as zealously supprest as may be but let it be done by such means as are proper Instruments of their suppression by preaching and disputation by Charity aâ—â— sweetness by Holiness of Life assiduity of exhortation by the Word of God and Prayer For these ways are most natural most prudent most peaceable and effectual only let not men be hasty in calling every disliked Opinion by the name of Heresie and when they have resolved that they will call it so let them use the erring person like a Brother not beat him like a Dog or convince him with a Gibbet or vex him out of his Understanding or persuasion c. With much more to the same purpose Testimonies Moses said Would God that all the Lord's-People were Prophets Numb 11.29 Psal 4.1 Prov. 29.18 1 John 2.20 John 4.24.16.13 Luk. 12.12 Act. 2.4.17 1 Thes 5.19 Phil. 3.3 16. 1 Peter 4.10 1 Cor. 2.1 Eph. 2.8 â—â—om 8.6 Justin Martyr said God hath built to himself a natural Temple in the Consciences of men and in Exposit fid The Interpretation of the Scriptures is to be accommodated to the Will and Doctrine of the Spirit and not to humane Reasonings Peter Martyr said The Holy Ghost is the Arbiter and Judge Dr. J. Owen said That the Holy Ghost is the only Authentick Interpreter of the Scripture Epiphanius said Only to the Children of the Holy Ghost the Scriptures are plain and clear Luther saith The Scriptures are not to be understood but by that very Spirit by which they were writ Tom. 3. fol. 169. John Bradford said We know the Scriptures as Christs Sheep by the same Spirit that wrote and spake them being thereby assured c. Book of Martyrs 3. vol. pag. 298. Ch. Goad said There is no knowledge of Christ nor the Scriptures but by Revelation Ref. drops pag. 12. See Jacobus Acontius recited by W. Penn in is Add. to Pro. â—om p. 157. to p. 172. and Jo. Hales of the Keys p. 170 171 172 173. for the said liberty and in his Tract of Schism p. 201 202 203 204. See the Book called A warning against the deceit of setting up Man's Reason as Judge in spiritual matters first written in Latin and printed in the year 1644 by Abraham Van Frankenburgh a German Nobleman and in Dutch in tâ—e year 1674 and into English in the year 1677 by S. Crisp See Luther's Testimony to shun Reason in spiritual matters Impostilla Ecclesiastica first part p. 137 138. See Franciscus Lambertus who saith But above all things be careful thou follow not the manner of Hypocrites who have written almost word by-word what they are to say as if they were to repeat some verses upon a Theatre have learned all their preachings as they do that act Tragedies and afterwards when they are in the place of prophesying pray the Lord to direct their Tongues but in the mean 〈◊〉 shutting up thâ— way of the holy Spirit they determine to say nothing but what they have written O unhappy King of Prophets yea and truly cursed which depend not upon Gods Spirit but upon their own writings or meditation Why prayest thou to the Lord thou false Prophet to give thee his holy Spirit by which thou mayest speak things profitable and yet thou repellest the Spirit Why preferrest thou thy meditation or Study to the Spirit of God Otherwise why committest thou not thy self to the Spirit Again saith he the Sheep of Christ seeketh nothing but the voice of Christ which he knoweth by the Holy Spirit wherewith he is filled he regards not learning Tongues or any outward thing so as therefore to believe this or that to be the voice of Christ his true Sheepherd he knoweth that there is need of no other thing but the Testimony of God's Spirit c. Tract 5. Prophecy Ch. 3.24 See more at large recited in Rob. Barclay's Apology for the true Christian Divinity p. 214.275 Dr. Smith of Cambridge in his select Discourses To seek our Divinity meerly in Books and Writings is to seek the Living among the Dead c. and therefore David calls not for speculation but sensation Tasâ—â— and see how good the Lord is c. Chrysostom saith well de Anath We must condemn and reprove the evil Doctrines that proseed from Hereticks but spare the men and pray for their Salvation R. Barclay pag. 355. As long as Heresie doth not exert itself in any Act destructive to humane Society or such like things but is kept within the sphere of those Dutys of Doctrine or Worship which stands betwixt a man and God they no ways come under the Magistrates power Athanasius in Epist ad solit vit R. B. 359. saith he It is the property of Piety not to force but to persuade in imitation of our Lord who forced no body but left it to the will of every one to follow him c. But the Devil because he hath nothing of Truth uses knocks and Axes to break up the Doors of such as receive him but our Saviour is meek teaching the Truth Whosoever will come after me c. Christ saith Ambrose sent his Apostles to sow faith not to constrain but to teach not to exercise coercive pâ—â—â—â— but to extol thâ—â—â—â—ctrine of Humility Amb. Com. in Luc. l. 7. Saith Tertullian It is a thing that easily appears to be unjust to constrain and force men to sacrifice against their Wills seeing to do the service of God there is required a willing heart c. His Apolog. Cap. 24. Mahomet who prohibited all reason or discourse about Religion as occasioning factions divisions indeed those that press persecution and deny Liberty of Conscience do thereby shew themselves more the Disciples of Mahomet than of Christ and that they are no way followers of the Apostles Doctrine who desired the Thessalonians 1 Thes 5.21 to prove all things and hold fast that which is good And also saith unto such as are otherwise minded God shall revealit Phil. 3.15 Not that by beatings and Banishments it must be knocked into them R. Bar. Apol. aforesaid p. 362. Luk. 9.55 The Son of Man is not come to destroy mens Lives but to save them The Ceremonies used by the Jews in their crucifying of Christ Jesus and some Malefactors FIrst The Judges and the Witnesses did when Sentence was pronounced put their hands upon the condemned persons head Drus praeterit Mat. 27. and said Thy blood be upon thine own Head Unto this the People had reference saying His blood be on us and on our Children Mat. 27.25 Secondly In the time of Execution they would give a Malefactor a grain of Frankincense in a cup of Wine this they did give to cause a giddiness in the condemned persons head that thereby he might be the less sensible of the pain Saint Mark calleth this cup Wine mingled with Myrrhe Mark 15.23 This was done after the manner of the Jews but the Souldiers in Mockery mingled Vinegar and Gall with it Korot le bona
continually thou wilt hunger and thirst after Righteousness and will alwaies in thy heart give thanks unto God at the receiving of meat and drink and all other of Gods Mercies though thou dost not express it in words except God shall require it of thee for the edification of others Matth. 5.6 1 Tim. 2.8 Eph. 6.18 Answer Truly when my mind is still and out of earthly thoughts I find inclinationâ— to pray alwaies and also a hungering and thirsting after Righteousness Christ Jesus hath said all such are blessed and as God said unto Cain if thou do well shalt thou not be excepted and if thou dost not well sin lieth at thy door Gen. 4.7 Question Let me hear our Lords Prayes Answer OUr Father which art in Heaven Hallowed be thy name thy Kingdom come thy will be done in Earth as it is in Heaven give us this day our daily Bread and forgive us our Trespasses as we forgive them that trespass against us and lead us not into temptation but deliver us from evil Amen A few words to those that are minded to impose upon Conscience Question DOth not the old Serpent move in People to persecute for Religion Heb. 10.29.2 Cor. 4.4 Rev. 12.14 Answer Yes He works in many that are of a self interest that cannot rest from compelling others more Righteous than they to some outward observation ceremony or opinion before others see it their duty so to do John 15.20 Question Then is it not the same Spirit that put the Martyrs to Death as at this day that seeks to force others to their opinions Exodus 23.2 Rev 12.11.17 Answer Yes it is the same Spirit that forceth for the true Christians only persuade in the love of God Romans 14.4 13. 1 John 4.20 Question Are all true Christians that chiefly mind the Grace of God in their hearts though they do not practise the Ceremonies of Men Col. 2.8 Phil. 3.5 Answer Yes for all People of every Nation that fears God and works Righteousness it is by this Grace that they perform good things and such do find acceptance with God neither can such seek to enforce others to their faith any more than Christ Jesus did his Brethren after the flesh to believe in him John 7.5 Acts 10.35 Question Are not most people in this day striving by one way or other to enforce others into their faith by what means shall People come to be of one heart Jer. 32.39 Answer Only by every ones keeping to their own measure of Grace in themselves and none to exalt themselves above their measure received of God and none to be drawn from the obedience thereof by any mans words or actions lest their portion be with the young Prophet whom the old deceived 1 Kings 13.18 Jere. 9.4 Question May we by an outward force seek to deliver our selves from imposition Rom. 8.31 Rom. 12.19 Answer No all true Christians will love their Imposers and obey the Magistrate in all things that are due to Caesar Matthew 22.21 Acts 4.19 The true worship of God stands not in any outward observation of time or place or any bodily exercise therein but in doing the will of God bowing in his Spirit and obeying the voice thereof W. S. page 43. Question Doth God accept of the several Religious performances of People in these days John 4.24 Answer Those that wait not to f eel Gods Spirit leading them into those performances or duties find no more acceptance with God than the offerings of the lame and the blind did in the first Covenant Jude 30. Rom. 8.26 Question What is the work of the true Ministers Acts 28.18 Answer To remind People to take heed unto their only Teacher Gods Grace in their hearts and such will not desire People to follow them any further than they follow Christ and their holy Conversation wins more to God than their Preachings Job 36.22 1 Cor. 11.1 2 Peter 1.9 Heb. 8.11 A Cloud of Witnesses might be produced to prove that no force ought to be used to drive People into this or the other Religious opinion before the Lord by his Grace in their hearts manifesteth to them that it is their duty to conform For what is not of Faith is sin Rom. 14.5 23. A few Witnesses here follow Jeremiah Taylor once Chaplain to King Charles the first said I being most of all troubled that men should be persecuted and afflicted for disagreeing in such opinions which they cannot with sufficient grounds obtrude upon others necessarily because they cannot propound them infallibly Dr. Stilling fleet once Chaplain to King Charles the second in a Sermon before the King Anno 1674 5 saith To be a Christian was not to fight for the faith but to live by it not to quarrel for good works but to practise them in short to be a Christian was to depart from iniquity and to do good to be meek and humble and patient and peaceable towards all men to be charitable and kind to be sober and temperate in all things to be holy sincere and innocent in his actions towards God and Man Lucernus said he that commandeth any thing wherewith he bindeth the conscience this is an Antichrist Inde Benuse disp fol. 71. Calvin said that the Apostle gave to understand that to exercise Authority over ones faith was in no wise just nor tolerable yea said he it is Tyranny in the Church for faith ought to be free from all subjection of men Luther upon 1 Kings 5. In the building of the Temple their was no sound of Iron heard to signify that Christ will have in his Church a free and a willing People not compelled and constrained by Laws c. Stephanus King of Poland said it belongeth not to me to reform the conscience I have alwaies gladly given that over to God which belongeth to him and so shall I do now and also for the future I will suffer the Weeds to grow until the time of Harvest for I know that the number of Believers are but small therefore said he when some were proceeding to Persecution Ego sum Rex Populorum non Conscientiarum that is I am the King of the People not of their Consciences he also affirmed that Religion was not to be planted with fire and Sword Chron. van de Rel. Vriih 2 deel Ellis Hooks said in a Book of Martyrs Paul the Apostle taught that the Servant of the Lord must not strive but must be gentle towards all men suffering the evil men instructing them with meekness that are contrary minded c. 2 Tim. 2.4.2 If any Man shall pretend that the Scriptures judge according to his conceptions or conscience for other men and that they must take their religious measures by the line of his direction such a Person makes himself greater than either Church Scripture or Conscience W. P. Add to Prov. 148. Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you do ye even so to them fur this is the Law and
A very Useful MANUAL OR THE Young Mans Companion CONTAINING Plain and easy directions for Spelling Reading and Uniting English with easy Rules for their attaining to Writing and Arithmetick and the Englishing of the Latin Bible without a Tutor Likewise the Plotting and Measuring of Land Globes Steeples Walls Barrels Timber Stone Boards Glass c. The Exchange of Mony Weights and Measures Purchase of Annuities Leases c. Together with some secrets of Navigation Astronomy Astrology Dialling Geometry Law Religion Physick Philosophers Stone ordering of Bees Husbandry c. And several other considerable and necessary matters Intended for the good of all and for promoting love to one another As by the Table annexed particularly appears Collected by William Mather London Printed by T. Snowden and sold at the Bell in Exchange Alley in Cornhil 1681. TO THE READER FIrst Learn this Book together with a Testament of the newest Print and then the Bible and as hard words are come at seek in this Book how they are divided being they are set Alphabetically Secondly Those that desire to write words according to the English Tongue â—hould often write over words as they find them printed in Books minding to â—bserve to divide them into Sillables which will imprint them in the Memoâ—y and so by use which is the Mother â—f Language as the School-man saith â—e may come to be so perfected in true â—â—lling as may serve well enough for a Shopkeeper or a Husbandman without the Latine Tongue Thirdly Those that desire to learn to write without a Master let them with a dry Pen run over the writing Letters in this Book learning to make a very well and the b and the rest of the twenty four small Letters before they joyn them or make great Letters Set the least all of a height keep a Ruler and piece of Lead to make Lines to write on and a sharp Pen-knife and let not the Ink be thick Fourthly Those that desire to live and walk in the true Religion must above all outward Teachings mind the Reproofs of the Spirit of Truth in their own Hearts against all Sin and Evil otherwise they will turn to the Right Hand or to the Left into evil Isa 30.20 21. Gen. 6.3 John 3.19 Fifthly I have also added some necessary Questions wrought by Arithmetick which some want notwithstanding they may have learned several Rules in Arithmetick which I do believe will be acceptable to the Ingenious and some Masons and Carpenters that are lovers of Geometry and Mathematical Experiments though I have written but little thereof in this Book endeavouring that it may be a small Volume And it is more commendable for men to spend their leisure time in such harmless Studies than at idle sports and plaies knowing that for every idle word we must give an account Matth. 12.36 Lastly Hoping that none will be offended that I have given such short hints of things according to my weak Understanding yet intended for the good of those that cannot purchase large Books Yet do I believe that these things in this Book will be kindly accepted by those that are not biassed with Self-interest more than the Publick Good for I seek no honour to my self herein but the good of others that are kept in Ignorance for to God all praise belongeth who giveth true Wisdom to all those that ask it of him in his fear and they are most happy therein that seek no Glory to themselves for unto God alone it doth belong for he is worthy to rule and reign in every heart and Conscience by his Grace therein now and for ever Amen I am a Lover Of all People W. M. Remember Man that the Reproofs of Christ For Sin i' th' Conscience is the way That leads to Life Eternal if obeyed The everlasting blessed Day Letters for Reading A a A a A a B b B b B b C c C c C c D d D d D d E e E e E e F f F f F f G g G g G g H h H h H h I J i j I J i j I i j K k K k K k L l L l L l M m M m M m N n N n N n O o O o O o P p P p P p Q q Q q Q q R r R r R r r S ss S s s S s s T t T t T t V U v u V U v u V V v u W w W w W w X x X x X x Y y Y y Y y Z z Z z Z z The Vowels a e i o u The Consonants b c d f g h j k l m n p q r s t v w x y z Double Consonants ct ss ff sl fl sh st ct ss ff sl fl sh st Easie Sillables Ab ac ad af ag ak al am an ap ar as at ax eb ec ed ef eg ek el em en ep er es et ex ib ic id if ig ik il im in ob oc od of og ok ol om on op or os ot ox ub uc ud uf ug uk ul um un up ur us ut ux ba ca da fa ga ka la ma na pa ra sa ta va wa be bi ce di fe fi ge gi ke ki le me ne pe re se te ve we bo co do fo go ko lo mo no po ro so to vo wo bu by fu dy ly mu my ny ty py Abbreviation on Vowels aÌ„ signifies an and am eÌ„ iÌ„ oÌ„ signifie em im and on Example CoÌ„moÌ„ is Common Words of one Sillable Light might night bold cold hold keep sheep sleep cave gave have buck duck suck dung hung strung long strong wrong dish fish wish plea sea yea block cock clock best blest drest cash dash lash bush brush crush blow know snow Words divided into Sillables A Aâ•Œboâ•Œlishâ•Œed Aâ•Œbundâ•Œance Apâ•Œproâ•Œved Acâ•Œknowâ•Œledgâ•Œed Adâ•Œverâ•Œtise B Baâ•Œbiâ•Œlonâ•Œish beauâ•Œtiâ•Œfiâ•Œer Blasâ•Œpheâ•Œmer Bounâ•Œtiâ•Œfulâ•Œness C Caâ•Œtheâ•Œchism Chriâ•Œstiâ•Œa niâ•Œty Cleâ•Œmenâ•Œcy Cuâ•Œriâ•Œoâ•Œsiâ•Œty D Deâ•Œceitâ•Œfulâ•Œly Deâ•Œlightâ•Œfulâ•Œly Doâ•Œmiâ•Œniâ•Œon Dunâ•Œgeâ•Œous E Eâ•Œmuâ•Œlaâ•Œtiâ•Œon Erâ•Œroâ•Œneâ•Œous Eâ•Œstaâ•Œblishâ•Œing Eâ•Œvaâ•Œcuâ•Œaâ•Œting F Faâ•Œtherâ•Œless Friendâ•Œliâ•Œness Felâ•Œlowâ•Œship Friendâ•Œship G Galâ•Œlanâ•Œtry Geâ•Œoâ•Œmeâ•Œtry Gloâ•Œriâ•Œfie Graâ•Œtiâ•Œfie H Hiâ•Œsto riâ•Œan Hoâ•Œroâ•Œloâ•Œgiâ•Œan Hoâ•Œstiâ•Œliâ•Œty Huâ•Œmiâ•Œliâ•Œty I Imâ•Œmaâ•Œnuâ•Œel Jewâ•Œel Imâ•Œpeâ•Œniâ•Œtent Inâ•Œdigâ•Œnaâ•Œtiâ•Œon K Kaâ•Œlenâ•Œder Kinâ•Œdred Kingâ•Œdom Knowâ•Œledge L Laâ•Œmenâ•Œtaâ•Œble Lanâ•Œguishâ•Œaâ•Œble Liâ•Œberâ•Œty Liâ•Œbeâ•Œraâ•Œliâ•Œty M Magâ•Œniâ•Œtude Mulâ•Œtiâ•Œtude Muâ•Œsiâ•Œcal N Naâ•Œtuâ•Œralâ•Œly Neâ•Œcesâ•Œsaâ•Œriâ•Œly Noâ•Œbiâ•Œliâ•Œty Neâ•Œcesâ•Œsiâ•Œty Neuâ•Œter O Ocâ•Œcaâ•Œsiâ•Œon Opâ•Œpresâ•Œsion Ocâ•Œcurâ•Œring Ofâ•Œfendâ•Œing P Preâ•Œheâ•Œmiâ•Œnence Proâ•Œviâ•Œdence Parâ•Œtiâ•Œciâ•Œpaâ•Œtiâ•Œon Preâ•Œserâ•Œvaâ•Œtiâ•Œon Q Quaâ•Œliâ•Œty Quanâ•Œtiâ•Œty Queâ•Œriâ•Œster Queâ•Œstiâ•Œoâ•Œner R Reâ•Œpreâ•Œhenâ•Œsiâ•Œon Reâ•Œstriâ•Œctiâ•Œon Reâ•Œstoâ•Œraâ•Œtiâ•Œon Reâ•Œstiâ•Œtuâ•Œtiâ•Œon S Salâ•Œvaâ•Œtiâ•Œon Seâ•Œpaâ•Œraâ•Œtiâ•Œon Soâ•Œlemâ•Œnize Symâ•Œpaâ•Œthize T Tiâ•Œmeâ•Œrous Tuâ•Œmulâ•Œtuâ•Œous Tranâ•Œscenâ•Œdent Tranâ•Œspaâ•Œrent V Vaâ•Œriâ•Œance Venâ•Œgeâ•Œance Unâ•Œgraâ•Œciâ•Œous Unâ•Œrighâ•Œteâ•Œous W Wisâ•Œdom Whoreâ•Œdom Wretchâ•Œedâ•Œness Wrongâ•Œfulâ•Œness Winâ•Œnowâ•Œed X Exâ•Œplaâ•Œnaâ•Œtiâ•Œon Exâ•Œalâ•Œtaâ•Œtiâ•Œon Exâ•Œulâ•Œceâ•Œraâ•Œted Exâ•Œpoâ•Œstuâ•Œlaâ•Œted Y Yieldâ•Œed Yeâ•Œsterâ•Œday Yoakâ•Œed Youngâ•Œest Z Zeâ•Œchaâ•Œriâ•Œah Zeâ•Œphaâ•Œniâ•Œah Zeâ•Œbeâ•Œdiâ•Œah Zeâ•Œdeâ•Œkiâ•Œah 1. The Book of the Geâ•Œneâ•Œraâ•Œtiâ•Œon of Jeâ•Œsus Christ the Son of Daâ•Œvid the Son of Aâ•Œbraâ•Œham 2.
Reld ulo im oaoly pruco boherding tho oair umd tho geed Prov. 15.3 This is called Transhand the which read thus For oulm read earn THe Book out of which I recited that part of Astrology in page 71 c. has been printed this 30 years and no answer has yet been given thereto by any as the Author knoweth of who is still living in Buckingham-shire Obj. It hath been Objected unto me saying Why dost thou write against Astrology seeing thou hast taught some People something thereof Answer In Answer to which I must confess I have been desirous after knowledge as most young men are not considering at that day that there is no true knowledge but what is given only by Gods Spirit and also not considering that the Serpent is more subtile than all the Beastly nature of Man who begets desire in Peoples hearts after all the vanities that 's to be found in this world still to uphold his Kingdom in their hearts and things unlawful to be sought after by any but more especially Christians this Serpent or roaring Lyon that seeketh whom he can devour or overwhelm in vanity or choak by the Love and cares of this world c. he saying to some ye shall be as Gods to predict things to come by me c. ye shall have the Friendship and the Glory of the world which I will give thee if thou wilt worship or believe in me c. and so he keeps the minds of most men imployed in the many follies and bewitching fancies and cumbered about the many things as aforesaid that they neglect the one thing needful Gods Grace in their hearts which Grace if truly minded the Devil could not overcome them by his temptations viz. with the fading Glory of this world c. this Grace being the Armor of a Christian which hath appeared to all men Titus 2 11 which is but one saving Grace saying aside the School Divines distinction of more than one for the least measure thereof if kept to will resist the Devil that he flies for in it he hath no part and it is so joyous to the true Christian that for it and by it he doth forsake the Devil and all his Works the vain Pomp and Glory of the world with all the covetous desires of the same the carnal desires of the Flesh and not to follow and be led by them The forsaking of these vices makes a Christian not the often saying or hearing or reading them Therefore I praise God who by his Grace hath kept me that by it I soon come to see the net which the Devil spreadeth to catch all the searchers into the Astrological Art c. by the golden bait of perishing Glory but all have found him a Lyar before Death that have trusted to him out of whose mysterious Charms there is no way to escape but by applying the whole heart to Gods Grace aforesaid in which the blood of Christ Jesus is witnessed that cleanseth from all Sin yea though thou hast made a Covenant with Death and Hell the Lord will break it if thou truly returns to his Grace and go out no more for in it is the Pearl of great Price and for which all the truly wise Merchant Men will sell all their fading Riches in Sensual-wisdom Glory and Babilonish skill to purchase or obtain more and more thereof from the hand of God I was alwaies against the practise of resolving of Horary questions so called seeing People run to the Astrologers to be resolved in things at this day as People did in former Ages run to the Oracles of their Wooden-Gods * When the Devil was dumb at any time in the Wooden Gods which they the heathen Oracles were ever since Christs Offering c. the Priests to keep the people in Ignorance put into them a man or men to speak unknown to the people to resolve their doubts c. Dan. 3. Query Hath that man put away all Idols that performs a Worship made up by mens invention and doth not perform all the worship to the true God by the immediate Teachings and Leadings of Gods Spirit c. John 4.24 Athiest-like as if they did believe that there is not a God in Israel to take Counsel at Wo to the Rebellious Children saith the Lord that taketh Counsel but not of me c Isa 30.1 Wo unto them that seek deep to hide their Counsel from the Lord and their works are in the Dark and they say who seeth us and who knoweth us Isai 23.15 There are many devices in a mans heart nevertheless the Counsel of the Lord that shall stand Pro. 19.21 God Created the Day c. and God saw that it was good Gen. 1.5 10. Contrary to which our Astrological observers of Times say that there are 5 6 7 and sometimes more evil or unfortunate days in every month that is to say every day that the Moon is in Conjunction square or opposition to the two Stars called Saturn and Mars saying these are unfortunate days full of fears in these days take no Journy take no Physick c. And when the Moon is Conjunction c. of the Star called Venus which is two or three times in a Month such days they say are days of pleasure and delight c. Thus Reader have I shewen thee a little of our Astrological Observers of Times in this Nation and whether these things differ at all from the Observers of Times mentioned by Moses Deut. 18.14 saying unto the Children of Israel viz and because of these abominations the Lord thy God doth drive them out before thee v. 12 aforesaid Now let the witness for the true and living God in thine heart be the Judge and not the selfish and devilish Wisdom that reigns in somâ—men that are so wise to do evil as the saying is can make a bad cause seem good and a good cause seem bad if it stands not with their interest in the obtaining of Earthly ends c. Let Love be without dissimulation abhor that which is evil cleave to that which is good Rom. 12.9 The Astrologers will not own that they follow the Magick Art or going on towards it which nothing seems clearer for people go to them to be resolved in their doubts as the Babilonians did to their Magicians as unto an Oracle and they know that they cannot resolve doubts infallibly by all the Art of Astrology without the help of the seven planetary Angels of the Magicians aforesaid nor then neither yet the Devil helps them most as to perform such things when God has given them up to hardness of heart by often rebellion against his good Spirit for Lilly in one of his Almanacks adviseth some Students of Astrological and Magical Books Printed in that Year as also of Sigils Lamens Images and the Magick of the Ancients c. I hold saith he the present time capable of receiving c. you may perceive that in all their Art nor the Devil
the Lust of the Eye cannot bewitch him For saith W. Salmon in his Book of Drawing Painting c. pag. 244. this imitation of the Life gave the Artizan fame which fame quickned his aspiring thoughts adding more fuel to the Flames till such time as he brought forth a most absolute work whereby he conceived a joy content and satisfaction mark that as durable as the work it self upon which he now conceived himself a happy man and through a just affrance of his Vertues knows himself to be lifted up above the reach of Envy where he stands secure of his fame enjoying in this life as if he were now consecrated unto Eternity the Veneration that is like to follow him after his Death thus an honest emulation and confidence bringing forth works of general applause procureth unto its Author an everlasting glory then not given only to God Again in Pag. 246 saith he Berosus excelled in Astrology wherefore the Athenians for his divine Prognostications mark that erected him a Statue with a Golden Tongue set up in their publick Schools as Pliny saith lib. 7. cap. 37. Publick Libraries were furnished also with golden silver and brass Images of such whose immortal Souls did speak in those places The provocation of Vices have also augmented the Art mark that it hath been pleasing to engrave wanton Lusts upon their cups and to drink in Ribauldry and Abominations as Pliny saith in the Proem of his 33. Book Are these things good to be dedicated to a Nation professing Christianity And this Author goes on and tells us how the Ancients depicted their Gods as Saturn Jupiter c. Diana Juno Neptune c. In the greatest imaginary Glory to bespeak their fame c. when all these things and the pleasant Pictures with all the Babyloniâ—h rubish are for the fire of Gods wrath that draw the heart from God And it is great pity that the Author whom God hath given so much Wisdom should rake in this Heathenish and Babylonish rubish c. And though God once commanded Moses to make some things under the Law who hath he commanded in this Gospel time to imitate or make the likeness of any thing that may so affectionate the Heart as to draw it from God to commit Idolatry And also though God to shew his wonderful works hath made variety of Colours in the Flowers Hearbs c. It is no part of Christianity to deck or cloath our selves in imitation of the colours of Flowers or to make the likeness of any of them to so affectionate the Heart as to forget the giver or take any Glory to our selves in drawing the likeness of them as aforesaid as some have done but rather give all Glory unto God admiring his wonderful power in creating these Flowers Hearbs c. for the use of Man Lastly Hast thou made any likeness or pleasant Picture of Religion for others to imitate or set up any spiritual Gift given thee of God above Gods Spirit in thy heart and dost administer it unto others without the immediate leadings of the same Spirit Thou hast set up an Idol in thine heart 1 John 5.21 Little Children keep your selves from Idols Amen If any shall yet deny that there 's an Idolizing of Pictures and graven Images whereby the Lord hath not the whole Heart I shall for proof recite some more words out of the aforesaid Author's Book of painting graving c. in pag. 232 233 246 253 262. saith he And therefore those that would profit much must take care and pains to furnish their minds with all sorts of useful Images and Ideas And Proclus saith If you take a man brought forth by nature and another by art of carving that by nature shall not seem the statelier because Art doth many things more exactly Where 's God's Glory W. M. To which Ovid assents when he saith that Pygmalion did carve the Snow-white Image of Ivory with such a happy dexterity that it was altogether impossible that such a Woman should be born Are not all things possible with God W. M. The estimation of the Artists were also understood from the esteem and high rates their works were prized at A Picture of Bularchus a Painter was valued at its weight in Gold c. Caesar paid to Timomachus Eighty Talents of Gold about 14000 pounds Sterling for the Pictures of Ajax and Medea Many more examples we might produce saith he but these may suffice at length no price was thought equal to their worth c. Was not this Idolizing them W. M. Great minded men are most of all given to entertain stately conceits therefore saith he an Artizan or Artist ought to be of a magnanimous Nature if not yet at least he ought with a determined resolution to aim at magnificent things So it seems that Nature did dispose Nicophanes to a high strain of Invention Nicophanes saith Pliny Lib. 35. Cap. 10. was gallant and neat so that he did paint Antiquities for eternity mark that whereby he was commended for the magnificence of his work and gravity of his Art Such Artificers therefore as do bring any thing to perfection must be of an exceeding great Spirit then not poor in Spirit Matth. 5. and entertain upon every occasion great thoughts and lofty imaginations Isa 2.8 11. by this means they shall gain everlasting Fame c. mark that Lastly A good invention affects the mind true proportion draws the Eyes lively motion moves the Soul Is not then God forgotten W. M. exquisite colours beguile the phantasie and an orderly disposition wonderfully charms all the senses Here 's a joy but not in God if all these unite and center in one piece how great an excellence and perfection will appear what a comely Grace This Grace it is which in beautiful bodies is the Life of the beauty and without which its greatest accomplishments cannot please the beholder Grace in the heart is the greatest perfection of Beauty W. M. * The Image or Teraphim which Michal put in the Bed 1 Sam 19.13 was a compleat Statue or Image of a man The use of such Images saiâ—h T. â— was to consult with them as with Oracles concerning things for the present unknown or future to come To this purpose they were made by Astrologers under certain constellations capable of heavenly Influences whereby they were enabled to speak The Idols have spoken vainly Zec. 10.2 Vid. Aben. Esra Gen. 31. And among other Reasons why Rachel stole away her Fathers Images this is thought to be one that Laban might not by consulting with these Images discover what way Jacob took in his flight Gen. 31.19 And it is said that Zorcastes a King of the Bacirians in the time of Ninus he was an excellent Astrologer saith the Author and first invented Magical Arts. They are indeed the most likely men See pag. 77. For it is not so much saith he the perfection of Invention proportion Colours Motion Disposition apart which affects the senses but
Worshiping Cap and Knee to God only and not to man under the Gospel Dispensation 1. HE that performs this Worship to man what doth he more to God to whom every Knee shall bow 2. Mordecai refused it to proud Haman 3. Peter refused it from Cornelius saying he was a man 4. The Angel twice refused this kind of bowing from John Rev. 19.10.22.9 for this Reason Because I am thy fellow Servant and of thy Brethren 5. It is written that the customs of the Gentiles we are not to follow 6. The Apostles desired us not to be conformable to the World c. Rom. 12.2 As he that respects Persons commits Sin Jam. 2.9 Lastly Though it be far from me to judge aâ—â— those to whom God hath not shewn the evil oâ— these things in this day yet nevertheless doubt not but to such as will prove faithfâ—â— witnesses to Gods Grace in their Conscience God will also shew to them the evil of theâ—â— things and not rob God of his Glory to whoâ— all honour c. belongs now and for ever Of Titles or Names given to Persons and Places THe Titles of Holiness Eminency and Excellency used among the Papists to the Pope and Cardinals c. And Grace Lordship and Worship to the Clergy among the Protestants It is a most high usurpation See R.B. Apolog. pag. 373. How can they say they follow the Example of Peter and Paul who never sought such Titles Hence saith Jude ver 25. To the only wise God our Saviour be Glory and Majesty c. 1 Pet. 1.16 Neither be ye called Master saith Christ Jesus unto his followers Matth. 23.10 That is except it be by those that are really your Servants Eph. 6.5 If I say to one I am your Servant I lye except I am really his Servant and at his command in all lawful business whatsoever And saith Casaubon in his Book of manners and Customs pag. 169. In this last age he is esteemed an uncivil man who will not either to his inferiour or equal subscribe himself Servant But Sulpitius Severus was heretofore sharply reproved by Paulinus Bishop of Nola because in his Epistle he had subscribed himself his Servant saying Beware thou subscribe not thy self his servant who is thy Brother for flattery is sinful not a Testimony of Humility to give their Honours to men which are only due to the one Lord Master and God And saith Elihu Job 32.21 Let me not accept any mans Person neither let me give flattering Titles unto man For I know not to give flattering Titles in so doing my Maker would soon take me away And though Sir Rabbi or Master and some other things were customarily used amongst men before Christ's Ascension but after his followers grew up into more knowledge of Gods Spirit and Kingdom of Righteousness they finally rejected it who being not of the Pharises Spirit for they love the praise of men more than God John 12.43 that Christ Jesus said Chap. 5. v. 44. How can ye believe which receive honour one of another and seek not the honour that cometh from God only Neither do we read that the Apostles called an house a Church or Christs Church or St. Pauls Church or Jesus Colledge or had Bells to call people together or an hourglass to preach by or had Deanries or Prebendries or sprinkled Infants or called any thing a Sacrament or had Mattens Evening songs Organs Rails Altars Fonts and singing men and Boys to sing to them or Hood Surplisses and Tippets c. or did the Apostle preach for Tithes or yearly hire or preached by Uses Reasons Helps Motives c. studying before-hand what to say nor were called Arch-biâ—â—ops or Lord-bishops Doctors Vicars Cuâ—â—tes c. Nor did compel any to sing in rimes in imiâ—â—tion of David saying I go mourning all the day â—â—ng c. even by such as never were truly sorâ—owful for their Sins Reader search thy own heart and there is Witness for God's ways which will shew thee from whence all these took root so mayest â—hou beled out of Babylon if thou followest its all Rev. 18.4.21.7 The nature of some of our Garden Hearbs c. AVens hot and Dry. B. Pothearâ— O Apples cold and moist in 1st degree O Apricocks cold and moist O Alecost hot and dry 2d degree O Burage hot and moist in the 1st degree O Balm hot and dry 2d degree O Betonie hot and dry 2d degree O Beans unripe cold and moist 1st B Cresses of the water hot and dry 2d degree O Columbines temperate O Colworts dry and binding  Cherries cold and moist 1st degree B Currants cold and moist 2d degree B Clary hot and dry in the 3d degree B Carrots hot and moist and windy â— Cloves hot and dry in 3d degree B Cinnamon hot and dry 2d degree B Dock Roots cold and dry O Elecampany hot and dry O Endive and Succory cold and dry 2d degree O Fennel hot 2d degree â— Figs-barrelled hot and dry 2d degree O Gourds cold and moist 2d degree  Goosberries cold and dry B Garlick hot and dry in the 4th  Grounsel cold and moist O. Ginger dry and hot in the 3d degree B. Hysop hot and dry 3d degree O. Hony hot and dry 2d degree O. Kidney beans hot and moist 1st degree O. Lettice cold and moist 2d degree O. Marjoram hot and dry 3d degree I. Mint hot and dry 3d degree B. Mallows hot and moist moderately O. Marygold hot in 1st I. Mercury hot and dry 2d degree O. Mulberries cold and dry 3d degree O. Mustard hot in the 4th O. Milk hot in the 1st O. Nut of hazel hot and dry 1st B. Onions hot and dry 3d degree O. Oil Olive moderately hot O. Pursline cold in the 3d degree I. Peper hot and dry in the 3d degree B. Pease unripe cold and moist 1st O. Peaches cold and moist 1st O. Plums cold and moist 2d degree O. Parsley hot and dry 2d degree O. Potatoes hot and dry B Peny Royal hot and dry 3d degree O â—uinces cold and dry B. Rosemary hot and dry 2d degree O. Radish hot and dry 2d degree O. Strawberries cold in the 1st I. Sage hot and dry in the 3d degree O. Sorrel cold and dry 2d degree O. Savory hot and dry 3d degree O. Spinage cold and moist 2d degree O. Sugar hot and moist O. Turnips moist and a little windy O. Thyme hot and dry in the 3 O. Tobacco hot and dry 3d degree O. Violets cold and moist O. Wormwood hot and dry 2d degree O. Wheat the finest binding â— Walnuts hot and dry 2d degree B. Whortleberries cold and dry 2d degree B. Note That it is somewhat dangerous to take any thing alone that is either hot or cold in the 4th degree And O. signifies opening B. binding and I. indifferent The 4 greater cold Seeds are Citral Cucumber Gourds and Mellons The 4 lesser cold Seeds are Succory Endive Lettice and Pursline The 5 opening Roots are Smallage
Women c. and send for skilful Women Jer. 9.17 These the Romans called chief or skilful mourners Of Bells to Assemble But saith T. G. the Priests might lawfully blow their Trumpets and Horns on the Sabbath Day for the Assembling of the People num 10.2 by proportion saith he it is now warrantable for Christians to ring Bells to assemble the People together on the Lords Day and to take Journies to join with the publick Congregation as the Jews say concerning the overthrow of Jericho which according to their writings fell on the Sabbath Day R. D. Kimcbi in Josh 6. he which commanded the Sabbath to be Sanctified commanded it also to be prophaned saith the Author Now whether this practice of Bells ringing for Worship for Marriages and for Burials be to be observed under the Gospel let the witness for God in every heart be the Judge c. And saith T. G. Vriah the Priest and Zachariah the Son of Jeberechia are thought to have been God-fathers at the Circumcision of Maher-shalal-hash-baz Es 8.2 and from them the custom of having God-fathers in Baptism to have taken its Original Stukius de conviv lib. 1. cap. 16. The Epistle of Paul to the Laodiceans 1. PAul an Apostle not of Man nor by Man but by Jesus Christ 2. To the Brethren which are at Laodicea Grace and Peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ 3. I thank my God in all my Prayers that you remain stedfast in him and in all his works waiting upon his promise to the day of Judgment 4. And be not seduced by some unprofitable talkers who go about to cause you to fall from the Gospel which was Preached unto you by me 4. Oh that they that were instructed by me might serve to the profit of the Gospel of Truth and become diligent in good works of Eternal Life 6. And henceforth are my bonds manifest which I suffer for Christs sake Wherefore I rejoyce in heart and account it Eternal Salvation 8. That such is done through your Prayers by the working of the holy Spirit whether by Life or Death 9. For I have a Will and a Joy to die in Christ who will through the same Mercy give you to have the same love and to be of one mind 10. Therefore beloved Brethren as you have heard in my presence that keep and finish in the fear of God so shall you have Eternal Life for God will work it and perfect it in you without delay 11. My beloved rejoyce in the Lord and take heed of them that are desirous after filthy Lucre. 12. Let your Prayers be manifest unto God and remainfirm in the knowledge of Christ 13. And do that which is meet convenient just and reasonable and what you have heard and received that keep in your hearts so shall you have praise 14. The Grace of God and our Lord Jesus Christ be with your Spirits Amen Col. 4.16 This Epistle of Paul to the Laodiceans was found in the oldest Bible that was Printed at Worms To the Bowed in Spirit under Sin DOst thou still feel in thy heart reproofs for Sin Be of good courage for God hath not yet forsaken thee therefore obey the reproof of instruction in thy heart for it is the way to everlasting Life with God for ever Isa 30.21 John 16.6 To the hardned in Evil. Canst thou Swear Lye Cheat break thy Promise oppress the Innocent or commit Adultery and feels no sharp reproofs for any of them in thy Conscience then art thou in a miserable condition and it 's to be feared that God hath cast the Reins of the Bridle on thy neck and given thee up to thy own hearts Lust which is thy portion because of thy so often provoking of the Lord by thy Rebellion against his good Spirit that he has left thee to hardness of heart as he did Pharoah never to escape everlasting vengeance without a timely and speedy Repentance in Dust and Ashes before thou go hence believing that all things are possible with God though thy sins were as Scarlet c. Isa 1.18 55 6 7 8. If thou turns unto him with all thy heart An Advertisement of Love THey that burn in Effigie the Person of the Pope and also the Person of a Presbyter after the same manner with a short Cloak diminutive band c. are all Christians of one size or nominal Christians being far from loving of Enemies as Christ commands of whom they would take the name Christian but wants the nature of that Love that will overcome Enemies which Love will certainly overcome if all called Christians would seek Gods Glory and not the exaltation of self in this world and put their trust in God alone for deliverance saying with the three Children unto the King We are not careful to answer thee in this matter behold the God whom we serve is able to deliver us but if not be it known to thee O King that we will not serve thy Gods c. Dan. 3.17 For he that knows not God knows not what God he Worshipeth so may compel to the Worship of an unknown God See the Mock-procession of the 17th day of November and the Royal Intel. Number 30. Common-Prayer-Book of good things therein if truly minded 1. See Good-Friday the Collect so called Almighty and everlasting God by whose Spirit the whole Body of the Church is govern'd and Sanctified 2 Thes 2.13 Observe By this it is declared that they only are of the Church of God that are governed and sanctified by the Spirit of God so that all that are so governed go to the Church and Worship God according to the said Common-Prayer being the Church is in God the Pillar and ground of Truth 1 Tim. 2.15 Colos 1.24 2. The Coll. 3d Sunday after Easter gives a clear testimony to the Light that God sheweth to all men that be in error Observe do not those that believe that this Light in every man is not sufficient to lead out of error believe contrary to the Common-Prayer John 1.9 3 19 20 21. 3. Collect 5th Sunday after Easter that is a Prayer for the inspiration of Gods Holy Spirit to cleanse the thoughts of the Heart and to think those things that be good Observe How do they own the Common-Prayer-Book that in these days make a mock at Inspiration and say it is ceased Job 32.8 4. And that good Prayer which is said often but little practised said on St. Stephens Day Grant us O Lord to learn to love our Enemies by the example of thy Martyr St. Stephen who prayed for his Persecuters c. Observe Now what People lives and walks nearest the life of the words of the Common-Prayer-Book let the witness for God against all sin in every heart be the Judge a Tree being to be known by its Fruit Mat. 12.33 For some People are so far from loving Enemies that they persecute their Friends because they go not to a Church so called
His plainness in Apparel Singularity His proper Speech Rudeness His Scripture-Language Canting His Sobriety a cheat for Custom His being at a Word a decoy for Trade His Industry Worldly-mindedness His Hospitality Flesh-pleasingness In short such true Christians have been imprisoned because they cannot take up Arms and also for fear they should and if they answer their Adversaries they say it's Nonsense or Equivocation so that his Virtues are accounted Vice by such Professors as delight only in the form of Godliness more than the power thereof After this manner the Papist used to disapprove of the Sobriety of the Waldenses of whom Reinerius a Popish Author so writeth Now the Protestants of the National Church make use of the name of these suffering Waldenses to help to plead for their antiquity equal with the Papists that is from the Apoâ—â—â—s time which makes them never the truerâ—â—ristians considering the great Apostasie that first spoiled the simplicity of Truth and keeping up the Heathenish Learning and Traditions of men Col. 2.8 20. Yet did God here and there raise Witnesses for the Truth in all this dark night who for the most part were persecuted by them that upheld the shell of Religion or outward Ceremonies and neglected the substance God's spirits teaching in their hearts as at this day So that if this good Spirit of God was but truly obeyed it would lead people to be Witnesses in measure of the Saints condition recorded in the holy Scripture experimentally for imitation of the Saints practices before God's Spirit lead in each heart has been and is the door of Apostasie Man in his own Strength and Wisdom hath been too apt to do and act as to Worship that which God doth not require or command him Deut. 5.32 Isa 1.12 That the Lord said Matth. 15.9 But in vain they do worship me teaching for Doctrines the Commandments of men Now Reader if thy desire is to be truly led to build upon no other Foundation besides the Rock Christ Jesus mark well these Scriptures following and the Lord give thee an obedient Heart viz. For the wrath of God is revealed from Heaven against all ungodliness and unriâ—â—teousness of men who hold the Truth in unrighteousness Because that which may be known in God is manifest in them for God hath shewed it unto them But unto every one of us is given Grace according to the measure of the gift of Christ for as many as are led by the Spirit of God they are the Sons of God But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you and ye need not that any man teach you but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things and is truth and is no lye and even as it hath taught you ye shall abide We have also a more sure Word of Prophesie whereunto ye do well that ye take heed as unto a light that shineth in a dark place until the day dawn and the Day-Star arise in your hearts 2 Pet. 1.19 Rom. 1.18 19.8.14.10.6 7 8. Heb. 8.10 12. Eph. 4.7 At that time Jesus answered and said I thank thee O Father Lord of Heaven and Earth because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent and hast revealed them unto Babes Matth. 11.25 1 Cor. 1.27 29. But God hath chosen the foolish things of the World to confound the wise and God hath chosen the weak things of the World to confound the things which are mighty That no flesh should glory in his presence 1 Cor. 4.18 19. Let no man deceive himself If any man among you seemeth to be wise in this world let him become a fool that he may be wise For the Wisdom of this World is foolishness with God c. These things are as a sealed Book to all the Wit Learning Study and mans reason until he come to bow his mind to the measure â—â—â—e Spirit or Grace of God in his own heart â—â—om whence these Scriptures with others were given forth For the Scripture is given by Inspiration of God c. 2 Tim. 3.16 For what knoweth the things of a man save the Spirit of a man which is in him even so the things of God knoweth no man but the Spirit of God But he that is spiritual discerneth all things c. 1 Cor. 2.11 14 15. For to be carnally minded is Death but to be spiritually minded is Life and Peace Rom. 8.6 Gal. 5.16.6.5 This I say then walk in the Spirit and ye shall not fulfil the Lusts of the Flesh For every man shall bear his own burthen James 4.17 Therefore to him that knoweth to do good and doth it not to him it is sin Prov. 18.10 The Name of the Lord is a strong Tower the Righteous runneth into it and is safe Veritati adhaereto Stick to the Truth Vniformity in Religion how attainable according to true Christianity and also something of the fruits of Imposition upon Conscience for religious Opinions Humbly submitted to the consideration of Superiours By William Mather WHereas it is professed by all the Professors of Christianity at this day that the way and manner of their Religions or Opinions is according and not contrary to the Scripture of Truth Now to create peace amongst all the Churches and to unite in harmless Love that they may all build only upon the Rock Christ Jesus Mat. 7.25 If it shall please God so to open the Eyes of the Magistrates in every place by his Grace in their hearts the sure foundation Eph. 2.8 to so order it That the Minister or Teacher in each Congregation for Worship shall read the holy Scriptures only unto their hearers all waiting upon God in his fear to worship him in Spirit and in Truth John 4.24 So that if any thing be revealed by Gods Spirit by way of Interpretation Edification or Prayer to another that sitteth by let the first hold his peace 1 Cor. 14.30 31 32. So will God be in the midst of those that are thus gathered together in his Name Matth. 18.20 so as none in Man's Wisdom speak but only as God's Spirit shall give utterance though it be through the least Member accounted of in the Church 1 Pet. 4.10 â—or what confusion and bâ—â—â—shed hath come upon the World for several ages by reason of mans setting up ways of Worship Articles of faith c. when our Saviour hath already done it Matth. the 5 6 and 7. Ch. c. For when an Arch-bishop required Joh. Fox the Author of the Book of Martyrs to subscribe to Articles of Faith he pulled out his Greek Testament saying I will subscribe unto nothing but this So that none except Jews and Atheists but will subscribe to God's Book according to the primitive practice of the Saints to worship God in Spirit And for this Liberty of prophesying and Interpretation of the Scriptures only by the same Spirit that gave them forth the ancient Fathers so called have pleaded for as Jacobus Acontius After I have alledged saith
he what I had to say for my Opinion if the rest shall not allow of my Judgment I ought to give over defending of it and cease to be troublesome to the Congregation concerning the same but I ought not to be compelled to confess that I have erred for so I should sin against God That we may wrestle with God saith he by daily prayers to grant that we may have the use of this so soveraign and saving Liberty so profitable to the Church c. Oh that people would but lay aside self-interest then may they see how they are falln from the true Worship of God by setting up Man's Reason as Judge in spiritual matters out of which Apostasie there is no Redemption till people come to own and obey the sufficiency of God's Grace in their heaâ—â—s their only Teacher â—â—it 2.11 12. which bears Witness against all sin God having said unto the Apostle Paul My Grace is sufficient for thee 2 Cor. 12.9 And Paul committed the Saints to the Grace of God generally in his Epistles The Teachers in England do so likewise in words to their hearers And Kings also acknowledge it is by Gods Grace they are Kings Therefore it is the one thing needful and was Maries choice and it is the same at this day unto all that are willing and obedient to the guidance thereof in the whole course of their Lives which hath several other names in the Scripture as Light Word Spirit c. but is but one eternal pure Substance Enlightning every man that cometh into the World John 1.9 And all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution 2. Tim. 3.12 Then it seems that Persecutors were ever blind 2 Cor. 4.4 Though they may read That Faith is the Gift of God And whatsoever is not of Faith is sin Rom. 14.23 Notwithstanding many thousands have been murthered or Martyred since the Apostles time or beginning when men began to force their Faiths upon the account of opinions in Religion upon such as had faith in Christ Jesus Act. 10.35 Heb. 12.1 Acted and done by such as professed themselves to be Christians or some faith in God even to the shame of the name of Christians amongst both Jews and Turks Some they have cut in pieces in cool blood some burned to death Bellies ripped open whilst alive some buried alive roasted upon Spits boiled to death with several other Torments some hanged and some baâ—â—â—â—ed in New-England in â—â—â—age some thousands it Old-England have been excommunicated and imprisoned some imprisoned to death some banished some knock'd on the Head whole Families undone all their goods taken from them only because of their meeting together most peaceably to worship God in Spirit and in Truth as God requires John 4.24 Which is hard-Measure to be inflicted upon such Christians as lives peaceably with all men Rom. 12.18 upon such as was always willing and still are to Give unto Cesar or civil Magistrate the things that are Cesar 's Mat. 22.21 and unto God the things that are Gods The things which may be said to be Gods or of God is to worship and serve him in Spirit and in Truth as aforesaid to live in his fear by departing from iniquity and to seek after the good of all men to live in all Christian virtues to do unto all people as we would be dealt with Matth. 6.12 which cannot be performed by any but as they obey the teachings of Gods Spirit in peoples hearts the Leader into all good the same that made David wiser than all his Teachers Psal 119.99 Isa 30.20 Heb. 8.11 and is a swift witness against every evil thought word and deed in every Conscience Obedience to which makes people happy for ever 1 Sam. 15.22 But what person soever pretends that Conscience or the Light therein is his guide and acts any thing destructive to Civil Society as Theft Murther or Adultery or are Traitors or Plotters or Drunkards or Cheats or Vagabonds or Mischievous Persons Gâ—â— 5.19 20. To all such the Ch istian Magistrate will be a terror and a praise to them that do well Rom. 13.3 if they be of Christs Religion for he did not compel his Brethren after the flesh to his Religion John 7.5 Yet did he and his Apostles bear a Testimony against all fair-sayers and hypocrites in Religion and left the Civil Magistrates to punish all open wickedness to which agreeth King Charles the 1st in the Collection of his Speeches pag. 91 123. In point of Consciencious tenderness I have often declared how little I desire my Laws and Scepter should intrench on God's Soveraignty which is the only King of mens Consciences nor do I desire any man should be further Subject unto me than all of us may be subject unto God And in his advice to the then Prince of Wales now King of England c. Your Prerogative is best shewed and exercised in remitting rather than exacting the rigour of the Laws there being nothing worse than Legal Tiranny c. But saith Christ Jesus Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine and doeth them I will liken him to a wise man which built his house on a Rock Matth. 7.24 And doeth them mark that dost thou love them that hate thee c. The God of Israel said the Rock of Israel spake to me he that ruleth over men must be just ruling in the fear of God 2 Sam. 23.3.21.15 Now the Jews accounted the appearance of Christ Jesus in the Flesh as low and too mean for them saying is not this the Carpenter's Son and despised him Matth. 13.55 Even so do too many called Christians at this 〈◊〉 account his 2d coming 〈◊〉 â—â—iritual appearance too low and mean for them to bow unto that is his Light or Grace in their hearts which reproves for Sin calling it a dark Light or the Light of a Natural Conscience and a misguiding Light c. accounting it not sufficient to save from the evil of the World and so make merry over and crucifie afresh the just Spirit or Witness of God in their hearts by wilful kicking against it Pro. 4.18 John 3.20.16.8 Rom. 3.24 Tit. 3.7 Rev 1 5.3.14 But blessed be the Lord God there is a small remnant in this day that are come to witness in their hearts that little Stone Dan. 2.34 44. cut out of the mountain without hands which shall grow and fill the whole Earth with Righteousness and lay every Idol in the dust notwithstanding all the Opposition Art Wisdom or Violencâ— of men or Devils God will arise more and more in his spiritual appearance in the hearts of People until he hath conquered the enemies to Righteousness and the Glory of the Lord cover the Earth as the Waters cover the Sea and happy will all they be that meet him timely by turning from the evil Imaginations of their hearts and submit to his Grace the way to him for he is worthy to reign and rule in every heart and
Conscience by his Spirit or Grace therein now and for ever If any man say I love God and hateth his Brother he is a lyar for he that loveth not his Brother whom he hath seen how can he love God whom he hath not seen 1 John 4.20 In which Love I offer this my Mite for Love and Peace-sake desiring the good of all people impartially hoping that no longer the hedges of Opinions may barr us from loving one another with the same love that God doth love us And that many People may go and say Come ye and let us go up to the Mountain of the Lord to the house of the God of Jacob his Light or Grace in every Conscience and he will teach us of his ways and we will walk in his paths Isa 2.3 To which all those that truly fear the Lord God will say Amen And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor and though I give my Body to be burned and have not Charity it profiteth me nothing 1 Cor. 13.3 To conclude as things are now in the World it seems to me that no Protestant will evermore become a Persecutor for Conscience sake they having seen the Judgments of God always following upon People and Nations for Persecution for Persecutors striving to separate the Tares from the Wheat have taken too much upon them to ascend God's Throne-Conscience it being the Work of the Angels to separate the Tares from the Wheat in the time of Harvest at the last day Matth. 13.41 1. Cain for persecuting godly Abel was made a Vagabond c. 2. Ishmael for mocking his Brother Isaac was cast out 3. Joseph's Brethren were punished by famine and distress who persecuted him 4. Pharaoh and the Egyptians were drowned for persecuting the Children of Israel 5. Ahab and his house were destroyed who persecuted good Micah the Prophet 6. Jezabel who slew many of the Prophets was eaten up by Dogs 7. King Joash was slain in his Bed who persecuted Zachariah 8. Haman the informer who persecuted Mordecai and the Jews was hanged 9. The Priests that persecuted Daniel was eaten up by Lions 10. King Antiochus was destroyed with worms which he confessed came upon him for persecuting the Jews and other evils 11. Herod who sought to destroy Christ and put to death the Children in Bethlehem was smitten of God with a rottenness in his bowels and Worms whereof he dyed 12. Pilate that wicked Governour under whom Christ was crucified killed himself 13. If Histories speak true few or none of the persecuting Roman Emperors dyed in their Beds 14. Judas the other Informer some say hanged himself 15. Dr. Dunning Chancellor of Norwich a persecutor dyed suddenly 16. Bp. Thornton a Persecutor seeing some of his Men playing at Bowls on a Sunday so called fell suddenly into a Palsie and being had to bed he was put in mind to remember God Yea said he I do and my Lord Cardinal too and so dyed Much more might be mentioned of the sudden Deaths of Persecutors in Queen Maries days 17. Dr. Story a bloody Persecutor in Queen Maries time was hanged in Queen Elizabeth's time Multitudes of Presidents more might be given from the Records of Histories to this day of Gods Judgments upon the Persecutors but for brevity sake I shall omit believing that no Protestant now is of a persecuting Spirit they having seen it to be the Rock upon which Governments have split and whole Nations and Kingdoms ruined thereby Therefore it may be good for all Persecutors in this day to remember the Counsel of Gamaliel Act. 5.38 39. Now I say unto you refrain from these men and let them alone for if this Counsel or this work be of men it will come to naught but if it be of God you cannot overthrow it lest haply you be found fighters against God And also the Counsel of Athanasius whom the Papists have trusted saith he as before mentioned It is the property of piety not to force but to persuade in imitation of our Lord c. Constraining none coming to him and knocking rather and saying My Sister my Spouse open to me c. and entereth when he is opened to and retires if they delay and will not open unto him because it is not with Swords nor Darts nor Souldiers nor Armour that Truth is to be declared but with persuasion and Counsel And it is observable that it was the impious Arians who first of all brought in this doctrine to persecute others among Christians whose Successors both Papists and Protestants are in this matter saith R. B. p. 358. whom Athanasius thus reproveth further Where saith he have they learned to persecute Certainly they cannot say they have learned it from the Saints but this hath been given them and taught them of the Devil The Lord commanded indeed sometimes to flee and the Saints sometimes fled but to persecute is the invention and argument of the Devil which he seeks against all And after he saith In so far as the Arians banish those that will not subscribe their Decrees they shew that they are contrary to Christians and friends of the Devil See Athan. in Epist ad Solit. Vit. Apol. 1. de fuga sua Tom. 1. In the great day Then shall the King say to them on his Right hand come ye blessed of my Father inherit the Kingdom prepared for you c. For I was an hungred and ye gave me meat I was thirsty and ye gave me drink I was a stranger and ye took me in naked and ye cloathed me I was sick and ye visited me I was in Prison and ye came unto me Then shall the Righteous answer him saying Lord when saw we thee an hungred and fed thee c. And the King shall answer and say unto them verily I say unto you In as much as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my Brethren ye have done it unto me Matth. 25. v. 34. to the end He is not ashamed to call them Brethren Heb. 2.11 What portion can they expect that uncloath the Righteous and that take their meat from them and instead of visiting of them in Prison cast them into Prison c. The time cometh saith our Saviour that whosoever killeth you will think that they do God service And these things will they do unto you because they have not known the Father nor me John 16.23 But blessed are ye when men shall revile you and persecute you and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely for my sake Rejoyce and be exceeding glad for great is your reward in Heaven for so persecuted they the Prophets which were before you -Mat 5.11 12. Whosoever is wrong the Persecutor is not in the right most People conclude by the Witness for God in their hearts are made sensible of Saith Jer. Taylor D. D. so stiled Chaplain in Ordinary to His late Majesty in his Discourse of the liberty of Prophesying Let all errours be as much and
becos schel iaijn Maimon in sanhedrim c. 13. Mat. 27.34 As likewise they gave him a second cup in Derision when they took a sponge It Moses Kotsens in san hedrim and filled it with Vinegar and put it on a reed Mat. 27.48 Thirdly The manner of the Cross on which Christ was crucified was like this figure †his Hands nailed to each side and his Feet nailed together to the bottom of the Cross almost And Jesus said unto Thomas reach hither thy Finger and behold my Hands c. Joh. 20.27 Psal 22.16 Even so do many in this day Crucifie afresh the Son of God and put him to open shame Heb. 6.6 By resisting and doing despite unto his Spirit of Grace in their hearts wilfully running into evil whilst they profess Christianity committing the sins of Sodom Gen. 19.5 Crucifying in Sodom and Egypt spiritually c. Fourthly Sometimes in notorious offenders to augment the pains of those that they whip Eustathius item Athenaeus Lib. 4. they tied certain huckle bones Tholosan synt Jur. univers lib. 31. or plummets of Lead or sharp Thorns to the end of the Thongs and such Scourges the Greeks termed Flagra Taxillata in the Scripture they are termed Scorpions My Father hath chastised you with rods but I will correct you with scorpions 1 Kings 12.12 The manner of their stoning to death the rebellious Sons Witches c. THe Offender was led to a place without the Gates two Cubits high his Hands being bound from hence one of the Witnesses tumbled him by a stroke upon the Loins if that kill him not the Witnesses lift up a stone being the weight of two men which chiefly the other Witness casteth upon him Paul fagius Deut. 17.7 if that kill him not all Israel throw stones upon him The hands of the Witnesses shall be first upon him to put him to death and afterwards the Hands of all the people Deut. 17.7 The manner of their strangling of such as lieth with another Man's Wife or that smiteth his Father or his Mother c THe Offender was put in dung up to the loins a Towel beâ—ng cast about his neck Paraphrast Chald. Ruth 1.17 Milkkotsi fol. 183. col 3. which two Executioners one on each side plucked to and fro until he was dead which they accounted the easiest kind of death Restitution for Goods stolen the Law of God IF the Theft whether Ox or Sheep were found alive upon a man he restored but double Exod. 22.4 But if they were killed or sold then five Oxen for an Ox and 4. Sheep â—or a Sheep Ex. 22.1 The Jews were so precise in this kind that if they had built an house with a Beam or piece of Timber unjustly gotten they would pull down the house and restore the same Beam or piece of Timber to the Owner David Nimchi From this the Prophet Habakkuk doth not much dissent The Stone shall cry out of the wall and the Beam out of the Timber shall answer it Hab. 2.11 Among the Jews he ought to be sold that was not of sufficient worth to make Restitution Exod. 22.3 And Augustine saith of Christians Aug. Epist 54. That he which doth not make restitution according to his ability never repented And Non remittetur peccatum nisi restituatur ablatum No doubt but that if this Law was practised in England we should not have so many Thieves for to be sold as slaves for stealing is more terrible than Death that are so desperate to cry A short Life and a sweet And so may have time to see their folly and may become new Creatures and steal no more rather to work with their hands Eph. 4.28 But if they become honest and not able to work they will be maintained by those that fear the Lord Deut. 28.48 Phylacteries that the Pharisees wore upon their Arms. THey made broad their Phylacteries and enlarged the borders of their Garments Mat. 23.5 It is said that they were parchment upon which was written some of the Law as the ten Commandments c. The Command was general Mos Kotensis praec offir 22. Ex. 13.9 It shall be for a sign unto thee upon thine hand and for a memorial between thine Eyes So that it was not the wearing of them which our Saviour did then condemn but the making of them broad whereby they would appear more holy than others some wore them on their fore-heads Because the Pharisees superstitiously conceited that by them as by Amulets Spells and Charms hanged about their necks themselves might be preserved from danger Hierom testifieth that the Pharisees had such a conceit of their Ornaments Chrysost Hier. in Mal. 2.3 in which place he compareth them to certain superstitious Women of his time The Priest under the Law wore white Garments Levit. 16.4 But the white cloathing of a Christian is a meek and a quiet Spirit c. 1 Peter 3.4 Rev. 19.8 4.4 18. See page 256. who carried up and down upon the like ground short sentences ouâ— of the new Testament and Reliques of the Cross the same superstition hath prevailed with many oâ— latter times who for thâ— same purpose hang the beginning of St. John about their necks and in the year of our Lord 692 certain Sorcerers were condemned for the likâ— kind of Magick by the name of Phylacterians see T.G. civ Eccl. Rite lib. 2. ch 4. As Christian in the consecration of their Churches saith he make special choice of some particular Saints by whose names they call them as St. Peter Church St. Pauls St. Andrews c. so the Idolatrous Israelites consecrated their Groves unto particular Idols c. no good example to Christians howbeit the most high dwelleth no in Temples made with hands Isa 66.1 2. Act 7.48 17 24. Saith the Lord and to him will look even to him that is poor and of a contrite Spirit and trembleth at my word 1 Cor. 6.19 your Body is the temple of the Holy Ghost the Lord Supper Behold I stand at the door and knock iâ— any man hear my voice and open the door I will comâ— in unto him and will sup with him and he with me Rev. 3.20 Happy is he that opens his heart to the knocks or reproofs of Gods Grace shall overcome the evil and sit with God upon hiâ— Throne and live with Christ Jesus for ever and ever this is the plain truth open and free unto all the obedient of what Nation soever as Serjeant Jefferies well said in these words at the Tryal of Stephen Colledge viz. Truth is not confined to places nor Persons neither but applyed to all honest men be they Irish men or others Lastly Herods Temple which was the second Temple about 40 years in building was set on fire by Titus his Souldiers that it could not be quenched by the industry of man at the same time the Temple at Delphi being in chief request among the Heathen People Genebrard Chro.
greatly rejoyce A proud look and a lying Tongue the Lord hates Prov. 2. Lord give me Wisdom to direct my ways I beg not Riches nor yet length of days Be well advised and wary Counsel take Ere thou dost any actions undertake Defend the Truth for that who will not dye A Coward is and gives himself the Lye Ever thy credit keep 't is quickly gone Being got by many Actions lost by one Hear much but little speak a wise man fears And will not use his Tongue as much as Ears Judge not between two Friends but rather see If thou canst bring them friendly to agree Keep thyself humble Pride hath ruin'd many The proud man 's seldom well belov'd of any Never to gather Wealth through fraud presume A little evil got will much consume Grasp not for Honour wish no blazing Glory For these will perish in an ages Story Quietly learn all crosses to endure Repining doth more misery procure Fame Honour Beauty State Train Blood and Birth Are but the fading blossoms of the Earth When thou livest well mind not what people say It 's not in our power their Tongues to sway Those whom God doth by his own Spirit lead They are his Sons you in the Scripture read Safe in thy Breast close lock up thy Intents For he that knows thy purpose best prevents Zeal is a fire and useful in its kind But nothing is more dangerous if blind 'T is use and practice that becomes each skill For that makes perfect what neglect doth kill Shun Rumors lest thou beest as the Author nam'd Silence hurts none but some for words are blam'd To set on a May-Pole What is there no good man in all this Town Will help to pull the Devils Sign-post down This is a sad and lamentable case That Men do shew themselves thus void of Grace Work as if thou was to live for ever Live as if thou was to die to morrow A short Catechism for Children Question VVHo made thee Answer God made me and all People Gen. 2.7 Question To what end did God make them Answer To glorify him and to live in his fear all the days of our lives 1 Cor. 10.31 Question What is thy duty to God Answer To do justly love Mercy and to walk humbly with my God Micah 6.8 Question What is thy duty to Man Answer To serve them in true love even mine enemies though they are not of my Religion Mat. 5.44 Question How canst thou perform thy Duty to God and Man Answer Only by obeying the Light Spirit or Grace of God in my heart or conscience which God hath given to me and all people a measure of to overcome Sin and enables to perform good things Joh. 3.21 1 Pet. 1.19 Heb. 10.16 1 John 4.13 Eph. 4.7 John 1.4 To believe and obey the Spirit of God which he hath sent into the world placed in Mens hearts which convinceth and reproveth for Sin is the only way and means which God hath ordained for the restauration life and salvation of Mankind and is indeed the Christ of God which in Scripture hath many names but is but one pure eternal holy thing see W. S. concerning good thoughts c. Question What is the first step to Eternal Life Psal 119.9 Answer By taking heed unto the Word of God in my heart which troubles me when I am doing evil or told a lye Joh. 3.18 16 8. Deu. 30.14 Eph. 5.13 Sin was the occasion or cause of the Law the labour of the Prophets and the coming and suffering of Christ W. S. p. 39. Question Who shall dwell in the endless Joys of Heaven and so escape Hell-fire by the Blood of Christ Jesus Answer Such as obey with all their might the Grace of God in their hearts Ps 119.10 Ephes 2.5 Question To whom is Christ Jesus a Saviour Answer To all those that know him to save them from sinning here Mat. 1.21 Tit. 2.14 Question What sort of Children doth God love Answer Such as fears God by departing from iniquity and doth as their true friends bid them Col. 3.6 Question What is the true Religion Answer To visit the Fatherless and the Widdow in their affliction and to keep our selves unspotted from the world James 1.27 Question Whose Religion is vain Answer Those that are often angry and ready to quarrel for opinions and have not a Bridle for their Tongues James 1.26 Eph. 4.31 Prov. 29.22 No opinion or profession of Religion c. where evil thoughts and evil doings stands avails any thing W. S. page 25. Question What is it that moves in Children to lying and rudeness Answer It is the Serpent that beguiled Eve the Father of Lies John 8.44 Question How dost thou think to be established in the true Religion if thou dost not trust to Mans teachings 1 John 2.27 Heb. 8.11 Isa 30.21 Rom. 14.12 2 Pet. 1.19 Answer God has given me and all people a teacher within us that is he will teach his People himself by his Grace in our hearts being many go astray that trust to Mans teachings John 6.45 14 26. Isai 2.22 48 17. Rev. 3.20 Heb. 8.10 11. John 14.26 Question Then is this Grace of God the one thing needful and the place into which God will bring all Nations that are or shall be saved Isaiah 2.5 Eph. 2.8 Rom. 1.19 Answer Yes it is Maries choice and God said unto Paul my Grace is sufficient for thee 2 Cor. 12.9 Do not Kings acknowledge that it is by Gods Grace they are Kings and the Teachers in England often say to their Hearers we commit you to Gods Grace as Paul generally did the Churches in his Episties to them therefore it is the one thing needful Question What will be the end of wicked Children and Lyars if they do not mend Ezek. 33.11 Rev. 21.8 Rom. 6.23 Answer They must be turned into fire and brimstone in Hell for ever Matthew 8.12 Mal. 4.1 Eph. 5.6 Question Wilt not thou pray to God to be delivered from evil that thou may escape Hell-fire and dwell in Heaven with God for ever Acts 10.2 Answer Yes being Christ Jesus hath said suffer little Children to come unto me therefore I should alwaies pray in my heart to this effect Mat. 19.14 Luke 18.1 O Most Merciful God and my Creator make me to remember thee now in the days of my Youth I humbly pray thee to incline my heart more and more to take heed unto thy word in my heart that daily reproves and troubles me for every evil thought word and deed and stirs me up to good things so shall I be enabled to praise thy name here on Earth that I may dwell with thee in thy Kingdom of Heaven for ever and ever Amen John 16.8.13 Good thoughts are of Gods own begetting and very comfortable to a Christian and are the fruit and effect of keeping and obeying the Law of God within the heart Romans 2.14 15. W S. page 27. Question Now if thy heart be inclined to pray