and_o that_o william_n mead_n desire_v nicholas_n lucas_n that_o it_o may_v be_v intimate_v to_o i_o that_o now_o george_n fox_n will_v give_v i_o a_o meeting_n which_o i_o do_v understand_v or_o at_o least_o suppose_v be_v urge_v as_o a_o argument_n that_o i_o ought_v thereupon_o to_o forbear_v print_v which_o occasion_v i_o immediate_o on_o receipt_n thereof_o to_o take_v care_n that_o my_o mind_n may_v be_v communicate_v unto_o nicholas_n lucas_n of_o hartford_n who_o thereupon_o as_o i_o be_o advise_v acquaint_v william_n mead_n that_o their_o desire_n meaning_n that_o i_o will_v give_v george_n fox_n a_o meeting_n be_v accept_v by_o i_o provide_v that_o george_n fox_n will_v give_v it_o under_o his_o hand_n mean_v thereby_o to_o meet_v i_o to_o which_o william_n mead_n say_v he_o will_v speak_v to_o george_n fox_n about_o it_o and_o afterward_o the_o say_a william_n mead_n tell_v nicholas_n lucas_n he_o have_v speak_v with_o g._n f._n and_o his_o answer_n be_v he_o will_v not_o give_v it_o under_o his_o hand_n nor_o write_v to_o i_o by_o which_o all_o impartial_a reader_n may_v further_o judge_n whether_o g._n f._n have_v any_o inclination_n at_o all_o to_o give_v i_o a_o meeting_n for_o the_o clear_n of_o matter_n lay_v to_o his_o charge_n nicholas_n lucas_n i_o do_v hereby_o testify_v that_o which_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o additional_a postscript_n so_o far_o as_o relate_v to_o i_o and_o william_n mead_n be_v truth_n bristol_n the_o 10_o of_o november_n 1680._o forasmuch_o as_o it_o have_v of_o late_o be_v frequent_o discourse_v among_o some_o of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n that_o i_o intend_v to_o print_v against_o friend_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o such_o my_o repute_a intention_n have_v be_v make_v use_n of_o as_o a_o argument_n to_o render_v i_o wicked_a and_o thereby_o to_o disaffect_v simplehearted_n well_o mean_v friend_n towards_o myself_o and_o other_o friend_n in_o truth_n it_o be_v now_o become_v my_o further_a concern_v to_o add_v these_o few_o line_n first_o such_o insinuator_n can_v be_v therein_o guilty_a of_o less_o than_o injustice_n and_o slander_n because_o it_o be_v not_o then_o know_v what_o will_v be_v print_v by_o i_o second_o they_o have_v have_v no_o ground_n to_o conjecture_v that_o my_o intention_n be_v to_o treat_v on_o any_o thing_n more_o than_o the_o way_n and_o mean_n by_o which_o the_o say_a people_n once_o at_o unity_n come_v to_o be_v divide_v together_o with_o some_o part_n of_o the_o fruit_n of_o that_o division_n and_o the_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n we_o stand_v for_o which_o if_o bring_v to_o light_n so_o as_o that_o nothing_o but_o the_o naked_a truth_n may_v be_v publish_v which_o ought_v to_o have_v be_v suppose_v until_o the_o contrary_n shall_v have_v appear_v the_o question_n then_o needful_a to_o be_v answer_v be_v this_o whether_o it_o be_v matter_n of_o evil_a fact_n in_o i_o to_o publish_v in_o print_n a_o historical_a relation_n of_o the_o truth_n as_o aforesaid_a and_o that_o for_o the_o clear_n of_o my_o conscience_n that_o the_o sin_n of_o disobedience_n may_v not_o lie_v at_o my_o door_n the_o answer_n in_o short_a be_v nay_o to_o every_o impartial_a and_o unprejudiced_a reader_n i_o doubt_v not_o but_o that_o the_o preface_n to_o the_o reader_n the_o introduction_n to_o the_o first_o and_o four_o part_n of_o this_o treatise_n may_v give_v sufficient_a satisfaction_n but_o lest_o the_o ignorance_n and_o blindness_n of_o any_o shall_v be_v so_o great_a as_o not_o from_o thence_o to_o perceive_v the_o righteousness_n of_o my_o present_a proceed_n to_o print_n or_o that_o the_o partiality_n of_o any_o that_o do_v so_o shall_v so_o abound_v as_o to_o strengthen_v evil_a insinuation_n against_o i_o on_o that_o account_n i_o have_v this_o to_o say_v that_o such_o as_o have_v be_v of_o party_n against_o we_o concern_v in_o the_o publication_n hereof_o have_v be_v the_o first_o and_o frequent_a promulgator_n by_o declaration_n by_o manuscript_n and_o by_o print_v that_o there_o have_v be_v division_n among_o the_o aforesaid_a people_n as_o to_o a_o publication_n thereof_o by_o declaration_n i_o refer_v to_o what_o i_o have_v already_o write_v in_o the_o preface_n to_o the_o reader_n the_o introduction_n to_o the_o first_o and_o four_o part_n of_o this_o treatise_n as_o to_o the_o publication_n thereof_o by_o manuscript_n i_o refer_v to_o the_o four_o part_n and_o in_o particular_a to_o the_o title_n page_n thereof_o to_o the_o forty_o four_o article_n of_o accusation_n draw_v up_o against_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n to_o the_o paper_n subscribe_v by_o charles_n marshal_n and_o sixty_o five_o more_o at_o ellis_n hook_n his_o chamber_n both_o mention_v in_o this_o treatise_n to_o the_o note_v in_o the_o say_a paper_n these_o word_n relate_v to_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n be_v viz._n and_o we_o do_v hereby_o warn_v all_o to_o have_v a_o care_n that_o they_o be_v not_o lift_v up_o by_o reason_n of_o the_o temptation_n and_o hurt_n that_o be_v come_v upon_o these_o man_n nor_o yet_o insult_v over_o they_o for_o that_o spirit_n be_v not_o of_o god_n but_o rather_o let_v all_o watch_n in_o the_o fear_n and_o dread_a of_o almighty_a god_n against_o that_o spirit_n that_o they_o enter_v not_o into_o temptation_n the_o aforesaid_a word_n be_v cite_v to_o show_v the_o inconsistency_n of_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n their_o opposer_n action_n with_o the_o aforesaid_a advice_n for_o it_o be_v well_o know_v that_o contrary_n to_o the_o aforesaid_a counsel_n their_o opposer_n have_v be_v so_o drink_v with_o prejudice_n and_o a_o insult_a spirit_n as_o that_o the_o say_a paper_n call_v a_o narrative_a have_v be_v read_v against_o they_o in_o several_a county_n in_o public_a meeting_n for_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n from_o which_o assembly_n not_o person_n whatsoever_o though_o not_o profess_v the_o truth_n be_v exclude_v this_o action_n may_v reasonable_o be_v conclude_v to_o spring_v from_o the_o same_o spirit_n that_o dictate_v a_o few_o line_n subscribe_v by_o george_n fox_n whereof_o mention_n be_v make_v in_o the_o preface_n direct_v to_o show_v certificate_n against_o john_n story_n both_o to_o enemy_n and_o friend_n paper_n call_v the_o brethren_n narrative_a at_o drawel_n and_o to_o a_o epistle_n write_v by_o a_o public_a preacher_n and_o one_o of_o party_n against_o such_o as_o be_v concern_v in_o the_o publication_n hereof_o who_o name_n for_o the_o reason_n mention_v in_o the_o preface_n i_o omit_v direct_v to_o be_v read_v and_o according_o be_v read_v in_o a_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n of_o god_n within_o the_o city_n of_o bristol_n hold_v in_o the_o great_a meetinghouse_n on_o the_o 21_o of_o the_o 11_o month_n 1678._o in_o the_o presence_n of_o several_a not_o account_v to_o be_v of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n wherein_o mention_n be_v make_v of_o rent_n schism_n contention_n difference_n breach_n strife_n distraction_n discord_n quarrel_n late_a and_o present_a division_n and_o of_o a_o separation_n in_o some_o part_n of_o this_o nation_n on_o such_o wise_a as_o that_o in_o the_o author_n sense_n it_o be_v evident_a that_o they_o be_v mention_v with_o relation_n to_o one_o party_n of_o friend_n among_o those_o who_o have_v profess_v the_o truth_n as_o rend_v and_o divide_v from_o another_o party_n but_o that_o which_o on_o this_o occasion_n be_v chief_o my_o concern_v be_v to_o evidence_n that_o there_o have_v be_v a_o publication_n of_o the_o aforesaid_a division_n in_o print_n before_o the_o publication_n hereof_o and_o that_o by_o and_o on_o the_o behalf_n of_o some_o of_o george_n fox_n party_n on_o the_o 8_o instant_a come_v to_o my_o hand_n two_o sheet_n of_o print_a paper_n entitle_v a_o epistle_n pretend_v to_o be_v for_o true_a love_n unity_n and_o order_n in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n against_o the_o spirit_n of_o discord_n disorder_n and_o confusion_n in_o the_o bottom_n of_o the_o title_n page_n thereof_o it_o be_v thus_o write_v print_v by_o andrew_n sowle_n and_o be_v to_o be_v sell_v at_o his_o shop_n in_o devonshire_n building_n without_o bishopsgate_n 1680._o that_o direction_n for_o sale_n be_v a_o sufficient_a notification_n to_o i_o that_o it_o be_v not_o print_v for_o a_o limit_a service_n note_v beside_o as_o i_o be_o inform_v they_o be_v public_o expose_v to_o sale_n by_o other_o bookseller_n in_o london_n and_o forasmuch_o as_o it_o be_v well_o know_v that_o ann_n whitehead_n and_o mary_n elson_n the_o subscriber_n thereof_o be_v such_o qualify_v person_n as_o not_o to_o print_v any_o thing_n on_o a_o religious_a score_n without_o the_o approbation_n of_o a_o meet_v hold_v in_o london_n every_o second_o day_n usual_o consist_v of_o uncertain_a number_n of_o uncertain_a qualify_v person_n who_o therein_o pretend_v to_o take_v upon_o they_o the_o approbation_n or_o
instrumental_a to_o gather_v though_o in_o r._n b_n sense_n as_o be_v before_o manifest_v such_o be_v the_o fit_a to_o rule_v over_o those_o who_o they_o have_v beget_v to_o the_o truth_n but_o also_o over_o the_o labour_n of_o other_o and_o then_o style_v themselves_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n though_o not_o guide_v by_o the_o unerring_a spirit_n so_o to_o do_v and_o then_o also_o pretend_v that_o they_o have_v power_n in_o case_n that_o be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n to_o give_v positive_a sentence_n obliege_v believer_n to_o obey_v receive_v and_o own_o the_o same_o and_o that_o it_o be_v disobedience_n to_o god_n not_o to_o submit_v to_o the_o positive_a sentence_n and_o decisive_n judgement_n of_o any_o assembly_n or_o some_o or_o other_o of_o they_o which_o in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n may_v be_v term_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n though_o we_o see_v it_o not_o and_o so_o by_o degree_n may_v endeavour_v to_o divest_v christ_n of_o his_o government_n and_o prerogative_n who_o alone_o be_v lord_n over_o the_o conscience_n and_o by_o his_o spirit_n in_o we_o be_v become_v our_o only_a lawgiver_n and_o who_o alone_o by_o the_o influence_a virtue_n of_o his_o own_o spirit_n be_v able_a to_o bring_v unto_o that_o love_n and_o unity_n which_o through_o the_o life_n of_o righteousness_n find_v exceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n of_o life_n william_n rogers_n have_v now_o do_v with_o the_o citation_n of_o what_o be_v write_v in_o answer_n to_o the_o aforesaid_a book_n of_o government_n and_o consider_v that_o in_o the_o first_o section_n thereof_o the_o author_n as_o be_v already_o cite_v and_o observe_v write_v of_o a_o sort_n of_o person_n that_o will_v needs_o be_v innovator_n and_o give_v to_o change_n and_o introduce_v new_a doctrine_n and_o practice_n not_o only_o differ_v but_o contrary_a to_o what_o be_v deliver_v in_o the_o beginning_n and_o in_o page_n thirteen_o seem_v reflect_o to_o treat_v on_o such_o kind_n of_o language_n as_o this_o i_o must_v stay_v till_o i_o be_v convince_v as_o if_o such_o language_n be_v knock_v down_o in_o the_o beginning_n and_o as_o may_v reasonable_o be_v take_v from_o the_o scope_n of_o the_o say_a book_n to_o reflect_v on_o such_o among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n who_o be_v not_o so_o zealous_o affect_v with_o the_o outward_a form_n of_o government_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o church-government_n pretend_v to_o be_v establish_v among_o they_o as_o the_o author_n or_o approver_n of_o his_o book_n be_v we_o think_v it_o necessary_a to_o cite_v a_o testimony_n publish_v in_o print_n by_o isaac_n penington_n the_o young_a in_o the_o year_n one_o thousand_o six_o hundred_o and_o sixty_o be_v a_o part_n of_o a_o discourse_n entitle_v the_o authority_n and_o government_n which_o christ_n exclude_v out_o of_o his_o church_n etc._n etc._n and_o as_o it_o lie_v all_o together_o word_n for_o word_n and_o not_o take_v by_o part_n and_o piece_n here_o and_o there_o our_o end_n in_o cite_v this_o testimony_n be_v that_o the_o impartial_a reader_n may_v consider_v whether_o the_o say_a testimony_n have_v any_o coherence_n with_o that_o part_n of_o the_o say_a book_n of_o government_n which_o be_v object_v against_o by_o we_o or_o do_v contradict_v any_o subject_a matter_n that_o we_o have_v treat_v upon_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o say_v isaac_n penington_n the_o young_a now_o follow_v the_o apostle_n and_o minister_n of_o christ_n come_v from_o christ_n with_o a_o message_n of_o life_n and_o salvation_n with_o a_o testimony_n concern_v the_o good_a will_n of_o god_n and_o his_o love_n to_o mankind_n point_v out_o the_o way_n from_o death_n to_o life_n from_o bondage_n to_o liberty_n from_o wrath_n and_o destruction_n to_o peace_n and_o salvation_n what_o they_o have_v see_v what_o they_o have_v feel_v what_o they_o have_v taste_v what_o they_o have_v handle_v what_o they_o have_v find_v redeem_v and_o deliver_v they_o that_o they_o declare_v abroad_o to_o other_o as_o they_o be_v move_v as_o they_o be_v send_v as_o they_o be_v guide_v and_o assist_v now_o that_o which_o they_o preach_v to_o be_v man_n conscience_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n they_o open_v the_o truth_n which_o they_o know_v they_o give_v their_o testimony_n in_o the_o move_a lead_v and_o power_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o they_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o same_o spirit_n to_o demonstrate_v it_o to_o man_n conscience_n as_o it_o please_v they_o be_v nothing_o they_o can_v do_v nothing_o they_o can_v convert_v any_o man_n to_o god_n but_o the_o power_n that_o speak_v by_o they_o the_o same_o power_n work_v in_o other_o man_n conscience_n at_o its_o pleasure_n and_o here_o be_v the_o begin_n of_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o heart_n when_o his_o truth_n carry_v conviction_n with_o it_o to_o the_o conscience_n and_o the_o conscience_n be_v draw_v to_o yield_v itself_o up_o to_o he_o than_o he_o lay_v his_o yoke_n upon_o it_o and_o take_v upon_o he_o the_o guide_n of_o it_o he_o cherish_v it_o he_o cleanse_v it_o he_o comfort_v it_o he_o order_v it_o at_o his_o pleasure_n and_o he_o alone_o preserve_v it_o pure_a chaste_a gentle_a meek_a and_o pliable_a to_o the_o impression_n of_o his_o spirit_n and_o as_o the_o conscience_n be_v keep_v single_a and_o tender_a to_o christ_n so_o his_o government_n increase_v therein_o but_o as_o it_o become_v hard_a or_o subject_n to_o man_n will_n so_o another_o spirit_n get_v dominion_n over_o it_o therefore_o the_o great_a work_n of_o the_o minister_n of_o christ_n be_v to_o keep_v the_o conscience_n open_a to_o christ_n and_o to_o preserve_v man_n from_o receive_v any_o truth_n of_o christ_n as_o from_o they_o further_o than_o the_o spirit_n open_v or_o to_o imitate_v any_o of_o their_o practice_n further_o than_o the_o spirit_n lead_v guide_n and_o persuade_v they_o for_o person_n be_v exceed_o prone_a to_o receive_v thing_n as_o truth_n from_o those_o who_o they_o have_v a_o high_a opinion_n of_o and_o to_o imitate_v their_o practice_n and_o so_o hurt_v their_o own_o growth_n and_o endanger_v their_o soul_n for_o if_o i_o receive_v a_o truth_n before_o the_o lord_n by_o his_o spirit_n make_v it_o manifest_a to_o i_o i_o lose_v my_o guide_n and_o follow_v but_o the_o counsel_n of_o the_o flesh_n which_o be_v exceed_o greedy_a of_o receive_v truth_n and_o run_v into_o religious_a practice_n without_o the_o spirit_n therefore_o the_o main_a thing_n in_o religion_n be_v to_o keep_v the_o conscience_n pure_a to_o the_o lord_n to_o know_v the_o guide_n to_o follow_v the_o guide_n to_o receive_v from_o he_o that_o light_v whereby_o i_o be_o to_o walk_v and_o not_o to_o take_v thing_n for_o truth_n because_o other_o see_v they_o to_o be_v truth_n but_o wait_v till_o the_o spirit_n make_v they_o manifest_v to_o i_o nor_o to_o run_v into_o worship_n duty_n performance_n or_o practice_n because_o other_o be_v lead_v thither_o but_o to_o wait_v till_o the_o spirit_n lead_v i_o thither_o he_o that_o make_v haste_n to_o be_v rich_a even_o in_o religion_n run_v into_o knowledge_n and_o into_o worship_n and_o performance_n before_o he_o feel_v a_o true_a and_o clear_a guidance_n shall_v not_o be_v innocent_a nor_o the_o lord_n will_v not_o hold_v he_o guiltless_a when_o he_o come_v to_o visit_v for_o spiritual_a adultery_n and_o idolatry_n the_o apostle_n be_v exceed_o tender_a in_o this_o point_n for_o though_o they_o certain_o and_o infallible_o know_v what_o be_v to_o be_v believe_v yet_o they_o be_v not_o lord_n over_o man_n faith_n but_o wait_v till_o he_o who_o be_v lord_n of_o the_o faith_n will_v open_v the_o way_n into_o man_n conscience_n they_o do_v not_o take_v upon_o they_o to_o be_v able_a to_o turn_v the_o key_n to_o let_v in_o truth_n and_o conviction_n into_o man_n spirit_n as_o man_n in_o these_o day_n have_v be_v too_o apt_a to_o undertake_v but_o direct_v they_o to_o he_o who_o have_v the_o key_n there_o to_o wait_v for_o the_o conviction_n and_o illumination_n of_o their_o mind_n and_o so_o to_o receive_v in_o as_o they_o find_v he_o give_v forth_o to_o they_o let_v every_o man_n say_v the_o apostle_n be_v full_o persuade_v in_o his_o own_o mind_n take_v heed_n of_o receive_v thing_n too_o soon_o take_v heed_n of_o run_v into_o practice_n too_o soon_o &_o do_v what_o you_o see_v other_o do_v but_o wait_v for_o your_o own_o particular_a guidance_n and_o a_o full_a persuasion_n from_o god_n what_o be_v his_o will_n concern_v you_o though_o i_o know_v this_o to_o be_v a_o truth_n yet_o do_v not_o you_o receive_v it_o till_o god_n make_v it_o manifest_a to_o you_o receive_v truth_n from_o his_o hand_n stay_v till_o he_o give_v it_o you._n indeed_o the_o main_a matter_n in_o religion_n be_v to_o keep_v out_o the_o wrong_a part_n the_o forward_z part_n the_o bastardly_a
give_v that_o judgement_n have_v not_o then_o peruse_v it_o and_o as_o to_o their_o say_n it_o be_v to_o the_o great_a derogation_n of_o the_o christian_a authority_n of_o the_o say_a meeting_n mean_v the_o second_o day_n meet_v i_o have_v this_o to_o say_v that_o i_o never_o understand_v that_o friend_n own_v any_o authority_n in_o any_o of_o our_o meeting_n as_o a_o christian_a authority_n but_o the_o power_n of_o god_n which_o be_v invisible_a and_o can_v be_v diminish_v and_o therefore_o i_o may_v well_o query_n whether_o it_o be_v not_o great_a weakness_n in_o any_o to_o conclude_v that_o i_o be_o capable_a to_o do_v any_o action_n which_o can_v either_o lessen_v diminish_v or_o take_v from_o that_o authority_n and_o i_o hope_v none_o of_o the_o say_a subscriber_n be_v so_o remote_a from_o truth_n and_o a_o good_a understanding_n as_o to_o conclude_v that_o the_o second_o day_n meeting_n have_v any_o authority_n give_v they_o by_o man_n but_o if_o any_o shall_v be_v so_o weak_a i_o must_v tell_v such_o that_o as_o i_o never_o give_v it_o any_o so_o be_o whole_o uncapable_a by_o write_v to_o lessen_v it_o if_o they_o have_v any_o and_o whereas_o it_o be_v say_v that_o the_o objection_n of_o the_o say_v william_n rogers_n lay_v not_o so_o much_o against_o the_o matter_n and_o substance_n of_o the_o say_v robert_n barcly_n book_n as_o against_o the_o way_n of_o express_v some_o passage_n therein_o this_o i_o say_v be_v untrue_a my_o objection_n be_v against_o the_o very_a matter_n and_o substance_n of_o some_o thing_n contain_v in_o his_o book_n on_o the_o whole_a matter_n i_o have_v this_o to_o say_v i_o can_v not_o obtain_v a_o meeting_n of_o friend_n to_o be_v choose_v by_o robert_n barclay_n and_o myself_o though_o the_o person_n immediate_o concern_v which_o agree_v not_o with_o the_o example_n of_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n read_v act_n 15.1_o 2._o and_o that_o the_o aforesaid_a eminent_a preacher_n as_o the_o mouth_n of_o other_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n obstruct_v and_o though_o in_o the_o meeting_n hold_v friend_n deportment_n be_v grave_a orderly_a and_o inoffensive_a as_o to_o i_o ward_n whilst_o the_o debate_n on_o my_o objection_n hold_v yet_o i_o be_o great_o satisfy_v that_o by_o the_o publication_n of_o the_o say_v two_o paper_n every_o impartial_a reader_n that_o will_v be_v at_o the_o pain_n serious_o to_o weigh_v the_o say_v paper_n this_o answer_n and_o robert_n barcaly_n book_n and_o postscript_n may_v easy_o discern_v the_o error_n of_o robert_n barclay_n and_o charles_n marshal_n with_o the_o thirty_o six_o subscriber_n but_o those_o who_o will_v have_v a_o eye_n to_o paper_n and_o book_n for_o the_o writer_n sake_n more_o than_o for_o the_o matter_n contain_v therein_o may_v in_o time_n come_v to_o have_v their_o understanding_n so_o veil_v as_o to_o be_v bring_v to_o worship_v image_n and_o to_o esteem_v virtue_n esteem_v see_v george_n fox_n his_o book_n of_o woman_n meeeting_n wherein_o he_o query_n and_o be_v not_o micah_n mother_n a_o virtuous_a woman_n read_v judge_n 17_o and_o then_o a_o few_o line_n of_o these_o and_o such_o like_a woman_n be_v record_v for_o their_o wisdom_n and_o their_o virtue_n michah_n mother_n a_o virtuous_a woman_n in_o israel_n though_o she_o cause_v a_o molten_n image_n and_o a_o grave_v image_n to_o be_v make_v and_o put_v in_o the_o house_n of_o her_o son_n judges_z 17._o if_o any_o shall_v be_v offend_v at_o these_o line_n let_v such_o exhort_v charles_n martial_n and_o the_o other_o thirty_o six_o subscriber_n concern_v to_o make_v better_a use_v for_o time_n to_o come_v of_o so_o much_o condescension_n as_o appear_v in_o i_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o robert_n barclay_n who_o i_o once_o account_v my_o brother_n when_o i_o perceive_v from_o the_o word_n of_o robert_n barclay_n mouth_n that_o he_o appear_v a_o better_a principled_a man_n than_o his_o line_n import_v william_n rogers_n the_o four_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n &_o innovator_n wherein_o a_o relation_n be_v give_v of_o several_a proceed_n since_o george_n fox_n wife_n cause_v a_o paper_n date_v the_o 21_o the_o of_o the_o 11_o the_o m_o on_o 1672._o to_o be_v read_v against_o john_n story_n in_o a_o quarterly-meeting_a in_o westmoreland_n therein_o signify_v that_o he_o judge_v the_o power_n of_o god_n as_o it_o break_v forth_o in_o hymn_n or_o spiritual_a song_n and_o be_v chief_o to_o discover_v that_o george_n for_o have_v erroneous_o concern_v himself_o in_o the_o division_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n which_o therefore_o may_v serve_v for_o a_o warn_v to_o the_o child_n of_o light_n that_o their_o dependency_n may_v not_o be_v on_o g._n f._n a_o mislead_v fallible_a man_n nor_o yet_o on_o any_o mortal_a man_n man_n or_o name_v whatsoever_o save_o the_o name_n of_o jesus_n who_o be_v give_v of_o the_o father_n to_o be_v salvation_n unto_o the_o end_v of_o the_o earth_n by_o william_n rogers_n hosea_n 9.7_o the_o day_n of_o visitation_n be_v come_v the_o day_n of_o recompense_n be_v come_v israel_n shall_v know_v it_o the_o prophet_n be_v a_o fool_n the_o spiritual_a man_n be_v mad_a for_o the_o abundance_n of_o thy_o iniquity_n and_o great_a hatred_n print_a in_o the_o year_n 1680._o the_o four_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n and_o innovator_n etc._n etc._n this_o small_a treatise_n be_v chief_o design_v to_o be_v communicate_v unto_o those_o who_o profess_v the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n jesus_n the_o son_n of_o the_o eternal_a god_n by_o his_o light_n in_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o man_n to_o be_v a_o sufficient_a guide_n unto_o the_o father_n of_o life_n the_o faith_n of_o such_o be_v that_o those_o who_o receive_v this_o appearance_n or_o gift_n of_o god_n so_o as_o to_o live_v and_o walk_v according_a to_o the_o divine_a motion_n and_o dictate_v thereof_o shall_v come_v to_o know_v the_o salvation_n of_o god_n through_o christ_n jesus_n their_o lawgiver_n lord_n and_o saviour_n it_o be_v public_o know_v that_o this_o principle_n of_o truth_n have_v be_v hold_v forth_o and_o own_a by_o those_o who_o in_o derision_n have_v be_v call_v quaker_n of_o who_o it_o may_v be_v now_o say_v to_o the_o great_a grief_n and_o exercise_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o faithful_a follower_n of_o christ_n among_o they_o that_o though_o the_o principle_n in_o which_o such_o of_o they_o who_o have_v receive_v from_o god_n a_o divine_a and_o spiritual_a knowledge_n have_v believe_v be_v unchangeable_a yet_o the_o enemy_n have_v so_o prevail_v as_o that_o the_o seed_n of_o dissension_n and_o discord_n sow_o among_o they_o have_v take_v so_o deep_a root_n as_o that_o their_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n in_o several_a part_n of_o this_o nation_n have_v become_v the_o stage_n of_o contention_n to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o god_n his_o truth_n and_o people_n and_o in_o divers_a part_n of_o this_o nation_n it_o be_v repute_v that_o george_n fox_n be_v at_o least_o one_o of_o the_o chief_a abettor_n of_o one_o party_n and_o john_n story_n of_o another_o but_o how_o far_o that_o report_n may_v with_o respect_n to_o g._n f._n have_v credit_n with_o other_o beside_o myself_o i_o shall_v leave_v to_o the_o sense_n and_o savour_n of_o the_o understanding_n impartial_a reader_n when_o he_o have_v thorough_o peruse_v this_o treatise_n and_o though_o from_o their_o name_n mention_v in_o the_o title-page_n some_o may_v be_v in_o expectation_n that_o the_o difference_n between_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n with_o respect_n to_o the_o present_a separation_n in_o some_o part_n of_o this_o nation_n may_v be_v treat_v on_o at_o large_a yet_o that_o be_v not_o my_o present_a design_n or_o purpose_v though_o i_o must_v confess_v that_o matter_n be_v at_o large_a collect_v and_o impartial_o state_v and_o lie_v ready_a by_o i_o for_o the_o press_n and_o in_o probability_n may_v come_v forth_o or_o at_o least_o a_o part_n thereof_o more_o than_o what_o be_v in_o this_o four_o part_n contain_v in_o its_o proper_a time_n and_o season_n unless_o the_o lord_n shall_v be_v please_v to_o change_v the_o heart_n of_o the_o persecute_v opposer_n of_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n and_o other_o servant_n of_o the_o lord_n unto_o who_o the_o truth_n be_v as_o dear_a as_o ever_o and_o that_o the_o door_n may_v be_v open_v again_o in_o our_o public_a assembly_n for_o worship_n of_o god_n whereby_o those_o who_o have_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o publish_v in_o the_o demonstration_n of_o his_o power_n and_o spirit_n may_v not_o be_v so_o frequent_o obstruct_v by_o the_o airy_a imaginary_a and_o empty_a discourse_n of_o such_o as_o have_v pretend_v to_o have_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o declare_v when_o
the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n &_o innovator_n in_o five_o part_n wherein_o religious_a differnce_n among_o the_o people_n term_v in_o derision_n quaker_n be_v treat_v on_o george_z fox_n one_o at_o least_o if_o not_o the_o chief_a repute_v author_n thereof_o be_v detect_v doctrine_n of_o truth_n own_v by_o the_o child_n of_o light_n and_o clear_v from_o objection_n be_v lay_v down_o according_a to_o holy_a scripture_n and_o revelation_n of_o the_o spirit_n by_o william_n rogers_n on_o behalf_n of_o himself_o and_o other_o friend_n in_o truth_n concern_v eccles_n 2.9_o there_o be_v no_o new_a thing_n under_o the_o sun_n gal._n 2.11_o but_o when_o peter_n be_v come_v to_o antioch_n i_o withstand_v he_o to_o the_o face_n because_o he_o be_v to_o be_v blame_v london_n print_v in_o the_o year_n 1680._o the_o preface_n to_o the_o reader_n it_o be_v the_o say_v of_o christ_n as_o i_o hear_v i_o judge_v i_o hope_v that_o christ_n example_n in_o that_o case_n will_v be_v such_o a_o bond_n on_o every_o one_o that_o may_v concern_v themselves_o touch_v this_o treatise_n as_o that_o i_o may_v have_v no_o just_a occasion_n to_o reflect_v on_o any_o christian-professor_n even_o as_o nicodemus_n a_o pharisee_n once_o do_v on_o those_o of_o his_o own_o sect_n joh._n 7.51_o do_v our_o law_n judge_v any_o man_n before_o it_o hear_v he_o in_o confidence_n that_o this_o treatise_n may_v meet_v with_o so_o much_o justice_n at_o least_o from_o true_a if_o not_o from_o all_o pretend_a friend_n it_o be_v now_o bring_v to_o light_n and_o though_o some_o among_o the_o people_n term_v in_o derision_n quaker_n appear_v to_o stand_v as_o neuter_n in_o the_o present_a controversy_n among_o they_o not_o know_v the_o christian_n and_o orderly_o proceed_v of_o other_o may_v conclude_v that_o it_o be_v a_o untimely_a birth_n yet_o let_v such_o know_v that_o the_o moderation_n of_o those_o who_o be_v concern_v in_o the_o publication_n hereof_o have_v for_o many_o year_n pass_v be_v manifest_v note_v the_o division_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n have_v be_v at_o least_o eight_o year_n increase_n to_o the_o height_n they_o now_o be_v at_o by_o endeavour_v as_o much_o as_o in_o they_o do_v lie_v as_o hereafter_o will_n more_o large_o appear_v that_o those_o small_a difference_n which_o at_o first_o seem_v but_o like_a unto_o little_a spark_n may_v not_o arise_v unto_o so_o great_a a_o flame_n as_o they_o now_o be_v and_o be_v it_o not_o so_o that_o many_o meeting_n of_o the_o say_a people_n for_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n in_o divers_a part_n of_o the_o nation_n have_v be_v entertain_v with_o frequent_a contention_n and_o opposition_n and_o in_o particular_a that_o both_o priest_n professor_n and_o profane_v have_v become_v eye_n and_o ear-witness_n of_o such_o rude_a and_o unchristianlike_a deportment_n as_o of_o late_o have_v be_v mafe_v by_o many_o speak_n at_o once_o in_o their_o publick-meeting_a within_o the_o city_n of_o bristol_n before_o many_o hundred_o by_o which_o the_o metre_n have_v be_v repute_v as_o in_o a_o uproar_v and_o their_o meetinghouse_n account_v rather_o a_o stage_n of_o scold_v than_o a_o place_n for_o worship_n of_o god_n it_o may_v not_o as_o yet_o have_v be_v bring_v to_o light_n without_o some_o further_a endeavour_n to_o have_v seek_v a_o reconciliation_n if_o so_o be_v the_o least_o hope_n shall_v have_v be_v give_v of_o its_o acceptance_n but_o be_v void_a of_o all_o such_o hope_n now_o so_o it_o be_v that_o so_o great_a a_o concern_v of_o conscience_n lie_v on_o many_o to_o encourage_v the_o publication_n hereof_o as_o that_o we_o can_v no_o long_o forbear_v lest_o it_o shall_v be_v repute_v that_o the_o doctrine_n and_o life_n of_o christianity_n be_v whole_o extinct_a among_o the_o aforesaid_a people_n my_o desire_n now_o be_v that_o the_o reader_n may_v serious_o weigh_v the_o four_o follow_a notation_n and_o the_o observation_n thereon_o and_o than_o it_o will_v easy_o be_v savour_v at_o what_o door_n the_o public_a disorder_n have_v enter_v and_o whether_o or_o no_o they_o be_v not_o the_o very_a birth_n of_o some_o politic_a unchristianlike_a contrivance_n first_o many_o in_o that_o city_n retain_v their_o ancient_a respect_n for_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n two_o ancient_n and_o honourable_a labourer_n in_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n who_o conversation_n and_o doctrine_n i_o have_v not_o know_v or_o understand_v to_o be_v exceed_v in_o godliness_n by_o any_o mortal_a man_n whatsoever_o and_o on_o that_o foot_n be_v account_v such_o as_o join_v to_o separate_v or_o a_o separate_a spirit_n as_o the_o term_n or_o nickname_n sometime_o be_v because_o some_o upstart_n and_o innovator_n adherent_n to_o george_n fox_n have_v be_v please_v to_o disow_v the_o say_v john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n though_o they_o can_v not_o just_o charge_v they_o with_o evil._n second_o in_o a_o paper_n give_v forth_o by_o a_o eminent_a preacher_n and_o opposer_n of_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n who_o name_n i_o omit_v for_o the_o reason_n herein_o after_o mention_v thus_o direct_v viz._n to_o god_n friend_n every_o where_o concern_v the_o present_a separate_v and_o their_o spirit_n it_o be_v thus_o say_v let_v not_o this_o spirit_n be_v reason_v with_o enter_v not_o into_o proposal_n and_o article_n with_o it_o but_o feed_v it_o with_o judgement_n that_o be_v god_n decree_n so_o may_v the_o soul_n that_o be_v deceive_v come_v by_o the_o right_a door_n into_o the_o heavenly_a unity_n three_o the_o same_o person_n that_o write_v as_o aforesaid_a be_v also_o concern_v in_o a_o paper_n subscribe_v by_o charles_n martial_n and_o sixty-five_a more_o give_v forth_o at_o ellis_n hook_n his_o chamber_n the_o 12_o the_o day_n of_o the_o 4_o the_o month_n 1677._o wherein_n it_o be_v thus_o write_v with_o relation_n to_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n therefore_o brethren_n every_o where_o stand_v up_o in_o the_o power_n and_o wisdom_n of_o god_n for_o the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n against_o that_o wrong_n jealous_a murmur_a and_o divide_v spirit_n and_o where_o they_o come_v warn_v they_o in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o go_v home_o and_o not_o go_v thus_o up_o and_o down_o to_o offer_v their_o gift_n four_o the_o very_a same_o person_n that_o write_v as_o aforesaid_a thus_o that_o be_v god_n decree_n do_v also_o some_o year_n pass_v threaten_v that_o bristol_n shall_v be_v as_o a_o anvil_n to_o beat_v upon_o mean_v with_o respect_n to_o religious_a difference_n my_o observation_n now_o be_v that_o in_o as_o much_o as_o the_o meeting_n at_o bristol_n have_v become_v as_o a_o anvil_n whereon_o many_o apostate_n or_o innovator_n opposer_n of_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n have_v in_o a_o disorderly_a manner_n frequent_o beat_v it_o may_v not_o rational_o be_v take_v to_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o a_o politic_a unchristianlike_a contrivance_n in_o the_o best_a sense_n and_o that_o albeit_o they_o have_v be_v apt_a to_o stamp_v their_o rude_a discourse_n and_o severe_a judgement_n in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n resuse_v to_o reason_n with_o such_o against_o who_o they_o strike_v or_o in_o a_o christian_a spirit_n to_o treat_v of_o the_o difference_n yet_o therein_o i_o be_o full_o persuade_v that_o they_o act_n rather_o from_o the_o line_n of_o another_o than_o their_o own_o and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o from_o the_o line_n such_o a_o one_o as_o have_v take_v liberty_n to_o violate_v that_o which_o he_o will_v impose_v as_o by_o a_o decree_n from_o god_n on_o other_o for_o though_o he_o imperative_o thus_o say_v as_o aforesaid_a let_v not_o this_o spirit_n be_v reason_v with_o enter_v not_o into_o proposal_n and_o article_n with_o it_o but_o feed_v it_o with_o judgement_n that_o be_v god_n decree_n yet_o he_o himself_o do_v a_o few_o month_n after_o accompany_v george_n fox_n to_o the_o city_n of_o bristol_n and_o there_o enter_v into_o reason_v proposal_n and_o article_n with_o such_o as_o own_a john_n story_n though_o term_v a_o separate_a or_o separate_a spirit_n which_o by_o the_o scope_n of_o his_o write_n may_v reasonable_o be_v take_v by_o those_o who_o understand_v his_o mean_v by_o these_o his_o word_n viz._n this_o spirit_n to_o be_v a_o act_v contrary_a to_o his_o own_o counsel_n when_o i_o compare_v this_o with_o these_o kind_n of_o declaration_n frequent_o publish_v among_o the_o aforesaid_a people_n viz._n let_v we_o exclude_v the_o reason_v the_o wisdom_n and_o the_o jealousy_n and_o let_v we_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o the_o brethren_n further_n insinuate_v as_o if_o god_n have_v ordain_v minister_n among_o they_o that_o be_v to_o see_v and_o hear_v for_o the_o body_n and_o common_a member_n of_o the_o church_n as_o the_o print_a term_n be_v i_o can_v but_o be_v full_a of_o jealousy_n that_o these_o
eminent_a among_o the_o say_a people_n and_o therein_o lay_v down_o many_o particular_n relate_v to_o doctrine_n discipline_n and_o practice_n print_v write_a publish_a and_o act_v which_o we_o be_v persuade_v be_v erroneous_a and_o aught_o to_o have_v be_v testify_v against_o and_o therefore_o do_v propose_v unto_o they_o to_o join_v with_o we_o to_o give_v testimony_n against_o such_o thing_n if_o in_o their_o conscience_n they_o be_v satisfy_v so_o to_o do_v as_o one_o proper_a expedient_a for_o the_o remove_n stumbling-block_n out_o of_o the_o way_n as_o by_o the_o say_a letter_n dated_n bristol_n the_o 22th_o of_o the_o 2d_o month_n 1679._o may_n more_o large_o appear_v unto_o any_o of_o the_o say_a people_n who_o may_v desire_v of_o i_o to_o peruse_v the_o same_o in_o the_o aforesaid_a letter_n we_o do_v advise_v that_o the_o manuscript_n make_v mention_v of_o be_v prepare_v and_o that_o the_o content_n thereof_o be_v as_o be_v already_o cite_v but_o forasmuch_o as_o no_o answer_n come_v from_o the_o party_n write_v unto_o before_o the_o general-meeting_a and_o that_o the_o matter_n treat_v on_o be_v not_o with_o a_o intent_n that_o it_o shall_v be_v keep_v private_a in_o the_o breast_n of_o those_o to_o who_o it_o be_v write_v but_o be_v communicate_v to_o the_o body_n of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n therefore_o we_o send_v the_o aforesaid_a letter_n unto_o the_o general-meeting_a next_o follow_v for_o the_o same_o end_n as_o we_o do_v unto_o those_o three_o person_n to_o who_o we_o first_o write_v give_v a_o cover_v thereto_o in_o these_o follow_a word_n only_o it_o be_v to_o be_v note_v that_o a_o blank_a thus_o be_v leave_v instead_o of_o the_o name_n of_o a_o person_n for_o the_o reason_n hereafter_o mention_v bristol_n the_o 4_o the_o of_o the_o 4_o the_o month_n 1679._o friend_n the_o enclose_v be_v two_o sheet_n and_o a_o part_n of_o a_o sheet_n be_v a_o copy_n of_o what_o be_v send_v unto_o the_o 11_o of_o the_o last_o month_n to_o be_v communicate_v unto_o the_o rest_n unto_o who_o it_o be_v direct_v and_o be_v now_o send_v unto_o you_o with_o request_n that_o it_o may_v be_v read_v among_o you_o for_o this_o end_n that_o when_o it_o be_v so_o read_v you_o may_v if_o free_a in_o spirit_n declare_v your_o approbation_n that_o it_o may_v be_v read_v in_o all_o mens_fw-la and_o womens-meeting_n of_o friend_n whatever_o your_o thought_n may_v be_v touch_v the_o enclose_v yet_o know_v this_o that_o it_o be_v neither_o give_v forth_o nor_o yet_o be_v now_o recommend_v to_o you_o but_o upon_o very_o serious_a consideration_n and_o concern_v of_o conscience_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v now_o request_v that_o you_o will_v serious_o and_o conscientious_o weigh_v the_o matter_n that_o so_o neither_o your_o tongue_n nor_o pen_n may_v be_v so_o exercise_v on_o this_o occasion_n as_o that_o you_o may_v for_o the_o future_a see_v cause_n to_o repent_v the_o same_o one_o of_o we_o viz._n william_n rogers_n intend_v to_o have_v come_v up_o to_o the_o general-meeting_a not_o only_o to_o recommend_v the_o enclose_v to_o be_v read_v among_o you_o but_o also_o to_o have_v offer_v unto_o you_o that_o the_o manuscript_n whereof_o it_o make_v mention_v may_v be_v read_v in_o the_o general-meeting_a if_o you_o will_v assent_v thereto_o but_o some_o emergent_a occasion_n which_o he_o have_v communicate_v to_o his_o correspondent_n james_n claypoole_n under_o who_o cover_n this_o go_v have_v obstruct_v that_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v now_o propose_v unto_o you_o that_o before_o it_o be_v make_v public_a among_o all_o friend_n you_o may_v appoint_v a_o meeting_n as_o general_a as_o you_o please_v to_o have_v it_o first_o read_v and_o if_o you_o think_v so_o to_o do_v this_o now_o inform_v you_o that_o it_o will_v be_v assent_v unto_o provide_v you_o appoint_v the_o place_n of_o read_v the_o same_o to_o be_v either_o in_o the_o county_n of_o wilts_n or_o city_n of_o bristol_n before_o the_o last_o day_n of_o this_o instant_a month_n but_o if_o that_o time_n and_o place_n please_v you_o not_o and_o yet_o be_v willing_a to_o have_v the_o hear_v thereof_o it_o be_v now_o desire_v that_o you_o will_v be_v please_v to_o signify_v so_o much_o and_o make_v your_o desire_n know_v to_o ourselves_o direct_v to_o william_n rogers_n in_o bristol_n and_o we_o doubt_v not_o but_o you_o shall_v have_v such_o a_o answer_n as_o may_v answer_v the_o truth_n in_o all_o the_o end_n wherefore_o this_o be_v now_o propose_v be_v because_o you_o and_o other_o friend_n as_o well_o as_o they_o unto_o who_o we_o first_o write_v if_o you_o shall_v not_o be_v at_o unity_n with_o we_o may_v have_v opportunity_n to_o clear_v yourselves_o unto_o and_o concern_v we_o before_o the_o say_a manuscript_n become_v public_a among_o all_o friend_n and_o if_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n shall_v be_v in_o your_o mouth_n we_o doubt_v not_o but_o it_o will_v have_v place_n with_o all_o concern_v in_o prepare_v the_o say_a manuscript_n but_o if_o in_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n you_o and_o other_o shall_v have_v nought_o to_o say_v against_o the_o matter_n contain_v therein_o then_o let_v all_o such_o for_o the_o future_a be_v wary_a of_o rash_a and_o unjust_a censure_n lest_o they_o shall_v be_v find_v fighter_n against_o the_o lord_n it_o be_v desire_v that_o a_o answer_n may_v be_v give_v hereto_o and_o leave_v with_o james_n claypoole_n by_o the_o 16_o instant_a at_o far_a to_o be_v send_v unto_o we_o direct_v to_o william_n rogers_n merchant_n in_o bristol_n we_o be_v your_o friend_n william_n rogers_n william_n ford_n this_o letter_n wherein_o the_o former_a be_v enclose_v be_v deliver_v seal_v in_o the_o general_n meeting_n by_o james_n claypoole_n who_o according_a to_o my_o request_n there_o declare_v that_o it_o come_v to_o he_o under_o cover_n from_o i_o with_o direction_n to_o be_v deliver_v seal_v in_o the_o aforesaid_a meeting_n james_n claypoole_n have_v thus_o faithful_o discharge_v the_o trust_v repose_v in_o he_o it_o be_v then_o commit_v to_o six_o person_n to_o unseal_v and_o peruse_v and_o report_v the_o content_n to_o the_o meeting_n who_o thereupon_o make_v this_o ensue_a report_n only_o it_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v that_o instead_o of_o the_o name_n of_o three_o person_n where_o of_o george_n fox_n be_v one_o in_o one_o place_n and_o of_o one_o person_n in_o another_o a_o blank_a be_v leave_v the_o letter_n deliver_v seal_v to_o the_o general-meeting_a and_o so_o deliver_v to_o we_o to_o peruse_v contain_v a_o copy_n of_o one_o late_o direct_v to_o and_o sign_v by_o he_o william_n rogers_n etc._n etc._n bear_v date_n the_o 22th_o of_o the_o 2d_o month_n and_o send_v the_o 11_o of_o the_o 3d._a month_n to_o and_o our_o judgement_n be_v that_o it_o shall_v be_v leave_v to_o they_o to_o answer_n as_o they_o find_v freedom_n in_o truth_n and_o that_o the_o general-meeting_a ought_v not_o to_o be_v concern_v with_o it_o see_v they_o have_v not_o refuse_v to_o answer_n nor_o have_v convenient_a time_n or_o opportunity_n thereto_o neither_o joint_o nor_o several_o the_o aforesaid_a report_n occasion_n i_o to_o make_v these_o ensue_a observation_n first_o that_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o general_a metre_n who_o be_v keep_v ignorant_a of_o any_o letter_n direct_v to_o they_o be_v therein_o deceive_v second_o that_o wrong_n be_v do_v to_o the_o person_n concern_v in_o write_v to_o the_o general_n meeting_n because_o their_o mind_n be_v not_o communicate_v unto_o those_o unto_o who_o they_o write_v three_o that_o the_o generality_n of_o friend_n in_o the_o nation_n may_v deem_v it_o injurious_a to_o they_o because_o the_o say_a letter_n be_v of_o a_o general_n tendency_n with_o respect_n to_o friend_n and_o affair_n relate_v to_o they_o this_o proceed_v increase_v the_o jealousy_n of_o many_o friend_n that_o a_o spirit_n of_o partiality_n seek_v to_o exercise_v a_o gentilian_n sort_n of_o lordship_n be_v enter_v some_o under_o the_o profession_n of_o truth_n and_o that_o the_o door_n be_v so_o shut_v against_o some_o other_o beside_o myself_o as_o that_o those_o thing_n which_o become_v our_o burden_n must_v not_o be_v represent_v to_o those_o who_o we_o be_v concern_v to_o advise_v thereof_o or_o to_o treat_v withal_o in_o a_o christian-spirit_n that_o so_o some_o expedient_a agreeable_a to_o the_o truth_n may_v be_v find_v to_o remove_v our_o burden_n and_o so_o if_o possible_a prevent_v the_o publication_n in_o print_n of_o the_o manuscript_n prepare_v in_o which_o the_o name_n of_o several_a hundred_o on_o each_o part_n concern_v in_o the_o division_n be_v mention_v but_o yet_o the_o noise_n of_o print_v have_v this_o service_n seveveral_a friend_n from_o divers_a part_n of_o the_o nation_n come_v to_o the_o city_n of_o bristol_n be_v the_o place_n as_o before_o be_v note_v that_o one_o
eminent_o concern_v in_o the_o division_n threaten_v shall_v be_v the_o anvil_n to_o beat_v upon_o and_o intercede_v that_o we_o will_v forbear_v make_v mention_n of_o the_o name_n of_o person_n reflect_v on_o to_o this_o the_o answer_n be_v that_o it_o seem_v unlikely_a to_o bring_v forth_o a_o credible_a history_n touch_v religious_a difference_n without_o name_v the_o author_n of_o book_n paper_n and_o name_n of_o person_n reflect_v on_o evidence_v the_o reality_n of_o such_o principle_n doctrine_n and_o practice_n which_o occasion_v disunion_n and_o separation_n among_o some_o of_o the_o aforesaid_a people_n however_o truth_n oblige_v we_o to_o have_v a_o tender_a regard_n unto_o those_o who_o come_v unto_o we_o in_o brotherly_a love_n and_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o such_o our_o desire_n have_v be_v that_o the_o lord_n may_v permit_v we_o to_o bear_n forbear_v and_o suffer_v have_v a_o secret_a hope_n that_o the_o lord_n may_v make_v such_o instrument_n in_o his_o hand_n by_o a_o tender_a and_o brotherly_a mediation_n to_o cause_v the_o high_a and_o lofty_a to_o bow_v to_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n that_o so_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n may_v be_v exalt_v in_o every_o heart_n where_o his_o law_n be_v write_v and_o that_o none_o who_o make_v mention_v of_o his_o name_n may_v conclude_v themselves_o enter_v into_o a_o heavenly_a possession_n or_o inheritance_n because_o of_o a_o strict_a observance_n of_o some_o outward_a write_a order_n prescribe_v by_o man._n after_o we_o have_v long_o bear_v it_o then_o more_o particular_o become_v my_o concern_v to_o prepare_v another_o manuscript_n and_o that_o chief_o out_o of_o the_o second_o part_n of_o what_o be_v first_o prepare_v in_o relation_n to_o divers_a person_n concern_v in_o the_o division_n to_o discover_v that_o one_o man_n george_n for_o guilty_a of_o many_o thing_n reproachful_a to_o the_o truth_n and_o that_o because_o it_o be_v and_o yet_o be_v clear_o manifest_v unto_o i_o and_o as_o i_o have_v understand_v many_o other_o that_o that_o one_o person_n have_v be_v the_o very_a chief_a instrument_n or_o at_o least_o a_o abettor_n of_o such_o as_o have_v whereby_o a_o bite_a devour_a spirit_n be_v enter_v in_o among_o the_o flock_n and_o yet_o great_a part_n of_o the_o contention_n of_o one_o party_n with_o another_o seem_v to_o be_v but_o about_o the_o shell_n and_o not_o the_o kernel_n my_o mean_v thereby_o be_v about_o outward_a form_n and_o method_n relate_v to_o marriage_n relief_n of_o the_o poor_a etc._n etc._n as_o if_o hell_n gate_n must_v be_v open_v to_o receive_v all_o such_o as_o walk_v not_o in_o that_o outward_a path_n which_o in_o relation_n thereto_o have_v be_v prescribe_v by_o that_o one_o man._n moreover_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o before_o i_o undertake_v to_o prepare_v the_o manuscript_n relate_v to_o that_o one_o man._n i_o write_v unto_o he_o seven_o letter_n date_v as_o follow_v viz._n the_o 27_o of_o the_o one_a month_n 1677._o the_o 3d._n of_o the_o 10_o month_n 1677._o the_o four_o of_o the_o 11_o month_n 1678._o the_o 11_o of_o the_o 11_o month_n 1678._o one_o other_o on_o the_o same_o day_n sign_v by_o thomas_n gouldeny_n william_n ford_n and_o myself_o one_o other_o the_o 22th_o of_o the_o 2d_o month_n 1679._o sign_v by_o myself_o and_o three_o other_o friend_n direct_v to_o he_o and_o two_o other_o and_o one_o other_o from_o myself_o only_o date_v the_o 6_o of_o the_o 12_o month_n 1679._o manifest_v the_o ground_n of_o my_o dissatisfaction_n with_o relation_n to_o many_o thing_n of_o a_o public_a concern_v among_o friend_n as_o well_o as_o personal_a injury_n which_o become_v he_o to_o clear_v or_o else_o give_v satisfaction_n and_o yet_o to_o this_o day_n be_v the_o 16_o day_n of_o the_o 6_o month_n 1680._o i_o can_v in_o truth_n say_v that_o any_o answer_n be_v come_v from_o he_o to_o i_o notwithstanding_o messenger_n be_v send_v unto_o he_o on_o purpose_n with_o several_a of_o they_o and_o advice_n give_v i_o of_o the_o delivery_n and_o though_o a_o paper_n come_v once_o to_o my_o hand_n in_o which_o mention_n be_v make_v of_o two_o of_o the_o say_a letter_n yet_o i_o can_v take_v it_o to_o be_v his_o answer_n but_o rather_o as_o by_o the_o language_n thereof_o appear_v the_o answer_n of_o another_o on_o his_o behalf_n and_o chief_o stuff_v with_o query_n so_o that_o my_o concern_v to_o expect_v satisfaction_n or_o detect_v he_o be_v increase_v at_o length_n when_o i_o perceive_v it_o be_v not_o probable_a to_o obtain_v what_o i_o expect_v from_o he_o by_o make_v manifest_a my_o burden_n and_o exercise_n either_o to_o he_o or_o one_o or_o two_o who_o i_o suppose_v he_o may_v esteem_v to_o be_v of_o the_o church_n nor_o yet_o from_o the_o general_n meet_v though_o as_o i_o suppose_v they_o be_v esteem_v by_o some_o though_o not_o by_o all_o the_o representative_n of_o the_o church_n in_o general_a i_o then_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o many_o brethren_n travel_v in_o several_a part_n of_o the_o nation_n manifest_v that_o according_a to_o the_o understanding_n give_v i_o of_o god_n i_o have_v proceed_v towards_o that_o one_o person_n g._n f._n in_o a_o gospel-method_n and_o that_o if_o i_o than_o shall_v have_v proceed_v to_o print_v against_o he_o nothing_o can_v be_v just_o lay_v to_o my_o charge_n for_o want_v of_o orderly_o proceed_v to_o obtain_v satisfaction_n which_o hitherto_o be_v not_o give_v i_o but_o yet_o my_o condescension_n to_o my_o brethren_n be_v such_o as_o that_o though_o the_o manuscript_n relate_v to_o he_o be_v prepare_v i_o very_o public_o propose_v in_o write_v under_o my_o hand_n and_o spread_v the_o same_o abroad_o direct_v to_o friend_n in_o several_a county_n signify_v that_o if_o any_o one_o of_o they_o be_v free_a to_o write_v unto_o that_o one_o person_n or_o at_o least_o to_o give_v this_o testimony_n under_o their_o or_o any_o of_o their_o hand_n that_o since_o i_o charge_v he_o to_o be_v guilty_a of_o thing_n reproachful_a to_o the_o truth_n it_o be_v but_o just_a and_o reasonable_a that_o he_o shall_v submit_v to_o a_o hear_v thereof_o before_o friend_n in_o truth_n to_o the_o end_n that_o if_o guilty_a he_o may_v condemn_v the_o same_o if_o not_o he_o may_v be_v justify_v and_o i_o condemn_v for_o accuse_v wrongful_o i_o shall_v then_o forbear_v print_v against_o he_o until_o such_o time_n i_o shall_v send_v such_o a_o letter_n or_o testimony_n unto_o the_o place_n of_o his_o habitation_n and_o if_o he_o shall_v be_v please_v to_o give_v answer_n thereto_o on_o request_n to_o he_o to_o be_v make_v by_o the_o messenger_n that_o shall_v go_v therewith_o than_o my_o purpose_n be_v as_o i_o then_o declare_v to_o communicate_v such_o answer_n to_o friend_n that_o so_o we_o may_v consider_v further_o what_o may_v be_v agreeable_a to_o truth_n to_o be_v do_v on_o this_o occasion_n one_o part_n of_o my_o end_n in_o thus_o do_v be_v to_o discover_v whether_o there_o be_v such_o a_o erroneous_a principle_n in_o any_o so_o to_o stand_v by_o a_o man_n charge_v to_o be_v guilty_a of_o thing_n reproachful_a to_o the_o truth_n as_o that_o he_o must_v be_v exempt_v though_o guilty_a from_o the_o stroke_n of_o that_o justice_n which_o in_o the_o like_a case_n of_o gild_n he_o have_v prescribe_v for_o other_o for_o though_o the_o apostle_n testify_v that_o charity_n suffer_v long_o bear_v and_o endure_v all_o thing_n yet_o his_o mean_v be_v not_o that_o any_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n of_o what_o degree_n soever_o shall_v not_o be_v treat_v withal_o when_o over-taken_a in_o a_o fault_n else_o the_o same_o apostle_n will_v not_o have_v give_v these_o testimony_n gal._n 6.5_o every_o man_n shall_v bear_v his_o own_o burden_n col._n 3.25_o he_o that_o do_v wrong_a shall_v receive_v for_o the_o wrong_n which_o he_o have_v do_v and_o there_o be_v no_o respect_n of_o person_n beside_o it_o be_v observable_a from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n rev._n 2.2_o that_o it_o be_v praiseworthy_a not_o to_o bear_v liar_n though_o they_o may_v say_v they_o be_v apostle_n i_o now_o come_v to_o inform_v the_o reader_n that_o the_o ensue_a treatise_n be_v for_o the_o most_o part_n collect_v out_o of_o the_o manuscript_n first_o make_v mention_n of_o but_o yet_o with_o the_o omission_n of_o some_o marginal_a memorial_n direct_v the_o reader_n to_o the_o several_a section_n of_o the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o say_a manuscript_n that_o so_o from_o matter_n of_o fact_n therein_o contain_v the_o truth_n of_o reflection_n make_v and_o the_o reasonableness_n of_o objection_n raise_v and_o that_o from_o the_o book_n write_n or_o practice_n of_o some_o particular_a person_n or_o person_n repute_v of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n may_v be_v prove_v and_o therefore_o since_o it_o be_v not_o think_v fit_a
for_o the_o reason_n mention_v in_o this_o preface_n to_o publish_v the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o say_a manuscript_n we_o instead_o thereof_o for_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o all_o friend_n do_v declare_v that_o it_o be_v ready_a for_o the_o view_n of_o any_o friend_n in_o order_n to_o prove_v the_o reasonableness_n of_o the_o reflection_n make_v or_o objection_n raise_v have_v thus_o premise_v i_o now_o come_v again_o to_o lay_v down_o the_o three_o beforementioned_a query_n and_o to_o give_v direct_a answer_n thereto_o quer._n 1._o why_o have_v thou_o omit_v to_o mention_v the_o name_n of_o some_o person_n and_o author_n of_o some_o book_n and_o paper_n reflect_v on_o in_o this_o treatise_n answ_n though_o i_o have_v be_v reflect_v upon_o at_o a_o ungodly_a rate_n by_o many_o because_o i_o have_v be_v concern_v to_o oppose_v a_o erroneous_a and_o persecute_v spirit_n which_o i_o have_v behold_v enter_v among_o the_o flock_n of_o god_n yet_o bless_a be_v the_o lord_n he_o have_v so_o preserve_v i_o by_o the_o arm_n of_o his_o power_n as_o that_o none_o of_o my_o opposer_n have_v so_o far_o as_o i_o know_v lay_v any_o thing_n unto_o my_o charge_n but_o for_o matter_n wherein_o i_o have_v act_v though_o misrepresent_v by_o they_o to_o keep_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o as_o it_o become_v my_o concern_v of_o conscience_n to_o prepare_v the_o manuscript_n first_o mention_v that_o so_o the_o truth_n of_o some_o material_a matter_n occasion_v or_o accompany_v division_n and_o separation_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n may_v lie_v on_o record_n at_o least_o until_o a_o union_n may_v again_o be_v witness_v so_o also_o it_o have_v be_v my_o frequent_a breathe_v unto_o the_o lord_n that_o i_o may_v not_o bring_v forth_o a_o untimely_o birth_n but_o may_v so_o be_v lead_v and_o guide_v in_o this_o affair_n as_o that_o i_o may_v answer_v the_o witness_n of_o god_n in_o all_o conscience_n and_o to_o my_o inward_a peace_n and_o joy_n in_o the_o lord_n i_o can_v say_v that_o i_o have_v the_o evidence_n of_o his_o spirit_n notwithstanding_o what_o any_o man_n may_v say_v to_o the_o contrary_a that_o he_o have_v own_v my_o proceed_v therein_o hitherto_o and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o that_o there_o have_v be_v a_o answer_n thereto_o in_o many_o brethren_n and_o as_o i_o be_v serious_o wait_v on_o the_o lord_n i_o become_v satisfy_v in_o my_o conscience_n to_o forbear_v reflect_o to_o mention_v in_o this_o treatise_n the_o name_n of_o many_o repute_a quaker_n that_o as_o yet_o i_o doubt_v remain_v deviate_v in_o some_o thing_n from_o the_o line_n of_o truth_n and_o i_o hope_v such_o a_o spirit_n of_o mediation_n and_o justice_n will_v have_v appear_v among_o some_o of_o our_o friend_n who_o will_v not_o be_v understand_v to_o be_v concern_v in_o the_o difference_n between_o other_o as_o that_o they_o may_v have_v be_v a_o mean_n to_o cause_n g._n f._n to_o stoop_v so_o timely_a to_o justice_n as_o that_o there_o may_v have_v be_v not_o concern_v upon_o i_o and_o other_o to_o discover_v any_o part_n of_o his_o error_n so_o public_o as_o now_o they_o be_v the_o consideration_n occur_v in_o my_o breast_n when_o i_o become_v so_o satisfy_v as_o aforesaid_a be_v these_o first_o several_a of_o my_o brethren_n as_o before_o be_v premise_v intercede_v to_o forbear_v and_o if_o for_o my_o thus_o do_v any_o shall_v reflect_v upon_o i_o they_o may_v as_o well_o reflect_v upon_o the_o apostle_n counsel_n when_o he_o exhort_v the_o ephesian_n to_o submit_v themselves_o one_o unto_o another_o in_o the_o fear_n of_o god_n for_o i_o be_v sensible_a that_o those_o who_o so_o concern_v themselves_o have_v a_o true_a sense_n that_o the_o cause_n wherein_o i_o be_v concern_v be_v the_o cause_n of_o truth_n on_o which_o foot_n their_o treatment_n of_o i_o be_v in_o much_o love_n and_o tenderness_n and_o forasmuch_o as_o i_o perceive_v they_o be_v not_o without_o hope_n that_o a_o little_o long_a forbearance_n may_v work_v for_o the_o better_a i_o become_v satisfy_v it_o be_v my_o place_n to_o submit_v and_o forbear_v a_o while_n second_o though_o hardness_n of_o heart_n have_v so_o overtake_v some_o as_o that_o they_o may_v still_o continue_v to_o oppose_v their_o brethren_n in_o the_o truth_n without_o the_o least_o just_a ground_n or_o pretence_n either_o from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n or_o right_a reason_n yet_o i_o be_o not_o without_o hope_n that_o some_o other_o concern_v against_o their_o brethren_n in_o the_o present_a difference_n may_v in_o some_o time_n come_v to_o a_o sense_n of_o their_o fail_n and_o repent_v and_o then_o either_o the_o memory_n of_o their_o offence_n may_v be_v blot_v out_o or_o their_o repentance_n therewith_o if_o timely_o know_v record_v and_o that_o according_a as_o opportunity_n may_v permit_v and_o truth_n require_v three_o it_o be_v hope_v that_o this_o treatise_n may_v become_v a_o warn_v to_o many_o but_o more_o especial_o to_o such_o as_o have_v depart_v from_o the_o anoint_v in_o themselves_o that_o they_o may_v repent_v and_o turn_v to_o their_o first_o love_n viz._n the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o light_n in_o they_o and_o not_o in_o neglect_n of_o god_n teach_n lie_v dote_v on_o outward_a order_n as_o if_o that_o which_o be_v promise_v to_o be_v write_v in_o the_o heart_n be_v now_o to_o be_v seek_v after_o in_o piece_n and_o scrap_n of_o paper_n or_o that_o the_o write_a order_n of_o any_o at_o this_o day_n shall_v become_v a_o certain_a rule_n through_o which_o a_o heavenly_a possession_n may_v be_v obtain_v by_o such_o as_o can_v not_o own_o the_o scripture_n themselves_o though_o by_o the_o spirit_n give_v forth_o to_o be_v that_o certain_a rule_n but_o instead_o thereof_o the_o spirit_n itself_o to_o be_v it_o and_o if_o any_o think_v themselves_o hereby_o reflect_v on_o unjust_o because_o at_o some_o time_n they_o have_v appear_v of_o another_o language_n yet_o if_o such_o by_o their_o fruit_n have_v give_v the_o lie_n to_o the_o offer_n of_o their_o lip_n the_o deceit_n be_v the_o great_a and_o more_o worthy_a to_o be_v discover_v four_o this_o treatise_n be_v chief_o intend_v for_o the_o service_n of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n among_o who_o the_o religious_a difference_n be_v so_o public_o know_v as_o that_o i_o have_v no_o cause_n to_o doubt_v but_o that_o the_o matter_n treat_v on_o will_v be_v intelligible_a by_o they_o though_o the_o name_n of_o some_o person_n and_o author_n of_o some_o book_n and_o paper_n be_v not_o mention_v however_o if_o any_o among_o they_o for_o want_v of_o that_o public_a converse_n which_o other_o have_v have_v shall_v manifest_v the_o least_o jealousy_n that_o there_o be_v no_o reason_n so_o to_o object_n or_o reflect_v as_o in_o the_o ensue_a treatise_n i_o shall_v then_o be_v ready_a to_o give_v unto_o such_o particular_a satisfaction_n from_o matter_n of_o fact_n relate_v to_o person_n or_o person_n and_o forasmuch_o as_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a that_o all_o paper_n and_o book_n which_o may_v evidence_n the_o reasonableness_n of_o all_o objection_n and_o reflection_n can_v lie_v at_o once_o in_o many_o hand_n and_o be_v for_o the_o most_o part_n with_o i_o therefore_o this_o treatise_n be_v sign_v thus_o by_o william_n rogers_n on_o behalf_n of_o himself_o and_o other_o friend_n in_o truth_n concern_v and_o so_o the_o name_n of_o those_o other_o my_o brethren_n concern_v with_o i_o in_o this_o work_n be_v omit_v partly_o because_o they_o may_v not_o be_v capable_a to_o give_v a_o ready_a and_o satisfactory_a answer_n for_o want_v of_o the_o book_n or_o paper_n signify_v of_o as_o aforesaid_a quer._n 2._o why_o have_v thou_o treat_v on_o principle_n hold_v forth_o by_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n since_o many_o book_n have_v already_o be_v give_v forth_o by_o some_o among_o they_o treat_v on_o many_o if_o not_o all_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o thou_o have_v do_v answ_n it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o all_o christian_n to_o clear_v their_o conscience_n as_o by_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n in_o their_o conscience_n they_o be_v direct_v which_o doubtless_o be_v the_o real_a ground_n whereupon_o many_o ancient_a and_o honourable_a friend_n already_o fall_v asleep_o have_v give_v forth_o their_o testimony_n touch_v the_o same_o principle_n public_o hold_v forth_o both_o by_o word_n and_o printing_n by_o some_o other_o servant_n of_o the_o lord_n before_o they_o and_o if_o no_o more_o be_v say_v to_o this_o query_n it_o ought_v to_o suffice_v but_o yet_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o some_o i_o shall_v lay_v down_o the_o consideration_n attend_v i_o when_o i_o become_v conscientious_o concern_v so_o to_o do_v the_o deportment_n of_o some_o unruly_a woman_n and_o ignorant_a self-conceited_a
man_n on_o the_o part_n of_o our_o opposer_n in_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n of_o god_n have_v frequent_o be_v cause_n of_o stumble_v to_o some_o so_o that_o it_o be_v to_o be_v doubt_v that_o jealousy_n have_v be_v ready_a to_o enter_v many_o that_o though_o the_o name_n of_o christianity_n be_v retain_v among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n yet_o that_o the_o nature_n life_n and_o doctrine_n thereof_o have_v suffer_v shipwreck_n among_o they_o if_o all_o under_o that_o name_n ought_v at_o this_o day_n to_o be_v measure_v by_o the_o deportment_n and_o doctrine_n of_o some_o the_o particular_a instance_n of_o such_o deportment_n and_o doctrine_n whereof_o i_o have_v be_v eye_n and_o earwitness_a may_v fill_v a_o large_a volumn_n and_o therefore_o if_o this_o be_v grant_v it_o can_v but_o by_o every_o considerate_a and_o impartial_a reader_n be_v think_v needful_a enough_o that_o a_o testimony_n unto_o the_o principle_n of_o truth_n ancient_o hold_v forth_o among_o they_o may_v once_o more_o be_v revive_v and_o commit_v to_o posterity_n on_o behalf_n of_o that_o party_n among_o they_o who_o account_v themselves_o persecute_v revile_a and_o evil_o entreat_v when_o they_o know_v no_o other_o cause_o thereof_o than_o in_o their_o steadfast_a adhere_n to_o and_o persevere_v in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n in_o christ_n jesus_n and_o have_v begin_v in_o the_o spirit_n can_v be_v in_o unity_n with_o such_o as_o to_o they_o seem_v to_o expect_v perfection_n through_o a_o zealous_a exalt_v of_o other_o man_n line_n make_v ready_a to_o their_o hand_n and_o thus_o the_o generation_n to_o come_v as_o well_o as_o at_o this_o day_n may_v know_v that_o though_o some_o lover_n of_o pre-eminence_n innovator_n and_o unskilful_a preacher_n that_o know_v not_o how_o to_o divide_v the_o word_n aright_o have_v be_v please_v to_o stigmatize_v other_o with_o these_o term_n viz._n dark_a leaven_a rend_v divide_v separate_a spirit_n yet_o it_o have_v be_v manifest_a that_o it_o be_v because_o such_o other_o can_v in_o a_o temporize_a spirit_n change_v their_o way_n and_o depart_v from_o their_o ancient_a path_n which_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n they_o have_v be_v lead_v into_o and_o wherein_o they_o have_v have_v fellowship_n with_o their_o ancient_a brethren_n who_o the_o lord_n anoint_v to_o publish_v his_o everlasting_a gospel_n and_o to_o gather_v other_o from_o the_o lo_n here_o be_v and_o the_o lo_n there_o be_v to_o take_v heed_n unto_o the_o holy_a unction_n in_o themselves_o as_o a_o sufficient_a guide_n unto_o the_o father_n of_o life_n quer._n 3_o whether_o thy_o publish_v this_o treatise_n in_o print_n may_v not_o in_o probability_n give_v unto_o other_o a_o knowledge_n of_o the_o difference_n among_o we_o and_o so_o obstruct_v the_o increase_n of_o our_o meeting_n and_o the_o gather_n of_o some_o yet_o walk_v in_o the_o broad_a way_n into_o the_o true_a faith_n and_o cause_n many_o already_o gather_v thereunto_o to_o stumble_v and_o fall_v answ_n nay_o the_o consideration_n induce_v i_o so_o to_o answer_n be_v these_o though_o this_o treatise_n declare_v that_o there_o be_v division_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n yet_o that_o be_v not_o more_o than_o what_o to_o my_o knowledge_n be_v public_o know_v both_o to_o professor_n and_o profane_a and_o that_o from_o observation_n of_o such_o in_o the_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n for_o many_o month_n if_o not_o year_n pass_v as_o be_v not_o repute_v to_o be_v of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n the_o occasion_n of_o such_o observation_n in_o some_o meeting_n have_v be_v so_o frequent_o give_v as_o that_o it_o seem_v to_o i_o to_o be_v as_o impossible_a to_o cover_v the_o knowledge_n thereof_o as_o that_o which_o have_v be_v proclaim_v by_o a_o common_a bell-man_n and_o the_o instrument_n which_o for_o the_o most_o part_n have_v be_v the_o proclaimer_n hereof_o have_v be_v such_o as_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o preacher_n in_o god_n name_n though_o in_o a_o reality_n but_o idle_a ignorant_a prater_n in_o the_o will_n of_o man_n by_o their_o declaration_n run_v against_o the_o friend_n of_o truth_n sometime_o by_o name_n and_o other_o time_n not_o so_o particular_a though_o intelligible_a enough_o and_o yet_o incapable_a to_o detect_v such_o as_o be_v evil_a either_o in_o conversation_n or_o doctrine_n which_o be_v consider_v and_o compare_v with_o many_o imaginary_a discourse_n in_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n of_o god_n whereby_o the_o publisher_n thereof_o appear_v unlearned_a in_o the_o school_n of_o christ_n it_o be_v irrational_a to_o expect_v that_o any_o person_n conscientious_o seek_v after_o the_o way_n of_o truth_n shall_v be_v gather_v to_o such_o as_o be_v at_o variance_n each_o with_o other_o and_o who_o public_a assembly_n have_v be_v at_o some_o time_n the_o very_a stage_n of_o contention_n and_o if_o they_o shall_v it_o be_v most_o certain_a they_o will_v not_o therein_o be_v gather_v unto_o such_o as_o be_v in_o a_o heavenly_a fellowship_n each_o with_o other_o but_o if_o on_o the_o contrary_a such_o as_o be_v seek_v after_o the_o way_n of_o truth_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n have_v be_v disaffect_v with_o they_o in_o general_a from_o a_o certain_a knowledge_n of_o their_o division_n and_o the_o unsound_a doctrine_n hold_v forth_o by_o some_o and_o yet_o shall_v but_o serious_o ponder_v this_o treatise_n it_o may_v become_v a_o mean_n unto_o such_o to_o eschew_v the_o evil_a and_o embrace_v the_o good_a by_o incline_v their_o heart_n unto_o the_o principle_n of_o truth_n herein_o hold_v forth_o and_o not_o suffer_v the_o offence_n give_v by_o such_o among_o they_o as_o have_v retain_v the_o name_n but_o not_o the_o nature_n nor_o yet_o in_o some_o respect_v the_o doctrine_n of_o christianity_n so_o to_o enter_v as_o to_o hinder_v their_o perseverance_n and_o growth_n in_o the_o true_a faith_n until_o at_o length_n they_o may_v come_v into_o union_n and_o fellowship_n with_o the_o faithful_a friend_n thereof_o moreover_o to_o i_o it_o seem_v impossible_a that_o the_o seasonable_a assert_v the_o truth_n and_o plead_v for_o it_o can_v occasion_v any_o to_o stumble_v and_o fall_v from_o it_o but_o rather_o the_o contrary_a however_o i_o must_v confess_v it_o be_v probable_a enough_o that_o it_o may_v occasion_v many_o to_o disregard_n such_o kind_n of_o preacher_n or_o rather_o prater_n who_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n have_v not_o only_o cause_v the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o be_v evil_o speak_v of_o but_o who_o necessity_n have_v seem_v to_o be_v a_o bait_n unto_o they_o to_o follow_v for_o the_o loaf_n and_o no_o marvel_n if_o these_o instead_o of_o gather_v to_o god_n gather_v to_o themselves_o and_o as_o a_o proper_a expedient_a to_o obtain_v such_o a_o gather_v publish_v in_o the_o open_a meeting_n for_o worship_n of_o god_n such_o like_a doctrine_n as_o these_o according_a as_o i_o have_v already_o hint_v and_o which_o i_o be_o a_o witness_n from_o the_o hear_n of_o my_o ear_n have_v in_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n be_v publish_v viz._n have_v your_o eye_n to_o the_o brethren_n mean_v thereby_o public_a preacher_n if_o you_o do_v not_o see_v yourselves_o follow_v we_o that_o do_v see_v and_o frequent_o exhort_v to_o shut_v out_o the_o reason_n the_o wisdom_n and_o the_o jealousy_n without_o distinction_n which_o be_v compare_v with_o these_o primitive_a and_o wholesome_a exhortation_n and_o doctrine_n wisdom_n be_v justify_v of_o her_o child_n look_v not_o unto_o we_o but_o unto_o the_o lord_n take_v heed_n unto_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n in_o your_o own_o conscience_n draw_v water_n out_o of_o your_o own_o well_n let_v it_o be_v your_o own_o and_o not_o another_o it_o seem_v to_o i_o more_o like_o the_o language_n of_o those_o shepherd_n who_o as_o the_o prophet_n say_v seek_v for_o their_o gain_n from_o their_o quarter_n than_o the_o language_n of_o such_o who_o the_o lord_n have_v anoint_v to_o cherish_v and_o feed_v his_o sheep_n to_o conclude_v this_o preface_n it_o be_v with_o i_o to_o say_v unto_o every_o one_o through_o the_o nation_n call_v by_o the_o name_n quaker_n on_o this_o wise_a let_v the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o day_n that_o be_v pass_v come_v before_o you_o wherein_o the_o servant_n of_o the_o live_a god_n labourer_n in_o the_o gospel_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o latter_a day_n of_o the_o ministration_n of_o light_n sound_v by_o his_o trumpet_n a_o alarm_n to_o the_o nation_n and_o what_o say_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o eternal_a power_n through_o they_o it_o speak_v to_o this_o effect_n unto_o the_o inhabitant_n of_o the_o earth_n awake_v awake_v from_o the_o sleep_n of_o death_n that_o the_o lord_n may_v give_v unto_o you_o life_n he_o that_o be_v and_o be_v and_o be_v to_o come_v be_v arisen_a in_o a_o remnant_n and_o christ_n the_o son_n
of_o the_o eternal_a god_n who_o be_v with_o the_o father_n before_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n be_v lay_v be_v become_v the_o horn_n of_o their_o salvation_n and_o have_v bring_v immortality_n to_o light_n in_o they_o and_o reveal_v that_o teacher_n that_o can_v never_o be_v move_v into_o a_o corner_n and_o therefore_o these_o can_v depend_v any_o long_o on_o the_o teach_n of_o man_n nor_o yet_o on_o outward_a canonical_a article_n creed_n directory_n or_o church-faith_n prescribe_v by_o man_n but_o on_o the_o teach_n of_o christ_n alone_o by_o his_o light_n and_o spiritual_a appearance_n in_o themselves_o to_o lead_v and_o guide_v unto_o the_o father_n of_o life_n the_o sound_n of_o this_o alarm_n as_o many_o can_v yet_o witness_v become_v a_o joyful_a sound_n to_o that_o soul_n which_o be_v hunger_a after_o the_o lord_n though_o pierce_v as_o a_o dart_n through_o the_o liver_n to_o the_o man_n of_o sin_n so_o that_o astonishment_n and_o amazement_n seem_v to_o take_v hold_n on_o many_o whereby_o they_o become_v a_o byword_n a_o mock_n and_o a_o taunt_v unto_o such_o who_o dependency_n be_v on_o their_o outward_a teacher_n etc._n etc._n as_o aforesaid_a i_o say_v again_o oh_o friend_n let_v the_o remembrance_n of_o this_o day_n come_v before_o you_o and_o consider_v further_o what_o be_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o eternal_a power_n unto_o such_o who_o be_v strike_v with_o amazement_n after_o they_o believe_v the_o appearance_n of_o that_o power_n whereby_o they_o be_v so_o strike_v to_o be_v the_o appearance_n of_o the_o power_n of_o god_n i_o well_o remember_v the_o voice_n be_v on_o this_o wise_a to_o your_o own_o to_o your_o own_o to_o your_o own_o mean_v thereby_o that_o they_o shall_v turn_v in_o their_o mind_n to_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n in_o their_o conscience_n which_o be_v declare_v to_o be_v that_o teacher_n which_o can_v never_o be_v remove_v into_o a_o corner_n that_o so_o they_o may_v witness_v the_o fulfil_n of_o that_o loud_a voice_n utter_v by_o the_o angel_n fly_v through_o the_o midst_n of_o heaven_n have_v the_o everlasting_a gospel_n to_o preach_v unto_o they_o that_o dwell_v on_o the_o earth_n etc._n etc._n fear_v god_n and_o give_v glory_n to_o he_o for_o the_o hour_n of_o his_o judgement_n be_v come_v and_o worship_v he_o that_o make_v heaven_n and_o earth_n etc._n etc._n for_o no_o doubt_n but_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n reveal_v unto_o those_o first_o labourer_n in_o the_o gospel_n that_o there_o be_v a_o proneness_n in_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o man_n to_o admire_v to_o depend_v upon_o and_o sometime_o through_o a_o affectionate_a part_n or_o blind_a zeal_n to_o worship_v such_o be_v be_v instrument_n to_o give_v forth_o outward_a directory_n or_o church-faith_n for_o we_o find_v that_o the_o apostle_n tell_v we_o of_o worship_v angel_n which_o be_v messenger_n who_o god_n have_v send_v by_o he_o that_o intrude_v into_o thing_n which_o he_o have_v not_o see_v therefore_o i_o be_o persuade_v that_o the_o voice_n of_o truth_n through_o they_o be_v not_o only_o thus_o viz._n to_o your_o own_o which_o be_v observe_v lead_v into_o a_o independency_n upon_o other_o but_o also_o frequent_o on_o this_o wise_a we_o preach_v not_o ourselves_o look_v not_o unto_o we_o in_o the_o consideration_n of_o these_o thing_n i_o can_v but_o cry_v aloud_o in_o the_o aforesaid_a word_n of_o the_o angel_n that_o have_v the_o everlasting_a gospel_n to_o preach_v fear_v god_n and_o give_v glory_n to_o he_o and_o then_o no_o doubt_n but_o every_o such_o one_o that_o have_v concern_v himself_o to_o condemn_v his_o brother_n on_o no_o better_a ground_n than_o from_o the_o example_n and_o prescription_n of_o another_o will_v come_v to_o see_v that_o therein_o he_o have_v not_o keep_v to_o his_o own_o and_o so_o have_v be_v lead_v into_o a_o by_o and_o err_v path._n oh_o friend_n let_v therefore_o this_o cry_n pass_v through_o every_o heart_n to_o our_o own_o to_o our_o own_o to_o our_o own_o that_o be_v to_o say_v to_o every_o one_o be_v own_o measure_n of_o christ_n light_n or_o grace_n of_o god_n received_n which_o the_o apostle_n say_v be_v sufficient_a with_o this_o secret_a breathe_n of_o spirit_n unto_o the_o god_n of_o our_o life_n that_o all_o may_v be_v thereto_o retire_v for_o if_o that_o counsel_n may_v but_o take_v place_n it_o seem_v to_o i_o that_o there_o can_v then_o be_v no_o room_n for_o any_o to_o impose_v or_o press_v the_o observation_n of_o other_o man_n line_n upon_o any_o which_o no_o doubt_n be_v one_o great_a occasion_n of_o the_o religious_a difference_n treat_v on_o and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o it_o will_v mould_v all_o who_o retain_v the_o name_n of_o christianity_n into_o the_o very_a nature_n thereof_o and_o so_o consequent_o a_o reconciliation_n in_o the_o everlasting_a truth_n may_v quick_o ensue_v for_o if_o that_o door_n be_v but_o once_o shut_v through_o which_o variance_n and_o disunion_n enter_v there_o may_v then_o arise_v a_o hope_n of_o cessation_n to_o such_o contention_n and_o strife_n as_o be_v out_o of_o the_o truth_n but_o if_o not_o i_o may_v then_o say_v how_o can_v the_o effect_n cease_v whilst_o the_o cause_n remain_v i_o well_o remember_v and_o many_o with_o i_o that_o while_o friend_n keep_v to_o their_o own_o and_o concern_v not_o themselves_o to_o promote_v a_o zealous_a observation_n of_o other_o man_n line_n make_v ready_a to_o their_o hand_n we_o then_o hear_v not_o of_o so_o much_o contention_n strife_n and_o debate_n both_o public_a and_o private_a as_o of_o late_a year_n have_v be_v but_o since_o the_o promotion_n thereof_o confusion_n disorder_n emulation_n malice_n and_o envy_n have_v be_v its_o offspring_n which_o have_v be_v manifest_v by_o public_a unjust_a revile_n against_o some_o when_o zealous_o contend_v for_o the_o faith_n of_o god_n elect_n and_o though_o these_o be_v of_o that_o number_n that_o prefer_v obedience_n to_o their_o own_o measure_n of_o grace_n receive_v before_o obedience_n to_o the_o measure_n of_o other_o yet_o other_o some_o there_o be_v who_o have_v endeavour_v to_o bring_v friend_n into_o conformity_n to_o the_o pretend_a dictate_v of_o the_o spirit_n through_o other_o or_o at_o best_o through_o that_o one_o man_n g._n f._n before_o speak_v of_o and_o that_o under_o the_o penalty_n of_o be_v account_v guilty_a of_o corah_n sin_n for_o scruple_v to_o conform_v and_o thus_o the_o variance_n be_v like_a to_o continue_v unless_o the_o god_n of_o heaven_n for_o his_o name_n sake_n by_o the_o arm_n of_o his_o own_o power_n shall_v put_v a_o stop_n thereto_o and_o forasmuch_o as_o i_o can_v not_o but_o say_v in_o all_o seriousness_n of_o spirit_n for_o the_o clear_n of_o my_o conscience_n let_v the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o day_n that_o be_v pass_v come_v before_o you_o wherein_o the_o servant_n of_o the_o live_a god_n sound_v by_o his_o trumpet_n a_o alarm_n to_o the_o nation_n and_o that_o the_o servant_n of_o the_o lord_n edward_n burrough_n many_o year_n decease_v be_v honourable_o speak_v of_o by_o some_o if_o not_o by_o all_o of_o both_o party_n of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n at_o variance_n one_o that_o have_v the_o trumpet_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o sound_v and_o have_v therewith_o sound_v as_o a_o son_n of_o thunder_n as_o well_o as_o of_o consolation_n many_o alarm_n unto_o the_o nation_n i_o shall_v conclude_v with_o the_o citation_n of_o a_o part_n of_o a_o epistle_n write_v by_o he_o in_o the_o year_n 1658._o to_o the_o friend_n of_o the_o city_n of_o london_n and_o so_o leave_v the_o consideration_n thereof_o to_o the_o impartial_a reader_n to_o savour_v whether_o according_a to_o the_o sense_n of_o his_o counsel_n we_o ought_v not_o to_o know_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o ourselves_o to_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o all_o our_o action_n and_o if_o so_o then_o to_o practice_v from_o other_o man_n line_n without_o a_o inward_a conviction_n by_o the_o spirit_n in_o ourselves_o can_v be_v no_o more_o accept_v as_o indeed_o it_o be_v not_o than_o the_o offering_n of_o the_o halt_n and_o the_o blind_a for_o a_o sacrifice_n under_o the_o first_o covenant_n be_v here_o follow_v the_o citation_n out_o of_o edward_n burrough_n aforesaid_a epistle_n yea_o it_o be_v peace_n to_o the_o soul_n and_o gladness_n to_o the_o heart_n and_o refreshment_n to_o the_o life_n to_o feel_v and_o witness_v the_o teach_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o father_n lead_v into_o all_o truth_n and_o preserve_v out_o of_o all_o transgression_n wherefore_o i_o beseech_v you_o all_o let_v this_o be_v your_o whole_a desire_n and_o the_o full_a practice_n in_o your_o life_n and_o then_o shall_v the_o countenance_n of_o the_o lord_n shine_v upon_o you_o and_o his_o face_n shall_v make_v you_o glad_a if_o in_o all_o thing_n you_o look_v unto_o
lest_o you_o be_v find_v fighter_n against_o that_o which_o the_o lord_n by_o a_o constrant_a of_o his_o power_n lead_v into_o and_o builder_n again_o of_o the_o thing_n that_o you_o have_v destroy_v for_o as_o the_o principle_n of_o truth_n never_o lead_v we_o to_o respect_v person_n in_o judgement_n so_o have_v it_o not_o lead_v we_o to_o refuse_v to_o call_v upon_o the_o high_a as_o well_o as_o the_o low_a to_o stoop_v to_o a_o just_a hear_n when_o matter_n of_o error_n and_o evil_a fact_n shall_v be_v lay_v at_o the_o door_n of_o such_o a_o one_o that_o i_o may_v as_o much_o as_o in_o i_o lie_v be_v ease_v in_o my_o spirit_n with_o relation_n to_o you_o i_o can_v but_o in_o bowel_n of_o true_a love_n warn_v you_o that_o these_o my_o few_o line_n may_v be_v read_v in_o the_o fear_n and_o dread_a of_o the_o live_a god_n that_o so_o if_o it_o may_v be_v with_o you_o to_o answer_n or_o act_n any_o thing_n in_o relation_n hereunto_o you_o may_v not_o add_v to_o my_o burden_n by_o grieve_v that_o which_o the_o lord_n never_o grieve_v have_v thus_o far_o clear_v my_o conscience_n to_o you_o as_o it_o be_v with_o i_o on_o my_o bed_n this_o very_a morning_n i_o have_v peace_n herein_o and_o remain_v your_o friend_n william_n rogers_n a_o postscript_n that_o which_o have_v drop_v from_o one_o or_o some_o of_o your_o lip_n since_o my_o come_n to_o london_n have_v occasion_v i_o to_o add_v this_o postscript_n my_o end_n in_o communicate_v unto_o you_o what_o be_v with_o i_o on_o this_o occasion_n be_v not_o that_o either_o you_o or_o any_o shall_v take_v upon_o you_o to_o judge_v the_o cause_n without_o assent_n or_o hear_v both_o of_o george_n fox_n and_o myself_o and_o if_o any_o have_v or_o shall_v endeavour_v to_o insinuate_v the_o contrary_a from_o any_o thing_n which_o i_o have_v either_o speak_v or_o write_a the_o god_n of_o heaven_n will_v blast_v that_o spirit_n from_o whence_o it_o have_v or_o may_v come_v as_o that_o which_o seek_v occasion_n against_o i_o undeserved_o the_o like_a practice_n be_v that_o cry_v sin_n which_o my_o conscience_n have_v be_v concern_v to_o cry_v against_o know_v that_o it_o have_v enter_v many_o under_o the_o profession_n of_o truth_n and_o for_o which_o their_o name_n lie_v on_o record_n to_o their_o shame_n but_o yet_o i_o be_o not_o without_o this_o secret_a hope_n that_o the_o day_n will_v come_v wherein_o many_o of_o they_o may_v repent_v of_o the_o same_o i_o can_v also_o but_o inform_v you_o that_o it_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o gross_a darkness_n to_o compare_v such_o as_o be_v at_o unity_n with_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n on_o a_o religious_a score_n and_o that_o on_o the_o foot_n of_o such_o unity_n to_o john_n parrot_n and_o his_o follower_n in_o the_o practice_n of_o keep_v on_o their_o hat_n in_o prayer_n because_o john_n perrot_n practice_n therein_o may_v proper_o be_v term_v such_o innovation_n in_o the_o church_n as_o tend_v to_o schism_n contrary_a to_o the_o approve_a practice_n of_o the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o so_o be_v worthy_o judge_v and_o condemn_v but_o as_o to_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n i_o remember_v not_o that_o ever_o any_o accuse_v they_o for_o introduce_v any_o practice_n into_o the_o church_n of_o god_n contrary_a to_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n or_o the_o approve_a practice_n of_o friend_n when_o at_o unity_n in_o the_o truth_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o i_o be_o well_o satisfy_v in_o my_o conscience_n and_o that_o on_o sufficient_a ground_n too_o large_a here_o to_o insert_v that_o the_o very_a secret_a reason_n wherefore_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n have_v be_v judge_v by_o many_o though_o unheard_a by_o such_o to_o speak_v for_o themselves_o and_o that_o certificate_n against_o they_o have_v be_v either_o send_v or_o approve_v to_o be_v send_v abroad_o by_o george_n fox_n with_o direction_n to_o send_v they_o both_o to_o enemy_n and_o friend_n be_v because_o they_o can_v stoop_v and_o bow_v to_o innovation_n not_o practise_v by_o friend_n when_o in_o unity_n in_o the_o truth_n nor_o yet_o justifyable_a from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n or_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n in_o their_o conscience_n and_o if_o any_o to_o who_o these_o line_n may_v come_v have_v or_o may_v think_v i_o too_o zealous_a i_o earnest_o desire_v that_o such_o may_v watch_v against_o a_o lukewarm_a spirit_n and_o that_o which_o be_v inclinable_a to_o respect_n person_n in_o judgement_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o against_o that_o spirit_n that_o have_v be_v ready_a to_o proclaim_v the_o suppose_a infirmity_n of_o some_o on_o the_o housetop_n while_o endeavour_n be_v make_v to_o cover_v the_o sin_n of_o the_o high_a and_o lofty_a one_o george_n fox_n though_o the_o so_o do_v have_v tend_v to_o the_o stumble_n of_o many_o among_o the_o flock_n of_o god_n whoever_o may_v so_o do_v and_o for_o the_o accomplishment_n thereof_o shall_v pervert_v the_o counsel_n and_o intent_n of_o the_o apostle_n when_o he_o exhort_v to_o bear_v all_o thing_n as_o if_o that_o scripture_n may_v be_v produce_v to_o cover_v the_o notorious_a sin_n of_o one_o that_o may_v pretend_v himself_o infallible_a i_o then_o say_v it_o be_v the_o ready_a way_n to_o introduce_v a_o justification_n of_o rantism_n itself_o i_o now_o be_o further_o to_o acquaint_v you_o that_o if_o either_o of_o you_o or_o any_o friend_n unto_o who_o this_o may_v come_v be_v write_v for_o public_a view_n among_o friend_n shall_v within_o twenty_o day_n time_n after_o the_o date_n hereof_o write_v unto_o george_n fox_n and_o therein_o signify_v to_o this_o purpose_n that_o since_o i_o call_v for_o justice_n and_o satisfaction_n for_o wrong_n do_v and_o thing_n act_v by_o he_o reproachful_a to_o the_o truth_n he_o then_o ought_v to_o submit_v to_o a_o hear_v thereof_o before_o friend_n in_o truth_n that_o so_o if_o guilty_a he_o may_v condemn_v it_o and_o if_o not_o he_o may_v be_v justife_v i_o then_o shall_v free_o forbear_v print_v against_o he_o until_o such_o time_n he_o either_o send_v answer_n to_o such_o a_o letter_n or_o else_o send_v no_o answer_n when_o it_o may_v be_v desire_v of_o he_o but_o yet_o with_o this_o proviso_n that_o such_o so_o to_o be_v concern_v send_v the_o say_a letter_n to_o i_o to_o be_v send_v unto_o he_o and_o if_o he_o shall_v answer_v and_o propose_v such_o a_o method_n for_o a_o hear_v as_o may_v be_v approve_v in_o my_o conscience_n i_o may_v then_o submit_v thereto_o william_n rogers_n to_o this_o letter_n i_o never_o receive_v any_o answer_n here_o follow_v william_n rogers_n his_o remonstrance_n to_o which_o his_o aforesaid_a letter_n give_v cover_v to_o the_o friend_n of_o london_n in_o relation_n to_o g._n f._n to_o the_o intent_n that_o some_o expedient_a may_v be_v find_v to_o prevent_v print_v against_o he_o friend_n it_o be_v not_o unknown_a unto_o many_o of_o you_o that_o i_o have_v be_v concern_v touch_v the_o difference_n arisen_a among_o friend_n and_o whatever_o censure_v some_o may_v pass_v upon_o i_o yet_o i_o have_v this_o evidence_n in_o my_o conscience_n that_o my_o concern_v have_v be_v for_o the_o cause_n of_o god_n his_o truth_n and_o people_n and_o so_o through_o his_o mercy_n be_o inward_o mad_a partaker_n of_o his_o peace_n though_o many_o under_o the_o profession_n of_o truth_n have_v endeavour_v to_o give_v i_o outward_a trouble_n and_o be_v it_o so_o that_o with_o peace_n of_o conscience_n i_o can_v have_v forbear_v to_o come_v up_o unto_o this_o city_n of_o london_n on_o the_o occasion_n i_o now_o be_o here_o i_o shall_v much_o rather_o have_v stay_v at_o home_n about_o my_o outward_a business_n than_o have_v take_v this_o journey_n which_o i_o have_v do_v and_o that_o through_o a_o constraint_n upon_o my_o spirit_n to_o lay_v before_o friend_n in_o several_a part_n of_o the_o nation_n a_o part_n of_o those_o thing_n which_o have_v be_v and_o be_v my_o burden_n to_o the_o end_n that_o as_o much_o as_o in_o i_o lie_v i_o may_v endeavour_v that_o a_o expedient_a may_v be_v find_v whereby_o they_o may_v be_v remove_v and_o lay_v at_o the_o proper_a door_n and_o that_o so_o the_o guilty_a after_o serious_a examination_n by_o a_o equal_a consent_n of_o party_n may_v be_v by_o those_o who_o retain_v their_o integrity_n to_o the_o lord_n and_o his_o truth_n visit_v exhort_v and_o warn_v to_o repent_v and_o turn_v from_o that_o spirit_n which_o have_v beguile_v so_o may_v the_o judgement_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v witness_v to_o the_o renew_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o mind_n unto_o god_n again_o among_o friend_n in_o general_a the_o friend_n at_o london_n be_v before_o i_o to_o visit_v on_o this_o occasion_n but_o to_o be_v very_o
the_o contrary_a of_o what_o be_v intend_v for_o the_o press_n i_o reasonable_o conclude_v that_o whatever_o be_v write_v in_o the_o above_o cite_v sheet_n be_v there_o approve_v i_o shall_v now_o proceed_v to_o cite_v a_o few_o sentence_n out_o of_o it_o which_o amount_v to_o a_o publication_n of_o division_n page_n 4._o the_o lord_n have_v suffer_v blindness_n in_o part_n to_o happen_v to_o some_o through_o decline_v their_o first_o love_n who_o come_v out_o among_o we_o and_o have_v a_o part_n in_o the_o belief_n and_o discovery_n of_o the_o way_n of_o truth_n but_o now_o some_o only_o have_v the_o sheeps-clothing_n and_o other_o have_v lose_v that_o too_o who_o through_o a_o prejudice_v mind_n be_v alienate_v from_o that_o unity_n of_o spirit_n and_o bond_n of_o peace_n in_o which_o we_o keep_v our_o wholesome_a practice_n which_o we_o have_v receive_v in_o the_o unity_n and_o order_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o peace_n and_o truth_n of_o christ_n jesus_n in_o the_o fellowship_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o bowel_n of_o mercy_n be_v likeminded_a and_o of_o one_o accord_n in_o whatsoever_o thing_n be_v true_a just_a honest_a and_o of_o good_a report_n not_o that_o we_o shall_v think_v of_o they_o only_o but_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o they_o as_o we_o be_v in_o the_o same_o page_n it_o be_v further_a thus_o write_v but_o to_o our_o burden_n and_o grief_n we_o find_v among_o some_o a_o contrary_a spirit_n that_o will_v not_o subject_a to_o unity_n in_o wholesome_a practice_n among_o we_o and_o that_o will_v needs_o interpose_v to_o destroy_v unity_n in_o some_o place_n and_o obtrude_v itself_o to_o confound_v our_o wholesome_a order_n and_o practice_n receive_v among_o we_o as_o a_o church_n and_o people_n and_o through_o this_o contrary_a spirit_n and_o prejudice_v mind_n the_o accuser_n of_o the_o brethren_n be_v break_v out_o under_o a_o specious_a pretence_n cry_v liberty_n of_o conscience_n liberty_n of_o conscience_n in_o opposition_n to_o those_o needful_a convenient_a and_o wholesome_a practice_n exercise_v among_o we_o in_o outward_a thing_n also_o page_n 5_o thus_o this_o note_v a_o accuse_a spirit_n be_v now_o account_v a_o confounder_n of_o order_n by_o this_o rule_n may_v not_o the_o accuser_n of_o i._o w._n and_o i._n s._n be_v account_v confounder_n of_o order_n accuse_v oppose_v divide_v spirit_n that_o be_v at_o work_n in_o this_o our_o day_n to_o confound_v order_n against_o the_o peaceable_a government_n of_o christ_n among_o his_o people_n this_o divide_v accuse_v prejudicial_a worker_n will_v introduce_v a_o belief_n that_o a_o apostasy_n be_v enter_v and_o we_o be_v go_v from_o the_o beginning_n and_o first_o principle_n and_o the_o power_n lose_v and_o now_o form_n be_v set_v up_o and_o imposition_n on_o conscience_n and_o the_o like_a and_o among_o who_o be_v all_o this_o say_v they_o but_o among_o we_o who_o be_v in_o unity_n of_o spirit_n both_o in_o faith_n and_o practice_n and_o it_o be_v among_o such_o that_o they_o imagine_v this_o fearful_a imposture_n and_o arbitrary_a rule_n impose_v prescription_n and_o law_n on_o the_o tender_a conscience_n of_o the_o weak_a be_v now_o get_v up_o to_o exercise_n and_o so_o the_o liberty_n of_o the_o tender_a conscience_n be_v lose_v and_o you_o say_v they_o be_v entangle_v with_o the_o yoke_n of_o bondage_n to_o this_o day_n and_o page_n 10_o thus_o inasmuch_o as_o the_o envious_a worker_n be_v suffer_v to_o proceed_v that_o will_v even_o raze_v out_o the_o foundation_n of_o christ_n kingdom_n and_o government_n under_o which_o his_o subject_n do_v only_o own_v their_o christian-freedom_n and_o true_a liberty_n of_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n in_o the_o 12_o page_z it_o be_v thus_o write_v and_o he_o meaning_n g._n f._n as_o by_o his_o name_n before_o cite_v in_o the_o same_o page_n appear_v be_v move_v of_o the_o lord_n to_o advise_v to_o a_o woman_n meeting_n etc._n etc._n and_o when_o dear_a g._n f._n declare_v unto_o we_o what_o the_o lord_n have_v make_v know_v unto_o he_o by_o his_o power_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v a_o woman_n meeting_n that_o so_o all_o the_o sick_a the_o weak_a the_o widow_n and_o the_o fatherless_a shall_v be_v note_v here_o be_v no_o mention_n make_v of_o bring_v marriage_n before_o they_o mind_v and_o look_v after_o in_o their_o distress_n and_o page_n the_o 13_o thus_o i_o have_v a_o word_n in_o my_o heart_n to_o say_v unto_o you_o all_o backsliders_a obstructors_n opposer_n and_o such_o as_o countenance_v they_o secret_o of_o this_o our_o heavenly_a order_n of_o man_n and_o woman_n meeting_n which_o the_o lord_n by_o his_o power_n have_v set_v up_o and_o further_o thus_o you_o that_o have_v despise_v dignity_n to_o speak_v evil_a of_o the_o servant_n of_o the_o lord_n such_o that_o faithful_o have_v labour_v among_o we_o from_o the_o beginning_n which_o the_o lord_n have_v find_v worthy_a of_o double_a honour_n for_o i_o do_v know_v and_o the_o lord_n have_v seal_v it_o in_o my_o heart_n that_o that_o spirit_n which_o have_v oppose_v the_o bless_a unity_n and_o order_n of_o truth_n in_o those_o our_o man_n and_o woman_n meeting_n shall_v never_o prosper_v nor_o they_o who_o be_v in_o it_o inward_o to_o god_n without_o repentance_n and_o in_o the_o 15_o page_z it_o be_v thus_o write_v and_o a_o true_a sense_n have_v be_v upon_o i_o of_o our_o dear_a friend_n up_o and_o down_o the_o nation_n of_o their_o great_a trial_n and_o exercise_n that_o have_v be_v upon_o they_o because_o of_o this_o wicked_a divide_v spirit_n and_o especial_o in_o my_o native_a country_n viz._n willshire_n thus_o much_o out_o of_o the_o aforesaid_a sheet_n to_o manifest_v that_o this_o treatise_n contain_v not_o the_o first_o print_v and_o publish_v paper_n evidence_v division_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n i_o be_o now_o sensible_a some_o may_v be_v apt_a thus_o to_o object_n if_o the_o meet_v hold_v on_o every_o second_o day_n whereof_o thou_o make_v mention_v may_v be_v justify_v in_o approve_v the_o aforesaid_a sheel_n to_o be_v print_v yet_o it_o can_v be_v plea_n to_o justify_v thy_o print_n because_o thou_o have_v descend_v more_o particular_o to_o describe_v wherein_o the_o difference_n do_v consist_v and_o have_v mention_v some_o name_n of_o both_o party_n concern_v in_o the_o difference_n but_o in_o the_o aforecited_a sheet_n we_o find_v but_o some_o name_n of_o one_o party_n only_o viz._n g_o f._n and_o the_o two_o subscriber_n of_o the_o say_v two_o sheet_n answ_n i_o confess_v the_o latter_a part_n of_o the_o objection_n to_o be_v true_a but_o yet_o not_o sufficient_a for_o any_o to_o condemn_v my_o print_n who_o may_v justify_v the_o print_n of_o the_o aforesaid_a sheet_n for_o if_o the_o mention_v of_o one_o particular_a matter_n wherein_o the_o difference_n be_v repute_v to_o consist_v even_o as_o in_o the_o say_a sheet_n it_o be_v be_v according_a to_o truth_n in_o one_o party_n i_o know_v not_o why_o the_o mention_v of_o more_o may_v not_o be_v justifiable_a in_o the_o other_o party_n and_o if_o it_o be_v justifyable_a to_o mention_v a_o part_n of_o the_o name_n of_o one_o party_n concern_v in_o the_o difference_n why_o not_o also_o of_o the_o other_o and_o though_o in_o the_o aforesaid_a sheet_n there_o be_v not_o so_o particular_a a_o description_n wherein_o the_o difference_n do_v consist_v as_o in_o this_o treatise_n be_v mention_v yet_o the_o understand_a reader_n may_v collect_v many_o thing_n of_o importance_n from_o it_o and_o in_o particular_a that_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o subscriber_n thereof_o and_o such_o as_o be_v at_o unity_n with_o they_o who_o may_v reasonable_o be_v take_v to_o be_v of_o one_o party_n they_o be_v such_o as_o be_v for_o true_a love_n unity_n order_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o peace_n fellowship_n of_o the_o spirit_n bowel_n of_o mercy_n and_o thing_n that_o be_v true_a honest_a just_a and_o a_o good_a report_n etc._n etc._n and_o that_o the_o other_o party_n who_o they_o oppose_v be_v such_o as_o be_v for_o disorder_n confusion_n unto_o who_o blindness_n have_v happen_v and_o that_o they_o be_v decline_v from_o their_o first_o love_n have_v only_o the_o sheeps-clothing_n of_o prejudice_v mind_n oppose_v divide_v confound_a order_n against_o the_o peaceable_a government_n of_o christ_n envious_a worker_n that_o will_v raze_v at_o the_o very_a foundation_n of_o christ_n government_n despiser_n of_o dignity_n etc._n etc._n all_o which_o lead_v i_o to_o this_o observation_n that_o since_o no_o matter_n of_o fact_n be_v signify_v to_o evidence_n any_o under_o the_o profession_n of_o truth_n worthy_a of_o those_o general_a reflection_n nor_o yet_o any_o thing_n refer_v to_o for_o evidence_n i_o may_v reasonable_o conclude_v that_o the_o intend_a opposition_n to_o christ_n government_n be_v in_o their_o sense_n no_o other_o than_o a_o suppose_a dislike_n
viz._n that_o it_o be_v folly_n and_o hypocrisy_n to_o profess_v ourselves_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n and_o yet_o not_o believe_v thus_o as_o the_o true_a church_n believe_v pag._n 36._o sect._n v._n what_o we_o stand_v for_o viz._n truth_n and_o righteousness_n and_o that_o christ_n government_n may_v be_v exalt_v in_o every_o heart_n under_o which_o we_o be_v instruct_v not_o to_o depend_v on_o man_n but_o on_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o god_n grace_n page_n 27._o a_o testimony_n against_o tithe_n and_o for_o meet_v together_o in_o time_n of_o persecution_n the_o neglect_n whereof_o may_v be_v the_o fruit_n of_o weakness_n or_o disobedience_n page_n 28._o the_o government_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o law_n thereof_o be_v inward_a some_o part_n of_o the_o fruit_n bring_v forth_o under_o the_o say_a government_n be_v describe_v page_n 29._o a_o objection_n relate_v to_o the_o secure_v any_o part_n of_o a_o man_n estate_n on_o a_o foresight_n of_o a_o praemunire_n or_o fine_n for_o meet_v answer_v page_n 31._o sect._n vi._n on_o the_o occasion_n of_o a_o objection_n raise_v touch_v the_o sufficiciency_n of_o god_n grace_n unity_n be_v treat_v on_o from_o the_o word_n of_o paul_n to_o the_o corinthian_n that_o they_o shall_v all_o speak_v one_o thing_n page_n 36._o touch_v the_o word_n independency_n occasion_v by_o a_o public_a preacher_n page_n 38._o that_o leave_v friend_n to_o the_o grace_n light_n and_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v not_o the_o way_n to_o lead_v into_o rantism_n page_n 42_o 43._o sect._n vii_o touch_v church_n government_n and_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o word_n church_n government_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o our_o opposer_n as_o we_o on_o sufficient_a ground_n take_v it_o lay_v down_o page_n 44._o our_o denial_n of_o that_o meaning_n page_n 46._o several_a scripture_n from_o whence_o a_o proof_n for_o church_n government_n have_v be_v pretend_v be_v treat_v on_o show_v that_o from_o thence_o no_o pretence_n can_v be_v to_o claim_v a_o power_n over_o conscience_n or_o outward_a property_n page_n 46_o 47._o the_o doctrine_n touch_v power_n over_o conscience_n and_o outward_a thing_n relate_v to_o meum_fw-la and_o tuum_fw-la as_o r._n b_n term_n be_v which_o we_o therefore_o call_v outward_a property_n examine_v and_o testify_v against_o as_o contrary_a to_o the_o principle_n of_o truth_n and_o liberty_n we_o have_v in_o christ_n jesus_n page_n 47._o our_o sense_n what_o ought_v to_o be_v do_v for_o the_o decision_n of_o controversy_n with_o relation_n to_o property_n between_o brother_n and_o brother_n page_n 48._o a_o objection_n raise_v to_o this_o purpose_n that_o what_o be_v give_v forth_o by_o the_o spirit_n through_o the_o brethren_n aught_o to_o be_v obey_v and_o not_o account_v the_o dictate_v of_o fallible_a man_n and_o that_o if_o thou_o see_v it_o not_o thy_o duty_n to_o obey_v the_o reason_n be_v thy_o want_n of_o diligence_n and_o not_o wait_v in_o thy_o measure_n and_o so_o no_o plea_n for_o thy_o disobedience_n be_v good_a page_n 54._o the_o say_a objection_n answer_v page_n 54._o a_o examination_n from_o the_o scripture_n whether_o christ_n give_v any_o encouragement_n to_o his_o disciple_n to_o become_v ruler_n over_o one_o another_o page_n 59_o sect._n viii_o a_o manifestation_n that_o the_o variance_n have_v original_o reason_n from_o a_o different_a sense_n touch_v george_n fox_n the_o general_n meeting_n or_o woman_n meeting_n page_n 61._o sect._n ix_o a_o epistle_n evidence_v the_o qualification_n of_o such_o who_o satan_n make_v use_v of_o to_o rend_v and_o divide_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n page_n 68_o a_o paper_n give_v forth_o by_o edward_n burrough_n anno_fw-la 1661._o touch_v the_o scatter_a in_o israel_n wherein_o by_o a_o parable_n be_v lively_o describe_v a_o part_n of_o what_o have_v happen_v among_o the_o flock_n of_o god_n in_o these_o latter_a day_n pag._n 78._o the_o conclusion_n manifest_v several_a passage_n very_o material_a and_o worthy_a observation_n as_o a_o further_a discovery_n of_o the_o fruit_n and_o cause_n of_o division_n and_o in_o particular_a what_o have_v be_v the_o bait_n whereby_o george_n fox_n have_v be_v tempt_v and_o ensnare_v pag._n 85._o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n and_o innovator_n etc._n etc._n section_n i._n the_o introduction_n wherein_o the_o case_n be_v state_v manifest_v that_o there_o be_v a_o union_n and_o the_o way_n and_o mean_n by_o which_o it_o come_v to_o be_v break_v to_o all_o the_o faithful_a people_n of_o god_n call_v quaker_n throughout_o this_o nation_n of_o england_n or_o else_o where_o we_o your_o brethren_n do_v send_v greeting_n in_o the_o lord_n breathe_v unto_o the_o god_n of_o our_o life_n that_o the_o same_o everlasting_a arm_n and_o power_n whereby_o we_o have_v be_v gather_v unto_o god_n and_o into_o a_o heavenly_a fellowship_n and_o union_n one_o with_o another_o in_o the_o life_n of_o righteousness_n may_v preserve_v we_o all_o to_o the_o end_n of_o our_o day_n in_o the_o bond_n of_o perfect_a love_n each_o towards_o other_o establish_v upon_o that_o sure_a rock_n of_o age_n christ_n jesus_n against_o which_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n never_o do_v can_v or_o shall_v prevail_v and_o in_o this_o love_n our_o desire_n be_v that_o the_o faithful_a unto_o who_o this_o treatise_n be_v direct_v may_v communicate_v the_o same_o unto_o other_o as_o in_o the_o wisdom_n and_o love_n of_o god_n they_o may_v see_v a_o service_n thereof_o dear_a friend_n and_o brother_n we_o be_v true_o sensible_a that_o all_o those_o who_o keep_v their_o place_n and_o habitation_n in_o the_o unchangeable_a truth_n have_v with_o we_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o many_o snare_n and_o temptation_n whereby_o satan_n have_v endeavour_v to_o betray_v the_o innocent_a who_o face_n have_v be_v zion-ward_n and_o that_o his_o most_o subtle_a invention_n have_v be_v to_o appear_v as_o a_o angel_n of_o light_n thereby_o to_o turn_v those_o who_o heart_n have_v be_v incline_v to_o follow_v the_o lord_n out_o of_o the_o way_n of_o truth_n and_o now_o friend_n that_o which_o in_o the_o grief_n of_o our_o heart_n we_o have_v to_o signify_v to_o you_o be_v this_o we_o be_v sensible_a that_o the_o evil_a seedsman_n be_v creep_v in_o among_o many_o of_o those_o call_v quaker_n who_o as_o we_o believe_v have_v in_o day_n past_o walk_v together_o in_o true_a fellowship_n each_o with_o other_o and_o that_o in_o the_o sensible_a feel_n of_o that_o immortal_a life_n whereby_o we_o with_o they_o be_v knit_v and_o unite_v together_o as_o bone_n of_o one_o another_o bone_n and_o flesh_n of_o one_o another_o flesh_n have_v the_o evidence_n of_o such_o our_o heavenly_a union_n spring_v from_o that_o which_o neither_o the_o carnal_a eye_n nor_o the_o carnal_a ear_n can_v be_v witness_n of_o in_o order_n hereunto_o we_o have_v this_o follow_a observation_n to_o make_v that_o the_o day_n be_v wherein_o those_o very_a person_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n who_o now_o be_v at_o great_a variance_n and_o out_o of_o unity_n each_o with_o other_o be_v once_o in_o unity_n and_o therefore_o we_o think_v necessary_a to_o lay_v down_o viz._n first_o some_o part_n of_o those_o thing_n touch_v which_o the_o faithful_a be_v at_o unity_n second_o by_o what_o way_n and_o mean_n that_o unity_n come_v to_o be_v break_v and_o so_o leave_v the_o consideration_n thereof_o to_o the_o conscience_n of_o all_o who_o profess_v the_o truth_n that_o so_o in_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n they_o may_v weigh_v and_o consider_v whether_o their_o unity_n stand_v in_o the_o unchangeable_a truth_n and_o which_o of_o these_o party_n now_o at_o variance_n deviate_v therefrom_o the_o consideration_n of_o this_o observation_n do_v lead_v we_o in_o relation_n to_o the_o first_o particular_a thus_o to_o testify_v viz._n that_o about_o twenty_o six_o year_n past_a it_o please_v the_o lord_n to_o send_v forth_o many_o faithful_a labourer_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n jesus_n who_o in_o his_o name_n dread_a and_o power_n testify_v that_o their_o call_v be_v not_o of_o man_z but_o of_o god_n and_o that_o their_o message_n be_v both_o to_o the_o professor_n and_o to_o the_o profane_a to_o the_o profane_a cry_v on_o this_o wise_a turn_v from_o the_o evil_a of_o your_o way_n and_o do_n and_o meet_v the_o lord_n by_o sudden_a repentance_n of_o your_o open_a transgression_n to_o the_o professor_n who_o be_v not_o in_o the_o common_a pollution_n of_o the_o world_n on_o this_o wise_a your_o outward_a form_n your_o outward_a ordinance_n and_o outward_a church_n fellowship_n they_o be_v even_o but_o as_o rudiment_n of_o this_o world_n and_o the_o lord_n have_v no_o regard_n thereto_o and_n to_o both_o of_o they_o turn_v in_o your_o mind_n to_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n that_o shine_v in_o your_o conscience_n exalt_v the_o measure_n
thereof_o as_o give_v to_o every_o man_n to_o profit_v withal_o to_o be_v that_o law_n that_o order_n that_o rule_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n in_o christ_n jesus_n unto_o which_o every_o one_o respective_o aught_o to_o be_v subject_n and_o yield_v obedience_n not_o by_o constraint_n but_o of_o a_o willing_a mind_n and_o that_o for_o conscience_n sake_n and_o as_o we_o be_v so_o subject_a we_o become_v member_n of_o that_o body_n against_o which_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n never_o do_v or_o can_v prevail_v nor_o yet_o against_o any_o one_o member_n thereof_o while_o abide_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n which_o be_v that_o body_n the_o unworthy_a eater_n discern_v not_o and_o thus_o for_o many_o year_n it_o continue_v among_o the_o friend_n of_o truth_n or_o child_n of_o light_n for_o so_o be_v we_o call_v in_o the_o beginning_n magnify_v by_o their_o testimony_n obedience_n unto_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n which_o as_o the_o scripture_n testify_v light_v every_o man_n that_o come_v into_o the_o world_n as_o the_o only_a rule_n and_o governor_n in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n unto_o which_o whosoever_o take_v heed_n and_o be_v obedient_a be_v esteem_v to_o live_v under_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n know_v and_o believe_v that_o as_o christ_n come_n be_v to_o be_v wait_v for_o in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o man_n so_o there_o his_o government_n to_o be_v exalt_v and_o that_o whosoever_o shall_v endeavour_v by_o outward_a way_n and_o mean_n to_o establish_v a_o outward_a government_n and_o outward_a rule_n order_n law_n or_o prescription_n over_o the_o heritage_n of_o god_n under_o the_o notion_n or_o pretence_n of_o christ_n government_n will_v be_v find_v invader_n of_o christ_n prerogative_n and_o build_v the_o thing_n which_o in_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n have_v be_v often_o testify_v against_o as_o more_o agreeable_a to_o the_o first_o covenant_n than_o the_o second_o under_o which_o we_o be_v and_o touch_v which_o it_o be_v thus_o say_v by_o the_o prophet_n i_o will_v put_v my_o law_n in_o their_o inward_a part_n and_o write_v it_o in_o their_o heart_n and_o they_o shall_v teach_v no_o more_o every_o man_n his_o neighbour_n and_o every_o man_n his_o brother_n say_v know_v the_o lord_n for_o they_o shall_v all_o know_v i_o from_o the_o least_o of_o they_o to_o the_o great_a of_o they_o say_v the_o lord_n jer._n 31.33.34_o in_o these_o thing_n we_o with_o many_o other_o be_v at_o unity_n we_o now_o recommend_v the_o same_o to_o every_o conscience_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n whether_o this_o our_o unity_n be_v not_o and_o yet_o be_v consist_v with_o and_o agreeable_a to_o the_o unchangeable_a truth_n the_o next_o thing_n we_o be_v to_o treat_v upon_o be_v by_o what_o way_n and_o mean_v this_o unity_n come_v to_o be_v break_v in_o order_n to_o the_o discovery_n thereof_o we_o think_v it_o necessary_a to_o answer_v one_o question_v which_o probable_o may_v be_v ask_v by_o some_o person_n who_o may_v not_o be_v sensible_a of_o such_o a_o variance_n hint_v at_o viz._n how_o do_v it_o appear_v that_o there_o be_v such_o a_o great_a difference_n and_o dis-union_n to_o this_o we_o say_v the_o public_a testimoneis_n of_o many_o person_n in_o those_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n where_o we_o have_v be_v conversant_a and_o that_o when_o many_o other_o not_o under_o the_o same_o profession_n with_o we_o have_v be_v present_a against_o dark_a bad_a leaven_a rend_a divide_v or_o separate_a spirit_n with_o application_n to_o such_o who_o be_v under_o the_o profession_n of_o truth_n and_o as_o we_o believe_v have_v bear_v the_o brunt_n and_o heat_n of_o the_o day_n and_o do_v yet_o continue_v unchanged_a as_o to_o the_o principle_n of_o truth_n and_o as_o blameless_a in_o life_n and_o conversation_n as_o ever_o they_o be_v in_o day_n past_a when_o their_o opposer_n be_v at_o unity_n with_o they_o so_o far_o as_o we_o know_v do_v evident_o demonstrate_v that_o the_o breach_n be_v not_o only_o very_o wide_a but_o so_o public_a as_o it_o can_v but_o concern_v some_o of_o the_o wrongful_o scandalized_a party_n whereof_o we_o be_v a_o part_n as_o man_n and_z as_o christian_n for_o our_o reputation_n or_o at_o least_o the_o reputation_n of_o some_o of_o we_o in_o both_o respect_n have_v be_v strike_v at_o to_o appear_v thus_o public_a in_o the_o vindication_n of_o truth_n and_o therefore_o have_v long_o bear_v the_o reproach_n and_o scandal_n of_o scandalous_a tongue_n hope_v that_o those_o who_o have_v so_o persecute_v we_o and_o other_o our_o brethren_n for_o who_o sake_n we_o also_o be_v the_o more_o concern_v will_v have_v come_v to_o see_v their_o error_n and_o repent_v do_v now_o think_v ourselves_o oblige_v for_o the_o honour_n of_o truth_n and_o information_n of_o all_o the_o friend_n thereof_o as_o well_o as_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o such_o as_o have_v be_v betray_v and_o lead_v from_o the_o simplicity_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n to_o proceed_v to_o manifest_v for_o what_o cause_n both_o we_o and_o many_o other_o our_o brethren_n in_o the_o vnchangable_a truth_n be_v account_v such_o dark_a leaven_a rend_a divide_v and_o separate_a spirit_n which_o be_v true_o state_v the_o impartial_a reader_n will_v easy_o discover_v by_o what_o way_n and_o mean_v the_o aforesaid_a unity_n come_v to_o be_v break_v and_o at_o who_o door_n that_o will_v lie_v and_o which_o of_o those_o divide_a party_n do_v yet_o stand_v in_o and_o for_o the_o unchangeable_a truth_n that_o the_o aforesaid_a cause_n wherefore_o we_o and_o other_o be_v account_v dark_a leaven_a rend_a divide_v or_o separate_a spirit_n may_v be_v the_o more_o clear_o manifest_v it_o be_v needful_a to_o consider_v that_o some_o inquire_a reader_n may_v be_v ready_a to_o ask_v this_o question_n what_o do_v you_o believe_v be_v mean_v by_o the_o word_n dark_a leaven_a rend_a divide_v or_o separate_a spirit_n to_o this_o we_o answer_v that_o many_o signal_n and_o outward_a demonstration_n both_o by_o word_n and_o write_n too_o large_a here_o to_o insert_v have_v be_v give_v we_o to_o believe_v that_o the_o publisher_n of_o such_o reflect_v expression_n on_o many_o ancient_a and_o honourable_a brethren_n who_o we_o believe_v have_v approve_v themselves_o to_o this_o day_n faithful_a labourer_n in_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n do_v intend_v that_o if_o any_o one_o who_o have_v be_v convince_v of_o the_o truth_n as_o preach_v among_o we_o in_o the_o beginning_n do_v scruple_n though_o conscientious_o to_o put_v in_o practice_v the_o outward_a order_n and_o prescription_n of_o some_o person_n or_o person_n take_v upon_o he_o or_o they_o to_o give_v forth_o the_o same_o such_o a_o one_o may_v just_o be_v account_v of_o a_o dark_a leaven_a rend_a divide_v or_o separate_v spirit_n and_o though_o of_o our_o certain_a knowledge_n we_o can_v declare_v that_o the_o understanding_n of_o many_o be_v so_o enlighten_v by_o the_o truth_n as_o clear_o to_o discern_v a_o deceivable_a spirit_n enter_v in_o by_o this_o door_n yet_o we_o be_v sensible_a that_o there_o be_v many_o honest-hearted_n friend_n who_o be_v ignorant_a of_o many_o thing_n that_o be_v come_v to_o our_o knowledge_n may_v have_v a_o dread_a upon_o they_o lest_o they_o err_v in_o take_v part_n either_o with_o one_o or_o other_o party_n until_o they_o have_v further_o inquire_v and_o satisfy_v themselves_o and_o these_o peradventure_o may_v be_v ready_a thus_o to_o object_n and_o tell_v we_o objection_n that_o they_o be_v inform_v that_o some_o of_o those_o who_o we_o term_v some_o person_n take_v upon_o they_o to_o give_v forth_o outward_a order_n and_o priscription_n be_v such_o as_o usual_o frequent_v the_o general_n meeting_n and_o have_v be_v ancient_a labourer_n in_o the_o gospel_n and_o have_v be_v instrument_n to_o gather_v we_o from_o the_o lo_o hen_n and_o the_o lo_n they_o to_o follow_v that_o teacher_n that_o can_v be_v remove_v into_o a_o corner_n and_o that_o the_o general_n meeting_n be_v a_o establish_v meet_v and_o that_o they_o have_v power_n to_o command_v govern_n and_o rule_n over_o other_o and_o that_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o other_o to_o obey_v for_o we_o find_v as_o they_o may_v say_v robert_n barclay_n in_o his_o book_n of_o government_n which_o friend_n ought_v not_o to_o judge_n because_o it_o be_v approve_v by_o the_o second_o day_n meet_v in_o london_n which_o be_v a_o meeting_n of_o minister_a friend_n to_o inform_v we_o page_n 27_o 28._o that_o the_o apostle_n and_o primitive_a christian_n practise_a order_n and_o government_n in_o the_o church_n that_o some_o do_v appoint_v and_o ordain_v certain_a thing_n condemn_v and_o approve_v certain_a practice_n as_o well_o as_o doctrine_n by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n that_o there_o lie_v a_o obligation_n in_o point_n of_o duty_n
upon_o some_o other_o to_o obey_v and_o submit_v and_o that_o such_o as_o be_v in_o the_o true_a feel_n and_o sense_n will_v find_v it_o their_o place_n to_o obey_v and_o be_v one_o with_o the_o church_n in_o such_o like_a case_n and_o that_o its_o such_o that_o have_v lose_v their_o sense_n and_o feel_n of_o the_o life_n of_o the_o body_n that_o descent_n and_o be_v disobedient_a under_o the_o false_a pretence_n of_o liberty_n to_o this_o we_o answer_v first_o that_o general_n meeting_n do_v usual_o consist_v only_o of_o such_o person_n as_o pretend_v a_o freedom_n in_o their_o spirit_n to_o go_v thither_o or_o have_v outward_a business_n call_v they_o to_o the_o place_n where_o it_o be_v usual_o hold_v and_o though_o it_o have_v be_v account_v a_o meeting_n of_o minister_a friend_n yet_o of_o late_a year_n we_o be_v very_o certain_a it_o have_v consist_v and_o so_o for_o the_o future_a may_v of_o some_o other_o person_n profess_v the_o truth_n that_o will_v take_v upon_o they_o to_o assemble_v among_o they_o and_o to_o be_v very_o plain_a we_o can_v but_o appeal_v to_o the_o conscience_n of_o all_o such_o honourable_a friend_n who_o be_v both_o intelligent_a and_o impartial_a whether_o some_o who_o have_v usual_o there_o assemble_v or_o may_v pretend_v right_a to_o be_v member_n thereof_o have_v not_o be_v false_a accuser_n and_o man-pleasers_a and_o many_o of_o they_o a_o sort_n of_o person_n who_o be_v lover_n of_o pre-eminence_n and_o time-servers_a take_v that_o as_o a_o opportunity_n to_o appear_v unto_o other_o that_o which_o they_o be_v not_o in_o themselves_o on_o the_o whole_a matter_n it_o be_v evident_a to_o we_o that_o some_o person_n uncertain_a in_o number_n as_o well_o as_o to_o person_n and_o qualification_n do_v take_v upon_o they_o to_o call_v themselves_o a_o general_n meeting_n and_o though_o such_o when_o meet_v may_v on_o that_o foot_n take_v upon_o they_o to_o ordain_v and_o appoint_v certain_a thing_n condemn_v some_o friend_n as_o rend_v separate_a spirit_n and_o approve_v of_o other_o as_o faithful_a brother_n and_o that_o as_o they_o may_v say_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n yet_o it_o be_v not_o likely_a to_o have_v any_o more_o place_n with_o we_o on_o that_o account_n than_o if_o they_o speak_v in_o their_o own_o name_n since_o it_o be_v never_o evidence_v to_o our_o conscience_n that_o they_o have_v any_o call_n from_o god_n to_o act_v and_o give_v forth_o all_o those_o thing_n which_o they_o have_v take_v upon_o they_o objection_n but_o suppose_v some_o person_n in_o their_o respective_a country_n shall_v undertake_v to_o meet_v together_o quarterly_o and_o at_o such_o quarterly_o meetin_n choose_v two_o person_n to_o go_v to_o the_o say_a general_n meeting_n as_o be_v endeavour_v the_o last_o year_n to_o this_o we_o answer_v we_o deny_v that_o it_o can_v be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o truth_n for_o such_o to_o assert_v that_o from_o thence_o they_o be_v invest_v with_o power_n to_o ordain_v and_o appoint_v certain_a thing_n unto_o which_o other_o as_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n ought_v therefore_o to_o yield_v obedience_n whilst_o not_o persuade_v by_o christ_n light_n in_o their_o conscience_n of_o their_o duty_n therein_o first_o because_o though_o such_o quarterly_o meeting_n as_o man_n may_v be_v capable_a to_o choose_v person_n yet_o they_o be_v not_o capable_a to_o invest_v they_o with_o a_o suitable_a power_n since_o it_o be_v take_v for_o grant_v that_o the_o authority_n of_o all_o those_o meeting_n ought_v to_o be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n which_o man_n be_v not_o capable_a to_o confer_v neither_o have_v those_o meeting_n affirm_v they_o be_v second_o because_o no_o outward_a order_n counsel_n or_o advice_n be_v sufficient_a ground_n for_o any_o man_n to_o practise_v this_o or_o other_o thing_n so_o as_o thereby_o to_o find_v acceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n until_o the_o conscience_n of_o such_o a_o one_o by_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n be_v convince_v thereof_o for_o every_o action_n in_o relation_n to_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n that_o spring_v not_o from_o a_o enlighten_v convince_v conscience_n be_v but_o the_o fruit_n of_o a_o liseless_a form_n without_o the_o power_n and_o seem_v not_o to_o square_v with_o this_o doctrine_n draw_v water_n out_o of_o your_o own_o well_n let_v it_o be_v your_o own_o and_o not_o another_o nor_o yet_o with_o that_o doctrine_n which_o have_v often_o be_v sound_v in_o our_o ear_n to_o gather_v we_o from_o the_o lo_o heres_fw-la and_o the_o lo_n they_o but_o yet_o we_o be_v sensible_a that_o this_o further_a objection_n may_v be_v raise_v viz._n obj._n here_o obj._n note_v in_o the_o manuscriptfirst_n make_v mention_n of_o in_o the_o preface_n the_o ground_n of_o this_o objection_n from_o the_o word_n and_o write_n of_o divers_a person_n be_v cite_v out_o of_o the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o say_a manuscript_n but_o their_o name_n for_o the_o reason_n in_o the_o presace_n be_v omit_v here_o it_o be_v true_a friend_n in_o the_o beginning_n be_v turn_v to_o the_o light_n in_o their_o own_o conscience_n as_o their_o guide_n but_o when_o it_o please_v the_o lord_n to_o gather_v so_o great_a a_o number_n into_o the_o knowledge_n and_o belief_n of_o the_o truth_n as_o be_v in_o few_o year_n gather_v than_o the_o heavenly_a motion_n come_v upon_o g._n f._n as_o the_o lord_n anoint_v and_o choose_v have_v the_o care_n of_o the_o church_n as_o be_v the_o great_a apostle_n of_o christ_n jesus_n and_o as_o one_o who_o the_o lord_n have_v ordain_v to_o be_v in_o that_o place_n among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n in_o this_o our_o day_n as_o moses_n be_v among_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n in_o his_o day_n to_o set_v forth_o method_n and_o form_n of_o church_n government_n and_o to_o establish_v monthly_o and_o quarterly_o meeting_n of_o man_n and_o of_o woman_n distinct_a from_o man_n and_o these_o meeting_n since_o be_v call_v the_o church_n who_o counsel_n advice_n and_o judgement_n as_o occasion_n shall_v offer_v be_v to_o be_v submit_v unto_o by_o every_o one_o who_o profess_v himself_o a_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o we_o ought_v to_o believe_v as_o the_o church_n believe_v else_o why_o shall_v a_o eminent_a friend_n in_o the_o sixteenth_o page_n of_o his_o bookthus_n say_v i_o affirm_v that_o the_o true_a church_n be_v in_o the_o true_a faith_n that_o be_v in_o god_n and_o we_o must_v either_o believe_v thus_o as_o the_o true_a church_n believe_v or_o else_o it_o be_v but_o both_o a_o folly_n and_o hypocrisy_n to_o profess_v ourselves_o member_n thereof_o and_n so_o in_o the_o same_o page_n proceed_v to_o manifest_v that_o he_o who_o seem_v to_o own_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n as_o a_o member_n of_o she_o and_o yet_o tell_v the_o world_n that_o it_o be_v a_o most_o dangerous_a position_n that_o we_o be_v to_o believe_v as_o the_o church_n believe_v be_v a_o treacherous_a enemy_n to_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n from_o this_o objection_n these_o three_o position_n seem_v to_o be_v deducible_a first_o that_o the_o lord_n have_v ordain_v g._n f._n to_o be_v in_o that_o place_n among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n in_o this_o our_o day_n as_o moses_n be_v among_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n in_o his_o day_n second_o that_o monthly_a and_o quarterly_a meeting_n be_v call_v the_o church_n and_o aught_o to_o be_v submit_v to_o three_o that_o it_o be_v folly_n and_o hypocrisy_n to_o profess_v ourselves_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n and_o yet_o not_o believe_v thus_o as_o the_o true_a church_n believe_v sect_n ii_o a_o answer_n to_o the_o first_o position_n deducible_a from_o a_o objection_n raise_v towards_o the_o conclusion_n of_o the_o first_o section_n to_o wit_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v ordain_v g._n f._n to_o be_v in_o that_o place_n among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n in_o this_o our_o day_n as_o moses_n be_v among_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n in_o his_o day_n the_o lord_n under_o the_o first_o covenant_n promise_v to_o raise_v up_o a_o prophet_n like_o unto_o moses_n who_o the_o people_n be_v to_o hear_v in_o all_o thing_n deut._n 18.15_o this_o prophet_n speak_v of_o be_v christ_n jesus_n who_o in_o the_o fullness_n of_o time_n appear_v upon_o the_o earth_n and_o than_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o man_n to_o hearken_v unto_o his_o voice_n since_o he_o ascend_v on_o high_a the_o father_n according_a to_o the_o testimony_n of_o his_o son_n christ_n have_v send_v unto_o we_o the_o comforter_n the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n who_o be_v to_o lead_v and_o guide_v we_o into_o all_o truth_n this_o spirit_n we_o witness_v to_o be_v in_o we_o according_a to_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o scripture_n it_o shall_v be_v in_o you_o our_o testimony_n now_o be_v that_o it_o be_v
not_o agreeable_a to_o the_o second_o covenant_n to_o expect_v that_o any_o one_o shall_v be_v ordain_v of_o god_n to_o be_v among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n like_v unto_o moses_n save_o christ_n jesus_n our_o lord_n and_o master_n who_o by_o his_o spiritual_a appearance_n in_o we_o be_v become_v our_o leader_n and_o lawgiver_n and_o therefore_o we_o have_v no_o ground_n to_o believe_v that_o any_o one_o mortal_a man_n aught_o to_o assume_v that_o place_n among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n at_o this_o day_n as_o moses_n by_o the_o appointment_n of_o god_n do_v among_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n in_o his_o day_n especial_o if_o we_o do_v but_o consider_v that_o the_o promise_n of_o the_o lord_n through_o his_o prophet_n jeremiah_n jer._n 31.33_o 34._o with_o relation_n to_o that_o time_n and_o dispensation_n of_o the_o new_a covenant_n under_o which_o we_o be_v be_v on_o this_o wise_a i_o will_v put_v my_o law_n in_o their_o inward_a part_n and_o write_v it_o in_o their_o heart_n and_o they_o shall_v teach_v no_o more_o every_o man_n his_o neighbour_n and_o every_o man_n his_o brother_n say_v know_v the_o lord_n for_o they_o shall_v all_o know_v i_o from_o the_o least_o of_o they_o unto_o the_o great_a of_o they_o say_v the_o lord_n sect_n iii_o a_o answer_n to_o the_o second_o position_n deducible_a from_o a_o objection_n raise_v towards_o the_o conclusion_n of_o the_o first_o section_n viz._n that_o monthly_o and_o quarterly_o meeting_n be_v call_v the_o church_n and_o aught_o to_o be_v submit_v to_o it_o be_v well_o remember_v that_o that_o one_o man_n g._n f._n go_v some_o year_n pass_v into_o many_o part_n of_o this_o nation_n advise_v friend_n to_o hold_v such_o meeting_n viz._n monthly_a and_o quarterly_o and_o in_o many_o place_n his_o counsel_n be_v ready_o embrace_v but_o for_o our_o part_n we_o understand_v not_o at_o that_o day_n that_o it_o be_v design_v by_o he_o or_o any_o else_o that_o those_o meeting_n shall_v not_o only_o be_v account_v the_o church_n but_o also_o such_o as_o profess_v the_o truth_n aught_o to_o believe_v as_o this_o church_n believe_v have_v he_o so_o express_v himself_o testimony_n will_v have_v arisen_a as_o a_o flood_n against_o such_o darkness_n for_o this_o will_v have_v plain_o appear_v to_o we_o to_o have_v open_v a_o door_n whereby_o that_o babylonish_n rubbish_n which_o we_o have_v be_v long_o testify_v against_o may_v have_v be_v exalt_v in_o one_o day_n and_o to_o be_v very_o plain_a we_o can_v but_o now_o declare_v that_o we_o be_v full_o satisfy_v in_o our_o conscience_n that_o by_o this_o very_a door_n a_o body_n of_o strife_n contention_n emulation_n malice_n and_o envy_n together_o with_o a_o rend_v divide_v separate_a spirit_n from_o the_o truth_n be_v enter_v among_o many_o hundred_o who_o before_o walk_v together_o with_o we_o in_o a_o heavenly_a union_n and_o fellowship_n in_o the_o life_n of_o righteousness_n which_o doubtless_o may_v if_o it_o have_v not_o already_o occasion_n many_o honest_a simplehearted_n friend_n thus_o in_o their_o heart_n to_o say_v where_o be_v the_o people_n who_o we_o shall_v now_o follow_v but_o if_o such_o retire_n into_o the_o sanctuary_n of_o the_o lord_n there_o in_o stillness_n to_o wait_v what_o god_n will_v say_v they_o will_v undoubted_o have_v this_o answer_n you_o have_v a_o teacher_n within_o you_o which_o can_v be_v remove_v into_o a_o corner_n follow_v that_o teacher_n lest_o peradventer_v your_o foot_n do_v slip_v by_o go_v from_o your_o inward_a guide_n and_o follow_v the_o footstep_n and_o dictate_v of_o man._n but_o to_o return_v it_o be_v now_o our_o concern_v as_o to_o the_o second_o position_n thus_o further_o to_o declare_v that_o whosoever_o have_v or_o shall_v testify_v that_o all_o those_o meeting_n as_o usual_o hold_v be_v the_o church_n of_o god_n have_v and_o will_v appear_v to_o be_v such_o as_o know_v not_o whereof_o they_o affirm_v for_o such_o a_o testimony_n carry_v with_o it_o neither_o inward_a nor_o outward_a evidence_n though_o we_o dare_v not_o conclude_v that_o none_o in_o those_o meeting_n be_v member_n of_o the_o church_n for_o the_o church_n of_o god_n consist_v proper_o of_o such_o as_o be_v by_o one_o spirit_n baptize_v into_o one_o body_n 12.13_o 1_o cor._n 12.13_o and_o so_o be_v in_o the_o possession_n as_o well_o as_o profession_n of_o truth_n but_o yet_o whoever_o they_o be_v that_o do_v but_o so_o much_o as_o profess_v the_o truth_n be_v admit_v to_o be_v member_n of_o such_o meeting_n while_o they_o appear_v in_o the_o outward_a form_n thereof_o and_o be_v not_o then_o of_o scandalous_a conversation_n all_o which_o may_v appear_v in_o such_o as_o be_v far_o remote_a from_o witness_v the_o circumcision_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n towards_o god_n which_o must_v be_v witness_v as_o the_o proper_a product_n of_o the_o baptism_n of_o the_o spirit_n before_o a_o possession_n of_o the_o truth_n be_v know_v and_o whether_o man_n meeting_n have_v not_o often_o consist_v of_o such_o member_n and_o be_v like_o so_o to_o do_v while_o the_o door_n be_v open_a for_o any_o under_o the_o aforesaid_a qualification_n to_o sit_v there_o as_o it_o yet_o be_v we_o recommend_v to_o the_o serious_a consideration_n of_o the_o impartial_a reader_n and_o if_o so_o we_o desire_v they_o further_a to_o weigh_v and_o consider_v first_o whether_o it_o can_v be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o truth_n to_o account_v every_o thing_n act_v and_o do_v by_o every_o such_o meeting_n to_o be_v the_o product_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o according_o to_o be_v submit_v to_o second_o whether_o the_o judge_n of_o some_o conscientious_o refuse_v to_o submit_v to_o be_v dark_a leaven_a rend_v divide_v or_o separate_a spirit_n because_o they_o refuse_v be_v not_o the_o fruit_n of_o that_o spirit_n that_o will_v remove_v we_o from_o that_o teacher_n that_o can_v be_v remove_v into_o a_o corner_n to_o follow_v the_o dictate_v of_o fallible_a men._n three_o whether_o a_o plea_n for_o obedience_n to_o the_o order_n of_o such_o meeting_n from_o person_n conscientious_o refuse_v to_o obey_v have_v not_o a_o tendency_n to_o justify_v usurpation_n since_o they_o have_v never_o evidence_v to_o the_o conscience_n of_o those_o from_o who_o they_o have_v seem_v to_o expect_v obedience_n any_o other_o call_v to_o that_o service_n than_o their_o own_o four_o whether_o a_o plea_n for_o such_o meeting_n to_o govern_v in_o matter_n relate_v to_o conscience_n have_v not_o a_o tendency_n to_o justify_v confusion_n since_o according_a to_o the_o repute_a order_n of_o such_o meeting_n none_o that_o be_v to_o be_v rule_v be_v exclude_v from_o be_v ruler_n let_v those_o who_o can_v believe_v this_o our_o last_o assertion_n peruse_v robert_n barclay_n book_n of_o government_n approve_v by_o such_o as_o have_v be_v account_v minister_a friend_n at_o the_o second_o day_n meet_v in_o london_n wherein_o it_o be_v say_v page_n 33._o we_o be_v not_o so_o foolish_a as_o to_o concern_v ourselves_o with_o those_o who_o be_v not_o of_o we_o none_o of_o which_o be_v according_a to_o the_o import_n of_o the_o say_a book_n of_o government_n as_o we_o take_v it_o exclude_v from_o such_o meeting_n nor_o yet_o to_o give_v judgement_n therein_o witness_n page_n 79_o and_o 82._o of_o the_o say_a book_n and_o since_o we_o be_v now_o treat_v of_o those_o meeting_n we_o be_v not_o without_o a_o sense_n but_o that_o some_o may_v be_v ready_a thus_o to_o query_n viz._n what_o order_n be_v either_o prescribe_v or_o use_v whereby_o the_o sense_n of_o such_o meeting_n be_v collect_v to_o this_o we_o say_v a_o eminent_a person_n profess_v truth_n be_v at_o bristol_n do_v take_v occasion_n to_o signify_v at_o a_o mens-meeting_a hold_v in_o that_o city_n to_o this_o effect_n that_o in_o london_n and_o other_o part_n of_o this_o nation_n where_o such_o meeting_n be_v usual_o hold_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o generality_n have_v be_v take_v for_o the_o sense_n of_o such_o meeting_n compare_v this_o with_o this_o doctrine_n frequent_o of_o late_a publish_v among_o we_o that_o the_o apostasy_n shall_v never_o enter_v the_o generality_n more_o do_v give_v we_o just_a occasion_n to_o be_v jealous_a that_o our_o opposer_n for_o the_o carry_v on_o of_o their_o design_n against_o we_o have_v contrive_v this_o method_n of_o carry_v all_o thing_n by_o the_o generality_n or_o major_a number_n of_o voice_n which_o limitation_n we_o know_v have_v be_v heretofore_o and_o by_o the_o faithful_a to_o this_o day_n utter_o disow_v as_o contrary_a to_o the_o truth_n and_o also_o by_o the_o approver_n of_o r._n b_n book_n of_o government_n as_o in_o page_n 81._o and_o though_o the_o counsel_n of_o that_o one_o man_n who_o first_o advise_v to_o the_o aforesaid_a meeting_n in_o some_o part_n be_v
on_o this_o wise_a choose_v from_o among_o you_o the_o faithful_a yet_o such_o a_o limitation_n we_o have_v cause_n to_o believe_v will_v not_o now_o be_v bear_v by_o some_o it_o be_v well_o if_o the_o ground_n thereof_o in_o our_o opposer_n be_v not_o to_o bring_v in_o the_o multitude_n if_o they_o can_v and_o that_o under_o a_o pretence_n that_o all_o friend_n in_o truth_n may_v have_v free_a access_n that_o so_o the_o generality_n may_v be_v on_o their_o side_n for_o of_o late_a man_n meeting_n be_v know_v to_o consist_v of_o many_o such_o who_o if_o any_o aught_o to_o be_v govern_v be_v much_o fit_a to_o be_v govern_v then_o appear_v as_o governor_n and_o who_o we_o be_v well_o satisfy_v in_o our_o conscience_n will_v of_o themselves_o be_v more_o modest_a than_o to_o appear_v in_o such_o meeting_n as_o governor_n be_v they_o not_o prompt_v to_o be_v there_o the_o secret_a end_n thereof_o as_o we_o have_v cause_n to_o doubt_v be_v for_o the_o carry_v on_o that_o which_o we_o believe_v truth_n will_v never_o own_v and_o as_o to_o the_o apostasy_n never_o enter_v the_o generality_n more_o we_o say_v may_v the_o lord_n preserve_v we_o all_o so_o stay_v in_o his_o unchangeable_a truth_n as_o that_o we_o may_v never_o apostatise_v from_o it_o nor_o be_v draw_v away_o from_o the_o hope_n of_o the_o gospel_n by_o false_a prophet_n and_o seduce_a spirit_n for_o we_o do_v firm_o believe_v that_o as_o many_o of_o those_o who_o former_o be_v in_o the_o truth_n and_o do_v now_o account_v we_o dark_a spirit_n because_o we_o can_v be_v at_o unity_n with_o they_o in_o such_o action_n as_o we_o account_v persecution_n against_o ancient_a brother_n be_v already_o apostatise_v and_o doubtless_o they_o with_o their_o adherent_n account_v themselves_o the_o generality_n yet_o we_o hope_v better_a thing_n than_o so_o we_o now_o come_v to_o say_v something_o to_o these_o forego_v word_n viz._n that_o in_o london_n and_o other_o part_n of_o this_o nation_n where_o such_o meeting_n where_o usual_o hold_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o generality_n have_v be_v take_v for_o the_o sense_n of_o such_o meeting_n to_o this_o we_o answer_v if_o thereby_o be_v intend_v that_o the_o generality_n may_v claim_v power_n to_o declare_v that_o their_o sense_n be_v the_o sense_n of_o the_o meeting_n it_o open_v a_o door_n whereby_o the_o reputation_n and_o honour_n of_o truth_n as_o profess_v own_a and_o practise_v among_o the_o friend_n thereof_o may_v fall_v in_o one_o day_n for_o when_o these_o meeting_n be_v assent_v unto_o we_o can_v say_v establish_v by_o any_o man_n we_o look_v upon_o ourselves_o all_o servant_n one_o unto_o another_o and_o not_o master_n and_o rulersover_n one_o another_o and_o so_o have_v then_o no_o occasion_n give_v we_o to_o discourse_v of_o authority_n but_o when_o there_o be_v we_o well_o remember_v that_o we_o ascribe_v all_o authority_n unto_o the_o appearance_n of_o the_o invisible_a power_n of_o god_n and_o so_o no_o encouragement_n be_v give_v by_o we_o that_o any_o one_o man_n or_o man_n shall_v take_v upon_o he_o or_o they_o to_o rule_v and_o govern_v in_o such_o meeting_n but_o our_o expectation_n be_v that_o every_o member_n shall_v there_o appear_v in_o subjection_n to_o christ_n the_o head_n and_o high_a power_n unto_o which_o as_o member_n of_o his_o body_n we_o owe_v obedience_n in_o this_o sense_n we_o ready_o embrace_v the_o counsel_n to_o meet_v together_o to_o serve_v but_o not_o to_o bear_v rule_n over_o one_o another_o conscience_n and_o the_o matter_n intend_v by_o we_o to_o be_v transact_v in_o those_o meeting_n and_o by_o other_o also_o as_o far_o as_o we_o understand_v be_v chief_o to_o take_v care_n of_o the_o poor_a the_o fatherless_a and_o the_o widow_n and_o that_o if_o any_o profess_v the_o truth_n and_o dishonour_v the_o same_o by_o profane_a and_o evil_a conversation_n we_o may_v by_o such_o way_n and_o mean_n as_o the_o lord_n on_o every_o occasion_n may_v direct_v not_o then_o think_v that_o the_o day_n will_v ever_o come_v wherein_o a_o outward_a directory_n shall_v be_v place_v as_o a_o judge_n over_o our_o conscience_n endeavour_n to_o reclaim_v such_o from_o the_o evil_a of_o their_o way_n and_o for_o these_o service_n we_o be_v sensible_a that_o meeting_n be_v proper_a and_o therefore_o do_v continue_v in_o the_o service_n thereof_o yet_o never_o think_v that_o we_o shall_v have_v see_v the_o day_n wherein_o any_o profess_v the_o truth_n will_v have_v attempt_v to_o treat_v on_o such_o a_o subject_a as_o this_o viz._n how_o far_o do_v this_o government_n extend_v in_o matter_n spiritual_a and_o pure_o conscientious_a and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o be_v approve_v as_o the_o aforesaid_a book_n of_o government_n wherein_o the_o say_a sentence_n be_v write_v have_v be_v by_o a_o meeting_n that_o take_v upon_o they_o to_o take_v care_n as_o they_o pretend_v that_o nothing_o be_v print_v whereby_o the_o truth_n may_v be_v dishonour_v alas_o friend_n can_v such_o appear_v to_o we_o as_o man_n stay_v in_o the_o unchangeable_a truth_n who_o have_v suffer_v and_o high_o contend_v for_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n and_o that_o christ_n alone_o be_v lord_n over_o it_o and_o be_v its_o only_a lawgiver_n and_o yet_o now_o reckon_v that_o mens-meeting_n which_o we_o or_o at_o least_o several_a of_o we_o do_v know_v have_v be_v much_o conversant_a therein_o even_o from_o the_o begin_n to_o this_o day_n have_v most_o usual_o consist_v of_o man_n uncertain_a in_o number_n as_o well_o as_o to_o qualification_n and_o person_n may_v assume_v a_o power_n over_o conscience_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n true_o friend_n we_o can_v but_o testify_v that_o our_o soul_n have_v no_o unity_n with_o such_o thing_n and_o can_v but_o look_v upon_o the_o promoter_n thereof_o as_o lover_n of_o preeminency_n more_o than_o lover_n of_o god_n have_v let_v in_o a_o dark_a separate_a rend_a divide_v spirit_n from_o the_o truth_n and_o open_v a_o door_n whereby_o as_o great_a darkness_n may_v be_v bring_v over_o the_o people_n as_o ever_o be_v in_o any_o age_n under_o the_o profession_n of_o christian_a religion_n objection_n but_o perhaps_o some_o person_n may_v thus_o object_n we_o can_v but_o have_v more_o charity_n for_o some_o at_o least_o of_o those_o who_o be_v concern_v in_o these_o thing_n you_o strike_v at_o and_o can_v believe_v they_o intend_v a_o imposition_n on_o any_o of_o our_o conscience_n for_o when_o we_o have_v be_v in_o meeting_n with_o they_o we_o have_v be_v witness_n that_o the_o life_n have_v be_v raise_v and_o our_o soul_n have_v be_v refresh_v through_o their_o ministry_n and_o in_o their_o epistle_n they_o tell_v we_o how_o eminent_o the_o lord_n appear_v among_o they_o unto_o which_o we_o can_v but_o give_v credit_n because_o when_o they_o be_v with_o we_o the_o life_n in_o we_o answer_n to_o the_o life_n in_o they_o as_o face_n answer_v face_n in_o a_o glass_n but_o when_o those_o who_o they_o oppose_v do_v speak_v than_o deadness_n dryness_n and_o barrenness_n appear_v beside_o many_o of_o the_o minister_a friend_n have_v exhort_v we_o and_o as_o they_o say_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o we_o ought_v to_o shut_v out_o jealousy_n the_o reason_v and_o the_o wisdom_n tell_v we_o as_o before_o be_v hint_v that_o the_o apostasy_n shall_v never_o enter_v the_o generality_n more_o and_o that_o we_o ought_v to_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o the_o brethren_n answ_n this_o objection_n may_v seem_v very_o weighty_a with_o some_o especial_o such_o who_o may_v conclude_v that_o if_o they_o be_v of_o the_o true_a brotherhood_n the_o lord_n will_v give_v they_o a_o inward_a sense_n when_o they_o wait_v upon_o he_o whereby_o a_o testimony_n according_a to_o the_o truth_n may_v arise_v from_o they_o in_o every_o case_n wherein_o they_o may_v concern_v their_o thought_n but_o alas_o it_o be_v either_o the_o fruit_n of_o weakness_n or_o presumption_n so_o to_o conclude_v with_o respect_n to_o every_o brother_n in_o what_o estate_n soever_o which_o have_v be_v sufficient_o evidence_v to_o we_o by_o the_o fruit_n of_o those_o who_o have_v take_v upon_o they_o to_o judge_v the_o merit_n of_o a_o cause_n without_o hear_v of_o both_o party_n of_o which_o more_o anon_o beside_o if_o we_o do_v but_o consider_v that_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n do_v testify_v there_o be_v diversity_n of_o gift_n diversity_n of_o administration_n and_o operation_n and_o yet_o by_o the_o same_o spirit_n it_o be_v sufficient_a to_o prompt_v we_o to_o be_v so_o serious_a and_o weighty_a in_o this_o day_n of_o trial_n as_o to_o be_v find_v wait_v every_o one_o in_o his_o own_o gift_n that_o so_o all_o may_v be_v preserve_v and_o not_o meddle_v with_o thing_n that_o be_v too_o high_a for_o they_o he_o that_o be_v not_o
reality_n member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n because_o this_o light_n in_o which_o we_o have_v believe_v do_v reveal_v unto_o we_o that_o those_o who_o be_v but_o in_o the_o gentile_a nature_n and_o have_v come_v no_o further_o than_o the_o outward_a court_n that_o be_v give_v to_o the_o gentile_n may_v have_v all_o the_o outward_a mark_n and_o sign_n of_o a_o member_n of_o their_o church_n and_o yet_o know_v very_o little_a of_o the_o wash_n by_o the_o water_n of_o regeneration_n and_o sanctification_n through_o the_o spirit_n which_o every_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n that_o be_v build_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n come_v to_o be_v witness_n of_o and_o therefore_o when_o our_o opposer_n who_o profess_v not_o the_o truth_n will_v reflect_v upon_o we_o on_o this_o wise_a you_o be_v a_o confuse_a people_n you_o gather_v not_o into_o church-fellowship_n you_o have_v no_o certain_a way_n to_o know_v one_o another_o to_o be_v member_n of_o the_o church_n as_o we_o have_v and_o why_o do_v you_o not_o put_v forth_o your_o creed_n that_o so_o we_o may_v know_v what_o and_o how_o many_o the_o article_n of_o your_o faith_n be_v and_o what_o you_o stand_v for_o and_o what_o you_o stand_v against_o the_o best_a answer_n that_o ever_o as_o we_o can_v understand_v we_o be_v capable_a to_o give_v in_o truth_n unto_o such_o be_v this_o the_o true_a church_n be_v in_o god_n who_o be_v the_o author_n and_o finisher_n of_o our_o faith_n we_o have_v believe_v in_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o his_o grace_n unto_o which_o if_o we_o be_v obedient_a according_a to_o the_o respective_a measure_n thereof_o give_v of_o god_n and_o receive_v by_o we_o we_o then_o have_v the_o witness_v of_o god_n in_o our_o conscience_n give_v evidence_n that_o we_o be_v of_o the_o true_a brotherhood_n and_o of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o first_o bear_v who_o name_n be_v write_v in_o heaven_n though_o we_o do_v not_o allege_v any_o outward_a mark_n and_o sign_n whereby_o our_o body_n be_v temple_n wherein_o the_o holy_a ghost_n do_v dwell_v ought_v to_o be_v account_v within_o the_o pale_a of_o the_o true_a church_n and_o albeit_o no_o outward_a society_n of_o man_n among_o we_o call_v themselves_o the_o church_n have_v put_v forth_o any_o certain_a number_n of_o article_n of_o faith_n with_o this_o testimony_n that_o every_o one_o that_o profess_v himself_o a_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n ought_v so_o to_o believe_v or_o else_o not_o be_v account_v of_o the_o true_a church_n yet_o many_o of_o our_o friend_n unto_o who_o the_o lord_n have_v give_v divine_a understanding_n have_v write_v divers_a book_n according_a as_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n have_v move_v upon_o their_o heart_n out_o of_o which_o the_o sound_a doctrine_n we_o hold_v and_o stand_v for_o may_v be_v collect_v though_o other_o so_o repute_v may_v through_o weakness_n have_v err_v to_o conclude_v as_o to_o this_o particular_a we_o further_o thus_o testify_v in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n there_o be_v babe_n young_a man_n and_o father_n there_o be_v the_o weak_a and_o the_o strong_a suppose_v a_o weak_a brother_n faith_n differ_v from_o his_o brethren_n must_v he_o be_v account_v a_o fool_n or_o a_o hypocrite_n nay_o nay_o charity_n measure_v not_o so_o we_o find_v this_o very_a case_n happen_v among_o the_o roman_n and_o what_o say_v paul_n in_o that_o case_n read_v rom._n 14.3_o 4_o 22_o 23._o and_o there_o paul_n thus_o advise_v let_v not_o he_o that_o eat_v despise_v he_o that_o eat_v not_o and_o let_v not_o he_o that_o eat_v not_o judge_v he_o which_o eat_v for_o god_n have_v receive_v he_o who_o be_v thou_o that_o condemne_v another_o man_n servant_n to_o his_o own_o master_n he_o stand_v or_o fall_v have_v thou_o faith_n have_v it_o to_o thyself_o he_o that_o doubt_v be_v condemn_v if_o he_o eat_v because_o he_o eat_v not_o of_o faith_n and_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n hence_o it_o be_v evident_a the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n differ_v in_o their_o faith_n he_o that_o do_v eat_v be_v not_o to_o be_v judge_v because_o he_o be_v receive_v of_o god_n he_o that_o do_v not_o eat_v be_v so_o far_o from_o be_v judge_v that_o the_o apostle_n condemn_v the_o very_a eat_n while_o there_o be_v a_o doubt_n though_o the_o abstain_v from_o eat_v be_v the_o fruit_n of_o weakness_n we_o now_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o conscience_n of_o every_o impartial_a reader_n in_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n to_o weigh_v and_o consider_v whether_o it_o can_v be_v service_n to_o the_o truth_n and_o agreeable_a to_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o spirit_n at_o this_o day_n for_o any_o person_n under_o the_o name_n of_o quaker_n to_o give_v forth_o this_o doctrine_n it_o be_v folly_n and_o hypocrisy_n to_o profess_v ourselves_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n and_o yet_o not_o believe_v thus_o as_o the_o true_a church_n believe_v though_o the_o giver_n forth_o thereof_o may_v to_o this_o purpose_n also_o declare_v as_o to_o give_v the_o publisher_n thereof_o his_o due_a he_o have_v that_o they_o never_o do_v preach_v up_o such_o a_o position_n as_o a_o great_a argument_n to_o enforce_v people_n into_o their_o faith_n sect_n v._o what_o we_o stand_v for_o viz._n truth_n and_o righteousness_n and_o that_o christ_n government_n may_v be_v exalt_v in_o every_o heart_n under_o which_o we_o be_v instruct_v not_o to_o depend_v on_o man_n but_o on_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o god_n grace_n a_o testimony_n against_o tithe_n and_o for_o meet_v together_o in_o time_n of_o persecution_n the_o neglect_n whereof_o may_v be_v the_o fruit_n of_o weakness_n or_o disobedience_n the_o government_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o law_n thereof_o be_v inward_a some_o part_n of_o the_o fruit_n bring_v forth_o under_o the_o say_a government_n be_v describe_v a_o objection_n relate_v to_o the_o secure_v any_o part_n of_o a_o man_n estate_n on_o a_o foresight_n of_o a_o praemunire_n or_o fine_n for_o meet_v answer_v have_v thus_o far_o ease_v ourselves_o it_o be_v with_o we_o in_o short_a to_o inform_v the_o reader_n what_o we_o stand_v for_o and_o what_o we_o stand_v against_o that_o so_o the_o understanding_n impartial_a reader_n who_o can_v be_v principled_a to_o shut_v out_o all_o reason_n and_o all_o wisdom_n notwithstanding_o public_a exhortation_n to_o the_o contrary_a as_o if_o wisdom_n and_o reason_n of_o all_o kind_n be_v condemnable_a may_v perceive_v more_o clear_o what_o we_o be_v and_o what_o we_o be_v not_o that_o than_o which_o chief_o we_o stand_v for_o be_v truth_n and_o righteousness_n and_o that_o christ_n government_n may_v be_v exalt_v in_o every_o heart_n which_o may_v be_v branch_v forth_o into_o many_o particular_a doctrine_n and_o practice_n but_o forasmuch_o as_o that_o have_v large_o be_v treat_v on_o by_o many_o ancient_a &_o honourable_a friend_n to_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n who_o be_v instrument_n in_o god_n hand_n to_o gather_v we_o into_o the_o belief_n of_o his_o light_n and_o sufficiency_n of_o his_o grace_n though_o since_o fall_v asleep_o and_o that_o we_o intend_v more_o particular_o to_o treat_v thereon_o in_o the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o treatise_n we_o shall_v not_o much_o enlarge_v thereon_o in_o this_o part_n yet_o think_v it_o necessary_a for_o the_o sake_n of_o some_o here_o to_o signify_v that_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n for_o which_o we_o stand_v under_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n have_v instruct_v we_o not_o to_o depend_v on_o man_n for_o teach_v but_o on_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o god_n grace_n nor_o yet_o to_o put_v into_o the_o mouth_n of_o false_a prophet_n or_o hireling_n shepherd_n and_o on_o this_o foot_n we_o have_v have_v a_o testimony_n against_o pay_v of_o tithe_n as_o be_v that_o antichristian-yoak_n which_o in_o the_o dark_a night_n of_o apostasy_n have_v be_v spread_v over_o nation_n and_o as_o we_o come_v to_o believe_v in_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n and_o to_o depend_v upon_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o to_o know_v the_o benefit_n of_o our_o assemble_v ourselves_o together_o to_o wait_v upon_o the_o lord_n for_o the_o arise_v of_o his_o pure_a immortal_a life_n to_o the_o refresh_n and_o consolate_v our_o immortal_a soul_n we_o have_v be_v make_v willing_a praise_n be_v to_o our_o god_n to_o continue_v the_o assemble_v of_o ourselves_o together_o wait_v upon_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o day_n of_o persecution_n and_o hour_n of_o trial_n though_o suffering_n may_v therefore_o attend_v believe_v that_o whatsoever_o society_n of_o people_n have_v be_v in_o the_o life_n of_o christianity_n and_o yet_o shall_v for_o fear_n of_o man_n or_o the_o law_n of_o man_n forsake_v the_o assemble_v of_o themselves_o together_o as_o the_o manner_n of_o some_o have_v be_v in_o day_n past_a when_o the_o will_n of_o the_o lord_n
be_v they_o shall_v not_o forbear_v may_v thereby_o come_v to_o lose_v their_o strength_n in_o the_o lord_n for_o that_o we_o believe_v it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o every_o christian_a to_o think_v nothing_o too_o dear_a to_o offer_v up_o for_o the_o lord_n when_o he_o command_v or_o call_v for_o it_o mark_n we_o do_v not_o say_v at_o every_o time_n that_o any_o informer_n that_o thirst_v after_o our_o ruin_n and_o estate_n through_o malice_n especial_o when_v not_o prompt_v thereto_o by_o such_o as_o be_v minister_n of_o the_o law_n call_v for_o it_o but_o we_o say_v when_o the_o lord_n command_v or_o call_v for_o it_o and_o if_o peradventure_o any_o shall_v be_v so_o overcome_v as_o through_o disobedience_n fear_v or_o weakness_n not_o to_o stand_v steadfast_a to_o the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n in_o the_o day_n of_o trial_n even_o in_o that_o manner_n that_o the_o lord_n will_v it_o be_v then_o the_o duty_n of_o those_o that_o be_v strong_a to_o deal_v gentle_o with_o such_o and_o in_o that_o charity_n speak_v of_o by_o the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 13._o that_o bear_v all_o thing_n that_o endure_v all_o thing_n endeavour_v to_o convince_v they_o of_o such_o their_o weakness_n that_o so_o their_o faith_n and_o strength_n in_o the_o truth_n may_v come_v to_o increase_v and_o not_o be_v so_o remote_a from_o bear_v the_o infirmity_n of_o the_o weak_a which_o be_v the_o apostle_n counsel_n to_o those_o who_o be_v strong_a as_o instead_o thereof_o to_o publish_v such_o their_o weakness_n by_o way_n of_o recrimination_n through_o the_o nation_n especial_o while_o such_o weakness_n may_v true_o be_v term_v want_v of_o sight_n or_o clear_a conviction_n we_o also_o do_v believe_v that_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n be_v a_o inward_a government_n that_o the_o law_n thereof_o be_v inward_a and_o that_o the_o only_a place_n wherein_o they_o be_v to_o be_v exalt_v be_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n for_o that_o christ_n appearance_n be_v there_o to_o be_v wait_v for_o and_o that_o this_o government_n can_v be_v establish_v by_o man_n because_o it_o be_v already_o on_o christ_n shoulder_n and_o he_o that_o sit_v on_o the_o throne_n of_o david_n be_v to_o establish_v it_o notwithstanding_o it_o be_v well_o know_v that_o some_o call_v quaker_n by_o write_v under_o their_o hand_n have_v declare_v themselves_o to_o be_v the_o establisher_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o holy_a order_n of_o truth_n we_o also_o do_v believe_v that_o those_o who_o have_v live_v under_o this_o government_n of_o christ_n bring_v forth_o the_o peaceable_a fruit_n of_o righteousness_n strive_v not_o for_o pre-eminence_n nor_o yet_o like_o the_o gentile_n exercise_n lordship_n over_o one_o another_o but_o be_v meek_a gentle_a humble_a and_o easy_a to_o be_v entreat_v ready_a to_o pass_v by_o and_o forgive_v offence_n even_o as_o god_n for_o christ_n sake_n have_v forgive_v we_o and_o so_o show_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o that_o love_n whereof_o christ_n our_o lord_n and_o master_n do_v declare_v when_o he_o say_v by_o this_o shall_v all_o man_n know_v that_o you_o be_v my_o disciple_n if_o you_o love_v one_o another_o but_o on_o the_o contrary_a we_o can_v but_o testify_v that_o those_o who_o be_v so_o far_o from_o follow_v peace_n with_o all_o man_n which_o be_v the_o apostle_n counsel_n as_o to_o raise_v contention_n among_o their_o brethren_n endeavour_v to_o make_v they_o offender_n for_o those_o thing_n which_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o all-seeing_a god_n be_v no_o offence_n do_v not_o appear_v to_o be_v subject_a unto_o christ_n government_n though_o they_o may_v style_v themselves_o establisher_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o holy_a order_n of_o truth_n object_n but_o perhaps_o some_o may_v here_o object_n how_o come_v you_o and_o those_o your_o opposer_n who_o run_v against_o you_o as_o dark_a leaven_a superate_v spirit_n thus_o to_o disagree_v for_o certain_a we_o be_v that_o we_o have_v hear_v they_o testify_v to_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o god_n grace_n in_o opposition_n to_o the_o teach_n of_o man_n magnify_v the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n as_o the_o guide_n to_o the_o father_n and_o bear_v witness_n against_o tyth-payer_n and_o fleer_n in_o time_n of_o persecution_n answ_n yes_o very_o we_o believe_v so_o too_o but_o yet_o we_o be_v not_o of_o those_o who_o can_v hold_v a_o unity_n with_o such_o who_o sometime_o tell_v we_o we_o must_v walk_v according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o god_n grace_n in_o ourselves_o and_o that_o magnify_v the_o sufficiency_n thereof_o as_o the_o only_a unerring_a rule_n and_o yet_o be_v judge_v their_o brethren_n because_o they_o can_v have_v a_o eye_n to_o some_o outward_a rule_n and_o order_n give_v forth_o by_o such_o who_o have_v say_v look_v not_o unto_o we_o but_o unto_o the_o lord_n when_o at_o the_o same_o time_n such_o as_o may_v be_v so_o judge_v shall_v solemu_o affirm_v it_o reach_v not_o to_o their_o conscience_n unto_o which_o all_o paper_n outward_a rule_n and_o prescription_n be_v to_o be_v bring_v that_o so_o by_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n therein_o they_o may_v be_v try_v and_o not_o our_o conscience_n bring_v unto_o paper_n or_o any_o thing_n outward_a to_o be_v a_o bond_n thereon_o before_o a_o inward_a conviction_n from_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n receive_v neither_o can_v we_o be_v at_o unity_n with_o the_o appearance_n of_o that_o spirit_n in_o any_o one_o that_o villify_v other_o for_o fleer_n in_o time_n of_o persecution_n backbiting_a instead_o of_o endeavour_v to_o restore_v in_o the_o spirit_n of_o meekness_n such_o when_o such_o a_o one_o have_v appear_v a_o fleer_v at_o such_o like_a time_n himself_o neither_o can_v we_o be_v at_o unity_n with_o the_o appearance_n of_o that_o spirit_n be_v it_o in_o whosoever_o it_o will_v that_o can_v recriminate_a man_n as_o tyth-payer_n who_o have_v be_v faithful_a in_o their_o testimony_n relate_v to_o tithe_n and_o yet_o advise_v a_o friend_n to_o purchase_v tithe_n which_o be_v g._n f_n case_n with_o relation_n to_o his_o advice_n unto_o nathaniel_n crip_n and_o robert_n arch_n according_a as_o be_v treat_v on_o and_o prove_v by_o certificate_n under_o their_o hand_n record_v in_o the_o 21th_o section_n of_o the_o manuscript_n first_o mention_v in_o the_o preface_n ready_a to_o be_v see_v we_o be_v now_o sensible_a that_o some_o of_o our_o opposer_n may_v take_v occasion_n from_o a_o part_n of_o our_o fore_n go_v word_n thus_o to_o object_n obj._n this_o your_o language_n of_o offer_v up_o all_o seem_v not_o according_a to_o the_o sense_n of_o some_o to_o square_v with_o the_o practice_n of_o secure_v any_o part_n of_o your_o estate_n when_o you_o foresee_v a_o probability_n of_o incur_v a_o praemunire_n or_o be_v fine_v for_o meet_v which_o as_o report_n say_v have_v be_v the_o case_n of_o some_o of_o you_o and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o that_o you_o have_v justify_v the_o same_o notwithstanding_o some_o who_o we_o account_v faithful_a have_v in_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n declare_v against_o it_o instance_v the_o word_n of_o christ_n when_o he_o say_v unto_o peter_n get_v thou_o behind_o i_o satan_n thou_o be_v a_o offence_n to_o i_o for_o thou_o savory_a not_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v of_o god_n which_o be_v so_o speak_v by_o christ_n because_o peter_n say_v unto_o he_o be_v it_o far_o from_o thou_o lord_n this_o shall_v not_o be_v unto_o thou_o meaning_n as_o the_o context_n show_n that_o he_o will_v not_o have_v jesus_n go_v to_o jerusalem_n there_o to_o sufer_v though_o it_o be_v manifest_v to_o he_o that_o he_o must_v go_v thither_o and_o suffer_v etc._n etc._n read_v mat._n 16.21_o 22_o 23._o and_o so_o by_o consequence_n it_o appear_v that_o christ_n reprove_v that_o spirit_n which_o exhort_v to_o save_v self_n beside_o it_o be_v well_o know_v that_o on_o this_o occasion_n the_o rebellion_n and_o condemn_a action_n of_o saul_n in_o save_v agag_n and_o he_o best_a of_o the_o sheep_n and_o ox_n alive_a be_v a_o part_n of_o what_o by_o the_o commandment_n of_o the_o lord_n he_o take_v of_o the_o amalakite_n have_v frequent_o be_v bring_v as_o a_o instance_n against_o some_o of_o you_o to_o show_v that_o all_o aught_o to_o be_v offer_v up_o read_v 1_o sam._n 15._o answ_n forasmuch_o as_o this_o very_a objection_n have_v be_v make_v use_n of_o as_o a_o prevail_a argument_n to_o affect_v some_o ignorant_a people_n against_o the_o friend_n of_o truth_n it_o be_v needful_a it_o shall_v receive_v a_o particular_a answer_n and_o observation_n which_o now_o follow_v peter_n word_n have_v a_o tendency_n to_o divert_v christ_n from_o what_o he_o know_v to_o be_v his_o duty_n saul_n action_n be_v know_v and_o confess_v rebellion_n in_o save_v that_o which_o be_v no_o part_n of_o his_o own_o proper_a substance_n but_o
answer_v you_o be_v out_o of_o the_o wisdom_n and_o fellowship_n of_o the_o gospel_n herein_o for_o wherever_o truth_n be_v concern_v the_o friend_n of_o truth_n may_v be_v concern_v by_o counsel_n advice_n or_o other_o aid_n or_o assistance_n and_o to_o talk_v of_o city_n place_n or_o country_n by_o way_n of_o limitation_n be_v narrow_a weak_a and_o unsound_a it_o be_v a_o plain_a restrain_v which_o be_v of_o the_o nature_n of_o imposition_n it_o arise_v from_o the_o same_o ground_n and_o tend_v to_o the_o same_o centre_n and_o the_o end_n of_o this_o very_a spirit_n how_o small_a soever_o its_o appearance_n be_v think_v now_o to_o be_v be_v downright_a independencye_n parish_n and_o schism_n suffer_v but_o the_o universal_a cord_n to_o be_v cut_v and_o these_o thing_n must_v follow_v hereby_o one_o place_n will_v be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o action_n of_o another_o and_o each_o be_v as_o distinct_a government_n and_o by_o thing_n happen_v between_o person_n of_o differ_v meeting_n a_o foundation_n be_v lay_v for_o emulation_n strife_n and_o division_n but_o where_o truth_n only_o rule_v and_o reign_v and_o that_o all_o friend_n of_o truth_n have_v free_a access_n in_o it_o truth_n and_o not_o man_n nor_o man_n rule_n and_o reign_v for_o they_o that_o will_v have_v a_o meeting_n rule_n be_v as_o far_o from_o truth_n as_o they_o that_o will_v have_v a_o man_n rule_v for_o it_o be_v neither_o man_n nor_o man_n but_o truth_n in_o all_o that_o must_v and_o will_v preside_v among_o we_o and_o the_o faithful_a be_v of_o one_o mind_n because_o they_o have_v but_o one_o head_n here_o the_o reader_n may_v take_v notice_n that_o the_o replyer_n who_o be_v not_o a_o mean_a one_o use_v the_o word_n independencye_n and_o seem_v to_o speak_v against_o separate_a and_o independent_a privilege_n and_o distinct_a government_n and_o yet_o also_o import_v by_o his_o word_n that_o neither_o man_n man_n nor_o meeting_n ought_v to_o rule_v but_o that_o truth_n must_v and_o will_v preside_v among_o we_o and_o that_o the_o faithful_a be_v all_o of_o one_o mind_n because_o they_o have_v but_o one_o head_n hence_o some_o may_v be_v apt_a to_o inquire_v what_o may_v be_v the_o meaning_n of_o these_o his_o word_n and_o the_o end_n of_o this_o very_a spirit_n be_v downright_a independencye_n parish_n and_o schism_n to_o this_o we_o answer_v that_o we_o take_v he_o to_o mean_v that_o there_o be_v some_o who_o in_o his_o sense_n either_o be_v or_o in_o the_o end_n may_v become_v schismatic_n because_o they_o be_v not_o principled_a to_o depend_v on_o the_o assembly_n of_o man_n though_o under_o a_o form_n of_o government_n but_o on_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o god_n grace_n which_o seem_v to_o be_v evident_a from_o this_o his_o expression_n suffer_v the_o universal_a cord_n by_o which_o we_o can_v take_v he_o to_o mean_v the_o power_n of_o god_n but_o some_o outward_a thing_n to_o be_v cut_v and_o these_o thing_n must_v follow_v viz._n hereby_o one_o place_n will_v be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o action_n of_o another_o and_o each_o will_v plead_v separate_a and_o independent_a privilege_n in_o fine_a they_o will_v be_v as_o distinct_a government_n and_o by_o thing_n happen_v between_o person_n of_o different_a meeting_n a_o foundation_n be_v lay_v for_o emulation_n strife_n and_o division_n but_o have_v he_o not_o so_o say_v we_o have_v sufficient_a evidence_n satisfy_v we_o that_o what_o we_o take_v to_o be_v his_o mean_v may_v reasonable_o be_v take_v to_o be_v his_o very_a mean_v since_o it_o be_v not_o rational_a to_o take_v he_o to_o mean_v a_o independency_n on_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n and_o sufficiency_n of_o god_n grace_n because_o it_o be_v use_v by_o way_n of_o reflection_n on_o those_o who_o great_a concern_v at_o this_o day_n as_o we_o believe_v be_v to_o contend_v and_o plead_v for_o this_o undoubted_a christian-freedom_n and_o privilege_n that_o as_o under_o the_o profession_n of_o christianity_n the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o man_n have_v by_o the_o true_a minister_n of_o christ_n be_v commit_v to_o god_n grace_n so_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v leave_v free_a to_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o his_o grace_n as_o that_o teacher_n of_o righteousness_n on_o which_o they_o ought_v to_o depend_v notwithstanding_o many_o false_a and_o hireling_n minister_n have_v usual_o thus_o say_v we_o commit_v you_o to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n grace_n and_o yet_o be_v find_v persecutor_n of_o those_o who_o give_v heed_n to_o the_o word_n of_o grace_n can_v not_o adhere_v to_o their_o word_n he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n to_o hear_v let_v he_o hear_v we_o appeal_v now_o to_o god_n witness_v in_o every_o impartial_a reader_n whether_o the_o replyer_n language_n in_o his_o aforecited_a reply_n favour_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o in_o the_o mean_a while_n shall_v leave_v this_o our_o testimony_n on_o record_n that_o truth_n may_v appear_v among_o a_o few_o country_n friend_n in_o a_o small_a village_n and_o that_o they_o from_o the_o appearance_n thereof_o may_v act_v by_o way_n of_o counsel_n exhortation_n aid_n or_o assistance_n charge_v troublesome_a turbulent_a disquieter_n of_o god_n people_n not_o to_o meddle_v with_o they_o unless_o concern_v and_o yet_o may_v not_o just_o be_v reflect_v on_o as_o such_o as_o will_v cut_v the_o universal_a cord_n which_o be_v the_o power_n of_o god_n and_o can_v be_v cut_v whereby_o we_o be_v gather_v nor_o yet_o that_o the_o end_n of_o their_o spirit_n be_v independency_n parish_n schism_n and_o that_o they_o be_v pleader_n for_o such_o separate_a independent_a privilege_n as_o have_v not_o a_o dependency_n on_o god_n lead_v grace_n oh_o friend_n away_o with_o all_o such_o discourse_n that_o tell_v you_o in_o one_o line_n that_o no_o man_n man_n nor_o meeting_n but_o truth_n must_v rule_v and_o preside_n and_o yet_o reflect_v on_o other_o as_o claim_v and_o plead_v for_o separate_a privilege_n and_o distinct_a government_n when_o in_o reality_n they_o plead_v for_o nothing_o but_o to_o be_v leave_v according_a as_o the_o ancient_a labourer_n who_o be_v instrument_n in_o god_n hand_n to_o gather_v we_o do_v leave_v we_o commit_v we_o and_o commend_v we_o to_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n and_o the_o teach_n thereof_o as_o manifest_v in_o every_o one_o inward_a part_n make_v no_o mentition_n of_o have_v their_o dependency_n on_o general_n quarterly_o monthly_a or_o any_o other_o meeting_n of_o man_n whatsoever_o and_o therefore_o we_o can_v but_o give_v forth_o this_o as_o a_o warn_n to_o all_o to_o take_v heed_n that_o you_o be_v not_o deceive_v by_o the_o cunning_a sleight_n and_o device_n of_o man_n to_o leave_v your_o teacher_n that_o can_v be_v remove_v into_o a_o corner_n and_o instead_o thereof_o be_v find_v depend_v on_o the_o dicttate_n and_o prescription_n of_o fallible_a man._n he_o that_o have_v a_o ear_n to_o hear_v let_v he_o hear_v but_o to_o come_v yet_o more_o close_o to_o the_o matter_n in_o hand_n we_o can_v but_o further_o declare_v that_o though_o the_o reply_o thus_o have_v say_v to_o talk_v of_o city_n place_n or_o country_n by_o way_n of_o limitation_n be_v narrow_a weak_a and_o unsound_a it_o be_v a_o plain_a restraint_n it_o be_v of_o the_o nature_n of_o imposition_n yet_o we_o must_v take_v liberty_n to_o tell_v he_o that_o we_o be_v not_o so_o void_a of_o sense_n but_o to_o perceive_v that_o the_o general_n meeting_n be_v that_o unto_o which_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o some_o all_o friend_n ought_v to_o have_v a_o eye_n above_o any_o other_o meet_v of_o friend_n whatsoever_o and_o that_o the_o meaning_n of_o this_o exhortation_n frequent_o utter_v viz._n have_v any_o eye_n to_o the_o brethren_n be_v chief_o mean_v with_o respect_n to_o that_o meeting_n this_o we_o take_v to_o be_v both_o limitation_n and_o a_o design_n of_o imposition_n and_o whereas_o the_o replier_n have_v say_v hereby_o one_o place_n will_v be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o action_n of_o another_o as_o if_o that_o be_v matter_n of_o ill_a consequence_n we_o think_v meet_v to_o add_v that_o we_o do_v know_v those_o who_o have_v busy_v themselves_o first_o to_o bring_v the_o action_n at_o one_o place_n unto_o another_o have_v occasion_v emulation_n strife_n and_o division_n among_o friend_n at_o unity_n so_o that_o instead_o of_o approve_v themselves_o keeper_n of_o other_o man_n vineyard_n they_o have_v be_v destroyer_n both_a of_o other_o man_n and_o their_o own_o vineyard_n too_o as_o by_o sad_a example_n be_v too_o too_o evident_o manifest_v in_o the_o country_n and_o place_n where_o we_o live_v or_o have_v be_v conversant_a if_o report_n be_v true_a it_o have_v be_v jealouse_v by_o some_o who_o cry_v much_o against_o some_o other_o under_o the_o term_n of_o dark_a spirit_n though_o honest_a friend_n that_o this_o kind_n of_o argue_v to_o leave_v friend_n to_o the_o grace_n light_n
and_o spirit_n of_o god_n may_v lead_v into_o rantism_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v the_o care_n of_o faithful_a brethren_n to_o appear_v as_o watchman_n over_o the_o flock_n that_o so_o none_o under_o pretence_n of_o be_v leave_v to_o the_o light_n may_v run_v into_o looseness_n lightness_n and_o vanity_n say_v the_o light_n in_o my_o conscience_n condemn_v i_o not_o to_o this_o we_o say_v the_o lord_n rebuke_v that_o spirit_n that_o do_v so_o much_o as_o jealous_a that_o leave_v people_n to_o the_o light_n may_v lead_v into_o rantism_n such_o a_o sugestion_n be_v notorious_o wicked_a since_o the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n have_v be_v unto_o which_o we_o this_o day_n bear_v record_n that_o the_o light_n be_v a_o reprover_n of_o all_o sin_n and_o as_o to_o the_o latter_a part_n of_o the_o objection_n we_o say_v that_o those_o who_o be_v true_a watchman_n will_v as_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lie_v use_v their_o endeavour_n to_o bring_v the_o flock_n to_o the_o light_n to_o prove_v their_o deed_n whether_o they_o be_v wrought_v in_o god_n and_o not_o to_o paper_n rather_o than_o to_o the_o light_n as_o know_v this_o that_o every_o work_n and_o word_n bring_v forth_o by_o man_n be_v but_o the_o effect_n of_o what_o be_v first_o wrought_v in_o the_o heart_n which_o nothing_o outward_a can_v be_v a_o bond_n upon_o to_o alter_v and_o change_v and_o if_o we_o do_v but_o consider_v how_o fruitless_a in_o day_n and_o year_n that_o be_v past_a as_o well_o as_o in_o this_o present_a age_n all_o man_n outward_a endeavour_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o church-government_n have_v be_v to_o preserve_v in_o a_o real_a true_a heavenly_a society_n it_o appear_v to_o we_o as_o a_o mere_a badge_n of_o apostasy_n for_o any_o to_o have_v a_o dependency_n on_o any_o such_o mean_n of_o preservation_n and_o whereas_o it_o be_v jealouse_v some_o may_v run_v into_o looseness_n and_o say_v the_o light_n in_o my_o conscience_n condemn_v i_o not_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v the_o care_n of_o faithful_a brethren_n to_o appear_v as_o watchman_n over_o the_o flock_n we_o say_v so_o too_o and_o those_o who_o approve_v themselves_o watchman_n will_v endeavour_v to_o convince_v such_o who_o in_o very_a deed_n run_v into_o looseness_n etc._n etc._n that_o though_o they_o may_v pretend_v the_o light_n condemn_v they_o not_o yet_o that_o their_o deed_n be_v evil_a and_o that_o the_o light_n do_v condemn_v that_o same_o though_o they_o may_v be_v harden_v and_o see_v it_o not_o and_o so_o endeavour_v to_o awaken_v the_o conscience_n that_o god_n witness_n may_v be_v hear_v for_o that_o nothing_o that_o be_v outward_a can_v be_v a_o bond_n on_o such_o a_o one_o to_o forsake_v his_o sin_n and_o embrace_v the_o truth_n sect_n vii_o touch_v church-government_n and_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o word_n church-government_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o our_o opposer_n as_o we_o on_o sufficient_a ground_n take_v it_o lay_v down_o our_o denial_n of_o that_o meaning_n several_a scripture_n from_o whence_o a_o proof_n for_o church-government_n have_v be_v pretend_v be_v treat_v on_o show_v that_o from_o thence_o no_o pretence_n can_v be_v to_o claim_v a_o power_n over_o conscience_n or_o outward_a property_n the_o doctrine_n touch_v power_n over_o conscience_n and_o outward_a thing_n relate_v to_o meum_fw-la and_o tuum_fw-la as_o the_o author_n term_n be_v which_o we_o therefore_o call_v outward_a property_n examine_v and_o testify_v against_o as_o contrary_a to_o the_o principle_n of_o truth_n and_o liberty_n we_o have_v in_o christ_n jesus_n our_o sense_n what_o ought_v to_o be_v do_v for_o the_o decision_n of_o controversy_n with_o relation_n to_o property_n between_o brother_n and_o brother_n a_o objection_n raise_v to_o this_o purpose_n that_o what_o be_v give_v forth_o by_o the_o spirit_n through_o the_o brethren_n aught_o to_o be_v obey_v and_o not_o account_v the_o dictate_v of_o fallible_a man_n and_o that_o if_o thou_o see_v it_o not_o thy_o duty_n to_o obey_v the_o reason_n be_v thy_o want_n of_o diligence_n and_o not_o wait_v in_o thy_o measure_n and_o so_o no_o plea_n for_o thy_o disobedience_n be_v good_n the_o say_a objection_n answer_v a_o examination_n from_o the_o scripture_n whether_o christ_n give_v any_o encouragement_n to_o his_o disciple_n to_o become_v ruler_n over_o one_o another_o this_o kind_n of_o discourse_n we_o be_v ready_a to_o suppose_v may_v at_o length_n occasion_n from_o some_o such_o a_o objection_n as_o this_o object_n what_o be_v you_o not_o for_o church-government_n answ_n to_o this_o we_o say_v we_o be_v for_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n know_v it_o be_v his_o right_n to_o govern_v his_o church_n obj._n this_n may_n some_o say_v be_v a_o evasive_a answer_n to_o the_o question_n and_o therefore_o may_v again_o reply_v be_v plain_a and_o tell_v we_o be_v you_o for_o church-government_n answ_n for_o answer_v than_o we_o say_v we_o ought_v to_o ask_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o the_o word_n church-government_n since_o we_o find_v not_o the_o word_n in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n and_o it_o be_v a_o word_n most_o use_v under_o the_o profession_n of_o christianity_n by_o such_o who_o have_v become_v persecutor_n we_o be_v the_o more_o jealous_a that_o corruption_n usurpation_n and_o injustice_n may_v creep_v in_o by_o such_o who_o contend_v so_o much_o for_o church-government_n with_o respect_n to_o outward_o form_n of_o government_n since_o the_o form_n some_o take_v to_o govern_v be_v in_o some_o respect_n worse_o than_o the_o form_n of_o divers_a apostate_n christian_n take_v this_o for_o one_o instance_n among_o many_o more_o that_o may_v be_v give_v viz._n judge_v the_o merit_n of_o a_o cause_n without_o hear_v both_o party_n as_o may_v be_v sufficient_o evidence_v by_o the_o give_v forth_o that_o paper_n from_o ellis_n hook_n his_o chamber_n london_n the_o twelve_o of_o the_o four_o month_n 1677._o and_o subscribe_v by_o charles_n marshal_n and_o sixty_o five_o person_n more_o against_o two_o ancient_a and_o honourable_a brethren_n viz._n john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n though_o not_o then_o present_a to_o speak_v for_o themselves_o nor_o yet_o ever_o speak_v to_o by_o many_o of_o the_o say_v sixty_o six_o touch_v any_o evil_n lay_v to_o their_o charge_n beside_o we_o do_v know_v that_o many_o of_o our_o opposer_n who_o appear_v to_o we_o high_o affect_v with_o church-government_n as_o in_o their_o account_n be_v establish_v among_o we_o and_o that_o with_o respect_n to_o outward_a form_n do_v in_o a_o high_a decree_n manifest_v a_o spirit_n of_o persecution_n by_o endeavour_v to_o take_v away_o the_o good_a name_n of_o honest_a man_n by_o lie_n slander_n and_o false_a accusation_n wherein_o our_o opposer_n have_v be_v to_o our_o certain_a knowledge_n so_o industrious_a as_o that_o we_o have_v scarcy_o know_v their_o peer_n in_o that_o evil_a work_n which_o in_o many_o section_n of_o the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o first_o manuscript_n make_v mention_n of_o in_o the_o preface_n particular_o the_o 13_o 18_o 12_o 22th_o be_v lareg_o evidence_v and_o ready_a for_o the_o view_n of_o any_o friend_n that_o may_v desire_v the_o perusal_n thereof_o though_o for_o the_o reason_n mention_v in_o the_o preface_n not_o herewith_o publish_v and_o now_o as_o to_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o word_n church-government_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o our_o opposer_n we_o take_v it_o to_o be_v thus_o viz._n that_o some_o who_o account_v themselves_o member_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n claim_v a_o power_n to_o rule_v over_o other_o some_o if_o not_o all_o the_o rest_n and_o to_o give_v forth_o sentence_n direction_n or_o order_n which_o they_o ought_v to_o own_o receive_v or_o obey_v though_o they_o may_v pretend_v they_o see_v it_o not_o their_o duty_n if_o this_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o word_n church-government_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o our_o opposer_n as_o we_o have_v cause_n to_o believe_v it_o be_v not_o only_o from_o r._n b_n book_n of_o government_n but_o also_o from_o what_o have_v be_v say_v or_o propagate_v by_o other_o which_o we_o be_v persuade_v will_v appear_v to_o all_o impartial_a reader_n who_o shall_v diligent_o and_o in_o a_o unprejudiced_a spirit_n weigh_v the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o say_v first_o manuscript_n mention_v in_o the_o preface_n which_o as_o we_o say_v before_o be_v ready_a for_o the_o perusal_n of_o any_o friend_n desire_v so_o to_o do_v though_o for_o the_o reason_n mention_v in_o the_o preface_n not_o herewith_o publish_v we_o then_o direct_o answer_v we_o be_v not_o for_o such_o a_o church-government_n this_o subject_a whereof_o we_o be_v now_o treat_v be_v as_o some_o may_n comparative_o say_v the_o very_a hinge_v on_o which_o the_o present_a controversy_n seem_v to_o depend_v we_o think_v it_o necessary_a to_o quote_v those_o scripture_n from_o whence_o so_o far_o as_o ever_o we_o
to_o add._n if_o paul_n look_v on_o himself_o as_o one_o have_v power_n to_o command_v to_o rule_v and_o govern_v over_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o it_o be_v their_o duty_n to_o obey_v he_o whether_o they_o see_v it_o so_o or_o no_o what_o be_v the_o meaning_n that_o the_o same_o paul_n testify_v for_o himself_o and_o other_o his_o brethren_n 2_o cor._n 4.2_o that_o they_o have_v not_o handle_v the_o word_n of_o god_n deceitful_o but_o by_o manifestation_n of_o the_o truth_n commend_v themselves_o to_o every_o man_n conscience_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n compare_v this_o with_o what_o paul_n write_v in_o the_o same_o epistle_n 2_o cor._n 10.15_o have_v hope_n when_o your_o faith_n be_v increase_v that_o we_o shall_v be_v enlarge_v by_o you_o according_a to_o our_o rule_n abundant_o it_o appear_v evident_o to_o we_o that_o preach_v up_o obedience_n to_o that_o wherein_o the_o conscience_n through_o faith_n be_v not_o satisfy_v be_v a_o handle_v the_o word_n of_o god_n deceitful_o and_o therefore_o though_o we_o have_v be_v inform_v that_o we_o be_v dark_a and_o blind_a even_o by_o such_o who_o tell_v we_o they_o do_v see_v public_o preach_v on_o this_o wise_a if_o you_o do_v not_o see_v yourselves_o you_o must_v then_o follow_v we_o that_o do_v see_v yet_o we_o can_v on_o that_o foot_n embrace_v such_o doctrine_n lest_o like_o blind_a man_n we_o fall_v all_o together_o into_o the_o ditch_n and_o embrace_v that_o for_o the_o light_n of_o the_o sun_n which_o be_v no_o other_o than_o the_o dark_a body_n of_o the_o moon_n we_o be_v now_o sensible_a another_o objection_n may_v thus_o arise_v object_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n which_o be_v but_o one_o in_o all_o have_v move_v in_o our_o brethren_n to_o give_v forth_o certain_a order_n command_n and_o prescription_n and_o therefore_o we_o ought_v according_o to_o obey_v and_o this_o can_v be_v call_v the_o dictate_v of_o fallible_a man_n but_o of_o the_o spirit_n give_v forth_o through_o man_n and_o be_v thou_o that_o pretend_v thou_o see_v it_o not_o thy_o duty_n to_o obey_v but_o obedient_a to_o thy_o own_o measure_n thou_o will_v then_o see_v it_o so_o and_o be_v one_o with_o the_o brethren_n and_o therefore_o we_o can_v but_o tell_v thou_o it_o be_v thy_o duty_n to_o obey_v since_o the_o reason_n thou_o see_v it_o not_o thy_o duty_n be_v thy_o want_n of_o diligence_n and_o not_o wait_v on_o thy_o own_o measure_n beside_o we_o find_v that_o that_o very_a person_n who_o have_v travel_v much_o for_o the_o settle_n of_o man_n meeting_n have_v late_o give_v forth_o a_o paper_n the_o import_n whereof_o be_v to_o justify_v prescription_n answ_n to_o this_o we_o say_v that_o if_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n move_v in_o any_o member_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n to_o give_v forth_o certain_a order_n and_o prescription_n with_o respect_n to_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o member_n as_o that_o which_o though_o relate_v to_o their_o conscience_n they_o ought_v to_o perform_v and_o practice_v whether_o they_o see_v it_o their_o duty_n or_o no_o or_o whether_o they_o be_v free_a so_o to_o do_v or_o no_o then_o not_o doubt_n but_o they_o ought_v so_o to_o act_v and_o do_v because_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n have_v so_o move_v but_o this_o be_v to_o suppose_v that_o which_o under_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o second_o covenant_n we_o have_v not_o the_o least_o ground_n from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n or_o light_n of_o christ_n to_o suppose_v for_o if_o the_o blind_a be_v not_o to_o be_v accept_v of_o for_o a_o sacrifice_n under_o the_o first_o covenant_n much_o less_o can_v it_o be_v acceptable_a under_o the_o second_o and_o therefore_o we_o do_v not_o believe_v that_o we_o ought_v to_o expect_v that_o any_o such_o motion_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n shall_v appear_v through_o any_o one_o or_o more_o member_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n with_o respect_n to_o other_o member_n of_o the_o same_o body_n and_o our_o faith_n be_v that_o all_o those_o who_o be_v heir_n of_o that_o kingdom_n which_o be_v everlasting_a be_v entitle_v to_o a_o like_a freedom_n not_o to_o be_v impose_v upon_o each_o by_o other_o contrary_a to_o the_o divine_a sense_n and_o heavenly_a understanding_n which_o as_o coheir_n and_o co-worker_n together_o they_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o and_o this_o in_o the_o ensue_a discourse_n will_v evince_o be_v manifest_v from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n however_o we_o must_v confess_v he_o that_o be_v not_o diligent_a to_o wait_v upon_o god_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o his_o own_o measure_n of_o grace_n receive_v be_v by_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n condemnable_a not_o for_o refuse_v to_o perform_v that_o which_o he_o see_v not_o to_o be_v his_o duty_n with_o respect_n to_o other_o man_n line_n make_v ready_a to_o his_o hand_n wherein_o he_o be_v not_o satisfy_v but_o for_o his_o neglect_v to_o wait_v upon_o god_n because_o it_o be_v manifest_a in_o every_o one_o that_o have_v be_v convince_v of_o the_o truth_n that_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o wait_v upon_o god_n and_o this_o our_o sense_n and_o reason_n answer_v to_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n where_o it_o be_v say_v rom._n 1.18_o 19_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n be_v reveal_v from_o heaven_n against_o all_o ungodlyness_n and_o unrighteousness_n of_o man_n who_o hold_v the_o truth_n in_o unrighteousness_n because_o that_o which_o may_v be_v know_v of_o god_n be_v manifest_a in_o they_o for_o god_n have_v show_v it_o unto_o they_o so_o it_o be_v clear_a to_o we_o from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n without_o we_o as_o well_o as_o from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o we_o that_o the_o wrath_n and_o condemnation_n of_o god_n go_v forth_o against_o such_o as_o live_v not_o answerable_a to_o what_o god_n have_v manifest_v in_o they_o but_o it_o be_v neither_o agreeable_a to_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n or_o light_v within_o for_o any_o to_o pour_v forth_o judgement_n against_o any_o for_o not_o follow_v or_o give_v heed_n unto_o this_o or_o tother_o prescription_n or_o outward_a observation_n wherein_o the_o conscience_n be_v concern_v when_o such_o be_v not_o convince_v thereof_o to_o be_v their_o duty_n from_o the_o manifestation_n of_o god_n spirit_n in_o they_o the_o next_o thing_n to_o be_v consider_v be_v this_o that_o in_o all_o the_o last_o mention_v objection_n there_o be_v no_o plea_n for_o obedience_n unto_o or_o follow_v any_o thing_n but_o the_o spirit_n in_o its_o appearance_n whether_o through_o the_o brethren_n or_o thyself_o from_o whence_o we_o observe_v first_o that_o there_o be_v no_o certain_a description_n who_o be_v mean_v by_o the_o word_n brethren_n second_o that_o it_o be_v the_o appearance_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o we_o ought_v to_o follow_v now_o shall_v this_o question_n be_v ask_v of_o such_o who_o may_v so_o object_n as_o aforesaid_a will_v you_o have_v we_o follow_v we_o know_v not_o what_o we_o be_v ready_a to_o believe_v that_o they_o will_v say_v nay_o if_o they_o answer_v any_o thing_n to_o the_o question_n and_o if_o so_o than_o the_o force_n of_o the_o objection_n fall_v for_o that_o we_o account_v it_o our_o duty_n to_o follow_v the_o appearance_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n through_o the_o mean_a member_n when_o our_o conscience_n be_v convince_v that_o it_o be_v the_o appearance_n of_o that_o spirit_n but_o before_o we_o can_v say_v in_o truth_n though_o we_o shall_v do_v as_o such_o a_o one_o will_v have_v we_o that_o we_o be_v follower_n of_o and_o lead_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n no_o more_o than_o jesus_n can_v in_o truth_n be_v call_v lord_n 12.13_o lord_n 1_o cor._n 12.13_o and_o not_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n beside_o we_o can_v on_o this_o occasion_n but_o testify_v that_o as_o that_o obedience_n which_o be_v of_o faith_n in_o christ_n find_v acceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n 14.23_o lord_n rom._n 14.23_o so_o that_o obedience_n which_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n be_v but_o a_o dead_a performance_n and_o not_o the_o fruit_n of_o a_o live_a member_n who_o through_o the_o obedience_n of_o faith_n unto_o righteousness_n be_v make_v alive_a unto_o god_n and_o therefore_o it_o can_v be_v the_o duty_n of_o any_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n to_o run_v before_o his_o inward_a guide_n but_o to_o wait_v upon_o the_o lord_n that_o all_o his_o action_n may_v be_v regulate_v according_a to_o the_o manifestation_n and_o revelation_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o himself_o which_o seem_v clear_o agreeable_a to_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o apostle_n where_o he_o thus_o say_v phil._n 3.15_o 16._o if_o in_o any_o thing_n you_o be_v otherwise_o mind_v god_n shall_v reveal_v even_o this_o unto_o you_o nevertheless_o whereunto_o we_o have_v already_o attain_v let_v we_o walk_v
by_o the_o same_o rule_n he_o that_o savour_v the_o thing_n of_o god_n may_v easy_o perceive_v that_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o spirit_n through_o paul_n unto_o those_o philippian_n be_v that_o those_o who_o be_v come_v to_o a_o state_n of_o perfection_n shall_v walk_v by_o that_o rule_n whereunto_o they_o have_v attain_v but_o those_o who_o have_v not_o attain_v so_o far_o and_o be_v otherwise-minded_n be_v to_o wait_v for_o the_o revelation_n of_o the_o son_n and_o now_o to_o conclude_v as_o to_o this_o objection_n we_o have_v this_o further_a to_o add_v that_o we_o do_v know_v many_o of_o our_o opposer_n or_o at_o least_o such_o who_o be_v not_o at_o unity_n with_o we_o have_v very_o confident_o make_v use_n of_o such_o discourse_n as_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o last_o recite_v objection_n to_o induce_v we_o to_o follow_v outward_a prescription_n and_o order_n though_o not_o convince_v of_o its_o service_n which_o occasion_n we_o to_o be_v jealous_a that_o in_o process_n of_o time_n the_o enemy_n may_v so_o enter_v in_o at_o this_o door_n as_o that_o darkness_n may_v more_o general_o overshadow_v again_o than_o it_o yet_o do_v though_o our_o hope_n in_o god_n be_v that_o he_o will_v lay_v such_o a_o constraint_n on_o many_o of_o those_o who_o eye_n be_v open_a behold_v the_o approach_v apostasy_n as_o that_o they_o may_v be_v raise_v in_o a_o sense_n of_o god_n indignation_n and_o appear_v as_o lion_n on_o the_o behalf_n of_o the_o lion_n of_o the_o tribe_n of_o juda_n to_o oppose_v every_o appearance_n of_o that_o spirit_n which_o will_v be_v exalt_v self_n or_o any_o form_n observation_n prescription_n or_o order_n to_o be_v as_o a_o bond_n on_o the_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n when_o by_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n their_o alone_a lawgiver_n they_o be_v not_o full_o persuade_v thereof_o in_o their_o own_o conscience_n which_o undoubted_o be_v the_o meaning_n of_o the_o spirit_n through_o paul_n when_o he_o write_v unto_o the_o roman_n chap._n 14._o verse_n 5_o 23._o let_v every_o man_n be_v full_o persuade_v in_o his_o own_o mind_n for_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n and_o to_o come_v a_o little_a close_o to_o the_o matter_n in_o hand_n it_o be_v too_o too_o evident_a that_o nonconformity_n to_o outward_a prescription_n be_v take_v as_o a_o mark_n of_o apostasy_n even_o among_o those_o who_o have_v be_v under_o the_o profession_n of_o truth_n of_o which_o many_o instance_n too_o too_o large_a here_o to_o insert_v may_v be_v produce_v which_o be_v now_o forbear_v because_o we_o suppose_v there_o be_v very_o few_o among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n for_o who_o sake_n this_o be_v chief_o write_v who_o be_v ignorant_a of_o the_o truth_n hereof_o beside_o it_o have_v be_v a_o observation_n of_o late_a that_o these_o question_n or_o question_n to_o the_o like_a import_n have_v be_v frequent_o ask_v by_o such_o with_o who_o we_o can_v be_v at_o unity_n in_o all_o thing_n viz._n be_v you_o for_o woman_n meeting_n mean_v distinct_a woman_n meeting_n from_o man_n among_o who_o under_o pretence_n of_o take_v care_n of_o the_o poor_a another_o thing_n seem_v to_o be_v more_o chief_o aim_v at_o as_o anon_o will_v be_v make_v appear_v be_v you_o for_o record_v condemnation_n mean_v thereby_o whether_o the_o party_n who_o have_v condemn_v their_o fail_n and_o through_o the_o mercy_n of_o the_o lord_n have_v be_v restore_v and_o their_o officence_n blot_v out_o and_o forgive_v by_o he_o assent_v thereto_o or_o no._n be_v you_o for_o settle_a monthly_a and_o quarterly_o meeting_n touch_v outward_a business_n since_o those_o who_o will_v have_v meeting_n as_o occasion_n offer_v be_v account_v designer_n to_o through_o down_o all_o meeting_n for_o outward_a business_n relate_v to_o the_o affair_n of_o truth_n and_o when_o these_o or_o such_o like_a question_n have_v be_v a_o skt_a of_o friend_n in_o truth_n that_o can_v not_o answer_v thereto_o yea_o we_o be_v sensible_a that_o it_o have_v be_v take_v by_o many_o as_o a_o sufficient_a token_n of_o a_o dark_a leaven_a rend_v divide_v spirit_n and_o mere_o as_o we_o take_v it_o form_n a_o apprehension_n that_o the_o form_n they_o stand_v for_o be_v thereby_o strike_v at_o though_o the_o service_n will_v be_v effectual_o perform_v in_o another_o method_n as_o experience_n in_o the_o county_n of_o westmoreland_n and_o wilts_n have_v of_o late_o testify_v for_o be_v it_o not_o so_o that_o great_a stress_n be_v lay_v upon_o the_o outward_a form_n of_o thing_n prescribe_v to_o be_v practise_v how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o j._n s._n be_v article_v against_o by_o robert_n barrow_n and_o twenty_o six_o person_n more_o in_o the_o north_n on_o this_o wise_a viz._n j._n s._n speak_v among_o many_o friend_n of_o the_o danger_n of_o form_n because_o of_o the_o consequence_n that_o may_v follow_v say_v that_o among_o the_o christian_n of_o old_a the_o difference_n that_o do_v arise_v be_v about_o form_n which_o can_v not_o be_v seasonable_a word_n when_o we_o be_v establish_v the_o church_n in_o the_o holy_a order_n of_o truth_n much_o more_o may_v be_v collect_v from_o the_o article_n be_v forty_o four_o in_o number_n exhibit_v by_o robert_n barrow_n and_o twenty_o six_o person_n as_o aforesaid_a to_o show_v how_o earnest_o and_o zealous_o the_o very_a outward_a form_n of_o thing_n be_v contend_v for_o which_o occasion_n we_o in_o all_o seriousness_n of_o spirit_n thus_o to_o say_v may_v the_o lord_n god_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n so_o preserve_v his_o people_n that_o they_o may_v not_o be_v ensnare_v by_o those_o who_o have_v raise_v so_o great_a contention_n about_o the_o outward_a form_n of_o thing_n prescribe_v to_o be_v practise_v among_o the_o professor_n of_o truth_n lest_o they_o with_o they_o prove_v to_o be_v boaster_n proud_a blasphemer_n false_a accuser_n despiser_n of_o those_o that_o be_v good_a which_o be_v the_o very_a mark_n and_o token_n of_o those_o who_o have_v a_o form_n of_o godliness_n but_o deny_v the_o power_n thereof_o from_o who_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v to_o turn_v away_o and_o how_o far_o these_o mark_v rest_n upon_o many_o of_o those_o who_o so_o earnest_o contend_v for_o their_o outward_a form_n we_o leave_v to_o the_o impartial_a reader_n with_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n to_o judge_n when_o he_o have_v thorough_o inform_v himself_o of_o their_o fruit_n oh_o friend_n the_o serious_a consideration_n of_o these_o thing_n bow_v we_o before_o the_o lord_n and_o in_o a_o sense_n of_o his_o mercy_n to_o we_o we_o can_v no_o long_o keep_v silent_a but_o in_o his_o fear_n declare_v that_o our_o conscience_n be_v concern_v for_o the_o cause_n of_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n and_o since_o it_o be_v so_o that_o a_o ill_a use_n be_v make_v of_o that_o spirit_n of_o forbearance_n and_o condescension_n which_o we_o be_v sensible_a have_v be_v use_v by_o many_o of_o our_o brethren_n it_o be_v now_o become_v our_o portion_n to_o unburthen_v ourselves_o of_o that_o which_o have_v be_v our_o burden_n believe_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v not_o only_o arisen_a but_o will_v yet_o more_o and_o more_o arise_v against_o that_o spirit_n that_o will_v exalt_v itself_o over_o the_o heritage_n of_o god_n endeavour_v to_o rule_v over_o their_o conscience_n whenas_o christ_n alone_o be_v lord_n thereof_o it_o may_v now_o be_v worthy_a our_o observation_n to_o consider_v whether_o any_o encouragement_n be_v give_v by_o our_o lord_n and_o master_n christ_n jesus_n while_o on_o earth_n unto_o his_o disciple_n to_o become_v ruler_n one_o over_o another_o we_o find_v that_o he_o exhort_v his_o disciple_n judge_v not_o that_o you_o be_v not_o judge_v be_v not_o you_o call_v rabbi_n for_o one_o be_v your_o master_n even_o christ_n and_o all_o you_o be_v brethren_n but_o he_o that_o be_v great_a among_o you_o shall_v be_v your_o servant_n and_o whosoever_o shall_v exalthimself_n shall_v be_v abase_v and_o he_o that_o shall_v humble_v himself_o shall_v be_v exalt_v here_o be_v no_o ground_n to_o believe_v that_o christ_n intend_v that_o when_o he_o be_v depart_v his_o disciple_n shall_v be_v exalt_v themselves_o one_o over_o another_o as_o governor_n and_o ruler_n and_o if_o we_o consult_v the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n we_o shall_v find_v that_o though_o his_o disciple_n have_v a_o dependency_n upon_o he_o while_o in_o his_o bodily_a appearance_n to_o be_v their_o leader_n yet_o he_o tell_v they_o john_n 16.7.13_o it_o be_v expedient_a for_o you_o that_o i_o go_v away_o for_o if_o i_o go_v not_o away_o the_o comforter_n will_v not_o come_v unto_o you_o but_o if_o i_o depart_v i_o will_v send_v he_o unto_o you_o and_o he_o will_v guide_v you_o into_o all_o truth_n for_o he_o shall_v not_o speak_v of_o himself_o have_v it_o be_v so_o that_o christ_n jesus_n intend_v the_o
they_o be_v though_o under_o ever_o so_o specious_a pretence_n that_o have_v endeavour_v to_o establish_v outward_a indispensible_a rule_n and_o order_n in_o matter_n relate_v to_o conscience_n for_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n in_o this_o gospel_n day_n to_o walk_v by_o neglect_v to_o commit_v and_o commend_v every_o one_o unto_o the_o word_n nigh_o in_o the_o heart_n that_o thereby_o they_o may_v be_v preserve_v from_o subjection_n to_o any_o thing_n outward_o ordain_v which_o they_o may_v either_o scruple_n in_o conscience_n or_o be_v not_o lead_v by_o the_o word_n nigh_o in_o the_o heart_n to_o practise_v be_v such_o as_o in_o the_o best_a and_o most_o fovourable_a construction_n act_n from_o zeal_n without_o knowledge_n in_o which_o kind_n of_o zeal_n paul_n himself_o phil._n 3.6_o though_o as_o to_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o law_n blameless_a yet_o persecute_v the_o church_n this_o kind_n of_o zeal_n be_v accompany_v with_o that_o ignorance_n which_o the_o chief_a among_o apostatise_v church_n have_v account_v the_o mother_n of_o devotion_n by_o which_o thousand_o in_o age_n past_a in_o the_o dark_a night_n of_o apostasy_n have_v be_v lead_v into_o the_o observation_n of_o many_o unsavoury_a dictate_v erroneous_a decree_n unwarrantable_a tradition_n and_o superstitious_a example_n either_o of_o one_o man_n or_o assembly_n of_o man_n not_o know_v what_o they_o have_v either_o believe_v or_o practise_v to_o be_v a_o incumbent_a duty_n upon_o they_o through_o a_o inward_a evidence_n from_o god_n witness_v in_o their_o conscience_n or_o trial_n thereof_o by_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n may_v not_o the_o same_o cloud_n of_o darkness_n overshadow_v any_o of_o the_o child_n of_o light_n in_o this_o our_o day_n say_v our_o soul_n moreover_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o if_o report_n be_v true_a this_o doctrine_n have_v of_o late_o be_v exalt_v no_o unity_n but_o in_o conformity_n which_o if_o apply_v to_o the_o outward_a prescription_n of_o one_o man_n or_o assembly_n of_o man_n assume_v to_o themselves_o authority_n to_o act_n and_o determine_v in_o matter_n appertain_v to_o the_o gospel_n and_o its_o order_n thereby_o to_o become_v a_o bond_n upon_o the_o conscience_n of_o those_o who_o have_v believe_v in_o the_o everlasting_a light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n as_o the_o great_a order_n and_o ordinance_n of_o god_n in_o this_o gospel_n day_n may_v occasion_v the_o continuation_n of_o discord_n distraction_n and_o division_n contrary_a to_o the_o gospel_n and_o doctrine_n of_o truth_n which_o have_v be_v publish_v receive_v and_o believe_v among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n in_o these_o latter_a day_n who_o neither_o have_v nor_o can_v receive_v any_o doctrine_n contrary_a to_o this_o testimony_n of_o the_o apostle_n 2_o cor._n 3.6_o the_o letter_n kill_v but_o the_o spirit_n give_v life_n we_o now_o appeal_v unto_o every_o understanding_n ingenious_a and_o impartial_a reader_n whether_o since_o the_o labour_n of_o the_o apostle_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o primitive_a day_n be_v to_o draw_v the_o outward_a jew_n off_o from_o the_o observation_n of_o these_o ordinance_n which_o be_v rea_o establish_v by_o the_o appointment_n of_o god_n himself_o have_v exalt_v instead_o thereof_o the_o word_n nigh_o in_o the_o heart_n and_o law_n write_v therein_o as_o a_o fulfil_n of_o that_o which_o according_a to_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n by_o the_o mouth_n of_o his_o prophet_n be_v to_o come_v to_o pass_v under_o the_o new_a covenant_n which_o be_v not_o to_o be_v like_a unto_o the_o old_a can_v consist_v with_o the_o tenor_n of_o the_o new_a covenant_n for_o any_o to_o attempt_v the_o establishment_n or_o give_v forth_o of_o outward_a order_n prescription_n sentence_n or_o decree_n to_o be_v on_o that_o foot_n a_o bond_n upon_o the_o conscience_n of_o those_o who_o have_v believe_v in_o the_o everlasting_a light_n especial_o if_o they_o be_v of_o the_o gentile_a stock_n according_a to_o the_o flesh_n unto_o who_o the_o law_n appertain_v not_o for_o so_o the_o people_n of_o england_n be_v and_o if_o not_o whether_o those_o who_o be_v otherwise_o persuade_v and_o according_a to_o such_o a_o persuasion_n may_v be_v find_v act_v may_v not_o though_o under_o the_o outward_a profession_n of_o truth_n itself_o just_o be_v number_v among_o those_o of_o who_o in_o the_o best_a sense_n it_o may_v be_v say_v they_o have_v zeal_n without_o knowledge_n and_o ignorance_n be_v the_o mother_n of_o their_o devotion_n and_o now_o as_o to_o those_o who_o have_v knowledge_n without_o zeal_n charity_n do_v not_o oblige_v we_o to_o conclude_v that_o such_o in_o that_o state_n chief_o design_n to_o live_v well_o that_o so_o they_o may_v die_v well_o for_o as_o christ_n say_v so_o may_v we_o luk._n 12.48_o unto_o whosoever_o much_o be_v give_v of_o he_o shall_v be_v much_o require_v the_o want_n of_o zeal_n in_o a_o know_a good_a cause_n be_v as_o we_o take_v it_o the_o neglect_n of_o a_o know_a incumbent_a duty_n wherein_o god_n have_v give_v power_n else_o how_o can_v it_o have_v be_v say_v to_o the_o lukewarm_a church_n of_o laodicea_n after_o a_o understanding_n be_v give_v unto_o she_o how_o she_o may_v come_v to_o see_v viz._n by_o anoint_v her_o eye_n with_o eye_n salve_n leu._n 3.19_o be_v zealous_n &_o amend_v for_o doubtless_o power_n be_v give_v of_o god_n into_o she_o to_o amend_v as_o well_o as_o direction_n how_o to_o see_v but_o of_o the_o want_n of_o knowledge_n it_o can_v be_v so_o say_v as_o of_o the_o want_n of_o zeal_n because_o it_o be_v not_o equal_o in_o our_o power_n to_o attain_v unto_o knowledge_n when_o we_o want_v it_o as_o it_o be_v zealous_o to_o practise_v what_o we_o know_v to_o be_v our_o duty_n we_o may_v therefore_o conclude_v that_o where_o knowledge_n be_v not_o accompany_v with_o zeal_n though_o requisite_a it_o be_v in_o the_o best_a sense_n a_o token_n of_o a_o lukewarm_a spirit_n and_o in_o some_o where_o it_o have_v predominate_v we_o have_v clear_o discern_v that_o first_o they_o have_v be_v overawe_v by_o the_o frown_n of_o man_n or_o man_n and_o then_o under_o the_o pretence_n of_o bear_v all_o thing_n neglect_v to_o give_v their_o testimony_n for_o the_o truth_n without_o respect_n to_o any_o person_n whatsoever_o more_o than_o the_o truth_n may_v require_v and_o by_o this_o mean_v some_o have_v undoubted_o be_v the_o occasion_n whereby_o many_o have_v be_v catch_v in_o the_o snare_n of_o the_o evil_a one_o not_o know_v through_o a_o neglect_n of_o their_o inward_a teacher_n which_o way_n to_o turn_v and_o that_o load_v and_o burden_n have_v be_v the_o portion_n of_o other_o who_o while_o they_o have_v keep_v steadfast_a unto_o the_o ancient_a doctrine_n exalt_v the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o light_n to_o be_v our_o law_n rule_n and_o guide_n have_v behold_v some_o of_o their_o brethren_n not_o only_o captivate_v with_o a_o kind_n of_o a_o slavish_a fear_n but_o also_o in_o their_o practice_n recee_v from_o what_o their_o first_o principle_n will_v have_v lead_v they_o to_o have_v use_v politic_a contrivance_n to_o retain_v the_o favour_n and_o affection_n of_o some_o who_o perhaps_o in_o their_o view_n have_v appear_v to_o be_v like_a unto_o the_o rise_a sun_n and_o so_o have_v give_v more_o way_n to_o a_o temporize_a spirit_n than_o to_o acquit_v themselves_o as_o good_a christian_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n by_o which_o the_o conscience_n come_v to_o be_v keep_v void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o man_n and_o all_o this_o as_o with_o respect_n to_o some_o it_o be_v doubt_v for_o fear_v lest_o they_o shall_v be_v term_v sect-master_n by_o such_o as_o in_o this_o gospel-day_n have_v assume_v a_o pretend_a authority_n to_o establish_v outward_a order_n to_o be_v a_o rule_n for_o and_o bond_n upon_o the_o child_n of_o light_a to_o walk_v by_o without_o any_o exception_n thereby_o to_o avoid_v oppress_v a_o tender_a conscience_n but_o this_o be_v far_o wide_a of_o that_o zeal_n which_o accompany_v the_o apostle_n paul_n in_o his_o convert_v state_n who_o be_v term_v a_o ringleader_n of_o the_o sect_n of_o the_o nazerenes_n by_o the_o unbelieve_a jew_n that_o will_v have_v judge_v he_o according_a to_o their_o law_n which_o undoubted_o will_v then_o have_v inflict_v severe_a punishment_n on_o he_o which_o be_v due_o consider_v we_o may_v well_o say_v it_o be_v far_o wide_a of_o paul_n zeal_n to_o fear_v under_o this_o gospel-day_n the_o title_n of_o a_o sect-master_n on_o the_o score_n of_o refuse_v outward_a conformity_n to_o outward_a rule_n and_o order_n relate_v to_o the_o conscience_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o gospel-order_n establish_v among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n not_o only_o because_o they_o have_v no_o law_n whereby_o corporal_o to_o punish_v but_o also_o because_o we_o have_v no_o ground_n either_o from_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n by_o the_o
mouth_n of_o his_o prophet_n or_o from_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o light_n in_o we_o or_o from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n give_v forth_o by_o inspiration_n since_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o flesh_n to_o expect_v that_o any_o shall_v be_v invest_v with_o power_n from_o on_o high_a to_o establish_v such_o thing_n relate_v to_o the_o conscience_n much_o less_o to_o expect_v that_o the_o child_n of_o light_n under_o the_o new_a covenant_n shall_v be_v lead_v by_o the_o eternal_a spirit_n and_o word_n nigh_o in_o the_o heart_n unto_o such_o a_o conformity_n moreover_o it_o be_v observable_a paul_n plain_a confession_n thus_o be_v after_o the_o way_n which_o they_o call_v heresy_n so_o worship_n i_o the_o god_n of_o my_o father_n believe_v all_o thing_n which_o be_v write_v in_o the_o law_n and_o the_o prophet_n etc._n etc._n and_o herein_o do_v i_o exercise_v myself_o to_o have_v always_o a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o men._n if_o all_o those_o unto_o who_o god_n have_v give_v the_o knowledge_n of_o his_o truth_n in_o this_o gospel-day_n have_v have_v so_o much_o zeal_n as_o to_o have_v walk_v according_a to_o this_o example_n they_o may_v have_v all_o become_v honourable_a in_o their_o day_n &_o have_v keep_v a_o conscience_n void_a of_o offence_n towards_o god_n and_o towards_o man_n and_o then_o none_o of_o they_o will_v have_v be_v afraid_a of_o be_v stigmatise_v as_o sect-master_n by_o such_o who_o like_o the_o outward_a jew_n have_v glory_v in_o thing_n outward_o pretend_a to_o be_v establish_v in_o this_o gospel-day_n and_o have_v make_v such_o thing_n to_o be_v as_o a_o rule_n whereby_o they_o have_v endeavour_v to_o try_v their_o brethren_n who_o at_o this_o day_n have_v approve_v themselves_o jew_n in_o spirit_n zealous_o exercise_v themselves_o in_o the_o word_n nigh_o in_o the_o heart_n according_a to_o knowledge_n even_o as_o the_o outward_a jew_n will_v have_v do_v by_o paul_n for_o such_o a_o reflection_n will_v never_o have_v hurt_v they_o in_o the_o breast_n of_o those_o that_o have_v continue_v true_o faithful_a and_o this_o many_o be_v give_v to_o understand_v from_o that_o honourable_a esteem_n that_o some_o ancient_a and_o faithful_a brethren_n have_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o such_o as_o have_v not_o in_o a_o temporize_a spirit_n change_v their_o way_n notwithstanding_o they_o be_v stigmatise_v with_o the_o name_n of_o sect-master_n even_o by_o those_o who_o like_o the_o gentile_n appear_v to_o exercise_n lordship_n over_o their_o brethren_n in_o the_o next_o place_n we_o come_v to_o take_v a_o little_a notice_n of_o those_o who_o abound_v in_o confidence_n without_o either_o knowledge_n or_o zeal_n this_o sort_n may_v be_v well_o compare_v unto_o those_o beast_n with_o who_o it_o be_v repute_v paul_n fight_v at_o ephesus_n which_o if_o it_o be_v so_o be_v doubtless_o he_o contest_v have_v with_o unreasonable_a men._n the_o bait_n by_o which_o this_o sort_n be_v entice_v to_o appear_v somebody_n in_o probability_n be_v this_o the_o door_n be_v open_a for_o any_o under_o the_o profession_n of_o truth_n who_o life_n be_v not_o outward_o scandalous_a to_o appear_v among_o some_o of_o the_o society_n of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n as_o governor_n and_o though_o it_o be_v hard_a for_o we_o to_o suppose_v who_o among_o such_o be_v the_o person_n that_o be_v to_o be_v govern_v when_o liberty_n be_v take_v and_o admit_v as_o aforesaid_a whereby_o none_o of_o the_o society_n be_v exclude_v to_o appear_v as_o governor_n yet_o so_o it_o be_v and_o of_o this_o have_v our_o eye_n and_o ear_n be_v witness_n a_o part_n of_o the_o doctrine_n of_o this_o sort_n we_o have_v understand_v to_o be_v on_o this_o wise_a if_o you_o do_v not_o see_v yourselves_o you_o must_v follow_v we_o that_o do_v see_v alas_o it_o be_v easy_o to_o be_v savour_v where_o all_o may_v then_o run_v if_o such_o a_o exhortation_n from_o any_o one_o thus_o qualify_v and_o that_o with_o respect_n to_o follow_v the_o exhorte_a shall_v take_v place_n he_o than_o that_o lead_v and_o those_o who_o may_v be_v lead_v will_v quick_o fall_v into_o the_o ditch_n together_o and_o so_o the_o kingdom_n of_o satan_n come_v to_o be_v advance_v instead_o of_o be_v destroy_v but_o bless_v be_v the_o name_n of_o the_o everlasting_a god_n that_o sun_n which_o have_v arisen_a among_o we_o that_o glorious_a appearance_n if_o the_o everlasting_a light_n which_o have_v shine_v in_o many_o heart_n be_v not_o yet_o set_v in_o obscurity_n and_o our_o faith_n be_v that_o it_o will_v not_o the_o lord_n have_v have_v a_o regard_n to_o his_o own_o name_n and_o to_o the_o glory_n of_o his_o eternal_a power_n so_o that_o though_o many_o ancient_a and_o honourable_a brethren_n who_o the_o lord_n commissioned_n in_o these_o latter_a day_n to_o publish_v his_o everlasting_a gospel_n exhort_v all_o to_o yield_v obedience_n unto_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o light_n in_o they_o be_v fall_v asleep_o yet_o there_o be_v many_o of_o the_o same_o stock_n yet_o remain_v upon_o who_o he_o have_v not_o only_o pour_v forth_o of_o his_o spirit_n and_o anoint_v they_o to_o publish_v his_o everlasting_a gospel_n but_o also_o have_v keep_v they_o in_o integrity_n and_o their_o garment_n undefiled_a from_o the_o spot_n and_o pollution_n of_o this_o world_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o have_v give_v unto_o they_o true_a zeal_n according_a to_o knowledge_n through_o which_o the_o way_n unto_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n in_o the_o demonstration_n of_o his_o spirit_n have_v be_v declare_v and_o have_v continue_v they_o in_o the_o service_n whereunto_o they_o have_v be_v call_v and_o these_o have_v not_o in_o a_o temporize_a spirit_n for_o fear_n of_o the_o threat_n and_o frown_n of_o man_n change_v their_o way_n nor_o yet_o follow_v any_o for_o the_o loaf_n and_o though_o some_o of_o these_o have_v of_o late_o be_v account_v dark_a spirit_n leaven_a spirit_n troubler_n of_o israel_n sect-master_n leader_n into_o a_o separation_n and_o into_o downright_a independency_n parish_n and_o schism_n yet_o this_o testimony_n live_v with_o we_o that_o the_o power_n of_o the_o eternal_a god_n on_o which_o alone_o we_o be_v persuade_v their_o dependency_n have_v be_v and_o be_v have_v accompany_v such_o when_o thus_o judge_v despise_a and_o revile_v by_o that_o generation_n who_o unto_o we_o appear_v as_o if_o their_o dependency_n be_v upon_o man_n that_o labour_n and_o travel_v to_o gather_v unto_o themselves_o to_o conclude_v this_o further_a testimony_n live_v with_o we_o that_o the_o righteous_a god_n bear_v we_o this_o day_n record_n that_o the_o very_a reason_n wherefore_o this_o treatise_n be_v now_o prepare_v be_v because_o our_o very_a conscience_n on_o the_o behalf_n of_o god_n truth_n and_o people_n be_v concern_v and_o therefore_o we_o can_v but_o encourage_v this_o so_o necessary_a a_o work_n have_v among_o many_o other_o our_o brethren_n long_o wait_v and_o bear_v in_o patience_n to_o see_v if_o peradventure_o the_o lord_n may_v change_v the_o heart_n of_o those_o who_o have_v occasion_v contention_n strife_n and_o division_n to_o arise_v among_o the_o family_n of_o the_o lord_n people_n for_o whatever_o measure_n other_o may_v take_v of_o we_o yet_o this_o evidence_n we_o have_v in_o ourselves_o that_o our_o soul_n desire_n be_v that_o the_o bright_a appearance_n of_o the_o everlasting_a day_n may_v not_o set_v in_o obscurity_n in_o any_o heart_n where_o it_o have_v be_v both_o manifest_v and_o receive_v nor_o yet_o that_o any_o of_o the_o lord_n people_n may_v be_v ensnare_v to_o build_v again_o the_o thing_n which_o in_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n our_o lord_n they_o have_v destroy_v william_n rogers_n william_n ford_n here_o now_o follow_v that_o paper_n make_v mention_n of_o in_o the_o title_n page_n touch_v the_o scatter_a of_o israel_n give_v forth_o in_o the_o year_n 1661._o by_o edward_n burrough_n minister_n of_o the_o everlasting_a gospel_n on_o the_o 22th_o of_o the_o 8_o month_n 1661._o i_o be_v grieve_v in_o my_o spirit_n for_o the_o scatter_v of_o israel_n and_o my_o thought_n trouble_v i_o very_o much_o for_o the_o afflict_a in_o jerusalem_n for_o i_o also_o be_v great_o afflict_v with_o they_o and_o i_o pray_v unto_o god_n that_o he_o will_v show_v i_o his_o purpose_n concern_v they_o and_o these_o word_n come_v unto_o i_o abide_v thou_o in_o i_o thou_o helpless_a lamb_n and_o i_o will_v show_v thou_o great_a thing_n only_o stir_v not_o from_o i_o for_o thou_o have_v no_o helper_n but_o i_o and_o if_o thou_o go_v never_o so_o little_a from_o i_o behold_v a_o wild_a beast_n seek_v to_o devour_v thou_o therefore_o i_o say_v abide_v and_o then_o i_o weep_v great_o because_o i_o see_v what_o great_a danger_n i_o be_v in_o for_o i_o
all_o man_n be_v to_o praise_v he_o or_o to_o speak_v of_o his_o wonder_n for_o they_o be_v altogether_o past_o find_v out_o than_o i_o weep_v great_o and_o desire_v only_o that_o he_o will_v permit_v i_o to_o sit_v at_o his_o foot_n and_o he_o swear_v unto_o i_o by_o himself_o that_o he_o will_v deliver_v i_o from_o all_o my_o trouble_n within_o &_o without_o and_o true_o it_o be_v his_o own_o free_a promise_n for_o i_o dare_v not_o ask_v it_o of_o he_o but_o be_v content_v to_o have_v wait_v still_o in_o my_o sorrowful_a condition_n all_o the_o day_n of_o my_o life_n that_o i_o have_v to_o spend_v among_o men._n but_o what_o shall_v i_o say_v i_o be_o content_v with_o his_o will_n and_o rest_n at_o his_o foot_n friend_n i_o be_o constrain_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o endless_a love_n to_o warn_v you_o all_o that_o you_o may_v forbear_v judge_v of_o any_o man_n any_o more_o upon_o any_o pretence_n whatsoever_o but_o commit_v all_o judgement_n to_o the_o son_n for_o he_o cry_v in_o i_o that_o he_o will_v short_o appear_v with_o righteous_a judgement_n upon_o the_o earth_n and_o woe_n be_v upon_o he_o that_o have_v take_v upon_o he_o to_o sit_v upon_o my_o seat_n of_o judgement_n and_o have_v not_o judge_v righteous_o for_o the_o same_o measure_n that_o he_o meet_v shall_v be_v meet_v to_o he_o again_o for_o whosoever_o i_o find_v upon_o my_o seat_n of_o judgement_n when_o i_o come_v if_o he_o be_v not_o as_o i_o be_o holy_a just_a and_o merciful_a without_o any_o mixture_n he_o will_v i_o destroy_v with_o the_o breath_n of_o my_o mouth_n for_o he_o be_v as_o unclean_a smoke_n before_o i_o therefore_o dear_a friend_n let_v all_o unrighteousness_n be_v far_o from_o you_o for_o thus_o say_v the_o voice_n in_o i_o whosoever_o i_o find_v in_o envy_n the_o same_o envy_n shall_v be_v his_o torment_n and_o whosoever_o in_o covetousness_n or_o in_o pride_n or_o any_o unclean_a mind_n that_o same_o shall_v be_v their_o clothing_n and_o they_o shall_v stand_v behind_o i_o and_o all_o that_o be_v with_o i_o have_v no_o other_o garment_n but_o their_o own_o filthiness_n for_o the_o envious_n shall_v have_v their_o envy_n for_o their_o reward_n and_o the_o covetous_a shall_v have_v his_o covetousness_n and_o whatsoever_o his_o work_n shall_v be_v here_o that_o shall_v be_v his_o cover_n when_o i_o appear_v therefore_o all_o people_n mind_n your_o own_o soul_n and_o let_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v like_o the_o same_o holiness_n righteousness_n mercy_n and_o love_n without_o respect_n of_o person_n in_o any-wise_a appear_v and_o let_v covetousness_n be_v far_o from_o you_o and_o be_v you_o as_o he_o be_v in_o this_o world_n that_o you_o may_v be_v like_o he_o in_o his_o glory_n for_o very_o you_o can_v be_v like_o he_o in_o his_o glory_n further_o than_o you_o be_v in_o his_o nature_n of_o holiness_n therefore_o all_o friend_n look_v into_o your_o heart_n and_o let_v no_o spark_n abide_v there_o of_o the_o old_a nature_n for_o if_o there_o be_v it_o will_v drive_v you_o to_o look_v out_o at_o other_o and_o in_o that_o time_n it_o will_v gather_v strength_n and_o kindle_v a_o great_a fire_n in_o you_o which_o be_v not_o easy_o put_v out_o which_o many_o at_o this_o day_n may_v know_v edward_n burrough_n though_o many_o thing_n be_v very_o worthy_a notice_n from_o the_o abovecited_a line_n give_v forth_o through_o the_o servant_n of_o the_o lord_n edward_n burrough_n and_o obvious_a enough_o to_o many_o yet_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o some_o it_o be_v think_v meet_a to_o take_v notice_n of_o two_o particular_a matter_n which_o seem_v very_o pertinent_a on_o this_o occasion_n first_o that_o some_o of_o the_o young_a unlearned_a dog_n not_o well_o acquaint_v with_o the_o master_n manner_n in_o gather_v the_o sheep_n do_v run_v from_o the_o flock_n with_o fierceness_n after_o the_o sheep_n that_o stay_v behind_o and_o do_v affrighten_v they_o and_o bite_v some_o of_o they_o neither_o will_v they_o be_v lead_v nor_o yet_o stay_v at_o home_n but_o will_v always_o be_v go_v abroad_o and_o bark_v at_o the_o lamb_n to_o affrighten_v they_o be_v ready_a to_o devour_v they_o for_o there_o be_v something_o of_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o wolf_n in_o they_o and_o they_o the_o shepherd_n bind_v up_o in_o chain_n to_o fulfil_v his_o purpose_n on_o they_o second_o that_o some_o of_o the_o dog_n well_o acquaint_v with_o the_o master_n manner_n do_v wise_o go_v behind_o the_o sheep_n and_o such_o do_v drive_v they_o gentle_o along_o without_o hunt_v of_o they_o or_o weary_v themselves_o from_o these_o two_o citation_n out_o of_o the_o aforesaid_a paper_n we_o may_v learn_v that_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n through_o his_o servant_n have_v in_o a_o parable_n very_o lively_o describe_v a_o part_n of_o what_o have_v happen_v among_o the_o flock_n of_o god_n in_o these_o latter_a day_n for_o of_o certain_a knowledge_n we_o can_v say_v that_o there_o be_v such_o as_o be_v learn_v in_o the_o school_n of_o christ_n who_o be_v well_o acquaint_v with_o christ_n jesus_n their_o lord_n and_o master_n manner_n of_o gather_v the_o sheep_n do_v not_o over-drive_a the_o flock_n nor_o yet_o weary_a themselves_o for_o mere_a vanity_n and_o there_o be_v also_o the_o unlearned_a who_o be_v not_o acquaint_v with_o the_o great_a master_n manner_n in_o gather_v the_o sheep_n and_o these_o in_o a_o great_a measure_n have_v occasion_v the_o increase_n and_o continuation_n of_o division_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n by_o their_o fierce_a contend_v for_o a_o outward_a unity_n and_o conformity_n with_o respect_n to_o form_n of_o government_n in_o the_o church_n so_o that_o they_o seem_v not_o only_o ready_a to_o bite_v but_o also_o to_o devour_v other_o that_o see_v not_o clearness_n in_o themselves_o to_o practice_v according_a as_o they_o in_o their_o hunt_a spirit_n will_v as_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lie_v constrain_v and_o enforce_v nay_o there_o be_v some_o not_o only_o unacquainted_a with_o christ_n jesus_n manner_n of_o gather_v the_o flock_n like_o a_o shepherd_n that_o gather_v his_o lamb_n in_o his_o arm_n and_o gentle_o lead_v they_o that_o be_v with_o young_a but_o also_o have_v lay_v blame_n on_o such_o as_o have_v exact_o walk_v in_o his_o footstep_n and_o indeed_o so_o foolish_a and_o confident_a have_v some_o be_v that_o the_o master_n manner_n of_o gather_v the_o flock_n have_v become_v as_o a_o byword_n or_o a_o mock_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o matter_n of_o evil_a fact_n in_o the_o sense_n of_o some_o witness_v the_o forty_o four_o article_n relate_v to_o church-government_n draw_v up_o against_o j._n s._n and_o j._n w._n two_o ancient_a and_o honourable_a friend_n in_o the_o truth_n a_o part_n whereof_o be_v for_o that_o they_o shall_v say_v they_o will_v not_o have_v friend_n over-driven_a to_o conclude_v we_o also_o know_v that_o some_o of_o these_o have_v be_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n reprove_v as_o not_o fit_a to_o say_v they_o speak_v in_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n when_o the_o lord_n have_v not_o speak_v by_o they_o nor_o yet_o to_o appear_v as_o if_o they_o be_v send_v of_o god_n to_o gather_v the_o flock_n or_o to_o proclaim_v themselves_o keeper_n of_o other_o folk_n vineyard_n when_o they_o have_v not_o keep_v their_o own_o vineyard_n by_o which_o it_o appear_v that_o the_o will_n of_o the_o lord_n touch_v such_o have_v be_v that_o they_o shall_v harken_v unto_o the_o word_n of_o reproof_n and_o be_v lead_v by_o his_o spirit_n which_o if_o they_o have_v they_o will_v have_v stay_v at_o home_n until_o they_o have_v be_v instruct_v and_o learned_a in_o the_o school_n of_o christ_n but_o yet_o notwithstanding_o some_o have_v contrary_a hereunto_o go_v abroad_o and_o their_o great_a work_n have_v be_v to_o cry_v out_o against_o honest_a friend_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o dark_a spirit_n levened_a spirit_n troubler_n of_o israel_n corah_n judas_n etc._n etc._n just_a like_a unto_o those_o young_a unlearned_a dog_n signify_v in_o the_o parable_n that_o will_v not_o be_v lead_v but_o will_v be_v go_v abroad_o and_o bark_v at_o the_o lamb_n to_o affrighten_v they_o be_v ready_a to_o devour_v they_o for_o as_o in_o the_o parable_n it_o be_v say_v there_o have_v be_v something_o of_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o wolf_n in_o they_o but_o bless_v be_v the_o lord_n many_o be_v witness_n that_o of_o late_a some_o of_o they_o have_v be_v as_o in_o chain_n and_o fetter_n of_o iron_n so_o that_o they_o be_v not_o able_a to_o prey_n upon_o those_o who_o be_v upon_o the_o rock_n christ_n who_o doubtless_o in_o his_o own_o time_n will_v fulfil_v his_o purpose_n on_o they_o oh_o that_o all_o concern_v herein_o at_o this_o day_n will_v serious_o consider_v &_o proceed_v no_o far_o in_o
their_o hunt_n bite_a devour_a spirit_n nor_o yet_o weary_a themselves_o for_o mere_a vanity_n lest_o the_o eternal_a decree_n of_o god_n shall_v be_v seal_v against_o they_o to_o their_o destruction_n for_o ever_o more_o to_o conclude_v this_o first_o part_n we_o have_v yet_o to_o add_v that_o since_o it_o be_v signify_v that_o the_o forty_o four_o article_n before_o cite_v relate_v to_o church-government_n and_o that_o we_o say_v they_o be_v draw_v up_o against_o two_o ancient_a and_o honourable_a friend_n in_o the_o truth_n viz._n john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n we_o think_v it_o proper_a to_o cite_v one_o passage_n as_o a_o evidence_n thereof_o out_o of_o the_o four_o section_n of_o the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o historical_a manuscript_n mention_v in_o the_o preface_n to_o the_o reader_n with_o the_o omission_n only_o of_o the_o name_n of_o person_n for_o the_o reason_n already_o give_v in_o the_o say_a preface_n the_o passage_n be_v as_o follow_v before_o we_o shall_v make_v any_o observation_n on_o the_o aforesaid_a article_n or_o preamble_n thereto_o it_o be_v needful_a to_o inform_v the_o reader_n that_o nine_o person_n concern_v in_o exhibit_v the_o say_v forty_o four_o article_n against_o the_o two_o friend_n speak_v of_o before_o thus_o declare_v concern_v they_o in_o a_o letter_n to_o nine_o other_o choose_v by_o the_o accuser_n to_o be_v judge_n over_o they_o viz._n and_o friend_n it_o be_v not_o any_o personal_a trespass_n against_o any_o of_o we_o that_o we_o charge_v they_o with_o nor_o any_o particular_a concern_v of_o our_o own_o as_o man_n that_o we_o be_v in_o the_o defence_n but_o the_o cause_n of_o almighty_a god_n and_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o wrong_n they_o have_v do_v to_o he_o but_o yet_o notwithstanding_o in_o the_o same_o letter_n they_o say_v that_o they_o have_v bear_v a_o dear_a love_n and_o honourable_a respect_n unto_o they_o in_o the_o holy_a truth_n compare_v he_o with_o what_o be_v write_v in_o the_o three_o article_n of_o the_o 44_o article_n before_o cite_v viz._n slight_v the_o heavenly_a motion_n on_o george_n fox_n his_o spirit_n in_o that_o case_n in_o the_o unity_n precious_o feel_v and_o close_v with_o mean_v the_o rule_n or_o form_n of_o church-government_n set_v forth_o by_o george_n fox_n pretend_v the_o motion_n of_o the_o spirit_n as_o by_o the_o say_a article_n appear_v it_o be_v evident_a to_o we_o that_o in_o their_o sense_n a_o slight_n of_o george_n fox_n rule_n method_n and_o order_n with_o respect_n to_o church-government_n be_v a_o slight_n of_o the_o cause_n of_o god_n and_o though_o it_o be_v say_v in_o the_o unity_n precious_o feel_v and_o close_v with_o yet_o that_o be_v notorious_o erroneous_a if_o thereby_o be_v mean_v in_o the_o unity_n of_o all_o friend_n for_o that_o some_o of_o his_o paper_n and_o prescription_n in_o many_o part_n of_o the_o nation_n among_o friend_n have_v be_v little_o take_v notice_n of_o as_o be_v well_o know_v to_o we_o and_o credible_o report_v by_o many_o moreover_o it_o be_v evident_a to_o we_o that_o some_o have_v have_v so_o great_a esteem_n for_o the_o prescription_n or_o paper_n give_v forth_o by_o he_o as_o that_o they_o have_v conclude_v it_o to_o be_v no_o less_o than_o the_o fruit_n of_o confusion_n and_o darkness_n to_o believe_v that_o what_o he_o have_v give_v forth_o be_v not_o intend_v by_o he_o to_o be_v urge_v with_o severity_n which_o be_v no_o other_o than_o a_o enforce_a and_o this_o do_v thus_o appear_v john_n story_n one_o of_o those_o two_o brethren_n article_v against_o as_o aforesaid_a in_o their_o answer_n to_o the_o say_v forty_o four_o article_n take_v occasion_n to_o give_v his_o sense_n touch_v such_o thing_n which_o george_n fox_n have_v give_v forth_o on_o this_o wise_a viz._n that_o he_o do_v not_o believe_v that_o george_n fox_n intend_v any_o such_o thing_n that_o they_o mean_v his_o paper_n direct_v to_o the_o church_n shall_v with_o severity_n be_v urge_v upon_o any_o of_o god_n faithful_a people_n but_o as_o instruction_n or_o direction_n commend_v they_o to_o the_o church_n leave_v the_o effect_n thereof_o to_o god_n and_o his_o lead_a grace_n in_o his_o people_n to_o make_v use_n thereof_o as_o he_o shall_v manifest_v a_o need_n of_o such_o direction_n counsel_n or_o advice_n to_o this_o sense_n robert_n barrow_n and_o eight_o person_n part_n of_o those_o who_o be_v concern_v in_o exhibit_v the_o say_v forty_o four_o article_n reply_v a_o part_n whereof_o be_v on_o this_o wise_a true_o thy_o darkness_n and_o blindness_n be_v easy_a to_o be_v feel_v and_o they_o must_v be_v very_o dim_a of_o sight_n that_o see_v thou_o not_o oh_o the_o confusion_n thy_o dark_a spirit_n be_v in_o to_o this_o we_o say_v this_o answer_n seem_v so_o very_o dark_a as_o if_o blindness_n be_v the_o lot_n of_o their_o inheritance_n who_o so_o write_v forwe_v well_o remember_v that_o the_o testimony_n of_o our_o ancient_a brethren_n who_o be_v skill_v in_o gather_v and_o careful_a not_o to_o scatter_v the_o flock_n do_v not_o encourage_v any_o to_o follow_v any_o outward_a direction_n whatsoever_o without_o a_o inward_a conviction_n from_o the_o leading_n of_o god_n all-sufficient_a grace_n free_o give_v to_o profit_n withal_o of_o the_o needfulness_n of_o the_o direction_n counsel_n or_o advice_n contain_v therein_o and_o why_o but_o because_o a_o observance_n not_o ground_v on_o their_o sufficiency_n of_o god_n lead_v grace_n in_o ourselves_o of_o outward_a instruction_n or_o direction_n in_o this_o gospel_n day_n may_v find_v no_o more_o acceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n of_o life_n who_o be_v now_o to_o be_v worship_v obey_v and_o reverence_v not_o otherwise_o than_o in_o and_o by_o the_o spirit_n and_o light_n through_o which_o he_o do_v appear_v in_o man_n than_o a_o offering_n of_o the_o halt_n and_o the_o blind_a which_o be_v forbid_v in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o law_n for_o a_o sacrifice_n might_n and_o this_o our_o sense_n may_v well_o be_v vindicate_v from_o such_o like_a testimony_n as_o these_o frequent_o utter_v by_o our_o ancient_a brethren_n we_o preach_v not_o ourselves_o let_v not_o your_o dependency_n be_v on_o we_o we_o be_v not_o neither_o desire_n to_o be_v lord_n over_o your_o conscience_n you_o ought_v to_o be_v lief_o for_o yourselves_o and_o see_v for_o yourselves_o and_o therefore_o we_o counsel_v you_o to_o draw_v water_n out_o of_o your_o own_o well_n let_v it_o be_v your_o own_o and_o not_o another_o we_o now_o appeal_v to_o god_n witness_v in_o all_o conscience_n how_o this_o kind_a of_o language_n and_o discourse_n can_v agree_v with_o such_o as_o render_v it_o the_o fruit_n of_o confusion_n and_o darkness_n not_o to_o believe_v that_o the_o outward_a instruction_n or_o direction_n of_o g._n f._n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n be_v intend_v to_o be_v urge_v with_o severity_n upon_o god_n faithful_a people_n beside_o that_o which_o seem_v to_o aggravate_v the_o darkness_n be_v this_o that_o the_o faithful_a must_v have_v outward_a precept_n direction_n or_o instruction_n impose_v upon_o they_o have_v the_o sense_n of_o those_o who_o sense_n we_o can_v own_v be_v only_o with_o relation_n to_o the_o unfaithful_a it_o may_v have_v seem_v a_o little_a better_o the_o consideration_n of_o these_o thing_n be_v great_a cause_n of_o lamentation_n and_o mourning_n especial_o when_o we_o consider_v that_o we_o have_v no_o ground_n to_o believe_v either_o from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n give_v forth_o by_o inspiration_n or_o from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n in_o our_o conscience_n that_o any_o man_n according_a to_o the_o motion_n of_o god_n spirit_n in_o this_o gospel-day_n ought_v to_o take_v upon_o he_o the_o give_v forth_o any_o outward_a rule_n or_o prescription_n relate_v to_o faith_n or_o discipline_n in_o the_o church_n with_o a_o intent_n that_o they_o shall_v become_v a_o bond_n upon_o other_o to_o submit_v thereto_o further_o than_o from_o a_o recommendation_n unto_o the_o conscience_n a_o service_n may_v be_v see_v therein_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o light_n give_v from_o he_o who_o be_v the_o fullness_n but_o whether_o this_o our_o sense_n be_v not_o by_o many_o other_o beside_o the_o aforesaid_a nine_o person_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n slight_o esteem_v and_o a_o combine_a sort_n of_o submission_n contrive_v as_o we_o suppose_v by_o a_o few_o tho_o enter_v into_o by_o many_o at_o this_o day_n we_o shall_v leave_v it_o to_o the_o unprejudiced_a understand_a reader_n to_o judge_n on_o mature_a consideration_n of_o what_o yet_o follow_v some_o few_o year_n past_o many_o friend_n in_o the_o county_n of_o westmoreland_n have_v be_v a_o long_a time_n burden_a in_o monthly_a and_o quarterly_a meeting_n by_o such_o as_o endeavour_v to_o introduce_v the_o practice_n of_o some_o thing_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o church
which_o they_o can_v not_o as_o they_o have_v declare_v in_o conscience_n consent_n unto_o do_v at_o length_n forbear_v to_o join_v with_o such_o on_o the_o day_n of_o monthly_a and_o quarterly_a meeting_n which_o be_v understand_v by_o we_o to_o be_v first_o assent_v to_o we_o can_v say_v unalterable_o establish_v to_o relieve_v the_o poor_a and_o take_v care_n of_o any_o other_o outward_a concern_v relate_v to_o the_o affair_n of_o friend_n as_o a_o society_n gather_v into_o the_o everlasting_a truth_n abhor_v lordship_n over_o one_o another_o faith_n or_o conscience_n but_o yet_o the_o person_n so_o refuse_v to_o join_v with_o other_o as_o aforefaid_n do_v as_o we_o have_v be_v credible_o inform_v on_o convenient_a time_n and_o day_n appoint_v by_o themselves_o to_o meet_v together_o to_o take_v care_n in_o that_o method_n wherein_o they_o find_v freedom_n in_o the_o truth_n of_o the_o same_o service_n for_o which_o monthly_a and_o quarterly_o meeting_n be_v first_o understand_v to_o be_v appoint_v this_o by_o the_o other_o party_n be_v call_v a_o separate_a meeting_n and_o the_o metre_n account_v dark_a leaven_a rend_v divide_v separate_a spirit_n so_o that_o at_o length_n a_o paper_n be_v give_v forth_o and_o subscribe_v by_o robert_n barrow_n and_o sixteen_o person_n more_o belong_v to_o nine_o meeting_n for_o worship_n of_o god_n wherein_o they_o thus_o declare_v and_o we_o be_v sensible_a of_o the_o great_a trouble_n and_o dissatisfaction_n in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n throughout_o this_o nation_n concern_v this_o say_a separation_n we_o do_v therefore_o with_o one_o consent_n and_o at_o our_o several_a meeting_n respective_o signify_v our_o absolute_a dislike_n thereof_o and_o we_o do_v hereby_o in_o the_o fear_n of_o the_o lord_n discharge_v all_o those_o concern_v in_o the_o say_v separate_a meeting_n in_o our_o affair_n as_o they_o stand_v in_o the_o separation_n and_o we_o do_v declare_v that_o as_o such_o a_o meeting_n they_o have_v no_o right_a to_o act_v in_o the_o church_n affaires_n in_o the_o capacity_n they_o be_v in_o but_o we_o do_v hereby_o signify_v our_o absolute_a refusal_n to_o submit_v any_o of_o our_o affair_n either_o relate_n to_o the_o poor_a or_o otherwise_o to_o the_o order_v of_o the_o say_v separate_a meeting_n but_o do_v submit_v they_o to_o our_o establish_v monthly_a and_o quarterly_o meeting_n aforesaid_a for_o westmore-land_n so_o far_o as_o our_o affair_n be_v concern_v therein_o to_o be_v order_v as_o in_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n and_o unity_n of_o his_o spirit_n they_o shall_v see_v meet_a from_o these_o foregoing_a line_n we_o observe_v that_o though_o the_o giverforth_a thereof_o do_v not_o positive_o say_v that_o the_o submission_n of_o one_o affair_n without_o restriction_n to_o temporal_a or_o spiritual_a affair_n to_o the_o establish_v monthly_o or_o quarterly_o meeting_n shall_v for_o the_o future_a be_v a_o outward_a mark_n to_o know_v a_o member_n of_o the_o church_n by_o or_o at_o least_o to_o distinguish_v such_o as_o be_v not_o member_n of_o the_o church_n yet_o who_o can_v but_o reasonable_o suppose_v that_o such_o a_o mean_v be_v their_o mean_v or_o at_o least_o the_o mean_v of_o he_o or_o they_o chief_o concern_v in_o draw_v up_o the_o say_a paper_n and_o promote_a subscription_n thereto_o since_o it_o be_v plain_a from_o the_o very_a word_n cite_v that_o other_o concern_v in_o the_o separate_a meeting_n who_o have_v declare_v that_o for_o conscience_n sake_n they_o can_v submit_v to_o they_o have_v no_o right_a to_o act_v in_o the_o church_n affair_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o that_o they_o take_v themselves_o to_o be_v invest_v with_o authority_n as_o to_o we_o appear_v by_o use_v the_o word_n discharge_v for_o no_o one_o can_v discharge_v another_o in_o any_o case_n without_o power_n so_o to_o do_v and_o if_o we_o do_v but_o consider_v that_o the_o take_a care_n of_o the_o poor_a be_v one_o part_n of_o the_o church_n affair_n from_o which_o those_o of_o the_o separate_a meeting_n be_v discharge_v or_o declare_v to_o have_v no_o right_a to_o act_v in_o it_o seem_v to_o we_o extreme_o unchristianlike_a for_o if_o it_o be_v so_o that_o they_o have_v be_v overtake_v in_o a_o fault_n that_o can_v be_v no_o sufficient_a ground_n to_o declare_v that_o they_o have_v no_o right_a to_o administer_v their_o charity_n to_o the_o poor_a member_n of_o the_o church_n because_o the_o take_a care_n of_o such_o be_v commendable_a in_o any_o society_n of_o people_n whatsoever_o many_o other_o thing_n may_v be_v observe_v from_o the_o say_a paper_n subscribe_v by_o one_o hundred_o sixty_o six_o person_n which_o at_o present_a we_o here_o omit_v be_v large_o treat_v on_o in_o the_o 19_o section_n of_o the_o manuscript_n first_o make_v mention_n of_o in_o the_o preface_n which_o be_v ready_a for_o the_o view_n of_o any_o friend_n that_o may_v be_v desirous_a to_o peruse_v the_o same_o however_o the_o remembrance_n of_o the_o paper_n subscribe_v by_o charles_n martial_n and_o sixty_o five_o more_o at_o ellis_n hook_n his_o chamber_n already_o cite_v together_o with_o this_o last_o mention_v subscribe_v by_o robert_n barrow_n and_o one_o hundred_o sixty_o five_o more_o occasion_n this_o far_a addition_n that_o it_o seem_v to_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o some_o design_n to_o exalt_v one_o man_n above_o measure_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o unjust_o to_o defame_v other_o as_o by_o answer_n thereto_o have_v at_o large_a be_v manifest_v according_a as_o in_o several_a section_n of_o the_o aforesaid_a manuscript_n appear_v and_o we_o may_v true_o say_v that_o what_o be_v already_o cite_v do_v manifest_v but_o little_o less_o than_o such_o a_o design_n for_o if_o a_o conscientious_a slight_n of_o george_n fox_n pretend_a motion_n with_o respect_n to_o form_n of_o church-government_n impose_v contrary_a to_o faith_n and_o a_o charitable_a belief_n that_o he_o intend_v not_o to_o urge_v his_o paper_n relate_v thereto_o on_o any_o of_o god_n faithful_a people_n with_o severity_n which_o be_v no_o less_o than_o a_o inforce_v but_o as_o instruction_n or_o direction_n commend_v they_o to_o the_o church_n leave_v the_o effect_n thereof_o to_o god_n and_o his_o lead_a grace_n in_o his_o people_n to_o make_v use_n thereof_o as_o he_o shall_v manifest_v a_o need_n of_o such_o direction_n counsel_n or_o advice_n as_o before_o be_v cite_v be_v by_o a_o part_n of_o the_o say_a subscriber_n repute_v such_o matter_n of_o evil_a fact_n as_o that_o the_o person_n concern_v must_v be_v severe_o testify_v against_o under_o the_o term_n of_o a_o dark_a spirit_n in_o confusion_n it_o clear_o show_v a_o design_n of_o unjust_a defamation_n unless_o a_o blina-offering_a under_o the_o gospel_n may_v be_v accept_v though_o condemnable_a under_o the_o law_n and_o as_o to_o the_o seem_a design_n of_o exalt_v one_o man_n it_o be_v to_o we_o very_o evident_a and_o past_o all_o manner_n of_o question_n as_o one_o evidence_n among_o many_o other_o that_o may_v be_v give_v we_o shall_v from_o what_o be_v already_o cite_v thus_o observe_v that_o a_o submission_n be_v signify_v to_o some_o certain_a monthly_a and_o quarterly_o meeting_n pretend_v to_o be_v establish_v but_o if_o the_o reader_n inquire_v of_o who_o they_o consist_v the_o answer_n in_o truth_n be_v of_o those_o and_o of_o such_o likeminded_a with_o they_o as_o draw_v up_o the_o forty_o four_o article_n against_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n who_o declare_v judgement_n be_v from_o the_o import_n of_o that_o article_n already_o cite_v against_o john_n story_n that_o what_o gorge_n fox_n have_v give_v forth_o as_o a_o rule_n or_o form_n of_o church-government_n be_v so_o give_v forth_o by_o he_o from_o a_o heavenly_a motion_n that_o such_o his_o motion_n be_v precious_o feel_v and_o close_v with_o in_o the_o unity_n and_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v slight_v and_o for_o asmuch_o as_o matter_n in_o those_o meeeting_n be_v manage_v according_a to_o those_o rule_n and_o form_n of_o church-government_n say_v church-government_n witness_v expression_n frequent_o urge_v to_o this_o purpose_n when_o friend_n be_v meet_v about_o outward_a concern_v of_o truth_n have_v not_o agree_v see_v what_o george_n fox_n paper_n say_v it_o do_v thence_o follow_v that_o the_o submission_n speak_v of_o clear_o center_v in_o a_o submission_n to_o g._n f._n and_o the_o name_n of_o monthly_a and_o quarterly_o meeting_n we_o therefore_o reasonable_o take_v to_o be_v but_o as_o a_o conduit_n to_o convey_v it_o to_o he_o and_o well_o will_v it_o be_v for_o he_o if_o he_o be_v clear_a of_o a_o persecute_v spirit_n against_o some_o that_o can_v submit_v unto_o he_o in_o the_o form_n and_o method_n which_o other_o have_v the_o sense_n of_o these_o thing_n have_v occasion_v in_o much_o seriousness_n of_o spirit_n before_o the_o lord_n this_o enquiry_n what_o be_v that_o bait_n
like_a woman_n be_v record_v for_o their_o wisdom_n and_o their_o virtue_n etc._n etc._n he_o answer_v william_n rogers_n thus_o i_o know_v what_o i_o do_v i_o see_v it_o will_v be_v a_o stumble_v block_n but_o there_o be_v something_o in_o it_o we_o can_v otherwise_o be_v persuade_v but_o that_o he_o will_v then_o see_v that_o he_o be_v fall_v from_o the_o truth_n &_o that_o the_o word_n report_v to_o be_v speak_v by_o j._n naylor_n when_o he_o say_v in_o relation_n to_o his_o own_o fall_v state_n i_o be_o but_o the_o figure_n of_o another_o be_v now_o fulfil_v in_o he_o oh_o that_o the_o lord_n will_v change_v his_o heart_n &_o bring_v he_o to_o a_o true_a sight_n of_o and_o sorrow_n for_o his_o sin_n as_o he_o do_v j._n n._n after_o his_o fall_n and_o then_o we_o hope_v as_o he_o have_v be_v a_o offence_n unto_o the_o church_n of_o god_n so_o the_o lord_n will_v lay_v a_o constraint_n upon_o he_o as_o he_o do_v upon_o james_n naylor_n to_o travel_v among_o friend_n who_o he_o have_v offend_v to_o clear_v the_o truth_n of_o that_o scandal_n and_o reproach_n which_o through_o he_o have_v be_v bring_v upon_o it_o for_o it_o be_v a_o abomination_n before_o the_o lord_n and_o at_o this_o day_n seasonable_o testify_v against_o by_o the_o child_n of_o light_n that_o g._n f._n shall_v be_v a_o occasion_n of_o so_o much_o division_n strife_n and_o contention_n as_o have_v be_v make_v in_o the_o nation_n touch_v his_o paper_n under_o a_o pretence_n that_o he_o have_v be_v move_v of_o god_n to_o give_v they_o forth_o that_o friend_n may_v be_v supply_v with_o direction_n to_o keep_v all_o thing_n clean_a and_o sweet_a among_o friend_n meaning_n thereby_o among_o other_o thing_n and_o that_o according_a to_o the_o express_a word_n of_o his_o paper_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o backbiting_a tale-bearing_a judge_v one_o another_o and_o that_o evil_a report_n shall_v not_o be_v conceal_v but_o be_v follow_v until_o the_o author_n thereof_o be_v find_v etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o be_v the_o very_a person_n that_o be_v notorious_o guilty_a in_o all_o those_o thing_n himself_o which_o will_v have_v be_v prove_v against_o he_o have_v he_o submit_v to_o a_o hear_v as_o aforesaid_a but_o for_o as_o much_o as_o he_o have_v refuse_v to_o submit_v to_o such_o a_o hear_v though_o several_a letter_n from_o friend_n in_o truth_n have_v be_v write_v unto_o he_o to_o entreat_v he_o thereto_o and_o in_o particular_a have_v be_v treat_v withal_o by_o daniel_n smith_n of_o malborrough_n to_o who_o he_o give_v this_o answer_n he_o judge_v it_o will_v be_v a_o jangle_n as_o it_o be_v at_o bristol_n and_o so_o refuse_v as_o by_o a_o letter_n from_o the_o say_v daniel_n smith_n do_v appear_v therefore_o we_o do_v at_o present_a refer_v for_o proof_n of_o the_o matter_n whereof_o we_o assert_v in_o this_o paragraph_n that_o he_o be_v guilty_a to_o the_o last_o mention_v manuscript_n and_o in_o particular_a to_o the_o 21_o section_n thereof_o which_o be_v ready_a for_o the_o perusal_n of_o friend_n desire_v to_o view_v the_o same_o william_n rogers_n on_o behalf_n of_o himself_o and_o other_o friend_n in_o truth_n concern_v the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n &_o innovator_n wherein_o doctrine_n of_o truth_n clear_v from_o objection_n be_v lay_v down_o agreeable_a to_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n give_v forth_o by_o inspiration_n and_o according_a as_o they_o have_v be_v receive_v and_o own_a by_o the_o child_n of_o light_n or_o such_o among_o the_o people_n term_v in_o derision_n quaker_n who_o have_v receive_v from_o god_n divine_a understanding_n and_o keep_v their_o place_n and_o habitation_n in_o the_o unchangeable_a truth_n also_o a_o appendix_n detect_v charles_n marshal_n and_o sixty_o five_o more_o as_o unrighteous_a judge_n in_o a_o case_n pretend_v to_o relate_v to_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n two_o ancient_a and_o honourable_a labourer_n in_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n by_o william_n rogers_n on_o behalf_n of_o himself_o and_o other_o friend_n in_o truth_n concern_v 1_o cor._n 3.11_o for_o other_o foundation_n can_v no_o man_n lay_v than_o that_o which_o be_v already_o lay_v which_o be_v christ_n jesus_n 2_o tim._n 4.3_o for_o the_o time_n will_v come_v when_o they_o will_v not_o endure_v sound_a doctrine_n but_o after_o their_o own_o lust_n shall_v they_o heap_v to_o themselves_o teacher_n have_v itch_a ear_n london_n print_v in_o the_o year_n 1680._o the_o content_n the_o introduction_n wherein_o be_v manifest_v that_o there_o be_v but_o one_o way_n whereby_o the_o thing_n appertain_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n come_v to_o be_v reveal_v though_o the_o manifestation_n thereof_o may_v seem_v various_a page_n 1._o chap._n ii_o touch_v the_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o and_o exhortation_n to_o obedience_n thereof_o page_n 5._o chap._n iii_o touch_v infallibility_n and_o perfection_n page_n 11._o chap._n iu._n touch_v wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n page_n 21._o chap._n v._n touch_v magistracy_n and_o obedience_n thereunto_o page_n 30._o chap._n vi_o touch_v respect_n of_o person_n plain_a language_n disuse_n of_o the_o word_n master_n unless_o by_o a_o servant_n to_o his_o master_n of_o custom_n and_o fashion_n of_o this_o world_n and_o of_o the_o cross_n of_o christ_n page_n 33._o chap._n vii_o touch_v swear_v page_n 37._o chap._n viii_o touch_v tithe_n page_n 40._o chap._n ix_o touch_v baptism_n page_n 45._o chap._n x._o touch_v the_o supper_n of_o the_o lord_n with_o his_o disciple_n the_o night_n before_o he_o be_v betray_v page_n 51._o chap._n xi_o touch_v justification_n and_o salvation_n through_o faith_n in_o christ_n page_n 61._o a_o appendix_n contain_v a_o answer_n give_v forth_o by_o some_o friend_n of_o bristol_n to_o a_o paper_n date_v from_o eilis_n hook_n his_o chamber_n london_n the_o 12_o of_o the_o four_o month_n 1677._o against_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n etc._n etc._n and_o subscribe_v by_o charles_n marshal_n of_o the_o county_n of_o wilts_n and_o sixty_o five_o more_o together_o with_o some_o few_o observation_n on_o part_n of_o a_o reply_n thereto_o by_o jasper_n bat_n of_o the_o county_n of_o somerset_n and_o three_o other_o page_n 72._o the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n and_o innovator_n etc._n etc._n chap_n i._o the_o introduction_n wherein_o be_v manifest_v that_o there_o be_v but_o one_o way_n whereby_o the_o thing_n appertain_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n come_v to_o be_v reveal_v though_o the_o manifestation_n thereof_o may_v seem_v various_a in_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n and_o innovator_n several_a subject_n be_v treat_v on_o relative_a to_o the_o matter_n intend_v viz._n to_o manifest_a a_o part_n of_o those_o thing_n touch_v which_o the_o faithful_a be_v at_o unity_n and_o by_o what_o way_n and_o mean_n that_o unity_n come_v to_o be_v break_v etc._n etc._n and_o now_o that_o every_o reader_n who_o be_v desirous_a to_o be_v inform_v in_o these_o divide_v time_n what_o those_o child_n of_o light_n unto_o who_o the_o lord_n have_v reveal_v of_o the_o mystery_n of_o his_o kingdom_n own_o with_o respect_n to_o the_o other_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n whereon_o little_a or_o no_o occasion_n be_v take_v to_o treat_v in_o the_o first_o part_n it_o be_v at_o this_o time_n upon_o we_o to_o add_v a_o far_a testimony_n to_o the_o ancient_a truth_n according_a as_o the_o lord_n in_o his_o tender_a mercy_n have_v through_o the_o appearance_n of_o his_o son_n christ_n by_o his_o light_n or_o manifestation_n of_o his_o grace_n and_o testimony_n of_o his_o faithful_a servant_n in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n open_v wherein_o our_o intent_n be_v not_o to_o treat_v large_o on_o every_o subject_a because_o the_o ensue_a discourse_n be_v chief_o to_o manifest_v what_o a_o remnant_n stand_v for_o who_o be_v faithful_a unto_o their_o first_o principle_n can_v in_o a_o temporize_a spirit_n change_v their_o way_n the_o desire_n and_o breathe_n of_o our_o soul_n unto_o god_n be_v that_o every_o reader_n may_v be_v serious_a and_o unprejudiced_a in_o the_o perusal_n of_o this_o our_o testimony_n and_o then_o we_o do_v not_o doubt_v but_o it_o will_v be_v reach_v unto_o the_o conscience_n of_o such_o as_o that_o which_o be_v not_o inconsi_v with_o the_o testimony_n give_v forth_o by_o inspiration_n record_v in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n and_o spirit_n of_o god_n or_o appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o light_n which_o be_v that_o by_o which_o the_o lord_n do_v see_v and_o be_v see_v in_o the_o conscience_n wherewith_o every_o man_n come_v into_o the_o world_n be_v light_v for_o that_o the_o lord_n by_o his_o spirit_n
have_v open_v that_o there_o be_v not_o any_o other_o way_n by_o which_o all_o thing_n relate_v unto_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n come_v to_o be_v reveal_v and_o this_o appear_v agrecable_a to_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n john_n 14.26_o 2_o cor._n 4.2_o 3_o 4_o 5_o 6_o 7._o 2_o tim._n 3.15_o 16._o we_o be_v now_o sensible_a that_o some_o who_o may_v peruse_v the_o forego_n scripture_n may_v be_v ready_a thus_o to_o say_v you_o seem_v to_o propound_v two_o way_n by_o which_o the_o thing_n appertain_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n have_v be_v and_o be_v reveal_v viz._n the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n or_o appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o light_n as_o one_o way_n and_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n as_o another_o way_n to_o this_o we_o answer_v the_o way_n we_o propose_v be_v but_o one_o though_o the_o manifestation_n thereof_o may_v seem_v various_a to_o man_n viz._n sometime_o through_o instrument_n and_o sometime_o through_o himself_o for_o though_o paul_n write_v unto_o timothy_n unto_o who_o he_o be_v make_v a_o instrument_n and_o therefore_o call_v he_o his_o son_n tell_v he_o 16._o 2_o tim._n 3.15_o 16._o that_o the_o holy_a scripture_n be_v able_a to_o make_v he_o wise_a unto_o salvation_n and_o that_o they_o be_v profitable_a for_o doctrine_n for_o reproof_n for_o correction_n for_o instruction_n in_o righteousness_n yet_o it_o be_v speak_v with_o respect_n to_o those_o scripture_n that_o be_v give_v forth_o by_o inspiration_n of_o god_n and_o with_o this_o limitation_n viz._n through_o the_o say_v that_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n whereon_o we_o observe_v that_o the_o scripture_n give_v forth_o by_o inspiration_n be_v but_o as_o a_o instrument_n make_v serviceable_a to_o the_o reader_n through_o the_o spirit_n whereby_o faith_n in_o christ_n come_v to_o be_v raise_v even_o as_o a_o man_n endue_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n may_v in_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v a_o instrument_n through_o sound_a doctrine_n and_o wholesome_a exhortation_n to_o open_v the_o inward_a eye_n of_o the_o mind_n which_o have_v be_v darken_v and_o to_o awaken_v the_o conscience_n which_o have_v be_v defile_v that_o so_o man_n may_v come_v to_o be_v renew_v in_o the_o spirit_n of_o his_o mind_n unto_o god_n through_o faith_n in_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n and_o the_o conscience_n purify_v from_o dead_a work_n through_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o covenant_n to_o serve_v the_o lord_n in_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n and_o therefore_o we_o reasonable_o conclude_v that_o there_o be_v but_o one_o way_n though_o various_a in_o operation_n and_o manifestation_n through_o which_o the_o thing_n appertain_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n come_v to_o be_v reveal_v which_o be_v by_o the_o powerful_a appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o spirit_n and_o light_n convict_v the_o conscience_n convert_v and_o renew_v the_o mind_n unto_o god_n sometime_o through_o scripture_n give_v forth_o by_o inspiration_n sometime_o through_o man_n as_o a_o instrument_n and_o sometime_o by_o the_o appearance_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o light_n in_o man_n without_o the_o assistance_n of_o such_o instrument_n but_o yet_o the_o end_n of_o all_o be_v that_o faith_n in_o christ_n may_v be_v raise_v wherein_o as_o the_o evidence_n of_o thing_n not_o see_v by_o the_o carnal_a eye_n the_o light_n of_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n in_o the_o face_n of_o jesus_n christ_n be_v behold_v which_o be_v that_o treasure_n whereof_o the_o apostle_n speak_v that_o be_v hide_v in_o our_o earthen_a vessel_n that_o the_o excellency_n of_o that_o power_n may_v be_v of_o god_n and_o not_o of_o man_n these_o thing_n be_v due_o consider_v this_o testimony_n do_v natural_o arise_v that_o neither_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n nor_o any_o other_o writing_n whatsoever_o though_o give_v forth_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n itself_o can_v proper_o be_v term_v so_o profitable_a a_o rule_n unto_o we_o as_o the_o light_n and_o spirit_n from_o which_o they_o be_v give_v forth_o and_o therefore_o the_o eye_n of_o our_o mind_n ought_v chief_o to_o be_v unto_o the_o spiritual_a appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o light_n and_o spirit_n in_o we_o as_o that_o unerring_a guide_n which_o never_o can_v be_v remove_v into_o a_o corner_n beside_o we_o find_v the_o scripture_n itself_o testify_v that_o no_o prophecy_n of_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o any_o private_a interpretation_n 1.20_o 2_o pet._n 1.20_o that_o be_v it_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v interpret_v but_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n through_o who_o motion_n it_o be_v give_v forth_o for_o all_o other_o interpretation_n may_v true_o be_v term_v private_a from_o whence_o we_o observe_v that_o if_o the_o prophecy_n in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n shall_v be_v read_v unto_o we_o from_o morning_n to_o evening_n and_o from_o evening_n to_o morning_n again_o we_o may_v receive_v little_a benefit_n or_o profit_n thereby_o unless_o the_o eye_n of_o our_o mind_n come_v to_o be_v stay_v in_o the_o unchangeable_a light_n and_o spirit_n of_o god_n whereby_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o spirit_n through_o they_o out_o of_o all_o private_a interpretation_n have_v be_v and_o be_v signify_v unto_o man._n chap._n ii_o touch_v the_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o and_o exhortation_n to_o obedience_n thereof_o those_o faithful_a messenger_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n who_o the_o lord_n in_o these_o latter_a day_n send_v forth_o for_o the_o gather_n of_o the_o nation_n unto_o the_o faith_n and_o knowledge_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n who_o be_v the_o way_n the_o truth_n and_o the_o life_n that_o their_o soul_n may_v be_v save_v in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o lord_n frequent_o sound_v in_o our_o ear_n on_o this_o wise_a turn_v in_o your_o mind_n unto_o the_o light_n within_o mean_v thereby_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o which_o show_v you_o that_o a_o tie_n be_v not_o of_o the_o truth_n and_o as_o through_o faith_n you_o come_v to_o be_v obedient_a unto_o the_o light_n within_o and_o that_o measure_n of_o grace_n give_v by_o god_n and_o receive_v by_o you_o so_o will_v you_o come_v to_o be_v make_v partalter_n of_o that_o great_a salvation_n this_o doctrine_n be_v acceptable_a to_o many_o who_o in_o the_o love_n of_o truth_n receive_v the_o joyful_a sound_n thereof_o but_o unto_o other_o mean_a and_o despise_a who_o notwithstanding_o that_o testimony_n account_v the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n a_o more_o sure_a rule_n and_o guide_n unto_o the_o father_n the_o consideration_n whereof_o at_o this_o time_n have_v be_v as_o a_o obligation_n to_o examine_v whether_o the_o aforesaid_a doctrine_n so_o acceptable_a to_o some_o and_o despise_v by_o other_o be_v consonant_n to_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n which_o task_n be_v the_o more_o free_o undertake_v because_o the_o aforesaid_a doctrine_n have_v become_v so_o great_a a_o stumble_a block_n unto_o many_o as_o that_o they_o have_v think_v it_o a_o sufficient_a evidence_n that_o the_o professor_n thereof_o have_v be_v out_o of_o the_o path_n of_o truth_n ready_o object_v on_o this_o wise_a objection_n do_v you_o not_o think_v that_o those_o jew_n who_o crucify_v christ_n act_v not_o from_o the_o light_n within_o since_o some_o of_o they_o at_o least_o very_o think_v they_o do_v god_n good_a service_n therein_o have_v thus_o premise_v it_o be_v now_o needful_a to_o examine_v what_o may_v be_v speak_v from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n for_o the_o light_n within_o and_o to_o turn_v in_o the_o mind_n unto_o the_o same_o to_o obey_v it_o etc._n etc._n in_o order_n thereunto_o we_o find_v john_n the_o evangelist_n thus_o testify_v 1.4.9_o joh._n 1.4.9_o in_o he_o mean_v the_o word_n which_o be_v god_n be_v life_n and_o the_o life_n be_v the_o light_n of_o man_n that_o be_v the_o true_a light_n which_o light_v every_o man_n that_o come_v into_o the_o world_n i_o be_o the_o light_n of_o the_o world_n 8.12_o john_n 8.12_o he_o that_o follow_v i_o shall_v not_o walk_v in_o darkness_n but_o shall_v have_v the_o light_n of_o life_n 12.46_o joh._n 12.46_o i_o be_o come_v a_o light_n into_o the_o world_n that_o whosoever_o believe_v in_o i_o shall_v not_o abide_v in_o darkness_n these_o scripture_n plain_o show_v that_o we_o be_v to_o believe_v in_o and_o follow_v christ_n who_o be_v that_o light_n that_o light_v every_o man_n that_o come_v into_o the_o world_n objection_n however_o some_o object_v may_v say_v what_o be_v this_o to_o a_o light_n within_o it_o be_v very_o plain_a that_o john_n the_o evangelist_n mean_v nothing_o of_o a_o light_n within_o in_o your_o sense_n but_o of_o the_o personal_a appearance_n of_o christ_n without_o as_o that_o word_n which_o be_v make_v flesh_n and_o as_o evidence_n produce_v what_o the_o same_o evangelist_n say_v chap._n
9th_o and_o 5_o as_o long_o as_o i_o be_o in_o the_o world_n i_o be_o the_o light_n of_o the_o world_n and_o chap._n 12.35_o yet_o a_o little_a while_n be_v the_o light_n with_o you_o walk_v while_o you_o have_v the_o light_n and_o ver_fw-la the_o 36._o while_o you_o have_v the_o light_n believe_v in_o the_o light_n that_o you_o may_v be_v the_o child_n of_o the_o light_n to_o this_o may_v be_v answer_v that_o these_o last_o recite_v scripture_n do_v in_o the_o most_o favourable_a construction_n on_o the_o objector_n part_n intimate_v that_o christ_n the_o son_n of_o god_n while_o he_o be_v in_o the_o world_n be_v the_o light_n of_o the_o world_n but_o do_v not_o say_v that_o he_o be_v or_o will_v be_v no_o long_o the_o light_n of_o the_o world_n such_o a_o say_n or_o sense_n will_v limit_v the_o appearance_n of_o light_n to_o that_o body_n only_o and_o dispensation_n of_o time_n wherein_o the_o say_a body_n appear_v on_o earth_n which_o be_v contradictory_n to_o the_o very_a word_n of_o the_o evangelist_n before_o quote_v viz._n that_o be_v the_o true_a light_n that_o light_v every_o man_n that_o come_v into_o the_o world_n which_o scripture_n sentence_n relate_v to_o every_o man_n be_v so_o universal_a that_o it_o can_v but_o extend_v to_o those_o who_o never_o behold_v the_o face_n of_o jesus_n in_o his_o fleshly_a and_o bodily_a appearance_n nor_o yet_o come_v to_o be_v inform_v by_o any_o outward_a instrument_n of_o his_o doctrine_n though_o partaker_n of_o his_o light_n which_o therefore_o may_v proper_o be_v term_v by_o such_o his_o light_z within_z that_o be_v the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o light_n shine_v in_o their_o heart_n agreeable_a whereunto_o in_o effect_n we_o take_v the_o testimony_n of_o the_o apostle_n to_o be_v viz._n that_o which_o may_v be_v know_v of_o god_n 1.19_o rom._n 1.19_o be_v manifest_a in_o they_o for_o god_n have_v show_v it_o unto_o they_o see_v you_o seek_v a_o proof_n of_o christ_n speak_v in_o i_o 13.3_o 2_o cor._n 13.3_o which_o riches_n be_v christ_n in_o you_o 1.27_o col._n 1.27_o the_o hope_n of_o glory_n who_o shall_v descend_v into_o the_o deep_a that_o be_v 8._o rom._n 10.7_o 8._o to_o bring_v christ_n again_o from_o the_o dead_a but_o what_o say_v it_o the_o word_n be_v near_o thou_o even_o in_o thy_o mouth_n and_o in_o thy_o heart_n this_o be_v the_o word_n of_o faith_n which_o we_o preach_v and_o all_o this_o appear_v agreeable_a unto_o what_o the_o prophet_n isaiah_n hint_v at_o who_o speak_v of_o what_o shall_v be_v in_o the_o last_o day_n signify_v 5._o isa_n 1.2_o 3_o 5._o that_o the_o god_n of_o jacob_n will_v teach_v we_o of_o his_o way_n and_o therefore_o say_v oh_o house_n of_o jacob_n come_v you_o let_v we_o walk_v in_o the_o light_n of_o the_o lord_n which_o be_v compare_v with_o what_o the_o same_o prophet_n say_v in_o relation_n to_o a_o people_n â—_o isa_n 5â—_n â—_o in_o who_o heart_n be_v the_o law_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o with_o what_o the_o prophet_n jeremiah_n say_v i_o will_v put_v my_o law_n in_o their_o inward_a part_n 34._o jer._n 31.33_o 34._o and_o write_v it_o in_o their_o heart_n and_o they_o shall_v teach_v no_o more_o every_o man_n his_o neighbour_n and_o every_o man_n his_o brother_n say_v know_v the_o lord_n for_o they_o shall_v all_o know_v i_o from_o the_o least_o of_o they_o to_o the_o great_a it_o be_v evident_a to_o we_o that_o this_o write_a law_n in_o the_o heart_n be_v that_o light_n within_o whereof_o the_o faithful_a messenger_n of_o the_o lord_n in_o our_o day_n have_v bear_v witness_n unto_o and_o whereof_o the_o same_o prophet_n give_v testimony_n when_o he_o say_v as_o before_o o_o house_n of_o jacob_n come_v you_o let_v we_o walk_v in_o the_o light_n of_o the_o lord_n beside_o such_o a_o limitation_n as_o aforesaid_a will_v have_v a_o tendency_n to_o make_v void_a the_o virtue_n and_o efficacy_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n who_o be_v offer_v up_o a_o sacrifice_n to_o take_v away_o the_o sin_n of_o many_o and_o on_o this_o score_n do_v the_o author_n to_o the_o hebrew_n testify_v 9.28_o heb._n 9.28_o that_o unto_o they_o that_o look_v for_o he_o shall_v he_o appear_v the_o second_o time_n without_o sin_n unto_o salvation_n which_o be_v a_o clear_a evidence_n unto_o we_o that_o the_o benefit_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n be_v not_o witness_v effectual_o in_o this_o our_o day_n but_o by_o those_o who_o have_v look_v for_o his_o second_o appearance_n have_v receive_v he_o in_o his_o appearance_n this_o appearance_n we_o take_v to_o be_v his_o appearance_n by_o his_o light_n and_o spirit_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o those_o who_o through_o faith_n in_o his_o blood_n have_v know_v their_o conscience_n purify_v from_o dead_a work_n and_o so_o come_v to_o serve_v the_o live_a god_n in_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n it_o be_v now_o to_o be_v consider_v whether_o these_o word_n turn_v in_o your_o mind_n be_n agreeable_a to_o truth_n for_o that_o this_o kind_n of_o objection_n may_v be_v raise_v objection_n do_v not_o this_o put_v the_o creature_n upon_o action_n in_o his_o own_o selfwill_a when_o as_o the_o will_n of_o man_n can_v bring_v forth_o that_o birth_n unto_o which_o power_n be_v give_v to_o become_v the_o son_n of_o god_n for_o answer_v hereto_o it_o be_v necessary_a to_o consider_v that_o the_o faithful_a labourer_n in_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n commend_v their_o exhortation_n and_o testimony_n to_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o hearer_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n and_o the_o reason_n doubtless_o be_v because_o there_o be_v a_o capacity_n in_o man_n which_o through_o the_o assistance_n of_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n render_v man_n capable_a to_o do_v the_o will_n of_o god_n in_o righteousness_n unto_o life_n and_o those_o who_o be_v so_o act_v can_v be_v say_v to_o be_v act_v in_o the_o selfwill_a of_o man._n and_o on_o the_o contrary_a the_o same_o capacity_n let_v in_o tempration_n and_o join_v thereto_o render_v man_n a_o servant_n of_o sin_n unto_o death_n and_o be_v once_o so_o dead_a in_o sin_n no_o redemption_n come_v to_o be_v obtain_v but_o through_o christ_n as_o the_o apostle_n testify_v 2.1_o ephes_n 2.1_o you_o have_v he_o quicken_v that_o be_v dead_a in_o trespass_n and_o sin_n these_o thing_n consider_v it_o be_v evident_a that_o through_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n those_o who_o have_v cast_v off_o the_o old_a man_n be_v become_v renew_v in_o the_o spirit_n of_o their_o mind_n unto_o god_n and_o so_o have_v put_v on_o the_o new_a man_n which_o after_o god_n be_v create_v in_o righteousness_n and_o true_a holiness_n and_o therefore_o since_o there_o be_v such_o a_o capacity_n in_o man_n as_o aforesaid_a it_o be_v agreeable_a to_o truth_n to_o exhort_v the_o son_n of_o man_n to_o turn_v in_o their_o mind_n unto_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o light_n that_o through_o the_o assistance_n thereof_o the_o will_n of_o god_n may_v be_v do_v in_o their_o earthen_a vessel_n the_o next_o thing_n to_o be_v consider_v be_v whether_o there_o be_v any_o weight_n in_o this_o objection_n do_v you_o not_o think_v that_o the_o jew_n who_o crucify_v christ_n act_v not_o from_o the_o light_n within_o since_o some_o of_o they_o at_o least_o think_v they_o do_v god_n good_a service_n therein_o to_o this_o may_v be_v answer_v that_o the_o friend_n of_o truth_n never_o preach_v up_o the_o light_n within_o but_o with_o respect_n to_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o spirit_n as_o that_o light_a within_o intend_a by_o they_o and_o since_o christ_n can_v be_v divide_v to_o act_v against_o himself_o therefore_o the_o jew_n do_v not_o therein_o act_v from_o that_o light_n within_o unto_o which_o we_o have_v be_v direct_v from_o what_o then_o may_z the_o objector_n say_v do_v those_o of_o they_o act_n who_o very_o think_v they_o do_v god_n good_a service_n therein_o ans_fw-fr 3.6_o phil._n 3.6_o from_o zeal_n without_o knowledge_n not_o have_v their_o mind_n stay_v and_o order_v according_a to_o that_o universal_a principle_n of_o truth_n 11._o act_n 26.9_o 11._o which_o if_o hearken_v unto_o will_v teach_v all_o man_n to_o do_v as_o they_o will_v be_v do_v by_o in_o which_o zeal_n paul_n very_o think_v in_o himself_o that_o he_o ought_v to_o do_v many_o thing_n contrary_a to_o the_o name_n of_o jesus_n and_o in_o that_o self-thought_a be_v exceed_o mad_a persecute_v the_o church_n of_o god_n consent_v to_o the_o death_n of_o the_o saint_n and_o compel_v they_o to_o blaspheme_n but_o when_o the_o lord_n be_v please_v to_o appear_v unto_o he_o and_o to_o make_v he_o a_o minister_n of_o his_o everlasting_a gospel_n he_o be_v send_v unto_o the_o gentile_n to_o open_v their_o eye_n that_o they_o may_v turn_v from_o
darkness_n to_o light_n and_o from_o the_o power_n of_o satan_n unto_o god_n 18._o act_n 26.16_o 17_o 18._o this_o eye_n that_o be_v to_o be_v open_v be_v not_o the_o carnal_a eye_n that_o so_o thereby_o they_o may_v be_v turn_v from_o outward_a darkness_n to_o outward_a light_n for_o though_o paul_n behold_v the_o light_n that_o shine_v from_o heaven_n which_o we_o take_v to_o be_v a_o light_n visible_a to_o his_o carnal_a eye_n yet_o he_o after_o continue_v three_o day_n blind_a through_o the_o glory_n of_o that_o light_n and_o then_o afterward_o the_o lord_n appoint_v he_o to_o be_v his_o witness_n and_o send_v he_o to_o the_o gentile_n to_o open_v their_o eye_n that_o they_o may_v turn_v from_o darkness_n unto_o light_n and_o from_o the_o power_n of_o satan_n unto_o god_n this_o eye_n that_o he_o be_v send_v to_o open_v be_v the_o inward_a eye_n of_o the_o mind_n and_o the_o darkness_n speak_v of_o be_v that_o wherewith_o their_o heart_n and_o not_o their_o outward_a eye_n be_v overshadow_a so_o that_o they_o can_v not_o behold_v the_o light_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n shine_v in_o their_o heart_n to_o give_v unto_o they_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o truth_n chap._n iii_o touch_v infallibility_n and_o perfection_n the_o doctrine_n of_o infallibility_n hold_v by_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n have_v be_v account_v ridiculous_a because_o either_o occasion_n have_v be_v give_v through_o weakness_n among_o they_o or_o else_o take_v by_o their_o opponent_n whether_o give_v or_o no_o to_o assert_v that_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n be_v infallible_a be_v it_o as_o it_o be_v such_o a_o bare_a assertion_n without_o distinction_n or_o explication_n must_v be_v either_o the_o fruit_n of_o weakness_n if_o proceed_v from_o any_o real_o of_o that_o people_n call_v quaker_n or_o else_o slander_v and_o envy_n if_o proceed_v from_o their_o opposer_n without_o occasion_n give_v they_o so_o to_o say_v that_o therefore_o the_o inquire_a reader_n may_v be_v true_o inform_v what_o doctrine_n in_o relation_n to_o infallibility_n be_v hold_v forth_o own_a and_o receive_v by_o such_o among_o they_o unto_o who_o god_n have_v reveal_v of_o the_o mystery_n of_o his_o kingdom_n it_o be_v not_o remote_a from_o the_o present_a purpose_n on_o this_o occasion_n to_o give_v this_o ensue_a testimony_n there_o be_v a_o outward_a man_n and_o a_o inward_a man_n according_a to_o the_o apostle_n testimony_n 4.16_o 2_o cor._n 4.16_o and_o therefore_o the_o word_n infallible_a or_o infallibility_n may_v have_v relation_n to_o external_n and_o internal_a thing_n touch_v external_n thing_n the_o outward_a man_n with_o his_o outward_a sense_n be_v excreise_v but_o as_o to_o thing_n internal_a the_o inward_a man_n with_o his_o inward_a sense_n act_n 1.3_o it_o be_v thus_o say_v to_o who_o also_o he_o present_v himself_o alive_a after_o that_o he_o have_v suffer_v by_o many_o infallible_a token_n be_v see_v of_o they_o by_o the_o space_n of_o forty_o day_n and_o speak_v of_o those_o thing_n which_o appertain_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n obj._n this_o show_v there_o be_v a_o infallibility_n but_o than_o it_o may_v be_v say_v this_o seem_v to_o respect_v the_o outward_a sense_n of_o the_o apostle_n in_o see_v christ_n their_o lord_n and_o master_n and_o in_o hear_v the_o thing_n he_o speak_v which_o appertain_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o this_o infallibility_n be_v ready_o confess_v unto_o but_o how_o can_v it_o be_v prove_v that_o there_o be_v a_o infallibility_n accompany_v the_o inward_a sense_n of_o the_o inward_a man_n see_v many_o have_v pretend_v to_o give_v true_a infallible_a judgement_n from_o their_o inward_a sense_n which_o have_v prove_v notorious_o wrong_v and_o detectable_a by_o our_o outward_a sense_n answer_n it_o must_v be_v confess_v if_o any_o shall_v so_o object_v it_o be_v very_o true_a but_o yet_o it_o may_v in_o truth_n be_v assert_v that_o there_o be_v a_o infallibility_n viz._n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n accompany_v the_o inward_a sense_n of_o the_o inward_a man_n whereof_o the_o faithful_a have_v a_o assurance_n from_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n and_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o their_o own_o heart_n and_o if_o any_o pretend_v to_o any_o other_o infallibility_n accompany_v they_o we_o understand_v it_o not_o obj._n how_o then_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o man_n endue_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v deceive_v and_o fallible_a ans_fw-fr we_o ought_v to_o distinguish_v betwixt_o man_n and_o the_o spirit_n by_o which_o he_o come_v to_o be_v renew_v in_o the_o spirit_n of_o his_o mind_n unto_o god_n that_o by_o which_o man_n come_v to_o be_v renew_v and_o circumcise_v in_o heart_n which_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v infallible_a but_o that_o which_o be_v so_o renew_v may_v be_v deceive_v if_o not_o exercise_v in_o and_o by_o that_o spirit_n in_o which_o preservation_n be_v for_o there_o be_v no_o estate_n on_o this_o side_n the_o grave_a wherein_o it_o be_v not_o needful_a to_o watch_v and_o therefore_o do_v christ_n our_o lord_n thus_o say_v what_o i_o say_v unto_o you_o i_o say_v unto_o all_o watch_n it_o have_v be_v a_o common_a assertion_n that_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v infallible_a and_o can_v err_v and_o therefore_o have_v many_o assembly_n of_o man_n assume_v the_o title_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n declare_v their_o sentence_n judgement_n and_o decree_n infallible_a to_o this_o may_v be_v say_v that_o since_o the_o apostasieentred_a it_o be_v not_o unknown_a what_o visible_a and_o outward_o glorious_a church_n have_v publish_v this_o doctrine_n with_o application_n to_o herself_o by_o which_o door_n a_o body_n of_o darkness_n usurpation_n and_o persecution_n have_v enter_v and_o on_o this_o score_n thousand_o have_v be_v deceive_v and_o lead_v from_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n in_o themselves_o to_o follow_v the_o dictate_v of_o fallible_a man_n but_o yet_o as_o it_o have_v be_v so_o it_o be_v the_o faith_n of_o many_o that_o the_o lord_n never_o will_v raise_v any_o people_n who_o by_o his_o spirit_n he_o will_v lead_v to_o publish_v such_o a_o doctrine_n with_o respect_n to_o outward_a and_o visible_a society_n of_o man_n on_o earth_n that_o may_v be_v outward_o describable_a as_o needful_a to_o be_v believe_v in_o order_n to_o the_o build_n up_o one_o another_o in_o the_o most_o holy_a faith_n this_o faith_n be_v not_o inconsistent_a with_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n be_v ground_v on_o the_o evidence_n of_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o for_o that_o the_o contrary_n will_v have_v a_o plain_a tendency_n to_o draw_v the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o man_n from_o the_o anoint_v in_o themselves_o to_o the_o lo_n here_o be_v and_o the_o lo_n there_o be_v again_o for_o what_o religious_a assembly_n in_o unity_n and_o profess_v themselves_o christian_n will_v scruple_n to_o say_v we_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o albeit_o we_o must_v acknowledge_v that_o that_o church_n which_o be_v build_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n can_v whilst_o abide_v on_o the_o rock_n be_v prevail_v against_o yet_o no_o argument_n from_o hence_o may_v rational_o be_v bring_v to_o prove_v any_o one_o member_n of_o this_o church_n whilst_o on_o this_o side_n the_o grave_n not_o liable_a through_o temptation_n to_o err_v and_o depart_v from_o the_o rock_n whilst_o there_o be_v a_o enemy_n ready_a to_o enter_v all_o if_o they_o watch_v not_o and_o now_o as_o to_o perfection_n we_o have_v this_o to_o say_v though_o we_o do_v believe_v that_o all_o the_o gift_n of_o god_n and_o work_v of_o righteousness_n bring_v forth_o through_o the_o operation_n of_o his_o spirit_n be_v perfect_a and_o that_o in_o that_o sense_n it_o may_v be_v say_v we_o be_v partaker_n of_o a_o measure_n of_o that_o which_o be_v perfect_a even_o as_o the_o apostle_n testify_v 1.17_o jam._n 1.17_o every_o perfect_a gift_n be_v from_o above_o if_o any_o man_n offend_v not_o in_o word_n 3.2_o jam._n 3.2_o the_o same_o be_v a_o perfect_a man_n yet_o we_o do_v not_o believe_v that_o there_o be_v any_o such_o perfect_a estate_n attainable_a on_o this_o side_n the_o grave_a wherein_o it_o be_v not_o needful_a for_o man_n to_o watch_v and_o wait_v in_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n that_o so_o he_o may_v not_o only_o be_v preserve_v in_o that_o perfect_a state_n whereunto_o in_o measure_n he_o have_v already_o attain_v but_o also_o come_v to_o know_v a_o growth_n and_o increase_n in_o the_o increase_v of_o god_n for_o though_o paul_n have_v attain_v unto_o such_o a_o state_n as_o appear_v by_o these_o his_o word_n let_v we_o therefore_o 3.15_o phil._n 3.15_o as_o many_o as_o be_v perfect_a be_v thus_o mind_v 3.14_o phil._n 3.14_o yet_o we_o find_v that_o that_o very_a exhortation_n have_v relation_n unto_o a_o press_n towards_o the_o
and_o have_v so_o much_o memory_n as_o from_o the_o mouth_n of_o other_o to_o use_v the_o word_n of_o that_o wise_a apostle_n paul_n when_o he_o say_v 3.19_o 1_o cor._n 3.19_o the_o wisdom_n of_o this_o world_n be_v foolishness_n with_o god_n as_o if_o thereby_o they_o have_v bring_v some_o excellent_a proof_n to_o justify_v all_o those_o rude_a action_n and_o impertinent_a expression_n which_o as_o the_o fruit_n of_o their_o ignorance_n and_o folly_n in_o a_o boisterous_a unruly_a spirit_n they_o have_v bring_v up_o be_v such_o but_o sober_a gird_v up_o the_o loin_n of_o their_o mind_n they_o will_v undoubted_o come_v to_o see_v that_o such_o their_o word_n and_o action_n be_v but_o the_o fruit_n of_o that_o ignorance_n that_o lu_v to_o envy_n which_o be_v to_o be_v silence_v and_o doubtless_o of_o this_o sort_n be_v these_o who_o the_o apostle_n peter_n hint_v at_o 14._o 1_o pet._n 13_o 14._o when_o he_o say_v wherefore_o gird_v up_o the_o loin_n of_o your_o mind_n be_v sober_a as_o obedient_a child_n not_o fashion_v yourselves_o according_a to_o your_o former_a lust_n in_o your_o ignorance_n but_o if_o such_o have_v less_o folly_n and_o confidence_n and_o be_v but_o as_o ready_a to_o ask_v wisdom_n of_o god_n according_a to_o the_o counsel_n of_o the_o apostle_n james_n as_o they_o be_v to_o condemn_v that_o gift_n of_o wisdom_n and_o understanding_n which_o god_n have_v give_v unto_o other_o 1.5_o jam._n 1.5_o they_o will_v not_o be_v ready_a to_o run_v at_o the_o beck_n nod_n or_o call_v of_o such_o as_o in_o a_o boast_a imperious_a spirit_n glory_n exalt_v they_o as_o judge_n over_o god_n faithful_a servant_n and_o that_o have_v bring_v forth_o christian-quaker_n forth_o see_v the_o 5_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n lie_v in_o a_o bitter_a envious_a spirit_n which_o thing_n be_v earthly_a sensual_a and_o devilish_a be_v the_o very_a mark_n of_o that_o wisdom_n that_o descend_v not_o from_o above_o as_o a_o far_a illustration_n of_o what_o be_v aim_v at_o in_o this_o discourse_n we_o now_o come_v to_o signify_v that_o some_o have_v a_o far_o great_a portion_n of_o wisdom_n knowledge_n and_o understanding_n than_o other_o and_o that_o it_o be_v give_v they_o of_o god_n as_o they_o be_v creature_n distinct_a from_o what_o they_o be_v when_o act_v by_o a_o good_a spirit_n or_o a_o bad_a and_o in_o this_o respect_n be_v man_n as_o a_o creature_n the_o most_o excellent_a creature_n that_o god_n have_v make_v but_o yet_o such_o be_v the_o ignorance_n of_o this_o age_n as_o to_o account_v this_o portion_n of_o wisdom_n knowledge_n or_o understanding_n as_o we_o be_v creature_n to_o be_v that_o wisdom_n which_o the_o apostle_n term_v earthly_a sensual_a and_o devilish_a or_o the_o wisdom_n of_o this_o world_n or_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o wise_a 1.19_o 1_o cor._n 1.19_o which_o the_o lord_n by_o the_o apostle_n paul_n have_v say_v he_o will_v destroy_v but_o herein_o such_o do_v manifest_v themselves_o not_o know_v whereof_o they_o affirm_v for_o that_o wisdom_n knowledge_n or_o understanding_n which_o we_o have_v as_o creature_n be_v the_o proper_a gift_n of_o god_n and_o a_o part_n of_o his_o own_o creation_n and_o be_v honourable_a in_o its_o place_n and_o it_o be_v against_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o divine_a be_v to_o destroy_v this_o wisdom_n because_o it_o be_v his_o own_o gift_n even_o as_o it_o be_v against_o his_o nature_n to_o destroy_v the_o life_n of_o man_n which_o be_v his_o creation_n 7.5_o luke_n 7.5_o for_o the_o evangelist_n say_v the_o son_n of_o man_n come_v not_o to_o destroy_v man_n life_n obj._n what_o then_o do_v the_o apostle_n hint_n at_o when_o he_o speak_v of_o the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o world_n the_o wisdom_n of_o the_o wise_a and_o the_o wisdom_n of_o word_n to_o this_o it_o may_v be_v say_v 22.3_o act._n 22.3_o that_o as_o paul_n be_v bring_v up_o at_o the_o foot_n of_o gamaliel_n and_o teach_v according_a to_o the_o perfect_a manner_n of_o the_o law_n of_o the_o father_n so_o doubtless_o many_o there_o be_v who_o through_o education_n attain_v unto_o that_o which_o paul_n in_o his_o convert_a state_n term_n to_o be_v the_o wisdom_n of_o this_o world_n etc._n etc._n from_o whence_o it_o may_v be_v conclude_v that_o he_o hint_v at_o those_o thing_n which_o in_o that_o day_n be_v give_v forth_o by_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n and_o other_o disputer_n against_o that_o divine_a appearance_n whereby_o paul_n be_v make_v a_o minister_n of_o the_o everlasting_a gospel_n which_o thing_n so_o give_v forth_o we_o do_v not_o take_v to_o be_v the_o natural_a effect_n of_o that_o wisdom_n knowledge_n or_o understanding_n give_v unto_o they_o as_o creature_n but_o rather_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o degeneration_n as_o the_o fruit_n of_o their_o education_n and_o acquire_v part_n wherewith_o be_v not_o subject_a unto_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n they_o then_o become_v opposer_n of_o the_o truth_n beside_o as_o the_o word_n flesh_n in_o scripture_n be_v sometime_o use_v not_o with_o relation_n to_o a_o carnal_a body_n but_o in_o a_o metaphorical_a and_o mystical_a sense_n by_o way_n of_o opposition_n to_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n so_o be_v these_o word_n fleshly_a wisdom_n use_v not_o with_o respect_n to_o man_n as_o a_o creature_n but_o by_o way_n of_o opposition_n to_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n that_o be_v from_o above_o and_o therefore_o be_v another_o thing_n than_o that_o which_o man_n be_v endue_v withal_o as_o he_o be_v a_o part_n of_o god_n creation_n to_o conclude_v solomon_n in_o his_o day_n magnify_v wisdom_n at_o a_o high_a rate_n as_o the_o scripture_n testify_v too_o large_a here_o to_o be_v insert_v who_o in_o his_o day_n do_v undoubted_o account_v it_o the_o sign_n of_o a_o just_a man_n 10.30_o pro._n 10.30_o and_o therefore_o say_v the_o mouth_n of_o the_o just_a bring_v forth_o wisdom_n the_o apostle_n in_o his_o day_n do_v magnify_v wisdom_n exhort_v the_o saint_n to_o walk_v in_o wisdom_n 4.5_o col._n 4.5_o christ_n the_o son_n of_o god_n testify_v 11.19_o mat._n 11.19_o wisdom_n be_v justify_v of_o her_o child_n these_o thing_n consider_v our_o desire_n be_v that_o those_o who_o have_v true_a wisdom_n may_v prize_v it_o that_o those_o who_o lack_v it_o may_v embrace_v the_o counsel_n of_o the_o apostle_n james_n 1.5_o jam._n 1.5_o and_o ask_v it_o of_o god_n who_o give_v liberal_o and_o that_o those_o fool_n who_o despise_v wisdom_n may_v come_v to_o have_v a_o sense_n of_o what_o solomon_n speak_v when_o he_o thus_o say_v how_o long_o you_o simple_a one_o will_v you_o love_v simplicity_n and_o fool_n hate_v knowledge_n turn_v you_o at_o my_o reproof_n sure_o we_o be_v the_o apostle_n write_n encourage_v none_o to_o cry_v down_o wisdom_n at_o the_o rate_n it_o be_v of_o late_a without_o distinction_n exclaim_v against_o by_o some_o but_o rather_o the_o contrary_n for_o we_o find_v the_o apostle_n paul_n write_v to_o the_o colossian_n thus_o to_o say_v 28._o col._n 1.9_o 28._o we_o do_v not_o cease_v to_o pray_v for_o you_o and_o to_o desire_v that_o you_o may_v be_v fill_v with_o the_o knowledge_n of_o his_o will_n in_o all_o wisdom_n and_o spiritual_a understanding_n and_o again_o thus_o who_o we_o preach_v warn_v every_o man_n and_o teach_v every_o man_n in_o all_o wisdom_n that_o we_o may_v present_v every_o man_n perfect_a in_o christ_n jesus_n but_o this_o ignorance_n we_o doubt_v have_v happen_v unto_o many_o not_o only_o from_o a_o principle_n of_o have_v their_o eye_n out_o unto_o man_n 3.15_o 2_o tim._n 3.15_o but_o also_o from_o a_o neglect_n to_o read_v the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n give_v forth_o by_o inspiration_n which_o the_o apostle_n say_v be_v able_a to_o make_v thou_o wise_a unto_o salvation_n through_o faith_n which_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n as_o to_o the_o word_n knowledge_n this_o may_v be_v add_v that_o in_o the_o want_n thereof_o in_o day_n past_a those_o who_o be_v escape_v of_o the_o nation_n set_v up_o their_o graven-image_n according_a as_o isaiah_n the_o prophet_n testify_v they_o have_v no_o knowledge_n 45.20_o isa_n 45.20_o that_o set_v up_o the_o wood_n of_o their_o graven_n image_n and_o pray_v unto_o a_o god_n that_o can_v save_v oh_o that_o at_o this_o day_n there_o be_v no_o cause_n to_o take_v up_o a_o lamentation_n that_o the_o want_n of_o knowledge_n be_v the_o cause_n that_o many_o have_v appear_v ready_a to_o exalt_v man_n to_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o man_n and_o in_o neglect_n of_o that_o heavenly_a gift_n which_o be_v give_v unto_o mankind_n to_o bow_v in_o their_o heart_n unto_o man_n as_o have_v a_o dependency_n on_o the_o dictate_v prescription_n order_n and_o outward_a rule_n of_o man_n this_o under_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n we_o take_v to_o be_v as_o great_a a_o fall_n
6.53_o john_n 6.53_o when_o he_o say_v except_o you_o eat_v of_o the_o flesh_n of_o the_o son_n of_o man_n and_o drink_v his_o blood_n you_o have_v no_o life_n in_o you_o for_o though_o christ_n so_o say_v yet_o he_o do_v not_o intend_v that_o there_o can_v be_v a_o profit_v as_o to_o the_o growth_n of_o the_o inward_a man_n by_o eat_v outward_a flesh_n no_o more_o than_o the_o child_n of_o light_n do_v at_o this_o day_n believe_v that_o the_o eat_v of_o the_o outward_a bread_n can_v nourish_v the_o immortal_a soul_n 6.63_o joh._n 6.63_o and_o therefore_o christ_n say_v it_o be_v the_o spirit_n that_o quicken_v the_o flesh_n profit_v nothing_o chap._n xi_o touch_v justification_n and_o salvation_n through_o faith_n in_o christ_n what_o the_o scripture_n say_v touch_v justification_n and_o salvation_n we_o own_v viz._n 8.30_o rom._n 8.30_o that_o the_o call_v of_o god_n be_v justify_v and_o that_o this_o justification_n be_v free_o by_o his_o grace_n through_o the_o redemption_n 25._o rom._n 3.24_o 25._o that_o be_v in_o jesus_n christ_n by_o faith_n in_o his_o blood_n for_o the_o remission_n of_o sin_n that_o be_v past_a and_o that_o 2.11_o tit._n 2.11_o salvation_n be_v bring_v through_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n that_o have_v appear_v unto_o all_o men._n object_n this_o sense_n of_o you_o can_v be_v deny_v because_o your_o language_n agree_v with_o the_o holy_a scripture_n but_o the_o question_n be_v whether_o your_o mean_v thereby_o be_v that_o you_o own_o a_o justification_n of_o person_n or_o a_o state_n of_o salvation_n attainable_a through_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n not_o only_o without_o a_o infusion_n of_o righteousness_n but_o also_o by_o a_o pardon_n of_o sin_n and_o accept_v of_o person_n as_o perfect_o righteous_a at_o the_o tribunal_n of_o god_n not_o for_o any_o work_v wrought_v in_o they_o or_o do_v by_o they_o but_o for_o christ_n sake_n not_o by_o impute_v the_o act_n of_o faith_n or_o any_o pretend_a light_n or_o principle_n within_o they_o or_o any_o of_o their_o evangelical_n obedience_n to_o he_o as_o their_o righteousness_n before_o god_n but_o by_o accept_n and_o impute_v the_o obedience_n and_o satisfaction_n of_o christ_n for_o they_o and_o to_o they_o and_o whether_o or_o no_o you_o do_v not_o account_v that_o justification_n and_o sanctification_n be_v all_o one_o and_o the_o same_o thing_n because_o sanctification_n be_v inseparable_o join_v with_o justification_n 1_o cor._n 6.11_o which_o if_o you_o shall_v we_o can_v but_o take_v you_o therein_o to_o err_v because_o in_o justification_n god_n impute_v the_o righteousness_n of_o christ_n to_o we_o rom._n 4.6_o 8._o but_o in_o sanctification_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n infuse_v grace_n into_o we_o and_o enable_v to_o the_o exercise_n thereof_o ezek._n 36.27_o answ_n the_o objection_n seem_v to_o be_v raise_v by_o such_o as_o have_v put_v their_o meaning_n on_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n when_o in_o truth_n they_o can_v say_v that_o by_o the_o revelation_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n they_o have_v be_v lead_v thereto_o and_o therefore_o such_o meaning_n may_v well_o be_v take_v to_o be_v no_o other_o than_o mere_a private_a interpretation_n and_o not_o that_o which_o be_v signify_v by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n however_o that_o our_o sense_n relate_v to_o the_o material_a part_n of_o the_o objection_n may_v be_v know_v we_o thus_o say_v first_o that_o justification_n unto_o life_n eternal_a or_o a_o state_n of_o salvation_n be_v not_o attainable_a but_o through_o faith_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n or_o the_o leading_n of_o god_n grace_n that_o have_v appear_v unto_o all_o man_n and_o that_o nothing_o which_o we_o of_o ourselves_o be_v capable_a to_o perform_v can_v in_o any_o wise_a be_v so_o meritorious_a as_o thereby_o to_o render_v we_o worthy_a of_o that_o justification_n which_o all_o the_o saint_n in_o light_n be_v attain_v unto_o as_o absolute_o necessary_a to_o the_o be_v make_v a_o partaker_n of_o the_o great_a salvation_n of_o god_n by_o these_o our_o word_n nothing_o which_o we_o of_o ourselves_o be_v capable_a to_o perform_v our_o mean_v be_v not_o only_o a_o exclusion_n of_o all_o legal_a performance_n which_o the_o apostle_n in_o their_o epistle_n plentiful_o hint_v at_o but_o also_o of_o all_o other_o outward_a duty_n and_o performance_n of_o what_o nature_n and_o kind_a soever_o that_o our_o outward_a man_n be_v of_o ability_n without_o the_o assistance_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o act_v and_o bring_v forth_o and_o if_o any_o from_o these_o word_n in_o the_o objection_n viz._n wrought_v in_o they_o act_n of_o faith_n evangelical_n obedience_n etc._n etc._n shall_v conclude_v that_o the_o very_a work_n and_o action_n which_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n we_o be_v enable_v to_o bring_v forth_o be_v of_o no_o advantage_n towards_o eternal_a salvation_n but_o that_o it_o be_v through_o faith_n alone_o attainable_a we_o then_o thus_o answer_v that_o the_o word_n faith_n in_o the_o scripture_n may_v be_v take_v in_o a_o twofold_a sense_n the_o one_o be_v a_o faith_n that_o be_v not_o without_o a_o further_a growth_n accompany_v with_o the_o salvation_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o can_v be_v the_o faith_n intend_v in_o the_o objection_n the_o other_o be_v faith_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n for_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o this_o faith_n be_v unto_o salvation_n and_o so_o must_v be_v that_o intend_a in_o the_o objection_n but_o then_o this_o inconsistency_n with_o truth_n plain_o appear_v in_o the_o objection_n viz._n a_o reliance_n on_o faith_n exclude_v work_v wrought_v by_o the_o spirit_n the_o inconsistency_n lie_v here_o wheresoever_o a_o lively_a faith_n unto_o salvation_n be_v manifest_v it_o be_v accompany_v with_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o evangelical_n obedience_n which_o be_v as_o inseparable_a each_o from_o other_o as_o sanctification_n and_o justification_n in_o the_o objection_n be_v confess_v to_o be_v we_o shall_v now_o prove_v to_o evince_v against_o all_o opposer_n the_o truth_n of_o what_o we_o have_v assert_v first_o that_o there_o be_v a_o faith_n which_o without_o a_o further_a growth_n be_v not_o accompany_v with_o the_o salvation_n of_o god_n be_v evident_a from_o the_o word_n of_o paul_n rom._n 13.11_o for_o now_o be_v our_o salvation_n near_o than_o when_o we_o believe_v which_o clear_o show_v that_o the_o scripture_n inform_v we_o of_o a_o belief_n or_o faith_n attain_v by_o such_o as_o be_v not_o arrive_v unto_o nor_o yet_o witness_n of_o the_o salvation_n of_o god_n they_o be_v only_o come_v near_a unto_o it_o than_o when_o they_o first_o believe_v but_o not_o come_v at_o it_o and_o no_o doubt_n but_o this_o belief_n or_o faith_n speak_v of_o by_o the_o apostle_n be_v a_o faith_n on_o christ_n that_o be_v to_o say_v that_o he_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n etc._n etc._n for_o so_o to_o believe_v be_v the_o work_n encourage_v in_o the_o beginning_n according_a as_o appear_v by_o the_o word_n of_o christ_n unto_o the_o multitude_n john_n 6.29_o this_o be_v the_o work_n of_o god_n that_o you_o believe_v on_o he_o who_o he_o have_v send_v and_o this_o be_v say_v by_o christ_n in_o answer_n to_o this_o question_n propose_v to_o he_o by_o the_o multitude_n what_o shall_v we_o do_v that_o we_o may_v work_v the_o work_n of_o god_n 18._o phil._n 1.15_o 16_o 17_o 18._o beside_o we_o find_v the_o apostle_n rejoice_v that_o christ_n be_v preach_v though_o by_o some_o it_o be_v of_o envy_n and_o strife_n and_o in_o pretence_n and_o no_o doubt_n his_o end_n be_v that_o the_o son_n of_o man_n may_v come_v to_o believe_v that_o christ_n be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o that_o the_o messiah_n that_o be_v wait_v for_o be_v come_v of_o who_o there_o be_v a_o expectation_n 4.25_o john_n 4.25_o that_o he_o shall_v tell_v we_o all_o thing_n and_o so_o when_o the_o son_n of_o man_n whether_o jew_n or_o gentile_n be_v come_v so_o far_o as_o to_o believe_v that_o christ_n be_v that_o messiah_n that_o be_v to_o come_v there_o be_v ground_n of_o hope_n that_o they_o may_v in_o due_a time_n come_v to_o witness_v the_o obedience_n of_o faith_n unto_o righteousness_n the_o author_n to_o the_o hebrew_n tell_v we_o 12.2_o heb._n 12.2_o that_o jesus_n be_v the_o author_n and_o finisher_n of_o our_o faith_n no_o doubt_v this_o be_v not_o a_o work_n do_v in_o a_o moment_n or_o twinkle_v of_o a_o eye_n for_o though_o he_o be_v the_o author_n and_o object_n of_o every_o true_a christian_n faith_n yet_o we_o learn_v from_o the_o holy_a scripture_n that_o such_o as_o believe_v that_o jesus_n be_v the_o lord_n stand_v in_o need_n of_o many_o 24._o many_o rom._n 13.13_o 14._o heb._n 10.23_o 24._o exhortation_n reproof_n and_o instruction_n and_o that_o god_n make_v use_v of_o instrument_n to_o build_v they_o up_o in_o the_o most_o holy_a
faith_n and_o all_o this_o may_v be_v attribute_v unto_o christ_n the_o author_n thereof_o and_o to_o what_o end_n but_o that_o as_o they_o have_v believe_v on_o he_o to_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n so_o they_o may_v come_v to_o grow_v from_o strength_n to_o strength_n from_o grace_n to_o grace_n until_o they_o may_v be_v live_v witness_n not_o only_o that_o he_o be_v the_o author_n and_o object_n of_o their_o faith_n but_o also_o the_o finisher_n thereof_o unto_o eternal_a salvation_n second_o as_o before_o be_v signify_v there_o be_v a_o faith_n in_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n for_o remission_n of_o sin_n and_o this_o faith_n be_v unto_o salvation_n and_o wheresoever_o it_o be_v manifest_v it_o be_v accompany_v with_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o evangelical_n obedience_n which_o be_v as_o inseparable_a each_o from_o other_o as_o sanctification_n and_o justification_n in_o the_o objection_n be_v confess_v to_o be_v the_o author_n to_o the_o hebrew_n tell_v we_o that_o christ_n the_o son_n of_o god_n become_v the_o author_n of_o eternal_a salvation_n 5.9_o heb._n 5.9_o unto_o all_o they_o that_o obey_v he_o this_o show_v that_o obedience_n unto_o christ_n which_o undoubted_o be_v no_o other_o but_o obedience_n of_o faith_n be_v a_o qualification_n accompany_v such_o as_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o the_o salvation_n of_o god_n who_o then_o dare_v say_v such_o obedience_n be_v of_o no_o advantage_n unto_o those_o who_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n be_v lead_v thereunto_o beside_o we_o find_v that_o the_o same_o author_n write_v on_o this_o wise_a but_o belove_v 10._o heb._n 6.9_o 10._o we_o be_v persuade_v better_a thing_n of_o you_o and_o thing_n that_o accompany_v salvation_n though_o we_o thus_o speak_v for_o god_n be_v not_o unrighteous_a to_o forget_v your_o work_n and_o labour_n of_o love_n which_o you_o have_v show_v towards_o his_o name_n in_o that_o you_o have_v minister_v to_o the_o saint_n and_o do_v minister_n this_o do_v not_o only_o show_v that_o good_a work_n accompany_v salvation_n but_o that_o there_o be_v a_o recompense_n for_o the_o same_o employ_v in_o these_o word_n for_o god_n be_v not_o unrighteous_a to_o forget_v your_o work_n and_o labour_n who_o then_o dare_v say_v that_o it_o be_v no_o advantage_n unto_o salvation_n to_o those_o who_o be_v find_v exercise_v themselves_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o thing_n accompany_v salvation_n especial_o since_o we_o sin_v the_o apostle_n paul_n not_o only_o to_o exhort_v we_o to_o work_v out_o our_o salvation_n with_o fear_n and_o tremble_v but_o express_o signify_v that_o godly_a sorrow_n work_v repentance_n to_o 7.10_o to_o 2_o cor._n 7.10_o salvation_n not_o to_o be_v repent_v of_o moreover_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o though_o the_o author_n to_o the_o hebrew_n tell_v we_o that_o without_o faith_n it_o be_v impossible_a to_o please_v god_n 11.6_o heb._n 11.6_o for_o say_v he_o he_o that_o come_v to_o god_n must_v believe_v that_o he_o be_v yet_o he_o do_v not_o rest_v here_o as_o if_o that_o faith_n be_v sufficient_a but_o proceed_v in_o the_o very_a same_o verse_n say_v that_o he_o be_v a_o rewarder_n of_o they_o that_o diligent_o seek_v he_o by_o which_o it_o appear_v that_o there_o be_v something_o as_o a_o act_n of_o faith_n to_o be_v bring_v forth_o through_o man_n beside_o rest_v in_o a_o bare_a faith_n that_o god_n be_v and_o that_o for_o such_o act_n there_o be_v a_o reward_n which_o if_o due_o weigh_v together_o with_o these_o scripture-citation_n mat._n 5.12_o 6.1.10.41_o 42.16.27_o luke_n 23.4_o 1_o cor._n 3.14.9.17_o col._n 2.18_o heb._n 10.35_o john_n 2.8_o nothing_o can_v then_o be_v more_o plain_a than_o that_o those_o through_o who_o work_v which_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n or_o act_n spring_v through_o the_o obedience_n of_o faith_n be_v bring_v forth_o shall_v receive_v a_o reward_n for_o such_o work_n and_o as_o to_o these_o word_n in_o the_o objection_n not_o by_o infusion_n of_o righteousness_n but_o by_o impute_v the_o obedience_n of_o christ_n 5.19_o rom._n 5.19_o which_o we_o take_v to_o be_v ground_v on_o the_o apostle_n word_n viz._n as_o by_o one_o man_n disobedience_n many_o be_v make_v sinner_n so_o by_o the_o obedience_n of_o one_o shall_v many_o be_v make_v righteous_a 19.21_o 2_o cor._n 19.21_o and_o god_n be_v in_o christ_n reconcile_n the_o world_n unto_o himself_o not_o impute_v their_o trespass_n unto_o they_o for_o he_o have_v make_v he_o to_o be_v sin_n for_o we_o who_o know_v no_o sin_n that_o we_o may_v be_v make_v the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n in_o he_o we_o thus_o answer_v that_o these_o word_n of_o the_o apostle_n viz._n by_o the_o obedience_n of_o one_o shall_v many_o be_v make_v righteous_a do_v not_o show_v that_o any_o one_o of_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o man_n shall_v be_v make_v partaker_n of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n whilst_o sin_n be_v reign_v in_o their_o mortal_a body_n the_o word_n will_v bear_v no_o such_o consequence_n and_o forasmuch_o as_o such_o who_o be_v ready_a to_o object_n as_o aforesaid_a have_v high_o commend_v the_o practice_n of_o compare_v scripture_n with_o scripture_n that_o so_o the_o truth_n may_v the_o more_o clear_o shine_v forth_o in_o its_o beauty_n we_o shall_v manifest_v thereby_o that_o no_o such_o mean_v be_v the_o mean_v of_o the_o spirit_n for_o in_o the_o 21th_o verse_n of_o the_o same_o chapter_n it_o be_v thus_o say_v that_o as_o sin_n have_v reign_v unto_o death_n even_o so_o may_v grace_n reign_v through_o righteousness_n unto_o eternal_a life_n by_o jesus_n christ_n our_o lord_n this_o reign_n of_o sin_n be_v in_o the_o mortal_a body_n of_o those_o that_o through_o a_o breach_n of_o the_o righteous_a law_n of_o god_n become_v subject_a to_o condemnation_n but_o when_o grace_n come_v to_o reign_v through_o righteousness_n unto_o eternal_a life_n than_o the_o virtue_n of_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n be_v witness_v and_o the_o mystery_n of_o faith_n reveal_v 3.9_o 1_o tim._n 3.9_o that_o be_v hold_v in_o a_o pure_a conscience_n which_o doubtless_o be_v not_o then_o a_o defile_v conscience_n and_o therefore_o we_o may_v proper_o term_v the_o blood_n of_o christ_n in_o which_o by_o faith_n salvation_n be_v know_v the_o mystery_n through_o which_o man_n arrive_v unto_o godliness_n notwithstanding_o the_o mystery_n of_o iniquity_n have_v wrought_v in_o some_o to_o pretend_v salvation_n thereby_o whilst_o be_v in_o a_o state_n of_o degeneration_n their_o conscience_n be_v pollute_v and_o sin_n reign_v in_o their_o mortal_a body_n then_o we_o may_v also_o say_v that_o the_o man_n of_o sin_n be_v dethrone_v then_o the_o old_a man_n with_o his_o deed_n be_v put_v off_o and_o the_o new_a man_n which_o as_o the_o apostle_n say_v 4.24_o eph._n 4.24_o after_o god_n be_v create_v in_o righteousness_n and_o true_a holiness_n be_v put_v on_o again_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o the_o word_n not_o impute_v their_o trespass_n unto_o they_o do_v only_o argue_v that_o their_o trespass_n be_v forgive_v as_o necessary_a to_o a_o state_n of_o reconciliation_n with_o their_o maker_n but_o do_v not_o at_o all_o hold_n forth_o that_o they_o can_v be_v in_o such_o a_o state_n whilst_o either_o their_o former_a sin_n be_v not_o forgive_v or_o whilst_o they_o be_v actual_o commit_v sin_n and_o trespass_n anew_o after_o that_o they_o have_v be_v through_o the_o mercy_n of_o god_n make_v partaker_n of_o such_o forgiveness_n and_o as_o to_o these_o word_n of_o the_o apostle_n that_o we_o may_v be_v make_v the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n in_o he_o we_o also_o say_v it_o will_v not_o from_o thence_o follow_v that_o man_n can_v become_v a_o partaker_n of_o the_o righteousness_n of_o god_n whilst_o sin_n be_v in_o dominion_n in_o he_o for_o the_o state_n speak_v of_o be_v a_o state_n in_o christ._n now_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o apostle_n in_o the_o very_a same_o chapter_n verse_n the_o 17_o be_v on_o this_o wise_a if_o any_o man_n be_v in_o christ_n he_o be_v a_o new_a creature_n old_a thing_n be_v pass_v away_o all_o thing_n be_v become_v new_a and_o though_o this_o new_a state_n be_v a_o state_n wherein_o man_n be_v free_o justify_v by_o grace_n and_o bring_v into_o the_o glorious_a liberty_n of_o the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o be_v redeem_a from_o under_o the_o law_n which_o consist_v in_o carnal_a ordinance_n that_o make_v not_o the_o comer_n thereunto_o perfect_a 7.19_o heb._n 7.19_o as_o pertain_v unto_o the_o conscience_n though_o the_o bring_n in_o of_o a_o better_a hope_n do_v yet_o notwithstanding_o we_o do_v not_o find_v any_o ground_n to_o believe_v that_o the_o liberty_n and_o freedom_n man_n be_v thereby_o bring_v into_o be_v such_o a_o state_n wherein_o he_o be_v not_o to_o be_v subject_a to_o a_o law_n 3.26_o rom._n
3.26_o for_o the_o free_a justification_n of_o christ_n be_v to_o extend_v unto_o these_o who_o believe_v in_o he_o and_o in_o that_o state_n the_o work_v of_o the_o law_n be_v exclude_v so_o that_o there_o be_v no_o room_n for_o any_o to_o boast_v therein_o but_o then_o the_o manner_n of_o that_o exclusion_n so_o that_o no_o man_n shall_v boast_v be_v by_o the_o law_n of_o faith_n 3.27_o rom._n 3.27_o now_o where_o a_o law_n be_v it_o must_v necessary_o follow_v that_o obedience_n be_v due_a and_o whenso_fw-la ever_o that_o debt_n cease_v the_o law_n than_o become_v void_a but_o who_o so_o impious_a to_o declare_v a_o principle_n so_o unrighteous_a as_o have_v a_o tendency_n to_o make_v this_o law_n of_o faith_n void_a charity_n oblige_v we_o to_o suppose_v that_o no_o christian-professor_n will_v witting_o thus_o do_v but_o yet_o we_o can_v but_o say_v that_o so_o great_a darkness_n have_v seem_v to_o overshadow_v some_o as_o that_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n impute_v to_o sinner_n it_o be_v to_o be_v fear_v that_o many_o have_v indulge_v such_o a_o liberty_n as_o little_a to_o regard_v the_o counsel_n of_o the_o postle_n when_o he_o say_v work_v out_o your_o salvation_n with_o fear_n and_o tremble_v as_o if_o salvation_n be_v to_o be_v obtain_v by_o a_o historical_a faith_n exclude_v all_o sort_n of_o work_n as_o unnecessary_a thereto_o and_o that_o a_o little_a religion_n in_o the_o head_n may_v stead_v a_o man_n more_o than_o a_o great_a deal_n in_o the_o heart_n for_o where_o a_o application_n of_o christ_n righteousness_n be_v make_v by_o any_o person_n whatsoever_o in_o order_n to_o the_o heal_n of_o that_o wound_n which_o through_o the_o temptation_n of_o the_o grand_a enemy_n of_o the_o soul_n man_n have_v receive_v if_o there_o be_v not_o according_a to_o the_o counsel_n of_o the_o apostle_n paul_n 7.10_o 2_o cor._n 7.10_o a_o sorrow_n unto_o repentance_n never_o to_o be_v repent_v of_o there_o it_o be_v undoubted_o false_o apply_v the_o aforesaid_a sorrow_n can_v right_o attend_v the_o creature_n in_o his_o lose_a estate_n and_o condition_n but_o first_o through_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o prevalency_n of_o satan_n by_o his_o temptation_n second_o through_o bear_v the_o righteous_a condemnation_n of_o the_o lord_n upon_o the_o transgress_a nature_n that_o so_o through_o judgement_n the_o mercy_n of_o the_o lord_n may_v be_v witness_v and_o then_o when_o the_o creature_n come_v to_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o the_o mercy_n of_o the_o lord_n through_o a_o sense_n of_o his_o failing_n a_o real_a sorrow_n for_o the_o same_o and_o bear_v in_o patience_n the_o righteous_a condemnation_n of_o god_n than_o the_o burden_n of_o sin_n may_v be_v remove_v and_o the_o creature_n witness_v a_o state_n of_o restoration_n these_o thing_n lead_v we_o to_o consider_v how_o it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o people_n profess_v christianity_n and_o own_v the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n and_o agree_v in_o principle_n term_v fundamental_a whilst_o they_o keep_v to_o the_o language_n thereof_o shall_v thus_o disagree_v to_o this_o we_o say_v that_o to_o the_o enlighten_v eye_n it_o be_v plain_a especial_o in_o the_o matter_n whereof_o we_o be_v now_o treat_v and_o that_o it_o may_v be_v so_o to_o other_o we_o desire_v that_o the_o follow_a notation_n may_v be_v consider_v first_o the_o apostle_n peter_n tell_v we_o that_o no_o prophecy_n of_o the_o scripture_n be_v of_o any_o private_a interpretation_n 21._o 2_o pet._n 1.20_o 21._o that_o be_v it_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v interpret_v but_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n through_o who_o motion_n it_o be_v give_v forth_o and_o yet_o so_o great_a be_v the_o curiosity_n of_o man_n that_o they_o will_v be_v concern_v themselves_o to_o put_v meaning_n on_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n though_o the_o word_n themselves_o will_v not_o warrant_v the_o same_o nor_o the_o interpreter_n in_o truth_n affirm_v that_o such_o their_o meaning_n be_v through_o the_o revelation_n of_o the_o spirit_n second_o there_o be_v a_o proneness_n in_o man_n to_o avoid_v the_o cross_n of_o christ_n and_o instead_o of_o enter_v in_o at_o a_o narrow_a gate_n to_o make_v their_o passage_n into_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n as_o broad_a as_o their_o sensual_a wisdom_n will_v admit_v three_o though_o the_o language_n of_o the_o apostle_n paul_n and_o the_o apostle_n james_n be_v in_o substance_n one_o yet_o the_o manner_n of_o express_v themselves_o seem_v contradictory_n to_o such_o who_o the_o lord_n have_v not_o endue_v with_o the_o knowledge_n of_o the_o mystery_n of_o his_o kingdom_n and_o such_o a_o spirit_n of_o discern_v as_o to_o see_v the_o occasion_n on_o which_o they_o write_v the_o occasion_n of_o these_o differ_a apprehension_n be_v thus_o discover_v it_o be_v now_o needful_a to_o sum_v up_o the_o whole_a matter_n and_o from_o thence_o to_o take_v occasion_n to_o remove_v so_o far_o as_o in_o we_o lie_v the_o misunderstand_a of_o the_o word_n of_o the_o aforesaid_a apostle_n and_o in_o order_n thereto_o we_o thus_o say_v this_o discourse_n touch_v justification_n and_o salvation_n may_v be_v reduce_v to_o this_o first_o that_o some_o profess_v christianity_n be_v at_o least_o doubtful_a that_o other_o under_o the_o like_a profession_n pretend_v to_o a_o state_n of_o justification_n and_o salvation_n through_o the_o imputation_n of_o chri'_v righteousness_n while_o they_o be_v continue_v in_o their_o sin_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o that_o no_o work_n wrought_v in_o we_o though_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n itself_o be_v of_o any_o advantage_n to_o the_o arrive_v unto_o the_o state_n of_o justification_n and_o salvation_n second_o that_o other_o under_o the_o same_o profession_n of_o christianity_n be_v jealous_a that_o the_o principle_n which_o some_o hold_v forth_o have_v a_o tendency_n to_o introduce_v a_o righteousness_n of_o our_o own_o as_o meritorious_a to_o eternal_a salvation_n which_o occasion_n we_o to_o refer_v the_o reader_n to_o a_o part_n of_o a_o objection_n raise_v in_o the_o three_o chapter_n of_o this_o treatise_n page_n 15._o and_o 16._o and_o to_o the_o answer_n thereto_o page_n 16_o 17_o 18_o 19_o 20._o for_o that_o we_o account_v it_o a_o very_a proper_a conclusion_n to_o this_o chapter_n in_o order_n to_o the_o further_o clear_v of_o the_o truth_n and_o divide_v the_o word_n aright_o though_o write_v on_o another_o occasion_n that_o part_n of_o the_o objection_n aforesaid_a signify_v of_o to_o be_v proper_a on_o this_o occasion_n be_v as_o follow_v though_o the_o apostle_n testify_v that_o the_o blood_n of_o christ_n cleanse_v from_o all_o sin_n yet_o this_o have_v be_v interpret_v to_o be_v only_o from_o the_o gild_n and_o not_o from_o the_o act_n of_o all_o sin_n so_o as_o to_o cease_v therefrom_o whilst_o on_o this_o side_n the_o grave_a which_o doubtless_o be_v the_o reason_n wherefore_o we_o sin_v these_o testimony_n record_v in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n 9_o eph._n 2.8_o 9_o by_o grace_n you_o be_v save_v through_o faith_n and_o that_o not_o of_o yourselves_o it_o be_v the_o gift_n of_o god_n not_o of_o work_n lest_o any_o man_n shall_v boast_v thereby_o imply_v as_o if_o salvation_n through_o faith_n may_v be_v obtain_v though_o good_a work_n be_v want_v and_o so_o consequent_o sin_n commit_v instead_o thereof_o since_o it_o be_v irrational_a to_o conclude_v that_o while_o man_n be_v in_o the_o body_n he_o can_v cease_v from_o work_v both_o good_a and_o evil_a in_o many_o thing_n we_o offend_v all_o if_o we_o say_v 1.8_o james_n 3.2_o john_n 1.8_o we_o have_v no_o sin_n we_o deceive_v ourselves_o and_o the_o truth_n be_v not_o in_o we_o to_o conclude_v this_o chapter_n as_o we_o have_v already_o refer_v the_o reader_n to_o view_v over_o the_o answer_n contain_v in_o page_n 16_o 17_o 18_o 19_o 20._o to_o the_o above_o cite_v part_n of_o a_o objection_n so_o we_o now_o entreat_v he_o so_o to_o do_v and_o if_o it_o may_v be_v instrumental_a to_o open_v the_o understanding_n of_o any_o so_o as_o right_o to_o distinguish_v truth_n from_o error_n we_o then_o shall_v therein_o have_v our_o end_n a_o appendix_n manifest_v some_o fruit_n of_o apostasy_n or_o innovation_n forasmuch_o as_o the_o title_n page_n of_o this_o second_o part_n may_v beget_v in_o the_o reader_n a_o expectation_n of_o some_o further_a discovery_n of_o apostasy_n and_o innovation_n since_o in_o this_o part_n hitherto_o little_a thereof_o have_v be_v manifest_v we_o therefore_o think_v meet_v to_o add_v the_o substance_n of_o a_o answer_n give_v by_o some_o friend_n of_o bristol_n to_o the_o paper_n mention_v in_o other_o part_n of_o the_o christian_a quaker_n to_o be_v give_v forth_o by_o sixty_o six_o person_n that_o be_v to_o say_v by_z charles_n marshal_z and_o sixty_o five_o more_o from_o ellis_n hookes_n chamber_n in_o london_n the_o twelve_o of_o the_o
design_v to_o be_v treat_v upon_o be_v the_o government_n of_o christ_n which_o we_o do_v not_o believe_v to_o be_v represent_v by_o visible_a person_n certain_o know_v by_o outward_a name_n distinguish_v by_o outward_a mark_n and_o token_n and_o invest_v with_o power_n from_o he_o to_o execute_v outward_a law_n in_o a_o outward_a form_n of_o government_n visible_a by_o our_o carnal_a eye_n as_o aforesaid_a that_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n be_v a_o inward_a government_n be_v evident_a from_o the_o word_n of_o the_o prophet_n jeremiah_n jer._n 31.31_o 32_o 33._o i_o will_v make_v a_o new_a covenant_n with_o the_o house_n of_o israel_n etc._n etc._n not_o according_a to_o the_o covenant_n that_o i_o make_v with_o your_o father_n but_o this_o shall_v be_v the_o covenant_n that_o i_o will_v make_v etc._n etc._n after_o those_o day_n i_o will_v put_v my_o law_n in_o their_o inward_a part_n and_o write_v it_o in_o their_o heart_n and_o will_v be_v their_o god_n and_o they_o shall_v be_v my_o people_n and_o they_o shall_v teach_v no_o more_o every_o man_n his_o neighbour_n and_o every_o man_n his_o brother_n say_v know_v the_o lord_n for_o they_o shall_v all_o know_v i_o from_o the_o least_o of_o they_o to_o the_o great_a of_o they_o say_v the_o lord_n this_o we_o believe_v be_v speak_v with_o respect_n to_o the_o reign_n of_o christ_n by_o his_o spirit_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o man_n and_o clear_o show_v that_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n government_n under_o the_o new_a covenant_n be_v write_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o his_o people_n and_o therefore_o a_o inward_a government_n objection_n but_o if_o any_o shall_v object_v that_o the_o word_n of_o the_o prophet_n relate_v not_o to_o those_o who_o be_v of_o the_o gentile_a stock_n of_o which_o stock_n according_a to_o the_o flesh_n it_o may_v be_v say_v that_o we_o be_v we_o thereto_o say_v that_o the_o word_n of_o paul_n do_v effectual_o answer_v that_o objection_n rom._n 10.12_o there_o be_v no_o difference_n between_o the_o jew_n and_o the_o gentile_a for_o the_o same_o lord_n over_o all_o be_v rich_a unto_o all_o that_o call_v upon_o he_o col._n 3.9_o 10_o 11._o lie_v not_o one_o to_o another_o see_v that_o you_o have_v put_v off_o the_o old_a man_n with_o his_o deed_n and_o have_v put_v on_o the_o new_a man_n which_o be_v renew_v in_o knowledge_n after_o the_o image_n of_o he_o that_o create_v he_o where_o there_o be_v neither_o gentile_a nor_o jew_n circumcision_n nor_o uncircumcision_n barbarian_a scythian_a bond_n nor_o free_a but_o christ_n be_v all_o and_o in_o all_o many_o other_o scripture_n both_o out_o of_o the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n write_n may_v be_v quote_v to_o evidence_n the_o matter_n intend_v we_o be_v yet_o sensible_a that_o this_o further_a objection_n may_v be_v raise_v viz._n objection_n that_o neither_o the_o word_n of_o the_o prophet_n nor_o of_o the_o apostle_n cite_v by_o we_o make_v mention_n of_o government_n over_o jew_n or_o gentile_n but_o do_v show_v as_o from_o the_o scope_n of_o the_o scripture_n appear_v that_o the_o apostle_n so_o write_v to_o convince_v the_o jew_n of_o the_o difference_n between_o the_o righteousness_n of_o the_o law_n and_o that_o of_o faith_n and_o to_o show_v unto_o believer_n whether_o jew_n or_o gentile_n that_o though_o some_o may_v appear_v in_o a_o voluntary_a humility_n worship_n angel_n intrude_v into_o those_o thing_n they_o have_v not_o see_v and_o be_v vain_o puff_v up_o in_o their_o fleshly_a mind_n and_o not_o give_v all_o obedience_n unto_o the_o head_n christ_n through_o who_o alone_o there_o be_v a_o increase_n in_o the_o increase_v of_o god_n yet_o they_o be_v therein_o reprovable_a as_o not_o be_v rise_v with_o christ_n and_o further_a also_o to_o show_v that_o those_o who_o be_v dead_a with_o christ_n from_o the_o rudiment_n of_o the_o world_n ought_v not_o to_o be_v subject_a to_o nor_o yet_o to_o touch_v taste_n or_o handle_v such_o ordinance_n as_o be_v after_o the_o commandment_n and_o doctrine_n of_o men._n to_o this_o objection_n we_o answer_v that_o though_o the_o word_n government_n be_v not_o express_o mention_v yet_o there_o be_v word_n in_o what_o be_v cite_v out_o of_o the_o prophet_n jeremiah_n import_v the_o three_o material_a object_n of_o government_n viz._n a_o lawgiver_n the_o place_n where_o the_o law_n be_v to_o be_v find_v write_v and_o the_o people_n for_o who_o it_o be_v give_v beside_o from_o these_o word_n of_o paul_n viz._n the_o same_o lord_n over_o all_o a_o governor_n be_v imply_v viz._n christ_n jesus_n our_o lord_n and_o so_o consequent_o a_o government_n over_o that_o all._n and_o from_o what_o hereafter_o follow_v it_o will_v appear_v that_o the_o end_n of_o this_o government_n be_v to_o lead_v into_o all_o truth_n moreover_o it_o lead_v we_o to_o observe_v that_o there_o be_v divers_a true_a mark_n whereby_o the_o opposer_n of_o christ_n government_n may_v be_v distinguish_v first_o they_o be_v such_o as_o be_v in_o a_o voluntary_a humility_n second_o such_o as_o worship_n angel_n which_o may_v reasonable_o be_v take_v to_o be_v a_o worship_v of_o some_o messenger_n who_o god_n have_v send_v because_o the_o signification_n of_o the_o word_n angel_n be_v a_o messenger_n three_o such_o as_o intrude_v into_o those_o thing_n they_o have_v not_o see_v four_o such_o as_o be_v puff_v up_o in_o their_o fleshly_a mind_n five_o such_o as_o give_v not_o all_o obedience_n unto_o the_o head_n christ_n and_o last_o such_o as_o be_v subject_a to_o ordinance_n after_o the_o commandment_n and_o doctrine_n of_o men._n and_o to_o be_v very_o plain_a for_o the_o clear_n the_o truth_n we_o must_v give_v this_o our_o testimony_n that_o we_o be_v real_o persuade_v from_o what_o our_o eye_n &_o ear_n have_v be_v witness_n that_o many_o of_o those_o among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n who_o have_v zealous_o contend_v for_o the_o observation_n of_o outward_a rule_n and_o order_n give_v forth_o by_o one_o man_n bear_v all_o the_o aforesaid_a mark_n for_o whosoever_o they_o be_v that_o pretend_v zeal_n to_o promote_v submit_v unto_o and_o exercise_v themselves_o in_o other_o man_n line_n make_v ready_a to_o their_o hand_n and_o that_o on_o a_o pretend_a religious_a score_n when_o through_o the_o word_n of_o true_a faith_n they_o see_v it_o not_o their_o duty_n or_o if_o they_o shall_v pretend_v they_o do_v and_o thereupon_o strive_v to_o enforce_v other_o to_o submit_v thereto_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n or_o light_n of_o christ_n so_o to_o strive_v it_o natura_o follow_v that_o the_o aforesaid_a mark_n accompany_v such_o and_o this_o we_o confident_o aver_v that_o through_o the_o whole_a scripture_n of_o truth_n there_o be_v not_o one_o word_n from_o whence_o we_o may_v rational_o expect_v and_o that_o according_a to_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o christ_n have_v or_o will_v commissionate_v any_o one_o man_n or_o man_n to_o prescribe_v outward_a rule_n and_o order_n relate_v to_o faith_n or_o discipline_n in_o the_o church_n to_o be_v bind_v on_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o subject_n of_o his_o kingdom_n whether_o they_o shall_v see_v it_o to_o be_v their_o duty_n from_o the_o law_n write_v in_o their_o heart_n or_o no._n beside_o if_o we_o consider_v the_o nature_n of_o christ_n kingdom_n and_o government_n it_o will_v appear_v to_o be_v such_o unto_o which_o outward_a write_a law_n visible_a by_o our_o carnal_a eye_n and_o to_o be_v execute_v by_o perish_a object_n according_a to_o a_o outward_a magistratical_a or_o ecclesiastical_a jurisdiction_n be_v whole_o unsuitable_a because_o christ_n kingdom_n be_v not_o of_o this_o world_n but_o be_v a_o everlasting_a kingdom_n and_o therefore_o it_o be_v say_v that_o of_o the_o increase_n of_o his_o government_n there_o shall_v be_v no_o end_n and_o though_o john_n in_o the_o revelation_n chap._n 11._o v._o 15._o give_v this_o testimony_n that_o there_o be_v great_a voice_n in_o heaven_n say_v the_o kingdom_n of_o this_o world_n be_v become_v the_o kingdom_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o of_o his_o christ_n and_o he_o shall_v reign_v forever_o and_o ever_o isa_n 61.11_o yet_o there_o be_v nothing_o say_v to_o signify_v that_o the_o manner_n of_o his_o reign_n be_v or_o shall_v be_v otherwise_o then_o as_o before_o be_v describe_v moreover_o if_o any_o man_n or_o man_n have_v or_o may_v pretend_v he_o or_o themselves_o to_o be_v such_o on_o earth_n on_o who_o the_o weight_n of_o christ_n government_n which_o be_v spiritual_a be_v lay_v it_o be_v not_o like_a to_o have_v any_o evidence_n in_o our_o conscience_n first_o not_o only_o because_o we_o find_v no_o such_o prophecy_n or_o promise_v in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n but_o also_o for_o that_o we_o rather_o find_v the_o contrary_a for_o
in_o isa_n 9.6_o it_o be_v thus_o say_v and_o the_o government_n shall_v be_v upon_o his_o shoulder_n and_o his_o name_n shall_v be_v call_v wonderful_a councillor_n etc._n etc._n second_o because_o it_o be_v whole_o repugnant_a to_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n in_o our_o conscience_n that_o the_o weight_n of_o a_o government_n that_o be_v spiritual_a and_o everlasting_a the_o law_n whereof_o be_v write_v in_o the_o heart_n and_o wherein_o nothing_o but_o true_a judgement_n and_o justice_n have_v be_v be_v and_o shall_v be_v execute_v for_o evermore_o shall_v rest_v upon_o any_o man_n or_o man_n as_o a_o governor_n or_o governor_n over_o other_o since_o there_o be_v no_o man_n nor_o man_n but_o be_v subject_n through_o temptation_n to_o err_v if_o they_o watch_v not_o and_o therefore_o we_o may_v well_o say_v much_o less_o on_o any_o such_o one_o man_n though_o term_v by_o some_o the_o great_a apostle_n of_o christ_n who_o action_n towards_o his_o brethren_n have_v be_v find_v injurious_a to_o they_o undeserved_o and_o reproachful_a to_o the_o truth_n nor_o yet_o upon_o any_o such_o assembly_n as_o the_o usual_a general_n meet_v so_o term_v though_o improper_o of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n be_v because_o the_o metre_n have_v usual_o consist_v of_o uncertain_a number_n of_o uncertain_a qualify_v person_n that_o take_v upon_o they_o so_o to_o assemble_v while_o other_o behold_v the_o ill_a consequence_n of_o their_o meeting_n conscientious_o forbear_v to_o join_v with_o they_o three_o because_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o disciple_n of_o christ_n have_v their_o eye_n so_o much_o on_o his_o outward_a and_o bodily_a appearance_n as_o that_o christ_n their_o lord_n and_o master_n see_v it_o meet_v to_o tell_v they_o in_o these_o word_n joh._n 16.7_o it_o be_v expedient_a for_o you_o that_o i_o go_v away_o and_o when_o he_o so_o say_v he_o do_v not_o then_o tell_v they_o nor_o yet_o at_o any_o time_n before_o or_o after_o i_o will_v commissionate_v some_o man_n or_o assembly_n of_o man_n in_o my_o stead_n that_o so_o you_o may_v have_v your_o eye_n unto_o and_o expect_v write_a order_n from_o him_z or_o they_o to_o walk_v by_o and_o to_o lead_v you_o into_o all_o truth_n but_o john_n give_v they_o a_o reason_n for_o his_o so_o say_v in_o these_o word_n joh._n 16.7_o for_o if_o i_o go_v not_o away_o the_o comforter_n will_v not_o come_v but_o if_o i_o depart_v i_o will_v send_v he_o unto_o you_o mean_v the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n which_o as_o he_o promise_v shall_v abide_v with_o they_o for_o ever_o and_o shall_v be_v in_o they_o which_o undoubted_o be_v in_o order_n to_o the_o exaltation_n of_o his_o government_n in_o the_o heart_n and_o that_o they_o may_v have_v their_o whole_a dependency_n on_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n which_o as_o before_o be_v signify_v christ_n promise_v shall_v abide_v with_o they_o forever_o and_o so_o this_o may_v true_o be_v term_v that_o everlasting_a unerring_a unchangeable_a governor_n unto_o which_o the_o subject_n of_o christ_n kingdom_n owe_v obedience_n and_o why_o so_o but_o because_o under_o it_o the_o promise_n of_o christ_n be_v that_o they_o shall_v be_v guide_v into_o all_o truth_n according_a as_o be_v plain_o signify_v from_o these_o follow_a word_n speak_v by_o christ_n himself_o joh._n 16.13_o i_o have_v yet_o many_o thing_n to_o say_v unto_o you_o but_o you_o can_v bear_v they_o now_o howbeit_o when_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n be_v come_v he_o will_v guide_v you_o into_o all_o truth_n for_o he_o shall_v not_o speak_v of_o himself_o but_o whatsoever_o he_o shall_v hear_v that_o shall_v he_o speak_v here_o be_v no_o room_n leave_v for_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o contend_v about_o form_n of_o government_n or_o who_o shall_v be_v governor_n under_o christ_n government_n for_o if_o the_o spirit_n that_o be_v in_o we_o and_o that_o be_v to_o remain_v with_o we_o forever_o shall_v guide_v we_o into_o all_o truth_n than_o our_o dependency_n ought_v to_o be_v thereon_o that_o so_o thereby_o we_o may_v be_v lead_v into_o all_o truth_n or_o else_o we_o can_v manifest_v ourselves_o to_o be_v obedient_a subject_n unto_o christ_n under_o his_o government_n that_o he_o be_v exalt_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o men._n the_o consideration_n of_o these_o thing_n lead_v we_o to_o give_v this_o testimony_n that_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n either_o from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n without_o we_o or_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o we_o to_o believe_v that_o any_o christian_a professor_n can_v in_o truth_n affirm_v that_o there_o be_v outward_a prescription_n and_o order_n give_v forth_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n through_o any_o one_o or_o more_o mortal_a man_n in_o this_o our_o day_n which_o other_o ought_v to_o obey_v and_o follow_v of_o which_o more_o anon_o in_o answer_n to_o r._n b_n book_n of_o government_n whether_o they_o see_v it_o their_o duty_n or_o no_o and_o if_o they_o do_v not_o may_v therefore_o come_v under_o the_o curse_n and_o partake_v of_o the_o same_o judgement_n from_o god_n which_o happen_v to_o corah_n dathan_n and_o abiram_n for_o their_o rebellion_n against_o moses_n and_o though_o the_o sin_n of_o corah_n etc._n etc._n have_v frequent_o in_o our_o public_a meeting_n for_o worship_n be_v speak_v of_o and_o intend_v as_o we_o have_v take_v it_o to_o be_v as_o a_o proper_a citation_n to_o describe_v the_o state_n of_o such_o as_o on_o a_o conscientious_a score_n can_v submit_v unto_o the_o outward_a order_n of_o one_o man_n yet_o we_o testify_v that_o such_o sort_n of_o insinuate_a and_o threaten_a language_n seem_v much_o more_o agreeable_a to_o the_o first_o covenant_n than_o the_o second_o under_o which_o we_o be_v and_o when_o countenance_v or_o speak_v by_o any_o expect_v such_o a_o submission_n it_o than_o seem_v to_o savour_v of_o a_o spirit_n that_o speak_v of_o himself_o and_o not_o what_o he_o have_v hear_v from_o the_o great_a lord_n and_o master_n jesus_n christ_n and_o so_o consequent_o from_o another_o spirit_n than_o that_o which_o christ_n promise_v he_o will_v send_v for_o christ_n own_o word_n signify_v he_o shall_v not_o speak_v of_o himself_o moreover_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o corah_n and_o his_o company_n rebel_v against_o moses_n who_o be_v king_n in_o jesuran_n and_o a_o leader_n of_o israel_n and_o through_o who_o the_o lord_n give_v forth_o his_o law_n to_o the_o people_n but_o we_o know_v that_o none_o can_v according_a to_o truth_n at_o this_o day_n pretend_v that_o any_o other_o governor_n be_v raise_v up_o among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n to_o be_v like_a unto_o moses_n who_o we_o ought_v to_o hear_v in_o all_o thing_n save_v christ_n jesus_n who_o by_o his_o spirit_n manifest_v in_o every_o subject_a of_o his_o kingdom_n be_v thereby_o become_v their_o lawgiver_n and_o while_o they_o be_v obedient_a thereunto_o they_o may_v in_o truth_n be_v reckon_v to_o be_v of_o the_o number_n of_o those_o that_o be_v in_o christ_n jesus_n because_o they_o may_v then_o true_o be_v term_v such_o as_o walk_v not_o after_o the_o flesh_n but_o the_o spirit_n and_o to_o such_o according_a to_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n there_o be_v no_o condemnation_n objection_n this_o discourse_n touch_v government_n may_v occasion_v some_o to_o raise_v this_o objection_n we_o understand_v that_o many_o call_v quaker_n do_v hold_v monthly_a and_o quarterly-meeting_n of_o man_n and_o also_o of_o woman_n distinct_a from_o man_n about_o their_o church_n affair_n and_o that_o these_o meeting_n be_v repute_v to_o be_v establish_v on_o certain_a day_n that_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v alter_v by_o one_o man_n among_o they_o that_o have_v pretend_v he_o be_v move_v of_o god_n so_o to_o do_v and_o that_o the_o same_o person_n have_v by_o his_o paper_n spread_v abroad_o in_o divers_a part_n of_o the_o nation_n signify_v that_o none_o but_o loose_a spirit_n and_o such_o as_o tend_v to_o looseness_n pretend_v to_o set_v up_o a_o better_a way_n or_o to_o alter_v they_o to_o another_o day_n for_o fear_v of_o corruption_n in_o observe_v a_o day_n and_o that_o it_o be_v but_o from_o a_o corrupt_a spirit_n of_o darkness_n which_o god_n will_v blast_v and_o that_o some_o call_v these_o meeting_n the_o government_n of_o christ_n set_v up_o among_o they_o and_o establish_v by_o the_o power_n of_o god_n to_o take_v care_n of_o the_o church_n affair_n and_o that_o true_a judgement_n and_o justice_n which_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o christ_n government_n may_v be_v execute_v to_o this_o we_o answer_v we_o confess_v there_o have_v be_v and_o yet_o may_v be_v such_o meeting_n but_o if_o any_o think_v they_o have_v be_v or_o be_v establish_v by_o any_o one_o man_n or_o that_o therein_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n be_v set_v up_o any_o otherwise_o than_o as_o any_o
member_n or_o member_n of_o the_o church_n may_v be_v witness_n thereof_o in_o their_o own_o heart_n we_o be_v sorry_a for_o such_o weakness_n however_o it_o give_v we_o occasion_n to_o add_v this_o testimony_n that_o if_o we_o consult_v the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n and_o light_n of_o christ_n we_o have_v no_o ground_n to_o believe_v that_o under_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o second_o covenant_n god_n have_v or_o ever_o will_v move_v by_o his_o spirit_n in_o any_o mortal_a man_n or_o man_n to_o take_v upon_o he_o or_o they_o so_o to_o appoint_v certain_a day_n for_o other_o to_o meet_v upon_o to_o manage_v the_o outward_a affair_n of_o a_o christian_a society_n as_o that_o if_o any_o of_o that_o society_n assent_v not_o thereto_o or_o endeavour_v to_o alter_v they_o to_o another_o day_n than_o such_o may_v be_v just_o censure_v as_o man_n of_o loose_a spirit_n or_o lead_v by_o a_o corrupt_a spirit_n of_o darkness_n for_o every_o member_n of_o such_o a_o society_n ought_v first_o to_o be_v full_o persuade_v in_o their_o own_o mind_n in_o all_o thing_n relate_v to_o faith_n or_o discipline_n and_o not_o to_o be_v judge_v one_o another_o about_o any_o thing_n wherein_o they_o may_v differ_v when_o the_o matter_n itself_o spring_v from_o a_o conscientious_a scruple_n and_o not_o obstinacy_n contrary_a to_o knowledge_n for_o from_o the_o holy_a scripture_n we_o learn_v that_o that_o which_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n and_o that_o there_o be_v the_o day_n of_o ignorance_n accompany_v some_o at_o which_o the_o lord_n wink_v and_o yet_o to_o our_o grief_n we_o may_v say_v that_o such_o a_o day_n of_o gloominess_n and_o thick_a darkness_n have_v overtake_v some_o among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n who_o appear_v zealous_a for_o some_o outward_a form_n of_o discipline_n which_o they_o as_o we_o take_v it_o foollish_o imagine_v be_v establish_v as_o by_o a_o decree_n from_o heaven_n that_o they_o seem_v to_o make_v void_a the_o law_n of_o charity_n and_o humane_a society_n and_o as_o if_o their_o religion_n be_v most_o effectual_o demonstrate_v by_o appear_v in_o such_o a_o kind_n of_o spirit_n that_o christ_n reprove_v in_o his_o disciple_n when_o they_o ask_v he_o on_o this_o wise_a will_v thou_o that_o we_o command_v fire_n to_o come_v down_o from_o heaven_n and_o consume_v they_o mean_v the_o samaritan_n that_o do_v not_o receive_v christ_n because_o his_o face_n be_v as_o though_o he_o will_v go_v to_o jerusalem_n to_o return_v again_o we_o far_o say_v that_o whoever_o have_v give_v occasion_n for_o such_o a_o objection_n to_o be_v raise_v as_o aforesaid_a it_o be_v to_o be_v doubt_v it_o spring_v from_o one_o that_o aspire_v to_o give_v rule_n to_o other_o while_o he_o will_v not_o be_v subject_a to_o the_o same_o himself_o for_o if_o it_o be_v not_o so_o it_o be_v very_o probable_a we_o may_v have_v escape_v the_o severe_a judgement_n of_o be_v guilty_a of_o corahs_n sin_n and_o that_o only_o because_o we_o have_v endeavour_v to_o convince_v some_o that_o that_o f._n that_o namely_o g._n f._n one_o person_n intend_v in_o the_o objection_n christian-quaker_n see_v the_o four_o and_o five_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n have_v act_v contrary_a to_o the_o outward_a rule_n and_o order_n that_o he_o himself_o have_v prescribe_v for_o other_o to_o walk_v by_o as_o to_o the_o word_n establish_v we_o further_o add_v that_o the_o word_n as_o use_v in_o the_o objection_n be_v disow_v by_o we_o for_o though_o the_o child_n of_o god_n may_v be_v instrument_n in_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o establish_v one_o another_o in_o the_o faith_n of_o god_n elect_n yet_o it_o be_v not_o in_o their_o power_n or_o of_o any_o one_o of_o they_o positive_o and_o without_o exception_n to_o establish_v what_o ought_v to_o be_v believe_v and_o practise_v whether_o it_o respect_v doctrine_n or_o discipline_n and_o if_o any_o one_o or_o more_o have_v atempt_v so_o to_o do_v it_o may_v just_o be_v say_v of_o such_o that_o he_o or_o they_o have_v endeavour_v to_o invade_v christ_n prerogative_n beside_o we_o observe_v that_o the_o objection_n be_v make_v with_o respect_n to_o one_o man_n which_o to_o we_o seem_v as_o if_o in_o the_o objector_n sense_n that_o one_o man_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n have_v power_n give_v he_o of_o god_n to_o establish_v a_o outward_a form_n wherein_o all_o god_n people_n ought_v to_o walk_v or_o else_o severe_o to_o be_v censure_v for_o rebellion_n whether_o they_o see_v it_o their_o christian_a duty_n or_o not_o but_o this_o we_o deny_v as_o that_o which_o may_v just_o be_v term_v a_o abomination_n either_o so_o to_o endeavour_v or_o so_o to_o submit_v second_o if_o we_o inquire_v what_o be_v establish_v we_o know_v if_o any_o answer_v be_v give_v to_o what_o by_o the_o question_n we_o intend_v it_o will_v be_v on_o this_o wise_a certain_a meeting_n to_o be_v hold_v by_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n or_o at_o least_o some_o of_o they_o on_o certain_a prefix_a day_n but_o if_o we_o ask_v who_o be_v the_o metre_n that_o be_v to_o make_v up_o the_o establish_v meeting_n none_o can_v give_v such_o a_o certain_a description_n as_o that_o the_o metre_n may_v be_v certain_o know_v and_o therefore_o the_o use_n of_o the_o word_n establish_v applicable_a to_o outward_a society_n of_o people_n so_o uncertain_a to_o be_v know_v or_o outward_o describable_a seem_v to_o we_o vain_a and_o ridiculous_a by_o this_o discourse_n the_o reader_n may_v gather_v that_o we_o be_v remote_a from_o own_v those_o meeting_n mention_v in_o the_o last_o objection_n to_o be_v establish_v as_o a_o part_n of_o christ_n government_n and_o as_o to_o their_o have_v any_o share_n as_o a_o church_n in_o church_n government_n it_o will_v be_v time_n enough_o for_o we_o to_o answer_v when_o any_o shall_v pretend_v that_o they_o have_v manifest_v that_o those_o uncertain_a qualify_v person_n usual_o assemble_v in_o such_o meeting_n be_v then_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o as_o member_n thereof_o they_o have_v right_a to_o style_v themselves_o church-governor_n however_o we_o think_v it_o needful_a to_o signify_v that_o the_o chief_a end_n as_o we_o understand_v wherefore_o the_o say_v meeting_n be_v assent_v to_o by_o many_o friend_n be_v to_o relieve_v the_o poor_a and_o to_o perform_v other_o necessary_a service_n relate_v to_o the_o truth_n and_o friend_n concern_v therein_o in_o which_o we_o think_v ourselves_o and_o doubtless_o all_o the_o faithful_a with_o we_o servant_n one_o unto_o another_o and_o not_o master_n governor_n or_o ruler_n over_o one_o another_o for_o that_o do_v not_o so_o much_o as_o enter_v into_o our_o heart_n but_o when_o we_o perceive_v that_o some_o upstart_n that_o to_o we_o seem_v to_o love_v pre-eminence_n as_o diotrephes_n do_v look_v upon_o themselves_o as_o somebody_o from_o their_o appear_a and_o be_v encourage_v to_o appear_v member_n in_o such_o meeting_n and_o to_o lay_v a_o stress_n on_o the_o prefix_a day_n for_o meet_v affirm_v that_o they_o be_v establish_v by_o the_o power_n of_o god_n that_o friend_n who_o be_v heir_n of_o the_o power_n may_v come_v and_o take_v their_o possession_n therein_o a_o sort_n of_o language_n not_o well_o understand_v by_o such_o as_o be_v endue_v with_o wisdom_n from_o above_o than_o many_o friend_n begin_v to_o startle_v thereat_o fear_v that_o some_o through_o weakness_n and_o blind_a zeal_n will_v idolise_v the_o same_o and_o run_v into_o a_o indispensable_a form_n and_o endeavour_v to_o bite_v and_o devour_v one_o another_o about_o outward_a thing_n and_o so_o at_o length_n some_o friend_n in_o truth_n move_v to_o alter_v the_o day_n of_o meet_v in_o some_o place_n but_z other_o not_o assent_v thereto_o contention_n arise_v and_o a_o fire_n have_v be_v kindle_v about_o church-government_n at_o so_o high_a a_o rate_n as_o that_o public_a meet_v place_n for_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n have_v sometime_o become_v mere_a stage_n of_o contention_n and_o other_o time_n the_o keep_n on_o of_o hat_n in_o prayer_n by_o some_o while_o other_o have_v be_v uncover_v have_v become_v as_o a_o ensign_n of_o division_n the_o knowledge_n whereof_o being_n no_o long_o to_o be_v hide_v have_v more_o vigorous_o occasion_v the_o bring_v forth_o of_o our_o treatise_n entitle_v the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n and_o innovator_n in_o five_o part_n whereof_o this_o treatise_n touch_v government_n be_v one_o that_o so_o all_o may_v now_o know_v that_o darkness_n be_v not_o so_o overshadow_a but_o that_o the_o lord_n have_v preserve_v a_o remnant_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n that_o can_v bow_v their_o knee_n to_o any_o image_n or_o image-maker_n nor_o yet_o to_o acknowledge_v that_o salvation_n be_v attainable_a through_o faith_n in_o any_o other_o name_n than_o
the_o name_n of_o jesus_n who_o be_v give_v of_o the_o father_n to_o be_v salvation_n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o earth_n i_o now_o come_v to_o give_v the_o reader_n a_o particular_a account_n of_o some_o assertion_n and_o scripture_n quotation_n relate_v to_o government_n among_o one_o part_n of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n publish_v in_o print_n by_o robert_n barclay_n together_o with_o answer_n thereto_o contain_v in_o a_o manuscript_n give_v forth_o by_o myself_o who_o be_v concern_v in_o my_o conscience_n so_o to_o do_v for_o the_o sake_n of_o such_o as_o be_v weak_a be_v apt_a to_o be_v precipitate_v into_o a_o zealous_a observation_n of_o other_o man_n line_n make_v ready_a to_o their_o hand_n when_o not_o lead_v thereinto_o by_o a_o measure_n of_o god_n gift_n and_o grace_n in_o themselves_o and_o so_o may_v just_o be_v term_v like_o unto_o those_o who_o render_v for_o doctrine_n the_o tradition_n of_o men._n the_o aforesaid_a assertion_n quotation_n and_o particular_a answer_n thereto_o some_o year_n past_a send_v to_o steven_n crisp_n and_o another_o public_a person_n as_o well_o as_o the_o author_n of_o the_o say_a book_n do_v follow_v as_o proper_a in_o relation_n to_o this_o treatise_n touch_v government_n and_o if_o the_o reader_n shall_v find_v any_o thing_n therein_o which_o have_v be_v herein_o already_o treat_v upon_o or_o in_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n and_o innovator_n i_o hope_v he_o will_v not_o be_v offend_v thereat_o since_o the_o ensue_a line_n be_v write_v on_o a_o particular_a occasion_n though_o of_o a_o general_n concern_v relate_v to_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n and_o that_o also_o before_o it_o be_v design_v that_o the_o say_v first_o part_n shall_v be_v prepare_v much_o less_o commit_v to_o the_o press_n however_o that_o which_o may_v well_o plead_v my_o excuse_n for_o the_o reader_n expense_n of_o time_n on_o such_o a_o occasion_n be_v this_o there_o be_v very_o little_a discourse_n of_o which_o have_v be_v mention_v before_o and_o that_o which_o be_v be_v very_o material_a to_o be_v observe_v as_o a_o proper_a looking-glass_n in_o some_o respect_n to_o distinguish_v the_o true_a christian_n term_v in_o derision_n quaker_n from_o the_o apostate_n and_o innovator_n the_o innovation_n and_o scripture-misapplications_a of_o r._n b._n detect_v be_v part_n of_o some_o observation_n on_o his_o small_a treatise_n entitle_v the_o anarchy_n of_o the_o ranter_n etc._n etc._n wherein_o he_o say_v the_o ancient_a apostolic_a order_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v re-establisht_a among_o they_o mean_v the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v in_o derision_n quaker_n this_o small_a treatise_n be_v weigh_v in_o the_o equal_a balance_n this_o ensue_a discourse_n be_v become_v a_o twofold_a defence_n for_o those_o of_o the_o people_n of_o god_n call_v quaker_n who_o have_v retain_v their_o first_o love_n and_o integrity_n for_o the_o truth_n and_o right_a understanding_n of_o the_o only_a fundamental_a principle_n thereof_o viz._n the_o light_n wherein_o they_o be_v vindicate_v from_o the_o aspersion_n of_o those_o who_o may_v accuse_v they_o of_o despise_v of_o christ_n government_n and_o indulge_v that_o liberty_n which_o truth_n condemn_v on_o the_o one_o hand_n and_o from_o such_o who_o may_v calumniate_v they_o for_o endeavour_v to_o establish_v the_o outward_a order_n and_o prescription_n of_o man_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o order_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o become_v a_o bond_n on_o other_o to_o obey_v though_o they_o see_v it_o not_o their_o duty_n on_o the_o other_o hand_n show_v that_o the_o place_n where_o christ_n government_n have_v be_v be_v and_o aught_o to_o be_v exalt_v be_v in_o the_o heart_n and_o that_o it_o be_v not_o in_o the_o power_n and_o so_o can_v be_v the_o duty_n of_o man_n to_o establish_v that_o government_n which_o be_v already_o on_o christ_n shoulder_n give_v forth_o in_o the_o year_n 1676._o by_o william_n rogers_n 1_o cor._n 3.11.21_o for_o other_o foundation_n can_v no_o man_n lay_v than_o that_o which_o be_v already_o lay_v let_v no_o man_n rejoice_v in_o men._n to_o the_o reader_n the_o aforementioned_a treatise_n of_o r._n b._n be_v the_o first_o that_o to_o my_o remembrance_n or_o knowledge_n be_v under_o the_o name_n of_o one_o call_v a_o quaker_n extant_a in_o print_n whereby_o the_o adversary_n to_o that_o ancient_a truth_n whereof_o they_o have_v be_v witness_n may_v have_v cause_n to_o be_v jealous_a first_o that_o that_o people_n who_o have_v be_v so_o great_a contender_n against_o that_o spirit_n which_o will_v have_v enforce_v outward_a form_n and_o order_n of_o man_n relate_v to_o conscience_n though_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o assembly_n call_v themselves_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n shall_v now_o be_v more_o exercise_v to_o encourage_v their_o brethren_n to_o follow_v the_o order_n tradition_n example_n or_o commandment_n of_o any_o relate_n to_o matter_n of_o conscience_n and_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n though_o under_o the_o most_o plausible_a pretence_n whatsoever_o than_o that_o never-erring_a and_o infallible_a guide_n which_o have_v be_v so_o often_o exalt_v among_o they_o viz._n christ_n light_n in_o the_o conscience_n second_o that_o though_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n have_v plead_v much_o for_o the_o exercise_n of_o their_o conscience_n and_o for_o the_o liberty_n thereof_o which_o one_o eminent_a among_o they_o have_v describe_v to_o be_v a_o mere_a liberty_n of_o the_o mind_n in_o believe_v or_o dis-believing_a etc._n etc._n yet_o there_o be_v among_o they_o who_o have_v endeavour_v to_o insinuate_v a_o belief_n that_o the_o church_n in_o matter_n of_o conscience_n may_v not_o only_o give_v positive_a sentence_n which_o may_v be_v obligatory_a upon_o believer_n but_o also_o that_o the_o pretence_n of_o any_o refuse_v to_o submit_v on_o account_n they_o see_v it_o not_o will_v not_o excuse_v they_o from_o be_v real_o guilty_a of_o disobey_v god_n and_o yet_o do_v not_o manifest_a by_o any_o outward_a description_n where_o or_o what_o assembly_n be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n now_o though_o i_o can_v vindicate_v the_o author_n of_o the_o say_a treatise_n from_o give_v occasion_n of_o these_o and_o such_o like_a jealousy_n yet_o i_o know_v there_o be_v many_o of_o those_o people_n yet_o in_o be_v who_o integrity_n to_o god_n be_v so_o great_a who_o steadfastness_n in_o the_o unchangeable_a truth_n be_v so_o sure_a and_o who_o understandding_n in_o the_o pure_a principle_n thereof_o be_v so_o clear_a that_o they_o give_v not_o occasion_n for_o such_o jealousy_n but_o have_v a_o testimony_n in_o their_o heart_n against_o all_o such_o that_o do_v know_v this_o that_o whosoever_o build_v on_o any_o other_o foundation_n than_o that_o which_o have_v be_v already_o lay_v viz._n christ_n the_o lord_n to_o who_o all_o power_n be_v give_v to_o rule_n and_o reign_v and_o who_o alone_o be_v lord_n over_o the_o conscience_n and_o the_o only_a lawgiver_n shall_v be_v confound_v and_o bring_v to_o nought_o w._n r._n the_o matter_n occasional_o discourse_v in_o this_o ensue_a treatise_n be_v in_o some_o measure_n describe_v in_o what_o follow_v first_o i_o affirm_v that_o though_o there_o have_v be_v and_o aught_o to_o be_v a_o government_n in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n unto_o which_o every_o member_n of_o the_o say_a church_n ought_v to_o be_v subject_n yet_o it_o do_v not_o appear_v that_o the_o outward_a form_n thereof_o and_o all_o matter_n cognizable_a thereby_o be_v so_o exact_o describe_v in_o the_o scripture_n or_o else_o where_o as_o that_o the_o member_n thereof_o by_o any_o such_o outward_a description_n as_o a_o sufficient_a mean_n may_v so_o exact_o be_v exercise_v therein_o as_o to_o find_v acceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n of_o life_n that_o at_o this_o day_n nothing_o can_v be_v true_o call_v the_o exact_a and_o perfect_a order_n of_o this_o government_n but_o the_o power_n of_o god_n and_o so_o have_v it_o often_o be_v testify_v by_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n which_o power_n be_v of_o ability_n to_o establish_v man_n but_o man_n not_o of_o ability_n to_o establish_v it_o and_o that_o the_o power_n bring_v forth_o its_o own_o form_n in_o every_o member_n according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o god_n grace_n inward_o give_v receive_v and_o obey_v and_o yet_o i_o be_o abundant_o satisfy_v that_o set_v and_o appoint_v meeting_n on_o certain_a prefix_v day_n be_v with_o the_o joint_a concurrence_n of_o those_o member_n assemble_v and_o from_o time_n to_o time_n to_o be_v assemble_v to_o take_v care_n of_o the_o poor_a and_o discharge_v other_o charitable_a duty_n to_o inspect_v marriage_n that_o none_o come_v together_o disorderly_a and_o to_o take_v care_n that_o truth_n may_v not_o be_v scandlize_v through_o the_o backslide_n of_o such_o who_o have_v be_v in_o
fellowship_n with_o the_o child_n of_o light_n be_v not_o inconsistent_a with_o that_o form_n that_o the_o power_n of_o god_n may_v lead_v into_o for_o i_o be_o a_o witness_n for_o many_o year_n past_a even_o to_o this_o day_n that_o such_o meeting_n have_v be_v serviceable_a to_o answer_v those_o righteous_a ends._n but_o if_o the_o member_n of_o any_o such_o meeting_n shall_v by_o their_o practice_n therein_o not_o only_o assume_v as_o some_o there_o be_v who_o to_o my_o knowledge_n have_v too_o manifest_o so_o do_v but_o continue_v to_o assume_v another_o place_n in_o the_o body_n than_o that_o wherein_o god_n have_v place_v they_o or_o shall_v endeavour_v so_o to_o establish_v outward_a indispensible_a rule_n and_o order_n therein_o relate_v to_o conscience_n as_o that_o such_o of_o the_o brethren_n who_o submit_v not_o thereunto_o shall_v be_v account_v not_o of_o the_o body_n though_o they_o see_v it_o not_o their_o duty_n it_o may_v be_v just_o with_o the_o lord_n as_o a_o token_n of_o his_o indignation_n and_o displeasure_n to_o withdraw_v his_o refresh_a presence_n from_o such_o assembly_n and_o then_o their_o meeting_n may_v become_v as_o useless_a as_o a_o body_n without_o a_o spirit_n be_v but_o yet_o robert_n barclay_n undertake_v to_o describe_v the_o order_n of_o the_o government_n and_o how_o far_o it_o extend_v and_o also_o testify_v the_o ancient_a apostolic_a order_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v re-establisht_a among_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n notwithstanding_o which_o his_o say_n i_o affirm_v they_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o many_o thing_n with_o respect_n to_o church-discipline_n wherein_o the_o scripture_n treat_v of_o those_o thing_n give_v forth_o by_o christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n be_v silent_a and_o be_v not_o find_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o some_o other_o thing_n which_o be_v either_o practise_v exhort_v to_o or_o command_v by_o the_o apostle_n second_o i_o affirm_v that_o as_o christ_n kingdom_n be_v not_o of_o this_o world_n so_o the_o member_n of_o christ_n church_n have_v not_o power_n in_o case_n of_o difference_n arise_v among_o themselves_o touch_v outward_a thing_n to_o assume_v jurisdiction_n over_o the_o property_n and_o worldly_a concern_v each_o of_o other_o when_o not_o choose_v for_o that_o service_n by_o the_o consent_n of_o the_o member_n differ_v and_o yet_o i_o do_v say_v it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o fellow-member_n that_o be_v at_o variance_n to_o refer_v by_o mutual_a choice_n their_o cause_n unto_o other_o brethren_n but_o yet_o r._n b._n say_v as_o a_o people_n gather_v together_o by_o the_o lord_n unto_o the_o same_o faith_n etc._n etc._n that_o we_o have_v power_n and_o authority_n to_o decide_v and_o remove_v these_o thing_n three_o i_o affirm_v that_o nothing_o can_v become_v a_o right_n and_o christian_a bond_n upon_o believer_n to_o be_v exercise_v in_o any_o practical_a duty_n relate_v to_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n and_o matter_n of_o conscience_n until_o convince_v by_o the_o witness_n of_o god_n in_o their_o conscience_n of_o the_o service_n thereof_o four_o that_o the_o belief_n of_o certain_a principle_n and_o doctines_n though_o believe_v through_o the_o force_n of_o truth_n on_o the_o understanding_n and_o practice_n depend_v thereon_o be_v not_o the_o very_a bond_n by_o which_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n be_v become_v center_a into_o the_o fellowship_n of_o christ_n body_n nor_o yet_o the_o cause_n that_o gather_v they_o but_o the_o spirit_n be_v the_o bond_n and_o in_o the_o best_a sense_n such_o principle_n etc._n etc._n be_v but_o the_o fruit_n of_o the_o bond_n and_o the_o cause_n that_o gather_v they_o be_v god_n love_n that_o the_o sentence_n and_o judgement_n of_o any_o man_n or_o man_n whatsoever_o relate_v to_o matter_n of_o conscience_n ought_v not_o at_o this_o day_n to_o be_v give_v forth_o but_o by_o way_n of_o recomendation_n to_o every_o man_n conscience_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n and_o that_o when_o the_o conscience_n be_v sensible_a that_o god_n witness_v therein_o do_v answer_n thereto_o than_o the_o conscience_n be_v bind_v and_o not_o before_o but_o yet_o r._n b._n tell_v we_o that_o principle_n and_o doctrine_n believe_v through_o the_o force_n of_o truth_n on_o the_o understanding_n and_o practice_n necessary_o depend_v thereon_o be_v the_o term_n that_o have_v draw_v we_o together_o and_o the_o very_a bond_n by_o which_o we_o become_v center_a into_o one_o body_n and_o fellowship_n or_o be_v link_v to_o the_o body_n and_o the_o cause_n that_o gather_v we_o as_o in_o his_o treatise_n page_n 48_o 49_o may_v appear_v and_o whether_o in_o r._n b_n sense_n the_o centure_z of_o a_o part_n of_o christ_n body_n ought_v not_o to_o become_v a_o bond_n on_o all_o the_o member_n and_o that_o in_o case_n of_o conscience_n too_o i_o refer_v the_o reader_n to_o peruse_v his_o six_o section_n five_o i_o affirm_v that_o the_o qualification_n of_o a_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n be_v sanctification_n through_o the_o spirit_n that_o where_o any_o number_n of_o such_o be_v assemble_v together_o in_o christ_n name_n though_o but_o of_o the_o lesser_a rank_n in_o the_o body_n there_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n that_o before_o such_o a_o assembly_n case_n of_o difference_n may_v be_v bring_v which_o may_v be_v beside_o the_o gift_n or_o capacity_n of_o such_o to_o determine_v and_o judge_n and_o therefore_o infallible_a judgement_n which_o be_v unalterable_o seat_v in_o the_o spirit_n in_o some_o case_n may_v be_v want_v to_o appear_v through_o any_o one_o member_n in_o such_o assembly_n as_o proper_o may_v be_v call_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n but_o yet_o r._n b._n say_v in_o his_o treatise_n page_n 68_o that_o there_o never_o will_v nor_o can_v be_v want_v in_o case_n of_o controversy_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o give_v judgement_n through_o some_o or_o other_o in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n so_o long_o as_o any_o assembly_n can_v proper_o or_o in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n be_v so_o term_v sixthly_a since_o it_o be_v common_o repute_v that_o none_o but_o papist_n pretend_v tradition_n to_o justify_v their_o action_n wherein_o the_o scripture_n be_v silent_a and_o that_o we_o have_v no_o precedent_n in_o the_o scripture_n that_o the_o apostle_n and_o elder_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n do_v take_v upon_o they_o to_o determine_v controversy_n arise_v among_o the_o apostle_n and_o elder_n in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n touch_v case_n of_o conscience_n without_o the_o assent_n of_o the_o differ_v party_n who_o especial_o if_o equal_v and_o once_o at_o unity_n and_o their_o case_n matter_n of_o conscience_n arise_v from_o occasional_a differ_a sense_n and_o judgement_n have_v by_o the_o law_n of_o divine_a nature_n equal_a right_o to_o nominate_v a_o part_n of_o those_o who_o shall_v have_v the_o hear_n of_o such_o case_n therefore_o i_o affirm_v if_o any_o shall_v without_o the_o assent_n of_o such_o party_n differ_v take_v upon_o they_o to_o be_v a_o bond_n that_o the_o differ_a party_n must_v subject_v such_o their_o case_n to_o their_o dicisive_a sentence_n and_o according_o submit_v and_o be_v subject_a though_o they_o be_v not_o clear_a in_o conscience_n so_o to_o do_v such_o do_v just_o subject_v themselves_o to_o the_o censure_n of_o be_v imposer_n and_o usurper_n seven_o that_o submission_n to_o the_o positive_a sentence_n of_o other_o touch_a matter_n of_o conscience_n though_o suppose_v themselves_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n before_o the_o conscience_n be_v convince_v by_o god_n witness_n therein_o be_v a_o abuse_n to_o the_o profession_n of_o truth_n a_o ancient_a mark_n of_o apostasy_n and_o a_o infallible_a token_n that_o such_o who_o so_o submit_v have_v no_o inward_a sense_n that_o they_o be_v lead_v thereunto_o by_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n but_o notwithstanding_o these_o two_o last_o particular_n be_v evident_o true_a yet_o whosoever_o read_v what_o r._n b._n have_v assert_v in_o page_n 68_o may_v find_v that_o according_a to_o his_o line_n and_o assertion_n this_o short_a ensue_a sentence_n may_v be_v collect_v without_o the_o least_o abuse_n of_o his_o word_n viz._n that_o any_o one_o not_o submit_v to_o the_o positive_a judgement_n touch_v controversy_n give_v by_o any_o assembly_n or_o at_o least_o by_o some_o or_o other_o of_o they_o which_o may_v in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n be_v term_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v disobedience_n to_o god_n though_o the_o person_n refuse_v pretend_v they_o refuse_v on_o the_o account_n they_o see_v it_o not_o the_o innovation_n and_o scripture-misapplications_a of_o r._n b._n detect_v i_o shall_v begin_v with_o the_o title_n page_n wherein_o r._n b._n thus_o say_v so_o be_v also_o the_o ancient_a apostolic_a order_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n re-establish_v and_o settle_v on_o its_o right_a
in_o he_o establish_v in_o the_o faith_n col._n 2.6_o 7._o and_o then_o the_o very_a next_o verse_n say_v beware_v lest_o any_o man_n spoil_v you_o through_o the_o tradition_n of_o man_n according_a to_o the_o rudimnet_n of_o the_o world_n and_o not_o after_o christ_n if_o the_o follow_a outward_a decree_n precept_n sentence_n decisive_n judgement_n or_o tradition_n of_o any_o sort_n of_o the_o church_n have_v be_v in_o paul_n '_o eye_n a_o real_a and_o certain_a indication_n of_o be_v establish_v in_o the_o faith_n or_o root_v in_o christ_n or_o that_o it_o be_v the_o practice_n of_o the_o church_n to_o be_v establish_v outward_a indispensible_a order_n relate_v to_o the_o conscience_n of_o believer_n i_o leave_v it_o to_o the_o judicious_a reader_n to_o savour_n whether_o paul_n will_v have_v so_o immediate_o and_o as_o it_o be_v in_o one_o breath_n caution_v they_o to_o beware_v of_o be_v spoil_v through_o the_o tradition_n of_o man_n etc._n etc._n without_o a_o further_a caution_n to_o take_v heed_n lest_o they_o shall_v account_v the_o command_n sentence_n decree_n or_o tradition_n of_o the_o church_n such_o these_o thing_n consider_v and_o compare_v with_o the_o measure_n of_o light_n in_o ourselves_o i_o be_o satisfy_v it_o be_v not_o agreeable_a to_o truth_n for_o any_o man_n or_o assembly_n of_o man_n to_o attempt_v a_o outward_a indispensible_a establishment_n of_o outward_a order_n rule_n and_o decree_n relate_v to_o matter_n of_o conscience_n under_o the_o new_a covenant_n as_o the_o order_n rule_n and_o decree_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n moreover_o if_o christ_n do_v stand_v in_o need_n of_o assistance_n to_o establish_v his_o government_n how_o be_v it_o possible_a that_o man_n who_o day_n be_v but_o as_o a_o span_n long_o shall_v be_v capable_a to_o establish_v that_o government_n of_o who_o increase_n there_o shall_v be_v no_o end_n but_o so_o it_o be_v that_o he_o do_v not_o stand_v in_o need_n thereof_o for_o the_o son_n that_o be_v give_v shall_v order_n his_o government_n and_o establish_v it_o with_o judgement_n and_o with_o justice_n even_o from_o henceforth_o and_o forever_o read_v isa_n 9.6_o 7._o beside_o if_o we_o do_v but_o consider_v where_o and_o after_o what_o manner_n the_o second_o appearance_n of_o christ_n have_v be_v and_o yet_o be_v to_o be_v expect_v and_o wait_v for_o those_o who_o know_v the_o truth_n as_o preach_v receive_v and_o believe_v among_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n in_o the_o beginning_n do_v know_v that_o his_o second_o appearance_n have_v be_v and_o yet_o be_v to_o be_v expect_v and_o wait_v for_o in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o son_n and_o daughter_n of_o man_n and_o the_o manner_n of_o his_o appearance_n have_v be_v and_o be_v by_o his_o spirit_n in_o we_o this_o have_v often_o be_v testify_v and_o that_o in_o opposition_n to_o those_o who_o have_v be_v look_v for_o his_o second_o come_v in_o some_o outward_a bodily_a appearance_n to_o reign_v as_o lord_n and_o king_n i_o now_o appeal_v to_o god_n witness_v in_o all_o conscience_n whether_o the_o outward_a establishment_n of_o outward_a government_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o christ_n government_n do_v not_o seem_v to_o square_v more_o with_o the_o principle_n of_o such_o who_o look_v for_o his_o second_o come_v in_o some_o outward_a bodily_a appearance_n than_o with_o the_o principle_n of_o those_o who_o conclude_v his_o second_o come_v to_o be_v by_o his_o spiritual_a appearance_n in_o the_o heart_n and_o whether_o it_o be_v not_o inconsistent_a with_o right_a reason_n and_o truth_n to_o conclude_v that_o christ_n jesus_n the_o lord_n will_v establish_v his_o government_n otherwise_o than_o by_o his_o spirit_n and_o in_o the_o heart_n where_o his_o appearance_n have_v be_v and_o be_v to_o be_v expect_v and_o wait_v for_o and_o since_o it_o be_v undoubted_o so_o that_o of_o the_o increase_n of_o christ_n government_n there_o shall_v be_v no_o end_n i_o can_v understand_v to_o what_o end_v any_o man_n shall_v concern_v himself_o to_o consider_v how_o far_o it_o may_v extend_v yet_o r.b._n have_v so_o do_v witness_v his_o 37_o page_n where_o he_o thus_o say_v it_o be_v next_o to_o be_v consider_v in_o what_o case_n and_o how_o far_o it_o may_v extend_v to_o which_o i_o can_v but_o thus_o reply_v those_o who_o be_v not_o puff_v up_o with_o spiritual_a pride_n or_o zeal_n without_o knowledge_n may_v easy_o discern_v from_o such_o kind_n of_o language_n a_o spirit_n that_o will_v limit_v the_o holy_a one_o of_o israel_n by_o put_v bound_n unto_o that_o government_n of_o who_o increase_n there_o shall_v be_v no_o end_n and_o though_o i_o speak_v of_o man_n inability_n to_o establish_v christ_n government_n yet_o i_o will_v not_o be_v understand_v as_o one_o accuse_v the_o aforesaid_a author_n or_o any_o else_o to_o assert_v man_n ability_n so_o to_o do_v for_o i_o know_v not_o any_o man_n that_o will_v pretend_v themselves_o in_o that_o case_n other_o than_o instrument_n in_o god_n hand_n but_o yet_o this_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v that_o since_o there_o be_v no_o ground_n to_o believe_v that_o god_n everwill_v make_v use_n of_o man_n under_o the_o new_a covenant_n to_o establish_v outward_a indespensible_a order_n rule_n or_o decree_n to_o be_v as_o a_o measuring-line_n whereby_o those_o who_o be_v under_o christ_n government_n shall_v be_v know_v therefore_o it_o be_v reasonable_a to_o conclude_v that_o the_o endeavour_n of_o such_o who_o may_v exercise_v themselves_o therein_o may_v proceed_v from_o no_o better_a power_n than_o that_o ability_n which_o be_v of_o man._n and_o notwithstanding_o he_o have_v consider_v how_o far_o it_o extend_v yet_o i_o find_v not_o that_o he_o have_v make_v any_o mention_n of_o the_o business_n or_o at_o least_o a_o part_n of_o the_o business_n of_o one_o considerable_a meeting_n which_o be_v a_o part_n of_o that_o government_n or_o order_n which_o he_o pretend_v to_o describe_v and_o that_o be_v a_o meet_v hold_v every_o second_o day_n of_o the_o week_n wherein_o writing_n treat_v of_o divine_a matter_n and_o which_o be_v intend_v by_o the_o author_n for_o public_a view_n be_v first_o view_v in_o order_n to_o a_o approbation_n or_o the_o contrary_a more_o contrary_a witness_v the_o paper_n at_o the_o latter_a end_n of_o this_o three_o part_n sign_v by_o charles_n marshal_n and_o thirty_o six_o more_o at_o which_o meeting_n his_o treatise_n be_v past_a which_o give_v occasion_n to_o treat_v a_o little_a of_o that_o meeting_n since_o those_o of_o that_o meeting_n be_v as_o well_o concern_v in_o the_o say_a treatise_n as_o he_o that_o write_v it_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n as_o far_o as_o i_o remember_v be_v whole_o silent_a as_o to_o any_o such_o service_n act_v in_o any_o meeting_n among_o the_o primitive_a christian_n and_o therefore_o i_o do_v not_o understand_v that_o there_o can_v be_v any_o real_a ground_n or_o tolerable_a pretence_n that_o this_o be_v a_o part_n of_o the_o ancient_a apostolic_a order_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n we_o find_v the_o apostle_n act_v 3._o direct_v to_o choose_v seven_o man_n full_a of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n to_o take_v care_n that_o the_o widow_n shall_v not_o be_v neglect_v in_o the_o daily_a ministration_n if_o the_o holy_a ghost_n in_o the_o apostle_n day_n direct_v to_o choose_v a_o certain_a select_a well_o qualify_v number_n of_o man_n for_o such_o a_o service_n as_o doubtless_o it_o do_v it_o be_v against_o right_a reason_n to_o suppose_v that_o the_o apostle_n will_v in_o their_o day_n have_v leave_v the_o consideration_n of_o such_o weighty_a matter_n as_o treatise_n of_o thing_n relate_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o the_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n to_o the_o approbation_n of_o a_o uncertain_a unselected_a assembly_n for_o such_o i_o call_v that_o meeting_n wherein_o many_o of_o the_o write_n of_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n intend_v for_o public_a view_n be_v approve_v or_o disapprove_v for_o that_o no_o certain_a select_a number_n of_o person_n be_v choose_v for_o that_o service_n but_o any_o person_n who_o have_v public_a testimony_n for_o the_o truth_n though_o but_o by_o way_n of_o exhortation_n and_o be_v own_v as_o friend_n of_o truth_n and_o come_v where_o that_o meeting_n be_v appoint_v be_v the_o person_n by_o who_o such_o write_n whither_o give_v forth_o by_o a_o paul_n a_o father_n or_o a_o timothy_n a_o son_n as_o be_v for_o public_a service_n be_v approve_v or_o disapprove_v i_o now_o appeal_v to_o the_o impartial_a understand_a reader_n whether_o according_a to_o this_o form_n of_o government_n one_o that_o be_v in_o the_o place_n of_o paul_n a_o father_n who_o according_a to_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n have_v right_a to_o rule_v over_o and_o command_v may_v not_o have_v the_o testimony_n which_o he_o have_v through_o the_o motion_n
of_o god_n spirit_n to_o publish_v unto_o the_o world_n for_o god_n be_v overrule_v by_o timothy_n a_o son_n when_o according_a to_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n he_o ought_v to_o be_v rule_v by_o paul_n the_o father_n nay_o perhaps_o by_o one_o that_o be_v of_o much_o lesser_a rank_n in_o the_o body_n if_o so_o be_v he_o have_v a_o word_n of_o exhortation_n on_o the_o behalf_n of_o god_n truth_n &_o be_v usual_o exercise_v therein_o in_o public_a but_o suppose_v no_o such_o obstruction_n have_v or_o may_v appear_v yet_o i_o query_n whether_o it_o look_v like_o a_o part_n of_o christ_n government_n for_o timothy_n the_o son_n to_o be_v admit_v as_o a_o judge_n over_o the_o write_n of_o paul_n who_o as_o a_o father_n beget_v he_o unto_o the_o truth_n paul_n 1_o cor._n 12._o treat_v of_o the_o diversity_n of_o gift_n by_o one_o and_o the_o same_o spirit_n mention_v several_a of_o they_o viz._n the_o word_n of_o wisdom_n the_o word_n of_o knowledge_n faith_n gift_n of_o healing_n work_v of_o miracle_n prophesy_v discern_v of_o spirit_n divers_a kind_n of_o tongue_n interpretation_n of_o tongue_n and_o then_o at_o length_n say_v god_n have_v set_v some_o in_o the_o church_n first_o apostles_n secondary_o prophet_n three_o teacher_n and_o after_o that_o miracle_n etc._n etc._n and_o then_o say_v be_v all_o prophet_n be_v all_o apostle_n be_v all_o teacher_n etc._n etc._n and_o again_o rom_n 14.6_o 7_o 8._o he_o thus_o say_v have_v then_o gift_n differ_v according_a to_o the_o grace_n that_o be_v give_v to_o we_o whether_o prophecy_n let_v we_o prophesy_v according_a to_o the_o proportion_n of_o faith_n or_o ministry_n let_v we_o wait_v on_o our_o ministry_n or_o he_o that_o teach_v on_o teach_v or_o he_o that_o exhort_v on_o exhortation_n from_o all_o which_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o god_n have_v give_v diversity_n of_o gift_n and_o that_o those_o member_n who_o may_v be_v skilful_a through_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n to_o exercise_n one_o gift_n may_v be_v unskillful_a to_o exercise_v another_o and_o so_o every_o own_o aught_o to_o wait_v on_o their_o own_o gift_n that_o therein_o they_o may_v be_v exercise_v and_o that_o also_o not_o beyond_o but_o according_a to_o the_o proportion_n of_o faith_n for_o doubtless_o the_o apostle_n be_v sensible_a there_o be_v a_o proneness_n in_o some_o to_o run_v beyond_o their_o gift_n and_o therefore_o he_o say_v according_a to_o the_o proportion_n of_o faith_n now_o shall_v any_o number_n of_o person_n among_o who_o there_o shall_v be_v only_o such_o who_o gift_n be_v either_o to_o prophesy_v teach_v or_o exhort_v but_o not_o to_o discern_v spirit_n sit_v together_o and_o take_v upon_o they_o to_o consider_v whether_o that_o which_o be_v give_v forth_o for_o public_a service_n by_o any_o brother_n serious_o declare_v that_o god_n move_v thereunto_o aught_o to_o come_v to_o public_a view_n and_o be_v find_v hinder_v the_o come_n forth_o of_o the_o same_o when_o nothing_o unsound_a appear_v they_o will_v therein_o make_v a_o breach_n on_o that_o christian-liberty_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v preserve_v inviolable_a in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n nay_o if_o peradventure_o there_o shall_v be_v some_o among_o they_o who_o gift_n be_v to_o discern_v spirit_n and_o so_o according_o give_v their_o approabation_n or_o disapprobation_n it_o become_v not_o other_o not_o gift_v therein_o to_o concern_v themselves_o because_o their_o duty_n be_v if_o paul_n counsel_n be_v good_a to_o wait_v on_o their_o own_o gift_n and_o though_o such_o may_v declare_v they_o have_v unity_n therewith_o in_o the_o life_n yet_o that_o may_v be_v only_o the_o fruit_n of_o their_o lip_n or_o of_o a_o hasty_a spirit_n that_o may_v have_v zeal_n without_o knowledge_n when_o the_o matter_n wherewith_o they_o declare_v themselves_o at_o unity_n be_v without_o the_o compass_n of_o their_o gift_n knowledge_n or_o capacity_n to_o judge_n of_o but_o yet_o i_o will_v not_o be_v understand_v that_o it_o be_v unnecessary_a for_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o take_v care_n that_o nothing_o scandalous_a to_o the_o truth_n come_v forth_o in_o public_a under_o the_o name_n of_o any_o who_o make_v profession_n thereof_o and_o be_v it_o so_o that_o i_o have_v aught_o upon_o i_o on_o truth_n behalf_n to_o bring_v to_o public_a view_n i_o shall_v be_v glad_a of_o the_o opportunity_n to_o lay_v it_o before_o such_o brethren_n with_o who_o the_o word_n of_o wisdom_n knowledge_n and_o discern_v of_o spirit_n dwell_v yet_o be_o persuade_v the_o lord_n will_v preserve_v i_o from_o suffer_v the_o counsel_n of_o any_o to_o lead_v i_o contrary_a to_o what_o i_o believe_v the_o lord_n move_v unless_o through_o the_o word_n of_o wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n they_o can_v convince_v i_o of_o error_n and_o so_o come_v to_o see_v it_o my_o place_n to_o forbear_v and_o this_o i_o account_v agreeable_a to_o the_o truth_n which_o prefer_v obedience_n to_o our_o own_o measure_n of_o grace_n before_o obedience_n to_o the_o measure_n of_o other_o and_o to_o wait_v on_o our_o own_o gift_n and_o not_o the_o gift_n of_o other_o even_o as_o i_o account_v it_o contrary_n to_o truth_n and_o as_o a_o branch_n spring_v from_o that_o spirit_n which_o will_v limit_v the_o holy_a one_o of_o israel_n to_o subject_v the_o approbation_n of_o come_v or_o not_o come_v of_o all_o write_n whatsoever_o give_v forth_o on_o a_o religious_a account_n to_o public_a view_n unto_o the_o judgement_n of_o any_o unless_o such_o as_o be_v perfect_o skilful_a in_o all_o spiritual_a gift_n mystery_n and_o knowledge_n relate_v to_o the_o matter_n appertain_v to_o god_n kingdom_n and_o the_o salvation_n of_o mankind_n have_v this_o uncertain_a unselected_a assembly_n speak_v of_o be_v such_o at_o the_o time_n when_o r._n b_n small_a treatise_n be_v approve_v doubtless_o it_o will_v never_o have_v pass_v as_o that_o whereby_o truth_n will_v be_v promote_v through_o a_o belief_n of_o all_o the_o matter_n which_o therein_o he_o assert_n for_o truth_n moreover_o when_o i_o consider_v that_o all_o miscarriage_n in_o write_n approve_v at_o that_o assembly_n do_v not_o only_o become_v the_o error_n of_o a_o particular_a person_n but_o of_o that_o assembly_n also_o &_o not_o only_o so_o but_o peradventure_o may_v be_v reflect_v though_o unworthy_o on_o the_o whole_a body_n of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n on_o a_o common_a presumption_n that_o have_v past_o the_o test_n of_o that_o meeting_n the_o whole_a church_n approve_v thereof_o i_o be_o even_o ready_a to_o query_n whether_o it_o be_v not_o better_a to_o let_v every_o man_n stand_v or_o fall_v to_o his_o own_o master_n in_o this_o respect_n unless_o some_o better_a expedient_a may_v be_v find_v than_o such_o a_o one_o as_o have_v admit_v of_o such_o erroneous_a assertion_n as_o to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o truth_n be_v contain_v in_o r._n b_n treatise_n and_o if_o any_o one_o shall_v object_v and_o say_v what_o will_v not_o thou_o submit_v to_o the_o sentence_n of_o such_o apostle_n with_o who_o the_o word_n of_o wisdom_n and_o knowledge_n dwell_v yes_o very_o i_o shall_v and_o aught_o so_o to_o do_v if_o my_o faith_n be_v such_o as_o certain_o to_o believe_v they_o be_v such_o apostle_n to_o i_o but_o not_o before_o read_v 2_o cor._n 10.13_o 14_o 15_o 16._o from_o all_o which_o i_o do_v according_a to_o truth_n thus_o conclude_v that_o it_o be_v groundless_o assert_v by_o r._n b._n in_o the_o sense_n i_o take_v his_o line_n to_o import_v viz._n with_o respect_n to_o outward_a order_n that_o the_o ancient_a apostolic_a order_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v re-establish_v among_o the_o people_n of_o god_n call_v quaker_n yet_o i_o do_v testify_v that_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n ought_v to_o be_v exercise_v in_o and_o over_o his_o church_n and_o that_o though_o the_o order_n of_o this_o government_n be_v not_o so_o describe_v as_o that_o by_o any_o outward_a rule_n or_o write_a prescription_n as_o a_o sufficient_a mean_n man_n may_v exact_o walk_v therein_o yet_o i_o be_o persuade_v that_o there_o be_v many_o of_o god_n people_n among_o those_o who_o in_o derision_n be_v call_v quaker_n that_o have_v be_v so_o obedient_a unto_o that_o grace_n which_o have_v be_v give_v they_o according_a to_o the_o gift_n of_o christ_n as_o that_o it_o may_v be_v true_o say_v of_o they_o that_o they_o be_v establish_v in_o the_o faith_n of_o god_n elect_n and_o that_o they_o be_v in_o subjection_n according_a to_o their_o measure_n to_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n which_o by_o the_o authority_n of_o his_o own_o power_n and_o spirit_n he_o have_v establish_v in_o their_o inward_a part_n so_o that_o through_o that_o obedience_n which_o be_v of_o faith_n other_o obedience_n avail_v not_o they_o be_v exercise_v themselves_o according_a to_o the_o leading_n of_o
declare_v the_o intent_n of_o his_o mind_n and_o be_v not_o the_o slip_n of_o his_o tongue_n or_o pen_n but_o how_o unreasonable_a it_o be_v that_o matter_n of_o worldly_a property_n and_o thing_n relate_v to_o conscience_n shall_v be_v decide_v by_o such_o assembly_n without_o a_o election_n for_o that_o service_n by_o the_o party_n differ_v i_o shall_v leave_v it_o to_o the_o judicious_a impartial_a reader_n to_o savour_n have_v elsewhere_o in_o this_o follow_a treatise_n plain_o evidence_v that_o there_o may_v be_v such_o assembly_n and_o yet_o not_o own_v by_o the_o lord_n for_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o so_o may_v be_v remote_a from_o give_v righteous_a judgement_n tho_o r._n b._n say_v god_n spirit_n will_v never_o bewant_v in_o such_o assembly_n and_o whereas_o some_o may_v be_v so_o charitable_a as_o to_o conclude_v r._n b._n intend_v not_o by_o his_o word_n that_o any_o shall_v assume_v authority_n to_o decide_v difference_n relate_v to_o outward_a thing_n without_o consent_n of_o the_o party_n concern_v to_o such_o i_o say_v he_o have_v leave_v no_o room_n for_o a_o reasonable_a man_n so_o to_o think_v because_o he_o have_v write_v several_a page_n to_o prove_v his_o assertion_n which_o in_o that_o case_n be_v all_o unnecessary_a for_o who_o can_v be_v so_o ignorant_a as_o not_o to_o know_v that_o person_n choose_v by_o the_o differ_a party_n have_v of_o right_a power_n to_o decide_v but_o if_o any_o shall_v i_o know_v that_o r._n b._n be_v none_o of_o they_o my_o acquaintance_n with_o he_o tell_v i_o not_o only_o so_o but_o also_o that_o he_o be_v a_o man_n of_o better_a reason_n than_o to_o have_v write_v so_o many_o line_n on_o this_o subject_a without_o tell_v the_o reader_n so_o if_o that_o have_v be_v his_o meaning_n beside_o if_o the_o assent_n of_o party_n be_v intend_v and_o that_o the_o order_n of_o this_o government_n reach_v not_o to_o this_o case_n without_o such_o assent_n it_o natural_o follow_v that_o the_o power_n and_o authority_n pretend_v to_o in_o this_o case_n be_v none_o at_o all_o and_o now_o that_o the_o reader_n may_v not_o have_v a_o misunderstanding_n of_o my_o sense_n in_o relation_n to_o difference_n touch_v outward_a thing_n i_o have_v this_o testimony_n on_o the_o behalf_n of_o truth_n to_o give_v on_o this_o occasion_n viz._n that_o as_o on_o the_o one_o hand_n i_o do_v conclude_v it_o be_v contrary_a to_o the_o truth_n for_o any_o number_n of_o man_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o assume_v a_o jurisdiction_n over_o their_o brethren_n property_n and_o worldly_a concern_v when_o not_o choose_v by_o consent_n of_o such_o over_o who_o outward_a concern_v they_o assume_v power_n to_o judge_n so_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n if_o difference_n arise_v between_o brother_n and_o brother_n i_o do_v conclude_v that_o go_v to_o law_n before_o unbeliever_n be_v a_o indication_n that_o one_o or_o both_o be_v depart_v from_o the_o truth_n and_o that_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o such_o who_o be_v at_o variance_n to_o request_v such_o brethren_n as_o be_v skill_v in_o the_o matter_n touch_v which_o they_o differ_v to_o hear_v and_o determine_v the_o cause_n and_o then_o of_o a_o willing_a and_o ready_a mind_n and_o not_o as_o by_o constraint_n to_o submit_v unto_o such_o determination_n and_o that_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v as_o a_o incombent_a duty_n on_o the_o member_n of_o christ_n church_n to_o be_v watch_v over_o one_o another_o so_o as_o that_o by_o wholesome_a counsel_n admonition_n and_o sound_v doctrine_n all_o variance_n strife_n emulation_n rent_n and_o division_n both_o in_o relation_n to_o temporal_a as_o well_o as_o spiritual_a matter_n may_v as_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lie_v be_v keep_v out_o from_o among_o the_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n r._n b._n assert_n page_n the_o 11._o that_o the_o ground_n of_o schism_n division_n or_o rent_n in_o the_o body_n be_v when_o any_o member_n assume_v another_o place_n than_o be_v allot_v it_o or_o be_v go_v from_o the_o life_n let_v we_o in_o the_o eye_n that_o watch_v for_o evil._n this_o position_n be_v truth_n and_o right_o state_v but_o yet_o notwithstanding_o i_o can_v but_o testify_v that_o if_o any_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n do_v recommend_v that_o administration_n or_o operation_n wherein_o by_o god_n spirit_n he_o be_v exercise_v unto_o his_o brethren_n and_o shall_v judge_v all_o such_o dark_a spirit_n and_o out_o of_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o body_n who_o on_o such_o a_o recommendation_n become_v not_o exercise_v as_o he_o be_v or_o do_v not_o immediate_o close_a with_o his_o experience_n and_o operation_n though_o otherwise_o faithful_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n receive_v such_o a_o one_o so_o judge_v may_v just_o be_v judge_v of_o the_o lord_n as_o a_o person_n not_o only_o assume_v another_o place_n in_o the_o body_n than_o be_v allot_v he_o but_o also_o as_o endeavour_v to_o draw_v other_o into_o the_o like_a snare_n for_o that_o it_o be_v as_o probable_a that_o a_o true_a member_n of_o christ_n body_n may_v be_v as_o remote_a from_o have_v experience_n of_o his_o brother_n operation_n as_o the_o ear_n of_o the_o natural_a body_n may_v be_v from_o discern_v what_o the_o natural_a eye_n do_v see_v and_o yet_o the_o ear_n according_a to_o that_o of_o paul_n 1_o cor._n 12.16_o may_v as_o true_o be_v account_v a_o member_n of_o the_o body_n as_o the_o eye_n it_o be_v a_o exhortation_n in_o the_o beginning_n of_o the_o day_n which_o in_o these_o latter_a year_n have_v dawn_v among_o we_o though_o thou_o grow_v but_o slow_a yet_o grow_v sure_a this_o sure_a grow_a be_v obedience_n after_o convincement_n or_o obedience_n to_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n receive_v all_o performance_n before_o with_o respect_n to_o worship_n or_o service_n for_o god_n be_v account_v but_o will-worship_n or_o will-service_n and_o therefore_o many_o who_o face_n be_v sion-ward_n do_v right_o testify_v on_o this_o wise_a i_o must_v stay_v until_o i_o be_v convince_v and_o since_o i_o see_v not_o this_o to_o be_v wrong_n i_o dare_v not_o be_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o another_o thing_n contrary_a thereto_o lest_o i_o become_v a_o will-worshipper_n and_o yet_o this_o kind_n of_o language_n be_v according_a to_o my_o understanding_n too_o reflect_o speak_v of_o by_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n witness_v his_o 13_o page_n this_o put_v i_o in_o mind_n to_o signify_v what_o the_o apostle_n paul_n say_v 1_o cor._n 12.3_o no_o man_n can_v say_v jesus_n be_v lord_n but_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n it_o be_v the_o fame_n of_o truth_n that_o jesus_n as_o in_o himself_o be_v lord_n and_o so_o we_o know_v a_o wicked_a man_n not_o act_v by_o the_o spirit_n may_v say_v these_o word_n jesus_n be_v the_o lord_n yet_o none_o can_v in_o truth_n say_v jesus_n be_v lord_n in_o they_o but_o by_o the_o holy_a ghost_n from_o whence_o i_o observe_v that_o no_o testimony_n though_o ever_o so_o true_a in_o itself_o can_v become_v the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n in_o any_o further_o than_o through_o certain_a conviction_n it_o be_v know_v to_o be_v so_o even_o as_o jesus_n can_v in_o truth_n be_v call_v lord_n by_o we_o until_o by_o his_o spirit_n we_o be_v convince_v and_o experimental_o know_v that_o he_o be_v lord_n in_o we_o and_o therefore_o i_o can_v but_o say_v it_o be_v savoury_a language_n to_o say_v i_o mu_o stay_n until_o convince_v tho_o r._n b._n as_o his_o line_n to_o i_o import_n account_v such_o language_n to_o be_v a_o reason_v truth_n from_o one_o self_n through_o the_o deceitfulness_n of_o the_o serpent_n query_v how_o do_v they_o mean_v the_o primitive_a labourer_n among_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n knock_v down_o this_o manner_n of_o reason_v but_o doubtless_o herein_o he_o have_v abuse_v both_o himself_o and_o the_o truth_n not_o so_o much_o for_o that_o he_o know_v no_o other_o than_o by_o report_n whereof_o he_o treat_v as_o to_o this_o matter_n if_o his_o meaning_n be_v that_o the_o primitive_a labourer_n in_o the_o gospel_n at_o the_o begin_n of_o that_o day_n which_o in_o these_o latter_a age_n have_v daw_v among_o we_o do_v condemn_v such_o kind_n of_o language_n but_o for_o that_o many_o of_o those_o who_o yet_o remain_v witness_n of_o the_o first_o gather_v remember_v no_o such_o thing_n those_o who_o at_o this_o day_n say_v we_o be_v teach_v to_o follow_v the_o light_n in_o our_o conscience_n and_o not_o the_o order_n of_o man_n and_o that_o we_o will_v not_o have_v man_n to_o rule_v over_o we_o utter_a language_n become_v christian_n notwithstanding_o r._n b_n reflection_n on_o such_o kind_n of_o language_n as_o this_o also_o in_o his_o seventeen_o page_n for_o christ_n in_o this_o day_n as_o well_o as_o in_o that_o day_n wherein_o truth_n be_v
neglect_n of_o their_o own_o gift_n and_o so_o such_o may_v become_v but_o little_a honour_n to_o the_o brother_n who_o minister_v in_o his_o own_o gift_n as_o the_o oracle_n of_o god_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o little_a credit_n to_o the_o truth_n if_o such_o by_o meddle_v in_o thing_n without_o their_o line_n bring_v forth_o confusion_n and_o disorder_n for_o what_o can_v be_v the_o offspring_n of_o such_o who_o labour_n and_o travel_v in_o the_o thing_n they_o understand_v not_o but_o the_o brat_n of_o babylon_n beside_o those_o who_o be_v of_o such_o forward_o spirit_n as_o to_o pin_v their_o faith_n on_o other_o man_n sleeve_n and_o say_v amen_o to_o what_o other_o man_n say_v before_o they_o have_v a_o understanding_n open_v to_o see_v the_o same_o may_v oft_o time_n approve_v notwithstanding_o this_o usual_a say_n can_v the_o brethren_n err_v of_o such_o thing_n which_o be_v not_o minister_v as_o the_o oracle_n of_o god_n though_o pretend_v so_o to_o be_v and_o if_o any_o who_o understanding_n god_n have_v open_v to_o discern_v this_o kind_n of_o weakness_n in_o such_o who_o boast_v in_o other_o man_n line_n of_o thing_n make_v ready_a to_o their_o hand_n in_o very_a deed_n take_v too_o much_o upon_o they_o do_v out_o of_o true_a love_n endeavour_n to_o convince_v they_o that_o so_o they_o may_v wait_v on_o their_o own_o gift_n there_o be_v some_o ready_a to_o bring_v forth_o what_o befall_v corah_n dathan_n and_o abiram_n because_o they_o say_v to_o moses_n and_o aaron_n you_o take_v too_o much_o upon_o you_o and_o what_o befall_v miriam_n because_o she_o say_v have_v the_o lord_n indeed_o speak_v only_o by_o moses_n have_v he_o not_o speak_v also_o by_o we_o and_o make_v such_o a_o use_n of_o these_o scripture_n as_o that_o they_o give_v occasion_n of_o jealousy_n to_o some_o to_o conclude_v that_o there_o be_v some_o do_v believe_v that_o god_n have_v raise_v up_o some_o outward_a person_n to_o be_v among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n at_o this_o day_n like_o unto_o moses_n and_o as_o he_o be_v in_o that_o day_n among_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n in_o these_o our_o latter_a day_n i_o never_o understand_v of_o any_o deserve_n a_o high_a title_n than_o a_o elder_a or_o minister_a friend_n but_o if_o such_o mean_a that_o god_n have_v raise_v up_o any_o outward_a man_n or_o man_n from_o who_o lip_n god_n people_n must_v at_o this_o day_n receive_v the_o law_n of_o christ_n and_o record_v it_o in_o book_n for_o generation_n to_o come_v as_o his_o law_n i_o know_v there_o be_v many_o of_o the_o child_n of_o light_n who_o retain_v their_o first_o love_n and_o integrity_n for_o the_o truth_n to_o this_o day_n and_o honour_n enough_o in_o their_o heart_n for_o every_o brother_n both_o young_a and_o elder_a that_o keep_v faithful_a in_o their_o place_n and_o in_o very_a deed_n take_v not_o too_o much_o upon_o they_o can_v receive_v no_o such_o testimony_n not_o only_o because_o they_o know_v it_o to_o be_v against_o the_o nature_n of_o the_o second_o covenant_n to_o expect_v such_o a_o appearance_n but_o also_o because_o they_o believe_v that_o christ_n be_v that_o prophet_n who_o the_o lord_n promise_v he_o will_v raise_v up_o like_a unto_o moses_n who_o we_o be_v to_o hear_v in_o all_o thing_n and_o that_o his_o appearance_n be_v and_o will_v be_v in_o the_o heart_n where_o his_o voice_n as_o a_o lawgiver_n be_v to_o be_v hear_v and_o according_o to_o be_v obey_v three_o though_o i_o pretend_v not_o to_o know_v the_o occasion_n whereon_o the_o apostle_n write_v further_o than_o the_o scripture_n manifest_v yet_o i_o do_v know_v how_o truth_n be_v preach_v in_o the_o begin_n among_o those_o who_o through_o the_o power_n thereof_o be_v gather_v be_v call_v quaker_n and_o that_o many_o will_v have_v undoubted_o fall_v both_o on_o the_o right_a hand_n and_o on_o the_o left_a shall_v the_o ancient_a labourer_n after_o they_o have_v be_v instrument_n in_o the_o lord_n hand_n to_o gather_v thousand_o unto_o the_o truth_n have_v thus_o say_v we_o be_v your_o father_n who_o in_o christ_n jesus_n have_v beget_v you_o through_o the_o gospel_n and_o we_o have_v on_o that_o foot_n a_o certain_a authority_n in_o the_o power_n over_o you_o and_o to_o command_v such_o thing_n as_o be_v needful_a for_o order_n and_o unity_n sake_n and_o that_o there_o lie_v a_o obligation_n on_o you_o to_o reverence_n honour_n and_o obey_v we_o and_o though_o you_o be_v our_o witness_n that_o we_o have_v often_o declare_v that_o our_o commission_n from_o god_n be_v to_o turn_v people_n from_o darkness_n to_o light_n and_o from_o the_o power_n of_o satan_n to_o god_n that_o so_o they_o may_v all_o come_v to_o be_v order_v and_o govern_v by_o the_o appearance_n of_o that_o power_n in_o themselves_o yet_o we_o do_v not_o mean_a but_o that_o when_o we_o have_v gather_v any_o unto_o the_o truth_n we_o shall_v be_v those_o who_o ought_v to_o have_v the_o rule_n over_o they_o and_o that_o such_o shall_v observe_v our_o tradition_n or_o follow_v we_o without_o give_v they_o a_o reason_n why_o and_o though_o they_o may_v in_o truth_n be_v submit_v themselves_o one_o unto_o another_o in_o the_o lord_n according_a to_o the_o apostle_n counsel_n yet_o all_o of_o they_o must_v submit_v to_o we_o and_o reverence_n honour_n and_o obey_v we_o and_o not_o think_v it_o any_o contradiction_n to_o the_o be_v lead_v by_o the_o measure_n of_o god_n grace_n in_o themselves_o shall_v our_o ancient_a brethren_n labourer_n in_o the_o gospel_n have_v thus_o say_v i_o do_v not_o see_v that_o therein_o they_o will_v render_v themselves_o of_o another_o mind_n than_o r.b._n be_v of_o if_o his_o line_n may_v be_v look_v upon_o as_o the_o product_n of_o his_o mind_n but_o shall_v they_o have_v so_o do_v doubtless_o as_o i_o have_v say_v before_o many_o will_v have_v fall_v and_o jealousy_n have_v enter_v the_o breast_n of_o thousand_o that_o though_o these_o our_o travel_a brethren_n exalt_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o man_n as_o the_o only_a sufficient_a rule_n for_o man_n and_o declare_v that_o the_o scripture_n be_v not_o a_o sufficient_a rule_n to_o man_n yet_o in_o stead_n of_o leave_v we_o to_o that_o rule_n which_o they_o have_v declare_v to_o be_v sufficient_a they_o strain_v that_o which_o they_o have_v declare_v not_o sufficient_a to_o make_v it_o as_o much_o as_o in_o they_o lie_v a_o rule_n for_o they_o to_o rule_v over_o their_o brethren_n r._n b._n in_o his_o first_o section_n which_o treat_v of_o the_o ground_n and_o cause_n of_o the_o controversy_n speak_v page_n 15._o of_o a_o sort_n of_o person_n that_o will_v needs_o be_v innovator_n and_o give_v to_o change_v and_o introduct_v new_a doctrine_n and_o practice_n not_o only_o differ_v but_o contrary_a to_o what_o be_v deliver_v in_o the_o beginning_n and_o page_n 17._o speak_v of_o such_o who_o with_o swell_a word_n talk_v of_o and_o preach_v up_o a_o high_a dispensation_n to_o which_o i_o say_v this_o language_n leave_v the_o reader_n still_o ignorant_a of_o what_o sort_n of_o person_n they_o be_v he_o hint_n at_o for_o that_o he_o tell_v not_o his_o reader_n what_o be_v deliver_v in_o the_o beginning_n and_o what_o be_v introduce_v contrary_a thereunto_o neither_o do_v i_o know_v how_o he_o well_o can_v unless_o by_o report_n from_o other_o since_o his_o age_n will_v not_o admit_v he_o as_o a_o sufficient_a and_o sensible_a witness_n thereof_o i_o shall_v therefore_o take_v the_o pain_n to_o do_v it_o for_o he_o the_o doctrine_n deliver_v in_o the_o beginning_n be_v chief_o these_o and_o such_o like_a viz._n that_o a_o measure_n of_o christ_n light_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n be_v give_v to_o every_o man_n to_o profit_v withal_o that_o this_o grace_n be_v sufficient_a that_o that_o which_o may_v be_v know_v of_o god_n be_v manifest_v in_o we_o that_o the_o scripture_n be_v not_o the_o rule_n but_o the_o spirit_n that_o that_o which_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n that_o we_o shall_v draw_v water_n out_o of_o our_o own_o well_n let_v it_o be_v your_o own_o and_o not_o another_o that_o we_o shall_v not_o boast_v in_o other_o man_n line_n of_o thing_n make_v ready_a to_o our_o hand_n but_o that_o since_o every_o one_o must_v give_v account_n for_o himself_o we_o shall_v see_v for_o ourselves_o believe_v for_o ourselves_o and_o savour_n for_o ourselves_o and_o not_o pin_v our_o faith_n on_o the_o sleeve_n of_o any_o lest_o we_o shall_v become_v will-worshipper_n but_o now_o there_o be_v a_o sort_n of_o innovator_n give_v to_o change_n who_o introduce_v such_o say_n and_o doctrine_n as_o these_o be_v first_o that_o this_o light_n will_v undo_v all_o or_o at_o least_o a_o pretence_n to_o the_o light_n which_o i_o
your_o faith_n be_v increase_v that_o we_o shall_v be_v enlarge_v by_o you_o according_a to_o our_o rule_n abundant_o not_o to_o boast_v in_o another_o man_n line_n of_o thing_n make_v ready_a to_o our_o hand_n hence_o it_o be_v evident_a those_o who_o keep_v to_o their_o own_o measure_n follow_v paul_n as_o they_o have_v he_o for_o a_o ensample_n and_o that_o those_o who_o hope_v and_o desire_v their_o brethren_n conformity_n to_o their_o line_n before_o they_o have_v faith_n therein_o be_v of_o another_o hope_n than_o paul_n be_v who_o as_o be_v above_o recite_v thus_o say_v have_v hope_n when_o your_o faith_n be_v increase_v that_o we_o shall_v be_v enlarge_v by_o your_o according_a to_o our_o rule_n abundant_o and_o so_o it_o plain_o appear_v that_o paul_n do_v not_o desire_v the_o corinthian_n to_o walk_v by_o his_o line_n until_o their_o faith_n be_v increase_v otherwise_o they_o may_v become_v proud_a boaster_n of_o other_o man_n line_n make_v ready_a to_o their_o hand_n as_o many_o yea_o too_o to_o many_o at_o this_o day_n be_v i_o now_o come_v to_o consider_v of_o his_o 6_o section_n the_o title_n whereof_o page_n 47._o be_v this_o viz._n how_o far_a this_o government_n do_v extend_v in_o matter_n spiritual_a and_o pure_o conscientious_a in_o which_o the_o great_a question_n say_v the_o aforesaid_a author_n be_v how_o far_o in_o such_o case_n the_o church_n may_v give_v positive_a order_n or_o rule_n how_o far_o her_o authority_n reach_v or_o may_v be_v suppose_v to_o be_v bind_v and_o ought_v to_o be_v submit_v to_o for_o the_o better_a clear_n and_o examination_n of_o which_o he_o thus_o further_o say_v it_o will_v be_v fit_a to_o consider_v first_o whether_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v power_n in_o any_o case_n that_o be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n to_o give_v a_o positive_a sentence_n or_o decision_n which_o may_v be_v obligatory_a upon_o believer_n second_o if_o so_o in_o what_o case_n and_o respect_n she_o may_v so_o do_v three_o wherein_o consist_v the_o freedom_n and_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n which_o may_v be_v exercise_v by_o the_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n diverse_o without_o judge_v one_o another_o and_o last_o in_o who_o the_o power_n decisive_n be_v in_o case_n of_o controversy_n and_o contention_n in_o such_o matter_n as_o to_o the_o first_o whether_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v power_n in_o any_o case_n that_o be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n to_o give_v positive_a sentence_n or_o decision_n which_o may_v be_v obligatory_a upon_o believer_n i_o answer_v affirmative_o she_o have_v and_o shall_v prove_v it_o from_o divers_a instance_n both_o from_o scripture_n and_o reason_n thus_o far_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n the_o force_n of_o r_n b_n reason_n i_o apprehend_v to_o be_v chief_o comprehend_v in_o or_o draw_v from_o these_o his_o follow_a word_n as_o by_o his_o write_a page_n 48_o 49._o more_o at_o large_a appear_v viz._n that_o we_o be_v gather_v together_o into_o the_o belief_n of_o certain_a principle_n and_o doctrine_n through_o the_o force_n of_o truth_n on_o our_o understanding_n and_o practice_n necessary_o depend_v upon_o they_o these_o be_v as_o it_o be_v the_o term_n that_o have_v draw_v we_o together_o and_o bond_n by_o which_o we_o become_v centre_v into_o one_o body_n and_o fellowship_n yet_o say_v he_o by_o a_o marginal_a note_n not_o so_o the_o bond_n but_o that_o we_o have_v also_o a_o more_o inward_a viz._n the_o life_n of_o righteousness_n the_o scripture_n proof_n that_o he_o quote_v be_v these_o gal._n 1.8_o 1_o tim._n 1.19_o 20._o 2_o john_n 10._o thus_o further_a add_v these_o scripture_n be_v so_o plain_a and_o clear_a in_o themselves_o that_o they_o need_v no_o great_a exposition_n to_o the_o unbyased_a reader_n my_o place_n now_o be_v to_o detect_v the_o impertinency_n of_o r._n b_n reason_n and_o to_o show_v that_o he_o have_v quote_v scripture_n which_o be_v not_o to_o the_o purpose_n yet_o i_o can_v but_o first_o observe_v that_o since_o the_o main_a scop_n of_o his_o treatise_n relate_v to_o this_o matter_n both_o from_o scripture_n and_o reason_n tend_v as_o it_o be_v chief_o if_o not_o whole_o to_o evidence_n that_o such_o principle_n doctrine_n and_o practice_n necessary_o depend_v thereon_o be_v the_o bond_n by_o which_o we_o become_v center_a into_o one_o body_n and_o fellowship_n be_v it_o not_o to_o be_v doubt_v that_o these_o kind_n of_o term_n have_v the_o great_a room_n on_o his_o heart_n and_o the_o marginal_a description_n of_o a_o more_o inward_a bond_n viz_o the_o life_n of_o righteousness_n be_v but_o like_o the_o entertainment_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o manger_n but_o to_o proceed_v i_o do_v affirm_v the_o belief_n of_o certain_a principle_n and_o doctrine_n though_o believe_v through_o the_o force_n of_o truth_n on_o the_o understanding_n and_o practice_n necessary_o depend_v upon_o they_o be_v not_o the_o very_a term_n and_o bond_n by_o which_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n at_o this_o day_n be_v become_v centre_v into_o one_o body_n though_o i_o do_v confess_v that_o certain_a principle_n doctrine_n and_o practice_n hold_v and_o practise_v in_o a_o pure_a mind_n be_v the_o fruit_n and_o offspring_n of_o that_o which_o be_v the_o bond_n but_o the_o very_a bond_n they_o be_v not_o if_o they_o be_v how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o to_o this_o day_n the_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n which_o be_v his_o church_n have_v not_o declare_v and_o agree_v what_o and_o how_o many_o be_v those_o principle_n and_o doctrine_n and_o what_o be_v those_o practice_n necessary_o depend_v thereon_o that_o aught_o to_o be_v believe_v receive_v and_o practise_v by_o every_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n as_o that_o by_o which_o they_o be_v centre_v into_o the_o heavenly_a fellowship_n of_o christ_n body_n with_o confidence_n i_o may_v say_v that_o i_o never_o hear_v or_o understand_v of_o any_o such_o thing_n yet_o extant_a among_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n neither_o do_v i_o believe_v there_o be_v and_o doubtless_o if_o there_o be_v the_o aforesaid_a author_n be_v a_o man_n to_o speak_v after_o the_o manner_n of_o man_n that_o be_v well_o read_v and_o not_o of_o a_o mean_a capacity_n will_v have_v quote_v it_o to_o free_v himself_o from_o the_o censure_n of_o such_o who_o may_v just_o say_v he_o have_v leave_v we_o in_o the_o dark_a how_o to_o know_v these_o member_n who_o to_o use_v his_o own_o language_n page_n 49._o cut_v themselves_o off_o from_o be_v member_n by_o dissolve_v the_o very_a bond_n by_o which_o they_o be_v link_v to_o the_o body_n nay_o i_o may_v true_o say_v that_o in_o the_o primitive_a day_n there_o be_v many_o believer_n who_o be_v find_v in_o opposite_a faith_n and_o practice_n witness_v those_o who_o circumcise_a keep_v a_o day_n abstain_v from_o flesh_n and_o other_o there_o be_v who_o believe_v and_o practise_v quite_o otherwise_o and_o yet_o we_o do_v not_o find_v that_o the_o bond_n which_o centre_v they_o into_o the_o heavenly_a fellowship_n of_o christ_n body_n be_v break_v for_o doubtless_o many_o of_o they_o under_o those_o differ_v faith_n and_o practice_n be_v of_o the_o number_n of_o such_o who_o be_v sanctify_v in_o christ_n jesus_n or_o at_o least_o in_o some_o measure_n sanctify_v which_o be_v the_o description_n of_o a_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n according_a as_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n himself_o do_v in_o his_o treatise_n signify_v and_o this_o be_v answerable_a to_o the_o truth_n itself_o read_v rom._n 14._o 1_o cor._n 8._o for_o further_a discovery_n of_o the_o truth_n of_o what_o i_o have_v assert_v it_o be_v necessary_a to_o query_n what_o be_v the_o very_a term_n and_o bond_n by_o which_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v become_v center_a into_o one_o body_n the_o answer_n be_v plain_a it_o be_v the_o spirit_n according_a to_o paul_n testimony_n 1_o cor._n 12.13_o for_o by_o one_o spirit_n be_v we_o all_o baptise_a into_o one_o body_n now_o the_o baptism_n of_o the_o spirit_n may_v be_v witness_v by_o such_o who_o integrity_n may_v lead_v they_o to_o die_v for_o truth_n but_o shall_v they_o be_v question_v by_o any_o one_o what_o be_v those_o principle_n doctrine_n and_o practice_n you_o hold_v which_o be_v the_o very_a term_n by_o which_o you_o come_v to_o be_v centre_v into_o christ_n body_n and_o which_o be_v the_o cause_n that_o gather_v you_o for_o so_o be_v his_o word_n page_n 47._o relate_v to_o principle_n and_o doctrine_n they_o will_v be_v ready_a thus_o to_o say_v what_o blind_a question_n do_v thou_o bring_v forth_o in_o thy_o carnal_a sensual_a reason_n it_o be_v god_n power_n and_o spirit_n gather_v we_o from_o among_o such_o as_o be_v out_o of_o the_o life_n glory_v in_o their_o owtward_a fellowship_n principle_n and_o doctrine_n and_o by_o his_o power_n circumcise_a our_o heart_n
and_o by_o his_o spirit_n we_o come_v to_o be_v baptize_v into_o one_o body_n and_o so_o be_v centre_v into_o the_o heavenly_a fellowship_n of_o christ_n body_n and_o as_o for_o thy_o say_n a_o belief_n in_o certain_a principle_n doctrine_n and_o practice_n necessary_o depend_v thereon_o be_v the_o term_n and_o very_a bond_n by_o which_o we_o become_v centre_v into_o one_o body_n and_o the_o cause_n that_o gather_v we_o this_o be_v not_o only_o wrong_v in_o itself_o though_o as_o be_v say_v before_o they_o may_v be_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o bond_n but_o exact_o like_o the_o false_a church_n in_o the_o world_n papist_n and_o protestant_n of_o all_o sort_n in_o the_o apostasy_n have_v outward_a mark_n and_o token_n as_o be_v either_o of_o such_o a_o order_n or_o have_v such_o a_o commission_n or_o as_o believe_v in_o such_o principle_n and_o submit_v to_o such_o practice_n and_o the_o like_a by_o which_o the_o member_n of_o their_o church_n be_v describe_v and_o therefore_o be_v it_o that_o among_o those_o there_o be_v outward_a society_n of_o man_n certain_o know_v as_o aforesaid_a according_a to_o the_o various_a manner_n and_o way_n which_o their_o principle_n admit_v and_o allow_v of_o which_o be_v term_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o these_o have_v many_o outward_a order_n rule_n prescription_n ordinance_n decree_n or_o law_n for_o the_o establishment_n and_o preservation_n of_o their_o outward_a society_n which_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o nature_n of_o their_o constitution_n may_v become_v fit_a mean_n for_o the_o conservation_n thereof_o but_o inasmuch_o as_o the_o belief_n of_o certain_a principle_n doctrine_n and_o practice_n necessary_o depend_v thereon_o be_v not_o the_o very_a term_n or_o bond_n to_o unite_v any_o in_o outward_a assembly_n whereby_o to_o assume_v unto_o themselves_o the_o title_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n for_o that_o if_o hold_v in_o a_o pure_a mind_n which_o be_v in_o the_o best_a sense_n they_o be_v but_o the_o fruit_n of_o that_o bond_n and_o when_o hold_v in_o a_o impure_a mind_n be_v no_o indication_n that_o such_o be_v member_n of_o christ_n church_n i_o can_v but_o say_v it_o be_v against_o right_a reason_n for_o any_o to_o prescribe_v and_o establish_v outward_a indispensable_a rule_n and_o order_n relate_v to_o the_o conscience_n and_o in_o order_n to_o be_v a_o bond_n thereon_o for_o the_o conservation_n of_o christ_n body_n since_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o the_o most_o certain_a and_o infallible_a mark_n of_o membership_n in_o the_o say_a body_n be_v invisible_a to_o the_o outward_a man_n though_o feel_v and_o know_v to_o the_o inward_a man_n of_o the_o heart_n for_o though_o action_n outward_o just_a be_v many_o time_n the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n yet_o be_v not_o always_o certain_a token_n that_o those_o through_o who_o they_o appear_v be_v member_n of_o christ_n body_n but_o those_o who_o be_v circumcise_a in_o heart_n and_o have_v the_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n towards_o god_n be_v the_o very_a member_n of_o christ_n church_n and_o therefore_o the_o most_o proper_a mean_n for_o the_o preservation_n of_o such_o member_n in_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o as_o member_n of_o one_o body_n be_v that_o whereby_o they_o come_v to_o be_v circumcise_a in_o heart_n and_o gather_v unto_o the_o truth_n which_o be_v no_o other_o but_o the_o spirit_n and_o arm_v of_o god_n power_n which_o surround_v all_o those_o that_o wait_v upon_o he_o and_o have_v a_o daily_a dependence_n upon_o the_o lord_n with_o the_o mind_n inward_o stay_v in_o the_o measure_n of_o that_o grace_n which_o the_o apostle_n say_v be_v sufficient_a for_o they_o and_o thus_o the_o baptism_n of_o the_o spirit_n will_v be_v witness_v continual_o in_o which_o every_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n come_v to_o be_v center_a into_o a_o heavenly_a fellowship_n and_o communion_n each_o with_o other_o in_o the_o life_n of_o righteousness_n the_o next_o thing_n i_o shall_v examine_v be_v whether_o r._n b_n affirmative_a answer_n to_o this_o question_n viz._n whether_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v power_n in_o any_o case_n that_o be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n to_o give_v postive_a sentence_n and_o decision_n which_o may_v be_v obligatory_a upon_o believer_n be_v agreeable_a to_o truth_n and_o sound_a doctrine_n my_o observation_n hereon_o be_v this_o that_o he_o have_v not_o here_o adjoin_v inward_a conviction_n whereby_o they_o may_v find_v clearness_n in_o themselves_o to_o the_o sentence_n of_o the_o church_n as_o necessary_a to_o the_o obligation_n he_o intend_v and_o inasmuch_o as_o nothing_o without_o a_o inward_a clearness_n and_o conviction_n can_v become_v a_o real_a and_o acceptable_a bond_n upon_o a_o believer_n to_o be_v at_o unity_n with_o his_o brethren_n in_o the_o belief_n and_o practice_n of_o thing_n relate_v to_o conscience_n and_o that_o those_o who_o be_v find_v in_o the_o practice_n of_o other_o man_n line_n before_o they_o have_v faith_n therein_o may_v oft_o time_n run_v into_o the_o sin_n of_o hypocrisy_n even_o as_o other_o may_n into_o the_o sin_n of_o negligence_n who_o through_o unwatchfulness_n to_o their_o own_o measure_n want_v clearness_n of_o sight_n and_o understanding_n to_o practice_v and_o join_v with_o those_o thing_n which_o other_o waiting_z in_o their_o own_o measure_n may_v by_o the_o spirit_n be_v lead_v into_o therefore_o i_o can_v but_o say_v that_o the_o scope_n and_o bend_v of_o his_o spirit_n so_o far_o as_o from_o his_o word_n i_o can_v savour_n in_o relation_n to_o this_o matter_n be_v not_o agreeable_a to_o the_o truth_n and_o sound_a doctrine_n and_o since_o it_o be_v so_o as_o r._n b._n observe_v page_n 35._o that_o god_n have_v not_o give_v we_o our_o reason_n to_o no_o purpose_n i_o shall_v according_a to_o the_o line_n of_o right_a reason_n a_o little_a further_o observe_v first_o i_o find_v r._n b._n treat_v in_o his_o seven_o section_n concern_v the_o power_n of_o decision_n thus_o to_o say_v page_z 66._o the_o only_a proper_a judge_n of_o controversy_n in_o the_o church_n be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o the_o power_n of_o decide_v sole_o lie_v in_o it_o as_o have_v the_o only_a infallible_a judgement_n belong_v to_o it_o which_o infallibility_n be_v not_o necessary_o annex_v to_o any_o person_n person_n or_o place_n whatsoever_o by_o virtue_n of_o any_o office_n place_n or_o station_n any_o one_o may_v have_v or_o have_v have_v in_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n that_o be_v to_o say_v that_o any_o have_v ground_n to_o reason_n thus_o because_o i_o be_o or_o have_v be_v such_o a_o eminent_a member_n therefore_o my_o judgement_n be_v infallible_a or_o because_o we_o be_v the_o great_a number_n or_o that_o we_o live_v in_o such_o a_o note_a or_o famous_a place_n or_o the_o like_a though_o some_o of_o these_o reason_n may_v and_o aught_o to_o have_v their_o true_a weight_n in_o case_n of_o contradictory_n assertion_n thus_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n from_o all_o which_o two_o thing_n be_v observable_a first_o that_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n account_v the_o spirit_n the_o only_a judge_n second_o that_o though_o he_o affirm_v that_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v power_n in_o case_n that_o be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n to_o give_v positive_a sentence_n and_o decision_n which_o may_v be_v obligatory_a upon_o believer_n yet_o through_o his_o whole_a treatise_n i_o find_v not_o that_o he_o have_v describe_v who_o be_v the_o person_n that_o be_v the_o church_n and_o where_o those_o person_n do_v usual_o assemble_v as_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o therefore_o though_o my_o very_a soul_n abhor_v light_o to_o esteem_v of_o the_o elect_a of_o god_n or_o to_o undervalue_v the_o power_n the_o church_n of_o god_n either_o stand_v in_o or_o be_v endue_v with_o yet_o since_o i_o do_v know_v how_o dangerous_a a_o thing_n it_o be_v for_o any_o to_o burden_n the_o conscience_n of_o god_n people_n though_o under_o ever_o so_o specious_a pretence_n and_o that_o when_o we_o speak_v of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n we_o mean_v visible_a person_n distinguish_v as_o outward_a person_n by_o name_n that_o may_v be_v know_v to_o the_o outward_a man_n though_o as_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n distinguish_v not_o by_o such_o name_n but_o by_o that_o name_n which_o be_v write_v in_o heaven_n and_o know_v to_o the_o inward_a man_n i_o can_v but_o query_n to_o what_o end_n do_v the_o aforesaid_a author_n assign_v the_o decision_n of_o case_n of_o conscience_n which_o be_v matter_n certain_o to_o be_v know_v so_o as_o to_o be_v bind_v on_o believer_n to_o judge_n so_o describe_v as_o that_o a_o great_a controversy_n may_v immediate_o arise_v upon_o the_o ask_n of_o this_o question_n who_o or_o where_o those_o man_n be_v this_o instead_o of_o remove_v one_o difference_n or_o clear_v one_o doubt_n may_v beget_v more_o
subjection_n to_o christ_n the_o head_n to_o who_o all_o power_n be_v give_v in_o and_o over_o his_o church_n who_o be_v fellow-member_n and_o fellow-servant_n of_o and_o in_o his_o body_n who_o power_n and_o prevalency_n with_o the_o lord_n be_v better_a demonstrate_v by_o covet_v to_o wash_v each_o other_o foot_n according_a to_o the_o example_n of_o christ_n their_o lord_n and_o master_n than_o to_o be_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o outward_a jurisdiction_n as_o lord_n and_o master_n over_o each_o other_o for_o that_o agree_v not_o with_o the_o testimony_n of_o paul_n rom._n 14.10_o who_o thus_o say_v why_o do_v thou_o judge_v thy_o brother_n why_o do_v thou_o despise_v thy_o brother_n for_o we_o shall_v all_o appear_v before_o the_o judgment-seat_n of_o christ_n for_o it_o be_v write_v say_v the_o lord_n every_o knee_n shall_v bow_v to_o i_o and_o all_o tongue_n shall_v confess_v unto_o god_n so_o than_o every_o one_o of_o we_o shall_v give_v a_o account_n of_o himself_o to_o god_n let_v we_o not_o therefore_o judge_v one_o another_o any_o more_o the_o consideration_n of_o these_o thing_n put_v i_o in_o mind_n that_o there_o be_v some_o who_o in_o their_o buisy_n mind_n be_v apt_a to_o be_v consider_v what_o sort_n of_o joy_n heaven_n yield_v to_o the_o faithful_a after_o this_o life_n whenas_o their_o time_n will_v undoubted_o be_v much_o better_o spend_v in_o contemplate_v how_o to_o come_v thither_o or_o if_o they_o have_v assurance_n thereof_o to_o be_v demonstrate_v the_o way_n to_o other_o if_o call_v thereto_o to_o this_o sort_n may_v such_o be_v liken_v who_o will_v needs_o give_v themselves_o the_o trouble_n to_o treat_v how_o far_o christ_n government_n extend_v though_o of_o its_o increase_n there_o be_v no_o end_n and_o in_o what_o case_n that_o be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n the_o church_n have_v power_n to_o give_v forth_o positive_a sentence_n that_o may_v oblige_v believer_n though_o nothing_o can_v be_v a_o acceptable_a bond_n upon_o the_o conscience_n until_o by_o the_o light_n convince_v and_o that_o in_o such_o case_n great_a controversy_n may_v arise_v whether_o such_o as_o give_v forth_o such_o sentence_n be_v the_o church_n or_o no_o than_o be_v before_o concern_v the_o matter_n whereof_o they_o assume_v jurisdiction_n and_o therefore_o of_o such_o it_o may_v be_v true_o say_v that_o their_o time_n may_v be_v much_o better_o spend_v in_o the_o exercise_n of_o their_o mind_n unto_o god_n that_o if_o they_o be_v not_o subject_n of_o christ_n kingdom_n and_o under_o his_o government_n they_o may_v attain_v thereto_o and_o be_v subject_a to_o his_o power_n to_o who_o all_o power_n both_o in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n be_v give_v and_o that_o be_v thereunto_o attain_v may_v be_v preserve_v therein_o unto_o the_o end_n and_o be_v demonstrate_v unto_o other_o how_o to_o attain_v the_o same_o if_o call_v thereunto_o concern_v the_o power_n of_o decision_n r._n b._n page_n 66._o say_v as_o on_o another_o occasion_n be_v already_o quote_v the_o only_a proper_a judge_n of_o controversy_n in_o the_o church_n be_v the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o be_v not_o necessary_o annex_v to_o any_o person_n or_o person_n or_o place_v whatsoever_o etc._n etc._n that_o be_v to_o say_v that_o any_o have_v ground_n to_o reason_n thus_o because_o i_o be_o or_o have_v be_v such_o on_o eminent_a member_n therefore_o my_o judgement_n be_v infallible_a or_o because_o we_o be_v the_o great_a number_n or_o that_o we_o live_v in_o such_o a_o note_a or_o famous_a place_n though_o some_o of_o these_o reason_n may_v and_o aught_o to_o have_v their_o true_a weight_n in_o case_n of_o contradictory_n assertion_n here_o i_o can_v but_o query_n that_o if_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v the_o only_a proper_a judge_n of_o controversy_n in_o the_o church_n as_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n say_v it_o be_v how_o then_o can_v there_o be_v any_o weight_n in_o any_o other_o thing_n else_o beside_o the_o spirit_n and_o whether_o these_o his_o word_n viz._n some_o of_o these_o reason_n ought_v to_o have_v their_o true_a weight_n in_o case_n of_o contradictory_n assertion_n when_o relative_a to_o that_o which_o he_o himself_o conclude_v be_v unalterable_o seat_v in_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n seem_v not_o a_o contradiction_n in_o common_a sense_n and_o whether_o under_o this_o very_a notion_n those_o who_o be_v but_o weak_a in_o the_o faith_n or_o of_o a_o temporize_a spirit_n may_v not_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o some_o eminent_a member_n or_o the_o great_a number_n or_o the_o brethren_n in_o some_o note_a or_o famous_a place_n more_o than_o to_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o measure_n of_o his_o grace_n in_o themseule_n i_o leave_v to_o the_o judicious_a reader_n to_o consider_v beside_o why_o be_v not_o the_o mean_a of_o the_o flock_n the_o lesser_a number_n and_o some_o inconsiderable_a ignoble_a place_n mention_v and_o that_o some_o of_o these_o also_o may_v and_o aught_o to_o have_v their_o true_a weight_n since_o the_o testimony_n of_o truth_n have_v be_v that_o god_n have_v choose_v the_o foolish_a weak_a and_o vile_a despise_a thing_n of_o the_o world_n to_o confound_v the_o wise_a and_o mighty_a r._n b._n further_n say_v page_n 68_o first_o that_o there_o never_o will_v nor_o can_v be_v want_v in_o case_n of_o controversy_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o give_v judgement_n through_o some_o or_o other_o in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n so_o long_o as_o any_o assembly_n can_v proper_o or_o in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n be_v so_o term_v second_o that_o god_n ordinary_o have_v employ_v such_o who_o he_o have_v make_v use_n of_o in_o gather_v his_o church_n though_o not_o exclude_v other_o three_o that_o their_o de_fw-la facto_fw-la give_v a_o positive_a judgement_n in_o such_o case_n will_v not_o import_v tyranny_n and_o usurpation_n neither_o will_v the_o pretence_n of_o any_o contradict_v they_o or_o refuse_v to_o submit_v on_o the_o account_n they_o see_v it_o not_o excuse_v they_o of_o be_v guilty_a of_o disobey_v god_n but_o of_o these_o three_o assertion_n may_v be_v collect_v without_o the_o least_o abuse_n of_o the_o author_n word_n this_o short_a ensue_a sentence_n that_o a_o person_n be_v not_o submit_v to_o the_o positive_a judgement_n touch_v controversy_n give_v by_o any_o assembly_n or_o at_o least_o by_o some_o or_o other_o of_o they_o which_o may_v in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n be_v term_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v disobedience_n to_o god_n though_o the_o person_n refuse_v pretend_v they_o refuse_v to_o submit_v on_o the_o account_n they_o see_v it_o not_o by_o this_o sort_n of_o language_n every_o one_o must_v not_o only_o now_o believe_v as_o the_o church_n believe_v of_o which_o that_o i_o may_v not_o be_v misunderstand_v i_o refer_v the_o reader_n to_o what_o shall_v be_v write_v thereon_o in_o what_o hereafter_o follow_v but_o also_o must_v believe_v as_o any_o assembly_n or_o some_o or_o other_o of_o they_o do_v which_o in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n may_v be_v term_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n or_o at_o least_o submit_v to_o such_o though_o the_o person_n refuse_v shall_v pretend_v they_o see_v it_o not_o he_o that_o run_v may_v read_v a_o body_n of_o darkness_n and_o confusion_n herein_o what_o a_o long_a step_n at_o once_o be_v here_o from_z under_z christ_n government_n that_o now_o submission_n must_v be_v to_o any_o assembly_n or_o some_o or_o other_o of_o they_o that_o in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n may_v be_v term_v christ_n church_n nay_o if_o the_o want_n of_o sight_n be_v lay_v for_o a_o excuse_n shall_v not_o excuse_v submission_n may_v i_o not_o far_o say_v what_o a_o long_a step_n at_o once_o be_v this_o to_o magnify_v that_o devotion_n whereof_o ignorance_n be_v the_o mother_n and_o that_o zeal_n which_o be_v without_o knowledge_n be_v here_o any_o room_n leave_v to_o see_v and_o savour_v for_o ourselves_o and_o if_o this_o be_v not_o a_o apparent_a mark_n of_o a_o impose_v usurp_a spirit_n and_o a_o evident_a abuse_n to_o the_o profession_n of_o truth_n and_o the_o ancient_a labourer_n therein_o who_o testimony_n be_v we_o preach_v not_o ourselves_o nor_o yet_o that_o you_o shall_v be_v follower_n of_o we_o otherwise_o than_o as_o you_o have_v a_o inward_a sense_n in_o yourselves_o that_o we_o be_v follower_n of_o christ_n let_v god_n witness_n in_o all_o judge_n to_o the_o same_o witness_n i_o can_v but_o yet_o appeal_v whether_o the_o submission_n that_o seem_v to_o be_v aim_v at_o be_v not_o one_o of_o the_o great_a step_n to_o a_o apostasy_n that_o have_v appear_v in_o our_o age_n or_o since_o the_o truth_n have_v in_o these_o latter_a year_n be_v publish_v among_o we_o for_o i_o do_v know_v have_v be_v a_o witness_n of_o the_o primitive_a gather_n and_o testimony_n among_o we_o in_o these_o latter_a age_n that_o one_o
part_n of_o the_o glory_n of_o that_o administration_n under_o which_o thousand_o in_o these_o nation_n be_v gather_v unto_o god_n do_v consist_v in_o this_o that_o after_o they_o have_v be_v wander_v from_o mountain_n to_o hill_n from_o under_o one_o form_n and_o outward_a church-fellowship_n into_o another_o they_o come_v to_o be_v turn_v to_o the_o sure_a guide_n in_o themselves_o christ_n light_n and_o warn_v not_o to_o look_v out_o neither_o to_o be_v in_o the_o lo_n here_o be_v and_o the_o lo_n there_o be_v but_o to_o be_v faithful_a to_o their_o own_o measure_n for_o that_o according_a to_o paul_n testimony_n god_n grace_n be_v give_v to_o every_o one_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o gift_n of_o christ_n but_o to_o return_v let_v we_o examine_v how_o he_o prove_v his_o first_o assertion_n viz._n that_o there_o never_o will_v nor_o can_v be_v want_v in_o case_n of_o controversy_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o give_v judgement_n through_o some_o or_o other_o in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n so_o long_o as_o any_o assembly_n can_v proper_o or_o in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n be_v so_o term_v his_o proof_n be_v on_o this_o wise_a for_o the_o first_o say_v he_o to_o those_o who_o believe_v the_o scripture_n there_o will_v need_v no_o other_o probation_n than_o that_o of_o the_o 28_o of_o matthew_n and_o the_o 20_o and_o lo_o i_o be_o with_o you_o always_o unto_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n and_o verse_n 18._o and_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o it_o how_o this_o prove_v the_o matter_n to_o i_o appear_v not_o for_o these_o scripture_n do_v neither_o express_o nor_o by_o any_o natural_a consequence_n say_v that_o any_o assembly_n be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n which_o may_v in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n be_v so_o term_v nor_o yet_o speak_v any_o thing_n of_o controversy_n arise_v among_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v he_o bring_v the_o first_o scripture_n to_o prove_v that_o christ_n will_v be_v with_o such_o who_o he_o at_o this_o day_n make_v use_v of_o to_o teach_v all_o nation_n as_o he_o do_v his_o disciple_n at_o that_o day_n whilst_o they_o shall_v teach_v to_o observe_v the_o thing_n that_o christ_n to_o who_o all_o power_n be_v give_v command_v not_o the_o command_v of_o assembly_n which_o may_v in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n be_v term_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n but_o the_o thing_n that_o christ_n command_v he_o have_v exact_o hit_v the_o mark_n but_o as_o to_o the_o matter_n the_o aforesaid_a author_n seem_v by_o his_o word_n to_o drive_v at_o it_o be_v far_o from_o be_v to_o the_o purpose_n and_o as_o to_o the_o second_o scripture_n have_v he_o bring_v it_o to_o prove_v that_o the_o gate_n of_o hell_n shall_v not_o prevail_v against_o that_o church_n which_o be_v build_v on_o the_o rock_n christ_n it_o will_v have_v answer_v the_o end_n but_o alas_o it_o be_v far_o remote_a from_o prove_v that_o god_n spirit_n will_v appear_v to_o decide_v controversy_n in_o every_o assembly_n that_o in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n can_v be_v term_v christ_n church_n and_o so_o i_o can_v but_o conclude_v that_o these_o and_o several_a other_o scripture_n which_o he_o have_v quote_v as_o proof_n of_o his_o assertion_n seem_v rather_o strain_v to_o vindicate_v what_o he_o assert_n than_o that_o his_o assertion_n be_v according_a to_o it_o on_o which_o hand_n he_o say_v in_o his_o epistle_n to_o the_o reader_n that_o both_o papist_n and_o protestant_n have_v great_o go_v aside_o which_o may_v have_v be_v a_o caution_n to_o he_o not_o to_o have_v err_v in_o the_o same_o path_n as_o now_o he_o have_v do_v let_v we_o a_o little_a further_o examine_v his_o word_n tolerable_a supposition_n when_o we_o be_v not_o certain_a of_o the_o truth_n of_o any_o thing_n and_o yet_o be_v apt_a to_o think_v it_o be_v or_o may_v be_v so_o we_o common_o say_v my_o supposition_n be_v that_o it_o be_v or_o may_v be_v so_o and_o though_o the_o aforesaid_a author_n adjoin_v to_o the_o word_n supposition_n tolerable_a yet_o that_o ascertain_v nothing_o it_o only_o import_v such_o a_o supposition_n may_v be_v sufferable_a that_o be_v may_v be_v suffer_v to_o be_v a_o supposition_n not_o a_o thing_n that_o be_v certain_a there_o be_v assembly_n obvious_a to_o every_o eye_n that_o know_v any_o thing_n of_o christianity_n which_o can_v on_o any_o term_n be_v suppose_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n there_o be_v other_o assembly_n which_o have_v several_a mark_n and_o token_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n so_o far_o as_o several_a thing_n outward_a profess_a and_o act_v may_v be_v such_o and_o yet_o notwithstanding_o not_o own_v by_o the_o lord_n as_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n the_o present_a age_n as_o well_o as_o age_n past_a yield_v many_o precedent_n to_o prove_v the_o same_o for_o that_o it_o be_v obvious_a there_o have_v be_v many_o assembly_n under_o various_a form_n who_o profess_v faith_n in_o christ_n work_v of_o righteousness_n and_o divers_a truth_n own_a by_o the_o true_a church_n of_o christ_n now_o whether_o such_o thing_n profess_v and_o own_a may_v not_o be_v ground_n for_o a_o tolerable_a supposition_n that_o such_o assembly_n be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n i_o leave_v to_o the_o judgement_n of_o the_o impartial_a and_o judicious_a reader_n have_v this_o further_a testimony_n to_o add_v that_o the_o world_n have_v too_o much_o be_v trouble_v with_o the_o sentence_n decree_n and_o decisive_n judgement_n of_o too_o many_o assembly_n suppose_v to_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n or_o that_o on_o tolerable_a supposition_n have_v be_v so_o term_v who_o have_v rather_o increase_v than_o end_v controversy_n as_o history_n do_v at_o large_a manifest_a and_o since_o r._n b._n undertake_v by_o reason_n to_o evidence_n the_o same_o i_o shall_v according_a to_o the_o line_n of_o right_a reason_n and_o truth_n take_v upon_o i_o further_o to_o discover_v the_o fallacy_n of_o his_o so_o confident_a assertion_n the_o qualification_n of_o a_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n be_v sanctification_n through_o the_o spirit_n wheresoever_o any_o number_n of_o person_n so_o qualify_v be_v assemble_v in_o christ_n name_n there_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n though_o they_o be_v of_o that_o number_n who_o be_v of_o the_o low_a degree_n or_o rank_n in_o the_o body_n now_o a_o assembly_n of_o such_o member_n may_v be_v as_o insensible_a and_o void_a of_o understanding_n in_o many_o divine_a matter_n and_o mystery_n relate_v to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n as_o the_o ear_n of_o the_o natural_a body_n may_v be_v insensible_a of_o what_o the_o eye_n do_v see_v and_o so_o may_v have_v case_n of_o controversy_n bring_v before_o they_o whereof_o they_o be_v no_o more_o competent_a judge_n not_o be_v gift_v thereunto_o by_o the_o spirit_n than_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o natural_a body_n be_v capable_a to_o distinguish_v between_o the_o diversity_n of_o voice_n and_o sound_v or_o the_o ear_n of_o diversity_n of_o colour_n and_o yet_o may_v be_v all_o faithful_a in_o their_o place_n walk_v according_a to_o their_o respective_a measure_n of_o grace_n which_o god_n have_v give_v they_o so_o that_o none_o can_v in_o truth_n say_v such_o a_o assembly_n may_v not_o proper_o be_v call_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v build_v upon_o he_o their_o rock_n and_o have_v perfect_a fellowship_n each_o with_o other_o in_o the_o life_n of_o righteousness_n obj._n and_o whereas_o some_o may_v be_v ready_a to_o object_n and_o say_v why_o do_v thou_o seem_v to_o reflect_v on_o this_o sort_n of_o language_n we_o must_v believe_v as_o the_o church_n believe_v part._n believe_v note_n this_o question_n be_v state_v in_o a_o print_a book_n and_o publish_v by_o one_o call_v a_o quaker_n who_o name_n be_v omit_v for_o the_o reason_n mention_v in_o the_o preface_n to_o the_o first_o part._n be_v not_o the_o true_a church_n in_o the_o true_a faith_n and_o must_v we_o not_o either_o believe_v thus_o as_o the_o true_a church_n believe_v or_o else_o do_v we_o not_o manifest_v both_o folly_n and_o hypocrisy_n to_o profess_v ourselves_o member_n thereof_o answer_n to_o this_o objection_n have_v in_o my_o forego_v line_n use_v such_o a_o expression_n i_o thus_o say_v the_o general_a assembly_n and_o church_n of_o the_o first_o bear_v be_v write_v in_o heaven_n heb._n 12.23_o but_o i_o do_v not_o find_v that_o this_o general_a assembly_n set_v forth_o their_o creed_n record_v on_o earth_n by_o that_o i_o thus_o mean_a i_o do_v not_o find_v any_o certain_a number_n of_o article_n of_o faith_n write_v in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n which_o every_o member_n of_o this_o general_a assembly_n do_v believe_v and_o which_o every_o one_o who_o shall_v come_v to_o be_v gather_v into_o the_o fellowship_n of_o christ_n body_n
liable_a to_o err_v than_o a_o treat_v on_o this_o scripture_n take_v eat_v this_o be_v my_o body_n and_o apply_v it_o to_o outward_a bread_n will_v and_o though_o none_o among_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n call_v quaker_n as_o ever_o i_o yet_o hear_v treat_v on_o the_o late_a scripture_n in_o approbation_n of_o the_o sense_n and_o application_n before_o recite_v yet_o i_o find_v the_o aforesaid_a author_n treat_v on_o the_o former_a scripture_n and_o that_o as_o to_o i_o appear_v with_o respect_n to_o settle_a assembly_n who_o if_o they_o watch_v not_o may_v err_v which_o be_v easy_o to_o be_v savour_v if_o the_o whole_a scope_n of_o his_o treatise_n be_v but_o due_o weigh_v the_o service_n for_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n in_o his_o so_o do_v at_o this_o day_n be_v hard_o to_o be_v understand_v by_o many_o who_o have_v a_o honourable_a esteem_n for_o truth_n as_o preach_v in_o the_o beginning_n especial_o since_o it_o may_v occasion_v many_o to_o stumble_v and_o fall_v through_o a_o jealousy_n that_o those_o scripture_n in_o process_n of_o time_n may_v be_v use_v to_o enforce_v obedience_n to_o outward_a sentence_n and_o decree_n relate_v to_o conscience_n whether_o the_o understanding_n be_v so_o illuminate_v as_o to_o see_v the_o service_n of_o such_o obedience_n for_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n yea_o or_o nay_o and_o since_o it_o be_v so_o that_o of_o late_a much_o be_v speak_v touch_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n and_o that_o the_o church_n be_v not_o liable_a to_o err_v and_o that_o the_o apostasy_n shall_v never_o enter_v the_o generality_n more_o it_o be_v at_o this_o time_n with_o i_o to_o treat_v a_o little_a further_o touch_v thing_n of_o this_o nature_n and_o though_o i_o will_v not_o be_v understand_v to_o say_v that_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v not_o invest_v with_o power_n from_o on_o high_a for_o every_o member_n thereof_o according_a to_o measure_n stand_v in_o the_o power_n or_o that_o the_o apostasy_n shall_v enter_v the_o generality_n again_o yet_o i_o have_v this_o certain_a sense_n that_o in_o assert_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n and_o her_o infallibility_n etc._n etc._n time_n have_v not_o be_v so_o well_o employ_v as_o may_v have_v be_v in_o a_o inward_a exercise_n to_o be_v comprehend_v in_o the_o power_n thereby_o to_o be_v preserve_v out_o of_o all_o apostasy_n and_o error_n but_o to_o proceed_v we_o read_v that_o the_o author_n to_o the_o hebrew_n tell_v they_o they_o be_v come_v to_o the_o 12.13_o the_o heb._n 12.13_o general_n assembly_n and_o church_n of_o the_o first-born_a which_o be_v write_v in_o heaven_n and_o to_o god_n the_o judge_n of_o all_o we_o do_v not_o find_v that_o the_o scripture_n speak_v of_o the_o authority_n of_o this_o general_a assembly_n so_o that_o their_o sentence_n and_o decisive_n judgement_n shall_v be_v a_o bond_n on_o believer_n to_o obey_v though_o they_o see_v it_o not_o but_o say_v god_n be_v judge_n of_o all_o neither_o do_v i_o find_v that_o the_o scripture_n make_v mention_n of_o any_o general_a assembly_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n other_o than_o in_o this_o place_n and_o since_o the_o word_n church_n be_v most_o use_v in_o scripture_n with_o respect_n to_o particular_a congregation_n or_o assembly_n what_o ground_n be_v there_o to_o exalt_v the_o power_n of_o a_o general_n assembly_n above_o any_o particular_a one_o especial_o since_o no_o such_o assembly_n whether_o general_n or_o particular_a as_o assembly_n of_o man_n have_v power_n one_o above_o another_o further_o than_o the_o power_n of_o god_n appear_v more_o eminent_a in_o degree_n in_o one_o than_o another_o for_o god_n by_o his_o spirit_n alone_o be_v sole_a judge_n which_o appear_v though_o but_o through_o a_o handmaid_n or_o mean_a of_o the_o flock_n in_o the_o least_o of_o assembly_n ought_v to_o be_v submit_v to_o when_o god_n witness_n in_o the_o conscience_n answer_v whether_o a_o assembly_n esteem_v a_o general_n assembly_n approve_v thereof_o or_o no._n where_o two_o or_o three_o be_v gather_v together_o in_o christ_n name_n there_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n 20._o christ_n matth._n 18.19_o 20._o christ_n say_v if_o two_o of_o such_o agree_v on_o earth_n as_o touch_v any_o thing_n they_o shall_v ask_v the_o father_n it_o shall_v be_v do_v for_o they_o of_o my_o father_n which_o be_v in_o heaven_n can_v the_o agreement_n of_o a_o general_n assembly_n do_v more_o than_o this_o viz._n than_o prevail_v with_o the_o father_n and_o therefore_o i_o may_v well_o query_n why_o the_o agreement_n of_o two_o in_o any_o case_n who_o in_o christ_n name_n agree_v ought_v not_o to_o have_v as_o great_a a_o prevalency_n among_o their_o brethren_n as_o the_o agreement_n of_o a_o assembly_n esteem_v a_o general_n one_o oughts_z and_o why_o the_o people_n of_o god_n at_o this_o day_n may_v not_o have_v a_o eye_n as_o well_o to_o two_o brethren_n who_o in_o christ_n name_n agree_v and_o be_v at_o unity_n in_o the_o truth_n as_o unto_o a_o assembly_n esteem_v a_o general_n one_o though_o particular_a society_n of_o man_n may_v constitute_v some_o person_n or_o person_n to_o represent_v they_o and_o so_o may_v confer_v a_o power_n on_o they_o to_o negotiate_v outward_a worldly_a affair_n and_o by_o reason_n of_o such_o constitution_n there_o may_v be_v assembly_n which_o in_o that_o respect_n may_v be_v call_v general_n assembly_n yet_o i_o query_n whether_o any_o assembly_n of_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n can_v in_o a_o proper_a sense_n be_v call_v a_o general_n assembly_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n unless_o such_o a_o one_o where_o every_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n be_v convince_v because_o as_o they_o pretend_v to_o the_o exercise_n of_o no_o power_n in_o their_o assembly_n when_o negotiate_v the_o affair_n of_o truth_n as_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o not_o bare_o as_o man_n but_o god_n power_n so_o they_o do_v not_o profess_v that_o as_o such_o they_o have_v power_n to_o confer_v god_n power_n and_o spirit_n on_o any_o for_o they_o account_v that_o only_o proper_a to_o christ_n the_o lord_n and_o therefore_o if_o any_o particular_a congregation_n shall_v attempt_v to_o send_v person_n as_o their_o representative_n to_o any_o particular_a place_n in_o order_n to_o meet_v together_o as_o a_o general_n assembly_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n or_o that_o any_o part_n of_o the_o church_n without_o such_o particular_a election_n or_o mission_n shall_v assemble_v together_o and_o call_v themselves_o the_o general_n assembly_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n i_o query_n whether_o those_o so_o affirm_v will_v not_o therein_o manifest_o err_v yet_o i_o will_v not_o hereby_o be_v understand_v to_o judge_v it_o as_o a_o evil_a for_o any_o whether_o apostle_n or_o elder_n or_o any_o else_o to_o meet_v together_o when_o where_o and_o as_o often_o as_o they_o in_o the_o spirit_n shall_v find_v freedom_n from_o the_o lord_n so_o to_o do_v nor_o yet_o be_v meet_v together_o to_o judge_v they_o for_o give_v forth_o any_o thing_n by_o way_n of_o recommendation_n to_o the_o conscience_n of_o their_o brethren_n when_o they_o find_v freedom_n from_o the_o lord_n so_o to_o do_v yet_o in_o this_o case_n every_o one_o have_v need_v to_o wait_v in_o their_o own_o gift_n that_o so_o they_o may_v not_o exercise_v themselves_o in_o thing_n beside_o their_o gift_n and_o then_o what_o such_o bring_v forth_o may_v have_v a_o answer_n in_o the_o conscience_n of_o their_o fellow-brethren_n but_o shall_v such_o assembly_n take_v upon_o they_o to_o give_v forth_o positive_a sentence_n decree_n or_o decisive_n judgement_n in_o matter_n of_o conscience_n in_o order_n to_o become_v a_o bond_n upon_o believer_n to_o obey_v though_o they_o see_v it_o not_o and_o in_o defect_n of_o obedience_n to_o such_o their_o sentence_n pronounce_v all_o such_o their_o brethren_n who_o may_v refuse_v to_o obey_v the_o same_o rebellious_a against_o the_o lord_n they_o will_v therein_o manifest_v themselves_o to_o be_v lay_v another_o foundation_n than_o that_o which_o have_v be_v already_o lay_v and_o so_o it_o may_v be_v just_o with_o the_o lord_n to_o withdraw_v his_o comfort_a presence_n from_o they_o r._n b._n page_n 63._o treat_v of_o the_o liberty_n of_o conscience_n which_o may_v be_v exercise_v by_o the_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n diverse_o without_o judge_v one_o another_o thus_o say_v there_o be_v a_o certain_a liberty_n and_o forbearance_n also_o that_o be_v more_o particular_a and_o have_v a_o relation_n to_o the_o circumstance_n of_o time_n and_o place_n which_o will_v not_o hold_v universal_o the_o first_o be_v in_o suffer_v circumcision_n to_o the_o jew_n the_o second_o be_v in_o observation_n of_o certain_a day_n the_o three_o abstain_v from_o meat_n to_o which_o i_o say_v the_o aforesaid_a author_n as_o in_o other_o thing_n
so_o also_o in_o this_o be_v mistake_v if_o he_o mean_v that_o circumstance_n of_o time_n and_o place_n be_v the_o ground_n of_o christian_a forbearance_n which_o be_v manifest_a from_o what_o the_o apostle_n say_v rom._n 14.3_o 4._o let_v not_o he_o that_o eat_v despise_v he_o that_o eat_v not_o and_o let_v not_o he_o that_o eat_v not_o jadge_v he_o that_o eat_v who_o be_v thou_o that_o judge_v another_o man_n servant_n to_o his_o own_o master_n he_o stand_v or_o fall_v which_o evident_o show_v that_o in_o as_o much_o as_o every_o one_o must_v answer_v for_o himself_o it_o be_v fit_a every_o one_o shall_v believe_v for_o himself_o and_o so_o practice_v without_o be_v impose_v upon_o by_o other_o and_o this_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o all_o christian_a forbearance_n and_o not_o circumstance_n of_o time_n and_o place_n and_o though_o page_n 65._o r._n b._n say_v that_o be_v account_v a_o doctrine_n of_o devil_n which_o in_o another_o respect_n be_v christian_a forbearance_n which_o i_o take_v he_o to_o assert_v from_o his_o observation_n on_o 1_o cor._n 8._o throughout_o and_o 1_o tim._n 4.1_o 2_o 3._o the_o latter_a scripture_n tell_v we_o that_o command_v to_o abstain_v from_o meat_n be_v a_o doctrine_n of_o devil_n that_o to_o the_o corinth_n say_v if_o meat_n make_v my_o brother_n to_o offend_v i_o will_v eat_v no_o flesh_n while_o the_o world_n stand_v this_o do_v not_o in_o any_o wise_a show_n that_o a_o command_n to_o abstain_v from_o meat_n be_v at_o any_o time_n or_o in_o any_o respect_n justifiable_a for_o if_o he_o will_v have_v this_o assertion_n pass_v for_o truth_n he_o ought_v to_o have_v prove_v not_o only_o that_o a_o command_n to_o abstain_v from_o flesh_n be_v a_o doctrine_n of_o devil_n which_o that_o to_o tymothy_n do_v but_o also_o that_o such_o a_o command_n be_v once_o christian_n forbearance_n but_o nothing_o of_o this_o latter_a appear_v nor_o yet_o can_v be_v prove_v from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n and_o as_o to_o the_o case_n of_o circumcision_n r._n b._n say_v it_o be_v permit_v to_o the_o jew_n for_o a_o time_n to_o this_o i_o say_v we_o find_v that_o many_o of_o the_o believe_a jew_n be_v not_o come_v from_o under_o it_o and_o that_o those_o jew_n who_o see_v beyond_o it_o do_v not_o condemn_v such_o their_o brethren_n but_o we_o do_v not_o find_v that_o the_o apostle_n as_o person_n that_o have_v power_n to_o permit_v or_o not_o permit_v such_o a_o practice_n in_o the_o church_n do_v approve_v of_o it_o in_o any_o of_o the_o jew_n or_o condemn_v the_o same_o in_o such_o as_o practise_v it_o until_o by_o faith_n they_o see_v beyond_o it_o for_o as_o on_o the_o one_o hand_n it_o be_v not_o in_o their_o commission_n to_o preach_v up_o circumcision_n so_o on_o the_o other_o it_o be_v not_o in_o their_o power_n to_o be_v a_o bond_n on_o any_o to_o forbear_v who_o through_o faith_n be_v not_o first_o lead_v therefrom_o for_o though_o the_o apostle_n say_v gal._n 5.2_o i_o paul_n say_v unto_o you_o if_o you_o be_v circumcise_a christ_n shall_v profit_v you_o nothing_o and_o gal._n 4.9_o 10_o 11._o but_o now_o after_o you_o have_v know_v god_n or_o rather_o be_v know_v of_o god_n how_o turn_v you_o again_o to_o the_o weak_a and_o beggarly_a eliment_n you_o observe_v day_n and_o month_n etc._n etc._n i_o be_o afraid_a of_o you_o yet_o this_o do_v not_o at_o that_o time_n condemn_v that_o christian_a liberty_n and_o forbearance_n which_o the_o apostle_n before_o approve_v in_o and_o with_o respect_n unto_o such_o as_o make_v couscience_n of_o circumcision_n and_o the_o observe_v day_n for_o it_o plain_o appear_v he_o speak_v to_o a_o people_n who_o be_v redeem_v out_o of_o those_o beggarly_a eliment_n and_o be_v come_v past_o those_o rudiment_n which_o be_v evident_a by_o these_o his_o word_n how_o turn_v you_o again_o and_o so_o he_o may_v well_o exhort_v such_o neither_o to_o circumcise_v nor_o yet_o be_v in_o the_o observation_n of_o day_n for_o that_o god_n do_v not_o usual_o lead_v into_o those_o thing_n which_o he_o have_v lead_v out_o of_o and_o this_o may_v well_o consist_v with_o the_o truth_n even_o at_o such_o a_o time_n and_o season_n when_o other_o through_o a_o conscientious_a scruple_n may_v in_o a_o plea_n for_o both_o with_o respect_n to_o themselves_o be_v uncondemned_a these_o thing_n consider_v and_o that_o also_o we_o find_v the_o apostle_n exhort_v the_o church_n not_o to_o be_v judge_v one_o another_o with_o respect_n to_o thing_n relate_v to_o conscience_n there_o be_v great_a need_n for_o every_o one_o to_o watch_v against_o a_o censorious_a judge_a spirit_n lest_o while_o any_o be_v judge_v their_o brethren_n they_o themselves_o become_v castawaye_n have_v in_o some_o measure_n clear_v my_o conscience_n i_o have_v this_o further_a to_o add_v that_o it_o be_v a_o bless_a thing_n for_o brethren_n to_o dwell_v together_o in_o love_n and_o unity_n yet_o this_o love_n and_o unity_n ought_v to_o consist_v in_o the_o truth_n else_o the_o blessing_n be_v not_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o there_o be_v many_o who_o be_v ready_a to_o conclude_v that_o a_o universal_a unity_n ought_v to_o be_v establish_v in_o the_o church_n by_o the_o assistance_n of_o outward_a instrument_n that_o as_o we_o be_v member_n of_o one_o body_n so_o we_o may_v not_o only_o be_v one_o in_o faith_n one_o in_o doctrine_n but_o also_o one_o in_o practice_n with_o relation_n to_o discipline_n order_n and_o outward_a form_n of_o government_n my_o soul_n shall_v rejoice_v to_o see_v that_o day_n wherein_o we_o may_v all_o be_v so_o lead_v by_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n spirit_n in_o we_o under_o his_o government_n which_o ought_v to_o be_v exalt_v over_o all_o as_o that_o this_o oneness_n may_v thereby_o be_v witness_v among_o all_o the_o family_n of_o god_n people_n at_o this_o day_n but_o since_o it_o be_v so_o with_o the_o church_n of_o god_n at_o this_o day_n as_o it_o be_v with_o the_o church_n in_o the_o primitive_a day_n viz._n that_o there_o be_v diversitye_n of_o administration_n and_o diversitye_n of_o gift_n &_o operation_n in_o the_o body_n and_o yet_o through_o the_o same_o spirit_n it_o behoove_v every_o one_o diligent_o to_o watch_v that_o we_o judge_v not_o one_o another_o by_o reason_n of_o these_o differ_a exercise_n as_o if_o these_o thing_n consist_v not_o with_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o body_n and_o since_o also_o it_o be_v so_o that_o among_o the_o primitive_a believer_n there_o be_v such_o as_o practise_a circumcision_n some_o make_a conscience_n of_o keep_v a_o day_n and_o some_o that_o absteyn_v from_o eat_a flesh_n and_o other_o that_o do_v not_o and_o yet_o a_o christian-liberty_n and_o forbearance_n be_v so_o exercise_v as_o that_o they_o be_v not_o to_o be_v judge_v one_o another_o about_o these_o thing_n and_o that_o we_o find_v not_o that_o these_o differ_a exercise_n in_o a_o christian-liberty_n do_v subject_a any_o of_o those_o believer_n exercise_v therein_o to_o the_o censure_n of_o be_v out_o of_o the_o unity_n of_o the_o body_n i_o therefore_o do_v reasonable_o conclude_v that_o the_o infallible_a mark_n whereby_o any_o member_n of_o the_o body_n be_v know_v to_o be_v in_o true_a unity_n with_o the_o body_n do_v not_o consist_v in_o profession_n and_o belief_n of_o certain_a principle_n and_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n depend_v thereon_o nor_o yet_o in_o obedience_n to_o the_o measure_n of_o other_o but_o in_o the_o circumcision_n of_o the_o heart_n and_o a_o answer_n of_o a_o good_a conscience_n towards_o god_n and_o that_o every_o member_n keep_v his_o own_o order_n office_n and_o place_n in_o the_o body_n through_o his_o obedience_n to_o the_o measure_n and_o gift_n of_o grace_n in_o himself_o which_o he_o have_v receive_v from_o god_n to_o profit_n withal_o the_o most_o infallible_a mark_n and_o token_n then_o of_o a_o member_n in_o the_o true_a unity_n with_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n be_v a_o inward_a invisible_a mark_n that_o can_v be_v stamp_v on_o any_o but_o by_o the_o impression_n of_o god_n power_n on_o the_o heart_n and_o therefore_o be_v it_o that_o the_o outward_a endeavour_n of_o all_o such_o christian_a professor_n as_o have_v be_v and_o be_v in_o the_o apostasy_n instead_o of_o attain_v to_o a_o heavenly_a union_n in_o the_o spirit_n have_v at_o most_o but_o arrive_v to_o a_o outward_a unity_n consist_v in_o their_o outward_a conformity_n and_o uniformity_n according_a to_o the_o command_n tradition_n decree_n or_o example_n of_o men._n when_o in_o age_n and_o generation_n past_a the_o apostasy_n first_o enter_v as_o a_o flood_n i_o be_o persuade_v that_o all_o who_o have_v know_v the_o truth_n and_o have_v have_v the_o consideration_n and_o true_a sense_n thereof_o upon_o their_o spirit_n do_v conclude_v that_o the_o cause_n thereof_o
birth_n from_o run_v into_o duty_n catch_v of_o open_n and_o lay_v hold_n of_o promise_n and_o to_o feel_v the_o heir_n bear_v of_o the_o immortal_a seed_n to_o who_o all_o belong_v and_o the_o other_o birth_n never_o afterward_o get_v up_o above_o he_o but_o be_v subdue_v and_o bring_v into_o subjection_n again_o say_v the_o apostle_n take_v heed_n of_o do_v any_o thing_n doubt_o be_v not_o forward_a be_v not_o hasty_a wait_v for_o the_o lead_n wait_v for_o the_o manifestation_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v sure_o thou_o receive_v what_o thou_o receive_v in_o the_o faith_n and_o practise_v what_o thou_o practise_v in_o the_o faith_n for_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n be_v a_o error_n from_o the_o principle_n of_o life_n which_o be_v to_o guide_v and_o thereby_o thou_o lose_v ground_n and_o dishonour_v christ_n and_o come_v under_o condemnation_n and_o so_o the_o apostle_n warn_v believer_n to_o take_v heed_n of_o draw_v one_o another_o on_o too_o fast_o or_o of_o judge_v one_o another_o in_o such_o thing_n as_o some_o of_o they_o may_v have_v light_a in_o other_o not_z he_o that_o eat_v not_o to_o judge_v he_o that_o do_v not_o eat_v and_o he_o that_o do_v not_o eat_v not_o to_o judge_v he_o that_o do_v eat_v yea_o in_o matter_n of_o worship_n he_o that_o observe_v a_o day_n and_o keep_v a_o sabbath_n not_o to_o judge_v he_o that_o observe_v not_o a_o day_n or_o keep_v not_o a_o sabbath_n for_o the_o jew_n which_o be_v true_o convert_v yet_o be_v hard_a to_o be_v draw_v off_o from_o the_o observation_n of_o their_o sabbath_n and_o can_v hardly_o bear_v with_o the_o believe_a gentile_n who_o be_v never_o teach_v to_o keep_v their_o sabbath_n with_o they_o but_o be_v teach_v to_o esteem_v every_o day_n and_o sanctify_v it_o to_o the_o lord_n rom._n 14.5_o and_o those_o who_o esteem_v every_o day_n and_o dedicate_v it_o to_o the_o lord_n cease_v from_o sin_n and_o rest_v to_o he_o for_o under_o the_o gospel_n we_o be_v not_o to_o set_v up_o a_o new_a type_n but_o to_o enter_v by_o faith_n into_o the_o true_a rest_n which_o be_v the_o substance_n of_o what_o the_o other_o signify_v can_v hardly_o bear_v with_o they_o who_o observe_v a_o day_n even_o in_o the_o apostle_n day_n christian_n be_v too_o apt_a to_o strive_v after_o a_o wrong_a unity_n and_o uniformity_n in_o outward_a practice_n and_o observation_n and_o to_o judge_v one_o another_o unrighteous_o in_o those_o thing_n and_o mark_v it_o be_v not_o the_o different_a practice_n from_o one_o another_o that_o break_v the_o peace_n and_o the_o unity_n but_o the_o judge_n of_o one_o another_o because_o of_o different_a practice_n he_o that_o keep_v not_o a_o day_n may_v unite_v in_o the_o same_o spirit_n in_o the_o same_o life_n in_o the_o same_o love_n with_o he_o that_o keep_v a_o day_n and_o he_o who_o keep_v a_o day_n may_v unite_v in_o heart_n and_o soul_n with_o the_o same_o spirit_n and_o life_n in_o he_o who_o keep_v not_o a_o day_n but_o he_o that_o judge_v the_o other_o because_o of_o either_o of_o these_o err_v from_o the_o spirit_n from_o the_o love_n from_o the_o life_n and_o so_o break_v the_o bond_n of_o unity_n and_o he_o that_o draw_v another_o to_o any_o practice_n before_o the_o life_n in_o his_o own_o particular_a lead_v he_o do_v as_o much_o as_o in_o he_o lie_v to_o destroy_v the_o soul_n of_o that_o person_n verse_n 15._o this_o be_v the_o apostle_n rule_n for_o every_o one_o to_o perform_v single_o to_o the_o lord_n what_o he_o do_v and_o not_o for_o one_o to_o meddle_v with_o the_o light_n or_o conscience_n of_o another_o undervalue_v his_o brother_n or_o judge_v he_o because_o his_o light_n and_o practice_n differ_v from_o he_o verse_n 10._o of_o that_o 14_o chap._n but_o every_o one_o to_o keep_v close_o to_o their_o own_o measure_n of_o light_n even_o to_o that_o proportion_n of_o faith_n and_o knowledge_n which_o god_n of_o his_o mercy_n have_v bestow_v on_o they_o and_o here_o be_v the_o true_a unity_n in_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o inward_a life_n and_o not_o in_o a_o outward_a uniformity_n that_o be_v not_o necessary_a in_o the_o apostle_n day_n nor_o be_v it_o necessary_a now_o and_o that_o eye_n which_o so_o dote_v upon_o it_o overlook_v the_o one_o thing_n which_o be_v necessary_a man_n keep_v close_o to_o god_n the_o lord_n will_v lead_v they_o on_o fast_o enough_o and_o give_v they_o light_v fast_o enough_o for_o he_o take_v care_n of_o such_o and_o know_v what_o light_n and_o what_o practice_n be_v most_o proper_a for_o they_o but_o for_o man_n to_o walk_v on_o fast_a than_o the_o lord_n hold_v forth_o light_a to_o they_o this_o overturn_v they_o raise_v up_o a_o wrong_a thing_n in_o they_o and_o the_o true_a birth_n hereby_o come_v to_o suffer_v to_o shrink_v and_o be_v drive_v back_o and_o oh_o how_o sweet_a and_o pleasant_a be_v it_o to_o the_o true_o spiritual_a eye_n to_o see_v several_a sort_n of_o believer_n several_a form_n of_o christian_n in_o the_o school_n of_o christ_n every_o one_o learning_n their_o own_o lesson_n perform_v their_o own_o peculiar_a service_n and_o know_v own_v and_o love_v one_o another_o in_o their_o several_a place_n and_o different_a performance_n to_o their_o master_n to_o who_o they_o be_v to_o give_v a_o account_n and_o not_o to_o quarrel_v with_o one_o another_o about_o their_o different_a practice_n rom._n 14.4_o for_o this_o be_v the_o true_a ground_n of_o love_n and_o unity_n not_o that_o such_o a_o man_n walk_v and_o do_v just_a as_o i_o do_v but_o because_o i_o feel_v the_o same_o spirit_n of_o life_n in_o he_o and_o in_o that_o he_o walk_v in_o his_o rank_n in_o his_o own_o order_n in_o his_o proper_a way_n and_o place_n of_o subjection_n to_o that_o and_o this_o be_v far_o more_o please_a to_o i_o than_o if_o he_o walk_v just_a in_o that_o tract_n wherein_o i_o walk_v nay_o so_o far_o as_o i_o be_o spiritual_a i_o can_v so_o much_o as_o desire_v that_o he_o shall_v do_v so_o until_o he_o be_v particular_o lead_v thereto_o by_o the_o same_o spirit_n which_o lead_v i_o and_o he_o that_o know_v what_o it_o be_v to_o receive_v any_o truth_n from_o the_o spirit_n and_o to_o be_v lead_v into_o practice_n by_o the_o spirit_n and_o how_o prone_a the_o fleshly_a man_n be_v to_o make_v haste_n and_o how_o dangerous_a that_o haste_n be_v will_v not_o be_v forward_o to_o press_v his_o knowledge_n or_o practice_n upon_o other_o but_o rather_o wait_v patient_o till_o the_o lord_n fit_v they_o for_o the_o receive_n thereof_o and_o fear_v lest_o they_o shall_v receive_v and_o practice_v too_o soon_o even_o in_o that_o part_n which_o can_v serve_v the_o lord_n and_o this_o i_o can_v true_o say_v concern_v myself_o i_o never_o find_v my_o spirit_n forward_o to_o draw_v any_o either_o to_o any_o thing_n i_o believe_v to_o be_v true_a or_o to_o any_o practice_n or_o way_n of_o worship_n i_o observe_v or_o walk_v in_o but_o desire_v that_o the_o power_n and_o leading_n of_o life_n may_v go_v before_o they_o and_o be_v afraid_a lest_o man_n shall_v receive_v thing_n from_o my_o hand_n and_o not_o from_o the_o lord_n yea_o and_o this_o i_o very_o well_o remember_v that_o when_o i_o walk_v in_o the_o way_n of_o independency_n as_o it_o have_v be_v common_o call_v i_o have_v more_o unity_n with_o more_o love_n towards_o such_o as_o be_v single-hearted_n in_o other_o way_n and_o practice_n of_o worship_n who_o spirit_n i_o have_v some_o feel_n of_o in_o the_o true_a simplicity_n and_o in_o the_o life_n than_o with_o divers_a of_o such_o who_o be_v very_o know_v and_o zealous_a in_o that_o way_n of_o independency_n in_o who_o a_o wrong_a thing_n in_o the_o mean_a time_n have_v get_v up_o which_o have_v cause_v they_o to_o swerve_v from_o the_o life_n and_o from_o the_o simplicity_n so_o that_o the_o true_a church_n government_n be_v in_o the_o spirit_n and_o over_o the_o conscience_n as_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n the_o great_a care_n must_v be_v to_o keep_v it_o within_o its_o bound_n that_o nothing_o else_o govern_v but_o the_o spirit_n and_o that_o the_o government_n be_v extend_v only_o unto_o that_o which_o be_v to_o be_v govern_v first_o care_n must_v be_v have_v that_o nothing_o govern_v in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n but_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n that_o nothing_o else_o teach_v nothing_o else_o exhort_v nothing_o else_o admonish_v and_o reprove_v nothing_o else_o cut_v off_o and_o cast_v out_o every_o minister_n in_o the_o church_n be_v to_o watch_v over_o his_o own_o spirit_n that_o it_o intrude_v not_o into_o the_o work_n of_o god_n that_o it_o take_v not_o upon_o it_o to_o be_v the_o teacher_n the_o exhorte_a the_o reprover_n etc._n etc._n and_o
every_o memis_n to_o wait_v in_o that_o measure_n of_o the_o spirit_n which_o he_o have_v receive_v to_o feel_v the_o go_n forth_o of_o the_o spirit_n in_o he_o that_o teach_v and_o govern_v and_o so_o to_o subject_v not_o to_o man_n but_o to_o the_o lord_n to_o receive_v from_o the_o lord_n to_o obey_v the_o lord_n not_o to_o know_v any_o minister_n according_a to_o the_o flesh_n but_o to_o receive_v and_o submit_v to_o what_o come_v from_o the_o spirit_n in_o the_o spirit_n not_o to_o know_v paul_n or_o apollo_n or_o cephas_n but_o the_o spirit_n minister_a in_o they_o paul_n may_v err_v apollo_n may_v err_v peter_n may_v err_v and_o do_v err_v when_o he_o compel_v the_o gentile_n to_o live_v as_o the_o jew_n gal._n 2.14_o for_o which_o paul_n withstand_v he_o to_o the_o face_n verse_n 11_o and_o barnabas_n also_o do_v err_v verse_n 13._o but_o the_o spirit_n can_v err_v and_o he_o that_o keep_v to_o the_o measure_n of_o the_o spirit_n in_o himself_o can_v let_v in_o any_o of_o their_o error_n if_o they_o shall_v err_v but_o be_v preserve_v for_o the_o least_o measure_n of_o the_o spirit_n be_v true_a and_o give_v true_a judgement_n but_o he_o that_o receive_v never_o so_o great_a a_o measure_n of_o the_o spirit_n yet_o if_o he_o keep_v not_o low_a therein_o but_o lift_v up_o himself_o because_o thereof_o above_o his_o brethren_n may_v easy_o err_v himself_o and_o draw_v aside_o other_o into_o his_o error_n second_o care_n must_v be_v have_v that_o the_o conscience_n be_v keep_v tender_a that_o nothing_o be_v receive_v but_o according_a to_o the_o light_n in_o the_o conscience_n the_o conscience_n be_v the_o seat_n of_o faith_n and_o if_o it_o be_v not_o keep_v close_o to_o the_o light_n which_o god_n light_v there_o faith_n be_v soon_o make_v shipwreck_n of_o christianity_n be_v begin_v in_o the_o spirit_n which_o keep_v out_o the_o fleshly_a part_n with_o all_o its_o fleshly_a wisdom_n and_o reason_v about_o spiritual_a thing_n and_o as_o the_o begin_n be_v in_o the_o anoint_v so_o must_v the_o progress_n be_v as_o the_o spirit_n begin_v in_o the_o conscience_n by_o convince_a that_n by_o persuade_v that_o by_o set_v up_o his_o light_n there_o and_o lead_v the_o soul_n by_o that_o light_n so_o that_o light_n must_v still_o be_v eye_v and_o according_a to_o its_o growth_n and_o manifestation_n in_o the_o conscience_n so_o must_v the_o soul_n stand_v still_o or_o go_v on_o the_o great_a error_n of_o the_o age_n of_o the_o apostasy_n have_v be_v to_o set_v up_o a_o outward_a order_n and_o unformity_n and_o to_o make_v man_n conscience_n bend_v thereto_o either_o by_o argument_n of_o wisdom_n or_o by_o force_n but_o the_o property_n of_o the_o true_a church_n government_n be_v to_o leave_v the_o conscience_n to_o its_o full_a liberty_n in_o the_o lord_n to_o preserve_v it_o single_a and_o entire_a for_o the_o lord_n to_o exercise_v and_o to_o seek_v unity_n in_o the_o light_n and_o in_o the_o spirit_n walk_v sweet_o and_o harmonious_o together_o in_o the_o midst_n of_o different_a practice_n yea_o and_o he_o that_o have_v faith_n and_o can_v see_v beyond_o another_o yet_o can_v have_v it_o to_o him-self_n and_o not_o disturb_v his_o brother_n with_o it_o but_o can_v descend_v and_o walk_v with_o he_o according_a to_o his_o measure_n and_o if_o his_o brother_n have_v any_o heavy_a burden_n upon_o he_o he_o can_v lend_v he_o his_o shoulder_n and_o bear_v part_n of_o his_o burden_n with_o he_o oh_o how_o sweet_a and_o lovely_a be_v it_o to_o see_v brethren_n dwell_v together_o in_o unity_n to_o see_v the_o true_a image_n of_o god_n raise_v in_o person_n and_o they_o know_v and_o love_v one_o another_o in_o that_o image_n and_o bear_v with_o one_o another_o through_o love_n and_o help_v one_o another_o under_o their_o temptation_n and_o distress_n of_o spirit_n which_o every_o one_o must_v expect_v to_o meet_v with_o if_o thou_o be_v a_o christian_n in_o deed_n and_o in_o truth_n preserve_v thy_o conscience_n pure_a and_o tender_a towards_o god_n do_v not_o defile_v it_o with_o such_o religious_a practice_n duty_n ordinance_n etc._n etc._n as_o thou_o do_v not_o feel_v the_o spirit_n lead_v thou_o into_o for_o all_o such_o be_v idol_n and_o exceed_o pollute_v thou_o and_o be_v tender_a also_o of_o thy_o brother_n conscience_n and_o be_v not_o a_o instrument_n to_o draw_v he_o unto_o any_o thing_n which_o the_o lord_n lead_v he_o not_o into_o but_o rejoice_v if_o thou_o find_v he_o in_o simplicity_n of_o heart_n startle_v at_o any_o thing_n for_o if_o he_o abide_v here_o faithful_a his_o guide_n will_v in_o due_a season_n appear_v to_o he_o and_o clear_v up_o his_o way_n before_o he_o but_o if_o he_o be_v too_o hasty_a he_o may_v follow_v a_o wrong_a guide_n and_o that_o guide_n will_v never_o lead_v he_o aright_o towards_o the_o kingdom_n but_o entangle_v he_o further_o and_o further_o from_o it_o oh_o how_o many_o have_v run_v a_o whore_v from_o the_o lord_n how_o many_o have_v first_o lose_v the_o guidance_n of_o his_o spirit_n and_o then_o drown_v their_o life_n in_o religion_n performance_n how_o many_o have_v drink_v of_o the_o cup_n of_o fornication_n from_o the_o life_n at_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o fleshly_a wisdom_n how_o many_o have_v fill_v their_o spirit_n with_o new-testament_n idol_n and_o image_n how_o many_o have_v even_o harden_v their_o heart_n and_o conscience_n by_o follow_v the_o doctrine_n of_o man_n their_o imaginary_a meaning_n of_o scripture_n and_o the_o imagination_n and_o dream_n of_o their_o own_o heart_n be_v it_o not_o time_n for_o man_n at_o length_n to_o turn_v back_o towards_o the_o lord_n to_o wait_v for_o the_o visitation_n and_o light_n of_o his_o spirit_n from_o who_o they_o have_v go_v a_o whore_v and_o who_o in_o all_o these_o thing_n they_o have_v grieve_v and_o if_o ever_o any_o feel_v and_o enjoy_v the_o guidance_n of_o god_n spirit_n their_o conscience_n must_v be_v keep_v tender_a to_o it_o and_o ready_a to_o hear_v and_o follow_v his_o voice_n who_o speak_v in_o spirit_n to_o that_o which_o be_v bear_v of_o he_o which_o infallible_o know_v his_o voice_n and_o be_v keep_v clear_a can_v doubt_v concern_v it_o my_o sheep_n hear_v my_o voice_n say_v christ_n they_o know_v it_o and_o the_o voice_n of_o the_o strange_a spirit_n they_o know_v not_o so_o as_o to_o follow_v it_o but_o turn_v from_o it_o both_o in_o themselves_o and_o other_o but_o that_o which_o be_v not_o the_o sheep_n but_o have_v only_o get_v the_o sheep_n clothing_n cry_v out_o how_o shall_v we_o know_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o spirit_n we_o may_v be_v deceive_v nay_o that_o which_o be_v bear_v of_o god_n that_o which_o be_v the_o elect_a of_o god_n can_v be_v deceive_v wait_v therefore_o for_o the_o birth_n of_o the_o spirit_n to_o which_o the_o spirit_n be_v give_v for_o a_o guide_n who_o infallible_o guide_v it_o out_o of_o deceit_n all_o deceiver_n be_v out_o of_o this_o birth_n out_o of_o this_o spirit_n perhaps_o in_o some_o birth_n or_o other_o frame_v from_o the_o letter_n and_o live_v in_o the_o imitation_n of_o some_o practice_n and_o ordinance_n from_o the_o letter_n under_o which_o cover_n they_o lie_v in_o wait_n to_o deceive_v but_o stranger_n to_o the_o life_n and_o power_n and_o to_o that_o wisdom_n which_o beget_v and_o bear_v to_o god_n thus_o the_o jew_n err_v and_o deceive_v their_o proselyte_n before_o the_o come_n of_o christ_n thus_o the_o christian_n in_o name_n have_v general_o err_v all_o along_o the_o apostasy_n and_o indeed_o for_o the_o generality_n have_v not_o be_v true_a christian_n but_o only_o a_o persecute_a remnant_n among_o they_o who_o life_n have_v be_v nourish_v and_o preserve_v not_o by_o doctrine_n and_o observation_n which_o they_o have_v be_v teach_v by_o the_o precept_n of_o man_n nor_o by_o the_o knowledge_n which_o they_o themselves_o have_v gather_v but_o by_o a_o little_a bread_n daily_o hand_v to_o they_o from_o the_o father_n of_o mercy_n out_o of_o the_o wilderness_n that_o be_v the_o thing_n which_o nourish_v their_o soul_n up_o to_o god_n though_o many_o of_o they_o know_v not_o distinct_o what_o it_o be_v that_o nourish_v they_o nor_o how_o they_o come_v by_o it_o object_n but_o be_v not_o uniformity_n lovely_a and_o do_v not_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v christian_n to_o be_v of_o one_o mind_n and_o be_v it_o not_o a_o sweet_a thing_n if_o we_o be_v all_o of_o one_o heart_n and_o one_o way_n answer_n yea_o uniformity_n be_v very_o lovely_a and_o to_o be_v desire_v and_o wait_v for_o as_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n which_o be_v one_o lead_v and_o draw_v into_o one_o but_o for_o the_o fleshly_a part_n the_o wise_a reason_v part_n of_o man_n by_o fleshly_a way_n and_o mean_n to_o strive_v to_o bring_v
about_o a_o fleshly_a uniformity_n which_o ensnare_v and_o overbear_v the_o tender_a conscience_n this_o be_v not_o lovely_a nor_o spiritual_a nor_o christian_n and_o the_o apostle_n who_o exhort_v christian_n to_o one_o mind_n yet_o do_v not_o bid_v they_o force_v one_o another_o to_o one_o mind_n but_o walk_v together_o sweet_o so_o far_o as_o they_o have_v attain_v and_o wherein_o they_o be_v otherwise_o mind_v god_n in_o his_o due_a time_n will_v reveal_v more_o to_o they_o phil._n 3.15_o 16._o he_o that_o have_v to_o he_o shall_v be_v give_v and_o the_o intent_n and_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n with_o the_o several_a ministration_n of_o it_o be_v to_o bring_v into_o the_o unity_n ephes_n 4.13_o as_o person_n be_v able_a to_o follow_v and_o not_o to_o force_v all_o man_n into_o one_o practice_n or_o way_n that_o be_v the_o way_n to_o destroy_v the_o faith_n and_o the_o true_a unity_n and_o at_o best_a can_v introduce_v but_o a_o fleshly_a appearance_n of_o unity_n into_o such_o a_o form_n of_o worship_n and_o godliness_n as_o eat_v out_o the_o power_n and_o for_o be_v of_o one_o heart_n and_o one_o way_n blessed_n be_v the_o lord_n this_o be_v in_o measure_n know_v and_o witness_v the_o way_n be_v one_o christ_n the_o truth_n of_o god_n and_o he_o that_o be_v in_o the_o faith_n and_o in_o the_o obedience_n to_o the_o light_n which_o shine_v from_o his_o spirit_n into_o the_o heart_n of_o every_o believer_n have_v a_o taste_n of_o the_o one_o heart_n and_o of_o the_o one_o way_n and_o know_v that_o no_o variety_n of_o practice_n which_o be_v of_o god_n can_v make_v a_o breach_n in_o the_o true_a unity_n this_o be_v the_o one_o way_n for_o every_o one_o to_o be_v subject_a to_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n spirit_n which_o he_o have_v receive_v from_o christ_n and_o every_o one_o keep_v here_o there_o be_v also_o one_o heart_n keep_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o all_o the_o variety_n and_o diversity_n of_o practice_n it_o be_v needful_a to_o be_v observe_v that_o in_o the_o city_n of_o london_n a_o free_a meeting_n be_v hold_v between_o r._n barclay_n and_o i_o in_o the_o presence_n of_o g._n f._n and_o many_o other_o wherein_o we_o treat_v on_o many_o thing_n contain_v in_o r._n b_n book_n of_o government_n which_o i_o then_o do_v and_o ever_o since_o have_v account_v erroneous_a and_o on_o the_o whole_a matter_n one_o part_n of_o the_o meeting_n viz._n charles_n marshal_n with_o thirty_o six_o person_n more_o advise_v r._n b._n as_o anon_o by_o their_o paper_n cite_v will_v appear_v on_o this_o wise_a it_o be_v the_o desire_n of_o this_o meeting_n that_o the_o say_v r._n b._n as_o he_o feel_v in_o himself_o the_o open_n of_o life_n thereunto_o will_v in_o christian-condescension_a to_o the_o capacity_n of_o the_o weak_a write_v a_o explanatory_a postscript_n to_o the_o say_a book_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o all_o such_o as_o may_v be_v suppose_v to_o have_v misapprehend_v any_o expression_n therein_o now_o forasmuch_o as_o the_o say_v r._n b._n have_v by_o way_n of_o epistle_n to_o friend_n write_v a_o explanatory_a rostscript_n though_o not_o print_v the_o same_o i_o think_v meet_v to_o cite_v it_o together_o with_o my_o observation_n thereon_o as_o follow_v aberdene_n prison_n the_o 6_o of_o the_o one_a month_n 1679._o dear_a friend_n and_o brethren_n unto_o all_o my_o dear_a friend_n and_o brethren_n unto_o who_o hand_n this_o paper_n may_v come_v or_o who_o may_v be_v any_o way_n more_o particular_o concern_v in_o the_o content_n hereof_o be_v the_o salutation_n of_o my_o unfeigned_a love_n in_o that_o unchangeable_a truth_n whereunto_o it_o have_v please_v the_o lord_n to_o call_v i_o according_a to_o his_o great_a mercy_n so_o as_o to_o be_v a_o partaker_n in_o some_o measure_n of_o the_o peace_n and_o glory_n which_o in_o this_o day_n be_v reveal_v wherewith_o my_o heart_n have_v be_v often_o fill_v as_o i_o have_v wait_v in_o faithfulness_n according_a to_o the_o dispensation_n of_o light_n manifest_v in_o i_o and_o to_o i_o and_o since_o it_o please_v god_n to_o make_v i_o a_o live_a witness_n of_o the_o precious_a truth_n and_o to_o commit_v unto_o i_o my_o share_n of_o the_o ministry_n thereof_o my_o conscience_n bear_v i_o witness_v in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n that_o i_o have_v labour_v according_a to_o my_o knowledge_n to_o follow_v love_n and_o peace_n with_o all_o my_o brethren_n and_o to_o do_v those_o thing_n which_o may_v tend_v to_o advance_v strengthen_v and_o confirm_v unity_n and_o brotherly-love_n as_o also_o to_o avoid_v what_o have_v a_o tendency_n to_o beget_v strife_n jealousy_n or_o evil_a surmise_n like_a as_o i_o have_v study_v as_o well_o in_o my_o public_a testimony_n as_o in_o my_o write_n to_o beware_v of_o any_o thing_n that_o to_o my_o understanding_n may_v minister_v just_a occasion_n of_o stumble_v or_o offence_n to_o the_o least_o of_o my_o brethren_n or_o the_o young_a and_o weak_a babe_n in_o the_o truth_n as_o such_o as_o be_v conversant_a with_o i_o in_o my_o own_o country_n as_o well_o as_o those_o elsewhere_o where_o i_o have_v travel_v can_v bear_v witness_n nevertheless_o as_o i_o can_v shun_v any_o part_n of_o that_o labour_n and_o service_n which_o my_o lord_n and_o master_n jesus_n christ_n call_v i_o to_o so_o in_o obedience_n to_o his_o requiring_n near_o five_o year_n ago_o i_o write_v some_o sheet_n concern_v the_o lawfulness_n and_o necessity_n of_o the_o government_n and_o order_n of_o the_o truth_n have_v principal_o and_o only_o in_o my_o view_n therein_o to_o bear_v a_o faithful_a testimony_n against_o all_o false_a liberty_n and_o disorder_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n and_o against_o imposition_n and_o dominion_n on_o the_o other_o intend_v no_o less_o to_o guard_v against_o the_o one_o than_o the_o other_o and_o this_o i_o do_v with_o particular_a respect_n to_o some_o of_o my_o near_a friend_n who_o i_o find_v liable_a to_o some_o mistake_v in_o that_o matter_n and_o i_o do_v sincere_o declare_v before_o god_n who_o know_v i_o speak_v the_o truth_n and_o lie_v not_o that_o in_o the_o write_n thereof_o i_o have_v not_o the_o least_o purpose_n nor_o intention_n to_o meddle_v with_o nor_o concern_v myself_o in_o any_o of_o those_o debate_n that_o have_v since_o fall_v out_o among_o friend_n in_o westmoreland_n or_o elsewhere_o relative_a thereto_o much_o of_o which_o as_o it_o have_v not_o then_o a_o be_v when_o i_o write_v that_o book_n so_o the_o substance_n of_o that_o matter_n be_v then_o unknown_a to_o i_o so_o i_o can_v safe_o say_v that_o i_o have_v not_o so_o much_o as_o one_o remote_a thought_n or_o any_o remembrance_n of_o the_o lest_o beginning_n of_o that_o affair_n which_o i_o know_v during_o the_o time_n of_o my_o writing_n of_o it_o so_o that_o nothing_o can_v be_v intend_v by_o i_o therein_o relative_a to_o that_o matter_n which_o as_o it_o be_v sufficient_a to_o vindicate_v my_o innocency_n and_o integrity_n to_o all_o as_o to_o my_o intention_n so_o i_o can_v forbear_v also_o to_o signify_v that_o as_o often_o as_o i_o have_v have_v occasion_n serious_o and_o in_o the_o holy_a fear_n and_o dread_a of_o god_n to_o reflect_v upon_o those_o paper_n which_o i_o have_v often_o do_v because_o of_o the_o opposition_n they_o have_v meet_v with_o from_o some_o observation_n w._n r_n first_o observation_n postscript_n observation_n observation_n this_o show_v that_o r._n b._n do_v not_o only_o justify_v what_o he_o have_v do_v but_o also_o signify_v that_o he_o labour_v with_o all_o the_o care_n and_o circumspection_n he_o can_v so_o to_o express_v himself_o as_o not_o to_o offend_v in_o a_o word_n and_o therefore_o since_o i_o know_v he_o be_v well_o skill_v to_o word_n his_o meaning_n i_o may_v reasonable_o have_v expect_v that_o he_o will_v have_v cite_v out_o of_o his_o book_n of_o government_n those_o passage_n therein_o contain_v which_o will_v evidence_n that_o all_o his_o explication_n by_o this_o his_o postscript_n may_v he_o find_v in_o his_o book_n which_o be_v needful_a to_o have_v be_v do_v if_o he_o so_o can_v but_o i_o certain_o know_v he_o can_v that_o his_o circumspection_n may_v appear_v especial_o since_o he_o have_v affirm_v that_o the_o very_a explication_n of_o his_o word_n give_v in_o a_o letter_n hereafter_o cite_v as_o his_o own_o explication_n be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o his_o book_n as_o appear_v by_o the_o say_a letter_n send_v abroad_o by_o himself_o and_o that_o as_o may_v reasonable_o be_v take_v intend_v by_o he_o to_o be_v in_o his_o favour_n but_o if_o the_o impartial_a understanding_n reader_n will_v be_v at_o the_o pain_n to_o compare_v r._n b_o be_v book_n of_o government_n with_o this_o his_o postscript_n and_o the_o explication_n give_v of_o his_o word_n in_o the_o aforesaid_a letter_n i_o may_v with_o
suppose_v to_o be_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n where_o either_o the_o true_a doctrine_n and_o principle_n be_v want_v or_o the_o true_a life_n and_o power_n in_o some_o good_a measure_n be_v not_o feel_v and_o know_v be_v far_o from_o my_o thought_n yea_o how_o far_o i_o be_o contrary-minded_n may_v be_v see_v at_o large_a in_o my_o apology_n upon_o the_o 10_o proposition_n now_o publish_v in_o english_a page_z 194_o 195_o 196_o 200_o 201_o 202_o etc._n etc._n answer_n etc._n etc._n r._n b_n discourse_n now_o show_v that_o he_o hold_v forth_o two_o bond_n by_o which_o the_o people_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v center_a into_o one_o body_n but_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n be_v that_o by_o one_o spirit_n we_o be_v baptize_v into_o one_o body_n and_o so_o the_o bond_n but_o one_o and_o though_o r._n b._n term_n my_o comparison_n a_o scornful_a reflection_n yet_o i_o affirm_v it_o be_v christian-like_a enough_o so_o to_o say_v if_o the_o reason_n give_v in_o my_o answer_n be_v but_o due_o consider_v which_o be_v that_o the_o main_a scope_n of_o his_o treatise_n relate_v to_o that_o matter_n both_o from_o scripture_n and_o reason_n tend_v as_o it_o be_v chief_o if_o not_o whole_o to_o evidence_n that_o principle_n doctrine_n and_o practice_n necessary_o depend_v thereon_o be_v the_o bond_n by_o which_o we_o become_v centre_v into_o one_o body_n and_o fellowship_n though_o he_o name_v not_o what_o those_o principle_n doctrine_n and_o practice_n be_v for_o a_o further_a manifestation_n of_o his_o weakness_n on_o this_o subject_a i_o refer_v unto_o my_o answer_n three_o observation_n w._n r_n seven_o observation_n whereas_o it_o be_v think_v strange_a that_o i_o shall_v call_v doctrine_n and_o principle_n the_o bond_n and_o term_n of_o our_o be_v together_o i_o understand_v it_o only_o of_o a_o outward_a bond_n and_o that_o i_o lay_v the_o stress_n upon_o it_o no_o further_o appear_v in_o that_o i_o affirm_v these_o principle_n and_o doctrine_n to_o be_v the_o product_n of_o truth_n power_n and_o virtue_n upon_o the_o heart_n which_o appear_v by_o what_o be_v print_v upon_o the_o margin_n and_o w._n r._n say_v in_o his_o paper_n that_o this_o be_v but_o like_o the_o entertainment_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o manger_n show_v too_o little_a of_o christian-sobriety_n and_o too_o much_o of_o a_o scornful_a reflection_n for_o which_o i_o will_v rather_o choose_v to_o forgive_v he_o than_o therein_o to_o contend_v with_o he_o for_o how_o much_o i_o value_v that_o inward_a bond_n to_o wit_n the_o life_n of_o righteousness_n beyond_o the_o outward_a and_o that_o i_o esteem_v the_o outward_a not_o at_o all_o to_o be_v value_v but_o as_o it_o come_v from_o the_o inward_a may_v be_v see_v through_o out_o all_o i_o have_v write_v in_o my_o apology_n upon_o the_o 10_o proposition_n observation_n w._n r_n eight_o observation_n and_o elsewhere_o declare_v elsewhere_o elsewhere_o if_o this_o be_v his_o meaning_n yet_o his_o book_n do_v not_o so_o declare_v and_o my_o affirm_v that_o any_o deny_v of_o any_o of_o truth_n principle_n and_o doctrine_n be_v a_o ground_n of_o disow_v be_v only_o in_o respect_n that_o who_o do_v so_o do_v manifest_o thence_o make_v it_o appear_v they_o have_v break_v the_o inward_a bond_n first_o from_o which_o that_o outward_a do_v natural_o spring_v and_o arise_v observation_n w._n r_o be_v nine_o observation_n discover_v observation_n observation_n experience_n tell_v i_o that_o the_o great_a difference_n among_o friend_n in_o the_o nation_n be_v about_o outward_a order_n pretend_v to_o be_v establish_v by_o g._n f._n and_o by_o the_o aforesaid_a letter_n which_o r._n b._n account_v a_o clear_n of_o himself_o it_o be_v signify_v that_o r._n b._n declare_v his_o meaning_n to_o be_v not_o only_o with_o respect_n to_o all_o the_o outward_a order_n and_o form_n of_o discipline_n in_o government_n among_o we_o but_o also_o with_o respect_n to_o the_o power_n of_o god_n which_o be_v compare_v with_o his_o now_o declare_v mean_v on_o the_o same_o subject_a show_v again_o that_o he_o do_v not_o by_o this_o confirm_v notwithstanding_o his_o pretence_n so_o to_o do_v what_o be_v signify_v in_o the_o aforesaid_a letter_n because_o here_o be_v no_o mention_n make_v of_o any_o outward_a order_n establish_v and_o practise_v by_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n and_o that_o he_o pretend_v his_o mean_v to_o be_v a_o establishment_n on_o the_o spirit_n only_o and_o such_o as_o be_v lead_v by_o it_o which_o be_v a_o clear_a discovery_n of_o his_o fallaciousness_n and_o will_n so_o appear_v to_o such_o as_o may_v peruse_v his_o word_n whereon_o the_o five_o observation_n be_v make_v for_o therein_o he_o pretend_v to_o give_v the_o same_o satisfaction_n as_o be_v signify_v in_o the_o same_o letter_n beside_o it_o be_v worthy_a our_o observation_n that_o from_o r._n b_n word_n some_o person_n be_v intend_v establisher_n of_o the_o government_n upon_o the_o spirit_n only_o but_o yet_o with_o this_o addition_n notwithstanding_o his_o word_n only_o and_o such_o as_o be_v lead_v by_o it_o which_o to_o i_o seem_v a_o twofaced_a kind_n of_o expression_n for_o if_o the_o heart_n of_o a_o man_n be_v the_o place_n wherein_o the_o law_n of_o christ_n be_v writteu_o and_o his_o government_n be_v to_o be_v exalt_v and_o that_o we_o have_v no_o ground_n to_o expect_v any_o other_o government_n or_o governor_n to_o be_v like_a unto_o moses_n save_v christ_n jesus_n by_o the_o manifestation_n of_o his_o spirit_n in_o we_o why_o can_v not_o he_o have_v be_v content_v to_o have_v stop_v his_o pen_n at_o the_o word_n spirit_n only_a but_o forasmuch_o as_o he_o make_v this_o addition_n and_o such_o as_o be_v lead_v by_o it_o i_o must_v confess_v i_o be_o in_o some_o measure_n at_o a_o stand_n touch_v his_o meaning_n thereby_o and_o have_v a_o godly_a jealousy_n that_o notwithstanding_o his_o pretence_n to_o the_o spirit_n and_o that_o nothing_o do_v by_o mere_a imitation_n will_v any_o thing_n avail_n yet_o when_o it_o may_v serve_v his_o turn_n he_o may_v from_o his_o own_o line_n bring_v forth_o another_o conclusion_n and_o infer_v a_o subjection_n to_o other_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o governor_n over_o the_o rest_n and_o that_o the_o dictate_v of_o the_o spirit_n in_o we_o must_v give_v way_n to_o the_o pretend_a dictate_v of_o the_o spirit_n in_o other_o by_o which_o mean_v at_o length_n it_o may_v so_o happen_v that_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o very_a principle_n of_o truth_n as_o hold_v forth_o among_o we_o in_o the_o beginning_n may_v be_v irradicate_v for_o if_o once_o the_o day_n come_v wherein_o the_o faith_n of_o any_o be_v that_o certain_a person_n above_o or_o distinct_a from_o any_o other_o be_v the_o man_n who_o be_v lead_v by_o the_o spirit_n and_o that_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n be_v establish_v on_o they_o then_o in_o probability_n it_o will_v natural_o follow_v that_o instead_o of_o embrace_v this_o primitive_a exhortation_n turn_v in_o your_o mind_n unto_o the_o light_n that_o shine_v in_o your_o own_o conscience_n many_o will_n be_v turn_v their_o mind_n out_o unto_o unto_o the_o dictate_v of_o other_o and_o be_v it_o so_o that_o what_o r._n b._n aim_v at_o shall_v be_v grant_v viz._n the_o establishment_n of_o christ_n government_n on_o man_n lead_v by_o the_o spirit_n this_o than_o may_v be_v object_v that_o many_o may_v pretend_v thereto_o who_o be_v not_o lead_v by_o the_o spirit_n and_o where_o the_o spirit_n of_o discern_v be_v want_v in_o such_o as_o be_v to_o be_v govern_v they_o may_v be_v in_o a_o ready_a and_o open_a way_n to_o destruction_n but_o on_o the_o contrary_a let_v this_o undoubted_a truth_n be_v hold_v forth_o viz._n let_v every_o one_o be_v obedient_a to_o his_o measure_n of_o grace_n and_o light_n receive_v from_o god_n and_o that_o the_o light_n and_o grace_n be_v a_o reprover_n of_o all_o sin_n than_o there_o will_v be_v no_o stumble_v nor_o by-path_n walk_v in_o moreover_o his_o language_n in_o another_o respect_n seem_v to_o i_o inconsi_v with_o the_o truth_n because_o the_o government_n treat_v upon_o to_o be_v establish_v be_v pretend_v to_o be_v christ_n government_n that_o the_o establisher_n be_v certain_a person_n signify_v by_o these_o r._n b_n word_n we_o do_v establish_v it_o that_o the_o object_n whereon_o it_o be_v establish_v be_v the_o spirit_n all_o which_o consider_v i_o may_v true_o say_v that_o it_o be_v a_o work_n not_o fit_a for_o poor_a mortal_n to_o pretend_v to_o especial_o if_o we_o consider_v that_o it_o be_v already_o establish_v by_o god_n himself_o on_o christ_n shoulder_n but_o if_o instead_o of_o that_o which_o occasion_n this_o observation_n r._n b._n have_v signify_v that_o those_o who_o be_v lead_v by_o the_o spirit_n be_v subject_n under_o christ_n government_n i_o know_v that_o such_o language_n will_v have_v
reach_v the_o conscience_n of_o many_o i_o now_o come_v to_o take_v notice_n of_o these_o r._n b_n word_n and_o yet_o it_o be_v strange_a that_o w._n r_n in_o his_o paper_n shall_v labour_v so_o much_o against_o this_o affirm_v very_o positive_o that_o nothing_o ought_v to_o be_v give_v forth_o in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n but_o by_o way_n of_o recommendation_n and_o not_o of_o command_n on_o this_o i_o observe_v first_o the_o say_a sentence_n be_v make_v up_o of_o a_o part_n of_o one_o sentence_n of_o i_o and_o with_o the_o addition_n to_o that_o sentence_n of_o these_o r._n b_n own_o word_n and_o not_o of_o command_n and_o all_o this_o as_o by_o his_o discourse_n to_o i_o appear_v to_o insinuate_v a_o belief_n that_o i_o hold_v a_o principle_n so_o large_a as_o that_o the_o very_a murderer_n of_o christ_n those_o that_o persecute_a and_o burn_v the_o protestant_n martye_n and_o all_o idolotry_n wickedness_n and_o superstition_n be_v to_o be_v thereby_o justify_v which_o my_o soul_n abhor_v and_o bless_v be_v the_o lord_n he_o have_v give_v i_o a_o better_a understanding_n than_o to_o assert_v any_o thing_n from_o which_o such_o horrid_a conclusion_n may_v be_v draw_v and_o indeed_o his_o language_n seem_v to_o favour_n of_o that_o spirit_n which_o oppose_v the_o child_n of_o light_n in_o the_o beginning_n say_v the_o jew_n act_v from_o the_o light_n in_o they_o when_o they_o crucify_v christ_n and_o since_o r._n b._n be_v so_o disingenuous_a as_o not_o to_o lay_v down_o all_o my_o word_n nor_o yet_o the_o occasion_n which_o if_o he_o have_v his_o present_a discourse_n hereon_o will_v have_v seem_v more_o impertinent_a i_o shall_v therefore_o on_o this_o subject_n further_o add_v r_n b._n in_o his_o book_n of_o government_n ask_v this_o question_n whether_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v power_n in_o any_o case_n that_o be_v matter_n of_o conscience_n to_o give_v positive_a sentence_n and_o decision_n which_o may_v be_v obligatory_a upon_o believer_n and_o then_o proceed_v to_o answer_v the_o say_a question_n thus_o i_o answer_v affirmative_o she_o have_v on_o this_o occasion_n treat_v among_o other_o thing_n i_o say_v that_o it_o do_v seem_v plain_o to_o contradict_v this_o wholesome_a testimony_n of_o and_o for_o the_o truth_n viz._n that_o the_o sentence_n and_o judgement_n of_o any_o man_n or_o man_n whatsoever_o relate_v to_o matter_n of_o conscience_n ought_v not_o at_o this_o day_n to_o be_v give_v forth_o but_o by_o way_n of_o recommendation_n to_o the_o conscience_n which_o to_o my_o knowledge_n have_v be_v the_o practice_n of_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n and_o when_o the_o conscience_n be_v sensible_a that_o god_n witness_v therein_o answer_n than_o the_o conscience_n be_v or_o aught_o to_o be_v bind_v other_o bond_n may_v make_v hypocrite_n and_o busy_a body_n but_o not_o good_a christian_n it_o be_v now_o to_o be_v consider_v how_o from_o these_o my_o aforesaid_a word_n speak_v on_o the_o aforesaid_a occasion_n with_o respect_n to_o a_o dislike_n of_o oâ—â—_n believer_n or_o disciple_n of_o christ_n his_o impose_v upon_o another_o contrary_a to_o his_o conscience_n r._n b._n can_v draw_v a_o conclusion_n that_o my_o my_o language_n in_o that_o sentence_n have_v a_o tendency_n to_o justify_v the_o jew_n in_o crucify_a christ_n and_o those_o that_o persecute_a and_o burn_v the_o protestant_n martyr_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o idolatry_n wickedness_n and_o superstition_n etc._n etc._n and_o whereas_o after_o he_o have_v make_v his_o aforesaid_a insinuation_n he_o free_o agree_v to_o my_o word_n if_o as_o r._n b._n say_v his_o meaning_n be_v that_o no_o man_n of_o or_o from_o himself_o only_o or_o by_o virtue_n of_o any_o office_n etc._n etc._n ought_v to_o command_v any_o thing_n to_o be_v perform_v in_o the_o church_n but_o say_v r._n b_o if_o he_o will_v say_v that_o no_o man_n albeit_o real_o move_v by_o the_o spirit_n etc._n etc._n aught_o to_o go_v further_o than_o a_o recommendation_n it_o be_v a_o most_o insolent_a limit_v of_o god_n under_o a_o false_a pretence_n of_o liberty_n these_o forego_v word_n of_o r._n b._n give_v i_o occasion_n thus_o to_o answer_n that_o since_o my_o word_n will_v admit_v of_o a_o construction_n allowable_a by_o himself_o for_o truth_n his_o secret_a evil_a insinuation_n fall_v to_o the_o ground_n and_o as_o to_o the_o latter_a part_n of_o his_o construction_n thereon_o i_o thus_o say_v that_o what_o god_n move_v to_o aught_o to_o be_v obey_v that_o his_o power_n be_v unlimmitable_a that_o all_o his_o action_n motion_n and_o command_n be_v just_a because_o they_o be_v he_o but_o yet_o though_o i_o so_o grant_v i_o do_v affirm_v that_o there_o be_v not_o the_o least_o ground_n in_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n nor_o yet_o from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n to_o believe_v that_o in_o this_o our_o day_n god_n have_v or_o by_o his_o spirit_n will_v move_v any_o member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o give_v forth_o certain_a order_n and_o prescription_n with_o respect_n to_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o member_n as_o that_o which_o though_o relate_v to_o their_o conscience_n they_o ought_v to_o perform_v and_o practice_n whether_o they_o see_v if_o their_o duty_n or_o whether_o tehy_a be_v or_o no_o free_a so_o so_o do_v for_o if_o the_o blind_a be_v not_o to_o be_v accept_v for_o a_o sacrifice_n under_o the_o first_o covenant_n much_o less_o can_v it_o be_v acceptable_a under_o the_o second_o unless_o god_n shall_v so_o command_v which_o we_o have_v no_o ground_n to_o suppose_v and_o foarsmuch_o as_o this_o subject_n be_v large_o treat_v on_o in_o the_o seven_o section_n of_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o christian_a quaker_n which_o be_v give_v forrh_n by_o i_o on_o the_o behalf_n of_o myself_o and_o other_o concern_v i_o shall_v refer_v the_o reader_n thereto_o for_o the_o further_a mani_n festation_n of_o the_o truth_n relate_v to_o this_o this_o matter_n and_o whereas_o r._n b._n say_v that_o thing_n may_v be_v propose_v to_o the_o church_n by_o way_n of_o command_n i_o shall_v refer_v the_o reader_n to_o the_o seven_o section_n of_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n and_o also_o to_o my_o answer_n to_o his_o book_n of_o government_n contain_v in_o this_o treatise_n in_o both_o which_o the_o scripture_n urge_v by_o he_o relate_v to_o the_o word_n command_n and_o such_o like_a be_v treat_v on_o and_o the_o meaning_n thereof_o according_a to_o the_o truth_n discover_v four_o if_o any_o do_v suppose_v that_o by_o my_o assert_v the_o ancient_a apostolic_a order_n be_v establish_v among_o we_o upon_o the_o right_a basis_n and_o foundation_n i_o intend_v that_o these_o particular_a order_n relate_v to_o outward_a thing_n that_o be_v among_o the_o apostle_n either_o be_v or_o be_v to_o be_v establish_v among_o we_o they_o do_v much_o mistake_v i_o for_o i_o never_o purpose_v any_o such_o thing_n but_o only_o to_o signify_v that_o by_o establish_v the_o government_n and_o authority_n in_o and_o upon_o the_o spirit_n only_o and_o such_o as_o be_v lead_v by_o it_o we_o do_v establish_v it_o upon_o the_o same_o basis_n and_o foundation_n whereupon_o that_o exercise_n in_o the_o church_n in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o apostle_n be_v build_v for_o i_o be_o far_o from_o believe_v that_o the_o most_o exact_a conformity_n to_o the_o order_n and_o method_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o apostle_n day_n or_o even_o to_o what_o may_v be_v now_o appoint_v by_o the_o same_o spirit_n without_o the_o inward_a life_n and_o virtue_n go_v along_o signify_v any_o thing_n for_o i_o know_v that_o nothing_o do_v by_o mere_a imitation_n will_v any_o thing_n avail_v in_o the_o worship_n and_o service_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o that_o no_o act_n do_v without_o conviction_n will_v any_o way_n be_v profitable_a to_o the_o doer_n yet_o that_o hinder_v not_o but_o that_o such_o as_o forbear_v to_o do_v what_o by_o the_o testimony_n of_o god_n in_o his_o servant_n be_v command_v to_o be_v perform_v in_o the_o church_n be_v just_o to_o be_v blame_v and_o be_v judge_n dtherefore_o in_o respect_n that_o through_o disobedience_n and_o unwatchfullness_n they_o have_v blind_v themselves_o from_o the_o sight_n and_o knowledge_n of_o their_o duty_n for_o if_o it_o shall_v be_v say_v no_o man_n be_v to_o be_v condemn_v for_o not_o do_v that_o which_o he_o yet_o see_v not_o to_o be_v his_o duty_n than_o no_o man_n be_v to_o be_v condemn_v who_o have_v by_o iniquity_n and_o unwatchfullness_n bring_v hardness_n and_o blindness_n upon_o himself_o for_o all_o the_o iniquity_n be_v commit_v afterward_o and_o how_o will_v this_o tend_v to_o establish_v rantism_n the_o substance_n of_o which_o be_v to_o bring_v their_o conscience_n to_o that_o pass_n as_o not_o to_o be_v sensible_a of_o any_o check_n then_o the_o
copy_n of_o a_o letter_n pretend_v to_o be_v give_v forth_o by_o w._n r._n friend_n it_o be_v upon_o i_o for_o several_a week_n past_a if_o any_o occasion_n will_v in_o any_o wise_a permit_v to_o come_v up_o to_o the_o city_n of_o london_n to_o be_v present_a among_o friend_n from_o divers_a part_n of_o the_o nation_n at_o this_o time_n that_o so_o i_o may_v have_v opportunity_n to_o confer_v with_o friend_n who_o be_v dissatisfy_v with_o i_o touch_v what_o i_o have_v write_v in_o answer_n to_o robert_n barclay_v book_n of_o government_n and_o a_o few_o day_n before_o my_o come_n up_o robert_n barclay_n be_v in_o london_n write_v unto_o i_o to_o come_v up_o that_o we_o may_v have_v a_o conference_n at_o large_a touch_v the_o same_o this_o his_o request_n have_v the_o great_a obligation_n upon_o i_o to_o be_v present_a in_o london_n at_o this_o time_n on_o conference_n have_v with_o he_o we_o agree_v that_o a_o free-meeting_a may_v be_v have_v with_o friend_n in_o who_o presence_n robert_n barclay_n and_o myself_o may_v in_o all_o coolness_n and_o moderation_n confer_v together_o that_o so_o all_o misunderstanding_n may_v be_v remove_v and_o the_o truth_n be_v evidence_v to_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o brethren_n then_o present_a the_o meeting_n for_o this_o end_n be_v this_o day_n have_v and_o a_o very_a christian_a and_o fair_a debate_n be_v have_v to_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o both_o of_o we_o as_o far_o as_o i_o can_v understand_v and_o the_o matter_n chief_o object_v by_o i_o be_v fair_o and_o brother-like_a and_o in_o much_o love_n discourse_v and_o upon_o the_o whole_a matter_n i_o be_o satisfy_v that_o robert_n barclay_n be_v not_o principled_a so_o as_o i_o and_o other_o have_v take_v his_o book_n to_o import_v in_o particular_a he_o do_v declare_v that_o his_o book_n teach_v not_o that_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v jurisdiction_n over_o the_o outward_a concern_v of_o friend_n in_o case_n of_o difference_n without_o the_o assent_n of_o the_o differ_v party_n and_o that_o it_o be_v far_o from_o his_o intention_n for_o his_o intention_n as_o he_o declare_v be_v only_o to_o manifest_v that_o friend_n ought_v to_o submit_v their_o case_n of_o difference_n to_o the_o decision_n of_o the_o church_n and_o in_o case_n of_o refractoriness_n that_o such_o person_n ought_v to_o be_v disow_v that_o though_o robert_n barclay_n in_o one_o place_n affirm_v to_o this_o purpose_n that_o there_o never_o will_v or_o can_v be_v want_v in_o case_n of_o controversy_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o give_v judgement_n through_o some_o or_o other_o in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n so_o long_o as_o any_o assembly_n can_v proper_o or_o in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n be_v so_o term_v he_o declare_v that_o the_o word_n be_v sound_a and_o further_o say_v that_o thereby_o he_o intend_v no_o other_o but_o such_o assembly_n as_o in_o reality_n and_o truth_n may_v be_v term_v the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o whereas_o he_o say_v to_o this_o purpose_n that_o it_o be_v disobedience_n to_o god_n not_o to_o submit_v to_o the_o sentence_n of_o such_o assembly_n though_o the_o person_n refuse_v to_o submit_v pretend_v they_o see_v it_o not_o yet_o he_o declare_v that_o his_o meaning_n thereby_o be_v not_o that_o if_o they_o submit_v before_o conviction_n of_o conscience_n they_o therein_o find_v acceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n but_o rather_o to_o show_v that_o their_o want_n of_o sight_n be_v through_o disobedience_n or_o unwatchfulness_n to_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n in_o themselves_o which_o if_o they_o do_v take_v heed_n thereunto_o will_v show_v it_o their_o duty_n to_o obey_v we_o also_o have_v discourse_n touch_v his_o assertion_n that_o principle_n and_o doctrine_n etc._n etc._n believe_v through_o the_o force_n of_o truth_n on_o the_o understanding_n be_v as_o it_o be_v the_o term_n and_o in_o another_o place_n the_o book_n produce_v it_o appear_v that_o he_o assert_v there_o be_v a_o more_o inward_a bond_n viz._n the_o life_n of_o righteousness_n and_o that_o the_o book_n declare_v that_o we_o be_v gather_v into_o the_o belief_n of_o the_o principle_n and_o doctrine_n by_o the_o truth_n and_o its_o power_n and_o influence_n upon_o our_o heart_n and_o the_o very_a bond_n by_o which_o we_o become_v centre_v into_o one_o body_n and_o fellowship_n etc._n etc._n and_o on_o a_o debate_n thereof_o he_o acknowledge_v that_o his_o meaning_n be_v not_o they_o be_v the_o original_a bond_n but_o rather_o as_o fruit_n and_o branch_n of_o that_o bond_n and_o so_o in_o that_o respect_n may_v be_v as_o a_o outward_a bond_n whereby_o we_o be_v unite_v in_o a_o heavenly_a society_n we_o have_v also_o some_o discourse_n touch_v his_o title_n page_n wherein_o he_o assert_n that_o the_o ancient_a apostolic_a order_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v reestablished_a on_o its_o right_a basis_n and_o foundation_n touch_v which_o he_o declare_v that_o his_o meaning_n be_v not_o only_o with_o respect_n to_o all_o the_o outward_a order_n and_o form_n of_o discipline_n in_o government_n among_o we_o but_o also_o with_o respect_n to_o the_o power_n of_o god_n which_o in_o the_o primitive_a day_n be_v and_o now_o be_v the_o great_a order_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o though_o robert_n barclay_n have_v give_v these_o explication_n of_o his_o meaning_n yet_o the_o very_a explication_n as_o he_o say_v be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o his_o book_n if_o due_o weigh_v have_v give_v you_o a_o account_n in_o short_a of_o what_o be_v discourse_v this_o day_n among_o friend_n this_o further_a lie_n upon_o i_o to_o signify_v unto_o you_o on_o the_o behalf_n of_o r._n barclay_n i_o be_o satisfy_v that_o he_o be_v not_o principled_a as_o i_o and_o many_o by_o some_o passage_n in_o his_o book_n take_v he_o to_o be_v and_o since_o it_o be_v so_o that_o many_o have_v take_v a_o offence_n against_o he_o for_o that_o cause_n as_o may_v be_v doubt_v even_o so_o far_o as_o to_o reject_v his_o testimony_n and_o service_n for_o the_o truth_n it_o lie_v upon_o i_o as_o my_o duty_n even_o for_o he_o and_o the_o truth_n sake_n to_o warn_v all_o that_o they_o take_v heed_n not_o to_o entertain_v prejudice_n against_o his_o testimony_n or_o jealousy_n that_o may_v enter_v on_o the_o score_n of_o any_o apprehension_n or_o mistake_v of_o his_o book_n and_o that_o answer_n that_o i_o have_v give_v thereto_o but_o rather_o in_o a_o unprejudiced_a spirit_n to_o wait_v on_o the_o lord_n to_o feel_v and_o savour_n his_o testimony_n even_o as_o if_o the_o occasion_n take_v have_v never_o be_v and_o i_o do_v free_o confess_v that_o inasmuch_o as_o i_o publish_v my_o book_n before_o i_o give_v robert_n barclay_n notice_n of_o my_o objection_n and_o intention_n therein_o i_o act_v in_o that_o respect_n not_o according_a to_o gospel_n order_n but_o be_o just_o worthy_a of_o blame_n therein_o it_o be_v with_o i_o also_o to_o signify_v to_o you_o that_o i_o be_o abundant_o satisfy_v that_o robert_n barclay_v book_n of_o government_n be_v write_v at_o or_o before_o the_o time_n of_o its_o date_n for_o that_o he_o solemn_o affirm_v it_o be_v so_o william_n rogers_n the_o copy_n of_o a_o paper_n give_v forth_o by_o charles_n marshal_n and_o thirty_o six_o person_n more_o forasmuch_o as_o william_n rogers_n of_o bristol_n have_v late_o write_v a_o manuscript_n against_o a_o book_n of_o robert_n barclay_v entitle_v the_o anarchy_n of_o the_o ranter_n and_o approve_v at_o the_o second_o day_n meet_v at_o london_n and_o have_v disperse_v his_o manuscript_n in_o several_a part_n of_o this_o nation_n without_o so_o much_o as_o first_o give_v either_o to_o the_o say_v robert_n barclay_n in_o particular_a or_o the_o second_o day_n meet_v in_o general_n any_o account_n of_o his_o scruple_n or_o dissatisfaction_n concern_v the_o say_a book_n of_o robert_n barclay_n contrary_a to_o all_o rule_n of_o brotherly_a love_n christian-fellowship_n gospel-order_n and_o the_o exemplary_a practice_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o the_o defamation_n of_o the_o say_v robert_n barclay_n the_o great_a derogation_n from_o the_o christian_a authority_n of_o the_o say_a meeting_n and_o the_o general_a dis-service_n to_o truth_n especial_o be_v send_v unto_o person_n who_o at_o present_a be_v disaffect_v to_o the_o present_a unity_n of_o the_o body_n of_o friend_n and_o whereas_o on_o the_o seven_o day_n of_o the_o four_o month_n 77._o we_o who_o name_n be_v under_o written_n be_v meet_v together_o in_o the_o city_n of_o london_n in_o the_o pure_a fear_n and_o holy_a dread_a of_o the_o lord_n god_n almihty_a to_o hear_v what_o the_o say_v william_n rogers_n have_v object_v against_o the_o say_a book_n of_o robert_n barclay_n it_o appear_v to_o we_o upon_o a_o deliberate_a serious_a and_o impartial_a hear_v of_o the_o matter_n in_o controversy_n that_o the_o
it_o have_v evident_o appear_v the_o lord_n have_v not_o speak_v by_o they_o if_o so_o be_v the_o tree_n may_v at_o this_o day_n be_v know_v by_o its_o fruit_n as_o well_o as_o in_o day_n past_a but_o rather_o that_o the_o word_n of_o the_o prophet_n be_v fulfil_v if_o not_o fulfil_v in_o they_o when_o he_o say_v the_o prophet_n be_v a_o fool_n the_o spiritual_a man_n be_v mad_a for_o the_o multitude_n of_o thy_o iniquity_n and_o great_a hatred_n hos_fw-la 9.7_o for_o i_o be_o a_o live_a witness_n that_o imagination_n have_v so_o possess_v the_o head_n and_o heart_n of_o many_o that_o travel_v under_o the_o notion_n of_o minister_a friend_n as_o that_o instead_o of_o manifest_v a_o divine_a understanding_n in_o the_o thing_n of_o god_n or_o speak_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n in_o season_n they_o have_v bring_v forth_o the_o fruit_n of_o a_o unsound_a mind_n show_v forth_o no_o better_a resemblance_n or_o evidence_n of_o be_v minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o christ_n that_o divide_v the_o word_n aright_o than_o the_o confuse_a chaos_n before_o the_o creation_n of_o god_n be_v of_o the_o beauty_n and_o order_n that_o now_o be_v in_o it_o and_o for_o my_o own_o part_n i_o be_o well_o satisfy_v and_o that_o on_o sufficient_a ground_n too_o large_a to_o insert_v that_o either_o the_o multitude_n of_o iniquity_n or_o great_a hatred_n through_o the_o influence_n of_o g._n f._n possess_v the_o heart_n of_o such_o be_v the_o occasion_n thereof_o but_o notwithstanding_o my_o design_n be_v not_o as_o i_o say_v before_o to_o treat_v at_o large_a on_o the_o present_a difference_n between_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n with_o respect_n to_o the_o present_a separation_n in_o some_o part_n of_o this_o nation_n yet_o since_o i_o be_o also_o satisfy_v and_o that_o on_o sufficient_a ground_n that_o g._n f._n have_v be_v one_o of_o those_o very_a person_n occasion_v the_o difference_n to_o arise_v unto_o the_o height_n they_o now_o be_v or_o at_o least_o a_o countenancer_n thereof_o at_o a_o large_a rate_n i_o purpose_v to_o treat_v a_o little_a thereon_o and_o partly_o as_o relate_v to_o g._n f._n that_o so_o the_o impartial_a reader_n may_v consider_v whether_o if_o g._n f._n have_v content_v himself_o in_o reality_n and_o truth_n with_o the_o place_n of_o a_o servant_n of_o christ_n that_o seek_v not_o dominion_n over_o his_o brethren_n faith_n and_o conscience_n nor_o yet_o to_o expect_v submission_n to_o his_o outward_a precept_n prescription_n or_o order_n further_o than_o every_o friend_n to_o truth_n be_v or_o may_v be_v by_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o conscience_n lead_v and_o guide_v therein_o the_o difference_n now_o among_o friend_n touch_v which_o some_o seem_v ready_a to_o bite_v and_o devour_v other_o may_v never_o have_v be_v for_o my_o own_o part_n i_o in_o no_o wise_a question_n but_o that_o g._n f._n be_v one_o chief_a instrument_n that_o a_o destroy_n and_o devour_a spirit_n have_v enter_v into_o some_o among_o the_o flock_n and_o that_o many_o a_o simple_a honest-hearted_n friend_n to_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n have_v receive_v and_o believe_v lie_n and_o slanderous_a false_a report_n against_o many_o brethren_n undeserved_o to_o the_o betray_n of_o their_o simplicity_n and_o love_n to_o the_o truth_n and_o fill_v their_o heart_n with_o hatred_n enmity_n and_o prejudice_n and_o of_o this_o be_o i_o as_o well_o satisfy_v as_o i_o be_o that_o there_o be_v a_o god_n in_o heaven_n before_o who_o both_o he_o and_o all_o the_o son_n of_o man_n must_v come_v to_o judgement_n and_o that_o the_o blood_n of_o many_o such_o if_o they_o perish_v before_o true_a repentance_n will_v be_v lay_v at_o g._n f_o '_o s._n door_n otherwise_o i_o shall_v not_o have_v appear_v to_o discover_v the_o say_v g._n f._n as_o in_o conscience_n i_o be_o now_o constrain_v to_o do_v and_o therefore_o a_o warn_v be_v now_o proclaim_v unto_o all_o such_o that_o they_o redeem_v their_o time_n because_o the_o day_n be_v evil_a and_o proceed_v no_o further_o to_o receive_v and_o believe_v lie_n and_o scandalous_a report_n against_o such_o who_o they_o have_v once_o account_v honourable_a on_o the_o credit_n of_o g._n f._n as_o a_o man_n that_o for_o several_a year_n past_a have_v not_o err_v for_o many_o be_v this_o day_n witness_n that_o his_o action_n have_v render_v he_o a_o erroneous_a man._n and_o for_o as_o much_o as_o he_o have_v refuse_v to_o give_v that_o satisfaction_n for_o his_o error_n as_o in_o the_o like_a case_n he_o have_v prescribe_v for_o other_o it_o have_v increase_v the_o concern_v of_o my_o conscience_n to_o discover_v the_o same_o and_o that_o also_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o the_o simple_a and_o honest-hearted_n and_o that_o those_o innocent_a and_o tender_a child_n that_o be_v grow_v up_o from_o the_o loin_n of_o believe_a parent_n etc._n etc._n may_v in_o their_o tender_a year_n be_v awaken_v and_o warn_v that_o they_o may_v not_o be_v captivate_v in_o the_o like_o snare_n and_o so_o breed_v up_o in_o a_o mere_a form_n and_o affect_v with_o airy_a imagination_n which_o have_v no_o tendency_n to_o open_v their_o understanding_n thereby_o to_o give_v unto_o they_o the_o knowledge_n of_o those_o principle_n of_o truth_n which_o the_o faithful_a by_o the_o spirit_n have_v be_v lead_v to_o own_o and_o hold_v forth_o nor_o yet_o the_o way_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n that_o so_o their_o footstep_n may_v be_v direct_v into_o the_o path_n of_o peace_n and_o they_o come_v to_o know_v a_o lively_a feel_n and_o sense_n of_o that_o immortal_a power_n and_o spirit_n by_o which_o the_o everlasting_a god_n who_o way_n be_v unchangeable_a reach_v unto_o many_o in_o the_o beginning_n when_o the_o very_a thought_n of_o be_v embondaged_a again_o with_o the_o beggarly_a element_n and_o rudiment_n of_o this_o world_n or_o of_o have_v our_o eye_n or_o dependency_n on_o any_o mortal_a man_n be_v loathsome_a i_o shall_v now_o proceed_v to_o lay_v down_o a_o few_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o be_v in_o some_o measure_n a_o evidence_n to_o i_o that_o my_o aforesaid_a sense_n touch_v g._n f._n be_v true_a refer_v the_o reader_n for_o further_a satisfaction_n to_o the_o first_o and_o five_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n and_o innovator_n first_o i_o take_v notice_n of_o seven_o question_n which_o be_v send_v unto_o john_n wilkinson_n by_o robert_n barrow_n and_o other_o who_o say_v they_o be_v desire_v by_o g._n f._n so_o to_o do_v the_o query_n be_v as_o follow_v together_o with_o the_o substance_n of_o the_o answer_n thereunto_o query_n 1_o whether_o do_v thou_o say_v concern_v that_o paper_n send_v down_o to_o the_o quarterly-meeting_a at_o kendal_n that_o it_o come_v from_o the_o female_a answ_n i_o remember_v no_o such_o word_n yet_o be_v great_o trouble_v at_o a_o name_n a_o note_v this_o be_v that_o paper_n mention_v in_o the_o title-page_n that_o g._n p_n wife_n cause_v to_o be_v read_v in_o a_o quarterly-meeting_a and_o be_v give_v forth_o in_o her_o name_n paper_n from_o the_o female_a read_v with_o grievous_a accusation_n against_o our_o faithful_a brother_n john_n story_n which_o as_o i_o say_v great_o trouble_v i_o and_o many_o beside_o i_o know_v his_o clearness_n from_o such_o thing_n and_o know_v his_o vessel_n fill_v with_o the_o power_n of_o god_n in_o abide_v in_o his_o house_n qu._n 2._o whether_o do_v thou_o say_v at_o the_o quarterly-meeting_a at_o kendal_n to_o margaret_n fox_n what_o ground_n or_o foundation_n have_v friend_n to_o practice_v thing_n which_o be_v impose_v by_o man_n or_o in_o the_o will_n of_o man_n which_o the_o scripture_n give_v no_o authority_n or_o warrant_v for_o or_o word_n to_o that_o effect_n answ_n the_o word_n as_o state_v in_o this_o question_n i_o do_v not_o speak_v to_o m._n f._n yet_o the_o substance_n i_o own_o for_o the_o truth_n in_o it_o qu._n 3._o whether_o do_v thou_o read_v or_o consent_n to_o be_v read_v in_o the_o latter-end_a of_o a_o quarterly-meeting_a at_o kendal_n a_o paper_n of_o anthony_n pearson_n or_o other_o that_o direct_v or_o advise_v that_o the_o way_n of_o truth_n shall_v be_v as_o the_o way_n of_o a_o ship_n in_o the_o sea_n or_o such_o like_a answ_n nay_o but_o if_o they_o mean_v no_o impression_n of_o form_n leave_v behind_o i_o like_v it_o well_o qu._n 4._o whether_o do_v thou_o advise_v that_o paper_n of_o condemnation_n shall_v not_o be_v record_v answ_n nay_o i_o have_v no_o occasion_n to_o advise_v but_o my_o advice_n be_v and_o be_v that_o condemnation_n shall_v not_o stand_v on_o our_o deacon_n book_n to_o posterity_n according_a as_o the_o meet_v agree_v unto_o because_o fail_n in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n have_v prove_v weapon_n for_o the_o man_n of_o sin_n to_o fight_v with_o against_o perfection_n
not_o believe_v that_o we_o ought_v to_o expect_v that_o any_o such_o motion_n from_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n shall_v appear_v through_o any_o one_o or_o more_o member_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n with_o respect_n to_o other_o member_n of_o the_o same_o body_n and_o our_o faith_n be_v that_o all_o those_o who_o be_v heir_n of_o that_o kingdom_n which_o be_v everlasting_a be_v entitle_v to_o a_o like_a freedom_n not_o to_o be_v impose_v upon_o each_o by_o other_o contrary_a to_o that_o divine_a sense_n and_o heavenly_a understanding_n which_o as_o coheir_n and_o co-worker_n together_o they_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o and_o this_o in_o the_o ensue_a discourse_n will_n evince_o be_v manifest_v from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n however_o we_o must_v confess_v he_o that_o be_v not_o diligent_a to_o wait_v upon_o god_n in_o the_o exercise_n of_o his_o own_o measure_n of_o grace_n receive_v be_v by_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n condemnable_a not_o for_o refuse_v to_o perform_v that_o which_o he_o see_v not_o to_o be_v his_o duty_n with_o respect_n to_o the_o observation_n of_o other_o man_n line_n make_v ready_a to_o his_o hand_n wherein_o he_o be_v not_o satisfy_v but_o for_o his_o neglect_v to_o wait_v upon_o god_n because_o it_o be_v manifest_a in_o every_o one_o that_o have_v be_v convince_v of_o the_o truth_n that_o it_o be_v our_o duty_n to_o wait_v upon_o god_n and_o this_o our_o sense_n and_o reason_n answer_v to_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n where_o it_o be_v say_v rom._n 1.18_o 19_o the_o wrath_n of_o god_n be_v reveal_v from_o heaven_n against_o all_o ungodliness_n and_o unrighteousness_n of_o man_n who_o hold_v the_o truth_n in_o unrighteousness_n because_o that_o which_o may_v be_v know_v of_o god_n be_v manifest_a in_o they_o for_o god_n have_v show_v it_o unto_o they_o so_o it_o be_v clear_a to_o we_o from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n without_o we_o as_o well_o as_o from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n within_o we_o that_o the_o wrath_n and_o condemnation_n of_o god_n go_v forth_o against_o such_o as_o live_v not_o answerable_a to_o what_o god_n have_v manifest_v in_o they_o but_o it_o be_v neither_o agreeable_a to_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n or_o light_v within_o for_o any_o to_o pour_v forth_o their_o judgement_n against_o any_o for_o not_o follow_v or_o give_v heed_n unto_o this_o or_o other_o outward_a prescription_n or_o observation_n wherein_o the_o conscience_n be_v concern_v when_o such_o be_v not_o convince_v thereof_o to_o be_v their_o duty_n from_o the_o mainfestation_n of_o god_n spirit_n in_o they_o the_o next_o thing_n to_o be_v consider_v be_v this_o that_o in_o all_o the_o last_o mention_v objection_n there_o be_v no_o plea_n for_o obedience_n unto_o or_o follow_v any_o thing_n but_o the_o spirit_n in_o its_o appearance_n whether_o through_o the_o brethren_n or_o thyself_o from_o whence_o we_o observe_v first_o that_o there_o be_v no_o certain_a description_n who_o be_v mean_v by_o the_o word_n brethren_n second_o that_o it_o be_v the_o appearance_n of_o the_o spirit_n that_o we_o ought_v to_o follow_v now_o shall_v this_o question_n be_v ask_v of_o such_o who_o may_v so_o object_v as_o aforesaid_a wouldyou_o have_v we_o follow_v we_o know_v not_o what_o we_o be_v ready_a to_o believe_v that_o they_o will_v say_v nay_o if_o they_o answer_v any_o thing_n to_o the_o question_n and_o if_o so_o than_o the_o force_n of_o the_o objection_n fall_v for_o that_o we_o account_v it_o our_o duty_n to_o follow_v the_o appearance_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n through_o the_o mean_a member_n when_o our_o conscience_n be_v convince_v that_o it_o be_v the_o appearance_n of_o that_o spirit_n but_o before_o we_o can_v say_v in_o truth_n though_o we_o shall_v do_v as_o such_o a_o one_o will_v have_v we_o that_o we_o be_v follower_n of_o and_o lead_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n 12.13_o 1_o cor._n 12.13_o no_o more_o than_o jesus_n can_v in_o truth_n be_v call_v lord_n and_o not_o by_o the_o holy-ghost_n beside_o we_o can_v on_o this_o occasion_n but_o testify_v that_o as_o that_o obedience_n which_o be_v of_o faith_n in_o christ_n find_v acceptance_n with_o the_o lord_n so_o that_o obedience_n which_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n be_v but_o a_o dead_a performance_n 14.23_o rom._n 14.23_o &_o not_o the_o fruit_n of_o a_o live_a member_n who_o through_o the_o obedience_n of_o faith_n unto_o righteousness_n be_v make_v alive_a unto_o god_n and_o therefore_o it_o can_v be_v the_o duty_n of_o any_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n to_o run_v before_o his_o inward_a guide_n but_o to_o wait_v upon_o the_o lord_n that_o all_o his_o action_n may_v be_v regulate_v according_a to_o the_o manifestation_n and_o revelation_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o himself_o which_o seem_v clear_o agreeable_a to_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o apostle_n where_o he_o say_v 16._o phil._n 3.15_o 16._o if_o in_o any_o thing_n you_o be_v otherwise-minded_n god_n shall_v reveal_v even_o this_o unto_o you_o nevertheless_o whereunto_o we_o have_v already_o attain_v let_v we_o walk_v by_o the_o same_o rule_n he_o that_o savour_v the_o thing_n of_o god_n may_v easy_o perceive_v that_o the_o mean_v of_o the_o spirit_n through_o paul_n unto_o those_o philippian_n be_v that_o those_o who_o be_v come_v to_o a_o state_n of_o perfection_n shall_v walk_v by_o that_o rule_n whereunto_o they_o have_v attain_v but_o those_o who_o have_v not_o attain_v so_o far_o and_o be_v otherwise-minded_n be_v to_o wait_v for_o the_o revelation_n of_o the_o son_n and_o now_o to_o conclude_v as_o to_o this_o objection_n we_o have_v this_o further_a to_o add_v that_o we_o do_v know_v many_o of_o our_o opposer_n or_o at_o least_o such_o who_o be_v not_o at_o unity_n with_o we_o have_v very_o confident_o make_v use_n of_o such_o discourse_n as_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o last_o recite_v objection_n to_o induce_v we_o to_o follow_v outward_a prescription_n and_o order_n though_o not_o convince_v of_o its_o service_n which_o occasion_n we_o to_o be_v jealous_a that_o in_o process_n of_o time_n the_o enemy_n may_v so_o enter_v in_o at_o this_o door_n as_o that_o darkness_n may_v more_o general_o overshadow_v again_o than_o it_o yet_o do_v though_o our_o hope_n in_o god_n be_v that_o he_o will_v lay_v such_o a_o constraint_n on_o many_o of_o those_o who_o eye_n be_v open_a behold_v the_o approach_v apostasy_n as_o that_o they_o may_v be_v raise_v in_o a_o sense_n of_o god_n indignation_n and_o appear_v as_o lion_n on_o the_o behalf_n of_o the_o lion_n of_o the_o tribe_n of_o judah_n to_o oppose_v every_o appearance_n of_o that_o spirit_n which_o will_v be_v exalt_v self_n or_o any_o outward_a form_n observation_n prescription_n or_o order_n to_o be_v as_o a_o bond_n on_o the_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n when_o by_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n their_o alone_a lawgiver_n they_o be_v not_o full_o persuade_v thereof_o in_o their_o own_o conscience_n which_o undoubted_o be_v the_o mean_v of_o the_o spirit_n through_o paul_n when_o he_o write_v unto_o the_o roman_n chap._n 14._o ver._n 5_o 23._o let_v every_o man_n be_v full_o persuade_v in_o his_o own_o mind_n for_o whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n and_o to_o come_v a_o little_a close_o to_o the_o matter_n in_o hand_n it_o be_v too_o too_o evident_a that_o nonconformity_n to_o outward_a prescription_n be_v take_v as_o a_o mark_n of_o apostasy_n even_o among_o those_o who_o have_v be_v under_o the_o profession_n of_o truth_n of_o which_o many_o instance_n too_o too_o large_a here_o to_o insert_v may_v be_v produce_v out_o of_o the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o christian-quaker_n this_o mean_v a_o historical_a manuscript_n make_v mention_n of_o in_o the_o preface_n to_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n treatise_n unto_o which_o we_o refer_v the_o reader_n however_o that_o the_o impartial_a reader_n may_v here_o have_v one_o instance_n that_o this_o our_o sense_n be_v not_o whole_o groundless_a we_o say_v john_n wilkinson_n and_o william_n rogers_n testify_v that_o a_o friend_n at_o the_o meeting_n at_o drawell_n which_o meeting_n be_v speak_v of_o in_o the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o manuscript_n this_o mean_v the_o aforesaid_a historical_a manuscript_n treatise_n signify_v that_o g._n f._n shall_v say_v to_o this_o effect_n he_o that_o be_v not_o for_o woman_n meeting_n mean_v as_o be_v understand_v woman_n distinct_a meeting_n as_o exercise_v among_o friend_n be_v not_o fit_a to_o fit_v in_o man_n meeting_n by_o which_o sentence_n it_o be_v evident_a if_o the_o end_v wherefore_o womens-meeting_n be_v by_o many_o first_o assent_v to_o be_v consider_v that_o if_o the_o form_n of_o relieve_v the_o poor_a prescribe_v by_o g._n f._n shall_v not_o be_v assent_v to_o by_o any_o elder_n in_o
the_o truth_n those_o who_o refuse_v so_o to_o assent_v may_v be_v subject_a to_o a_o excommunication_n by_o g._n e._n and_o his_o adherent_n from_o the_o meeting_n of_o the_o men._n beside_o it_o have_v be_v a_o observation_n of_o late_a that_o these_o question_n or_o question_n to_o the_o like_a import_n have_v be_v frequent_o ask_v by_o such_o with_o who_o we_o can_v be_v at_o unity_n in_o all_o thing_n viz._n be_v you_o for_o womens-meeting_n mean_v distinct_a womens-meeting_n from_o man_n among_o who_o under_o pretence_n of_o take_v care_n of_o the_o poor_a another_o thing_n seem_v to_o be_v more_o chief_o aim_v at_o as_o anon_o will_v be_v make_v appear_v be_v you_o for_o record_v condemnation_n mean_v thereby_o whether_o the_o party_n who_o have_v condemn_v their_o fail_n and_o through_o the_o mercy_n of_o the_o lord_n have_v be_v restore_v and_o their_o offence_n blot_v out_o and_o forgive_v by_o he_o assent_v thereto_o or_o no_o be_v you_o for_o settle_a mouthly_a and_o quarterly-meeting_n touch_v outward_a business_n since_o those_o who_o will_v have_v meeting_n as_o occasion_n offer_v be_v account_v designer_n to_o throw_v down_o all_o meeting_n for_o outward_a business_n relate_v to_o the_o affair_n of_o truth_n and_o when_o these_o or_o such_o like_a question_n have_v be_v ask_v of_o friend_n in_o truth_n that_o can_v not_o answer_v thereto_o yea_o we_o be_v sensible_a that_o it_o have_v be_v take_v by_o many_o adherent_n to_o g._n f._n as_o a_o sufficient_a token_n of_o a_o dark_a leaven_a rend_v divide_v spirit_n and_o mere_o as_o we_o take_v it_o from_o a_o apprehension_n that_o the_o form_n they_o stand_v for_o be_v thereby_o strike_v at_o though_o the_o service_n will_v be_v effectual_o perform_v in_o another_o method_n as_o experience_n in_o the_o county_n of_o westmoreland_n and_o wilts_n have_v of_o late_o testify_v for_o be_v it_o not_o so_o that_o great_a stress_n be_v lay_v upon_o the_o outward_a form_n of_o thing_n prescribe_v to_o be_v practise_v how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o john_n story_n be_v article_v against_o by_o robert_n barrow_n of_o kendal_n and_o twenty-six_a other_o person_n as_o in_o the_o second_o part_n of_o this_o manuscript_n this_o mean_v the_o aforesaid_a historical_a manuscript_n treatise_n section_n the_o four_o appear_v on_o this_o wise_a in_o the_o five_o article_n viz._n john_n story_n speak_v among_o many_o friend_n of_o the_o danger_n of_o form_n because_o of_o the_o consequence_n that_o may_v follow_v say_v that_o among_o the_o christian_n of_o old_a the_o difference_n that_o do_v arise_v be_v about_o form_n which_o can_v not_o be_v seasonable_a word_n when_o we_o be_v establish_v the_o church_n in_o the_o holy_a order_n of_o truth_n much_o more_o may_v be_v collect_v from_o the_o article_n be_v forty-four_a in_o number_n exhibit_v by_o the_o aforesaid_a robert_n barrow_n etc._n etc._n to_o show_v how_o earnest_o and_o zealous_o the_o very_a outward_a form_n of_o thing_n be_v contend_v for_o which_o occasion_n we_o in_o all_o seriousness_n of_o spirit_n thus_o to_o say_v may_v the_o lord_n god_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n so_o preserve_v his_o people_n that_o they_o may_v not_o be_v ensnare_v by_o those_o who_o have_v raise_v so_o great_a contention_n about_o the_o outward_a form_n of_o thing_n prescribe_v to_o be_v practise_v among_o the_o professor_n of_o truth_n lest_o they_o with_o they_o prove_v to_o be_v boaster_n proud_a blasphemous_a false_a accuser_n despiser_n of_o those_o that_o be_v good_a which_o be_v the_o very_a mark_n and_o token_n of_o those_o who_o have_v a_o form_n of_o godliness_n but_o deny_v the_o power_n thereof_o from_o who_o the_o apostle_n exhort_v to_o turn_v away_o and_o how_o far_o these_o mark_v rest_n upon_o many_o of_o those_o who_o so_o earnest_o contend_v for_o their_o outward_a form_n we_o leave_v to_o the_o impartial_a reader_n with_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n to_o judge_n when_o he_o have_v thorough_o peruse_v this_o manuscript_n this_o mean_v the_o aforesaid_a historical_a manuscript_n treatise_n especial_o the_o second_o part._n oh_o friend_n the_o serious_a consideration_n of_o these_o thing_n bow_v we_o before_o the_o lord_n and_o in_o a_o sense_n of_o his_o mercy_n to_o we_o we_o can_v no_o long_o keep_v silence_n but_o in_o his_o fear_n declare_v unto_o all_o that_o our_o conscience_n be_v concern_v for_o the_o cause_n of_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n and_o since_o it_o be_v so_o that_o a_o ill_a use_n be_v make_v of_o that_o spirit_n of_o forbearance_n and_o condescension_n which_o we_o be_v sensible_a have_v be_v use_v by_o many_o of_o our_o brethren_n it_o be_v now_o become_v our_o portion_n to_o unburthen_v ourselves_o of_o that_o which_o have_v be_v our_o burden_n believe_v that_o the_o lord_n be_v not_o only_a arisen_n but_o will_v yet_o more_o and_o more_o arise_v against_o that_o spirit_n that_o will_v exalt_v itself_o over_o the_o heritage_n of_o god_n endeavour_v to_o rule_v over_o their_o conscience_n whenas_o christ_n alone_o be_v lord_n thereof_o it_o may_v be_v now_o worthy_a our_o observation_n to_o consider_v whether_o any_o encouragement_n be_v give_v by_o our_o lord_n and_o master_n christ_n jesus_n whilst_o on_o earth_n unto_o his_o disciple_n to_o become_v ruler_n one_o over_o another_o we_o find_v that_o he_o exhort_v his_o disciple_n judge_v not_o that_o you_o be_v not_o judge_v be_v not_o you_o call_v rabbi_n 23.8_o matth._n 7.1_o &_o 23.8_o for_o one_o be_v your_o master_n even_o christ_n and_o all_o you_o be_v brethren_n but_o he_o that_o be_v great_a among_o you_o shall_v be_v your_o servant_n and_o whosoever_o shall_v exalt_v himself_o shall_v be_v abase_v and_o he_o that_o shall_v humble_v himself_o shall_v be_v exalt_v here_o be_v no_o good_a ground_n to_o believe_v that_o christ_n intend_v that_o when_o he_o be_v depart_v his_o disciple_n shall_v be_v exalt_v themselves_o one_o over_o another_o as_o governor_n and_o ruler_n and_o if_o we_o consult_v the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n we_o shall_v find_v that_o though_o his_o disciple_n have_v a_o dependency_n upon_o he_o whilst_o in_o his_o bodily_a appearance_n to_o be_v their_o leader_n yet_o he_o tell_v they_o 13._o john_n 16.7_o 13._o it_o be_v expedient_a for_o you_o that_o i_o go_v away_o for_o if_o i_o go_v not_o away_o the_o comforter_n will_v not_o come_v unto_o you_o but_o if_o i_o depart_v i_o will_v send_v he_o unto_o you_o and_o he_o will_v guide_v you_o into_o all_o truth_n for_o he_o shall_v not_o speak_v of_o himself_o have_v it_o be_v so_o that_o christ_n jesus_n intend_v the_o exaltation_n of_o one_o of_o his_o disciple_n as_o a_o head_n or_o supreme_a unto_o who_o the_o rest_n ought_v to_o have_v have_v a_o eye_n in_o a_o more_o particular_a manner_n than_o ordinary_a he_o will_v have_v undoubted_o signify_v so_o much_o but_o doubtless_o he_o see_v that_o their_o eye_n and_o dependency_n be_v too_o much_o on_o his_o outward_a and_o bodily_a appearance_n and_o therefore_o signify_v it_o be_v expedient_a i_o go_v hence_o that_o the_o comforter_n come_v agreeable_a to_o which_o be_v the_o apostle_n word_n though_o we_o have_v know_v christ_n after_o the_o flesh_n yet_o henceforth_o know_v we_o he_o no_o more_o that_o be_v to_o say_v after_o the_o flesh_n no_o more_o all_o which_o do_v clear_o demonstrate_v unto_o we_o it_o be_v not_o according_a to_o the_o will_n of_o god_n that_o under_o this_o administration_n we_o shall_v have_v our_o eye_n out_o unto_o man_n but_o that_o our_o great_a dependency_n shall_v be_v on_o that_o comforter_n the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n which_o christ_n testify_v the_o father_n will_v send_v in_o his_o name_n to_o teach_v we_o all_o thing_n and_o that_o this_o comforter_n shall_v be_v in_o we_o and_o therefore_o on_o this_o occasion_n it_o be_v with_o we_o to_o give_v this_o further_a testimony_n that_o every_o member_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n be_v through_o the_o death_n of_o christ_n make_v dead_a unto_o any_o other_o law_n save_o the_o law_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o life_n manifest_v through_o the_o arise_v of_o christ_n by_o his_o appearance_n in_o every_o such_o member_n and_o so_o as_o particular_a member_n be_v become_v marry_v unto_o he_o and_o have_v all_o fellowship_n each_o with_o other_o in_o the_o spirit_n those_o who_o be_v such_o aught_o to_o demean_v themselves_o each_o towards_o other_o full_a of_o love_n charity_n bowel_n of_o compassion_n long-suffering_a forbearance_n meekness_n humility_n patience_n gentleness_n and_o of_o all_o other_o virtue_n that_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n but_o as_o to_o obedience_n every_o member_n owe_v that_o unto_o christ_n his_o head_n unto_o who_o 10.5_o 2_o cor._n 10.5_o every_o thought_n according_a to_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o apostle_n paul_n ought_v to_o be_v bring_v into_o obedience_n thus_o
far_o the_o citation_n out_o of_o the_o aforesaid_a manuscript_n and_o now_o to_o return_v again_o to_o the_o consideration_n of_o the_o matter_n contain_v in_o the_o aforesaid_a query_n it_o be_v evident_a that_o grant_v the_o answer_n of_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n to_o be_v true_a it_o render_v they_o innocent_a man_n so_o far_o as_o relate_v to_o the_o matter_n query_v and_o yet_o it_o be_v too_o plain_a to_o i_o that_o this_o give_v not_o g._n f._n satisfaction_n to_o which_o i_o intend_v to_o speak_v more_o particular_o here_o after_o and_o forasmuch_o as_o it_o can_v not_o be_v just_o according_a to_o his_o own_o rule_n who_o have_v often_o exhort_v friend_n to_o follow_v report_n until_o the_o author_n be_v find_v to_o conceal_v the_o informer_n have_v the_o answer_n of_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n give_v he_o satisfaction_n than_o i_o query_n whether_o it_o be_v not_o much_o more_o unjust_a to_o conceal_v they_o when_o the_o answer_n give_v not_o satisfaction_n especial_o since_o john_n wilkinson_n testify_v that_o he_o write_v to_o those_o who_o pretend_v g._n f._n desire_v a_o answer_n to_o the_o query_n to_o desire_v g._n f._n to_o give_v the_o name_n of_o the_o informer_n with_o the_o witness_n that_o now_o which_o satisfy_v i_o that_o the_o answer_n give_v not_o satisfaction_n be_v this_o robert_n barrow_n and_o other_o concern_v at_o the_o request_n of_o g._n f._n with_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n touch_v the_o say_a query_n be_v among_o other_o subscriber_n to_o the_o forty-four_a article_n of_o accusation_n draw_v up_o against_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n either_o joint_o or_o several_o wherein_o the_o matter_n query_v be_v reduce_v into_o article_n of_o accusation_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o be_v concern_v in_o write_v a_o letter_n unto_o other_o touch_v this_o business_n wherein_o they_o give_v this_o description_n of_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n viz._n and_o friend_n it_o be_v not_o any_o personal_a trespass_n against_o any_o of_o we_o that_o we_o charge_v they_o with_o nor_o any_o particular_a concern_v of_o our_o own_o as_o man_n that_o we_o be_v in_o the_o defence_n of_o but_o the_o cause_n of_o almighty_a god_n and_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o the_o wrong_n they_o have_v do_v to_o he_o but_o yet_o notwithstanding_o from_o the_o same_o letter_n they_o say_v they_o have_v bear_v a_o dear_a love_n and_o honourable_a respect_n unto_o they_o in_o the_o holy_a truth_n compare_v this_o with_o what_o be_v write_v in_o the_o three_o article_n of_o the_o forty-four_a article_n before-cited_n viz._n slight_v the_o heavenly_a motion_n on_o g._n f_n spirit_n in_o that_o case_n in_o the_o unity_n precious_o feel_v and_o close_v with_o mean_v the_o rule_n or_o form_n of_o church-government_n set_v forth_o by_o g._n f._n as_o by_o the_o say_a article_n appear_v it_o be_v to_o i_o evident_a that_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o all_o who_o be_v espouser_n of_o those_o article_n a_o slight_v of_o g._n f_n outward_a rule_n method_n and_o order_n with_o respect_n to_o church-government_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n be_v a_o slight_v of_o the_o cause_n of_o god_n i_o now_o appeal_v to_o all_o such_o as_o be_v not_o ignorant_a of_o that_o respect_n that_o be_v give_v by_o robert_n barrow_n etc._n etc._n unto_o g._n f._n whether_o it_o be_v rational_a to_o suppose_v that_o robert_n barrow_n etc._n etc._n will_v have_v concern_v themselves_o in_o subscribe_v and_o abet_v such_o article_n as_o relate_v to_o the_o say_a query_n without_o his_o approbation_n or_o permission_n beside_o i_o well_o remember_v that_o in_o a_o reply_n make_v by_o robert_n barrow_n and_o other_o to_z john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n their_o answer_n to_o the_o forty-four_a article_n aforesaid_a john_n story_n be_v account_v a_o man_n of_o a_o dark_a spirit_n and_o in_o confusion_n because_o he_o do_v not_o believe_v that_o what_o be_v give_v forth_o by_o g._n f._n be_v by_o he_o intend_v to_o be_v urge_v with_o severity_n upon_o any_o of_o god_n faithful_a people_n but_o as_o instruction_n and_o direction_n commend_v to_o the_o church_n etc._n etc._n which_o be_v dislike_v by_o many_o friend_n unto_o who_o the_o knowledge_n thereof_o come_v i_o be_v the_o more_o concern_v to_o query_n of_o g._n f._n when_o i_o have_v opportunity_n whether_o he_o own_v that_o sense_n give_v of_o john_n story_n on_o that_o occasion_n and_o thereupon_o be_v in_o his_o house_n at_o swarthmore_n before_o the_o meeting_n at_o drawell_n occasion_v by_o the_o say_a difference_n in_o the_o north_n i_o speak_v to_o he_o of_o it_o which_o occasion_v he_o to_o call_v for_o the_o answer_n wherein_o i_o affirm_v it_o be_v and_o when_o the_o passage_n relate_v thereto_o be_v produce_v i_o also_o well_o remember_v that_o he_o speak_v not_o one_o word_n to_o condemn_v the_o same_o nor_o yet_o to_o manifest_v the_o least_o disapprobation_n thereof_o which_o serious_o ponder_v many_o month_n after_o on_o receipt_n of_o a_o letter_n receive_v from_o he_o date_v the_o 14_o the_o of_o the_o 11_o the_o m_o on_o 1676._o and_o compare_v it_o with_o something_o write_v therein_o which_o within_o a_o few_o line_n herein_o after_o will_v be_v cite_v i_o think_v it_o a_o sufficient_a demonstration_n that_o whatever_o be_v pretend_v to_o be_v john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n be_v fail_v yet_o nothing_o will_v give_v satisfaction_n but_o submission_n to_o he_o and_o his_o outward_a order_n prescription_n or_o rule_n whether_o lead_v thereinto_o by_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n or_o no._n object_n why_o do_v thou_o speak_v of_o submission_n to_o he_o will_v not_o a_o submission_n to_o his_o outward_a order_n &c_n &c_n have_v give_v satisfaction_n i_o answer_v i_o be_o not_o satisfy_v it_o will_v because_o g._n f._n in_o his_o letter_n last_o mention_v thus_o write_v of_o they_o i_o tell_v thou_o they_o that_o thou_o call_v accuse_v be_v not_o right_o for_o have_v they_o be_v right_o and_o in_o the_o light_n and_o power_n of_o god_n as_o at_o the_o first_o they_o will_v have_v come_v to_o i_o when_o i_o send_v for_o they_o which_o seem_v not_o to_o i_o to_o be_v like_a unto_o the_o language_n of_o that_o good_a shepherd_n who_o be_v principled_a to_o leave_v the_o ninety-nine_a and_o seek_v after_o the_o one_o that_o which_o be_v lose_v after_o the_o receipt_n of_o the_o seven_o query_n by_o john_n wilkinson_n he_o write_v to_o john_n blaikle_v and_o the_o rest_n to_o show_v unto_o they_o the_o inconveniency_n of_o his_o answer_v such_o question_n who_o tendency_n be_v to_o gender_v strife_n who_o not_o take_v warn_v thereby_o and_o still_o press_v for_o a_o answer_n john_n wilkinson_n at_o length_n answer_v they_o the_o substance_n whereof_o be_v before_o cite_v and_o after_o that_o say_v that_o he_o be_v move_v of_o the_o lord_n a_o second_o time_n to_o write_v unto_o those_o who_o concern_v themselves_o about_o the_o say_a query_n advise_v they_o to_o call_v in_o their_o paper_n and_o tell_v how_o far_o they_o have_v be_v spread_v warn_v they_o in_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o come_v unto_o he_o the_o 20_o the_o day_n of_o the_o 6_o the_o m_o on_o 1675._o to_o repent_v and_o turn_v from_o their_o proceed_n and_o leave_v god_n people_n to_o the_o order_n of_o his_o gospel_n and_o command_n and_o that_o if_o they_o will_v not_o than_o the_o lord_n himself_o will_v break_v they_o and_o turn_v they_o one_o against_o another_o about_o their_o order_n but_o yet_o they_o desist_v not_o i_o be_o now_o sensible_a that_o some_o who_o may_v industrious_o endeavour_v to_o clear_v g._n f._n from_o what_o be_v from_o the_o foregoing_a line_n just_o as_o i_o take_v it_o lay_v at_o his_o door_n in_o relation_n to_o the_o say_a query_n propose_v to_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n may_v thus_o say_v we_o be_v not_o satisfy_v from_o all_o thou_o yet_o have_v signify_v that_o g._n f._n be_v a_o abetter_n of_o robert_n barrow_n and_o those_o other_o who_o concern_v themselves_o about_o the_o aforesaid_a query_n and_o proceed_n therein_o and_o we_o believe_v if_o g._n f._n shall_v be_v interrogated_a touch_v it_o that_o he_o will_v disow_v that_o it_o be_v do_v by_o his_o authority_n or_o approbation_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o such_o i_o desire_v they_o serious_o to_o consider_v the_o observation_n which_o i_o make_v on_o these_o follow_a word_n mention_v in_o a_o postscript_n to_o a_o certificate_n write_v by_o john_n blaikling_n own_o be_v one_o of_o those_o concern_v with_o robert_n barrow_n touch_v the_o query_n and_o proceed_n thereon_o in_o favour_n of_o g._n f._n cite_v towards_o the_o latter-end_a of_o the_o five_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n viz._n what_o do_v you_o think_v to_o do_v with_o your_o vain_o attempt_v
into_o the_o north_n much_o write_v be_v occasion_v in_o relation_n thereto_o which_o be_v not_o my_o present_a purpose_n to_o treat_v of_o i_o here_o omit_v that_o now_o the_o reader_n may_v have_v a_o understanding_n of_o that_o sense_n and_o judgement_n that_o be_v with_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n in_o relation_n to_o those_o five_o head_n from_o whence_o all_o the_o beforementioned_a forty-four_a article_n do_v spring_n i_o think_v meet_v to_o cite_v their_o testimony_n in_o relation_n thereto_o read_v at_o the_o meeting_n at_o drawel_n and_o then_o compare_v such_o their_o sense_n and_o judgement_n with_o those_o ancient_n and_o faithful_a testimony_n of_o many_o labour_a friend_n in_o the_o gospel_n of_o peace_n who_o change_v not_o their_o way_n since_o they_o become_v publisher_n thereof_o to_o the_o day_n they_o fall_v asleep_o it_o may_v then_o easy_o be_v savour_v from_o what_o spirit_n all_o the_o mire_n and_o dirt_n that_o have_v be_v cast_v up_o against_o our_o ancient_n and_o yet_o honourable_a friend_n john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n have_v spring_v their_o say_a testimony_n now_o follow_v on_o the_o whole_a matter_n in_o the_o fear_n and_o presence_n of_o the_o amighty_a god_n we_o declare_v that_o as_o we_o do_v approve_v of_o monthly_a and_o quarter-meeting_n for_o the_o necessary_a service_n of_o the_o truth_n so_o we_o further_o say_v that_o as_o these_o or_o any_o other_o meeting_n of_o friend_n in_o ten_o shall_v be_v continue_v to_o answer_v these_o service_n we_o believe_v that_o as_o it_o now_o be_v it_o also_o will_v become_v our_o duty_n to_o be_v at_o unity_n with_o our_o brethren_n in_o the_o service_n thereof_o and_o though_o one_o of_o we_o viz._n john_n wilkinson_n do_v condescend_v to_o subscribe_v to_o a_o paper_n for_o the_o exect_v a_o womans-meeting_a in_o the_o country_n to_o answer_v the_o end_v in_o the_o paper_n propose_v which_o he_o testify_v he_o then_o do_v in_o singleness_n of_o heart_n for_o vnity_n sake_n yet_o according_a to_o that_o inward_a sense_n we_o now_o have_v there_o appear_v to_o we_o no_o absolute_a necessity_n to_o continue_v womens-meeting_n in_o this_o country_n distinct_a and_o separate_a from_o the_o man_n and_o therefore_o do_v conscientious_o forbear_v to_o assent_v or_o encourage_v to_o lay_v the_o intention_n of_o marriage_n before_o they_o yet_o that_o inward_a sense_n and_o heavenly_a understanding_n we_o have_v receive_v from_o god_n have_v and_o yet_o do_v confirm_v we_o in_o this_o judgement_n that_o it_o be_v not_o agreeable_a with_o the_o line_n of_o truth_n to_o oppose_v other_o in_o the_o exercise_n and_o appoint_a service_n of_o the_o say_a meeting_n as_o heretofore_o and_o yet_o settle_v and_o agree_v upon_o who_o be_v conscientious_a therein_o be_v otherwise_o mind_v than_o we_o be_v and_o if_o any_o of_o our_o word_n and_o action_n have_v have_v any_o tendency_n to_o oppose_v etc._n etc._n which_o we_o be_v not_o conscious_a of_o but_o if_o we_o be_v we_o will_v ready_o confess_v we_o say_v the_o truth_n in_o we_o will_v have_v condemn_v it_o even_o as_o it_o now_o do_v and_o if_o it_o shall_v please_v the_o lord_n to_o manifest_v unto_o we_o a_o service_n in_o those_o meeting_n in_o the_o country_n as_o well_o as_o city_n the_o same_o integrity_n towards_o god_n which_o have_v dwell_v with_o we_o these_o many_o year_n past_a we_o believe_v will_v become_v a_o bond_n on_o we_o to_o join_v hand_n and_o heart_n with_o other_o our_o brethren_n and_o sister_n therein_o but_o till_o then_o our_o desire_n be_v that_o this_o may_v not_o become_v a_o occasion_n of_o straitness_n of_o spirit_n each_o towards_o other_o but_o that_o embrace_v the_o wholesome_a counsel_n of_o the_o apostle_n in_o another_o case_n if_o in_o any_o thing_n you_o be_v otherwise-minded_n wait_v till_o god_n reveal_v we_o may_v walk_v together_o in_o that_o pure_a undefiled_a love_n of_o our_o god_n which_o think_v no_o evil._n that_o though_o many_o of_o our_o brethren_n see_v a_o service_n in_o record_v condemnation_n and_o leave_v they_o upon_o record_n to_o posterity_n yet_o from_o that_o inward_a sense_n and_o heavenly_a understanding_n we_o have_v we_o see_v no_o necessity_n to_o leave_v they_o upon_o record_n to_o posterity_n or_o retain_v they_o when_o the_o sin_n be_v blot_v out_o and_o remit_v by_o the_o lord_n neither_o to_o be_v extend_v further_a than_o the_o offence_n be_v know_v nor_o yet_o to_o continue_v long_o than_o the_o memory_n of_o the_o offence_n abide_v but_o if_o any_o see_v meet_v from_o a_o inward_a sense_n of_o truth_n in_o themselves_o to_o leave_v such_o testimony_n relate_v to_o themselves_o to_o posterity_n we_o have_v therewith_o unity_n that_o this_o our_o sense_n may_v be_v no_o occasion_n of_o straitness_n of_o spirit_n each_o towards_o other_o be_v the_o earnest_a desire_n of_o our_o soul_n who_o desire_v the_o prosperity_n of_o truth_n and_o peace_n among_o all_o the_o church_n of_o god_n as_o to_o tithe_n we_o can_v in_o truth_n say_v it_o be_v never_o so_o much_o as_o in_o our_o heart_n to_o speak_v any_o word_n whatsoever_o with_o the_o least_o intent_n to_o strengthen_v any_o in_o the_o payment_n thereof_o nor_o yet_o to_o weaken_v the_o faith_n of_o any_o have_v a_o testimony_n in_o our_o heart_n that_o tithe_n as_o at_o this_o day_n pay_v be_v anti-christian_n that_o as_o groan_n sigh_v sounding_n and_o sing_n may_v proceed_v from_o deceitful_a spirit_n so_o also_o we_o declare_v groan_n sigh_v sounding_n and_o sing_n may_v be_v the_o fruit_n of_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n among_o god_n people_n and_o that_o as_o the_o first_o be_v discourage_v the_o second_o ought_v to_o be_v encourage_v and_o the_o earnest_a desire_n of_o our_o soul_n be_v that_o as_o to_o these_o thing_n nothing_o but_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n and_o sound_a judgement_n may_v appear_v either_o to_o reprove_v or_o to_o encourage_v and_o though_o we_o have_v be_v accuse_v as_o if_o we_o be_v opposer_n of_o such_o groan_n etc._n etc._n which_o the_o truth_n approve_v yet_o god_n be_v our_o witness_n we_o know_v it_o not_o that_o though_o we_o have_v be_v represent_v as_o person_n encourage_v flee_v in_o time_n of_o persecution_n we_o say_v we_o be_v not_o conscious_a to_o ourselves_o of_o so_o do_v for_o we_o believe_v those_o who_o stand_v not_o to_o their_o testimony_n but_o flee_v therefrom_o in_o the_o day_n of_o persecution_n may_v true_o be_v account_v either_o weak_a in_o the_o faith_n or_o depart_v from_o the_o faith_n and_o thus_o have_v give_v our_o inward_a sense_n according_a to_o the_o uprightness_n and_o integrity_n of_o our_o heart_n concern_v these_o five_o general_a head_n from_o whence_o all_o the_o forty-four_a article_n do_v arise_v we_o shall_v with_o this_o conclude_v that_o the_o god_n of_o heaven_n be_v our_o witness_n our_o desire_n be_v to_o approve_v ourselves_o man_n of_o peace_n in_o the_o abhorrency_n of_o all_o fleshly_a liberty_n and_o looseness_n and_o to_o follow_v after_o truth_n and_o righteousness_n that_o the_o regin_v of_o the_o power_n of_o the_o eternal_a god_n may_v be_v over_o all_o so_o will_v the_o kingdom_n of_o this_o world_n become_v the_o kingdom_n of_o our_o lord_n and_o his_o christ_n as_o to_o the_o two_o question_n answer_v by_o the_o friend_n and_o brethren_n meet_v on_o this_o occasion_n we_o in_o the_o fear_n of_o the_o lord_n say_v we_o in_o the_o propose_v thereof_o have_v not_o the_o least_o thought_n to_o obtain_v your_o yea_o and_o nay_o with_o intent_n thereby_o to_o strengthen_v such_o who_o may_v be_v account_v our_o party_n in_o any_o thing_n that_o be_v contrary_a to_o truth_n nor_o to_o encourage_v looseness_n or_o bad_a spirit_n but_o conscientious_o to_o remove_v the_o scruple_n of_o some_o and_o further_o we_o say_v we_o be_v better_o satisfy_v with_o your_o explication_n therein_o than_o with_o your_o bare_a yea_o and_o nay_o for_o that_o we_o as_o well_o as_o you_o be_v sensible_a apostate_n and_o bad_a spirit_n seek_v a_o fleshly_a liberty_n have_v make_v use_n of_o argument_n deducible_a from_o such_o principle_n of_o truth_n to_o oppose_v the_o power_n of_o god_n itself_o and_o the_o practice_n of_o god_n people_n in_o the_o power_n john_n wilkinson_n john_n story_n it_o be_v now_o worthy_a the_o reader_n notice_n that_o g._n f._n take_v occasion_n to_o write_v unto_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n sometime_o after_o the_o meeting_n at_o drawel_n which_o be_v cite_v in_o the_o eight_o section_n of_o the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o beforementioned_a manuscript_n together_o with_o answer_n thereto_o pertinent_a on_o this_o occasion_n i_o think_v meet_v here_o to_o transcribe_v the_o same_o together_o with_o those_o observation_n that_o be_v make_v thereon_o in_o the_o say_a section_n this_o be_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o you_o john_n
wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n and_o your_o company_n to_o call_v in_o all_o your_o paper_n which_o you_o have_v give_v forth_o in_o your_o separation_n which_o tend_v to_o nothing_o but_o disquiet_v friend_n mind_n and_o bring_v they_o into_o strife_n jangle_v and_o vain_a dispute_v and_o corrupt_v their_o mind_n and_o draw_v they_o from_o better_a thing_n and_o from_o the_o lord_n and_o his_o peaceable_a truth_n and_o you_o may_v see_v if_o you_o will_v not_o shut_v your_o eye_n what_o your_o spirit_n beget_v into_o viz._n strife_n and_o what_o spirit_n be_v it_o that_o have_v lead_v and_o guide_v you_o so_o if_o you_o do_v not_o give_v over_o your_o work_n and_o separation_n the_o lord_n god_n will_v blast_v your_o spirit_n and_o work_n and_o you_o will_v become_v harden_v and_o as_o bad_a as_o the_o old_a opposer_n james_n naylor_n and_o his_o company_n and_o john_n perrot_n and_o pennyman_n and_o cobet_n and_o muggleton_n mark_v your_o end_n for_o the_o seed_n of_o life_n reign_v and_o will_v grind_v to_o powder_v its_o opposer_n this_o 23_o d._n of_o 8_o the_o m_o on_o 76._o george_n fox_n to_o the_o aforesaid_a letter_n john_n wilkinson_n return_v this_o ensue_a answer_n george_n fox_n i_o receive_v thy_o line_n in_o which_o thou_o say_v this_o be_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o you_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n and_o your_o company_n to_o call_v in_o all_o your_o paper_n which_o you_o have_v give_v forth_o in_o your_o separation_n etc._n etc._n i_o judge_v thou_o mean_v not_o that_o that_o be_v a_o separation_n that_o all_o friend_n meet_v not_o outward_o together_o true_o george_n we_o may_v have_v expect_v thou_o will_v have_v tell_v we_o in_o love_n what_o the_o separation_n thou_o speak_v of_o consist_v in_o whether_o we_o be_v separate_v from_o the_o light_n within_o the_o doctrine_n of_o truth_n or_o have_v build_v again_o that_o which_o we_o have_v once_o destroy_v or_o what_o we_o have_v leave_v undo_v that_o god_n truth_n in_o our_o heart_n require_v of_o we_o and_o what_o paper_n we_o have_v give_v forth_o against_o the_o light_n within_o when_o the_o word_n through_o thou_o concern_v this_o matter_n enter_v our_o heart_n and_o give_v light_a to_o we_o that_o the_o light_n of_o truth_n manifest_v we_o guilty_a of_o a_o separation_n from_o god_n truth_n and_o give_v out_o paper_n against_o it_o we_o shall_v ready_o confess_v it_o and_o repent_v but_o till_o we_o know_v it_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o be_v as_o a_o hammer_n and_o thy_o prophecy_n be_v to_o they_o who_o be_v in_o the_o separation_n and_o in_o strife_n cause_v division_n viz._n with_o article_n of_o accusation_n disquiet_v friend_n mind_n with_o a_o new_a form_n and_o way_n of_o proceed_v carry_v on_o with_o a_o profession_n of_o church-authority_n and_o great_a help_n which_o indeed_o be_v seldom_o want_v in_o a_o separation_n from_o truth_n when_o the_o apostasy_n enter_v and_o true_o there_o be_v great_a cause_n of_o jealousy_n what_o will_v be_v the_o end_n of_o these_o thing_n thou_o shall_v have_v tell_v we_o what_o new_a thing_n we_o have_v bring_v in_o as_o bad_a as_o the_o old_a opposer_n james_n naylor_n and_o his_o company_n and_o john_n perrot_n and_o pennyman_n etc._n etc._n before_o thou_o have_v tell_v we_o the_o lord_n god_n will_v blast_v your_o spirit_n and_o work_n and_o if_o james_n naylor_n opposition_n consist_v in_o not_o reprove_v his_o company_n when_o they_o bow_v to_o he_o and_o cry_v hosanna_n let_v it_o be_v a_o warn_v to_o thou_o and_o reprove_v thy_o company_n when_o they_o give_v thou_o the_o title_n and_o honour_n due_a to_o the_o high_a lest_o they_o that_o love_v pre-eminence_n and_o rule_n outlive_v thy_o time_n and_o render_v thy_o weakness_n to_o other_o as_o thou_o have_v do_v he_o when_o thou_o be_v dead_a and_o in_o thy_o grave_n turn_v to_o dust_n therefore_o be_v humble_a as_o a_o member_n of_o the_o heavenly_a body_n under_o christ_n the_o head_n who_o rule_v in_o his_o church_n and_o people_n who_o right_a it_o be_v and_o remember_v the_o word_n to_o moses_n with_o the_o time_n and_o place_n of_o his_o death_n who_o sanctify_v not_o god_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o israel_n his_o people_n oh_o well_o may_v friend_n be_v call_v apostate_n in_o their_o day_n and_o be_v curse_v of_o man_n when_o they_o be_v dead_a who_o condemnation_n be_v leave_v on_o record_n by_o other_o to_o posterity_n in_o the_o church_n book_n see_v james_n naylor_n by_o thou_o be_v call_v a_o old_a opposer_n who_o confess_v his_o weakness_n repent_v and_o dye_v in_o truth_n and_o peace_n with_o god_n but_o george_n we_o may_v have_v be_v persuade_v that_o thy_o counsel_n and_o advice_n thou_o give_v to_o the_o church_n in_o writing_n be_v great_o abuse_v and_o we_o can_v judge_v how_o thou_o can_v intend_v force_n or_o such_o a_o way_n of_o proceed_v with_o friend_n about_o they_o that_o which_o i_o see_v at_o present_a tend_v to_o unity_n be_v for_o thou_o to_o manifest_a what_o thou_o intend_v by_o they_o if_o thou_o intend_v no_o force_n with_o they_o which_o thou_o can_v not_o do_v in_o truth_n for_o that_o will_v let_v thou_o see_v division_n will_v be_v the_o effect_n of_o they_o then_o manifest_a the_o abuse_n they_o have_v do_v to_o thou_o and_o thy_o counsel_n to_o friend_n by_o their_o proceed_n about_o they_o that_o we_o may_v know_v that_o thou_o be_v the_o same_o in_o principle_n in_o doctrine_n and_o practice_n as_o in_o the_o beginning_n when_o thy_o testimony_n be_v recommend_v to_o the_o witness_n of_o god_n in_o all_o conscience_n that_o thou_o may_v clear_v thyself_o that_o thou_o approve_v of_o no_o force_n about_o religion_n but_o the_o force_n and_o effect_v of_o the_o word_n deliver_v that_o the_o increase_n may_v be_v of_o god_n and_o we_o all_o unto_o who_o god_n love_n have_v be_v large_a may_v have_v unity_n in_o truth_n as_o in_o the_o beginning_n the_o 9th_o mth._n 76._o from_o thy_o friend_n john_n wilkinson_n unto_o this_o letter_n george_n fox_n give_v this_o ensue_a answer_n john_n wilkinson_n i_o receive_v thy_o letter_n as_o i_o judge_v subscribe_v j._n w._n wherein_o thou_o will_v seem_v to_o shuffle_v off_o that_o which_o i_o write_v to_o thou_o and_z john_n story_n and_o the_o rest_n as_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o you_o and_o that_o i_o shall_v have_v tell_v you_o wherein_o you_o be_v separate_v and_o what_o paper_n you_o have_v give_v forth_o contrary_a to_o the_o light_n and_o truth_n etc._n etc._n your_o paper_n of_o your_o eighty_o subscriber_n be_v not_o from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n nor_o as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o beginning_n which_o you_o send_v up_o and_o down_o and_o if_o it_o be_v not_o to_o beget_v into_o strife_n why_o do_v you_o send_v it_o to_o carlisle_n and_o up_o and_o down_o to_o other_o place_n and_o another_o paper_n late_o that_o you_o have_v send_v beside_o all_o your_o other_o paper_n and_o as_o for_o my_o paper_n or_o write_n that_o i_o have_v be_v move_v of_o the_o lord_n to_o give_v forth_o i_o know_v no_o friend_n that_o do_v abuse_v they_o if_o thou_o know_v any_o thou_o shall_v have_v mention_v they_o and_o if_o thou_o be_v it_o not_o blind_a who_o be_v go_v from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n and_o the_o spirit_n by_o which_o thou_o be_v first_o convince_v thou_o will_v see_v that_o i_o be_o the_o same_o as_o i_o be_v in_o the_o beginning_n and_o as_o for_o thy_o fear_n of_o make_v force_n in_o religion_n there_o be_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v pure_a can_v come_v into_o it_o but_o look_v into_o your_o own_o paper_n wherein_o you_o say_v none_o of_o your_o own_o county_n nor_o other_o county_n must_v sit_v among_o your_o choose_a man_n but_o who_o you_o have_v give_v power_n unto_o etc._n etc._n but_o i_o say_v as_o christ_n say_v unto_o you_o he_o that_o believe_v be_v save_v and_o he_o that_o believe_v not_o be_v condemn_v already_o and_o thy_o neighbour_n and_o all_o that_o have_v be_v concern_v with_o you_o do_v know_v what_o you_o be_v separate_v from_o and_o i_o say_v also_o you_o be_v separate_v from_o that_o power_n and_o spirit_n which_o do_v first_o convince_v you_o for_o if_o not_o you_o will_v have_v be_v in_o unity_n with_o i_o as_o at_o the_o first_o and_o thou_o have_v better_o have_v take_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n patient_o and_o not_o resist_v it_o but_o it_o seem_v it_o have_v be_v as_o a_o fire_n unto_o thou_o and_o you._n for_o it_o be_v send_v in_o tenderness_n and_o care_n unto_o you_o and_o for_o your_o good_a though_o thou_o will_v make_v thyself_o ignorant_a of_o what_o separation_n you_o be_v go_v into_o for_o you_o be_v separate_v from_o the_o inward_a light_n and_o spirit_n that_o
you_o go_v from_o before_o you_o separate_v outward_o and_o this_o spirit_n be_v afraid_a of_o be_v limit_v but_o it_o will_v limit_v the_o universal_a spirit_n both_o in_o males_n and_o female_n as_o your_o fruit_n have_v manifest_v concern_v the_o practice_n of_o womens-meeting_n and_o record_v condemnation_n and_o admonish_a payer_n of_o tithe_n and_o other_o evil_n as_o your_o book_n and_o paper_n and_o neighbour_n can_v testify_v but_o thou_o who_o have_v say_v they_o must_v be_v leave_v to_o themselves_o to_o condemn_v this_o year_n or_o the_o other_o etc._n etc._n this_o give_v liberty_n to_o the_o flesh_n for_o while_o it_o be_v to_o day_n they_o must_v hear_v his_o voice_n but_o john_n i_o savour_v thy_o spirit_n and_o know_v that_o thy_o word_n come_v from_o a_o angry_a disquiet_v fretful_a peevish_a spirit_n and_o poor_a man_n and_o people_n for_o my_o part_n i_o pity_v you_o as_o know_v and_o see_v that_o you_o be_v out_o of_o the_o life_n and_o be_v not_o in_o the_o spirit_n that_o do_v first_o convince_v you_o and_o so_o not_o in_o the_o first_o love_n and_o if_o ever_o thou_o come_v to_o the_o tender_a spirit_n and_o light_n of_o christ_n in_o thy_o heart_n thou_o will_v see_v all_o those_o your_o book_n and_o paper_n of_o strife_n and_o your_o separation_n be_v all_o for_o condemnation_n with_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n and_o they_o be_v the_o work_n of_o that_o spirit_n that_o lead_v thou_o into_o death_n and_o strife_n and_o now_o thou_o cry_v what_o and_o wherein_o and_o this_o and_o the_o other_o but_o come_v in_o and_o look_v into_o thyself_o and_o i_o say_v again_o it_o be_v the_o same_o spirit_n that_o lead_v james_n naylor_n and_o john_n perrot_n and_o other_o and_o john_n perrot_n cry_v against_o imposition_n as_o you_o do_v and_o against_o the_o mens-meeting_n as_o you_o do_v against_o the_o woman_n though_o i_o know_v james_n naylor_n do_v for_o himself_o condemn_v that_o spirit_n that_o lead_v into_o a_o separation_n which_o have_v be_v well_o if_o you_o have_v do_v so_o too_o and_o his_o resurrection_n be_v record_v as_o well_o as_o his_o condemnation_n but_o many_o of_o his_o people_n remain_v to_o this_o day_n out_o and_o have_v be_v and_o be_v as_o much_o against_o man_n and_o womens-meeting_n as_o you_o and_o so_o it_o be_v but_o the_o same_o spirit_n still_o and_o james_n naylor_n opposition_n do_v not_o consist_v only_o in_o not_o reprove_v his_o company_n for_o the_o title_n they_o give_v he_o but_o his_o opposition_n stand_v several_a year_n about_o other_o matter_n and_o his_o people_n cry_v against_o our_o meeting_n and_o seek_v with_o all_o their_o may_v to_o destroy_v they_o but_o the_o lord_n power_n blast_v they_o all_o that_o do_v not_o come_v in_o by_o repentance_n and_o judgement_n and_o thou_o further_o say_v let_v james_n naylor_n not_o reprove_v his_o company_n be_v a_o warn_v to_o i_o and_o bide_v i_o reprove_v my_o company_n when_o they_o give_v i_o title_n and_o honour_n due_a to_o the_o high_a etc._n etc._n poor_a man_n be_v here_o thy_o envy_n break_v out_o but_o what_o be_v the_o title_n and_o who_o be_v they_o that_o have_v give_v they_o and_o when_o and_o where_o and_o whereas_o thou_o say_v lest_o they_o that_o love_n pre-eminence_n and_o rule_n outlive_v my_o time_n and_o render_v my_o weakness_n to_o other_o john_n who_o be_v those_o that_o love_n pre-eminence_n and_o what_o be_v my_o weakness_n that_o they_o may_v render_v it_o why_o do_v thou_o not_o mention_v it_o in_o thy_o paper_n but_o this_o be_v from_o a_o prejudice_v malicious_a spirit_n and_o not_o from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n to_o render_v my_o weakness_n etc._n etc._n when_o i_o be_o dead_a and_o in_o my_o grave_n turn_v to_o dust_n nay_o john_n that_o which_o thou_o strike_v at_o and_o thy_o company_n and_o all_o the_o evil_a spirit_n in_o the_o world_n have_v strike_v at_o and_o all_o the_o apostate_n before_o thou_o shall_v never_o turn_v it_o to_o dust_n neither_o shall_v you_o ever_o get_v it_o into_o the_o dust_n glory_n to_o the_o everlasting_a god_n for_o ever_o for_o he_o that_o over-comes_a shall_v go_v no_o more_o forth_o and_o shall_v never_o perish_v and_o he_o that_o believe_v on_o the_o son_n of_o god_n have_v everlasting_a life_n but_o if_o this_o be_v the_o way_n of_o thy_o preach_v that_o the_o member_n of_o the_o heavenly_a body_n turn_v to_o dust_n i_o fear_v thou_o have_v beget_v none_o to_o god_n but_o into_o a_o profession_n that_o will_v turn_v to_o dust_n like_o thyself_o and_o dust_n be_v the_o meat_n of_o this_o spirit_n that_o i_o know_v for_o i_o be_o in_o a_o life_n that_o be_v over_o that_o spirit_n which_o neither_o thou_o nor_o the_o world_n can_v touch_v and_o if_o thou_o come_v to_o be_v as_o judas_n and_o betray_v the_o truth_n to_o the_o priest_n i_o know_v what_o thou_o and_o they_o can_v kill_v if_o god_n will_v suffer_v you_o but_o i_o do_v not_o fear_v it_o and_o i_o must_v tell_v thou_o it_o be_v the_o spirit_n of_o judas_n the_o betrayer_n that_o be_v go_v from_o truth_n and_o now_o will_v betray_v other_o from_o the_o heavenly_a body_n in_o the_o eternal_a fellowship_n in_o the_o eternal_a head_n for_o that_o which_o be_v earthly_a be_v earthly_a and_o that_o which_o be_v heavenly_a be_v heavenly_a and_o thou_o bid_v i_o be_v humble_a as_o a_o member_n of_o the_o heavenly_a body_n under_o christ_n the_o head_n etc._n etc._n so_o thou_o tell_v i_o i_o be_o a_o member_n of_o christ_n the_o heavenly_a body_n yet_o thou_o say_v when_o i_o be_o turn_v to_o dust_n and_o dead_a be_v this_o thy_o doctrine_n be_v the_o member_n of_o the_o heavenly_a body_n turn_v to_o dust_n and_o dead_a this_o doctrine_n sure_o proceed_v from_o darkness_n and_o not_o from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n and_o be_v it_o to_o this_o thou_o will_v have_v i_o bow_v and_o be_v humble_v to_o nay_o john_n i_o need_v none_o of_o thy_o ministry_n and_o it_o will_v do_v no_o good_a in_o the_o state_n thou_o stand_v in_o to_o any_o for_o it_o be_v a_o angry_a malicious_a froward_a spirit_n that_o have_v possess_v thou_o and_o further_o thou_o bide_v i_o remember_v the_o word_n to_o moses_n with_o the_o time_n and_o place_n of_o his_o death_n who_o sanctify_v not_o god_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o israel_n his_o people_n what_o do_v thou_o infer_v from_o thence_o john_n that_o i_o have_v not_o sanctify_v god_n before_o his_o people_n so_o thou_o have_v set_v i_o above_o a_o common_a member_n and_o put_v i_o into_o a_o office_n then_o but_o must_v that_o which_o sanctify_v god_n be_v turn_v to_o dust_n i_o think_v john_n thou_o have_v own_v christ_n to_o be_v the_o sanctifier_n of_o all_o who_o be_v great_a than_o moses_n and_o the_o end_n of_o moses_n but_o john_n wherein_o have_v not_o i_o sanctify_v the_o lord_n what_o liberty_n have_v i_o give_v to_o sin_n or_o any_o that_o be_v faithful_a that_o have_v not_o follow_v you_o in_o your_o separation_n have_v you_o not_o take_v offence_n against_o some_o of_o they_o that_o come_v to_o admonish_v such_o as_o be_v not_o faithful_a among_o you_o and_o call_v it_o overdriving_a they_o yea_o such_o as_o have_v be_v move_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o be_v it_o not_o call_v popery_n when_o some_o go_v to_o admonish_v preston_n meeting_n when_o they_o do_v not_o stand_v steadfast_a to_o the_o lord_n and_o how_o be_v the_o lord_n sanctify_v among_o you_o then_o and_o how_o be_v the_o lord_n sanctify_v among_o you_o concern_v your_o pay_v of_o tithe_n or_o your_o connive_n at_o your_o wife_n or_o other_o pay_v for_o you_o much_o of_o which_o i_o can_v write_v concern_v such_o like_a thing_n but_o i_o shall_v forbear_v but_o when_o you_o be_v in_o strife_n i_o will_v have_v have_v you_o come_v over_o to_o i_o that_o you_o may_v have_v be_v bring_v into_o unity_n before_o your_o separation_n but_o you_o refuse_v nevertheless_o if_o thou_o and_o john_n story_n bring_v your_o eighty_o subscriber_n and_o come_v to_o i_o i_o will_v show_v you_o wherein_o you_o write_n and_o action_n be_v contrary_a to_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n and_o spirit_n of_o god_n by_o which_o you_o be_v covince_v in_o the_o beginning_n which_o have_v you_o love_v the_o gospel_n of_o peace_n you_o will_v have_v come_v to_o i_o before_o you_o have_v make_v such_o a_o jumble_v with_o your_o strife_n up_o and_o down_o the_o nation_n for_o i_o have_v hear_v by_o several_a faithful_a friend_n where_o you_o have_v send_v your_o paper_n to_o prejudice_v person_n against_o man_n and_o womens-meeting_n and_o record_v commendation_n and_o other_o friend_n practice_n which_o have_v beget_v a_o great_a dislike_n in_o friend_n concern_v you_o for_o what_o have_v this_o be_v
but_o to_o stir_v up_o strife_n and_o to_o sow_v discord_n but_o be_v not_o david_n and_o manasses_n and_o peter_n and_z many_z other_o their_o sin_n record_v and_o their_o repentance_n and_o change_a record_v in_o the_o holy_a scripture_n and_o what_o need_v john_n wilkinson_n be_v afraid_a and_o trouble_v himself_o about_o the_o record_v the_o condemnation_n of_o sin_n and_o the_o resurrection_n of_o the_o just_a but_o who_o have_v curse_v david_n or_o peter_n or_o any_o other_o who_o condemnation_n of_o sin_n and_o repentance_n and_o turn_v from_o it_o be_v record_v or_o call_v they_o apostate_n and_o what_o spirit_n be_v this_o in_o john_n wilkinson_n that_o will_v not_o have_v such_o thing_n record_v now_o which_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n record_v in_o former_a age_n sure_o it_o be_v not_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n nor_o light_n of_o christ_n for_o if_o they_o be_v sin_n private_a that_o only_o the_o church_n know_v they_o than_o they_o go_v no_o further_o than_o the_o church_n but_o if_o they_o be_v open_a sin_n to_o the_o world_n among_o sinner_n than_o their_o condemnation_n and_o repentance_n must_v go_v as_o far_o as_o the_o fact_n be_v know_v but_o if_o john_n wilkinson_n be_v afraid_a lest_o he_o shall_v be_v curse_v and_o his_o company_n and_o count_v apostate_n to_o posterity_n if_o their_o fail_n sin_n and_o transgression_n shall_v be_v record_v true_o without_o your_o repentance_n they_o will_v be_v record_v and_o it_o will_v be_v well_o if_o you_o do_v repent_v and_o condemn_v they_o for_o than_o your_o resurrection_n will_v be_v record_v out_o of_o this_o apostasy_n else_o you_o need_v not_o question_v stand_v upon_o record_n and_o they_o that_o have_v be_v lead_v by_o you_o into_o a_o separation_n and_o now_o come_v off_o from_o you_o do_v not_o bless_v you_o as_o several_z have_v declare_v so_o you_o bring_v that_o upon_o yourselves_o which_o you_o think_v to_o avoid_v but_o why_o shall_v thou_o and_o you_o be_v so_o afraid_a of_o have_v your_o repentance_n from_o sin_n and_o evil_a action_n record_v which_o you_o have_v commit_v in_o grieve_v god_n spirit_n and_o his_o people_n and_o open_v the_o mouth_n of_o the_o world_n without_o a_o fear_n of_o be_v curse_v or_o count_v apostate_n be_v this_o the_o cause_n you_o will_v hide_v your_o sin_n and_o have_v no_o testimony_n give_v forth_o against_o you_o if_o thou_o and_o you_o have_v such_o a_o love_n to_o they_o thou_o and_o you_o may_v keep_v they_o but_o the_o truth_n testimony_n will_v stand_v against_o all_o that_o be_v out_o of_o the_o truth_n and_o there_o be_v condemnation_n upon_o record_n ever_o since_o 1652._o so_o no_o new_a thing_n among_o we_o but_o according_a to_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n but_o the_o lord_n know_v i_o will_v have_v nothing_o but_o what_o be_v pure_a to_o rule_n and_o reign_v and_o all_o sin_n and_o evil_a to_o be_v condemn_v and_o that_o which_o be_v private_a to_o be_v only_o among_o friend_n and_o that_o which_o be_v public_a to_o be_v public_o condemn_v to_o the_o world_n and_o if_o the_o world_n shall_v say_v such_o a_o one_o do_v so_o or_o so_o there_o be_v a_o testimony_n upon_o record_n that_o such_o a_o one_o be_v convert_v and_o translate_v to_o posterity_n as_o david_n be_v from_o the_o evil_a to_o good_a and_o from_o the_o darkness_n to_o the_o light_n and_o have_v you_o continue_v in_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n and_o in_o his_o spirit_n that_o lead_v the_o saint_n to_o condemn_v those_o evil_n which_o be_v record_v in_o scripture_n and_o to_o glorify_v god_n in_o their_o resurrection_n you_o will_v never_o have_v be_v in_o opposition_n against_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n practice_n now_o in_o such_o thing_n by_o the_o same_o spirit_n you_o call_v it_o a_o new_a way_n and_o that_o which_o will_v not_o have_v sin_n and_o evil_n condemn_v and_o condemn_v that_o which_o record_v it_o be_v for_o condemnation_n for_o instead_o of_o be_v curse_v as_o thou_o say_v they_o that_o do_v condemn_v sin_n and_o evil_a and_o arise_v out_o of_o that_o which_o be_v condennied_a and_o this_o be_v record_v to_o posterity_n the_o church_n and_o their_o relation_n can_v testify_v to_o their_o change_n and_o their_o die_v in_o the_o lord_n but_o i_o be_o sorry_a for_o you_o the_o lord_n god_n of_o heaven_n know_v that_o you_o shall_v dishonour_v the_o lord_n god_n and_o his_o truth_n and_o people_n in_o the_o north_n and_o have_v separate_v from_o the_o light_n and_o spirit_n that_o do_v first_o convince_v you_o for_o have_v you_o be_v in_o the_o love_n and_o spirit_n you_o will_v have_v be_v in_o the_o same_o love_n in_o the_o same_o gentleness_n and_o meekness_n and_o wisdom_n that_o be_v pure_a and_o easy_a to_o be_v entreat_v as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o beginning_n and_o so_o you_o have_v lose_v that_o glory_n that_o be_v in_o the_o beginning_n and_o your_o nakedness_n be_v discover_v that_o the_o priest_n justices_z and_o drunkard_n can_v say_v that_o the_o quaker_n be_v separate_a one_o from_o another_o and_o look_v into_o yourselves_o if_o there_o be_v not_o a_o froward_a stubborn_a self-willed_a spirit_n and_o rough_a and_o short_a that_o now_o may_v talk_v of_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o spirit_n and_o will_v have_v liberty_n but_o be_v to_o be_v reprove_v and_o well_o it_o will_v be_v for_o you_o if_o you_o will_v turn_v at_o the_o reproof_n and_o whereas_o thou_o speak_v of_o a_o way_n of_o come_v into_o unity_n alack_o for_o thou_o if_o thou_o be_v in_o the_o universal_a spirit_n and_o power_n of_o god_n that_o be_v over_o all_o thou_o will_v not_o make_v such_o a_o noise_n about_o imposition_n for_o indeed_o it_o be_v the_o very_a spirit_n of_o imposition_n in_o thou_o and_o you_o that_o do_v not_o know_v what_o it_o will_v be_v at_o itself_o nor_o to_o what_o to_o bring_v other_o and_o much_o i_o can_v say_v as_o to_o that_o but_o that_o whereby_o you_o may_v come_v into_o unity_n it_o must_v be_v in_o the_o unlimited_a power_n and_o spirit_n and_o light_n that_o do_v first_o convince_v you_o and_o bring_v you_o into_o unity_n and_o meet_v without_o prescription_n of_o your_o elder_n or_o deacon_n or_o your_o member_n so_o your_o way_n to_o come_v into_o unity_n be_v to_o come_v to_o the_o light_n and_o spirit_n that_o do_v first_o convince_v you_o and_o judge_n and_o condemn_v this_o spirit_n that_o have_v lead_v you_o into_o separation_n with_o all_o its_o work_n since_o and_o then_o in_o that_o spirit_n there_o be_v no_o fear_n of_o imposition_n but_o everlasting_a unity_n in_o the_o everlasting_a seed_n that_o bruise_n the_o head_n of_o the_o serpent_n and_o all_o his_o son_n of_o belial_n that_o be_v without_o the_o yoke_n and_o be_v afraid_a of_o it_o now_o there_o be_v they_o that_o will_v not_o be_v yoke_v with_o the_o law_n of_o god_n nor_o with_o the_o gospel_n nor_o with_o the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o be_v a_o hammer_n and_o a_o fire_n and_o this_o be_v count_v imposition_n by_o such_o to_o be_v yoke_v and_o hammer_v down_o and_o to_o be_v reprove_v and_o rebuke_v and_o admonish_v this_o be_v imposition_n and_o overdriving_a though_o the_o power_n and_o spirit_n of_o the_o everlasting_a god_n lead_v to_o it_o which_o spirit_n of_o god_n sanctify_v and_o exalt_v god_n with_o a_o sanctify_v spirit_n and_o reprove_v all_o that_o which_o dishonour_v he_o or_o will_v defile_v and_o walk_v not_o in_o the_o spirit_n by_o which_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n be_v baptise_a and_o make_v to_o drink_v into_o and_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n charge_v and_o warn_v and_o reprove_v all_o the_o unruly_a and_o charge_v the_o faithful_a to_o stand_v fast_o and_o admonish_v as_o in_o the_o scripture_n may_v be_v plentiful_o see_v and_o what_o be_v this_o imposition_n and_o force_n think_v you_o which_o god_n spirit_n lead_v the_o prophet_n and_o apostle_n unto_o and_o have_v no_o fellowship_n but_o with_o they_o that_o walk_v in_o the_o same_o spirit_n or_o will_v you_o say_v there_o be_v not_o the_o same_o holy-ghost_n now_o as_o be_v then_o yes_o i_o must_v tell_v you_o the_o same_o and_o all_o that_o keep_v in_o it_o be_v in_o the_o holy_a and_o eternal_a fellowship_n and_o it_o lead_v to_o the_o same_o practice_n now_o as_o then_o and_o all_o such_o as_o the_o apostle_n admonish_v to_o have_v no_o fellowship_n withal_o as_o in_o their_o epistle_n and_o in_o judas_n may_v not_o those_o have_v cry_v imposition_n as_o well_o as_o you_o and_o whereas_o thou_o speak_v of_o a_o new_a way_n and_o a_o new_a form_n carry_v on_o with_o church-authority_n etc._n etc._n this_o be_v the_o priest_n old_a spirit_n that_o use_v to_o tell_v we_o of_o our_o new_a way_n and_o where_o be_v our_o religion_n twenty_o year_n ago_o but_o
our_o way_n be_v before_o the_o devil_n be_v and_o all_o the_o word_n way_n and_o all_o apostate_n and_o will_v be_v when_o they_o be_v go_v and_o this_o i_o tell_v thou_o and_o them_o but_o these_o word_n of_o thou_o be_v not_o from_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n nor_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n for_o i_o know_v no_o new_a way_n nor_o new_a form_n carry_v on_o with_o church-authority_n as_o thou_o reproachful_o say_v but_o here_o thou_o have_v manifest_v thy_o separate_a spirit_n and_o mind_n for_o the_o authority_n of_o our_o man_n and_o womens-meeting_n be_v the_o power_n of_o christ_n jesus_n who_o be_v the_o new_a and_o live_a way_n and_o never_o change_v and_o all_o man_n and_o woman_n that_o believe_v in_o his_o light_n and_o receive_v he_o he_o give_v they_o power_n to_o become_v the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o such_o be_v heir_n of_o the_o power_n which_o be_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o meeting_n and_o they_o ought_v free_o to_o come_v and_o go_v to_o that_o which_o they_o be_v heir_n of_o without_o your_o imposition_n or_o opposition_n and_o all_o that_o receive_v he_o in_o the_o light_n he_o give_v they_o power_n and_o they_o be_v heir_n of_o his_o power_n and_o his_o life_n so_o they_o be_v heir_n of_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o man_n and_o womens-meeting_n and_o every_o man_n and_o woman_n that_o be_v a_o heir_n have_v right_o to_o the_o authority_n and_o they_o have_v take_v their_o possession_n and_o be_v take_v their_o possession_n and_o you_o in_o your_o separate_a spirit_n from_o the_o divine_a light_n of_o christ_n say_v your_o choose_a man_n and_o they_o who_o you_o have_v give_v power_n unto_o and_o say_v usurper_n of_o authority_n have_v come_v among_o your_o choose_a man_n who_o you_o have_v give_v no_o power_n unto_o and_o that_o none_o shall_v sit_v among_o your_o choose_a man_n neither_o of_o your_o own_o county_n nor_o other_o but_o to_o tell_v their_o message_n and_o go_v their_o way_n and_o so_o this_o kind_n of_o church-order_n among_o you_o as_o you_o call_v it_o be_v worse_o than_o any_o court_n or_o assize_n or_o session_n or_o court_n and_o much_o i_o can_v say_v to_o it_o but_o you_o may_v read_v your_o paper_n though_o you_o make_v a_o great_a pretence_n of_o liberty_n in_o it_o but_o i_o have_v not_o hear_v yet_o of_o any_o that_o like_o your_o prescription_n that_o keep_v their_o first_o love_n and_o habitation_n and_o therefore_o as_o i_o say_v before_o the_o way_n to_o come_v into_o unity_n be_v to_o condemn_v it_o all_o and_o give_v over_o your_o spirit_n of_o strife_n and_o fight_n and_o come_v into_o that_o which_o do_v first_o convince_v you_o that_o by_o it_o you_o may_v be_v make_v true_a member_n and_o so_o come_v into_o meekness_n and_o unity_n for_o i_o see_v many_o year_n before_o i_o go_v forth_o that_o such_o shall_v rise_v in_o opposition_n and_o so_o it_o be_v nothing_o to_o i_o because_o it_o be_v the_o same_o spirit_n that_o have_v rise_v former_o in_o many_o other_o and_o the_o peaceable_a truth_n and_o gospel_n of_o peace_n be_v over_o it_o and_o it_o be_v out_o of_o the_o kingdom_n that_o stand_v in_o peace_n and_o the_o efore_o what_o i_o write_v be_v for_o your_o good_a and_o it_o have_v be_v well_o for_o thou_o and_o you_o have_v you_o take_v what_o i_o write_v before_o patient_o for_o i_o see_v the_o more_o you_o stir_v the_o more_o you_o will_v heap_v upon_o your_o own_o head_n and_o the_o further_a you_o will_v put_v yourselves_o except_o you_o come_v to_o repentance_n and_o come_v down_o in_o the_o humility_n for_o thou_o and_o you_o be_v too_o high_a and_o i_o judge_v this_o spirit_n as_o i_o say_v before_o and_o its_o work_n with_o the_o spirit_n and_o light_n of_o christ_n for_o in_o the_o spirit_n and_o light_n of_o christ_n be_v my_o unity_n that_o be_v atop_o of_o this_o spirit_n and_o its_o work_n and_o in_o that_o be_v my_o love_n to_o all_o for_o their_o everlasting_a good_a whether_o they_o will_v hear_v or_o forbear_v and_o my_o life_n be_v out_o of_o your_o spirit_n of_o strife_n and_o over_o it_o for_o the_o seed_n of_o life_n reign_v which_o have_v you_o keep_v in_o it_o you_o will_v have_v see_v i_o the_o same_o now_o as_o i_o be_v in_o the_o beginning_n and_o be_v go_v from_o that_o and_o go_v into_o doubt_n jealousy_n and_o question_n and_o evil_a surmising_n by_o which_o you_o be_v blind_v so_o as_o you_o see_v not_o i_o as_o i_o be_v in_o the_o beginning_n as_o many_o other_o have_v do_v the_o same_o before_o you_o and_o when_o they_o be_v go_v from_o the_o unlimited_a spirit_n of_o christ_n than_o they_o be_v afraid_a to_o be_v limit_v and_o therefore_o be_v advise_v and_o come_v to_o judge_v that_o spirit_n lest_o your_o bond_n be_v make_v strong_a and_o you_o grow_v worse_o and_o worse_o and_o find_v not_o a_o day_n of_o repentance_n and_o the_o lord_n give_v you_o up_o to_o hardness_n of_o heart_n and_o to_o your_o heart_n lust_n and_o that_o your_o latter-end_a be_v not_o worse_o than_o your_o beginning_n for_o it_o be_v the_o universal_a spirit_n and_o life_n that_o your_o spirit_n fight_v against_o which_o as_o i_o say_v before_o god_n will_v blast_v and_o so_o mind_n your_o end_n for_o it_o will_v manifest_v itself_o and_o have_v manifest_v itself_o to_o all_o you_o that_o be_v in_o the_o light_n which_o i_o faith_fw-mi once_o again_o come_v unto_o and_o condemn_v this_o spirit_n and_o its_o work_n and_o your_o separation_n that_o in_o it_o you_o may_v have_v unity_n for_o it_o be_v out_o of_o the_o paradise_n in_o the_o transgression_n i_o think_v to_o have_v write_v nothing_o to_o thou_o but_o to_o have_v send_v thy_o letter_n back_o unto_o thou_o again_o know_v what_o spirit_n it_o come_v from_o which_o indeed_o be_v not_o worth_a answer_v but_o only_o to_o the_o intent_n that_o thou_o and_o you_o may_v repent_v and_o come_v into_o that_o which_o you_o be_v bring_v into_o in_o the_o beginning_n and_o in_o that_o you_o will_v see_v what_o a_o spirit_n be_v get_v up_o in_o you_o that_o by_o it_o you_o may_v judge_v it_o and_o not_o die_v and_o perish_v in_o your_o gainsay_n for_o the_o word_n which_o i_o write_v to_o you_o will_v stand_v and_o you_o will_v find_v it_o and_o i_o shall_v be_v manifest_a to_o that_o of_o god_n in_o all_o though_o it_o be_v the_o condemnation_n of_o they_o that_o walk_v not_o in_o it_o and_o my_o unity_n be_v with_o they_o that_o walk_v in_o it_o and_o such_o need_v no_o outward_a prescription_n that_o be_v write_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o one_o another_o heart_n to_o gather_v they_o withal_o who_o be_v write_v in_o heaven_n and_o who_o name_n be_v write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n before_o the_o foundation_n of_o the_o world_n be_v glory_n to_o god_n for_o ever_o and_o i_o shall_v not_o much_o take_v notice_n of_o you_o if_o you_o continue_v in_o strife_n except_o it_o be_v by_o public_a testimony_n and_o the_o jew_n may_v have_v reflect_v against_o the_o prophet_n who_o speak_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n often_o to_o they_o but_o they_o do_v not_o regard_v it_o neither_o will_v they_o be_v convince_v who_o stand_v in_o their_o own_o wi_n and_o true_o john_n i_o must_v needs_o tell_v thou_o thou_o and_o you_o be_v get_v up_o into_o the_o same_o and_o i_o have_v be_v sorry_a for_o you_o and_o my_o spirit_n have_v sometime_o travel_v but_o i_o see_v there_o be_v a_o perverse_a spirit_n in_o thou_o when_o thou_o be_v at_o swarthmore_n though_o i_o deal_v tender_o and_o plain_o and_o faithful_o with_o you_o and_o speak_v the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n to_o you_o and_o tell_v you_o that_o if_o you_o do_v not_o come_v to_o that_o which_o do_v first_o convince_v you_o and_o bring_v all_o other_o who_o you_o have_v draw_v into_o a_o separation_n with_o you_o to_o condemn_v it_o the_o blood_n of_o all_o they_o will_v be_v require_v at_o your_o hand_n and_o that_o be_v and_o be_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n which_o will_v stand_v and_o be_v seal_v and_o i_o be_v grieve_v that_o the_o glory_n of_o the_o lord_n which_o have_v appear_v in_o the_o north_n and_o his_o name_n shall_v be_v dishonour_v by_o your_o cross_a thwart_a spirit_n and_o that_o you_o shall_v bring_v a_o evil_a report_n upon_o it_o into_o the_o south_n of_o any_o difference_n but_o that_o be_v and_o be_v a_o true_a word_n you_o be_v get_v up_o into_o a_o wrong_a spirit_n that_o be_v rough_a and_o course_n which_o i_o feel_v and_o see_v that_o be_v not_o savoury_a nor_o gracious_a which_o have_v you_o retain_v your_o primitive_a love_n and_o light_n and_o faith_n that_o work_v by_o love_n and_o be_v in_o the_o quiet_a meek_a spirit_n and_o
now_o query_n of_o g._n f._n whether_o these_o body_n which_o the_o apostle_n paul_n term_v the_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n be_v not_o the_o same_o in_o which_o the_o holy_a ghost_n dwell_v and_o the_o life_n of_o jesus_n be_v manifest_v and_o if_o so_o then_o according_a to_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n mortal_a and_o convertible_a unto_o dust_n and_o whether_o or_o no_o a_o exclusion_n of_o all_o mortal_a bodse_n whatsoever_o from_o be_v concern_v as_o member_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v christ_n body_n be_v not_o the_o very_a ready_a way_n whereby_o all_o liberty_n and_o looseness_n that_o be_v please_v to_o the_o mortal_a body_n may_v be_v indulge_v and_o nourish_v and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o whether_o the_o man_n and_o woman_n meeting_n will_v not_o fall_v of_o course_n and_o so_o no_o such_o place_n where_o those_o who_o as_o george_n fox_n say_v be_v heir_n of_o the_o power_n may_v go_v to_o in_o order_n to_o the_o take_n of_o their_o possession_n as_o george_n foxe_n language_n in_o his_o aforesaid_a letter_n be_v it_o be_v further_a to_o be_v observe_v that_o g._n f._n have_v not_o yet_o do_v with_o these_o word_n turn_v to_o dust_n but_o proceed_v ask_v john_n wilkinson_n this_o question_n must_v that_o which_o sanctifi_v god_n be_v turn_v to_o dust_n i_o think_v john_n thou_o have_v own_v christ_n to_o be_v the_o sanctifier_n of_o all_o who_o be_v great_a than_o moses_n and_o the_o end_n of_o moses_n but_o john_n wherein_o have_v not_o i_o sanctify_v the_o lord_n to_o this_o we_o answer_v if_o g._n f._n who_o be_v a_o mortal_a man_n be_v capable_a to_o sanctify_v the_o lord_n as_o in_o his_o own_o sense_n by_o his_o follow_a word_n he_o seem_v to_o be_v why_o do_v he_o so_o impertinent_o let_v his_o pen_n run_v by_o way_n of_o reflection_n on_o john_n wilkinson_n for_o use_v scripture-language_n so_o seasonable_a and_o so_o pertinent_a as_o he_o do_v doubtless_o the_o reason_n be_v a_o fretful_a peevish_a angry_a spirit_n then_o possess_v g._n f._n so_o that_o we_o may_v in_o his_o own_o language_n use_v in_o his_o letter_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n say_v to_o he_o it_o be_v a_o spirit_n that_o do_v not_o know_v what_o it_o will_v be_v at_o itself_o but_o if_o g._n f._n have_v not_o be_v capable_a to_o sanctify_v the_o lord_n he_o be_v manifest_v a_o scoffer_n to_o ask_v the_o aforesaid_a question_n viz._n but_o john_n wherein_o have_v not_o i_o sanctify_v the_o lord_n however_o let_v his_o mind_n sense_n mean_v or_o end_v in_o so_o query_v be_v what_o it_o will_v we_o shall_v undertake_v to_o give_v thereto_o this_o answer_n viz._n g._n f._n have_v not_o sanctify_v the_o lord_n in_o write_v his_o book_n of_o woman_n meeting_n which_o consist_v of_o ninety_o six_o page_n in_o octavo_n and_o in_o all_o the_o book_n throughout_o we_o do_v not_o find_v above_o half_a a_o side_n and_o that_o also_o scatter_a here_o and_o there_o that_o treat_v of_o that_o service_n for_o which_o the_o meeting_n of_o woman_n be_v chief_o understand_v to_o be_v hold_v and_o that_o the_o drift_n and_o scope_n of_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o book_n seem_v to_o be_v chief_o for_o proof_n of_o woman_n offer_v sacrifice_n preach_v teach_v exhort_v admonish_a prophesy_v govern_v judge_a sing_v dance_a play_v upon_o music_n and_o that_o micah_n mother_n a_o idolatrous_a woman_n speak_v of_o judge_n 17_o be_v a_o virtuous_a one_o and_o that_o the_o assembly_n of_o the_o woman_n do_v continue_v among_o the_o jew_n till_o they_o go_v into_o transgression_n but_o yet_o quote_v for_o proof_n of_o the_o last_o assertion_n only_o 2_o king_n 23._o which_o mention_n nothing_o to_o his_o purpose_n of_o woman_n meeting_n more_o than_o that_o good_a king_n josiah_n break_v down_o the_o house_n of_o the_o sodomite_n that_o be_v in_o the_o house_n of_o the_o lord_n where_o the_o woman_n weave_v hang_n for_o the_o grove_n which_o good_a king_n josiah_n burn_v neither_o do_v we_o believe_v that_o he_o have_v sanctify_v the_o lord_n in_o accuse_v john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n for_o tyth-payer_n or_o connive_v at_o other_o pay_v for_o they_o as_o in_o his_o aforesaid_a letter_n he_o as_o we_o take_v it_o do_v though_o they_o be_v therein_o esteem_v to_o be_v great_o abuse_v and_o misrepresent_v and_o we_o never_o understand_v it_o can_v be_v prove_v against_o they_o but_o that_o which_o aggravate_v g._n f_n sin_n be_v that_o he_o have_v be_v guilty_a of_o advise_v two_o person_n to_o buy_v their_o tithe_n which_o be_v equal_a to_o a_o continual_a payment_n viz._n nathaniel_n crip_n of_o the_o county_n of_o gloucester_n for_o one_o and_o robert_n arch_n live_v but_o a_o few_o mile_n from_o the_o say_a crip_n for_o another_o as_o they_o be_v ready_a to_o testify_v unto_o any_o inquire_v reader_n and_o as_o in_o the_o twenty-first_a section_n of_o part._n of_o note_v it_o be_v the_o second_o part_v of_o the_o manuscript_n first_o mention_v in_o the_o preface_n to_o the_o first_o part._n this_o second_o part_n by_o their_o testimony_n appear_v g._n f._n tell_v john_n wilkinson_n thus_o but_o that_o whereby_o you_o may_v come_v into_o unity_n it_o must_v be_v in_o the_o unlimited_a power_n and_o spirit_n and_o light_n that_o do_v first_o convince_v you_o and_o bring_v you_o into_o unity_n and_o meet_v without_o prescription_n of_o your_o elder_n or_o deacon_n or_o your_o member_n so_o your_o way_n to_o come_v into_o unity_n be_v to_o come_v to_o the_o light_n and_o spirit_n that_o do_v first_o convince_v you_o and_o judge_n and_o condemn_v this_o spirit_n that_o have_v lead_v you_o into_o separation_n with_o all_o its_o work_n since_o and_o then_o in_o that_o spirit_n there_o be_v no_o fear_n of_o imposition_n and_o in_o another_o place_n of_o the_o say_a letter_n g._n f._n say_v i_o tell_v you_o that_o if_o you_o do_v not_o come_v to_o that_o which_o do_v first_o convince_v you_o and_o bring_v all_o other_o who_o you_o have_v draw_v into_o a_o separation_n with_o you_o to_o condemn_v it_o the_o blood_n of_o all_o they_o will_v be_v require_v at_o your_o hand_n and_o that_o be_v and_o be_v the_o word_n of_o truth_n to_o you_o and_o will_v stand_v and_o be_v seal_v these_o sentence_n of_o g._n f._n do_v lead_v we_o unto_o these_o necessary_a observation_n first_o that_o the_o way_n to_o come_v into_o unity_n be_v to_o come_v to_o the_o unlimited_a spirit_n and_o light_n that_o do_v first_o convince_v they_o and_o bring_v they_o into_o unity_n have_v g._n f._n end_v his_o method_n for_o unity_n here_o he_o will_v have_v say_v that_o which_o will_v have_v answer_v god_n witness_v in_o our_o conscience_n but_o though_o he_o talk_v of_o come_v to_o the_o unlimited_a spirit_n yet_o his_o follow_a language_n seem_v a_o design_n so_o far_o as_o he_o be_v capable_a to_o limit_v the_o spirit_n by_o add_v these_o word_n viz._n and_o judge_n and_o condemn_v this_o spirit_n that_o have_v lead_v you_o into_o a_o separation_n with_o all_o its_o work_n since_o by_o which_o compare_v his_o say_a word_n with_o his_o aforesaid_a letter_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n date_v the_o 23_o d._n of_o the_o 8_o the_o month_n 76._o we_o take_v he_o to_o mean_v all_o those_o daper_n give_v forth_o since_o the_o outward_a separation_n which_o be_v without_o any_o exception_n and_o compare_v with_o the_o matter_n occasion_v the_o say_v outward_a separation_n seem_v to_o import_n that_o in_o g._n f_n sense_n the_o ancient_a friend_n of_o truth_n must_v of_o necessity_n be_v depart_v from_o the_o light_n and_o spirit_n if_o they_o can_v conform_v to_o some_o outward_a method_n in_o relation_n to_o the_o management_n of_o some_o outward_a affair_n that_o some_o of_o his_o troublesome_a party_n will_v impose_v on_o the_o choose_a friend_n for_o the_o outward_a service_n of_o truth_n oh_o gross_a darkness_n but_o that_o which_o seem_v to_o manifest_v his_o darkness_n yet_o more_o gross_a be_v this_o his_o letter_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n inform_v we_o that_o such_o mean_v as_o his_o word_n to_o we_o import_n such_o with_o who_o he_o be_v at_o unity_n need_v no_o outward_a prescription_n that_o be_v write_v with_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n in_o one_o another_o heart_n to_o gather_v they_o withal_o on_o this_o we_o observe_v that_o unless_o another_o thing_n preserve_v those_o who_o be_v gather_v than_o that_o which_o gather_v they_o there_o be_v then_o no_o need_n of_o outward_a prescription_n for_o those_o that_o be_v gather_v unto_o who_o only_o the_o government_n contend_v for_o reach_v and_o if_o so_o which_o in_o truth_n can_v be_v deny_v why_o must_v these_o ancient_a friend_n who_o have_v be_v convince_v by_o the_o light_n and_o spirit_n of_o god_n be_v reckon_v have_v and_o such_o who_o god_n will_v blast_v
unless_o they_o call_v in_o all_o their_o paper_n which_o be_v chief_o give_v forth_o to_o vindicate_v themselves_o as_o not_o depart_v from_o the_o truth_n though_o they_o can_v not_o be_v subject_a to_o imposition_n or_o prescription_n of_o other_o g._n f_n confusion_n do_v not_o end_n here_o but_o be_v further_o manifest_v in_o these_o word_n viz._n without_o prescription_n of_o your_o elder_n because_o it_o be_v his_o own_o counsel_n at_o the_o begin_n of_o man_n meeting_n to_o choose_v particular_a person_n for_o that_o service_n agreeable_a to_o which_o advice_n the_o elder_n he_o now_o strike_v at_o be_v choose_v and_o yet_o in_o a_o scoff_a manner_n reflect_v on_o the_o word_n choose_a man_n and_o on_o the_o departure_n of_o other_o when_o their_o message_n be_v tell_v and_o as_o if_o that_o very_a order_n be_v worse_a than_o any_o assize_n session_n and_o court_n as_o to_o the_o departure_n of_o other_o immediate_o after_o their_o message_n be_v tell_v we_o be_v persuade_v be_v never_o propose_v by_o those_o call_v separate_a while_o any_o come_n thither_o have_v any_o concern_v upon_o they_o as_o matter_n proper_a for_o the_o meeting_n to_o take_v notice_n of_o nor_o yet_o to_o exclude_v any_o friend_n that_o be_v free_a to_o stay_v after_o they_o have_v deliver_v their_o message_n for_o which_o persuasion_n sufficient_a ground_n be_v give_v unto_o we_o from_o the_o write_n of_o those_o call_v separatist_n in_o the_o 11_o section_n of_o this_o manuscript_n this_o mean_v the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o aforesaid_a manuscript_n second_o part_n in_o these_o word_n viz._n we_o indeed_o declare_v and_o testify_v that_o our_o sense_n and_o mean_v in_o what_o we_o propose_v former_o to_o reunite_v the_o meeting_n be_v not_o to_o hinder_v any_o friend_n of_o stay_v in_o the_o meeting_n who_o behave_v themselves_o man_n of_o peace_n as_o we_o testify_v unto_o they_o in_o our_o reply_n to_o their_o answer_n to_o our_o proposal_n but_o such_o as_o incline_v to_o cause_n offence_n with_o rash_a censure_n and_o false_a judgement_n which_o have_v make_v and_o will_v make_v division_n contrary_a to_o the_o doctrine_n we_o have_v learned_a if_o they_o have_v object_v against_o any_o thing_n in_o love_n which_o we_o propose_v and_o with_o respect_n to_o the_o honour_n of_o truth_n give_v we_o any_o reason_n of_o its_o inconveniency_n if_o we_o can_v not_o have_v convince_v they_o of_o the_o inconveniency_n thereof_o with_o weighty_a reason_n we_o shall_v ready_o have_v consent_v unto_o they_o we_o now_o desire_v the_o impartial_a reader_n serious_o to_o consider_v whether_o our_o persuasion_n aforesaid_a be_v not_o on_o sufficient_a ground_n and_o if_o so_o then_o it_o be_v plain_a g._n f._n reflect_v on_o his_o own_o church-order_n as_o his_o term_n be_v as_o worse_a than_o any_o court_n assizes_n or_o session_n by_o which_o we_o may_v in_o his_o own_o language_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n say_v that_o he_o know_v not_o what_o he_o will_v be_v at_o if_o his_o word_n and_o write_n may_v be_v take_v to_o be_v his_o real_a meaning_n at_o all_o time_n but_o as_o to_o that_o we_o have_v no_o cause_n so_o to_o conclude_v because_o we_o from_o this_o and_o other_o his_o word_n write_n and_o action_n be_v sufficient_o satisfy_v that_o he_o conclude_v all_o wrong_n and_o go_v from_o the_o light_n and_o spirit_n that_o be_v not_o at_o unity_n with_o what_o he_o say_v act_v and_o bring_v forth_o though_o it_o be_v ever_o so_o repugnant_a to_o truth_n and_o ground_v on_o ever_o so_o false_a a_o report_n and_o scandal_n and_o so_o though_o he_o talk_v of_o the_o unlimited_a spirit_n yet_o we_o be_v persuade_v he_o will_v limit_v every_o one_o to_o be_v subject_a to_o his_o spirit_n and_o that_o if_o they_o have_v not_o faith_n therein_o they_o be_v wrong_v and_o in_o a_o separate_a spirit_n from_o the_o light_n and_o spirit_n by_o which_o they_o be_v first_o convince_v and_o on_o this_o foot_n we_o do_v not_o question_v but_o he_o conclude_v every_o one_o wrong_v that_o conscientious_o may_v ask_v he_o any_o question_n for_o their_o information_n or_o satisfaction_n touch_v he_o conclude_v that_o it_o do_v spring_n from_o a_o jealous_a spirit_n that_o ought_v not_o to_o be_v satisfy_v the_o last_o thing_n we_o think_v meet_v to_o take_v notice_n of_o in_o his_o aforesaid_a letter_n be_v this_o he_o repeat_v john_n wilkinson_n word_n thus_o and_o whereas_o thou_o speak_v of_o a_o new_a way_n and_o a_o new_a form_n and_o carry_v on_o with_o church-authority_n etc._n etc._n and_o then_o in_o part_n of_o his_o answer_n thus_o say_v for_o i_o know_v no_o new_a way_n nor_o new_a form_n carry_v on_o with_o church-authority_n as_o thou_o reproachful_o say_v but_o hear_v thou_o have_v manifest_v thy_o separate_a spirit_n and_o mind_n this_o manifest_v unto_o we_o that_o g._n f._n to_o use_v his_o own_o language_n do_v so_o jumble_v that_o he_o know_v not_o what_o he_o will_v be_v at_o for_o man_n and_o woman_n meeting_n be_v and_o as_o we_o take_v it_o in_o his_o sense_n account_v the_o church_n and_o what_o they_o carry_v on_o be_v account_v to_o be_v carry_v on_o by_o the_o power_n whereof_z g._n f._n account_v they_o heir_n which_o be_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n that_o now_o this_o church_n have_v introduce_v new_a form_n or_o else_o g._n f._n have_v introduce_v new_a form_n among_o they_o which_o they_o as_o a_o church_n and_o under_o the_o pretence_n of_o authority_n do_v bring_v forth_o we_o be_v satisfy_v be_v as_o certain_o know_v to_o g._n f._n as_o g._n f._n be_v know_v to_o any_o one_o and_o therefore_o his_o denial_n that_o he_o know_v of_o no_o new_a form_n carry_v on_o with_o church-authority_n be_v take_v by_o we_o to_o be_v a_o absolute_a quibble_n shift_n or_o shuffle_v if_o not_o a_o plain_a downright_a falsehood_n and_o untruth_n have_v thus_o observe_v on_o g._n f_n letter_n as_o aforesaid_a we_o desire_v the_o reader_n serious_o to_o weigh_v in_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n jesus_n the_o observation_n make_v thereon_o and_o then_o we_o doubt_v not_o but_o every_o such_o reaer_fw-mi will_v have_v this_o answer_n in_o his_o own_o breast_n that_o what_o g._n f._n have_v write_v by_o way_n of_o reply_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n can_v not_o be_v give_v forth_o from_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n which_o can_v lie_v but_o be_v rather_o the_o fruit_n either_o of_o ignorance_n pride_n scorn_n and_o disdain_n in_o the_o best_a sense_n it_o be_v a_o common_a and_o tude_z say_v prid_n oft_o time_n go_v before_o a_o fall_n that_o g._n f._n be_v fall_v be_v manifest_o prove_v in_o part._n in_o note_v it_o be_v mean_v of_o the_o manuscript_n first_o mention_v in_o the_o preface_n to_o the_o first_o part._n this_o treatise_n if_o be_v guilty_a of_o error_n and_o matter_n of_o eyil_a fact_n may_v be_v account_v sufficient_a proof_n and_o that_o he_o have_v be_v of_o so_o proud_a a_o spirit_n as_o to_o expect_v a_o sort_n of_o reverence_n and_o submission_n to_o he_o which_o the_o truth_n can_v not_o own_o we_o doubt_v not_o may_v the_o lord_n open_v his_o eye_n to_o behold_v his_o error_n and_o give_v he_o repentance_n that_o so_o in_o a_o sense_n thereof_o he_o may_v confess_v to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n and_o rejoice_v of_o his_o faithful_a and_o ancient_a friend_n though_o g._n f._n in_o his_o before-cited_n answer_v unto_o john_n wilkinson_n seem_v to_o take_v notice_n of_o the_o receipt_n but_o of_o one_o letter_n yet_o so_o it_o be_v that_o john_n wilkinson_n for_o the_o further_o clear_v of_o his_o conscience_n write_v another_o letter_n unto_o g._n f._n sudden_o after_o who_o copy_n now_o follow_v george_n fox_n with_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n in_o my_o heart_n i_o have_v of_o late_o be_v great_o concern_v in_o the_o remembrance_n of_o thou_o in_o who_o god_n appear_v in_o the_o beginning_n of_o the_o day_n of_o life_n and_o reach_v unto_o we_o with_o his_o word_n who_o give_v we_o faith_n to_o believe_v and_o to_o receive_v thy_o testimony_n thou_o give_v of_o his_o light_n in_o our_o heart_n which_o gather_v we_o into_o unity_n with_o he_o and_o one_o with_o another_o and_o make_v we_o of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o first-born_a or_o of_o the_o first_o fruit_n unto_o god_n continue_v many_o year_n in_o love_n and_o goodwill_n one_o to_o another_o but_o of_o late_a day_n the_o concord_n we_o once_o have_v seem_v much_o to_o be_v break_v and_o many_o instrument_n who_o god_n have_v wrought_v by_o and_o in_o great_a love_n have_v labour_v together_o but_o of_o late_a time_n have_v great_o jar_v and_o the_o cause_n god_n have_v manifest_v to_o i_o that_o it_o be_v not_o in_o principle_n of_o truth_n nor_o in_o christ_n doctrine_n nor_o in_o any_o practice_n which_o truth_n in_o the_o member_n
of_o the_o heavenly_a body_n lead_v into_o but_o about_o prescription_n from_o thou_o through_o the_o blind_a zeal_n of_o the_o weak_a to_o promote_v thy_o order_n it_o may_v be_v fear_v many_o do_v eye_n more_o the_o order_n from_o thou_o than_o they_o eye_v the_o lord_n in_o they_o accuse_v and_o judge_v all_o out_o of_o truth_n that_o practise_v not_o with_o all_o free_v from_o they_o use_v all_o force_n they_o can_v devise_v according_a to_o the_o power_n they_o have_v to_o compel_v all_o unto_o they_o censure_v all_o friend_n out_o of_o unity_n that_o come_v not_o to_o practise_v with_o they_o which_o be_v the_o great_a penalty_n and_o persecution_n they_o can_v inflict_v for_o want_v of_o ourward_n power_n and_o many_o friend_n think_v it_o godliness_n to_o accuse_v and_o condemn_v their_o brethren_n about_o outward_a thing_n before_o the_o accuse_v with_o truth_n be_v lead_v into_o they_o george_n for_o the_o love_n of_o god_n and_o for_o his_o people_n sake_n open_v thy_o mind_n plain_o what_o thou_o intend_v by_o they_o and_o make_v it_o know_v unto_o friend_n if_o thou_o intend_v counsel_n unto_o the_o church_n only_o and_o no_o compel_v into_o the_o particular_a thing_n to_o practise_v but_o commend_v to_o god_n be_v witness_n in_o all_o conscience_n to_o be_v lead_v into_o the_o exercise_n and_o practice_n thereof_o as_o every_o one_o be_v inward_o persuade_v of_o god_n in_o each_o particular_a and_o not_o before_o if_o thou_o so_o do_v it_o will_v much_o clear_v thou_o and_o thy_o order_n from_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o division_n for_o iniquity_n work_v in_o a_o mystery_n in_o many_o that_o think_v it_o godliness_n to_o accuse_v and_o condemn_v their_o brethren_n about_o outward_a thing_n as_o i_o say_v before_o which_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o great_a strife_n in_o former_a age_n but_o if_o thou_o open_v not_o thy_o mind_n to_o friend_n and_o deal_v plain_o and_o testify_v thou_o never_o intend_v that_o any_o who_o be_v faithful_a inward_o to_o god_n shall_v either_o be_v accuse_v or_o condemn_v about_o thy_o order_n and_o so_o let_v thy_o prudent_a care_n appear_v about_o these_o thing_n the_o breach_n among_o friend_n and_o brethren_n be_v in_o great_a danger_n to_o grow_v wide_a and_o then_o i_o fear_v the_o cause_n of_o division_n will_v lie_v at_o thy_o door_n which_o god_n almighty_a in_o his_o mercy_n prevent_v and_o raise_v thou_o up_o to_o put_v a_o stop_n unto_o for_o the_o enemy_n of_o truth_n have_v take_v occasion_n from_o thy_o order_n to_o work_v and_o beget_v a_o false_a birth_n in_o many_o even_a night-vision_n and_o false_a prophecy_n as_o the_o number_n of_o accusation_n and_o angry_a proceed_n about_o they_o of_o late_o declare_v which_o be_v not_o before_o in_o our_o age_n neither_o do_v head_n nor_o horus_n of_o the_o dragon_n appear_v to_o cast_v down_o the_o holy_a people_n by_o lie_v against_o they_o say_v that_o they_o oppose_v the_o holy_a order_n and_o by_o approve_v of_o such_o proceed_n be_v satan_n let_v lose_v in_o our_o time_n to_o deceive_v and_o all_o that_o see_v his_o transforming_n he_o cast_v flood_n out_o of_o his_o mouth_n against_o they_o to_o carry_v they_o away_o and_o cast_v such_o to_o the_o earth_n want_v nothing_o to_o effect_v his_o design_n but_o the_o outward_a power_n to_o carry_v they_o on_o to_o kill_v for_o his_o wrath_n be_v against_o they_o that_o keep_v the_o testimony_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o such_o he_o accuse_v of_o fleshly_a liberty_n and_o loose_v walk_v and_o of_o be_v separatist_n and_o heretic_n george_n i_o desire_v thou_o once_o again_o to_o warn_v all_o friend_n that_o they_o neither_o accuse_v nor_o condemn_v one_o another_o any_o more_o about_o the_o aforesaid_a thing_n for_o if_o that_o do_v continue_v among_o friend_n it_o will_v cause_v a_o great_a fall_v away_o and_o god_n will_v visit_v with_o great_a judgement_n that_o the_o profession_n of_o great_a power_n and_o church-authority_n will_v not_o save_v from_o while_o the_o accuser_n of_o the_o brethren_n in_o such_o that_o be_v deep_o in_o it_o be_v not_o cast_v down_o it_o be_v not_o the_o transform_v of_o satan_n into_o a_o shape_n of_o austerity_n and_o form_v power_n to_o fright_v the_o simple_a into_o this_o or_o that_o outward_a observation_n we_o have_v wait_v for_o nor_o labour_v after_o nor_o a_o feign_a profession_n of_o overcome_a love_n in_o word_n that_o can_v deceive_v we_o bless_a be_v god_n for_o his_o gift_n of_o light_n for_o ever_o more_o when_o such_o be_v bitter_o smite_v their_o fellow-servant_n and_o fill_v man_n mind_n with_o false_a accusation_n that_o even_o our_o holy_a profession_n be_v defile_v what_o i_o desire_v of_o thou_o be_v not_o for_o fear_v of_o more_o acousation_n nor_o false_a prophecy_n they_o do_v not_o move_v i_o from_o the_o hope_n of_o the_o gospel_n but_o i_o desire_v it_o for_o thy_o good_a and_o the_o church_n prosperity_n and_o peace_n for_o a_o image_n of_o the_o government_n of_o christ_n consist_v in_o outward_a prescription_n attend_v with_o force_n over_o the_o inward_a man_n we_o never_o expect_v in_o this_o gospel-day_n to_o bite_v and_o devour_v one_o another_o about_o but_o the_o inward_a and_o peaceable_a government_n of_o christ_n to_o govern_v the_o member_n of_o his_o own_o body_n the_o true_a church_n into_o all_o practice_n according_a to_o godliness_n and_o we_o be_v bind_v to_o follow_v he_o our_o redeemer_n who_o knit_v together_o in_o the_o autient_a unity_n and_o break_v not_o the_o holy_a fellowship_n among_o brethren_n i_o have_v clear_v my_o conscience_n which_o be_v concern_v in_o the_o remembrance_n of_o thou_o desire_v thou_o may_v quit_v thyself_o with_o truth_n in_o all_o thing_n in_o thy_o latter_a day_n that_o thy_o end_n may_v be_v crown_v with_o true_a honour_n thy_o friend_n in_o truth_n john_n wilkinson_n postscript_n what_o spirit_n or_o motion_n thy_o prescription_n be_v from_o be_v not_o my_o concern_v but_o i_o need_v not_o ask_v whether_o the_o holy-ghost_n or_o the_o spirit_n of_o guile_n force_n and_o compel_v have_v attend_v they_o if_o tree_n in_o our_o age_n may_v be_v true_o know_v by_o their_o fruit_n the_o 9th_o month_n 76._o to_o this_o letter_n john_n wilkinson_n say_v he_o never_o receive_v answer_n which_o consider_v the_o content_n thereof_o and_o compare_v it_o with_o what_o g._n f._n have_v write_v in_o answer_n to_o his_o former_a letter_n be_v just_a occasion_n of_o jealousy_n that_o g._n f._n intend_a compulsion_n so_o far_o as_o he_o be_v capable_a as_o well_o as_o counsel_n and_o that_o the_o weight_n and_o burden_n of_o all_o the_o ill_a consequence_n attend_v the_o late_a division_n among_o friend_n will_v lie_v at_o g._n f_n door_n since_o he_o have_v be_v so_o carnest_o press_v to_o give_v his_o sense_n touch_v these_o thing_n which_o have_v occasion_v the_o division_n and_o yet_o have_v either_o impertinent_o do_v it_o as_o his_o answer_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n first_o letter_n beforementioned_a do_v manifest_a or_o else_o have_v not_o give_v answer_v to_o the_o party_n concern_v which_o be_v evident_a not_o only_o from_o his_o not_o cause_v a_o answer_n to_o be_v deliver_v unto_o john_n wilkinson_n last_o recite_v letter_n but_o also_o from_o the_o like_a neglect_n unto_o william_n rogers_n who_o write_v he_o two_o large_a letter_n for_o the_o clear_v of_o his_o conscience_n etc._n etc._n the_o two_o letter_n write_v by_o i_o unto_o g._n f._n do_v now_o follow_v bristol_n the_o 27_o of_o the_o one_a month_n 1677._o george_n fox_n in_o a_o bow_a down_o spirit_n to_o god_n that_o my_o pen_n may_v not_o commit_v a_o tittle_n of_o error_n to_o this_o paper_n either_o by_o want_n of_o plainness_n on_o the_o one_o hand_n or_o take_v too_o much_o upon_o i_o on_o the_o other_o do_v i_o now_o write_v unto_o thou_o in_o expectation_n that_o thou_o will_v have_v a_o right_a savour_n of_o my_o integrity_n to_o the_o truth_n and_o so_o much_o charity_n if_o thou_o apprehend_v i_o herein_o err_v as_o to_o inform_v i_o wherein_o for_o my_o hope_n be_v that_o i_o shall_v for_o ever_o have_v a_o ready_a ear_n to_o hear_v and_o a_o ready_a mind_n to_o weigh_v any_o instruction_n though_o but_o from_o the_o mean_a of_o the_o flock_n much_o more_o from_o a_o elder_a brother_n thou_o of_o the_o 14_o the_o of_o the_o 11_o the_o month_n i_o receive_v but_o have_v nothing_o upon_o i_o to_o write_v as_o answer_v thereto_o not_o be_v willing_a to_o strive_v yet_o through_o a_o sense_n of_o the_o present_a and_o increase_a distraction_n among_o friend_n i_o have_v somewhat_o on_o my_o spirit_n to_o clear_v my_o conscience_n as_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n have_v a_o certain_a sight_n sense_n and_o knowledge_n that_o many_o honest-hearted_a friend_n as_o well_o as_o myself_o remain_v for_o the_o truth_n
in_o have_v their_o mind_n much_o exercise_v to_o consider_v whether_o this_o report_n of_o such_o a_o one_o be_v true_a or_o that_o report_n concern_v another_o false_a though_o neither_o of_o they_o true_a and_o so_o through_o their_o affection_n or_o weakness_n of_o understanding_n be_v too_o credulous_a of_o other_o man_n word_n and_o too_o much_o affect_v with_o other_o man_n line_n make_v ready_a to_o their_o hand_n join_v to_o one_o party_n and_o despise_v another_o and_o all_o this_o while_n believe_v a_o false_a report_n be_v lead_v by_o another_o leader_n than_o that_o whereby_o god_n people_n in_o the_o beginning_n be_v lead_v viz._n christ_n light_n in_o the_o conscience_n such_o be_v in_o a_o ready_a way_n eternal_o to_o perish_v and_o the_o blood_n of_o such_o if_o by_o reason_n thereof_o they_o perish_v will_v be_v require_v at_o some_o hand_n may_v the_o righteous_a god_n in_o his_o mercy_n turn_v the_o heart_n of_o such_o watchman_n as_o have_v be_v guilty_a of_o this_o sin_n say_v my_o soul_n that_o so_o they_o may_v therein_o sin_v no_o more_o for_o such_o thing_n be_v stumble_a block_n in_o the_o way_n if_o that_o body_n which_o be_v call_v george_n for_o which_o must_v return_v to_o earth_n from_o whence_o it_o come_v remain_v but_o a_o few_o year_n upon_o the_o earth_n i_o have_v this_o firm_a persuasion_n that_o experience_n will_v inform_v thou_o that_o my_o plain_a line_n be_v not_o only_o the_o fruit_n of_o a_o plain_a heart_a friend_n but_o also_o a_o seasonable_a caution_n more_o worthy_a thy_o notice_n than_o the_o word_n of_o a_o flatter_a tongue_n with_o my_o love_n to_o thou_o etc._n etc._n i_o remain_v a_o friend_n to_o thou_o and_o the_o unchangeable_a truth_n william_n rogers_n it_o be_v now_o to_o be_v observe_v that_o sudden_o after_o i_o have_v send_v the_o abovesaid_a letter_n to_o g._n f._n which_o i_o solemn_o affirm_v i_o do_v for_o the_o clear_v of_o my_o conscience_n and_o can_v not_o with_o peace_n of_o conscience_n pass_v by_o the_o same_o i_o have_v some_o occasion_n call_v i_o to_o the_o city_n of_o london_n where_o be_v come_v the_o aforesaid_a private_a letter_n be_v very_o public_o speak_v of_o among_o friend_n for_o which_o i_o be_v compare_v to_o pennyman_n and_o muggleton_n whereupon_o be_v startle_v that_o such_o a_o report_n shall_v go_v forth_o against_o i_o on_o the_o write_n of_o a_o private_a letter_n before_o i_o have_v be_v write_v to_o or_o treat_v withal_o about_o it_o i_o do_v desire_v to_o have_v a_o hour_n private_a discourse_n with_o g._n f._n which_o he_o grant_v though_o some_o person_n interrupt_v we_o that_o we_o stay_v not_o so_o long_o together_o at_o that_o time_n and_o at_o some_o other_o time_n after_o g._n f._n urge_v i_o to_o take_v my_o letter_n back_o and_o tear_v it_o and_o he_o will_v pass_v it_o by_o but_o never_o speak_v a_o word_n nor_o yet_o ever_o write_v any_o answer_n thereto_o whereby_o i_o may_v be_v satisfy_v in_o the_o matter_n whereof_o it_o treat_v and_o therefore_o since_o i_o have_v be_v compare_v to_o muggleton_n and_o pennyman_n for_o write_v that_o private_a letter_n it_o be_v think_v meet_v it_o may_v be_v now_o publish_v and_o recommend_v to_o the_o conscience_n of_o every_o reader_n here_o now_o follow_v the_o other_o of_o the_o two_o letter_n whereof_o i_o make_v mention_n as_o before_o write_v unto_o g._n f._n by_o i_o for_o the_o further_o clear_v of_o my_o conscience_n bristol_n the_o 3_o d._n of_o the_o 10_o the_o month_n 1677._o george_n fox_n i_o have_v once_o more_o a_o constraint_n on_o my_o spirit_n to_o write_v unto_o thou_o and_o in_o singleness_n of_o heart_n thus_o to_o say_v on_o the_o the_o 25_o the_o of_o the_o last_o month_n a_o separate_a meeting_n be_v hold_v in_o our_o city_n unto_o which_o myself_o and_o divers_a other_o friend_n go_v on_o these_o two_o consideration_n first_o to_o bear_v a_o testimony_n against_o the_o appointment_n of_o that_o meeting_n because_o it_o be_v hold_v in_o our_o public_a meetinghouse_n though_o divers_a friend_n of_o the_o monthly_a man_n and_o womens-meeting_a do_v oppose_v the_o same_o when_o break_v when_o when_o note_v the_o say_a proposition_n be_v make_v after_o several_a friend_n be_v depart_v and_o the_o meet_v break_v propose_v and_o second_o to_o prevent_v such_o design_n which_o be_v believe_v may_v have_v a_o tendency_n to_o deceive_v the_o simple_a by_o bring_v forth_o scandalous_a paper_n against_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n towards_o who_o many_o friend_n dare_v not_o demean_v themselves_o as_o if_o they_o be_v apostatise_v from_o the_o ancient_a truth_n be_v thither_o come_v a_o testimony_n be_v bear_v against_o the_o appointment_n and_o hold_v the_o say_a meeting_n and_o some_o i_o believe_v be_v make_v instrumental_a to_o preserve_v other_o out_o of_o the_o snare_n which_o be_v lay_v to_o betray_v the_o simple_a but_o that_o which_o great_o grieve_v my_o heart_n and_o which_o at_o this_o time_n be_v a_o concern_v upon_o i_o to_o signify_v to_o thou_o be_v the_o read_n a_o letter_n which_o be_v say_v to_o be_v from_o thou_o if_o that_o letter_n be_v real_o give_v forth_o by_o thou_o and_o make_v use_v of_o in_o the_o meeting_n according_a to_o thy_o intent_n and_o end_n and_o so_o will_v stand_v by_o the_o person_n or_o person_n introduce_v the_o same_o to_o be_v read_v as_o to_o their_o end_n and_o intent_n therein_o then_o it_o be_v plain_o evident_a that_o thou_o be_v at_o least_o the_o espouser_n if_o not_o the_o head_n of_o the_o cause_n of_o man_n that_o have_v appear_v partial_a unrighteous_a in_o judgement_n and_o persecutor_n in_o a_o high_a degree_n and_o bless_a be_v the_o lord_n for_o in_o zeal_n to_o the_o cause_n of_o truth_n i_o speak_v it_o that_o he_o have_v not_o only_o give_v i_o a_o sight_n hereof_o but_o also_o boldness_n in_o which_o i_o have_v peace_n to_o testify_v against_o that_o partial_a unjust_a persecute_v spirit_n in_o whosoever_o it_o appear_v that_o under_o a_o pharasaical_a pretence_n of_o love_n and_o bowel_n of_o compassion_n or_o such_o like_a will_v destroy_v and_o murder_v the_o name_n and_o reputation_n of_o the_o lord_n servant_n whenas_o i_o be_o full_o fatisfy_v if_o they_o will_v but_o bow_v to_o man_n they_o may_v avoid_v the_o stroke_n of_o their_o passion_n alas_o friend_n little_a do_v i_o in_o day_n past_a think_v that_o thou_o will_v appear_v either_o as_o a_o head_n or_o espouser_n of_o the_o cause_n of_o such_o nor_o yet_o of_o any_o who_o shall_v cast_v stumbling-block_n in_o the_o way_n of_o god_n people_n but_o now_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o thou_o be_v the_o man_n under_o who_o name_n paper_n be_v spread_v which_o seem_v as_o a_o strenghen_n to_o such_o as_o well_o as_o one_o that_o put_v stumbling-block_n before_o the_o lord_n people_n thyself_o and_o therefore_o if_o thou_o have_v any_o regard_n to_o the_o flock_n of_o god_n it_o become_v thou_o to_o cease_v send_v abroad_o such_o paper_n or_o put_v stumbling-block_n in_o the_o way_n of_o the_o simple_a perhaps_o thou_o may_v think_v the_o language_n unbecoming_a i_o yet_o i_o must_v tell_v thou_o that_o though_o darkness_n have_v over-shadowed_n the_o heart_n of_o many_o so_o that_o they_o seem_v like_o man_n void_a of_o all_o wisdom_n and_o all_o reason_n whereby_o it_o seem_v to_o i_o as_o if_o they_o be_v proselyte_n of_o such_o among_o the_o sixty-six_a subscriber_n at_o ellis_n hook_n chamber_n who_o come_v with_o another_o gospel_n than_o that_o which_o stand_v in_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n have_v preach_v against_o all_o wisdom_n and_o all_o reason_v yet_o the_o eye_n of_o many_o of_o the_o ancient_a flock_n of_o god_n continue_v yet_o open_a and_o have_v behold_v the_o whimsy_n and_o imagination_n that_o have_v enter_v some_o whereby_o the_o name_n of_o god_n have_v be_v but_o too_o frequent_o blaspheme_v and_o the_o word_n and_o power_n of_o god_n abominable_o abuse_v by_o such_o who_o the_o paper_n seem_v to_o be_v a_o strength_n to_o which_o have_v long_o since_o create_v jealousy_n that_o the_o dread_n of_o that_o ancient_a power_n which_o many_o brethren_n testify_v be_v with_o thou_o in_o the_o beginning_n be_v depart_v the_o consideration_n whereof_o put_v i_o in_o remembrance_n first_o that_o though_o thou_o and_o many_o have_v judge_v john_n perrot_n as_o a_o apostatise_v person_n from_o the_o truth_n for_o introduce_v a_o new_a practice_n in_o the_o church_n yet_o those_o who_o as_o far_o as_o i_o know_v stand_v in_o and_o for_o the_o same_o faith_n and_o practice_n they_o be_v in_o from_o the_o beginning_n be_v now_o judge_v apostatise_v because_o they_o can_v embrace_v for_o conscience_n sake_n some_o new_a prescription_n which_o thou_o be_v account_v either_o the_o author_n or_o countenancer_n of_o second_o that_o
month_n and_o year_n past_a but_o as_o spark_n of_o fire_n have_v bear_v in_o a_o spirit_n of_o patience_n yet_o now_o since_o it_o be_v evident_a that_o ignorance_n envy_n and_o zeal_n without_o knowledge_n join_v hand_n together_o to_o make_v war_n against_o god_n servant_n and_o that_o thy_o paper_n seem_v a_o strength_n thereto_o therefore_o be_v the_o zeal_n of_o the_o lord_n of_o host_n kindle_v to_o war_n in_o righteousness_n against_o that_o ungodly_a insinuate_a spirit_n that_o make_v it_o its_o business_n to_o bespatter_n john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n whereby_o the_o simplehearted_n may_v be_v in_o danger_n to_o be_v turn_v out_o of_o the_o way_n it_o be_v unnatural_a among_o the_o heathen_a for_o the_o father_n to_o pierce_v and_o wound_v his_o child_n oh_o friend_n consider_v of_o that_o if_o thou_o be_v the_o head_n and_o chief_a promoter_n of_o this_o war_n against_o the_o ancient_a brethren_n appear_v like_o a_o man_n of_o war_n open-faced_a and_o if_o thou_o be_v not_o remove_v the_o jealousy_n that_o have_v enter_v the_o breast_n of_o many_o concern_v thou_o which_o i_o know_v not_o how_o may_v be_v better_o do_v than_o by_o a_o plain_a and_o candid_a answer_n to_o this_o and_o the_o last_o letter_n i_o write_v thou_o which_o i_o be_v constrain_v to_o write_v to_o clear_a my_o conscience_n but_o thy_o not_o answer_v my_o last_o letter_n show_v plain_o to_o i_o that_o thou_o can_v not_o in_o truth_n so_o answer_n as_o to_o keep_v thyself_o from_o come_v under_o the_o just_a censure_n of_o truth_n for_o several_a thing_n which_o i_o therein_o say_v be_v report_v concern_v thou_o i_o know_v be_v true_a and_o if_o such_o thing_n be_v crime_n in_o other_o how_o come_v it_o to_o pass_v that_o the_o like_a be_v not_o crime_n when_o commit_v by_o thou_o and_o therefore_o since_o such_o thing_n have_v be_v account_v by_o those_o who_o thy_o paper_n seem_v a_o strength_n to_o as_o crime_n i_o can_v tell_v how_o thou_o can_v show_v thyself_o at_o unity_n with_o they_o or_o they_o with_o thou_o till_o by_o thou_o or_o their_o repentance_n and_o condemnation_n you_o become_v reconcile_v for_o otherwise_o either_o they_o will_v show_v themselves_o wrong_a or_o thou_o will_v appear_v as_o if_o in_o thy_o own_o sense_n thou_o be_v exempt_v from_o the_o stroke_n of_o that_o justice_n which_o in_o the_o same_o case_n be_v prescribe_v for_o other_o and_o true_o friend_n it_o be_v much_o take_v notice_n of_o that_o all_o reason_v and_o all_o wisdom_n be_v preach_v against_o of_o late_a who_o will_v but_o think_v that_o such_o man_n esteem_v all_o sort_n of_o ignorance_n and_o unreasonableness_n to_o be_v virtue_n for_o my_o part_n i_o measure_v not_o so_o yet_o this_o measure_n i_o take_v that_o when_o i_o find_v such_o a_o one_o to_o use_v wisdom_n and_o reason_n to_o evidence_n a_o good_a cause_n i_o can_v but_o conclude_v such_o a_o one_o cause_n be_v stark_o nought_o when_o his_o best_a argument_n to_o evidence_n it_o to_o be_v good_a be_v to_o cry_v out_o against_o all_o wisdom_n and_o all_o reason_v such_o a_o argument_n i_o have_v not_o know_v to_o convince_v man_n of_o conscience_n and_o wisdom_n though_o some_o such_o have_v or_o may_v be_v of_o who_o solomon_n thus_o speak_v how_o long_o you_o simple_a one_o will_v you_o love_v simplicity_n and_o fool_n hate_v knowledge_n turn_v you_o at_o my_o reproof_n one_o other_o shift_n i_o have_v of_o late_a also_o observe_v as_o a_o practice_n to_o manifest_v a_o bad_a cause_n to_o be_v good_a viz._n to_o get_v a_o multitude_n of_o hand_n to_o vilify_v ancient_a brethren_n when_o not_o hear_v to_o speak_v for_o themselves_o as_o that_o paper_n sign_v by_o sixty-six_a person_n at_o ellis_n hook_n chamber_n against_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o jonn_n story_n do_v evidence_n for_o it_o be_v not_o reasonable_a to_o conclude_v it_o be_v give_v forth_o with_o respect_n to_o any_o offence_n but_o such_o as_o have_v be_v commit_v since_o the_o meeting_n at_o drawel_n because_o they_o have_v be_v once_o condemn_v already_o for_o the_o thing_n there_o treat_v on_o and_o therefore_o i_o can_v but_o say_v here_o the_o arm_n of_o flesh_n and_o egyptian_a darkness_n meet_v together_o and_o the_o lord_n have_v a_o controversy_n with_o those_o who_o be_v guilty_a hereof_o and_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o deceive_v thereby_o may_v be_v require_v at_o their_o hand_n oh_o this_o sin_n cry_v aloud_o in_o the_o ear_n of_o the_o lord_n of_o host_n thus_o to_o endeavour_v the_o defamation_n of_o god_n servant_n under_o fair_a plausible_a pretence_n of_o love_n and_o brokenness_n or_o such_o like_a when_o so_o much_o gall_n and_o bitterness_n of_o spirit_n appear_v in_o the_o bottom_n that_o man_n of_o understanding_n and_o conscience_n can_v join_v thereto_o to_o be_v short_a thing_n be_v bring_v to_o that_o pass_n among_o we_o that_o those_o who_o contend_v for_o the_o ancient_a principle_n of_o truth_n and_o to_o walk_v according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n receive_v be_v now_o account_v bad_a spirit_n by_o such_o who_o thy_o paper_n seem_v a_o strength_n to_o though_o the_o cause_n thereof_o be_v nothing_o but_o matter_n relate_v to_o their_o conscience_n and_o not_o any_o thing_n of_o evil_a conversation_n by_o which_o it_o be_v easy_o to_o be_v discern_v that_o darkness_n be_v over-shadowing_a again_o and_o the_o glorious_a light_n vail_v and_o though_o it_o be_v say_v by_o some_o that_o the_o simple-honest-hearted_n join_v in_o and_o so_o make_v as_o if_o the_o rest_n be_v but_o chaff_n that_o be_v in_o the_o jealousy_n and_o the_o reason_n and_o the_o wisdom_n i_o have_v this_o faith_n that_o there_o be_v hundred_o of_o god_n ancient_a flock_n who_o have_v retain_v their_o first_o love_n be_v those_o they_o call_v the_o chaff_n and_o many_o of_o those_o who_o be_v account_v the_o wheat_n be_v such_o chaff-spirited_n people_n who_o have_v they_o not_o outward_a prop_n to_o lean_v upon_o and_o outward_a person_n to_o have_v a_o eye_n unto_o and_o outward_a paper_n wherein_o they_o think_v their_o cause_n be_v plead_v will_v quick_o lose_v their_o confidence_n be_v build_v upon_o the_o foundation_n that_o be_v sandy_a and_o not_o on_o the_o christ_n of_o god_n for_o be_v their_o faith_n in_o he_o their_o faith_n will_v not_o stand_v in_o man_n or_o man_n and_o this_o with_o many_o with_o who_o right_a reason_n take_v place_n and_o the_o wisdom_n from_o above_o be_v know_v be_v plain_o discern_v outward_a form_n and_o precedent_n eye_v other_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o the_o brethren_n be_v so_o much_o discourse_v on_o of_o late_a by_o some_o ignorant_a person_n that_o it_o be_v but_o too_o evident_a that_o the_o great_a difference_n among_o friend_n be_v about_o outward_a thing_n and_o ceremony_n wherein_o some_o appear_v like_a people_n contend_v about_o the_o shell_n and_o lose_v the_o kernel_n which_o occasion_n i_o to_o tell_v thou_o that_o when_o i_o have_v hear_v thou_o preach_v against_o austin_n the_o monk_n bring_v into_o england_n a_o snap-sack_n of_o ceremony_n which_o i_o have_v at_o many_o meeting_n hear_v from_o thou_o i_o then_o little_a thought_n i_o shall_v ever_o see_v the_o day_n wherein_o thou_o shall_v appear_v a_o countenancer_n of_o such_o who_o fall_v out_o with_o ancient_a friend_n about_o outward_a order_n and_o prescription_n but_o rather_o will_v have_v appear_v a_o strength_n to_o such_o who_o contend_v that_o their_o order_n for_o gospel-discipline_n ought_v to_o spring_v from_o truth_n within_o themselves_o for_o that_o be_v the_o undoubted_a sense_n of_o those_o honourable_a brethren_n who_o know_v a_o travel_n of_o spirit_n for_o the_o gather_v of_o those_o who_o in_o the_o beginning_n of_o this_o latter_a day_n be_v gather_v as_o a_o sort_n of_o first_o fruit_n unto_o god_n though_o some_o other_o come_v in_o at_o the_o eleven_o hour_n of_o the_o day_n and_o seem_v as_o countenance_v by_o thou_o appear_v of_o another_o language_n i_o have_v this_o further_a to_o add_v that_o if_o thou_o will_v be_v acquit_v in_o the_o breast_n of_o all_o friend_n as_o a_o man_n that_o be_v not_o a_o countenancer_n of_o such_o contentious-spirited_n men_n '_o it_o appear_v as_o the_o beginner_n and_o carrier_n on_o of_o this_o war_n it_o be_v needful_a for_o thou_o to_o satisfy_v friend_n whether_o thou_o do_v own_o all_o the_o forty-four_a article_n draw_v up_o against_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n thy_o example_n of_o send_v thy_o question_n abroad_o to_o be_v ask_v of_o other_o friend_n manifest_v that_o it_o be_v reasonable_a in_o another_o friend_n to_o expect_v a_o answer_n from_o thou_o but_o yet_o i_o have_v sufficient_a cause_n to_o doubt_v thou_o will_v not_o be_v so_o plain_a as_o to_o answer_v the_o question_n because_o i_o can_v believe_v but_o that_o thy_o understanding_n
be_v now_o so_o open_v as_o to_o see_v that_o if_o thou_o own_v they_o thou_o will_v bring_v thyself_o under_o the_o just_a censure_n of_o truth_n for_o endeavour_v to_o make_v any_o brother_n a_o offender_n for_o that_o which_o be_v no_o offence_n and_o if_o thou_o own_v they_o not_o than_o thou_o will_v show_v thyself_o out_o of_o unity_n with_o the_o great_a opposer_n of_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n however_o if_o thou_o refuse_v to_o answer_n it_o will_v be_v evidence_n enough_o that_o thou_o walk_v not_o by_o that_o golden_a rule_n to_o do_v as_o thou_o will_v be_v do_v by_o moreov_a since_o thy_o paper_n give_v testimony_n against_o a_o spirit_n why_o do_v thou_o not_o tell_v we_o in_o plain_a word_n who_o they_o be_v in_o who_o according_a to_o thy_o sense_n it_o work_v for_o i_o much_o doubt_n that_o if_o thou_o be_v not_o the_o secret_a mover_n to_o all_o this_o strife_n yet_o the_o want_n of_o the_o right_a application_n of_o some_o expression_n in_o thy_o paper_n testify_v against_o bad_a spirit_n etc._n etc._n be_v one_o great_a cause_n of_o the_o increase_n of_o bad_a spirit_n and_o of_o their_o scribble_n and_o therefore_o be_v plainhearted_a for_o i_o do_v know_v that_o a_o dark_a imaginary_a spirit_n be_v enter_v and_o under_o the_o outward_a profession_n of_o truth_n and_o that_o also_o such_o a_o spirit_n appear_v among_o those_o who_o espouse_v the_o cause_n against_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n and_o the_o fruit_n that_o be_v bring_v forth_o by_o they_o which_o evidence_n that_o they_o be_v of_o such_o a_o spirit_n be_v as_o follow_v viz._n judge_v the_o lord_n servant_n out_o of_o the_o truth_n for_o particular_a matter_n lay_v to_o their_o charge_n without_o hear_v they_o speak_v for_o themselves_o or_o first_o send_v their_o judgement_n or_o condemnation_n to_o they_o before_o the_o spread_a thereof_o contrary_a to_o the_o know_a practice_n of_o friend_n in_o truth_n gather_v friend_n together_o on_o purpose_n to_o entertain_v their_o ear_n with_o report_n against_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n and_o refuse_v to_o bring_v forth_o the_o same_o to_z john_n story_n be_v face_n before_o friend_n equal_o to_o be_v choose_v though_o desire_v so_o to_o do_v both_o by_o john_n story_n and_o other_o magnify_v unity_n among_o brethren_n and_o yet_o appear_v those_o who_o break_v the_o unity_n reprove_v the_o spirit_n of_o strife_n and_o yet_o not_o only_o the_o mover_n but_o carrier_n on_z of_o strife_n both_o by_o word_n and_o write_v or_o to_o speak_v in_o thy_o language_n stribling_n to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o god_n and_o the_o cause_n of_o truth_n and_o though_o such_o who_o espouse_v the_o cause_n against_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n may_v suppose_v themselves_o capable_a to_o quote_v thou_o for_o a_o example_n or_o at_o least_o as_o a_o approver_n of_o such_o action_n for_o none_o of_o they_o as_o i_o know_v of_o do_v so_o much_o as_o suppose_v that_o thy_o word_n or_o scribble_n tend_v to_o reprove_v they_o yet_o know_v this_o from_o i_o that_o there_o be_v many_o of_o god_n ancient_a flock_n who_o retain_v their_o first_o love_n for_o truth_n and_o every_o honourable_a labourer_n in_o the_o vineyard_n dare_v not_o approve_v of_o this_o late_a and_o new-found_a doctrine_n publish_v against_o all_o reason_v and_o all_o wisdom_n nor_o yet_o can_v suffer_v their_o faith_n to_o stand_v in_o thou_o or_o any_o man_n and_o therefore_o if_o thou_o or_o any_o man_n bring_v forth_o a_o dream_n or_o pretend_v a_o night-vision_n to_o run_v against_o faithful_a friend_n and_o on_o that_o foot_n scrible_n against_o they_o under_o the_o notion_n of_o bad_a spirit_n it_o have_v no_o place_n with_o they_o because_o the_o day_n have_v discover_v such_o folly_n to_o man_n of_o conscience_n and_o endue_v with_o the_o wisdom_n that_o be_v from_o above_o but_o yet_o i_o can_v say_v but_o that_o as_o it_o have_v it_o may_v have_v place_n with_o some_o who_o be_v of_o this_o number_n and_o sort_v viz._n such_o who_o ignorance_n be_v so_o great_a as_o to_o conclude_v it_o the_o fruit_n of_o virtue_n to_o avoid_v all_o reason_v and_o all_o wisdom_n or_o who_o understanding_n be_v so_o veil_v as_o to_o have_v a_o eye_n to_o the_o night-vision_n or_o dream_n of_o man_n more_o than_o to_o the_o truth_n in_o themselves_o and_o on_o that_o foot_n eye_v the_o scribbler_n of_o paper_n more_o than_o the_o matter_n therein_o contain_v as_o be_v convince_v that_o they_o ought_v to_o shut_v out_o all_o wisdom_n and_o all_o reason_v a_o most_o dextrous_a expedient_a where_o it_o take_v place_n for_o anti-christ_n so_o to_o exalt_v his_o kingdom_n as_o that_o all_o manner_n of_o iniquity_n and_o deceit_n may_v quick_o enter_v the_o flock_n if_o once_o the_o leader_n or_o leader_n of_o the_o people_n bring_v forth_o their_o own_o imagination_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o night-vision_n and_o publish_v they_o for_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o then_o no_o marvel_n if_o such_o conclude_v that_o every_o friend_n be_v just_o condemn_v if_o they_o be_v not_o at_o unity_n with_o the_o paper_n give_v forth_o by_o the_o sixty-six_a subscriber_n at_o ellis_n hooks_n chamber_n as_o if_o now_o it_o be_v good_a doctrine_n or_o exhortation_n to_o direct_v to_o the_o spirit_n and_o power_n that_o appear_v in_o the_o sixty-six_a subscriber_n when_o they_o bring_v forth_o their_o unchristian_a like_a papen_n instead_o of_o direct_v to_o the_o measure_n of_o grace_n in_o themselves_o one_o thing_n more_o lie_v upon_o i_o to_o say_v unto_o thou_o that_o though_o among_o the_o prince_n of_o the_o world_n there_o be_v such_o politic_a contrivance_n to_o carry_v on_o their_o design_n as_o to_o engage_v such_o other_o therein_o who_o for_o self-advancement_n become_v of_o a_o temporize_a spirit_n or_o for_o want_n of_o the_o thing_n of_o this_o world_n be_v ready_a to_o follow_v for_o the_o loaf_n for_o be_v of_o a_o mean_a spirit_n be_v hurry_a or_o overawe_v with_o fear_n and_o so_o if_o their_o design_n succeed_v ill_a then_o it_o be_v the_o fruit_n either_o of_o evil_a counsel_n or_o ill_a management_n but_o if_o well_o than_o they_o carry_v away_o the_o glory_n thereof_o yet_o it_o become_v not_o any_o one_o or_o many_o profess_v themselves_o member_n of_o christ_n body_n thus_o to_o do_v and_o now_o to_o conclude_v i_o have_v this_o further_a to_o query_n whether_o thou_o conclude_v thyself_o no_o way_n oblige_v to_o bring_v thy_o write_n to_o the_o second_o day_n meet_v in_o london_n to_o be_v approve_v of_o there_o before_o they_o be_v print_v if_o thou_o do_v not_o thou_o have_v be_v wrong_o represent_v if_o thou_o do_v and_o yet_o think_v all_o other_o friend_n be_v as_o it_o be_v to_o be_v doubt_v thou_o do_v for_o i_o have_v never_o hear_v that_o thy_o book_n about_o woman_n meeting_n be_v there_o approve_v or_o that_o all_o the_o thing_n therein_o contain_v will_v be_v stand_v by_o or_o own_v by_o any_o one_o friend_n in_o truth_n then_o it_o be_v a_o evident_a token_n thou_o will_v exalt_v thyself_o for_o what_o be_v that_o less_o than_o to_o conclude_v that_o the_o infallible_a spirit_n be_v limit_v to_o appear_v through_o thy_o earthen_a vessel_n only_o for_o if_o according_a to_o the_o principle_n of_o truth_n the_o spirit_n be_v the_o judge_n and_o that_o its_o pour_v forth_o in_o our_o day_n be_v upon_o many_o son_n and_o many_o daughter_n why_o then_o shall_v not_o the_o appearance_n of_o the_o spirit_n through_o any_o vessel_n have_v its_o free_a passage_n as_o well_o as_o through_o thou_o or_o why_o must_v some_o write_n give_v forth_o by_o the_o spirit_n be_v bring_v to_o the_o second_o day_n meeting_n to_o be_v approve_v and_o other_o not_o but_o to_o return_v i_o have_v this_o further_a to_o say_v that_o if_o thou_o or_o any_o be_v so_o imaginary_a as_o to_o conclude_v that_o all_o thy_o write_n and_o book_n be_v give_v forth_o by_o the_o infallible_a spirit_n and_o that_o as_o such_o they_o ought_v to_o be_v make_v use_n of_o a_o part_n of_o which_o i_o be_o satisfy_v have_v so_o be_v thereby_o to_o obtain_v proselyte_n against_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n it_o appear_v to_o i_o as_o if_o thy_o notorious_a err_v from_o the_o infallible_a spirit_n in_o write_v some_o thing_n contain_v in_o thy_o book_n of_o womens-meeting_n have_v be_v permit_v to_o be_v as_o a_o evidence_n record_v against_o all_o such_o who_o ignorant_o look_v upon_o thou_o so_o to_o be_v as_o aforesaid_a and_o therefore_o it_o become_v thou_o to_o be_v humble_v before_o the_o lord_n and_o to_o acknowledge_v thy_o error_n therein_o i_o be_o not_o without_o a_o sense_n what_o entertainment_n my_o plain_a deal_v will_v have_v among_o many_o if_o thou_o suffer_v it_o to_o be_v read_v or_o spread_v
among_o any_o prejudice_v against_o i_o as_o thou_o do_v my_o last_o letter_n whereby_o i_o become_v judge_v before_o treat_v withal_o either_o by_o thou_o or_o any_o touch_v the_o same_o however_o this_o give_v i_o satisfaction_n that_o i_o have_v count_v the_o cost_n and_o if_o i_o must_v be_v reproach_v as_o once_o i_o have_v be_v already_o for_o clear_v my_o conscience_n to_o thou_o yet_o as_o i_o now_o have_v so_o my_o faith_n be_v i_o shall_v have_v peace_n of_o conscience_n when_o the_o neglect_v thereof_o will_v have_v become_v my_o burden_n and_o if_o any_o for_o this_o cause_n shall_v give_v forth_o such_o paper_n against_o i_o as_o be_v undeserved_o give_v forth_o against_o other_o friend_n in_o truth_n and_o that_o also_o by_o such_o who_o have_v not_o hear_v they_o speak_v for_o themselves_o it_o will_v redound_v to_o their_o shame_n as_o in_o the_o end_n will_v undoubted_o be_v more_o public_o manifest_v for_o several_a week_n past_a it_o have_v be_v under_o my_o serious_a consideration_n whether_o i_o may_v pass_v these_o thing_n over_o in_o silence_n but_o with_o peace_n of_o conscience_n i_o can_v so_o do_v and_o therefore_o do_v conclude_v they_o be_v more_o worthy_a thy_o notice_n than_o the_o word_n of_o flatter_a tongue_n i_o be_o thy_o plainhearted_a friend_n william_n rogers_n to_o the_o two_o aforesaid_a letter_n i_o never_o receive_v any_o answer_n in_o write_v nor_o yet_o by_o word_n of_o mouth_n as_o ever_o i_o remember_v more_o than_o to_o this_o effect_n william_n if_o thou_o will_v take_v thy_o letter_n back_o again_o it_o be_v well_o enough_o or_o such_o like_a word_n but_o yet_o on_o g._n f_n propose_v to_o have_v a_o meeting_n with_o i_o concern_v they_o we_o agree_v on_o a_o meeting_n to_o consist_v of_o twelve_o friend_n on_o a_o side_n and_o after_o the_o read_n of_o the_o last_o letter_n i_o by_o write_v under_o my_o hand_n desire_v that_o if_o george_n fox_n have_v aught_o against_o it_o he_o will_v deliver_v i_o his_o charge_n therein_o in_o write_v and_o then_o i_o will_v make_v answer_n thereto_o but_o my_o proposition_n therein_o g._n f._n refuse_v to_o answer_n and_o so_o the_o meet_v part_v i_o now_o come_v to_o take_v notice_n that_o there_o be_v a_o paper_n give_v forth_o from_o ellis_n hook_n his_o chamber_n by_o charles_n martial_n and_o sixty-five_a person_n more_o as_o a_o testimony_n against_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n to_o which_o two_o answer_n be_v write_v and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o a_o testimony_n from_o john_n jonnings_n and_o about_o seventy_o friend_n more_o in_o the_o county_n of_o wilts_n and_o thomas_n gouldeny_n william_n ford_n and_o myself_o together_o with_o sixteen_o friend_n beside_o in_o bristol_n against_o it_o this_o i_o make_v mention_n of_o because_o that_o paper_n from_o ellis_n hook_n his_o chamber_n sign_v by_o charles_n marshal_n etc._n etc._n have_v prove_v but_o fuel_n add_v to_o the_o fire_n of_o contention_n that_o be_v burn_v before_o now_o forasmuch_o as_o i_o be_o well_o sensible_a that_o g._n f._n esteem_v himself_o one_a have_v the_o care_n of_o all_o the_o church_n upon_o he_o and_o that_o john_n story_n positive_o affirm_v that_o when_o he_o be_v at_o worcester_n with_o george_n fox_n he_o viz._n g._n f._n do_v then_o tell_v he_o which_o he_o take_v as_o threaten_v friend_n will_v write_v against_o they_o and_o that_o the_o power_n of_o god_n will_v cast_v they_o out_o meaning_n john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n it_o may_v be_v needful_a for_o g._n f._n to_o give_v a_o account_n how_o he_o come_v to_o be_v so_o careless_a of_o the_o church_n as_o not_o so_o to_o sift_v into_o that_o matter_n as_o that_o the_o unrighteous_a proceed_v thereof_o may_v have_v be_v judge_v especial_o fince_n he_o be_v then_o in_o london_n the_o neglect_v whereof_o in_o he_o so_o circumstantiate_v as_o he_o account_v himself_o to_o be_v occasion_n this_o jealousy_n that_o he_o be_v a_o approver_n of_o the_o manner_n and_o method_n of_o their_o proceed_n and_o so_o may_v account_v it_o a_o fulfil_v of_o the_o word_n cite_v as_o speak_v to_o john_n story_n at_o worcester_n viz._n that_o friend_n will_v write_v against_o they_o and_o the_o power_n of_o god_n will_v cast_v they_o out_o the_o fire_n of_o contention_n thus_o increase_v and_o it_o be_v rumour_v that_o there_o be_v a_o separate_a meeting_n in_o the_o north_n john_n story_n write_v unto_o the_o two_o meeting_n in_o the_o north_n viz._n that_o call_v separate_a and_o that_o call_v quarterly_o therein_o propose_v expedient_n for_o a_o reunite_v which_o be_v recommend_v by_o thomas_n gouldeny_n and_o myself_o together_o with_o sixty_o friend_n beside_o and_o be_v accept_v by_o those_o call_v separate_a as_o by_o their_o testimony_n sign_v by_o william_n cartmell_n and_o fifty-seven_a person_n more_o appear_v but_o robert_n barrow_n and_o fifteen_o other_o of_o the_o quarterly-meeting_a so_o term_v condemn_a john_n story_n be_v proposition_n before_o hear_v as_o by_o their_o answer_n appear_v this_o also_o be_v thus_o hint_v because_o i_o doubt_v not_o but_o that_o it_o may_v come_v to_o the_o view_n of_o robert_n barrow_n who_o if_o he_o please_v may_v thereupon_o take_v occasion_n to_o signify_v to_o i_o that_o george_n fox_n be_v not_o concern_v in_o that_o council_n if_o in_o truth_n he_o can_v so_o signify_v this_o i_o propose_v because_o it_o be_v jealouse_v that_o matter_n of_o no_o less_o moment_n be_v not_o very_o common_o resolve_v upon_o by_o robert_n barrow_n and_o other_o of_o party_n with_o g._n f._n without_o advise_v with_o he_o when_o they_o have_v opportunity_n so_o to_o do_v which_o doubtless_o be_v frequent_a enough_o since_o their_o dwelling_n be_v but_o few_o mile_n distant_a each_o from_o other_o william_n rogers_n the_o five_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n &_o innovator_n be_v a_o additional_a discovery_n to_o the_o first_o and_o four_o part_n of_o the_o christian-quaker_n etc._n etc._n that_o george_n fox_n have_v be_v act_v by_o a_o erroneous_a spirit_n and_o become_v a_o reproach_n and_o scandal_n to_o the_o truth_n which_o the_o child_n of_o light_n profess_v and_o walk_v in_o by_o william_n rogers_n malachi_n 2.8_o 9_o but_o you_o be_v depart_v out_o of_o the_o way_n you_o have_v cause_v many_o to_o stumble_v at_o the_o law_n you_o have_v corrupt_v the_o covenant_n of_o levi_n say_v the_o lord_n of_o host_n therefore_o have_v i_o make_v you_o contemptible_a and_o base_a before_o all_o the_o people_n according_a as_o you_o have_v not_o keep_v my_o way_n but_o have_v be_v partial_a in_o the_o law_n london_n print_v in_o the_o year_n 1680._o the_o five_o part_n of_o the_o christian_a quaker_n distinguish_v from_o the_o apostate_n and_o innovator_n etc._n etc._n on_o the_o 11_o month_n 1677._o george_n fox_n come_v to_o the_o city_n of_o bristol_n and_o after_o he_o have_v be_v there_o some_o little_a time_n i_o be_v challenge_v by_o one_o profess_v the_o truth_n to_o bring_v forth_o what_o i_o have_v against_o g._n f._n this_o with_o some_o other_o passage_n between_o friend_n at_o that_o time_n occasion_v myself_o and_o other_o to_o be_v concern_v in_o draw_v up_o a_o few_o thing_n wherein_o we_o be_v dissatisfy_v not_o only_o relate_v to_o g._n f._n but_o other_o also_o a_o part_n whereof_o chief_o relate_v unto_o george_n fox_n do_v now_o follow_v the_o first_o dissatisfaction_n we_o be_v not_o satisfy_v that_o g._n f._n have_v of_o late_o be_v guide_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n in_o all_o such_o matter_n relate_v to_o truth_n wherein_o of_o late_a he_o have_v concern_v himself_o neither_o be_v we_o satisfy_v that_o those_o who_o have_v of_o late_o look_v upon_o he_o as_o a_o man_n worthy_a of_o double_a honour_n and_o own_v he_o in_o all_o such_o matter_n have_v have_v therein_o a_o spiritual_a discern_v neither_o be_v we_o satisfy_v that_o the_o bare_a esteem_v of_o he_o as_o one_o that_o have_v not_o of_o late_a in_o all_o thing_n keep_v his_o place_n and_o habitation_n in_o the_o truth_n can_v be_v the_o fruit_n of_o a_o dark_a spirit_n the_o reason_n of_o the_o above_o dissatisfaction_n as_o to_o g._n f._n be_v in_o part_n as_o follow_v that_o divers_a passage_n in_o his_o book_n entitle_v this_o be_v a_o encouragement_n to_o all_o womens-meeting_n in_o the_o world_n etc._n etc._n be_v either_o unsound_a or_o impertinent_o quote_v the_o first_o quotation_n page_n 43._o of_o the_o say_a book_n it_o be_v thus_o say_v and_o be_v not_o micah_n be_v mother_n a_o virtuous_a woman_n read_v judge_n the_o 17_o and_o see_v what_o she_o say_v to_o she_o son_n the_o very_a word_n of_o the_o scripture_n be_v these_o and_o there_o be_v a_o man_n of_o mount_n ephraim_n who_o name_n be_v micah_n and_o he_o say_v unto_o
his_o mother_n the_o 1100_o shekel_n of_o silver_n that_o be_v take_v from_o thou_o about_o which_o thou_o cursedst_v and_o speak_v also_o in_o my_o ear_n behold_v the_o silver_n be_v with_o i_o i_o take_v it_o and_o his_o mother_n say_v bless_a be_v thou_o of_o the_o lord_n my_o son_n and_o when_o he_o have_v restore_v the_o 1100_o shekel_n of_o silver_n to_o his_o mother_n his_o mother_n say_v i_o have_v whole_o dedicate_v the_o silver_n unto_o the_o lord_n from_o my_o hand_n for_o my_o son_n to_o make_v a_o graven-image_n and_o a_o molten-image_n now_o therefore_o i_o will_v restore_v it_o thou_o yet_o he_o restore_v the_o money_n to_o his_o mother_n and_o his_o mother_n take_v 200_o shekel_n of_o silver_n and_o give_v they_o to_o the_o founder_n who_o make_v thereof_o a_o graven-image_n and_o a_o molten_n image_n and_o they_o be_v in_o the_o house_n of_o micah_n and_o the_o man_n micah_n have_v a_o house_n of_o god_n the_o quotation_n be_v enough_o to_o show_v that_o she_o be_v a_o idolatrous_a woman_n and_o though_o it_o may_v be_v say_v it_o be_v but_o a_o question_n ask_v yet_o in_o answer_n it_o may_v be_v say_v that_o if_o g._n f_n real_a judgement_n be_v so_o that_o she_o be_v not_o a_o virtuous_a woman_n he_o have_v manifest_v thereby_o a_o scoff_a spirit_n but_o to_o manifest_v that_o such_o a_o answer_n appear_v but_o a_o mere_a shift_n the_o reader_n may_v observe_v that_o about_o thirteen_o line_n follow_v he_o thus_o say_v so_o these_o and_o such_o woman_n be_v record_v to_o posterity_n for_o their_o wisdom_n and_o their_o virtue_n the_o second_o quotation_n page_n 43._o and_o the_o woman_n of_o tekoah_n see_v what_o a_o sermon_n she_o preach_v to_o king_n david_n 2_o sam._n 13.14_o the_o scripture_n quote_v inform_v we_o that_o the_o woman_n be_v a_o subtle_a woman_n who_o joab_n cause_v to_o feign_v herself_o as_o a_o mourner_n and_o go_v to_o king_n david_n with_o a_o lie_a story_n in_o her_o mouth_n which_o according_o she_o do_v for_o when_o king_n david_n ask_v she_o be_v not_o the_o hand_n of_o joab_n with_o thou_o in_o all_o this_o she_o answer_v joab_n put_v all_o these_o word_n in_o her_o mouth_n so_o that_o if_o it_o be_v real_o so_o that_o she_o have_v be_v the_o occasion_n of_o pacify_v king_n david_n wrath_n yet_o it_o may_v more_o true_o be_v say_v that_o she_o deceive_v king_n david_n by_o her_o lie_n than_o convince_v he_o beside_o though_o the_o story_n be_v frame_v by_o joab_n for_o the_o sake_n of_o absalon_n who_o slay_v his_o brother_n amnon_n and_o therefore_o flee_v yet_o it_o appear_v that_o king_n david_n be_v appease_v as_o to_o his_o son_n absalon_n as_o in_o 2_o sam._n 13.39_o before_o the_o woman_n come_v to_o he_o with_o lie_n in_o her_o mouth_n we_o now_o commend_v it_o to_o the_o conscience_n of_o all_o to_o consider_v how_o this_o lie_a story_n can_v be_v call_v a_o good_a and_o convince_v sermon_n and_o be_v a_o evidence_n of_o a_o virtuous_a woman_n for_o in_o a_o very_a few_o line_n after_o it_o be_v say_v as_o before_o these_o and_o such_o woman_n be_v record_v to_o posterity_n for_o their_o wisdom_n and_o their_o virtue_n the_o three_o quotation_n page_n 23._o and_o the_o woman_n have_v their_o assembly_n in_o the_o day_n of_o the_o judge_n and_o the_o king_n now_o old_a ely_n be_v not_o against_o the_o assembly_n of_o the_o woman_n who_o assemble_v by_o troop_n as_o you_o may_v see_v in_o the_o one_a sam._n 2.21_o 22._o though_o some_o man_n now_o adays_o may_v be_v against_o woman_n meeting_n or_o assembly_n in_o the_o gospel_n time_n and_o against_o woman_n speak_v and_o prophesy_v etc._n etc._n the_o scripture_n quote_v tell_v we_o thus_o so_o ely_n be_v old_a and_o hear_v all_o that_o his_o son_n do_v unto_o israel_n and_o how_o they_o lie_v with_o the_o woman_n who_o assemble_v at_o the_o door_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n of_o the_o congregation_n which_o only_o prove_v that_o there_o be_v a_o assembly_n of_o man_n and_o woman_n at_o the_o door_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n of_o the_o congregation_n who_o commit_v evil_a together_o at_o the_o first_o view_n this_o seem_v so_o abominable_a a_o quotation_n to_o prove_v the_o assembly_n of_o purify_a woman_n under_o the_o gospel_n distinct_a form_n purify_v man_n to_o be_v necessary_a which_o be_v the_o end_n wherefore_o it_o be_v as_o we_o take_v it_o quote_v that_o we_o be_v concern_v to_o inform_v ourselves_o from_o the_o scripture_n to_o what_o end_n woman_n assemble_v before_o the_o door_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n of_o the_o congregation_n and_o we_o find_v by_o a_o marginal_a note_n in_o the_o scripture_n that_o it_o be_v as_o the_o hebrew_n write_v after_o their_o travel_n when_o they_o come_v to_o be_v purify_v as_o in_o leviticus_n the_o 12_o and_o 6_o where_o it_o be_v thus_o say_v now_o when_o the_o day_n of_o her_o purify_n be_v fulfil_v she_o shall_v bring_v to_o the_o priest_n a_o lamb_n of_o one_o year_n old_a for_o a_o burnt-offering_a and_o a_o young_a pigeon_n or_o turtle_n dove_n for_o a_o sin-offering_a unto_o the_o door_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n of_o the_o congregation_n which_o give_v we_o occasion_n thus_o to_o query_n how_o can_v woman_n come_v in_o order_n to_o their_o purification_n with_o a_o sin-offering_a etc._n etc._n to_o the_o door_n of_o the_o tabernacle_n of_o the_o congregation_n when_o defile_v by_o the_o man_n that_o there_o accompany_v they_o be_v a_o proof_n for_o purify_a woman_n under_o the_o gospel_n to_o assemble_v together_o distinct_a from_o purify_a man_n the_o four_o quotation_n page_n 32._o and_o likewise_o you_o may_v see_v rachel_n and_o leah_n their_o counsel_n to_o jacob_n who_o answer_v jacob_n and_o say_v unto_o he_o be_v there_o yet_o any_o portion_n or_o inheritance_n for_o we_o in_o our_o father_n house_n be_v we_o not_o count_v of_o he_o as_o stranger_n for_o he_o have_v sell_v we_o and_o he_o have_v quite_o devour_v also_o our_o money_n for_o all_o the_o riches_n that_o god_n have_v take_v from_o our_o father_n that_o be_v we_o and_o our_o child_n and_o now_o therefore_o whatsoever_o god_n have_v say_v unto_o thou_o do_v this_o be_v rachel_n and_o leahs_n counsel_n unto_o jacob_n and_o be_v not_o these_o three_o a_o church_n then_o and_o do_v he_o forbid_v they_o from_o speak_v in_o the_o church_n see_v genses_n 31.14_o 15_o 16._o this_o we_o take_v to_o be_v a_o quotation_n to_o evidence_n woman_n speak_v in_o the_o church_n to_o be_v according_a to_o truth_n but_o yet_o we_o can_v own_v it_o to_o be_v much_o if_o any_o thing_n at_o all_o better_a argument_n for_o woman_n speak_v in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n when_o the_o church_n be_v meet_v to_o worship_v the_o lord_n in_o his_o spirit_n than_o woman_n discourse_n with_o their_o husband_n about_o their_o outward_a estate_n do_v almost_o every_o day_n produce_v among_o we_o and_o be_v it_o so_o that_o no_o better_a argument_n can_v be_v produce_v for_o the_o justification_n of_o woman_n speak_v in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n in_o the_o sense_n we_o have_v understand_v speak_v in_o the_o church_n we_o may_v be_v ashamed_a of_o our_o principle_n and_o their_o practice_n the_o five_o quotation_n page_n 42._o and_o the_o daughter_n of_o israel_n go_v yearly_a to_o lament_v the_o daughter_n of_o jeptha_n judge_n 11_o so_o here_o they_o have_v a_o yearly_o meet_v on_o this_o occasion_n our_o observation_n now_o be_v jeptha_n make_v a_o vow_n unto_o the_o lord_n and_o thus_o say_v if_o thou_o shall_v deliver_v the_o child_n of_o ammon_n into_o my_o hand_n than_o that_o thing_n that_o come_v out_o of_o the_o door_n of_o my_o house_n to_o meet_v i_o when_o i_o come_v home_o in_o peace_n from_o the_o child_n of_o ammon_n shall_v be_v the_o lord_n and_o i_o will_v offer_v it_o for_o a_o burnt-offering_a and_o so_o it_o happen_v that_o his_o only_a child_n be_v a_o daughter_n come_v out_o to_o meet_v he_o with_o timbrel_n and_o dance_n and_o when_o he_o see_v she_o he_o rend_v his_o clothes_n and_o say_v alas_o my_o daughter_n but_o yet_o at_o the_o end_n of_o two_o month_n do_v unto_o she_o according_a to_o his_o vow_n have_v give_v she_o two_o month_n time_n to_o go_v to_o the_o mountain_n with_o other_o virgin_n to_o bewail_v her_o virginity_n which_o afterward_o become_v a_o custom_n in_o israel_n to_o go_v yearly_o to_o the_o mountain_n to_o bewail_v the_o daughter_n of_o jeptha_n this_o occasion_n we_o to_o query_n whether_o such_o a_o meeting_n occasion_v on_o the_o untimely_a death_n of_o a_o virgin_n for_o jeptha_n vow_n be_v a_o rash_a vow_n can_v be_v any_o evidence_n of_o the_o matter_n which_o be_v take_v by_o we_o to_o be_v intend_v viz._n either_o for_o woman_n speak_v in_o the_o church_n or_o woman_n
other_o matter_n that_o the_o agreement_n relate_v not_o to_o the_o rumour_n whereof_o as_o i_o suppose_v come_v to_o g._n f_n ear_n i_o be_v inform_v by_o several_a that_o he_o render_v the_o giver_n forth_o thereof_o or_o at_o least_o one_o of_o they_o covenant-breaker_n and_o it_o be_v credible_o report_v that_o g._n f._n be_v the_o person_n who_o industrious_o spread_v the_o same_o among_o friend_n of_o which_o more_o anon_o as_o a_o evidence_n that_o thomas_n gouldney_n william_n ford_n and_o william_n rogers_n be_v accuse_v on_o this_o score_n for_o covenant-breaker_n we_o think_v it_o necessary_a to_o recite_v a_o letter_n write_v unto_o they_o on_o that_o behalf_n the_o copy_n whereof_o do_v follow_v the_o 9th_o of_o the_o 6_o mo._n 78._o thomas_n gouldney_n william_n ford_n and_o william_n rogers_n with_o the_o rest_n of_o john_n story_n be_v and_o john_n willkinson_n be_v party_n who_o be_v know_v or_o unknown_a i_o understand_v that_o you_o have_v a_o meeting_n with_o g._n f._n and_o other_o at_o bristol_n at_o winter_n fair_a last_o and_o article_n and_o covenant_n be_v draw_v and_o agree_v on_o both_o side_n that_o no_o paper_n be_v to_o go_v forth_o without_o the_o consent_n of_o both_o party_n and_o contrary_a to_o all_o covenant_n engagement_n and_o contract_n when_o g.f._n and_o the_o rest_n be_v go_v from_o bristol_n you_o have_v draw_v up_o paper_n concern_v the_o meeting_n manuscript_n book_n some_o thirteen_o sixteen_o or_o twenty_o four_o sheet_n as_o it_o be_v say_v and_o have_v send_v they_o into_o the_o north_n bukinghamshire_n and_o berkshire_n as_o they_o say_v and_o also_o you_o send_v they_o by_o lewis_n landy_n into_o hartfordshire_n and_o bedfordshire_n and_o huntingtonshire_n and_o ride_v up_o and_o down_o to_o dissaffected_a and_o loose_a raw_a people_n but_o this_o work_n have_v get_v you_o no_o credit_n in_o the_o nation_n but_o have_v manifest_v you_o to_o be_v covenant-breaker_n and_o not_o man_n of_o truth_n nor_o credit_n for_o many_o friend_n be_v at_o bristol_n fair_a and_o know_v of_o the_o contract_n and_o covenant_n that_o no_o paper_n shall_v go_v forth_o without_o both_o side_n see_v they_o and_o yet_o you_o contrary_a secret_o in_o a_o underly_a and_o treacherous_a way_n send_v paper_n behind_o the_o back_n of_o they_o that_o be_v concern_v and_o as_o they_o say_v you_o never_o send_v to_o they_o this_o practice_n of_o you_o be_v more_o wicked_a and_o worse_o than_o the_o priest_n and_o so_o in_o this_o presumptuous_a wilful_a work_n of_o you_o to_o defame_v other_o have_v defame_v yourselves_o wherever_o your_o paper_n come_v and_o make_v yourselves_o of_o no_o reputation_n nor_o credit_n among_o man_n nor_o as_o to_o the_o truth_n for_o who_o can_v trust_v or_o believe_v you_o until_o you_o call_v in_o your_o paper_n again_o by_o judgement_n and_o condemnation_n wherever_o you_o have_v send_v they_o for_o such_o work_n as_o your_o spirit_n manifest_v be_v not_o fit_a for_o the_o society_n of_o man_n for_o all_o judicious_a civil_a man_n will_v abhor_v your_o practice_n and_o do_n and_o do_v abhor_v it_o except_o some_o few_o airy_a notionist_n here_o and_o there_o that_o can_v live_v under_o the_o cross_n of_o christ_n and_o be_v not_o this_o scripture_n come_v upon_o you_o which_o christ_n say_v when_o the_o unclean_a spirit_n be_v go_v out_o of_o a_o man_n he_o walk_v in_o dry_a place_n and_o return_v again_o with_o seven_o other_o spirit_n worse_o than_o himself_o and_o the_o latter_a end_n of_o that_o man_n be_v worse_a than_o the_o beginning_n and_o will_v not_o some_o of_o you_o have_v be_v ashamed_a to_o have_v break_a covenant_n and_o promise_n as_o you_o have_v do_v now_o before_o you_o be_v convince_v of_o god_n truth_n but_o as_o the_o apostle_n say_v the_o wicked_a shall_v grow_v worse_o and_o worse_o sure_o have_v there_o be_v any_o tenderness_n towards_o god_n and_o his_o truth_n that_o do_v not_o change_n and_o have_v there_o be_v any_o regard_n to_o your_o reputation_n as_o man_n than_o wilfulness_n will_v not_o have_v hazard_v all_o but_o in_o that_o wherein_o you_o have_v seek_v to_o defame-others_a and_o make_v they_o of_o no_o credit_n you_o have_v defame_v yourselves_o and_o make_v yourselves_o of_o no_o credit_n in_o all_o country_n where_o your_o book_n have_v come_v among_o sober_a honest_a friend_n that_o keep_v their_o integrity_n which_o indeed_o friend_n at_o the_o general_n meeting_n be_v surprise_v can_v hardly_o believe_v it_o when_o they_o hear_v that_o you_o have_v send_v your_o book_n into_o the_o north_n and_o esum_fw-la etc._n etc._n and_o into_o the_o east_n by_o lewis_n landy_n and_o other_o place_n and_o though_o you_o do_v degenerate_a from_o truth_n yet_o to_o degenerate_v from_o common_a civil_a man_n in_o break_v covenant_n and_o engagement_n before_o so_o many_o witness_n but_o many_o that_o have_v hear_v of_o it_o do_v testify_v against_o it_o in_o all_o country_n where_o it_o come_v and_o say_v that_o will_v not_o do_v your_o business_n and_o if_o these_o be_v your_o weapon_n to_o set_v up_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n with_o these_o be_v very_o shallow_a one_o and_o if_o this_o be_v the_o spirit_n that_o cry_v against_o form_n that_o run_v quite_o out_o of_o form_n and_o truth_n that_o can_v break_v all_o covenant_n and_o engagement_n so_o easy_o but_o this_o be_v like_o john_n story_n be_v creep_a spirit_n be_v work_n which_o have_v lead_v you_o to_o act_v both_o contrary_n to_o truth_n and_o below_o natural_a civil_a man_n and_o to_o be_v covenant-breaker_n and_o fierce_a despiser_n of_o they_o that_o be_v good_a and_o so_o these_o paper_n and_o do_n of_o you_o have_v give_v much_o satisfaction_n to_o the_o country_n to_o see_v your_o treacherous_a spirit_n and_o of_o john_n story_n be_v that_o you_o promote_v your_o sect-master_n and_o the_o fruit_n of_o his_o separate_a meeting_n and_o this_o spirit_n do_v manifest_v itself_o to_o be_v contrary_a both_o to_o truth_n and_o sober_a man_n in_o all_o country_n where_o your_o paper_n have_v come_v to_o your_o proselyte_n which_o indeed_o be_v not_o very_o many_o and_o they_o that_o be_v they_o be_v so_o ashamed_a of_o your_o work_n that_o we_o can_v get_v a_o copy_n but_o lewis_n landy_n have_v promise_v a_o copy_n as_o it_o be_v say_v and_o what_o you_o and_o john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n do_v sow_v that_o will_v you_o reap_v when_o god_n judgement_n come_v upon_o you_o and_o you_o reward_v according_a to_o your_o work_n and_o when_o grim_a death_n seize_v upon_o you_o who_o work_n you_o be_v do_v in_o wilful_a darkness_n then_o remember_v how_o you_o have_v justify_v the_o wicked_a and_o condemn_v the_o innocent_a and_o your_o latter_a end_n as_o christ_n say_v be_v worse_o than_o the_o beginning_n but_o i_o desire_v that_o you_o may_v repent_v and_o condemn_v all_o that_o have_v be_v do_v by_o you_o on_o this_o wise_a and_o bring_v john_n story_n and_o john_n wilkinson_n to_o condemn_v it_o also_o and_o so_o come_v again_o into_o your_o first_o love_n and_o into_o unity_n with_o friend_n for_o at_o present_a we_o see_v and_o take_v notice_n in_o our_o country_n that_o none_o but_o who_o be_v of_o loose_a spirit_n be_v affect_v with_o your_o work_n for_o common_a honest_a man_n abhor_v they_o s._n h._n that_o now_o the_o reader_n may_v know_v what_o be_v the_o pretend_a ground_n wherefore_o this_o abusive_a report_n be_v so_o confident_o spread_v we_o desire_v the_o reader_n to_o peruse_v the_o treatise_n the_o note_v the_o say_a agreement_n be_v before_o cite_v in_o this_o treatise_n agreement_n make_v between_o and_o william_n rogers_n on_o behalf_n of_o themselves_o and_o friend_n concern_v which_o be_v mention_v in_o the_o last_o recite_v relation_n of_o passage_n in_o the_o 12._o section_n and_o therein_o they_o shall_v find_v that_o each_o party_n have_v liberty_n to_o have_v a_o scribe_n to_o take_v passage_n in_o the_o conference_n which_o to_o they_o several_o shall_v seem_v meet_a and_o that_o when_o any_o thing_n be_v read_v and_o final_o agree_v by_o both_o party_n to_o be_v record_v the_o same_o shall_v be_v at_o the_o end_n of_o every_o meet_v subscribe_v by_o both_o party_n and_o by_o at_o least_o six_o credible_a person_n of_o each_o side_n but_o not_o a_o word_n intimate_v that_o no_o other_o relation_n shall_v go_v forth_o and_o the_o reason_n of_o that_o agreement_n be_v not_o to_o obstruct_v any_o member_n of_o the_o meeting_n if_o no_o memorial_n of_o passage_n in_o the_o conference_n can_v by_o agreement_n be_v record_v to_o give_v a_o relation_n of_o the_o truth_n for_o have_v it_o be_v so_o intend_v there_o will_v have_v be_v a_o article_n to_o that_o purpose_n to_o be_v a_o bond_n on_o the_o person_n between_o who_o the_o agreement_n be_v make_v and_o that_o they_o shall_v
a_o great_a thing_n to_o give_v up_o the_o life_n and_o soul_n and_o to_o die_v for_o the_o lord_n jesus_n than_o to_o give_v up_o the_o good_n and_o estate_n and_o suffer_v the_o spoil_n of_o the_o good_n for_o christ_n sake_n and_o worship_v of_o god_n and_o whether_o or_o no_o they_o that_o can_v suffer_v the_o spoil_v of_o their_o good_n for_o god_n and_o christ_n sake_n worship_n sake_n can_v give_v up_o their_o life_n and_o suffer_v for_o christ_n who_o have_v dye_v and_o suffer_v for_o you_o and_o whether_o or_o no_o they_o that_o make_v away_o their_o estate_n to_o the_o world_n lest_o they_o shall_v lose_v they_o for_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n do_v not_o they_o distrust_v god_n of_o keep_v they_o who_o they_o be_v indeed_o and_o have_v more_o belief_n and_o trust_n in_o the_o world_n than_o they_o have_v in_o god_n and_o whether_o this_o spirit_n that_o do_v so_o be_v not_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o world_n that_o do_v lust_n to_o envy_n and_o not_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o his_o wisdom_n but_o that_o which_o be_v earthly_a sensual_a and_o devilish_a that_o will_v have_v its_o liberty_n and_o not_o the_o wisdom_n that_o be_v above_o that_o be_v pure_a peaceable_a and_o easy_a to_o be_v entreat_v and_o whether_o he_o that_o will_v save_v his_o life_n and_o not_o lose_v it_o for_o christ_n sake_n do_v not_o he_o think_v to_o be_v his_o own_o saviour_n and_o not_o christ_n and_o whether_o he_o that_o will_v save_v his_o estate_n and_o not_o lose_v it_o for_o christ_n sake_n and_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n by_o make_v it_o away_o to_o the_o world_n in_o time_n of_o suffering_n shall_v not_o lose_v it_o and_o so_o whether_o it_o be_v safe_a in_o this_o case_n to_o make_v away_o your_o estate_n to_o the_o world_n that_o can_v save_v its_o own_o or_o to_o make_v or_o commend_v it_o into_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n creator_n of_o all_o and_o jesus_n christ_n by_o who_o all_o thing_n be_v make_v who_o uphold_v all_o thing_n by_o his_o word_n and_o power_n and_o the_o great_a lord_n of_o heaven_n and_o earth_n and_o all_o thing_n therein_o and_o which_o out_o of_o his_o hand_n a_o sparrow_n shall_v not_o fall_v without_o the_o will_n of_o he_o that_o make_v they_o george_n fox_n read_v this_o among_o friend_n and_o send_v a_o copy_n of_o it_o to_o naylsworth_n the_o aforesaid_a paper_n be_v read_v in_o the_o mens-meeting_a of_o friend_n in_o the_o city_n of_o bristol_n william_n rogers_n bear_v testimony_n against_o it_o in_o the_o meeting_n at_o the_o same_o time_n as_o that_o which_o reach_v not_o his_o conscience_n come_v from_o g._n f._n and_o have_v therefore_o a_o concern_v upon_o he_o to_o write_v a_o answer_n thereto_o which_o follow_v george_n fox_n have_v by_o his_o paper_n date_a london_n the_o four_o month_n 1678._o propose_v many_o query_n and_o cause_v they_o to_o be_v read_v in_o our_o mens-meeting_a of_o friend_n in_o the_o city_n of_o bristol_n it_o be_v now_o with_o i_o be_v present_a in_o the_o say_v meet_v at_o the_o read_n thereof_o to_o write_v something_o in_o answer_n thereto_o to_o be_v read_v in_o the_o say_v mens-meeting_a and_o as_o he_o be_v order_v to_o be_v send_v to_o naylsworth_n i_o desir_fw-fr that_o this_o also_o may_v be_v send_v thither_o to_o be_v read_v among_o friend_n and_o also_o send_v to_o g._n f._n that_o so_o he_o may_v answer_v the_o query_n i_o now_o propose_v the_o above-recited_n paper_n i_o take_v to_o be_v whole_o make_v up_o of_o query_n to_o all_o those_o who_o do_v make_v away_o their_o estate_n for_o fear_v of_o the_o spoiler_n in_o time_n of_o persecution_n except_v this_o one_o sentence_n of_o exhortation_n viz._n do_v not_o distrust_n and_o despair_v of_o god_n almighty_n his_o protect_a and_o deliver_v you_o with_o his_o almighty_a power_n the_o query_n be_v contract_v amount_n to_o thus_o much_o be_v you_o sensible_a the_o earth_n be_v the_o lord_n and_o that_o he_o give_v the_o increase_n and_o that_o how_o he_o may_v try_v you_o whether_o your_o mind_n be_v in_o the_o creature_n or_o with_o the_o creator_n and_o whether_o it_o be_v not_o a_o great_a thing_n to_o give_v up_o the_o life_n and_o to_o die_v for_o the_o lord_n jesus_n than_o to_o give_v up_o good_n and_o estate_n whether_o those_o that_o can_v suffer_v spoil_v of_o good_n for_o christ_n sake_n can_v give_v up_o their_o life_n whether_o those_o that_o make_v away_o their_o estate_n lest_o they_o shall_v lose_v they_o for_o the_o worship_n of_o god_n do_v not_o distrust_n god_n of_o keep_v they_o and_o have_v moâ—â—_n belief_n and_o trust_n in_o the_o world_n than_o god_n and_o whether_o this_o spirit_n that_o do_v so_o be_v not_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o world_n that_o do_v lust_n to_o envy_n and_o not_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n and_o his_o wisdom_n but_o that_o which_o be_v below_o which_o be_v earthly_a sensual_a and_o devilish_a that_o will_v have_v its_o liberty_n ans_fw-fr to_o the_o exhortation_n i_o say_v it_o be_v in_o itself_o good_a but_o will_v have_v much_o better_o become_v the_o mouth_n of_o g._n f._n if_o when_o the_o persecutor_n come_v up_o one_o pair_n of_o stair_n in_o our_o meeting-room_n in_o broadmead_n whilst_o he_o be_v speak_v he_o have_v not_o be_v of_o such_o a_o spirit_n which_o some_o may_v term_v distrustful_a and_o despair_v as_o on_o a_o sudden_a to_o step_v down_o and_o hasten_v out_o of_o the_o meeting_n at_o a_o back_n pair_n of_o stair_n which_o he_o once_o do_v and_o of_o which_o my_o eye_n with_o many_o more_o be_v witness_n beside_o i_o query_n of_o g._n f._n whether_o he_o do_v not_o remember_v that_o when_o the_o soldier_n or_o some_o other_o persecutor_n come_v to_o a_o meeting_n in_o or_o near_a london_n at_o a_o certain_a time_n when_o he_o be_v there_o he_o do_v not_o go_v out_o of_o the_o meeting_n and_o betake_v himself_o to_o a_o upper_a room_n or_o cock-loft_n for_o so_o have_v i_o be_v inform_v he_o do_v and_o that_o by_o a_o person_n of_o know_a credit_n and_o repute_v then_o present_a at_o the_o meeting_n who_o as_o he_o say_v have_v discourse_v with_o he_o at_o that_o time_n and_o place_n near_o half_a a_o hour_n and_o if_o report_v be_v true_a this_o be_v but_o very_o little_a of_o what_o may_v at_o large_a be_v manifest_v to_o prove_v he_o one_o of_o the_o great_a fleer_n and_o shifter_n in_o time_n of_o persecution_n that_o ever_o i_o know_v profess_v the_o truth_n and_o esteem_v by_o other_o a_o faithful_a friend_n as_o to_o the_o query_n i_o have_v this_o to_o say_v that_o the_o earth_n be_v the_o lord_n that_o he_o give_v the_o increase_n that_o it_o be_v a_o near_a thing_n to_o part_v with_o life_n than_o estate_n that_o it_o be_v the_o duty_n of_o a_o christian_n to_o offer_v up_o both_o life_n and_o estate_n rather_o than_o to_o depart_v from_o his_o testimony_n for_o the_o truth_n when_o the_o lord_n call_v for_o it_o i_o be_o also_o sensible_a there_o be_v a_o spirit_n that_o lu_v to_o envy_n dwell_v in_o such_o that_o will_v lay_v heavy_a burden_n on_o other_o but_o not_o touch_v they_o with_o their_o little_a finger_n themselves_o and_o that_o this_o be_v not_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n nor_o his_o wisdom_n but_o that_o which_o be_v earthly_a sensual_a and_o that_o will_v have_v its_o liberty_n i_o be_o also_o sensible_a that_o this_o very_a spirit_n have_v late_o and_o yet_o do_v dwell_v in_o g._n f._n if_o god_n have_v not_o give_v he_o repentance_n and_o therefore_o if_o any_o of_o you_o unto_o who_o these_o line_n may_v come_v may_v think_v that_o this_o my_o sense_n of_o g._n f._n be_v not_o true_a i_o desire_v such_o for_o the_o truth_n sake_n to_o use_v their_o endeavour_n that_o g._n f._n may_v answer_v these_o follow_a query_n viz._n query_n to_o george_n fox_n i._o art_n not_o thou_o the_o man_n that_o have_v take_v liberty_n to_o stay_v almost_o a_o quarter_n of_o a_o year_n from_o meeting_n or_o at_o least_o a_o considerable_a time_n though_o hold_v in_o the_o very_a house_n of_o thy_o stesidence_n or_o if_o thou_o do_v at_o any_o time_n come_v within_o the_o aforesaid_a space_n whether_o it_o be_v not_o so_o seldom_o that_o it_o become_v matter_n of_o exercise_n to_o other_o friend_n for_o thy_o sake_n and_o do_v not_o john_n blaykle_v by_o name_n manifest_v his_o burden_n and_o exercise_n of_o spirit_n on_o thou_o and_o the_o truth_n behalf_n for_o thy_o so_o do_v and_o do_v thou_o not_o after_o he_o have_v so_o do_v a_o little_a amend_v in_o that_o case_n ii_o will_v thou_o not_o have_v account_v this_o in_o another_o to_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o a_o careless_a slothful_a negligent_a libertine_n or_o dark_a spirit_n that_o be_v either_o depart_v
the_o citation_n out_o of_o the_o 15_o section_n of_o the_o 2d_o part_n of_o the_o say_a manuscript_n to_o the_o aforesaid_a answer_n and_o query_n give_v by_o i_o g.f._n make_v a_o reply_n with_o a_o false_a certificate_n as_o hereafter_o will_v be_v mention_v annex_v thereto_o by_o john_n blaykling_n unto_o which_o i_o write_v a_o rejoynder_n and_o cause_v the_o same_o to_o be_v copy_v and_o send_v unto_o he_o and_o forasmuch_o as_o some_o other_o abuse_v lay_v at_o g._n f_n door_n be_v together_o with_o my_o rejoinder_n mention_v in_o the_o 21th_o section_n of_o the_o 2d_o part_n of_o the_o manuscript_n beforeeit_v i_o think_v it_o needful_a to_o insert_v not_o only_o my_o rejoinder_n to_o g._n f._n but_o also_o some_o other_o part_n of_o the_o say_a section_n pertinent_a on_o this_o occasion_n with_o the_o omission_n of_o some_o name_n for_o the_o reason_n mention_v in_o the_o preface_n to_o the_o one_a part_n which_o now_o follow_v on_o the_o 21th_o of_o the_o first_o month_n 1678._o be_v deliver_v i_o a_o manuscript_n subscribe_v g._n f._n with_o a_o testimony_n and_o postscript_n subscribe_v john_n blaykle_v what_o be_v therein_o write_v and_o subscribe_v g._n f._n be_v a_o reply_n to_o a_o answer_n that_o i_o give_v toa_o paper_n give_v forth_o by_o g._n f._n date_a the_o four_o month_n 1678._o which_o be_v read_v in_o the_o man_n meet_v of_o friend_n in_o the_o city_n of_o bristol_n and_o forasmuch_o as_o g._n f._n have_v lay_v down_o two_o false_a assertion_n on_o which_o he_o seem_v to_o build_v the_o great_a part_n if_o not_o all_o of_o those_o thing_n which_o he_o conclude_v be_v false_a charge_n i_o shall_v apply_v myself_o to_o manifest_v those_o two_o false_a assertion_n and_o so_o the_o force_n of_o his_o six_o sheet_n of_o paper_n in_o answer_n to_o one_o of_o i_o will_v for_o the_o most_o part_n if_o not_o altogether_o fall_v to_o the_o ground_n as_o such_o a_o impertinent_a idle_a discourse_n that_o be_v nauseous_a to_o man_n of_o honesty_n and_o endue_v with_o understanding_n unless_o it_o be_v the_o fruit_n of_o understanding_n and_o honesty_n which_o i_o know_v be_v not_o nor_o can_v be_v to_o give_v credit_n unto_o the_o word_n of_o a_o man_n detectable_a of_o many_o lie_v from_o the_o sight_n of_o his_o own_o reply_n and_o compare_v with_o what_o he_o pretend_v to_o answer_v moreover_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o he_o not_o only_o praise_v himself_o at_o a_o high_a rate_n but_o also_o vilifi_v and_o scandalize_v other_o in_o general_a term_n and_o sometime_o in_o particular_a and_o yet_o bring_v no_o proof_n for_o either_o to_o i_o it_o appear_v that_o his_o best_a skill_n to_o answer_v any_o thing_n be_v of_o late_a so_o manifest_v which_o can_v but_o be_v obvious_a to_o every_o impartial_a eye_n that_o shall_v thorough_o peruse_v and_o ponder_v his_o answer_n to_o i_o g._n f_n first_o false_a assertion_n hint_v at_o as_o before_z be_v contain_v in_o these_o his_o word_n viz._n my_o paper_n be_v a_o epistle_n to_o friend_n which_o thou_o confess_v be_v a_o exhortation_n in_o itself_o good_a to_o this_o i_o reply_v this_o sentence_n and_o assertion_n be_v false_a and_o not_o to_o be_v find_v in_o my_o answer_n to_o he_o my_o own_o word_n relate_v to_o a_o exhortation_n in_o itself_o good_a be_v in_o my_o answer_n to_o be_v find_v only_o in_o these_o two_o sentence_n viz._n the_o above-recited_n paper_n i_o take_v to_o be_v whole_o make_v up_o of_o query_n to_o all_o those_o that_o make_v away_o their_o estate_n for_o fear_n of_o the_o spoiler_n in_o time_n of_o persecution_n except_v this_o one_o sentence_n of_o exhortation_n do_v you_o not_o distrust_v and_o despair_v of_o god_n almighty_n his_o protect_v and_o deliver_v you_o with_o his_o almighty_a power_n to_o the_o exhortation_n i_o say_v it_o be_v in_o itself_o good_a etc._n etc._n which_o plain_o relate_v to_o that_o one_o sentence_n which_o i_o take_v to_o be_v a_o exhortation_n but_o not_o to_o all_o his_o paper_n which_o he_o term_v a_o epistle_n to_o friend_n from_o g._n f_n word_n viz._n a_o epistle_n to_o friend_n such_o as_o have_v not_o hear_v what_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o say_a paper_n may_v be_v apt_a to_o conclude_v that_o it_o contain_v something_o of_o exhortation_n counsel_n doctrine_n instruction_n teach_v prophesy_v or_o prayer_n or_o at_o least_o some_o sentence_n which_o import_v his_o be_v then_o exercise_v in_o some_o or_o one_o of_o the_o aforementioned_a spiritual_a gift_n but_o no_o such_o thing_n be_v therein_o find_v more_o than_o what_o may_v be_v pretend_v from_o the_o aforesaid_a sentence_n of_o exhortation_n as_o i_o take_v it_o but_o that_o sentence_n may_v also_o be_v take_v for_o a_o query_n as_o well_o as_o a_o exhortation_n and_o as_o to_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o paper_n it_o be_v all_o query_n which_o give_v i_o occasion_n to_o ask_v this_o question_n viz._n whether_o such_o a_o paper_n can_v proper_o be_v call_v a_o epistle_n to_o friend_n in_o truth_n especial_o since_o it_o be_v easy_o savour_v that_o those_o he_o write_v to_o be_v such_o as_o in_o his_o esteem_n be_v exercise_v in_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o world_n that_o lu_v to_o envy_n for_o so_o his_o word_n clear_o import_v if_o one_o of_o his_o query_n and_o the_o beginning_n of_o his_o paper_n be_v compare_v the_o beginning_n of_o his_o paper_n run_v thus_o friend_n all_o you_o that_o do_v make_v away_o or_o over_o your_o estate_n etc._n etc._n and_o then_o about_o the_o middle_n of_o his_o query_n thus_o say_v whether_o this_o spirit_n that_o do_v so_o be_v not_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o world_n that_o do_v lust_n to_o envy_n to_o conclude_v as_o to_o this_o false_a assertion_n g_z f._n have_v scatter_v the_o substance_n thereof_o in_o at_o least_o eight_o several_a place_n in_o his_o answer_n to_o i_o which_o to_o speak_v in_o plain_a and_o vulgar_a language_n be_v one_o downright_a lie_n tell_v eight_o time_n over_o and_o since_o in_o the_o second_o page_n of_o the_o say_a manuscript_n he_o seem_v to_o imply_v that_o i_o have_v not_o be_v civil_a and_o ingenuous_a as_o a_o man_n i_o now_o appeal_v to_o all_o ingenuous_a reader_n whether_o this_o his_o action_n show_v any_o degree_n of_o civility_n or_o ingenuity_n either_o as_o a_o man_n or_o christian_a the_o second_o false_a assertion_n before_o hint_v at_o i_o thus_o manifest_a i_o propose_v thirteen_o query_n to_o he_o after_o i_o have_v answer_v the_o substance_n of_o his_o query_n and_o have_v so_o do_v i_o then_o proceed_v to_o add_v and_o that_o in_o a_o distinct_a paragraph_n from_o the_o query_n these_o few_o follow_a line_n viz._n the_o aforesaid_a query_n my_o desire_n be_v that_o thou_o george_n fox_n may_v answer_v that_o so_o the_o simplehearted_n friend_n may_v plain_o know_v what_o thy_o judgement_n be_v in_o thing_n of_o this_o nature_n for_o i_o have_v cause_n to_o believe_v that_o many_o such_o be_v at_o this_o day_n draw_v into_o the_o belief_n and_o practice_n of_o some_o thing_n for_o which_o they_o have_v no_o sufficient_a ground_n from_o the_o conviction_n of_o conscience_n in_o themselves_o but_o rather_o as_o prompt_v thereto_o by_o such_o who_o be_v like_a unto_o those_o who_o lie_v heavy_a burden_n on_o other_o which_o they_o themselves_o will_v not_o touch_v with_o their_o little_a finger_n but_o bless_v be_v the_o lord_n there_o be_v eye_n that_o see_v and_o do_v perceive_v there_o be_v ear_n that_o hear_v and_o do_v understand_v and_o have_v boldness_n and_o confidence_n give_v they_o of_o the_o lord_n to_o stand_v in_o the_o gap_n as_o witness_n against_o such_o who_o cry_v against_o fleer_n in_o time_n of_o persecution_n and_o yet_o be_v fleer_n at_o such_o time_n themselves_o that_o blame_n other_o for_o secure_v of_o their_o good_n from_o the_o spoiler_n and_o yet_o secure_v their_o own_o that_o prompt_v the_o poor_a to_o offer_v up_o their_o all_z and_o yet_o take_v care_n to_o advise_v the_o rich_a to_o secure_v their_o estate_n that_o cry_n against_o other_o as_o unruly_a because_o they_o will_v not_o be_v subject_a to_o they_o and_o yet_o think_v themselves_o not_o oblige_v to_o be_v subject_a to_o any_o rule_n but_o their_o own_o that_o reâ—â—â—ite_n against_o libertine_n and_o yet_o take_v liberty_n to_o backbite_v slander_n and_o false_a accuse_v that_o declare_v against_o tale-bearer_n and_o yet_o be_v the_o chief_a nourisher_n and_o uphoider_n of_o such_o that_o bear_v witness_n against_o wickedness_n and_o dark_a spirit_n and_o yet_o be_v so_o dark_a as_o to_o record_v a_o idolatrous_a woman_n for_o a_o virtuous_a one_o and_o as_o it_o be_v say_v to_o try_v the_o bad_a spirit_n that_o cry_n against_o loesness_n and_o yet_o be_v so_o loose_a as_o to_o quote_v a_o meeting_n of_o man_n and_o woman_n where_o lewdness_n be_v
distrain_v and_o though_o g._n f._n hereupon_o say_v as_o in_o his_o answer_n appear_v that_o i_o have_v make_v all_o fast_n yet_o he_o be_v therein_o in_o a_o twofold_a respect_n guilty_a of_o a_o false_a charge_n because_o all_o be_v not_o secure_v without_o and_o none_o secure_v within_o have_v thus_o far_o with_o respect_n to_o particular_a matter_n clear_v my_o conscience_n i_o have_v this_o further_a in_o short_a to_o say_v that_o shall_v i_o trace_v g._n f_n answer_n after_o the_o same_o method_n as_o he_o have_v do_v i_o i_o account_v that_o thirty_o sheet_n of_o paper_n will_v not_o contain_v such_o a_o answer_n and_o may_v tend_v to_o endless_a controversy_n and_o therefore_o i_o choose_v the_o rather_o to_o give_v the_o reader_n but_o a_o taste_n of_o that_o spirit_n from_o whence_o his_o bundle_n of_o confusion_n and_o falsehood_n do_v proceed_v and_o in_o the_o mean_a time_n shall_v add_v this_o query_n whether_o or_o no_o since_o g._n f._n have_v write_v so_o many_o lie_v as_o aforesaid_a that_o be_v detectable_a from_o the_o sight_n of_o his_o answer_n and_o compare_v with_o my_o paper_n which_o be_v a_o answer_n to_o his_o query_n it_o may_v not_o be_v rational_a to_o conclude_v that_o he_o have_v take_v such_o a_o liberty_n to_o himself_o as_o at_o some_o time_n and_o season_n to_o say_v any_o thing_n right_o or_o wrong_n to_o clear_v himself_o and_o defame_v other_o that_o can_v be_v subject_a to_o his_o will_n i_o now_o come_v to_o take_v notice_n of_o a_o postscript_n write_v by_o g._n f._n in_o these_o word_n here_o follow_v the_o epistle_n that_o have_v so_o touch_v william_n rogers_n which_o he_o make_v all_o this_o work_n and_o write_v about_o who_o will_v make_v i_o inconsistent_a with_o myself_o and_o so_o he_o may_v have_v do_v the_o apostle_n who_o one_o while_n circumcise_a and_o then_o again_o forbid_v it_o and_o one_o while_o say_v they_o shall_v not_o judge_v one_o another_o about_o day_n and_o meat_n and_o drink_n and_o afterward_o judge_v they_o for_o it_o who_o make_v it_o their_o principle_n but_o in_o william_n roger_n be_v charge_n he_o have_v not_o prove_v i_o inconsistent_a with_o myself_o but_o rather_o himself_o be_v inconsistent_a with_o what_o he_o be_v former_o to_o this_o i_o thus_o answer_v these_o few_o line_n do_v manifest_a to_o i_o that_o g._n f._n do_v not_o divide_v and_o distinguish_v as_o he_o ought_v to_o do_v if_o he_o be_v not_o ignorant_a of_o the_o scripture_n and_o of_o what_o i_o have_v write_v and_o of_o what_o his_o name_n be_v too_o the_o consideration_n whereof_o lead_v i_o to_o observe_v that_o he_o have_v not_o quote_v any_o scripture_n whereby_o he_o pretend_v to_o prove_v his_o assertion_n and_o so_o no_o need_n to_o write_v very_o large_a for_o disproof_n of_o that_o which_o he_o pretend_v not_o to_o prove_v yet_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o some_o on_o this_o occasion_n i_o shall_v thus_o add_v that_o the_o scripture_n no_o where_o testify_v that_o the_o apostle_n do_v forbid_v circumcision_n in_o the_o same_o case_n where_o he_o practise_v circumcision_n and_o that_o when_o the_o apostle_n say_v any_o thing_n to_o this_o purpose_n by_o way_n of_o exhortation_n to_o any_o among_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n that_o they_o shall_v not_o judge_v one_o another_o about_o day_n and_o meat_n and_o drink_n it_o be_v as_o i_o have_v always_o take_v it_o with_o a_o tender_a regard_n only_o to_o such_o who_o make_v conscience_n which_o can_v not_o be_v unless_o they_o be_v principled_a either_o to_o observe_v or_o not_o to_o observe_v a_o day_n meat_n or_o drink_n and_o such_o the_o apostle_n when_o they_o act_v from_o a_o principle_n so_o to_o do_v at_o no_o time_n judge_v as_o ever_o from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n i_o can_v understand_v though_o in_o the_o observation_n of_o some_o thing_n legal_a not_o have_v so_o far_o receive_v the_o spirit_n as_o to_o be_v lead_v therefrom_o and_o yet_o g._n f._n say_v and_o afterward_o judge_v they_o for_o it_o who_o make_v it_o their_o principle_n as_o if_o the_o day_n be_v wherein_o they_o may_v observe_v a_o day_n when_o they_o be_v not_o principled_a so_o to_o do_v but_o when_o they_o become_v principled_a to_o observe_v a_o day_n than_o it_o become_v sin_n and_o matter_n worthy_a of_o judgement_n and_o condemnation_n by_o the_o apostle_n and_o not_o only_o so_o but_o as_o if_o act_v according_a to_o one_o principle_n in_o matter_n of_o conscience_n be_v condemnable_a when_o practise_v thing_n not_o according_a to_o one_o principle_n in_o matter_n of_o conscience_n may_v be_v justify_v this_o i_o dare_v not_o conclude_v to_o have_v ever_o be_v the_o apostle_n mean_v but_o i_o be_o well_o satisfy_v be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o practice_n of_o g._n f._n or_o some_o take_v to_o be_v of_o his_o adherent_n who_o have_v publish_v their_o paper_n and_o judgement_n against_o many_o and_o the_o real_a cause_n as_o to_o i_o be_v evident_a be_v because_o they_o be_v find_v practise_v according_a to_o their_o principle_n and_o can_v act_v for_o fear_n of_o threat_n and_o frown_n of_o man_n against_o it_o and_o forasmuch_o as_o g._n f._n have_v make_v use_n of_o the_o aforesaid_a instance_n relate_v to_o circumcision_n day_n meat_n and_o drink_n on_o such_o wife_n as_o if_o the_o practice_n or_o not_o practise_v of_o such_o thing_n be_v ground_v mere_o on_o the_o apostle_n permission_n and_o so_o by_o that_o example_n g._n f._n may_v do_v the_o like_a i_o think_v it_o needful_a to_o add_v that_o when_o contention_n arise_v about_o the_o practice_n of_o circumcision_n act_v 15._o it_o do_v not_o appear_v that_o the_o apostle_n assume_v to_o themselves_o a_o power_n to_o permit_v or_o not_o to_o permit_v nor_o yet_o to_o judge_v the_o case_n without_o the_o assent_n of_o party_n differ_v for_o it_o appear_v the_o differ_a party_n agree_v to_o go_v up_o to_o jerusalem_n about_o that_o question_n and_o at_o that_o time_n the_o apostle_n do_v agree_v that_o circumcision_n be_v not_o fit_a to_o be_v lay_v on_o the_o gentile_n which_o be_v believer_n who_o never_o be_v principled_a to_o practice_v the_o same_o neither_o do_v they_o endeavour_v to_o oblige_v those_o who_o practise_v circumcision_n after_o they_o believe_v to_o forbear_v the_o same_o before_o by_o the_o spirit_n they_o be_v lead_v from_o it_o and_o the_o reason_n hereof_o undoubted_o be_v because_o it_o be_v safe_a both_o for_o jew_n and_o gentile_n to_o act_v according_a to_o faith_n that_o so_o they_o may_v not_o sin_v for_o the_o apostle_n say_v whatsoever_o be_v not_o of_o faith_n be_v sin_n which_o assertion_n answer_v to_o the_o light_n of_o christ_n in_o the_o conscience_n at_o this_o day_n as_o well_o as_o be_v agreeable_a to_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n and_o now_o that_o the_o meaning_n of_o the_o apostle_n as_o to_o the_o matter_n relate_v to_o circumcision_n day_n meat_n and_o drink_n may_v be_v a_o little_a further_o explain_v i_o think_v it_o needful_a to_o cite_v a_o passage_n out_o of_o my_o manuscript_n in_o answer_n to_o part_n of_o robert_n barclay_n book_n of_o government_n which_o may_v be_v pertinent_a on_o this_o occasion_n we_o find_v that_o many_o of_o the_o believe_a jew_n be_v not_o come_v from_o under_o circumcision_n and_o that_o those_o jew_n who_o see_v beyond_o it_o do_v not_o condemn_v such_o their_o brethren_n but_o we_o do_v not_o find_v that_o the_o apostle_n as_o person_n that_o have_v power_n to_o permit_v or_o not_o permit_v such_o a_o practice_n in_o the_o church_n do_v approve_v of_o it_o in_o any_o of_o the_o jew_n or_o condemn_v the_o same_o in_o such_o as_o practise_v it_o until_o by_o faith_n they_o see_v beyond_o it_o for_o as_o on_o the_o one_o hand_n it_o be_v not_o in_o their_o commission_n to_o preach_v up_o circumcision_n so_o on_o the_o other_o hand_n it_o be_v not_o in_o their_o power_n to_o be_v a_o bond_n on_o any_o to_o forbear_v who_o through_o faith_n be_v not_o first_o lead_v therefrom_o for_o though_o the_o apostle_n say_v gal._n 5.2_o i_o paul_n say_v unto_o you_o if_o you_o be_v circumcise_a chrast_n shall_v profit_v you_o nothing_o and_o gal_n 4_o 9_o 10_o 11._o but_o now_o after_o you_o have_v know_v god_n or_o rather_o be_v know_v of_o god_n how_o turn_v you_o again_o to_o the_o weak_a and_o beggar_n by_o element_n you_o observe_v day_n and_o month_n etc._n etc._n i_o be_o afraid_a of_o you_o yet_o this_o do_v not_o at_o that_o time_n condemn_v that_o christian_a liberty_n and_o forbearance_n which_o the_o apostle_n before_o approve_v in_o and_o with_o respect_n unto_o such_o as_o make_v conscience_n of_o circumcision_n and_o the_o observe_v of_o day_n before_o they_o have_v so_o receive_v the_o spirit_n as_o to_o be_v lead_v out_o of_o it_o for_o it_o plain_o appear_v
myself_o at_o bristol_n anno_fw-la 1677._o and_o in_o divers_a other_o paper_n in_o the_o give_v forth_o whereof_o i_o have_v be_v concern_v since_o that_o day_n wherein_o it_o have_v evident_o appear_v that_o such_o as_o can_v be_v subject_a to_o some_o outward_a order_n or_o prescription_n give_v forth_o by_o george_n fox_n or_o some_o other_o assume_v authority_n so_o to_o do_v be_v judge_v and_o condemn_v for_o refuse_v submission_n without_o true_a regard_n to_o a_o conscientious_a scruple_n as_o if_o the_o exaltation_n of_o christ_n government_n in_o the_o heart_n consist_v in_o conformity_n to_o other_o man_n line_n make_v ready_a to_o our_o hand_n a_o lively_a instance_n hereof_o may_v be_v easy_o discern_v by_o those_o who_o shall_v peruse_v the_o forty_o four_o article_n of_o accusation_n draw_v up_o against_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n and_o proceed_n in_o relation_n thereunto_o both_o before_o and_o after_o the_o four_o day_n meet_v at_o drawel_n especial_o if_o compare_v with_o the_o paper_n give_v forth_o from_o ellis_n hook_n chamber_n date_v the_o 12_o of_o the_o four_o month_n 1677_o subscribe_v by_o charles_n marshal_n and_o 65_o person_n more_o and_o the_o answer_n thereunto_o all_o which_o be_v record_v in_o the_o manuscript_n first_o make_v mention_n of_o in_o the_o preface_n to_o the_o one_a part_n of_o the_o christian_a quaker_n ready_a for_o perusal_n of_o any_o friend_n desire_v to_o view_v the_o same_o in_o the_o sense_n of_o these_o thing_n can_v i_o true_o say_v that_o my_o heart_n be_v even_o melt_v before_o the_o lord_n that_o iniquity_n shall_v grow_v to_o so_o high_a a_o pitch_n in_o any_o that_o be_v professor_n of_o truth_n as_o to_o write_v at_o so_o wicked_a and_o ungodly_a a_o rate_n as_o john_n blaykling_n have_v do_v and_o yet_o bring_v forth_o nothing_o that_o do_v in_o truth_n prove_v i_o worthy_a of_o the_o least_o of_o his_o evil_a reflection_n which_o now_o lead_v i_o to_o manifest_v unto_o the_o reader_n what_o be_v the_o particular_a matter_n of_o fact_n that_o he_o charge_v i_o with_o since_o it_o be_v reasonable_a that_o that_o shall_v have_v be_v by_o he_o lay_v down_o as_o evidence_n that_o i_o be_o worthy_a of_o his_o general_n and_o gross_a reflection_n in_o order_n hereunto_o i_o say_v i_o have_v diligent_o peruse_v his_o postscript_n several_a time_n over_o on_o purpose_n to_o notify_v every_o particular_a matter_n of_o fact_n which_o in_o his_o or_o any_o one_o sense_n i_o do_v suppose_v may_v be_v account_v evil_a and_o do_v not_o find_v more_o than_o these_o two_o particular_n follow_v here_o cite_v word_n for_o word_n out_o of_o john_n blaykling_n postscript_n the_o first_o be_v on_o this_o wise_a and_o as_o to_o that_o particular_a reflection_n cast_v upon_o he_o which_o william_n rogers_n if_o his_o interrogation_n be_v a_o affirmation_n of_o the_o matter_n will_v ground_v a_o accusation_n upon_o viz._n be_v not_o thou_o the_o man_n that_o have_v take_v liberty_n to_o stay_v almost_o a_o quarter_n of_o a_o year_n from_o meeting_n and_o do_v not_o john_n blaykle_v by_o name_n manifest_v his_o burden_n and_o exercise_n of_o spirit_n on_o thou_o and_o the_o truth_n behalf_n for_o thy_o so_o do_v and_o have_v thus_o repeat_v my_o word_n he_o proceed_v and_o say_v i_o answer_v if_o william_n rogers_n affirm_v that_o i_o have_v a_o burden_n on_o my_o spirit_n with_o respect_n to_o george_n fox_n as_o out_o of_o god_n counsel_n in_o that_o matter_n or_o as_o depart_v from_o the_o truth_n i_o do_v testify_v that_o he_o affirm_v a_o untruth_n and_o that_o it_o do_v arise_v in_o he_o from_o a_o spirit_n of_o envy_n watch_v for_o evil_a against_o the_o innocent_a who_o god_n justify_v on_o this_o i_o observe_v that_o john_n blaykling_n can_v lay_v all_o his_o general_n and_o gross_a reflection_n at_o my_o door_n on_o that_o account_n because_o he_o himself_o do_v not_o take_v it_o to_o be_v a_o charge_n unless_o my_o interogation_n be_v a_o affirmation_n which_o he_o do_v not_o there_o affirm_v it_o to_o be_v neither_o do_v i_o ever_o intend_v it_o so_o yet_o it_o be_v rational_a to_o conclude_v from_o the_o aforesaid_a word_n of_o john_n blaykling_n that_o i_o have_v ground_n so_o to_o query_n and_o therefore_o i_o now_o appeal_v unto_o god_n witness_n in_o all_o conscience_n whether_o john_n blaykling_n be_v not_o find_v contradict_v himself_o since_o in_o his_o postscript_n he_o thus_o say_v be_v this_o the_o shift_n you_o be_v put_v to_o that_o he_o meaning_n john_n wilkinson_n shall_v not_o be_v find_v a_o false_a prophet_n to_o charge_v a_o lie_n upon_o i_o to_o defame_v the_o innocent_a withal_o mean_v as_o may_v reasonable_o be_v take_v with_o respect_n to_o what_o i_o query_n as_o aforesaid_a with_o relation_n to_o he_o and_o george_n fox_n which_o to_o i_o be_v a_o evidence_n that_o the_o word_n of_o the_o lord_n by_o john_n wilkinson_n be_v fulfil_v since_o it_o appear_v as_o aforesaid_a that_o my_o query_n be_v not_o groundless_a and_o that_o george_n fox_n account_v it_o a_o false_a charge_n and_o though_o john_n blaykling_n proceed_v to_o query_n do_v not_o the_o lord_n confound_v you_o in_o all_o your_o undertake_n yet_o there_o appear_v to_o i_o no_o ground_n for_o his_o so_o query_v but_o rather_o that_o his_o and_z g._n f_n confusion_n to_o their_o shame_n be_v abundant_o manifest_v from_o what_o may_v be_v visible_a to_o every_o impartial_a understanding_n reader_n that_o will_v be_v at_o the_o pain_n to_o compare_v all_o write_v by_o george_n fox_n john_n blaykle_v and_o myself_o on_o this_o occasion_n without_o other_o proof_n the_o second_o particular_a matter_n of_o fact_n lay_v by_o john_n blaykle_v to_o my_o charge_n be_v on_o this_o wise_a and_o whereas_o william_n rogers_n ask_v if_o george_n fox_n will_v not_o have_v account_v this_o in_o another_o the_o fruit_n of_o a_o careless_a slothful_a libertine_n or_o dark_a spirit_n that_o be_v either_o depart_v or_o depart_v from_o the_o truth_n &_o c_o implicit_o thereby_o charge_v he_o with_o it_o to_o which_o john_n blaykle_v thus_o say_v may_v not_o william_n rogers_n have_v apply_v this_o at_o home_n who_o know_v in_o his_o conscience_n what_o a_o libertine_n loose_a and_o dark_a spirit_n depart_v from_o his_o subjection_n to_o the_o truth_n he_o have_v give_v way_n to_o and_o have_v take_v a_o liberty_n to_o himself_o to_o make_v away_o his_o visible_a estate_n or_o at_o least_o a_o considerable_a part_n of_o it_o to_o avoid_v suffer_v thereby_o on_o this_o i_o observe_v that_o as_o to_o this_o particular_a with_o respect_n to_o secure_v a_o part_n of_o my_o estate_n jo._n blaykling_n can_v lay_v all_o his_o profane_a and_o wicked_a charge_n against_o i_o at_o my_o door_n on_o that_o account_n without_o contradiction_n to_o his_o large_a testimony_n for_o george_n fox_n as_o a_o man_n that_o be_v spotless_a and_o still_o keep_v his_o integrity_n because_o george_n fox_n deny_v not_o as_o before_o be_v manifest_v that_o he_o advise_v mary_n the_o wife_n of_o isaac_n penington_n to_o secure_v she_o or_o their_o estate_n from_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o spoiler_n my_o last_o observation_n be_v on_o john_n blaykling_n beginning_n of_o his_o postscript_n by_o which_o it_o appear_v to_o i_o that_o one_o of_o his_o end_n be_v to_o appear_v thus_o public_a as_o a_o witness_n on_o behalf_n of_o george_n fox_n to_o clear_v all_o aspersion_n that_o myself_o and_o other_o have_v cast_v on_o he_o as_o afore_o mention_v and_o indeed_o he_o have_v do_v it_o excellent_o well_o if_o testify_v that_o g._n f._n be_v spotless_a without_o enter_v into_o the_o merit_n of_o matter_n of_o fact_n be_v a_o sufficient_a proof_n but_o if_o not_o his_o testimony_n and_o certificate_n be_v for_o the_o most_o part_n of_o no_o credit_n however_o it_o occasion_n i_o to_o note_v what_o irreligious_a confidence_n attend_v he_o thus_o to_o appear_v as_o a_o witness_n to_o clear_v g._n f._n of_o many_o thing_n he_o know_v nothing_o of_o for_o john_n blaykle_v be_v not_o with_o george_n fox_n at_o bristol_n and_o with_o nathaniel_n crip_n when_o occasion_n of_o nathaniel_n crip_n his_o charge_n touch_v g._n f_o be_v advise_v he_o to_o buy_v his_o tithe_n be_v take_v and_o yet_o john_n blaykling_n certificate_n as_o by_o the_o scope_n thereof_o do_v plain_o appear_v to_o i_o be_v to_o clear_a g.f._n from_o all_o aspersion_n whatsoever_o or_o from_o whosoever_o to_o be_v plain_a such_o attempt_n be_v a_o shame_n and_o scandal_n to_o religion_n and_o be_v a_o abhorrency_n to_o man_n of_o common_a and_o moral_a honesty_n but_o it_o be_v to_o be_v doubt_v that_o since_o that_o day_n wherein_o john_n blaykle_v robert_n barrow_n and_o two_o other_o give_v it_o under_o their_o hand_n in_o a_o letter_n to_o friend_n at_o bristol_n that_o they_o by_o
nation_n be_v not_o to_o be_v blame_v for_o all_o their_o idolatry_n wickedness_n and_o superstition_n for_o that_o they_o be_v not_o sensible_a of_o the_o evil_a of_o it_o whereas_o truth_n teach_v we_o to_o believe_v that_o have_v they_o be_v faithful_a to_o the_o small_a measure_n of_o light_n in_o thing_n more_o obvious_a it_o will_v have_v further_o open_v and_o manifest_v other_o thing_n then_o shall_v not_o the_o jew_n have_v be_v condemn_v for_o crucify_a christ_n since_o peter_n say_v they_o do_v it_o ignorant_o and_o paul_n testify_v that_o if_o they_o have_v know_v they_o will_v not_o have_v crucify_v the_o lord_n of_o glory_n yea_o than_o all_o those_o that_o persecute_a and_o burn_v the_o protestant-martyr_n be_v not_o to_o be_v judge_v for_o it_o because_o they_o suppose_v they_o do_v well_o in_o it_o even_o according_a to_o christ_n testimony_n who_o say_v that_o in_o kill_v you_o they_o shall_v think_v they_o do_v god_n good_a service_n shall_v man_n than_o never_o be_v condemn_v for_o do_v evil_a or_o omit_v their_o duty_n because_o they_o see_v it_o not_o what_o absurdity_n will_v folthereupon_o may_v easy_o appear_v and_o yet_o it_o be_v strange_a that_o w._n r._n in_o his_o paper_n shall_v labour_v so_o much_o against_o this_o affirm_v very_o positive_o that_o nothing_o ought_v to_o be_v give_v forth_o in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n but_o by_o way_n of_o recommendation_n &_o not_o of_o command_n wherein_o he_o do_v either_o great_o mistake_v the_o matter_n as_o affirm_v by_o i_o or_o otherways_o run_v into_o a_o far_o great_a inconveniency_n than_o he_o be_v aware_a for_o if_o he_o mean_v that_o no_o man_n of_o or_o from_o himself_o only_o or_o by_o virtue_n of_o any_o office_n or_o place_n he_o either_o have_v or_o have_v bear_v in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n aught_o to_o command_v any_o thing_n to_o be_v perform_v in_o the_o church_n i_o free_o agree_v to_o it_o and_o have_v assert_v the_o same_o in_o very_o full_a and_o ample_a term_n but_o if_o he_o will_v say_v that_o no_o man_n albeit_o real_o move_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n aught_o to_o go_v further_o than_o a_o mere_a reomendation_n it_o be_v a_o most_o insolent_a limit_v of_o god_n under_o a_o false_a pretence_n of_o liberty_n &_o will_v necessary_o conclude_v that_o god_n have_v not_o power_n to_o command_v any_o thing_n unless_o man_n be_v content_a to_o agree_v to_o it_o for_o the_o controversy_n be_v here_o draw_v to_o a_o narrow_a compass_n for_o he_o that_o will_v allow_v that_o god_n have_v power_n to_o command_v thing_n to_o be_v practise_v in_o the_o church_n and_o that_o those_o command_n must_v be_v convey_v by_o immediate_a revelation_n through_o some_o of_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n and_o that_o it_o may_v fall_v out_o that_o some_o of_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n may_v through_o weakness_n or_o unwatchfulness_n not_o be_v sensible_a they_o must_v either_o acknowledge_v that_o such_o be_v to_o be_v condemn_v or_o say_v that_o god_n have_v not_o power_n to_o command_v or_o that_o there_o be_v no_o such_o revelation_n now_o a_o day_n as_o do_v the_o priest_n and_o truth_n enemy_n or_o that_o man_n be_v not_o condemnable_a for_o disobey_v god_n if_o he_o believe_v it_o not_o to_o be_v his_o duty_n which_o be_v as_o much_o as_o to_o say_v that_o unbelief_n be_v no_o sin_n now_o let_v these_o thing_n be_v serious_o consider_v how_o this_o be_v or_o can_v be_v avoid_v without_o grant_v the_o thing_n affirm_v by_o i_o for_o what_o way_n the_o truth_n can_v be_v assert_v the_o honour_n and_o just_a authority_n of_o god_n acknowledge_v the_o necessity_n and_o continuance_n of_o immediate_a revelation_n affirm_v and_o the_o iniquity_n of_o unbelief_n not_o justify_v and_o the_o just_a judgement_n of_o god_n upon_o the_o rebellious_a and_o disobedient_a vindicate_v without_o affirm_v what_o i_o have_v do_v and_o if_o any_o can_v do_v this_o in_o word_n more_o wary_a than_o i_o have_v do_v i_o shall_v very_o ready_o agree_v to_o it_o for_o that_o thing_n may_v be_v propose_v to_o the_o church_n by_o way_n of_o command_n and_o further_o than_o a_o mere_a recommendation_n the_o whole_a current_n of_o the_o scripture_n show_v not_o only_o to_o the_o church_n among_o the_o jew_n where_o moses_n and_o the_o prophet_n do_v propose_v the_o will_n of_o god_n to_o be_v perform_v very_o positive_o and_o peremtory_o but_o even_o under_o the_o new-covenant_n as_o appear_v in_o the_o 15_o of_o the_o act_n and_o in_o many_o place_n of_o paul_n epistle_n particular_o that_o on_o 2_o thes_n 3.14_o if_o any_o man_n obey_v not_o our_o word_n by_o this_o epistle_n note_v that_o man_n and_o have_v no_o company_n with_o he_o that_o he_o may_v be_v ashamed_a this_o then_o be_v manifest_v with_o respect_n to_o those_o time_n i_o will_v know_v of_o w._n r._n whether_o christ_n have_v now_o lose_v any_o of_o his_o authority_n or_o have_v leave_v off_o to_o rule_v his_o church_n immediate_o by_o his_o spirit_n whether_o so_o to_o affirm_v be_v not_o gross_o to_o contradict_v the_o ancient_n and_o primitive_a doctrine_n of_o friend_n observation_n w._n r_o be_v ten_o observation_n thereto_o observation_n observation_n this_o be_v not_o my_o concern_v have_v give_v no_o occasion_n in_o my_o answer_n for_o this_o his_o defence_n and_o therefore_o do_v make_v no_o reply_n thereto_o five_o whereas_o some_o do_v suppose_v that_o i_o do_v make_v the_o difference_n in_o the_o end_n but_o very_o small_a betwixt_o decissive_a judgement_n among_o friend_n and_o among_o papist_n and_o other_o person_n because_o i_o say_v they_o place_v the_o decisive_n judgement_n in_o the_o plurality_n of_o a_o assembly_n make_v up_o of_o their_o chief_a teacher_n and_o minister_n and_o albeit_o i_o limit_v it_o not_o to_o that_o yet_o i_o seem_v to_o affirm_v that_o it_o most_o usual_o be_v so_o convey_v and_o so_o the_o difference_n only_o be_v that_o they_o make_v it_o always_o so_o and_o i_o most_o usual_o to_o this_o i_o answer_v that_o if_o in_o charity_n i_o may_v suppose_v this_o insinuation_n come_v not_o from_o malice_n at_o least_o it_o proceed_v from_o great_a ignorance_n of_o the_o popish_a principle_n and_o it_o be_v better_o for_o such_o to_o be_v silent_a than_o to_o judge_n of_o thing_n they_o do_v not_o understand_v for_o the_o difference_n here_o be_v very_o great_a and_o fundamental_a in_o respect_n both_o papist_n and_o other_o do_v affirm_v that_o man_n by_o virtue_n of_o a_o outward_a succession_n or_o vocation_n may_v have_v true_a right_o to_o sit_v and_o give_v judgement_n in_o such_o assembly_n albeit_o they_o be_v void_a of_o true_a holiness_n and_o have_v not_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n which_o they_o say_v be_v no_o necessary_a qualification_n to_o the_o be_v of_o a_o minister_n so_o that_o they_o place_v the_o power_n of_o judgement_n not_o only_o in_o the_o plurality_n of_o vote_n absolute_o in_o which_o we_o differ_v from_o they_o but_o also_o in_o the_o judgement_n of_o such_o as_o may_v without_o any_o absurdity_n by_o their_o own_o principle_n be_v suppose_v to_o be_v all_o and_o each_o of_o they_o void_a of_o the_o true_a grace_n of_o god_n and_o who_o even_o suppose_v they_o to_o be_v gracious_a they_o affirm_v not_o at_o all_o to_o be_v lead_v by_o the_o immediate_a spirit_n of_o christ_n which_o they_o say_v be_v now_o cease_v now_o can_v there_o be_v a_o great_a difference_n than_o be_v betwixt_o these_o two_o to_o wit_n to_o affirm_v that_o the_o power_n of_o decision_n be_v in_o a_o assembly_n of_o man_n to_o be_v member_n of_o which_o assembly_n the_o grace_n of_o god_n be_v no_o necessary_a qualification_n and_o who_o deny_v any_o such_o thing_n as_o to_o be_v immediate_o lead_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n as_o a_o thing_n not_o attainable_a in_o these_o day_n and_o yet_o that_o all_o christian_n must_v be_v subject_a to_o what_o the_o plurality_n of_o such_o a_o assembly_n so_o constitute_v do_v determine_v and_o to_o affirm_v that_o the_o power_n of_o decision_n be_v only_o and_o alone_o in_o the_o spirit_n not_o necessary_o tie_v to_o a_o general_a assembly_n but_o if_o it_o please_v god_n to_o make_v use_n of_o such_o a_o assembly_n yet_o neither_o to_o the_o plurality_n of_o they_o but_o in_o and_o through_o such_o of_o his_o servant_n as_o he_o see_v meet_v and_o that_o none_o be_v capable_a or_o can_v be_v suppose_v to_o be_v member_n of_o such_o a_o assembly_n or_o esteem_v such_o from_o who_o such_o a_o judgement_n can_v be_v expect_v or_o aught_o to_o be_v receive_v unless_o they_o be_v man_n in_o who_o the_o grace_n of_o god_n not_o only_o be_v but_o have_v true_o wrought_v to_o mortify_v and_o regenerate_v they_o in_o a_o good_a measure_n in_o who_o the_o judgement_n of_o truth_n real_o
proceed_v from_o the_o spirit_n will_v be_v manifest_a to_o all_o who_o be_v true_o faithful_a who_o will_v according_o submit_v thereunto_o not_o with_o respect_n to_o the_o man_n but_o the_o authority_n of_o god_n manifest_v in_o and_o through_o they_o so_o that_o such_o as_o see_v not_o this_o judgement_n aright_o will_v be_v just_o condemnable_a of_o god_n for_o their_o not_o submit_v not_o as_o if_o they_o shall_v be_v accept_v of_o god_n if_o they_o do_v obey_v before_o conviction_n but_o because_o they_o bring_v this_o blindness_n upon_o themselves_o through_o the_o unfaithfulness_n and_o unwatchfullness_n which_o render_v they_o both_o guilty_a of_o the_o blindness_n and_o of_o the_o disobedience_n occasion_v by_o it_o now_o the_o vastness_n of_o the_o difference_n that_o be_v here_o manifest_a can_v but_o be_v obvious_a to_o any_o that_o will_v read_v and_o consider_v this_o impartial_o without_o prejudice_n thus_o i_o have_v pass_v through_o all_o the_o thing_n that_o i_o have_v understand_v any_o to_o scruple_n at_o there_o be_v nothing_o else_o that_o i_o remember_v which_o be_v not_o either_o relative_n to_o some_o of_o the_o particular_n before_o mention_v or_o include_v in_o they_o but_o if_o any_o wonder_n why_o i_o have_v close_v this_o method_n and_o not_o rather_o make_v a_o formal_a reply_n to_o w._n r_n paper_n i_o hope_v these_o follow_a reason_n will_v satisfy_v all_o sober_a and_o true_o peaceable-minded_n friend_n who_o love_n truth_n be_v prosperity_n more_o than_o jangle_n as_o a_o sufficient_a reason_n for_o my_o so_o do_v first_o forasmuch_o as_o the_o great_a part_n of_o what_o w._n r._n have_v write_v be_v whole_o build_v upon_o the_o particular_n heretofore_o mention_v obsevation_n w._n r_n eleven_o obsevation_n which_o particular_n be_v clear_v and_o *_o his_o mistake_v therein_o remove_v absurd_a remove_v remove_v to_o signify_v that_o i_o wrest_v his_o word_n or_o put_v a_o disadvantageous_a meaning_n contrary_a to_o the_o signification_n of_o his_o word_n be_v a_o false_a insinuation_n neither_o do_v i_o mistake_v nor_o yet_o so_o signify_v by_o letter_n as_o anon_o from_o the_o observation_n on_o that_o letter_n term_v i_o will_v be_v make_v appear_v for_o i_o put_v no_o meaning_n on_o his_o line_n but_o what_o the_o very_a express_v grammatical_a sense_n thereof_o compare_v one_o with_o the_o other_o will_v bear_v as_o will_v sufficient_o appear_v to_o such_o as_o will_v be_v at_o the_o pain_n to_o compare_v my_o answer_n to_o his_o book_n of_o government_n with_o the_o matter_n i_o pretend_v to_o answer_v and_o though_o he_o pretend_v to_o leave_v his_o case_n herein_o to_o the_o reader_n judgement_n yet_o he_o impatient_o record_v his_o own_o unjust_a judgement_n first_o on_o this_o wise_a sure_o it_o be_v not_o answerable_a to_o that_o candour_n and_o justice_n that_o w._n r._n lay_v claim_v to_o mean_v as_o his_o express_a word_n import_v because_o i_o doubt_v that_o from_o the_o word_n of_o the_o apostle_n rule_n command_v ordain_v etc._n etc._n r._n b_o '_o s._n meaning_n be_v that_o some_o thing_n other_o ought_v to_o obey_v whether_o they_o see_v it_o their_o duty_n yea_o or_o nay_o alas_o have_v r._n b._n but_o consider_v that_o in_o this_o his_o very_a postscript_n he_o render_v it_o absurd_a to_o conclude_v that_o man_n shall_v not_o be_v condemn_v for_o ommit_v their_o duty_n because_o they_o see_v it_o not_o and_o that_o in_o his_o book_n of_o government_n he_o say_v neither_o will_v the_o pretence_n of_o any_o contradict_v they_o or_o refuse_v to_o submit_v on_o the_o account_n they_o see_v it_o not_o excuse_v they_o of_o be_v guilty_a of_o disobey_v god_n me_n think_v then_o he_o will_v have_v forbear_v to_o judge_v i_o as_o aforesaid_a and_o though_o he_o signify_v that_o i_o make_v a_o digression_n concern_v the_o second_o day_n meeting_n in_o london_n i_o say_v it_o can_v proper_o be_v call_v a_o digression_n since_o it_o be_v matter_n of_o observation_n on_o such_o as_o be_v concern_v in_o the_o approbation_n of_o r._n b_o be_v book_n of_o government_n beside_o robert_n barclay_v disingenuity_n be_v apparent_a in_o signify_v that_o i_o judge_v the_o apostle_n paul_n and_o yet_o say_v not_o wherein_o i_o shall_v therefore_o cite_v the_o matter_n occasion_v he_o false_o to_o affirm_v that_o i_o judge_v the_o apostle_n my_o word_n be_v these_o the_o scripture_n r._n b._n quote_v be_v 1_o tim._n 1.19_o 20._o which_o thus_o say_v hold_v faith_n and_o a_o good_a conscience_n which_o some_o have_v put_v away_o concern_v faith_n have_v make_v shipwreck_n of_o who_o be_v hymeneus_n and_o alexander_n who_o i_o have_v deliver_v to_o satan_n that_o they_o may_v learn_v not_o to_o blaspheme_n have_v thus_o repeat_v paul_n word_n i_o then_o proceed_v in_o these_o word_n what_o be_v this_o to_o the_o purpose_n to_o prove_v that_o the_o positive_a sentence_n and_o decision_n of_o the_o church_n in_o matter_n of_o conscience_n may_v bind_v believer_n it_o be_v so_o remote_a from_o it_o that_o it_o need_v no_o explanation_n to_o show_v it_o so_o nay_o i_o may_v reasonable_o query_n whether_o this_o scripture_n be_v to_o ordinary_a capacity_n plain_a to_o the_o purpose_n that_o paul_n himself_o intend_v for_o if_o we_o counsult_v the_o light_n it_o do_v not_o tell_v we_o that_o a_o delivery_n to_o satan_n may_v be_v a_o expedient_a whereby_o to_o learn_v not_o to_o blaspheme_n if_o by_o the_o word_n satan_n be_v mean_v the_o devil_n as_o be_v usual_o understand_v i_o now_o query_n of_o r._n b._n whether_o the_o delivery_n of_o a_o transgressor_n to_o the_o devil_n be_v according_a to_o his_o light_n the_o way_n to_o learn_v not_o to_o blasphame_v if_o not_o his_o reflection_n on_o i_o that_o i_o judge_v the_o apostle_n be_v unjust_a and_o absurd_a as_o his_o own_o letter_n signify_v the_o superstructure_n fall_v of_o itself_o as_o not_o touch_v my_o intention_n nor_o yet_o reach_v i_o but_o only_o that_o apprehension_n he_o suppose_v to_o be_v my_o meaning_n and_o to_o follow_v from_o my_o word_n for_o which_o end_n he_o oftentimes_o be_v so_o wary_a of_o as_o to_o affirm_v in_o his_o paper_n that_o to_o his_o understanding_n my_o word_n seem_v to_o import_v and_o my_o meaning_n seem_v to_o be_v so_o in_o which_o thing_n since_o himself_o see_v and_o i_o have_v manifest_v his_o mistake_n i_o be_o not_o so_o great_a a_o lover_n of_o centention_n as_o to_o busy_a either_o myself_o or_o mind_n of_o other_o with_o the_o man_n of_o straw_n of_o his_o make_v but_o yet_o he_o be_v not_o so_o modest_a nor_o kind_n to_o his_o old_a friend_n but_o that_o sometime_o he_o do_v seek_v to_o render_v my_o word_n odious_a albeit_o the_o mistake_v be_v his_o own_o by_o reiterate_v repetition_n repeat_v that_o of_o the_o tolerable_a supposition_n of_o a_o church_n at_o every_o turn_n above_o twenty_o time_n but_o also_o he_o very_o obvious_o wrest_v my_o word_n and_o seek_v to_o impose_v upon_o i_o a_o disadvantageous_a mean_v that_o he_o may_v furnish_v himself_o on_o occasion_n thereafter_o the_o more_o liberal_o to_o smite_v at_o i_o as_o where_o from_o the_o apostle_n word_n say_v and_o we_o have_v confidence_n you_o will_v do_v the_o thing_n we_o command_v you_o etc._n etc._n and_o in_o another_o place_n where_o he_o desire_v those_o to_o who_o he_o write_v to_o submit_v themselves_o to_o such_o as_o rule_v over_o they_o do_v infer_v that_o some_o do_v appoint_v and_o ordain_v some_o thing_n and_o that_o there_o lie_v a_o obligation_n in_o point_n of_o duty_n on_o other_o to_o obey_v upon_o which_o w.r._n very_o unfair_o observe_v it_o be_v to_o be_v doubt_v his_o meaning_n be_v other_o ought_v to_o obey_v whether_o they_o see_v it_o their_o duty_n yea_o or_o nay_o i_o leave_v such_o deal_v to_o the_o reader_n judgement_n sure_o it_o be_v not_o answerable_a to_o that_o candour_n and_o justice_n that_o w._n r._n lay_v claim_v to_o second_o because_o w._n r._n in_o these_o paper_n have_v take_v occasion_n to_o extend_v himself_o in_o long_a digression_n upon_o other_o matter_n not_o treat_v upon_o in_o that_o book_n and_o take_v oft_o occasion_n to_o insinuate_v his_o jealousy_n of_o person_n and_o thing_n that_o i_o meddle_v not_o with_o as_o where_o he_o make_v a_o large_a digression_n which_o take_v up_o several_a page_n concern_v the_o constitution_n of_o the_o second-day_n meet_v at_o london_n endeavour_v what_o he_o can_v to_o represent_v the_o hurt_n and_o abuse_v of_o it_o and_o where_o he_o divers_a time_n insinuate_v that_o some_o be_v usurp_v or_o seek_v to_o usurp_v a_o jurisdiction_n over_o the_o conscience_n of_o the_o brethren_n and_o that_o some_o do_v believe_v that_o god_n have_v raise_v up_o some_o outward_a person_n to_o be_v among_o the_o child_n of_o light_n at_o this_o day_n as_o moses_n be_v of_o old_a among_o the_o
desire_v i_o to_o give_v he_o that_o so_o race_v and_o interline_v paper_n but_o not_o manifest_v his_o intent_n to_o publish_v the_o same_o to_o who_o i_o answer_v i_o will_v not_o unless_o he_o will_v promise_v i_o to_o send_v it_o i_o without_o the_o least_o alteration_n or_o addition_n of_o a_o title_n which_o he_o then_o solemn_o promise_v but_o be_v not_o yet_o perform_v and_o so_o the_o spread_a of_o that_o paper_n or_o any_o paper_n under_o the_o notion_n of_o copy_n thereof_o in_o my_o name_n without_o my_o privity_n or_o assent_n be_v very_o abusive_a and_o i_o can_v account_v it_o little_o better_a than_o forgery_n for_o my_o memory_n be_v so_o good_a as_o to_o know_v that_o my_o hand_n be_v never_o to_o any_o paper_n whereof_o this_o give_v forth_o in_o my_o name_n be_v copy_n and_o forasmuch_o as_o the_o say_v pretend_a letter_n declare_v nothing_o of_o error_n contain_v in_o my_o answer_n therefore_o the_o force_n of_o the_o say_a answer_n be_v nothing_o abate_v thereby_o and_o now_o if_o that_o very_a paper_n which_o be_v send_v abroad_o under_o my_o name_n without_o my_o assent_n be_v send_v by_o i_o for_o the_o sake_n of_o such_o who_o may_v misconstrue_v the_o same_o i_o thus_o observe_v it_o be_v therein_o thus_o say_v i_o be_o satisfy_v that_o robert_n barclay_n be_v not_o principled_a so_o as_o i_o and_o other_o have_v take_v his_o book_n to_o import_n and_o in_o another_o place_n as_o i_o and_o many_o by_o some_o passage_n in_o his_o book_n take_v he_o to_o be_v the_o word_n speak_v by_o robert_n barclay_n himself_o unto_o i_o before_o friend_n manifest_v that_o he_o be_v not_o principled_a as_o his_o book_n teach_v and_o therefore_o i_o hope_v none_o will_v abuse_v my_o charity_n in_o believe_v the_o word_n of_o robert_n barclay_v mouth_n rather_o than_o what_o his_o former_a write_n say_v my_o so_o do_v do_v not_o import_v that_o i_o mistake_v his_o book_n for_o i_o affirm_v that_o his_o book_n be_v erroneous_a and_o show_v he_o otherwise_o principled_a than_o the_o word_n of_o his_o mouth_n import_v again_o in_o the_o say_a paper_n it_o be_v thus_o say_v in_o particular_a he_o do_v declare_v that_o his_o book_n teach_v not_o that_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n have_v jurisdiction_n over_o the_o outward_a concern_v of_o friend_n in_o case_n of_o difference_n without_o assent_n of_o the_o differ_v party_n and_o that_o it_o be_v far_o from_o his_o intention_n as_o to_o this_o i_o thus_o say_v i_o hope_v none_o will_v read_v so_o careless_o as_o to_o conclude_v that_o because_o i_o say_v he_o do_v declare_v etc._n etc._n therefore_o they_o will_v conclude_v that_o i_o do_v so_o declare_v if_o i_o shall_v have_v so_o say_v i_o shall_v have_v egregious_o wrong_v my_o conscience_n because_o i_o know_v not_o where_o to_o find_v such_o a_o explication_n of_o his_o word_n this_o sentence_n be_v insert_v to_o tell_v friend_n what_o he_o say_v and_o not_o what_o i_o say_v and_o so_o every_o one_o have_v liberty_n to_o search_v his_o book_n that_o they_o may_v see_v whether_o he_o speak_v truth_n or_o no_o for_o i_o now_o positive_o affirm_v have_v since_o search_v his_o book_n again_o that_o there_o be_v not_o any_o one_o word_n or_o sentence_n to_o be_v find_v through_o all_o his_o book_n that_o do_v in_o the_o least_o measure_n import_v that_o his_o book_n do_v so_o teach_v as_o he_o say_v it_o do_v and_o yet_o since_o my_o departure_n from_o london_n he_o have_v the_o confidence_n or_o rather_o i_o may_v say_v the_o impudence_n to_o affirm_v that_o forty_o brethren_n have_v give_v it_o as_o their_o sense_n that_o it_o do_v so_o teach_v whenas_o it_o appear_v that_o many_o of_o the_o meeting_n who_o also_o have_v put_v their_o hand_n to_o the_o account_n give_v of_o the_o meeting_n as_o aforesaid_a be_v not_o principled_a that_o it_o ought_v so_o to_o teach_v as_o r._n b._n say_v it_o do_v and_o be_v for_o the_o satisfaction_n of_o many_o desire_v to_o show_v the_o sentence_n that_o so_o import_v he_o refuse_v so_o to_o do_v and_o doubtless_o the_o real_a reason_n of_o his_o so_o do_v be_v guilt_n upon_o his_o conscience_n for_o that_o he_o can_v not_o tell_v where_o to_o find_v it_o i_o also_o find_v in_o the_o say_a paper_n that_o robert_n barclay_n in_o one_o place_n affirm_v to_o this_o purpose_n that_o there_o never_o will_v nor_o can_v be_v want_v in_o case_n of_o controversy_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o give_v judgement_n through_o some_o or_o other_o in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n so_o long_o as_o any_o assembly_n can_v proper_o or_o in_o any_o tolerable_a supposition_n be_v so_o term_v and_o that_o he_o declare_v the_o word_n be_v sound_a and_o so_o he_o have_v conclude_v as_o the_o say_a paper_n import_v that_o it_o be_v disobedience_n to_o god_n not_o to_o submit_v to_o the_o sentence_n of_o such_o assembly_n though_o the_o person_n refuse_v to_o submit_v pretend_v they_o see_v it_o not_o here_o also_o i_o can_v but_o observe_v that_o it_o be_v unreasonable_a for_o any_o to_o conclude_v that_o i_o judge_v the_o sentence_n sound_n for_o i_o testify_v it_o be_v erroneous_a and_o never_o assent_v or_o think_v it_o otherwise_o and_o that_o there_o be_v no_o consistency_n in_o truth_n between_o that_o which_o he_o declare_v to_o be_v his_o further_a meaning_n thereon_o and_o the_o word_n in_o his_o book_n which_o can_v but_o appear_v by_o compare_v his_o further_a meaning_n in_o the_o say_a letter_n and_o his_o book_n together_o the_o say_a paper_n do_v further_o manifest_a that_o robert_n barclay_n thus_o in_o his_o book_n assert_v viz._n that_o the_o ancient_a apostolic_a order_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n be_v re-stablisht_a on_o its_o right_a basis_n and_o foundation_n and_o that_o his_o meaning_n therein_o be_v not_o only_o with_o respect_n to_o all_o the_o outward_a order_n and_o form_n of_o discipline_n in_o government_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n but_o with_o respect_n to_o the_o power_n of_o god_n which_o be_v the_o great_a order_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o that_o though_o robert_n barclay_n have_v give_v these_o explication_n of_o his_o meaning_n yet_o the_o very_a explication_n as_o he_o say_v be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o his_o book_n let_v the_o judicious_a reader_n consider_v whether_o this_o can_v any_o way_n credit_n robert_n barclay_n or_o the_o second_o day_n meeting_n that_o approve_v his_o book_n as_o evidence_n that_o it_o can_v i_o say_v that_o all_o the_o outward_a order_n and_o form_n of_o discipline_n in_o government_n among_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n do_v not_o appear_v to_o be_v the_o ancient_a apostolic_a order_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n and_o that_o i_o have_v sufficient_o evidence_v in_o my_o answer_n and_o if_o so_o how_o can_v his_o mean_v be_v according_o to_o truth_n second_o it_o be_v true_a that_o the_o power_n of_o god_n be_v the_o great_a order_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o be_v of_o ability_n to_o establish_v we_o but_o we_o not_o of_o ability_n to_o establish_v it_o and_o therefore_o whatever_o robert_n barclay_n may_v say_v it_o be_v not_o rational_a to_o conclude_v that_o according_a to_o his_o mean_v when_o he_o write_v that_o sentence_n it_o have_v relation_n to_o any_o thing_n but_o outward_a order_n and_o form_n of_o discipline_n in_o government_n and_o as_o to_o his_o say_n that_o the_o very_a explication_n be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o his_o book_n i_o affirm_v on_o a_o further_a diligent_a search_n that_o there_o be_v no_o such_o explication_n to_o be_v find_v therein_o and_o i_o hope_v those_o who_o have_v a_o concern_v on_o their_o spirit_n for_o truth_n will_v do_v i_o so_o much_o right_o as_o to_o examine_v his_o book_n since_o the_o case_n by_o the_o spread_a of_o the_o say_a paper_n under_o my_o name_n be_v bring_v to_o a_o narrow_a issue_n for_o now_o it_o be_v easy_o to_o be_v manifest_v whether_o herein_o i_o have_v wrong_v robert_n barclay_n or_o whether_o robert_n barclay_n be_v not_o wrong_v and_o the_o second_o day_n meet_v too_o while_o they_o justify_v and_o own_v his_o book_n in_o the_o say_a paper_n it_o be_v thus_o further_o say_v viz._n this_o further_a lie_v upon_o i_o to_o signify_v unto_o you_o on_o behalf_n of_o robert_n barclay_n i_o be_o satisfy_v that_o he_o be_v not_o principled_a as_o i_o and_o many_o by_o some_o passage_n in_o his_o book_n take_v he_o to_o be_v and_o since_o it_o be_v so_o that_o many_o have_v take_v a_o offence_n against_o he_o for_o that_o cause_n and_o as_o may_v be_v doubt_v even_o so_o far_o as_o to_o reject_v his_o testimony_n and_o service_n for_o the_o truth_n it_o lie_v upon_o i_o as_o my_o duty_n even_o for_o he_o and_o the_o truth_n sake_n to_o warn_v all_o that_o they_o take_v heed_n not_o
to_o entertain_v a_o prejudice_n against_o his_o testimony_n on_o jealousy_n that_o may_v enter_v on_o the_o score_n of_o any_o apprhension_n or_o mistake_n of_o his_o book_n and_o that_o answer_v that_o i_o have_v give_v thereto_o but_o rather_o in_o a_o unprejudiced_a spirit_n to_o wait_v on_o the_o lord_n to_o feel_v and_o savour_n his_o testimony_n even_o as_o if_o the_o occasion_n take_v have_v never_o be_v this_o caution_n plain_o appear_v to_o be_v write_v on_o this_o charitable_a foot_n that_o will_v be_v unjust_a to_o measure_v his_o present_a testimony_n in_o public_a by_o his_o error_n in_o his_o book_n or_o from_o jealousy_n or_o mistake_n of_o any_o kind_n whatsoever_o and_o as_o to_o these_o word_n any_o apprehension_n or_o mistake_n of_o his_o book_n and_o that_o answer_v i_o have_v give_v thereto_o it_o do_v not_o follow_v that_o i_o mistake_v or_o misapprehend_v his_o book_n for_o have_v i_o so_o do_v i_o will_v plain_o have_v confess_v the_o same_o the_o say_a paper_n as_o i_o be_o inform_v be_v term_v my_o paper_n of_o condemnation_n this_o i_o suppose_v be_v take_v from_o these_o word_n that_o i_o find_v write_v therein_o viz._n i_o do_v free_o confess_v that_o inasmuch_o as_o i_o publish_v my_o book_n before_o i_o give_v robert_n barclay_n notice_n of_o my_o objection_n and_o intention_n therein_o i_o act_v in_o that_o respect_n not_o according_a to_o gospel_n order_n but_o be_o just_o worthy_a of_o blame_v therein_o as_o to_o this_o i_o have_v this_o to_o say_v that_o though_o i_o confess_v myself_o blame_v worthy_a &_o not_o act_v so_o civil_a as_o become_v i_o to_o my_o acquaintance_n for_o that_o i_o write_v not_o to_o he_o that_o i_o intend_v to_o answer_v his_o book_n yet_o i_o in_o no_o respect_n take_v blame_v to_o myself_o more_o than_o so_o and_o to_o speak_v the_o naked_a truth_n i_o rather_o take_v more_o blame_v to_o myself_o than_o the_o case_n do_v require_v be_v no_o way_n incline_v to_o extinuate_a that_o which_o i_o think_v be_v not_o so_o civil_a as_o become_v i_o i_o dare_v not_o say_v evil_a for_o i_o real_o think_v that_o he_o be_v in_o holland_n and_o so_o know_v not_o where_o to_o write_v to_o he_o when_o i_o intend_v to_o answer_v some_o passage_n in_o his_o book_n but_o yet_o always_o do_v and_o still_o do_v justific_a the_o spread_n abroad_o of_o my_o answer_n and_o that_o i_o have_v no_o obligation_n to_o send_v he_o a_o copy_n thereof_o since_o all_o the_o copy_n i_o have_v leisure_n to_o write_v be_v little_a enough_o to_o clear_v my_o conscience_n by_o endeavour_v to_o undeceive_v those_o who_o either_o be_v or_o may_v be_v deceive_v by_o his_o book_n and_o if_o by_o that_o eminent_a preacher_n aforesaid_a earnest_n press_v to_o alteration_n at_o a_o time_n when_o i_o give_v not_o myself_o up_o to_o discourse_n with_o any_o there_o be_v any_o such_o word_n as_o not_o according_a to_o gospel_n order_n i_o must_v say_v that_o word_n be_v rather_o the_o word_n of_o that_o other_o person_n than_o any_o thing_n free_o come_v from_o i_o for_o i_o must_v say_v again_o i_o be_o not_o conscious_a of_o any_o blame_v unless_o my_o not_o write_v a_o few_o line_n to_o robert_n barclay_n to_o signify_v my_o intention_n may_v be_v term_v blame_n worthy_a for_o his_o endeavour_n if_o he_o shall_v have_v be_v so_o mind_v to_o call_v in_o his_o book_n will_v not_o have_v obstruct_v my_o writing_n that_o answer_v i_o do_v because_o his_o book_n be_v so_o spread_v that_o it_o be_v out_o of_o his_o power_n to_o call_v they_o in_o and_o inasmuch_o as_o this_o book_n can_v not_o be_v so_o proper_o call_v a_o particular_a trespass_n against_o i_o as_o a_o reproach_n to_o the_o truth_n in_o general_n and_o the_o profession_n thereof_o i_o can_v account_v my_o spread_v a_o answer_n to_o detect_v the_o error_n a_o breach_n of_o gospel_n order_n though_o not_o send_v to_o he_o first_o beside_o it_o be_v observable_a that_o the_o aforesaid_a account_n give_v by_o charles_n martial_n and_o thirty_o six_o person_n more_o on_o this_o occasion_n signify_v nothing_o of_o my_o acknowledgement_n to_o have_v act_v contrary_a to_o gospel-order_n and_o as_o to_o the_o paper_n give_v forth_o by_o charles_n martial_n and_o thirty_o six_o other_o person_n i_o have_v this_o to_o say_v that_o it_o be_v hereby_o manifest_a that_o the_o second_o day_n meet_v in_o london_n approve_v robert_n barclay_n book_n of_o government_n and_o so_o consequent_o be_v approver_n of_o the_o error_n and_o false_a doctrine_n therein_o contain_v that_o his_o book_n be_v erroneous_a and_o do_v contain_v false_a doctrine_n i_o sufficient_o manifest_v and_o be_v more_o large_o treat_v on_o in_o my_o answer_n and_o if_o it_o appear_v not_o to_o the_o meeting_n as_o they_o say_v it_o do_v not_o i_o be_o sorry_a it_o shall_v be_v so_o but_o i_o know_v it_o do_v appear_v to_o several_a of_o the_o meeting_n and_o yet_o i_o must_v confess_v i_o wonder_v not_o at_o such_o a_o testimony_n since_o i_o certain_o know_v some_o of_o the_o subscriber_n of_o the_o say_a paper_n have_v be_v exercise_v so_o much_o to_o preach_v false_a doctrine_n for_o sound_n as_o that_o i_o account_v such_o improper_a judge_n of_o what_o be_v false_a doctrine_n and_o what_o sound_n and_o as_o to_o the_o rest_n not_o so_o accostomed_a i_o hope_v it_o be_v no_o worse_o than_o the_o fruit_n of_o their_o dull_a hear_n or_o want_v of_o memory_n however_o my_o great_a satisfaction_n be_v that_o every_o unprejudiced_a person_n have_v opportunity_n to_o inform_v himself_o by_o a_o serious_a perusal_n of_o robert_n barclay_n book_n without_o either_o give_a credit_n to_o they_o or_o i_o bare_o because_o we_o so_o affirm_v and_o whereas_o they_o thus_o say_v and_o have_v disperse_v his_o manuscript_n in_o several_a part_n of_o this_o nation_n without_o so_o much_o as_o first_o give_v either_o to_o the_o say_v robert_n barclay_n or_o the_o second_o day_n meet_v any_o account_n of_o his_o scruple_n contrary_a to_o all_o rule_n of_o brotherly-love_n christian-fellowship_n gospel-order_n and_o the_o exemplary_a practice_n of_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n to_o the_o defamation_n of_o the_o say_v robert_n barclay_n the_o great_a derogation_n from_o the_o christian_a authority_n of_o the_o say_a meeting_n and_o the_o general_n disservice_n of_o truth_n if_o by_o this_o they_o mean_v that_o my_o send_v abroad_o my_o manuscript_n be_v contrary_a to_o the_o rule_n of_o brotherly-love_n etc._n etc._n i_o utter_o disow_v that_o testimony_n as_o erroneous_a for_o i_o have_v sufficient_o prove_v both_o by_o word_n and_o my_o manuscript_n that_o robert_n barclay_n book_n be_v erroneous_a contain_v false_a doctrine_n and_o inasmuch_o as_o it_o be_v public_o spread_v abroad_o to_o the_o dishonour_n of_o god_n and_o truth_n a_o concern_v for_o the_o truth_n come_v upon_o i_o to_o discover_v that_o error_n that_o the_o soul_n of_o the_o simple_a may_v not_o be_v deceive_v and_o inasmuch_o as_o i_o know_v that_o have_v he_o be_v willing_a to_o call_v in_o his_o book_n yet_o it_o can_v not_o take_v off_o the_o obligation_n on_o i_o for_o it_o be_v out_o of_o his_o power_n to_o call_v they_o all_o in_o be_v so_o public_o disperse_v i_o think_v it_o not_o my_o duty_n to_o give_v he_o or_o the_o second-daye_n meet_v copy_n thereof_o first_o yet_o as_o soon_o as_o my_o leisure_n permit_v i_o send_v copy_n to_o london_n direct_v to_o steven_n crisp_n and_o another_o public_a person_n that_o so_o when_o i_o come_v to_o london_n as_o afterward_o i_o do_v they_o may_v if_o i_o have_v comit_v any_o error_n therein_o have_v treat_v i_o according_a to_o the_o merit_n thereof_o but_o when_o i_o come_v to_o london_n not_o one_o accuse_v my_o answer_n as_o erroneous_a in_o any_o respect_n and_o if_o there_o be_v any_o neglect_n to_o peruse_v it_o it_o be_v their_o fault_n and_o not_o i_o since_o there_o be_v opportunity_n for_o the_o say_a subscriber_n to_o view_v it_o for_o i_o manifest_v that_o i_o have_v it_o with_o i_o at_o the_o meet_v hold_v as_o aforesaid_a and_o though_o i_o desire_v the_o privilege_n to_o make_v use_n of_o it_o before_o the_o meeting_n to_o help_v my_o memory_n even_o as_o robert_n barclay_n make_v use_v of_o he_o yet_o be_v then_o desire_v to_o forbear_v i_o make_v no_o use_n thereof_o at_o the_o meeting_n however_o if_o they_o have_v this_o to_o say_v it_o be_v their_o duty_n to_o have_v peruse_v it_o before_o they_o have_v give_v a_o judgement_n that_o my_o disperse_v the_o say_a manuscript_n etc._n etc._n be_v to_o the_o defamation_n of_o the_o say_v robert_n barclay_n the_o great_a derogation_n of_o the_o christian_a authority_n of_o the_o say_a meeting_n and_o general_a disservice_n of_o truth_n etc._n etc._n but_o i_o certain_o know_v all_o that_o
in_o the_o latter-end_a of_o the_o quarterly-meeting_a a_o paper_n of_o anthony_n pearson_n that_o direct_v that_o the_o way_n of_o truth_n shall_v be_v as_o the_o way_n of_o a_o ship_n in_o the_o sea_n and_o such_o like_a answ_n i_o consent_v to_o a_o paper_n that_o have_v some_o such_o word_n but_o know_v not_o it_o be_v althony_n pearson_n qu._n 14._o whether_o do_v thou_o advise_v that_o paper_n of_o condemnation_n shall_v not_o be_v record_v or_o gainsayed_n it_o and_o the_o bring_n in_o friend_n testimony_n concern_v friend_n faithfulness_n or_o unfaithfulness_n in_o the_o case_n of_o tithe_n answ_n to_o this_o fourteen_o query_n john_n story_n answer_v much_o to_o the_o same_o purpose_n as_o john_n wilkinson_n do_v to_o the_o same_o question_n signify_v in_o the_o four_o and_o five_o query_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n already_o cite_v qu._n 15._o whether_o do_v thou_o consent_v to_o approve_v of_o or_o be_v it_o present_a at_o the_o race_v or_o tear_v out_o of_o the_o book_n h._n g's_o paper_n of_o condemnation_n for_o his_o be_v marry_v by_o a_o priest_n answ_n no._n qu._n 16._o and_o whether_o do_v thou_o say_v thou_o will_v have_v all_o friend_n leave_v to_o their_o freedom_n to_o pay_v tithe_n or_o not_o to_o pay_v tithe_n answ_n to_o this_o sixteenth_o query_n john_n story_n answer_v much_o to_o the_o same_o purpose_n as_o john_n wilkinson_n do_v to_o the_o same_o question_n which_o be_v the_o seven_o propose_v to_o john_n wilkinson_n though_o before_o the_o give_v forth_o of_o these_o query_n there_o may_v be_v some_o small_a difference_n among_o friend_n in_o the_o north_n which_o be_v aggravate_v by_o g._n f_n wife_n partly_o by_o her_o cause_v to_o be_v read_v in_o the_o quarterly-meeting_a in_o westmoreland_n a_o paper_n date_v the_o 21_o st_o of_o the_o 11_o m_o on_o 1672._o give_v forth_o by_o she_o against_o john_n story_n and_o therein_o signify_v that_o he_o judge_v the_o god_n the_o note_v john_n story_n deny_v that_o he_o ever_o judge_v the_o power_n of_o god_n power_n of_o god_n as_o it_o break_v forth_o in_o hymn_n or_o spiritual_a song_n yet_o many_o be_v not_o so_o well_o satisfy_v that_o g._n f._n be_v one_o of_o the_o chief_a person_n that_o occasion_v or_o at_o least_o encourage_v the_o keep_n alive_a of_o those_o difference_n until_o these_o query_n be_v send_v to_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n but_o than_o jealousy_n enter_v many_o that_o occasion_n be_v seek_v against_o they_o and_o mere_o because_o they_o can_v not_o gratify_v that_o spirit_n in_o g._n f._n which_o as_o be_v also_o jealouse_v have_v accept_v of_o such_o submission_n from_o some_o as_o many_o faithful_a friend_n have_v abhor_v i_o now_o come_v to_o make_v some_o observation_n on_o the_o aforesaid_a query_n wherein_o i_o shall_v consider_v the_o matter_n of_o they_o and_o the_o manner_n of_o negotiate_v that_o matter_n it_o be_v plain_a to_o i_o that_o if_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n have_v answer_v to_o each_o query_n propose_v to_o they_o respective_o yea_o then_o since_o g._n f._n receive_v the_o information_n and_o prosecute_v the_o same_o the_o informer_n against_o they_o to_o g._n f._n will_v have_v have_v his_o end_n which_o doubtless_o be_v to_o render_v they_o guilty_a of_o evil_a principle_n or_o practice_n and_o have_v g._n f_n imaginary_a authority_n to_o prosecute_v they_o for_o the_o same_o the_o consideration_n whereof_o lead_v i_o thus_o further_o to_o observe_v that_o if_o any_o one_o of_o the_o matter_n therein_o contain_v can_v not_o render_v the_o person_n therein_o concern_v by_o his_o answer_n yea_o guilty_a of_o unsoundness_n in_o principle_n or_o of_o any_o evil_a practice_n then_o it_o will_v follow_v that_o g._n f._n as_o well_o as_o the_o informer_n endeavour_v to_o make_v the_o person_n so_o concern_v a_o offender_n in_o that_o particular_a which_o be_v no_o offence_n the_o reader_n may_v now_o weigh_v the_o matter_n in_o the_o balance_n of_o the_o sanctuary_n which_o if_o he_o do_v he_o will_v doubtless_o perceive_v that_o the_o answer_n yea_o to_o several_a of_o the_o query_n will_v not_o render_v either_o of_o they_o either_o unsound_a in_o principle_n or_o blame-worthy_a as_o to_o matter_n of_o fact_n from_o the_o nine_o query_n to_o j._n s._n and_o his_o answer_n it_o be_v observable_a that_o if_o j._n s._n have_v say_v keep_v order_n by_o way_n of_o reproof_n to_o the_o noise_n of_o deceit_n by_o one_o person_n though_o pretend_v to_o sing_v for_o joy_n while_o another_o be_v pray_v it_o be_v not_o matter_n of_o evil_a fact_n but_o a_o shame_n to_o any_o one_o so_o to_o esteem_v it_o since_o god_n be_v a_o god_n of_o order_n and_o not_o of_o confusion_n in_o the_o church_n and_o indeed_o to_o i_o there_o be_v one_o thing_n above_o many_o other_o that_o seem_v worthy_a of_o observation_n and_o that_o be_v the_o second_o query_n to_o john_n wilkinson_n when_o a_o answer_n yea_o can_v not_o render_v he_o a_o offender_n unless_o it_o be_v sound_a doctrine_n that_o the_o people_n call_v quaker_n aught_o to_o practice_v thing_n that_o be_v impose_v by_o man_n or_o in_o the_o will_n of_o man_n which_o the_o scripture_n give_v no_o authority_n or_o warrant_n for_o if_o g._n f._n will_v be_v so_o plain_a as_o positive_o to_o assert_v that_o which_o seem_v to_o be_v employ_v in_o that_o query_n if_o from_o a_o query_n any_o thing_n may_v proper_o be_v employ_v then_o it_o will_v put_v a_o end_n to_o the_o controversy_n with_o many_o for_o than_o it_o must_v be_v assert_v that_o there_o be_v either_o one_o or_o more_o that_o have_v power_n to_o impose_v in_o the_o will_n of_o man_n that_o which_o the_o scripture_n give_v no_o authority_n or_o warrant_v for_o but_o notwithstanding_o i_o will_v suppose_v in_o favour_n to_o g._n f._n that_o as_o answer_v to_o this_o he_o may_v thus_o say_v i_o do_v not_o put_v that_o question_n with_o a_o intent_n to_o justify_v imposition_n in_o the_o will_n of_o man_n but_o rather_o to_o find_v out_o whether_o what_o robert_n barrow_n and_o other_o have_v endeavour_v to_o impose_v have_v a_o persuasion_n that_o my_o paper_n have_v be_v give_v forth_o in_o the_o motion_n of_o god_n be_v account_v thing_n impose_v in_o the_o will_n of_o man_n and_o that_o if_o it_o shall_v so_o appear_v john_n wilkinson_n unto_o who_o the_o question_n be_v propose_v may_v condemn_v the_o same_o since_o i_o affirm_v that_o i_o have_v give_v forth_o nothing_o to_o be_v impose_v but_o what_o i_o have_v be_v move_v by_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n to_o give_v forth_o and_o therefore_o aught_o to_o be_v submit_v to_o the_o consideration_n of_o this_o suposition_n put_v i_o in_o remembrance_n of_o a_o objection_n raise_v in_o the_o seven_o section_n of_o the_o first_o part_n of_o the_o manuscript_n wherein_o the_o difference_n among_o friend_n be_v collect_v as_o before_o be_v hint_v which_o with_o the_o answer_n thereto_o may_v be_v proper_a to_o cite_v on_o this_o occasion_n the_o objection_n and_o answer_n follow_v object_n the_o spirit_n of_o god_n which_o be_v but_o one_o in_o all_o have_v move_v in_o our_o brethren_n to_o give_v forth_o certain_a order_n command_n and_o prescription_n and_o therefore_o we_o ought_v according_o to_o obey_v and_o this_o can_v be_v call_v the_o dictate_v of_o fallible_a man_n but_o of_o the_o spirit_n give_v forth_o through_o man_n and_o be_v thou_o that_o pretend_v thou_o see_v it_o not_o thy_o duty_n to_o obey_v but_o obedient_a to_o thy_o owe_v measure_n thou_o will_v then_o see_v it_o so_o and_o be_v one_o with_o the_o brethren_n and_o therefore_o we_o can_v but_o tell_v thou_o it_o be_v thy_o duty_n to_o obey_v since_o the_o reason_n thou_o see_v it_o not_o thy_o duty_n be_v thy_o want_n of_o diligence_n and_o not_o wait_v in_o thy_o own_o measure_n beside_o we_o find_v that_o g._n f._n have_v late_o give_v forth_o a_o paper_n the_o import_n whereof_o be_v to_o justify_v prescription_n to_o this_o we_o say_v that_o if_o the_o spirit_n of_o god_n move_v in_o any_o member_n of_o the_o body_n of_o christ_n to_o give_v forth_o certain_a order_n and_o prescription_n with_o respect_n to_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o member_n as_o that_o which_o though_o relate_v to_o their_o conscience_n they_o ought_v to_o perform_v and_o practice_v whether_o they_o see_v it_o their_o duty_n or_o no_o or_o whether_o they_o be_v free_a so_o to_o do_v or_o no_o then_o no_o doubt_n but_o they_o ought_v so_o to_o act_n and_o do_v because_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n have_v so_o move_v but_o this_o be_v to_o suppose_v that_o which_o under_o the_o dispensation_n of_o the_o second-covenant_n we_o have_v not_o the_o least_o ground_n from_o the_o scripture_n of_o truth_n or_o light_n of_o christ_n to_o suppose_v and_o so_o we_o do_v
though_o the_o apostle_n thus_o exhort_v little_a child_n keep_v yourselves_o from_o idol_n yet_o thy_o book_n touch_v womens-meeting_n etc._n etc._n very_a scandalous_a to_o the_o truth_n and_o worthy_a in_o several_a particular_n to_o be_v judge_v and_o condemn_v inform_v we_o as_o if_o micah_n mother_n speak_v of_o judge_n 17._o when_o she_o give_v money_n to_o make_v a_o grave_v image_n to_o be_v worship_v be_v a_o virtuous_a woman_n for_o touch_v she_o thou_o have_v thus_o write_v and_o be_v not_o micah_n mother_n a_o virtuous_a woman_n read_v judge_n 17._o and_o see_v what_o she_o say_v to_o she_o son_n and_o in_o a_o few_o line_n after_o thou_o thus_o testifyes_n these_o and_o such_o like_a woman_n be_v record_v to_o posterity_n for_o their_o wisdom_n and_o virtue_n see_v thy_o book_n pag._n 43_o 44._o three_o though_o there_o be_v endeavour_n to_o send_v paper_n to_o and_o fro_o to_o bespatter_n john_n story_n for_o go_v out_o of_o a_o meeting_n when_o the_o persecutor_n come_v yet_o i_o know_v that_o thou_o thyself_o have_v be_v find_v in_o the_o like_a action_n and_o if_o report_n be_v true_a the_o frequent_a of_o any_o man_n that_o ever_o i_o hear_v call_v by_o the_o name_n of_o a_o quaker_n and_o it_o be_v to_o i_o a_o broad_a sign_n that_o this_o will_v not_o have_v be_v omit_v as_o a_o grand_a article_n against_o he_o among_o other_o at_o drawel_n have_v not_o thou_o be_v guilty_a in_o the_o like_a case_n four_o that_o though_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n be_v persecute_v by_o such_o unto_o who_o thy_o paper_n seem_v a_o strength_n because_o they_o will_v not_o condemn_v themselves_o yet_o i_o never_o hear_v that_o thou_o as_o yet_o have_v ever_o give_v forth_o any_o paper_n of_o condemnation_n for_o the_o error_n thou_o have_v commit_v in_o write_v the_o book_n about_o woman_n meeeting_n etc._n etc._n or_o any_o thing_n else_o though_o i_o can_v believe_v but_o that_o thou_o be_v conscious_a to_o thyself_o that_o truth_n be_v scandalize_v thereby_o unless_o so_o great_a imagination_n have_v enter_v thou_o as_o to_o conclude_v that_o all_o thy_o word_n write_n and_o action_n be_v right_o because_o they_o be_v bring_v forth_o through_o thy_o earthly_a vessel_n and_o to_o speak_v plain_a i_o must_v tell_v thou_o thou_o be_v not_o free_a from_o give_v occasion_n to_o be_v jealous_a that_o thou_o do_v so_o conclude_v else_o when_o i_o treat_v thou_o about_o the_o business_n of_o micha_n mother_n why_o do_v thou_o tell_v i_o as_o thou_o than_o do_v viz._n that_o thou_o know_v what_o thou_o do_v and_o that_o thou_o see_v it_o will_v be_v a_o stumbling-block_n but_o rather_o on_o the_o sight_n of_o thy_o mistake_n have_v ingenious_o confess_v the_o same_o for_o it_o be_v a_o abominable_a thing_n in_o thou_o or_o any_o man_n know_o too_o put_v stumbling-block_n in_o the_o way_n of_o god_n people_n and_o know_v this_o from_o i_o thou_o will_v never_o be_v able_a to_o wipe_v away_o the_o reproach_n that_o lie_v upon_o thou_o for_o write_v that_o book_n until_o thou_o condemn_v and_o judge_v thyself_o for_o many_o thing_n therein_o contain_v and_o to_o be_v yet_o more_o plain_a when_o i_o do_v consider_v that_o the_o reputation_n and_o respect_n that_o have_v be_v give_v unto_o thou_o by_o many_o if_o not_o most_o of_o those_o who_o in_o the_o part_n here-a-way_n be_v first_o convince_v of_o truth_n do_v first_o spring_n from_o the_o testimony_n we_o have_v concern_v thou_o from_o the_o mouth_n of_o those_o who_o we_o believe_v the_o lord_n and_o not_o thou_o send_v forth_o to_o gather_v we_o it_o seem_v a_o very_a strange_a thing_n and_o the_o badge_n of_o a_o grand_a apostasy_n that_o any_o of_o the_o survive_a remnant_n of_o those_o ancient_a labourer_n be_v as_o sound_v in_o doctrine_n and_o principle_n and_o as_o blameless_a in_o their_o outward_a life_n and_o conversation_n as_o in_o the_o beginning_n and_o thereby_o manifest_v themselves_o stay_v in_o the_o unchangeable_a truth_n shall_v be_v persecute_v and_o render_v offender_n for_o that_o which_o truth_n declare_v to_o be_v no_o offence_n and_o yet_o thou_o so_o far_o from_o be_v a_o reproof_n thereto_o that_o it_o be_v evident_a to_o i_o from_o my_o discourse_n have_v with_o thou_o at_o swarthmore_n and_o other_o thing_n that_o thou_o be_v become_v a_o strength_n to_o they_o have_v thou_o forget_v that_o truth_n be_v preach_v in_o the_o beginning_n under_o the_o name_n of_o the_o unchangeable_a truth_n and_o be_v the_o day_n now_o come_v that_o a_o remnant_n of_o the_o ancient_a stock_n who_o bear_v the_o brunt_n and_o heat_v of_o the_o day_n must_v now_o be_v persecute_v whenas_o i_o be_o satisfy_v if_o they_o can_v but_o now_o run_v with_o other_o to_o change_v their_o way_n they_o may_v yet_o be_v esteem_v good_a friend_n have_v thou_o forget_v how_o often_o the_o testimony_n of_o the_o ancient_a brethren_n be_v on_o this_o wise_a we_o preach_v not_o ourselves_o look_v not_o unto_o we_o but_o unto_o the_o appearance_n of_o christ_n in_o yourselves_o and_o yet_o one_o cause_n assign_v by_o thou_o that_o john_n wilkinson_n and_o john_n story_n be_v wrong_a be_v their_o not_o come_v to_o thou_o and_o by_o the_o sixty_o six_o subscriber_n at_o ellis_n hook_n chamber_n in_o london_n their_o not_o come_v to_o they_o true_o those_o who_o have_v receive_v their_o ministry_n from_o god_n be_v not_o to_o run_v hither_o and_o thither_o at_o thy_o call_n or_o any_o man_n call_n whatsoever_o though_o i_o do_v know_v thou_o have_v in_o a_o letter_n write_v to_o i_o assign_v their_o not_o come_v to_o thou_o when_o thou_o send_v for_o they_o to_o be_v as_o a_o proof_n that_o they_o be_v not_o right_o nor_o in_o the_o light_n and_o power_n of_o god_n but_o by_o what_o authority_n or_o according_a to_o what_o principle_n of_o truth_n man_n call_v of_o god_n into_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n must_v be_v declare_v to_o be_v not_o right_a nor_o in_o the_o light_n and_o power_n of_o god_n because_o they_o come_v not_o to_o thou_o when_o thou_o send_v for_o they_o i_o understand_v not_o for_o thou_o in_o thy_o best_a estate_n be_v but_o a_o member_n of_o the_o christ_n of_o god_n unto_o who_o we_o be_v all_o to_o come_v when_o he_o call_v and_o if_o any_o shall_v affirm_v that_o thou_o have_v and_o do_v retain_v thy_o place_n yet_o in_o that_o case_n thou_o can_v be_v but_o a_o fellow-servant_n accountable_a unto_o the_o christ_n of_o god_n as_o every_o member_n of_o the_o body_n whereof_o christ_n be_v head_n be_v have_v thou_o forget_v how_o thou_o have_v testify_v against_o james_n naylor_n spirit_n who_o great_a fall_n be_v his_o own_n or_o at_o least_o not_o reprove_v the_o woman_n when_o they_o cry_v with_o a_o carnal_a tongue_n hosanna_n to_o he_o and_o have_v thou_o no_o sense_n that_o its_o gross_a ignorance_n and_o thick_a darkness_n for_o any_o to_o look_v upon_o thou_o as_o that_o prophet_n who_o the_o lord_n by_o his_o servant_n moses_n prophesy_v he_o will_v raise_v up_o like_v unto_o he_o who_o the_o people_n be_v to_o hear_v in_o all_o thing_n i_o can_v believe_v thou_o be_v ignorant_a that_o such_o there_o be_v who_o so_o look_v on_o thou_o and_o i_o never_o understand_v thou_o become_v a_o reproof_n to_o this_o spirit_n have_v thou_o no_o sense_n that_o the_o same_o spirit_n of_o ignorance_n have_v and_o can_v look_v upon_o that_o abominable_a quotation_n touch_v micahs_n mother_n as_o well_o enough_o which_o wherever_o it_o be_v do_v undoubted_o spring_n from_o this_o that_o it_o be_v george_n give_v forth_o and_o so_o there_o must_v be_v something_o in_o it_o and_o have_v thou_o not_o be_v desire_v to_o clear_a thing_n of_o this_o nature_n and_o to_o be_v a_o reproof_n to_o such_o ignorance_n and_o darkness_n which_o tend_v to_o lead_v we_o into_o egypt_n again_o i_o be_o the_o man_n who_o have_v cause_n to_o be_v jealous_a that_o there_o be_v some_o who_o look_v upon_o other_o either_o apostatise_v from_o the_o truth_n or_o stand_v in_o slippery_a place_n when_o they_o find_v not_o a_o more_o than_o ordinary_a respect_n for_o thou_o i_o will_v not_o say_v a_o hosanna_n in_o their_o breast_n as_o the_o woman_n have_v in_o their_o mouth_n for_o james_n naylor_n and_o therefore_o i_o can_v but_o say_v it_o may_v well_o become_v thou_o by_o a_o plain_a testimony_n to_o clear_a thing_n of_o this_o nature_n many_o for_o truth_n be_v sake_n and_o out_o of_o a_o endear_a respect_n for_o thou_o in_o particular_a and_o a_o hope_n that_o these_o little_a difference_n among_o friend_n may_v pass_v over_o and_o that_o thou_o will_v use_v the_o interest_n thou_o have_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o the_o professor_n of_o truth_n to_o quell_v those_o many_o little_a commotion_n which_o seem_v some_o