temper_n of_o man_n shall_v be_v put_v off_o and_o proscribe_v the_o world_n the_o heart_n of_o man_n be_v either_o true_o change_v by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n or_o universal_o so_o far_o convince_v by_o high_a consideration_n and_o over_o come_v light_n for_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o lord_n shall_v cover_v the_o earth_n as_o water_n do_v the_o sea_n that_o at_o least_o they_o will_v not_o discover_v that_o leonine_n and_o wolvish_a temper_n that_o cruelty_n and_o venom_n so_o natural_a to_o man_n heart_n in_o this_o sinful_a and_o degenerate_a state_n and_o this_o extend_v not_o only_o to_o the_o supersede_v the_o cruelty_n of_o action_n oppression_n spoil_v of_o good_n imprisonment_n massacre_n martyrdom_n and_o all_o sort_n of_o torture_n but_o to_o the_o take_v away_o that_o poison_n of_o asp_n that_o be_v in_o man_n lip_n the_o lion-like_a tooth_n of_o slander_n and_o invective_n the_o sword_n and_o knife_n of_o cruel_a mock_n and_o revile_n man_n offer_v one_o to_o another_o in_o the_o management_n of_o religious_a controversy_n for_o these_o thing_n the_o prophet_n speak_v of_o be_v especial_o to_o be_v understand_v with_o respect_n to_o religion_n as_o man_n be_v upon_o their_o hatred_n to_o true_a religion_n or_o the_o mutual_a difference_n in_o it_o become_v lion_n leopard_n and_o tiger_n in_o their_o execution_n cockatrice_n asp_n and_o scorpion_n in_o their_o bitter_a word_n and_o anathema_n all_o which_o according_a to_o the_o influence_n of_o christianity_n upon_o man_n mind_n declare_v in_o this_o prophecy_n shall_v be_v take_v out_o of_o the_o world_n except_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o those_o thing_n alone_o which_o will_v be_v cause_n of_o man_n eternal_a damnation_n at_o the_o tribunal_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n if_o the_o infliction_n be_v spiritual_a or_o such_o iniquity_n as_o god_n have_v indeed_o command_v to_o be_v punish_v by_o a_o judge_n in_o this_o world_n if_o the_o sentence_n be_v temporal_a of_o such_o a_o change_n as_o be_v here_o set_v out_o the_o apostle_n paul_n be_v a_o great_a and_o remarkable_a instance_n who_o conversion_n as_o it_o have_v be_v think_v a_o prophetic_a pattern_n of_o the_o call_n of_o the_o jew_n so_o it_o may_v be_v as_o well_o think_v of_o this_o happy_a transmutation_n of_o the_o world_n most_o probable_o concurrent_a with_o it_o if_o either_o be_v universal_a as_o we_o have_v reason_n to_o hope_v for_o he_o be_v take_v in_o the_o very_a manner_n of_o a_o fierce_a and_o wild_a beast_n breathe_v out_o threaten_n and_o slaughter_n against_o the_o disciple_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o immediate_o 1._o act_n 9_o 1._o turn_v into_o a_o meek_a merciful_a tender_a and_o compassionate_a lamb_n over_o who_o at_o his_o conversion_n there_o shine_v a_o light_n round_o about_o he_o in_o resemblance_n of_o this_o knowledge_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o shall_v cover_v the_o earth_n at_o the_o brightness_n of_o which_o they_o that_o journey_v with_o he_o stand_v speechless_a which_o may_v allegorise_v the_o make_n tame_a even_o those_o in_o such_o a_o day_n of_o divine_a appearance_n that_o be_v no_o true_a convert_v now_o this_o apostle_n as_o we_o know_v ever_o after_o breathe_v nothing_o but_o the_o love_n meekness_n and_o gentleness_n of_o christ_n in_o himself_o and_o offer_v in_o all_o his_o writing_n to_o inspire_v it_o into_o other_o as_o we_o shall_v have_v abundant_a occasion_n in_o the_o progress_n of_o this_o discourse_n to_o observe_v severe_a in_o nothing_o but_o what_o be_v irreconcilable_a with_o this_o excellent_a christian_a spirit_n object_n before_o i_o pass_v on_o i_o shall_v only_o remove_v one_o objection_n which_o may_v seem_v a_o very_a great_a one_o viz._n that_o our_o saviour_n say_v by_o way_n of_o surprise_n upon_o any_o such_o expectation_n suppose_v you_o that_o i_o be_o come_v to_o send_v or_o give_v peace_n on_o the_o earth_n think_v not_o so_o i_o come_v not_o to_o send_v peace_n on_o the_o earth_n i_o etc._n mat_n 10._o 3_o 4._o etc._n etc._n luke_n 12._o 51._o etc._n etc._n tell_v you_o nay_o but_o rather_o division_n and_o a_o sword_n and_o a_o fire_n for_o i_o be_o come_v to_o set_v a_o man_n at_o variance_n etc._n etc._n and_o from_o henceforth_o there_o shall_v be_v five_o in_o one_o house_n divide_v three_o against_o two_o and_o two_o against_o three_o etc._n etc._n answ_n in_o answer_n to_o this_o we_o may_v easy_o perceive_v our_o saviour_n in_o this_o place_n speak_v neither_o his_o own_o intention_n and_o design_n nor_o the_o proper_a tendency_n and_o rational_a effect_n of_o his_o doctrine_n for_o in_o that_o sense_n he_o say_v to_o his_o disciple_n attempt_v to_o imitate_v the_o fiery_a zealot_n spirit_n you_o know_v not_o what_o spirit_n you_o be_v of_o for_o the_o son_n of_o man_n come_v not_o in_o a_o chariot_n of_o fire_n to_o destroy_v all_o that_o will_v not_o be_v of_o his_o religion_n for_o he_o come_v not_o to_o destroy_v man_n life_n but_o to_o save_v they_o luk._n 9_o 55_o 56._o in_o this_o place_n therefore_o he_o only_o signify_v what_o will_v arise_v through_o the_o great_a corruption_n of_o man_n who_o lust_n and_o passion_n will_v be_v apt_a to_o swell_v and_o rage_v at_o so_o excellent_a a_o doctrine_n so_o destructive_a to_o sin_n and_o to_o all_o false_a religion_n defend_v by_o long_a possession_n and_o ancient_a tradition_n and_o compose_v for_o the_o patronage_n of_o man_n lust_n hence_o man_n will_v be_v implacable_o set_v against_o the_o religion_n of_o christ_n and_o will_v be_v divide_v with_o extreme_a hate_n from_o those_o that_o espouse_v it_o as_o their_o chief_a interest_n and_o happiness_n and_o not_o be_v draw_v to_o apostatise_v from_o it_o though_o it_o gather_v upon_o they_o the_o spite_n and_o rabid_v inclination_n of_o the_o world_n in_o general_n and_o of_o their_o near_a relation_n in_o particular_a indeed_o the_o profane_a and_o enemy_n of_o christianity_n be_v wont_a to_o cry_v out_o against_o religion_n on_o such_o occasion_n as_o if_o it_o wrought_v all_o the_o mischief_n in_o such_o case_n when_o it_o be_v their_o own_o wickedness_n that_o trouble_v thing_n as_o solomon_n say_v the_o foolishness_n of_o man_n pervert_v his_o way_n and_o then_o his_o heart_n
and_o condescension_n to_o those_o that_o think_v disser_o from_o he_o i_o come_v therefore_o now_o to_o the_o main_a of_o the_o discourse_n and_o to_o make_v good_a that_o the_o nature_n constitution_n and_o rule_n of_o christian_a religion_n be_v most_o exact_o prepare_v to_o ingenerate_v promote_v and_o establish_v love_n peace_n and_o quietness_n among_o man_n even_o universal_a and_o ecumenical_a peace_n but_o especial_o among_o christian_n and_o that_o by_o the_o most_o compendious_a authority_n viz._n the_o word_n that_o be_v nigh_o to_o we_o in_o scripture_n and_o true_a and_o undoubted_a reason_n without_o go_v up_o into_o heaven_n or_o down_o into_o the_o deep_a or_o send_v beyond_o the_o sea_n or_o turn_v over_o voluminous_a write_n of_o ancient_n church-history_n tradition_n which_o perplex_a thing_n with_o endless_a intricacy_n for_o before_o any_o one_o can_v with_o due_a rational_a satisfaction_n receive_v they_o he_o must_v for_o himself_o search_v they_o and_o when_o he_o have_v do_v compare_n and_o be_v able_a by_o sagacity_n to_o find_v out_o the_o true_a genius_n of_o the_o writer_n and_o distinguish_v what_o be_v sincere_a from_o thing_n spurious_a and_o counterfeit_a but_o suppose_v a_o man_n well_o satisfy_v herein_o yet_o still_o how_o various_a be_v interpretation_n and_o what_o contrary_a sense_n do_v the_o same_o period_n yield_v to_o several_a reader_n and_o when_o all_o be_v agree_v that_o can_v be_v agree_v it_o be_v incertain_a except_o thing_n be_v bring_v to_o a_o high_a test_n wherein_o the_o peccancy_n and_o lubricity_n the_o oversight_n and_o weakness_n of_o humane_a nature_n have_v have_v place_n or_o what_o have_v be_v conduct_v by_o the_o word_n and_o spirit_n of_o god_n by_o true_a wisdom_n according_a to_o the_o pure_a and_o chaste_a law_n of_o christianity_n so_o that_o though_o all_o knowledge_n and_o learning_n read_v and_o acquaintance_n with_o the_o record_n of_o elder_a time_n be_v most_o valuable_a and_o to_o be_v desire_v in_o its_o due_a place_n yet_o as_o to_o the_o ascertain_v our_o mind_n in_o what_o concern_v we_o not_o only_o to_o everlasting_a happiness_n but_o to_o present_a peace_n god_n have_v provide_v better_a for_o we_o and_o within_o a_o near_a compass_n wherein_o our_o search_n can_v be_v too_o curious_a or_o industrious_a but_o within_o lesser_a room_n for_o such_o a_o kind_n of_o accurate_a search_n as_o be_v due_a to_o the_o scripture_n which_o in_o short_a give_v we_o the_o conclusion_n of_o all_o matter_n necessary_a to_o life_n and_o godliness_n in_o present_a will_v be_v more_o than_o the_o most_o of_o mankind_n have_v either_o leisure_n patience_n or_o skill_n for_o if_o extend_v upon_o the_o monument_n of_o antiquity_n so_o various_o insist_v upon_o for_o the_o find_v out_o what_o man_n very_o often_o have_v a_o mind_n to_o find_v out_o in_o they_o rather_o than_o fair_o to_o take_v what_o be_v offer_v by_o they_o but_o the_o thing_n i_o shall_v present_v as_o christian_a foundation_n of_o universal_a peace_n and_o benignity_n and_o most_o especial_o among_o the_o disciple_n of_o christianity_n be_v such_o as_o be_v plain_o find_v in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o attest_v by_o sound_a reason_n 1._o the_o first_o foundation_n of_o universal_a peace_n and_o love_n and_o beneficence_n in_o religion_n give_v we_o by_o christianity_n be_v the_o universal_a consent_n unity_n and_o even_o uniformity_n in_o natural_a religion_n throughout_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n if_o they_o will_v show_v themselves_o man_n and_o act_n as_o man_n every_o where_o presume_v upon_o and_o appeal_v to_o in_o the_o gospel_n under_o this_o head_n i_o will_v endeavour_v these_o three_o thing_n 1._o to_o take_v a_o brief_a view_n of_o natural_a religion_n observe_v the_o intimate_a union_n of_o christian_a religion_n with_o it_o as_o scripture_n bring_v it_o to_o light_v at_o its_o full_a lustre_n and_o present_v it_o at_o its_o full_a dimension_n 2._o to_o show_v the_o great_a agreeableness_n of_o christian_a religion_n with_o natural_a and_o the_o testimony_n christianity_n receive_v from_o it_o in_o what_o it_o reveal_v above_o and_o beyond_o natural_a religion_n and_o the_o reason_n we_o have_v for_o our_o acceptance_n of_o it_o thereupon_o 3._o to_o observe_v the_o ground_n of_o universal_a peace_n and_o quietness_n in_o the_o world_n upon_o its_o consent_n in_o natural_a religion_n offer_v to_o we_o by_o scripture_n and_o reason_n for_o that_o there_o be_v such_o ground_n herein_o i_o shall_v show_v christianity_n suppose_v and_o that_o it_o strong_o intimate_v they_o be_v the_o measure_n and_o standard_n of_o such_o a_o peace_n and_o quietness_n to_o mankind_n in_o general_n before_o i_o enter_v upon_o these_o i_o must_v premise_v 1._o that_o natural_a religion_n in_o many_o thing_n do_v not_o at_o first_o and_o immediate_o appear_v to_o we_o but_o upon_o strong_a and_o sedate_v motion_n think_v reason_v meditate_v as_o we_o recover_v natural_a science_n by_o study_n and_o labour_n in_o many_o point_n of_o knowledge_n which_o yet_o be_v find_v be_v most_o plain_a and_o evident_a 2._o there_o may_v be_v strong_a prejudice_n against_o some_o principle_n of_o natural_a religion_n and_o yet_o no_o more_o argument_n against_o the_o truth_n of_o they_o than_o that_o in_o former_a time_n there_o be_v a_o general_a confident_a disbelief_n of_o the_o antipode_n be_v a_o disproof_n of_o they_o in_o which_o case_n yet_o truth_n will_v by_o degree_n prevail_v to_o victory_n 3._o it_o be_v certain_a the_o true_a and_o lively_a character_n of_o this_o religion_n be_v so_o deface_v and_o blot_v by_o the_o fall_n that_o they_o can_v be_v perfect_o recover_v but_o by_o revelation_n many_o truth_n clear_a enough_o in_o themselves_o concern_v god_n his_o worship_n the_o intercourse_n of_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n with_o he_o and_o in_o relation_n to_o their_o eternal_a condition_n yea_o and_o in_o plain_a thing_n than_o these_o viz._n concern_v true_a righteousness_n mercy_n humility_n soberness_n patience_n be_v not_o see_v but_o in_o their_o dark_a rudiment_n till_o they_o be_v reveal_v by_o god_n but_o when_o they_o be_v so_o reveal_v they_o so_o notable_o fall_v in_o and_o unite_v with_o the_o remain_v of_o natural_a religion_n preserve_v in_o we_o that_o they_o assure_v the_o same_o original_a writing_n of_o all_o both_o what_o we_o find_v more_o immediate_o in_o our_o heart_n by_o their_o own_o light_n and_o what_o we_o receive_v from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n yet_o so_o that_o natural_a religion_n be_v not_o where_o find_v in_o that_o brightness_n as_o in_o the_o word_n of_o god_n though_o revelation_n be_v supernatural_a be_v a_o orb_n above_o natural_a yet_o so_o large_a that_o it_o comprehend_v this_o low_a and_o less_o the_o noticeâ—_n of_o natural_a religion_n by_o man_n apostasy_n retire_v as_o plant_n into_o the_o earth_n in_o winter_n divine_a revelation_n as_o the_o sun_n return_v at_o the_o spring_n encourage_v they_o so_o that_o they_o sprout_v up_o afresh_o and_o grow_v be_v cherish_v by_o its_o warm_a beam_n and_o so_o that_o we_o know_v these_o new_a notice_n be_v of_o the_o primitive_a implantation_n by_o their_o be_v draw_v out_o in_o a_o continuation_n from_o the_o elder_a root_n yea_o those_o thing_n that_o in_o the_o state_n of_o innocency_n have_v no_o place_n viz._n faith_n in_o the_o pardoning-mercy_n of_o god_n and_o repentance_n for_o there_o be_v no_o sin_n there_o be_v no_o need_n of_o these_o by_o way_n of_o supposition_n of_o man_n sin_n and_o so_o great_a a_o goodness_n of_o god_n any_o way_n discover_v to_o man_n flow_v as_o free_o from_o the_o same_o fountain_n of_o natural_a religion_n as_o any_o other_o duty_n of_o it_o as_o be_v after_o to_o be_v show_v 4._o notwithstanding_o all_o these_o former_a premisal_n that_o seem_v to_o abate_v from_o it_o i_o affirm_v natural_a religion_n be_v a_o basis_n for_o the_o common_a peace_n and_o quietness_n of_o mankind_n upon_o which_o they_o may_v easy_o so_o concentre_v as_o to_o preserve_v the_o world_n from_o blood_n and_o cruelty_n on_o religious_a account_n if_o they_o will_v as_o i_o have_v say_v show_v themselves_o man_n i_o come_v therefore_o to_o take_v brief_o the_o intend_a view_n of_o natural_a religion_n and_o to_o observe_v the_o intimate_a union_n of_o christian_a religion_n with_o it_o i._o and_o first_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o a_o supreme_a be_v the_o lord_n and_o giver_n of_o all_o with_o all_o the_o reverence_n love_n obedience_n service_n due_a to_o he_o as_o the_o great_a author_n benefactor_n lord_n and_o judge_n of_o the_o whole_a world_n be_v the_o first_o most_o fundamental_a principle_n of_o natural_a religion_n and_o so_o plain_a and_o evident_a that_o whoever_o deny_v it_o may_v without_o any_o brand_n of_o cruelty_n be_v deal_v with_o as_o a_o traitor_n to_o the_o universe_n 1._o for_o first_o he_o have_v unhindged_a the_o order_n subordination_n
that_o that_o doctrine_n be_v make_v know_v to_o man_n by_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n consequential_o and_o by_o way_n of_o deduction_n though_o not_o original_o ingraft_v i_o make_v no_o doubt_n and_o that_o these_o two_o way_n 1._o by_o that_o obligation_n to_o forgive_v plant_v in_o humane_a nature_n and_o the_o inclinableness_n of_o generous_a mind_n to_o it_o as_o a_o excellency_n and_o glory_n of_o humane_a nature_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v most_o attributable_a to_o god_n see_v all_o perfection_n derive_v from_o god_n and_o be_v most_o attributable_a to_o he_o to_o the_o lord_n 9_o dan._n 9_o 9_o our_o god_n belong_v mercy_n and_o forgiveness_n he_o have_v declare_v to_o man_n it_o do_v so_o by_o insert_v it_o as_o a_o nobleness_n in_o his_o heart_n they_o therefore_o that_o do_v not_o esteem_v it_o a_o virtue_n and_o of_o most_o desirable_a practice_n in_o themselves_o may_v upon_o that_o very_a reason_n despair_n of_o it_o from_o god_n see_v they_o count_v it_o wise_a and_o better_o not_o to_o forgive_v and_o whatever_o be_v best_a and_o wise_a be_v most_o attributable_a to_o god_n 2._o by_o the_o patience_n of_o god_n towards_o sinner_n which_o in_o its_o most_o natural_a inference_n lead_v to_o repentance_n and_o be_v salvation_n 9_o rom._n 2._o 4_o 5._o 2_o pet._n 3._o 9_o infinite_a goodness_n not_o be_v willing_a that_o any_o shall_v perish_v but_o all_o come_v to_o repentance_n and_o therefore_o that_o penitential_a frame_n discoverable_a in_o humane_a nature_n upon_o ingenuous_a sense_n of_o sin_n answer_v this_o patience_n of_o god_n as_o the_o eye_n and_o light_n as_o the_o ear_n and_o sound_n do_v one_o another_o and_o both_o together_o be_v a_o connate_a gospel_n in_o man_n soul_n if_o any_o shall_v think_v this_o a_o derogation_n from_o the_o mediator_n he_o will_v be_v satisfy_v i_o intend_v no_o such_o when_o i_o tell_v he_o i_o esteem_v all_o those_o notion_n of_o natural_a religion_n and_o morality_n as_o continue_v to_o be_v plant_v in_o man_n be_v from_o jesus_n christ_n the_o creator-redeemer_n by_o who_o every_o thing_n be_v make_v that_o be_v make_v who_o be_v that_o true_a light_n that_o be_v the_o light_n of_o man_n the_o true_a light_n that_o light_v every_o man_n that_o come_v into_o the_o world_n natural_a religion_n therefore_o may_v well_o be_v inlay_v 9_o john_n 1._o 4_o 9_o with_o evangelical_n line_n since_o it_o be_v all_o from_o christ_n the_o apostle_n therefore_o both_o st._n paul_n and_o peter_n discourse_v it_o as_o the_o great_a sin_n of_o man_n against_o natural_a knowledge_n and_o conscience_n not_o to_o know_v that_o the_o goodness_n of_o god_n lead_v to_o repentance_n to_o despise_v the_o riches_n of_o his_o long-suffering_a and_o forbearance_n to_o account_v it_o slackness_n and_o not_o salvation_n which_o can_v not_o be_v without_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o a_o pardon_n make_v know_v by_o natural_a light_n nay_o indeed_o all_o impression_n of_o natural_a religion_n continue_v and_o move_v to_o good_a action_n after_o sin_n be_v build_v upon_o god_n pardon_v mercy_n because_o god_n allow_v receive_v no_o worship_n from_o devil_n who_o find_v no_o place_n for_o repentance_n david_n therefore_o celebrate_v god_n thus_o there_o be_v forgiveness_n 4._o psal_n 103._o 4._o with_o thou_o that_o thou_o may_v be_v fear_v that_o be_v honour_v reverence_v worship_a and_o serve_v which_o can_v not_o be_v since_o man_n sin_n if_o thou_o do_v not_o forgive_v thus_o evident_a be_v the_o doctrine_n of_o pardon_n and_o repentance_n that_o if_o there_o be_v any_o such_o thing_n as_o natural_a religion_n since_o the_o fall_n that_o must_v be_v a_o noble_a branch_n of_o it_o the_o king_n of_o nineveh_n have_v a_o confidence_n in_o this_o mercy_n that_o so_o peremptory_a decree_n of_o destruction_n notwithstanding_o for_o the_o allowance_n ult_n jonah_n 3._o ult_n of_o they_o a_o quarentine_n or_o forty_o day_n patience_n carry_v a_o solemn_a promise_n of_o pardon_n upon_o repentance_n in_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o it_o else_o why_o be_v not_o the_o destruction_n immediate_a so_o he_o understand_v and_o so_o it_o prove_v and_o therefore_o it_o be_v a_o worthy_a part_n of_o religious_a public_a discourse_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n 2._o the_o second_o duty_n of_o natural_a religion_n be_v prayer_n to_o god_n which_o our_o dependence_n upon_o god_n our_o expectation_n from_o he_o both_o for_o the_o holy_a and_o happy_a state_n of_o our_o mind_n in_o virtue_n and_o godliness_n challenge_v from_o we_o the_o recommendation_n of_o our_o state_n beyond_o death_n into_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n as_o a_o faithful_a creator_n require_v it_o of_o we_o the_o peaceable_a and_o prosperous_a order_n and_o government_n of_o the_o world_n and_o of_o our_o near_a concern_v in_o it_o national_a domestic_a personal_n provoke_v we_o to_o it_o prayer_n for_o pardon_n and_o reconciliation_n to_o god_n vow_n of_o obedience_n to_o he_o of_o returns_z to_o he_o by_o repentance_n how_o necessary_a be_v they_o for_o upon_o supposition_n of_o sin_n and_o hope_n of_o pardon_n the_o same_o consideration_n enter_v into_o prayer_n that_o do_v into_o discourse_n of_o god_n now_o this_o be_v a_o duty_n so_o natural_a that_o not_o to_o pray_v be_v to_o restrain_v 4._o john_n 15._o 4._o prayer_n to_o shut_v up_o and_o imprison_v a_o most_o natural_a motion_n and_o vent_n of_o the_o soul_n that_o be_v ready_a forcible_o to_o burst_v out_o as_o water_v consign_v within_o bound_n too_o close_o for_o it_o david_n make_v address_n to_o god_n as_o by_o one_o of_o his_o attribute_n oh_o thou_o 2._o psal_n 65._o 2._o that_o hear_v prayer_n and_o therefore_o have_v a_o universal_a congregation_n of_o suppliant_n about_o thou_o to_o thou_o shall_v all_o flesh_n come_v 3._o praise_n of_o god_n in_o the_o divine_a excellency_n of_o his_o nature_n and_o be_v in_o the_o glory_n of_o creation_n and_o providence_n in_o his_o mercy_n and_o continual_a beneficency_n to_o ourselves_o and_o all_o his_o creature_n in_o his_o righteousness_n judgement_n and_o severity_n upon_o the_o wickedness_n that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n be_v a_o tribute_n to_o god_n so_o natural_a that_o god_n as_o our_o maker_n give_v all_o man_n song_n in_o the_o night_n that_o be_v continual_a matter_n of_o praise_n even_o in_o the_o ordinary_a and_o extraordinary_a season_n the_o whole_a creation_n be_v one_o mouth_n open_v in_o his_o glory_n this_o be_v so_o due_a and_o even_o necessary_a to_o be_v pay_v that_o some_o naturalist_n of_o no_o great_a reputation_n for_o devotion_n have_v upon_o the_o survey_n of_o the_o admirable_a work_n of_o god_n find_v his_o praise_n even_o bubble_v up_o from_o they_o in_o hymn_n of_o praise_n 4._o the_o holy_a and_o reverend_a mention_n of_o god_n upon_o all_o just_a and_o valuable_a reason_n as_o in_o swear_v by_o his_o name_n in_o covenant_n and_o pact_n in_o decision_n of_o controversy_n by_o testimony_n in_o asseveration_n of_o truth_n in_o promise_n be_v among_o the_o decree_n of_o this_o natural_a religion_n last_o the_o universal_a sanctification_n of_o the_o divine_a majesty_n in_o all_o our_o thought_n word_n and_o action_n that_o in_o nothing_o we_o may_v reverse_v that_o acknowledgement_n we_o make_v in_o solemn_a duty_n who_o that_o call_v god_n the_o bâ—st_n and_o great_a name_n of_o love_n and_o awe_n in_o the_o high_a degree_n as_o heathen_n do_v by_o the_o force_n of_o natural_a religion_n can_v deny_v or_o keep_v back_o any_o part_n of_o these_o from_o god_n or_o if_o any_o deny_v they_o or_o do_v contrary_a to_o they_o by_o impious_a swear_n blaspheme_v the_o name_n of_o god_n or_o undervalue_v the_o awful_a and_o tremendous_a attribute_n or_o what_o evident_o and_o undoubted_o pertain_v to_o the_o divine_a honour_n and_o glory_n who_o can_v say_v severity_n upon_o he_o be_v cruelty_n but_o a_o due_a sacrifice_n to_o justice_n as_o punishment_n for_o blood_n rapine_n unnatural_a lust_n be_v all_o these_o then_o be_v so_o plain_a and_o evident_a duty_n that_o they_o need_v nothing_o of_o further_a discourse_n but_o only_o a_o sober_a reflection_n upon_o their_o own_o evidence_n in_o order_n to_o their_o prevalency_n in_o the_o understanding_n of_o man_n and_o for_o the_o manner_n of_o performance_n beside_o the_o very_a gravity_n require_v in_o such_o awful_a action_n the_o prudence_n of_o rational_a nature_n in_o its_o solemn_a deportment_n the_o great_a condecency_n require_v to_o divine_a thing_n that_o can_v arise_v from_o nature_n and_o not_o from_o artifice_n i_o know_v nothing_o to_o be_v add_v except_o a_o caution_n to_o rest_v here_o and_o not_o to_o suffer_v the_o transport_n and_o enchantment_n of_o a_o fleshly_a imagination_n that_o be_v endless_o spin_v out_o itself_o in_o form_n and_o mode_n of_o divine_a worship_n till_o that_o worship_n become_v not_o a_o piece_n of_o pageantry_n only_o for_o that_o be_v
harmless_a in_o comparison_n but_o the_o abomination_n of_o idolatry_n and_o superstition_n most_o loathsome_a to_o that_o infinite_o pure_a and_o spiritual_a nature_n i_o come_v in_o the_o next_o place_n to_o consider_v how_o far_o time_n place_n distinction_n of_o person_n in_o religious_a worship_n be_v within_o the_o cognisance_n of_o the_o law_n and_o light_n of_o nature_n for_o i_o omit_v out_o of_o choice_n any_o discourse_n of_o sacrifice_n which_o some_o have_v contend_v come_v in_o by_o natural_a instinct_n as_o too_o copious_a for_o the_o present_a intendment_n conclude_v they_o be_v ordain_v by_o god_n chief_o to_o typify_v the_o true_a ever_o breathe_v sacrifice_n of_o christ_n which_o service_n have_v perform_v they_o expire_v in_o it_o not_o only_o repeal_v by_o the_o evangelic_n law_n but_o no_o doubt_n through_o the_o superintendency_n of_o providence_n grow_v into_o disuse_n throughout_o the_o world_n which_o together_o with_o those_o strong_a solid_a reason_n against_o their_o valuableness_n in_o themselves_o give_v by_o god_n psal_n 50._o 9_o 10_o 11_o 12._o mic._n 6._o 6_o 7_o 8_o 9_o heb._n 9_o 10_o etc._n etc._n sufficient_o argue_v they_o be_v not_o of_o natural_a notion_n nor_o of_o the_o everlasting_a righteousness_n of_o that_o law_n let_v we_o therefore_o wave_v they_o go_v on_o to_o debate_v the_o dictate_v of_o primitive_a rule_n concern_v time_n and_o i_o find_v but_o two_o thing_n i_o can_v suppose_v injunction_n of_o so_o ancient_a a_o date_n pertain_v to_o it_o 1._o that_o the_o time_n be_v sufficient_a capacious_a enough_o for_o the_o receipt_n of_o religious_a duty_n and_o action_n sufficient_a for_o the_o make_v ample_a inquiry_n and_o search_n into_o divine_a thing_n for_o the_o soul_n commoration_n and_o rest_n upon_o they_o for_o the_o discharge_n of_o religious_a business_n and_o duty_n and_o so_o suitable_a and_o agreeable_a to_o the_o testification_n of_o our_o honour_n to_o the_o supreme_a majesty_n by_o offer_v such_o a_o proportion_n of_o our_o time_n together_o such_o frequency_n of_o return_n with_o the_o favour_n of_o season_n and_o redeem_v season_n when_o it_o seem_v to_o fly_v from_o we_o that_o in_o all_o we_o may_v have_v a_o liberal_a space_n for_o so_o grand_a a_o business_n in_o our_o more_o state_v and_o occasional_a performance_n 2._o that_o in_o what_o concern_v public_a worship_n the_o time_n be_v commensurate_a as_o in_o the_o former_a particular_a to_o all_o the_o end_n and_o purpose_n of_o public_a worship_n the_o occasion_n and_o advantage_n of_o it_o and_o particular_o that_o it_o be_v know_v agree_v and_o indict_v for_o that_o service_n but_o for_o the_o seven_o part_n of_o time_n though_o undoubted_o pitch_v upon_o with_o infinite_a wisdom_n justice_n and_o equity_n in_o the_o four_o command_n respect_v divine_a honour_n and_o business_n on_o one_o side_n and_o humane_a occasion_n and_o diversion_n on_o the_o other_o yet_o it_o must_v certain_o be_v say_v the_o original_a â—allowedness_n of_o it_o be_v found_v in_o divine_a command_n and_o must_v bâ—_n convey_v by_o undoubted_a tradition_n of_o that_o command_n have_v no_o more_o natural_a in_o it_o than_o the_o general_a compromise_n of_o the_o world_n in_o the_o distribution_n of_o time_n into_o seven_n or_o week_n seldome_o than_o which_o no_o reasonable_a sense_n of_o religion_n can_v allow_v for_o the_o recurrency_n of_o solemn_a public_a worship_n mix_v with_o continue_a private_a devotion_n as_o in_o extraordinary_a to_o every_o day_n service_n else_o i_o can_v perceive_v it_o can_v be_v define_v by_o the_o law_n of_o natural_a understanding_n for_o place_n these_o two_o thing_n be_v also_o necessary_a 1._o that_o place_n be_v as_o agreeable_a as_o may_v be_v to_o the_o end_n secret_a and_o retire_a place_n for_o retire_a and_o secret_a worship_n place_n of_o domestic_a coveniency_n for_o family_n and_o public_a know_v and_o agree_v for_o public_a worship_n 2._o that_o place_n for_o divine_a worship_n have_v the_o decency_n gravity_n and_o solemnity_n that_o be_v suitable_a to_o such_o a_o degree_n and_o quality_n of_o business_n as_o be_v there_o to_o be_v negotiate_v not_o as_o any_o part_n of_o divine_a worship_n or_o so_o much_o as_o have_v any_o influential_a conduciveness_n upon_o the_o mind_n in_o such_o action_n but_o sole_o as_o the_o result_n of_o humane_a prudence_n adjust_v every_o thing_n to_o its_o proper_a use_n and_o service_n and_o with_o the_o decorum_n most_o natural_a to_o it_o for_o time_n and_o place_n have_v no_o influence_n upon_o religious_a action_n more_o than_o upon_o all_o common_a humane_a action_n by_o any_o peculiar_a virtue_n of_o their_o own_o they_o can_v without_o a_o peculiar_a sanctification_n from_o god_n with_o which_o he_o by_o his_o reveal_v will_n acquaint_v those_o upon_o who_o he_o be_v please_v to_o enjoin_v the_o observation_n rise_v any_o high_a than_o themselves_o nor_o can_v humane_a appointment_n extend_v they_o beyond_o expediency_n and_o decency_n the_o ordinary_a rule_n by_o which_o all_o thing_n civil_a and_o humane_a be_v square_v devotion_n can_v mount_v nothing_o high_o than_o its_o own_o true_a elevation_n as_o to_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n devotion_n i_o say_v and_o zeal_n ascend_v up_o to_o god_n yet_o they_o leave_v the_o thing_n they_o use_v behind_o to_o rest_v in_o their_o own_o station_n it_o be_v a_o divine_a power_n that_o make_v any_o thing_n divine_a or_o sacred_a or_o efficacious_a to_o any_o such_o production_n without_o this_o every_o thing_n rest_v upon_o its_o own_o basis_n of_o natural_a aptitude_n observe_v and_o employ_v by_o reason_n to_o those_o end_n and_o purpose_n whereunto_o that_o aptitude_n serve_v time_n and_o place_n rate_v beyond_o themselves_o become_v injurious_a to_o religious_a service_n receive_v more_o of_o the_o mind_n attendance_n and_o respect_n than_o be_v due_a to_o they_o which_o be_v whole_o oblige_v to_o a_o total_a sole_a and_o single_a determination_n upon_o the_o divine_a majesty_n itself_o must_v not_o look_v off_o from_o it_o but_o under_o the_o peril_n of_o move_v that_o jealousy_n god_n express_v in_o the_o scripture_n and_o if_o not_o thus_o yet_o they_o beget_v in_o man_n injurious_a thought_n of_o god_n as_o if_o he_o dwell_v in_o temple_n make_v with_o hand_n and_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o lord_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n confine_v there_o whereas_o except_o by_o his_o own_o choice_n upon_o certain_a reason_n as_o among_o the_o jew_n all_o place_n be_v alike_o and_o he_o equal_o accept_v those_o that_o worship_v he_o in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n he_o that_o inhabit_v ubiquity_n be_v no_o more_o offend_v 24._o joh._n 4._o 21_o 23_o 24._o or_o disdain_v mean_a and_o unadorned_a place_n for_o his_o service_n than_o stately_a structure_n to_o misdeem_v so_o of_o god_n have_v a_o degree_n of_o that_o folly_n that_o will_v restrain_v his_o omnipresence_n lest_o it_o shall_v be_v defile_v with_o the_o sordidness_n of_o some_o reception_n nauseous_a to_o we_o not_o know_v that_o infinite_a spirit_n feel_v not_o the_o passion_n of_o body_n our_o saviour_n make_v use_v of_o any_o place_n for_o heavenly_a discourse_n and_o prayer_n to_o observe_v day_n or_o time_n carry_v a_o suspicion_n that_o he_o who_o inhabit_v eternity_n and_o be_v lord_n of_o time_n be_v not_o all_o time_n the_o same_o and_o therefore_o the_o heathen_a that_o have_v corrupt_v natural_a religion_n watch_v for_o some_o day_n as_o more_o lucky_a and_o avoid_v other_o as_o unlucky_o in_o their_o attendance_n on_o their_o mock-deity_n yet_o do_v god_n allow_v to_o man_n the_o wise_a and_o prudent_a choice_n of_o their_o own_o convenience_n in_o his_o worship_n both_o for_o time_n or_o place_n not_o presume_v to_o sanctify_v any_o thing_n to_o he_o that_o he_o have_v not_o first_o sanctify_v to_o himself_o for_o who_o know_v how_o to_o choose_v for_o he_o or_o who_o be_v able_a to_o give_v to_o he_o first_o this_o must_v needs_o be_v the_o determination_n of_o natural_a reason_n if_o it_o use_v its_o own_o light_n and_o discharge_v its_o own_o trust_n have_v speak_v thus_o brief_o of_o time_n and_o place_n i_o come_v to_o the_o three_o thing_n distinction_n or_o separation_n of_o person_n for_o divine_a office_n how_o far_o it_o be_v direct_v by_o natural_a religion_n under_o these_o three_o head_n 1._o in_o the_o first_o age_n of_o the_o world_n patriarchal_a eldership_n nearness_n to_o the_o creation_n and_o continual_a acquaintance_n with_o the_o history_n of_o god_n treaty_n and_o deal_n with_o man_n together_o with_o the_o power_n gravity_n authority_n resident_a in_o it_o carry_v the_o most_o fit_a administration_n of_o divine_a thing_n along_o with_o it_o so_o that_o the_o pontifical_a prophetic_a and_o royal_a authority_n accumulate_v upon_o they_o this_o seem_v unquestionable_a in_o reason_n scripture_n history_n and_o universal_a tradition_n 2._o after_o the_o multiplication_n of_o family_n into_o nation_n and_o
great_a community_n and_o that_o patriarchate_n and_o primogeniture_n lose_v itself_o in_o the_o numerousness_n of_o mankind_n reason_n advise_v to_o the_o orderly_a separate_n and_o dedicate_a some_o person_n to_o the_o continual_a attendance_n upon_o sacred_a office_n 3._o that_o they_o may_v be_v the_o more_o authoritative_a herein_o as_o person_n of_o great_a sanctity_n wisdom_n attainment_n in_o knowledge_n be_v most_o recommend_v to_o such_o a_o choice_n so_o education_n separation_n to_o read_v meditation_n study_n for_o attainment_n of_o knowledge_n must_v be_v the_o mean_n under_o the_o eye_n of_o natural_a religion_n for_o enable_v person_n for_o the_o discharge_n of_o such_o function_n for_o there_o be_v but_o three_o way_n whereby_o person_n can_v be_v suppose_v authorize_v to_o presidency_n in_o divine_a thing_n 1._o by_o parental_a authority_n the_o same_o with_o patriarchal_a 2._o by_o eminency_n of_o part_n and_o gift_n join_v with_o dedication_n of_o themselves_o and_o orderly_a approbation_n to_o public_a office_n 3._o by_o special_a and_o immediate_a appointment_n of_o god_n either_o by_o a_o stand_a law_n as_o in_o the_o levitical_a priesthood_n or_o by_o inspiration_n as_o in_o the_o prophet_n the_o first_o two_o be_v of_o natural_a sanction_n the_o last_o of_o supernatural_a ordination_n and_o so_o far_o as_o appear_v by_o sacred_a record_n no_o one_o of_o they_o exclude_v from_o discourse_n and_o instruction_n of_o even_o a_o public_a character_n those_o that_o have_v eminent_a gift_n and_o inablement_n though_o not_o by_o immediate_a inspiration_n as_o elihu_n have_v a_o excellent_a spirit_n equal_v himself_o with_o man_n of_o day_n and_o year_n as_o he_o himself_o speak_v job_n 32._o 7_o 8._o but_o jeroboam'_v make_v priest_n of_o the_o mean_a of_o the_o people_n â—_o 1_o king_n 12._o 3â—_n â—_o be_v a_o transgression_n against_o the_o very_a law_n of_o nature_n and_o it_o seem_v to_o i_o a_o error_n of_o too_o much_o a_o like_a enormity_n against_o innate_a reason_n to_o bring_v down_o divine_a office_n to_o such_o prepare_a prescription_n as_o the_o most_o uneducated_a undevoted_a undedicate_v person_n to_o knowledge_n study_n meditation_n may_v perform_v so_o that_o they_o have_v nothing_o to_o trust_v to_o but_o as_o it_o be_v call_v the_o indelible_a character_n of_o ordination_n which_o will_v hardly_o bear_v they_o out_o in_o the_o court_n of_o natural_a conscience_n and_o therefore_o can_v easy_o atone_v they_o to_o the_o rule_n of_o reveal_v religion_n which_o never_o contradict_v or_o so_o much_o as_o dispense_v with_o natural_a on_o the_o other_o side_n to_o clog_v the_o high_o dignify_v person_n in_o this_o ministry_n with_o so_o much_o of_o rule_n and_o business_n as_o hinder_v the_o performance_n of_o these_o divine_a office_n with_o the_o utmost_a effect_n of_o that_o study_n and_o meditation_n before_o speak_v of_o run_v into_o the_o same_o ill_a consequence_n and_o exchange_n a_o religious_a service_n 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to_o have_v their_o effect_n there_o be_v many_o other_o in_o the_o event_n incurable_a evil_n upon_o man_n in_o despite_n of_o right_a reason_n the_o cure_n of_o which_o yet_o any_o one_o may_v free_o offer_v and_o discouse_n 2._o have_v thus_o far_o insist_v upon_o the_o first_o particular_a under_o this_o head_n of_o natural_a religion_n i_o come_v to_o show_v the_o agreeableness_n of_o christian_a religion_n with_o natural_a in_o what_o it_o reveal_v above_o and_o beyond_o natural_a religion_n and_o the_o great_a reason_n of_o our_o acceptance_n of_o christian_a religion_n thereupon_o which_o be_v the_o second_o head_n propose_v and_o that_o i_o may_v make_v this_o the_o clear_a let_v it_o be_v distribute_v into_o these_o three_o branch_n 1._o that_o it_o be_v hereby_o necessary_o suppose_v natural_a religion_n be_v give_v to_o be_v a_o test_n and_o touchstone_n of_o truth_n in_o religion_n 2._o that_o christian_a religion_n have_v such_o a_o evident_a agreement_n with_o natural_a 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from_o god_n to_o man_n from_o man_n to_o one_o another_o he_o that_o persecute_v christianity_n must_v persecute_v righteousness_n peace_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o which_o whosoever_o 18._o rom._n 14_o 17_o 18._o serve_v christ_n as_o every_o one_o must_v do_v that_o serve_v he_o be_v accept_v of_o god_n and_o approve_a of_o man_n and_o therefore_o to_o despite_n christianity_n be_v not_o only_o belluine_v but_o devilish_a so_o that_o the_o three_o branch_n plain_o result_v from_o the_o two_o former_a viz._n if_o natural_a religion_n be_v the_o standard_n and_o touchstone_n give_v we_o to_o try_v all_o thing_n in_o religion_n by_o and_o that_o christian_a religion_n come_v off_o from_o the_o trial_n more_o precious_a than_o gold_n it_o follow_v then_o of_o what_o value_v it_o ought_v to_o be_v to_o all_o the_o world_n to_o demonstrate_v then_o the_o second_o branch_n that_o christian_a religion_n so_o agree_v with_o natural_a as_o to_o
be_v recommend_v by_o it_o in_o what_o it_o reveal_v beyond_o it_o 1._o the_o first_o thing_n i_o shall_v insist_v upon_o be_v this_o that_o even_o as_o natural_a religion_n conduce_v very_o much_o to_o the_o world_n peace_n that_o it_o be_v natural_a substantial_a and_o not_o ceremonial_a so_o do_v it_o also_o recommend_v christian_a religion_n that_o it_o be_v so_o far_o from_o consist_v in_o ceremony_n that_o it_o have_v no_o more_o in_o number_n than_o there_o be_v find_v in_o innocency_n there_o be_v the_o tree_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o good_a and_o evil_n the_o not_o eat_v of_o which_o be_v a_o symbol_n of_o universal_a obedience_n there_o be_v the_o tree_n of_o life_n a_o sacrament_n seal_v the_o reward_n of_o obedience_n 9_o gen_n 2._o 9_o there_o be_v the_o seven_o day_n sabbath_n a_o day_n of_o solemn_a converse_n with_o god_n and_o meditation_n of_o his_o work_n found_v upon_o his_o rest_n from_o creation_n and_o a_o pledge_n of_o everlasting_a rest_n with_o god_n 3._o gen._n 2._o 2_o 3._o in_o christianity_n there_o be_v baptism_n the_o seal_n of_o the_o covenant_n of_o grace_n enter_v into_o on_o god_n part_n and_o we_o the_o sacrament_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n the_o seal_n of_o the_o full_a communication_n of_o all_o the_o blessing_n of_o the_o covenant_n the_o christian_a sabbath_n a_o day_n dedicate_v to_o the_o service_n and_o enjoyment_n of_o the_o creator-redeemer_n give_v natural_a rest_n to_o body_n religious_a festival_n to_o soul_n in_o holy_a employment_n and_o action_n ground_v on_o his_o resurrection_n and_o sit_v down_o on_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o the_o majesty_n on_o high_a call_v by_o express_a title_n the_o lord_n day_n as_o the_o eucharist_n the_o lord_n supper_n and_o a_o pawn_n of_o the_o eternal_a sabbatism_n with_o our_o lord_n in_o glory_n now_o these_o be_v so_o few_o so_o easy_a so_o familiar_a so_o near_o natural_a so_o intelligible_a that_o it_o be_v plain_a the_o institutor_n and_o founder_n of_o they_o have_v no_o pleasure_n in_o ceremony_n or_o that_o his_o servant_n shall_v waste_v their_o time_n or_o spirit_n in_o observe_v they_o or_o employ_v their_o understanding_n in_o find_v out_o a_o rationale_n for_o they_o although_o in_o condescension_n to_o man_n sojourn_v in_o flesh_n and_o blood_n he_o give_v such_o symbol_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o presence_n and_o so_o in_o the_o fewness_n the_o easiness_n the_o intelligibleness_n there_o be_v a_o testimony_n to_o they_o from_o natural_a religion_n which_o else_o be_v unconcern_v in_o all_o the_o religious_a rite_n and_o ceremony_n that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n and_o leave_v they_o to_o be_v judge_v by_o that_o proof_n they_o can_v make_v of_o themselves_o either_o as_o enjoin_v by_o god_n or_o as_o the_o result_v of_o humane_a prudence_n or_o national_a decency_n further_o it_o can_v give_v no_o account_n of_o they_o for_o natural_a and_o ceremonial_a substantial_a and_o ceremonial_a be_v oppose_v one_o to_o another_o this_o then_o be_v the_o glory_n of_o natural_a and_o christian_a religion_n which_o indeed_o be_v not_o two_o but_o one_o that_o they_o have_v least_o of_o shade_n the_o dark_a any_o religion_n be_v the_o more_o be_v the_o ceremony_n like_o the_o shadow_n of_o the_o evening_n stretch_v out_o the_o clear_a the_o religion_n the_o near_a the_o perfection_n of_o heaven_n where_o there_o be_v no_o shadow_n at_o all_o the_o less_o be_v the_o ceremony_n like_o the_o shade_n of_o a_o high_a noon_n in_o the_o summer_n solstice_n the_o deprave_a heart_n of_o man_n be_v so_o easy_o bewitch_v with_o form_n and_o foppery_n call_v they_o significant_a ceremony_n like_o say_v to_o the_o dumb_a stone_n awake_v arise_v and_o teach_v or_o to_o their_o staff_n declare_v to_o we_o that_o it_o be_v by_o no_o mean_n to_o be_v trust_v lest_o seek_v 12._o hab._n 2._o 19_o hosea_n 4._o 12._o a_o shady_a devotion_n of_o ceremony_n under_o the_o disguise_n of_o a_o solemn_a one_o as_o the_o pagan_n choose_v wood_n and_o grove_n for_o their_o sacred_a performance_n it_o lose_v itself_o in_o the_o thicket_n not_o know_v where_o it_o be_v and_o in_o the_o end_n the_o true_a religion_n also_o i_o can_v see_v what_o religion_n or_o devotion_n except_o that_o which_o ignorance_n be_v the_o mother_n of_o and_o which_o can_v be_v good_a no_o more_o than_o the_o heart_n that_o use_v it_o can_v suffer_v by_o be_v easy_a of_o access_n familiar_a unencumbr_v the_o most_o plain_a free_a intelligible_a institution_n of_o the_o lord_n supper_n be_v at_o length_n corrupt_v into_o the_o idolatrous_a mass_n by_o be_v make_v horrid_a as_o the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d religion_n by_o be_v solid_a and_o substantial_a be_v best_a secure_v from_o the_o stroke_n of_o the_o atheist_n who_o accuse_v it_o of_o trick_n and_o design_n for_o when_o there_o be_v find_v ceremonial_a cover_n like_o pious_a fraud_n over_o it_o and_o they_o easy_o yield_v to_o attack_v as_o of_o no_o value_n the_o atheist_n present_o challenge_v all_o the_o rest_n by_o proportion_n and_o render_v it_o suspicious_a it_o be_v best_a secure_v against_o the_o schismatic_n and_o unquiet_a spirit_n that_o be_v true_o so_o for_o he_o have_v something_o in_o unnecessary_a ceremony_n to_o fasten_v on_o and_z move_z trouble_n by_o it_o be_v kind_a to_o the_o more_o modest_a scrupulous_a person_n who_o be_v upon_o great_a reason_n afraid_a of_o humane_a addition_n to_o divine_a worship_n ceremony_n can_v add_v nothing_o to_o the_o true_o wise_a and_o generous_o religious_a person_n who_o love_v religion_n for_o itself_o and_o need_v not_o the_o childish_a and_o fantastic_a gaudery_n or_o gaiety_n of_o ceremony_n to_o inamor_v he_o of_o religion_n he_o love_v it_o for_o its_o true_a worth_n for_o its_o native_a beauty_n and_o substantial_a excellency_n it_o be_v therefore_o only_o fit_v to_o the_o hypochondriack_a devotionist_n who_o love_v religion_n in_o such_o a_o kind_n of_o set_v solemn_a dress_n or_o to_o the_o empty_a formalist_n that_o must_v have_v it_o so_o adorn_v or_o recommend_v or_o to_o vulgar_a unlearned_a and_o irrational_a mind_n who_o must_v be_v catch_v with_o show_n and_o pompous_a appearance_n and_o keep_v in_o amuse_n that_o they_o may_v be_v somewhat_o intent_n in_o religious_a excercise_n but_o with_o this_o disadvantage_n that_o they_o seldom_o pierce_v further_o than_o this_o surface_n or_o take_v notice_n of_o the_o religion_n itself_o and_o when_o at_o any_o time_n these_o thing_n happen_v to_o be_v expose_v they_o become_v the_o scorn_n and_o hate_v of_o such_o person_n so_o that_o they_o deal_v rude_o with_o they_o but_o now_o substantial_a massive_a religion_n yield_v not_o to_o such_o sort_n of_o attack_n but_o like_o rock_n resist_v support_v with_o its_o own_o substance_n bear_v upon_o its_o own_o truth_n and_o therefore_o be_v it_o not_o for_o the_o excellency_n of_o christian_a religion_n of_o divine_a revelation_n in_o the_o scripture_n i_o shall_v rather_o choose_v as_o he_o say_v to_o have_v my_o soul_n among_o the_o wise_a rational_o religious_a philosopher_n if_o such_o can_v be_v find_v then_o with_o any_o religion_n that_o this_o day_n appear_v in_o the_o world_n not_o except_v the_o romish_a that_o have_v deturpate_v and_o dishonour_v the_o only_a excellent_a religion_n and_o as_o it_o be_v romish_n be_v the_o worse_o because_o it_o be_v christian_a next_o to_o those_o ponderous_a self-great_a and_o infinite_o rational_a principle_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n jesus_n christ_n i_o shall_v choose_v to_o rest_v only_o in_o the_o undoubted_a principle_n and_o maxim_n of_o natural_a religion_n so_o excellent_a that_o christianity_n have_v not_o lose_v one_o of_o they_o but_o so_o gather_v up_o the_o fragment_n that_o no_o one_o thing_n can_v be_v lose_v as_o i_o have_v already_o say_v beside_o this_o natural_a this_o christian_a religion_n i_o know_v nothing_o but_o all_o subjection_n to_o principality_n and_o power_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o nation_n in_o civil_a thing_n the_o gravity_n and_o decency_n of_o religious_a action_n according_a to_o all_o law_n of_o humane_a prudence_n and_o the_o custom_n of_o country_n if_o any_o one_o shall_v object_v to_o the_o advantage_n of_o ceremony_n the_o state_n of_o religion_n among_o the_o jew_n involve_v and_o wrap_v up_o in_o so_o much_o ceremony_n it_o may_v be_v answer_v to_o he_o 1._o there_o be_v so_o great_a and_o presential_a a_o evidence_n of_o divine_a authority_n concern_v they_o among_o the_o jew_n who_o be_v only_o bind_v to_o they_o under_o that_o immediate_a theocraty_n exercise_v over_o they_o that_o as_o it_o be_v absolute_o necessary_a so_o it_o be_v sufficient_a to_o bear_v they_o up_o god_n as_o the_o author_n continual_o and_o frequent_o appear_v to_o give_v value_n to_o they_o by_o his_o own_o particular_a command_n he_o be_v able_a to_o bless_v and_o empower_v the_o mean_a rite_n to_o
the_o great_a end_n and_o therefore_o may_v command_v what_o he_o please_v he_o therefore_o add_v often_o to_o such_o precept_n i_o be_o the_o lord_n who_o authority_n can_v not_o be_v dispute_v who_o benediction_n can_v not_o be_v deny_v or_o suspect_v thus_o the_o water_n of_o jordan_n be_v better_a than_o 11._o 2_o king_n 5._o 12._o joh._n 9_o 11._o all_o the_o syrian_a river_n the_o clay_n and_o spittle_n and_o wash_v in_o siloam_n beyond_o the_o most_o excellent_a natural_a application_n 2._o and_o yet_o as_o if_o omnipotency_n itself_o can_v not_o make_v they_o or_o do_v not_o care_n to_o make_v they_o of_o any_o great_a value_n they_o be_v often_o exceed_o despise_v and_o set_v at_o nought_o of_o god_n himself_o when_o consider_v as_o separate_v from_o divine_a blessing_n 3._o isa_n 1._o 10._o &_o 66._o 3._o and_o grace_n and_o from_o moral_a obedience_n and_o subjection_n to_o god_n 3._o they_o be_v argue_v to_o be_v childish_a and_o low_a thing_n yea_o 9_o gal._n 4._o 3_o 9_o heb_fw-mi 9_o poor_a and_o beggarly_a that_o there_o be_v a_o necessity_n they_o shall_v vanish_v at_o a_o time_n of_o reformation_n that_o the_o servant_n of_o god_n be_v under_o they_o as_o be_v under_o age_n that_o a_o more_o manly_a and_o excellent_a state_n of_o religion_n be_v to_o be_v bring_v in_o and_o do_v actual_o come_v in_o with_o the_o great_a doctrine_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o the_o superintendency_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n so_o that_o it_o be_v admirable_a whence_o it_o shall_v proceed_v that_o the_o christian_a church_n shall_v dote_v so_o much_o and_o be_v so_o languish_o sick_a after_o ceremony_n and_o whereas_o it_o be_v pretend_v religious_a action_n look_v bare_a and_o naked_a and_o unadorned_a when_o not_o shade_v and_o grace_v and_o cover_v with_o ritual_n they_o be_v only_o weak_a and_o feminine_a mind_n that_o think_v so_o the_o natural_a decency_n humanity_n necessary_o choose_v the_o national_a decency_n proper_a to_o particular_a region_n and_o climate_n with_o the_o weightiness_n of_o religious_a action_n themselves_o be_v sufficient_a grace_n and_o solemnity_n to_o they_o more_o either_o obscure_v or_o disfigure_v they_o into_o antickness_n phantastry_n art_n or_o superstitiousness_n and_o therefore_o indeed_o much_o of_o this_o sort_n have_v proceed_v from_o the_o wanton_a and_o lascivious_a imagination_n of_o man_n not_o love_v the_o chaste_a and_o pure_a worship_n of_o god_n and_o with_o holy_a mind_n embrace_v truth_n and_o the_o divine_a excellency_n of_o it_o from_o whence_o have_v always_o proceed_v much_o of_o division_n and_o feud_n every_o one_o endeavour_v to_o obtrude_v the_o creature_n of_o his_o own_o fancy_n in_o religion_n which_o have_v nothing_o of_o reason_n to_o bear_v itself_o upon_o displease_v other_o as_o much_o as_o it_o please_v himself_o and_o must_v therefore_o be_v imperious_o enforce_v and_o if_o power_n go_v along_o with_o the_o imposition_n obedience_n to_o it_o be_v extort_a by_o mulct_n and_o imprisonment_n and_o often_o with_o cruelty_n and_o blood_n and_o so_o much_o the_o more_o that_o the_o mind_n of_o man_n impale_v in_o the_o love_n and_o doâ—age_n on_o ceremony_n grow_v narrow_a slavish_a void_a of_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o the_o generosity_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o from_o thence_o easy_o fall_v into_o a_o self-willed_a rigid_a austere_a revengeful_a spirit_n but_o the_o sincere_a religion_n be_v noble_a free_a large_a merciful_a and_o most_o compassionate_a so_o that_o beside_o the_o intrinsic_a worth_n the_o purity_n and_o spirituality_n of_o a_o religion_n free_a from_o ceremony_n it_o be_v a_o great_a security_n to_o peace_n and_o quiet_a true_o natural_a religion_n be_v tide_v along_o by_o reason_n into_o man_n mind_n enter_v with_o much_o more_o insinuation_n and_o persuasiveness_n have_v a_o interest_n beforehand_o render_v man_n temper_n more_o sweet_a and_o benign_a or_o if_o not_o receive_v be_v true_o and_o substantial_o good_a deserve_v punishment_n proportionable_a to_o the_o offence_n without_o any_o just_a imputation_n of_o unmercifulness_n for_o the_o offence_n against_o natural_a religion_n must_v be_v perfect_a immorality_n 2._o i_o come_v therefore_o to_o consummate_v all_o in_o the_o full_a agreement_n of_o christian_a religion_n in_o the_o reveal_v part_n of_o it_o with_o natural_a and_o i_o confess_v it_o be_v hard_o to_o receive_v some_o part_n of_o christianity_n naked_a and_o unguarded_a tear_v off_o from_o the_o rest_n as_o a_o limb_n by_o itself_o cut_v off_o from_o the_o body_n be_v another_o thing_n than_o as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o body_n so_o be_v it_o to_o run_v away_o with_o this_o that_o the_o christian_n worship_v a_o god_n crucify_v that_o die_v as_o a_o malefactor_n that_o be_v a_o carpenter_n that_o live_v poor_a in_o the_o world_n and_o despise_v without_o observe_v the_o whole_a train_n and_o connexion_n of_o thing_n the_o several_a great_a instance_n of_o divine_o rational_a account_n for_o it_o as_o it_o stand_v in_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o christianity_n but_o when_o we_o consider_v in_o it_o the_o most_o indisputable_a rule_n of_o all_o goodness_n as_o i_o have_v before_o at_o large_a set_v down_o the_o presence_n of_o divine_a power_n in_o miracle_n that_o we_o have_v a_o inward_a sense_n of_o as_o divine_a both_o which_o stand_v as_o it_o be_v at_o the_o gate_n of_o wisdom_n draw_v and_o invite_v in_o mind_n to_o behold_v the_o inward_a frame_n and_o contrivance_n and_o when_o the_o correspondency_n symmetry_n substance_n solidity_n beauty_n purity_n of_o all_o within_o be_v see_v then_o be_v there_o sufficient_a satisfaction_n against_o and_o resolution_n of_o former_a doubt_n to_o he_o that_o patient_o consider_v the_o great_a reason_n of_o thing_n as_o they_o stand_v in_o god_n justice_n it_o will_v appear_v why_o humane_a nature_n so_o lapse_v so_o peccant_a and_o guilty_a shall_v be_v att_o on_v by_o a_o sacrifice_n offer_v up_o in_o that_o humane_a nature_n wherein_o obedience_n to_o the_o divine_a holiness_n shall_v be_v exemplify_v in_o the_o profound_a submission_n to_o increated_a will_n and_o pleasure_n and_o in_o the_o great_a experiment_n of_o it_o self-evacuation_n and_o even_o annihilation_n and_o beyond_o this_o unexpressible_a suffering_n that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o compensation_n to_o that_o justice_n of_o god_n as_o the_o great_a governor_n and_o legislator_n offend_v by_o sin_n see_v suffering_n and_o punishment_n follow_v upon_o sin_n and_o guilt_n and_o that_o this_o shall_v be_v perform_v though_o in_o humane_a nature_n yet_o by_o a_o person_n who_o think_v it_o no_o robbery_n to_o be_v equal_a with_o god_n even_o the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o that_o hereby_o all_o sensual_a 6._o phil._n 2._o 6._o worldly_a glory_n the_o great_a temptation_n to_o sin_n shall_v be_v slight_v turn_v out_o of_o its_o grandeur_n and_o high_a pretension_n in_o the_o world_n and_o intellectual_a spiritual_a heavenly_a eternal_a glory_n advance_v and_o prefer_v to_o its_o own_o excellency_n and_o esteem_n by_o the_o saviour_n of_o the_o world_n who_o have_v therefore_o bring_v in_o all_o that_o lively_a doctrine_n of_o patience_n under_o suffering_n mortification_n self-denial_n contempt_n of_o this_o life_n so_o feeble_o manage_v by_o morality_n in_o comparison_n of_o this_o as_o at_o the_o same_o time_n to_o show_v it_o not_o unknown_a to_o nature_n and_o yet_o much_o eclipse_v he_o that_o serious_o look_v upon_o thing_n thus_o and_o behold_v they_o with_o the_o severe_a eye_n of_o reason_n will_v find_v that_o which_o will_v indeed_o perfect_a and_o accomplish_v his_o reason_n and_o engage_v it_o to_o worship_n and_o throw_v its_o crown_n at_o the_o foot_n of_o infinite_a wisdom_n and_o grace_n but_o nothing_o to_o despise_v nothing_o to_o disdain_n only_o to_o be_v astonish_v with_o the_o infinite_a love_n and_o condescension_n of_o divine_a goodness_n which_o yet_o be_v like_o infinity_o so_o to_o show_v itself_o but_o that_o this_o particular_a may_v be_v better_o understand_v let_v the_o excellency_n of_o christian_a religion_n in_o its_o revelation_n be_v discourse_v upon_o these_o avow_a declare_v and_o most_o undoubted_a principle_n in_o respect_n to_o natural_a religion_n in_o these_o three_o point_n 1._o that_o the_o raise_n up_o natural_a religion_n to_o its_o true_a primitive_a excellency_n be_v one_o great_a part_n of_o christian_a revelation_n viz._n to_o settle_v the_o true_a notion_n of_o god_n and_o his_o attribute_n the_o true_a love_n fear_v of_o delight_n in_o desire_v after_o god_n resignation_n and_o obedience_n to_o he_o the_o true_o generous_a kind_n of_o righteousness_n love_n mercy_n compassion_n to_o man_n the_o unspotted_a temperance_n sobriety_n purity_n in_o a_o man_n self_n the_o right_a principle_n motive_n rule_n and_o end_v of_o all_o these_o the_o full-spread_a doctrine_n of_o immortality_n and_o eternal_a life_n of_o pardon_n of_o sin_n and_o mercy_n to_o repentant_n of_o repentance_n itself_o and_o
faith_n in_o divine_a mercy_n and_o last_o of_o future_a reward_n and_o punishment_n now_o in_o all_o these_o as_o i_o premise_v natural_a religion_n be_v not_o to_o be_v measure_v by_o what_o be_v find_v in_o the_o dark_a and_o sullied_a state_n of_o the_o generality_n of_o mankind_n at_o such_o vast_a distance_n from_o the_o day_n of_o innocency_n or_o so_o much_o as_o in_o the_o cold_a liveless_a climate_n of_o philosophic_a morality_n but_o by_o what_o discover_v itself_o when_o these_o freeze_a benumb_a principle_n relent_v and_o be_v thaughn_n by_o the_o warm_a beam_n of_o reveal_v truth_n by_o what_o man_n do_v and_o must_v acknowledge_v when_o they_o come_v to_o themselves_o then_o the_o minister_n of_o natural_a righteousness_n out_o of_o and_o according_a to_o divine_a revelation_n be_v 11._o 2_o cor._n 5._o 11._o make_v manifest_a in_o man_n conscience_n and_o they_o speak_v and_o write_v no_o other_o thing_n than_o they_o do_v acknowledge_v and_o shall_v acknowledge_v to_o the_o utmost_a to_o the_o very_a end_n even_o as_o the_o illiterate_a 13._o 2_o cor._n 1._o 13._o mind_n do_v not_o at_o first_o perceive_v the_o wisdom_n of_o such_o a_o writer_n as_o socrates_n plato_n plutarch_n of_o such_o historian_n as_o livy_n taritus_fw-la but_o when_o it_o come_v to_o be_v cultivate_v it_o know_v by_o a_o test_n within_o itself_o the_o gravity_n and_o dignity_n of_o their_o sense_n and_o stile_n thus_o at_o the_o first_o unexercised_a soul_n taste_v not_o the_o gratefulness_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n to_o natural_a conscience_n which_o be_v afterward_o most_o agreeable_a the_o sense_n be_v exercise_v to_o discern_v gâ—od_a and_o evil_n 14._o heb._n 5._o 14._o 2._o in_o what_o of_o christianity_n pure_a and_o perfect_a revelation_n alone_o must_v be_v acknowledge_v there_o be_v yet_o such_o a_o close_a affinity_n betwixt_o the_o holiness_n purity_n wisdom_n of_o the_o one_o thus_o reveal_v and_o the_o other_o implant_v that_o they_o must_v be_v own_a all_o from_o the_o same_o fountain_n and_o accept_v alike_o by_o every_o serious_a considerer_n that_o as_o it_o be_v observe_v of_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n and_o the_o several_a writer_n of_o each_o through_o all_o the_o variety_n of_o time_n manner_n and_o custom_n of_o the_o world_n in_o the_o several_a age_n of_o it_o throughout_o the_o several_a period_n of_o the_o church_n state_n and_o progression_n and_o throughout_o the_o different_a extraction_n education_n employment_n temperature_n of_o the_o sacred_a writer_n there_o be_v yet_o one_o wisdom_n one_o reverence_n of_o god_n one_o holiness_n one_o majesty_n of_o discourse_n run_v through_o the_o whole_a argue_v the_o supreme_a author_n one_o and_o the_o same_o even_o so_o in_o natural_a and_o reveal_v christian_a religion_n the_o divine_a commandment_n be_v perfect_o one_o and_o the_o same_o nothing_o trivial_a nothing_o romantic_a nothing_o speculative_a only_o all_o be_v for_o great_a use_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o salvation_n of_o man_n soul_n so_o as_o not_o to_o be_v refuse_v 3._o the_o revelation_n of_o christianity_n be_v the_o high_a amplification_n of_o natural_a light_n even_o to_o the_o utmost_a possibility_n of_o conception_n but_o in_o nothing_o contradictious_a the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o only_a true_a god_n be_v keep_v most_o pure_a even_o as_o silver_n try_v in_o a_o furnace_n of_o earth_n purify_v seven_o time_n but_o this_o divine_a nature_n be_v explain_v to_o we_o in_o the_o father_n son_n and_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o in_o the_o infinite_a grace_n and_o bounty_n proceed_v from_o the_o deity_n so_o explain_v to_o we_o and_o this_o be_v so_o to_o the_o utmost_a that_o as_o we_o certain_o know_v in_o heaven_n itself_o it_o be_v impossible_a to_o know_v any_o more_o god_n than_o the_o one_o true_a god_n we_o have_v know_v here_o in_o the_o world_n so_o it_o be_v as_o impossible_a we_o shall_v know_v any_o more_o in_o that_o essence_n than_o the_o father_n the_o son_n and_o the_o spirit_n in_o eternity_n itself_o it_o be_v of_o everlasting_a inviolable_a truth_n there_o be_v one_o god_n and_o it_o be_v reveal_v to_o we_o in_o christianity_n there_o be_v one_o mediator_n 6._o 1_o tim._n 2._o 5._o 1_o cor._n 8_o 6._o between_o god_n and_o man_n the_o man_n christ_n jesus_n there_o be_v one_o god_n the_o father_n of_o who_o be_v all_o thing_n and_o we_o in_o he_o and_o one_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n by_o who_o be_v all_o thing_n and_o we_o by_o he_o and_o this_o be_v life_n eternal_a to_o know_v thou_o the_o only_a true_a god_n 3._o joh._n 17._o 3._o and_o jesus_n christ_n who_o thou_o have_v send_v thus_o the_o divine_a unity_n be_v preserve_v and_o lest_o the_o obligation_n to_o a_o mediator_n to_o a_o redeemer_n shall_v abate_v or_o interfere_v with_o the_o obligation_n to_o the_o one_o god_n and_o father_n the_o mediator_n be_v always_o make_v know_v to_o we_o as_o the_o son_n of_o the_o father_n the_o brightness_n of_o his_o 3._o heb._n 1._o 3._o glory_n though_o express_a image_n of_o his_o person_n the_o heir_n of_o all_o thing_n so_o that_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o one_o mediator_n infinite_o and_o incomprehensible_o unite_v and_o circulate_v in_o one_o with_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n the_o father_n so_o far_o be_v the_o revelation_n of_o jesus_n christ_n 2d_o phil._n 2._o 2d_o from_o any_o the_o least_o contradictoriness_n to_o that_o fundamental_a natural_a principle_n of_o one_o god_n and_o as_o evident_a it_o be_v that_o it_o be_v to_o the_o utmost_a and_o above_o all_o we_o can_v think_v for_o in_o the_o high_a glory_n of_o knowledge_n it_o be_v we_o know_v certain_o impossible_a to_o know_v any_o high_a mediator_n any_o other_o mediator_n than_o our_o one_o mediator_n for_o as_o a_o man_n can_v rise_v no_o high_o than_o god_n there_o can_v be_v no_o high_o be_v than_o god_n so_o there_o can_v be_v a_o great_a redeemer_n and_o mediator_n than_o the_o son_n of_o god_n there_o can_v be_v a_o great_a acceptance_n of_o a_o sinner_n than_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o the_o most_o perfect_a obedience_n and_o the_o deep_a suffering_n of_o the_o only_o beget_v of_o the_o father_n the_o belove_a ult_n joh._n 1._o 14._o â—at_a 3._o ult_n son_n in_o who_o he_o be_v well_o please_v there_o can_v be_v a_o near_a union_n to_o the_o whole_a nature_n of_o of_o man_n than_o by_o this_o divine_a person_n assume_v not_o any_o humane_a person_n which_o have_v be_v limit_v narrow_a and_o confine_v but_o humanity_n itself_o into_o one_o person_n with_o himself_o there_o can_v be_v a_o great_a inspiration_n and_o internal_a operation_n than_o of_o which_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v the_o author_n and_o fountain_n nor_o a_o close_o unite_n of_o believer_n to_o christ_n than_o by_o this_o spirit_n to_o be_v so_o join_v to_o the_o lord_n as_o to_o be_v one_o 17._o 1_o cor._n 6._o 17._o spirit_n thus_o to_o the_o great_a justification_n of_o christianity_n before_o natural_a religion_n all_o be_v from_o god_n and_o absorb_v into_o he_o yet_o in_o such_o a_o distinction_n from_o he_o that_o every_o glorify_a spirit_n enjoy_v its_o happiness_n glory_n purity_n perfection_n acceptance_n with_o the_o divine_a majesty_n distinct_o and_o in_o itself_o and_o yet_o so_o in_o god_n that_o the_o whole_a glory_n be_v refund_v into_o he_o which_o be_v the_o perfect_a glory_n of_o the_o divinity_n from_o the_o whole_a then_o though_o it_o be_v most_o true_a that_o these_o great_a point_n surmount_v reason_n in_o the_o discovery_n and_o explication_n yet_o when_o it_o behold_v these_o thing_n in_o that_o full_a portraiture_n divine_a revelation_n present_v they_o it_o can_v but_o adore_v and_o admire_v and_o confess_v the_o manifold_a wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n of_o god_n the_o riches_n of_o his_o grace_n the_o praise_n of_o his_o 11._o ephes_n 3._o 10._o &_o 1._o 6_o 11._o glory_n work_v all_o thing_n after_o the_o counsel_n of_o his_o own_o will_n as_o to_o the_o christian_a doctrine_n of_o the_o resurrection_n and_o eternal_a judgement_n they_o be_v but_o what_o be_v very_o agreeable_a to_o the_o very_a principle_n of_o natural_a religion_n all_o man_n have_v a_o engraft_a sense_n both_o of_o it_o and_o a_o future_a state_n and_o as_o to_o the_o resurriction_n itself_o i_o think_v it_o most_o manageable_a upon_o ground_n of_o reason_n that_o the_o creator_n can_v as_o easy_o command_v the_o principle_n of_o a_o dissolve_a body_n into_o one_o as_o at_o first_o create_v those_o very_a principle_n out_o of_o nothing_o nor_o can_v i_o think_v those_o nicety_n of_o dispute_n bring_v into_o this_o article_n of_o faith_n of_o any_o moment_n it_o be_v enough_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o future_a state_n of_o spirit_n in_o body_n as_o in_o sensible_a appearance_n of_o glory_n or_o misery_n and_o those_o body_n as_o much_o man_n own_o as_o the_o nature_n
of_o matter_n or_o body_n in_o a_o perpetual_a transmutation_n can_v bear_v and_o that_o this_o doctrine_n also_o of_o a_o future_a state_n be_v to_o the_o utmost_a can_v be_v deny_v since_o nothing_o can_v more_o complete_a happiness_n or_o misery_n than_o the_o scripture_n expression_n reach_v to_o but_o i_o insist_v no_o further_o upon_o this_o be_v in_o the_o main_a substance_n of_o it_o in_o my_o account_n of_o it_o a_o fundamental_a point_n of_o natural_a religion_n but_o that_o god_n will_v transact_v this_o judgement_n by_o jesus_n christ_n be_v indeed_o perfect_a revelation_n and_o fall_v in_o with_o the_o former_a account_n give_v of_o his_o mediatorship_n and_o enhanse_v still_o this_o principle_n as_o to_o its_o great_a certainty_n so_o to_o all_o its_o possible_a height_n since_o god_n in_o humane_a nature_n god_n in_o the_o mediator_n judge_v the_o world_n turn_v about_o with_o great_a consolation_n to_o good_a man_n and_o terror_n to_o evil_a man_n that_o can_v be_v comprehend_v by_o humane_a understanding_n and_o so_o i_o have_v endeavour_v to_o make_v good_a the_o second_o head_n of_o discourse_n under_o this_o first_o foundation_n of_o universal_a peace_n consent_v in_o natural_a religion_n viz._n that_o christian_a religion_n in_o what_o it_o reveal_v beyond_o natural_a religion_n agree_v yet_o with_o natural_a religion_n and_o be_v recommend_v by_o it_o and_o herein_o i_o have_v insist_v upon_o those_o point_n of_o christian_a religion_n that_o be_v true_o christian_a for_o those_o private_a dispute_n among_o christian_n be_v much_o better_o silence_v within_o the_o gate_n of_o christianity_n itself_o in_o that_o way_n wherein_o they_o be_v manage_v and_o therefore_o much_o more_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v declare_v in_o gath_n nor_o publish_v in_o the_o street_n of_o ashkelon_n neither_o indeed_o need_v the_o point_n themselves_o upon_o which_o the_o dispute_n be_v for_o if_o together_o with_o those_o undoubted_a principle_n of_o natural_a religion_n in_o doctrine_n worship_n and_o practice_n as_o they_o be_v reveal_v by_o christian_a religion_n wherefrom_o none_o can_v make_v defection_n but_o under_o the_o most_o righteous_a severity_n of_o the_o magistrate_n who_o in_o those_o case_n bear_v not_o the_o sword_n in_o vain_a i_o say_v if_o together_o with_o these_o the_o substantial_a truth_n and_o institution_n of_o christian_a reveal_v religion_n wherein_o we_o be_v all_o agree_v be_v present_v as_o the_o general_a confession_n or_o profession_n of_o christian_n before_o we_o come_v to_o launch_v out_o into_o particular_a opinion_n or_o mode_n of_o worship_n our_o excellent_a religion_n will_v stand_v much_o more_o like_o a_o city_n set_v on_o a_o hill_n 14._o mat._n 5._o 14._o who_o magnificence_n and_o beauty_n can_v not_o be_v hide_v for_o the_o benefit_n both_o of_o stranger_n and_o its_o own_o citizen_n since_o thing_n so_o great_a so_o excellent_a so_o agreeable_a with_o all_o the_o inward_a sense_n of_o man_n mind_n can_v not_o be_v reject_v by_o those_o that_o will_v be_v account_v man_n of_o mind_n soul_n and_o reason_n and_o especial_o there_o can_v upon_o these_o term_n christianity_n offer_v be_v no_o possible_a place_n for_o hurt_v or_o destroy_v christian_n by_o any_o party_n except_o man_n be_v resolve_v to_o lay_v aside_o the_o man_n and_o put_v on_o the_o lion_n and_o wolf_n now_o by_o all_o that_o have_v be_v speak_v upon_o this_o point_n it_o appear_v three_o sort_n of_o opinion_n whatever_o of_o christianity_n they_o assume_v to_o themselves_o be_v indeed_o the_o injury_n and_o horrible_a scandal_n of_o it_o because_o they_o contradict_v natural_a religion_n which_o be_v a_o abomination_n to_o christianity_n 1._o that_o opinion_n which_o adore_v our_o mediator_n as_o have_v all_o power_n in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n allow_v he_o a_o ubiquitary_a presence_n and_o address_n prayer_n to_o he_o allot_v he_o all_o divine_a honour_n and_o yet_o deny_v he_o coeternal_a god_n with_o the_o father_n for_o this_o bring_v in_o supreme_a worship_n love_n confidence_n in_o more_o than_o the_o one_o god_n it_o clothes_v finite_a with_o infinite_a which_o be_v a_o contradiction_n to_o the_o law_n of_o natural_a religion_n every_o where_o illustrate_v and_o confirm_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n of_o this_o great_a evil_n socinianism_n arrianism_n and_o the_o several_a name_n of_o heresy_n of_o that_o alliance_n be_v guilty_a 2._o that_o which_o bring_v in_o image-worship_n prayer_n to_o saint_n and_o angel_n which_o suppose_v invisible_a being_n though_o creature_n omniscient_a and_o omnipresent_v as_o god_n that_o in_o all_o place_n man_n may_v lift_v up_o hand_n to_o they_o in_o prayer_n without_o doubt_v of_o their_o be_v lose_v in_o their_o direction_n to_o those_o that_o be_v not_o that_o they_o know_v able_a to_o take_v any_o notice_n of_o they_o and_o further_o which_o be_v not_o the_o least_o of_o the_o idolatry_n it_o give_v they_o the_o honour_n of_o be_v absolute_o knowable_a by_o natural_a light_n in_o the_o divine_a attribute_n of_o hear_v prayer_n that_o all_o flesh_n may_v come_v to_o they_o viz._n in_o their_o knowledge_n in_o their_o mercy_n in_o their_o power_n all_o which_o must_v be_v absolute_a as_o god_n and_o as_o evident_a to_o reason_v as_o in_o god_n see_v man_n have_v no_o justifiable_a revelation_n to_o any_o such_o purpose_n the_o arto_n latria_fw-la or_o adoration_n of_o the_o bread_n in_o the_o sacrament_n be_v of_o the_o same_o family_n now_o however_o these_o thing_n be_v intricate_v by_o various_a pretext_n yet_o as_o the_o spectacle_n in_o the_o last_o especial_o be_v horrid_a to_o sense_n so_o the_o thing_n to_o reason_n and_o natural_a conscience_n and_o can_v never_o be_v reconcile_v we_o have_v otherwise_o learn_v christ_n who_o in_o the_o day_n of_o his_o flesh_n neither_o require_v nor_o receive_v worship_n direct_v to_o his_o body_n upon_o any_o such_o pretension_n mark_v 10._o 17._o luke_n 11._o 27._o 28._o john_n 6._o 36._o john_n 20._o 17._o but_o refuse_v it_o except_o when_o at_o sometime_o the_o mighty_a emanation_n of_o his_o divinity_n prostrate_v man_n into_o the_o adoration_n of_o he_o 3._o whatever_o dogme_n or_o sect_n of_o man_n subvert_v the_o very_a nature_n of_o religion_n as_o a_o proteus-thing_n that_o sneak_n into_o all_o shape_n and_o profession_n according_a to_o the_o earthly_a power_n it_o appear_v before_o fear_v man_n rather_o than_o god_n all_o thing_n that_o overturn_v morality_n and_o distinction_n betwixt_o good_a and_o evil_a the_o denial_n of_o spirit_n a_o future_a state_n as_o undermine_v the_o very_a life_n and_o be_v of_o the_o almighty_a spirit_n all_o fanatic_a principle_n turn_v religion_n into_o raunterism_n or_o move_v the_o pillar_n of_o humane_a society_n as_o consist_v in_o submission_n to_o principality_n and_o power_n in_o subjection_n to_o law_n civil_a custom_n and_o decency_n all_o such_o thing_n as_o these_o and_o the_o whole_a lineage_n of_o they_o however_o they_o may_v presume_v to_o christianize_v themselves_o be_v a_o just_a abhorrence_n to_o the_o true_a christian_a spirit_n as_o most_o contrary_a to_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n these_o opinion_n therefore_o now_o name_v be_v exclude_v and_o shut_v out_o of_o that_o universal_a peace_n and_o quietness_n i_o be_o to_o speak_v of_o under_o this_o last_o head_n of_o the_o survey_n of_o natural_a religion_n which_o i_o now_o come_v to_o viz._n the_o three_o thing_n propose_v under_o this_o first_o head_n of_o natural_a religion_n and_o upon_o which_o the_o whole_a weight_n of_o it_o rest_v and_o turn_n as_o to_o the_o intention_n of_o this_o discourse_n be_v this_o that_o christianity_n suppose_v it_o a_o firm_a ground_n of_o enjoy_v the_o common_a peace_n and_o tranquillity_n in_o religion_n that_o a_o man_n receive_v and_o own_v all_o the_o grand_a point_n of_o natural_a religion_n godliness_n righteousness_n soberness_n and_o acknowledge_v it_o his_o duty_n and_o make_v it_o his_o profession_n to_o live_v according_a to_o they_o that_o he_o avow_v no_o principle_n contrary_a hereunto_o though_o he_o believe_v and_o profess_v to_o be_v assure_v of_o some_o other_o divine_a revelation_n in_o order_n to_o his_o eternal_a happiness_n it_o suppose_v a_o man_n that_o in_o all_o his_o discourse_n and_o action_n give_v abundant_a security_n of_o his_o fidelity_n to_o natural_a religion_n a_o man_n that_o be_v no_o idolater_n atheist_n blasphemer_n of_o religion_n impugner_n of_o morality_n that_o observe_v the_o worship_n of_o god_n in_o prayer_n praise_n and_o religious_a discourse_n shall_v be_v free_a to_o commend_v himself_o to_o god_n in_o what_o he_o think_v most_o agreeable_a to_o his_o will_n though_o in_o distinction_n from_o other_o who_o he_o no_o way_n disturb_v against_o rule_n of_o reason_n modesty_n peaceableness_n and_o humility_n but_o only_o offer_v the_o apology_n of_o his_o own_o faith_n yet_o with_o meekness_n and_o fear_n and_o the_o persuasive_n 15._o â—_o pet._n 3._o 15._o
or_o a_o bad_a religion_n when_o yet_o christian_n be_v under_o the_o fiery_a trial_n when_o they_o be_v continual_o under_o persecution_n for_o their_o religion_n which_o the_o apostle_n call_v righteousness_n because_o able_a to_o justify_v itself_o to_o be_v so_o by_o the_o law_n of_o natural_a religion_n when_o they_o be_v bind_v to_o deny_v so_o great_a a_o part_n of_o their_o subjection_n to_o the_o high_a power_n as_o not_o to_o cease_v to_o be_v christian_n at_o their_o command_n what_o then_o do_v this_o largeness_n frankness_n and_o freedom_n of_o expression_n mean_a on_o the_o part_n of_o christian_n to_o be_v subject_n and_o that_o not_o for_o wrath_n but_o for_o â—onsâ—ience_n sake_n and_o to_o submit_v themselves_o when_o yet_o they_o be_v present_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o their_o holy_a profession_n of_o christianity_n to_o deny_v subjection_n and_o submission_n to_o the_o great_a command_n of_o magistracy_n in_o religion_n on_o the_o part_n of_o magistrate_n that_o they_o be_v only_o a_o terror_n to_o evil_a work_n and_o a_o praise_n to_o they_o that_o do_v well_o that_o he_o that_o do_v well_o shall_v not_o be_v afraid_a when_o upon_o the_o true_a estimate_n of_o christianity_n they_o be_v persecute_v for_o righteousness_n sake_n how_o can_v all_o this_o be_v reconcile_v but_o by_o reduce_v all_o to_o the_o just_a bound_n and_o limit_n of_o divine_a ordination_n fix_v the_o magistrate_n power_n and_o the_o people_n obedience_n in_o thing_n pertain_v to_o religion_n thus_o so_o far_o as_o natural_a religion_n extend_v so_o far_o the_o magistrate_n power_n extend_v here_o he_o be_v the_o minister_n of_o god_n and_o bear_v not_o the_o sword_n in_o vain_a hither_o be_v the_o people_n obedience_n to_o come_v in_o all_o thing_n pertain_v to_o that_o they_o must_v needs_o be_v subject_n not_o only_o for_o wrath_n but_o conscience_n sake_n these_o be_v the_o ancient_a landmark_n thar_z ought_v not_o to_o be_v remove_v i_o speak_v not_o at_o all_o of_o civil_a obedience_n now_o but_o of_o obedience_n in_o thing_n pertain_v to_o the_o conscience_n let_v none_o of_o you_o suffer_v as_o a_o murderer_n as_o a_o thief_n as_o a_o evildoer_n 16._o 1_o pet._n 4._o 15_o 16._o as_o a_o busybody_n in_o other_o man_n matter_n so_o the_o same_o apostle_n speak_v offence_n against_o natural_a religion_n or_o for_o violation_n of_o godliness_n command_v by_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n then_o quietness_n and_o peace_n of_o life_n be_v just_o deny_v you_o but_o if_o you_o suffer_v as_o christian_n rejoice_v and_o be_v exceed_o glad_a when_o you_o come_v to_o suffer_v upon_o the_o account_n of_o that_o excellent_a religion_n reveal_v from_o heaven_n and_o assure_v to_o you_o here_o there_o be_v no_o suffer_v just_o due_a to_o you_o therefore_o your_o suffering_n shall_v be_v recompense_v to_o you_o with_o divine_a glory_n from_o heaven_n from_o whence_o christianity_n be_v reveal_v let_v we_o lay_v the_o whole_a together_o at_o that_o very_a time_n when_o magistrate_n be_v heathen_n and_o enemy_n to_o christian_a religion_n and_o christian_n can_v pay_v they_o no_o obedience_n in_o recede_v from_o christianity_n so_o that_o upon_o the_o point_n of_o christianity_n there_o be_v not_o the_o mutual_a obligation_n of_o obedience_n and_o protection_n yet_o there_o be_v still_o a_o common_a centre_n wherein_o even_o in_o religious_a consideration_n the_o protection_n of_o magistrate_n and_o the_o obedience_n of_o christian_n be_v to_o meet_v and_o that_o uncontroversable_o on_o both_o side_n good_a and_o what_o can_v that_o be_v but_o as_o one_o place_n call_v it_o godliness_n and_o honesty_n another_o good_a work_n another_o do_v well_o this_o then_o be_v the_o standard_n of_o the_o world_n peace_n and_o tranquillity_n universal_a religion_n absolute_a religion_n natural_a religion_n even_o as_o natural_a justice_n universal_a justice_n be_v the_o measure_n of_o all_o transaction_n between_o man_n and_o man_n yet_o if_o magistrate_n will_v inflict_v suffering_n upon_o christian_n 2d_o 1_o pet._n 2._o 2d_o hold_v fast_o their_o profession_n they_o be_v teach_v by_o christianity_n to_o suffer_v patient_o not_o as_o if_o suffering_n be_v due_a to_o they_o but_o that_o justice_n may_v be_v do_v natural_a religion_n may_v be_v maintain_v one_o great_a branch_n of_o which_o be_v uphold_v government_n in_o all_o its_o honour_n and_o plenipotence_n but_o therefore_o in_o testimony_n to_o they_o that_o suffering_n be_v not_o due_a to_o they_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o of_o glory_n shall_v rest_v upon_o they_o even_o as_o in_o all_o undue_a administration_n of_o the_o magistrate_n power_n where_o humane_a law_n the_o law_n of_o this_o or_o that_o government_n have_v take_v no_o care_n suffering_n be_v the_o duty_n of_o the_o innocent_a but_o their_o appeal_n lie_v above_o the_o conclusion_n than_o be_v this_o according_a to_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n where_o ever_o there_o be_v no_o impeachment_n lie_v against_o man_n from_o the_o violation_n of_o natural_a religion_n their_o peaceable_a and_o quiet_a life_n be_v the_o just_a right_n of_o their_o godliness_n and_o honesty_n praise_v security_n a_o state_n out_o of_o fear_n be_v due_a to_o they_o as_o well-doer_n as_o to_o those_o that_o do_v that_o which_o be_v good_a many_o other_o be_v the_o expression_n we_o meet_v with_o in_o the_o apostolic_a write_n look_v this_o way_n that_o the_o great_a letter_n of_o commendation_n to_o mankind_n in_o general_n concern_v person_n and_o their_o way_n in_o religion_n so_o far_o as_o the_o thing_n come_v under_o their_o judicature_n be_v the_o intrinsic_a and_o real_a goodness_n of_o their_o profession_n and_o life_n at_o the_o beam_n of_o natural_a conscience_n this_o be_v the_o royal_a law_n every_o one_o be_v to_o fulfil_v in_o these_o thing_n 18._o jam._n 2._o 8._o rom._n 14._o 18._o we_o must_v serve_v christ_n that_o we_o may_v be_v accept_v of_o god_n and_o approve_v of_o man_n thus_o they_o must_v adorn_v the_o doctrine_n of_o god_n our_o saviour_n thus_o they_o must_v take_v care_n against_o the_o name_n 1._o 1_o tim._n 6._o 1._o of_o god_n be_v blaspheme_v thus_o they_o must_v put_v to_o silence_v the_o ignorance_n 16._o â—_o pet._n 2._o 15._o &_o 3._o 16._o of_o foolish_a man_n and_o make_v they_o ashamed_a now_o it_o be_v true_a all_o the_o severity_n of_o profession_n and_o life_n according_a to_o natural_a religion_n will_v not_o justify_v the_o truth_n or_o goodness_n of_o a_o assume_v religion_n as_o reveal_v from_o god_n as_o of_o the_o sober_a moral_a heathen_a jew_n turk_n papist_n or_o any_o master_n of_o sect_n of_o most_o unblameable_a life_n among_o protestant_n that_o be_v to_o be_v try_v in_o a_o consistory_n proper_a to_o it_o the_o argument_n and_o evidence_n of_o it_o be_v reveal_v be_v to_o be_v weigh_v the_o nature_n scope_n and_o tendency_n of_o it_o and_o all_o its_o principle_n be_v to_o be_v examine_v and_o at_o last_o it_o stand_v at_o god_n judgment-seat_n where_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v judge_v but_o thus_o the_o argument_n be_v the_o more_o enforce_v that_o where_o there_o be_v the_o testimonial_n of_o natural_a religion_n fair_o write_v in_o the_o behalf_n of_o any_o religion_n and_o the_o professor_n of_o it_o though_o we_o be_v not_o nor_o may_v have_v reason_n to_o be_v induce_v by_o the_o motive_n of_o credibility_n it_o give_v to_o approve_v ourselves_o to_o god_n or_o seek_v everlasting_a happiness_n in_o it_o yet_o the_o right_a hand_n of_o humanity_n in_o allow_v peaceable_a life_n be_v to_o be_v give_v they_o have_v thus_o far_o insist_v upon_o scripture_n in_o the_o proof_n of_o this_o assertion_n i_o come_v now_o to_o argue_v it_o by_o reason_n and_o under_o every_o argument_n to_o observe_v the_o objection_n that_o may_v be_v make_v against_o it_o argum._n 1._o and_o in_o the_o first_o place_n i_o argue_v from_o the_o great_a excellency_n of_o natural_a religion_n and_o the_o acceptableness_n of_o it_o to_o god_n that_o therefore_o since_o it_o be_v also_o general_a religion_n it_o ought_v to_o be_v the_o centre_n of_o common_a peace_n in_o religion_n we_o ought_v to_o allow_v the_o hospitableness_n of_o humanity_n to_o all_o that_o profess_v it_o and_o dogmatise_v nothing_o but_o what_o upon_o due_a hear_n and_o discourse_n they_o offer_v to_o make_v out_o consistent_a and_o fair_o agree_v with_o it_o for_o it_o be_v but_o reasonable_a even_o upon_o a_o violent_a suspicion_n of_o the_o contrary_a to_o inquire_v hear_v and_o receive_v reason_n if_o it_o can_v be_v give_v as_o in_o the_o case_n of_o the_o altar_n of_o testimony_n we_o read_v of_o joshua_n 22._o 10._o god_n make_v the_o world_n and_o all_o the_o magnificency_n of_o it_o at_o the_o first_o to_o entertain_v man_n of_o this_o general_a and_o excellent_a religion_n and_o the_o apostle_n peter_n say_v as_o in_o revival_n of_o what_o have_v be_v
can_v not_o contradict_v itself_o no_o dream_n wonder_v or_o predication_n however_o fulfil_v be_v authentic_a enough_o to_o draw_v the_o jew_n from_o the_o true_a god_n that_o 1._o deut._n 13._o 1._o have_v so_o supreme_o demonstrate_v himself_o to_o they_o nor_o may_v any_o angel_n or_o spirit_n that_o be_v immediate_a inspiration_n or_o doctrine_n give_v by_o it_o seduce_v they_o from_o christ_n so_o evident_o seal_v to_o they_o in_o the_o new_a by_o god_n the_o father_n and_o therefore_o 27._o gal._n 6._o 27._o all_o pretension_n to_o the_o contrary_a how_o high_a soever_o be_v to_o be_v reject_v with_o detestation_n they_o know_v all_o that_o endeavour_v it_o must_v know_v themselves_o deceiver_n the_o great_a crime_n against_o natural_a religion_n and_o indeed_o none_o so_o subject_a to_o humane_a inquiry_n to_o their_o detection_n or_o severity_n when_o detect_v as_o impostor_n pretend_v divine_a revelation_n nor_o to_o their_o most_o authoritative_a restraint_n and_o repression_n as_o the_o wild_a enthusiast_n though_o with_o more_o mercy_n because_o he_o be_v himself_o so_o great_o deceive_v and_o delude_v and_o next_o to_o these_o a_o apostate_n from_o christianity_n can_v hardly_o if_o at_o all_o give_v such_o a_o account_n of_o himself_o to_o christian_a power_n as_o shall_v clear_v he_o from_o be_v a_o most_o heinous_a offender_n against_o natural_a religion_n the_o sum_n than_o be_v this_o he_o to_o who_o christianity_n be_v propose_v as_o faithful_a and_o worthy_a of_o all_o acceptation_n with_o such_o assurance_n of_o it_o from_o natural_a religion_n and_o its_o own_o evidence_n as_o be_v sufficient_a to_o draw_v any_o man_n intelligent_a and_o conscientious_a to_o it_o and_o yet_o reject_v and_o refuse_v he_o that_o speak_v from_o heaven_n to_o he_o be_v to_o be_v deliver_v over_o to_o the_o judgement_n of_o god_n who_o will_v judge_n the_o secret_n of_o all_o heart_n by_o that_o very_a gospel_n of_o truth_n rom._n 2._o 16._o he_o that_o apostatise_n from_o it_o when_o he_o have_v once_o receive_v it_o may_v be_v just_o call_v to_o the_o most_o strict_a account_n by_o christian_a magistrate_n and_o as_o they_o find_v reason_n further_o censure_v or_o punish_v it_o be_v ordinary_o impossible_a there_o shall_v be_v such_o a_o apostate_n from_o so_o excellent_a a_o religion_n once_o taste_v but_o with_o great_a violation_n of_o natural_a religion_n and_o conscience_n he_o that_o pretend_v divine_a revelation_n against_o that_o which_o have_v so_o ample_a a_o patent_n from_o heaven_n may_v most_o righteous_o be_v first_o discover_v expose_v and_o after_o deal_v with_o as_o the_o most_o flagitious_a self-guilty_a deceiver_n by_o christian_a ruler_n who_o be_v the_o minister_n of_o divine_a vengâ—â—â—â—e_n in_o such_o case_n and_o 4._o rom._n 13._o 4._o by_o private_a christian_n for_o his_o natural_a evil_a work_n cast_v out_o of_o their_o whole_a society_n religious_a or_o civil_a except_o he_o appear_v a_o enthusiastic_a phrenetick_a who_o in_o pity_n to_o he_o be_v to_o be_v shut_v up_o in_o a_o bethlehem_n from_o do_v so_o great_a injury_n to_o himself_o and_o other_o and_o thus_o i_o have_v finish_v the_o first_o argument_n concern_v the_o acceptableness_n of_o natural_a religion_n to_o god_n our_o saviour_n guide_v myself_o in_o it_o by_o this_o rule_n viz._n the_o most_o comprehensive_a religion_n in_o charity_n to_o other_o while_o we_o keep_v to_o main_a foundation_n in_o our_o charity_n and_o to_o the_o pure_a strict_a rule_n in_o ourselves_o we_o can_v attain_v to_o be_v certain_o the_o best_a and_o most_o like_a that_o one_o god_n and_o one_o mediator_n the_o common_a bosom_n of_o love_n peace_n hope_n rest_n the_o 2._o arg._n prove_v natural_a religion_n be_v fit_a to_o be_v the_o centre_n arg._n 2_o of_o common_a peace_n and_o agreement_n in_o religion_n be_v this_o there_o be_v a_o universal_a code_n of_o natural_a religion_n of_o which_o every_o man_n have_v a_o part_n for_o himself_o so_o that_o we_o may_v all_o appeal_v one_o to_o another_o as_o it_o be_v to_o page_n and_o line_n whether_o it_o be_v not_o so_o write_v in_o that_o book_n of_o the_o law_n within_o we_o whether_o such_o a_o thing_n be_v not_o our_o duty_n and_o whether_o we_o have_v not_o sin_v in_o do_v contrary_a and_o indeed_o thus_o to_o do_v be_v the_o universal_a usage_n of_o man_n in_o all_o their_o debate_n one_o with_o another_o as_o face_n answer_v to_o face_n in_o water_n so_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n to_o man_n in_o this_o natural_a religion_n as_o the_o part_n of_o humane_a body_n agree_v in_o all_o man_n so_o do_v these_o proportion_n and_o lineament_n of_o soul_n we_o may_v with_o great_a certainty_n solicit_v man_n upon_o these_o principle_n than_o evil_a man_n tempt_v one_o another_o upon_o common_a depravation_n for_o corruption_n though_o all_o one_o in_o the_o fountain_n yet_o lie_v in_o more_o several_a vein_n than_o these_o law_n of_o natural_a conscience_n so_o that_o man_n may_v be_v miss_v by_o those_o that_o tempt_v they_o out_o of_o their_o proper_a inclination_n to_o evil_n as_o hit_v in_o the_o wrong_a vein_n but_o there_o be_v none_o of_o these_o line_n of_o natural_a conscience_n want_v in_o any_o man_n nor_o a_o aptness_n to_o be_v move_v in_o they_o if_o search_v to_o the_o quick_a they_o will_v feel_v it_o to_o conviction_n though_o too_o often_o not_o to_o conversion_n the_o apostle_n in_o preach_v to_o faelix_fw-la strike_v he_o in_o the_o sentiment_n of_o righteousness_n temperance_n and_o judgement_n to_o come_v as_o in_o master-vein_n and_o know_v he_o must_v take_v place_n as_o it_o prove_v in_o his_o tremble_n so_o in_o his_o discourse_n act._n 17._o he_o fall_v upon_o that_o universal_a sense_n of_o a_o divine_a be_v and_o his_o excellent_a nature_n of_o which_o he_o be_v sure_o there_o be_v a_o counterpart_n within_o they_o he_o do_v not_o first_o preach_v christ_n to_o they_o a_o point_n without_o they_o but_o get_v within_o they_o in_o natural_a principle_n he_o assay_v by_o the_o continuity_n and_o similarness_n of_o the_o one_o with_o the_o other_o to_o intwine_v as_o with_o admirable_a artifice_n he_o do_v those_o natural_a principle_n with_o christianity_n our_o saviour_n indeed_o deal_v with_o the_o jew_n in_o more_o absolute_a and_o positive_a term_n because_o natural_a conscience_n lie_v high_a and_o near_o to_o supernatural_a instruction_n by_o their_o acquaintance_n and_o familiarity_n with_o the_o oracle_n of_o god_n commit_v to_o they_o but_o in_o deal_v with_o those_o that_o have_v not_o those_o revelation_n the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n centre_n their_o application_n to_o they_o in_o this_o universal_a religion_n and_o with_o great_a reason_n and_o expectation_n of_o success_n as_o daniel_n to_o nabuchadnezzar_n i_o counsel_v thou_o to_o break_v off_o thy_o sin_n by_o righteousness_n and_o by_o show_v mercy_n to_o the_o 27_o dan._n 4._o 27_o poor_a if_o it_o may_v be_v a_o lengthen_v of_o thy_o tranquillity_n this_o be_v natural_a doctrine_n and_o fit_a to_o be_v address_v to_o a_o prince_n never_o so_o much_o a_o stranger_n to_o divine_a revelation_n for_o this_o be_v a_o religion_n know_v to_o all_o the_o world_n and_o therefore_o that_o in_o which_o all_o may_v most_o reasonable_o unite_v this_o be_v that_o a_o magistrate_n may_v with_o great_a authority_n demand_v conformity_n to_o of_o his_o subject_n and_o they_o oblige_v to_o obey_v as_o the_o king_n of_o niniveh_n most_o just_o enjoin_v public_a 7._o joâ—_n 3._o 7._o humiliation_n and_o repentance_n in_o the_o case_n of_o so_o great_a and_o imminent_a judgement_n for_o every_o magistrate_n be_v suppose_v as_o a_o magistrate_n to_o have_v good_a knowledge_n of_o this_o law_n of_o which_o he_o as_o a_o man_n have_v a_o copy_n as_o the_o king_n of_o israel_n have_v of_o the_o reveal_v law_n and_o in_o which_o as_o they_o in_o that_o he_o ought_v to_o be_v conversant_a that_o he_o may_v be_v just_a that_o rule_v over_o man_n rule_v in_o the_o fear_n of_o 3._o 2_o sam._n 23._o 3._o god_n of_o this_o also_o every_o subject_n have_v a_o copy_n that_o he_o may_v know_v his_o duty_n and_o observe_v it_o hence_o therefore_o universal_a conformity_n be_v a_o unquestionable_a obligation_n when_o he_o that_o command_v and_o they_o who_o be_v to_o obey_v have_v both_o the_o same_o just_a weight_n and_o measure_v commit_v to_o they_o one_o in_o order_n to_o rule_n and_o government_n the_o other_o in_o order_n to_o obedience_n and_o subjection_n such_o as_o can_v disagree_v no_o more_o than_o seal_a weight_n and_o measure_n in_o general_a traffic_n and_o which_o each_o have_v a_o standard_n of_o and_o may_v except_o inexcusable_a ignorance_n negligence_n or_o injustice_n be_v in_o the_o fault_n have_v a_o immediate_a recourse_n to_o but_o beyond_o this_o what_o of_o compulsion_n there_o can_v be_v i_o do_v not_o understand_v every_o revelation_n be_v receive_v
by_o faith_n and_o faith_n come_v by_o hear_v and_o hear_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n it_o be_v the_o sword_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o be_v to_o make_v the_o way_n and_o not_o the_o sword_n of_o the_o magistrate_n that_o be_v to_o cut_v it_o christianity_n substantial_a fundamental_a christianity_n have_v the_o best_a claim_n to_o the_o edict_n of_o principality_n and_o power_n for_o it_o there_o be_v no_o other_o revelation_n except_o that_o in_o the_o world_n but_o what_o be_v counterfeit_a and_o spurious_a no_o other_o religion_n so_o inducible_a upon_o true_o natural_a principle_n and_o in_o christianity_n it_o be_v the_o substantial_a christianity_n not_o every_o nice_a dispute_n or_o definition_n much_o less_o additional_a mode_n or_o ceremony_n that_o have_v this_o claim_n and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o such_o a_o claim_n i_o make_v doubt_n whether_o ever_o any_o sober_a christian_n will_v wish_v christianity_n propagate_v with_o force_n much_o less_o with_o blood_n and_o cruelty_n like_o the_o popish_a conversion_n of_o the_o indian_n i_o believe_v no_o true_a christian_n no_o true_o protestant_a christian_n ever_o do_v desire_v it_o or_o think_v it_o agree_v with_o christianity_n and_o let_v not_o the_o compulsory_a law_n of_o jewish_a religion_n plead_v a_o coerciveness_n for_o the_o christian_a upon_o the_o reason_n that_o a_o better_a religion_n more_o deserve_v it_o for_o first_o the_o better_a the_o religion_n the_o better_a method_n of_o introduce_v and_o recommend_v it_o be_v desirable_a as_o much_o therefore_o as_o instruction_n excel_v brutish_a force_n as_o much_o as_o sincere_a compliance_n of_o judgement_n reason_n and_o understanding_n excel_v hypocrisy_n and_o feign_a conformity_n as_o much_o as_o divine_a impulse_n and_o suasion_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n excel_v the_o power_n of_o law_n enforce_v with_o penalty_n or_o be_v of_o the_o religion_n of_o the_o prince_n for_o mode_n compliment_n or_o preferment_n so_o much_o aught_o the_o way_n of_o introduce_v man_n into_o the_o most_o excellent_a religion_n of_o christianity_n exceed_v and_o surpass_v all_o other_o way_n that_o can_v be_v devise_v to_o draw_v man_n to_o any_o mean_a religion_n than_o it_o and_o as_o much_o easy_a may_v be_v the_o effect_n in_o natural_a religion_n man_n be_v not_o to_o be_v draw_v into_o it_o they_o be_v create_v with_o it_o they_o be_v and_o must_v be_v of_o it_o and_o be_v only_o punish_v for_o not_o act_v suitable_a to_o it_o in_o reveal_v religion_n their_o own_o judgement_n and_o choice_n move_v by_o suitable_a argument_n both_o enter_v and_o retain_v they_o in_o it_o though_o as_o i_o have_v before_o observe_v the_o case_n of_o the_o apostate_n from_o main_a christianity_n argue_v a_o offence_n against_o natural_a religion_n may_v be_v of_o a_o different_a consideration_n further_o in_o the_o jewish_a religion_n the_o immediate_a government_n of_o god_n that_o live_v as_o a_o prince_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o make_v their_o case_n different_a from_o any_o other_o that_o ever_o be_v in_o the_o world_n their_o message_n from_o heaven_n be_v so_o immediate_a and_o distinct_a their_o consultation_n in_o case_n of_o doubt_n with_o the_o divine_a will_n be_v so_o near_o at_o hand_n and_o the_o evidence_n of_o all_o be_v so_o clear_a and_o undoubted_a that_o the_o sensibleness_n of_o they_o equal_v the_o very_a assurance_n of_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n the_o objection_n that_o i_o can_v foresee_v against_o this_o argument_n lie_v these_o two_o way_n if_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n be_v so_o clear_a and_o evident_a how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v there_o be_v so_o great_a a_o darkness_n and_o ignorance_n in_o multitude_n of_o person_n yea_o in_o nation_n concern_v these_o law_n and_o yet_o how_o much_o less_o be_v the_o obedience_n pay_v to_o they_o and_o last_o how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v there_o never_o be_v such_o a_o concord_n and_o agreement_n in_o they_o in_o answer_n to_o this_o i_o shall_v only_o brief_o rejoin_v these_o two_o thing_n 1._o that_o notwithstanding_o this_o there_o always_o have_v be_v and_o will_v be_v such_o evidence_n of_o the_o truth_n righteousness_n reasonableness_n and_o naturalness_n of_o these_o religious_a principle_n that_o no_o more_o can_v they_o be_v banish_v out_o of_o humane_a nature_n than_o the_o notion_n of_o health_n beauty_n happiness_n can_v be_v extinguish_v in_o the_o world_n notwithstanding_o all_o the_o disease_n variation_n from_o the_o exact_a model_n of_o beauty_n and_o last_o the_o vnhappiness_n misery_n and_o complaint_n so_o universal_a in_o the_o world_n so_o that_o though_o there_o be_v not_o any_o example_n of_o the_o perfection_n of_o any_o of_o these_o in_o this_o world_n and_o very_o great_a and_o general_a deficiency_n from_o they_o yet_o the_o notion_n of_o every_o one_o be_v whole_a and_o entire_a and_o such_o representation_n and_o approach_n to_o what_o we_o mean_v in_o they_o be_v so_o visible_a as_o to_o take_v away_o all_o doubt_n of_o the_o thing_n themselves_o and_o of_o the_o desirableness_n of_o they_o even_o so_o it_o be_v in_o this_o natural_a religion_n 2._o the_o whole_a disadvantage_n then_o of_o natural_a religion_n object_v must_v be_v impute_v to_o the_o miserable_a depravation_n of_o mankind_n to_o that_o degree_n that_o the_o most_o excellent_a thing_n so_o lose_v their_o effect_n as_o even_o to_o seem_v to_o lose_v themselves_o yet_o still_o they_o remain_v and_o so_o remain_v as_o to_o require_v and_o even_o exact_v their_o acknowledgement_n and_o so_o demand_v that_o due_a effect_n and_o that_o so_o powerful_o that_o the_o justice_n of_o the_o demand_n press_v home_o can_v be_v deny_v and_o thus_o it_o be_v in_o natural_a religion_n 2._o object_n it_o may_v be_v object_v fâ—r_o the_o enforcement_n of_o reveal_v religion_n by_o severity_n that_o when_o the_o reason_n of_o it_o be_v lay_v before_o man_n as_o of_o the_o true_a christian_a religion_n lie_v in_o a_o straight_a and_o even_a line_n from_o natural_a religion_n to_o it_o it_o can_v only_o be_v the_o brutishness_n and_o obstinacy_n of_o man_n that_o they_o do_v not_o receive_v it_o which_o may_v be_v just_o punish_v as_o against_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n and_o the_o interpretation_n of_o punishment_n shall_v be_v not_o as_o intend_v to_o compel_v they_o into_o the_o christian_a religion_n but_o to_o chastise_v their_o beastlike_a senslesness_n or_o obstinacy_n in_o answer_n to_o this_o i_o will_v reinforce_v these_o three_o thing_n 1._o as_o to_o the_o main_a of_o the_o objection_n there_o be_v so_o great_a a_o difference_n between_o natural_n that_o will_v certain_o rise_v up_o at_o earnest_n and_o vehement_a summons_n be_v within_o already_o though_o they_o may_v lie_v hide_v and_o deep_a and_o what_o be_v pure_o from_o without_o and_o must_v enter_v through_o those_o multiform_a meander_v twist_a and_o twine_v passage_n of_o man_n understanding_n and_o intellectual_a belief_n through_o variety_n of_o temper_n education_n principle_n man_n have_v most_o converse_v with_o and_o rivet_v their_o whole_a soul_n into_o that_o it_o be_v impossible_a for_o any_o but_o god_n alone_o who_o search_v the_o heart_n to_o know_v where_o the_o guilty_a obstruction_n lie_v when_o the_o screw_v of_o truth_n and_o the_o receptacle_n of_o man_n mind_n do_v not_o reciprocate_v and_o answer_v one_o another_o where_o the_o key_n of_o truth_n and_o the_o ward_n of_o man_n thought_n so_o dissent_v as_o not_o to_o be_v reconcile_v so_o that_o this_o must_v be_v leave_v for_o ever_o as_o to_o divine_a omnipotency_n in_o the_o efficacy_n so_o to_o the_o divine_a judgement_n where_o the_o fault_n be_v of_o man_n not_o receive_v what_o be_v so_o gracious_o offer_v from_o heaven_n 2._o therefore_o to_o pretend_v to_o judge_n obstinacy_n or_o insensibleness_n or_o whatever_o other_o faulty_a reason_n we_o have_v prepare_v of_o man_n not_o receive_v the_o religion_n we_o will_v impose_v be_v to_o assume_v divine_a prerogative_n to_o ourselves_o and_o to_o become_v judge_n in_o his_o peculiar_a court_n or_o to_o contrive_v a_o artifice_n to_o cheat_v a_o acknowledge_a principle_n viz._n not_o compel_v reveal_v religion_n of_o its_o due_a obedience_n and_o last_o to_o clothe_v innocent_a person_n for_o any_o thing_n we_o know_v with_o the_o sambenito_n paint_v with_o devil_n or_o beast_n skin_n wherein_o they_o may_v appear_v guilty_a with_o the_o disguise_n we_o have_v put_v upon_o they_o though_o out_o of_o that_o they_o can_v with_o charity_n be_v conclude_v nocent_a or_o guilty_a of_o those_o particular_n we_o charge_v they_o with_o all_o this_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v when_o the_o offence_n and_o the_o particular_a offence_n it_o be_v not_o enough_o in_o this_o case_n to_o say_v there_o be_v some_o offence_n without_o special_a matter_n charge_v against_o natural_a law_n be_v not_o as_o evident_a as_o in_o any_o other_o case_n of_o humane_a judicature_n and_o where_o the_o only_a proof_n
that_o man_n be_v otherwise_o guilty_a in_o not_o receive_v the_o faith_n we_o offer_v they_o be_v only_o this_o that_o they_o do_v not_o receive_v it_o 3._o if_o this_o punish_a man_n for_o not_o receive_v a_o reveal_v religion_n be_v only_o for_o not_o receive_v substantial_a christian_a religion_n it_o be_v the_o more_o tolerable_a though_o as_o i_o have_v say_v not_o desirable_a to_o any_o true_a christian_a protestant_n but_o when_o it_o be_v stretch_v out_o to_o false_a religion_n to_o every_o nice_a opinion_n ceremony_n or_o mode_n of_o worship_n it_o be_v a_o burden_n mankind_n can_v never_o bear_v be_v most_o intolerable_a and_o so_o i_o have_v do_v with_o this_o second_o argument_n argum._n 3._o i_o proceed_v to_o a_o three_o argument_n justify_v natural_a religion_n to_o be_v the_o term_n of_o universal_a peace_n and_o concord_n so_o far_o that_o if_o that_o be_v secure_v man_n shall_v acquiesce_v in_o peace_n one_o with_o another_o in_o thing_n that_o concern_v religion_n magistrate_n allow_v common_a protection_n and_o people_n the_o common_a benevolence_n of_o humanity_n as_o upon_o a_o rule_v and_o determine_v case_n that_o reason_n and_o truth_n ought_v to_o have_v according_a to_o the_o divine_a will_n and_o the_o very_a law_n of_o nature_n a_o through_o fare_n in_o the_o world_n free_a as_o the_o air_n and_o light_n and_o that_o by_o a_o ordinance_n as_o early_o as_o of_o the_o day_n before_o i_o argue_v this_o i_o premise_v that_o all_o religious_a freedom_n be_v under_o the_o entire_a acknowledgement_n of_o prince_n within_o their_o own_o dominion_n in_o all_o cause_n and_o over_o all_o person_n as_o well_o ecclesiastical_a as_o civil_a in_o the_o very_a sense_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n supreme_a moderator_n and_o governor_n as_o also_o that_o it_o be_v more_o desirable_a all_o thing_n of_o a_o religious_a concern_v shall_v have_v the_o countenance_n encouragement_n and_o example_n of_o authority_n and_o the_o symphony_n of_o community_n yet_o still_o with_o this_o condition_n it_o be_v the_o birthright_n of_o every_o man_n to_o be_v avowed_o and_o public_o religious_a according_a to_o those_o rule_n he_o believer_n agreeable_a to_o the_o divine_a will_n natural_a religion_n be_v judg._n and_o that_o this_o be_v according_a to_o the_o very_a institution_n of_o god_n himself_o and_o no_o way_n inconsistent_a with_o the_o law_n of_o subjection_n to_o magistracy_n or_o be_v a_o commodious_a and_o agreeable_a member_n of_o a_o community_n for_o if_o there_o be_v not_o such_o a_o natural_a freedom_n there_o be_v no_o way_n leave_v since_o that_o general_a corruption_n of_o religion_n in_o the_o world_n for_o a_o man_n ordinary_o to_o reduce_v himself_o and_o induce_v other_o to_o reform_v themselves_o and_o their_o open_a profession_n of_o god_n to_o true_a and_o regular_a thought_n and_o acknowledgement_n of_o god_n his_o worship_n and_o service_n and_o the_o way_n of_o please_v he_o in_o order_n to_o the_o eternal_a enjoyment_n of_o he_o for_o it_o often_o fall_v out_o in_o the_o world_n that_o magistrate_n and_o people_n sit_v in_o their_o idol-temple_n of_o a_o false_a religion_n guard_v with_o their_o law_n for_o uniformity_n environ_v with_o their_o own_o canon_n and_o constitution_n and_o threaten_v severe_a penalty_n to_o any_o disturber_n though_o we_o have_v reason_n to_o bless_v god_n our_o line_n be_v fall_v in_o pleasant_a place_n yea_o we_o have_v a_o goodly_a inheritance_n of_o religion_n by_o our_o law_n which_o very_o much_o bribe_v our_o judgement_n of_o the_o duresse_n of_o imposition_n in_o religion_n because_o we_o only_o consider_v it_o in_o ceremony_n impose_v and_o do_v not_o turn_v ourselves_o to_o behold_v the_o abomination_n in_o other_o nation_n not_o only_o commit_v but_o frame_v by_o a_o law_n but_o imposition_n be_v imposition_n in_o the_o least_o thing_n in_o religion_n not_o natural_a and_o open_v the_o way_n to_o it_o in_o the_o great_a if_o it_o be_v not_o therefore_o before_o hand_n take_v care_n of_o by_o such_o a_o immunity_n reserve_v to_o humane_a nature_n notwithstanding_o government_n and_o subjection_n to_o ruler_n that_o most_o fundamental_a principle_n of_o natural_a religion_n in_o piety_n towards_o god_n issue_v itself_o in_o declaration_n of_o his_o name_n truth_n and_o glory_n in_o charity_n and_o compassion_n to_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n who_o case_n though_o not_o themselves_o cry_v out_o as_o the_o man_n of_o macedonia_n in_o paul_n be_v vision_n come_v and_o help_v we_o must_v lie_v still_o as_o a_o talon_n 9_o act._n 16._o 9_o hide_v in_o a_o napkin_n and_o bury_v in_o the_o earth_n or_o must_v encounter_v and_o fall_v foul_a with_o another_o law_n of_o nature_n viz._n of_o subjection_n and_o obedience_n to_o magistrate_n in_o their_o religious_a law_n but_o if_o their_o right_n to_o command_v only_o in_o and_o according_a to_o natural_a religion_n the_o best_a most_o honourable_a and_o safe_a command_n that_o god_n think_v fit_a to_o deposit_v with_o man_n that_o they_o shall_v hold_v the_o golden_a reign_n of_o godliness_n righteousness_n soberness_n far_o great_a than_o of_o ceremony_n and_o safe_a than_o of_o reveal_v religion_n a_o chariot_n too_o divine_a for_o man_n to_o govern_v if_o this_o i_o say_v be_v the_o case_n man_n need_v not_o cloister_a religion_n in_o their_o breast_n for_o fear_n of_o violate_v so_o awful_a a_o sanction_n as_o that_o of_o magistracy_n nor_o while_o they_o confess_v it_o neither_o afraid_a nor_o ashamed_a of_o the_o public_a discountenance_n do_v any_o thing_n injurious_a to_o divine_a disposition_n of_o power_n to_o ruler_n if_o this_o be_v not_o the_o true_a natural_a legal_a state_n of_o thing_n in_o relation_n to_o religion_n and_o magistrate_n and_o the_o very_a ordination_n of_o god_n in_o creation_n concern_v they_o this_o further_a grand_a inconvenience_n will_v follow_v that_o the_o most_o excellent_a religion_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n so_o careful_a of_o all_o just_a right_n and_o duty_n divide_v to_o caesar_n the_o thing_n that_o be_v caesar_n and_o reserve_v to_o god_n the_o thing_n that_o be_v god_n yet_o that_o 25._o luk._n 20._o 25._o this_o religion_n come_v in_o as_o it_o be_v tread_v upon_o the_o neck_n of_o prince_n and_o their_o law_n and_o disacknowledge_v that_o power_n entrust_v with_o they_o by_o god_n the_o power_n of_o first_o decree_v religion_n though_o it_o be_v allow_v he_o intend_v only_o the_o true_a religion_n for_o it_o be_v most_o evident_a christian_a religion_n come_v into_o the_o world_n against_o the_o will_n of_o all_o humane_a power_n i_o know_v it_o will_v be_v say_v our_o saviour_n and_o his_o apostle_n in_o regard_n of_o their_o immediate_a commission_n from_o heaven_n of_o which_o miracle_n be_v their_o credential_n can_v not_o in_o the_o least_o violate_v humane_a power_n which_o fall_v before_o the_o divine_a as_o the_o low_a magistrate_n among_o we_o before_o the_o supreme_a i_o confess_v this_o be_v most_o true_a yet_o still_o it_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v what_o great_a care_n god_n have_v of_o his_o moral_n natural_a fundamental_a constitution_n and_o it_o be_v not_o at_o all_o to_o be_v believe_v he_o will_v in_o so_o weighty_a a_o concern_n as_o christianity_n have_v so_o far_o neglect_v his_o ordinance_n of_o magistracy_n as_o not_o at_o first_o to_o have_v present_v that_o doctrine_n and_o the_o miraculous_a evidence_n of_o it_o to_o the_o vicegerent_n of_o his_o power_n here_o upon_o earth_n that_o at_o least_o they_o shall_v have_v be_v guilty_a of_o a_o peremptory_a refusal_n before_o their_o deputation_n in_o the_o propagation_n of_o christian_a religion_n have_v be_v wave_v by_o god_n i_o can_v therefore_o account_v the_o supremacy_n of_o divine_a power_n above_o humane_a the_o chief_a reason_n that_o god_n take_v no_o more_o notice_n not_o of_o magistrate_n only_o but_o of_o magistracy_n itself_o when_o he_o bring_v in_o the_o first_o beget_v and_o his_o religion_n into_o the_o world_n and_o that_o he_o do_v not_o say_v let_v all_o these_o angel_n of_o god_n on_o earth_n worship_v he_o in_o the_o first_o place_n we_o see_v in_o all_o thing_n that_o can_v but_o have_v the_o appearance_n of_o be_v under_o their_o proper_a jurisdiction_n how_o cautious_a our_o saviour_n be_v not_o to_o offend_v as_o in_o the_o case_n of_o tribute_n though_o he_o as_o a_o son_n over_o the_o temple_n or_o supreme_a prince_n be_v free_a yet_o 24._o mat._n 17._o 24._o he_o wrought_v a_o miracle_n on_o purpose_n to_o defray_v it_o beside_o the_o propagation_n of_o christianity_n be_v to_o outlast_v the_o immediate_a commission_n of_o the_o apostleship_n and_o miracle_n and_o to_o survive_v in_o ordinary_a preach_n and_o discourse_n while_o the_o prince_n of_o the_o world_n be_v yet_o enemy_n to_o it_o what_o then_o do_v this_o argue_v but_o that_o the_o enforce_n of_o true_a pure_a natural_a religion_n only_o be_v the_o
understand_v the_o excellent_a wisdom_n gravity_n of_o natural_a religion_n in_o the_o life_n and_o action_n of_o man_n especial_o ennoble_v with_o christianity_n will_v bring_v most_o of_o man_n except_o extreme_o bad_a or_o wild_a into_o a_o admiration_n of_o its_o excellency_n that_o even_o ingenuous_a shame_n together_o with_o general_a prudence_n will_v compose_v they_o against_o fugitive_n inconstant_a changeable_a giddy_a opinion_n man_n be_v not_o so_o intractable_a as_o they_o be_v think_v to_o these_o awful_a law_n if_o wise_o propose_v the_o worst_a and_o wild_a part_n will_v become_v in_o every_o man_n sense_n due_a subject_n for_o rigour_n who_o so_o much_o reason_n and_o fair_a inducement_n will_v not_o prevail_v upon_o steelly_a unfruitful_a unsatisfactory_a ceremony_n loose_a principle_n and_o practice_n the_o want_n of_o that_o great_a presence_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o a_o iron_n hand_n instead_o of_o it_o make_v man_n atheistick_a sceptic_a and_o fanatic_a 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be_v to_o be_v understand_v in_o case_n not_o evident_o good_a or_o evil_n by_o nature_n law_n in_o they_o there_o be_v no_o excuse_n against_o impression_n of_o absolute_a authority_n now_o how_o much_o will_v this_o tend_v to_o peace_n if_o it_o have_v its_o due_a observance_n 2._o that_o humane_a nature_n shall_v do_v all_o the_o good_a kindness_n and_o ease_v it_o can_v to_o itself_o in_o every_o particular_a member_n and_o remove_v all_o the_o evil_a discomfort_n and_o mischief_n it_o can_v in_o the_o same_o manner_n and_o no_o severity_n except_o in_o case_n plain_o destructive_a to_o general_a humanity_n can_v be_v tolerable_a to_o true_a humanity_n if_o this_o be_v man_n rule_n who_o will_v hurt_v or_o destroy_v in_o the_o world_n 3._o that_o in_o all_o thing_n wherein_o a_o man_n can_v without_o infinite_a hazard_n do_v it_o he_o shall_v unite_v himself_o with_o the_o great_a community_n with_o lawful_a governor_n with_o nation_n and_o most_o comprehensive_a congregation_n of_o christian_n see_v that_o be_v most_o acceptable_a to_o god_n who_o will_v have_v all_o nation_n to_o 11._o rom._n 15._o 9_o 10_o 11._o serve_v he_o all_o people_n to_o praise_v he_o it_o be_v most_o humane_a and_o christian_n it_o be_v also_o most_o a_o man_n interest_n most_o safe_a and_o secure_a to_o himself_o 4._o that_o wherein_o a_o man_n find_v himself_o under_o a_o necessity_n of_o differ_v from_o any_o man_n much_o more_o from_o a_o community_n he_o shall_v deport_v himself_o with_o all_o meekness_n humility_n modesty_n love_n and_o charity_n that_o he_o may_v demonstrate_v it_o be_v true_o his_o judgement_n and_o sense_n of_o conscience_n and_o not_o perverse_a humour_n that_o make_v he_o differ_v that_o he_o be_v still_o a_o most_o lively_a feel_a member_n in_o the_o body_n of_o mankind_n and_o christian_n that_o in_o all_o thing_n except_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o salvation_n of_o his_o soul_n interest_n too_o vast_a to_o be_v compound_v for_o he_o prefer_v the_o public_a before_o himself_o such_o a_o one_o can_v neither_o harm_n nor_o deserve_v to_o be_v harm_v i_o have_v now_o dispatch_v what_o i_o intend_v concern_v this_o first_o foundation_n of_o even_o universal_a peace_n recommend_v by_o christian_a religion_n viz._n the_o general_a unity_n and_o uniformity_n there_o will_v be_v in_o natural_a religion_n if_o man_n will_v show_v themselves_o man_n i_o will_v only_o by_o way_n of_o conclusion_n reflect_v upon_o the_o usefulness_n of_o so_o great_a a_o point_n 1._o it_o justify_v the_o great_a creator_n of_o all_o who_o have_v not_o leave_v himself_o without_o witness_n amid_o this_o great_a deordination_n of_o his_o rational_a creature_n that_o he_o be_v yet_o a_o faithful_a creator_n see_v he_o have_v carve_v into_o their_o very_a being_n such_o a_o law_n of_o truth_n and_o goodness_n that_o if_o they_o will_v but_o show_v themselves_o man_n will_v have_v preserve_v they_o from_o the_o great_a error_n of_o vnderderstanding_n and_o 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rome_n and_o the_o reform_a church_n although_o i_o have_v a_o just_a value_n for_o all_o those_o renown_a labour_n of_o the_o great_a light_n god_n have_v raise_v up_o in_o the_o protestancy_n a_o very_a rational_a and_o christian_a entertainment_n of_o the_o writer_n and_o reader_n yet_o i_o must_v profess_v the_o unshaken_a assurance_n i_o centre_n upon_o in_o all_o those_o controversy_n be_v a_o short_a conclusion_n of_o the_o matter_n that_o romish_a religion_n not_o only_o be_v not_o but_o can_v be_v true_a it_o be_v impossible_a it_o shall_v be_v of_o god_n if_o scripture_n and_o our_o faculty_n be_v true_a if_o natural_a religion_n or_o christian_a religion_n that_o we_o have_v in_o the_o scripture_n be_v true_a and_o this_o i_o take_v to_o be_v a_o ready_a and_o sure_a antidote_n against_o popery_n to_o all_o that_o be_v equal_o concern_v to_o know_v which_o be_v the_o true_a religion_n catholic_n religion_n false_o so_o call_v popish_a religion_n or_o protestant_a religion_n though_o they_o have_v not_o opportunity_n to_o acquaint_v themselves_o with_o all_o the_o learning_n so_o plentiful_a so_o valuable_a at_o this_o day_n in_o the_o world_n for_o the_o decision_n between_o they_o 2._o that_o great_a principle_n of_o natural_a religion_n hear_v oh_o israel_n the_o lord_n thy_o god_n be_v one_o jehovah_n and_o thou_o shall_v love_v 5._o deut._n 6._o 4_o 5._o the_o lord_n thy_o god_n with_o all_o thy_o soul_n with_o all_o thy_o mind_n with_o all_o thy_o might_n and_o strength_n and_o that_o great_a principle_n of_o christian_a religion_n if_o any_o man_n love_v not_o the_o lord_n jesus_n let_v 22._o 1_o cor._n 16._o 22._o he_o be_v anathema_n maranatha_n these_o two_o join_v together_o assure_v i_o beyond_o doubt_n our_o mediator_n upon_o who_o our_o love_n trust_v service_n be_v to_o rest_v and_o that_o at_o such_o a_o distance_n as_o be_v heaven_n from_o earth_n can_v be_v but_o the_o one_o god_n with_o the_o father_n and_o so_o i_o be_o resolve_v in_o 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every_o particular_a immortal_a spirit_n that_o he_o have_v make_v so_o that_o it_o can_v be_v dispose_v of_o or_o dispose_v itself_o without_o the_o counsel_n and_o foreknowledge_n of_o god_n and_o yet_o that_o no_o one_o be_v prejudge_v by_o any_o determination_n of_o god_n in_o the_o true_a liberty_n of_o a_o rational_a creature_n much_o less_o determine_v to_o sin_n and_o misery_n upon_o it_o by_o any_o overrule_a power_n we_o may_v safe_o with_o respect_n to_o both_o side_n be_v profound_o abase_v in_o the_o sense_n of_o incomprehensible_a sovereignty_n over_o we_o in_o a_o self-condemnation_n wherein_o soever_o we_o find_v ourselves_o degenerate_a and_o fall_v into_o sin_n as_o know_v our_o destruction_n of_o ourselves_o nor_o need_v we_o stay_v till_o supreme_a grace_n and_o our_o own_o freewill_n be_v reconcile_v in_o dispute_n we_o may_v safe_o on_o both_o side_n make_v our_o humble_a and_o most_o lowly_a appeal_n to_o he_o that_o work_v in_o we_o both_o to_o will_v and_o to_o do_v we_o must_v do_v so_o and_o be_v under_o the_o same_o security_n and_o obligation_n in_o stir_v up_o our_o utmost_a 32._o phil._n 2._o 13._o ezek._n 18._o 32._o power_n in_o turn_v ourselves_o that_o we_o may_v live_v in_o work_v out_o our_o salvation_n with_o fear_n and_o tremble_a and_o all_o beyond_o 12._o phil._n 2._o 12._o these_o two_o conclusion_n be_v but_o speculation_n in_o which_o we_o may_v employ_v and_o entertain_v ourselves_o in_o consider_v infinite_a wisdom_n and_o glory_n and_o search_v as_o near_o as_o we_o dare_v approve_v its_o holy_a and_o gracious_a way_n but_o need_v not_o be_v angry_a we_o can_v agree_v in_o thing_n out_o of_o our_o depth_n so_o as_o to_o be_v certain_a 4._o in_o all_o the_o dispute_n concern_v form_n of_o church-government_n modes_n of_o worship_n we_o have_v thus_o much_o of_o resolution_n from_o the_o consent_n of_o christian_a with_o natural_a religion_n whatever_o be_v most_o substantial_o good_a be_v fit_a to_o be_v the_o centre_n of_o agreement_n and_o union_n and_o other_o thing_n doubtful_a allow_v to_o particular_a reason_n and_o choice_n with_o mutual_a toleration_n and_o charity_n as_o be_v further_a to_o be_v show_v we_o under_o the_o next_o head_n of_o discourse_n have_v now_o speak_v so_o much_o of_o natural_a religion_n i_o think_v it_o necessary_a before_o i_o quite_o leave_v it_o beside_o the_o survey_n i_o have_v take_v of_o it_o to_o add_v these_o character_n concern_v it_o that_o it_o may_v not_o possible_o be_v mistake_v 1._o it_o be_v that_o which_o depend_v upon_o nothing_o particular_a but_o must_v be_v the_o same_o to_o all_o nation_n and_o time_n it_o be_v all_o essence_n and_o have_v no_o accident_n or_o circumstance_n as_o it_o be_v natural_a to_o pray_v be_v natural_a religion_n that_o be_v to_o lift_v up_o desire_v to_o god_n with_o humility_n and_o hope_n this_o be_v and_o must_v be_v the_o same_o without_o any_o variation_n to_o every_o man_n in_o the_o world_n now_o whatever_o can_v be_v suppose_v to_o pertain_v to_o it_o if_o it_o be_v not_o the_o same_o every_o where_o be_v not_o natural_a religion_n there_o can_v be_v but_o one_o nation_n of_o a_o god_n to_o all_o the_o world_n there_o can_v be_v but_o one_o justice_n sobriety_n throughout_o there_o can_v be_v but_o one_o notion_n of_o sin_n or_o of_o the_o pardon_n of_o it_o of_o judgement_n to_o come_v as_o they_o be_v natural_a till_o you_o come_v to_o essence_n you_o come_v not_o to_o natural_a religion_n 2._o it_o be_v that_o which_o can_v be_v demur_v to_o but_o with_o the_o failure_n of_o all_o sober_a reason_n nor_o indeed_o without_o a_o consciousness_n of_o it_o while_o deny_v i_o be_o full_o assure_v no_o man_n can_v deny_v a_o god_n a_o distinction_n between_o good_a and_o evil_n a_o future_a state_n without_o a_o strong_a recoil_n of_o the_o natural_a faculty_n return_v as_o by_o a_o intellectual_a moral_a elastic_a force_n 3._o it_o be_v that_o whereof_o if_o any_o of_o the_o principle_n be_v take_v away_o grand_a inconvenience_n and_o absurdity_n will_v follow_v like_o take_v away_o light_a air_n or_o water_n out_o of_o the_o natural_a world_n what_o a_o infinite_a necessity_n be_v there_o of_o god_n of_o prayer_n to_o he_o of_o praise_n of_o he_o of_o his_o pardoning-mercy_n since_o sin_n of_o judgement_n to_o come_v take_v away_o these_o and_o universal_a nature_n fly_v in_o piece_n run_v every_o way_n upon_o so_o great_a a_o vacuum_n as_o the_o want_n of_o any_o these_o principle_n immediate_o make_v this_o be_v natural_a religion_n and_o nothing_o else_o be_v natural_a religion_n but_o this_o have_v discourse_v what_o a_o foundation_n of_o universal_a peace_n christian_a religion_n have_v lay_v in_o not_o only_o assume_v to_o but_o unite_n with_o itself_o natural_a religion_n i_o shall_v come_v now_o to_o present_a as_o in_o perspective_n christian_a religion_n itself_o and_o show_v the_o admirable_a contrivance_n for_o unity_n peace_n and_o love_n it_o have_v find_v 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truth_n out_o of_o which_o christianity_n rise_v the_o twelve_o apostolic_a foundation_n upon_o which_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n ascend_v set_v up_o its_o odd_a uneven_a unequal_a antichristianism_n part_n christian_n part_n pagan_a part_v true_a part_n false_a and_o this_o be_v all_o the_o care_n we_o need_v take_v for_o the_o body_n of_o the_o roman_a church_n it_o be_v not_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n it_o be_v not_o of_o the_o 23._o heb._n 12._o 23._o general_a assembly_n and_o church_n of_o the_o first-born_a write_v in_o heaven_n it_o deserve_v not_o that_o love_n and_o care_v due_a to_o â—he_v body_n as_o it_o be_v so_o incorporate_v it_o be_v irreco_fw-la cilable_a with_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n and_o aught_o to_o be_v so_o declare_v but_o there_o may_v lie_v hide_v number_n among_o they_o who_o like_o the_o seven_o thousand_o in_o the_o israelitish_n baalism_n who_o be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o depth_n of_o satan_n in_o that_o false_a religion_n to_o who_o the_o christianity_n that_o remain_v though_o blend_v with_o that_o corruption_n separate_v itself_o and_o as_o oil_n rise_v uppermost_a to_o they_o to_o these_o we_o may_v allow_v the_o charitable_a hope_n of_o salvation_n not_o for_o their_o popish_a tincture_n but_o for_o their_o christianity_n for_o all_o that_o be_v popish_a be_v their_o danger_n and_o their_o extreme_a danger_n it_o be_v the_o christianity_n pure_a separate_a christianity_n that_o be_v their_o only_a hope_n and_o it_o be_v only_o like_o the_o hope_n of_o a_o antidote_n work_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o a_o great_a deal_n of_o poison_n or_o like_o true_a principle_n of_o natural_a religion_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o paganism_n the_o event_n of_o either_o of_o which_o operation_n must_v as_o i_o have_v say_v before_o be_v leave_v only_o to_o god_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n their_o damn_v all_o to_o hell_n for_o heretic_n that_o be_v not_o of_o their_o communion_n be_v but_o one_o of_o the_o blasphemy_n of_o the_o name_n of_o which_o they_o be_v full_a and_o make_v no_o man_n among_o they_o the_o safe_a but_o his_o case_n become_v the_o more_o desperate_a that_o protestancy_n argue_v from_o the_o very_a charity_n and_o compassion_n of_o it_o to_o be_v more_o infallible_o the_o religion_n of_o christ_n allow_v all_o the_o compassionate_a hope_n that_o can_v be_v to_o some_o who_o be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o that_o contagion_n and_o yet_o may_v be_v preserve_v from_o the_o deadliness_n of_o it_o but_o cruel_a popery_n as_o much_o as_o it_o be_v able_a prepare_v flame_n in_o this_o world_n and_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v for_o all_o that_o have_v not_o the_o faith_n of_o remove_v mountain_n not_o only_o of_o improbability_n but_o even_a impâ—ssibility_n that_o their_o monstrous_a principle_n have_v raise_v and_o set_v in_o the_o way_n of_o christian_a communion_n with_o they_o and_o thus_o i_o have_v settle_v the_o second_o head_n of_o discourse_n concern_v the_o efficacy_n of_o christian_a religion_n to_o peace_n that_o divine_a balsam_n of_o love_n run_v throughout_o the_o body_n and_o particular_o to_o the_o aggrieved_a part_n where_o there_o be_v a_o union_n upon_o the_o fundamental_a unity_n of_o christianity_n and_o so_o certain_o preserve_v and_o secure_v peace_n i_o come_v now_o to_o the_o three_o head_n of_o christian_a peace_n 3._o the_o rule_v christianity_n give_v the_o true_a professor_n of_o it_o for_o the_o imbody_v themselves_o one_o with_o another_o will_v show_v how_o sincere_o it_o design_n peace_n for_o some_o may_v think_v if_o there_o be_v no_o obligation_n of_o mutual_a conformity_n in_o particular_a society_n of_o christian_n how_o can_v there_o be_v any_o such_o society_n if_o there_o may_v be_v such_o separation_n among_o christian_n as_o that_o there_o be_v not_o require_v a_o concurrence_n in_o all_o point_n of_o doctrine_n worship_n and_o practise_v under_o peril_n of_o the_o dreadful_a sin_n of_o schism_n christianity_n will_v be_v like_o a_o general_a notion_n subsist_v in_o no_o distinct_a particular_a body_n or_o like_o a_o universe_n of_o atom_n without_o any_o connexion_n and_o then_o how_o can_v they_o that_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v one_o with_o another_o be_v at_o peace_n one_o with_o another_o if_o there_o be_v no_o association_n of_o christian_n no_o church_n particular_o unite_v and_o constitute_v there_o be_v no_o opportunity_n to_o practice_v that_o peace_n and_o submission_n to_o order_n which_o such_o society_n oblige_v to_o and_o which_o the_o apostle_n rejoice_v to_o behold_v in_o the_o church_n of_o the_o colossian_n if_o all_o the_o love_n and_o peace_n of_o christian_n be_v only_o that_o which_o be_v extend_v to_o the_o universal_a 5._o col._n 2._o 5._o church_n or_o to_o christian_n occasional_o in_o particular_a every_o one_o have_v his_o own_o private_a apprehension_n to_o himself_o then_o be_v there_o no_o room_n for_o this_o more_o distinct_a exercise_n of_o love_n and_o peace_n i_o shall_v therefore_o now_o address_v myself_o to_o consider_v the_o law_n of_o christianity_n for_o christian_n so_o imbody_v themselves_o that_o they_o may_v display_v all_o the_o general_a virtue_n of_o christianity_n in_o their_o particular_a station_n in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o i_o shall_v lay_v down_o these_o three_o rule_n concern_v this_o very_a weighty_a point_n 1._o that_o the_o first_o congregate_a of_o christian_n be_v to_o christ_n himself_o as_o to_o the_o head_n in_o who_o the_o whole_a body_n be_v principal_o unite_v and_o the_o union_n with_o he_o be_v the_o measure_n and_o true_a law_n of_o their_o union_n one_o with_o another_o as_o the_o apostle_n join_v their_o order_n and_o faith_n in_o christ_n together_o they_o give_v themselves_o first_o to_o the_o lord_n and_o then_o to_o one_o another_o 5._o col._n 2._o 5._o this_o be_v the_o apostle_n method_n to_o preach_v first_o christ_n jesus_n to_o be_v the_o lord_n and_z themselves_z servants_z for_o christ_n sake_n all_o 5._o 2_o cor._n 4._o 5._o christian_n be_v first_o convert_v to_o the_o faith_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o add_v to_o the_o church_n 47._o act_n 2._o 44_o 47._o and_o this_o be_v most_o necessary_a to_o be_v consider_v because_o if_o the_o first_o gather_v of_o christian_n be_v to_o the_o church_n the_o order_n and_o peace_n of_o that_o church_n will_v be_v the_o rule_n of_o all_o their_o after-action_n and_o regulation_n of_o themselves_o and_o they_o must_v take_v every_o thing_n on_o trust_n from_o that_o but_o if_o the_o first_o point_n of_o union_n be_v christ_n and_o faith_n in_o he_o that_o shall_v over-rule_v wherein_o soever_o a_o church_n may_v deviate_v from_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n 2._o from_o hence_o also_o it_o follow_v that_o the_o union_n of_o christian_n be_v first_o with_o the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o general_a assembly_n and_o church_n of_o the_o first-born_a who_o constitution_n be_v fix_v upon_o the_o essential_a unalterable_a and_o ever_o the_o same_o point_n of_o christianity_n and_o the_o worship_n agreeable_a to_o they_o and_o in_o which_o all_o true_a christian_n must_v concentre_v that_o they_o may_v be_v the_o body_n of_o christ._n this_o be_v that_o church_n against_o which_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v it_o shall_v never_o die_v it_o shall_v never_o fail_v which_o yet_o we_o know_v may_v befall_v all_o particular_a church_n they_o have_v and_o perpetual_o may_v fail_v mat._n 16._o 18._o now_o thus_o far_o i_o have_v already_o show_v there_o be_v as_o firm_a a_o foundation_n of_o peace_n lay_v as_o the_o understanding_n of_o man_n can_v conceive_v in_o this_o state_n of_o thing_n here_o below_o in_o a_o degenerate_a world_n of_o humane_a nature_n 3._o but_o beside_o this_o there_o be_v particular_a assembly_n that_o be_v near_o to_o christian_n in_o particular_a and_o to_o which_o they_o ought_v to_o unite_n as_o either_o have_v receive_v the_o profession_n of_o christianity_n by_o their_o ministry_n and_o so_o have_v be_v to_o they_o one_o of_o those_o pillar_n to_o which_o the_o christian_a doctrine_n be_v affix_v it_o have_v offer_v it_o to_o all_o comer_n and_o to_o they_o in_o particular_a such_o assembly_n be_v a_o rest_n or_o repose_v 15._o â—_o tim_n 3._o 15._o of_o truth_n the_o communication_n of_o it_o have_v be_v make_v to_o all_o that_o have_v be_v near_o it_o and_o particular_o to_o they_o who_o we_o suppose_v aught_o to_o unite_v with_o they_o or_o it_o be_v the_o same_o thing_n if_o their_o parent_n incorporate_v in_o such_o church_n and_o profess_v christianity_n in_o communion_n with_o they_o have_v direct_v their_o education_n into_o the_o acknowledgement_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o profession_n of_o he_o together_o with_o the_o christian_n of_o such_o or_o such_o a_o congregation_n or_o that_o they_o themselves_o have_v consider_v the_o whole_a circumstance_n of_o their_o state_n in_o relation_n to_o
testament_n the_o apocalypse_n foretell_v the_o kingdom_n of_o the_o world_n in_o the_o very_a state_n of_o kingdom_n become_v the_o lord_n and_o his_o christ_n all_o these_o thing_n argue_v a_o great_a encouragement_n of_o nation_n receive_v and_o make_v a_o public_a profession_n of_o the_o gospel_n as_o nation_n even_o as_o family_n may_v and_o aught_o as_o family_n and_o though_o it_o be_v undoubted_o the_o great_a honour_n and_o glory_n of_o nation_n to_o come_v as_o near_o and_o as_o exact_a and_o close_a as_o may_v be_v to_o the_o law_n and_o order_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o government_n as_o in_o the_o constitution_n of_o their_o national_a christianity_n yet_o because_o there_o will_v and_o general_o fall_v out_o to_o be_v a_o mixture_n of_o national_a custom_n in_o such_o public_a administration_n a_o comprimise_n of_o they_o to_o the_o law_n and_o government_n of_o nation_n hence_o it_o also_o come_v to_o pass_v there_o may_v be_v a_o dissatisfaction_n in_o many_o of_o the_o subject_n of_o such_o nation_n to_o comply_v with_o their_o national_a constitution_n of_o religion_n hence_o there_o be_v apt_a to_o arise_v discomposure_n and_o disquiet_n if_o prince_n or_o power_n exceed_v that_o exercise_n of_o power_n allot_v to_o they_o by_o god_n as_o we_o have_v before_o discourse_v and_o also_o by_o the_o very_a essential_a constitution_n of_o christianity_n see_v christ_n have_v make_v none_o lord_n of_o his_o people_n faith_n or_o divine_a worship_n and_o prince_n be_v no_o more_o than_o nursing-fathers_n the_o quiet_a therefore_o and_o peace_n of_o nation_n be_v most_o advance_v by_o set_v up_o nothing_o in_o christianity_n but_o what_o be_v absolute_o necessary_a according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n and_o yield_v the_o tender_a and_o open_v the_o most_o bountiful_a hand_n to_o the_o professor_n and_o minister_n of_o essential_a christianity_n cover_v all_o the_o faulty_a division_n of_o christian_n with_o their_o royal_a and_o compassionate_a purple_a this_o be_v most_o princely_a generous_a and_o great_a this_o be_v most_o exalt_v of_o christianity_n itself_o but_o if_o this_o can_v be_v obtain_v the_o next_o best_n and_o that_o which_o be_v indeed_o as_o i_o have_v already_o make_v out_o but_o just_o be_v that_o no_o native_a right_n and_o liberty_n be_v defaulk_v nor_o punitive_a oppression_n inflict_v but_o that_o the_o honorary_a reward_n of_o nation_n and_o prince_n be_v adjudge_v to_o man_n who_o be_v of_o the_o public_a sentiment_n in_o their_o administration_n in_o christian_a religion_n and_o this_o indeed_o can_v be_v except_v to_o it_o be_v the_o right_n of_o national_a power_n to_o dispose_v of_o their_o own_o according_a to_o their_o own_o reason_n and_o judgement_n yet_o be_v there_o still_o a_o obligation_n upon_o christian_a subject_n beyond_o these_o consideration_n to_o examine_v all_o thing_n with_o the_o great_a prejudice_n for_o and_o on_o the_o side_n of_o the_o national_a sense_n especial_o when_o they_o find_v the_o substantial_o of_o religion_n secure_a and_o in_o safety_n and_o beside_o their_o private_a adjustment_n of_o christian_a performance_n in_o particular_a society_n according_a to_o the_o exacter_n rule_v of_o christianity_n as_o they_o be_v judge_n for_o themselves_o to_o encourage_v also_o promote_v and_o as_o far_o as_o possible_o they_o can_v communicate_v with_o national_a religion_n put_v the_o fair_a and_o kind_a interpretation_n and_o hope_v upon_o all_o thing_n tolerate_v all_o that_o can_v without_o disobedience_n to_o god_n be_v tolerate_v observe_v rite_n and_o custom_n of_o nation_n as_o far_o as_o they_o can_v with_o security_n from_o vain_a worship_v of_o god_n by_o the_o commandment_n of_o man_n both_o because_o of_o the_o honour_n christianity_n give_v to_o magistracy_n according_a to_o natural_a sanction_n and_o also_o and_o more_o especial_o because_o of_o the_o esteem_n christianity_n have_v of_o a_o public_a and_o national_a religion_n let_v i_o then_o resume_v upon_o the_o whole_a matter_n and_o it_o plain_o appear_v christianity_n notwithstanding_o the_o freedom_n it_o allow_v to_o every_o man_n conscientious_a sentiment_n be_v no_o enemy_n but_o a_o friend_n 1._o to_o society_n 2._o to_o the_o order_n and_o peace_n that_o bound_v society_n yea_o and_o strict_o command_v they_o and_o have_v give_v positive_a institution_n for_o they_o 1._o for_o first_o it_o unite_v all_o its_o true_a disciple_n in_o that_o common_a ample_a universal_a centre_n of_o love_n peace_n and_o order_n god_n and_o christ_n to_o who_o the_o first_o dedication_n of_o a_o christian_a be_v make_v and_o in_o who_o it_o always_o rest_v 2._o it_o unite_v they_o with_o that_o most_o public_a wise_a rational_a and_o most_o holy_a assembly_n under_o heaven_n the_o catholic_n church_n even_o all_o that_o be_v that_o one_o body_n act_v by_o that_o one_o spirit_n unite_v in_o one_o hope_n one_o faith_n one_o baptism_n in_o all_o which_o every_o christian_a be_v one_o with_o the_o whole_a desire_n and_o rejoice_v in_o the_o increase_n of_o that_o one_o body_n the_o advancement_n of_o that_o one_o faith_n communicate_v in_o the_o prayer_n and_o praise_n of_o that_o one_o body_n sorrow_n in_o its_o affliction_n minister_n to_o its_o necessity_n and_o if_o opportunity_n be_v offer_v communicate_v in_o spiritual_a gift_n and_o service_n with_o any_o member_n of_o it_o and_o value_v not_o their_o particular_a rite_n as_o any_o obstruction_n while_o they_o agree_v in_o essential_o and_o indeed_o every_o christian_n shall_v be_v suffer_v to_o drop_v that_o mantle_n of_o ceremony_n as_o he_o please_v when_o he_o ascend_v in_o holy_a offering_n of_o himselfâ—o_o â—o_z god_n 3._o 〈◊〉_d to_o particular_a society_n or_o church_n of_o christian_n in_o whiâ—â—_n the_o essential_o of_o doctrine_n and_o worship_n be_v preserve_v uncorrupted_a and_o so_o they_o must_v be_v or_o else_o such_o society_n deserve_v not_o the_o name_n of_o church_n and_o when_o they_o be_v in_o such_o a_o neighbourhood_n to_o the_o true_a christian_a that_o he_o may_v free_o enjoy_v his_o choice_n he_o consider_v these_o two_o both_o recommend_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n 1._o private_a particular_a congregation_n that_o can_v conform_v to_o public_a settlement_n such_o must_v needs_o be_v the_o first_o church_n when_o christianity_n have_v no_o public_a allowance_n such_o may_v be_v still_o 2._o the_o most_o public_a settlement_n of_o christian_a religion_n and_o wherein_o he_o may_v do_v it_o he_o use_v both_o promiscuous_o wherein_o he_o must_v divide_v he_o consider_v upon_o the_o balance_n of_o his_o most_o humble_a and_o impartial_a judgement_n which_o tend_v most_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n to_o public_a edification_n as_o well_o as_o his_o own_o and_o so_o as_o not_o to_o do_v evil_a that_o good_a may_v come_v if_o he_o choose_v that_o which_o be_v more_o particular_a as_o best_o according_a to_o his_o sentiment_n he_o be_v yet_o careful_a to_o 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to_o they_o as_o he_o see_v reason_n with_o mild_a and_o christian_a argument_n the_o disadvantage_n of_o separate_n from_o it_o beyond_o plain_a necessity_n 4._o in_o the_o difference_n of_o judgement_n of_o public_a society_n and_o private_a in_o relation_n to_o one_o another_o or_o the_o difference_n of_o private_a among_o themselves_o the_o true_a christian_a still_o keep_v himself_o upon_o that_o love_n mercy_n and_o peace_n christianity_n teach_v he_o and_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o those_o diversity_n consider_v the_o high_a tie_n worth_n and_o value_n of_o those_o unity_n wherein_o they_o all_o meet_v 5._o if_o a_o christian_a fall_n into_o such_o place_n where_o the_o essential_o be_v corrupt_v he_o esteem_v religious_a solitude_n the_o best_a communion_n yet_o refuse_v not_o to_o improve_v any_o thing_n of_o truth_n he_o can_v extract_v from_o such_o corruption_n or_o if_o there_o be_v any_o part_n of_o public_a worship_n not_o so_o adulterate_v but_o to_o admit_v a_o possible_a separation_n in_o the_o exigence_n of_o present_a service_n
and_o i_o be_o sure_a this_o in_o all_o justice_n humanity_n and_o reason_n tend_v to_o peace_n for_o what_o can_v move_v to_o it_o more_o than_o a_o sole_a design_n of_o do_v good_a in_o they_o that_o be_v at_o the_o top_n and_o a_o evident_a assurance_n to_o they_o that_o be_v below_o that_o that_o good_a be_v offer_v to_o they_o and_o continual_o elaborate_v for_o they_o what_o can_v more_o quiet_a and_o addulce_a man_n spirit_n than_o to_o see_v a_o inâ—ire_a contrivance_n and_o composure_n of_o all_o thing_n to_o their_o eternal_a salvation_n as_o the_o apostle_n do_v all_o for_o the_o elect_v sake_n that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v 2_o tim._n 2._o 10._o such_o ministerial_a ruler_n be_v therefore_o the_o peculiar_a gift_n of_o 11._o ephes_n 4._o 11._o christ_n and_o speak_v the_o magnificence_n of_o his_o ascension_n they_o be_v give_v for_o the_o perfect_a of_o the_o saint_n for_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n for_o the_o edify_a the_o body_n of_o christ_n all_o great_a 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that_o be_v the_o method_n of_o chastise_v correct_v and_o reform_v the_o know_a transgression_n against_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n and_o they_o so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v state_v to_o the_o use_n of_o after-age_n be_v according_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o offence_n admonition_n warning_n reproof_n rebuke_n avoid_v reject_v from_o communion_n esteem_v as_o heathen_n and_o publican_n cast_v out_o of_o the_o church_n consignation_n over_o to_o divine_a judgement_n all_o these_o of_o a_o spiritual_a nature_n fit_v to_o edification_n and_o not_o to_o destruction_n 10._o 2_o cor._n 13._o 10._o to_o touch_v the_o conscience_n to_o affect_v the_o mind_n to_o work_v self_n reflection_n shame_n self-condemnation_n repentance_n and_o amendment_n or_o else_o divine_a judgement_n must_v be_v await_v it_o be_v the_o rational_a as_o well_o as_o christian_a expedient_a of_o purge_v a_o society_n from_o the_o scandal_n of_o offender_n from_o infection_n and_o contagion_n of_o keep_v it_o pure_a and_o honourable_a viz._n to_o disavow_v they_o when_o gentle_a mean_n be_v ineffectual_a it_o be_v a_o most_o natural_a instrument_n for_o reformation_n and_o amendment_n and_o if_o it_o do_v not_o work_v so_o when_o upon_o just_a cause_n and_o by_o a_o unerring_a key_n be_v not_o only_o a_o appeal_n to_o divine_a judgement_n but_o a_o predamnation_n i_o know_v it_o be_v debate_v by_o learned_a man_n whether_o the_o apostolic_a 1._o 1_o cor._n 4._o 2_o 1._o rod_n and_o delivery_n to_o satan_n do_v not_o operate_v by_o corporeal_a infliction_n as_o in_o ananias_n and_o sapphira_n and_o possible_o in_o the_o incestuous_a person_n in_o a_o low_a degree_n i_o will_v however_o allow_v it_o do_v or_o may_v yet_o since_o it_o be_v extraordinary_a it_o be_v immediate_o from_o heaven_n much_o more_o convictive_a of_o conscience_n than_o human_a process_n wherein_o be_v often_o find_v much_o of_o mistake_n and_o injustice_n it_o be_v without_o noise_n or_o violence_n nor_o do_v it_o allow_v recrimination_n and_o complaint_n and_o therefore_o much_o more_o fit_a to_o go_v along_o with_o so_o spiritual_a doctrine_n than_o worldly_a judicature_n and_o possible_o necessary_a for_o primitive_a time_n to_o give_v authority_n to_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n new_o set_v out_o in_o the_o world_n so_o that_o still_o here_o be_v none_o of_o that_o barbarous_a hurt_v or_o destroy_v in_o all_o god_n holy_a mountain_n and_o most_o probable_o the_o infliction_n fall_v upon_o those_o that_o be_v guilty_a of_o great_a offence_n against_o natural_a religion_n 20._o act_n 5._o 1._o act_n 13._o 11._o 1_o cor._n 5._o 5._o 2_o cor._n 12._o 21._o chap._n 13._o 2._o 1_o tim._n 1._o 20._o as_o ananias_n falsehood_n of_o the_o deep_a dye_n elymas_n his_o sorcery_n the_o incestuous_a corinthian_a those_o that_o have_v not_o repent_v of_o their_o fornication_n lasciviousness_n and_o uncleanness_n hymeneus_n and_o alexander_n who_o have_v put_v away_o a_o good_a conscience_n and_o then_o break_v out_o into_o blasphemy_n 6._o the_o peacefulness_n of_o christianity_n be_v most_o evident_o see_v in_o its_o deportment_n of_o itself_o towards_o magistracy_n of_o which_o have_v speak_v much_o in_o that_o which_o concern_v natural_a religion_n take_v into_o union_n with_o christian_a i_o shall_v only_o present_v these_o follow_v short_a mention_n of_o particular_n wherein_o christianity_n manifest_o design_n universal_a peace_n under_o this_o head_n 1._o it_o every_o where_o confirm_v and_o assure_v the_o divine_a ordination_n of_o it_o 2._o it_o state_n its_o power_n in_o enforce_v all_o natural_a religion_n and_o goodness_n in_o restrain_v all_o that_o be_v impious_a and_o evil_a 3._o it_o crave_v nothing_o of_o it_o but_o to_o have_v justice_n do_v it_o according_a to_o those_o sanction_n nor_o prophecy_n any_o thing_n in_o the_o great_a outward_a happiness_n of_o christianity_n but_o that_o prince_n and_o nation_n shall_v be_v sprinkle_v by_o it_o and_o supreme_a prince_n 15._o isa_n 52._o 15._o become_v its_o nursing-fathers_n 4._o it_o enjoin_v upon_o all_o its_o servant_n and_o professor_n upon_o unjust_a suffering_n to_o return_v nothing_o of_o violence_n but_o blessing_n and_o prayer_n for_o injury_n and_o with_o patience_n to_o resign_v life_n itself_o 5._o it_o interpose_v not_o in_o decide_v the_o bound_n between_o prince_n and_o people_n but_o leave_v that_o to_o law_n of_o nature_n and_o particular_a law_n of_o nation_n compact_n between_o one_o and_o the_o other_o neither_o straighten_n nor_o enlarge_a prerogative_n neither_o swell_v nor_o abate_v power_n nor_o on_o the_o people_n side_n curtail_v or_o stretch_v liberty_n it_o leave_v these_o thing_n to_o be_v dispute_v in_o their_o own_o forum_n to_o be_v debate_v in_o their_o own_o proper_a senate_n for_o its_o own_o sake_n it_o move_v no_o landmark_n either_o way_n it_o tear_v up_o no_o sense_n as_o it_o therefore_o be_v horrible_a injury_n ro_o christianity_n to_o proclaim_v as_o some_o speak_v king_n jesus_n to_o the_o disturb_v earthly_a kingdom_n when_o his_o kingdom_n be_v not_o of_o this_o world_n so_o be_v it_o a_o huge_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d a_o grand_a extreme_a on_o the_o other_o side_n and_o inconsequence_n to_o argue_v from_o the_o command_v of_o christian_n suffering_n when_o human_a law_n and_o regular_a state-constitution_n adjudge_v they_o to_o such_o how_o unjust_o soever_o then_o indeed_o no_o resistance_n be_v to_o be_v make_v for_o the_o sake_n of_o christian_a religion_n but_o it_o be_v vast_o inconsequent_a to_o infer_v hence_o any_o man_n be_v bind_v by_o the_o law_n of_o christianity_n tame_o to_o resign_v those_o right_n even_o those_o religious_a right_n that_o be_v establish_v to_o he_o by_o the_o fundamental_a law_n and_o statute_n of_o a_o nation_n wherein_o the_o whole_a power_n of_o kingdom_n and_o state_n prince_n and_o people_n have_v concur_v for_o christian_a religion_n as_o christian_a religion_n undermine_v no_o law_n whether_o for_o prince_n
prerogative_n or_o people_n liberty_n but_o leave_v every_o thing_n as_o it_o find_v they_o to_o their_o own_o just_a right_n according_a to_o law_n and_o if_o itself_o come_v to_o be_v one_o of_o those_o right_n it_o do_v not_o repeal_n from_o any_o the_o legal_a right_n of_o itself_o which_o be_v the_o great_a and_o sure_a rule_n that_o a_o religion_n can_v guide_v itself_o by_o not_o to_o disturb_v but_o to_o extend_v peace_n to_o the_o world_n the_o prince_n the_o people_n be_v for_o it_o or_o any_o thing_n it_o teach_v or_o do_v most_o secure_a of_o their_o own_o interest_n though_o it_o fall_v out_o oftentimes_o to_o the_o great_a suffering_n of_o its_o servant_n in_o all_o worldly_a interest_n even_o loss_n of_o life_n itself_o and_o that_o with_o all_o circumstance_n of_o painful_a die_a which_o yet_o it_o be_v able_a to_o recompense_v in_o the_o resurrection_n of_o the_o just_a that_o better_a resurrection_n there_o remain_v nothing_o to_o complete_a this_o whole_a discourse_n of_o the_o excellency_n of_o christian_a religion_n in_o the_o foundation_n of_o peace_n it_o lay_v but_o the_o universal_a goodness_n holiness_n â—urity_n mercy_n and_o all_o the_o most_o generous_a fruit_n of_o thâ—se_a it_o be_v so_o concern_v in_o and_o enjoin_v with_o so_o much_o absoluteness_n the_o heavenly_a and_o eternal_a glory_n it_o direct_v the_o earnestness_n zeal_n and_o high_a ardour_n of_o all_o christian_n upon_o so_o that_o while_o they_o be_v in_o the_o way_n of_o well-doing_n seek_v honour_n glory_n and_o immortality_n they_o have_v all_o the_o argument_n of_o love_n and_o peace_n work_v within_o they_o and_o govern_v all_o their_o outward_a action_n but_o i_o have_v so_o every_o way_n prevent_v myself_o in_o this_o part_n that_o i_o shall_v not_o at_o all_o further_o pursue_v it_o but_o recollect_v this_o whole_a discourse_v into_o the_o conclusion_n of_o it_o and_o in_o the_o first_o place_n it_o carry_v upon_o this_o very_a sad_a and_o melancholy_a contemplation_n the_o so_o great_a and_o nice_a preparation_n of_o natural_a religion_n of_o christian_a religion_n for_o the_o peace_n and_o quietness_n of_o the_o world_n how_o monstrous_o unsuccesful_a have_v it_o be_v among_o man_n what_o great_a heat_n and_o disquiet_n have_v difference_n in_o religion_n be_v still_o both_o the_o true_a and_o unpretended_a occasion_n and_o the_o pretend_a only_o and_o counterfeit_a cause_n of_o in_o the_o world_n what_o blood_n and_o cruelty_n what_o slaughter_v and_o massacre_n what_o exquisite_a torment_n and_o artifices_fw-la of_o barbarity_n have_v be_v call_v for_o contrive_v and_o execute_v in_o this_o quarrel_n on_o one_o side_n man_n have_v make_v religion_n a_o cover_n and_o shelter_v for_o sedition_n rebellion_n commotion_n and_o change_n of_o government_n perfect_o against_o the_o whole_a design_n of_o it_o on_o the_o other_o side_n worldly_a power_n have_v charge_v all_o offer_n of_o a_o religion_n never_o so_o true_a never_o so_o peaceable_a as_o if_o it_o be_v bring_v out_o the_o engine_n of_o destruction_n for_o the_o blow_v up_o state_n and_o therefore_o judge_v most_o reasonable_a the_o author_n and_o proselyte_n of_o it_o shall_v be_v pursue_v with_o severe_a punishment_n and_o without_o any_o relation_n to_o these_o concernment_n the_o very_a different_a apprehension_n in_o religion_n have_v be_v think_v worthy_a of_o the_o extreme_a hate_n and_o most_o barbarous_a persecution_n of_o rack_n wheel_n and_o torture_n as_o if_o man_n have_v destine_v one_o another_o to_o hell_n in_o another_o world_n on_o these_o account_n think_v it_o but_o fit_a the_o hell_n shall_v be_v begin_v here_o or_o else_o which_o have_v be_v sometime_o a_o pretence_n for_o this_o savage_a method_n they_o will_v pull_v they_o with_o violence_n indeed_o out_o of_o that_o fire_n or_o save_v they_o from_o those_o flame_n yet_o so_o as_o by_o fire_n cruel_o force_v they_o thereby_o into_o the_o religion_n of_o their_o judge_n now_o how_o contrary_a this_o be_v to_o the_o nature_n of_o true_a rational_a or_o christian_a religion_n i_o have_v all_o along_o show_v but_o however_o multitude_n of_o the_o votary_n of_o religion_n whether_o true_a or_o false_a have_v with_o incredible_a patience_n and_o oftentimes_o with_o joy_n and_o triumph_v embrace_v their_o suffering_n and_o glory_v in_o their_o death_n and_o torment_n esteem_v their_o pain_n martyrdom_n a_o name_n of_o honour_n in_o this_o world_n and_o of_o great_a expectation_n in_o the_o world_n future_a so_o that_o a_o very_a considerable_a part_n of_o story_n be_v fill_v up_o with_o great_a undertake_n upon_o account_n of_o religion_n with_o the_o severity_n of_o law_n against_o any_o thing_n strange_a or_o innovate_v in_o the_o profession_n of_o nation_n and_o the_o martyrology_n of_o those_o that_o have_v suffer_v for_o be_v otherwise_o persuade_v now_o if_o a_o man_n value_v and_o estimate_n thing_n by_o this_o world_n peace_n happiness_n and_o quiet_a he_o will_v be_v ready_a to_o praise_v and_o applaud_v atheism_n and_o irreligion_n and_o wish_v there_o never_o have_v be_v the_o name_n or_o notion_n of_o any_o other_o in_o the_o world_n to_o give_v origin_n to_o so_o much_o mischief_n and_o injumanity_n especial_o consider_v the_o christian_a religion_n the_o most_o excellent_a tender_a religion_n most_o compassionate_a of_o humane_a nature_n most_o clear_a intelligible_a rational_a virtuous_a free_a from_o ceremony_n most_o alien_n from_o superstition_n most_o modest_a and_o humble_a most_o submissive_a to_o government_n at_o its_o first_o entrance_n into_o the_o world_n endure_v the_o whole_a weight_n and_o body_n of_o malice_n and_o cruelty_n against_o it_o be_v sow_o in_o the_o blood_n and_o grow_v up_o as_o from_o the_o grave_n of_o the_o confessor_n and_o martyr_n of_o it_o be_v first_o found_v in_o the_o death_n of_o the_o author_n though_o he_o indeed_o give_v proof_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o last_o issue_n of_o it_o in_o a_o glorious_a resurrection_n and_o since_o it_o have_v possess_v itself_o of_o the_o acknowledgement_n and_o authority_n of_o throne_n prince_n law_n and_o government_n baptise_a whole_a nation_n into_o its_o profession_n it_o have_v be_v most_o strange_o pervert_v from_o its_o whole_a design_n and_o intention_n into_o the_o same_o instrument_n of_o ambition_n and_o cruelty_n upon_o the_o various_a account_n and_o occasion_n that_o church-history_n and_o other_o chronology_n swell_v and_o labour_n in_o the_o relation_n of_o yea_o even_o small_a and_o valueless_a thing_n if_o weigh_v upon_o its_o own_o just_a balance_n have_v yet_o give_v fury_n to_o the_o great_a animosity_n and_o dissension_n which_o have_v not_o be_v wash_v off_o but_o in_o a_o ocean_n of_o blood_n in_o sum_n this_o of_o all_o religion_n have_v be_v first_o most_o persecute_a hate_a and_o oppose_v by_o grandee_n and_o chief_n of_o the_o world_n in_o its_o first_o approach_n to_o the_o world_n and_o since_o by_o the_o several_a dissension_n within_o itself_o be_v the_o field_n of_o blood_n make_v use_v of_o sometime_o by_o design_n sometime_o by_o angry_a power_n but_o so_o as_o that_o the_o pure_a and_o most_o sincere_a professor_n have_v be_v most_o dye_v in_o their_o own_o gore_n so_o that_o by_o the_o same_o standard_n of_o worldly_a interest_n next_o to_o atheism_n and_o irreligion_n antichristianism_n or_o denial_n of_o christian_a religion_n will_v seem_v next_o to_o be_v choose_v but_o when_o we_o more_o wise_o and_o just_o apprise_v the_o mighty_a and_o unconquerable_a reason_n for_o religion_n in_o general_n and_o the_o particular_a vast_a and_o momentous_a argument_n for_o the_o reception_n of_o true_a christian_a religion_n it_o must_v needs_o lead_v we_o to_o other_o much_o more_o serious_a and_o reconcile_a consideration_n and_o who_o that_o be_v a_o grave_a thinker_n have_v be_v first_o put_v into_o a_o amaze_n then_o into_o the_o most_o melt_a and_o relent_a commiseration_n that_o the_o world_n shall_v be_v so_o unhappy_a in_o that_o wherein_o its_o great_a happiness_n consist_v that_o there_o shall_v be_v such_o deplorable_a instance_n of_o rage_n and_o even_o hellish_a cruelty_n that_o can_v be_v draw_v out_o or_o express_v in_o any_o suitable_a and_o condecent_fw-la language_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o that_o religion_n that_o profess_v every_o where_n of_o itself_o it_o come_v not_o to_o destroy_v man_n life_n but_o to_o save_v they_o even_o then_o when_o the_o mistake_a zealot_n of_o it_o will_v have_v have_v fire_n from_o heaven_n in_o a_o present_a revenge_n upon_o those_o that_o will_v not_o receive_v the_o most_o compassionate_a founder_n of_o it_o the_o great_a lover_n of_o humane_a nature_n that_o ever_o be_v in_o the_o world_n who_o i_o say_v that_o ponder_v these_o thing_n will_v not_o set_v himself_o to_o find_v out_o the_o cause_n of_o these_o evil_n and_o sad_o bethink_v himself_o how_o they_o shall_v so_o general_o fall_v out_o among_o christian_n themselves_o and_o indeed_o he_o
that_o do_v but_o a_o little_a consider_v will_v find_v first_o it_o be_v a_o very_a good_a answer_n to_o endless_a cavil_n and_o querulousness_n against_o the_o best_a of_o thing_n that_o can_v be_v obtain_v here_o that_o every_o thing_n in_o this_o world_n be_v injure_v disorder_a and_o defile_v by_o the_o pravity_n of_o humane_a nature_n there_o be_v nothing_o in_o the_o whole_a universe_n of_o good_a and_o excellent_a that_o be_v not_o debauch_a by_o the_o lust_n of_o man_n or_o where_o shall_v he_o fix_v himself_o that_o will_v upon_o earth_n remove_v himself_o from_o all_o thing_n that_o have_v be_v by_o sin_n if_o but_o possible_a to_o be_v deprave_v by_o ill_a use_n to_o ill_a end_n but_o yet_o this_o be_v not_o answer_n enough_o for_o the_o defile_n the_o very_a light_n and_o the_o sun_n even_o religion_n itself_o and_o that_o in_o so_o great_a degree_n and_o to_o so_o heinous_o contrary_a end_n for_o whereas_o the_o very_a height_n and_o transcendency_n of_o divine_a thing_n may_v in_o all_o reason_n plead_v a_o exemption_n from_o such_o debasement_n yet_o come_v so_o near_o to_o our_o corrupt_a atmosphaere_n it_o be_v even_o as_o the_o very_a light_n though_o in_o itself_o remain_v always_o pure_a and_o clear_a as_o itself_o notwithstanding_o prostitute_v by_o man_n to_o their_o own_o abominable_a impiety_n this_o then_o alone_o answer_v so_o great_a a_o doubt_n that_o god_n be_v exceed_o offend_v and_o displease_v with_o humane_a nature_n that_o so_o excellent_a a_o instrument_n of_o the_o divine_a glory_n the_o happiness_n of_o the_o world_n in_o present_a and_o the_o eternal_a life_n and_o happiness_n of_o it_o hereafter_o shall_v be_v deprave_v into_o a_o instrument_n of_o great_a unhappiness_n and_o mischief_n to_o mankind_n both_o in_o this_o world_n and_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v for_o so_o far_o as_o we_o can_v see_v much_o of_o that_o blood_n and_o devastation_n tumult_n and_o convulsion_n much_o of_o the_o cruelty_n and_o inhumanity_n that_o have_v fall_v out_o have_v be_v save_v and_o prevent_v have_v it_o not_o be_v that_o religion_n have_v a_o place_n in_o the_o world_n much_o of_o that_o deep_a and_o almost_o inexpiable_a guilt_n that_o have_v be_v contract_v through_o the_o persecution_n of_o the_o true_a religion_n and_o opposition_n to_o it_o from_o the_o false_a have_v never_o come_v into_o account_n now_o or_o at_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n it_o be_v therefore_o evident_a upon_o the_o whole_a state_n of_o humane_a nature_n that_o though_o there_o be_v a_o main_a difference_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o goodness_n of_o god_n in_o the_o mediator_n between_o it_o and_o the_o angelic_a nature_n fall_v that_o one_o be_v universal_o in_o chain_n of_o darkness_n to_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o great_a day_n and_o without_o hope_n of_o remedy_n the_o other_o not_o universal_o nor_o without_o hope_n yet_o those_o chain_n be_v due_a to_o the_o one_o even_o as_o to_o the_o other_o and_o in_o what_o degree_n to_o the_o divine_a justice_n in_o its_o wisdom_n it_o seem_v meet_v it_o cast_v man_n into_o they_o even_o as_o it_o distribute_v as_o it_o please_v measure_n of_o the_o punishment_n of_o sin_n in_o take_v the_o forfeiture_n of_o the_o blessing_n of_o earth_n of_o some_o and_o not_o of_o other_o when_o it_o be_v give_v to_o the_o child_n of_o man_n alike_o as_o to_o their_o substantial_a enjoyment_n however_o one_o may_v have_v differ_v from_o another_o in_o glory_n and_o lay_v great_a calamity_n upon_o some_o and_o not_o on_o other_o as_o great_o deserve_v of_o they_o and_o that_o in_o this_o time_n of_o general_a patience_n if_o it_o be_v not_o thus_o no_o reason_n can_v be_v give_v why_o so_o great_a tract_n of_o humane_a nature_n lie_v in_o the_o valley_n of_o the_o shadow_n of_o death_n have_v no_o light_n of_o the_o true_a religion_n to_o shine_v upon_o they_o and_o why_o without_o the_o great_a discomposure_n and_o disturbance_n of_o the_o world_n and_o without_o the_o ruin_n and_o destruction_n of_o those_o that_o make_v the_o offer_n there_o can_v be_v no_o offer_n of_o better_a make_v to_o they_o if_o it_o be_v not_o thus_o no_o reason_n can_v be_v give_v why_o there_o be_v so_o great_a a_o corruption_n even_o of_o christianity_n itself_o where_o it_o be_v general_o profess_v and_o the_o attempt_n of_o reformation_n in_o christianity_n be_v every_o whit_n as_o dangerous_a or_o more_o than_o the_o persuasion_n to_o it_o address_v to_o turk_n or_o pagan_n the_o linger_a act_n of_o cruelty_n in_o the_o inquisition_n and_o horrible_a bloodiness_n of_o massacre_n exceed_v any_o thing_n of_o any_o other_o kind_n last_o if_o it_o be_v not_o thus_o those_o small_a difference_n among_o protestant_n themselves_o who_o have_v have_v opportunity_n to_o look_v over_o the_o unreasonableness_n and_o prodigious_a inhumanities_n of_o pagan_n turk_n jew_n and_o papist_n in_o their_o persecution_n can_v never_o have_v bring_v forth_o so_o much_o of_o spleen_n hate_n and_o sufficient_a proportion_n of_o the_o same_o cruelty_n among_o themselves_o when_o they_o have_v have_v before_o their_o eye_n not_o only_o those_o pregnant_a motive_n to_o detestation_n of_o such_o barbarity_n in_o those_o forename_a example_n but_o that_o mirror_n of_o patience_n meekness_n forbearance_n the_o gospel_n of_o jesus_n christ_n nor_o be_v it_o unworthy_a of_o good_a observation_n to_o this_o purpose_n that_o the_o proceed_n against_o offender_n in_o the_o law_n of_o natural_a religion_n or_o morality_n be_v general_o with_o leisure_n moderation_n proportion_n between_o the_o offence_n and_o the_o punishment_n a_o compassion_n of_o humane_a nature_n even_o where_o severity_n be_v of_o great_a necessity_n but_o in_o what_o man_n levy_v against_o different_a religion_n all_o be_v carry_v in_o storm_n and_o whirlwind_n in_o fury_n and_o rage_n in_o blood_n smoke_n and_o fire_n argue_v to_o we_o that_o the_o cause_v not_o fair_o lie_v before_o humane_a justice_n there_o be_v a_o error_n in_o the_o very_a foundation_n of_o the_o procedure_n the_o evil_n increase_v and_o grow_v upon_o man_n hand_n till_o it_o become_v too_o mighty_a for_o any_o government_n and_o so_o carry_v all_o before_o it_o into_o prodigious_a violence_n of_o freity_n and_o salvageness_n and_o also_o that_o divine_a justice_n therein_o show_v to_o man_n his_o great_a degeneracy_n and_o liableness_n to_o divine_a severity_n as_o god_n himself_o please_v suffer_v the_o power_n of_o that_o degrade_v spirit_n the_o god_n of_o this_o world_n to_o triumph_v in_o nothing_o more_o than_o the_o abuse_a religion_n and_o especial_o christian_a religion_n that_o great_a contrivance_n of_o heaven_n for_o man_n recovery_n out_o of_o the_o state_n of_o devil_n and_o to_o make_v it_o like_o a_o engine_n of_o destruction_n to_o recoil_v upon_o man_n himself_o and_o fly_v every_o way_n with_o terrible_a death_n and_o ruin_n as_o if_o hell_n rather_o than_o heaven_n come_v along_o with_o it_o yet_o notwithstanding_o all_o this_o it_o be_v most_o certain_a this_o whole_a misery_n be_v conceive_v and_o bring_v forth_o by_o the_o sin_n and_o unworthiness_n of_o man_n to_o himself_o by_o his_o own_o stupidity_n and_o folly_n or_o by_o his_o wisdom_n that_o be_v worse_a than_o folly_n earthly_a sensual_a and_o devilish_a for_o the_o interposal_n of_o the_o mediator_n run_v so_o through_o the_o whole_a state_n of_o humane_a nature_n that_o there_o be_v sure_a groundwork_n lay_v how_o man_n may_v in_o every_o case_n recover_v happiness_n even_o out_o of_o misery_n and_o degeneracy_n and_o principal_o in_o this_o very_a cardinal_n point_v of_o that_o happiness_n true_a religion_n and_o the_o peace_n and_o mercy_n of_o it_o care_n be_v take_v how_o the_o world_n may_v be_v secure_v if_o it_o will_v both_o from_o the_o ambitious_a and_o unquiet_a man_n in_o his_o design_n how_o government_n authority_n sovereignty_n may_v be_v keep_v safe_a and_o yet_o unbesmear_v too_o with_o martyr_n blood_n yea_o even_o the_o blood_n of_o those_o who_o though_o they_o be_v mistake_v yet_o be_v willing_a to_o profuse_a it_o for_o their_o religion_n for_o who_o it_o shall_v move_v pity_n the_o nearness_n of_o their_o case_n to_o the_o honour_n and_o honesty_n of_o die_v for_o true_a religion_n i_o mean_v when_o plain_a foundation_n of_o natural_a religion_n be_v not_o destroy_v for_o that_o case_n deserve_v no_o more_o mercy_n than_o poison_v fountain_n or_o set_v on_o fire_n if_o man_n can_v the_o whole_a course_n of_o nature_n now_o to_o discover_v this_o path_n or_o way_n to_o universal_a peace_n in_o religion_n which_o be_v like_a wisdom_n the_o praetor_n eye_n have_v not_o 7._o job_n 28._o 7._o see_v it_o nor_o the_o lion_n whelp_n tread_v it_o death_n and_o destruction_n say_v it_o be_v not_o with_o they_o and_o well_o they_o may_v for_o it_o be_v the_o way_n of_o peace_n which_o they_o have_v not_o know_v though_o they_o
abhorrence_n but_o suppose_v what_o may_v be_v object_v against_o its_o constitution_n relate_v to_o divine_a worship_n nor_o on_o the_o other_o side_n that_o i_o will_v so_o much_o as_o intimate_v any_o enforcement_n upon_o dissenter_n against_o which_o i_o have_v argue_v so_o far_o except_o that_o of_o scripture-argument_n with_o satisfaction_n to_o doubt_n consid_fw-la 2._o but_o if_o a_o man_n can_v run_v the_o line_n of_o national_a worship_n it_o be_v good_a yet_o to_o take_v the_o uâ—â—ost_o advantage_n we_o can_v of_o the_o gift_n christ_n have_v give_v to_o man_n in_o the_o public_a national_a ministry_n who_o will_v at_o a_o cheap_a rate_n lose_v the_o benefit_n of_o many_o great_a light_n god_n have_v at_o this_o very_a day_n set_v up_o in_o the_o english_a nation_n man_n who_o both_o by_o their_o holy_a life_n and_o great_a ability_n have_v adorn_v the_o doctrine_n of_o god_n our_o saviour_n bulwark_n against_o atheism_n and_o antichristianism_n i_o profess_v for_o myself_o though_o i_o most_o hearty_o pray_v to_o god_n for_o the_o removal_n of_o all_o that_o offend_v either_o of_o either_o name_n and_o that_o there_o be_v a_o highway_n out_o of_o the_o church_n and_o congregation_n of_o conformist_n into_o those_o of_o the_o nonconformist_n and_o so_o back_o again_o or_o rather_o that_o the_o distinction_n be_v whole_o remove_v yet_o i_o will_v not_o upon_o any_o of_o the_o rate_n set_v as_o necessary_a at_o this_o time_n to_o enjoy_v their_o excellent_a labour_n lose_v the_o benefit_n of_o either_o see_v in_o both_o there_o resound_v that_o glorious_a gospel_n of_o god_n our_o saviour_n in_o great_a excellency_n according_a to_o the_o talent_n commit_v to_o each_o 3._o it_o be_v good_a to_o take_v off_o all_o suspicion_n and_o disgust_n of_o magistracy_n from_o religion_n occasion_v by_o distance_n from_o he_o in_o public_a administration_n that_o there_o may_v be_v no_o appearance_n of_o faction_n sedition_n love_v of_o difference_n affectation_n of_o singularity_n so_o far_o as_o we_o can_v fly_v this_o imputation_n with_o safe_a conscience_n towards_o god_n it_o be_v best_o to_o be_v do_v to_o the_o utmost_a when_o it_o can_v to_o manage_v our_o dissent_n with_o exceed_a modesty_n and_o humility_n beside_o in_o relation_n to_o people_n in_o general_n we_o be_v to_o consider_v how_o national_a usage_n prevail_v on_o they_o transform_v man_n into_o all_o appearance_n of_o habit_n gesture_n and_o such_o like_a circumstance_n national_a decency_n be_v a_o great_a circumstance_n in_o religious_a service_n as_o i_o observe_v from_o the_o apostle_n discourse_v 1_o cor._n 11._o 16._o every_o thing_n vnnational_a be_v ready_a to_o be_v turn_v into_o ridicule_n when_o therefore_o we_o can_v have_v the_o due_a licence_n of_o conscience_n the_o decency_n gravity_n and_o order_n of_o our_o native_a country_n be_v of_o very_o great_a reverence_n last_o incompliance_n with_o our_o nation_n be_v very_o ready_a to_o render_v our_o spirit_n morose_n angry_a vehement_a zealous_a of_o small_a thing_n in_o our_o own_o way_n too_o severe_a and_o rigid_a against_o small_a thing_n in_o other_o and_o in_o fine_a to_o make_v we_o bigot_n of_o another_o kind_n give_v to_o mode_n in_o another_o dress_n of_o thing_n and_o ceremonialist_n of_o another_o order_n and_o so_o i_o pass_v to_o the_o other_o side_n of_o thing_n and_o to_o make_v this_o modest_a recommendation_n of_o three_o consideration_n to_o those_o of_o national_a conformity_n 1._o that_o they_o be_v not_o zealous_o intent_n and_o overwarm_v about_o the_o thing_n themselves_o wherein_o protestant_n among_o we_o disagree_v for_o it_o be_v evident_a they_o be_v not_o of_o worth_a to_o support_v any_o great_a esteem_n nor_o can_v there_o be_v a_o great_a argument_n against_o they_o than_o be_v intemperate_a heat_n for_o they_o this_o be_v to_o make_v they_o something_o in_o christian_a religion_n which_o be_v to_o turn_v they_o into_o a_o like_a thing_n with_o the_o jewish_a concision_n because_o it_o be_v with_o the_o great_a injury_n of_o christianity_n when_o such_o thing_n be_v overrate_v and_o the_o turn_v the_o thing_n themselves_o out_o of_o that_o middle_a place_n god_n have_v set_v they_o in_o into_o a_o much_o worse_o and_o to_o transfer_v the_o whole_a load_n of_o our_o too_o great_a heat_n for_o they_o upon_o subjection_n to_o magistrate_n order_n decency_n be_v a_o plain_a confession_n the_o thing_n themselves_o be_v of_o no_o worth_n and_o to_o charge_v those_o other_o great_a name_n with_o a_o weight_n too_o great_a and_o unjust_a to_o lay_v upon_o they_o viz._n to_o make_v they_o serve_v under_o all_o the_o evil_n of_o wrath_n clamour_n malignity_n oppression_n of_o man_n in_o their_o conscience_n anâ—_n estate_n it_o be_v to_o press_v they_o as_o a_o cart_n be_v press_v with_o sheaf_n and_o yet_o no_o wheat_n be_v bring_v into_o the_o garner_n there_o be_v no_o wealth_n increase_v to_o magistracy_n order_n or_o decency_n while_o all_o those_o valuable_a thing_n love_n peace_n universal_a satisfaction_n be_v sell_v for_o they_o 2._o bigotry_n even_o in_o a_o national_a way_n do_v as_o much_o unman_v man_n abate_v from_o the_o excellency_n of_o their_o mind_n the_o goodness_n of_o their_o temper_n the_o gravity_n and_o becomingness_n of_o the_o mene_n in_o religion_n and_o grow_v as_o contemptible_a and_o servile_a as_o the_o same_o evil_n in_o any_o other_o way_n 3._o what_o great_a likelihood_n be_v there_o a_o nation_n may_v sometime_o without_o violence_n without_o any_o thing_n of_o faction_n sedition_n tumult_n or_o fanaticism_n consent_v to_o change_v this_o outward_a face_n of_o religious_a administration_n and_o then_o how_o many_o zealot_n for_o it_o will_v be_v post_v to_o the_o new_a constitution_n and_o how_o mean_a and_o pitiful_a will_v it_o be_v not_o to_o desert_v the_o thing_n for_o that_o be_v no_o more_o than_o change_v that_o which_o be_v changeable_a but_o to_o desert_n what_o they_o have_v be_v zealous_a of_o which_o be_v apt_a to_o look_v irreligious_a hypocritick_n even_o almost_o atheistick_a and_o suppose_v man_n continue_v their_o zeal_n it_o look_v but_o like_o the_o second_o childishness_n of_o old_a age_n that_o can_v part_v with_o the_o trifle_n it_o have_v be_v so_o long_o use_v to_o i_o do_v not_o speak_v this_o as_o if_o i_o think_v religious_a administration_n shall_v vary_v fashion_n as_o often_o as_o man_n do_v habit_n but_o till_o we_o bring_v they_o up_o to_o that_o state_n which_o can_v be_v shake_v that_o certainty_n of_o divine_a institution_n pure_a natural_a rational_a decency_n join_v with_o that_o of_o the_o very_a country_n and_o nation_n it_o self_n we_o shall_v never_o be_v sure_a but_o that_o which_o may_v be_v shake_v will_v be_v shake_v that_o the_o thing_n only_o that_o can_v may_v remain_v antiquitas_fw-la seculi_fw-la juventus_fw-la mundi_fw-la the_o world_n grow_v and_o will_v grow_v more_o vigorous_a and_o manly_a by_o its_o age_n we_o see_v a_o new_a mode_n of_o discourse_n of_o sermon_n grow_v up_o every_o age_n nay_o too_o much_o a_o new_a fashion_n of_o divinity_n that_o can_v by_o no_o mean_n endure_v change_n it_o be_v the_o faith_n once_o for_o all_o give_v in_o primitive_a christianity_n at_o once_o for_o the_o main_a rescue_v from_o popery_n and_o restore_v in_o the_o reformation_n yet_o what_o offer_v of_o alteration_n upon_o at_o least_o the_o form_n of_o the_o notion_n the_o manner_n of_o conveyance_n of_o they_o be_v at_o this_o day_n endeavour_v be_v very_o visible_a as_o if_o the_o forme_a be_v unintelligible_a of_o no_o good_a sense_n or_o consequence_n not_o suitable_a to_o the_o clear_a and_o better_o model_v state_n of_o theology_n why_o then_o shall_v we_o be_v so_o hidebound_a in_o a_o scheme_n of_o ritual_a administration_n in_o christian_a worship_n which_o in_o its_o own_o nature_n be_v much_o more_o make_v to_o pass_v away_o with_o the_o age_n if_o we_o be_v then_o more_o merciful_a to_o this_o gourd_n of_o ceremony_n than_o to_o the_o more_o substantial_a interest_n of_o truth_n mercy_n and_o peace_n let_v we_o fear_n lâ—st_v we_o provoke_v god_n to_o smite_v our_o gourd_n with_o a_o east-wind_n but_o i_o undertake_v to_o judge_n in_o these_o case_n no_o further_o but_o judge_v this_o rather_o that_o on_o all_o side_n we_o value_v substantial_a christianity_n and_o the_o new_a creature_n as_o the_o rule_n by_o which_o we_o be_v to_o walk_v in_o mutual_a love_n peace_n and_o forbearance_n one_o of_o another_o in_o all_o lesser_a thing_n wherein_o we_o may_v be_v somewhat_o otherwise_o mind_v one_o from_o another_o and_o then_o in_o due_a time_n god_n will_v reveal_v even_o these_o thing_n so_o to_o we_o that_o so_o far_o as_o be_v necessary_a even_o in_o those_o we_o may_v be_v of_o one_o mind_n see_v our_o union_n be_v one_o body_n one_o spirit_n one_o lord_n one_o faith_n one_o baptism_n if_o there_o be_v not_o a_o schism_n in_o
our_o love_n in_o our_o sympathy_n in_o our_o bowel_n of_o affection_n in_o our_o care_n for_o the_o body_n though_o we_o be_v not_o all_o of_o a_o aspect_n of_o a_o figure_n of_o a_o size_n in_o our_o membership_n yet_o still_o be_v we_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n and_o member_n in_o particular_a and_o be_v so_o we_o be_v the_o israel_n of_o god_n upon_o who_o be_v peace_n and_o mercy_n both_o now_o and_o for_o ever_o amen_n and_o if_o we_o ought_v as_o certain_o we_o ought_v so_o to_o pray_v with_o what_o satisfaction_n of_o mind_n with_o what_o appearance_n of_o christianity_n can_v we_o move_v against_o the_o peace_n of_o our_o fellow-member_n or_o not_o contribute_v to_o their_o ease_n to_o their_o self-enjoyment_n to_o the_o comfort_n of_o each_o other_o condition_n so_o that_o if_o one_o member_n be_v honour_v all_o the_o member_n may_v rejoice_v with_o it_o if_o one_o member_n suffer_v all_o the_o member_n may_v suffer_v with_o it_o and_o send_v in_o to_o its_o relief_n and_o support_n our_o defect_n herein_o disturb_v the_o peace_n not_o minister_a to_o the_o merciful_a support_n of_o one_o another_o will_v be_v find_v another_o sort_n of_o schism_n but_o of_o far_o deep_a gild_n than_o that_o so_o much_o cry_v out_o of_o not_o conform_v to_o one_o another_o indifferent_n but_o above_o all_o the_o raven_a of_o the_o evening_n wolf_n the_o roar_n of_o the_o lion_n the_o poison_n and_o venom_n of_o the_o asp_n and_o cokatrice_n '_o shall_v be_v far_o from_o our_o mountain_n if_o we_o will_v have_v it_o account_v the_o holy_a mountain_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o on_o all_o side_n we_o shall_v open_v the_o door_n and_o sluice_n that_o the_o stream_n of_o divine_a knowledge_n may_v run_v every_o way_n till_o it_o cover_v our_o land_n as_o the_o water_n do_v the_o sea_n the_o end_n true_a religion_n the_o interest_n of_o nation_n or_o national_a religion_n demonstrate_v to_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o nation_n etc._n etc._n psal_n 79._o 6._o &_o jer._n 10._o 25._o pour_v out_o thy_o wrath_n fury_n upon_o the_o heathen_a nation_n that_o have_v not_o know_v thou_o and_o upon_o the_o kingdom_n family_n that_o have_v not_o call_v on_o thy_o name_n this_o prayer_n double_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n for_o the_o weight_n of_o it_o the_o safety_n to_o man_n it_o shall_v be_v well_o know_v and_o the_o certainty_n of_o its_o effect_n contain_v a_o strong_a assertion_n of_o the_o great_a benefit_n of_o 32._o phil._n 3._o 2._o gen._n 41._o 32._o and_o obligation_n lie_v upon_o nation_n to_o national_a true_a religion_n for_o see_v according_a to_o a_o grand_a rule_n in_o god_n administration_n of_o the_o world_n nation_n that_o have_v no_o national_a religion_n and_o who_o nationalness_n therefore_o become_v heathenism_n and_o be_v so_o brand_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n for_o so_o nation_n in_o scripture_n very_o often_o signify_v heathen_a that_o be_v nation_n without_o true_a religion_n be_v liable_a to_o the_o pour_v out_o of_o the_o wrath_n and_o fury_n of_o god_n upon_o they_o it_o do_v not_o only_o follow_v by_o the_o rule_n of_o contrary_n that_o national_a true_a religion_n or_o worship_n of_o the_o true_a god_n have_v a_o strong_a order_n to_o and_o connexion_n with_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n but_o as_o the_o positive_a proposition_n be_v the_o prime_n and_o original_n and_o give_v ground_n to_o and_o contain_v within_o itself_o the_o privative_a so_o do_v this_o proposition_n that_o god_n anger_n and_o fury_n be_v at_o all_o time_n ready_a against_o those_o that_o do_v not_o know_v he_o that_o do_v not_o call_v upon_o he_o as_o join_v in_o a_o national_a body_n or_o society_n be_v the_o privative_a owe_v itself_o to_o the_o other_o be_v the_o positive_a as_o shall_v be_v more_o full_o make_v out_o in_o the_o argue_v this_o point_n at_o the_o present_a it_o will_v be_v enough_o to_o observe_v that_o these_o two_o holy_a man_n the_o composer_n of_o this_o psalm_n and_o the_o prophet_n jeremy_n except_o as_o some_o think_v they_o be_v both_o one_o desire_v the_o destruction_n of_o those_o heathen_a enemy_n under_o who_o oppression_n their_o own_o people_n which_o at_o that_o time_n comprehend_v the_o church_n of_o god_n then_o groan_v and_o pray_v in_o spirit_n for_o it_o rely_v and_o rest_v the_o whole_a weight_n of_o their_o prayer_n upon_o this_o principle_n of_o great_a truth_n and_o consequence_n in_o god_n government_n of_o the_o world_n that_o as_o family_n as_o nation_n as_o kingdom_n for_o so_o all_o community_n be_v comprehend_v they_o do_v not_o know_v nor_o call_v upon_o god_n that_o be_v they_o do_v not_o worship_v the_o true_a god_n and_o therefore_o be_v most_o just_o subject_a to_o his_o fierce_a displeasure_n and_o on_o the_o other_o side_n it_o be_v couch_v under_o this_o though_o indeed_o before_o it_o that_o the_o people_n that_o do_v know_v and_o call_v upon_o the_o true_a god_n have_v a_o title_n to_o his_o savour_n and_o vindication_n of_o they_o in_o all_o their_o distress_n while_o they_o be_v consider_v as_o so_o know_v and_o call_v upon_o he_o and_o not_o contradict_v it_o by_o their_o action_n the_o context_n therefore_o go_v on_o argue_v with_o god_n on_o this_o point_n they_o have_v devour_v jacob_n in_o who_o quarrel_n and_o rescue_n god_n be_v so_o much_o concern_v and_o see_v the_o favour_n of_o god_n be_v eternal_a life_n and_o his_o wrath_n burn_v to_o the_o low_a hell_n both_o his_o wrath_n and_o his_o favour_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v in_o their_o extent_n even_o to_o everlasting_a age_n all_o which_o will_v ground_v the_o proposition_n which_o i_o main_o intend_v in_o this_o discourse_n that_o national_a true_a religion_n be_v the_o great_a security_n strength_n and_o defence_n of_o a_o nation_n against_o the_o divine_a wrath_n and_o displeasure_n and_o give_v the_o sure_a claim_n to_o his_o favour_n blessing_n and_o protection_n both_o in_o this_o world_n and_o in_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v because_o it_o be_v a_o observation_n of_o the_o great_a duty_n and_o therefore_o to_o be_v most_o close_o unite_v in_o and_o pursue_v to_o the_o utmost_a by_o all_o wise_a nation_n and_o by_o all_o the_o several_a part_n and_o member_n of_o a_o nation_n for_o it_o be_v their_o first_o and_o high_a 15._o psal_n 33._o i2_n &_o 144._o 15._o interest_n blessed_n be_v the_o nâ—tion_n that_o be_v in_o such_o a_o case_n yea_o happy_a be_v the_o people_n who_o god_n be_v the_o lord_n who_o have_v jehovah_n thus_o for_o their_o god_n and_o this_o very_a consideration_n shall_v reconcile_v all_o difference_n in_o national_a religion_n that_o can_v be_v compose_v without_o loss_n of_o that_o truth_n and_o corruption_n of_o those_o part_n of_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n which_o give_v denomination_n to_o true_a national_a religion_n this_o shall_v incline_v those_o that_o be_v above_o to_o the_o great_a condescension_n and_o those_o that_o be_v beneath_o to_o the_o most_o free_a compliance_n possible_a if_o they_o value_v religion_n and_o love_v their_o nation_n that_o at_o least_o there_o may_v be_v union_n in_o national_a religion_n if_o there_o can_v be_v perfect_a uniformity_n for_o i_o be_o full_o persuade_v that_o upon_o a_o strict_a examination_n of_o this_o point_n it_o will_v be_v find_v that_o national_a religion_n suppose_v it_o always_o the_o true_a be_v the_o happy_a model_n of_o union_n in_o religion_n of_o any_o upon_o earth_n and_o most_o please_a to_o god_n except_o that_o of_o the_o catholic_n church_n who_o union_n be_v in_o the_o substantial_o of_o truth_n worship_n and_o practice_v but_o come_v under_o no_o other_o form_n or_o model_n proper_o take_v but_o except_o this_o there_o be_v none_o so_o perfect_a to_o the_o end_n and_o glory_n of_o religion_n so_o adequate_a to_o the_o expression_n of_o scripture_n concern_v the_o publickness_n of_o religion_n so_o encourage_v and_o advantageous_a to_o the_o practice_n so_o reconcileable_a with_o the_o peace_n of_o religion_n and_o nation_n so_o preventive_a of_o the_o endless_a division_n and_o subdivision_n humane_a nature_n be_v apt_a to_o fall_v into_o when_o it_o yield_v up_o itself_o to_o a_o scrupulosity_n and_o disputatiousness_n about_o external_n and_o form_n in_o religion_n i_o say_v again_o i_o be_o persuade_v no_o man_n can_v serve_v god_n with_o great_a acceptableness_n nor_o be_v religious_a to_o great_a end_n and_o purpose_n of_o religion_n than_o by_o join_v with_o the_o nation_n or_o supreme_a civil_a incorporation_n whereof_o he_o be_v a_o member_n so_o far_o as_o he_o can_v be_v permit_v to_o do_v it_o consistent_a with_o the_o truth_n of_o religion_n and_o divine_a worship_n i_o say_v as_o far_o as_o he_o can_v upon_o these_o account_n if_o not_o throughout_o and_o of_o this_o i_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o give_v great_a and_o valuable_a proof_n from_o
in_o hell_n if_o we_o can_v suppose_v a_o society_n design_o unite_v without_o religion_n it_o will_v be_v like_o the_o plot_n for_o building_n of_o babel_n a_o endeavour_n of_o such_o a_o part_n of_o mankind_n to_o set_v up_o for_o its_o self_n and_o its_o own_o security_n as_o it_o be_v in_o defiance_n of_o heaven_n a_o society_n unite_v in_o civil_n and_o crumble_v into_o sect_n and_o division_n in_o religion_n that_o be_v in_o the_o main_a substantial_o of_o doctrine_n worship_n and_o practice_n be_v a_o babel_n as_o it_o be_v under_o the_o curse_n of_o confusion_n of_o divide_a language_n a_o disparagement_n of_o religion_n which_o can_v be_v as_o it_o be_v indeed_o religion_n but_o one_o as_o if_o its_o name_n be_v legion_n or_o as_o if_o in_o fundamental_a point_n it_o can_v not_o sufficient_o evidence_n itself_o so_o as_o to_o be_v know_v to_o be_v the_o true_a last_o a_o disannul_v the_o ancient_a law_n of_o society_n which_o be_v principal_o for_o the_o union_n of_o religion_n so_o that_o if_o man_n can_v agree_v in_o all_o thing_n else_o and_o be_v yet_o divide_v here_o it_o be_v not_o true_a humane_a society_n but_o will_v want_v the_o very_o noble_a part_n or_o principle_n of_o it_o religion_n which_o be_v as_o a_o soul_n or_o spirit_n to_o it_o yet_o too_o rigorous_a and_o severe_a a_o constraint_n of_o uniformity_n be_v both_o to_o forget_v humane_a infirmity_n that_o do_v not_o allow_v so_o perfect_a a_o union_n in_o this_o world_n if_o a_o rigid_a uniformity_n be_v indeed_o perfection_n and_o to_o forget_v also_o that_o every_o man_n be_v a_o complete_a be_v within_o himself_o and_o make_v a_o perfect_a figure_n as_o he_o be_v alone_o and_o therefore_o to_o grant_v nothing_o to_o this_o consideration_n be_v rather_o to_o crowd_v man_n into_o a_o little_a ease_n in_o religion_n than_o to_o unite_v they_o and_o so_o press_v they_o too_o straight_o make_v they_o fly_v out_o of_o that_o uneasy_a state_n for_o more_o room_n and_o dissolve_v the_o union_n that_o may_v else_o have_v be_v but_o in_o all_o the_o principal_a point_n of_o true_a religion_n union_n be_v so_o necessary_a that_o it_o stand_v good_a humane_a society_n be_v for_o the_o sake_n of_o religion_n yet_o in_o this_o state_n of_o god_n patience_n to_o the_o world_n commerce_n and_o civil_a conversation_n be_v no_o more_o than_o property_n found_v in_o grace_n for_o than_o we_o must_v go_v out_o of_o the_o world_n yet_o still_o the_o supreme_a and_o prime_a end_n of_o society_n be_v religion_n society_n in_o divine_a adoration_n be_v the_o state_n of_o angel_n and_o saint_n in_o heaven_n it_o be_v design_v to_o be_v the_o state_n of_o innocency_n in_o this_o world_n it_o be_v a_o law_n that_o can_v be_v repeal_v it_o be_v the_o perpetual_a duty_n of_o man_n fallen_n nature_n have_v a_o violent_a inclination_n to_o it_o so_o that_o all_o societye_n consent_v to_o walk_v in_o the_o name_n of_o some_o god_n though_o mistake_v in_o the_o right_a object_n but_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o christianity_n as_o they_o most_o clear_o reveal_v the_o true_a religion_n so_o the_o necessity_n of_o union_n in_o it_o the_o publickness_n of_o religion_n therefore_o that_o it_o be_v most_o choosable_a for_o the_o glory_n of_o it_o to_o god_n for_o the_o good_a it_o do_v to_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n for_o the_o blessing_n and_o acceptance_n it_o receive_v from_o god_n i_o shall_v plain_o make_v evident_a from_o the_o reason_n of_o scripture_n 1._o for_o the_o glory_n public_a religion_n present_v to_o god_n it_o be_v evident_a although_o god_n in_o his_o son_n and_o spirit_n be_v a_o sufficient_a spectator_n and_o witness_n of_o and_o infinite_o rich_a in_o his_o own_o glory_n in_o the_o understanding_n of_o and_o his_o own_o eternal_a praise_n of_o himself_o so_o that_o nothing_o can_v be_v add_v to_o he_o yet_o it_o be_v most_o evident_a god_n be_v please_v to_o delight_n in_o the_o publickness_n of_o his_o service_n and_o the_o near_a approach_n of_o 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wisdom_n and_o goodness_n yet_o it_o be_v speak_v to_o we_o in_o the_o plain_a language_n as_o if_o god_n carry_v it_o as_o prince_n do_v in_o their_o magnificence_n who_o glory_n be_v in_o their_o great_a court_n in_o the_o multitude_n of_o their_o attendant_n and_o people_n spectator_n admirer_n and_o tributary_n to_o their_o lustre_n 2._o i_o argue_v to_o the_o publickness_n of_o religion_n from_o the_o good_a it_o do_v to_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n it_o be_v from_o hence_o the_o great_a wisdom_n to_o win_v soul_n and_o they_o that_o turn_v many_o to_o righteousness_n shall_v shine_v as_o the_o star_n now_o the_o offer_n of_o true_a religion_n to_o they_o that_o have_v it_o not_o before_o the_o persuasion_n of_o it_o upon_o those_o that_o have_v not_o yet_o obey_v it_o tend_v to_o their_o conversion_n repentance_n to_o their_o love_n and_o fear_n of_o god_n they_o therefore_o that_o have_v the_o true_a sense_n of_o these_o thing_n in_o their_o own_o soul_n use_v all_o mean_n out_o 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religious_a than_o a_o atheistick_a and_o barbarous_a country_n nor_o do_v god_n afford_v those_o divine_a heat_n to_o those_o that_o withdraw_v from_o assembly_n in_o religion_n except_o in_o case_n of_o necessity_n however_o he_o may_v supply_v in_o extraordinary_a exigence_n without_o which_o woe_n to_o he_o that_o be_v alone_o in_o religion_n if_o he_o fall_v he_o have_v not_o any_o to_o help_v he_o up_o and_o how_o can_v one_o be_v warm_a alone_o if_o one_o prevail_v against_o he_o he_o want_v a_o second_o to_o withstand_v together_o with_o he_o and_o the_o benefit_n of_o the_o threefold_a cord_n that_o be_v not_o easy_o break_v every_o thing_n in_o nature_n endeavour_n towards_o community_n or_o universal_a unity_n as_o its_o own_o strength_n and_o security_n even_o the_o devil_n retain_v so_o much_o of_o first_o nature_n as_o to_o knit_v in_o a_o community_n and_o false_a christianity_n imitate_v the_o true_a in_o a_o pretence_n to_o universality_n though_o a_o most_o destructive_a one_o like_o that_o of_o the_o god_n of_o this_o world_n who_o aspire_v to_o universal_a monarchy_n but_o it_o be_v in_o sin_n and_o death_n but_o this_o do_v not_o disparage_v true_a religion_n move_v to_o a_o universality_n of_o truth_n peace_n and_o life_n for_o evermore_o 3._o the_o blessing_n and_o acceptance_n that_o religion_n receive_v from_o the_o divine_a majesty_n be_v much_o great_a for_o the_o publickness_n of_o it_o even_o in_o this_o sense_n two_o be_v better_o than_o one_o for_o they_o have_v a_o good_a reward_n for_o their_o labour_n in_o thss_a sense_n their_o complicate_v service_n be_v more_o forcible_a their_o threefold_a cord_n be_v not_o easy_o break_v not_o that_o god_n be_v prevail_v upon_o to_o any_o change_n in_o himself_o or_o his_o government_n by_o the_o service_n of_o his_o creature_n though_o in_o a_o multitude_n but_o he_o be_v please_v to_o found_v the_o occasion_n and_o opportunity_n of_o his_o own_o most_o bountiful_a recompense_n in_o the_o draw_v near_o of_o their_o great_a number_n for_o as_o when_o god_n be_v please_v to_o communicate_v himself_o more_o free_o he_o do_v it_o to_o a_o multitude_n of_o creature_n so_o he_o delight_v in_o receive_v back_o the_o glory_n of_o have_v thus_o communicate_v himself_o from_o a_o multitude_n also_o and_o as_o there_o be_v more_o of_o himself_o in_o more_o of_o his_o creature_n whether_o of_o several_a sort_n or_o of_o the_o same_o so_o there_o be_v more_o of_o his_o blessing_n in_o their_o approach_n to_o he_o he_o that_o do_v not_o only_o weigh_v the_o mountain_n in_o scale_n but_o comprehend_v the_o dust_n of_o the_o earth_n in_o a_o measure_n take_v notice_n of_o those_o prayer_n and_o desire_n of_o the_o poor_a of_o the_o people_n that_o make_v the_o crowd_n and_o throng_n in_o his_o worship_n and_o service_n he_o accept_v the_o pair_n of_o turtle_n dove_n the_o two_o mite_n when_o it_o be_v the_o all_o and_o be_v ready_a to_o reward_v it_o this_o be_v the_o policy_n of_o nineveh_n natural_a religion_n to_o unite_v their_o force_n in_o humiliation_n fast_v and_o prayer_n and_o to_o take_v advantage_n of_o join_v the_o mute_a desire_n of_o the_o beast_n that_o have_v a_o voice_n in_o the_o ear_n of_o god_n abraham_n servant_n make_v the_o camel_n kneel_v down_o while_o he_o pray_v to_o god_n thus_o in_o thanksgiving_n it_o be_v david_n art_n to_o gather_v up_o all_o the_o praise_n even_o of_o the_o low_a of_o the_o creature_n that_o can_v so_o mean_o give_v they_o and_o inspire_v they_o with_o his_o own_o reason_n make_v they_o as_o it_o be_v to_o follow_v his_o harp_n and_o unite_v in_o his_o own_o hallelujah_n thus_o he_o serve_v himself_o of_o they_o that_o make_v by_o they_o a_o great_a present_n of_o glory_n to_o god_n he_o may_v receive_v the_o great_a blessing_n from_o he_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o the_o good_a effect_n of_o christian_a charity_n in_o cause_v a_o abundance_n of_o thanksgiving_n to_o god_n david_n say_v the_o congregation_n of_o the_o people_n will_v compass_v god_n about_o add_v this_o prayer_n therefore_o for_o their_o sake_n return_v thou_o on_o high_a now_o all_o these_o expression_n report_v to_o we_o a_o great_a force_n in_o the_o publickness_n of_o religious_a duty_n we_o know_v it_o be_v only_o from_o the_o agreeableness_n of_o this_o publickness_n with_o the_o divine_a will_n and_o nature_n and_o his_o holy_a ordination_n who_o love_v his_o saint_n and_o know_v their_o approach_n to_o he_o be_v a_o approach_n to_o their_o life_n and_o happiness_n and_o because_o he_o love_v all_o his_o saint_n and_o creature_n the_o more_o of_o they_o in_o conjunction_n draw_v near_o to_o he_o the_o more_o of_o his_o tender_a mercy_n have_v the_o occasion_n to_o spread_v themselves_o for_o else_o all_o the_o nation_n be_v to_o god_n but_o as_o the_o drop_n of_o the_o bucket_n and_o the_o dust_n of_o the_o balance_n all_o their_o service_n be_v not_o sufficient_a to_o he_o for_o a_o sacrifice_n to_o 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raven_n that_o cry_v for_o they_o be_v his_o creature_n if_o any_o man_n therefore_o can_v intwist_v their_o cry_n with_o his_o own_o in_o a_o general_a scarcity_n he_o make_v his_o own_o so_o much_o the_o strong_a he_o than_o that_o join_v the_o prayer_n and_o desire_n of_o many_o with_o his_o own_o double_v still_o the_o strength_n as_o be_v manifest_a by_o the_o apostle_n so_o often_o and_o earnest_o desire_v the_o help_n of_o prayer_n and_o this_o may_v answer_v what_o may_v seem_v to_o be_v a_o objection_n against_o good_a man_n join_v with_o public_a and_o promiscuous_a assembly_n wherein_o be_v so_o many_o ignorant_a and_o bad_a man_n that_o by_o their_o sin_n ignorance_n and_o folly_n rather_o obstruct_v the_o effect_n and_o acceptance_n of_o good_a man_n join_v with_o they_o so_o that_o
it_o may_v seem_v better_a if_o holy_a and_o good_a man_n separate_v themselves_o and_o leave_v the_o generality_n of_o a_o nation_n out_o of_o their_o religious_a service_n but_o from_o what_o have_v be_v say_v it_o be_v very_o plain_a that_o as_o the_o ninevite_n and_o abraham'â—_n steward_n serve_v themselves_o of_o the_o beast_n in_o their_o prayer_n and_o david_n serve_v himself_o of_o the_o very_o low_a of_o the_o creature_n in_o his_o praise_n so_o good_a man_n consecrate_v the_o public_a religion_n though_o result_v from_o a_o medley_n of_o worse_a man_n turn_v it_o to_o great_a glory_n to_o god_n advantage_n to_o themselves_o and_o the_o advantage_n of_o those_o worse_a man_n also_o in_o sundry_a respect_n when_o it_o do_v not_o prevail_v to_o their_o conversion_n and_o eternal_a salvation_n as_o figure_n of_o value_n subordinate_v to_o themselves_o cipher_n increase_n sum_v to_o very_o vast_a the_o service_n of_o man_n not_o true_o religious_a be_v not_o so_o acceptable_a to_o god_n alone_o but_o be_v ennoble_v by_o the_o union_n of_o true_o good_a man_n for_o that_o they_o have_v such_o a_o virtue_n be_v plain_a even_o job_n friend_n though_o good_a man_n themselves_o receive_v good_a by_o his_o offering_n their_o sacrifice_n and_o that_o good_a man_n may_v subject_v the_o service_n of_o evil_a man_n to_o their_o own_o be_v as_o plain_a by_o the_o apostle_n rejoice_v that_o christ_n be_v preach_v by_o those_o that_o preach_v he_o out_o of_o envy_n and_o contention_n for_o while_o his_o preach_v christ_n out_o of_o love_n over_o rule_v they_o who_o preach_v the_o same_o christ_n from_o worse_a respect_n all_o their_o preach_n of_o christ_n be_v so_o forcible_o unite_v with_o the_o apostle_n that_o it_o become_v as_o if_o it_o be_v whole_o his_o own_o &_o turn_v to_o his_o salvation_n the_o great_a &_o true_a light_n drink_v up_o the_o less_o &_o the_o less_o noble_a which_o follow_v in_o attendance_n upon_o it_o &_o so_o much_o more_o the_o prayer_n of_o less_o worthy_a man_n be_v snatch_v up_o to_o heaven_n with_o the_o prayer_n of_o holy_a man_n and_o prevail_v for_o a_o full_a acceptance_n of_o they_o with_o god_n leave_v only_o some_o lesser_a portion_n of_o blessing_n to_o those_o who_o heart_n do_v not_o ascend_v with_o their_o prayer_n yet_o we_o must_v be_v careful_a of_o say_v to_o any_o stand_v off_o i_o be_o holy_a than_o thou_o many_o a_o man_n be_v reject_v under_o the_o appearance_n of_o a_o publican_n who_o heart_n be_v break_v within_o itself_o to_o god_n have_v great_a acceptance_n from_o he_o than_o what_o seem_v rather_o to_o be_v prefer_v among_o man_n for_o the_o honour_n therefore_o of_o the_o most_o public_a conjunction_n in_o holy_a service_n we_o may_v observe_v those_o man_n who_o be_v of_o the_o most_o happy_a memory_n in_o scripture_n man_n of_o renown_n for_o the_o efficacy_n of_o their_o prayer_n as_o noah_n moses_n samuel_n job_n daniel_n the_o apostle_n paul_n and_o many_o other_o be_v no_o monkish_a sort_n of_o man_n no_o man_n of_o separation_n from_o the_o public_a upon_o choice_n but_o personage_n as_o of_o the_o most_o divine_a spread_a reason_n so_o of_o a_o public_a wisdom_n grace_n and_o spirit_n contain_v a_o public_a interest_n and_o piety_n within_o their_o own_o breast_n yet_o join_v with_o as_o many_o as_o they_o can_v to_o better_v their_o service_n mutual_o and_o not_o scruple_v union_n with_o they_o lest_o they_o shall_v be_v make_v worse_o or_o their_o service_n less_o acceptable_a man_n of_o no_o narrow_a and_o contract_a spirit_n principle_n or_o devotion_n but_o like_o our_o saviour_n converse_n with_o publican_n and_o sinner_n they_o be_v as_o physician_n to_o the_o sick_a help_v to_o the_o weak_a as_o well_o as_o the_o comparion_n of_o all_o that_o fear_n god_n pull_v sinner_n with_o violence_n out_o of_o the_o fire_n convert_v they_o from_o the_o error_n of_o their_o way_n save_v soul_n from_o death_n and_o endeavour_v to_o hide_v the_o multitude_n of_o sin_n and_o therefore_o be_v so_o prevalent_a in_o prayer_n for_o other_o though_o at_o sometime_o god_n be_v so_o incense_v as_o to_o deny_v audience_n even_o to_o such_o except_o for_o their_o own_o soul_n thus_o clear_v it_o be_v on_o the_o side_n of_o public_a religion_n in_o these_o great_a example_n they_o separate_v from_o the_o sin_n the_o superstition_n that_o be_v at_o any_o time_n become_v public_a but_o join_v with_o the_o public_a religion_n and_o thereby_o raise_v it_o to_o much_o high_a excellency_n it_o be_v impossible_a to_o make_v bad_a thing_n good_a as_o false_a worship_n or_o corruption_n of_o practice_n if_o never_o so_o many_o good_a man_n fall_v into_o they_o it_o will_v endanger_v they_o but_o can_v better_v that_o which_o be_v of_o itself_o bad_a but_o that_o which_o be_v in_o itself_o good_a which_o will_v be_v much_o dispirited_a through_o evil_a handle_n it_o by_o bad_a man_n may_v be_v make_v better_a by_o holy_a man_n predominancy_n and_o ascendency_n in_o it_o and_o so_o turn_v to_o general_a good_a in_o some_o thirty_o in_o some_o sixty_o in_o some_o a_o hundredfold_a which_o show_v the_o nature_n of_o the_o both_o communicativeness_n and_o singularity_n of_o these_o holy_a man_n communicativeness_n in_o true_a worship_n though_o with_o bad_a man_n singularity_n from_o sin_n and_o false_a worship_n i_o have_v now_o dispatch_v this_o first_o head_n i_o propose_v concern_v the_o publickness_n of_o religion_n in_o general_a i_o come_v now_o to_o the_o second_o head_n that_o this_o publickness_n determine_v itself_o in_o national_a religion_n neither_o stay_v short_a of_o it_o nor_o expatiate_v beyond_o it_o and_o to_o make_v good_a this_o i_o first_o consider_v how_o humane_a society_n rise_v and_o what_o be_v the_o first_o band_n of_o union_n and_o it_o be_v very_o evident_a the_o first_o association_n of_o mankind_n must_v grow_v out_o of_o family_n as_o i_o have_v observe_v the_o law_n of_o humane_a society_n be_v first_o declare_v and_o promulge_v upon_o the_o institution_n of_o marriage_n this_o be_v the_o beginning_n of_o family_n family_n of_o all_o great_a association_n of_o man_n here_o also_o must_v begin_v all_o religious_a society_n these_o be_v the_o most_o near_o and_o combine_v here_o therefore_o be_v the_o most_o frequent_a season_n of_o worship_v god_n of_o daily_a praise_n of_o he_o and_o prayer_n to_o he_o the_o example_n of_o it_o we_o find_v in_o abraham_n joshua_n david_n cornelius_n family_n and_o the_o church_n in_o the_o house_n of_o some_o christian_n at_o the_o first_o this_o domestic_a body_n be_v most_o close_o with_o itself_o and_o more_o easy_o call_v together_o therefore_o the_o first_o seat_n of_o religious_a society_n family_n therefore_o for_o the_o closeness_n nearness_n and_o naturalness_n of_o that_o government_n as_o be_v the_o small_a of_o community_n but_o the_o most_o primitive_a be_v particular_o name_v in_o this_o prayer_n against_o the_o heathen_a and_o make_v another_o expression_n together_o with_o kingdom_n of_o irreligious_a community_n for_o as_o kingdom_n be_v great_a family_n unite_v indeed_o as_o family_n but_o great_a so_o family_n though_o lesser_a be_v yet_o the_o first_o kingdom_n religion_n therefore_o be_v a_o most_o contestable_a duty_n and_o obligation_n in_o those_o lessâ—r_a kingdom_n family_n it_o argue_v to_o the_o same_o obligation_n and_o duty_n in_o those_o great_a family_n kingdom_n and_o the_o religion_n or_o irreligion_n of_o the_o one_o and_o the_o other_o run_v along_o one_o with_o the_o other_o thus_o god_n first_o eminent_o himself_o found_v religion_n in_o abraham_n family_n and_o so_o commence_v both_o the_o family_n and_o religion_n into_o a_o nation_n and_o kingdom_n religion_n therefore_o rise_v high_a and_o settle_v here_o as_o upon_o the_o most_o advantageous_a eminence_n as_o in_o the_o most_o full_a and_o free_a spread_v community_n call_v nation_n for_o their_o greatness_n and_o numerousness_n kingdom_n for_o their_o majestic_a government_n and_o union_n in_o it_o for_o a_o nation_n or_o kingdom_n be_v a_o part_n of_o mankind_n canton_v indeed_o from_o the_o whole_a world_n and_o the_o wideness_n of_o that_o yet_o into_o a_o large_a compass_n than_o neighbourhood_n town_n or_o city_n and_o be_v general_o enclose_v within_o some_o more_o remarkable_a bound_n of_o place_n as_o sea_n river_n mountain_n unite_v by_o nearness_n of_o manner_n custom_n and_o disposition_n arise_v from_o like_a temperature_n of_o air_n and_o climate_n freedom_n of_o conversation_n and_o commerce_n have_v one_o and_o the_o same_o language_n but_o especial_o as_o under_o the_o same_o civil_a interest_n law_n government_n and_o legislative_a authority_n for_o these_o mutual_a bond_n be_v they_o which_o give_v reason_n to_o national_a religion_n as_o the_o most_o solemn_a instance_n of_o public_a religion_n and_o worship_n of_o god_n because_o by_o virtue_n of_o these_o
and_o inflame_v with_o a_o holy_a affection_n in_o a_o lowly_a imitation_n of_o the_o divine_a zeal_n wherewith_o god_n perform_v all_o his_o holy_a ordination_n thus_o as_o prince_n they_o have_v power_n with_o god_n because_o they_o offer_v he_o their_o petition_n according_a to_o his_o establish_v rule_n of_o government_n and_o his_o own_o holy_a will_n concern_v the_o thing_n wherein_o they_o pray_v to_o he_o now_o the_o understanding_n these_o rule_n be_v extraordinary_a and_o infallible_a to_o the_o prophet_n and_o servant_n of_o god_n inspire_v by_o he_o but_o to_o we_o in_o ordinary_a by_o the_o light_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n by_o the_o law_n of_o true_a and_o right_a reason_n in_o deduction_n from_o that_o word_n and_o in_o which_o word_n and_o the_o deduction_n from_o it_o if_o we_o be_v not_o mistake_v the_o efficacy_n will_v be_v certain_a because_o if_o we_o ask_v according_a to_o his_o will_n we_o be_v sure_o he_o hear_v we_o and_o that_o we_o have_v in_o some_o true_a sense_n the_o petition_n we_o ask_v of_o he_o this_o be_v so_o valuable_a a_o rule_n of_o prayer_n that_o daniel_n though_o so_o great_a a_o man_n of_o vision_n yet_o betake_v himself_o to_o this_o ordinary_a mean_n of_o instruction_n in_o the_o mind_n of_o god_n dan._n 9_o by_o book_n of_o holy_a record_n and_o general_a chronology_n he_o know_v that_o the_o time_n of_o the_o babylonish_n captivity_n be_v near_o its_o expiration_n and_o so_o set_v himself_o to_o prayer_n and_o be_v crown_v with_o this_o wonderful_a success_n and_o acceptance_n thus_o prayer_n prevail_v with_o god_n and_o yet_o without_o any_o change_n in_o he_o there_o be_v a_o configuration_n or_o concurrence_n of_o all_o thing_n according_a to_o his_o own_o unchangeable_a will_n his_o counsel_n of_o old_a that_o be_v faithfulness_n and_o truth_n be_v remonstrate_v to_o he_o by_o the_o humble_a servant_n desire_v of_o his_o servant_n that_o know_v they_o to_o be_v his_o counsel_n and_o who_o be_v order_v by_o the_o same_o counsel_n to_o inquire_v or_o beseech_v he_o by_o prayer_n according_a to_o they_o and_o therefore_o by_o his_o spirit_n the_o spirit_n of_o prayer_n he_o draw_v the_o parallel_a line_n to_o his_o own_o intention_n upon_o their_o heart_n desire_n and_o affection_n i_o have_v pursue_v this_o the_o further_a because_o it_o give_v a_o solution_n to_o that_o doubt_n how_o god_n without_o any_o change_n in_o himself_o hear_v prayer_n and_o also_o assure_v we_o this_o prayer_n be_v so_o remarkable_a as_o to_o be_v twice_o use_v in_o the_o same_o word_n most_o certain_o bear_v itself_o upon_o some_o certain_a principle_n from_o which_o we_o may_v argue_v to_o general_a practice_n the_o principle_n it_o rest_v upon_o must_v be_v this_o there_o be_v a_o establish_v order_n betwixt_o the_o wrath_n and_o displeasure_n of_o god_n his_o fury_n and_o vengeance_n and_o the_o nation_n or_o family_n not_o know_v not_o call_v on_o his_o name_n and_o this_o be_v know_v by_o very_a light_n of_o nature_n his_o wrath_n according_a to_o unchangeable_a law_n be_v always_o prepare_v against_o those_o that_o forsake_v he_o and_o that_o duty_n they_o owe_v to_o he_o as_o nation_n it_o have_v be_v else_o a_o great_a presumption_n upon_o god_n and_o breach_n of_o charity_n to_o the_o nation_n so_o to_o pray_v against_o they_o which_o may_v also_o give_v we_o account_v of_o all_o those_o dreadful_a imprecation_n and_o curse_n david_n and_o other_o prophet_n and_o holy_a man_n pour_v out_o against_o their_o own_o enemy_n and_o the_o enemy_n of_o their_o people_n they_o be_v found_v in_o their_o be_v enemy_n to_o god_n his_o true_a worship_n love_n and_o service_n and_o as_o such_o their_o final_a destruction_n be_v decree_v against_o they_o by_o the_o most_o righteous_a law_n of_o divine_a government_n make_v know_v unto_o those_o holy_a man_n and_o so_o they_o pray_v for_o it_o as_o public_a person_n and_o not_o out_o of_o private_a wrath_n and_o revenge_n but_o this_o by_o the_o way_n i_o proceed_v now_o in_o the_o main_a argument_n and_o this_o principle_n i_o be_o upon_o that_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n be_v against_o the_o nation_n that_o be_v without_o national_a religion_n lie_v deep_a in_o a_o first_o and_o more_o original_a principle_n viz._n there_o be_v a_o obligation_n a_o great_a duty_n lie_v upon_o nation_n as_o nation_n to_o know_v and_o worship_v the_o true_a god_n for_o else_o why_o shall_v god_n find_v fault_n why_o shall_v he_o be_v angry_a when_o none_o have_v resist_v his_o will_n from_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o there_o be_v a_o natural_a order_n establish_v by_o god_n between_o his_o love_n and_o favour_n and_o a_o people_n and_o their_o public_a true_a religion_n because_o it_o be_v the_o observation_n of_o a_o duty_n and_o the_o observation_n of_o duty_n be_v the_o fit_v we_o for_o blessing_n and_o â—avour_n as_o the_o neglect_n and_o transgression_n of_o duty_n can_v be_v without_o wrath_n and_o displeasure_n for_o thus_o god_n have_v place_v life_n and_o death_n one_o over_o against_o another_o yet_o so_o that_o life_n and_o blessing_n be_v always_o first_o even_o as_o duty_n be_v always_o before_o sin_n for_o god_n never_o make_v death_n and_o destruction_n even_o as_o he_o never_o can_v be_v the_o cause_n of_o sin_n but_o they_o come_v in_o by_o the_o fail_v of_o our_o duty_n and_o so_o of_o that_o life_n and_o blessedness_n entail_v on_o our_o duty_n yet_o the_o obligation_n to_o national_a true_a religion_n be_v much_o more_o evident_a from_o these_o holy_a man_n pray_v down_o wrath_n upon_o they_o that_o know_v not_o god_n and_o that_o call_v not_o on_o his_o name_n than_o it_o can_v have_v be_v from_o the_o pray_n for_o his_o favour_n to_o they_o that_o do_v know_v he_o and_o that_o do_v call_v on_o his_o name_n because_o his_o favour_n may_v have_v be_v vouchsafe_v upon_o term_n much_o below_o our_o substantial_a and_o inviolable_a duty_n as_o many_o of_o the_o jewish_a rite_n may_v be_v argument_n for_o and_o pledge_n of_o god_n gracious_a regard_n to_o the_o people_n he_o have_v so_o distinguish_v when_o the_o want_n of_o those_o sign_n will_v not_o have_v argue_v to_o the_o effusion_n of_o his_o wrath_n and_o vengeance_n there_o be_v no_o natural_a or_o positive_a duty_n lie_v upon_o any_o but_o the_o jew_n to_o such_o observance_n there_o may_v be_v many_o argument_n for_o the_o bounty_n and_o favour_n of_o god_n from_o external_n rite_n appoint_v by_o he_o and_o observe_v by_o his_o people_n though_o indeed_o these_o all_o refer_v to_o their_o essential_a duty_n and_o argue_v nothing_o without_o it_o yet_o the_o contrary_n will_v not_o enforce_v to_o the_o opposite_a degree_n of_o wrath_n and_o indignation_n because_o they_o be_v not_o observe_v when_o no_o substantial_a duty_n be_v violate_v uncircumcision_n that_o keep_v the_o law_n may_v have_v in_o the_o main_a the_o same_o security_n from_o wrath_n with_o circumcision_n that_o keep_v the_o law_n also_o see_v then_o there_o be_v so_o great_a wrath_n against_o those_o that_o know_v not_o god_n that_o call_v not_o on_o his_o name_n it_o assure_v we_o the_o duty_n the_o obligation_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o it_o lie_v deep_a that_o the_o omission_n be_v so_o subject_v to_o the_o divine_a revenge_n and_o it_o be_v in_o this_o a_o society_n without_o religion_n be_v a_o high_a contempt_n of_o god_n a_o make_v flesh_n our_o arm_n and_o depart_v from_o the_o lord_n and_o so_o from_o his_o favour_n and_o blessing_n a_o principality_n without_o a_o inscription_n a_o dedication_n to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n to_o which_o all_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v devote_v be_v like_o the_o build_n a_o tower_n up_o to_o heaven_n a_o sin_n like_o the_o sin_n of_o herod_n when_o he_o let_v that_o sacrilegious_a applause_n sink_v into_o he_o and_o give_v not_o the_o glory_n to_o god_n and_o therefore_o subject_n man_n to_o be_v at_o any_o time_n smite_v and_o blast_v by_o god_n who_o have_v say_v those_o that_o honour_v he_o he_o will_v honour_v but_o all_o else_o shall_v be_v light_o esteem_v whether_o nation_n or_o person_n it_o be_v not_o therefore_o only_a the_o judgement_n upon_o the_o irreligion_n of_o particular_a person_n of_o particular_a family_n that_o be_v here_o intend_a though_o this_o be_v include_v and_o suppose_v but_o especial_o upon_o the_o irreligion_n of_o society_n knit_v and_o strengthen_v themselves_o without_o the_o true_a god_n upon_o principality_n exalt_v themselves_o and_o not_o by_o and_o with_o the_o almighty_a and_o supreme_a majesty_n on_o the_o other_o side_n if_o there_o be_v a_o duty_n a_o obligation_n of_o be_v public_o religious_a there_o be_v a_o blessing_n upon_o it_o according_a to_o that_o fundamental_a principle_n he_o that_o come_v to_o god_n must_v believe_v that_o he_o be_v and_o that_o he_o be_v a_o rewarder_n
of_o they_o that_o diligent_o seek_v he_o that_o godliness_n have_v the_o promise_n of_o this_o life_n and_o of_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v and_o this_o must_v be_v first_o because_o as_o righteousness_n and_o duty_n be_v before_o sin_n so_o blessing_n and_o favour_n be_v before_o wrath_n and_o displeasure_n yet_o wrath_n be_v a_o more_o certain_a demonstration_n of_o absolute_a duty_n violate_v than_o favour_n be_v of_o absolute_a duty_n observe_v because_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n be_v more_o at_o liberty_n than_o his_o wrath_n which_o always_o depend_v on_o strict_a justice_n all_o which_o amount_v to_o the_o full_a proof_n of_o the_o great_a duty_n of_o national_a religion_n from_o this_o prayer_n see_v national_a irreligion_n be_v so_o near_o the_o curse_n of_o divine_a fury_n and_o revenge_n have_v thus_o far_o consider_v national_a religion_n as_o it_o be_v found_v argum._n 2_o in_o the_o very_a law_n of_o nature_n and_o inviolable_a duty_n to_o god_n i_o come_v second_o to_o consider_v the_o wisdom_n and_o unquestionable_a rationality_n of_o the_o divine_a ordination_n among_o the_o jew_n when_o by_o a_o prerogative_n of_o power_n and_o goodness_n god_n will_v secure_v the_o true_a religion_n after_o the_o nation_n have_v so_o corrupt_v themselves_o and_o that_o he_o have_v now_o begin_v as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v to_o suffer_v they_o to_o walk_v after_o their_o own_o way_n he_o find_v his_o worship_n as_o it_o be_v anew_o first_o in_o abraham_n family_n and_o from_o thence_o commence_v it_o into_o a_o national_a state_n even_o as_o he_o do_v the_o family_n wherein_o he_o have_v place_v it_o and_o that_o for_o the_o very_a sake_n of_o his_o true_a worship_n which_o family_n and_o nation_n have_v indeed_o many_o peculiar_o in_o its_o religious_a constitution_n such_o as_o be_v not_o to_o be_v find_v in_o any_o other_o as_o i_o shall_v after_o account_v for_o they_o yet_o in_o the_o general_n it_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o the_o fitness_n and_o agreeableness_n of_o that_o model_n of_o humane_a society_n to_o the_o end_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o acceptableness_n to_o god_n it_o shall_v be_v so_o devote_v but_o because_o we_o may_v think_v this_o choose_n of_o abraham_n family_n and_o the_o nation_n rise_v from_o it_o be_v a_o interdict_v upon_o any_o other_o family_n or_o nation_n to_o institute_v a_o public_a national_a religion_n any_o other_o way_n than_o as_o they_o proselyte_v themselves_o to_o that_o one_o nation_n and_o family_n it_o be_v very_o observable_a there_o be_v elsewhere_o the_o footstep_n of_o national_a and_o family_n religion_n though_o more_o rare_a in_o that_o very_a time_n as_o in_o melchisedeck_v who_o be_v king_n of_o salem_n of_o peace_n and_o righteousness_n and_o priest_n of_o the_o most_o high_a god_n so_o incorporate_n religion_n with_o his_o government_n the_o same_o be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o job_n and_o his_o friend_n so_o that_o the_o erect_v a_o national_a religion_n among_o the_o jew_n do_v not_o supersede_n the_o obligation_n of_o any_o of_o the_o nation_n to_o the_o national_a worship_n of_o god_n though_o in_o judgement_n past_o our_o find_v out_o he_o so_o overlook_v they_o as_o to_o leave_v they_o to_o themselves_o for_o he_o never_o leave_v himself_o without_o witness_n he_o ought_v to_o be_v so_o worship_v by_o give_v they_o fruitful_a time_n and_o season_n and_o fill_v their_o heart_n with_o food_n and_o gladness_n he_o be_v never_o far_o from_o they_o in_o that_o he_o give_v they_o life_n and_o breath_n and_o all_o thing_n and_o in_o he_o they_o live_v move_v and_o have_v their_o being_n so_o that_o they_o wâ—re_v without_o excuse_n when_o at_o any_o time_n his_o wrath_n be_v reveal_v from_o heaven_n against_o they_o for_o not_o glorify_v he_o as_o god_n and_o be_v thankful_a belshazzar_n and_o his_o nation_n be_v obnoxious_a to_o god_n for_o not_o glorify_v that_o god_n in_o who_o hand_n be_v his_o life_n and_o breath_n and_o all_o his_o way_n beside_o those_o of_o the_o nation_n that_o be_v near_o the_o jew_n be_v allow_v to_o unite_v themselves_o to_o the_o jewish_a national_a religion_n when_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n be_v grow_v so_o dark_a and_o obsolete_a among_o themselves_o and_o though_o they_o be_v the_o son_n of_o stranger_n yet_o god_n assure_v they_o a_o place_n in_o his_o sanctuary_n but_o because_o there_o be_v not_o provision_n enough_o for_o the_o multitude_n of_o the_o nation_n within_o the_o bound_n of_o that_o religion_n it_o be_v certain_o at_o all_o time_n lawful_a and_o please_a to_o god_n that_o they_o shall_v have_v national_o dedicate_v themselves_o to_o the_o true_a jekovah_n though_o eminent_o know_v then_o to_o be_v the_o god_n of_o israel_n and_o that_o they_o do_v not_o so_o give_v reason_n always_o to_o his_o wrath_n against_o they_o whenever_o he_o please_v to_o execute_v it_o but_o i_o hasten_v to_o the_o three_o argument_n of_o near_a concernment_n to_o we_o the_o three_o argument_n i_o derive_v from_o the_o favour_n of_o christian_a religion_n argum._n 3_o to_o national_a religion_n of_o which_o i_o shall_v lay_v down_o several_a proof_n 1._o christianity_n repeal_v none_o of_o the_o law_n of_o god_n that_o be_v found_v in_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o thing_n if_o therefore_o national_a religion_n be_v according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o essential_a duty_n towards_o god_n if_o it_o be_v the_o reasonable_a service_n of_o nation_n it_o be_v certain_a christianity_n do_v not_o remove_v it_o but_o restore_v and_o exalt_v it_o to_o the_o great_a perfection_n christ_n come_v not_o to_o dissolve_v any_o of_o those_o law_n but_o to_o fulfil_v they_o that_o be_v to_o restore_v the_o doctrine_n to_o its_o just_a integrity_n where_o it_o be_v false_o gloss_a upon_o and_o if_o any_o thing_n be_v want_v in_o the_o former_a revelation_n of_o it_o to_o superadd_a what_o may_v render_v it_o most_o complete_a 2._o of_o the_o same_o nature_n be_v the_o second_o proof_n that_o if_o god_n not_o only_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o type_n and_o shadow_n which_o be_v useful_a for_o that_o state_n of_o the_o church_n but_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o the_o real_a goodness_n and_o usefulness_n of_o the_o thing_n itself_o pitch_v upon_o the_o national_a form_n of_o religion_n by_o his_o immediate_a revelation_n to_o abraham_n and_o moses_n as_o i_o have_v already_o argue_v it_o can_v be_v suppose_v to_o be_v reverse_v by_o christ_n it_o remain_v therefore_o among_o those_o thing_n that_o be_v write_v for_o our_o admonition_n and_o learning_n on_o who_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n be_v come_v 3._o christianity_n vouch_v itself_o a_o religion_n of_o the_o most_o public_a spirit_n and_o intention_n and_o come_v into_o the_o world_n by_o the_o high_a conduct_n of_o god_n to_o open_v all_o passage_n for_o truth_n and_o divine_a knowledge_n among_o man_n as_o innumerable_a place_n in_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n assure_v we_o so_o that_o the_o gospel_n most_o evident_o design_n itself_o to_o be_v free_a and_o public_a as_o the_o heaven_n as_o the_o light_n of_o it_o and_o the_o word_n of_o the_o psalmist_n may_v well_o be_v apply_v to_o it_o the_o line_n of_o it_o be_v go_v throughout_o all_o the_o earth_n and_o its_o word_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n so_o far_o therefore_o as_o naturalness_n and_o publiqueness_n agree_v so_o far_o the_o thing_n be_v undeniable_a 4._o many_o expression_n of_o the_o prophet_n that_o go_v before_o of_o our_o saviour_n and_o his_o apostle_n that_o follow_v after_o have_v a_o particular_a favour_n for_o national_a religion_n to_o name_v some_o of_o a_o multitude_n christ_n shall_v sprinkle_v many_o nation_n he_o be_v the_o desire_n of_o all_o nation_n go_v make_v disciple_n of_o all_o nation_n all_o the_o kingdom_n of_o the_o world_n shall_v become_v the_o kingdom_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o of_o his_o christ_n the_o apostle_n magnify_v himself_o as_o the_o apostle_n of_o the_o nation_n he_o compare_v himself_o with_o the_o holy_a priesthood_n while_o by_o preach_v the_o gospel_n he_o be_v negotiate_v in_o the_o offer_n up_o the_o nation_n a_o sacrifice_n consecrate_v and_o sanctify_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n the_o great_a sacrifice_n that_o be_v ever_o offer_v to_o god_n except_o that_o of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n offer_v himself_o and_o this_o be_v the_o only_a instance_n of_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n resemble_v with_o the_o priesthood_n of_o the_o law_n or_o clothe_v with_o that_o denomination_n of_o priestliness_n use_n have_v appropriate_v to_o it_o and_o that_o to_o no_o other_o office_n but_o of_o preach_v to_o conversion_n rom._n 15._o 16._o but_o because_o i_o know_v the_o proof_n from_o these_o scripture_n be_v liable_a to_o be_v retrench_v by_o expound_v they_o of_o the_o diffusion_n of_o christianity_n into_o the_o catholic_n church_n throughout_o the_o world_n and_o
society_n of_o mankind_n it_o declare_v itself_o a_o religion_n that_o love_v they_o and_z as_o it_o be_v on_o purpose_n to_o testify_v the_o divine_a approbation_n of_o and_o the_o near_a resemblance_n between_o those_o civil_a and_o political_a union_n one_o with_o another_o found_v in_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o humane_a society_n and_o that_o religious_a union_n which_o by_o the_o very_a same_o law_n of_o nature_n follow_v they_o as_o so_o unite_v christianity_n keep_v to_o the_o very_a same_o tenor_n of_o union_n it_o find_v any_o where_o and_o twine_v as_o close_v about_o the_o city_n neighbourhood_n and_o family_n make_v ready_a to_o its_o hand_n by_o civil_a association_n as_o it_o can_v not_o call_v man_n out_o to_o wilderness_n mountain_n or_o wood_n to_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n or_o that_o they_o shall_v abide_v in_o desert_n and_o solitude_n when_o persecution_n do_v not_o drive_v and_o force_v they_o out_o but_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v denominate_v from_o those_o city_n and_o region_n where_o they_o be_v plant_v as_o the_o church_n of_o epheâ—â—â—â—_n 2._o 2_o cor_fw-la 9_o 2._o coriâ—th_n judaea_n galatia_n macedonia_n etc._n etc._n yea_o the_o christiâ—â—_n of_o achaia_n be_v call_v by_o the_o apostle_n achaia_n as_o if_o christianity_n be_v there_o become_v the_o religion_n of_o the_o country_n and_o the_o seven_o church_n of_o asia_n be_v call_v those_o very_a city_n where_o they_o be_v seat_v 1â—_n rev._n 1._o 1â—_n wherein_o it_o be_v observable_a the_o church_n of_o city_n be_v call_v the_o church_n of_o or_o in_o each_o city_n as_o one_o though_o it_o be_v in_o a_o manner_n certain_a they_o must_v be_v distribute_v into_o more_o congregation_n for_o their_o numerousness_n yet_o they_o be_v still_o call_v one_o because_o the_o city_n be_v one_o but_o the_o region_n not_o be_v so_o unite_v in_o government_n neighbourhood_n or_o any_o kind_n of_o civil_a union_n the_o distribution_n of_o church_n easy_o follow_v the_o distinction_n easy_o supposable_a in_o their_o civil_a state_n in_o region_n therefore_o we_o suppose_v there_o be_v no_o centre_n of_o union_n not_o in_o the_o church_n which_o be_v at_o distance_n too_o great_a for_o coagmentation_n into_o one_o nor_o in_o the_o law_n and_o government_n at_o least_o with_o any_o respect_n of_o order_n towards_o religion_n they_o be_v therefore_o call_v church_n and_o not_o one_o church_n as_o they_o be_v without_o any_o exception_n in_o city_n even_o where_o the_o apostle_n name_v particular_a church_n in_o the_o house_n within_o those_o city_n yet_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o city_n itself_o they_o be_v comprehend_v under_o the_o one_o church_n of_o that_o city_n now_o all_o this_o speak_v the_o care_n christian_n religion_n use_v not_o to_o disturb_v but_o to_o conform_v to_o civil_a society_n and_o therefore_o especial_o to_o national_a the_o chief_a of_o those_o society_n and_o so_o i_o close_o this_o three_o argument_n for_o national_a religion_n derive_v from_o the_o consideration_n of_o christian_a religion_n national_a religion_n be_v of_o great_a moment_n and_o consideration_n in_o respect_n argum._n 4_o to_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n for_o the_o wrath_n and_o fury_n of_o god_n upon_o those_o nation_n that_o know_v he_o not_o that_o call_v not_o on_o his_o name_n be_v to_o be_v take_v at_o the_o full_a extent_n and_o duration_n in_o this_o world_n in_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v and_o so_o the_o happiness_n of_o nation_n who_o have_v the_o lord_n for_o their_o god_n that_o have_v the_o everlasting_a arm_n under_o and_o about_o they_o spread_v itself_o not_o only_o upon_o time_n but_o upon_o eternity_n it_o be_v indeed_o general_o take_v for_o grant_v that_o nation_n be_v only_o judge_v as_o nation_n in_o this_o world_n yet_o if_o we_o close_o examine_v we_o shall_v find_v both_o in_o scripture_n and_o reason_n very_o valuable_a ground_n to_o believe_v the_o day_n of_o judgement_n shall_v not_o only_o pass_v upon_o person_n single_a but_o in_o their_o community_n as_o they_o be_v lock_v in_o with_o their_o association_n and_o with_o respect_n to_o those_o very_a period_n of_o time_n and_o the_o generation_n into_o which_o the_o community_n and_o association_n have_v be_v distribute_v so_o that_o not_o only_o the_o people_n of_o every_o nation_n come_v into_o judgement_n together_o but_o the_o people_n of_o every_o generation_n of_o this_o or_o that_o nation_n come_v distinct_o into_o judgement_n together_o beside_o those_o peculiarity_n of_o sin_n or_o grace_n wherein_o every_o man_n be_v individual_a to_o himself_o and_o no_o stranger_n intermeddle_v but_o he_o prove_v and_o enjoy_v his_o own_o work_n alone_o or_o bear_v his_o own_o burden_n there_o be_v also_o man_n interwoven_a action_n either_o good_a or_o bad_a wherein_o the_o community_n knot_n of_o society_n neighbourhood_n concurrence_n with_o the_o nation_n conformity_n with_o the_o age_n and_o generation_n shall_v be_v exact_o compare_v and_o weigh_v in_o the_o eternal_a judgement_n for_o there_o be_v nothing_o more_o frequent_a in_o the_o scripture_n than_o thus_o to_o represent_v the_o carriage_n of_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n the_o nation_n whole_a as_o nation_n that_o forget_v god_n shall_v be_v turn_v into_o hell_n and_o egypt_n and_o 12._o ezek._n 32._o 18_o etc._n etc._n rom_n 2_o 12._o all_o its_o company_n all_o its_o host_n lie_v together_o the_o other_o nation_n with_o their_o multitude_n every_o one_o in_o their_o proper_a sort_n the_o uncircumcision_n and_o those_o without_o law_n be_v judge_v by_o themselves_o the_o circumcision_n and_o those_o under_o the_o law_n by_o themselves_o distinct_o our_o saviour_n speak_v oâ—_n sodom_n and_o gomorrah_n the_o man_n of_o nineveh_n tyre_n aend_v sidon_n chorazin_n bethsaida_n and_o capernaum_n come_v into_o judgement_n in_o that_o union_n in_o that_o community_n wherein_o they_o be_v embody_v here_o in_o the_o world_n and_o the_o man_n of_o that_o generation_n as_o they_o be_v that_o generation_n i_o confess_v it_o be_v not_o so_o clear_a that_o the_o happiness_n and_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n be_v with_o any_o respect_n to_o the_o distinction_n of_o nation_n because_o beside_o what_o other_o reason_n may_v be_v give_v the_o union_n of_o all_o bless_a person_n to_o god_n and_o christ_n and_o of_o happy_a spirit_n one_o to_o another_o be_v so_o infinite_o great_a as_o to_o swallow_v up_o all_o distinction_n so_o that_o there_o be_v neither_o jew_n nor_o gentile_a scythian_n nor_o barbarian_a but_o god_n and_o christ_n be_v all_o and_o in_o all_o and_o so_o far_o as_o there_o be_v any_o such_o national_a distinction_n our_o lord_n be_v of_o the_o seed_n of_o abraham_n in_o who_o all_o the_o family_n of_o the_o earth_n be_v bless_v the_o bosom_n of_o abraham_n the_o table_n of_o everlasting_a life_n at_o which_o abraham_n isaac_n and_o jacob_n sit_v down_o the_o new_a jerusalem_n the_o israel_n of_o god_n be_v the_o capital_a expression_n of_o happiness_n but_o still_o there_o be_v reason_n to_o think_v the_o distinction_n of_o nation_n be_v not_o so_o lose_v but_o that_o the_o holy_a seed_n be_v as_o the_o substance_n of_o every_o nation_n in_o which_o it_o be_v for_o ever_o as_o it_o be_v by_o itself_o conserve_v a_o seed_n serve_v god_n in_o every_o age_n which_o be_v account_v to_o the_o lord_n for_o a_o generation_n at_o that_o time_n and_o when_o god_n write_v down_o the_o people_n in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n he_o write_v they_o as_o under_o the_o head_n of_o such_o a_o nation_n this_o or_o that_o man_n be_v bear_v there_o although_o they_o be_v all_o enroll_v as_o citizen_n of_o that_o common_a city_n of_o zion_n the_o city_n of_o david_n from_o who_o our_o lord_n spring_v and_o though_o all_o christian_n be_v one_o holy_a nation_n yet_o it_o be_v say_v of_o some_o very_a glorious_a and_o happy_a state_n of_o the_o church_n of_o which_o i_o will_v not_o undertake_v to_o determine_v that_o after_o the_o distinct_a seal_v of_o so_o many_o thousand_o of_o each_o tribe_n there_o be_v yet_o a_o innumerable_a company_n not_o in_o a_o confusion_n but_o in_o a_o distinction_n so_o as_o to_o be_v know_v to_o be_v of_o all_o nation_n kindred_n people_n and_o tongue_n all_o the_o nation_n of_o they_o that_o be_v save_v be_v also_o mention_v in_o the_o same_o mystical_a book_n as_o keep_v under_o that_o distinction_n the_o apostle_n speak_v to_o his_o corinthian_n and_o thessalonian_o as_o certain_a he_o shall_v meet_v they_o under_o those_o very_a name_n at_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n he_o pray_v for_o israel_n as_o a_o nation_n that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v he_o discourse_v their_o fall_v away_o and_o recovery_n in_o a_o national_a way_n for_o many_o particular_a israelite_n be_v then_o call_v and_o save_v but_o not_o in_o a_o national_a way_n as_o he_o insist_o beside_o all_o these_o fair_a
themselves_o as_o well_o as_o person_n wherein_o religion_n have_v prevail_v to_o such_o degree_n as_o to_o be_v call_v national_a be_v conserve_v in_o those_o that_o be_v save_v even_o as_o the_o honour_n of_o the_o angelic_a nature_n be_v conserve_v in_o the_o holy_a and_o elect_a angel_n as_o the_o humane_a nature_n in_o the_o seed_n of_o abraham_n the_o father_n of_o the_o faithful_a of_o they_o that_o be_v save_v in_o all_o nation_n as_o in_o isaac_n the_o seed_n of_o abraham_n be_v call_v as_o in_o isaac_n child_n the_o child_n of_o promise_n be_v count_v for_o the_o seed_n thus_o the_o honour_n of_o particular_a etc._n rom._n 9_o 7_o etc._n etc._n nation_n be_v treasure_v up_o in_o the_o elect_a of_o it_o so_o that_o if_o we_o suppose_v a_o nation_n without_o convert_v it_o be_v lose_v as_o to_o happiness_n or_o as_o if_o it_o have_v not_o be_v as_o the_o tribe_n of_o dan_n have_v no_o name_n among_o those_o etc._n rev._n 7._o 5_o etc._n etc._n seal_a tribe_n to_o which_o we_o have_v relation_n before_o and_o as_o the_o order_n of_o each_o tribe_n be_v dispose_v according_a to_o the_o happy_a memory_n of_o the_o worthy_n of_o every_o tribe_n and_o their_o more_o noble_a act_n in_o or_o for_o the_o true_a religion_n as_o be_v observe_v by_o interpreter_n and_o as_o there_o be_v degree_n of_o glory_n to_o every_o christian_a according_a to_o the_o excellency_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o service_n that_o abound_v to_o his_o account_n so_o the_o case_n be_v with_o nation_n and_o generation_n the_o more_o and_o more_o eminent_a man_n any_o have_v bring_v forth_o the_o more_o it_o shall_v be_v adorn_v at_o that_o day_n it_o become_v a_o diadem_n and_o crown_n in_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n and_o be_v as_o the_o 5._o isa_n 62._o 3._o 5._o prophet_n express_v it_o as_o a_o bride_n marry_v by_o the_o multitude_n of_o her_o son_n so_o that_o the_o last_o glory_n and_o happiness_n of_o nation_n be_v very_o great_o concern_v in_o their_o common_a faith_n and_o religion_n and_o the_o near_a participation_n they_o have_v be_v capable_a of_o in_o one_o another_o holiness_n and_o piety_n and_o therefore_o the_o more_o they_o can_v do_v to_o enlarge_v and_o increase_v it_o the_o more_o they_o add_v to_o the_o common_a glory_n and_o salvation_n and_o do_v most_o ensure_v their_o own_o on_o the_o other_o side_n although_o there_o be_v a_o lessen_v of_o honour_n to_o a_o nation_n by_o the_o fewness_n of_o those_o that_o be_v save_v and_o in_o the_o many_o of_o those_o that_o perish_v yet_o it_o be_v not_o so_o as_o that_o the_o glory_n be_v counterbalanced_a by_o the_o disadvantage_n for_o there_o be_v a_o much_o high_a account_n of_o glory_n to_o the_o goodness_n grace_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n to_o the_o salvation_n of_o christ_n in_o that_o excellent_a state_n of_o god_n creation_n in_o the_o elect_a angel_n and_o the_o recover_a part_n of_o mankind_n in_o that_o new_a heaven_n and_o new_a earth_n wherein_o dwell_v righteousness_n than_o there_o be_v depression_n of_o that_o glory_n in_o those_o that_o perish_v and_o their_o contrary_a state_n so_o the_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o angelic_a and_o humane_a nature_n itself_o and_o so_o of_o nation_n be_v more_o conserve_v in_o those_o that_o be_v save_v of_o they_o than_o in_o those_o of_o they_o that_o be_v lose_v for_o there_o be_v a_o much_o more_o a_o much_o high_a reign_n of_o righteousness_n and_o life_n assert_v by_o the_o apostle_n than_o of_o 17._o rom._n 5._o 17._o sin_n and_o death_n although_o scripture_n and_o general_a observation_n give_v reason_n to_o fear_v there_o be_v more_o that_o perish_v than_o that_o be_v save_v and_o however_o we_o can_v unfold_v the_o mystery_n of_o it_o this_o then_o stand_v as_o a_o impregnable_a argument_n for_o national_a religion_n if_o it_o conduce_v so_o much_o to_o the_o future_a happiness_n and_o salvation_n of_o â—_z and_o so_o to_o the_o more_o exalt_a glory_n and_o salvation_n of_o all_o those_o that_o be_v zealous_a herein_o and_o both_o these_o in_o a_o more_o national_a visible_a way_n than_o thing_n be_v transact_v before_o our_o eye_n in_o this_o world_n but_o that_o there_o shall_v be_v some_o such_o future_a state_n whether_o at_o the_o the_o day_n of_o judgement_n or_o throughout_o eternity_n we_o can_v define_v yet_o that_o it_o shall_v be_v can_v be_v deny_v when_o so_o much_o of_o scripture_n so_o much_o of_o reason_n concur_v in_o it_o and_o so_o on_o the_o contrary_a that_o the_o irreligion_n of_o nation_n towards_o the_o true_a god_n and_o jesus_n christ_n who_o he_o have_v send_v shall_v be_v revenge_v by_o the_o most_o sensible_a apparent_a infamy_n contempt_n and_o wrath_n from_o heaven_n in_o which_o those_o that_o have_v have_v the_o most_o malignant_a influence_n into_o such_o irreligion_n shall_v have_v a_o double_a measure_n and_o all_o this_o in_o a_o national_a way_n i_o know_v not_o what_o can_v persuade_v more_o to_o national_a religion_n than_o so_o great_a a_o consideration_n and_o so_o i_o finish_v this_o four_o argument_n the_o five_o argument_n for_o national_a religion_n shall_v be_v only_o a_o complication_n argum._n 5_o of_o consequential_a benefit_n flow_v from_o true_a national_a religion_n unite_v in_o which_o may_v indeed_o be_v make_v use_n of_o to_o persuade_v union_n in_o religion_n whether_o true_a or_o false_a yet_o they_o be_v only_o applicable_a upon_o true_a reason_n to_o the_o true_a religion_n 1._o national_a religion_n contribute_v to_o the_o most_o happy_a state_n peace_n and_o union_n of_o nation_n jâ—rusalem_n by_o virtue_n of_o its_o national_a religion_n as_o the_o psalmist_n say_v be_v as_o a_o city_n compact_v together_o now_o that_o which_o have_v a_o fitness_n and_o aptitude_n by_o the_o very_a law_n of_o nature_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o thing_n to_o strengthen_v and_o corroborate_v a_o nation_n may_v very_o just_o be_v choose_v by_o it_o for_o its_o own_o conservation_n and_o happiness_n upon_o that_o very_a account_n but_o especial_o when_o it_o be_v subordinate_v to_o better_a reason_n too_o and_o of_o a_o much_o high_a nature_n every_o one_o therefore_o shall_v give_v the_o advantage_n to_o national_a peace_n by_o consent_v in_o national_a religion_n so_o that_o we_o lose_v not_o the_o truth_n of_o religion_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o national_a peace_n which_o may_v be_v suppose_v too_o to_o rise_v from_o a_o national_a religion_n though_o false_a but_o national_a true_a religion_n be_v a_o mean_v fit_v by_o god_n to_o the_o peace_n of_o nation_n and_o such_o a_o mean_n as_o be_v acceptable_a and_o well_o please_v to_o he_o first_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o religion_n for_o unity_n in_o religion_n give_v excellency_n to_o religion_n and_o make_v all_o the_o service_n of_o it_o more_o acceptable_a as_o i_o have_v already_o show_v it_o be_v also_o well_o please_v to_o god_n as_o it_o cement_v the_o peace_n of_o nation_n which_o be_v of_o high_a price_n with_o the_o god_n of_o peace_n and_o christ_n the_o prince_n of_o peace_n who_o have_v command_v we_o to_o seek_v peace_n and_o pursue_v it_o to_o study_v to_o be_v quiet_a to_o live_v in_o peace_n as_o much_o 133_o 1_o thes_n 4._o 11._o rom._n 12._o 18._o prov._n 6._o 19_o mat._n 5._o 1._o psalm_n 133_o as_o lie_v in_o we_o and_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a with_o all_o man_n who_o have_v brand_v the_o sow_a discord_n among_o brethren_n as_o one_o of_o the_o principal_a abomination_n to_o he_o but_o have_v bless_v the_o peacemaker_n own_v they_o as_o his_o child_n he_o have_v make_v truth_n and_o peace_n the_o stability_n of_o any_o time_n these_o be_v the_o pillar_n that_o be_v the_o lord_n and_o he_o have_v set_v the_o nation_n he_o love_v upon_o they_o behold_v how_o good_a and_o how_o pleasant_a it_o be_v for_o brethren_n to_o live_v thus_o together_o in_o unity_n it_o be_v like_o the_o precious_a ointment_n of_o the_o sanctuary_n and_o the_o dew_n of_o heaven_n where_o it_o be_v find_v the_o lord_n have_v command_v the_o blessing_n even_o life_n for_o evermore_o thus_o religion_n by_o be_v national_a be_v free_v from_o the_o charge_n of_o be_v a_o design_n and_o occasion_n of_o disturbance_n thus_o the_o heart_n of_o prince_n safe_o trust_v in_o it_o thus_o it_o become_v the_o very_a ligament_n and_o sinew_n of_o government_n a_o pia_fw-la mater_fw-la to_o the_o sacredness_n of_o authority_n and_o make_v sovereignty_n easy_a and_o sweet_a both_o to_o prince_n and_o people_n what_o but_o truth_n can_v be_v weigh_v against_o this_o peace_n and_o that_o not_o all_o truth_n but_o truth_n dwell_v so_o near_o the_o essence_n of_o religion_n the_o very_a purity_n of_o divine_a worship_n that_o as_o it_o can_v be_v sell_v nor_o part_v with_o so_o it_o may_v not_o be_v conceal_v a_o man_n may_v not_o have_v it_o to_o himself_o
but_o with_o his_o mouth_n must_v make_v confession_n of_o it_o to_o salvation_n 2._o true_a religion_n become_v national_a have_v the_o desence_n and_o security_n of_o national_a wisdom_n force_n and_o strength_n against_o false_a religion_n and_o its_o force_n and_o endeavour_n to_o expel_v the_o true_a and_o become_v national_a itself_o for_o a_o nation_n divide_v against_o itself_o in_o religion_n how_o can_v its_o religious_a interest_n stand_v when_o though_o the_o main_n be_v agree_v yet_o if_o difference_n of_o a_o under_o nature_n be_v manage_v with_o high_a exasperation_n it_o must_v needs_o endanger_v the_o staple_n religion_n itself_o by_o weaken_v dispirit_v and_o divide_v the_o strength_n that_o shall_v engage_v for_o it_o while_o every_o one_o take_v care_n for_o his_o private_a sentiment_n and_o be_v jealous_a of_o be_v undermine_v or_o oppress_v in_o they_o the_o public_a and_o common_a religion_n can_v be_v environ_v and_o defend_v with_o that_o vigour_n and_o union_n a_o nation_n unite_v in_o protestancy_n be_v the_o great_a bulwark_n against_o popery_n what_o can_v single_a interest_n do_v in_o this_o case_n even_o experience_n teach_v those_o that_o dissent_n from_o one_o another_o in_o many_o thing_n even_o in_o national_a reform_v religion_n to_o acknowledge_v this_o union_n the_o fort-royal_a against_o the_o hostile_a invasion_n of_o popery_n which_o shall_v conciliate_v they_o as_o far_o as_o be_v possible_a among_o themselves_o 3._o true_a religion_n as_o it_o be_v national_a secure_v best_a against_o those_o undermine_a enemy_n of_o atheism_n heresy_n enthusiasm_n wild_a and_o monstrous_a opinion_n profaneness_n neglect_v of_o all_o religion_n coldness_n lukewarmness_n which_o take_v shelter_n and_o manage_v their_o defence_n from_o the_o division_n in_o the_o religion_n of_o a_o nation_n settle_v and_o confirm_v into_o avow_a sect_n and_o several_a party_n but_o national_a union_n in_o a_o true_a religion_n strike_v they_o both_o with_o fear_n and_o shame_n 4._o the_o benefit_n and_o blessing_n of_o public_a religion_n as_o before_o declare_v come_v down_o upon_o a_o religious_a nationa_n and_o all_o the_o true_o religious_a part_n of_o it_o both_o in_o this_o world_n and_o in_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v according_a to_o the_o strength_n of_o the_o union_n in_o national_a religion_n and_o this_o be_v a_o interest_n far_o great_a than_o that_o of_o trade_n warlike_a defence_n or_o the_o policy_n of_o city_n or_o kingdom_n accurse_a therefore_o be_v that_o irreligion_n or_o disunion_n that_o enfeeble_v it_o he_o that_o live_v without_o god_n in_o the_o world_n as_o to_o the_o worship_n of_o he_o and_o he_o that_o prodigal_o commit_v waste_v upon_o a_o religious_a principle_n be_v worse_a than_o they_o that_o by_o riotous_a live_n or_o idleness_n do_v their_o part_n to_o impoverish_v a_o nation_n he_o that_o upon_o division_n retire_v from_o the_o public_a religion_n without_o necessity_n take_v his_o interest_n out_o of_o the_o national_a bank_n or_o bottom_n or_o sullen_o let_v it_o lie_v dead_a such_o kind_n of_o partying_n in_o religion_n without_o necessity_n be_v like_o the_o hetaeriae_fw-la or_o cabal_n in_o civil_a government_n consultation_n without_o respect_n to_o the_o public_a and_o so_o the_o great_a damage_n of_o it_o a_o injury_n of_o great_a guilt_n see_v we_o owe_v so_o much_o to_o the_o public_a and_o so_o i_o have_v do_v what_o i_o intend_v in_o the_o argue_v this_o point_n i_o shall_v now_o consider_v what_o may_v be_v object_v to_o it_o as_o a_o occasion_n further_o to_o explain_v this_o whole_a doctrine_n and_o the_o great_a objection_n i_o can_v conceive_v in_o prejudice_n of_o what_o i_o have_v assert_v concern_v national_a religion_n i_o reduce_v to_o these_o follow_v obj._n 1_o when_o god_n give_v the_o great_a instance_n and_o pattern_n of_o national_a religion_n especial_o as_o in_o a_o national_a church_n how_o much_o otherwise_o do_v he_o find_v it_o than_o be_v possible_a to_o be_v derive_v from_o our_o saviour_n institution_n he_o begin_v it_o in_o a_o holy_a root_n that_o sprout_v out_o and_o grow_v and_o flourish_v into_o a_o nation_n holy_a to_o god_n by_o his_o appointment_n they_o meet_v together_o at_o jerusalem_n in_o the_o solemn_a feast_n and_o sacrifice_n as_o public_a ordinance_n the_o priest_n and_o more_o especial_o the_o high-priest_n be_v in_o most_o authorirative_a deputation_n from_o god_n between_o he_o and_o that_o peculiar_a people_n that_o they_o may_v unite_v all_o as_o in_o one._n the_o temple_n altar_n and_o holy_a of_o holies_n be_v as_o the_o common_a centre_n of_o all_o the_o public_a worship_n and_o a_o great_a sin_n it_o be_v to_o have_v multiply_v any_o of_o these_o and_o so_o to_o have_v make_v a_o division_n they_o have_v prophet_n who_o be_v their_o extraordinary_a national_a minister_n their_o office_n and_o sermon_n close_o relate_v to_o the_o general_a state_n last_o their_o civil_a magistrate_n be_v under_o the_o strict_a obligation_n to_o attemper_v their_o government_n and_o administration_n to_o the_o religious_a law_n give_v by_o god_n to_o that_o people_n beside_o all_o this_o they_o have_v the_o levite_n disperse_v through_o their_o city_n and_o village_n to_o teach_v and_o instruct_v in_o the_o synagogue_n the_o place_n wherein_o they_o assemble_v for_o constant_a exercise_n of_o religion_n but_o now_o what_o a_o silence_n be_v there_o of_o all_o these_o thing_n or_o any_o thing_n like_o they_o with_o relation_n to_o nation_n in_o our_o lord_n appointment_n his_o apostle_n call_v man_n out_o of_o judaisme_n or_o heathenism_n the_o then_o religion_n of_o nation_n into_o private_a and_o particular_a assembly_n call_v church_n under_o pastor_n particular_a to_o they_o without_o any_o rule_n for_o christian_a magistrate_n or_o expectation_n of_o service_n from_o they_o which_o argue_v he_o do_v not_o intend_v national_a church_n or_o if_o he_o do_v by_o the_o prophet_n signify_v any_o such_o it_o be_v not_o intend_v they_o shall_v be_v in_o this_o dark_a and_o cloudy_a state_n wherein_o antichristianism_n have_v so_o prevail_v it_o be_v reserve_v for_o some_o more_o glorious_a state_n of_o the_o church_n some_o more_o eminent_a appearance_n of_o christ_n wherein_o such_o prophecy_n be_v to_o be_v fulfil_v 2._o hence_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v the_o only_a instance_n we_o have_v in_o scripture_n of_o christian_a society_n the_o discourse_n of_o they_o the_o rule_n in_o relation_n to_o they_o be_v all_o fit_v to_o private_a and_o particular_a congregation_n and_o where_o there_o be_v any_o such_o speak_v of_o they_o be_v call_v church_n or_o congregation_n so_o that_o there_o be_v no_o association_n in_o christian_a religion_n mention_v but_o under_o the_o name_n of_o a_o church_n to_o signify_v christian_n religious_a society_n and_o church_n be_v all_o one_o so_o that_o there_o can_v be_v no_o national_a christian_n religion_n without_o a_o national_a church_n but_o there_o be_v no_o rule_n either_o of_o a_o national_a christian_n religion_n in_o the_o new_a testament_n or_o a_o national_a church_n 3._o a_o national_a church_n or_o a_o national_a religion_n must_v depend_v upon_o a_o national_a magistracy_n the_o church_n must_v be_v gather_v in_o they_o the_o religion_n establish_v by_o they_o subject_a to_o their_o law_n and_o penal_a statute_n and_o beyond_o this_o those_o that_o can_v be_v every_o way_n compliant_a with_o the_o whole_a national_a scheme_n be_v look_v upon_o as_o enemy_n to_o or_o disturber_n of_o the_o peace_n and_o government_n of_o the_o nation_n because_o the_o government_n and_o the_o religion_n be_v incorporate_a together_o whereas_o the_o law_n and_o religion_n and_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v all_o in_o he_o and_o depend_v upon_o he_o only_o how_o far_o be_v this_o from_o a_o national_a church_n to_o give_v first_o a_o answer_n to_o these_o objection_n together_o the_o argument_n already_o mention_v do_v mighty_o prevail_v with_o i_o that_o it_o be_v impossible_a christianity_n shall_v by_o any_o of_o its_o influence_n so_o much_o as_o suspend_v so_o absolute_a a_o natural_a duty_n upon_o mankind_n as_o this_o viz._n to_o consecrate_v national_a association_n to_o god_n in_o national_a religion_n but_o that_o it_o be_v always_o the_o duty_n of_o christian_a magistrate_n and_o people_n to_o unite_v in_o national_a christian_n religion_n or_o that_o the_o redeemer_n of_o mankind_n shall_v cut_v off_o so_o great_a a_o privilege_n of_o nation_n as_o that_o to_o entitle_v themselves_o national_o to_o god_n and_o his_o favour_n and_o blessing_n and_o to_o make_v profession_n of_o the_o wise_a and_o only_a true_a religion_n in_o the_o world_n or_o that_o the_o very_a proper_a and_o natural_a glory_n of_o christianity_n to_o make_v disciple_n of_o all_o nation_n may_v not_o at_o all_o time_n be_v endeavour_v by_o every_o particular_a nation_n however_o the_o prophecy_n may_v be_v more_o literal_o fulfil_v hereafter_o in_o the_o purity_n and_o universality_n
of_o christian_a religion_n this_o be_v premise_v i_o come_v more_o particular_o to_o give_v answer_n 1._o many_o of_o these_o thing_n that_o be_v name_v as_o find_v in_o the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n as_o a_o national_a church_n be_v not_o yet_o the_o essential_o of_o a_o church_n as_o national_a in_o general_a but_o of_o that_o particular_a national_a church_n and_o typical_a of_o thing_n under_o the_o gospel_n as_o be_v plain_a in_o the_o exposition_n of_o they_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n and_o more_o particular_o that_o excellent_a epistle_n to_o the_o hebrew_n the_o temple_n the_o high_a priest_n the_o holy_a of_o holies_n the_o altar_n the_o sacrifice_n the_o solemn_a feast_n with_o such_o like_a serve_v only_o as_o shadow_n of_o thing_n to_o come_v and_o the_o want_n of_o they_o argue_v nothing_o against_o national_a religion_n 2._o those_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o typical_a or_o who_o main_a and_o sole_a intention_n be_v not_o to_o adorn_v and_o complete_a that_o whole_a frame_n but_o rest_v upon_o universal_a principle_n of_o reason_n truth_n and_o duty_n can_v never_o be_v abrogate_a but_o be_v for_o our_o learning_n that_o we_o through_o patience_n and_o comfort_n of_o the_o scripture_n may_v have_v national_a hope_v in_o god_n and_o be_v oblige_v in_o our_o duty_n even_o as_o they_o be_v thus_o the_o duty_n of_o magistrate_n and_o people_n towards_o true_a religion_n of_o public_a instruction_n of_o public_a minister_n of_o religion_n of_o care_n for_o place_n of_o meeting_n for_o divine_a worship_n throughout_o a_o nation_n continue_v still_o and_o need_v no_o new_a command_n in_o the_o gospel_n 3._o as_o to_o the_o first_o plant_n of_o church_n by_o draw_v christian_n into_o particular_a private_a society_n it_o amount_v but_o to_o thus_o much_o that_o christ_n the_o lord_n of_o tâ—e_v church_n do_v not_o find_v his_o church_n universal_a as_o necessary_o diffuse_v itself_o into_o nation_n nor_o can_v it_o in_o reason_n be_v so_o for_o see_v it_o be_v in_o divine_a providence_n for_o great_a and_o weighty_a reason_n of_o which_o it_o be_v not_o proper_a now_o to_o speak_v intend_a and_o order_v that_o hundred_o of_o year_n shall_v pass_v over_o christianity_n ere_o it_o have_v the_o favour_n and_o protection_n of_o supreme_a christian_a magistrate_n there_o must_v have_v be_v for_o that_o space_n no_o religion_n or_o church_n if_o there_o have_v be_v no_o other_o form_n but_o national_a the_o church_n of_o christ_n therefore_o though_o it_o be_v in_o those_o day_n within_o nation_n city_n town_n and_o village_n yet_o of_o low_a stature_n in_o comparison_n of_o national_a religion_n till_o the_o reign_n of_o christian_a emperor_n considerable_a indeed_o in_o itself_o and_o its_o diffusion_n through_o so_o much_o of_o the_o world_n but_o not_o acknowledge_v by_o law_n or_o government_n till_o long_o after_o its_o first_o entrance_n and_o at_o all_o time_n upon_o the_o change_n of_o a_o christian_a magistracy_n into_o a_o pagan_a a_o apostate_n a_o heretical_a or_o idolatrous_a succession_n or_o the_o complex_fw-la of_o all_o antichristianism_n which_o early_o invade_v the_o church_n and_o even_o cover_v and_o obscure_v it_o in_o succession_n of_o time_n the_o church_n of_o necessity_n must_v fall_v back_o into_o such_o a_o low_a state_n and_o subsist_v upon_o its_o obedience_n to_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n and_o its_o own_o prudential_a accommodation_n to_o the_o state_n of_o time_n without_o the_o magistrate_n care_v and_o protection_n our_o saviour_n therefore_o take_v care_n of_o the_o catholic_n church_n which_o be_v of_o absolute_a divine_a institution_n which_o be_v found_v in_o that_o promise_n the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o it_o to_o which_o belong_v primary_o all_o the_o great_a and_o glorious_a expression_n of_o scripture_n to_o which_o be_v give_v original_o pastor_n and_o teacher_n to_o propagate_v promote_v build_v up_o and_o strengthen_v it_o and_o shall_v by_o virtue_n of_o christ_n ascension_n far_o above_o all_o heaven_n be_v certain_o continue_v to_o it_o till_o we_o all_o come_v to_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n to_o a_o perfect_a man_n to_o the_o full_a measure_n and_o stature_n of_o christ_n in_o all_o his_o member_n all_o other_o society_n of_o christian_n be_v but_o little_a image_n and_o representation_n of_o this_o in_o these_o its_o excellency_n and_o the_o more_o they_o participate_v of_o it_o the_o more_o true_o be_v they_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n but_o because_o this_o be_v too_o diffuse_v for_o one_o model_n for_o one_o frame_n to_o comprehend_v there_o be_v therefore_o allowance_n give_v by_o christ_n for_o lesser_a association_n of_o this_o catholic_n church_n from_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o thing_n and_o because_o of_o the_o discountenance_n of_o nation_n and_o worldly_a power_n at_o first_o and_o since_o upon_o true_a christianity_n our_o saviour_n therefore_o matth._n 15._o 18_o etc._n etc._n express_o fix_v the_o promise_n of_o his_o divine_a presence_n in_o the_o small_a part_n of_o this_o church_n where_o but_o two_o or_o three_o be_v gather_v together_o in_o his_o name_n he_o have_v assure_v he_o will_v be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o so_o that_o it_o be_v hence_o evident_a the_o whole_a neighbour_a discourse_n centre_n in_o the_o least_o assembly_n agree_v in_o christian_a religion_n for_o though_o it_o suppose_v first_o a_o great_a number_n the_o church_n and_o two_o or_o three_o witness_n be_v contradistinguish_v yet_o as_o it_o be_v in_o prospect_n of_o the_o great_a fewness_n upon_o some_o exigency_n of_o christian_n practise_v the_o duty_n of_o christianity_n together_o it_o bring_v down_o the_o promise_n of_o audience_n in_o their_o appeal_n to_o heaven_n and_o presence_n with_o their_o whole_a worship_n and_o service_n to_o the_o small_a number_n not_o by_o way_n of_o limitation_n to_o but_o encouragement_n of_o so_o small_a a_o number_n and_o it_o be_v very_o observable_a the_o very_a same_o declaration_n of_o christ_n to_o the_o apostle_n who_o soever_o sin_n you_o remit_v or_o bind_v by_o the_o true_a doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n shall_v stand_v good_a in_o heaven_n the_o very_a same_o be_v say_v here_o to_o the_o small_a society_n of_o christian_n as_o to_o their_o judgement_n and_o determination_n upon_o their_o own_o member_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n concern_v the_o offence_n that_o fall_v out_o among_o themselves_o have_v the_o same_o doctrine_n to_o proceed_v he_o commit_v to_o they_o even_o as_o to_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o church_n be_v pillar_n and_o rock_n of_o truth_n even_o as_o the_o most_o excellent_a minister_n and_o either_o or_o all_o be_v no_o more_o but_o praecones_fw-la each_o in_o their_o kind_n or_o publisher_n of_o the_o will_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o truth_n declare_v in_o his_o word_n in_o the_o virtue_n of_o their_o be_v part_n of_o the_o catholic_n church_n now_o the_o reason_n why_o our_o saviour_n pitch_v upon_o so_o small_a a_o number_n of_o christian_n agree_v be_v certain_o this_o because_o he_o will_v appoint_v no_o other_o form_n to_o his_o church_n than_o such_o as_o can_v live_v as_o can_v subsist_v under_o any_o civil_a government_n whatever_o whether_o friendly_a or_o unfriendly_a to_o it_o he_o give_v it_o no_o other_o shape_n but_o what_o it_o may_v attain_v and_o keep_v under_o any_o state_n of_o civil_a law_n under_o any_o enmity_n it_o meet_v with_o in_o the_o world_n and_o this_o be_v most_o necessary_a because_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v not_o confine_v to_o one_o nation_n as_o the_o jewish_a be_v who_o god_n in_o a_o peculiar_a manner_n single_v out_o and_o manage_v to_o the_o state_n of_o a_o kingdom_n and_o nation_n by_o a_o mighty_a power_n and_o outstretch_v arm_n and_o conserve_v by_o the_o same_o rule_v it_o with_o a_o immediate_a sensible_a presence_n after_o he_o have_v form_v it_o by_o precise_a law_n and_o settle_v the_o just_a bound_n of_o all_o officer_n in_o their_o office_n and_o appoint_v they_o the_o place_n of_o the_o exercise_n of_o it_o whereas_o the_o christian_a doctrine_n be_v indifferent_a to_o every_o nation_n under_o heaven_n it_o do_v as_o it_o make_v its_o progress_n convert_v certain_a number_n to_o itself_o at_o first_o which_o have_v no_o privilege_n of_o humane_a law_n or_o power_n but_o the_o edge_n of_o all_o turn_v against_o it_o so_o that_o the_o form_n of_o church_n be_v compose_v to_o all_o the_o vicissitude_n of_o providence_n they_o be_v to_o undergo_v and_o that_o in_o all_o reason_n must_v be_v in_o case_n of_o necessity_n the_o very_a lest_o of_o society_n of_o christian_n two_o or_o two_o or_o three_o as_o our_o saviour_n significant_o point_v upon_o small_a society_n for_o such_o be_v most_o fit_v to_o the_o worst_a of_o condition_n that_o can_v befall_v lesser_a and_o single_a body_n move_v every_o way_n
and_o shift_v for_o the_o gain_v opportunity_n for_o the_o assemble_v themselves_o and_o preserve_v their_o relation_n one_o to_o another_o in_o the_o discharge_n of_o mutual_a duty_n much_o more_o easy_o than_o any_o great_a association_n can_v for_o our_o saviour_n intend_v all_o for_o use_n not_o for_o form_n he_o mind_v not_o nominal_a titular_a bishop_n and_o church_n thus_o far_o i_o have_v plead_v the_o appointment_n of_o christ_n that_o the_o small_a number_n of_o christian_n may_v agree_v and_o associate_v and_o be_v assure_v of_o his_o presence_n but_o now_o that_o this_o appointment_n be_v in_o bar_n of_o great_a society_n of_o christian_n be_v by_o no_o mean_n to_o be_v grant_v for_o it_o be_v most_o apparent_a our_o saviour_n design_v all_o thing_n under_o the_o gosplel_n shall_v be_v restore_v to_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n and_o the_o true_a reason_n of_o thing_n now_o according_a to_o that_o the_o first_o end_n of_o all_o society_n be_v the_o enjoyment_n of_o true_a religion_n in_o more_o than_o solitude_n this_o desire_n of_o enjoy_v true_a religion_n in_o society_n extend_v itself_o from_o the_o least_o of_o society_n to_o the_o great_a that_o be_v not_o too_o great_a for_o the_o end_n of_o society_n our_o saviour_n therefore_o as_o he_o give_v no_o frame_n of_o positive_a law_n or_o worship_n no_o pedagogy_n of_o precept_n so_o no_o institution_n of_o bound_v church_n but_o that_o in_o case_n of_o strait_n and_o exigency_n his_o true_a religion_n may_v be_v administer_v in_o the_o very_o small_a of_o society_n with_o confidence_n of_o his_o favour_n and_o presence_n when_o it_o have_v freedom_n it_o may_v enlarge_v itself_o further_o and_o further_o and_o if_o it_o have_v favour_n of_o nation_n and_o government_n ascend_v to_o the_o great_a yet_o with_o this_o reserve_n that_o if_o in_o any_o time_n or_o place_n national_a christianity_n vary_v from_o the_o true_a original_a christianity_n as_o often_o it_o have_v be_v sound_a to_o do_v so_o that_o it_o can_v even_o in_o substantial_a thing_n be_v consent_v in_o with_o a_o pure_a conscience_n privater_a congregation_n even_o to_o the_o most_o particular_a be_v always_o ready_a for_o christian_n to_o retire_v into_o for_o so_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n allow_v where_o the_o public_a be_v not_o safe_a and_o yet_o when_o the_o whole_a be_v not_o corrupt_v nor_o liberty_n of_o join_v without_o commixture_n with_o those_o corruption_n deny_v there_o may_v yet_o be_v there_o ought_v to_o be_v no_o separation_n thus_o the_o great_a society_n be_v not_o in_o bar_n of_o the_o least_o when_o true_a religion_n require_v they_o thus_o the_o least_o be_v not_o in_o bar_n of_o the_o great_a when_o christianity_n be_v at_o full_a freedom_n for_o it_o be_v close_o ally_v with_o that_o wisdom_n whereby_o king_n ought_v to_o reign_v and_o prince_n to_o decree_v justice_n by_o which_o prince_n 16._o prov._n 8._o 15_o 16._o ought_v to_o rule_v and_o noble_n yea_o all_o the_o judge_n of_o the_o earth_n with_o that_o wisdom_n which_o rejoice_v in_o the_o habitable_a part_n of_o the_o earth_n and_o have_v its_o delight_n with_o the_o son_n of_o man_n i_o have_v therefore_o before_o observe_v that_o christian_a religion_n at_o the_o very_a first_o join_v itself_o as_o near_o as_o it_o can_v to_o all_o humane_a society_n make_v ready_a to_o it_o as_o family_n village_n region_n and_o so_o far_o as_o the_o rage_n of_o persecution_n will_v permit_v christian_a society_n unite_a themselves_o unto_o distant_a and_o national_a correspondency_n among_o themselves_o now_o it_o have_v be_v so_o unhappy_a indeed_o with_o the_o world_n that_o in_o few_o instance_n there_o have_v be_v a_o good_a state_n of_o national_a religion_n to_o yield_v a_o full_a conscientious_a compliance_n with_o yet_o this_o will_v no_o more_o argue_v against_o the_o thing_n itself_o than_o it_o do_v against_o any_o other_o of_o the_o wise_a and_o good_a ordination_n of_o god_n or_o against_o the_o jewish_a church_n so_o immediate_o govern_v by_o god_n and_o yet_o so_o often_o and_o so_o notorious_o corrupt_v in_o judah_n and_o more_o general_o in_o the_o ten_o tribe_n and_o yet_o to_o show_v how_o to_o the_o very_a utmost_a without_o follow_v a_o multitude_n to_o do_v evil_a we_o ought_v to_o join_v with_o any_o that_o be_v good_a in_o a_o nation_n and_o with_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v good_a in_o national_a religion_n when_o elijah_n have_v as_o it_o be_v desert_v his_o place_n and_o the_o good_a influence_n his_o be_v in_o public_a may_v have_v have_v and_o that_o god_n find_v he_o alone_o he_o do_v by_o way_n of_o reproof_n ask_v he_o what_o he_o do_v alone_o in_o 9_o 1_o king_n 19_o 9_o the_o wilderness_n and_o inform_v he_o of_o a_o great_a number_n that_o have_v not_o bow_v to_o baal_n than_o he_o know_v of_o with_o who_o he_o may_v join_v himself_o if_o corruption_n will_v argue_v against_o any_o good_a appointment_n or_o ordination_n of_o god_n it_o will_v argue_v against_o church_n of_o the_o very_a first_o form_n or_o constitution_n those_o church_n in_o the_o revelation_n who_o corruption_n be_v severe_o tax_v and_o threaten_v yet_o be_v without_o any_o censure_n as_o to_o their_o constitution_n and_o while_o separation_n from_o those_o church_n be_v not_o so_o much_o as_o intimate_v yet_o a_o separation_n from_o impurity_n be_v high_o commend_v and_o promise_a reward_n those_o name_n 4._o rev._n 3._o 4._o in_o sardis_n that_o have_v not_o defile_v their_o garment_n be_v assure_v they_o shall_v walk_v with_o christ_n in_o white_a for_o he_o judge_v they_o worthy_a from_o whence_o i_o conclude_v no_o form_n of_o church_n can_v recommend_v thing_n disagree_v from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n how_o true_o form_v soever_o those_o church_n be_v for_o church_n be_v constitute_v for_o join_v in_o those_o thing_n that_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o will_n of_o christ_n not_o in_o those_o that_o be_v not_o and_o yet_o separation_n from_o corruption_n do_v not_o necessitate_v separation_n from_o church_n while_o there_o be_v any_o part_n of_o divine_a truth_n and_o worship_n preserve_v pure_a to_o unite_v in_o so_o great_a be_v the_o obligation_n that_o lie_v upon_o all_o sincere_o religious_a to_o make_v true_a religion_n as_o public_a as_o they_o can_v in_o the_o several_a society_n that_o be_v find_v to_o engraft_v it_o upon_o now_o that_o every_o society_n that_o be_v the_o feat_n of_o true_a christian_a religion_n be_v in_o the_o language_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n a_o church_n i_o allow_v and_o therefore_o will_v brief_o inquire_v into_o the_o scripture-notion_n of_o a_o church_n and_o i_o find_v the_o original_a word_n take_v out_o of_o the_o septuagint_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n which_o translate_v the_o hebrew_n kahal_n by_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o our_o translator_n in_o the_o old_a testament_n as_o general_o render_v congregation_n although_o in_o the_o new_a testament_n what_o be_v in_o the_o quotation_n out_o of_o the_o old_a testament_n in_o the_o greek_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d they_o render_v church_n so_o that_o from_o the_o whole_a it_o be_v very_o plain_a as_o the_o universal_a or_o national_a assembly_n of_o the_o people_n of_o israel_n be_v call_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d or_o the_o church_n as_o by_o st._n stephen_n act_v 7._o 38._o where_o he_o speak_v of_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o the_o israelite_n in_o the_o wilderness_n so_o the_o universal_a assembly_n of_o christian_n consider_v as_o in_o the_o catholic_n church_n be_v call_v by_o our_o saviour_n and_o the_o apostle_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d that_o be_v the_o congregation_n by_o way_n of_o eminency_n as_o holy_a record_n be_v the_o scripture_n or_o write_n and_o the_o volume_n of_o scripture_n the_o bible_n or_o book_n as_o the_o glad_a tiding_n of_o christ_n be_v the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d the_o evangil_n or_o gospel_n so_o the_o church_n be_v the_o congregation_n and_o as_o lesser_a congregation_n of_o that_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n that_o do_v not_o comprehend_v the_o whole_a body_n be_v call_v the_o congregation_n or_o church_n even_o so_o lesser_a society_n of_o christian_n be_v call_v the_o congregation_n or_o church_n in_o allusion_n to_o which_o our_o saviour_n say_v if_o two_o or_o three_o be_v importance_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d a_o word_n of_o like_a importance_n gather_v together_o in_o my_o name_n i_o will_v be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o so_o that_o the_o universal_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d of_o christian_n see_v only_o together_o by_o god_n and_o particular_a assembly_n of_o christian_n that_o meet_v together_o under_o each_o other_o eye_n be_v in_o the_o phrase_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n church_n even_o as_o the_o whole_a assembly_n of_o the_o israelite_n in_o the_o wilderness_n when_o they_o be_v all_o under_o
one_o view_n be_v by_o st._n stephen_n as_o i_o observe_v call_v the_o church_n and_o the_o congregation_n after_o they_o be_v become_v a_o nation_n though_o they_o can_v not_o all_o then_o meet_v together_o be_v call_v the_o church_n also_o because_o they_o be_v all_o under_o one_o law_n and_o institution_n all_o partaker_n of_o the_o same_o right_n and_o privilege_n and_o so_o indeed_o all_o particular_a church_n of_o christian_n be_v but_o the_o catholic_n church_n in_o lesser_a association_n as_o the_o circumference_n of_o heaven_n be_v the_o same_o though_o in_o so_o many_o different_a orison_n as_o light_n be_v the_o same_o though_o various_o model_v by_o its_o several_a reception_n as_o the_o ocean_n be_v one_o by_o how_o many_o several_a denomination_n soever_o it_o be_v distinguish_v from_o the_o shore_n it_o wash_v or_o the_o channel_n or_o other_o situation_n it_o rest_v in_o so_o this_o church_n be_v often_o speak_v of_o as_o one_o church_n and_o as_o several_a church_n as_o the_o sea_n be_v one_o and_o several_a sea_n they_o be_v so_o much_o every_o way_n the_o same_o as_o to_o differ_v only_o in_o the_o universality_n but_o whether_o a_o nation_n unite_v in_o christianity_n may_v be_v call_v a_o national_a church_n have_v many_o dissent_v of_o opinion_n appertain_v to_o it_o and_o not_o possible_a to_o be_v decide_v by_o express_a scripture_n there_o be_v no_o christian_a nation_n under_o heaven_n in_o those_o day_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n wherein_o it_o be_v write_v i_o shall_v leave_v whole_o in_o the_o middle_n and_o only_o observe_v two_o thing_n concern_v this_o controversy_n 1._o that_o there_o can_v no_o great_a matter_n accrue_v to_o either_o side_n of_o it_o by_o decide_v for_o or_o against_o a_o national_a church_n for_o allow_v a_o national_a church_n or_o if_o you_o will_v a_o congregational_a church_n agree_v in_o any_o thing_n not_o agree_v with_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n or_o if_o either_o of_o they_o want_v any_o thing_n necessary_a to_o our_o obedience_n to_o all_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o first_o of_o these_o case_n christian_n may_v and_o aught_o to_o retire_v from_o the_o irregularity_n of_o any_o such_o church_n either_o national_a or_o congregational_a that_o they_o may_v be_v pure_a from_o corruption_n in_o the_o second_o case_n christian_n must_v find_v out_o the_o way_n and_o opportunity_n so_o far_o as_o be_v possible_a whereby_o they_o may_v perform_v all_o the_o duty_n command_v by_o christ_n though_o they_o separate_v from_o either_o of_o those_o church_n no_o further_o than_o to_o those_o end_n but_o if_o there_o be_v a_o corruption_n in_o the_o main_n or_o a_o defect_n in_o the_o vital_n of_o the_o doctrine_n or_o worship_n of_o christ_n in_o either_o notion_n or_o church_n that_o will_v not_o be_v upon_o due_a remonstrance_n reform_v then_o if_o according_a to_o the_o institution_n of_o christ_n christian_n gather_v into_o assembly_n though_o lesser_a though_o but_o of_o two_o or_o three_o they_o be_v assure_v of_o the_o presence_n of_o christ_n and_o no_o inconvenience_n of_o rend_v the_o body_n of_o christ_n or_o make_v division_n in_o his_o church_n shall_v condemn_v they_o for_o the_o society_n desert_v be_v not_o his_o church_n but_o the_o society_n that_o do_v desert_n be_v his_o church_n suppose_v it_o retire_v sincere_o in_o obedience_n to_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n on_o the_o other_o side_n suppose_v a_o national_a church_n not_o of_o the_o ordination_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o gospel_n as_o under_o that_o name_n or_o notion_n yet_o if_o that_o stand_v good_a which_o i_o have_v endeavour_v to_o demonstrate_v that_o every_o nation_n to_o which_o the_o gospel_n be_v preach_v be_v bind_v by_o the_o law_n of_o god_n establish_v in_o nature_n and_o by_o the_o law_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n in_o his_o word_n to_o plant_v true_a christian_a religion_n upon_o its_o national_a union_n it_o will_v be_v still_o every_o christian_n duty_n to_o join_v in_o unite_z himself_z with_o encourage_v and_o promote_v all_o that_o true_a national_a christian_n religion_n and_o not_o to_o separate_v from_o it_o any_o further_a than_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n oblige_v he_o that_o he_o may_v yield_v obedience_n to_o all_o those_o law_n for_o it_o be_v the_o absolute_a duty_n of_o every_o member_n of_o a_o nation_n to_o seek_v the_o eternal_a salvation_n of_o his_o nation_n in_o his_o sphere_n as_o the_o apostle_n paul_n do_v of_o the_o jew_n in_o so_o high_a a_o orb_n when_o he_o profess_v his_o great_a heaviness_n and_o sorrow_n of_o heart_n even_o to_o the_o wish_v himself_o accurse_v from_o christ_n and_o pray_v with_o his_o heart_n desire_v they_o may_v be_v save_v on_o account_n of_o which_o in_o so_o many_o thing_n he_o become_v to_o the_o jew_n as_o a_o jew_n and_o write_v that_o excellent_a epistle_n to_o the_o hebrew_n it_o be_v for_o that_o very_a reason_n to_o i_o most_o probable_a it_o be_v he_o that_o he_o may_v make_v good_a all_o those_o great_a profession_n of_o love_n to_o they_o for_o though_o it_o be_v peculiar_o direct_v to_o the_o christian_a hebrew_n yet_o it_o have_v a_o aspect_n upon_o the_o whole_a religion_n and_o people_n of_o the_o jew_n as_o the_o scope_n of_o adjust_v all_o the_o mosaic_a and_o jewish_a law_n to_o the_o gospel-mediation_n make_v plain_a and_o so_o be_v in_o itself_o most_o proper_a for_o the_o conversion_n of_o that_o nation_n as_o a_o nation_n see_v their_o own_a and_o glory_v in_o national_a religion_n true_o understand_v lead_v to_o the_o christian_a religion_n just_o now_o to_o have_v be_v their_o national_a religion_n if_o they_o have_v yield_v obedience_n to_o their_o own_o law_n right_o interpret_v now_o if_o national_a religion_n be_v a_o undoubted_a obligation_n upon_o nation_n and_o the_o member_n of_o nation_n so_o far_o as_o it_o be_v true_a those_o law_n those_o officer_n that_o be_v though_o not_o ordain_v by_o christ_n yet_o not_o contradictory_n to_o his_o ordination_n but_o necessary_a according_a to_o rule_n of_o right_a reason_n to_o the_o establish_v true_a religion_n as_o national_a must_v be_v submit_v to_o also_o upon_o the_o account_n and_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o that_o true_a religion_n as_o national_a but_o if_o national_a religion_n wander_v from_o truth_n that_o fundamental_a liberty_n establish_v by_o scripture_n and_o law_n of_o nature_n must_v be_v always_o preserve_v that_o i_o before_o assert_v as_o give_v right_o to_o retire_v from_o all_o society_n not_o unite_v in_o truth_n according_a to_o the_o degree_n of_o their_o defection_n from_o it_o but_o for_o the_o further_o justify_v national_a true_a religion_n i_o will_v in_o the_o next_o place_n observe_v from_o scripture_n the_o uses_n and_o great_a end_n of_o church_n and_o see_v how_o far_o national_a religion_n may_v be_v accommodate_v to_o they_o for_o church_n be_v not_o therefore_o appoint_v that_o man_n may_v arbitrary_o and_o fanciful_o choose_v which_o or_o what_o sort_n they_o will_v be_v of_o but_o that_o the_o true_a reason_n and_o purpose_n of_o they_o may_v be_v observe_v and_o comply_v with_o and_o they_o be_v these_o three_o 1._o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o generation_n of_o man_n in_o the_o world_n in_o the_o same_o faith_n and_o worship_n of_o god_n in_o jesus_n christ_n according_a to_o the_o scripture_n however_o disperse_v at_o whatever_o distance_n soever_o remote_a yet_o unite_v in_o the_o same_o doctrine_n prayer_n preach_v praise_v god_n in_o the_o sacrament_n and_o if_o opportunity_n allow_v and_o invite_v it_o in_o the_o same_o actual_a worship_n and_o at_o all_o time_n close_o compact_v in_o a_o virtual_a and_o mystical_a communion_n with_o one_o another_o the_o same_o spirit_n run_v through_o all_o unite_n all_o to_o christ_n and_o god_n and_o one_o with_o another_o join_v in_o the_o same_o love_n and_o sympathy_n of_o joy_n in_o the_o prosperity_n and_o of_o sorrow_n in_o the_o affliction_n and_o suffering_n one_o of_o another_o and_o with_o all_o readiness_n in_o yield_v the_o fruit_n of_o mutual_a charity_n mercy_n and_o compassion_n from_o one_o end_n of_o the_o earth_n to_o the_o other_o every_o true_a christian_a be_v the_o compassionate_a samaritan_n to_o every_o other_o christian_a and_o not_o jewish_o distinguish_v his_o mercy_n to_o his_o own_o sect_n party_n or_o church_n and_o in_o case_n of_o corruption_n and_o defection_n from_o the_o law_n and_o word_n of_o christ_n there_o be_v to_o christian_n a_o mutual_a power_n of_o remonstrate_v against_o those_o corruption_n and_o that_o defection_n by_o argue_v expostulate_v censure_v the_o evil_a of_o they_o yea_o and_o authoritative_a denounce_v the_o judgement_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n upon_o they_o for_o that_o charter_n of_o christ_n to_o the_o true_a preacher_n of_o the_o gospel_n to_o the_o true_a church_n stand_v good_a as_o to_o age_n so_o to_o
whether_o a_o strict_a conformity_n upon_o reason_n in_o government_n best_a understand_v by_o governor_n themselves_o or_o a_o compassionate_a indulgence_n most_o acceptable_a to_o christianity_n rule_v 3_o they_o that_o without_o the_o violation_n of_o the_o true_a and_o substantial_a rule_n of_o religion_n can_v most_o see_v and_o use_v their_o liberty_n in_o these_o thing_n and_o thereby_o become_v instrument_n of_o the_o great_a public_a good_a be_v most_o acceptable_a to_o god_n they_o that_o do_v not_o tithe_n the_o mint_n and_o cummin_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n in_o national_a religion_n and_o worship_n with_o great_a noise_n and_o zeal_n for_o that_o be_v the_o great_a injury_n can_v be_v do_v to_o it_o but_o take_v they_o so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v instrument_n of_o peace_n and_o use_v they_o in_o their_o own_o indifferency_n for_o the_o great_a service_n to_o the_o public_a they_o that_o insist_v with_o any_o stress_n upon_o main_a thing_n only_o be_v most_o earnest_a in_o turn_v many_o to_o righteousness_n these_o be_v they_o that_o shall_v shine_v as_o star_n in_o the_o nation_n firmament_n if_o not_o now_o assure_o in_o eternity_n they_o that_o take_v advantage_n of_o the_o national_a profession_n to_o call_v sinner_n to_o repentance_n cause_v great_a joy_n in_o heaven_n than_o they_o that_o only_o think_v to_o secure_v themselves_o with_o the_o pure_a society_n sure_a in_o this_o case_n god_n choose_v mercy_n in_o seek_v and_o save_v they_o that_o be_v lose_v rather_o than_o sacrifice_v alone_o by_o ourselves_o without_o regard_n to_o such_o christ_n choose_v rather_o to_o converse_v with_o publican_n and_o sinner_n than_o what_o look_v lâ—ke_v pure_a society_n because_o he_o come_v to_o call_v not_o the_o righteous_a but_o sinner_n to_o repentance_n for_o the_o case_n be_v much_o different_a between_o the_o scandalous_a of_o the_o jewish_a national_a church_n with_o which_o our_o saviour_n converse_v and_o so_o of_o every_o national_a church_n from_o the_o church_n gather_v new_o from_o among_o the_o heathen_a of_o who_o the_o apostle_n speak_v though_o even_o among_o they_o we_o read_v of_o no_o separation_n from_o religious_a duty_n but_o only_o from_o private_a converse_n among_o those_o that_o be_v scandalous_a till_o they_o be_v as_o public_o disow_v as_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v by_o church_n censure_n but_o on_o the_o other_o side_n they_o be_v least_o in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n and_o the_o national_a religion_n whether_o ruler_n or_o people_n that_o dispirit_n religion_n by_o a_o immoderate_a heat_n for_o mere_a form_n that_o be_v so_o warm_o concern_v for_o indifferency_n to_o give_v reason_n to_o suspect_v they_o be_v a_o principal_a part_n in_o their_o esteem_n of_o their_o own_o or_o the_o national_a religion_n whereas_o such_o thing_n so_o far_o as_o they_o may_v be_v any_o way_n contributory_a to_o good_a be_v best_a observe_v with_o great_a silence_n and_o least_o cry_n be_v rather_o to_o be_v first_o so_o far_o prepare_v to_o acceptance_n and_o use_n that_o there_o may_v be_v no_o noise_n of_o axe_n hammer_n or_o tool_n of_o force_n or_o compulsion_n about_o they_o rule_n 4._o in_o all_o religious_a duty_n and_o the_o management_n or_o administration_n of_o they_o there_o be_v different_a excellency_n like_o the_o psalm_n of_o degree_n or_o those_o part_n of_o a_o psalm_n honour_v with_o the_o note_n of_o elevation_n there_o will_v and_o may_v be_v different_a key_n of_o affection_n according_a to_o the_o differ_a hand_n play_v upon_o we_o the_o people_n hang_v upon_o christ_n to_o hear_v the_o word_n of_o god_n for_o he_o tauâ—ht_v they_o with_o authority_n and_o not_o as_o the_o scribe_n yet_o they_o be_v â—â—â—nd_v by_o christ_n to_o hear_v the_o scribe_n even_o thus_o in_o the_o national_a 〈◊〉_d and_o administration_n we_o may_v undoubted_o more_o warm_o adhere_v to_o and_o pursue_v the_o thing_n that_o be_v more_o excellent_a and_o with_o a_o light_a touch_n pass_v over_o thing_n of_o less_o moment_n though_o in_o all_o we_o mind_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o peace_n of_o national_a religion_n for_o union_n in_o national_a religion_n must_v be_v primary_o and_o chief_o in_o thing_n true_o call_v religion_n and_o in_o lesser_a thing_n with_o a_o regard_n to_o peace_n only_o david_n be_v otherwise_o affect_v in_o praise_n than_o in_o sacrifice_v a_o bullock_n with_o horn_n and_o hoof_n see_v as_o he_o say_v it_o please_v god_n more_o yet_o in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n he_o do_v both_o the_o apostle_n be_v otherwise_o affect_v in_o the_o preach_a of_o christ_n than_o when_o he_o become_v as_o a_o jew_n to_o the_o jew_n yet_o he_o do_v the_o latter_a religious_o too_o the_o high_a and_o close_o the_o ministry_n of_o divine_a truth_n and_o service_n be_v the_o great_a and_o close_o the_o adherence_n of_o the_o soul_n ought_v to_o be_v some_o thing_n we_o ought_v to_o do_v with_o our_o might_n and_o only_o not_o to_o leave_v other_o undo_v rule_n 5._o we_o ought_v to_o have_v a_o steady_a and_o certain_a gage_n within_o ourselves_o of_o what_o our_o lord_n have_v provide_v for_o the_o preserve_v the_o truth_n of_o religion_n to_o we_o and_o what_o care_n he_o have_v take_v so_o far_o as_o be_v possible_a with_o the_o conservation_n of_o that_o truth_n to_o give_v we_o all_o advantage_n for_o publickness_n in_o religion_n as_o to_o the_o truth_n of_o religion_n these_o three_o provision_n will_v secure_v it_o 1._o that_o no_o man_n be_v so_o much_o bind_v to_o any_o church_n communion_n nation_n or_o government_n as_o to_o the_o true_a religion_n which_o be_v the_o first_o and_o absolute_a necessary_a nor_o shall_v his_o withdraw_n from_o any_o of_o they_o in_o thing_n impure_a and_o offensive_a to_o god_n be_v charge_v upon_o he_o as_o sin_n or_o schism_n all_o the_o put_v out_o of_o synagogue_n cast_v out_o name_n or_o excommunication_n signify_v not_o any_o thing_n where_o god_n and_o christ_n be_v in_o communion_n and_o where_o those_o on_o who_o they_o fall_v be_v of_o the_o general_a assembly_n and_o church_n of_o the_o first_o bear_v of_o that_o true_o catholic_n church_n which_o be_v the_o only_a necessary_a church_n to_o be_v of_o that_o we_o may_v be_v save_v 2._o the_o private_a assembly_n yea_o even_o single_a soul_n so_o retire_v that_o they_o may_v worship_n god_n according_a to_o his_o word_n have_v the_o promise_n that_o god_n and_o christ_n will_v make_v their_o abode_n with_o they_o come_v and_o sup_v with_o they_o and_o they_o with_o he_o and_o they_o shall_v be_v write_v in_o the_o write_n of_o god_n people_n the_o catholic_n church_n be_v always_o provide_v for_o they_o that_o they_o may_v not_o be_v out_o of_o the_o best_a society_n under_o heaven_n the_o apostle_n encourage_v the_o hebrew_n christian_n that_o may_v think_v themselves_o divide_v from_o the_o jew_n that_o have_v be_v the_o only_a church_n of_o god_n by_o assure_v they_o the_o gospel_n bring_v they_o into_o a_o great_a church_n than_o that_o viz._n the_o general_n assembly_n and_o church_n of_o the_o first-born_a write_v in_o heaven_n this_o honour_n have_v all_o the_o saint_n of_o christ_n 3._o all_o the_o evil_n that_o can_v be_v endure_v upon_o account_n of_o christ_n and_o obedience_n to_o he_o will_v be_v abundant_o recompense_v by_o the_o save_n of_o the_o soul_n and_o that_o better_a and_o true_a life_n that_o argument_n of_o our_o saviour_n he_o that_o lose_v his_o life_n save_v it_o and_o he_o that_o save_v it_o lose_v it_o and_o what_o shall_v it_o profit_v a_o man_n if_o he_o gain_v the_o whole_a world_n and_o lose_v his_o own_o soul_n or_o what_o shall_v he_o give_v in_o exchange_n for_o his_o soul_n stand_v always_o impregnable_a that_o a_o man_n shall_v buy_v the_o truth_n and_o not_o sell_v it_o at_o any_o rate_n whatever_o thus_o for_o the_o truth_n of_o religion_n 2._o as_o to_o the_o publickness_n of_o religion_n there_o be_v these_o great_a advantage_n for_o it_o 1._o that_o christian_a religion_n profess_v love_n endeavour_v of_o good_a and_o salvation_n to_o all_o man_n to_o every_o creature_n and_o have_v antiquate_v all_o that_o judaisme_n that_o neglect_v any_o for_o their_o profit_n to_o salvation_n though_o but_o gentile_n 2._o that_o a_o man_n may_v join_v his_o religious_a service_n to_o any_o thing_n true_o good_a in_o natural_a or_o reveal_v religion_n whether_o of_o family_n neighbourhood_n city_n nation_n or_o of_o voluntary_a society_n stop_v there_o and_o keep_v himself_o free_a from_o other_o man_n sin_n so_o that_o the_o evil_a that_o other_o man_n adjoin_v to_o any_o thing_n true_a and_o good_a in_o religion_n be_v protest_v against_o and_o divide_v from_o do_v not_o corrupt_v what_o be_v good_a or_o true_a but_o it_o may_v be_v enjoy_v in_o the_o most_o public_a way_n while_o we_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v with_o the_o
evil_n nor_o find_v it_o so_o mix_v with_o the_o good_a as_o to_o admit_v of_o no_o separation_n and_o what_o be_v want_v in_o the_o public_a worship_n of_o that_o which_o christ_n have_v ordain_v and_o command_v do_v not_o necessitate_v the_o total_a departure_n from_o that_o public_a worship_n when_o the_o very_a institution_n be_v not_o change_v by_o that_o want_n for_o the_o true_a christian_a may_v make_v up_o that_o want_n in_o privater_a duty_n thus_o they_o that_o fear_v the_o lord_n speak_v often_o to_o 16._o mal._n 3._o 16._o one_o another_o without_o separation_n from_o the_o church_n 3._o there_o be_v a_o free_a use_n grant_v by_o christ_n of_o all_o thing_n indifferent_a or_o a_o freedom_n on_o each_o side_n to_o do_v oâ—_n not_o to_o do_v where_o no_o moral_a evil_n adhere_v or_o disobedience_n to_o some_o express_a command_n of_o christ_n attend_v either_o part_n if_o then_o religion_n be_v not_o draw_v out_o of_o those_o necessary_a thing_n wherein_o divine_a wisdom_n goodness_n and_o truth_n have_v place_v it_o and_o tradition_n thereupon_o become_v doctrine_n which_o constant_o carry_v along_o a_o reject_v the_o command_n of_o god_n or_o a_o low_a esteem_n of_o they_o for_o those_o tradition_n sake_n if_o there_o be_v no_o moral_a evil_n or_o indecency_n nor_o that_o a_o too_o great_a cumber_v be_v draw_v upon_o religious_a act_n every_o thing_n be_v by_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n leave_v to_o its_o own_o indifferency_n as_o reason_n invite_v or_o persuade_v on_o either_o side_n to_o the_o do_v or_o not_o do_v all_o which_o set_v man_n free_a from_o a_o jewish_a yoke_n in_o these_o case_n and_o be_v the_o true_a christian_a liberty_n eat_v or_o not_o eat_v keep_v a_o day_n or_o not_o keep_v it_o buy_v in_o a_o market_n and_o go_v to_o a_o feast_n without_o ask_v any_o question_n for_o conscience_n sake_n without_o fear_n of_o the_o danger_n of_o moral_a defilement_n in_o those_o thing_n that_o other_o man_n sin_n defile_v only_o to_o themselves_o if_o we_o keep_v ourselves_o pure_a be_v plain_o the_o liberty_n christ_n have_v publish_v to_o we_o every_o creature_n of_o god_n be_v pure_a and_o not_o to_o be_v reject_v but_o receive_v with_o thanksgiving_n no_o sin_n of_o man_n can_v pollute_v it_o to_o any_o but_o himself_o and_o this_o consideration_n may_v state_n to_o we_o the_o whole_a matter_n that_o relate_v to_o order_n and_o decency_n that_o order_n which_o god_n have_v establish_v in_o nature_n itself_o that_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d and_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d which_o be_v write_v with_o a_o sunbeam_n upon_o thing_n themselves_o be_v out_o of_o all_o dispute_n god_n be_v the_o author_n of_o they_o and_o not_o of_o the_o contrary_a confusion_n or_o indecency_n that_o order_n which_o be_v the_o prudential_a contrivance_n of_o man_n though_o not_o the_o same_o in_o all_o place_n time_n and_o to_o all_o person_n as_o the_o former_a yet_o aught_o to_o be_v cheerful_o comply_v with_o as_o what_o be_v necessary_a to_o a_o national_a union_n in_o and_o administration_n of_o public_a religion_n both_o as_o to_o officer_n and_o thing_n see_v nothing_o can_v be_v settle_v without_o order_n according_o we_o find_v the_o wise_a and_o pious_a governor_n among_o the_o jew_n take_v care_n and_o the_o people_n submit_v to_o such_o ordination_n and_o all_o under_o divine_a approbation_n the_o order_n that_o be_v mere_o of_o humane_a position_n and_o arbitration_n move_v the_o great_a doubt_n stand_v in_o thing_n that_o have_v only_o the_o thin_a pretext_n of_o antiquity_n to_o give_v they_o some_o venerableness_n or_o that_o they_o be_v usage_n already_o in_o be_v or_o that_o they_o add_v the_o imaginary_a decency_n that_o ceremony_n set_v out_o humane_a action_n with_o now_o as_o to_o this_o they_o that_o have_v the_o power_n of_o impose_v be_v equal_o to_o weigh_v the_o value_n of_o religion_n itself_o and_o what_o that_o may_v suffer_v for_o the_o sake_n of_o this_o order_n and_o a_o great_a account_n lie_v upon_o they_o before_o god_n but_o for_o those_o that_o be_v under_o subjection_n i_o add_v further_o as_o to_o this_o sort_n of_o order_n i_o can_v only_o say_v this_o that_o suppose_v it_o no_o way_n turn_v into_o doctrine_n as_o the_o pharisees_n not_o eat_v with_o unwashen_n hand_n but_o declare_v against_o as_o such_o the_o consequence_n of_o observe_v or_o not_o observe_v be_v to_o be_v balance_v and_o so_o the_o practice_n of_o every_o conscientious_a man_n to_o be_v determine_v on_o one_o side_n stand_v the_o freedom_n of_o use_v this_o order_n as_o a_o advantage_n to_o do_v good_a the_o consideration_n of_o the_o peace_n of_o nation_n the_o national_a defence_n make_v more_o unite_v against_o false_a religion_n at_o the_o price_n of_o conformity_n to_o those_o more_o arbitrary_a imposition_n on_o the_o other_o side_n stand_v a_o just_a fear_n for_o the_o purity_n of_o religion_n be_v either_o obscure_a or_o the_o freedom_n of_o it_o encumber_a or_o for_o the_o reputation_n of_o religion_n which_o often_o suffer_v by_o those_o unnecessary_a adherency_n as_o if_o they_o enter_v into_o the_o nature_n of_o religion_n itself_o i_o must_v yet_o allow_v the_o preference_n in_o my_o own_o judgement_n to_o that_o side_n by_o which_o national_a religion_n be_v most_o serve_v but_o with_o the_o full_a persuasion_n that_o god_n receive_v both_o if_o over-bit_a zeal_n on_o either_o side_n be_v not_o offensive_a to_o he_o and_o with_o the_o concession_n that_o national_a religion_n be_v more_o happy_a if_o more_o free_a but_o if_o love_v adjust_a to_o each_o their_o due_a allowance_n the_o service_n of_o both_o will_v be_v find_v with_o great_a acceptance_n in_o the_o common_a national_a religion_n as_o i_o doubt_v not_o their_o hand_n will_v be_v in_o the_o defence_n of_o it_o against_o the_o invasion_n of_o a_o national_a false_a religion_n but_o if_o any_o be_v overrigid_a or_o severe_a on_o either_o part_n they_o may_v receive_v the_o full_a reward_n of_o their_o own_o society_n or_o party_n but_o they_o lessen_v the_o high_a recompense_n of_o do_v the_o most_o public_a good_a the_o strict_a law_n either_o this_o way_n or_o that_o way_n in_o these_o thing_n be_v of_o man_n own_o make_n and_o exact_v so_o from_o they_o only_o they_o have_v their_o reward_n who_o be_v zealous_a beyond_o their_o own_o knowledge_n and_o the_o goodness_n of_o the_o matter_n from_o all_o that_o have_v now_o be_v say_v under_o this_o rule_n i_o collect_v 1._o that_o they_o that_o can_v agree_v to_o the_o public_o encourage_v constitution_n of_o a_o nation_n shall_v yet_o point_v their_o worship_n as_o much_o as_o they_o can_v towards_o it_o they_o shall_v comply_v with_o all_o that_o be_v good_a in_o it_o so_o far_o as_o they_o can_v be_v receive_v without_o launch_v beyond_o their_o judgement_n thus_o christianity_n be_v make_v as_o public_a in_o all_o place_n by_o the_o apostle_n as_o they_o can_v by_o adjoin_v it_o to_o any_o principle_n of_o truth_n or_o to_o the_o natural_a sense_n of_o religion_n they_o find_v any_o where_o st._n paul_n give_v solemn_a thanks_o to_o god_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o all_o that_o sail_v with_o he_o though_o a_o bad_a sort_n of_o man_n thus_o he_o preach_v the_o true_a god_n and_o christ_n at_o atkens_n upon_o their_o inscription_n to_o the_o unknown_a god_n upon_o the_o fundamental_o of_o national_a theology_n upon_o the_o wise_a say_n of_o a_o poet_n of_o their_o own_o he_o think_v it_o best_a to_o acknowledge_v all_o that_o be_v good_a in_o the_o most_o faulty_a state_n of_o religion_n as_o a_o advantage_n to_o convince_v what_o be_v bad_a and_o disagree_v to_o that_o good_a and_o gain_v man_n to_o unite_v with_o that_o whole_a element_n of_o truth_n and_o goodness_n with_o which_o any_o spark_n kindle_v in_o they_o already_o be_v so_o close_o ally_v as_o to_o gain_v they_o to_o the_o whole_a how_o much_o near_o then_o and_o close_o may_v christian_n and_o of_o the_o reform_a christianity_n fall_v in_o one_o with_o another_o if_o we_o value_v what_o we_o agree_v in_o at_o a_o high_a rate_n as_o certain_o we_o ought_v to_o do_v than_o what_o we_o differ_v about_o 2._o the_o way_n to_o make_v national_a religion_n most_o national_a be_v by_o comprehend_v all_o the_o difference_n that_o can_v be_v reconcile_v with_o true_a religion_n while_o they_o that_o dissent_v in_o some_o thing_n receive_v one_o another_o with_o a_o good_a peaceable_a holy_a and_o public_a temper_n of_o mind_n as_o the_o great_a argument_n and_o inducement_n of_o which_o we_o shall_v all_o pray_v for_o the_o acceptance_n of_o the_o holy_a service_n of_o all_o that_o call_v on_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n as_o the_o apostle_n distinguish_v christian_n but_o immediate_o unite_v they_o again_o both_v they_o and_o we_o they_o and_o
we_o whatever_a small_a distinction_n make_v the_o they_o and_o the_o we_o be_v both_o one_o in_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n we_o ought_v therefore_o to_o pray_v for_o the_o common_a benefit_n of_o all_o so_o unite_v though_o not_o bind_v up_o in_o the_o same_o form_n with_o we_o for_o a_o gracious_a audience_n and_o reception_n of_o their_o and_o our_o worship_n of_o god_n that_o so_o the_o spirit_n of_o love_n and_o union_n in_o the_o main_a may_v convey_v all_o our_o service_n into_o one_o before_o god_n where_o indeed_o if_o they_o be_v as_o he_o require_v they_o meet_v strip_v of_o all_o their_o outward_a circumstance_n form_n and_o ceremony_n faith_n and_o obedience_n be_v alone_o able_a to_o mount_v thither_o with_o they_o and_o service_n so_o raise_v can_v by_o no_o mean_n be_v spare_v for_o small_a difference_n in_o a_o national_a religious_a interest_n for_o the_o angel_n of_o all_o such_o behold_v the_o face_n of_o our_o father_n in_o heaven_n if_o darius_n though_o a_o heathen_a prince_n have_v such_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o virtue_n 10_o ezr._n 6._o 10_o of_o that_o true_a religion_n he_o be_v not_o of_o as_o to_o engage_v those_o of_o so_o great_a difference_n from_o he_o in_o their_o sense_n of_o god_n to_o pray_v for_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o king_n and_o his_o son_n how_o much_o more_o shall_v we_o who_o be_v all_o of_o the_o same_o true_a faith_n and_o worship_n and_o know_v the_o force_n and_o energy_n of_o it_o by_o great_a act_n of_o favour_n to_o one_o another_o in_o those_o thing_n wherein_o we_o can_v be_v whole_o one_o yet_o all_o join_v in_o pray_v for_o the_o acceptance_n of_o one_o another_o service_n and_o the_o service_n of_o the_o whole_a nation_n whereof_o we_o be_v not_o only_o civil_a but_o religious_a member_n and_o if_o we_o be_v true_o religious_a shall_v be_v so_o account_v with_o god_n yet_o with_o the_o abatement_n of_o our_o sinful_a difference_n and_o division_n how_o shall_v we_o therefore_o unite_v that_o we_o may_v lose_v none_o of_o the_o thing_n that_o we_o have_v wrought_v but_o may_v receive_v a_o full_a reward_n rule_n 6._o it_o be_v the_o happiness_n of_o our_o nation_n that_o if_o any_o man_n truâ—y_o understand_v consider_v and_o pronounce_v of_o our_o national_a religion_n it_o stand_v in_o the_o scripture_n make_v we_o wise_a to_o salvation_n in_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n repentance_n love_n of_o god_n fear_v of_o the_o divine_a majesty_n all_o act_n of_o justice_n love_n mercy_n compassion_n true_a sincere_a preach_v the_o whole_a word_n of_o god_n prayer_n use_v of_o sacrament_n the_o lordsday_n religious_a discourse_n &_o conference_n catechetical_a instruction_n and_o education_n of_o youth_n in_o the_o knowledge_n of_o religion_n restraint_n of_o atheism_n irreligion_n intemperance_n and_o sensuality_n general_o and_o throughout_o the_o nation_n compulsion_n of_o the_o very_o worst_a of_o man_n to_o acknowledge_v a_o deity_n and_o his_o worship_n for_o what_o be_v hypocrisy_n in_o they_o may_v turn_v to_o the_o salvation_n of_o good_a man_n these_o be_v the_o thing_n i_o say_v again_o that_o be_v true_o our_o national_a religion_n all_o thing_n pertain_v to_o order_n decency_n outward_a form_n or_o mode_n be_v but_o the_o vehicle_n the_o conveyance_n of_o that_o true_a religion_n if_o the_o main_a end_n of_o which_o be_v obtain_v viz._n that_o these_o religious_a act_n be_v perform_v but_o with_o that_o peace_n and_o freedom_n from_o confusion_n confusion_n destructive_a of_o all_o public_a action_n and_o with_o that_o honourableness_n that_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o state_n of_o every_o nation_n and_o this_o nation_n particular_o in_o the_o simplicity_n of_o religious_a worship_n it_o be_v enough_o and_o whatever_o on_o these_o account_n be_v command_v in_o our_o national_a religion_n i_o free_o own_o and_o acknowledge_v as_o reconcilable_a with_o these_o character_n forbear_v such_o who_o though_o agree_v in_o all_o main_a thing_n upon_o sincere_a endeavour_n to_o understand_v they_o so_o can_v acquiesce_v in_o they_o as_o so_o who_o deserve_v compassion_n these_o thing_n ought_v to_o be_v no_o partition-wall_n in_o our_o national_a worship_v of_o god_n one_o with_o another_o nor_o can_v they_o without_o great_a rigour_n and_o censor_n ousness_n very_o evil_a in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n be_v condemn_v in_o those_o who_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o substantial_a national_a religion_n the_o publickness_n and_o more_o universal_a benefit_n of_o it_o wherein_o they_o be_v most_o true_o zealous_a pay_v obedience_n to_o the_o rule_n of_o they_o rule_n 7._o let_v we_o all_o strive_v labour_n preach_v hear_v and_o pray_v and_o even_o suffer_v in_o the_o reformation_n of_o ourselves_o and_o endeavour_n to_o reform_v all_o other_o according_a to_o the_o most_o excellent_a rule_n of_o our_o most_o holy_a religion_n profess_v in_o this_o kingdom_n as_o our_o national_a religion_n that_o it_o may_v be_v find_v to_o praise_n honour_n and_o glory_n at_o the_o appear_v of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o be_v think_v worthy_a to_o stand_v before_o the_o son_n of_o man_n at_o his_o come_n before_o who_o nothing_o but_o the_o gold_n and_o precious_a stone_n of_o substantial_a truth_n and_o goodness_n can_v stand_v all_o else_o will_v be_v burn_v off_o as_o hay_o and_o chaff_n by_o the_o fire_n of_o that_o day_n and_o they_o that_o have_v be_v hot_a and_o contentious_a for_o they_o be_v save_v only_o as_o by_o fire_n with_o difficulty_n and_o loss_n and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n that_o our_o union_n and_o love_n in_o the_o true_a religion_n may_v be_v to_o we_o a_o assurance_n of_o the_o divine_a favour_n and_o presence_n of_o his_o protection_n and_o blessing_n that_o neither_o our_o candlestick_n may_v be_v remove_v nor_o our_o nation_n the_o present_a place_n of_o it_o be_v take_v away_o for_o general_o both_o be_v remove_v one_o with_o the_o other_o or_o soon_o after_o one_o another_o rule_n 8._o let_v no_o man_n be_v discourage_v from_o the_o most_o zealous_a affectionate_a join_v himself_o to_o and_o promote_a national_a religion_n because_o oâ—_n that_o veneration_n due_a to_o the_o name_n of_o the_o church_n and_o church_n according_a to_o the_o scripture_n for_o a_o nation_n unite_v in_o true_a christian_a religion_n differ_v no_o more_o in_o the_o strict_a notion_n from_o a_o church_n than_o a_o body_n of_o man_n unite_v and_o consecrate_v to_o god_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n differ_v from_o a_o society_n unite_v and_o consecrate_v to_o god_n according_a to_o a_o institution_n that_o be_v no_o more_o than_o a_o institution_n plant_v in_o nature_n differ_v from_o a_o institution_n give_v by_o revelation_n for_o one_o be_v the_o appointment_n of_o god_n of_o old_a from_o the_o very_a foundation_n of_o humane_a society_n the_o other_o after_o the_o fall_n of_o nature_n and_o the_o inability_n of_o it_o to_o its_o end_n a_o institution_n therefore_o do_v not_o repeal_v a_o natural_a law_n but_o take_v care_n it_o shall_v be_v fulfil_v and_o complete_v in_o its_o chief_a end_n israel_n be_v a_o church_n to_o god_n be_v so_o devote_v to_o he_o by_o his_o own_o institution_n and_o it_o be_v a_o holy_a nation_n according_a to_o the_o original_a 6._o exod._n 19_o 6._o law_n be_v elevate_v by_o the_o institution_n to_o its_o true_a perfection_n as_o a_o nation_n the_o christian_n to_o who_o the_o apostle_n peter_n write_v as_o they_o be_v a_o church_n according_a to_o the_o institution_n of_o christ_n so_o they_o be_v a_o holy_a nation_n as_o he_o style_v they_o succeed_v into_o the_o place_n of_o that_o whole_a jewish_a nation_n consecrate_a to_o god_n by_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n upon_o nation_n though_o but_o stranger_n scatter_v abroad_o yet_o to_o show_v the_o 1â—_n 1_o pet._n 1._o 1â—_n great_a value_n god_n have_v of_o a_o nation_n devote_v to_o he_o they_o be_v style_v a_o holy_a nation_n the_o institution_n of_o the_o catholic_n church_n as_o the_o seat_n 9_o 1_o pet._n 2._o 9_o of_o the_o true_a religion_n of_o jesus_n christ_n make_v a_o nation_n unite_v in_o that_o true_a religion_n both_o a_o church_n as_o that_o catholic_n church_n have_v thereby_o a_o residence_n in_o it_o and_o much_o more_o than_o those_o forementioned_a scatter_a jew_n a_o holy_a nation_n as_o it_o be_v national_o resign_v up_o to_o god_n in_o the_o true_a religion_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n make_v perfect_a by_o the_o institution_n where_o then_o a_o nation_n be_v unite_v in_o the_o truth_n of_o christian_a doctrine_n the_o purity_n of_o divine_a worship_n the_o holy_a rule_n of_o practice_n the_o catholic_n love_n of_o all_o christian_n baptise_a into_o the_o same_o body_n make_v to_o drink_v into_o that_o one_o spirit_n in_o pastor_n and_o teacher_n minister_a the_o same_o gospel_n the_o apostle_n infallible_o deliver_v and_o seal_v with_o miracle_n all_o
which_o be_v mark_n of_o segregation_n from_o false_a church_n or_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n false_o so_o call_v here_o be_v the_o catholic_n church_n in_o a_o nation_n according_a to_o the_o institution_n and_o here_o be_v the_o holy_a nation_n according_a to_o both_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n and_o the_o institution_n so_o again_o where_o a_o nation_n bring_v home_o religion_n into_o the_o most_o particular_a national_a district_v or_o division_n as_o near_o as_o may_v be_v according_a to_o the_o institution_n of_o christ_n for_o particular_a church_n here_o be_v a_o nation_n of_o church_n which_o in_o regard_n they_o all_o consent_n in_o one_o national_a union_n be_v without_o any_o impropriety_n style_v a_o national_a church_n and_o every_o such_o society_n be_v both_o a_o holy_a society_n according_a to_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n devote_v to_o god_n and_o a_o church-society_n according_a to_o the_o institution_n direct_v and_o perfect_v that_o law_n of_o nature_n now_o the_o institution_n of_o particular_a church_n by_o christ_n i_o understand_v to_o be_v that_o where_o he_o say_v if_o two_o or_o three_o agree_v and_o be_v gather_v or_o enchurch_v in_o my_o name_n i_o will_v be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o wherein_o he_o do_v not_o only_o encourage_v the_o small_a number_n in_o case_n of_o exigency_n or_o necessity_n but_o couch_v some_o rule_n whereby_o much_o great_a number_n whether_o of_o christian_n in_o separation_n from_o civil_a society_n or_o unite_v according_a to_o they_o be_v to_o be_v form_v as_o first_o in_o all_o except_v the_o universality_n that_o be_v essential_a to_o the_o catholic_n church_n which_o be_v the_o church_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o which_o each_o particular_a must_v therefore_o partake_v that_o it_o may_v be_v a_o church_n 2._o in_o a_o number_n proportionable_a to_o edification_n in_o all_o the_o duty_n and_o ordinance_n of_o christian_a religion_n 3._o in_o the_o humility_n modesty_n and_o unaspiringness_n of_o christianity_n for_o he_o that_o institute_v his_o church_n in_o such_o small_a number_n and_o those_o not_o force_v but_o agree_v project_v nothing_o by_o that_o institution_n for_o domination_n or_o grandieur_fw-fr 4._o in_o the_o simplicity_n and_o plainness_n christian_n religion_n profess_v for_o church_n institute_v in_o such_o a_o paucity_n of_o member_n be_v never_o design_v to_o be_v court_n of_o forensick_a business_n nor_o capable_a of_o subordinate_v themselves_o so_o as_o that_o their_o member_n shall_v be_v fatigue_v with_o long_a and_o tedious_a suit_n and_o appeal_n remove_v from_o one_o part_n to_o another_o worse_o than_o go_v to_o law_n before_o unbeliever_n as_o the_o romish_a tyranny_n have_v contrive_v whereas_o our_o saviour_n method_n for_o complaint_n and_o admonition_n in_o case_n of_o scandal_n for_o reconciliation_n in_o case_n of_o repentance_n or_o severe_a discipline_n in_o case_n of_o obstinacy_n be_v natural_a easy_a and_o speedy_a as_o be_v plain_a to_o any_o observer_n 5._o christian_n church_n allow_v in_o two_o or_o three_o show_v the_o care_n of_o christ_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o proportion_n betwixt_o the_o strength_n and_o gift_n of_o his_o ordinary_a minister_n since_o the_o cessation_n of_o the_o apostolic_a measure_n and_o their_o charge_n and_o trust_v for_o our_o lord_n will_v not_o by_o his_o institution_n give_v any_o reason_n to_o moses_n his_o complaint_n i_o be_o not_o able_a to_o bear_v this_o great_a people_n thus_o be_v our_o saviour_n institution_n of_o particular_a church_n and_o though_o it_o do_v not_o lay_v any_o absolute_a interdict_v upon_o the_o true_o prudential_a though_o additional_a constitution_n either_o of_o nation_n or_o other_o humane_a society_n proceed_v according_a to_o the_o general_a maxim_n upon_o which_o society_n strengthen_v themselves_o yet_o with_o this_o caution_n that_o what_o be_v so_o do_v may_v not_o enact_v any_o thing_n by_o which_o the_o main_a and_o great_a end_n of_o this_o institution_n shall_v be_v defeat_v however_o that_o the_o institution_n shall_v never_o be_v plead_v but_o stand_v free_a from_o the_o error_n man_n fall_v too_o often_o into_o in_o pursuit_n of_o the_o maxim_n forenamed_a whereby_o they_o will_v aggrandise_v society_n in_o religious_a thing_n or_o make_v it_o comport_v with_o civil_a state_n but_o that_o his_o institution_n shall_v be_v a_o stand_a rule_n first_o to_o avoid_v they_o after_o to_o discover_v and_o reform_v they_o or_o if_o they_o grow_v extreme_a and_o not_o to_o be_v reduce_v as_o in_o popery_n to_o warrant_v a_o withdraw_n from_o they_o but_o to_o apply_v all_o this_o to_o our_o purpose_n if_o the_o main_a end_n of_o the_o catholic_n and_o particular_a church_n institute_v by_o our_o lord_n and_o saviour_n be_v obtain_v there_o be_v no_o encounter_n but_o a_o most_o happy_a agreement_n between_o the_o natural_a law_n of_o national_a religion_n and_o the_o institution_n of_o church_n which_o as_o i_o before_o assert_v be_v not_o to_o be_v draw_v into_o a_o desert_n or_o wilderness_n or_o shut_v up_o in_o cell_n and_o cloister_n or_o confine_v to_o one_o point_n of_o the_o world_n as_o the_o donatist_n will_v have_v have_v the_o true_a church_n but_o be_v to_o be_v fix_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o universe_n of_o nation_n and_o city_n as_o the_o very_a place_n of_o the_o candlestick_n or_o church_n from_o which_o in_o just_a indignation_n to_o those_o place_n when_o unworthy_a of_o they_o they_o be_v remove_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o business_n trade_n and_o conversation_n of_o the_o world_n as_o be_v apparent_a by_o the_o church_n we_o read_v of_o in_o the_o scripture_n let_v then_o true_a religion_n as_o christianity_n contend_v and_o will_v at_o last_o in_o much_o high_a degree_n overcome_v be_v as_o wide_a as_o the_o universe_n let_v the_o kingdom_n of_o the_o world_n become_v the_o kingdom_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o his_o christ_n and_o the_o universal_a church_n will_v be_v as_o wide_a bring_v it_o into_o particular_a society_n and_o particular_a church_n will_v be_v as_o many_o as_o numerous_a as_o they_o a_o church-state_n be_v indeed_o a_o state_n of_o separation_n the_o church-catholick_n be_v a_o separation_n from_o the_o universe_n because_o there_o be_v fall_v angel_n unholy_a and_o unhappy_a because_o there_o be_v a_o multitude_n of_o mankind_n in_o the_o same_o state_n but_o this_o be_v only_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o the_o happiness_n consequent_a upon_o it_o that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o separation_n and_o this_o the_o very_a law_n of_o nature_n agree_v in_o thus_o particular_a church_n whenever_o they_o be_v a_o separation_n from_o particular_a society_n it_o be_v for_o the_o sake_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o its_o due_a administration_n restore_v that_o and_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n and_o the_o institution_n become_v both_o one_o then_o a_o nation_n and_o a_o national_a church_n coalesce_v into_o one_o then_o civil_a society_n in_o particular_a and_o particular_a church_n grow_v into_o one_o and_o god_n be_v please_v to_o dwell_v in_o they_o and_o with_o great_a delight_n because_o all_o his_o institution_n natural_a and_o reveal_v unite_v in_o one_o i_o have_v only_o one_o caution_n to_o add_v that_o the_o state_n of_o thing_n hither_o to_o in_o the_o world_n be_v far_o from_o perfection_n that_o whethersoever_o we_o look_v we_o can_v find_v it_o so_o that_o to_o be_v remove_v from_o one_o thing_n to_o another_o in_o hope_n of_o it_o be_v perpetual_o to_o give_v ourselves_o to_o change_v except_o thing_n be_v no_o way_n tolerable_a but_o the_o very_a substance_n rule_n and_o principle_n be_v corrupt_v and_o that_o there_o be_v no_o art_n of_o retirement_n and_o withdraw_v from_o they_o leave_v we_o shall_v consider_v how_o the_o pious_a jew_n and_o israelite_n how_o our_o saviour_n and_o the_o apostle_n how_o the_o undefiled_a name_n in_o sardis_n manage_v themselves_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o great_a corruption_n what_o retreat_v from_o the_o evil_n and_o yet_o join_v in_o all_o that_o be_v good_a be_v visible_a in_o their_o practice_n what_o kind_n of_o division_n the_o good_a and_o approve_a corinthian_n make_v from_o the_o misdemeanour_n 19_o 1_o cor._n 11._o 19_o of_o the_o bad_a without_o forsake_v the_o church_n that_o we_o may_v imitate_v their_o example_n and_o continue_v to_o do_v the_o great_a service_n to_o the_o church_n or_o nation_n we_o be_v member_n of_o neither_o silence_v our_o due_a resentment_n of_o evil_a in_o our_o place_n and_o station_n nor_o rend_v ourselves_o from_o that_o body_n we_o be_v of_o but_o that_o all_o our_o thing_n 14._o 1_o cor._n 16._o 14._o may_v be_v do_v in_o charity_n rule_n 9_o in_o the_o last_o place_n let_v we_o not_o think_v nation_n and_o other_o incorporation_n of_o mankind_n slide_v away_o with_o this_o world_n and_o be_v whole_o lose_v in_o the_o future_a state_n of_o thing_n and_o that_o only_o
every_o man_n shall_v appear_v and_o be_v judge_v single_o by_o himself_o our_o resurrection_n which_o be_v the_o day_n of_o our_o regeneration_n of_o our_o new_a life_n and_o appearance_n in_o body_n will_v present_v we_o not_o only_o single_a but_o in_o our_o state_n of_o community_n wherein_o we_o be_v here_o in_o the_o world_n even_o from_o family_n to_o nation_n that_o we_o may_v receive_v the_o thing_n do_v in_o those_o body_n as_o well_o as_o in_o our_o own_o body_n then_o the_o good_a we_o have_v do_v or_o omit_v to_o do_v and_o the_o evil_a we_o have_v withstand_v or_o be_v the_o occasion_n of_o or_o not_o prevent_v when_o we_o may_v shall_v be_v severe_o account_v for_o by_o each_o in_o their_o station_n each_o magistrate_n shall_v be_v surround_v with_o his_o sphere_n of_o authority_n wherein_o he_o be_v set_v here_o and_o judge_v in_o that_o and_o each_o minister_n of_o religion_n justify_v or_o condemn_v in_o that_o very_a orb_n wherein_o he_o be_v fix_v as_o a_o star_n and_o the_o several_a magnitude_n of_o both_o magistrate_n and_o minister_n will_v then_o be_v dreadful_a to_o they_o however_o they_o have_v covet_v and_o be_v ambitious_a of_o they_o here_o if_o they_o have_v not_o enlighten_v their_o whole_a space_n because_o their_o judgement_n will_v be_v great_a even_o every_o man_n shall_v be_v judge_v by_o his_o service_n to_o the_o public_a in_o his_o place_n and_o station_n how_o private_a soever_o if_o it_o have_v never_o so_o little_o exceed_v his_o single_a capacity_n and_o who_o in_o his_o reason_n can_v think_v god_n will_v then_o account_v with_o man_n for_o mint_n and_o cummin_n small_a and_o disputable_a thing_n howsoever_o zealous_a or_o rather_o fond_a of_o they_o they_o have_v be_v in_o themselves_o and_o earnest_n with_o other_o concern_v they_o those_o thing_n that_o have_v true_o centre_v in_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o the_o salvation_n of_o man_n soul_n in_o faith_n repentance_n and_o a_o holy_a life_n in_o love_n and_o peace_n will_v be_v of_o the_o only_a moment_n at_o that_o tribunal_n this_o therefore_o shall_v be_v the_o most_o powerful_a persuasive_a upon_o we_o to_o do_v all_o the_o good_a herein_o we_o can_v in_o that_o community_n wherein_o we_o be_v fix_v according_a to_o our_o talon_n though_o but_o a_o single_a one_o much_o more_o if_o our_o talent_n have_v be_v two_o or_o five_o that_o we_o may_v in_o that_o day_n of_o recompense_n enter_v into_o the_o joy_n of_o our_o lord_n the_o end_n the_o woe_n of_o scandal_n or_o scandal_n in_o its_o general_n nature_n and_o effect_n discourse_v as_o one_o strong_a argument_n against_o imposition_n in_o religious_a thing_n acknowledge_v to_o be_v indifferent_a london_n print_v for_o tho._n parkhurst_n at_o the_o bible_n and_o three_o crown_n at_o the_o low_a end_n of_o cheapside_n 1682._o the_o preface_n to_o the_o reader_n that_o which_o i_o will_v endeavour_v in_o preparation_n to_o the_o follow_a discourse_n be_v to_o present_v my_o design_n and_o method_n in_o state_v the_o nature_n of_o scandal_n that_o it_o may_v be_v more_o intelligible_a by_o be_v see_v first_o as_o in_o a_o landscape_n in_o this_o entry_n and_o then_o to_o add_v some_o consideration_n of_o great_a strength_n to_o each_o part_n of_o that_o undertake_n that_o have_v since_o arrive_v to_o my_o thought_n as_o to_o the_o method_n i_o must_v in_o my_o own_o defence_n say_v that_o i_o have_v to_o do_v with_o a_o subject_a in_o which_o so_o much_o of_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o sin_n be_v treasure_v up_o of_o so_o movable_a a_o consideration_n as_o scripture_n from_o its_o own_o various_a shape_n offer_v it_o to_o we_o that_o it_o can_v easy_o be_v know_v or_o trace_v i_o hope_v therefore_o it_o will_v be_v allow_v as_o some_o part_n of_o a_o apology_n that_o the_o thread_n of_o my_o treat_v concern_v it_o do_v not_o run_v so_o even_o and_o straight_o along_o as_o it_o ought_v further_o i_o must_v take_v sanctuary_n at_o the_o reader_n be_v candour_n for_o the_o acceptance_n of_o my_o sincere_a intention_n and_o any_o degree_n of_o performance_n in_o so_o difficult_a a_o task_n i_o confess_v the_o want_n of_o the_o most_o advantageous_a art_n of_o method_n and_o a_o clear_a unperplexed_a style_n yet_o that_o i_o may_v take_v the_o true_a measure_n of_o so_o multiform_a and_o vague_v a_o notion_n 1._o i_o have_v take_v hold_v of_o it_o in_o the_o most_o strict_a and_o precise_a description_n i_o can_v frame_v as_o it_o be_v applicable_a to_o all_o case_n of_o sin_n therein_o rest_v especial_o upon_o those_o word_n scripture_n use_v to_o convey_v the_o sentiment_n of_o it_o to_o we_o thus_o scandal_n be_v that_o by_o which_o we_o be_v draw_v into_o any_o sin_n and_o off_o from_o the_o course_n of_o duty_n and_o religious_a action_n and_o so_o entangle_v in_o gild_n disease_n of_o conscience_n and_o endanger_v as_o to_o eternal_a happiness_n under_o a_o pretext_n of_o reason_n or_o religion_n 2._o because_o i_o find_v the_o scripture_n apply_v the_o notion_n of_o scandal_n especial_o when_o some_o of_o the_o grand_a principle_n and_o law_n of_o religion_n be_v violate_v under_o such_o pretext_n i_o have_v consider_v it_o as_o refer_v to_o those_o great_a principle_n by_o such_o sacred_a use_n 3._o because_o there_o be_v a_o very_a peculiar_a and_o most_o remarkable_a use_n of_o it_o in_o the_o case_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n by_o the_o apostle_n when_o they_o be_v turn_v into_o sin_n by_o be_v determine_v upon_o in_o practice_n with_o a_o doubt_a conscience_n beside_o other_o way_n wherein_o be_v use_v amiss_o they_o may_v become_v scandal_n or_o occasion_n of_o it_o i_o have_v therefore_o allow_v a_o very_a peculiar_a head_n of_o discourse_n to_o that_o case_n 4._o because_o by_o deep_o consider_v scandal_n and_o that_o as_o our_o saviour_n pronounce_v scandal_n must_v needs_o come_v i_o find_v there_o must_v be_v some_o primitive_a fundamental_a and_o universal_a scandal_n that_o cover_v the_o whole_a state_n of_o sin_n in_o general_a i_o address_v the_o last_o part_n of_o my_o meditation_n on_o the_o nature_n of_o scandal_n to_o this_o primitive_a universal_a scandal_n and_o last_o i_o resume_v upon_o the_o whole_a a_o representation_n of_o scandal_n adjust_v to_o what_o i_o find_v upon_o each_o of_o those_o forementioned_a inquiry_n after_o it_o and_o herein_o i_o hope_v i_o may_v have_v hang_v up_o light_n to_o discover_v in_o some_o degree_n and_o to_o avoid_v so_o dark_a and_o mysterious_a a_o evil_n as_o scandal_n though_o i_o have_v not_o be_v able_a to_o do_v it_o to_o those_o degree_n i_o desire_v or_o to_o compose_v into_o so_o happy_a a_o order_n or_o so_o perspicuous_a a_o expression_n what_o i_o have_v myself_o clear_a apprehension_n of_o thus_o far_o as_o to_o the_o method_n now_o for_o the_o strengthen_v some_o part_n of_o this_o discourse_n by_o consideration_n that_o have_v arrive_v to_o my_o thought_n since_o i_o have_v set_v a_o end_n to_o the_o treatise_n itself_o they_o have_v arisen_a from_o the_o close_a observation_n of_o the_o contexture_n of_o the_o lord_n sermon_n upon_o scandal_n as_o it_o be_v record_v especial_o in_o this_o 18_o of_o matthew_n and_o mark_v 9_o and_o luke_n 17._o compare_v with_o the_o debate_n of_o the_o apostle_n to_o the_o roman_n and_o the_o corinth_n which_o be_v the_o most_o eminent_a seat_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o scandal_n we_o have_v in_o all_o the_o scripture_n our_o saviour_n therefore_o who_o chief_a business_n into_o the_o world_n be_v his_o recovery_n of_o it_o from_o scandal_n the_o deception_n and_o the_o ruin_n of_o it_o by_o give_v satisfaction_n to_o the_o divine_a glory_n for_o the_o dishonour_n do_v to_o it_o by_o scandal_n have_v bless_v we_o with_o as_o sovereign_a argument_n and_o instruction_n against_o either_o give_n or_o receive_v it_o our_o lord_n have_v so_o embrace_v all_o sort_n and_o degree_n of_o scandal_n within_o this_o sermon_n that_o none_o can_v be_v exempt_v from_o the_o force_n and_o energy_n of_o thosâ—_n his_o argument_n instruction_n or_o severe_a denunciation_n but_o yâ—t_o that_o they_o have_v a_o particular_a poignancy_n against_o scandal_n within_o his_o church_n and_o one_o more_o particular_a kind_n give_v by_o a_o particular_a sort_n of_o man_n and_o direct_v against_o another_o particular_a sort_n of_o man_n will_v be_v most_o evident_a from_o the_o survey_n i_o be_o now_o to_o give_v of_o his_o heavenborn_a discourse_n the_o occasion_n of_o it_o be_v the_o disciple_n come_v solemn_o to_o he_o with_o a_o grand_a quere_z in_o which_o no_o doubt_n their_o ambition_n a_o very_a ignorant_a ambition_n be_v deep_o concern_v who_o say_v they_o be_v the_o great_a in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n that_o be_v as_o be_v general_o understand_v at_o that_o time_n in_o the_o kingdom_n of_o the_o messiah_n the_o lord_n
so_o many_o remarkable_a instance_n his_o little-child-like_a inoffensiveness_n his_o easy_a recession_n from_o his_o just_a right_n for_o the_o gospel_n sake_n his_o inoffensiveness_n and_o desire_n to_o please_v all_o to_o win_v upon_o all_o that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v â—is_n dread_a of_o danger_n lest_o whilst_o he_o preach_v to_o other_o he_o himself_o shall_v become_v a_o castaway_n nor_o ever_o be_v there_o a_o clear_a comment_n upon_o cut_v off_o the_o right_a hand_n and_o foot_n and_o pluck_v out_o the_o right_a eye_n than_o his_o weighty_a admonition_n of_o be_v temperate_a in_o all_o thing_n and_o bring_v the_o body_n into_o subjection_n one_o thing_n more_o i_o can_v but_o yet_o adjoin_v that_o the_o apostle_n be_v so_o wary_a of_o impose_v upon_o any_o one_o in_o indifferent_a thing_n appertain_v to_o religion_n in_o a_o positive_a or_o affirmative_a kind_n of_o observance_n that_o though_o for_o the_o avoid_v scandal_n he_o dehort_v from_o eat_v meat_n or_o drink_v wine_n that_o may_v scandalize_v any_o in_o the_o very_a eye_n of_o their_o doubt_v conscience_n and_o draw_v they_o into_o sin_n yet_o he_o not_o where_o to_o the_o same_o purpose_n of_o avoid_v scandal_n persuade_v to_o the_o esteem_v or_o observe_v a_o day_n to_o the_o lord_n though_o another_o may_v be_v scandalize_v if_o he_o do_v not_o so_o such_o abstinence_n yet_o in_o a_o full_a freedom_n of_o thought_n be_v a_o much_o easy_a performance_n of_o charity_n extend_v only_o to_o meat_n in_o doubt_n under_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o doubt_v mind_n but_o observe_v a_o day_n require_v direct_a act_n of_o devotion_n from_o lay_v the_o obligation_n of_o which_o upon_o any_o man_n the_o apostle_n have_v whole_o withdraw_v his_o hand_n even_o in_o case_n of_o scandal_n and_o only_o preserve_v from_o despisal_n such_o a_o doubt_a christian_a and_o then_o only_o when_o the_o out-date_n of_o the_o divine_a command_n for_o such_o observance_n be_v but_o just_a come_v and_o not_o full_o understand_v pag._n 38._o l._n 25._o what_o therefore_o i_o have_v intimate_v contrary_a to_o this_o account_n i_o retract_v as_o not_o full_o consider_v and_o i_o now_o bow_v my_o knee_n to_o the_o god_n and_o father_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n the_o father_n of_o glory_n that_o he_o will_v inspire_v the_o heart_n of_o civil_a and_o ecclesiastical_a governor_n who_o be_v constitute_v as_o guardian_n angel_n of_o conscience_n against_o scandal_n and_o of_o all_o christian_n in_o general_a that_o out_o of_o his_o kingdom_n throughout_o the_o world_n and_o particular_o in_o this_o nation_n may_v be_v gather_v all_o such_o thing_n that_o offend_v and_o all_o those_o that_o wâ—rk_v iniquity_n on_o account_n of_o them_o the_o woe_n of_o scandal_n matth._n xviii_o 7._o woe_n unto_o the_o world_n because_o of_o offence_n or_o scandal_n for_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v that_o offence_n or_o scandal_n come_v but_o woe_n to_o that_o man_n by_o who_o the_o offence_n or_o scandal_n come_v a_o free_a use_n of_o the_o word_n scandal_n and_o to_o scandalize_v for_o offence_n or_o to_o offend_v can_v need_v no_o apology_n the_o original_a be_v so_o well_o know_v and_o now_o become_v english_a more_o significant_a of_o the_o thing_n intend_v than_o the_o other_o of_o which_o scandal_n our_o saviour_n be_v in_o a_o deep_a and_o intense_a contemplation_n in_o this_o chapter_n and_o of_o the_o state_n of_o thing_n because_o of_o it_o both_o in_o his_o church_n and_o the_o world_n in_o the_o world_n especial_o as_o it_o confine_n upon_o his_o church_n be_v in_o the_o neighbourhood_n of_o it_o and_o view_v of_o what_o be_v do_v in_o it_o or_o indeed_o as_o within_o the_o arm_n of_o it_o by_o a_o profession_n of_o christianity_n though_o a_o unsound_a and_o insincere_a profession_n for_o so_o there_o be_v the_o world_n in_o the_o church_n as_o well_o as_o the_o church_n in_o the_o world_n the_o lord_n turn_v himself_o to_o behold_v and_o observe_v this_o scandal_n how_o it_o discharge_v itself_o on_o all_o side_n with_o woe_n mischief_n and_o ruin_n and_o with_o compassion_n foretell_v and_o warn_v all_o of_o it_o as_o of_o the_o most_o destructive_a way_n of_o sin_v the_o most_o to_o be_v abhor_v kind_n of_o mischief_n and_o ruin_n this_o must_v needs_o make_v every_o think_v christian_n afraid_a of_o scandal_n of_o have_v any_o thing_n to_o do_v with_o it_o either_o in_o give_v or_o receive_v it_o and_o much_o more_o of_o be_v a_o projector_n or_o pusher_n of_o it_o on_o in_o the_o world_n and_o most_o of_o all_o in_o the_o church_n now_o to_o this_o whole_a discourse_n there_o will_v be_v a_o continual_a occasion_n to_o have_v recourse_n in_o this_o treatise_n but_o the_o word_n themselves_o offer_v to_o consideration_n these_o three_o proposition_n 1._o that_o the_o present_a state_n of_o the_o world_n be_v such_o that_o scandal_n must_v needs_o come_v scandal_n be_v very_o press_v and_o crowd_v in_o upon_o the_o world_n in_o regard_n of_o its_o multitude_n its_o name_n be_v legion_n it_o throng_n the_o world_n our_o saviour_n express_v it_o in_o its_o number_n scandal_n in_o regard_n of_o its_o vehemency_n or_o importunity_n it_o must_v needs_o be_v that_o scandal_n come_v it_o thrust_v in_o every_o where_o it_o pervert_v the_o best_a thing_n and_o twine_n about_o they_o it_o play_v in_o thing_n indifferent_a how_o much_o more_o in_o thing_n pure_o evil._n scandal_n come_v it_o come_v as_o a_o eagle_n haste_v to_o the_o prey_n it_o come_v sup_v and_o blast_v as_o a_o east_n wind_n it_o come_v as_o a_o invader_n with_o its_o troop_n and_o the_o world_n how_o willing_a be_v it_o to_o receive_v scandal_n it_o call_v for_o and_o invite_v it_o it_o open_v all_o gate_n and_o door_n to_o it_o it_o even_o surrender_n and_o betray_v itself_o to_o it_o it_o be_v mad_a after_o scandal_n both_o to_o give_v and_o receive_v it_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v then_o that_o scandal_n come_v yet_o the_o world_n lie_v under_o great_a misery_n because_o of_o the_o 2._o propos_fw-fr 2._o multitude_n of_o scandal_n the_o efficacy_n of_o scandal_n upon_o it_o it_o be_v more_o miserable_a in_o regard_n of_o scandal_n than_o mere_o in_o regard_n of_o sin_n for_o when_o the_o lord_n emphatical_o denounce_v a_o woe_n upon_o the_o world_n because_o of_o scandal_n he_o intend_v something_o more_o than_o the_o scripture_n general_o declare_v against_o sin_n and_o sinner_n for_o that_o be_v a_o know_a case_n that_o there_o be_v a_o woe_n upon_o sin_n our_o saviour_n remonstrate_v this_o case_n as_o more_o rare_o and_o yet_o of_o all_o most_o necessary_a to_o be_v understand_v observe_v and_o profound_o consider_v and_o though_o it_o will_v appear_v it_o be_v always_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o scripture_n join_v with_o sin_n yet_o it_o have_v thus_o much_o more_o of_o danger_n in_o it_o than_o that_o mere_o it_o be_v sinful_a it_o be_v sin_n some_o way_n guard_v and_o defend_v against_o divine_a truth_n and_o so_o hold_v its_o good_n more_o in_o peace_n it_o be_v wound_n be_v no_o less_o deadly_a yet_o more_o secret_a and_o unexpected_a and_o therefore_o the_o worst_a sort_n of_o death_n it_o be_v a_o ambush_n of_o death_n in_o the_o sin_n of_o scandal_n most_o eminent_o it_o be_v even_o as_o in_o that_o most_o enchant_v sin_n that_o a_o man_n go_v after_o it_o as_o a_o ox_n to_o the_o slaughter_n and_o as_o a_o fool_n to_o the_o correction_n of_o the_o stock_n till_o a_o dart_n strike_v through_o his_o liver_n as_o a_o bird_n haste_v to_o the_o snare_n and_o know_v not_o that_o it_o be_v for_o its_o life_n scandal_n wipe_v its_o mouth_n when_o it_o destroy_v and_o say_v it_o have_v do_v no_o wickedness_n when_o it_o speak_v fair_a there_o be_v seven_o abomination_n under_o it_o as_o against_o those_o man_n of_o scandal_n the_o pharisee_n so_o against_o scandal_n itself_o have_v the_o most_o merciful_a saviour_n of_o the_o world_n make_v his_o keen_a remark_n there_o be_v still_o however_o guilty_a the_o world_n be_v a_o accumulative_a 3._o propos_fw-fr 3._o woe_n and_o misery_n upon_o that_o man_n by_o who_o the_o scandal_n come_v woe_n to_o the_o world_n but_o woe_n to_o he_o by_o which_o our_o saviour_n do_v not_o yet_o intend_v every_o one_o that_o administer_v scandal_n for_o so_o good_a man_n often_o do_v in_o the_o do_v their_o duty_n even_o himself_o his_o doctrine_n be_v a_o occasion_n of_o stumble_v and_o a_o rock_n of_o offence_n nor_o be_v every_o man_n point_v at_o here_o that_o through_o error_n or_o fall_v into_o sin_n offers_z scandal_n though_o this_o woe_n spread_v far_o in_o some_o degree_n of_o it_o upon_o the_o generality_n of_o mankind_n yea_o upon_o every_o man_n without_o repentance_n see_v all_o man_n one_o way_n or_o other_o guilty_o convey_v scandal_n along_o but_o there_o be_v some_o engineer_n
some_o master_n some_o prime_a minister_n of_o scandal_n that_o as_o the_o son_n of_o perdition_n push_v on_o scandal_n in_o the_o world_n and_o be_v obstinate_o bend_v to_o do_v so_o and_o on_o such_o a_o sort_n of_o man_n our_o saviour_n principal_o fix_v this_o woe_n now_o for_o the_o discourse_v this_o great_a point_n of_o scandal_n upon_o these_o three_o fundamental_a proposition_n i_o shall_v observe_v this_o order_n 1._o i_o will_v endeavour_v to_o settle_v a_o just_a notion_n of_o scandal_n and_o be_v scandalize_v and_o so_o enlarge_v into_o the_o whole_a compass_n of_o scandal_n in_o the_o general_a knowledge_n of_o it_o from_o scripture_n 2._o i_o will_v set_v myself_o to_o a_o pure_a and_o distinct_a consideration_n of_o scandal_n as_o it_o have_v such_o a_o peculiar_a interest_n as_o it_o appear_v to_o have_v in_o those_o debate_n of_o the_o apostle_n concern_v indifferent_a thing_n in_o religion_n in_o his_o epistle_n to_o the_o roman_n cap._n 14._o and_o to_o the_o corinthian_n 1_o ep._n cap._n 8._o and_o 10._o 3._o i_o will_v discourse_v the_o reason_n why_o scandal_n must_v needs_o come_v 4._o the_o world_n woeful_a state_n because_o of_o scandal_n shall_v be_v demonstrate_v 5._o i_o will_v consider_v the_o principal_a author_n of_o scandal_n that_o be_v as_o the_o angel_n of_o satan_n in_o the_o world_n to_o that_o purpose_n 6._o the_o whole_a shall_v be_v in_o the_o last_o place_n apply_v to_o practice_n i_o begin_v with_o the_o notion_n of_o scandal_n which_o be_v a_o metaphorical_a expression_n take_v from_o those_o engine_n that_o be_v contrive_v and_o prepare_v on_o purpose_n for_o a_o surprisal_n into_o mischief_n and_o destruction_n and_o according_o dispose_v covert_o into_o a_o man_n way_n and_o passage_n or_o from_o what_o be_v natural_o useful_o or_o accidental_o and_o careless_o place_v in_o such_o way_n or_o passage_n so_o as_o that_o a_o man_n unaware_o fall_v upon_o it_o as_o either_o gin_n snare_n or_o trap_n or_o sharp_a stake_n or_o stone_n that_o gall_n and_o cut_v man_n foot_n if_o not_o remove_v or_o avoid_v stone_n or_o block_n that_o lie_v in_o the_o path_n they_o be_v to_o walk_v and_o occasion_n their_o stumble_n and_o fall_v oftentimes_o to_o their_o death_n and_o ruin_n and_o always_o to_o their_o inconvenience_n hazard_n and_o danger_n all_o which_o importance_n of_o the_o word_n apply_v to_o the_o several_a purpose_n of_o the_o scripture-use_a in_o their_o propriety_n may_v be_v see_v more_o at_o large_a in_o the_o most_o learned_a dr._n hammond_n discourse_n and_o annotation_n upon_o scandal_n i_o shall_v only_o observe_v out_o of_o the_o old_a testament_n as_o one_o instance_n of_o many_o that_o may_v be_v make_v that_o the_o same_o word_n that_o be_v use_v to_o express_v the_o 〈◊〉_d the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d stumble_a block_n that_o god_n forbid_v to_o put_v before_o the_o blind_a in_o leviticus_n pass_v out_o of_o the_o 14._o levit._fw-la 19_o 14._o litteral_n sense_n there_o into_o the_o moral_a sense_n in_o the_o prophet_n ezekiel_n for_o the_o stumble_a block_n of_o a_o man_n iniquity_n 3._o ezek._n 14._o 3._o zephan_n 1._o 3._o which_o he_o put_v before_o his_o face_n and_o the_o stumble_a block_n with_o the_o wicked_a in_o the_o prophet_n zephany_n other_o the_o like_a translation_n of_o the_o same_o and_o other_o word_n of_o like_a importance_n from_o their_o native_a to_o this_o moral_a intendment_n may_v be_v gather_v together_o but_o that_o this_o one_o so_o plain_o lead_v we_o into_o the_o main_a point_n and_o be_v so_o pregnant_a for_o the_o describe_v scandal_n which_o may_v be_v thus_o represent_v scandal_n be_v a_o prevail_a temptation_n to_o some_o great_a sin_n or_o course_n of_o sin_n cause_v the_o soul_n to_o fall_v before_o it_o or_o catch_v and_o inwrap_v the_o soul_n in_o it_o and_o all_o the_o dreadful_a consequence_n of_o it_o cover_v under_o the_o disguise_n and_o plausible_a pretence_n of_o a_o principle_n of_o reason_n or_o doctrine_n of_o religion_n to_o its_o great_a mischief_n and_o ruin_n if_o not_o recover_v from_o it_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o sincere_a repentance_n 1._o scandal_n be_v thus_o when_o it_o prevail_v when_o it_o succeed_v to_o its_o unhappy_a effect_n of_o scandalize_a for_o a_o scandal_n may_v be_v offer_v and_o not_o take_v our_o saviour_n have_v a_o scandal_n offer_v he_o by_o peter_n his_o own_o apostle_n thou_o be_v a_o scandal_n to_o i_o 23._o matt._n 16._o 22_o 23._o say_v our_o lord_n when_o he_o present_v he_o a_o pretext_n a_o fair_a show_n of_o reason_n against_o suffering_n which_o be_v the_o very_a law_n of_o his_o mediation_n in_o the_o world_n impose_v upon_o he_o by_o god_n the_o suffer_v yet_o of_o so_o innocent_a so_o divine_a and_o excellent_a a_o person_n look_v like_o a_o prodigy_n and_o monstrous_a portent_n to_o the_o apostle_n not_o once_o to_o be_v speak_v or_o think_v of_o be_v it_o far_o from_o thou_o lord_n but_o our_o saviour_n immediate_o discharge_v himself_o of_o it_o in_o that_o severe_a rebuke_n get_v thou_o behind_o i_o satan_n thou_o be_v in_o this_o to_o i_o a_o angel_n of_o satan_n the_o first_o inventor_n the_o supreme_a creator_n of_o scandal_n the_o saint_n and_o servant_n of_o god_n have_v scandal_n continual_o contrive_v into_o their_o path_n but_o god_n withold_v their_o foot_n from_o be_v take_v he_o have_v charge_v himself_o with_o they_o to_o keep_v they_o in_o all_o their_o way_n he_o bear_v they_o up_o in_o his_o hand_n that_o they_o may_v not_o to_o their_o ruin_n dash_v their_o foot_n against_o any_o of_o these_o stone_n scandal_n be_v so_o many_o and_o so_o great_a as_o to_o undo_v if_o it_o be_v possible_a the_o very_a elect_n but_o for_o the_o elect_v sake_n the_o effective_a power_n of_o scandal_n be_v shorten_v 2._o scandal_n be_v a_o temptation_n what_o the_o evangalist_n matthew_n call_v be_v scandalize_v or_o offend_v the_o evangelist_n luke_n 21._o matt._n 13._o 21._o express_v by_o fall_v away_o in_o a_o time_n of_o temptation_n 13._o luk._n 8._o 13._o scandal_n differ_v nothing_o from_o that_o description_n of_o the_o apostle_n james_n every_o man_n be_v tempt_v when_o he_o be_v draw_v 14._o jam._n 1._o 14._o away_o of_o his_o own_o lust_n and_o entice_v then_o lust_n when_o it_o have_v conceive_v bring_v forth_o sin_n and_o sin_n when_o it_o be_v finish_v bring_v forth_o death_n i_o say_v it_o differ_v nothing_o but_o that_o in_o scandal_n the_o temptation_n be_v cover_v lust_n inordinate_a affection_n be_v always_o at_o the_o bottom_n of_o scandal_n all_o scandal_n against_o religion_n or_o any_o of_o the_o truth_n command_n or_o duty_n of_o it_o have_v their_o root_n in_o lust_n and_o sinful_a corruption_n within_o herein_o they_o be_v just_o chargeable_a to_o condemnation_n the_o scandal_n within_o be_v the_o great_a scandal_n he_o that_o have_v a_o impure_a affection_n quench_v into_o the_o love_n of_o the_o law_n of_o god_n have_v nothing_o to_o offend_v or_o scandalize_v 156._o psal_n 119._o 156._o he_o scandal_n find_v no_o place_n in_o he_o he_o that_o love_v his_o brother_n and_o god_n in_o he_o have_v no_o occasion_n of_o scandal_n 10._o 1_o john_n 2._o 10._o in_o he_o but_o scandal_n be_v temptation_n so_o cover_v as_o i_o have_v describe_v and_o therein_o it_o differ_v from_o mere_a temptation_n many_o temptation_n to_o sin_n be_v barefaced_a and_o have_v nothing_o but_o pleasure_n profit_n or_o vainglory_n to_o bait_v the_o hook_n with_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o flesh_n the_o lust_n of_o the_o eye_n the_o pride_n of_o life_n all_o which_o leave_v the_o sin_n naked_a or_o the_o cover_n be_v at_o least_o so_o thin_a that_o conscience_n be_v not_o at_o all_o impose_v upon_o but_o scandal_n have_v the_o seem_o fair_a ☜_o ☜_o recommendation_n of_o a_o principle_n of_o reason_n or_o doctrine_n of_o religion_n how_o false_a soever_o and_o therefore_o though_o in_o a_o free_a way_n of_o speak_v a_o man_n be_v scandalize_v by_o his_o right_a eye_n his_o right_a hand_n his_o right_a foot_n interpret_n they_o of_o his_o lust_n get_v the_o ascendant_n over_o his_o judgement_n and_o conscience_n that_o have_v nothing_o of_o excuse_n but_o that_o he_o in_o who_o it_o dwell_v have_v make_v it_o so_o necessary_a to_o he_o that_o it_o be_v become_v part_n of_o himself_o yet_o speak_v more_o accurate_o and_o according_a to_o the_o general_a course_n of_o holy_a write_n scandal_n be_v temptation_n shadow_v and_o shelter_v there_o be_v some_o screen_n betwixt_o the_o eye_n of_o conscience_n and_o defenceless_a gild_n some_o attire_n of_o virtue_n or_o reason_n about_o the_o sin_n there_o may_v be_v some_o place_n where_o scandal_n may_v be_v very_o near_o signify_v nothing_o but_o temptation_n but_o general_o there_o be_v as_o much_o difference_n as_o between_o david_n fall_n into_o murder_n and_o
reason_n or_o doctrine_n of_o religion_n edify_v or_o embolden_v conscience_n for_o although_o conscience_n be_v make_v for_o the_o divine_a truth_n and_o law_n of_o god_n which_o be_v the_o truth_n and_o not_o for_o scandal_n it_o be_v make_v so_o even_o and_o true_a to_o it_o that_o they_o which_o love_v this_o law_n have_v great_a peace_n and_o nothing_o can_v scandalize_v or_o offend_v they_o that_o be_v either_o seduce_v or_o hurt_v they_o yet_o in_o this_o very_a seat_n in_o this_o very_a throne_n of_o the_o divine_a law_n in_o this_o temple_n of_o god_n in_o this_o place_n of_o the_o holy_a this_o tribunal_n of_o the_o soul_n that_o aught_o to_o be_v the_o sanctuary_n of_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n and_o as_o a_o tabernacle_n of_o testimony_n do_v scandal_n exalt_v itself_o as_o if_o it_o be_v from_o god_n and_o from_o thence_o it_o give_v its_o oracle_n but_o conscience_n thus_o debauch_v and_o prostitute_v bear_v no_o more_o proportion_n to_o true_a conscience_n than_o antichrist_n do_v to_o christ_n and_o be_v therefore_o a_o pseudo-conscience_n a_o anti-conscience_n conscience_n false_o so_o call_v 7._o scandal_n always_o dash_v its_o own_o principle_n of_o deceive_a reason_n and_o false_a doctrine_n upon_o some_o true_a and_o grand_a principle_n of_o reason_n and_o doctrine_n of_o religion_n for_o though_o every_o truth_n of_o god_n be_v great_a yet_o there_o be_v of_o the_o first_o magnitude_n on_o account_n of_o which_o oppose_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n brand_v it_o scandal_n more_o remarkable_o and_o hereupon_o though_o the_o sin_n derive_v from_o scandal_n may_v in_o itself_o seem_v small_a yet_o in_o regard_n of_o some_o stable_a law_n of_o religion_n make_v void_a and_o thereby_o sin_n introduce_v it_o be_v a_o very_a great_a sin_n though_o in_o a_o matter_n of_o its_o own_o nature_n sometime_o indifferent_a now_o it_o can_v be_v otherwise_o but_o scandal_n must_v thus_o dash_v upon_o truth_n because_o as_o i_o have_v say_v it_o herein_o differ_v from_o simple_a temptation_n that_o its_o rest_n be_v upon_o some_o false_a principle_n of_o reason_n or_o doctrine_n of_o religion_n it_o frame_v mischief_n by_o a_o law_n and_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v that_o every_o false_a principle_n and_o doctrine_n must_v rush_v against_o some_o true_a one_o and_o though_o no_o truth_n of_o god_n be_v small_a or_o sin_n little_a and_o scandal_n be_v always_o proportionable_a yet_o the_o wisdom_n of_o scripture_n have_v appropriate_v the_o name_n of_o scandal_n to_o the_o violation_n of_o some_o grand_a principle_n as_o i_o shall_v now_o in_o the_o next_o place_n for_o the_o further_o explain_v of_o scandal_n observe_v those_o pillar_n of_o the_o divine_a truth_n and_o law_n against_o which_o it_o throw_v and_o bruise_n the_o scandalize_v soul_n as_o the_o sacred_a book_n shall_v instruct_v we_o 1._o the_o eternal_a be_v and_o holy_a government_n of_o god_n in_o the_o world_n according_a to_o those_o righteous_a just_a and_o good_a law_n he_o have_v give_v and_o according_a to_o which_o he_o will_v judge_v and_o make_v retribution_n to_o all_o man_n at_o that_o great_a day_n be_v the_o fountain_n and_o most_o fundamental_a principle_n of_o religion_n so_o than_o whatever_o upon_o pretence_n of_o reason_n and_o just_a cause_n undermine_v the_o faith_n abate_v the_o awe_v or_o dispirit_n the_o obedience_n agreeable_a to_o so_o supreme_a a_o standard_n of_o all_o these_o be_v the_o original_a and_o final_a scandal_n here_o all_o scandal_n begin_v in_o the_o decay_n of_o the_o faith_n and_o fear_n of_o god_n and_o hither_o it_o return_v it_o end_v in_o a_o further_a loss_n of_o god_n and_o this_o upon_o offence_n take_v that_o too_o much_o be_v require_v without_o reason_n this_o be_v that_o eternal_a rock_n of_o truth_n at_o which_o whoever_o stumble_v must_v needs_o be_v hurt_v wound_a and_o grieve_v thus_o be_v i_o grieve_v in_o my_o heart_n and_o prick_v in_o my_o reins_o 21._o psal_n 73._o 21._o say_v the_o psalmist_n on_o this_o very_a occasion_n whoever_o fall_v violent_o against_o it_o it_o break_v he_o whoever_o contest_v to_o remove_v it_o and_o burden_n himself_o with_o it_o it_o fall_v upon_o he_o and_o grind_v he_o to_o powder_n and_o yet_o against_o this_o speculative_a and_o practical_a atheism_n have_v in_o all_o age_n harden_v itself_o and_o by_o show_n of_o reason_n and_o high_a spirit_n be_v heave_v and_o peck_v at_o it_o and_o cast_v scandal_n in_o all_o man_n way_n god_n retirement_n as_o they_o fancy_v it_o into_o the_o thick_a cover_n of_o the_o cloud_n and_o the_o pleasure_n of_o 14._o jâ—b_n 21._o 14._o walk_v in_o the_o circuit_n of_o heaven_n and_o not_o come_v down_o in_o visible_a shape_n of_o glory_n and_o power_n have_v give_v to_o ungodly_a man_n the_o boldness_n and_o a_o counterfeit_n of_o argument_n to_o dispute_v against_o his_o be_v and_o government_n i_o say_v a_o counterfeit_n of_o argument_n for_o with_o a_o apparition_n of_o reason_n from_o hence_o and_o a_o insolency_n of_o wickedness_n they_o conjure_v down_o they_o moâ—mo_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o goblin_n of_o conscience_n as_o they_o esteem_v they_o atheism_n have_v always_o speak_v stout_a word_n against_o god_n say_v to_o god_n depart_v from_o we_o we_o desire_v not_o the_o knowledge_n 13._o mal_fw-fr 3._o 13._o of_o thy_o way_n what_o be_v the_o almighty_a that_o we_o shall_v serve_v he_o or_o what_o profit_n be_v it_o if_o we_o shall_v pray_v unto_o he_o 14._o job_n 21._o 14._o it_o have_v of_o old_a lift_v up_o man_n against_o god_n and_o stretch_v out_o their_o hand_n against_o the_o almighty_a so_o that_o they_o have_v run_v upon_o god_n even_o upon_o the_o thick_a boss_n of_o his_o buckler_n to_o mischief_n themselves_o to_o the_o utmost_a in_o the_o very_a day_n of_o job_n there_o be_v this_o counsel_n of_o the_o 18._o job_n 10._o 3._o and_o 21._o 16._o and_o 22._o 18._o wicked_a as_o if_o it_o be_v the_o result_n of_o debate_n and_o serious_a consideration_n in_o a_o senate_n of_o atheist_n as_o if_o they_o have_v make_v the_o experiment_n and_o find_v upon_o proof_n there_o be_v no_o advantage_n in_o serve_v god_n and_o no_o man_n come_v by_o the_o worse_a in_o despise_v he_o it_o be_v not_o the_o invention_n of_o one_o age_n of_o this_o last_o age_n as_o if_o it_o may_v pride_n itself_o in_o find_v it_o out_o scripture_n have_v not_o think_v it_o against_o its_o interest_n to_o record_v the_o strength_n of_o the_o cause_n as_o it_o be_v manage_v of_o old_a in_o those_o elder_a day_n of_o job_n in_o the_o last_o day_n of_o the_o old_a testament_n in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o prophet_n malachi_n but_o overruns_a it_o with_o a_o flood_n of_o truth_n and_o eloquence_n even_o as_o god_n do_v as_o he_o please_v with_o a_o deluge_n of_o wrath._n yet_o present_a impunity_n and_o the_o seem_a confusion_n of_o providence_n in_o the_o prosperity_n of_o the_o ungodly_a and_o the_o afflict_a state_n of_o good_a man_n have_v be_v always_o a_o stumble_a block_n to_o sudden_a and_o short_a consideration_n job_n significant_o call_v it_o god_n shine_v on_o the_o council_n of_o the_o wicked_a as_o if_o it_o 3._o job_n 10._o 3._o give_v it_o a_o lustre_n and_o countenance_n even_o good_a man_n till_o they_o go_v into_o the_o sanctuary_n of_o god_n and_o look_v to_o the_o end_n of_o thing_n have_v find_v it_o a_o scandal_n the_o psalmist_n acknowledge_v his_o foot_n be_v almost_o go_v and_o his_o foot_n well_o 2._o psal_n 73._o 2._o nigh_o slip_v when_o he_o see_v the_o prosperity_n of_o the_o wicked_a and_o water_n of_o a_o full_a cup_n of_o affliction_n wring_v out_o to_o the_o godly_a yet_o upon_o full_a discussion_n of_o the_o case_n he_o confess_v it_o his_o folly_n 22._o ver._n 22._o and_o ignorance_n so_o foolish_a be_v i_o and_o ignorant_a i_o be_v as_o a_o beast_n before_o thou_o the_o wise_a king_n observe_v the_o heart_n of_o 11._o eccles_n 8._o 11._o the_o son_n of_o man_n full_o set_v they_o in_o to_o do_v evil_a because_o sentence_n on_o a_o evil_a work_n be_v not_o speedy_o execute_v god_n by_o his_o patience_n sustain_v and_o make_v wicked_a man_n stand_v 16._o exod._n 9_o 16._o even_o when_o they_o deny_v he_o be_v the_o occasion_n of_o their_o more_o dreadful_a fall_n for_o their_o foot_n will_v slide_v in_o due_a time_n to_o their_o eternal_a ruin_n how_o slack_a soever_o god_n be_v misdeem_v he_o will_v be_v a_o swift_a witness_n of_o his_o own_o be_v and_o truth_n and_o the_o avenger_n of_o his_o own_o glory_n now_o so_o far_o as_o any_o man_n have_v either_o in_o secret_a suspicion_n or_o in_o the_o silent_a murmur_n of_o his_o soul_n say_v there_o be_v no_o god_n or_o vanquish_v the_o prevail_a awe_v of_o god_n so_o that_o conscience_n have_v be_v embolden_v or_o edify_v or_o so_o much_o as_o silence_v or_o dumb_a
corruption_n they_o walk_v in_o the_o light_n of_o their_o own_o spark_n and_o have_v only_o this_o at_o god_n hand_n to_o lie_v down_o in_o sorrow_n beside_o that_o god_n in_o just_a displeasure_n send_v down_o upon_o they_o the_o revenge_n of_o a_o abuse_a and_o injure_a power_n and_o godhead_n now_o all_o this_o express_v the_o height_n both_o of_o the_o deception_n and_o mischief_n of_o scandal_n 4._o the_o four_o great_a principle_n of_o truth_n be_v the_o absolute_a and_o indispensible_a necessity_n of_o holiness_n both_o in_o heart_n and_o life_n without_o which_o no_o man_n shall_v see_v the_o lord_n against_o which_o 24._o heb._n 12._o 24._o there_o lie_v no_o such_o scandal_n or_o cause_n of_o offence_n as_o inward_a and_o inherent_a lust_n and_o inordinate_a appetite_n which_o be_v obstinate_o set_v to_o obtain_v its_o satisfaction_n and_o be_v no_o way_n to_o be_v tame_v but_o by_o beinâ—_n cut_v off_o though_o it_o be_v the_o right_a hand_n or_o right_a foot_n or_o even_o the_o right_a eye_n the_o love_n of_o god_n 43._o mark_v 9_o 43._o and_o his_o law_n be_v the_o best_a security_n against_o this_o scandal_n and_o daily_a mortification_n and_o crucifixion_n of_o the_o old_a man_n with_o 22._o ephes_n 4._o 22._o its_o sinful_a lust_n and_o affection_n pretence_n from_o reason_n or_o doctrine_n of_o religion_n there_o can_v be_v none_o in_o this_o case_n to_o those_o who_o acknowledge_v either_o christianity_n or_o morality_n but_o man_n be_v carry_v down_o the_o violent_a stream_n of_o ungoverned_a passion_n and_o that_o fall_v into_o the_o wide_a sea_n of_o general_a corruption_n and_o bad_a example_n which_o look_v most_o like_a a_o authority_n there_o be_v the_o palliation_n and_o excuse_n of_o sin_n which_o may_v serve_v in_o a_o time_n of_o peace_n and_o carnal_a security_n but_o can_v so_o delude_v conscience_n as_o to_o be_v in_o a_o strict_a sense_n scandal_n the_o continual_a practice_n of_o sin_n harden_v the_o heart_n sear_n benumb_v and_o stupefy_v all_o inward_a sense_n and_o cancel_v the_o awe_n of_o those_o engrave_v law_n and_o reveal_v command_n of_o god_n for_o a_o time_n but_o can_v either_o deny_v their_o just_a power_n or_o challenge_v they_o of_o unreasonableness_n so_o that_o if_o any_o where_o man_n be_v force_v to_o take_v refuge_n at_o the_o atheistick_a denial_n of_o religion_n itself_o or_o to_o blind_a conscience_n with_o superstitious_a act_n which_o seem_v to_o commute_v and_o make_v satisfaction_n for_o sin_n or_o if_o man_n be_v resolve_v to_o blind_v their_o eye_n and_o obstruct_v all_o sense_n they_o may_v make_v the_o profession_n of_o true_a religion_n a_o cover_n to_o sin_n as_o they_o that_o cry_v lord_n lord_n and_o 22._o mat._n 7._o 22._o the_o temple_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v we_o that_o name_n the_o name_n of_o 19_o jer._n 7._o 4._o 2_o tim._n 2._o 19_o christ_n with_o great_a ostentation_n and_o so_o may_v deceive_v their_o own_o soul_n but_o to_o hold_v out_o against_o either_o the_o challenge_n of_o divine_a truth_n or_o of_o their_o own_o reflection_n be_v impossible_a so_o that_o upon_o the_o whole_a matter_n predominant_a lust_n from_o within_o and_o bad_a example_n from_o the_o so_o abound_a iniquity_n of_o all_o sort_n of_o man_n the_o fall_v of_o good_a man_n the_o miscarriage_n of_o hypocrite_n and_o insincere_a professor_n of_o religion_n be_v the_o great_a scandal_n or_o stumbling-block_n in_o the_o way_n of_o holiness_n to_o those_o that_o be_v not_o ensnare_v in_o the_o afore-named_n scandal_n but_o although_o the_o necessity_n of_o holiness_n be_v above_o the_o reach_n of_o strict_a and_o proper_a scandal_n yet_o it_o be_v the_o very_a centre_n of_o all_o scandal_n in_o the_o effect_n of_o it_o for_o then_o a_o man_n be_v indeed_o scandalize_v when_o the_o salt_n of_o divine_a truth_n when_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n can_v have_v no_o power_n nor_o efficacy_n upon_o he_o because_o of_o that_o scandal_n to_o season_v the_o heart_n nor_o govern_v the_o life_n and_o action_n in_o the_o love_n fear_v and_o obedience_n of_o god_n and_o jesus_n christ_n but_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a for_o any_o man_n to_o understand_v in_o his_o heart_n and_o life_n what_o he_o do_v not_o promise_n by_o profession_n or_o if_o he_o seem_v to_o deny_v any_o principle_n of_o truth_n and_o do_v not_o understand_v in_o his_o heart_n and_o life_n the_o extent_n and_o force_n of_o his_o denial_n but_o have_v better_a principle_n that_o be_v a_o antidote_n and_o counterpoison_n to_o any_o mistake_v in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o religion_n he_o be_v not_o scandalize_v with_o the_o great_a mischief_n of_o scandal_n but_o that_o man_n be_v scandalize_v that_o through_o false_a principle_n or_o the_o denial_n of_o true_a one_o want_v their_o power_n and_o virtue_n upon_o his_o affection_n and_o action_n for_o no_o truth_n be_v for_o notion_n sake_n but_o to_o make_v true_o good_a the_o heart_n and_o practice_n the_o very_a confession_n with_o the_o mouth_n be_v to_o recoil_v back_o into_o the_o soul_n and_o make_v that_o better_a and_o to_o move_v forward_o and_o engage_v the_o life_n along_o with_o it_o 5._o it_o be_v a_o grand_a pillar_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o religion_n that_o we_o love_v our_o neighbour_n as_o ourselves_o and_o that_o he_o that_o love_v 21._o 1_o john_n 4._o 21._o god_n shall_v love_v his_o brother_n also_o and_o there_o be_v not_o there_o can_v be_v any_o law_n of_o religion_n wherein_o the_o equity_n the_o love_n favour_n and_o compassion_n of_o the_o lord_n our_o god_n and_o of_o jesus_n christ_n our_o saviour_n towards_o humane_a nature_n do_v more_o evident_o recommend_v itself_o it_o be_v the_o justification_n of_o the_o religion_n of_o the_o scripture_n to_o be_v the_o true_a religion_n and_o as_o the_o love_n of_o god_n to_o man_n his_o philanthropy_n do_v shine_v out_o more_o illustrious_o in_o the_o gospel_n so_o do_v the_o law_n and_o doctrine_n of_o this_o love_n of_o christian_n to_o one_o another_o and_o not_o only_o to_o christian_n but_o to_o all_o man_n and_o in_o this_o as_o of_o great_a concernment_n thâ—_n gospel_n be_v so_o abundant_a and_o its_o discourse_n of_o so_o great_a weight_n that_o it_o be_v make_v another_o hemisphere_n of_o religion_n to_o the_o love_n of_o god_n the_o one_o be_v the_o first_o and_o 39_o mat._n â—1_n 38_o 39_o great_a commandment_n and_o the_o second_o be_v like_a to_o it_o it_o be_v the_o law_n and_o the_o prophet_n it_o be_v the_o whole_a law_n it_o be_v irreconcilable_a 9_o rom._n 13._o 8_o 9_o to_o the_o love_n of_o god_n not_o to_o love_v our_o brother_n it_o be_v 15._o 1_o joh._n 3._o 15._o such_o a_o degree_n of_o murder_n that_o whoever_o be_v guilty_a of_o can_v have_v eternal_a life_n abide_v in_o he_o it_o be_v the_o great_a mark_n 14._o 1_o joh._n 3._o 14._o we_o have_v pass_v from_o death_n to_o life_n because_o we_o love_v the_o brethren_n so_o many_o be_v the_o argument_n and_o so_o strong_a the_o obligation_n to_o this_o duty_n that_o they_o can_v be_v recount_v all_o may_v be_v sum_v up_o in_o that_o god_n be_v love_n and_o he_o that_o dwell_v in_o love_n be_v bear_v of_o god_n dwell_v in_o god_n and_o god_n in_o he_o now_o that_o this_o love_n be_v fix_v in_o a_o uniformity_n of_o opinion_n or_o point_n of_o outward_a order_n in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n be_v most_o unreasonable_a to_o believe_v for_o beside_o the_o impossibility_n to_o reconcile_v all_o the_o innocent_a variety_n that_o be_v in_o humane_a nature_n though_o it_o be_v christian_a humane_a nature_n in_o their_o sentiment_n and_o election_n in_o these_o thing_n the_o thing_n themselves_o be_v not_o of_o that_o amount_v as_o to_o be_v the_o proper_a rest_n of_o this_o divine_a love_n or_o that_o if_o it_o miss_v these_o pole_n it_o shall_v therefore_o cease_v to_o be_v the_o axis_n upon_o which_o the_o catholic_n society_n of_o christian_n and_o christian_a unity_n turn_n for_o that_o in_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o the_o thing_n must_v be_v substantial_a christianity_n itself_o and_o this_o be_v indeed_o the_o great_a schism_n to_o be_v divide_v in_o affection_n from_o christian_n it_o be_v a_o wonder_n how_o it_o can_v be_v otherwise_o understand_v see_v small_a difference_n be_v frequent_o by_o the_o apostle_n consider_v and_o allow_v for_o without_o the_o least_o allowance_n for_o christian_n not_o love_v one_o another_o christianity_n carry_v no_o gall_n even_o towards_o utmost_a stranger_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o its_o be_v the_o true_a religion_n much_o less_o towards_o those_o that_o be_v true_o christian_n though_o not_o each_o uniform_a with_o one_o another_o in_o all_o thing_n the_o great_a scandal_n against_o this_o love_n be_v private_a man_n think_v it_o justifiable_a not_o to_o love_v those_o that_o have_v injure_v they_o but_o this_o case_n have_v be_v consider_v
and_o a_o forgiuness_n of_o seventy_o seven_o injury_n in_o a_o day_n upon_o acknowledgement_n 4._o mat._n 18._o 22._o luke_n 17._o 4._o and_o repentance_n be_v take_v care_n for_o that_o love_n may_v be_v continue_v the_o forgiuness_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n be_v set_v we_o as_o a_o example_n and_o that_o it_o may_v the_o more_o affect_v we_o the_o odds_o between_o our_o offence_n against_o god_n and_o all_o trespass_n against_o ourselves_o be_v state_v as_o disproportionate_a as_o ten_o thousand_o talent_n to_o a_o hundred_o penny_n but_o however_o man_n think_v they_o may_v just_o not_o love_v where_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n in_o divine_a matter_n in_o matter_n of_o religion_n this_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o god_n and_o truth_n and_o yet_o this_o be_v general_o but_o the_o great_a scandal_n for_o when_o the_o thing_n that_o christian_n differ_v in_o be_v small_a and_o that_o they_o agree_v in_o great_a and_o momentous_a thing_n it_o be_v evident_a the_o integrity_n honour_n and_o interest_n of_o religion_n shall_v much_o more_o unite_v and_o endear_v than_o little_a interest_n divide_v in_o thing_n that_o be_v evident_o contrary_a to_o divine_a truth_n and_o the_o law_n of_o god_n there_o be_v a_o just_a denial_n of_o a_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d with_o respect_n to_o that_o evil_n he_o travel_v with_o as_o the_o apostle_n john_n the_o great_a minister_n of_o love_n teach_v we_o and_o a_o method_n for_o reformation_n or_o rejection_n as_o our_o saviour_n agreeable_a to_o that_o law_n in_o leviticus_n prescribe_v we_o not_o to_o smother_v our_o 17._o mat._n 18._o 15_o etc._n etc._n leu._n 19_o 17._o hatred_n or_o disgust_n in_o silence_n and_o reserve_v by_o conceal_v the_o fault_n a_o constant_a cause_n and_o store_n for_o our_o anger_n or_o illwill_a but_o to_o bring_v it_o to_o a_o open_a procedure_n that_o either_o our_o misapprehension_n may_v be_v rectify_v or_o the_o person_n reform_v and_o so_o our_o love_n either_o way_n restore_v or_o a_o just_a reason_n appear_v not_o for_o our_o hatred_n but_o for_o our_o limit_v the_o extent_n of_o our_o love_n in_o such_o a_o case_n it_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v as_o be_v due_a to_o a_o christian_a but_o to_o a_o publican_n or_o heathen_a who_o be_v still_o the_o object_n of_o our_o love_n but_o not_o of_o that_o kind_n that_o degree_n of_o love_n adjust_a to_o christian_n but_o this_o must_v be_v in_o a_o case_n clear_a and_o evident_a not_o every_o dispute_n the_o truth_n of_o christian_a religion_n and_o the_o great_a design_n of_o it_o be_v the_o salvation_n and_o happiness_n of_o all_o the_o servant_n of_o christ_n and_o with_o a_o universal_a favour_n to_o mankind_n and_o this_o be_v preserve_v only_o in_o love_n every_o thing_n then_o that_o cool_v and_o destroy_v love_n under_o a_o show_n of_o just_a and_o right_a be_v a_o scandal_n because_o it_o overthrow_v christianity_n which_o be_v indeed_o a_o religion_n of_o love_n and_o make_v a_o man_n of_o great_a name_n pretence_n authority_n in_o the_o church_n a_o nothing_o it_o be_v a_o scandal_n for_o it_o rise_v from_o scandal_n it_o have_v the_o ill_a effect_n of_o scandal_n both_o ensnare_a and_o destroy_v and_o it_o tend_v to_o further_a scandal_n it_o rise_v from_o scandal_n he_o that_o do_v not_o love_n have_v some_o lust_n some_o interest_n of_o profit_n dominion_n or_o pleasure_n that_o he_o serve_v under_o a_o name_n of_o religion_n they_o that_o cause_v division_n 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d division_n in_o affection_n take_v advantage_n 17._o rom._n 16._o 17._o of_o dissent_n in_o opinion_n these_o serve_v their_o own_o belly_n that_o lust_n which_o they_o cloak_n with_o religion_n that_o base_a interest_n they_o clothe_v and_o cover_v with_o a_o better_a name_n that_o lust_n so_o disguise_v deceive_v they_o and_o enslave_v they_o under_o itself_o this_o move_v to_o further_a scandal_n every_o one_o that_o do_v not_o comply_v with_o the_o humour_n of_o this_o lust_n and_o serve_v it_o he_o appear_v as_o the_o irreligious_a or_o the_o factious_a disorderly_a person_n hereupon_o he_o must_v not_o be_v receive_v or_o continue_v in_o the_o love_n due_a to_o a_o brother_n a_o christian_a though_o the_o case_n be_v nothing_o at_o all_o to_o true_a christianity_n our_o saviour_n as_o aware_a of_o this_o in_o his_o so_o severe_a caution_n of_o not_o scandalize_a little_o one_o immediate_o subjoin_v those_o dreadful_a precept_n of_o cut_v off_o the_o right_a hand_n etc._n etc._n that_o scandalize_v ourselves_o as_o imply_v they_o be_v the_o great_a cause_n of_o our_o scandalize_a other_o this_o still_o move_v on_o to_o further_a scandal_n scandal_n to_o stranger_n who_o thereupon_o look_v upon_o religion_n as_o austere_n morose_n and_o cruel_a and_o so_o be_v discourage_v from_o come_v in_o to_o it_o scandal_n to_o those_o who_o our_o saviour_n call_v the_o little_a one_o in_o christianity_n who_o it_o may_v be_v he_o so_o call_v not_o that_o they_o 4â—_n marc._n 9_o 4â—_n be_v always_o so_o in_o themselves_o when_o yet_o despise_v but_o because_o they_o may_v be_v only_o so_o in_o the_o eye_n of_o those_o that_o despise_v they_o and_o think_v not_o the_o honour_n and_o regard_n owe_v to_o christian_n due_a to_o they_o or_o because_o take_v the_o mean_a in_o christianity_n or_o those_o we_o think_v or_o be_v indeed_o in_o most_o danger_n to_o be_v lose_v our_o saviour_n in_o a_o scheme_n in_o a_o figure_n of_o little_a one_o will_v represent_v they_o ought_v to_o be_v the_o most_o cautious_o and_o tender_o treat_v last_o they_o themselves_o become_v scandalize_v too_o often_o to_o much_o high_a degree_n of_o scandal_n hereby_o even_o against_o those_o thing_n that_o carry_v the_o true_a and_o most_o genuine_a spirit_n of_o christianity_n because_o they_o will_v go_v as_o far_o off_o as_o they_o can_v and_o be_v most_o unlike_a those_o from_o who_o they_o dissent_v in_o some_o thing_n that_o neither_o their_o pray_v their_o preach_a their_o phrase_n and_o manner_n of_o speak_v must_v be_v accept_v by_o they_o till_o they_o even_o desert_a the_o example_n of_o the_o very_a scripture_n itself_o in_o those_o thing_n and_o come_v too_o near_o burlesque_a the_o sacred_a guise_n of_o they_o or_o at_o least_o what_o be_v so_o near_o unite_v that_o the_o reproach_n that_o fall_v upon_o the_o one_o fall_n upon_o the_o other_o also_o and_o all_o that_o they_o may_v be_v sure_a to_o stand_v far_o enough_o off_o from_o the_o adverse_a purity_n of_o what_o they_o have_v espouse_v who_o opinion_n while_o they_o seem_v to_o strike_v the_o thing_n most_o agreeable_a to_o scripture_n be_v the_o sufferer_n too_o often_o but_o he_o that_o love_v his_o brother_n have_v no_o occasion_n of_o this_o 11._o 1_o john_n 2._o 10_o 11._o sort_n of_o stumble_v which_o be_v not_o far_o from_o the_o apostle_n meaning_n because_o as_o his_o soul_n be_v right_o compose_v and_o not_o cloud_v with_o dark_a and_o black_a passion_n so_o he_o have_v no_o temptation_n to_o dislike_v any_o thing_n in_o true_a christianity_n out_o of_o hatred_n to_o his_o brother_n who_o profess_v it_o but_o a_o additional_a obligation_n to_o keep_v the_o truth_n entire_a out_o of_o love_n to_o his_o brother_n who_o be_v unite_v in_o it_o with_o himself_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v say_v hereby_o we_o know_v we_o love_v the_o child_n of_o god_n when_o we_o love_v god_n and_o keep_v his_o commandment_n when_o our_o love_n to_o they_o engage_v we_o the_o more_o close_o in_o a_o religious_a union_n with_o they_o he_o that_o hate_v his_o brother_n be_v ready_a to_o fall_v out_o with_o every_o thing_n that_o he_o be_v for_o and_o know_v not_o at_o what_o he_o stumble_v whether_o it_o be_v true_o of_o god_n and_o christ_n or_o not_o and_o so_o be_v no_o just_a occasion_n of_o stumble_v though_o he_o stumble_v at_o it_o 2._o 1_o john_n 5._o v._n 2._o 6._o the_o government_n and_o authority_n god_n have_v vest_v in_o conscience_n to_o understand_v with_o god_n for_o itself_o and_o the_o soul_n and_o to_o guide_v itself_o according_a to_o his_o command_n who_o be_v its_o only_a father_n and_o it_o ought_v to_o have_v none_o upon_o earth_n beside_o he_o even_o as_o christ_n be_v its_o one_o master_n be_v a_o grand_a principle_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o this_o be_v of_o so_o great_a concernment_n that_o though_o the_o thing_n be_v good_a a_o man_n do_v yet_o if_o he_o do_v it_o not_o upon_o a_o judgement_n a_o sense_n a_o dictate_v of_o conscience_n or_o if_o that_o he_o refuse_v be_v true_o evil_a yet_o if_o it_o be_v not_o reject_v in_o the_o same_o manner_n upon_o the_o same_o motive_n neither_o the_o one_o nor_o the_o other_o arise_v to_o a_o religious_a action_n or_o be_v accept_v with_o god_n as_o do_v in_o his_o fear_n but_o be_v a_o vain_a honour_n of_o he_o
now_o to_o the_o discharge_n of_o conscience_n in_o this_o it_o be_v so_o high_a office_n and_o trust_v it_o owe_v to_o itself_o and_o the_o soul_n that_o it_o be_v rich_o and_o abundant_o furnish_v with_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o divine_a will_n and_o the_o word_n of_o god_n dwell_v in_o it_o that_o see_v it_o be_v both_o the_o scribe_n and_o doctor_n or_o if_o i_o may_v so_o speak_v the_o bishop_n of_o the_o soul_n within_o itself_o it_o be_v as_o the_o good_a householder_n that_o bring_v forth_o out_o of_o his_o treasury_n thing_n new_a and_o old_a that_o it_o attend_v to_o all_o mean_n of_o instruction_n for_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n entertain_v all_o wisdom_n lift_v up_o its_o voice_n for_o it_o seek_v it_o as_o silver_n and_o search_v for_o it_o as_o for_o hide_a treasure_n and_o that_o its_o influence_n may_v be_v powerful_a and_o effective_a upon_o the_o soul_n to_o all_o holy_a and_o heavenly_a obedience_n there_o must_v be_v a_o just_a preservation_n of_o its_o authority_n and_o good_a conduct_n that_o so_o it_o may_v promote_v the_o soul_n into_o all_o goodness_n have_v gain_v a_o high_a reputation_n and_o honour_n by_o the_o success_n it_o have_v have_v already_o and_o the_o comfort_n and_o good_a expectation_n it_o raise_v within_o the_o soul_n upon_o its_o happy_a government_n for_o the_o upright_a man_n from_o this_o vigour_n of_o conscience_n hold_v on_o his_o way_n and_o grow_v strong_a and_o strong_a and_o 18._o job_n 17._o 9_o prov._n 4._o 18._o the_o way_n of_o the_o just_a become_v as_o the_o shine_a light_n that_o shine_v more_o and_o more_o to_o the_o perfect_a day_n and_o therefore_o one_o of_o the_o principal_a scandal_n scripture_n remark_n upon_o be_v this_o when_o conscience_n upon_o any_o solicitation_n upon_o any_o insinuation_n or_o usurpation_n upon_o it_o betray_v this_o trust_n and_o surrender_v itself_o to_o any_o other_o dictate_v or_o authority_n but_o that_o which_o be_v divine_a and_o that_o shine_v within_o itself_o and_o so_o assure_v it_o by_o its_o rationality_n goodness_n purity_n majesty_n that_o it_o be_v from_o god_n to_o take_v any_o thing_n upon_o trust_n from_o man_n that_o it_o do_v not_o try_v and_o examine_v or_o to_o let_v go_v any_o thing_n it_o have_v so_o try_v and_o examine_v and_o find_v good_a upon_o any_o pretence_n whatever_o be_v indeed_o to_o be_v scandalize_v that_o pretence_n that_o do_v so_o assume_v over_o it_o and_o prevail_v with_o it_o against_o itself_o scandalise_n it_o for_o the_o charge_n of_o represent_v to_o the_o soul_n the_o authority_n of_o the_o divine_a law_n be_v commit_v to_o the_o conscience_n the_o supreme_a moderation_n be_v in_o god_n and_o the_o divine_a law_n yet_o it_o be_v transmit_v into_o the_o soul_n it_o enter_v thither_o through_o the_o dictate_v of_o conscience_n whatever_o then_o so_o impose_v on_o conscience_n as_o that_o it_o recede_v from_o its_o government_n scandalise_n it_o for_o the_o government_n of_o god_n be_v lose_v also_o thereby_o and_o though_o conscience_n can_v justify_v a_o man_n in_o any_o error_n nor_o aught_o to_o possess_v a_o man_n with_o unnecessary_a scruple_n yet_o still_o the_o main_a government_n of_o conscience_n derive_v itself_o from_o god_n and_o the_o true_a understanding_n of_o his_o will_n be_v by_o no_o mean_n to_o be_v shake_v for_o man_n as_o a_o rational_a creature_n as_o a_o creature_n of_o religion_n can_v obey_v god_n but_o by_o the_o mediation_n of_o conscience_n he_o must_v know_v and_o judge_v within_o himself_o what_o be_v the_o divine_a law_n and_o obey_v it_o if_o he_o do_v in_o conformity_n to_o that_o will_n and_o do_v not_o know_v it_o it_o be_v not_o true_a obedience_n because_o it_o be_v not_o religious_a it_o be_v not_o reasonable_a or_o rational_o religious_a obedience_n the_o obedience_n of_o god_n be_v seat_v in_o the_o judgement_n in_o the_o conscience_n if_o these_o reins_o be_v slack_a and_o loose_a if_o this_o golden_a bridle_n be_v neglect_v man_n know_v not_o whither_o they_o may_v run_v upon_o what_o they_o may_v be_v drive_v and_o never_o discover_v the_o danger_n a_o man_n can_v distinguish_v what_o be_v from_o god_n from_o what_o be_v not_o if_o this_o gust_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v not_o quick_a vigorous_o exercise_v and_o leave_v free_a conscience_n may_v be_v instruct_v advise_v persuade_v yea_o even_o menace_v and_o terrify_v by_o the_o application_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n to_o it_o nay_o it_o may_v be_v overrule_v by_o lawful_a authority_n wherein_o it_o turn_v apostate_n or_o renegade_n to_o natural_a religion_n yet_o it_o can_v never_o be_v lawful_o depose_v or_o put_v out_o of_o authority_n the_o mystery_n of_o faith_n the_o rule_n of_o obedience_n the_o consolation_n and_o vigour_n of_o the_o soul_n be_v all_o preserve_v in_o a_o pure_a conscience_n and_o shipwreck_v together_o with_o it_o now_o because_o conscience_n be_v place_v by_o god_n in_o this_o great_a trust_n and_o dignity_n it_o become_v and_o it_o must_v needs_o become_v so_o great_a a_o matter_n of_o scandal_n as_o the_o apostle_n discourse_n when_o conscience_n not_o due_o regard_v its_o own_o light_n and_o inward_a sense_n surrender_v itself_o to_o a_o foreign_a rule_n steer_v itself_o by_o a_o compass_n out_o of_o itself_o say_v another_o shall_v be_v wise_a and_o see_v and_o dictate_v for_o it_o and_o so_o give_v up_o itself_o in_o a_o implicit_a faith_n and_o blind_a obedience_n here_o be_v scandal_n in_o its_o delusive_a deceptive_a power_n a_o man_n think_v it_o modest_a cautious_a a_o point_n of_o honour_n and_o subjection_n to_o those_o that_o be_v above_o he_o to_o be_v carry_v by_o a_o authority_n out_o of_o himself_o conscience_n hereupon_o desert_n its_o own_o principle_n and_o its_o own_o place_n in_o direct_v according_a to_o they_o upon_o this_o it_o fall_v into_o all_o the_o miserable_a consequence_n the_o mischief_n of_o scandal_n conscience_n be_v wound_v grieve_a weaken_a and_o lie_v prostrate_a and_o without_o repentance_n the_o work_n of_o god_n in_o the_o natural_a or_o new_a creation_n be_v destroy_v and_o even_o the_o man_n for_o who_o christ_n die_v perish_v god_n have_v concredit_v the_o key_n of_o knowledge_n and_o jurisdiction_n within_o the_o soul_n to_o conscience_n alone_o and_o i_o can_v find_v that_o it_o can_v be_v at_o all_o excuse_v in_o resign_v they_o into_o any_o hand_n but_o his_o that_o give_v they_o no_o not_o to_o a_o angel_n from_o heaven_n the_o minister_n of_o religion_n and_o magistrate_n in_o their_o place_n have_v these_o key_n as_o they_o be_v administer_v without_o a_o man_n to_o offer_v and_o press_v upon_o he_o all_o consideration_n of_o his_o duty_n but_o every_o man_n must_v see_v with_o his_o own_o eye_n and_o not_o another_o for_o he_o he_o must_v be_v enlighten_v by_o beam_n and_o ray_n that_o shine_v within_o his_o own_o soul_n he_o have_v a_o private_a double_a look_n upon_o himself_o and_o none_o may_v open_v and_o shut_v but_o conscience_n in_o and_o with_o god_n whoever_o else_o do_v become_v a_o father_n and_o a_o master_n upon_o earth_n to_o he_o in_o the_o place_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n upon_o this_o account_n the_o apostle_n lay_v down_o these_o three_o 23_o rom._n 14._o 22_o 23_o great_a position_n 1._o that_o whatever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n of_o a_o free_a and_o full_a persuasion_n of_o conscience_n be_v sin_n for_o though_o the_o nature_n of_o thing_n can_v be_v change_v in_o themselves_o yet_o as_o we_o be_v conversant_a in_o they_o it_o be_v a_o undoubted_a rule_n bonum_fw-la oritur_fw-la ex_fw-la integris_fw-la causis_fw-la every_o thing_n conspire_v to_o and_o concert_n good_a but_o evil_a be_v a_o declension_n and_o fall_n from_o good_a every_o degree_n of_o fall_n or_o aberration_n from_o good_a be_v evil_a and_o this_o plenipotence_n of_o conscience_n commit_v to_o it_o by_o god_n be_v a_o prime_n necessary_a in_o every_o good_a thing_n and_o the_o want_n of_o it_o great_o evil_a though_o it_o have_v not_o a_o omnipotence_n of_o change_a nature_n itself_o 2._o from_o hence_o it_o follow_v he_o that_o do_v and_o doubt_n in_o what_o he_o do_v be_v condemn_v in_o his_o do_v whatever_o the_o thing_n be_v in_o itself_o because_o to_o he_o it_o be_v so_o far_o evil_a that_o he_o do_v it_o against_o that_o domestic_a authority_n of_o conscience_n 3._o he_o be_v a_o happy_a man_n that_o especial_o have_v fall_v into_o doubt_n in_o doubtful_a thing_n be_v come_v to_o so_o good_a a_o resolution_n as_o not_o to_o condemn_v himself_o in_o that_o wherein_o he_o allow_v himself_o he_o that_o have_v a_o good_a assurance_n rise_v neither_o from_o ignorance_n nor_o carelessness_n be_v a_o happy_a man_n by_o way_n of_o eminency_n it_o be_v a_o rare_a and_o extraordinary_a happiness_n and_o he_o that_o have_v not_o but_o be_v perplex_v with_o doubt_n ought_v not_o
our_o religious_a action_n and_o service_n to_o god_n and_o the_o contrary_n be_v a_o evil._n 3._o of_o the_o same_o account_n be_v that_o euschemonia_n or_o decency_n of_o religious_a action_n require_v by_o god_n before_o himself_o and_o before_o the_o holy_a angel_n of_o which_o the_o apostle_n discourse_n every_o man_n pray_v with_o his_o head_n uncoverd_v dishonour_v his_o head_n every_o woman_n pray_v so_o aught_o to_o have_v a_o cover_n on_o her_o head_n because_o of_o the_o angel_n such_o a_o distinction_n of_o sex_n be_v found_v in_o nature_n and_o in_o what_o be_v beyond_o nature_n the_o grave_a custom_n of_o age_n and_o place_n carry_v a_o great_a weight_n of_o determination_n 4._o the_o most_o indifferent_a circumstance_n that_o yet_o most_o necessary_o attend_v all_o serious_a and_o important_a humane_a action_n and_o therefore_o religious_a action_n when_o once_o determine_v by_o the_o prudence_n and_o mature_a consideration_n of_o those_o that_o have_v great_a right_n to_o determine_v therein_o as_o time_n place_n and_o general_a order_n of_o public_a worship_n become_v however_o indifferent_a in_o themselves_o yet_o above_o indifferent_a in_o their_o observation_n because_o the_o undue_a change_n of_o they_o be_v not_o only_a levity_n but_o approach_v to_o frenzy_n and_o now_o i_o have_v so_o far_o settle_v the_o nature_n of_o indifferent_n that_o i_o think_v no_o variety_n of_o circumstance_n can_v make_v a_o alteration_n in_o any_o more_o than_o in_o those_o eternal_a law_n of_o the_o nature_n of_o thing_n i_o come_v therefore_o to_o the_o second_o thing_n in_o the_o platform_n i_o have_v give_v of_o the_o apostle_n discourse_v viz._n 2._o to_o inquire_v how_o scandal_n invade_v these_o so_o innocent_a indifferency_n when_o they_o come_v into_o a_o relation_n to_o religion_n and_o the_o very_a ground_n or_o advantage_n of_o its_o entry_n be_v through_o this_o very_a relation_n to_o religion_n for_o therein_o be_v the_o very_a centre_n of_o scandal_n as_o a_o corruption_n of_o the_o best_a thing_n there_o be_v its_o great_a power_n and_o sting_n to_o disorder_v the_o state_n of_o thing_n betwixt_o god_n and_o man_n and_o the_o more_o any_o thing_n come_v into_o that_o consideration_n the_o more_o efficacious_a be_v scandal_n upon_o it_o if_o not_o wary_o prevent_v and_o it_o be_v therefore_o the_o most_o christian_n policy_n to_o leave_v all_o thing_n without_o the_o line_n of_o religion_n or_o religious_a worship_n that_o can_v be_v spare_v and_o be_v not_o of_o necessary_a use_n to_o it_o to_o cut_v off_o all_o broad_a phylactery_n on_o that_o very_a account_n that_o scandal_n be_v so_o attempt_v and_o invade_v and_o nothing_o safe_a from_o its_o assault_n even_o as_o indefensible_a building_n in_o a_o garrison_n be_v pull_v down_o and_o slight_v lest_o the_o enemy_n make_v advantage_n of_o they_o to_o cover_v himself_o encumber_v religion_n with_o indifferent_n more_o than_o needs_o must_v be_v but_o so_o many_o shelter_n for_o scandal_n scandal_n then_o in_o indifferent_a thing_n pertain_v to_o religion_n be_v a_o occasion_n take_v upon_o they_o as_o they_o stand_v in_o that_o relation_n to_o act_v under_o some_o pretence_n contrary_a to_o any_o of_o the_o great_a principle_n or_o law_n of_o religion_n indifferent_a thing_n be_v bring_v into_o a_o relation_n to_o religion_n 1._o by_o some_o appointment_n of_o god_n who_o alone_o have_v right_o to_o do_v it_o exalt_v indifferent_a thing_n into_o a_o goodness_n above_o their_o nature_n or_o for_o wise_a purpose_n depress_v they_o below_o their_o nature_n which_o appointment_n cease_v and_o expire_a they_o return_v each_o of_o they_o into_o their_o own_o natural_a indifferency_n and_o be_v alike_o good_a and_o clean_a and_o upon_o the_o just_a level_n of_o their_o first_o creation_n of_o themselves_o be_v nothing_o to_o religion_n especial_o as_o it_o be_v perfect_v in_o christianity_n this_o be_v the_o case_n the_o apostle_n treat_v upon_o to_o the_o roman_n there_o be_v a_o law_n of_o god_n by_o moses_n distinguish_v day_n and_o meat_n this_o law_n be_v out_o date_v by_o christ_n all_o thing_n hereupon_o return_v into_o their_o original_a state_n of_o equal_a goodness_n and_o cleanness_n and_o be_v whole_o alike_o as_o to_o any_o religious_a account_n of_o they_o to_o all_o that_o understand_v the_o abolish_n of_o that_o law_n which_o at_o that_o time_n be_v but_o beginning_n 2._o indifferent_n be_v bring_v into_o a_o relation_n to_o religion_n by_o man_n idolatrous_a or_o superstitious_a transmutation_n of_o they_o out_o of_o their_o nature_n either_o above_o or_o below_o themselves_o which_o be_v great_o abominable_a to_o god_n as_o injurious_a to_o his_o sole_a right_n and_o very_o destructive_a to_o man_n soul_n debauch_n these_o indifferent_n into_o great_a impurity_n to_o all_o that_o with_o design_n and_o resolution_n will_v understand_v and_o use_v they_o so_o change_v to_o they_o that_o be_v unbelieving_a and_o defile_v be_v nothing_o pure_a but_o even_o their_o mind_n and_o conscience_n be_v defile_v 15._o tit._n 1._o 15._o but_o be_v understand_v aright_o and_o according_a to_o their_o nature_n they_o return_v to_o their_o own_o innocency_n and_o purity_n that_o be_v the_o purity_n of_o their_o creation_n and_o disposition_n by_o god_n for_o to_o the_o pure_a all_o thing_n be_v pure_a and_o to_o a_o indifferency_n every_o way_n in_o relation_n to_o religion_n this_o be_v the_o case_n the_o apostle_n reason_n upon_o to_o the_o corinth_n the_o meat_n offer_v to_o idol_n the_o idol_n temple_n be_v most_o impure_a to_o the_o idolater_n and_o superstition_n yet_o the_o idol_n can_v not_o expulse_v god_n right_a nor_o change_v the_o nature_n of_o his_o creation_n this_o be_v most_o ample_o declare_v in_o the_o gospel-state_n of_o thing_n they_o that_o understand_v this_o have_v a_o most_o lawful_a and_o free_a use_n of_o those_o very_a place_n and_o meat_n that_o be_v so_o pollute_v by_o the_o gentile_n so_o that_o whether_o they_o eat_v or_o not_o eat_v it_o be_v all_o alike_o in_o the_o thing_n themselves_o upon_o any_o religious_a account_n 3._o indifferent_a thing_n may_v be_v make_v appurtenance_n to_o religion_n without_o be_v extravasated_a from_o their_o own_o nature_n of_o indifferency_n by_o be_v put_v by_o the_o authority_n of_o ecclesiastic_a or_o civil_a ruler_n into_o a_o constant_a concomitancy_n or_o attendance_n upon_o such_o or_o such_o religious_a service_n sole_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o that_o humane_a significancy_n decency_n and_o order_n the_o nature_n of_o man_n be_v apt_a to_o clothe_v all_o its_o action_n with_o just_o as_o in_o all_o instalment_n of_o magistrate_n in_o court_n of_o judicature_n in_o proceed_n of_o justice_n in_o all_o the_o grandeur_n of_o humane_a action_n there_o be_v some_o rite_n formality_n or_o ceremony_n man_n find_v out_o that_o give_v order_n life_n and_o grace_n to_o the_o carriage_n of_o they_o even_o so_o in_o religious_a service_n it_o be_v suppose_v they_o have_v the_o same_o liberty_n god_n be_v not_o so_o rigorous_a as_o to_o deny_v it_o to_o they_o they_o may_v appoint_v some_o thing_n of_o a_o mere_a humane_a significancy_n for_o edification_n which_o remain_v still_o perfect_a indifferent_n and_o only_o wait_v upon_o religion_n and_o preserve_v discipline_n and_o yet_o they_o may_v be_v impose_v and_o pin_v so_o fast_o to_o religion_n that_o all_o must_v be_v observe_v together_o no_o public_a ordinance_n may_v be_v enjoy_v with_o allowance_n and_o approbation_n without_o they_o now_o whether_o there_o be_v such_o a_o liberty_n grant_v by_o god_n to_o man_n to_o adjoyn_v any_o thing_n to_o his_o worship_n especial_o so_o as_o to_o be_v make_v the_o public_a standard_n be_v more_o than_o the_o wise_a can_v i_o doubt_v resolve_v in_o the_o affirmative_a to_o satisfaction_n there_o be_v so_o many_o appearance_n from_o scripture_n from_o sound_a reason_n against_o any_o more_o than_o be_v command_v by_o god_n himself_o or_o be_v of_o absolute_a necessity_n order_n or_o decency_n so_o as_o to_o offer_v itself_o to_o every_o sober_a man._n but_o allow_v to_o these_o institution_n of_o man_n all_o the_o privilege_n of_o indifferent_n of_o these_o seal_a indifferent_n declare_v so_o by_o the_o apostle_n so_o that_o you_o allow_v no_o more_o for_o more_o can_v be_v allow_v except_o you_o change_v they_o into_o doctrine_n which_o make_v they_o worse_o allow_v that_o they_o be_v the_o weak_a who_o do_v not_o understand_v their_o full_a freedom_n herein_o than_o it_o follow_v he_o that_o use_v they_o not_o must_v not_o indeed_o think_v himself_o the_o better_a for_o not_o use_v they_o but_o still_o he_o have_v liberty_n as_o in_o a_o thing_n indifferent_a in_o itself_o not_o to_o use_v they_o and_o he_o ought_v by_o no_o mean_n to_o use_v they_o with_o doubt_n and_o so_o long_o as_o they_o appear_v unlawful_a to_o he_o for_o than_o come_v upon_o he_o that_o thunderbolt_n of_o the_o
those_o who_o do_v vehement_o and_o zealous_o fall_v in_o with_o conformity_n to_o these_o imposition_n in_o indifferent_n yet_o they_o may_v be_v scandalize_v and_o that_o very_o deep_o this_o case_n do_v not_o i_o confess_v arise_v out_o of_o the_o apostle_n discourse_n except_o by_o the_o other_o interpretation_n of_o the_o scope_n of_o that_o to_o the_o corinth_n which_o give_v it_o not_o only_o as_o if_o compliance_n against_o the_o sentiment_n of_o conscience_n upon_o the_o trust_n of_o example_n be_v the_o sin_n and_o scandal_n but_o that_o the_o weak_a christian_n not_o have_v the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o strong_a do_v as_o they_o do_v and_o not_o prepossess_v as_o they_o be_v that_o the_o idol_n be_v nothing_o sink_v into_o some_o degree_n at_o least_o of_o idolatrous_a reverence_n and_o worship_n as_o if_o they_o know_v no_o other_o reason_n of_o eat_v in_o a_o idol_n temple_n but_o devotion_n to_o he_o and_o this_o kind_n of_o scandal_n though_o i_o believe_v the_o drift_n of_o the_o apostle_n be_v chief_o as_o i_o have_v explain_v it_o yet_o too_o often_o fall_v out_o in_o these_o case_n those_o ceremony_n that_o have_v be_v promote_v into_o divine_a service_n or_o into_o the_o ornament_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o place_n of_o it_o have_v be_v though_o dangerous_o enough_o yet_o not_o so_o ill_o design_v as_o afterward_o abuse_v by_o more_o ignorant_a person_n who_o greedy_a and_o fond_a of_o a_o sensual_a and_o external_a religion_n have_v be_v transport_v upon_o superstition_n and_o sometime_o downright_a idolatry_n and_o this_o often_o note_v in_o scripture_n under_o the_o very_a name_n of_o scandal_n thus_o i_o before_o observe_v in_o the_o case_n of_o gideon_n ephod_n his_o house_n and_o all_o israel_n be_v ensnare_v beyond_o the_o first_o intention_n thus_o in_o the_o brazen_a serpent_n continue_v no_o doubt_n in_o memory_n of_o the_o miracle_n yet_o afterward_o prove_v so_o great_a a_o snare_n that_o they_o burn_v incense_n to_o it_o and_o it_o be_v most_o likely_a balaam_n cast_v his_o snare_n at_o first_o in_o a_o less-guilty_a feast_v with_o the_o midianite_n upon_o their_o idol_n sacrifice_n not_o know_v to_o be_v such_o poisonous_a meat_n and_o by_o degree_n toll_v they_o on_o into_o the_o midst_n of_o the_o congregation_n and_o assembly_n of_o idolater_n thus_o the_o apostle_n by_o divine_a direction_n condescend_v to_o the_o weakness_n of_o convert-jew_n among_o the_o roman_n on_o consideration_n of_o the_o divine_a command_n in_o some_o of_o their_o rite_n but_o just_a now_o expire_a degenerate_v afterward_o into_o such_o a_o judaisme_n that_o the_o same_o apostle_n be_v most_o severe_a against_o it_o and_o that_o very_a strength_n of_o the_o corinthian_a christian_n or_o at_o least_o the_o weakness_n of_o the_o unknowing_a follow_v their_o example_n become_v afterward_o into_o a_o infamous_a doctrine_n the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n and_o the_o very_a enchant_a seduction_n of_o the_o prophetess_n jezebel_n who_o teach_v the_o people_n of_o christ_n to_o commit_v fornication_n and_o to_o eat_v thing_n offer_v to_o idol_n in_o honour_n to_o they_o the_o bring_n in_o of_o picture_n into_o place_n of_o religious_a worship_n suppose_v it_o as_o innocent_a as_o can_v be_v suppose_v at_o first_o yet_o be_v abuse_v speedy_o into_o all_o imaginable_a corruption_n and_o it_o be_v much_o to_o be_v fear_v all_o the_o remonstrance_n concern_v more_o innocent_a rite_n as_o they_o can_v vindicate_v they_o from_o scrupulosity_n on_o one_o side_n so_o can_v preserve_v they_o from_o man_n place_v too_o much_o of_o their_o religion_n in_o they_o on_o the_o other_o whereby_o the_o true_a conscience_n of_o it_o be_v weaken_v the_o virtue_n and_o vigour_n of_o conscience_n in_o thing_n true_o religious_a weaken_a and_o spend_v by_o have_v be_v lay_v out_o unnecessary_o upon_o extern_a observance_n and_o looseness_n of_o life_n like_o fornication_n with_o eat_v thing_n offer_v to_o idol_n break_v in_o upon_o the_o commute_v of_o such_o flattery_n of_o conscience_n for_o substantial_a piety_n as_o the_o jew_n will_v exchange_v new-moon_n and_o oblation_n for_o justice_n and_o mercy_n and_o walk_v humble_o with_o god_n it_o must_v be_v indeed_o acknowledge_v not_o only_o humane_a appointment_n but_o even_o divine_a command_n be_v subject_a to_o the_o injury_n of_o scandal_n but_o with_o this_o difference_n one_o can_v be_v cut_v off_o though_o scandal_n press_v never_o so_o hard_a the_o other_o may_v and_o aught_o for_o in_o all_o thing_n not_o ordain_v by_o god_n the_o principle_n sin_v against_o in_o scandal_n be_v the_o exceed_a purity_n of_o religion_n the_o substantial_a piety_n and_o most_o spiritual_a and_o rational_a worship_n of_o himself_o god_n require_v and_o expect_v by_o his_o word_n and_o that_o all_o thing_n he_o have_v command_v be_v adjust_v to_o those_o end_n even_o as_o he_o provide_v they_o and_o all_o he_o have_v not_o command_v shall_v stand_v off_o or_o at_o least_o be_v present_o supersede_v when_o become_v the_o prey_n of_o scandal_n yet_o on_o the_o other_o side_n scandal_n shelter_n itself_o under_o order_n decency_n or_o edification_n of_o the_o ignorant_a obedience_n to_o authority_n and_o press_v on_o to_o the_o utmost_a under_o they_o 3._o the_o three_o sort_n of_o scandal_n arise_v from_o indifferent_a thing_n upon_o those_o that_o will_v not_o be_v at_o all_o persuade_v to_o a_o compliance_n with_o they_o even_o they_o may_v be_v scandalize_v by_o unlawful_a and_o very_a sinful_a censoriousness_n and_o passion_n place_v too_o much_o of_o their_o sense_n of_o religion_n upon_o their_o dislike_n of_o such_o addition_n to_o divine_a worship_n division_n and_o separation_n on_o both_o side_n from_o the_o publick_a worship_n of_o god_n and_o national_a union_n in_o religion_n beyond_o the_o merit_n and_o quality_n of_o the_o cause_n or_o further_o than_o the_o case_n at_o its_o utmost_a extent_n can_v require_v and_o if_o the_o sin_n of_o schism_n be_v such_o as_o the_o endeavour_v notion_n of_o it_o will_v make_v it_o a_o fall_n into_o the_o great_a sin_n of_o schism_n the_o principle_n offend_v against_o in_o this_o sort_n of_o scandal_n be_v that_o great_a love_n of_o christian_n and_o union_n in_o divine_a worship_n in_o truth_n and_o peace_n make_v so_o fundamental_a in_o christianity_n by_o christ_n and_o the_o apostle_n the_o pretence_n of_o scandal_n lie_v too_o both_o way_n that_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o such_o additional_n we_o may_v desert_v those_o much_o high_a consideration_n and_o reason_n and_o cause_n of_o love_n and_o union_n and_o our_o obligation_n to_o they_o the_o apostle_n represent_v this_o great_a mischief_n not_o under_o the_o formal_a account_n of_o scandal_n in_o the_o discourse_n to_o the_o roman_n though_o i_o doubt_v not_o he_o after_o refer_v to_o it_o express_o as_o such_o when_o he_o join_v scandal_n and_o division_n together_o but_o 17._o rom._n 16._o 17._o in_o the_o discourse_n itself_o he_o both_o set_v out_o the_o heat_n on_o both_o side_n in_o judge_v and_o despise_v and_o argue_v on_o both_o side_n with_o high_a strength_n of_o divine_a reason_n against_o the_o evil_a both_o way_n and_o this_o be_v certain_a the_o more_o excellent_a our_o religion_n the_o more_o desirable_a our_o public_a worship_n and_o communion_n for_o the_o piety_n rationality_n and_o order_n of_o it_o the_o more_o pure_a our_o national_a church_n and_o association_n in_o religion_n be_v and_o the_o great_a the_o sin_n of_o separation_n the_o more_o do_v the_o apostle_n argument_n against_o scandalize_a for_o the_o sake_n of_o indifferency_n press_v and_o urge_v we_o why_o shall_v our_o good_a be_v think_v evil_a of_o or_o blaspheme_v why_o shall_v our_o public_a worship_n and_o national_a religion_n be_v once_o think_v to_o be_v ceremony_n why_o shall_v our_o communion_n be_v clog_v with_o thing_n of_o no_o great_a avail_n than_o meat_n and_o drink_v why_o shall_v we_o lose_v those_o from_o our_o communion_n who_o own_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n be_v righteousness_n peace_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o contend_v for_o those_o divine_a thing_n though_o they_o have_v not_o leisure_n and_o freedom_n for_o ceremony_n when_o they_o that_o serve_v god_n in_o they_o though_o they_o can_v join_v in_o lesser_a thing_n yet_o as_o they_o be_v accept_v of_o god_n so_o shall_v be_v approve_v of_o man_n or_o if_o the_o sin_n of_o separation_n be_v so_o great_a and_o even_o schism_n itself_o why_o for_o our_o meat_n for_o our_o indifferent_a thing_n shall_v they_o perish_v for_o who_o christ_n die_v or_o such_o a_o work_n of_o god_n as_o appear_v in_o they_o be_v destroy_v 4._o the_o severity_n passion_n transport_v beyond_o the_o value_v of_o the_o thing_n themselves_o and_o take_v up_o the_o instrument_n of_o cruelty_n can_v be_v without_o scandal_n upon_o the_o imposer_n of_o indifferency_n and_o those_o that_o will_v needs_o be_v
taskmaster_n under_o they_o can_v be_v without_o scandal_n for_o while_o they_o seem_v to_o be_v zealous_a of_o order_n decency_n uniformity_n they_o sin_n against_o the_o precept_n of_o love_n unity_n mercy_n peace_n and_o exchange_v too_o often_o those_o excellent_a pastoral-stave_n of_o beauty_n and_o band_n for_o the_o instrument_n of_o the_o foolish_a shepherd_n 16._o zech._n 11._o 7._o 15_o 16._o that_o extend_v not_o to_o any_o true_a act_n of_o pastoral_a care_n visit_v heal_v feed_v but_o tear_v and_o rend_v last_o bystander_n and_o neuter_n have_v the_o woe_n to_o the_o world_n because_o of_o scandal_n come_v upon_o they_o for_o they_o mis-judge_n of_o the_o excellent_a religion_n of_o the_o gospel_n by_o these_o great_a miscarriage_n and_o it_o fall_v under_o their_o misrepute_n as_o if_o it_o stand_v in_o ceremonial_n in_o regard_n of_o who_o the_o apostle_n be_v so_o cautious_a that_o the_o good_a of_o christian_n shall_v not_o be_v evil_o speak_v of_o as_o if_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n be_v only_o meat_n and_o drink_n for_o whereas_o the_o substantial_o of_o christianity_n justify_v themselves_o to_o the_o conscience_n of_o all_o man_n ceremonial_n lead_v to_o atheism_n as_o if_o religion_n be_v but_o the_o craft_n of_o party_n use_v trifle_n for_o interest_n rule_n and_o domination_n and_o difference_n in_o the_o profession_n of_o it_o when_o multiply_v by_o dispute_n about_o these_o indifferent_n bring_v mistrust_n upon_o all_o as_o if_o there_o be_v nothing_o certain_a last_o the_o heat_n cruelty_n and_o persecution_n use_v on_o these_o account_n can_v but_o look_v very_o strange_a and_o full_a of_o horror_n to_o the_o very_a light_n of_o nature_n for_o how_o can_v it_o but_o appear_v prodigy_n and_o portent_n that_o christian_a religion_n that_o count_v upon_o nothing_o but_o persecution_n of_o itself_o in_o the_o world_n shall_v turn_v the_o weapon_n use_v against_o it_o upon_o itself_o as_o have_v be_v most_o notorious_o infamous_a in_o the_o popish_a inhumanities_n or_o what_o stranger_n can_v think_v well_o of_o such_o a_o christianity_n and_o then_o more_o dire_a it_o be_v that_o protestant_a religion_n brand_a popery_n as_o a_o religion_n of_o blood_n shall_v be_v so_o much_o as_o tinctured_a with_o any_o of_o that_o spirit_n and_o that_o any_o of_o these_o evil_n shall_v be_v for_o the_o sake_n and_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o indifferent_n that_o be_v acknowledge_v to_o be_v devise_v by_o man_n that_o be_v not_o equal_a to_o god_n law_n that_o may_v be_v change_v for_o which_o other_o country_n that_o use_v they_o not_o be_v to_o be_v condemn_v whereas_o substantial_a order_n and_o decency_n be_v the_o same_o throughout_o the_o world_n some_o small_a local_a difference_n allow_v for_o this_o be_v the_o great_a cause_n of_o complaint_n but_o on_o the_o other_o side_n the_o reason_n that_o appear_v to_o dissenter_n against_o they_o be_v great_a and_o weighty_a in_o themselves_o let_v they_o be_v mistake_v in_o the_o application_n yet_o a_o great_a reason_n on_o the_o contrary_a to_o any_o thing_n if_o misapprehend_v be_v of_o much_o more_o weight_n than_o a_o very_a slight_a and_o inconsiderable_a reason_n for_o it_o however_o true_a and_o though_o in_o a_o much_o inferior_a cause_n i_o acknowledge_v yet_o i_o hope_v it_o be_v not_o unlawful_a to_o make_v a_o allusion_n to_o that_o unavoidable_a argument_n against_o atheism_n that_o the_o endure_a of_o inconsiderable_a inconvenience_n though_o certain_a be_v much_o more_o eligible_a to_o a_o wise_a man_n than_o the_o adventure_n upon_o intolerable_a and_o endless_a inconveniency_n though_o suppose_v uncertain_a in_o a_o like_a manner_n though_o of_o a_o low_a consequence_n and_o yet_o not_o altogether_o low_o the_o great_a mischief_n of_o scandal_n though_o possible_o upon_o mistake_n be_v not_o to_o be_v hazard_v upon_o suppose_v the_o more_o certain_a little_a inconvenience_n of_o man_n not_o conform_v to_o indifferency_n but_o that_o there_o may_v be_v a_o more_o equal_a poise_n of_o the_o matter_n i_o shall_v brief_o present_v the_o objection_n against_o indulgence_n to_o dissenter_n in_o indifferency_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o scandal_n and_o the_o answer_n that_o may_v be_v return_v to_o they_o object_n 1._o if_o scandal_n be_v a_o argument_n against_o thing_n we_o must_v go_v out_o of_o all_o thing_n even_o out_o of_o the_o world_n nay_o out_o of_o religion_n itself_o for_o all_o thing_n be_v full_a of_o scandal_n even_o the_o best_a thing_n answ_n it_o will_v be_v yet_o a_o considerable_a service_n do_v to_o the_o world_n the_o christian_a world_n if_o but_o so_o much_o of_o scandal_n be_v defalk_v as_o have_v its_o play_n in_o indifferent_n the_o abatement_n will_v be_v above_o what_o can_v easy_o be_v believe_v if_o all_o that_o have_v swell_v the_o account_n of_o scandal_n from_o indifferent_a thing_n have_v be_v wise_o and_o thrifty_o cut_v off_o from_o the_o entrance_n of_o christianity_n to_o this_o day_n and_o the_o sting_n of_o the_o argument_n why_o it_o shall_v have_v be_v and_o yet_o shall_v be_v so_o be_v that_o they_o be_v but_o indifferent_n that_o be_v speak_v of_o the_o use_n of_o which_o make_v we_o not_o the_o better_a nor_o the_o non-use_a the_o worse_o but_o the_o mischief_n of_o scandal_n be_v incomputable_o great_a so_o that_o the_o advantage_n of_o such_o a_o abatement_n have_v bring_v infinite_a recompense_n with_o usury_n in_o truth_n and_o peace_n for_o that_o little_a profit_n if_o any_o that_o can_v grow_v from_o barren_a and_o dead_a indifferent_n in_o religion_n though_o consider_v as_o separate_v from_o scandal_n object_n 2._o the_o apostle_n himself_o be_v enforce_v to_o change_v his_o voice_n concern_v indulgence_n to_o the_o weak_a in_o the_o judaique_a rite_n and_o to_o vote_v the_o persist_v in_o a_o love_n to_o they_o damnable_a and_o the_o holy_a spirit_n brand_v the_o idolothytes_n concede_v by_o the_o apostle_n to_o be_v afterward_o the_o doctrine_n of_o balaam_n so_o that_o the_o weakness_n of_o conscience_n about_o indifferent_a thing_n become_v so_o masterless_a unruly_a and_o headstrong_a as_o to_o endanger_v main_a concernment_n in_o religion_n if_o not_o reform_v the_o due_a time_n of_o indulgence_n be_v allow_v for_o it_o answ_n the_o mischief_n if_o near_o observe_v always_o grow_v from_o make_v more_o accession_n to_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n and_o religious_a service_n than_o god_n have_v make_v for_o the_o judaize_v in_o the_o galatian_n the_o will-worship_n and_o show_v of_o wisdom_n among_o the_o colossian_n the_o forbid_v to_o marry_v and_o command_v to_o abstain_v from_o meat_n all_o grow_v upon_o the_o same_o root_n even_o the_o idolatry_n and_o luxury_n of_o the_o idolothytes_n come_v not_o from_o a_o wise_a and_o christian_n assert_v god_n right_a above_o the_o idol_n but_o from_o sink_v down_o into_o the_o sensual_a worship_n of_o the_o idol_n by_o a_o daily_a conversation_n at_o his_o table_n in_o his_o temple_n and_o unite_n heathenism_n with_o christianity_n of_o one_o of_o which_o either_o judaisme_n or_o heathenism_n most_o rite_n be_v but_o the_o offspring_n the_o great_a danger_n be_v either_o in_o exalt_v god_n creature_n into_o a_o state_n and_o for_o uses_n and_o end_v above_o what_o he_o ordain_v they_o at_o humane_a pleasure_n and_o arbitrement_n or_o retrench_v the_o liberty_n god_n have_v give_v in_o the_o free_a use_n of_o his_o own_o creature_n for_o every_o creature_n of_o god_n be_v good_a and_o nothing_o to_o be_v refuse_v if_o receive_v with_o thanksgiving_n for_o it_o be_v sanctify_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o prayer_n now_o this_o can_v alike_o extend_v to_o the_o sign_n and_o ceremony_n create_v by_o humane_a imagination_n and_o impose_v with_o rigour_n and_o that_o not_o only_o on_o civil_a account_n which_o we_o meddle_v not_o with_o but_o upon_o religious_a where_o god_n be_v only_o supreme_a at_o which_o door_n have_v enter_v all_o the_o idolatry_n and_o superstition_n into_o the_o world_n wind_v itself_o by_o lesser_a degree_n and_o so_o mount_v itself_o to_o the_o very_a top_n the_o great_a use_n of_o the_o apostle_n two_o discourse_n be_v therefore_o to_o be_v resolve_v into_o this_o one_o main_a position_n that_o upon_o the_o account_n of_o indifferency_n wherein_o the_o use_n or_o non-use_a can_v commend_v we_o to_o god_n we_o shall_v not_o scandalize_v nor_o so_o much_o as_o offer_v scandal_n to_o any_o of_o the_o servant_n of_o christ_n in_o all_o which_o it_o be_v due_o to_o be_v consider_v that_o scandal_n run_v in_o the_o industrious_a impose_v and_o bind_v observation_n either_o by_o example_n that_o expect_v conformity_n to_o it_o or_o any_o more_o violent_a influence_n upon_o compliance_n that_o which_o the_o apostle_n therefore_o persuade_v to_o be_v not_o any_o thing_n of_o ritual_a distinction_n of_o day_n or_o meat_n but_o only_o the_o not_o eat_v such_o or_o such_o meat_n happen_v in_o these_o
two_o case_n to_o be_v the_o expedient_a against_o scandal_n he_o therefore_o persuade_v the_o not_o eat_v upon_o these_o contingency_n as_o by_o the_o by_o which_o be_v a_o very_a easy_a performance_n for_o christian_a charity_n but_o the_o thing_n he_o be_v whole_o intent_n upon_o be_v that_o great_a doctrine_n of_o not_o scandalize_a for_o the_o sake_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n these_o circumstance_n easy_o vanish_v the_o main_a point_n remain_v unmoved_a they_o be_v only_o a_o scheme_n a_o momentany_a and_o transitory_a one_o to_o display_v this_o great_a doctrine_n in_o and_o to_o present_v it_o upon_o when_o these_o thing_n grow_v into_o a_o ritual_a religion_n the_o scheme_n be_v alter_v and_o shift_v they_o grow_v sinful_a and_o be_v condemn_v the_o doctrine_n stand_v yet_o and_o for_o ever_o stand_v firm_a plant_v upon_o they_o object_n 4._o the_o rite_n use_v be_v such_o as_o be_v recommend_v from_o antiquity_n and_o be_v of_o use_n of_o old_a in_o the_o primitive_a church_n answ_n allow_v it_o to_o be_v so_o all_o that_o can_v be_v collect_v from_o thence_o be_v but_o example_n wound_v up_o to_o its_o high_a peg_n when_o it_o do_v not_o reach_n christ_n and_o whenever_o it_o do_v not_o reach_v he_o it_o do_v not_o bind_v be_v you_o follower_n of_o i_o as_o i_o 1._o 1_o cor._n 11._o 1._o be_o of_o christ_n say_v the_o apostle_n just_a about_o to_o discourse_v of_o the_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d ordinance_n or_o tradition_n those_o concurrence_n all_o every_o where_o always_o must_v begin_v in_o scripture_n and_o be_v find_v there_o else_o they_o do_v but_o oblige_v our_o prudence_n not_o our_o conscience_n only_o so_o far_o as_o antiquity_n or_o the_o primitive_a church_n inable_v we_o to_o see_v with_o our_o own_o eye_n the_o sense_n of_o scripture_n or_o the_o determination_n of_o natural_a light_n and_o reason_n in_o any_o case_n so_o far_o it_o oblige_v we_o in_o conscience_n all_o else_o be_v but_o the_o deference_n of_o modesty_n and_o due_a regard_n which_o can_v weigh_v against_o scandal_n except_o we_o make_v the_o oracle_n of_o antiquity_n equal_a to_o the_o heavenly_a oracle_n and_o then_o we_o must_v demand_v the_o same_o certainty_n of_o the_o divine_a inspiration_n of_o the_o one_o as_o of_o the_o other_o or_o else_o we_o may_v quick_o run_v into_o the_o great_a of_o scandal_n object_n 5._o the_o command_v of_o lawful_a authority_n take_v away_o the_o indifferency_n and_o make_v necessary_a what_o be_v before_o indifferent_a answ_n the_o question_n be_v not_o whether_o magistrate_n ought_v to_o be_v obey_v in_o all_o thing_n indifferent_a for_o that_o be_v ready_o grant_v if_o in_o all_o circumstance_n they_o be_v indifferent_a nor_o whether_o rite_n be_v indifferent_a thing_n for_o that_o be_v also_o suppose_a to_o be_v grant_v but_o the_o question_n must_v be_v whether_o it_o be_v a_o indifferent_a thing_n to_o give_v or_o receive_v scandal_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n see_v that_o may_v indisputable_o fall_v out_o or_o the_o apostle_n discourse_n fall_v to_o the_o ground_n and_o in_o one_o sort_n of_o indifferent_n as_o well_o as_o other_o else_o the_o apostle_n discourse_n will_v be_v ineffectual_a to_o any_o the_o like_a case_n see_v then_o the_o tribunal_n and_o authority_n of_o god_n be_v high_a than_o of_o any_o of_o the_o supream_n of_o this_o world_n and_o that_o scandal_n be_v cognisable_v only_o before_o he_o and_o that_o whatever_o incur_v sandal_n be_v inseparable_a from_o sin_n against_o god_n it_o must_v needs_o follow_v that_o in_o a_o case_n of_o doubt_n from_o which_o a_o man_n can_v acquit_v himself_o he_o can_v obey_v man_n in_o that_o without_o disobey_v god_n who_o have_v declare_v to_o he_o whatever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n and_o he_o that_o doubt_v and_o do_v what_o he_o doubt_v of_o be_v damn_v that_o be_v condemn_v within_o himself_o and_o in_o the_o thing_n itself_o and_o the_o reason_n in_o such_o a_o case_n must_v be_v the_o same_o as_o in_o a_o case_n of_o obey_v magistrate_n against_o any_o express_a divine_a prohibition_n for_o though_o the_o thing_n doubt_v of_o do_v much_o differ_v if_o it_o be_v indeed_o indifferent_a yet_o the_o prohibition_n be_v as_o plain_a against_o do_v what_o be_v doubt_v of_o and_o what_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n as_o in_o any_o case_n see_v then_o all_o humane_a authority_n must_v lower_v its_o top_n to_o divine_a i_o can_v see_v but_o that_o in_o indifferent_a thing_n in_o religion_n which_o be_v god_n peculiar_a for_o we_o speak_v only_o of_o that_o the_o magistrate_n power_n be_v exclude_v in_o case_n of_o real_a doubt_n of_o conscience_n in_o which_o a_o man_n can_v do_v nothing_o but_o he_o run_v into_o god_n danger_n even_o as_o in_o any_o other_o case_n of_o such_o danger_n by_o reason_n of_o sin_n and_o what_o be_v offer_v in_o relief_n will_v not_o avail_v viz._n that_o obedience_n to_o magistrate_n be_v certain_o a_o duty_n but_o whether_o there_o be_v any_o disobedience_n to_o god_n about_o such_o or_o such_o indifferent_n be_v in_o doubt_n and_o if_o the_o thing_n be_v indeed_o indifferent_a it_o be_v a_o doubt_n upon_o mistake_n and_o then_o there_o be_v a_o disobedience_n to_o god_n in_o a_o undoubted_a rule_n and_o command_v to_o avoid_v it_o in_o a_o case_n not_o only_o of_o doubt_n but_o of_o mistake_n this_o i_o say_v can_v avail_v because_o the_o measure_n be_v not_o to_o be_v draw_v betwixt_o obedience_n to_o magistrate_n in_o all_o lawful_a thing_n or_o thing_n indifferent_a but_o betwixt_o obedience_n to_o magistrate_n and_o obedience_n to_o that_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n in_o all_o case_n of_o doubt_n which_o be_v as_o clear_v and_o as_o little_a subject_n to_o doubt_v as_o any_o rule_n whatever_o yet_o do_v not_o this_o evacuate_v the_o power_n of_o magistrate_n it_o be_v restrain_v to_o thing_n indifferent_a in_o religion_n and_o in_o doubt_n and_o the_o doubt_v fix_v upon_o a_o grand_a principle_n of_o truth_n nor_o be_v that_o of_o great_a satisfaction_n that_o in_o obedience_n to_o magistrate_n there_o be_v so_o many_o degree_n of_o good_a and_o so_o many_o of_o evil_n in_o the_o disobedience_n but_o in_o do_v well_o or_o ill_o concern_v indifferent_n there_o be_v much_o few_o degree_n both_o of_o the_o good_a and_o the_o evil_a therefore_o obedience_n to_o god_n in_o so_o great_a a_o morality_n as_o obedience_n to_o magistrate_n be_v always_o to_o be_v prefer_v before_o our_o do_v well_o in_o indifferent_n and_o the_o fear_n of_o evil_a in_o one_o to_o be_v avoid_v much_o rather_o than_o the_o same_o fear_n in_o the_o other_o the_o reason_n of_o dissatisfaction_n be_v this_o that_o the_o measure_n be_v not_o betwixt_o the_o morality_n of_o obedience_n to_o god_n in_o obey_v magistrate_n and_o do_v well_o or_o ill_o about_o thing_n indifferent_a but_o betwixt_o the_o morality_n of_o obey_v god_n in_o one_o of_o his_o clear_a and_o undoubted_a precept_n and_o in_o another_o of_o the_o same_o evidence_n and_o clearness_n which_o must_v needs_o be_v one_o and_o the_o same_o and_o of_o the_o same_o rate_n of_o morality_n see_v obedience_n to_o god_n be_v the_o fundamental_a morality_n if_o it_o be_v not_o thus_o the_o magistrate_n prohibition_n of_o sacrifice_n of_o the_o cup_n in_o the_o lord_n supper_n must_v exempt_v from_o obedience_n to_o god_n in_o those_o duty_n because_o obedience_n to_o magistrate_n be_v a_o moral_a duty_n but_o the_o other_o ceremonial_a but_o it_o be_v out_o of_o measure_n certain_a obedience_n to_o god_n be_v both_o the_o top_n and_o the_o bottom_n of_o all_o morality_n and_o although_o obedience_n to_o magistrate_n be_v a_o great_a point_n of_o morality_n yet_o obedience_n to_o god_n be_v so_o before_o it_o as_o to_o be_v the_o measure_n of_o it_o beside_o if_o obedience_n to_o god_n be_v to_o be_v value_v not_o by_o his_o authority_n but_o by_o weigh_v the_o precept_n themselves_o much_o more_o obedience_n to_o magistrate_n be_v to_o be_v estimate_v by_o the_o command_v they_o give_v of_o which_o indifferent_n in_o religion_n will_v never_o be_v make_v out_o to_o be_v worthy_a to_o be_v the_o test_n either_o of_o their_o authority_n or_o our_o obedience_n whatever_o unthinking_a man_n have_v say_v therein_o indeed_o among_o the_o divine_a command_n god_n have_v choose_v mercy_n rather_o than_o sacrifice_n honour_v parent_n rather_o than_o corban_n but_o it_o be_v because_o he_o have_v so_o declare_v in_o his_o word_n and_o in_o man_n conscience_n but_o all_o the_o law_n of_o god_n do_v harmonious_o conspire_v and_o subordinate_a themselves_o one_o to_o another_o among_o which_o obedience_n to_o magistrate_n and_o preserve_v the_o government_n and_o peace_n of_o conscience_n be_v none_o of_o the_o least_o nor_o of_o any_o contest_v or_o distance_n of_o unkindness_n between_o themselves_o whoso_o
be_v wise_a he_o shall_v understand_v these_o thing_n prudent_a and_o he_o shall_v know_v they_o for_o the_o way_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v right_a in_o themselves_o and_o lie_v in_o straight_a line_n one_o to_o another_o the_o just_a shall_v walk_v in_o they_o though_o transgressor_n fall_n therein_o in_o fine_a magistrate_n especial_o christian_a magistrate_n be_v as_o much_o oblige_v against_o push_v on_o scandal_n as_o private_a christian_n and_o more_o as_o they_o be_v the_o custodes_fw-la the_o public_a guardian_n of_o conscience_n but_o if_o they_o fail_v in_o their_o duty_n obedience_n to_o they_o can_v disannul_v the_o charge_n against_o scandal_n lie_v upon_o all_o christian_n in_o relation_n to_o one_o another_o nor_o can_v their_o law_n prescribe_v against_o moderation_n obj._n 6._o but_o when_o time_n be_v allow_v to_o the_o doubtful_a to_o satisfy_v themselves_o if_o they_o come_v not_o off_o from_o their_o scruple_n it_o argue_v humour_n and_o faction_n be_v high_a in_o the_o case_n or_o a_o superstition_n on_o the_o other_o side_n answ_n the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o it_o be_v a_o very_a happy_a a_o very_a rare_a thing_n when_o christian_n surmount_v their_o doubt_n happy_a be_v he_o that_o condemn_v not_o himself_o wherein_o he_o allow_v himself_o it_o be_v a_o very_a privilege_a case_n to_o be_v well_o and_o wise_o satisfy_v after_o doubt_n and_o therefore_o it_o must_v not_o be_v hasty_o censure_v if_o those_o that_o have_v be_v unsatisfied_a can_v present_o answer_v our_o lure_n to_o the_o other_o side_n and_o the_o time_n be_v much_o large_a that_o be_v necessary_a in_o some_o case_n than_o in_o other_o the_o ceremony_n of_o moses_n it_o be_v reasonable_a shall_v go_v off_o more_o quick_a as_o shadow_n of_o the_o night_n by_o the_o brightness_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o can_v never_o return_v any_o more_o but_o the_o reason_n against_o eat_v at_o a_o idol_n feast_n be_v near_a moral_a be_v much_o more_o durable_a and_o may_v last_v even_o while_o the_o world_n stand_v where_o or_o whenever_o idolatry_n have_v place_n in_o the_o first_o reformation_n from_o popery_n there_o be_v reason_n to_o expect_v the_o superstitious_a rite_n and_o custom_n that_o have_v gain_v upon_o man_n mind_n with_o the_o reputation_n of_o religion_n shall_v be_v daily_o wear_v off_o but_o the_o reason_n of_o doubt_n in_o indifferent_n affix_v to_o divine_a worship_n take_v from_o that_o perpetual_a obligation_n of_o preserve_v it_o pure_a settle_v upon_o the_o base_a of_o true_a sound_a reason_n and_o much_o more_o favour_v by_o scripture_n well_o arm_v with_o experience_n of_o event_n must_v always_o continue_v in_o force_n and_o so_o no_o time_n may_v be_v large_a enough_o for_o get_v off_o from_o those_o scruple_n that_o spring_v from_o they_o but_o that_o wherein_o they_o be_v indeed_o take_v away_o but_o if_o any_o thing_n of_o turbulence_n faction_n or_o unruliness_n be_v suppose_v to_o lie_v deep_a than_o the_o scruple_n it_o be_v best_a to_o unmask_v it_o by_o take_v away_o so_o just_a a_o cause_n to_o manage_v itself_o upon_o and_o by_o so_o great_a a_o kindness_n to_o conscience_n that_o aught_o to_o be_v tender_v to_o heap_v coal_n of_o fire_n upon_o the_o head_n of_o such_o person_n either_o to_o reform_v they_o or_o condemn_v they_o beyond_o apology_n or_o if_o superstition_n and_o place_v religion_n on_o the_o other_o side_n in_o have_v a_o zeal_n against_o ceremony_n be_v suspect_v even_o that_o do_v but_o increase_v the_o scandal_n arise_v from_o these_o indifferent_a thing_n and_o make_v they_o more_o necessary_a to_o be_v remove_v as_o stumbling-block_n out_o of_o man_n way_n you_o cure_v the_o superstition_n on_o the_o other_o side_n too_o by_o take_v away_o the_o cause_n object_n 7._o order_n and_o government_n in_o the_o church_n or_o national_a religion_n can_v be_v preserve_v without_o such_o guard_n upon_o both_o piety_n order_n and_o unity_n for_o beside_o that_o public_a authority_n have_v think_v they_o fit_a there_o be_v many_o private_a christian_n zealous_a of_o they_o and_o that_o will_v be_v scandalize_v if_o they_o be_v take_v away_o as_o if_o the_o precept_n of_o the_o apostle_n be_v break_v let_v all_o thing_n be_v do_v decent_o and_o in_o order_n and_o of_o they_o great_a care_n be_v to_o be_v have_v as_o own_v the_o public_a authority_n most_o answ_n i_o have_v already_o assert_v in_o answer_n to_o some_o part_n of_o this_o objection_n 1._o that_o religion_n and_o piety_n be_v its_o own_o best_a guard_n and_o devotion_n to_o god_n preserve_v most_o awful_a as_o well_o as_o most_o pure_a in_o its_o own_o spirituality_n and_o truth_n 2._o that_o all_o natural_a and_o necessary_a order_n and_o decency_n be_v always_o to_o be_v secure_v as_o much_o as_o may_v be_v as_o be_v above_o the_o scale_n of_o mere_a indifferent_n 3._o that_o unity_n be_v to_o be_v preserve_v in_o the_o inviolate_a love_n of_o christian_n to_o one_o another_o centre_v in_o those_o principal_a thing_n love_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n and_o keep_v his_o commandment_n and_o not_o in_o one_o face_n of_o uniformity_n which_o be_v if_o place_v upon_o ceremonial_n in_o its_o own_o nature_n as_o variable_a as_o the_o phase_n of_o the_o moon_n 4._o i_o add_v the_o more_o public_a society_n in_o religion_n be_v intend_v and_o desire_v to_o be_v the_o more_o comprehensive_a the_o form_n of_o union_n must_v be_v the_o prudence_n and_o holy_a caution_n of_o that_o first_o council_n we_o read_v of_o in_o the_o christian_a church_n be_v always_o to_o be_v follow_v when_o the_o jew_n and_o gentile_n be_v to_o come_v into_o the_o near_a union_n and_o as_o great_a a_o uniformity_n as_o be_v any_o way_n necessary_a either_o in_o the_o several_a church_n or_o the_o whole_a church_n when_o doubt_n and_o dispute_n have_v arisen_a concern_v the_o term_n of_o their_o union_n be_v that_o prime_a canon_n make_v happy_a have_v it_o be_v if_o that_o pattern_n have_v be_v ever_o since_o keep_v to_o it_o seem_v good_a to_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o to_o we_o to_o lay_v upon_o you_o no_o other_o burden_n than_o these_o necessary_a thing_n one_o necessary_a by_o a_o perpetual_a morality_n one_o other_o in_o the_o fear_n and_o danger_n of_o idolatry_n or_o scandal_n the_o other_o two_o necessary_a at_o that_o time_n but_o by_o alteration_n of_o time_n they_o drop_v off_o as_o to_o any_o religious_a import_n except_o as_o general_a nature_n may_v check_v at_o they_o 5._o the_o band_v of_o society_n in_o unnecessary_a rite_n be_v rather_o of_o ecclesiastic_a interest_n and_o domination_n than_o of_o the_o concern_v of_o christian_a religion_n 6._o if_o there_o be_v such_o variety_n that_o some_o can_v serve_v god_n without_o adorn_v their_o worship_n with_o these_o arbitrary_a rite_n of_o order_n and_o decency_n they_o must_v stand_v or_o fall_v to_o their_o own_o master_n if_o they_o have_v such_o a_o faith_n see_v the_o danger_n of_o scandalize_a lie_n most_o on_o the_o side_n of_o ceremony_n they_o be_v those_o that_o shall_v have_v it_o to_o themselves_o before_o god_n not_o they_o that_o doubt_n or_o because_o it_o be_v the_o public_o establish_v order_n they_o shall_v carry_v the_o happiness_n the_o privilege_n of_o their_o full_a persuasion_n humble_o and_o compassionate_o be_v not_o high_o mind_v but_o fear_v lest_o in_o some_o part_n of_o that_o wherein_o they_o seem_v so_o clear_a cause_n of_o condemn_v themselves_o lie_v hide_v at_o present_a and_o afterward_o start_v out_o but_o all_o this_o can_v be_v a_o standard_n for_o other_o they_o that_o be_v doubtful_a ought_v not_o to_o be_v screw_v up_o by_o engine_n and_o pulley_n to_o this_o happiness_n see_v then_o there_o be_v some_o that_o dare_v not_o serve_v god_n in_o this_o way_n we_o must_v seek_v out_o other_o term_n of_o union_n and_o they_o be_v very_o near_o we_o the_o vital_a union_n of_o christianity_n our_o national_a reform_v religion_n which_o may_v subsist_v well_o enough_o if_o we_o will_v let_v it_o in_o these_o lesser_a distinction_n it_o do_v not_o make_v diverse_a church_n in_o primitive_a rome_n that_o some_o christian_n distinguish_v meat_n and_o day_n and_o other_o do_v not_o yet_o the_o assert_v the_o right_n of_o the_o gospel-freedom_n from_o judaic_a bondage_n be_v of_o more_o concernment_n to_o the_o christian_a church_n at_o that_o time_n than_o all_o the_o order_n and_o decency_n of_o despotic_a ceremony_n can_v be_v worth_a to_o it_o now_o let_v we_o therefore_o as_o the_o conclusion_n of_o this_o head_n of_o scandal_n always_o remember_v upon_o the_o point_n of_o indifferency_n that_o all_o that_o it_o be_v have_v be_v name_v already_o and_o it_o be_v know_v to_o be_v indifferency_n and_o it_o may_v not_o contend_v with_o scandal_n that_o be_v mighty_a than_o it_o for_o scandal_n be_v scandal_n real_a mischief_n and_o lay_v about_o it_o from_o
every_o quarter_n with_o mischief_n how_o much_o better_a than_o be_v it_o that_o indifferent_a thing_n in_o religion_n be_v take_v away_o even_o while_o the_o world_n stand_v than_o that_o they_o shall_v be_v keep_v up_o as_o the_o sconce_n of_o scandal_n for_o indifferent_a thing_n let_v not_o the_o work_n of_o god_n be_v destroy_v nor_o any_o for_o who_o christ_n die_v in_o danger_n to_o perish_v the_o more_o we_o esteem_v our_o church_n our_o religion_n our_o worship_n of_o god_n the_o better_a and_o pure_a they_o be_v the_o more_o it_o be_v pity_v any_o shall_v be_v divide_v from_o it_o shall_v be_v so_o far_o scandalize_v as_o to_o be_v schismatic_n from_o it_o either_o in_o our_o account_n or_o if_o it_o be_v that_o sin_n in_o the_o real_a danger_n of_o it_o and_o of_o perish_v in_o it_o the_o more_o excellent_a our_o church_n be_v the_o more_o the_o apostle_n rule_n take_v hold_v of_o we_o let_v not_o the_o good_a of_o our_o church_n be_v evil_o speak_v of_o as_o if_o it_o be_v ceremonial_a let_v we_o not_o lose_v any_o from_o our_o church_n for_o meat_n and_o drink_v increase_v not_o the_o woe_n of_o scandal_n any_o way_n for_o so_o mean_a thing_n as_o indifferent_n let_v we_o not_o endanger_v ourselves_o into_o the_o woe_n of_o he_o by_o who_o scandal_n come_v for_o element_n but_o beside_o all_o these_o consideration_n there_o be_v not_o so_o absolute_a a_o security_n in_o add_v any_o thing_n under_o any_o name_n whatever_o to_o the_o pure_a worship_n of_o god_n any_o more_o than_o to_o his_o word_n lest_o we_o be_v find_v liar_n to_o he_o mismatch_a with_o it_o what_o will_v not_o endure_v the_o fire_n great_a peace_n have_v they_o that_o 6._o prov._n 30._o 5_o 6._o love_v thy_o law_n o_o lord_n and_o that_o only_a nothing_o shall_v offend_v they_o in_o nothing_o will_v they_o offend_v other_o observe_v rite_n that_o have_v be_v divine_a be_v not_o so_o safe_a to_o the_o first_o christian_n have_v to_o do_v with_o rite_n that_o have_v be_v corrupt_v idolatrous_o and_o superstitious_o prove_v very_o fatal_a ceremony_n be_v but_o shadow_n superstition_n easy_o pervade_v that_o little_a thin_a essence_n they_o have_v they_o have_v not_o the_o right_n of_o be_v god_n creation_n to_o bring_v they_o off_o to_o lie_v low_a than_o their_o corruption_n and_o commend_v they_o there_o be_v no_o such_o cause_n to_o be_v overzealous_a of_o such_o thing_n in_o regard_n of_o which_o a_o late_a history_n late_a father_n simmons_n be_v critical_a history_n romanist_n have_v say_v the_o true_a religion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n differ_v little_a from_o the_o romish_a in_o outward_a appearance_n the_o argument_n strike_v all_o way_n if_o our_o constitution_n be_v so_o good_a and_o injure_v not_o at_o all_o by_o ceremony_n let_v we_o as_o christ_n seek_v and_o save_v that_o which_o be_v lose_v those_o we_o look_v upon_o as_o the_o least_o that_o believe_v in_o christ_n let_v they_o not_o be_v lose_v for_o ceremony_n the_o love_n and_o compassion_n of_o a_o saviour_n triumph_v towards_o these_o least_o easy_o offend_v narrow-souled_a morose_n suppose_v they_o smoke_v flax_n bruise_a reed_n yet_o despise_v they_o not_o if_o christian_n if_o protestant_n their_o angel_n behold_v the_o face_n of_o the_o father_n of_o christ_n in_o heaven_n let_v they_o not_o be_v offend_v scandalize_v from_o union_n with_o our_o national_a church_n for_o ceremony_n if_o on_o the_o other_o side_n our_o ceremony_n in_o god_n account_n shall_v be_v blemish_n of_o our_o church_n and_o imperfection_n or_o if_o they_o may_v be_v turn_v into_o such_o by_o a_o ignorant_a use_n of_o they_o or_o if_o they_o cause_v division_n and_o scandal_n if_o the_o mischief_n of_o those_o scandal_n fall_v upon_o stranger_n to_o true_a religion_n and_o keep_v they_o at_o distance_n all_o these_o consideration_n weigh_v heavy_a against_o a_o zeal_n for_o they_o but_o if_o none_o of_o these_o can_v be_v lay_v to_o their_o charge_n yet_o if_o man_n doubt_v concern_v they_o what_o must_v they_o do_v how_o shall_v they_o escape_v that_o of_o the_o apostle_n he_o that_o doubt_v be_v damn_v if_o he_o eat_v whatever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n why_o shall_v this_o be_v hazard_v for_o indifferent_n and_o when_o the_o tide_n of_o advantage_n preferment_n public_a approbation_n be_v on_o one_o side_n deprivation_n of_o all_o those_o censure_n and_o penalty_n on_o the_o other_o who_o dare_v answer_n for_o many_o man_n that_o they_o do_v not_o offer_v violence_n to_o their_o principle_n much_o more_o venture_v over_o their_o doubt_n and_o yet_o in_o those_o very_a doubt_n have_v the_o apostle_n lay_v his_o doctrine_n or_o last_o woe_n can_v reasonable_o suppose_v man_n will_v stem_v this_o tide_n that_o be_v against_o they_o if_o they_o have_v not_o real_a conscientious_a doubt_n or_o high_a than_o doubt_n to_o contest_v with_o in_o prejudice_n of_o their_o compliance_n upon_o the_o whole_a then_o i_o can_v but_o conclude_v impose_v indifferent_a thing_n in_o religion_n by_o a_o violent_a example_n much_o more_o by_o severe_a way_n be_v very_o contrary_a to_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n in_o that_o case_n and_o that_o upon_o reason_n that_o till_o i_o see_v they_o answer_v i_o must_v suppose_v unanswerable_a i_o have_v now_o thus_o far_o discourse_v of_o scandal_n in_o the_o more_o strict_a and_o particular_a case_n scripture_n have_v give_v we_o the_o notice_n of_o but_o in_o the_o remain_a head_n to_o be_v treat_v of_o i_o shall_v consider_v it_o in_o that_o large_a and_o most_o comprehensive_a grasp_v of_o it_o religion_n in_o general_n and_o there_o be_v nothing_o that_o require_v great_a wisdom_n and_o the_o prepossession_n of_o a_o more_o religious_a prudence_n than_o to_o sit_v and_o count_v the_o charge_n of_o undertake_v serious_a piety_n as_o the_o lord_n have_v bid_v we_o in_o relation_n to_o one_o branch_n of_o scandal_n persecution_n so_o with_o respect_n to_o the_o whole_a negotiation_n of_o scandal_n in_o the_o world_n it_o be_v the_o great_a both_o wisdom_n and_o goodness_n of_o god_n in_o the_o scripture_n that_o he_o have_v give_v full_a and_o ample_a warning_n before_o hand_n of_o all_o the_o disadvantage_n we_o be_v to_o encounter_v in_o our_o faith_n love_n and_o obedience_n to_o he_o as_o when_o we_o be_v assure_v there_o shall_v be_v false_a prophet_n there_o must_v be_v heresy_n there_o shall_v be_v persecution_n there_o shall_v be_v a_o apostasy_n or_o general_a defection_n from_o true_a symmetral_n christianity_n within_o christianity_n itself_o and_o so_o in_o the_o present_a case_n it_o must_v needs_o be_v that_o scandal_n come_v for_o the_o knowledge_n of_o these_o thing_n be_v one_o great_a defence_n against_o the_o evil_n predict_v as_o also_o against_o the_o stagger_a of_o our_o mind_n concern_v the_o truth_n of_o religion_n itself_o let_v any_o man_n then_o inquire_v and_o search_v this_o thing_n out_o both_o in_o scripture_n and_o close_a reason_n and_o he_o will_v find_v scandal_n must_v come_v though_o he_o may_v at_o first_o think_v religion_n if_o it_o be_v so_o great_a and_o excellent_a as_o be_v give_v out_o of_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v darken_v and_o cloud_v with_o scandal_n but_o stand_v clear_a from_o it_o and_o it_o be_v impossible_a it_o shall_v be_v any_o way_n liable_a to_o it_o now_o that_o it_o be_v in_o itself_o just_a and_o right_a even_o to_o perfection_n itself_o be_v every_o where_o record_v and_o publish_v of_o it_o wisdom_n speak_v excellent_a thing_n and_o the_o open_v its_o lip_n be_v 6._o prov._n 8._o 6._o right_a thing_n it_o speak_v truth_n and_o wickedness_n be_v a_o abomination_n to_o its_o lip_n all_o its_o word_n be_v in_o righteousness_n and_o nothing_o froward_a or_o perverse_a in_o they_o they_o be_v all_o plain_a to_o he_o that_o understand_v and_o right_a to_o they_o that_o find_v knowledge_n the_o righteousness_n of_o thy_o testimony_n be_v everlasting_a give_v i_o understanding_n and_o i_o shall_v live_v god_n precept_n be_v right_o concern_v all_o thing_n and_o secure_a from_o every_o false_a way_n etc._n psal_n 119._o 104._o etc._n etc._n his_o law_n be_v the_o truth_n by_o the_o word_n of_o his_o lip_n man_n be_v keep_v from_o the_o path_n of_o the_o destroyer_n amid_o all_o the_o scandalize_a 11._o psal_n 17._o 4._o hos_fw-la 14._o 11._o and_o intangle_a work_n of_o man_n the_o way_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v all_o right_a if_o man_n have_v but_o right_a foot_n right_a intention_n affection_n and_o motion_n and_o yet_o when_o all_o this_o be_v grant_v let_v any_o man_n cast_v the_o thing_n in_o his_o severe_a thought_n and_o he_o will_v find_v it_o impossible_a as_o thing_n be_v religion_n shall_v be_v free_a from_o scandal_n and_o that_o therefore_o as_o if_o any_o man_n can_v deny_v himself_o he_o can_v be_v christ_n disciple_n so_o if_o
any_o man_n can_v encounter_v scandal_n and_o overcome_v he_o can_v be_v the_o servant_n of_o god_n the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n let_v we_o then_o resume_v the_o notion_n of_o scandal_n and_o fit_v it_o to_o this_o general_a prospect_n over_o religion_n i_o be_o now_o upon_o and_o we_o shall_v find_v as_o the_o lord_n speak_v that_o scandal_n must_v come_v scandal_n then_o be_v any_o false_a pretence_n or_o appearance_n whereby_o religion_n or_o any_o of_o the_o noble_a object_n part_n rule_n or_o reason_n of_o it_o be_v expose_v to_o disadvantage_n and_o disgust_n as_o unreasonable_a unjust_a untrue_a weak_a and_o empty_a morose_n unlovely_a and_o undesirable_a or_o the_o contrary_a sin_n irreligion_n and_o disobedience_n to_o god_n be_v gloss_a over_o and_o present_v as_o in_o all_o regard_n more_o choosable_a and_o to_o be_v desire_v than_o religion_n and_o all_o thing_n so_o entangle_v and_o perplex_v among_o themselves_o that_o man_n be_v seduce_v from_o the_o esteem_n of_o the_o divine_a law_n and_o obedience_n to_o it_o and_o ensnare_v in_o sin_n even_o by_o that_o justle_n and_o disorder_n scandal_n make_v in_o the_o several_a law_n and_o rule_n of_o religion_n among_o themselves_o and_o the_o blending_a with_o they_o the_o pretence_n of_o sin_n upon_o which_o great_a dishonour_n to_o god_n and_o religion_n sharp_a conflict_n of_o conscience_n within_o itself_o mischief_n to_o the_o soul_n of_o man_n and_o a_o general_a disaffection_n to_o religion_n ensue_v and_o now_o how_o this_o must_v needs_o be_v i_o shall_v undertake_v to_o show_v have_v only_o observe_v first_o that_o there_o be_v some_o main_a thing_n so_o necessary_a for_o our_o knowledge_n faith_n and_o practice_n that_o they_o be_v make_v exquisite_o clear_a and_o most_o easy_a to_o be_v understand_v he_o that_o run_v may_v read_v they_o wafaring_a man_n though_o fool_n can_v err_v therein_o the_o entrance_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n concern_v they_o giveth_z light_z it_o give_v understanding_n to_o the_o simple_a again_o there_o be_v some_o thing_n of_o very_a great_a advancement_n to_o the_o soul_n and_o its_o happiness_n that_o be_v the_o reward_n of_o a_o holy_a humble_a diligence_n to_o know_v in_o such_o a_o measure_n as_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v know_v and_o of_o a_o precede_a obedience_n in_o those_o so_o plain_a thing_n that_o as_o the_o resurrection_n of_o christ_n be_v not_o show_v to_o all_o the_o people_n but_o to_o choose_a witness_n thus_o the_o secret_a of_o the_o lord_n be_v with_o they_o that_o fear_v he_o and_o he_o will_v show_v they_o his_o covenant_n what_o man_n be_v he_o that_o fear_v the_o etc._n psal_n 25._o 12_o 14_o etc._n etc._n lord_n he_o shall_v he_o teach_v in_o the_o way_n that_o he_o shall_v choose_v the_o meek_n will_v he_o guide_v in_o judgement_n and_o the_o meek_n will_v he_o teach_v his_o way_n if_o any_o man_n will_v do_v his_o will_n he_o shall_v know_v of_o 17._o john_n 7._o 17._o my_o doctrine_n whether_o it_o be_v of_o god_n or_o not_o on_o the_o other_o side_n ignorance_n and_o disobedience_n to_o those_o divine_a truth_n that_o be_v near_a and_o most_o plain_a to_o we_o be_v punish_v either_o with_o concealment_n of_o or_o leave_v we_o to_o injudiciousness_n and_o insensibleness_n in_o high_a divine_a manifestation_n where_o also_o that_o injudiciousness_n and_o insensibleness_n be_v condemn_v for_o to_o he_o that_o have_v shall_v be_v give_v and_o from_o he_o that_o have_v not_o 18._o luke_n 8._o 18._o by_o improvement_n and_o good_a use_n shall_v be_v take_v away_o even_o that_o which_o he_o have_v and_o this_o be_v the_o condemnation_n for_o not_o believe_v 19_o john_n 3._o 19_o in_o christ_n that_o supernatural_a revelation_n because_o they_o love_v darkness_n rather_o than_o light_n as_o a_o cover_n for_o their_o evil_a deed_n but_o beside_o those_o plain_a truth_n write_v with_o a_o sunbeam_n in_o nature_n itself_o beside_o those_o of_o clear_a revelation_n there_o be_v necessary_o some_o deep_a truth_n concern_v the_o divine_a nature_n the_o attribute_n of_o god_n his_o decree_n and_o act_n some_o mystery_n of_o christ_n of_o providence_n and_o the_o government_n of_o the_o world_n that_o command_n awe_o reverence_n and_o modesty_n and_o be_v not_o to_o be_v fathom_v and_o full_o understand_v and_o yet_o can_v be_v so_o divide_v nor_o separate_v from_o those_o truth_n that_o be_v necessary_a to_o be_v know_v but_o that_o the_o understanding_n must_v and_o aught_o to_o have_v a_o observation_n of_o and_o search_v after_o they_o though_o with_o fear_n and_o tremble_v and_o with_o a_o wisdom_n to_o sobriety_n yet_o to_o know_v as_o much_o of_o they_o as_o it_o be_v make_v to_o know_v by_o scripture_n these_o thing_n now_o be_v premise_v i_o come_v to_o show_v that_o in_o the_o first_o and_o best_a state_n of_o thing_n scandal_n may_v come_v and_o that_o in_o the_o corrupt_a and_o degenerate_a state_n they_o must_v come_v and_o first_o how_o they_o may_v come_v and_o there_o must_v the_o same_o original_a be_v assign_v to_o scandal_n as_o there_o be_v to_o evil_a and_o sin_n itself_o for_o neither_o sin_n nor_o scandal_n can_v derive_v themselves_o from_o the_o holy_a wise_a and_o good_a creator_n who_o make_v all_o thing_n just_a and_o even_o he_o most_o upright_o weigh_v out_o the_o path_n of_o the_o just_a by_o his_o own_o eternal_a perfect_a way_n and_o make_v the_o angelical_a and_o humane_a the_o whole_a rational_a nature_n according_a to_o it_o upright_o and_o perfect_a so_o that_o there_o be_v no_o scandal_n from_o this_o first_o beginning_n of_o thing_n but_o when_o god_n make_v creature_n of_o reason_n and_o understanding_n and_o of_o free_a will_n and_o choice_n understanding_n in_o the_o very_a nature_n of_o it_o can_v search_v and_o pry_v and_o range_v every_o way_n and_o look_v not_o only_o upon_o thing_n that_o be_v but_o by_o thing_n that_o be_v they_o can_v collect_v thing_n possible_a from_o the_o nature_n of_o wise_a good_a and_o just_o they_o can_v descry_v folly_n evil_a and_o wrong_n and_o in_o happiness_n and_o blessedness_n they_o can_v behold_v as_o in_o privation_n from_o they_o misery_n and_o unhappiness_n or_o the_o transcendency_n and_o infiniteness_n of_o happiness_n and_o the_o degree_n below_o it_o they_o can_v trace_v and_o find_v out_o the_o line_n by_o which_o there_o rise_v up_o a_o supremacy_n of_o these_o and_o back_o again_o by_o which_o there_o be_v declination_n of_o degree_n from_o this_o azimuth_n or_o insuperable_a height_n and_o as_o these_o understanding_n be_v so_o great_a so_o they_o be_v suit_v with_o will_n and_o appetite_n as_o great_a by_o which_o they_o can_v aspire_v to_o be_v whatever_o they_o see_v above_o themselves_o and_o to_o dislike_v in_o whatever_o they_o find_v themselves_o below_o so_o that_o it_o be_v possible_a for_o they_o to_o dislike_v their_o first_o estate_n to_o forsake_v their_o proper_a mansion_n or_o habitation_n and_o leave_v they_o as_o if_o they_o be_v not_o loughty_a large_a and_o roomthy_a enough_o for_o they_o thus_o the_o angel_n leave_v their_o estate_n in_o heaven_n and_o adam_n his_o in_o paradise_n aspire_v to_o something_o high_o and_o this_o through_o mutability_n from_o misapprehension_n jealousy_n and_o disgust_v arise_v from_o perfect_a mistake_n false_a appearance_n and_o misjudging_a which_o be_v perfect_a scandal_n thus_o not_o be_v infinite_a not_o be_v omniscient_a nor_o able_a to_o find_v out_o the_o almighty_a to_o perfection_n nor_o rest_v in_o the_o love_n and_o obedience_n of_o god_n in_o those_o thing_n most_o certain_a evident_a and_o undoubted_a to_o they_o but_o project_v beyond_o their_o own_o sphere_n they_o may_v come_v to_o charge_n god_n holiness_n goodness_n and_o wisdom_n foolish_o to_o raise_v suspicion_n they_o be_v not_o high_a and_o well_o enough_o observe_v how_o evil_a lie_v from_o good_a they_o may_v in_o discontent_n draw_v the_o line_n of_o evil_a upon_o good_a and_o charge_v imperfection_n upon_o perfection_n itself_o they_o may_v disorder_v the_o most_o orderly_a alliance_n and_o confuse_v the_o just_a distance_n between_o thing_n and_o thing_n this_o they_o may_v possible_o do_v except_o god_n do_v interpose_v with_o his_o immutability_n of_o perfection_n for_o they_o and_o secure_v they_o but_o god_n permit_v thing_n to_o liberty_n this_o must_v be_v possible_a to_o fall_v out_o this_o possibility_n of_o change_n be_v the_o folly_n god_n charge_v the_o pure_a angel_n with_o and_o in_o regard_n of_o which_o the_o heaven_n be_v not_o clean_o in_o his_o sight_n from_o the_o miserable_a consequence_n of_o this_o possibility_n come_v into_o actual_a event_n the_o good_a angel_n be_v elect_v and_o into_o they_o the_o bad_a angel_n fall_v who_o abide_v not_o in_o the_o truth_n but_o fall_v into_o curse_a scandal_n and_o be_v wrap_v up_o in_o scandal_n fetter_v in_o it_o even_o in_o chain_n of_o darkness_n which_o be_v
succession_n from_o the_o apostle_n without_o caution_v for_o any_o thing_n of_o their_o true_a spirit_n and_o which_o so_o hang_v salvation_n at_o the_o girdle_n of_o those_o that_o will_v be_v their_o successor_n as_o turn_v christianity_n into_o a_o most_o arbitrary_a and_o tirannick_a party_n but_o they_o that_o know_v the_o scripture_n know_v assure_o christ_n have_v found_v no_o rule_n government_n or_o authority_n in_o his_o church_n whatever_o but_o who_o whole_a display_v of_o itself_o be_v in_o teach_v instruct_v according_a to_o his_o word_n if_o that_o be_v not_o clear_a and_o evident_a the_o whole_a authority_n and_o power_n fall_v to_o the_o ground_n this_o word_n appear_v in_o and_o with_o itself_o though_o by_o the_o minister_n of_o it_o have_v the_o sole_a power_n over_o conscience_n they_o that_o will_v rule_v without_o this_o as_o ruler_n appoint_v by_o christ_n in_o his_o church_n be_v but_o lay-elders_a lay-bishop_n or_o indeed_o they_o leave_v the_o word_n of_o god_n and_o serve_v table_n but_o in_o this_o universal_a rage_n of_o scandal_n god_n have_v not_o so_o forsake_v the_o world_n but_o that_o his_o spirit_n lift_v up_o a_o standard_n against_o it_o evil_n be_v not_o infinite_a but_o be_v at_o all_o time_n stop_v by_o evidence_n of_o god_n and_o true_a goodness_n environ_v it_o on_o every_o side_n and_o bound_v it_o that_o it_o can_v do_v what_o it_o have_v a_o mind_n to_o do_v and_o be_v therefore_o force_v to_o leave_v it_o undo_v for_o it_o can_v go_v no_o far_o than_o the_o being_n that_o carry_v it_o can_v go_v and_o god_n be_v always_o above_o they_o and_o hem_v they_o in_o on_o every_o side_n scandal_n have_v only_o a_o permission_n from_o god_n a_o dispensation_n to_o manifest_v itself_o it_o be_v always_o subject_a to_o truth_n as_o night_n be_v to_o day_n it_o be_v subject_a to_o be_v reduce_v and_o contract_v as_o god_n please_v and_o thus_o have_v i_o finish_v the_o three_o head_n of_o discourse_n concern_v scandal_n it_o must_v needs_o be_v that_o scandal_n come_v i_o come_v to_o a_o brief_a dispatch_n of_o the_o four_o head_n the_o demonstration_n of_o the_o world_n woe_n because_o of_o scandal_n 1._o let_v the_o scandal_n be_v never_o so_o fair_a and_o plausible_a in_o its_o pretence_n or_o reason_n of_o seduction_n from_o god_n and_o our_o duty_n there_o be_v so_o great_a a_o force_n of_o truth_n and_o high_a reason_n against_o it_o that_o our_o gild_n and_o condemnation_n be_v unavoidable_a in_o not_o resist_v the_o temptation_n nothing_o can_v justify_v a_o plea_n against_o the_o divine_a law_n not_o a_o angel_n from_o heaven_n we_o must_v pronounce_v anathema_n upon_o he_o if_o he_o undertake_v it_o there_o be_v such_o foundation_n of_o truth_n lay_v by_o god_n that_o can_v be_v move_v and_o they_o have_v such_o evidence_n and_o assurance_n to_o all_o sincere_a mind_n that_o there_o be_v no_o excuse_n against_o the_o gild_n of_o be_v take_v with_o scandal_n 2._o there_o be_v therefore_o always_o some_o most_o guilty_a cause_n of_o scandal_n and_o its_o prevalency_n within_o every_o man_n that_o be_v take_v by_o it_o some_o lust_n and_o love_n of_o evil_n that_o betray_v he_o and_o on_o which_o he_o be_v condemn_v when_o scandal_n rage_v most_o abroad_o and_o come_v with_o lie_v sign_n and_o wonder_n and_o with_o all_o deceivableness_n of_o unrighteousness_n it_o be_v because_o man_n have_v pleasure_n in_o unrighteousness_n and_o receive_v not_o the_o truth_n in_o the_o love_n of_o it_o 3._o scandal_n be_v itself_o misery_n and_o ruin_n a_o man_n can_v fall_v and_o be_v snare_v he_o can_v be_v wound_v and_o break_v but_o he_o must_v be_v miserable_a life_n health_n salvation_n be_v only_o in_o obedience_n to_o god_n and_o conformity_n to_o his_o holy_a will._n who_o have_v woe_n who_o have_v wound_n who_o have_v grief_n but_o he_o that_o have_v receive_v scandal_n against_o the_o divine_a truth_n this_o be_v a_o deep_a ditch_n he_o only_o that_o be_v hate_v of_o god_n fall_v into_o it_o as_o not_o to_o recover_v it_o be_v vain_a to_o pretend_v the_o force_n the_o power_n the_o unavoidableness_n of_o scandal_n when_o itself_o be_v death_n and_o ruin_n how_o many_o be_v please_v with_o their_o scandal_n and_o will_v by_o no_o mean_n part_n with_o they_o many_o excuse_v themselves_o they_o can_v not_o withstand_v their_o deceit_n and_o violence_n and_o will_v not_o apprehend_v their_o case_n the_o first_o close_o embrace_v death_n or_o as_o solomon_n say_v love_v death_n the_o latter_a can_v have_v no_o other_o pity_n at_o the_o high_a but_o that_o they_o be_v undo_v their_o scandal_n be_v upon_o they_o and_o they_o pine_v away_o in_o they_o as_o they_o speak_v in_o ezekiel_n and_o how_o then_o shall_v 10._o ezek._n 33._o 10._o they_o live_v god_n have_v no_o pleasure_n in_o their_o death_n yet_o still_o they_o die_v except_o restore_v by_o repentance_n 4._o be_v it_o not_o for_o scandal_n be_v it_o not_o some_o unhappy_a and_o mischievous_a misrepresentation_n of_o divine_a goodness_n and_o truth_n be_v there_o not_o something_o that_o impose_v upon_o the_o understanding_n and_o seduce_v the_o will_n with_o a_o false_a appearance_n of_o truth_n and_o good_a rational_a being_n can_v not_o resist_v truth_n nor_o fall_v out_o with_o infinite_a goodness_n or_o on_o the_o other_o side_n entertain_v falsehood_n or_o fall_v in_o love_n with_o evil_a and_o so_o will_v be_v every_o way_n secure_a from_o destruction_n sure_o be_v it_o not_o for_o scandal_n some_o most_o mischievous_a possession_n upon_o our_o mind_n while_o there_o be_v any_o hope_n of_o mercy_n we_o can_v not_o refuse_v and_o reject_v it_o nor_o cleave_v so_o fast_o to_o sin_n and_o death_n which_o can_v have_v no_o desirableness_n but_o to_o the_o deceive_a soul_n as_o holiness_n and_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n can_v be_v disgustful_a to_o any_o but_o the_o scandalize_v be_v it_o not_o for_o some_o indissolvable_a scandal_n even_o the_o sin_n against_o the_o holy_a spirit_n may_v be_v repent_v of_o and_o forgive_v some_o irreconcilable_a prejudice_n retain_v both_o the_o sin_n and_o so_o the_o punishment_n and_o in_o hell_n there_o be_v that_o eternal_a scandal_n for_o ever_o hold_v fast_o the_o damn_a that_o a_o creature_n deprive_v of_o god_n just_o hate_v and_o rebel_n against_o he_o or_o it_o be_v best_o for_o it_o in_o that_o circumstance_n so_o to_o do_v be_v it_o possible_a to_o be_v loose_v from_o this_o snare_n of_o death_n this_o everlasting_a chain_n of_o darkness_n there_o may_v be_v a_o escape_n out_o of_o hell_n itself_o be_v there_o not_o a_o eternal_a discontent_n and_o disgust_n to_o god_n hell_n can_v not_o be_v hell_n nor_o devil_n devil_n any_o long_o so_o miserable_a a_o thing_n be_v scandal_n the_o five_o head_n in_o this_o discourse_n be_v the_o accumulative_a woe_n to_o he_o by_o who_o scandal_n come_v the_o woe_n by_o way_n of_o transcendency_n 1._o the_o designer_n of_o scandal_n must_v be_v as_o so_o many_o satan_n in_o the_o world_n of_o the_o just_a contrary_a spirit_n and_o action_n to_o god_n and_o christ_n and_o the_o holy_a spirit_n in_o the_o world_n and_o therefore_o shall_v be_v for_o ever_o separate_v from_o that_o bless_a presence_n into_o that_o fire_n prepare_v for_o the_o devil_n and_o his_o angel_n the_o god_n and_o the_o angel_n of_o scandal_n some_o have_v in_o all_o age_n be_v brand_o infamous_a herein_o but_o none_o like_o he_o who_o come_v be_v after_o satan_n with_o lie_v sign_n and_o wonder_n and_o all_o deceivableness_n of_o vnrighteousness_n all_o those_o atheistical_a defamation_n of_o god_n and_o religion_n and_o the_o scurrility_n of_o profane_a wit_n be_v deep_o dye_v in_o this_o gild_n they_o be_v like_o the_o throw_n of_o firebrand_n arrow_n and_o death_n so_o be_v the_o scandalize_a of_o man_n in_o such_o sport_n of_o wit_n to_o their_o ruin_n they_o that_o offer_v themselves_o as_o copy_n and_o pattern_n of_o wickedness_n in_o defiance_n of_o heaven_n dwell_v near_o to_o this_o insupportable_a woe_n they_o who_o law_n arm_v with_o cruel_a penalty_n be_v so_o many_o destructive_a trap_n and_o engine_n of_o mischief_n against_o all_o that_o be_v professor_n of_o true_a and_o sincere_a religion_n shall_v be_v gather_v out_o of_o god_n kingdom_n their_o scandal_n and_o themselves_o that_o work_n iniquity_n by_o they_o they_o that_o in_o indifferent_a thing_n that_o they_o themselves_o acknowledge_v indifferent_a use_v a_o violent_a example_n that_o must_v be_v answer_v with_o conformity_n though_o man_n do_v with_o great_a seriousness_n and_o solemnity_n protest_v their_o doubt_n in_o the_o case_n and_o though_o scandal_n be_v plant_v every_o where_n in_o their_o indifferency_n have_v need_n as_o our_o saviour_n bid_v they_o take_v heed_n they_o offend_v not_o they_o despise_v not_o though_o they_o shall_v be_v but_o the_o little_a one_o in_o
christianity_n let_v they_o sit_v down_o and_o count_v their_o danger_n a_o millstone_n about_o their_o neck_n and_o the_o bottom_n of_o the_o sea_n be_v safe_a in_o our_o lord_n judgement_n of_o the_o case_n wherever_o the_o instrument_n of_o cruelty_n be_v in_o any_o habitation_n upon_o the_o account_n of_o lesser_a difference_n in_o religion_n oh_o my_o soul_n come_v not_o thou_o into_o their_o secret_n oh_o my_o honour_n be_v not_o thou_o unite_v to_o their_o assembly_n in_o their_o anger_n they_o dig_v down_o wall_n of_o defence_n and_o security_n to_o religion_n protestant_n religion_n unhappy_a very_o unhappy_a be_v their_o anger_n for_o it_o be_v fierce_a and_o their_o wrath_n for_o it_o be_v cruel_a they_o divide_v jacob_n and_o scatter_v israel_n 2._o they_o that_o be_v the_o author_n of_o scandal_n by_o their_o great_a mistake_v in_o religion_n by_o their_o unhappy_a and_o miserable_a fall_n into_o sin_n by_o their_o involve_v other_o in_o their_o own_o sin_n without_o consider_v the_o sad_a consequence_n and_o end_n of_o both_o they_o have_v this_o great_a aggravation_n of_o gild_n that_o scandal_n mischief_n and_o death_n have_v spread_v from_o they_o and_o fall_v as_o a_o snare_n upon_o other_o yet_o their_o gild_n be_v measure_v by_o the_o proportion_n of_o the_o scandal_n in_o its_o own_o nature_n the_o malignancy_n of_o the_o intention_n the_o stupid_a or_o sear_a carelessness_n of_o the_o event_n but_o not_o by_o the_o event_n itself_o whether_o the_o scandal_n prevail_v upon_o other_o or_o not_o or_o whether_o they_o that_o be_v scandalize_v repent_v or_o not_o because_o the_o gild_n of_o the_o scandalize_v be_v reckon_v to_o he_o by_o his_o own_o degree_n of_o light_n his_o circumstance_n of_o defence_n against_o or_o extreme_a danger_n of_o fall_v into_o the_o temptation_n by_o his_o own_o love_n of_o sin_n or_o enmity_n against_o the_o divine_a law_n in_o which_o every_o man_n be_v the_o principal_a scandaliser_n to_o himself_o and_o his_o recovery_n out_o of_o the_o scandal_n depend_v upon_o his_o own_o repentance_n or_o obduracy_n against_o the_o mean_n of_o repentance_n the_o gild_n of_o the_o scandaliser_n be_v measure_v also_o by_o his_o own_o state_n in_o sin_n in_o general_n his_o state_n in_o relation_n to_o that_o sin_n of_o scandalize_a his_o continuance_n in_o it_o or_o repentance_n from_o it_o and_o not_o by_o what_o befall_v the_o scandalize_v else_o the_o apostle_n paul_n salvation_n have_v be_v hopeless_a without_o the_o certain_a repentance_n of_o all_o those_o he_o compel_v to_o blaspheme_n repentance_n and_o faith_n in_o jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o mercy_n of_o god_n in_o he_o be_v the_o only_a mean_n of_o recovery_n out_o of_o this_o snare_n of_o death_n both_o to_o the_o scandaliser_n or_o scandalize_v and_o a_o certain_a mean_n it_o be_v to_o either_o before_o i_o come_v to_o the_o last_o head_n of_o this_o discourse_n viz._n to_o draw_v down_o the_o whole_a meditation_n so_o as_o that_o it_o may_v be_v most_o fit_v to_o practice_n i_o will_v endeavour_v to_o resume_v the_o whole_a diffusive_a notion_n of_o scandal_n into_o one_o uniform_a representation_n descend_v from_o the_o general_n into_o the_o particular_n of_o it_o original_a scandal_n be_v that_o dislike_n and_o exception_n the_o rational_a creature_n take_v to_o the_o creator_n supreme_a dispose_n over_o it_o and_o its_o disgust_n to_o that_o state_n wherein_o infinite_a wisdom_n and_o goodness_n have_v place_v it_o so_o that_o instead_o of_o a_o thankful_a acquiescency_n in_o it_o to_o its_o happiness_n it_o have_v prove_v a_o fugitive_n and_o a_o vagabond_n from_o it_o to_o its_o ruin_n reason_n of_o this_o at_o first_o there_o can_v be_v none_o but_o a_o disdain_n to_o have_v its_o large_a capacity_n of_o understanding_n confine_v or_o dictate_v to_o or_o its_o freeborn_a 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d bridle_v or_o restrain_v its_o liberty_n of_o will_n manacle_v or_o fetter_v by_o a_o divine_a law_n as_o if_o it_o be_v not_o indeed_o great_a understanding_n to_o be_v conform_v with_o truth_n and_o noble_a liberty_n to_o adhere_v to_o infinite_a goodness_n or_o as_o if_o understanding_n be_v not_o understanding_n if_o it_o can_v not_o take_v measure_n of_o truth_n for_o itself_o without_o god_n authoritative_o superintend_v it_o nor_o freewill_n be_v free_a if_o it_o can_v not_o choose_v whole_o for_o itself_o and_o owe_v no_o account_n to_o god_n and_o whether_o this_o scandal_n be_v first_o in_o the_o understanding_n or_o will_v be_v not_o material_a for_o the_o union_n be_v so_o vital_a between_o they_o both_o that_o what_o be_v in_o one_o be_v at_o the_o same_o time_n and_o as_o they_o say_v ipso_fw-la facto_fw-la in_o the_o other_o the_o devil_n at_o the_o same_o time_n he_o abide_v not_o in_o the_o truth_n have_v as_o our_o saviour_n tell_v we_o swell_a lust_n in_o his_o will_n suitable_a 44._o john_n 8._o 44._o to_o his_o prevarication_n from_o the_o truth_n the_o very_a same_o may_v be_v observe_v in_o the_o fall_n of_o adam_n there_o be_v in_o one_o act_n a_o deception_n upon_o his_o understanding_n desert_v truth_n a_o sensual_a eye_n upon_o the_o fair_a but_o forbid_a fruit_n and_o the_o lust_n of_o the_o mind_n aspire_v to_o a_o imaginary_a 6._o gen._n 3._o 6._o more_o mount_v condition_n than_o god_n have_v place_v he_o in_o to_o be_v as_o god_n know_v good_a and_o evil._n this_o then_o be_v the_o first_o great_a scandal_n at_o which_o the_o angel_n and_o adam_n fall_v a_o discontent_n at_o a_o state_n of_o obedience_n and_o subjection_n to_o god_n and_o his_o command_n how_o holy_a just_a and_o good_a soever_o as_o if_o it_o be_v too_o arbitrary_a upon_o being_n that_o can_v understand_v and_o choose_v for_o themselves_o to_o be_v so_o limit_v they_o do_v not_o like_a to_o consider_v to_o retain_v upon_o their_o reason_n not_o only_o that_o they_o have_v their_o being_n give_v they_o and_o that_o their_o obedience_n be_v a_o absolute_a due_a to_o the_o creator_n but_o that_o it_o be_v obedience_n to_o a_o infinite_o good_a and_o faithful_a creator_n true_a to_o the_o interest_n of_o his_o creature_n than_o themselves_o can_v be_v this_o scandal_n therefore_o prevail_v upon_o they_o draw_v along_o the_o whole_a tain_n of_o misery_n with_o it_o scandalize_v spirit_n always_o report_v ill_a of_o god_n and_o his_o law_n so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v scandalize_v and_o they_o that_o be_v enter_v into_o scandal_n too_o content_o hear_v ill_o of_o he_o as_o appear_v in_o the_o dialogue_n betwixt_o the_o serpent_n and_o the_o first_o man_n and_o woman_n spirit_n utter_o lose_v by_o scandal_n act_n in_o defiance_n of_o god_n and_o be_v the_o more_o enrage_a by_o find_v the_o misery_n of_o their_o scandal_n press_v upon_o they_o even_o to_o despair_v as_o we_o see_v in_o the_o devil_n humane_a nature_n be_v more_o modest_a and_o tender_a be_v succour_v by_o grace_n and_o the_o promise_a seed_n in_o our_o first_o parent_n and_o their_o posterity_n preserve_v from_o the_o utmost_a mischief_n of_o scandal_n by_o that_o great_a restorer_n from_o scandal_n not_o perfect_o recover_v but_o in_o a_o state_n of_o second_o probation_n of_o rise_v after_o so_o great_a a_o fall_n or_o be_v most_o unhappy_o again_o sink_v below_o those_o hope_n and_o make_v for_o ever_o the_o prey_n of_o scandal_n even_o after_o grace_n offer_v this_o state_n of_o humane_a nature_n be_v wave_v and_o various_a in_o some_o thing_n man_n be_v more_o clear_a and_o free_a in_o other_o hook_v and_o stake_v with_o scandal_n and_o wherein_o they_o be_v right_o in_o the_o general_n they_o be_v often_o ensnare_v in_o the_o particular_n and_o so_o that_o their_o freedom_n in_o the_o one_o give_v they_o more_o room_n and_o space_n to_o stir_v enwrap_v they_o more_o in_o the_o scandal_n of_o the_o other_o by_o degree_n if_o not_o restore_v man_n lose_v the_o modesty_n and_o tenderness_n preserve_v to_o they_o by_o grace_n and_o fall_v into_o the_o very_a scandal_n of_o the_o devil_n themselves_o or_o very_o near_o to_o it_o however_o in_o all_o scandal_n there_o be_v some_o of_o the_o lineament_n of_o primitive_a scandal_n and_o the_o great_a the_o scandal_n the_o more_o and_o the_o more_o apparent_a be_v those_o stroke_n of_o the_o first_o scandal_n there_o be_v in_o every_o scandal_n a_o understanding_n that_o will_v be_v wise_a than_o god_n be_v for_o it_o a_o disgust_n to_o self_n resignation_n into_o the_o divine_a will._n there_o be_v some_o lust_n that_o cloud_n and_o darken_v the_o mind_n and_o there_o be_v some_o false_a principle_n that_o embolden_v lust_n scandal_n always_o wrap_v up_o sin_n with_o itself_o else_o it_o be_v not_o scandal_n sin_n have_v always_o scandal_n to_o introduce_v it_o else_o there_o can_v be_v no_o sin_n although_o therefore_o when_o we_o come_v to_o particular_a case_n there_o be_v many_o sin_n lie_v
whole_o naked_a and_o uncover_v of_o any_o pretence_n according_a to_o acknowledge_v principle_n of_o natural_a religion_n and_o the_o word_n of_o god_n yet_o they_o be_v not_o without_o the_o shelter_n of_o some_o scandal_n and_o if_o they_o be_v drive_v out_o of_o all_o else_o they_o yet_o retire_v under_o this_o it_o be_v a_o undesirable_a state_n for_o a_o freeborn_a understanding_n and_o will_n to_o be_v under_o subjection_n there_o be_v something_o tyrannic_a and_o oppressive_a in_o it_o that_o they_o may_v not_o know_v and_o choose_v what_o be_v best_a for_o themselves_o and_o so_o there_o be_v a_o resolvedness_n in_o corrupt_a nature_n to_o do_v whatever_o go_v out_o of_o its_o own_o mouth_n the_o apostle_n observe_v the_o carnal_a mind_n be_v enmity_n to_o the_o law_n of_o god_n it_o be_v not_o subject_a to_o it_o neither_o indeed_o can_v be_v 7._o rom._n 8._o 7._o it_o be_v always_o offend_v at_o it_o it_o always_o pretend_v some_o cause_n against_o it_o and_z if_o there_o be_v no_o other_o that_o it_o be_v too_o arbitrary_a a_o pretence_n a_o show_n of_o reason_n seem_v necessary_a to_o a_o rational_a mind_n and_o will_n that_o be_v so_o make_v under_o the_o power_n of_o truth_n and_o goodness_n it_o can_v sin_v but_o by_o be_v deceive_v and_o grasp_a at_o some_o forbid_a appear_v good_n hence_o even_o the_o devil_n think_v their_o case_n justify_v a_o eternal_a quarrel_n against_o god_n their_o misery_n be_v to_o they_o a_o just_a cause_n but_o the_o various_a degree_n kind_n and_o shape_v of_o scandal_n be_v so_o many_o so_o confuse_v so_o perplex_v that_o the_o very_a view_n of_o it_o will_v enforce_v a_o think_a soul_n to_o cry_v out_o i_o have_v wait_v for_o thy_o salvation_n o_o lord_n as_o the_o patriarch_n jacob_n in_o a_o prophetic_a prospect_n upon_o dan_n out_o of_o who_o some_o have_v fancy_v antichrist_n shall_v arise_v describe_v he_o as_o one_o will_v describe_v scandal_n and_o therefore_o near_o enough_o to_o antichrist_n that_o man_n of_o scandal_n and_o son_n of_o perdition_n that_o yet_o will_v be_v as_o dan_fw-mi judge_v over_o the_o tribe_n of_o israel_n scandal_n be_v a_o serpent_n by_o the_o way_n a_o adder_n in_o the_o path_n that_o bit_v the_o horse_n heel_n so_o that_o his_o rider_n shall_v fall_v backward_o most_o mischievous_a ruin_n consider_v therefore_o the_o danger_n the_o multitude_n of_o scandal_n we_o wait_v for_o thy_o salvation_n o_o lord_n scandal_n then_o in_o particular_a person_n and_o case_n be_v infinite_a but_o the_o more_o general_a may_v be_v reduce_v in_o person_n of_o no_o sense_n no_o true_a love_n to_o religion_n 1._o to_o the_o almost_o universal_a insolency_n of_o wickedness_n in_o humane_a nature_n bear_v away_o with_o the_o force_n and_o authority_n of_o so_o bad_a example_n all_o before_o it_o and_o if_o defend_v by_o atheistick_a boldness_n wicked_a man_n clap_v their_o hand_n among_o themselves_o and_o multiply_v word_n against_o god_n they_o go_v in_o company_n 7._o job_n 43._o 7._o one_o with_o another_o and_o fulfil_v or_o justify_v and_o make_v good_a the_o judgement_n of_o the_o ungodly_a they_o drink_v scorn_v like_o water_n and_o add_v rebellion_n to_o their_o sin_n 2._o to_o the_o ignorance_n sottishness_n and_o unconcernedness_n in_o religion_n of_o vulgar_a mind_n which_o rest_v under_o such_o shadow_n as_o these_o god_n be_v merciful_a and_o will_v not_o damn_v his_o creature_n all_o have_v their_o fault_n even_o the_o best_a the_o wise_a and_o the_o most_o religious_a there_o be_v more_o ado_n than_o needs_o religion_n drive_v man_n out_o of_o their_o wit_n 3._o to_o a_o false_a a_o formal_a religion_n damnable_a heresy_n or_o a_o superstition_n in_o place_n of_o religion_n rage_v with_o great_a show_n of_o zeal_n and_o devotion_n against_o true_a religion_n which_o while_n man_n bloody_o pursue_v they_o think_v they_o do_v god_n good_a service_n from_o those_o that_o be_v more_o serious_a in_o the_o true_a religion_n these_o scandal_n especial_o arise_v 1._o all_o immorality_n impure_a interest_n of_o ambition_n pleasure_n or_o covetousness_n be_v very_o offensive_a and_o expose_v religion_n both_o to_o stranger_n and_o even_o among_o themselves_o it_o be_v so_o very_o difficult_a or_o almost_o impossible_a in_o this_o scandalise_v state_n to_o sever_v in_o our_o censure_n religion_n itself_o from_o the_o miscarriage_n of_o those_o that_o profess_v it_o man_n will_v know_v the_o religion_n and_o not_o only_o the_o man_n by_o the_o fruit_n they_o bring_v forth_o though_o religion_n be_v the_o first_o and_o most_o severe_a in_o condemn_v what_o ever_o be_v bad_a and_o so_o shall_v be_v judge_v only_o by_o itself_o 2._o the_o great_a and_o many_o and_o sharp_a difference_n among_o those_o that_o be_v the_o professor_n of_o religion_n make_v most_o remarkable_a by_o the_o high_a feud_n and_o furious_a rencounter_n that_o give_v sport_n to_o the_o enemy_n of_o it_o in_o traduce_v it_o and_o every_o way_n enfeeble_v it_o among_o themselves_o be_v great_a scandal_n 3._o the_o strange_a antipathy_n in_o religious_a person_n against_o permit_v the_o due_a liberty_n to_o conscience_n in_o thing_n indifferent_a or_o in_o all_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o express_o command_v or_o forbid_v by_o god_n that_o man_n either_o upon_o the_o know_a principle_n of_o natural_a religion_n or_o their_o own_o principle_n and_o acknowledge_v consequence_n from_o they_o can_v deny_v which_o be_v many_o way_n destructive_a of_o the_o true_a power_n of_o religion_n wherever_o it_o take_v be_v the_o scandal_n of_o act_v against_o sense_n or_o conscience_n the_o apostle_n as_o have_v be_v show_v so_o remark_n upon_o and_o be_v however_o a_o great_a discouragement_n to_o the_o entrance_n into_o and_o loss_n of_o reputation_n to_o the_o profession_n of_o it_o by_o the_o clash_n between_o those_o that_o can_v comply_v because_o they_o doubt_v and_o those_o that_o either_o will_v not_o believe_v they_o when_o they_o say_v they_o doubt_v or_o think_v they_o not_o able_a to_o understand_v whether_o they_o doubt_v or_o not_o or_o will_v drive_v they_o against_o the_o express_a rule_n of_o the_o apostle_n though_o it_o be_v allow_v they_o do_v doubt_n thus_o i_o have_v describe_v scandal_n in_o which_o the_o whole_a unconvert_v nature_n of_o man_n be_v seat_v though_o some_o be_v deep_o than_o other_o in_o it_o the_o very_o best_a man_n be_v under_o the_o remain_v of_o it_o and_o be_v never_o perfect_a from_o it_o till_o in_o the_o state_n of_o just_a spirit_n make_v perfect_a where_o scandal_n can_v enter_v in_o hell_n it_o remain_v for_o ever_o even_o under_o the_o conviction_n of_o everlasting_a punishment_n there_o be_v a_o eternal_a dislike_n and_o discontent_n at_o a_o reply_n against_o god_n and_o his_o government_n as_o not_o worthy_a of_o love_n and_o submissive_a reverence_n but_o to_o be_v rebel_v against_o in_o the_o very_a midst_n of_o those_o conviction_n can_v there_o be_v that_o humble_a deference_n so_o due_a to_o god_n it_o will_v be_v repentance_n and_o recovery_n to_o heaven_n and_o now_o the_o misery_n of_o scandal_n run_v along_o with_o it_o all_o disobedience_n to_o the_o divine_a command_n which_o be_v eternal_a life_n be_v scandal_n in_o the_o deception_n first_o and_o after_o fall_v down_o into_o the_o miserable_a state_n in_o which_o it_o always_o remain_v but_o never_o end_v express_v by_o the_o worm_n that_o never_o die_v the_o fire_n never_o quench_v the_o weep_a wail_a and_o gnash_v of_o tooth_n for_o ever_o every_o one_o that_o make_v and_o he_o that_o receive_v the_o lie_n of_o scandal_n be_v cast_v into_o the_o lake_n that_o burn_v with_o fire_n and_o brimstone_n which_o be_v the_o second_o death_n but_o he_o that_o make_v that_o â—ye_z sink_v deep_a for_o though_o they_o be_v so_o miserable_a so_o great_a a_o woe_n be_v to_o they_o that_o receive_v it_o yet_o still_o woe_n in_o a_o eminency_n to_o he_o by_o who_o scandal_n come_v have_v be_v pronounce_v by_o the_o lord_n and_o can_v be_v reverse_v and_o now_o i_o be_o more_o immediate_o and_o near_o to_o fall_v upon_o what_o concern_v we_o in_o a_o way_n of_o practice_n from_o the_o consideration_n of_o scandal_n 1._o let_v we_o serious_o apprehend_v the_o great_a folly_n of_o take_v hold_v of_o scandal_n and_o make_v advantage_n of_o it_o against_o any_o of_o the_o rule_n and_o law_n of_o religion_n it_o be_v no_o other_o than_o suck_v in_o a_o common_a infection_n or_o contagion_n because_o it_o be_v common_a or_o take_v into_o ourselves_o a_o reason_n or_o a_o pretence_n of_o reason_n to_o be_v eternal_o undo_v and_o miserable_a because_o the_o most_o be_v so_o the_o scandalize_a and_o the_o scandalize_v world_n perish_v together_o they_o that_o bring_v the_o pestilentitial_a contagion_n that_o run_v deep_a in_o their_o own_o vein_n and_o they_o that_o draw_v it_o in_o to_o themselves_o from_o
be_v infamous_a malefactor_n malcontent_n under_o the_o most_o wise_a and_o sage_a government_n or_o wit_n ill_o employ_v that_o lampoon_n it_o 6._o let_v we_o continual_o look_v to_o jesus_n who_o in_o himself_o subdue_v the_o whole_a power_n of_o scandal_n keep_v steady_a and_o uniform_a obedience_n to_o the_o divine_a will_n and_o do_v always_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v please_v to_o it_o though_o scandal_n of_o all_o sort_n press_v in_o on_o every_o side_n who_o be_v in_o the_o form_n of_o 6._o phil._n 2._o 6._o god_n think_v it_o not_o robbery_n to_o be_v equal_a with_o god_n yet_o make_v himself_o of_o no_o reputation_n but_o take_v on_o he_o the_o form_n of_o a_o servant_n and_o be_v make_v in_o the_o likeness_n of_o man_n and_o be_v find_v in_o fashion_n as_o a_o man_n he_o humble_v himself_o and_o become_v obedient_a to_o death_n even_o to_o the_o death_n of_o the_o cross_n hereby_o even_o by_o the_o dignity_n of_o his_o person_n and_o the_o profound_a humility_n of_o his_o obedience_n he_o have_v not_o only_o do_v that_o honour_n give_v that_o glory_n to_o the_o divine_a sovereignty_n and_o righteousness_n the_o glory_n of_o that_o supreme_a authority_n as_o have_v make_v recompense_n for_o all_o the_o scandal_n of_o angel_n and_o man_n so_o far_o as_o that_o sovereignty_n or_o righteousness_n be_v absolute_o concern_v whether_o any_o shall_v believe_v in_o he_o or_o not_o but_o have_v also_o make_v atonement_n perfect_a atonement_n and_o reconciliation_n for_o all_o that_o do_v believe_v in_o and_o obey_v he_o into_o a_o share_n of_o which_o i_o make_v no_o doubt_n the_o holy_a angelical_a nature_n immediate_o enter_v according_a to_o their_o state_n even_o from_o the_o time_n he_o be_v declare_v the_o lamb_n slay_v from_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n through_o his_o obedience_n and_o meditaion_n adore_v and_o apply_v to_o they_o have_v persevere_v free_a from_o scandal_n by_o which_o so_o great_a a_o part_n fall_v upon_o account_n of_o which_o when_o the_o first_o beget_v come_v into_o the_o 6._o heb._n 1._o 6._o world_n all_o the_o angel_n of_o god_n worship_v he_o the_o virtue_n from_o himself_o as_o the_o exemplar_n as_o the_o first-born_a among_o many_o brethren_n 29._o rom._n 8._o 29._o to_o who_o image_n they_o be_v predestinate_v to_o be_v conform_v do_v by_o degree_n extirpate_v all_o the_o very_a remain_v of_o scandal_n in_o his_o church_n and_o he_o present_v it_o without_o blame_n spot_n wrinkle_n blemish_n or_o any_o such_o thing_n even_o by_o real_a and_o efficacious_a operation_n before_o the_o eye_n of_o glory_n his_o example_n always_o stand_v before_o they_o as_o the_o most_o absolute_a and_o sublime_a pattern_n to_o which_o they_o daily_o be_v exercise_v in_o fashion_v themselves_o thus_o our_o lord_n do_v every_o way_n dissolve_v the_o work_n of_o the_o devil_n and_o deliver_v they_o who_o by_o reason_n of_o scandal_n be_v all_o their_o life_n time_n subject_a to_o bondage_n by_o destroy_v scandal_n and_o he_o that_o have_v the_o great_a power_n of_o it_o the_o devil_n 7._o this_o shall_v make_v heaven_n desirable_a to_o we_o where_o no_o scandal_n dwell_v nor_o any_o more_o since_o the_o angel_n of_o scandal_n be_v cast_v out_o of_o it_o can_v so_o much_o as_o once_o enter_v where_o there_o be_v perfect_a light_n without_o any_o variation_n or_o shadow_n of_o turn_v the_o holy_a one_o there_o be_v vex_v with_o scandal_n wiles_n no_o more_o with_o the_o wiles_n of_o the_o god_n or_o minister_n of_o scandal_n or_o those_o that_o by_o his_o stratagem_n be_v make_v any_o way_n serviceable_a to_o it_o 8._o it_o make_v hell_n more_o dreadful_a the_o seat_n and_o centre_n the_o fund_z of_o scandal_n where_o all_o the_o good_a principle_n man_n have_v have_v or_o seem_v to_o have_v while_o they_o be_v in_o the_o world_n or_o the_o church_n the_o best_a state_n of_o this_o world_n and_o their_o temporary_a good_a action_n be_v all_o swallow_v up_o and_o by_o the_o great_a power_n of_o scandal_n turn_v all_o into_o itself_o wherein_o all_o the_o temporary_a partial_a righteous_a man_n of_o this_o world_n who_o be_v scandalise_v as_o to_o the_o main_a the_o true_a love_n of_o god_n and_o his_o child_n turn_v their_o best_a thing_n now_o into_o a_o sort_n of_o splendida_fw-la peccata_fw-la better_a complexioned_a sin_n have_v then_o all_o that_o they_o seem_v to_o have_v take_v from_o they_o and_o by_o reason_n of_o that_o great_a stumble_v block_n the_o eternal_a loss_n of_o god_n they_o turn_v from_o all_o their_o righteousness_n and_o all_o that_o they_o have_v do_v be_v not_o remember_v to_o they_o any_o more_o for_o ever_o they_o sink_v into_o that_o unpardonable_a blasphemy_n against_o the_o holy_a spirit_n which_o be_v a_o irreconcilable_a enmity_n to_o what_o be_v know_v to_o be_v of_o god_n undeniable_o of_o he_o and_o that_o enmity_n express_v in_o the_o proper_a language_n of_o scandal_n blasphemy_n and_o be_v never_o forgive_v whether_o commit_v in_o this_o world_n or_o that_o which_o be_v to_o come_v now_o what_o be_v there_o more_o dreadful_a to_o the_o mind_n that_o have_v any_o thing_n remain_v of_o a_o ingenuous_a sense_n towards_o god_n that_o have_v but_o so_o much_o love_n and_o reverence_n towards_o he_o though_o too_o faint_a for_o true_a save_a grace_n as_o will_v answer_v a_o profession_n of_o god_n and_o the_o lord_n jesus_n but_o will_v be_v horrible_o afraid_a at_o the_o supposition_n of_o such_o a_o hatred_n of_o god_n such_o a_o blasphemy_n of_o he_o and_o so_o of_o hell_n on_o this_o account_n that_o every_o sin_n boil_v up_o there_o into_o this_o height_n of_o scandal_n 9_o we_o be_v dreadful_o warn_v from_o be_v the_o minister_n of_o scandal_n either_o through_o design_n or_o through_o great_a fall_n and_o miscarriage_n in_o our_o religious_a course_n this_o we_o ought_v to_o take_v care_n of_o in_o relation_n to_o the_o world_n in_o general_n but_o especial_o towards_o the_o little_a one_o that_o believe_v in_o christ_n strong_a christian_n be_v most_o out_o of_o our_o danger_n who_o grieve_v or_o have_v a_o just_a zeal_n against_o our_o scandal_n but_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n themselves_o grow_v strong_a and_o strong_a as_o tree_n that_o cast_v their_o root_n the_o deep_a for_o be_v assail_v with_o the_o wind_n but_o the_o little_a one_o be_v in_o the_o eye_n of_o christ_n of_o the_o tender_a concern_v because_o they_o need_v it_o most_o while_o we_o be_v in_o the_o way_n of_o our_o duty_n if_o any_o receive_v scandal_n and_o be_v resolve_v to_o do_v so_o they_o create_v it_o to_o themselves_o we_o must_v let_v they_o alone_o but_o in_o all_o thing_n wherein_o we_o can_v save_v a_o soul_n from_o scandal_n let_v we_o consider_v the_o recompense_n we_o save_v a_o soul_n from_o death_n and_o hide_v a_o multitude_n of_o sin_n a_o glorious_a reward_n without_o any_o more_o and_o herein_o let_v we_o always_o remember_v we_o have_v a_o eminent_a seat_n of_o doctrine_n not_o to_o scandalize_v for_o the_o sake_n of_o indifferent_a thing_n a_o doctrine_n prepare_v on_o purpose_n for_o all_o age_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n concern_v indifferent_n one_o of_o the_o eminent_a seat_n of_o doctrine_n of_o the_o new_a testament_n and_o more_o particular_o in_o relation_n to_o scandal_n and_o therefore_o by_o no_o mean_n to_o be_v light_o regard_v to_o conclude_v all_o that_o we_o may_v neither_o give_v nor_o receive_v scandal_n three_o thing_n be_v most_o necessary_a to_o which_o i_o shall_v subjoin_v great_a counsel_n of_o scripture_n in_o each_o case_n 1._o that_o we_o have_v our_o judgement_n well_o settle_v within_o ourselves_o in_o all_o the_o substantial_o and_o necessary_a point_n of_o true_a religion_n upon_o a_o divine_a and_o not_o a_o humane_a assurance_n only_o that_o in_o that_o part_n we_o may_v neither_o offend_v nor_o receive_v offence_n for_o which_o solomon_n advice_n be_v our_o great_a security_n bow_v down_o 7._o prov._n 22._o 7._o thy_o ear_n to_o the_o word_n of_o the_o wise_a and_o apply_v thy_o heart_n to_o my_o knowledge_n for_o it_o be_v a_o pleasant_a thing_n if_o thou_o keep_v they_o within_o thou_o they_o shall_v withal_o be_v fit_v in_o thy_o lip_n that_o thy_o trust_n may_v be_v in_o the_o lord_n i_o have_v make_v know_v to_o thou_o this_o day_n even_o to_o thou_o have_v i_o not_o write_v to_o thou_o excellent_a thing_n in_o counsel_n and_o knowledge_n that_o i_o may_v make_v the_o know_v the_o certainty_n of_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n that_o thou_o may_v answer_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n to_o they_o that_o send_v unto_o thou_o or_o those_o admonition_n of_o the_o apostle_n paul_n that_o we_o henceforth_o be_v no_o more_o as_o child_n toss_v to_o and_o fro_o and_o carry_v about_o with_o every_o wind_n of_o doctrine_n by_o the_o sleight_n of_o man_n and_o cunning_a
craftiness_n whereby_o they_o lie_v in_o 14._o eccles_n 4._o 14._o wait_n to_o deceive_v but_o follow_v the_o truth_n in_o love_n we_o may_v grow_v up_o into_o he_o in_o all_o thing_n who_o be_v the_o head_n even_o christ_n from_o the_o whole_a body_n fit_o join_v together_o and_o compact_v by_o that_o which_o every_o joint_n supply_v according_a to_o the_o effectual_a work_n in_o the_o measure_n of_o every_o part_n make_v increase_v of_o the_o body_n to_o the_o edify_a itself_o in_o love_n be_v not_o carry_v about_o 9_o heb._n 13_o 9_o with_o divers_a and_o strange_a doctrine_n for_o it_o be_v a_o good_a thing_n that_o the_o heart_n be_v establish_v with_o grace_n not_o with_o meat_n which_o have_v not_o profit_v they_o that_o have_v be_v exercise_v therein_o 2._o that_o we_o have_v a_o true_a and_o sincere_a love_n of_o the_o divine_a law_n and_o our_o obedience_n to_o it_o the_o blessedness_n of_o which_o and_o its_o great_a preservation_n from_o scandal_n the_o psalmist_n thus_o describe_v bless_a be_v the_o man_n that_o walk_v not_o in_o the_o council_n of_o the_o ungodly_a nor_o stand_v in_o the_o way_n of_o sinner_n nor_o 1._o psal_n 1._o 1._o sit_v in_o the_o seat_n of_o the_o scornful_a but_o his_o delight_n be_v in_o the_o law_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o in_o that_o law_n do_v he_o meditate_v day_n and_o night_n and_o he_o shall_v be_v like_o the_o tree_n plant_v by_o the_o river_n of_o water_n that_o bring_v forth_o his_o fruit_n in_o due_a season_n his_o leaf_n also_o shall_v not_o wither_v and_o whatsoever_o he_o do_v shall_v prosper_v 3._o that_o we_o order_v all_o thing_n of_o indifferency_n in_o religion_n aright_o both_o as_o to_o the_o sense_n of_o our_o own_o mind_n and_o the_o edification_n of_o other_o to_o which_o purpose_n the_o apostle_n direction_n shall_v be_v always_o before_o we_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n be_v not_o meat_n nor_o drink_n but_o righteousness_n peace_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n let_v every_o man_n be_v full_o persuade_v in_o his_o own_o mind_n 22._o rom._n 14._o 5_o 17._o 1_o cor._n 10._o 22._o give_v no_o offence_n neither_o to_o the_o jew_n nor_o gentile_n nor_o to_o the_o church_n of_o god_n even_o as_o i_o please_v all_o man_n in_o all_o thing_n not_o seek_v my_o own_o profit_n but_o the_o profit_n of_o many_o that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v whoever_o thus_o serve_v christ_n be_v acceptable_a to_o god_n and_o approve_v of_o men._n finis_fw-la errata_fw-la several_a mispointings_a and_o literal_a mistake_n the_o candid_a reader_n be_v desire_v to_o observe_v and_o pardon_n and_o what_o be_v most_o injurious_a to_o the_o sense_n thus_o to_o correct_v page_n 6._o line_n 32._o for_o a_o read_v all_o p._n 13._o l._n 22._o for_o they_o r._n the._n p._n 17._o l._n 12._o deal_n not_o p._n 18._o l._n 11._o for_o at_o r._n with_o p._n 25._o l._n 30._o for_o he_o r_o any_o one_o p._n 27._o l._n 30._o for_o purity_n r._n party_n p._n 38._o l._n 4_o for_o righteous_a r._n weak_a p._n 44._o l._n 24._o deal_n they_o p._n 48._o l._n 17._o for_o rule_n r._n rate_n p._n 55._o l._n 22._o after_o be_v r._n not_o p._n 61._o l._n 9_o for_o sacrifice_n r._n sacrament_n p._n 76._o l._n 29._o for_o party_n r._n polity_n p._n 79._o l._n 11._o after_o just_o r._n may_n print_a for_o tho._n parkhurst_n the_o whole_a duty_n of_o a_o nation_n or_o national_a true_a religion_n argue_v and_o persuade_v upon_o great_a motive_n of_o scripture_n and_o reason_n conciliate_v to_o all_o moderate_a apprehension_n though_o differ_v in_o small_a thing_n and_o to_o the_o strict_a notion_n of_o church_n two_o book_n liberty_n of_o conscience_n in_o its_o order_n to_o universal_a peace_n impartial_o state_v and_o prove_v to_o be_v the_o just_a right_n and_o genuine_a effect_n of_o true_a natural_a and_o christian_a religion_n in_o immunity_n from_o penal-law_n church_n censure_n and_o private_a animosity_n a_o catholic_n catechism_n show_v the_o impossibility_n the_o catholic_n religion_n shall_v be_v vary_v to_o the_o degree_n of_o a_o thought_n from_o the_o measure_n leave_v seal_v by_o the_o apostle_n without_o the_o loss_n of_o truth_n and_o therefore_o the_o impossibility_n popery_n or_o whatever_o else_o be_v not_o find_v in_o scripture_n shall_v be_v catholic_n compose_v to_o the_o capacity_n of_o the_o mean_a that_o will_v but_o consider_v that_o they_o may_v know_v and_o be_v ready_a upon_o un-movable_a reason_n to_o give_v a_o apology_n or_o defensive_a answer_n for_o the_o catholic_n religion_n if_o they_o be_v indeed_o of_o it_o and_o be_v secure_v from_o temptation_n in_o time_n of_o danger_n 2_o pet._n i._o 12_o the_o present_a truth_n prov._n 22._o 21._o that_o i_o may_v make_v thou_o know_v the_o certainty_n of_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n that_o thou_o may_v answer_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n to_o they_o that_o send_v unto_o thou_o london_n print_v for_o tho._n parkhurst_n and_o will._n miller_n at_o the_o bible_n and_o three_o crown_n in_o cheapside_n and_o the_o acorn_n in_o st._n paul_n churchyard_n 1683._o the_o preface_n to_o the_o reader_n i_o call_v this_o a_o catechism_n because_o i_o design_v it_o a_o familiar_a instruction_n in_o fundamental_a truth_n resound_v the_o same_o thing_n from_o question_n to_o answer_n the_o easy_a way_n of_o convey_v truth_n and_o imprint_v it_o upon_o the_o mind_n of_o those_o that_o be_v even_o of_o the_o mean_a capacity_n but_o especial_o because_o the_o principle_n of_o it_o be_v to_o be_v daily_o so_o meditate_a upon_o ponder_v and_o apply_v to_o use_v as_o to_o be_v a_o perpetual_a sound_n in_o our_o ear_n and_o so_o to_o be_v proper_o style_v catechism_n for_o thing_n of_o such_o great_a weight_n as_o principle_n be_v must_v have_v as_o the_o most_o advantageous_a admission_n as_o the_o most_o deep_a and_o therefore_o leisurely_o insinuation_n as_o the_o most_o resolve_a adherence_n when_o find_v true_a and_o right_a which_o be_v buy_v the_o truth_n and_o not_o sell_v it_o so_o they_o must_v have_v the_o most_o easy_a and_o ready_a application_n to_o all_o their_o uses_n and_o end_v they_o must_v therefore_o be_v bind_v continual_o about_o our_o neck_n that_o when_o we_o go_v they_o may_v lead_v we_o that_o when_o we_o sleep_v they_o may_v keep_v we_o that_o when_o we_o wake_v they_o may_v talk_v with_o we_o prov._n 6._o 21_o 22._o i_o know_v the_o thing_n i_o have_v write_v can_v be_v due_o receive_v without_o much_o think_v and_o without_o that_o they_o will_v be_v in_o danger_n of_o a_o censorious_a rejection_n from_o the_o most_o or_o of_o a_o superficial_a unintelligent_a acceptance_n in_o the_o kind_a which_o be_v as_o bad_a as_o the_o other_o and_o therefore_o i_o present_v it_o as_o a_o catechism_n to_o those_o that_o shall_v at_o all_o approve_v it_o that_o they_o may_v be_v thorough_o verse_v in_o it_o and_o the_o sense_n of_o it_o grow_v domestic_a to_o they_o i_o call_v it_o a_o catholic_n catechism_n only_o with_o relation_n to_o the_o great_a subject_n it_o treat_v of_o the_o catholic_n religion_n and_o the_o catholic_n church_n in_o those_o thing_n wherein_o they_o be_v catholic_n or_o in_o which_o their_o catholickness_n consist_v that_o be_v that_o they_o be_v of_o god_n and_o that_o the_o whole_a society_n of_o holy_a and_o happy_a spirit_n be_v by_o that_o catholickness_n unite_v and_o close_o band_v with_o itself_o catholic_n as_o the_o epistle_n call_v catholic_n that_o be_v after_o some_o doubt_v assert_v to_o be_v divine_a of_o the_o public_a spirit_n of_o god_n and_o give_v that_o public_a doctrine_n in_o which_o the_o general_a assembly_n be_v one_o i_o have_v endeavour_v to_o contrive_v the_o question_n and_o answer_n so_o that_o the_o answer_n may_v be_v a_o apology_n or_o defensive_a answer_n of_o that_o catholic_n truth_n give_v a_o reason_n or_o a_o rational_a account_n to_o any_o demand_v that_o can_v be_v make_v upon_o it_o and_o it_o be_v the_o apology_n of_o that_o truth_n itself_o the_o apology_n it_o give_v and_o furnish_v we_o with_o for_o other_o can_v no_o man_n give_v truth_n can_v need_v no_o other_o than_o its_o native_a apology_n for_o itself_o no_o other_o will_v it_o accept_v to_o give_v this_o and_o to_o be_v always_o ready_a to_o give_v it_o to_o keep_v it_o within_o we_o and_o to_o have_v it_o fit_v to_o our_o lip_n be_v the_o proper_a fruit_n of_o such_o a_o catechetical_a instruction_n and_o the_o apostle_n assure_v we_o it_o be_v the_o great_a duty_n of_o christianity_n and_o the_o great_a honour_n we_o can_v do_v to_o god_n first_o to_o sanctify_v he_o in_o our_o heart_n by_o a_o full_a acknowledgement_n of_o he_o in_o his_o divine_a truth_n by_o a_o plerophory_n or_o full_a assurance_n of_o understanding_n in_o the_o mystery_n of_o god_n and_o of_o the_o father_n and_o
of_o christ_n for_o a_o devotion_n to_o the_o true_a god_n without_o know_v he_o to_o be_v the_o true_a god_n can_v thus_o sanctify_v or_o honour_v he_o there_o be_v nothing_o we_o shall_v be_v more_o rational_a in_o than_o in_o the_o true_a religion_n the_o account_n of_o which_o and_o of_o its_o whole_a content_a aught_o to_o be_v so_o certain_a to_o we_o that_o nothing_o of_o a_o diverse_a spirit_n from_o it_o can_v be_v add_v to_o it_o nor_o any_o thing_n of_o its_o integral_n or_o essential_a nature_n take_v from_o it_o but_o we_o may_v plain_o see_v it_o will_v change_v the_o account_n and_o so_o we_o need_v not_o make_v a_o traverse_v over_o all_o falsehood_n to_o know_v truth_n but_o by_o have_v a_o right_a understanding_n in_o and_o just_a contemplation_n of_o truth_n the_o most_o even_a thing_n in_o the_o whole_a world_n we_o come_v to_o know_v itself_o by_o itself_o and_o to_o be_v assure_v of_o it_o although_o there_o be_v no_o other_o false_a religion_n in_o the_o world_n to_o compare_v it_o with_o and_o set_v it_o off_o by_o and_o withal_o to_o descry_v every_o false_a way_n offer_v to_o we_o and_o to_o hate_v it_o yea_o we_o observe_v every_o thing_n that_o be_v but_o doubtful_o propose_v and_o stay_v it_o its_o due_a time_n of_o examination_n and_o so_o either_o accept_v or_o reject_v it_o or_o if_o we_o see_v full_a reason_n for_o neither_o still_o suspend_v it_o be_v not_o the_o law_n of_o our_o country_n our_o church_n our_o be_v baptise_a or_o educate_v in_o it_o that_o will_v justify_v our_o religion_n to_o be_v the_o true_a it_o be_v not_o the_o high_a reverence_n of_o it_o the_o devotion_n we_o use_v in_o it_o our_o hate_v of_o those_o that_o speak_v blasphemous_o of_o it_o will_v make_v good_a our_o religion_n what_o religion_n in_o the_o world_n may_v not_o be_v justify_v upon_o such_o topic_n it_o be_v not_o that_o we_o find_v many_o great_a principle_n of_o truth_n in_o a_o religion_n that_o will_v justify_v it_o there_o be_v no_o religion_n that_o can_v be_v call_v religion_n that_o do_v not_o espouse_v many_o true_a principle_n and_o in_o christian_a religion_n antichristianism_n vie_v with_o christianity_n itself_o upon_o the_o fundamental_a creed_n which_o itself_o confess_v with_o true_a christanity_n but_o have_v build_v upon_o they_o new_a creed_n of_o its_o own_o and_o so_o corrupt_v all_o for_o what_o be_v so_o pure_a and_o perfect_a as_o true_a religion_n be_v must_v needs_o be_v corrupt_v by_o any_o addition_n all_o that_o be_v pure_a and_o true_a be_v already_o its_o own_o who_o then_o can_v add_v to_o it_o and_o not_o be_v find_v a_o liar_n nothing_o therefore_o as_o i_o have_v already_o intimate_v can_v be_v our_o security_n for_o true_a religion_n but_o the_o just_a divine_a measure_n the_o common_a faith_n the_o true_a catholic_n standard_n which_o in_o all_o thing_n necessary_a to_o the_o main_a end_n be_v most_o evident_a and_o in_o entertain_v nothing_o that_o be_v not_o so_o evident_a till_o it_o become_v so_o upon_o this_o great_a test_n this_o be_v our_o security_n for_o it_o be_v very_o plain_a there_o be_v less_o danger_n when_o our_o understanding_n be_v not_o yet_o extend_v to_o the_o breadth_n of_o divine_a truth_n if_o none_o of_o the_o vital_a principle_n be_v unknown_a to_o we_o unsense_v by_o we_o which_o be_v so_o exceed_o plain_a that_o we_o can_v be_v except_o wilful_o ignorant_a of_o they_o for_o no_o injury_n be_v do_v to_o truth_n that_o we_o do_v not_o understand_v its_o whole_a compass_n nor_o to_o ourselves_o if_o we_o do_v not_o hate_v knowledge_n offer_v itself_o to_o our_o notice_n but_o in_o add_v to_o truth_n see_v we_o can_v have_v nothing_o to_o add_v but_o what_o be_v of_o no_o worth_n we_o must_v needs_o defile_v it_o in_o have_v only_a truth_n though_o we_o have_v not_o all_o truth_n we_o yet_o be_v under_o the_o influence_n of_o truth_n only_o but_o when_o we_o add_v we_o enslave_v ourselves_o to_o lie_v vanity_n now_o hereunto_o have_v i_o level_v the_o whole_a ensue_a catechism_n or_o discourse_n against_o which_o i_o know_v many_o prejudices_fw-la will_v lie_v except_o full_a consideration_n be_v allow_v i_o know_v too_o many_o thing_n raise_v a_o detestation_n at_o the_o first_o which_o be_v examine_v and_o weigh_v by_o their_o reason_n gain_v not_o only_o the_o discharge_n of_o these_o angry_a passion_n but_o much_o acceptance_n and_o assent_n and_o i_o must_v take_v the_o confidence_n to_o say_v in_o relation_n to_o any_o such_o doubt_n upon_o the_o ensue_a apology_n for_o catholic_n truth_n that_o it_o be_v settle_v upon_o such_o unmoveable_a reason_n and_o weigh_v out_o by_o such_o exact_a attendance_n to_o it_o that_o i_o may_v write_v upon_o it_o without_o immodesty_n loe_o this_o we_o have_v search_v it_o so_o it_o be_v hear_v it_o and_o know_v thou_o it_o for_o thy_o good_a for_o good_a in_o the_o quiet_a and_o most_o peaceable_a course_n of_o christianity_n wherein_o to_o know_v the_o true_a ground_n upon_o which_o it_o rest_v alone_o make_v the_o soul_n both_o wise_a and_o good_a and_o determine_v it_o to_o the_o square_a and_o just_a rule_n of_o that_o holy_a religion_n for_o good_a in_o time_n of_o temptation_n to_o a_o false_a religion_n especial_o that_o which_o call_v itself_o catholic_n for_o the_o true_o instruct_v christian_n in_o that_o which_o be_v indeed_o catholic_n be_v even_o impregnable_a against_o that_o delusion_n of_o catholic_n false_o so_o call_v last_o for_o good_a in_o the_o midst_n of_o great_a difference_n and_o diversity_n of_o opinion_n and_o practice_n in_o relation_n to_o lesser_a thing_n pertain_v more_o circumstantial_o or_o doubtful_o to_o true_a religion_n wherein_o the_o rational_a christian_a carry_v it_o as_o inoffensive_o and_o communicative_o as_o he_o can_v with_o all_o centre_n in_o that_o which_o be_v catholic_n as_o to_o his_o faith_n love_n inward_a esteem_n and_o practice_n and_o unmovable_o fix_v there_o detest_a all_o animosity_n and_o much_o more_o rigour_n or_o severity_n towards_o other_o in_o relation_n to_o such_o difference_n than_o which_o nothing_o can_v be_v more_o ungenerous_a more_o unchristian_a more_o irreligious_a more_o unworthy_a the_o content_n cap._n i._o of_o the_o perfect_a and_o first_o state_n of_o humane_a nature_n with_o relation_n to_o catholic_n or_o public_a religion_n page_n 1_o cap._n ii_o of_o the_o violation_n of_o this_o catholic_n order_n of_o religion_n and_o the_o mean_v provide_v by_o god_n to_o restore_v it_o 7_o cap._n iii_o of_o the_o vncontroversible_a law_n of_o natural_a religion_n 10_o cap._n iu_o of_o revelation_n and_o the_o reason_n of_o so_o great_a miscarriage_n against_o both_o the_o light_n of_o nature_n and_o revelation_n with_o the_o mean_n of_o cure_n 14_o cap._n v._o of_o the_o public_a or_o divine_a original_a of_o sacred_a write_n or_o scripture_n 23_o cap._n vi_o of_o the_o proof_n of_o scripture_n that_o it_o be_v of_o god_n and_o that_o the_o proof_n also_o be_v public_a and_o divine_a 27_o cap._n vii_o of_o the_o public_a interpretation_n of_o scripture_n pag._n 36_o cap._n viii_o of_o tradition_n and_o antiquity_n â—â—_o cap._n ix_o of_o the_o church_n catholic_n 65_o cap._n x._o of_o the_o officer_n appoint_v by_o christ_n in_o his_o church_n 8â—_n cap._n xi_o of_o every_o man_n obligation_n to_o be_v wise_a for_o himself_o to_o salvation_n 89_o cap._n xii_o of_o schism_n and_o scandal_n 93_o cap._n xiii_o of_o the_o antichurch_n and_o its_o opposition_n in_o every_o thing_n to_o the_o true_a church_n 109_o cap._n fourteen_o of_o the_o power_n of_o magistrate_n in_o religion_n and_o of_o national_a religion_n 128_o a_o catholic_n catechism_n cap._n i._n of_o the_o perfect_a and_o first_o state_n of_o humane_a nature_n with_o relation_n to_o catholic_n or_o public_a religion_n quest_n what_o be_v the_o most_o distinguish_a excellency_n and_o perfection_n of_o humane_a nature_n answ_n catholic_n or_o true_o public_a religion_n for_o it_o be_v the_o all_o the_o whole_a or_o universal_a man_n whoever_o therefore_o have_v vanquish_v the_o sense_n of_o that_o have_v put_v off_o man_n and_o degrade_v himself_o into_o worse_a than_o a_o brute_n quest_n what_o do_v you_o mean_v by_o religion_n answ_n by_o religion_n i_o mean_v a_o close_o bind_v or_o unite_n ourselves_o to_o and_o with_o god_n the_o supreme_a be_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o he_o according_a to_o his_o excellent_a nature_n and_o attribute_n in_o keep_v his_o commandment_n and_o seek_v his_o grace_n and_o favour_n according_a to_o all_o his_o divine_a manifestation_n of_o himself_o and_o in_o so_o do_v we_o be_v join_v and_o join_v ourselves_o as_o far_o as_o we_o can_v with_o one_o another_o in_o the_o same_o religious_a service_n perform_v by_o all_o quest_n why_o do_v you_o call_v it_o catholic_n or_o true_o public_a religion_n answ_n
because_o god_n to_o who_o we_o proper_o and_o first_o unite_v in_o religion_n be_v the_o most_o public_a and_o universal_a be_v in_o who_o all_o holy_a spirit_n unite_v one_o with_o another_o and_o from_o who_o whoever_o separate_v separate_v also_o from_o all_o good_a spirit_n and_o so_o fall_v into_o the_o only_a dangerous_a schism_n 2._o because_o the_o one_o god_n and_o jesus_n christ_n his_o son_n our_o lord_n the_o one_o mediator_n will_v have_v all_o come_v to_o the_o knowledge_n of_o this_o as_o the_o catholic_n truth_n that_o they_o may_v be_v save_v and_o have_v therefore_o reconcile_v and_o recapitulate_v all_o in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n into_o one_o catholic_n body_n in_o himself_o the_o catholic_n head_n 3._o because_o god_n manifestation_n of_o himself_o be_v the_o only_a true_a public_a authentic_a record_n of_o this_o religion_n and_o all_o other_o not_o derive_v from_o hence_o be_v private_a and_o false_a and_o the_o meeting_n set_v up_o to_o celebrate_v any_o other_o religion_n than_o thus_o manifest_v be_v indeed_o the_o close_a schismatical_a conventicle_n for_o none_o can_v be_v public_a assembly_n where_o god_n the_o supreme_o public_a and_o all_o holy_a spirit_n withdraw_v with_o he_o be_v not_o and_o all_o be_v public_a though_o but_o of_o two_o or_o three_o where_o god_n the_o public_a itself_o and_o in_o who_o the_o whole_a assembly_n of_o saint_n meet_v be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o they_o quest_n whence_o do_v you_o take_v occasion_n to_o call_v that_o public_a or_o catholic_n that_o be_v divine_a answ_n from_o the_o apostle_n peter_n who_o when_o he_o be_v assert_v concern_v the_o certainty_n of_o the_o scripture_n prophecy_n affirm_v it_o a_o principle_n absolute_o necessary_a to_o be_v know_v that_o it_o be_v not_o of_o any_o private_a interpretation_n and_o that_o he_o may_v demonstrate_v it_o can_v be_v private_a he_o avow_v the_o original_a to_o be_v divine_a now_o the_o plain_a opposite_a to_o private_a be_v public_a in_o that_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n do_v not_o oppose_v public_a but_o divine_a to_o private_a it_o be_v plain_a in_o his_o sense_n divine_a be_v the_o only_a public_a and_o whatever_o be_v true_o public_a be_v divine_a and_o all_o else_o private_a quest_n how_o therefore_o be_v we_o to_o understand_v private_a to_o oppose_v it_o to_o public_a or_o divine_a answ_n idiotick_a or_o private_a be_v apply_v to_o person_n who_o knowledge_n be_v very_o narrow_a and_o strait_a and_o they_o have_v cognisance_n of_o nothing_o beyond_o their_o little_a own_a 2._o to_o those_o that_o have_v no_o public_a character_n of_o office_n or_o magistracy_n and_o last_o to_o such_o who_o care_n interest_n and_o concern_v be_v confine_v to_o themselves_o and_o their_o own_o even_o thus_o private_a be_v just_o affix_v to_o all_o except_o only_o to_o god_n and_o religion_n as_o derive_v from_o he_o no_o create_a knowledge_n either_o angelic_a or_o humane_a be_v comprehensive_a enough_o to_o be_v the_o fountain_n no_o power_n or_o authority_n be_v supreme_a or_o vast_a enough_o to_o enact_v nor_o be_v any_o care_n or_o concern_v for_o the_o world_n of_o soul_n large_a or_o receptive_a enough_o to_o ordain_v a_o catholic_n religion_n lead_v to_o a_o common_a salvation_n but_o he_o who_o be_v the_o father_n of_o the_o whole_a family_n of_o spirit_n in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n quest_n what_o evidence_n of_o this_o be_v there_o answ_n it_o be_v so_o much_o the_o result_n of_o reason_n that_o whoever_o consider_v it_o can_v deny_v it_o and_o upon_o this_o account_n all_o who_o have_v pretend_v to_o found_v a_o religion_n have_v pretend_v some_o way_n or_o other_o to_o derive_v and_o receive_v it_o from_o god_n for_o who_o can_v know_v all_o that_o be_v necessary_a to_o be_v know_v but_o the_o divine_a mind_n and_o spirit_n that_o know_v and_o search_v itself_o the_o spring_n of_o all_o thing_n and_o so_o first_o to_o be_v know_v or_o what_o authority_n can_v prescribe_v without_o much_o less_o against_o omnipotency_n or_o who_o can_v spread_v tender_a mercy_n over_o all_o the_o creation_n but_o the_o faithful_a creator_n himself_o all_o which_o be_v absolute_o necessary_a to_o the_o concernment_n of_o the_o true_o catholic_n public_a religion_n quest_n what_o be_v the_o record_v god_n have_v vouchsafe_v to_o man_n of_o this_o catholic_n public_a religion_n answ_n they_o be_v two_o the_o law_n engrave_v upon_o man_n heart_n justify_v and_o seal_v by_o the_o constant_a miracle_n of_o creation_n and_o providence_n that_o carry_v semblable_a line_n of_o all_o that_o be_v write_v upon_o man_n heart_n for_o that_o which_o may_v be_v know_v of_o god_n be_v manifest_a in_o man_n for_o god_n have_v show_v it_o to_o they_o for_o the_o invisible_a thing_n of_o he_o from_o the_o creation_n of_o the_o world_n be_v clear_o see_v be_v understand_v by_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v make_v even_o his_o eternal_a power_n and_o godhead_n the_o work_n that_o god_n command_v man_n to_o do_v be_v write_v in_o their_o heart_n their_o conscience_n bear_v witness_n and_o their_o thought_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n accuse_v or_o excuse_v one_o another_o the_o eternal_a word_n or_o reason_n that_o make_v all_o thing_n be_v the_o light_n that_o light_v the_o reason_n of_o every_o man_n that_o come_v into_o the_o world_n quest_n which_o be_v the_o second_o record_n answ_n the_o second_o record_n be_v divine_a revelation_n collect_v into_o holy_a scripture_n all_o scripture_n be_v give_v by_o inspiration_n of_o god_n and_o be_v profitable_a for_o doctrine_n reproof_n instruction_n correction_n in_o righteousness_n that_o the_o man_n of_o god_n may_v be_v perfect_a thorough_o furnish_v to_o every_o good_a work_n no_o prophecy_n of_o scripture_n be_v of_o any_o private_a interpretation_n for_o prophecy_n come_v not_o in_o old_a time_n by_o the_o will_n of_o man_n but_o holy_a man_n of_o god_n speak_v as_o they_o be_v move_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n and_o even_o as_o the_o law_n of_o nature_n be_v seal_v by_o creation_n and_o providence_n so_o have_v revelation_n always_o be_v by_o evidence_n of_o divinity_n and_o miracle_n a_o new_a creation_n proportion_v to_o the_o end_n of_o those_o revelation_n miracle_n of_o mere_a power_n or_o justice_n as_o upon_o pharaoh_n of_o great_a mercy_n and_o benefaction_n only_o as_o by_o the_o most_o merciful_a saviour_n of_o mercy_n and_o sometime_o of_o justice_n as_o by_o moses_n the_o prophet_n and_o the_o apostle_n who_o be_v to_o establish_v the_o law_n of_o the_o old_a and_o new_a testament_n quest_n i_o perceive_v then_o all_o the_o thing_n of_o religion_n be_v not_o clear_a to_o man_n by_o the_o law_n write_v in_o his_o heart_n answ_n no_o for_o some_o part_n of_o religion_n be_v so_o necessary_a to_o our_o very_a nature_n as_o man_n that_o they_o be_v concreated_a with_o we_o and_o engrave_v upon_o our_o very_a soul_n and_o the_o immediate_a motion_n of_o our_o faculty_n must_v needs_o lead_v we_o to_o they_o while_o right_a and_o straight_o and_o continue_v in_o that_o perfect_a state_n wherein_o our_o creator_n leave_v they_o for_o he_o look_v upon_o all_o thing_n that_o he_o have_v make_v and_o behold_v all_o be_v good_a and_o very_o good_a and_o he_o appoint_v a_o sabbatism_n for_o all_o his_o creature_n and_o especial_o his_o rational_a creature_n the_o morning_n star_n to_o sing_v together_o and_o praise_v he_o for_o they_o but_o there_o be_v other_o divine_a truth_n which_o be_v as_o the_o break_n up_o of_o the_o great_a deep_a of_o the_o infinite_a wisdom_n grace_n and_o goodness_n of_o god_n that_o can_v be_v know_v to_o the_o high_a understanding_n of_o angel_n or_o arch-angel_n only_o by_o revelation_n much_o less_o to_o man_n a_o reason_n of_o a_o low_a orb_n and_o least_o of_o all_o as_o fall_v and_o corrupt_v yet_o suppose_v the_o soul_n of_o man_n have_v abide_v in_o their_o first_o clearness_n and_o luster_n all_o his_o faculty_n will_v have_v immediate_o receive_v and_o adore_a god_n in_o all_o such_o manifestation_n of_o himself_o and_o congratulated_n those_o mighty_a accession_n of_o light_n and_o truth_n quest_n but_o what_o need_n be_v there_o of_o any_o revelation_n when_o man_n be_v make_v perfect_a and_o good_a while_o he_o continue_v so_o answ_n revelation_n be_v even_o then_o necessary_a to_o show_v that_o it_o be_v not_o consistent_a with_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o creature_n to_o have_v happiness_n and_o perfection_n within_o itself_o but_o to_o be_v in_o continual_a dependence_n upon_o and_o expectation_n from_o the_o creator_n for_o even_o that_o perfection_n wherein_o adam_n be_v make_v be_v thus_o to_o maintain_v continue_v and_o assure_v itself_o and_o so_o to_o rise_v to_o high_a perfection_n he_o have_v therefore_o at_o first_o a_o doctrine_n by_o revelation_n suitable_a to_o the_o two_o sacramental_a tree_n so_o that_o though_o he_o be_v perfect_a as_o such_o a_o
be_v present_o more_o full_o discourse_v under_o the_o head_n of_o interpretation_n quest_n how_o far_o and_o to_o what_o thing_n do_v the_o rule_n of_o the_o word_n of_o god_n extend_v answ_n to_o all_o thing_n most_o assure_o that_o be_v necessary_a to_o salvation_n and_o eternal_a life_n or_o to_o the_o true_a perfect_a the_o conscience_n in_o purity_n and_o peace_n whether_o they_o be_v thing_n to_o be_v believe_v as_o the_o spring_n of_o heavenly_a action_n or_o thing_n to_o be_v observe_v in_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n or_o to_o guidâ—_n the_o practice_n and_o order_v the_o conversation_n aright_o to_o thaâ—_n salvation_n or_o that_o be_v prescribe_v according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n for_o discipline_n and_o government_n of_o the_o church_n alâ—_n these_o be_v plain_o write_v or_o by_o just_a consequence_n to_o bâ—_n derive_v from_o the_o word_n of_o god_n so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v necessary_a to_o show_v man_n the_o way_n to_o please_v god_n or_o to_o assure_v they_o they_o do_v please_v god_n that_o so_o they_o may_v attain_v the_o promise_n of_o eternal_a life_n quest_n be_v there_o no_o other_o rule_n of_o religion_n then_o but_o the_o scripture_n embrace_v the_o law_n of_o nature_n answ_n there_o can_v be_v none_o except_o either_o religion_n be_v not_o derive_v whole_o from_o god_n and_o therefore_o not_o so_o catholic_n as_o we_o have_v assert_v it_o or_o except_o any_o other_o record_n of_o religion_n can_v show_v its_o descent_n as_o high_a and_o public_a as_o scripture_n do_v of_o which_o proof_n which_o scripture_n give_v of_o itself_o and_o what_o it_o be_v inquiry_n be_v in_o the_o next_o place_n to_o be_v make_v cap._n vi_o of_o the_o proof_n of_o scripture_n that_o it_o be_v of_o god_n and_o that_o the_o proof_n also_o be_v public_a and_o divine_a quest_n what_o kind_n of_o proof_n of_o so_o divine_a a_o record_n as_o scripture_n be_v high_a enough_o to_o prove_v it_o to_o be_v so_o divine_a answ_n that_o which_o be_v even_o as_o the_o original_a of_o scripture_n divine_v also_o quest_n why_o must_v the_o proof_n or_o evidence_n of_o scripture_n be_v divine_a answ_n 1._o because_o it_o be_v below_o the_o dignity_n of_o divine_a to_o receive_v its_o principal_a proof_n from_o private_a or_o low_a than_o divine_a or_o public_a 2._o because_o nothing_o but_o divine_a can_v so_o reach_v the_o conscience_n as_o to_o fill_v and_o possess_v it_o with_o satisfactory_a evidence_n in_o so_o great_a a_o concernment_n as_o religion_n nor_o strike_v the_o heart_n with_o those_o great_a effect_n of_o love_n to_o fear_v of_o joy_n in_o scripture_n and_o the_o word_n of_o god_n so_o essential_a to_o religion_n but_o divine_a when_o you_o receive_v the_o word_n of_o god_n you_o receive_v it_o not_o as_o the_o word_n of_o man_n but_o as_o it_o be_v in_o truth_n the_o word_n of_o god_n 3._o because_o it_o be_v impossible_a what_o be_v true_o divine_a shall_v not_o dart_v the_o ray_n of_o divinity_n as_o all_o other_o thing_n of_o excellency_n send_v out_o the_o beam_n of_o that_o excellency_n they_o have_v and_o thereby_o discover_v themselves_o for_o we_o know_v all_o thing_n especial_o by_o themselves_o the_o light_n remonstrate_v itself_o by_o itself_o the_o genius_n of_o every_o writer_n show_v itself_o first_o by_o itself_o we_o see_v the_o divineness_n of_o creation_n and_o miracle_n by_o themselves_o best_a and_o great_a be_v self-evident_o divine_a and_o whatever_o it_o be_v write_v upon_o be_v evident_o divine_a also_o quest_n how_o do_v scripture_n show_v itself_o thus_o divine_a answ_n by_o a_o majestic_a assumption_n to_o itself_o to_o be_v divine_a it_o speak_v so_o in_o and_o of_o all_o thing_n it_o speak_v and_o as_o it_o please_v effect_n as_o divine_v only_o do_v and_o can_v effect_v and_o be_v the_o best_a and_o great_a record_n of_o truth_n to_o all_o holy_a and_o wise_a mind_n the_o only_a extant_a inviolate_a record_n of_o natural_a and_o reveal_v religion_n in_o the_o world_n be_v 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high_a elevation_n be_v but_o create_v and_o create_v be_v not_o firm_a and_o sure_a enough_o for_o a_o foundation_n nor_o can_v it_o raise_v a_o assent_n noble_a and_o generous_a enough_o for_o a_o faith_n in_o that_o which_o be_v divine_a all_o that_o can_v be_v summon_v may_v be_v a_o outward_a fortification_n or_o introduction_n but_o the_o rock_n of_o truth_n be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n divinity_n itself_o upon_o this_o the_o church_n be_v build_v that_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n can_v prevail_v against_o it_o quest_n but_o be_v there_o no_o part_n of_o scripture_n that_o receive_v great_a service_n from_o humane_a testimony_n than_o other_o answ_n there_o be_v some_o part_n of_o scripture_n that_o be_v but_o ministerial_a and_o almost_o servile_a in_o comparison_n of_o other_o and_o that_o these_o be_v find_v in_o all_o authentic_a copy_n and_o have_v be_v deliver_v down_o from_o age_n to_o age_n with_o the_o sacred_a roll_n may_v depend_v more_o upon_o humane_a testimony_n 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difference_n be_v undeniable_a yet_o to_o the_o great_a glory_n of_o scripture_n and_o assurance_n it_o be_v from_o god_n even_o those_o small_a and_o low_a thing_n last_v speak_v of_o be_v all_o treat_v with_o all_o the_o purity_n gravity_n become_v the_o penman_n of_o the_o holy_a spirit_n and_o with_o all_o the_o usefulness_n their_o nature_n can_v extend_v to_o even_o so_o the_o holy_a man_n use_v by_o god_n in_o this_o service_n how_o various_a and_o differ_v soever_o in_o their_o several_a age_n and_o time_n of_o writing_n in_o their_o circumstance_n of_o state_n and_o condition_n in_o this_o world_n high_a low_z rich_a poor_a learned_a unlearned_a how_o distant_a soever_o in_o their_o time_n of_o write_v in_o the_o outward_a form_n and_o mode_n of_o their_o worship_n of_o god_n in_o the_o thing_n that_o fall_v under_o their_o account_n and_o relation_n before_o the_o law_n under_o the_o law_n in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o messiah_n after_o his_o death_n yet_o there_o be_v the_o 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for_o scripture_n be_v scripture_n and_o all_o of_o they_o so_o arise_v to_o our_o assurance_n by_o find_v the_o same_o divine_a spirit_n of_o truth_n run_v through_o one_o as_o do_v through_o another_o for_o upon_o this_o account_n the_o true_a church_n receive_v they_o when_o first_o receive_v and_o so_o transmit_v they_o make_v the_o same_o judgement_n successive_o in_o the_o several_a age_n as_o the_o first_o do_v the_o same_o reason_n always_o continue_v what_o be_v beside_o this_o be_v to_o be_v attribute_v to_o the_o discern_v of_o spirit_n in_o all_o the_o time_n while_o scripture_n be_v write_v by_o the_o due_a exercise_n of_o which_o true_a scripture_n be_v receive_v and_o all_o other_o shut_v out_o for_o the_o write_n of_o prophet_n be_v subject_a to_o prophet_n and_o by_o they_o enroll_v into_o scripture_n that_o we_o have_v the_o same_o scripture_n just_o and_o faithful_o consign_v over_o to_o we_o from_o age_n to_o age_n be_v to_o be_v own_a and_o acknowledge_v to_o 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that_o may_v be_v as_o four_o equal_a side_n of_o this_o foursquare_n and_o of_o the_o church_n adjust_v to_o it_o from_o each_o of_o which_o may_v be_v measure_v to_o each_o of_o the_o rest_n and_o the_o equality_n or_o inequality_n will_v discover_v the_o truth_n or_o falsehood_n of_o all_o that_o be_v bring_v to_o the_o trial_n 1._o the_o transcendent_a holiness_n goodness_n and_o purity_n of_o the_o doctrine_n precept_n of_o worship_n rule_n of_o life_n discipline_n be_v one_o side_n of_o this_o christian-square_a with_o which_o whatever_n do_v not_o square_a be_v convict_v not_o to_o be_v of_o that_o doctrine_n and_o religion_n whether_o it_o look_v towards_o god_n in_o all_o the_o high_a most_o honourable_a apprehension_n of_o he_o suitable_a discourse_n worship_n love_n and_o obedience_n or_o whether_o it_o look_v towards_o man_n in_o all_o justice_n righteousness_n mercy_n compassion_n charity_n benevolence_n beneficence_n and_o these_o as_o they_o respect_v all_o the_o particular_a office_n of_o life_n public_a of_o magistrate_n subject_n or_o private_a as_o of_o parent_n child_n husband_n wife_n master_n or_o servant_n the_o peace_n and_o welfare_n of_o mankind_n be_v treasure_v up_o in_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n or_o last_o whether_o it_o look_v to_o a_o man_n be_v own_o person_n in_o soberness_n purity_n continency_n in_o the_o thought_n the_o word_n the_o action_n the_o honour_n and_o best_a state_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o body_n be_v provide_v for_o by_o this_o doctrine_n that_o be_v after_o godliness_n not_o only_o in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v but_o in_o this_o life_n whatever_o now_o do_v not_o agree_v with_o these_o wholesome_a word_n be_v detect_v not_o to_o be_v christian_a which_o be_v all_o truth_n virtue_n and_o praise_n 2._o there_o be_v nothing_o more_o intimate_a to_o man_n in_o this_o fall_a state_n than_o the_o sense_n of_o gild_n and_o knowledge_n that_o he_o be_v a_o
sinner_n the_o whole_a platform_n of_o redemption_n by_o jesus_n christ_n be_v become_v like_o the_o original_a law_n of_o righteousness_n by_o which_o man_n be_v form_v and_o answer_n to_o it_o in_o all_o the_o attribute_n of_o perfection_n as_o therefore_o the_o plot_n of_o restoration_n by_o the_o son_n of_o god_n infold_v it_o within_o itself_o and_o answer_v every_o way_n exact_o to_o it_o so_o that_o very_a law_n and_o doctrine_n of_o holiness_n own_v the_o reconciliation_n and_o atonement_n by_o that_o great_a sacrifice_n as_o equilateral_a to_o itself_o the_o dimension_n of_o one_o be_v find_v correspondent_a in_o the_o other_o and_o each_o to_o be_v try_v one_o by_o the_o other_o so_o great_a a_o sacrifice_n will_v be_v unnecessary_a if_o it_o have_v not_o so_o great_a a_o law_n to_o answer_v so_o great_a a_o law_n can_v be_v answer_v by_o so_o great_a a_o sacrifice_n and_o only_o by_o that_o it_o must_v have_v that_o it_o can_v need_v it_o can_v acknowledge_v no_o other_o so_o then_o the_o one_o may_v be_v measure_v by_o the_o other_o the_o holiness_n purity_n of_o such_o a_o law_n violate_v require_v such_o a_o effectual_a pacification_n and_o purgation_n of_o conscience_n such_o a_o renovation_n as_o christianity_n set_v before_o we_o such_o a_o sacrifice_n such_o a_o renovation_n or_o sanctification_n by_o the_o divine_a spirit_n from_o it_o teach_v we_o what_o a_o excellent_a law_n be_v violate_v so_o often_o therefore_o be_v the_o lamb_n make_v the_o title_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o savour_n so_o oâ—ten_v it_o be_v signal_o record_v in_o the_o revelation_n and_o the_o name_n of_o the_o apostle_n of_o the_o lamb_n be_v say_v to_o be_v write_v in_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o new-jerusalem_n to_o show_v the_o weight_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o christian_a sacrifice_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o holy_a spirit_n breathe_v in_o and_o from_o it_o in_o renovation_n and_o sanctification_n 3._o the_o liberty_n that_o jesus_n christ_n have_v bring_v in_o by_o his_o gospel_n be_v another_o equilateral_a character_n of_o his_o true_a religion_n to_o be_v measure_v by_o each_o of_o the_o former_a and_o it_o also_o measure_v they_o it_o be_v not_o a_o liberty_n from_o holiness_n it_o be_v not_o a_o liberty_n from_o close_a application_n to_o the_o redemption_n of_o christ_n and_o not_o to_o need_v it_o on_o any_o pretence_n whatever_o but_o it_o be_v a_o liberty_n from_o any_o imposition_n that_o be_v ceremonial_a and_o do_v not_o by_o its_o intrinsique_n worth_n and_o goodness_n or_o by_o its_o supreme_a ordination_n from_o god_n centre_n in_o the_o true_a perfection_n of_o the_o mind_n conscience_n and_o whole_a soul_n yea_o whatever_o god_n himself_o have_v command_v the_o jew_n be_v not_o only_o reverse_v but_o despise_v for_o the_o sake_n of_o christian_a liberty_n if_o it_o do_v not_o square_a with_o it_o so_o that_o no_o yoke_n of_o ceremonial_a bondage_n be_v lay_v upon_o we_o by_o god_n himself_o that_o which_o have_v be_v be_v take_v away_o and_o a_o yoke_n of_o humane_a imposiing_n be_v under_o the_o gospel-anathema_n the_o doctrine_n of_o godliness_n of_o redemption_n by_o christ_n may_v be_v just_o measure_v by_o the_o true_a perfection_n of_o conscience_n to_o do_v well_o in_o thing_n intrinsical_o good_a according_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o christianity_n and_o be_v inward_o purge_v and_o atone_v by_o the_o christian_a sacrifice_n do_v also_o true_o measure_v this_o liberty_n for_o on_o one_o side_n the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n be_v not_o meat_n and_o drink_n but_o righteousness_n peace_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o holy_a ghost_n he_o that_o in_o these_o thing_n serve_v christ_n be_v acceptable_a to_o god_n and_o approve_v of_o man_n it_o be_v not_o apply_v to_o the_o blood_n of_o bull_n and_o goat_n that_o can_v never_o take_v away_o sin_n but_o to_o the_o blood_n offer_v by_o the_o eternal_a spirit_n which_o certain_o make_v the_o comer_n thereunto_o perfect_a on_o the_o other_o side_n this_o liberty_n lay_v not_o open_a the_o enclosure_n of_o a_o holy_a life_n nor_o remove_v the_o barrier_n of_o justice_n against_o sin_n if_o not_o satisfy_v and_o atone_v by_o faith_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n 4._o last_o that_o which_o answer_v to_o each_o of_o these_o character_n of_o true_a religion_n be_v that_o be_v have_v no_o secular_a interest_n no_o interest_n of_o this_o present_a world_n that_o it_o look_v not_o upon_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v see_v that_o be_v but_o for_o a_o moment_n but_o on_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v not_o see_v that_o be_v eternal_a such_o be_v the_o godliness_n such_o be_v the_o sacrifice_n such_o the_o christian_a liberty_n that_o their_o uses_n and_o end_n be_v too_o great_a and_o large_a to_o centre_n in_o earthly_a thing_n and_o though_o themselves_o be_v the_o true_a interest_n of_o the_o present_a state_n yet_o they_o no_o way_n make_v it_o or_o the_o grandeur_n of_o it_o a_o interest_n but_o seek_v a_o heavenly_a country_n and_o city_n even_o as_o the_o lord_n of_o this_o religion_n say_v my_o kingdom_n be_v not_o of_o this_o world_n now_o as_o this_o measure_v each_o of_o the_o other_o character_n so_o each_o of_o they_o measure_v it_o such_o a_o transcendent_a holiness_n and_o purity_n can_v alone_o see_v god_n in_o eternal_a habitation_n such_o a_o sacrifice_n alone_o can_v have_v its_o blood_n enter_v into_o the_o holy_a place_n make_v without_o hand_n have_v obtain_v a_o eternal_a inheritance_n such_o a_o blood_n speak_v alone_o in_o the_o heaven_n better_a thing_n than_o the_o blood_n of_o abel_n a_o conscience_n so_o free_a so_o perfect_v have_v boldness_n to_o enter_v into_o the_o holy_a and_o none_o else_o these_o be_v all_o fit_v and_o consecrate_a to_o eternity_n and_o eternity_n to_o they_o light_n and_o trivial_a holiness_n insignificant_a ceremony_n and_o rite_n of_o purgation_n a_o cumber_v of_o external_n observation_n invent_v by_o man_n can_v never_o enter_v within_o the_o veil_n nor_o endure_v for_o ever_o and_o on_o the_o other_o side_n by_o such_o divine_a thing_n to_o grasp_v at_o this_o world_n and_o a_o patrimony_n on_o earth_n be_v as_o gross_a and_o out_o of_o square_a so_o that_o these_o thing_n exact_o measure_v one_o another_o and_o square_v together_o quest_n how_o be_v the_o foursquare_a city_n or_o the_o true_a church_n adjust_v to_o these_o dimension_n answ_n in_o all_o these_o thing_n i_o before_o mention_v in_o have_v these_o and_o these_o only_a in_o its_o doctrine_n its_o worship_n its_o practice_n and_o obedience_n its_o discipline_n or_o government_n quest_n how_o be_v the_o false_a church_n out_o of_o square_a to_o all_o these_o answ_n in_o that_o retain_v the_o profession_n of_o the_o christian_a religion_n constitute_v according_a to_o these_o and_o pretend_v a_o imitation_n of_o they_o and_o the_o miracle_n attest_v they_o it_o have_v be_v most_o extravagant_a from_o they_o by_o its_o traditional_a addition_n and_o counterfeit_n of_o they_o every_o of_o which_o be_v a_o violation_n and_o irregularity_n from_o one_o or_o all_o of_o these_o character_n or_o equal_a side_n of_o true_a religion_n a_o great_a lie_n upon_o they_o with_o which_o they_o can_v never_o be_v bring_v to_o agree_v be_v not_o only_o a_o endless_a variation_n from_o but_o a_o flat_a opposition_n to_o they_o and_o a_o despit_v they_o with_o themselves_o so_o strange_o so_o monstrous_o misshapen_v and_o that_o in_o so_o great_a number_n that_o as_o in_o mockage_n to_o the_o many_o excellent_a thing_n our_o saviour_n do_v and_o teach_v so_o many_o that_o if_o they_o be_v all_o write_v the_o world_n itself_o can_v not_o contain_v the_o book_n that_o will_v be_v write_v even_o so_o if_o all_o the_o numerous_a and_o prodigious_a excursion_n of_o the_o antichristian_a church_n and_o antichrist_n the_o head_n of_o it_o from_o christian_a religion_n by_o its_o indeterminable_a swarm_n of_o new_a piece_n of_o antichristianism_n shall_v be_v write_v the_o whole_a world_n itself_o will_v not_o be_v able_a to_o contain_v the_o volume_n that_o will_v be_v write_v quest_n but_o do_v not_o the_o profession_n of_o so_o much_o of_o the_o christian_a religion_n in_o such_o a_o eminence_n like_o tbe_n city_n upon_o the_o hill_n that_o can_v be_v hide_v give_v it_o the_o reputation_n of_o a_o most_o famous_a church_n if_o not_o the_o catholic_n as_o it_o call_v itself_o answ_n christianity_n so_o abuse_v as_o in_o the_o popish_a religion_n be_v infinite_o the_o more_o dishonour_v for_o the_o eminence_n of_o the_o antichurch_n that_o so_o expose_v it_o and_o it_o be_v only_o the_o eminence_n of_o antichrist_n sit_v in_o the_o temple_n of_o god_n and_o the_o exalt_v himself_o above_o all_o that_o be_v indeed_o and_o true_o god_n in_o his_o church_n and_o show_v himself_o that_o he_o be_v god_n in_o his_o oracle_n wonder_n and_o miracle_n but_o they_o be_v
all_o but_o one_o great_a lie_n of_o this_o son_n of_o the_o father_n of_o lie_n the_o image_n of_o the_o god_n of_o this_o world_n the_o son_n of_o his_o falsehood_n and_o perdition_n contrary_a to_o christ_n the_o son_n of_o the_o father_n in_o truth_n and_o love_n but_o if_o any_o one_o receive_v christianity_n or_o the_o scripture_n from_o the_o antichurch_n and_o measure_v they_o in_o and_o by_o themselves_o separate_v true_a christianity_n from_o the_o antichristianism_n and_o retain_v it_o pure_a it_o be_v but_o like_o the_o service_n god_n receive_v from_o the_o false_a prophet_n baalam_n when_o he_o prophesy_v truth_n into_o who_o place_n and_o office_n antichrist_n succeed_v and_o be_v therefore_o style_v the_o false_a prophet_n revel_v 16._o 13._o quest_n what_o then_o can_v this_o pretend_a catholic_n church_n be_v in_o relation_n to_o the_o true_a catholic_n public_a religion_n answ_n it_o can_v be_v no_o other_o upon_o strict_a account_n than_o the_o synagogue_n of_o satan_n the_o pseudocatholick_a antichurch_n in_o a_o damnable_a heresy_n from_o and_o hatred_n to_o the_o general_n assembly_n and_o church_n of_o the_o first_o bear_v write_v in_o heaven_n unite_v with_o the_o god_n of_o truth_n and_o love_n and_o the_o son_n of_o the_o father_n in_o truth_n and_o love_n in_o a_o hellish_a schism_n and_o separation_n from_o the_o apostolic_a catholic_n church_n of_o which_o god_n and_o christ_n be_v the_o head_n quest_n how_o can_v it_o be_v believe_v that_o so_o great_a a_o lie_n upon_o christianity_n shall_v be_v receive_v by_o so_o large_a a_o proportion_n of_o the_o christian_a world_n or_o that_o person_n of_o so_o vast_a ability_n and_o comprehension_n shall_v so_o deceive_v other_o or_o be_v themselves_o deceive_v answ_n scripture_n have_v take_v all_o the_o care_n possible_a to_o arm_v we_o against_o this_o objection_n which_o be_v indeed_o very_o great_a it_o call_v this_o apostasy_n a_o mystery_n of_o iniquity_n and_o to_o assure_v we_o the_o apostle_n paul_n and_o the_o divine_a person_n in_o the_o revelation_n point_n to_o the_o same_o thing_n upon_o the_o forehead_n of_o this_o adulterous_a church_n be_v write_v mystery_n now_o a_o mystery_n if_o it_o be_v present_o understand_v and_o all_o easy_a and_o plain_a be_v no_o mystery_n it_o have_v the_o energy_n of_o delusion_n in_o cause_v man_n to_o believe_v a_o lie_n it_o be_v the_o whole_a deceit_n of_o unrighteousness_n it_o set_v up_o a_o great_a stage_n of_o counterfeit_n miracle_n that_o it_o vaunt_v upon_o and_o that_o it_o may_v have_v that_o reverend_a face_n of_o antiquity_n to_o deceive_v with_o and_o say_v it_o come_v from_o a_o far-off_a age_n it_o be_v a_o mystery_n that_o be_v then_o at_o work_n in_o the_o apostle_n time_n last_o it_o have_v its_o effect_n upon_o they_o that_o may_v be_v christian_n and_o receive_v truth_n but_o not_o the_o chaste_a unprostitute_n love_n of_o truth_n alone_o quest_n but_o it_o seem_v impossible_a that_o any_o part_n of_o the_o christian_a world_n that_o have_v be_v once_o disabused_a shall_v return_v any_o more_o under_o so_o great_a a_o delusion_n answ_n there_o be_v very_o great_a hope_n that_o god_n who_o have_v command_v his_o light_n to_o shine_v out_o of_o this_o darkness_n will_v interpose_v by_o the_o perpetual_a brightness_n of_o his_o own_o appearance_n and_o by_o that_o divine_a breath_n of_o his_o mouth_n in_o his_o word_n against_o the_o return_n of_o so_o great_a a_o darkness_n this_o set_v aside_o there_o be_v so_o many_o reason_n of_o fear_n and_o such_o possibility_n of_o lay_v a_o train_n of_o cause_n reach_v to_o such_o a_o effect_n that_o there_o can_v be_v no_o place_n for_o security_n but_o in_o the_o almighty_a providence_n and_o yet_o what_o degree_n of_o that_o deadly_a scourge_n may_v fall_v on_o the_o protestant_a world_n god_n only_o know_v we_o know_v our_o sin_n deserve_v very_o ill_o quest_n what_o be_v the_o great_a security_n under_o the_o divine_a grace_n and_o providence_n against_o so_o great_a desolation_n upon_o true_a christian_a religion_n answ_n a_o perfect_a acquiescency_n of_o the_o protestant_a nation_n upon_o the_o foursquare_n of_o divine_a truth_n and_o resolvedness_n not_o to_o move_v from_o thence_o for_o as_o a_o foursquare_n never_o remove_v from_o its_o own_o base_a because_o it_o be_v all_o base_a so_o they_o that_o be_v square_v to_o it_o and_o settle_v upon_o it_o never_o move_v for_o it_o always_o bear_v they_o alike_o with_o itself_o and_o by_o its_o own_o justness_n recall_v they_o if_o they_o offer_v to_o wander_v mere_a angry_a prejudice_n against_o this_o or_o that_o false_a religion_n be_v not_o enough_o without_o be_v thus_o ground_v upon_o truth_n entertainment_n of_o truth_n with_o any_o addittament_n will_v secure_v no_o man_n for_o he_o that_o receive_v one_o addition_n may_v receive_v another_o he_o that_o receive_v truth_n lie_v foursquare_n with_o itself_o be_v call_v back_o by_o that_o even_o of_o truth_n he_o that_o add_v one_o to_o it_o and_o make_v it_o odd_a may_v go_v on_o indefinite_o as_o popery_n have_v do_v because_o he_o have_v forsakent_a he_o just_o even_o that_o shall_v stay_v he_o he_o can_v no_o long_o wait_v for_o the_o voice_n of_o truth_n that_o by_o itself_o always_o answer_v itself_o but_o to_o what_o be_v not_o like_o itself_o it_o will_v not_o answer_v but_o discover_v it_o to_o be_v off_o from_o this_o square_n it_o will_v not_o on_o any_o respect_n harken_v to_o any_o thing_n different_a because_o it_o will_v not_o be_v solicit_v to_o move_v from_o itself_o so_o that_o upon_o the_o whole_a the_o law_n of_o symmetry_n and_o commensuration_n be_v the_o great_a security_n of_o true_a religion_n and_o ascertain_v the_o true_a church_n both_o to_o itself_o and_o all_o beholder_n for_o addition_n to_o religion_n like_o surd_o or_o irrational_a figure_n incommensurable_a to_o the_o rational_a square_n can_v never_o be_v reduce_v to_o this_o foursquare_n of_o truth_n but_o be_v like_o the_o deaf_a adder_n that_o will_v not_o hearken_v to_o the_o voice_n of_o reason_n charm_v never_o so_o wise_o nor_o can_v they_o ever_o be_v reduce_v to_o a_o certainty_n or_o exactness_n with_o themselves_o but_o be_v one_o thing_n to_o day_n another_o to_o morrow_n but_o divine_a truth_n be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d rational_a certain_a express_o itself_o deaf_a indeed_o to_o any_o thing_n else_o but_o in_o itself_o it_o be_v yesterday_o and_o to_o day_n the_o same_o for_o ever_o he_o therefore_o that_o daily_o ponder_v meditate_v upon_o have_v a_o just_a measure_n of_o the_o fundamental_o of_o divine_a truth_n and_o do_v all_o thing_n in_o a_o regular_a square_n with_o they_o shall_v know_v the_o doctrine_n that_o be_v of_o god_n all_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o tree_n of_o life_n though_o they_o be_v various_a yet_o come_v all_o within_o the_o apostolic_a twelve_o and_o he_o that_o have_v a_o spiritual_a gust_n exercise_v to_o discern_v betwixt_o good_a 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man_n he_o will_v judge_v the_o world_n at_o last_o by_o that_o man_n who_o he_o have_v appoint_v christ_n jesus_n thus_o he_o govern_v man_n all_o along_o by_o the_o man_n of_o his_o right-hand_n as_o image_n of_o himself_o but_o more_o immediate_o of_o christ_n the_o great_a son_n of_o man_n thus_o in_o his_o word_n he_o speak_v to_o man_n by_o man_n like_o themselves_o and_o as_o to_o the_o conceit_n of_o mankind_n submit_v with_o great_a awe_n to_o a_o government_n from_o heaven_n it_o be_v but_o like_o that_o of_o have_v one_o from_o the_o dead_a to_o speak_v to_o they_o when_o they_o have_v moses_n and_o the_o prophet_n by_o which_o if_o they_o be_v not_o persuade_v neither_o will_v they_o be_v persuade_v though_o one_o shall_v rise_v from_o the_o dead_a nor_o will_v they_o be_v govern_v by_o one_o from_o heaven_n that_o be_v not_o govern_v by_o that_o humane_a majesty_n and_o sovereignty_n create_v by_o god_n on_o purpose_n for_o they_o as_o be_v most_o evident_a in_o those_o 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yet_o a_o close_a and_o strict_a account_n of_o the_o power_n of_o sovereign_n in_o religion_n or_o godliness_n be_v the_o main_a point_n of_o of_o the_o present_a enquiry_n answ_n that_o i_o may_v answer_v your_o desire_n i_o must_v consider_v religion_n as_o it_o be_v natural_a religion_n write_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n as_o it_o be_v reveal_v religion_n publish_v by_o extraordinary_a minister_n and_o consign_v to_o after_o age_n by_o inspire_a write_v or_o scripture_n and_o last_o as_o religion_n be_v so_o or_o so_o circumstantiate_v and_o model_v in_o the_o external_n administration_n of_o it_o now_o by_o natural_a religion_n as_o distinguish_v from_o reveal_v religion_n i_o do_v plain_o intend_v that_o religion_n whether_o it_o be_v draw_v out_o by_o the_o mere_a force_n of_o natural_a conscience_n without_o any_o plain_a or_o know_v assistance_n of_o reveal_v truth_n or_o whether_o it_o be_v not_o know_v to_o be_v natural_a religion_n till_o be_v reveal_v natural_a 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king_n of_o king_n and_o lord_n of_o lord_n and_o yet_o there_o extraordinary_a minister_n in_o all_o thing_n wherein_o they_o be_v not_o command_v by_o god_n preserve_v the_o just_a right_n of_o sovereignty_n thus_o the_o word_n of_o god_n ought_v by_o ordinary_a minister_n to_o be_v faithful_o declare_v by_o those_o who_o be_v call_v to_o do_v it_o and_o if_o it_o be_v so_o declare_v it_o have_v and_o aught_o to_o have_v a_o sovereignty_n above_o all_o earthly_a sovereignty_n both_o with_o prince_n and_o subject_n and_o yet_o the_o publisher_n of_o it_o and_o they_o to_o who_o it_o be_v publish_v stand_v in_o their_o just_a distance_n and_o in_o all_o thing_n pay_v the_o homage_n due_a to_o sovereignty_n by_o obedience_n active_a wherein_o they_o be_v not_o countermand_v by_o god_n or_o by_o submission_n to_o penal_a law_n and_o decree_v make_v against_o they_o by_o the_o supreme_a legislative_a power_n of_o a_o nation_n wherein_o they_o can_v obey_v god_n and_o the_o power_n at_o 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whole_o out_o of_o the_o childishness_n of_o ceremony_n or_o opinion_n 2._o the_o weak_a christian_n who_o the_o apostle_n very_o gentle_o and_o tacit_o signify_v by_o those_o that_o do_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d those_o that_o be_v under_o some_o abatement_n from_o this_o perfection_n of_o judgement_n they_o have_v somewhat_o of_o reverence_n for_o those_o rite_n former_o of_o divine_a appointment_n though_o they_o sincere_o too_o value_n christ_n above_o all_o even_o as_o the_o perfect_a to_o the_o first_o the_o apostle_n advise_v let_v we_o whole_o and_o entire_o mind_v the_o same_o thing_n so_o many_o of_o we_o as_o be_v perfect_a we_o have_v nothing_o else_o to_o do_v we_o have_v nothing_o in_o the_o least_o to_o take_v we_o off_o to_o the_o second_o he_o allow_v first_o all_z the_o toleration_n of_o charity_n till_o and_o confident_o foretell_v god_n will_v reveal_v even_o this_o to_o they_o viz._n not_o only_o the_o supreme_a excellency_n of_o christianity_n but_o the_o 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as_o much_o from_o mind_v this_o same_o thing_n and_o walk_v by_o the_o same_o rule_n as_o the_o other_o side_n solicitude_n no_o doubt_v it_o do_v if_o we_o just_o explain_v and_o limit_v in_o the_o case_n and_o therefore_o for_o the_o resolve_v this_o question_n i_o will_v observe_v the_o importance_n of_o this_o same_o rule_n give_v we_o by_o the_o apostle_n in_o another_o of_o his_o epistle_n a_o place_n very_a parallel_n to_o the_o sense_n and_o much_o of_o the_o same_o expression_n with_o this_o to_o the_o philippian_n the_o right_a explication_n of_o which_o will_v also_o much_o confirm_v the_o exposition_n give_v of_o this_o rule_n see_v as_o i_o say_v they_o be_v both_o one_o and_o the_o same_o rule_n and_o it_o be_v that_o we_o find_v gal._n 6._o 14_o 15_o 16._o god_n forbid_v that_o i_o shall_v glory_v save_v in_o the_o cross_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n by_o who_o the_o world_n be_v crucify_v to_o i_o and_o i_o to_o the_o world_n for_o in_o christ_n jesus_n 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new_a creature_n to_o delight_v to_o glory_n in_o the_o flesh_n in_o the_o outward_a conformity_n of_o their_o proselyte_n he_o observe_v the_o great_a bait_n of_o ceremonial_a religion_n be_v 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d to_o set_v a_o good_a face_n on_o thing_n how_o mean_a sovever_n as_o idolater_n carve_v and_o guild_v a_o post_n glory_n in_o appearance_n though_o without_o true_a satisaction_n to_o the_o heart_n or_o conscience_n make_v spiritual_a religion_n look_v like_o nothing_o but_o to_o the_o true_a christian_a who_o know_v the_o gospel_n so_o divine_a and_o spiritual_a a_o thing_n a_o fleshly_a religion_n be_v out_o of_o date_n a_o new_a creation_n in_o the_o soul_n of_o a_o christian_a and_o that_o exemplify_v in_o a_o life_n of_o excellent_a holiness_n substantial_a goodness_n and_o purity_n plant_v in_o the_o faith_n of_o christ_n jesus_n be_v of_o the_o only_a avail_n in_o this_o profession_n and_o he_o that_o make_v circumcision_n any_o thing_n separate_v from_o this_o or_o if_o he_o shall_v fly_v over_o to_o the_o other_o extreme_a to_o make_v any_o thing_n of_o uncircumcision_n as_o if_o they_o may_v atone_v for_o the_o want_n of_o a_o new_a creature_n as_o a_o more_o perfect_a remove_n from_o judaisme_n and_o consign_v a_o man_n self_n over_o to_o christianity_n both_o be_v alike_o mistake_v in_o the_o doctrine_n of_o christ_n who_o value_v only_o this_o new_a creature_n and_o as_o many_o as_o walk_v by_o this_o rule_n viz._n a_o make_v the_o new_a creature_n in_o christ_n all_o and_o every_o thing_n else_o nothing_o and_o who_o act_n according_a to_o it_o the_o peace_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n and_o all_o true_a christian_n be_v upon_o they_o for_o they_o be_v the_o true_a israel_n of_o god_n and_o so_o it_o be_v plain_a if_o any_o man_n make_v the_o other_o side_n of_o a_o ceremony_n the_o not_o observe_v it_o a_o point_n of_o real_a substantial_a religion_n to_o he_o be_v afraid_a of_o it_o and_o value_v that_o fear_n as_o 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the_o dead_a and_o a_o press_v forward_o for_o the_o price_n of_o the_o high_a call_n of_o god_n in_o jesus_n christ_n there_o must_v be_v the_o doctrine_n of_o eternal_a life_n in_o his_o resurrection_n lie_v treasure_v all_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o future_a state_n and_o where_o these_o thing_n be_v urge_v as_o under_o so_o great_a necessity_n there_o must_v be_v a_o extremity_n of_o evil_n on_o the_o other_o side_n signify_v the_o wrath_n to_o come_v they_o then_o that_o be_v agree_v here_o may_v well_o tolerate_v one_o another_o in_o lesser_a difference_n while_o these_o thing_n be_v not_o subvert_v over-pressed_n or_o defeat_v by_o other_o addition_n this_o than_o may_v well_o be_v account_v the_o first_o ground_n of_o peace_n so_o great_a a_o doctrine_n that_o be_v according_a to_o 1._o tit._n 1._o 1._o godliness_n 2._o the_o second_o head_n under_o which_o may_v be_v discourse_v the_o efficacy_n of_o true_a christian_a religion_n to_o peace_n be_v that_o in_o christianity_n 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