may_v err_v and_o how_o can_v the_o papist_n maintain_v their_o doubt_n of_o salvation_n with_o the_o not_o err_v of_o the_o church_n yes_o say_v they_o though_o we_o know_v what_o we_o be_v now_o member_n of_o the_o true_a church_n and_o therefore_o in_o the_o state_n of_o salvation_n yet_o we_o be_v not_o sure_a what_o we_o shall_v be_v whether_o we_o shall_v continue_v so_o or_o not_o but_o yet_o then_o they_o confess_v that_o there_o be_v assurance_n of_o salvation_n for_o the_o time_n present_a though_o not_o for_o the_o time_n to_o come_v and_o how_o also_o can_v they_o maintain_v the_o fall_n away_o of_o the_o faithful_a with_o the_o not_o err_v of_o the_o church_n for_o the_o faithful_a be_v choose_v of_o god_n but_o some_o of_o these_o that_o be_v of_o a_o visible_a church_n be_v only_o call_v if_o then_o the_o choose_a faithful_a may_v fall_v away_o than_o those_o that_o be_v only_o call_v much_o more_o yes_o say_v hosius_n every_o particular_a member_n may_v fall_v away_o 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shall_v serve_v concern_v the_o first_o doubt_n and_o question_n whether_o the_o church_n may_v err_v or_o no._n 451._o the_o second_o matter_n of_o doubt_n be_v concern_v the_o necessity_n of_o be_v a_o member_n of_o the_o church_n if_o ever_o we_o will_v attain_v salvation_n and_o hence_o arise_v this_o question_n whether_o any_o may_v be_v save_v out_o of_o the_o church_n or_o no_o for_o this_o be_v one_o singular_a prerogative_n of_o the_o church_n that_o whosoever_o be_v of_o it_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o salvation_n and_o whosoever_o be_v out_o of_o it_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o damnation_n to_o this_o question_n i_o answer_v that_o if_o we_o understand_v it_o of_o the_o inward_a communion_n of_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o church_n that_o be_v of_o the_o choose_a it_o be_v simple_o true_a that_o without_o the_o church_n there_o be_v no_o salvation_n at_o all_o and_o so_o also_o if_o we_o understand_v it_o of_o the_o outward_a communion_n in_o the_o profession_n of_o faith_n with_o the_o church_n that_o be_v of_o the_o call_v it_o be_v true_a also_o that_o ordinary_o and_o usual_o without_o the_o church_n there_o be_v no_o salvation_n so_o that_o it_o be_v true_a proper_o of_o the_o whole_a militant_a church_n and_o yet_o it_o extend_v to_o the_o visible_a thus_o far_o that_o if_o a_o man_n be_v where_o there_o be_v a_o visible_a church_n if_o he_o join_v not_o with_o it_o ordinary_o he_o can_v be_v save_v doct._n take_v then_o the_o observation_n thus_o that_o without_o the_o church_n there_o be_v no_o salvation_n understand_v it_o proper_o of_o the_o church_n militant_a but_o proportionable_o of_o the_o church_n visible_a isaiah_n 60.1.2_o 3._o as_o there_o be_v light_n in_o goshen_n when_o all_o egypt_n beside_o be_v in_o darkness_n so_o be_v there_o light_a and_o salvation_n in_o the_o church_n when_o the_o whole_a world_n beside_o be_v in_o darkness_n and_o the_o estate_n of_o damnation_n and_o as_o all_o that_o be_v not_o in_o the_o ark_n perish_v 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the_o church_n can_v have_v no_o part_n in_o these_o and_o so_o can_v have_v no_o part_n in_o salvation_n the_o use_n be_v these_o first_o this_o teach_v we_o to_o labour_v to_o be_v use_v 1_o member_n of_o the_o church_n if_o we_o live_v in_o a_o place_n where_o the_o faith_n of_o christ_n be_v profess_v and_o do_v not_o join_v ourselves_o with_o they_o it_o be_v a_o great_a and_o a_o damnable_a sin_n every_o one_o will_v labour_v to_o be_v of_o that_o company_n that_o have_v best_a and_o most_o privilege_n then_o labour_v to_o be_v of_o the_o church_n for_o that_o have_v the_o most_o and_o best_a privilege_n and_o labour_n also_o to_o bring_v other_o to_o the_o church_n special_o those_o that_o be_v thy_o own_o labour_n that_o they_o may_v be_v of_o the_o church_n and_o so_o in_o the_o estate_n of_o salvation_n love_n zion_n let_v thy_o heart_n be_v ravish_v with_o the_o desire_n and_o prosperity_n of_o jerusalem_n second_o let_v those_o that_o be_v in_o this_o state_n let_v they_o use_v 2_o walk_v in_o the_o light_n while_o they_o have_v it_o lest_o it_o be_v take_v from_o they_o and_o then_o they_o can_v tell_v whither_o they_o go_v three_o here_o we_o see_v the_o misery_n of_o those_o that_o be_v not_o use_v 3_o member_n of_o the_o church_n for_o though_o they_o be_v else_o never_o so_o wealthy_a witty_a mighty_a glorious_a or_o otherwise_o worldly_a privilege_v yet_o they_o be_v no_o better_o then_o of_o the_o damn_a crew_n they_o be_v out_o of_o the_o estate_n of_o salvation_n without_o god_n and_o without_o christ_n in_o the_o world_n four_o this_o teach_v those_o that_o be_v of_o the_o visible_a use_v 4_o church_n that_o as_o they_o have_v communion_n with_o the_o church_n in_o profession_n so_o also_o to_o have_v communion_n with_o they_o in_o faith_n else_o as_o good_a not_o to_o be_v of_o the_o church_n as_o not_o to_o have_v our_o part_n in_o the_o effectual_a mean_n of_o salvation_n with_o the_o church_n use_v 5_o last_o here_o we_o may_v learn_v what_o be_v to_o be_v think_v of_o those_o that_o separate_a from_o the_o church_n as_o man_n cut_v off_o from_o the_o church_n and_o so_o if_o they_o be_v without_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o church_n they_o can_v have_v no_o salvation_n the_o one_o and_o twenty_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n we_o have_v already_o speak_v of_o the_o 6_o general_a point_n propound_v to_o be_v handle_v namely_o of_o the_o privilege_n of_o the_o church_n it_o now_o we_o be_v to_o proceed_v to_o the_o seven_o namely_o of_o the_o adversary_n and_o opposite_n of_o the_o church_n for_o as_o the_o church_n of_o god_n be_v endue_v with_o many_o excellent_a privilege_n above_o all_o other_o congregation_n whatsoever_o so_o no_o other_o company_n in_o
in_o heaven_n contain_v as_o well_o angel_n as_o man_n and_o therefore_o we_o speak_v of_o they_o by_o themselves_o and_o prove_v that_o the_o angel_n be_v a_o part_n of_o god_n church_n as_o well_o as_o man_n then_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o that_o part_n of_o god_n church_n which_o consist_v of_o man_n and_o in_o handle_v this_o point_n we_o propound_v three_o thing_n to_o be_v speak_v too_o first_o to_o speak_v of_o that_o part_n of_o god_n church_n consist_v of_o man_n which_o be_v in_o heaven_n by_o themselves_o second_o of_o those_o which_o be_v in_o earth_n by_o themselves_o three_o of_o both_o those_o which_o be_v in_o heaven_n and_o which_o be_v in_o earth_n together_o concern_v the_o first_o we_o have_v speak_v and_o show_v that_o heaven_n be_v the_o place_n of_o receipt_n for_o all_o god_n choose_v after_o their_o departure_n out_o of_o this_o life_n now_o we_o be_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o second_o namely_o earth_n that_o part_n of_o god_n church_n consist_v of_o man_n which_o be_v on_o earth_n and_o so_o to_o proceed_v to_o the_o three_o point_n and_o first_o of_o that_o part_n of_o god_n church_n on_o earth_n for_o although_o there_o be_v the_o same_o choose_v now_o in_o heaven_n which_o sometime_o be_v on_o earth_n and_o the_o same_o now_o in_o earth_n which_o sometime_o shall_v be_v in_o heaven_n so_o that_o the_o church_n or_o choose_v in_o heaven_n do_v not_o make_v a_o several_a church_n by_o themselves_o nor_o those_o in_o earth_n a_o several_a church_n by_o themselves_o but_o both_o together_o make_v one_o and_o the_o same_o church_n yet_o because_o there_o be_v some_o particular_a consideration_n incident_a to_o that_o in_o heaven_n which_o they_o on_o earth_n have_v not_o yet_o attain_v to_o and_o likewise_o some_o other_o particular_a consideration_n incident_a to_o that_o on_o earth_n which_o they_o in_o heaven_n have_v already_o pass_v from_o therefore_o each_o of_o they_o be_v to_o be_v handle_v by_o itself_o and_o therefore_o have_v speak_v of_o that_o part_n of_o god_n church_n which_o be_v in_o heaven_n before_o now_o we_o be_v to_o speak_v of_o that_o on_o earth_n i_o shall_v not_o need_v to_o define_v this_o on_o earth_n because_o it_o be_v apparent_o define_v before_o in_o the_o general_a for_o if_o that_o be_v the_o whole_a company_n of_o god_n choose_v in_o heaven_n and_o in_o earth_n than_o this_o must_v needs_o be_v the_o whole_a company_n of_o god_n choose_v live_v on_o earth_n doctr._n all_o that_o i_o will_v speak_v concern_v this_o point_n shall_v be_v contrive_v into_o one_o observation_n and_o that_o be_v this_o namely_o that_o god_n always_o have_v have_v from_o the_o beginning_n and_o have_v now_o and_o shall_v have_v to_o the_o world_n end_n a_o company_n of_o choose_a people_n upon_o earth_n belong_v to_o he_o call_v upon_o he_o believe_v in_o he_o and_o worship_v he_o in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n you_o see_v that_o the_o observation_n consist_v of_o three_o part_n first_o that_o god_n ever_o have_v second_o that_o he_o have_v now_o and_o three_o that_o he_o shall_v have_v to_o the_o world_n end_n a_o company_n etc._n etc._n first_o god_n always_o have_v in_o matter_n of_o fact_n example_n be_v fit_a and_o strong_a proof_n this_o be_v then_o a_o matter_n of_o fact_n already_o do_v it_o be_v best_o to_o be_v prove_v by_o example_n take_v out_o of_o history_n of_o several_a time_n we_o will_v begin_v with_o the_o first_o beginning_n god_n have_v his_o church_n in_o paradise_n how_o prove_v you_o that_o why_o first_o there_o be_v god_n the_o preacher_n second_o there_o be_v our_o first_o parent_n adam_n and_o eve_n the_o hearer_n and_o three_o there_o be_v the_o word_n and_o commandment_n gen._n 2.16_o 17._o there_o be_v the_o doctrine_n of_o salvation_n and_o the_o strict_a form_n and_o manner_n of_o worship_n prescribe_v by_o god_n which_o he_o will_v be_v honour_v by_o now_o what_o be_v here_o want_v to_o the_o full_a be_v of_o a_o true_a church_n for_o here_o be_v a_o pastor_n and_o a_o people_n and_o the_o word_n and_o such_o a_o word_n as_o be_v fit_v for_o their_o salvation_n therefore_o in_o paradise_n god_n have_v his_o church_n also_o out_o of_o paradise_n god_n still_o have_v his_o church_n for_o there_o be_v still_o the_o same_o preacher_n god_n the_o same_o hearer_n adam_n and_o eve_n the_o doctrine_n of_o salvation_n though_o not_o the_o same_o it_o be_v before_o yet_o here_o be_v that_o doctrine_n of_o salvation_n fit_v their_o present_a state_n and_o condition_n a_o doctrine_n of_o repentance_n and_o of_o punishment_n of_o sin_n and_o special_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o gospel_n a_o doctrine_n of_o faith_n in_o christ_n genes_n 3.16_o the_o seed_n of_o the_o woman_n shall_v break_v the_o serpent_n head_n so_o here_o god_n have_v his_o church_n still_o 535._o to_o pass_v from_o they_o to_o abel_n there_o be_v abel_n sacrifice_a and_o his_o faith_n and_o there_o be_v god_n presence_n and_o acceptance_n as_o we_o may_v see_v gen._n 4.4_o compare_v with_o heb._n 11.4_o now_o where_o these_o be_v there_o be_v a_o true_a church_n afterwards_o in_o the_o time_n of_o seth_n it_o be_v say_v gen._n 4_o 25._o that_o then_o man_n begin_v to_o call_v upon_o the_o name_n of_o the_o lord_n that_o be_v man_n do_v then_o begin_v more_o zealous_o to_o worship_n god_n so_o here_o god_n have_v his_o church_n still_o let_v we_o pass_v from_o seth_n to_o enoch_n it_o be_v say_v of_o he_o that_o he_o walk_v with_o god_n believe_v in_o god_n and_o that_o he_o please_v god_n genes_n 5.24_o heb._n 11.5_o now_o where_o there_o be_v man_n walk_v with_o god_n believe_v in_o he_o and_o please_v he_o there_o be_v a_o true_a church_n so_o in_o the_o time_n of_o noah_n abraham_n isaac_n and_o jacob_n and_o in_o the_o time_n of_o the_o patriarch_n god_n have_v his_o church_n still_o heb._n 11.6_o 7_o etc._n etc._n to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o chapter_n there_o the_o succession_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o faithful_a be_v set_v down_o as_o it_o be_v of_o purpose_n to_o prove_v this_o point_n which_o we_o have_v in_o hand_n namely_o that_o god_n have_v a_o church_n from_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o world_n to_o prove_v this_o point_n further_o we_o will_v omit_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o flourish_a time_n of_o the_o church_n for_o of_o they_o there_o be_v no_o question_n there_o be_v then_o not_o embracer_n only_o of_o the_o heavenly_a truth_n but_o professor_n too_o in_o great_a number_n and_o we_o will_v instance_n in_o those_o time_n that_o be_v most_o obscure_a when_o there_o be_v the_o least_o likelihood_n of_o a_o church_n and_o if_o we_o can_v prove_v that_o god_n have_v his_o church_n in_o those_o time_n than_o the_o point_n will_v be_v prove_v that_o god_n have_v always_o have_v a_o church_n we_o will_v therefore_o instance_n in_o they_o first_o at_o the_o flood_n when_o all_o flesh_n have_v corrupt_v their_o way_n gen._n 6.12_o and_o that_o the_o earth_n be_v fill_v with_o cruelty_n verse_n 13._o yet_o in_o that_o desperate_a time_n there_o be_v find_v noah_n a_o just_a and_o upright_o man_n in_o that_o generation_n verse_n 9_o so_o god_n have_v his_o church_n then_o let_v we_o pass_v from_o these_o time_n and_o come_v to_o the_o bondage_n and_o slavery_n of_o the_o child_n of_o israel_n in_o egypt_n when_o god_n peculiar_a people_n be_v in_o the_o hand_n of_o a_o most_o profane_a idolatrous_a and_o cruel_a nation_n so_o that_o they_o have_v neither_o liberty_n nor_o time_n nor_o mean_n of_o god_n true_a worship_n yet_o as_o there_o be_v a_o light_n in_o goshen_n when_o palpable_a darkness_n be_v over_o all_o the_o land_n of_o egypt_n beside_o so_o when_o all_o the_o world_n be_v overwhelm_v with_o gross_a ignorance_n sin_n and_o error_n yet_o than_o god_n have_v his_o church_n among_o the_o israelite_n there_o be_v some_o midwife_n fear_v god_n exod._n 1.21_o and_o there_o be_v some_o that_o cry_v and_o pray_v and_o sigh_v to_o god_n and_o be_v hear_v of_o he_o exod._n 2.23_o 24._o so_o god_n have_v his_o church_n in_o those_o time_n likewise_o in_o the_o day_n of_o elias_n when_o the_o church_n be_v bring_v to_o a_o low_a ebb_n the_o prophet_n can_v see_v no_o more_o leave_v but_o himself_o and_o yet_o he_o have_v eye_n to_o discern_v it_o yet_o he_o be_v a_o true_a worshipper_n of_o god_n 751._o and_o so_o god_n have_v his_o true_a church_n then_o if_o there_o have_v be_v no_o more_o than_o he_o 1._o king_n 19.10_o but_o the_o lord_n see_v seven_o thousand_o more_o that_o be_v true_a worshipper_n and_o have_v not_o bow_v their_o knee_n to_o baal_n vers_fw-la 18._o in_o this_o desperate_a time_n when_o they_o kill_v god_n prophet_n and_o break_v down_o his_o altar_n and_o seek_v the_o life_n
of_o excellent_a use_n and_o have_v not_o be_v handle_v to_o the_o full_a by_o any_o divine_a therefore_o i_o will_v stand_v the_o more_o upon_o it_o that_o which_o i_o purpose_v to_o speak_v hereof_o i_o will_v reduce_v to_o these_o three_o head_n communion_n first_o i_o will_v show_v what_o manner_n of_o communion_n this_o be_v second_o wherein_o it_o consist_v three_o how_o far_o forth_o it_o be_v to_o be_v extend_v and_o enlarge_v first_o what_o manner_n of_o union_n it_o be_v it_o be_v spiritual_a spiritual_a answerable_a to_o that_o which_o they_o all_o have_v with_o christ_n their_o head_n for_o look_v how_o they_o communicate_v with_o their_o head_n christ_n such_o be_v their_o communion_n one_o with_o another_o but_o that_o be_v a_o spiritual_a communion_n and_o so_o be_v this_o and_o it_o be_v spiritual_a in_o many_o sense_n first_o spiritual_a as_o the_o spirit_n be_v the_o author_n and_o cause_n of_o this_o fellowship_n whence_o it_o proceed_v by_o one_o spirit_n we_o be_v 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first_o in_o a_o certain_a communion_n of_o state_n which_o they_o have_v second_o in_o a_o communion_n of_o practice_n which_o they_o exercise_v first_o they_o have_v a_o communion_n of_o state_n and_o here_o we_o have_v many_o thing_n to_o consider_v for_o first_o they_o have_v a_o communion_n of_o state_n in_o respect_n of_o their_o substance_n of_o state_n they_o have_v all_o one_o call_v ephes_n 4.1_o they_o be_v all_o call_v to_o be_v saint_n that_o be_v they_o be_v all_o and_o every_o one_o christian_n saint_n they_o be_v all_o god_n people_n they_o be_v all_o godâ—_n house_n they_o be_v all_o god_n building_n they_o be_v all_o god_n child_n gal._n 3.26_o the_o son_n of_o god_n through_o faith_n in_o christ_n and_o they_o be_v all_o and_o every_o one_o of_o they_o member_n of_o god_n church_n second_o they_o have_v a_o communion_n of_o state_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o author_n and_o cause_n of_o their_o state_n they_o have_v all_o one_o and_o the_o same_o father_n one_o and_o the_o same_o redeemer_n one_o and_o the_o same_o sanctifier_n three_o they_o have_v a_o communion_n of_o state_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o mean_n of_o salvation_n they_o have_v all_o one_o and_o the_o same_o common_a mean_n of_o salvation_n they_o have_v the_o same_o word_n and_o the_o same_o sacrament_n the_o same_o ministry_n to_o be_v teach_v by_o and_o the_o same_o church_n to_o live_v in_o four_o they_o have_v a_o communion_n of_o state_n in_o regard_n of_o their_o privilege_n they_o have_v all_o the_o same_o privilege_n they_o have_v all_o interest_n into_o god_n promise_n they_o have_v all_o access_n to_o god_n all_o right_a to_o heaven_n they_o have_v all_o the_o same_o liberty_n royalty_n gift_n and_o grace_n they_o have_v all_o the_o same_o election_n justification_n sanctification_n and_o glorification_n all_o have_v these_o though_o they_o partake_v not_o in_o they_o all_o alike_o but_o every_o one_o in_o his_o degree_n and_o measure_n five_o they_o have_v the_o same_o duty_n for_o every_o one_o of_o they_o to_o practice_v the_o same_o repentance_n patience_n obedience_n mortification_n love_n prayer_n peace_n and_o faith_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o their_o faith_n be_v call_v the_o common_a faith_n tit._n 1.4_o six_o they_o have_v the_o same_o law_n to_o live_v under_o and_o to_o be_v govern_v by_o the_o former_a and_o the_o late_a testament_n show_v they_o what_o they_o shall_v do_v or_o leave_v undo_v as_o also_o how_o and_o when_o and_o where_o to_o do_v it_o or_o leave_v it_o undo_v seven_o they_o have_v the_o same_o way_n to_o walk_v in_o namely_o that_o narrow_a and_o straight_a way_n that_o lead_v to_o eternal_a life_n eight_o they_o have_v all_o the_o same_o common_a enemy_n to_o fight_v against_o sin_n satan_n the_o world_n the_o flesh_n persecutor_n affliction_n and_o accusation_n of_o conscience_n that_o which_o be_v enemy_n to_o one_o of_o they_o be_v enemy_n to_o they_o all_o nine_o they_o have_v all_o the_o same_o end_n to_o aim_v at_o the_o same_o kingdom_n prepare_v for_o one_o be_v prepare_v for_o all_o matth._n 25.34_o and_o the_o same_o crown_n of_o righteousness_n 2._o tim._n 4.8_o and_o the_o same_o glory_n 1._o pet._n 5.1_o last_o the_o whole_a course_n of_o their_o salvation_n from_o the_o begin_n to_o the_o end_n be_v common_a to_o they_o all_o alike_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v call_v the_o common_a salvation_n jude._n 3_o and_o thus_o they_o have_v a_o communion_n of_o state_n in_o these_o respect_n second_o they_o have_v a_o communion_n of_o practice_n that_o be_v practice_n they_o exercise_v and_o practice_v this_o communion_n i_o will_v make_v it_o plain_a by_o this_o comparison_n servant_n of_o one_o family_n and_o member_n of_o one_o and_o the_o same_o city_n or_o corporation_n as_o they_o have_v a_o communion_n of_o state_n which_o all_o partake_v in_o the_o same_o law_n and_o the_o same_o privilege_n etc._n etc._n so_o also_o if_o they_o willing_o communicate_v with_o each_o other_o for_o the_o mutual_a help_n and_o benefit_n one_o of_o another_o than_o they_o have_v a_o communion_n of_o practice_n too_o and_o this_o communion_n be_v general_a and_o particular_a first_o general_n general_n they_o all_o alike_o participate_v in_o the_o same_o right_n and_o danger_n benefit_n and_o cross_n they_o worship_v alike_o they_o pray_v alike_o they_o love_v and_o hear_v and_o receive_v and_o use_v and_o believe_v and_o do_v and_o suffer_v alike_o and_o handle_v the_o mean_n alike_o and_o profit_n alike_o though_o with_o some_o difference_n of_o measure_n or_o other_o circumstance_n or_o small_a matter_n yet_o in_o effect_n and_o substance_n it_o be_v the_o same_o as_o they_o have_v the_o same_o way_n of_o salvation_n so_o the_o same_o step_n be_v tread_v by_o they_o all_o in_o that_o way_n as_o they_o have_v the_o same_o enemy_n so_o they_o manage_v the_o same_o fight_n fight_v together_o against_o their_o enemy_n philip._n 1.27_o under_o the_o same_o captain_n jesus_n christ_n with_o the_o same_o weapon_n ephes_n 6.11_o the_o whole_a armour_n of_o god_n take_v they_o any_o way_n outward_o or_o inward_o they_o have_v a_o communion_n of_o practice_n take_v they_o outward_o they_o all_o make_v the_o same_o profession_n act._n 2.42.46_o they_o continue_v in_o the_o apostle_n doctrine_n and_o fellowship_n etc._n etc._n and_o they_o continue_v daily_o with_o one_o accord_n in_o the_o temple_n take_v they_o inward_o and_o they_o have_v all_o the_o same_o heat_n and_o the_o same_o mind_n act._n 4.32_o and_o the_o multitude_n of_o they_o that_o believe_v be_v of_o one_o heart_n and_o of_o one_o soul_n etc._n etc._n so_o that_o which_o way_n soever_o you_o take_v they_o they_o have_v a_o communion_n of_o practice_n as_o well_o as_o of_o state_n it_o be_v true_a that_o sometime_o they_o fail_v in_o the_o performance_n of_o these_o thing_n through_o their_o own_o weakness_n and_o satan_n malice_n but_o yet_o this_o be_v their_o reach_n and_o desire_v and_o true_a 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a_o difference_n betwixt_o one_o and_o the_o same_o church_n in_o one_o respect_n and_o betwixt_o the_o same_o church_n in_o another_o respect_n we_o consider_v of_o it_o as_o it_o be_v distinguish_v in_o three_o respect_n first_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o bound_n and_o compass_n of_o it_o and_o so_o we_o show_v that_o there_o be_v a_o general_a and_o a_o particular_a church_n of_o the_o general_a we_o have_v before_o speak_v of_o the_o particular_a we_o be_v hereafter_o to_o speak_v when_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o visible_a church_n second_o it_o be_v consider_v in_o respect_n of_o the_o several_a portion_n and_o state_n allot_v to_o we_o and_o that_o be_v twofold_a the_o first_o in_o this_o world_n which_o be_v a_o fight_n or_o warfare_n the_o second_o be_v in_o the_o world_n to_o come_v which_o be_v a_o crown_n or_o triumph_n in_o the_o first_o respect_n the_o church_n be_v call_v the_o church_n militant_a in_o the_o second_o the_o church_n triumphant_a of_o this_o we_o 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the_o foundation_n and_o persecute_v that_o which_o be_v the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n indeed_o and_o so_o upon_o trial_n prove_v a_o false_a church_n and_o so_o make_v the_o true_a church_n invisible_a not_o to_o be_v see_v of_o man_n while_o the_o false_a church_n entertain_v man_n eye_n and_o thought_n dote_v upon_o she_o delude_v they_o and_o blear_a and_o dazel_v their_o sight_n they_o can_v nor_o do_v not_o look_v after_o any_o other_o and_o so_o the_o right_a and_o true_a church_n lie_v hide_v from_o their_o sight_n even_o as_o the_o paint_a harlot_n carry_v away_o man_n eye_n from_o behold_v the_o modest_a spouse_n so_o while_o man_n dote_v upon_o the_o paint_a show_n of_o a_o false_a church_n they_o can_v behold_v the_o true_a last_o the_o church_n be_v invisible_a in_o this_o sense_n because_o though_o there_o be_v some_o true_a professor_n yet_o there_o be_v no_o public_a profession_n at_o all_o or_o else_o it_o be_v very_o secret_a so_o that_o there_o be_v no_o certain_a 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consider_v potential_o that_o the_o church_n do_v sometime_o signify_v the_o universal_a company_n of_o god_n choose_v in_o heaven_n and_o in_o earth_n sometime_o only_o the_o company_n of_o believer_n on_o earth_n when_o it_o signify_v the_o universal_a company_n of_o god_n choose_v in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n in_o this_o sense_n it_o be_v simple_o invisible_a and_o that_o both_o actual_o that_o be_v it_o be_v not_o see_v and_o also_o potential_o that_o be_v it_o can_v be_v see_v as_o in_o the_o first_o second_o and_o three_o sense_n we_o have_v show_v for_o first_o neither_o can_v the_o natural_a man_n see_v they_o nor_o second_o can_v their_o grace_n be_v see_v neither_o three_o can_v the_o great_a and_o chief_a part_n of_o they_o be_v see_v be_v already_o in_o heaven_n second_o sort_n when_o the_o church_n signify_v the_o company_n of_o believer_n on_o earth_n it_o be_v invisible_a either_o simple_o or_o after_o a_o sort_n simple_o and_o so_o there_o be_v no_o church_n on_o earth_n invisible_a but_o in_o the_o first_o and_o second_o sense_n only_o or_o else_o after_o a_o sort_n that_o be_v as_o oppose_v to_o famous_a visiblenesse_n general_o pretend_v by_o the_o papist_n namely_o that_o there_o be_v a_o great_a multitude_n always_o open_o profess_v the_o true_a religion_n and_o that_o in_o such_o outward_a show_n state_n and_o carriage_n that_o it_o be_v or_o may_v be_v general_o know_v to_o be_v the_o true_a church_n and_o that_o any_o faithful_a man_n may_v point_v with_o his_o finger_n to_o such_o a_o congregation_n and_o say_v bold_o this_o be_v the_o true_a church_n and_o so_o may_v see_v and_o know_v which_o be_v that_o holy_a society_n among_o man_n where_o he_o may_v safe_o and_o where_o he_o must_v join_v himself_o for_o his_o salvation_n and_o in_o this_o sense_n that_o
ephes_n 1.22_o 23._o compare_v with_o 1._o cor._n 12.27_o saint_n holy_a catholic_a the_o pillar_n of_o truth_n etc._n etc._n these_o be_v principal_o affirm_v of_o the_o church_n invisible_a but_o proportional_o apply_v to_o the_o church_n visible_a 51._o the_o whole_a receive_v denomination_n of_o the_o better_a part_n doctr._n these_o thing_n premise_v we_o come_v now_o to_o the_o observation_n and_o that_o be_v this_o that_o the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n be_v sometime_o bring_v into_o such_o strait_n that_o the_o outward_a face_n of_o it_o do_v either_o not_o appear_v at_o all_o or_o at_o least_o it_o do_v very_o hardly_o appear_v to_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o world_n i_o say_v the_o outward_a face_n of_o it_o do_v hardly_o appear_v for_o the_o inward_a grace_n of_o it_o be_v never_o see_v as_o faith_n and_o election_n for_o the_o heart_n wherein_o these_o be_v can_v be_v discover_v as_o these_o be_v always_o invisible_a so_o likewise_o the_o outward_a face_n of_o the_o church_n be_v sometime_o hide_a again_o i_o say_v it_o be_v so_o but_o sometime_o for_o sometime_o it_o be_v very_o plain_a and_o apparent_a and_o glorious_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o world_n we_o do_v not_o here_o take_v upon_o we_o to_o prove_v peremptory_o that_o there_o be_v a_o time_n when_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o visible_a and_o apparent_a church_n in_o the_o world_n the_o world_n be_v large_a and_o many_o thing_n be_v do_v in_o some_o place_n of_o the_o world_n that_o we_o neither_o do_v nor_o can_v know_v and_o therefore_o in_o regard_n of_o we_o we_o may_v say_v there_o be_v no_o such_o matter_n for_o the_o point_n must_v stand_v thus_o that_o even_o in_o those_o place_n and_o in_o such_o time_n where_o the_o church_n be_v most_o likely_a to_o be_v as_o where_o the_o true_a church_n have_v late_o be_v and_o where_o it_o have_v flourish_v or_o where_o the_o best_a mean_n be_v the_o word_n and_o the_o sacrament_n and_o the_o ministry_n or_o where_o they_o profess_v to_o be_v the_o true_a church_n yet_o even_o then_o and_o there_o the_o true_a church_n may_v lie_v hide_v and_o not_o be_v outward_o discern_v and_o so_o consequent_o if_o it_o may_v be_v in_o such_o a_o state_n in_o such_o place_n and_o at_o such_o time_n much_o more_o be_v it_o so_o at_o other_o place_n and_o time_n where_o there_o be_v no_o such_o probability_n of_o a_o church_n and_o this_o strike_v home_n at_o the_o papist_n that_o will_v have_v the_o outward_a face_n of_o the_o true_a church_n so_o notorious_o apparent_a and_o visible_a to_o the_o world_n but_o as_o i_o have_v show_v in_o such_o place_n and_o at_o such_o time_n where_o it_o have_v be_v most_o like_a to_o have_v be_v even_o then_o and_o there_o the_o true_a church_n may_v be_v hide_v and_o not_o apparent_a to_o the_o world_n this_o i_o will_v prove_v in_o the_o case_n of_o the_o church_n of_o israel_n in_o elias_n time_n 1._o king_n 19.10_o where_o the_o prophet_n complain_v of_o such_o a_o scarcity_n of_o the_o faithful_a in_o his_o day_n as_o that_o he_o say_v be_v himself_o be_v leave_v alone_o if_o there_o have_v be_v a_o church_n any_o where_o in_o those_o time_n sure_o it_o shall_v have_v be_v in_o israel_n where_o the_o best_a mean_n be_v but_o there_o be_v no_o outward_a appearance_n of_o a_o church_n and_o shall_v we_o think_v than_o it_o be_v any_o where_o else_o so_o likewise_o in_o the_o 2._o chron._n 15.3_o israel_n have_v be_v for_o a_o long_a time_n without_o a_o true_a god_n without_o a_o priest_n to_o teach_v without_o law_n then_o they_o have_v no_o true_a visible_a church_n of_o god_n among_o they_o and_o if_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v find_v in_o israel_n where_o shall_v it_o be_v find_v the_o papist_n will_v reply_v in_o judah_n if_o not_o with_o israel_n judah_n prevail_v against_o israel_n because_o they_o stay_v upon_o the_o lord_n god_n of_o their_o father_n as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o 2._o chron._n 13.18_o well_o yet_o they_o be_v bad_a enough_o too_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o 2._o chron._n 14.3_o 5._o they_o have_v their_o strange_a god_n and_o their_o image_n and_o high_a place_n and_o grove_n in_o all_o their_o city_n which_o asa_n take_v away_o but_o yet_o if_o it_o be_v thus_o with_o israel_n that_o they_o have_v no_o outward_a face_n of_o a_o true_a church_n may_v it_o not_o be_v so_o with_o judah_n too_o and_o so_o in_o other_o church_n yea_o we_o will_v prove_v that_o it_o be_v so_o with_o judah_n afterward_o as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o the_o 2._o chron._n 28.23_o 24.25_o where_o it_o be_v say_v of_o ahaz_n that_o he_o sacrifice_v to_o the_o god_n of_o damascus_n and_o to_o the_o god_n of_o the_o king_n of_o aram_n he_o break_v the_o vessel_n of_o the_o house_n of_o god_n shut_v up_o the_o door_n of_o the_o house_n of_o the_o lord_n and_o make_v he_o altar_n in_o every_o corner_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o in_o every_o city_n of_o judah_n he_o make_v high_a place_n to_o burn_v incense_n to_o other_o god_n etc._n etc._n so_o judah_n be_v worse_o than_o israel_n nay_o than_o the_o very_a heathen_a that_o be_v before_o they_o as_o we_o may_v see_v 2._o chron._n 33.9_o where_o it_o be_v say_v that_o manasseh_n make_v israel_n to_o err_v and_o to_o do_v worse_o than_o the_o heathen_a who_o the_o lord_n have_v cast_v out_o before_o they_o so_o you_o see_v here_o be_v no_o outward_a face_n of_o a_o church_n neither_o in_o judah_n nor_o in_o israel_n if_o not_o in_o they_o where_o can_v there_o be_v any_o who_o can_v now_o point_v with_o his_o finger_n and_o say_v i_o know_v which_o be_v the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n whereunto_o i_o may_v and_o must_v join_v myself_o if_o it_o be_v so_o with_o they_o that_o be_v the_o natural_a branch_n than_o there_o be_v no_o privilege_n for_o any_o other_o church_n but_o that_o it_o may_v be_v so_o with_o they_o too_o but_o the_o papist_n will_v object_v that_o this_o be_v so_o under_o the_o law_n only_o but_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v so_o under_o the_o gospel_n or_o if_o it_o be_v so_o sometime_o yet_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v so_o often_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n i_o say_v i_o will_v prove_v that_o the_o state_n of_o the_o church_n be_v so_o also_o under_o the_o gospel_n and_o shall_v be_v so_o not_o sometime_o only_o but_o often_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n that_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o outward_a face_n of_o a_o true_a church_n revel_v 12.6_o 14._o the_o woman_n be_v say_v there_o to_o be_v flee_v into_o the_o wilderness_n which_o be_v mean_v of_o the_o church_n that_o at_o several_a time_n to_o the_o world_n end_n shall_v be_v drive_v to_o live_v in_o desert_n and_o forlorn_a place_n how_o then_o shall_v man_n see_v it_o and_o take_v notice_n of_o it_o and_o join_v with_o it_o when_o it_o be_v in_o such_o a_o secret_a place_n so_o in_o the_o revel_v 13.7_o 8._o the_o beast_n make_v war_n with_o the_o saint_n and_o overcome_v they_o and_o power_n be_v give_v unto_o he_o over_o every_o kindred_n and_o nation_n and_o tongue_n therefore_o all_o that_o dwell_v upon_o the_o earth_n worship_v he_o who_o name_n be_v not_o write_v in_o the_o book_n of_o life_n of_o the_o lamb_n where_o be_v the_o outward_a face_n of_o a_o church_n in_o these_o time_n and_o in_o the_o 2._o thes_n 2.3_o 4_o 5._o the_o apostle_n show_v that_o antichrist_n shall_v come_v and_o sit_v in_o god_n temple_n as_o god_n etc._n etc._n the_o devil_n shall_v be_v so_o cunning_a that_o he_o shall_v set_v up_o antichrist_n in_o god_n temple_n that_o be_v in_o god_n church_n where_o there_o have_v be_v a_o outward_a face_n of_o a_o church_n continue_v for_o many_o year_n and_o yet_o he_o shall_v not_o be_v know_v but_o to_o be_v god_n but_o only_o to_o those_o that_o be_v spiritually-minded_n for_o he_o shall_v sit_v as_o god_n so_o that_o then_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o outward_a face_n of_o a_o true_a church_n there_o so_o likewise_o that_o in_o luk._n 18.8_o prove_v this_o point_n where_o our_o saviour_n say_v when_o the_o son_n of_o man_n come_v shall_v he_o find_v faith_n on_o the_o earth_n if_o faith_n be_v so_o scarce_o to_o be_v find_v which_o be_v the_o life_n of_o the_o church_n where_o then_o shall_v the_o church_n be_v find_v but_o where_o shall_v he_o not_o find_v faith_n in_o india_n or_o in_o rome_n only_a no_o not_o only_o in_o one_o or_o two_o place_n but_o not_o in_o the_o earth_n and_o who_o shall_v not_o find_v it_o the_o son_n of_o man._n when_o the_o son_n of_o man_n come_v shall_v he_o find_v faith_n on_o the_o earth_n then_o the_o church_n be_v not_o so_o palpable_a as_o that_o it_o may_v be_v
outward_a face_n nor_o appearance_n of_o it_o to_o man_n it_o be_v true_a that_o it_o be_v for_o our_o sin_n that_o the_o church_n be_v so_o distress_a and_o god_n glory_n so_o hide_v and_o true_a religion_n so_o decay_v and_o therefore_o we_o be_v to_o grieve_v for_o our_o sin_n but_o yet_o this_o be_v our_o comfort_n that_o it_o be_v not_o so_o bad_a as_o it_o seem_v to_o be_v for_o the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o his_o religion_n have_v then_o as_o true_a a_o be_v as_o ever_o they_o have_v though_o not_o in_o that_o evidence_n and_o approbation_n before_o the_o world_n and_o therefore_o though_o thou_o see_v it_o not_o yet_o god_n see_v it_o elias_n poor_a man_n see_v none_o leave_v with_o who_o he_o may_v join_v but_o god_n see_v many_o thousand_o what_o if_o all_o be_v so_o desolate_a as_o it_o be_v in_o his_o time_n that_o thou_o can_v see_v none_o of_o god_n church_n but_o thyself_o that_o thou_o can_v see_v no_o visible_a society_n of_o man_n in_o the_o world_n that_o thou_o can_v safe_o join_v withal_o yet_o know_v god_n have_v his_o church_n happy_o many_o thousand_o though_o they_o make_v little_a profession_n for_o the_o time_n that_o never_o bow_v their_o knee_n to_o baal_n therefore_o let_v we_o not_o judge_v by_o sight_n but_o by_o faith_n and_o let_v this_o comfort_n and_o satisfy_v we_o in_o the_o most_o desperate_a time_n that_o be_v the_o last_o use_n be_v for_o satisfaction_n to_o the_o papist_n demand_n use_v 3_o when_o they_o ask_v we_o where_o be_v your_o church_n before_o luther_n time_n or_o what_o be_v become_v of_o all_o our_o ancestor_n that_o be_v member_n of_o the_o romish_a church_n for_o answer_v to_o the_o first_o we_o ask_v they_o where_o shall_v the_o church_n be_v in_o antichrists_n time_n that_o be_v when_o they_o think_v antichrist_n shall_v be_v they_o answer_v it_o shall_v be_v much_o obscure_v then_o but_o shall_v there_o be_v a_o church_n then_o or_o not_o yes_o no_o doubt_n but_o there_o shall_v else_o their_o own_o pillar_n of_o the_o church_n perpetuity_n fall_v to_o the_o ground_n why_o then_o may_v not_o our_o church_n be_v a_o true_a church_n in_o the_o day_n of_o popery_n who_o we_o call_v antichrist_n though_o it_o be_v much_o obscure_v we_o have_v a_o church_n among_o they_o that_o do_v profess_v our_o religion_n though_o much_o obscure_v by_o they_o even_o before_o luther_n time_n to_o the_o second_o demand_n concern_v our_o father_n that_o live_v in_o their_o church_n what_o be_v become_v of_o they_o say_v the_o papist_n be_v they_o damn_v we_o answer_v many_o of_o they_o though_o they_o live_v among_o they_o be_v of_o the_o invisible_a church_n for_o the_o rest_n we_o leave_v they_o to_o stand_v or_o fall_v to_o their_o own_o master_n yet_o we_o have_v great_a hope_n of_o many_o that_o be_v member_n of_o their_o church_n that_o live_v before_o the_o council_n of_o trent_n and_o before_o the_o order_n of_o the_o poison_a jesuit_n come_v up_o and_o so_o much_o for_o answer_v to_o they_o as_o also_o for_o this_o point_n the_o nine_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n the_o last_o general_a point_n we_o speak_v of_o be_v concern_v the_o division_n of_o the_o church_n wherein_o we_o show_v that_o the_o church_n be_v distinguish_v in_o itself_o in_o many_o respect_n the_o last_o whereof_o be_v this_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o outward_a state_n of_o it_o in_o the_o eye_n and_o appearance_n to_o the_o world_n in_o this_o state_n we_o show_v that_o it_o be_v sometime_o visible_a to_o be_v see_v by_o the_o eye_n of_o man_n and_o sometime_o invisible_a not_o to_o be_v see_v at_o all_o or_o at_o least_o very_a hardly_o to_o be_v see_v of_o the_o invisible_a state_n of_o the_o church_n we_o have_v speak_v already_o in_o the_o last_o lecture_n now_o it_o remain_v that_o by_o god_n assistance_n we_o speak_v of_o the_o visible_a church_n for_o that_o be_v the_o point_n chief_o in_o question_n therefore_o leave_v the_o invisible_a church_n to_o god_n he_o only_o know_v who_o be_v his_o we_o in_o the_o mean_a while_n believe_v it_o and_o esteem_v reverent_o thereof_o we_o proceed_v now_o to_o speak_v of_o the_o visible_a church_n which_o may_v and_o be_v know_v not_o to_o god_n only_o but_o also_o to_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o world_n that_o which_o have_v be_v already_o speak_v of_o the_o church_n in_o general_a and_o especial_o of_o the_o invisible_a make_v the_o way_n plain_a before_o we_o for_o the_o understanding_n of_o that_o which_o follow_v so_o that_o now_o we_o may_v find_v out_o the_o visible_a church_n without_o any_o difficulty_n at_o all_o church_n in_o speak_v of_o the_o visible_a church_n we_o must_v handle_v these_o point_n first_o the_o definition_n of_o it_o second_o the_o cause_n of_o it_o three_o the_o member_n of_o it_o four_a the_o mark_n and_o note_n of_o it_o five_o the_o government_n of_o it_o sixthly_a the_o privilege_n of_o it_o seventhly_a the_o adversary_n of_o it_o eighthly_a the_o authority_n of_o it_o and_o last_o the_o application_n of_o it_o to_o all_o church_n in_o the_o world_n so_o far_o as_o they_o be_v know_v to_o us._n first_o for_o the_o definition_n of_o it_o it_o be_v this_o namely_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n be_v a_o company_n of_o people_n call_v it_o and_o join_v together_o in_o the_o public_a profession_n of_o the_o true_a religion_n mark_v the_o part_n of_o this_o definition_n first_o that_o they_o may_v be_v a_o church_n they_o must_v be_v a_o company_n of_o people_n call_v second_o that_o they_o may_v be_v a_o visible_a church_n they_o must_v join_v together_o in_o public_a profession_n and_o three_o that_o they_o may_v be_v a_o true_a church_n they_o must_v profess_v the_o true_a religion_n for_o the_o first_o they_o must_v be_v a_o company_n for_o one_o man_n can_v make_v a_o church_n a_o church_n be_v as_o much_o to_o say_v as_o a_o congregation_n and_o a_o congregation_n consist_v of_o diverse_a person_n one_o man_n can_v make_v a_o congregation_n and_o therefore_o one_o man_n can_v make_v a_o church_n now_o whether_o this_o company_n be_v great_a or_o small_a three_o thousand_o or_o but_o three_o it_o be_v not_o much_o material_a so_o long_o as_o they_o be_v a_o company_n more_o or_o few_o if_o they_o be_v so_o qualify_v as_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o definition_n require_v they_o be_v a_o church_n second_o it_o be_v a_o company_n call_v for_o so_o you_o may_v remember_v that_o i_o show_v you_o before_o that_o church_n have_v her_o name_n in_o the_o greek_a from_o call_v now_o whereas_o there_o be_v a_o double_a call_n one_o outward_a the_o oath_n inward_a those_o that_o have_v only_o a_o outward_a calling_n be_v visible_a member_n if_o they_o obey_v the_o outward_a call_n it_o be_v sufficient_a to_o make_v they_o to_o be_v repute_v in_o the_o church_n but_o if_o they_o be_v true_a and_o saving-member_n of_o the_o church_n ordinary_o they_o must_v be_v call_v not_o outward_o only_a but_o inward_o too_o and_o must_v yield_v obedience_n unto_o both_o three_o a_o company_n 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to_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n or_o reprove_v and_o convince_v any_o for_o a_o false_a we_o must_v lay_v it_o to_o this_o rule_n so_o whether_o they_o profess_v the_o save_a truth_n of_o christ_n or_o not_o and_o according_o esteem_n and_o judge_v of_o they_o to_o be_v true_a or_o false_a church_n here_o certain_a exception_n may_v be_v make_v to_o this_o doctrine_n the_o first_o exception_n be_v this_o what_o 1._o do_v you_o say_v that_o a_o company_n profess_v the_o save_a truth_n make_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n will_v profession_n only_o make_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n i_o answer_v no_o first_o it_o be_v require_v answ_n that_o the_o save_a truth_n be_v among_o they_o indeed_o else_o they_o be_v no_o true_a church_n second_o that_o be_v among_o they_o it_o be_v not_o to_o be_v smother_v but_o profess_v three_o that_o it_o be_v not_o only_o outward_o profess_v but_o inward_o embrace_v too_o at_o least_o by_o some_o of_o they_o rom._n 10.10_o 2._o the_o second_o 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and_o natural_a mother_n that_o reas_n 5_o bring_v forth_o a_o child_n of_o her_o own_o body_n and_o after_o she_o have_v bring_v it_o forth_o nourish_v it_o with_o her_o own_o milk_n so_o likewise_o the_o church_n that_o do_v beget_v we_o by_o the_o word_n of_o truth_n and_o nourish_v we_o with_o the_o sacrament_n be_v not_o she_o a_o true_a church_n six_o every_o tree_n be_v know_v by_o the_o fruit_n matth._n 7.16_o reas_n 6_o 17._o the_o false_a prophet_n be_v know_v by_o his_o false_a doctrine_n for_o so_o the_o place_n intend_v if_o that_o be_v a_o sufficient_a mark_n to_o know_v they_o by_o then_o true_a doctrine_n be_v a_o sufficient_a mark_n to_o know_v the_o true_a church_n by_o seven_o it_o be_v christ_n presence_n that_o make_v a_o true_a visible_a reas_n 7_o church_n therefore_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n outward_o represent_v christ_n presence_n so_o as_o nothing_o else_o do_v and_o so_o make_v he_o notorious_o present_a make_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n last_o 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congregation_n beside_o except_o 1_o the_o true_a visible_a church_n have_v these_o mark_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v not_o sufficient_a nor_o infallible_a mark_n i_o answer_v answ_n it_o be_v true_a that_o other_o congregation_n pretend_v to_o have_v these_o mark_n as_o what_o heretic_n or_o schismatic_n be_v there_o that_o will_v not_o say_v they_o have_v the_o truth_n and_o right_a faith_n with_o they_o this_o be_v the_o general_a claim_n of_o they_o all_o the_o scripture_n be_v we_o and_o for_o we_o but_o this_o be_v a_o false_a pretence_n for_o when_o it_o come_v to_o the_o trial_n it_o will_v appear_v that_o it_o be_v but_o their_o say_n not_o that_o it_o be_v so_o in_o truth_n for_o either_o they_o will_v refuse_v some_o part_n of_o the_o scripture_n or_o else_o they_o will_v mangle_v and_o deprave_v it_o or_o else_o they_o will_v take_v the_o letter_n for_o the_o sense_n as_o the_o papist_n do_v in_o the_o matter_n of_o transubstantiation_n this_o be_v my_o body_n and_o 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will_v counterfeit_v god_n own_o mark_n and_o cognisance_n but_o we_o must_v try_v the_o spirit_n 1_o joh._n 4.1_o and_o the_o proof_n will_v make_v all_o clear_a for_o satan_n can_v transform_v himself_o into_o a_o angel_n of_o light_n and_o his_o apostle_n can_v transform_v themselves_o into_o the_o apostle_n of_o christ_n and_o his_o minister_n as_o though_o they_o be_v the_o minister_n of_o righteousness_n 2_o cor._n 11.13_o 14_o 15._o so_o than_o though_o these_o lay_v claim_v to_o these_o mark_n and_o say_v they_o be_v they_o yet_o they_o have_v no_o right_n to_o they_o it_o be_v but_o their_o vain_a brag_n their_o master_n satan_n himself_o allege_v scripture_n and_o pretend_v it_o be_v for_o he_o but_o he_o be_v shameful_o discover_v by_o our_o saviour_n for_o he_o leave_v out_o part_n of_o it_o and_o deprave_a it_o as_o we_o may_v see_v math._n 4.6_o 7._o and_o so_o the_o harlot_n pro._n 7.14_o say_v i_o have_v peace-offering_n this_o day_n i_o have_v pay_v my_o vow_n therefore_o come_v i_o out_o to_o meet_v thou_o she_o pretend_v to_o pray_v but_o her_o intent_n be_v to_o play_v the_o harlot_n and_o so_o zidkiah_n 1_o king_n 22.24_o brag_v that_o he_o have_v the_o spirit_n of_o prophecy_n when_o indeed_o it_o be_v a_o lie_a spirit_n that_o be_v in_o his_o mouth_n so_o the_o congregation_n of_o heretic_n and_o of_o schismatic_n lay_v claim_v to_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n and_o say_v they_o be_v they_o when_o as_o indeed_o they_o be_v not_o because_o they_o do_v either_o refuse_v some_o part_n of_o they_o or_o deprave_v they_o or_o add_v unto_o they_o their_o own_o invention_n second_o that_o except_o and_o say_v that_o many_o visible_a church_n have_v except_o 2_o not_o these_o mark_n at_o least_o not_o all_o of_o they_o always_o i_o answer_v yes_o they_o have_v they_o all_o answ_n and_o that_o always_o in_o some_o measure_n more_o or_o less_o else_o they_o be_v not_o true_a visible_a church_n for_o the_o better_a understanding_n hereof_o consider_v these_o two_o thing_n first_o the_o different_a estate_n of_o church_n necessary_a sometime_o god_n church_n do_v thrive_v and_o flourish_v and_o than_o it_o have_v all_o these_o mark_n without_o doubt_n god_n word_n be_v true_o preach_v the_o sacrament_n right_o administer_v and_o obedience_n to_o they_o both_o be_v profess_v and_o yield_v and_o that_o in_o a_o high_a degree_n but_o sometime_o a_o church_n of_o god_n be_v not_o in_o such_o a_o excellent_a estate_n some_o be_v but_o in_o their_o begining_n new_o plant_v and_o so_o can_v have_v all_o at_o once_o but_o have_v every_o thing_n in_o its_o order_n &_o place_n first_o the_o word_n be_v tender_v to_o they_o than_o the_o people_n if_o they_o believe_v and_o submit_v themselves_o and_o profess_v obedience_n to_o it_o they_o be_v to_o be_v make_v partaker_n of_o the_o sacrament_n first_o baptism_n and_o then_o the_o lord_n supper_n so_o far_o forth_o as_o it_o be_v a_o visible_a church_n it_o have_v all_o these_o mark_n these_o church_n be_v but_o in_o their_o beginning_n and_o therefore_o they_o have_v but_o the_o beginning_n of_o these_o note_n and_o mark_n again_o sometime_o a_o church_n be_v in_o a_o die_a and_o decay_a estate_n either_o by_o reason_n of_o apostasy_n or_o persecution_n if_o the_o church_n be_v in_o a_o decay_a state_n by_o apostasy_n what_o shall_v i_o say_v to_o such_o church_n i_o say_v that_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o these_o be_v true_a visible_a church_n so_o far_o forth_o they_o retain_v these_o mark_n if_o they_o be_v but_o the_o remainder_n of_o a_o church_n than_o they_o have_v the_o remainder_n of_o these_o mark_n if_o it_o be_v a_o die_a and_o a_o decay_a church_n than_o it_o have_v die_v and_o decay_a mark_n so_o then_o these_o mark_n must_v be_v find_v in_o all_o true_a visible_a church_n according_a to_o the_o state_n of_o those_o church_n if_o it_o be_v a_o die_a church_n than_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n and_o obedience_n be_v die_v and_o decay_v too_o but_o when_o it_o be_v quite_o fall_v it_o cease_v to_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n nor_o have_v it_o these_o mark_n and_o so_o likewise_o in_o the_o time_n of_o persecution_n when_o the_o church_n be_v so_o persecute_v that_o there_o be_v none_o leave_v to_o make_v open_a profession_n of_o the_o faith_n and_o religion_n of_o christ_n yet_o so_o long_o as_o there_o be_v any_o that_o public_o suffer_v for_o the_o gospel_n so_o long_o there_o be_v a_o true_a church_n though_o trouble_v and_o bring_v low_o for_o by_o their_o suffering_n they_o profess_v obedience_n to_o the_o gospel_n and_o though_o they_o be_v debar_v of_o the_o public_a use_n of_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n yet_o the_o fruit_n and_o effect_n of_o they_o be_v still_o visible_a
and_o so_o they_o have_v these_o note_n and_o mark_n in_o some_o degree_n second_o consider_v in_o what_o state_n or_o sense_n these_o mark_n be_v necessary_o require_v in_o the_o church_n they_o shall_v be_v and_o sometime_o be_v in_o the_o pure_a and_o sound_a church_n in_o a_o high_a and_o excellent_a degree_n there_o be_v the_o true_a word_n without_o tradition_n the_o true_a sacrament_n none_o but_o those_o that_o christ_n institute_v true_a obedience_n without_o resistance_n to_o any_o part_n of_o the_o know_a will_n of_o god_n and_o answerable_o this_o true_a word_n must_v be_v true_o and_o sound_o preecht_v these_o sacrament_n only_o so_o administer_v as_o christ_n have_v command_v without_o any_o addition_n and_o this_o true_a obedience_n true_o profess_v without_o any_o sinister_a respect_n and_o this_o all_o church_n be_v to_o pray_v and_o labour_n for_o and_o thus_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v in_o all_o true_a visible_a church_n but_o yet_o they_o be_v general_o otherwise_o in_o all_o visible_a church_n in_o as_o much_o as_o all_o be_v subject_a to_o error_n and_o corruption_n but_o yet_o so_o long_o as_o the_o true_a mark_n be_v find_v in_o any_o visible_a church_n though_o they_o be_v not_o so_o right_o and_o sincere_o carry_v as_o they_o shall_v the_o same_o be_v a_o true_a church_n though_o not_o so_o pure_a as_o some_o other_o if_o they_o have_v the_o true_a word_n though_o mix_v with_o some_o error_n so_o they_o be_v not_o such_o as_o overthrow_v the_o foundation_n they_o be_v a_o true_a church_n though_o more_o corrupt_a as_o for_o example_n the_o church_n of_o galatia_n embrace_v the_o true_a word_n but_o not_o true_o preach_v for_o they_o teach_v justification_n by_o work_n gal._n 3.1_o 2_o 3._o and_o some_o think_v that_o they_o be_v then_o in_o the_o state_n of_o apostasy_n and_o yet_o they_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n and_o be_v so_o call_v gal._n 1.2_o so_o second_o for_o the_o sacrament_n look_v into_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n 1_o cor._n 11.22_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o chapter_n they_o have_v the_o lord_n supper_n but_o it_o be_v much_o deprave_a and_o not_o so_o sincere_o administer_v as_o it_o ought_v to_o have_v be_v and_o yet_o they_o be_v a_o true_a church_n and_o so_o for_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o resurrection_n a_o material_a point_n in_o religion_n there_o be_v some_o that_o deny_v it_o in_o the_o church_n of_o corinth_n 1_o cor._n 15.12_o and_o yet_o they_o be_v a_o true_a church_n last_o for_o profession_n of_o obedience_n the_o church_n of_o sardis_n revel_v 3.3.1_o have_v a_o name_n that_o she_o live_v but_o be_v dead_a 123._o they_o be_v general_o in_o the_o estate_n of_o apostasy_n in_o that_o church_n yet_o because_o they_o make_v profession_n of_o obedience_n though_o not_o sincere_o and_o because_o some_o among_o they_o do_v true_o profess_v as_o in_o the_o 4._o ver_fw-la therefore_o it_o be_v call_v a_o church_n i_o speak_v not_o this_o to_o cherish_v any_o church_n in_o the_o corruption_n that_o they_o be_v in_o but_o only_o to_o keep_v we_o from_o a_o uncharitable_a conceit_n of_o such_o a_o church_n as_o not_o to_o esteem_v it_o for_o a_o true_a church_n because_o the_o word_n be_v not_o so_o true_o preach_v nor_o the_o sacrament_n so_o right_o administer_v nor_o profession_n of_o obedience_n so_o sincere_o yield_v as_o it_o ought_v to_o be_v three_o they_o object_n and_o say_v that_o these_o be_v not_o more_o except_o 2_o know_n than_o the_o church_n and_o so_o be_v disable_v by_o your_o own_o rule_n before_o give_v from_o be_v the_o principal_a mark_n i_o answer_v they_o must_v be_v and_o be_v better_o know_v than_o the_o church_n for_o see_v that_o only_o be_v a_o true_a church_n which_o profess_v the_o true_a faith_n as_o we_o have_v show_v before_o therefore_o we_o must_v first_o know_v which_o be_v the_o true_a faith_n before_o we_o know_v which_o be_v the_o true_a church_n and_o so_o as_o they_o must_v be_v more_o know_v so_o they_o must_v be_v first_o know_v i_o know_v a_o visible_a church_n as_o a_o company_n of_o man_n not_o by_o their_o faith_n but_o as_o a_o church_n by_o their_o faith_n only_o and_o their_o profession_n of_o it_o as_o i_o know_v a_o musician_n because_o of_o his_o music_n not_o the_o music_n by_o the_o musician_n and_o so_o much_o for_o reproof_n of_o these_o first_o sort_n of_o adversary_n that_o except_v against_o this_o doctrine_n exception_n second_o it_o reprove_v other_o that_o object_n and_o say_v that_o there_o be_v other_o mark_n require_v as_o well_o as_o these_o as_o first_o love_n to_o the_o brethren_n i_o answer_v this_o be_v a_o part_n of_o their_o obedience_n which_o they_o profess_v second_o say_v they_o there_o except_o 1_o must_v be_v a_o lawful_a ministry_n i_o answer_v that_o be_v presuppose_v and_o intend_v in_o the_o two_o former_a mark_n answ_n when_o we_o say_v except_o 2_o that_o the_o word_n must_v be_v true_o preach_v and_o the_o sacrament_n right_o administer_v answ_n yea_o but_o say_v they_o special_o discipline_n except_o 3_o that_o be_v a_o essential_a mark_n i_o answer_v that_o be_v a_o good_a mark_n answ_n but_o not_o essential_a the_o church_n have_v a_o be_v and_o a_o well-being_n discipline_n be_v a_o note_n of_o the_o well-being_n of_o the_o church_n not_o of_o the_o true_a be_v of_o it_o for_o it_o be_v no_o part_n of_o the_o essence_n of_o the_o church_n and_o so_o it_o be_v exclude_v from_o be_v a_o necessary_a mark_n of_o a_o true_a church_n because_o it_o be_v not_o essential_a i_o confess_v where_o that_o discipline_n want_v that_o god_n call_v for_o in_o his_o word_n that_o so_o far_o that_o church_n be_v a_o imperfect_a church_n but_o yet_o not_o a_o false_a church_n as_o a_o man_n sick_a of_o the_o palsy_n his_o sinew_n be_v weak_a his_o hand_n tremble_v his_o joint_n be_v not_o sound_o knit_v together_o this_o be_v a_o craze_a and_o disease_a man_n not_o a_o false_a man_n so_o that_o church_n that_o want_v discipline_n be_v not_o well_o and_o sound_o tie_v together_o in_o the_o joint_n and_o so_o be_v a_o imperfect_a church_n not_o a_o false_a church_n i_o speak_v not_o this_o as_o i_o say_v before_o to_o cherish_v any_o church_n in_o their_o corruption_n for_o they_o be_v to_o labour_v against_o they_o but_o yet_o let_v we_o judge_v charitable_o and_o not_o say_v such_o a_o church_n be_v a_o false_a church_n when_o indeed_o it_o be_v but_o a_o bad_a church_n they_o three_o and_o last_o there_o be_v other_o adversary_n here_o reprove_v that_o object_n against_o this_o doctrine_n and_o they_o be_v the_o papist_n they_o object_n and_o say_v that_o these_o mark_n be_v not_o the_o principal_a but_o other_o be_v more_o require_v than_o these_o and_o that_o as_o better_a mark_n they_o allege_v four_o first_o antiquity_n second_o succession_n three_o multitude_n last_o unity_n or_o consent_n these_o be_v strange_a mark_n of_o a_o true_a church_n first_o for_o antiquity_n can_v that_o find_v i_o out_o the_o true_a church_n then_o it_o will_v follow_v that_o every_o ancient_a church_n be_v a_o true_a church_n and_o so_o the_o church_n among_o the_o turk_n shall_v be_v a_o true_a church_n because_o it_o be_v ancient_a therefore_o it_o be_v antiquity_n of_o truth_n not_o of_o place_n or_o people_n look_v what_o church_n maintain_v the_o ancient_a doctrine_n of_o truth_n that_o be_v the_o true_a church_n so_o that_o antiquity_n separate_v from_o the_o truth_n be_v no_o note_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n cain_n and_o satan_n be_v ancient_a yet_o no_o true_a church_n but_o join_v this_o note_n with_o the_o truth_n the_o true_a word_n preach_v which_o be_v one_o of_o our_o note_n and_o then_o it_o be_v a_o true_a mark_n second_o for_o succession_n what_o succession_n of_o bishop_n or_o of_o man_n that_o sit_v in_o one_o chair_n be_v this_o a_o note_n without_o the_o word_n or_o with_o it_o if_o they_o say_v without_o the_o word_n that_o be_v falsâ—â—f_a with_o the_o word_n than_o still_o they_o run_v upon_o our_o note_n and_o mark_n of_o the_o church_n for_o we_o say_v that_o succession_n of_o true_a and_o sound_a doctrine_n be_v a_o special_a note_n of_o the_o church_n succession_n of_o itself_o be_v no_o note_n it_o be_v as_o if_o a_o man_n shall_v say_v this_o be_v my_o horse_n because_o this_o be_v my_o bridle_n as_o if_o his_o bridle_n will_v not_o serve_v any_o other_o horse_n three_o for_o multitude_n they_o make_v that_o a_o note_n of_o the_o church_n but_o it_o be_v quite_o contrary_a for_o general_o the_o true_a church_n be_v the_o few_o in_o number_n and_o for_o the_o most_o part_n the_o great_a number_n be_v the_o worst_a and_o by_o this_o rule_n in_o christ_n time_n the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n and_o jew_n be_v
the_o scripture_n the_o write_a word_n of_o god_n and_o nothing_o else_o general_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o only_a rule_n of_o faith_n and_o of_o obedience_n what_o it_o teach_v must_v only_o be_v believe_v and_o what_o it_o command_v must_v only_o be_v obey_v and_o nothing_o else_o as_o necessary_a to_o salvation_n and_o general_o all_o church_n acknowledge_v the_o scripture_n to_o be_v the_o canon_n yea_o the_o popish_a church_n to_o his_o day_n retain_v the_o name_n though_o they_o cast_v it_o out_o at_o the_o backgate_n yet_o at_o the_o foregate_n they_o take_v it_o in_o the_o canon_n that_o be_v as_o much_o to_o say_v as_o the_o rule_n now_o what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v with_o a_o rule_n all_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v fit_v to_o it_o and_o not_o it_o to_o any_o thing_n carpenter_n and_o mason_n they_o fit_v their_o timber_n and_o stone_n to_o the_o rule_n and_o not_o the_o rule_n to_o the_o timber_n or_o stone_n so_o than_o the_o scripture_n be_v the_o rule_n whatsoever_o be_v to_o be_v believe_v or_o obey_v must_v be_v square_v by_o it_o and_o look_v how_o much_o it_o come_v short_a or_o go_v beyond_o or_o miss_v on_o this_o hand_n or_o that_o of_o the_o rule_n so_o much_o it_o come_v short_a of_o true_a save_a faith_n and_o obedience_n and_o so_o much_o we_o go_v out_o of_o the_o way_n of_o salvation_n therefore_o cast_v away_o all_o other_o measure_n as_o crooked_a tradition_n custom_n etc._n etc._n and_o stick_v fast_o only_o to_o this_o rule_n as_o to_o the_o perfect_a square_n of_o all_o religion_n we_o must_v put_v nothing_o to_o god_n word_n nor_o take_v aught_o there_o from_o this_o the_o lord_n himself_o command_v deut._n 4.2_o and_o 5.32.35_o second_o as_o this_o be_v the_o rule_n of_o faith_n so_o it_o be_v the_o trial_n of_o every_o truth_n the_o scripture_n be_v the_o only_a touch_n stone_n of_o truth_n if_o paul_n teach_v the_o truth_n truth_n it_o must_v be_v try_v by_o the_o scripture_n act_n 17.11_o let_v heathen_a man_n bring_v their_o paganism_n the_o turck_n their_o alcoran_n the_o jew_n their_o talmud_n the_o papist_n their_o catechism_n counsel_n custom_n and_o tradition_n to_o this_o touchstone_n and_o this_o this_o will_v show_v they_o all_o to_o be_v stark_o counterfeit_v very_a dross_n and_o filth_n not_o worthy_a to_o be_v once_o look_v after_o much_o less_o to_o be_v esteem_v the_o precious_a golden_a truth_n of_o god_n that_o soul_n shall_v be_v save_v by_o last_o yet_o mistake_v not_o as_o to_o think_v that_o all_o matter_n of_o substance_n and_o salvation_n be_v express_o in_o the_o word_n same_o that_o be_v by_o name_n and_o in_o so_o many_o word_n as_o we_o be_v to_o apprehend_v it_o but_o at_o least_o by_o consequence_n and_o to_o be_v deduct_v by_o sound_n and_o sanctify_a reason_n apply_v it_o to_o the_o circumstance_n of_o the_o text_n and_o to_o the_o analogy_n of_o faith_n and_o so_o we_o have_v finish_v those_o thing_n that_o concern_v matter_n of_o substance_n we_o come_v in_o the_o next_o place_n to_o matter_n of_o circumstance_n and_o these_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n either_o miracle_n or_o discipline_n either_o miracle_n for_o indeed_o it_o be_v a_o part_n of_o the_o power_n of_o the_o catholic_a visible_a church_n as_o it_o contain_v altogether_o from_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o down_o to_o our_o time_n for_o with_o they_o it_o be_v a_o ordinary_a thing_n to_o do_v miracle_n matth._n 10.1_o our_o saviour_n give_v they_o power_n against_o unclean_a spirit_n to_o cast_v they_o out_o &c_n &c_n and_o mark_v 16.17_o and_o 1_o cor._n 12.9.10_o to_o another_o be_v give_v the_o the_o gift_n of_o heal_a to_o another_o the_o operation_n of_o great_a work_n by_o the_o same_o spirit_n and_o it_o be_v very_o necessary_a at_o the_o first_o plant_n of_o the_o gospel_n that_o they_o shall_v have_v this_o power_n for_o the_o confirm_v of_o their_o office_n and_o authority_n that_o plant_v it_o but_o now_o there_o be_v no_o use_n of_o miracle_n their_o doctrine_n and_o write_n be_v sufficient_o confirm_v already_o and_o therefore_o that_o power_n be_v restrain_v and_o what_o church_n soever_o challenge_v this_o power_n therein_o may_v just_o be_v censure_v for_o anti-christian_n speak_v of_o in_o the_o 2_o thes_n 2.9_o second_o or_o discipline_n and_o that_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n either_o matter_n of_o government_n or_o matter_n of_o ceremony_n of_o the_o first_o we_o have_v speak_v already_o of_o the_o second_o we_o will_v speak_v a_o word_n by_o ceremony_n we_o understand_v the_o time_n place_n and_o gesture_n to_o be_v observe_v in_o god_n worship_n and_o service_n we_o will_v contrive_v the_o whole_a business_n into_o this_o observation_n every_o particular_a visible_a church_n have_v power_n from_o god_n to_o ordain_v some_o outward_a rite_n and_o ceremony_n for_o the_o outward_a carriage_n of_o god_n worship_n within_o that_o church_n or_o congregation_n mark_v the_o part_n of_o the_o note_n doct._n first_o i_o say_v every_o visible_a church_n for_o the_o invisible_a not_o be_v contain_v within_o the_o bound_n of_o any_o one_o settle_v outward_a state_n can_v have_v no_o such_o order_n second_o i_o say_v particular_a for_o beside_o that_o a_o general_a visible_a church_n can_v so_o be_v proper_o assign_v to_o a_o place_n and_o if_o it_o be_v yet_o be_v of_o so_o large_a a_o extent_n as_o common_o it_o be_v it_o can_v be_v bring_v within_o the_o compass_n of_o the_o same_o outward_a rite_n three_o i_o say_v have_v power_n from_o god_n to_o ordain_v ceretaine_n rite_n four_o i_o say_v for_o the_o outward_a carriage_n of_o church_n business_n for_o they_o have_v nothing_o to_o do_v with_o the_o inward_a man_n five_o i_o say_v they_o must_v be_v within_o that_o particular_a church_n for_o one_o church_n be_v not_o to_o prescribe_v another_o what_o they_o shall_v do_v except_o their_o case_n be_v very_o like_a and_o that_o there_o be_v a_o willingness_n in_o the_o receiver_n so_o the_o note_n be_v clear_a we_o come_v to_o the_o proof_n act_n 15.1_o 2._o in_o the_o church_n of_o antioch_n there_o be_v a_o matter_n in_o question_n as_o touch_v circumcision_n a_o outward_a ceremony_n the_o apostle_n be_v then_o at_o jerusalem_n be_v by_o the_o consent_n of_o the_o church_n of_o antioch_n consult_v withal_o about_o it_o and_o according_o they_o deliver_v their_o judgement_n in_o the_o 23._o verse_n etc._n etc._n and_o therein_o show_v their_o power_n and_o consequent_o the_o power_n of_o the_o church_n after_o they_o for_o the_o cause_n be_v perpetual_a the_o course_n must_v be_v perpetual_a too_o and_o they_o show_v their_o power_n both_o in_o disannul_v some_o ceremony_n as_o circumcision_n vers_fw-la 10._o as_o abstaming_a from_o meat_n offer_v to_o idol_n and_o blood_n verse_n 20._o which_o be_v certain_o thing_n in_o their_o own_o nature_n indifferent_a as_o the_o apostle_n show_v of_o meat_n 1_o corinth_n 8.8_o and_o yet_o all_o this_o they_o do_v with_o the_o assistance_n of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n verse_n 28._o and_o that_o only_a in_o thing_n needful_a as_o in_o the_o same_o verse_n and_o this_o they_o do_v not_o so_o much_o for_o the_o thing_n itself_o but_o for_o the_o avoid_n of_o offence_n and_o so_o in_o the_o 1_o cor._n 11.2_o etc._n etc._n where_o the_o apostle_n mention_n the_o ordinance_n which_o he_o have_v deliver_v they_o already_o which_o be_v general_o understand_v of_o matter_n of_o order_n and_o decency_n and_o the_o circumstance_n make_v it_o plain_a enough_o for_o after_o verse_n 3_o etc._n etc._n he_o deliver_v they_o other_o ordinance_n keep_v which_o he_o have_v not_o deliver_v they_o before_o concern_v the_o uncover_v of_o the_o man_n head_n and_o the_o cover_n of_o the_o woman_n head_n which_o be_v thing_n indifferent_a in_o themselves_o yet_o for_o comeliness_n sake_n he_o do_v there_o enjoin_v they_o and_o verse_n 20_o etc._n etc._n he_o deliver_v certain_a other_o ordinance_n concern_v the_o outward_a carriage_n of_o god_n worship_n in_o the_o lord_n supper_n as_o their_o tarry_v one_o for_o another_o eat_v before_o etc._n etc._n verse_n 33.34_o and_o whereas_o many_o other_o thing_n be_v out_o of_o frame_n with_o they_o he_o promise_v in_o the_o end_n of_o 34._o verse_n to_o order_v the_o rest_n at_o his_o come_n to_o they_o where_o it_o be_v clear_a that_o the_o order_n of_o thing_n concern_v the_o outward_a carriage_n of_o god_n worship_n be_v in_o the_o power_n of_o the_o church_n itself_o for_o still_o the_o rule_n hold_v that_o the_o disease_n continue_v always_o require_v a_o continual_a reamedy_n from_o time_n to_o time_n so_o in_o the_o 1._o cor_n 14.26_o 40._o the_o apostle_n will_v have_v all_o thing_n do_v decent_o and_o in_o order_n he_o give_v they_o this_o general_a rule_n for_o matter_n of_o ceremony_n and_o they_o must_v draw_v particular_n according_o
though_o they_o live_v under_o the_o miserable_a slavery_n of_o the_o turk_n yet_o be_v to_o be_v account_v true_a visible_a church_n we_o will_v take_v our_o pattern_n by_o that_o of_o constantinople_n where_o there_o be_v a_o patriarch_n at_o this_o day_n who_o have_v answer_v the_o objection_n both_o of_o the_o protestant_n and_o papist_n to_o their_o religion_n now_o there_o be_v a_o true_a church_n first_o because_o they_o affirm_v the_o foundation_n and_o every_o part_n thereof_o second_o their_o error_n do_v not_o direct_o overthrow_v the_o foundation_n nor_o any_o part_n thereof_o for_o the_o first_o they_o hold_v so_o much_o of_o the_o right_a catholic_a faith_n as_o may_v just_o entitle_v they_o to_o the_o name_n of_o a_o true_a church_n the_o whole_a creed_n that_o we_o profess_v they_o retain_v also_o in_o the_o interpretation_n of_o some_o point_n they_o differ_v somewhat_o from_o we_o but_o in_o the_o main_a substance_n they_o agree_v hold_v the_o foundation_n firm_a and_o sure_a christ_n jesus_n god_n and_o man_n the_o only_a saviour_n of_o the_o world_n etc._n etc._n they_o renounce_v the_o head-ship_n of_o the_o pope_n and_o many_o other_o point_n of_o popish_a religion_n they_o submit_v themselves_o to_o the_o direction_n of_o scripture_n though_o the_o interpretation_n thereof_o they_o will_v fetch_v most_o willing_o from_o their_o predecessor_n the_o greek_a father_n of_o who_o some_o being_n more_o sound_a other_o less_a their_o religion_n be_v not_o so_o sincere_a as_o it_o shall_v therefore_o the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o proof_n be_v whether_o their_o error_n be_v such_o as_o direct_o overthrow_v the_o foundation_n or_o any_o part_n thereof_o they_o be_v taint_v with_o the_o error_n of_o free_a will_n intercession_n of_o saint_n and_o transubstantiation_n and_o some_o other_o popish_a opinion_n which_o yet_o they_o do_v not_o maintain_v altogether_o so_o obstinate_o as_o the_o romish_a church_n do_v church_n but_o their_o main_a error_n be_v their_o deny_v of_o the_o holy_a ghost_n to_o proceed_v from_o the_o son_n from_o the_o father_n they_o acknowledge_v and_o by_o the_o son_n but_o from_o the_o son_n this_o they_o express_o deny_v now_o we_o know_v that_o the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o majesty_n of_o god_n himself_o in_o his_o nature_n and_o in_o his_o person_n be_v a_o most_o profound_a and_o principal_a point_n in_o religion_n and_o very_o wary_o to_o be_v consider_v of_o every_o error_n therein_o be_v dangerous_a and_o fearful_a and_o near_o to_o blasphemy_n and_o this_o very_a error_n haply_o if_o it_o be_v thorough_o sift_v will_v be_v prove_v to_o overthrow_v by_o consequence_n the_o foundation_n yet_o see_v first_o it_o do_v not_o direct_o overthrow_v any_o part_n of_o it_o and_o see_v second_o we_o hear_v they_o do_v not_o either_o absolute_o oppose_v herein_o to_o the_o know_a truth_n or_o omit_v the_o search_n of_o scripture_n for_o it_o but_o profess_v that_o upon_o plain_a evidence_n of_o scripture_n they_o will_v yield_v and_o three_o see_v they_o hold_v the_o foundation_n and_o every_o part_n thereof_o in_o express_a word_n we_o dare_v hardly_o charge_v they_o for_o heretical_a church_n much_o less_o to_o be_v no_o true_a visible_a church_n at_o all_o but_o that_o man_n live_v in_o those_o church_n believe_v otherwise_o aright_o in_o christ_n crucify_v and_o repent_v of_o their_o manifold_a error_n and_o ignorances_n may_v be_v all_o save_v undoubted_o use_v 1_o the_o use_v of_o this_o point_n be_v these_o first_o it_o be_v matter_n of_o reproof_n and_o first_o of_o the_o papist_n and_o that_o in_o two_o point_n first_o in_o that_o they_o presume_v the_o church_n of_o rome_n to_o be_v the_o only_a true_a visible_a church_n affirm_v that_o no_o church_n be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n but_o they_o that_o be_v subject_a to_o the_o pope_n and_o have_v he_o to_o be_v their_o head_n we_o see_v here_o that_o these_o be_v true_a church_n and_o better_a than_o the_o popish_a church_n popish-church_n and_o yet_o be_v far_o from_o his_o jurisdiction_n yea_o they_o hate_v and_o defy_v it_o so_o that_o their_o definition_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n be_v false_a when_o they_o say_v that_o there_o be_v no_o true_a church_n but_o that_o which_o be_v gather_v under_o the_o head-ship_n of_o the_o pope_n whereas_o the_o greek_a church_n as_o we_o see_v be_v true_a church_n and_o yet_o not_o gather_v under_o that_o head_n it_o be_v true_a that_o in_o former_a time_n a_o patriarch_n of_o constantinople_n do_v in_o ambition_n seek_v the_o title_n of_o head_n or_o universal_a bishop_n and_o the_o pope_n of_o rome_n at_o that_o time_n withstand_v he_o say_v that_o whosoever_o take_v upon_o he_o that_o title_n shall_v be_v the_o forerunner_n of_o antichrist_n and_o it_o prove_v true_a for_o not_o long_o after_o one_o that_o succeed_v that_o pope_n take_v this_o title_n upon_o he_o and_o be_v indeed_o antichrist_n i_o say_v that_o a_o patriarch_n in_o ambition_n seek_v it_o but_o now_o he_o be_v bring_v low_o enough_o his_o head_n be_v under_o the_o yoke_n of_o the_o turk_n the_o adversary_n of_o god_n church_n who_o then_o think_v to_o be_v the_o head_n of_o all_o church_n but_o though_o he_o miss_v of_o that_o the_o church_n still_o continue_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n &_o be_v so_o to_o this_o day_n and_o yet_o never_o acknowledge_v the_o pope_n to_o be_v their_o head_n second_o answer_v it_o meet_v with_o they_o for_o their_o uncharitable_a censure_v of_o these_o church_n as_o no_o true_a church_n of_o god_n they_o be_v both_o heretical_a &_o schismatical_a say_v they_o what_o if_o they_o be_v so_o yet_o still_o they_o may_v be_v true_a church_n as_o we_o show_v before_o for_o heresy_n as_o i_o will_v not_o precise_o condemn_v they_o so_o neither_o can_v i_o altogether_o acquitte_v they_o but_o as_o for_o schism_n they_o be_v guilty_a of_o none_o rome_n but_o only_o they_o be_v rend_v from_o the_o romish_a church_n in_o particular_a so_o that_o here_o be_v the_o quarrel_n because_o they_o do_v not_o submit_v their_o neck_n under_o the_o pope_n yoke_n and_o see_v they_o and_o every_o particular_a church_n be_v a_o body_n within_o itself_o as_o that_o of_o rome_n i_o see_v no_o reason_n that_o their_o estate_n shall_v be_v judge_v schismatical_a bishop_n except_o they_o have_v depart_v when_o they_o have_v be_v member_n of_o that_o church_n but_o they_o be_v never_o subject_a to_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n one_o thing_n there_o be_v find_v in_o these_o greek_a church_n which_o the_o papist_n take_v in_o their_o state_n to_o be_v a_o chief_a note_n of_o the_o church_n and_o that_o be_v succession_n of_o bishop_n which_o be_v as_o currant_n in_o the_o church_n of_o constantinople_n and_o alexandria_n as_o in_o rome_n even_o from_o the_o apostle_n time_n succession_n in_o rome_n be_v a_o certain_a note_n and_o mark_v of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n and_o there_o be_v as_o good_a succession_n in_o the_o greek_a church_n as_o at_o rome_n and_o yet_o they_o say_v they_o be_v no_o church_n at_o all_o either_o let_v they_o disclaim_v this_o in_o the_o one_o or_o acknowledge_v it_o in_o the_o other_o i_o be_o persuade_v that_o the_o lord_n have_v preserve_v this_o succession_n in_o the_o greek_a church_n of_o purpose_n to_o abate_v the_o pride_n of_o the_o roman_a church_n build_v so_o direct_o upon_o that_o allegation_n it_o will_v else_o have_v be_v a_o far_o more_o colourable_a plea_n to_o the_o natural_a man_n but_o they_o deny_v the_o force_n of_o the_o use_v 2_o reason_n in_o other_o do_v plain_o answer_v themselves_o turk_n the_o second_o use_n teach_v we_o the_o great_a goodness_n of_o god_n and_o the_o care_n he_o have_v in_o the_o preservation_n of_o his_o church_n these_o greek_a church_n have_v live_v many_o a_o hundred_o year_n under_o the_o government_n and_o slavery_n of_o the_o turk_n that_o buy_v and_o sell_v they_o and_o their_o child_n and_o among_o the_o professor_n of_o mahomet_n the_o foul_a idol_n that_o the_o world_n afford_v in_o regard_n of_o government_n they_o live_v under_o what_o a_o heavy_a yoke_n be_v it_o what_o a_o bloody_a service_n how_o many_o persecution_n disgrace_n indignity_n tax_n and_o oppression_n horrible_a wrong_n and_o miserable_a slavery_n do_v they_o undergo_v they_o be_v buy_v sell_v imprison_a and_o put_v to_o death_n it_o can_v be_v speak_v what_o slavery_n they_o live_v in_o and_o yet_o behold_v god_n have_v uphold_v his_o church_n among_o they_o all_o to_o this_o day_n i_o dare_v say_v that_o israel_n preservation_n under_o the_o bondage_n of_o egypt_n so_o many_o hundred_o year_n be_v not_o more_o miraculous_a than_o this_o of_o these_o christian_n under_o the_o turk_n so_o likewise_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o religion_n of_o those_o that_o they_o be_v mix_v with_o it_o be_v a_o heavy_a yoke_n christ_n
a_o true_a visible_a church_n i_o grant_v that_o they_o come_v very_o near_o the_o root_n of_o faith_n and_o overthrow_v the_o foundation_n almost_o to_o the_o very_a ground_n mercy_n by_o the_o doctrine_n of_o justification_n by_o work_n which_o error_n if_o they_o will_v reclaim_v few_o or_o none_o of_o we_o will_v doubt_v but_o that_o they_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n yet_o this_o overthrow_v christ_n not_o direct_o but_o by_o consequence_n by_o consequence_n they_o do_v because_o if_o man_n merit_n justify_v than_o christ_n merit_n alone_o do_v not_o justify_v we_o but_o direct_o they_o do_v not_o for_o still_o they_o believe_v in_o christ_n their_o only_a saviour_n and_o they_o say_v that_o it_o be_v christ_n merit_n that_o make_v they_o merit_v they_o be_v not_o so_o gross_a in_o this_o point_n as_o they_o be_v yet_o still_o they_o be_v gross_a enough_o overthrow_v the_o foundation_n by_o consequence_n yet_o still_o by_o consequence_n only_o not_o direct_o and_o therefore_o still_o they_o may_v be_v repute_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n but_o you_o will_v say_v be_v it_o not_o as_o dangerous_a against_o a_o man_n salvation_n to_o deny_v christ_n by_o consequence_n as_o to_o deny_v he_o direct_o to_o shut_v he_o out_o at_o the_o backdoor_n as_o at_o the_o foredoor_n i_o answer_v it_o be_v not_o so_o great_a a_o sin_n yet_o i_o say_v he_o that_o do_v this_o deserve_v in_o god_n justice_n to_o be_v cut_v off_o from_o christ_n mercy_n as_o well_o as_o the_o other_o especial_o if_o he_o see_v the_o consequent_a but_o if_o he_o see_v it_o not_o it_o be_v not_o so_o foul_a a_o sin_n as_o to_o deny_v christ_n direct_o he_o that_o direct_o deny_v the_o foundation_n whether_o he_o see_v it_o or_o not_o be_v in_o certain_a state_n of_o damnation_n but_o he_o that_o deny_v it_o by_o consequence_n and_o see_v it_o not_o but_o yet_o do_v firm_o believe_v in_o christ_n so_o far_o as_o he_o know_v and_o be_v willing_a in_o reverence_n and_o humility_n to_o learn_v more_o and_o to_o obey_v better_a and_o do_v daily_o repent_v and_o beg_v mercy_n of_o god_n for_o his_o fail_n the_o lord_n do_v ordinary_o either_o enlighten_v such_o a_o one_o and_o so_o bring_v he_o to_o repent_v or_o else_o do_v forgive_v he_o his_o ignorances_n and_o so_o save_v he_o so_o that_o he_o that_o deny_v christ_n direct_o be_v in_o certain_a state_n of_o damnation_n unless_o he_o have_v a_o particular_a repentance_n for_o that_o sin_n but_o he_o that_o deny_v christ_n by_o consequence_n if_o he_o confess_v his_o ignorances_n and_o weakness_n to_o god_n and_o crave_v pardon_n of_o they_o and_o labour_n for_o more_o knowledge_n may_v be_v save_v though_o they_o have_v not_o this_o particular_a repentance_n for_o that_o sin_n and_o that_o this_o be_v the_o case_n of_o many_o thousand_o poor_a simple_a soul_n that_o heretofore_o have_v be_v and_o now_o be_v contain_v in_o the_o bosom_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n no_o man_n of_o any_o bowel_n of_o charity_n can_v suspect_v so_o much_o for_o the_o first_o reason_n the_o second_o reason_n be_v take_v from_o the_o comparison_n of_o reas_n 2_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n israel_n with_o other_o church_n in_o the_o same_o state_n compare_v she_o to_o the_o church_n of_o israel_n in_o exod._n 32.6_o there_o they_o fall_v to_o idolatry_n worship_v the_o calf_n and_o yet_o they_o be_v a_o true_a church_n still_o and_o in_o numb_a 25.3_o 9_o compare_v with_o the_o 1_o cor._n 3.8_o we_o see_v that_o they_o join_v themselves_o to_o baalpeor_n and_o commit_v fornication_n with_o the_o moabite_n thus_o they_o be_v very_o bad_a and_o yet_o a_o true_a church_n still_o look_v further_o into_o the_o time_n of_o jeroboam_fw-la that_o set_v up_o the_o calf_n and_o make_v all_o israel_n to_o sin_n so_o that_o god_n threaten_v to_o give_v they_o up_o for_o the_o sin_n of_o jeroboam_fw-la 1_o king_n 14.16_o and_o so_o in_o ahab_n time_n in_o the_o 1_o king_n 16.30_o ahab_n the_o son_n of_o omri_n do_v worse_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o lord_n than_o all_o that_o be_v before_o he_o and_o so_o a_o time_n be_v when_o there_o be_v no_o passove_a in_o israel_n for_o many_o year_n time_n and_o yet_o they_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n still_o so_o likewise_o compare_v it_o with_o the_o estate_n of_o the_o church_n of_o the_o jew_n in_o our_o saviour_n time_n it_o be_v in_o the_o state_n of_o apostasy_n and_o yet_o a_o true_a church_n the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n retain_v some_o notable_a truth_n be_v still_o to_o be_v hear_v matth._n 23.3_o and_o yet_o their_o leven_n to_o be_v take_v heed_n of_o matthew_n 16.6_o so_o that_o though_o they_o have_v many_o corrruption_n yet_o they_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n galatia_n the_o church_n of_o galatia_n retain_v circumcision_n whereby_o all_o profit_n and_o benefit_n by_o christ_n be_v utter_o m_o the_o void_a that_o be_v by_o consequence_n the_o apostle_n say_v galat._n 5.2_o that_o if_o we_o be_v circumcise_v christ_n shall_v profit_v we_o nothing_o and_o yet_o this_o be_v a_o true_a church_n still_o work_n and_o i_o dare_v say_v that_o circumcision_n do_v as_o near_o cut_v off_o from_o christ_n as_o justification_n by_o work_n by_o consequence_n they_o do_v both_o overthrow_v the_o foundation_n and_o so_o the_o church_n of_o sardis_n that_o have_v but_o a_o name_n to_o live_v and_o be_v dead_a revel_v 3.1_o be_v yet_o a_o true_a church_n now_o if_o all_o these_o be_v true_a church_n that_o be_v thus_o corrupe_v why_o may_v not_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n though_o it_o be_v idolatrous_a and_o have_v many_o other_o foul_a corruption_n sardis_n be_v in_o some_o sense_n repute_v a_o true_a visible_a reas_n 3_o church_n the_o three_o reasen_a be_v draw_v from_o the_o confession_n of_o many_o even_o of_o our_o best_a divine_n as_o luther_n calvin_n zanchey_n morney_n and_o other_o that_o be_v most_o fiery_a and_o fierce_a against_o the_o romish_a church_n hate_v their_o abomination_n with_o as_o perfect_a hatred_n and_o detestation_n as_o any_o and_o yet_o they_o confess_v she_o to_o be_v a_o true_a church_n though_o a_o corrupt_a church_n though_o a_o die_a church_n though_o her_o life_n hang_v but_o by_o a_o thread_n this_o they_o have_v confess_v of_o she_o i_o allege_v this_o not_o so_o much_o a_o reason_n to_o prove_v but_o rather_o as_o a_o qualification_n to_o mitigate_v the_o odiousness_n of_o this_o speech_n in_o the_o ear_n of_o many_o which_o do_v great_o reverence_v the_o judgement_n of_o these_o father_n and_o yet_o can_v endure_v to_o hear_v that_o the_o name_n of_o a_o true_a church_n shall_v be_v afford_v to_o rome_n reas_n 4_o last_o their_o baptism_n be_v true_a baptism_n and_o therefore_o they_o be_v a_o true_a though_o a_o unsound_a visible_a church_n for_o the_o trueness_n of_o the_o church_n and_o of_o christ_n sacrament_n by_o they_o administer_v do_v necessary_o infer_v each_o other_o wheresoever_o there_o be_v a_o true_a sacrament_n right_o administer_v for_o the_o substance_n of_o it_o it_o there_o be_v a_o true_a church_n but_o baptism_n in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v right_o administer_v for_o the_o substance_n of_o it_o and_o therefore_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v a_o true_a church_n the_o error_n of_o rebaptisation_n of_o such_o as_o have_v be_v baptize_v by_o heretic_n do_v arise_v from_o the_o want_n of_o the_o due_a consideration_n of_o the_o very_a like_o point_n in_o those_o thing_n so_o much_o for_o the_o reason_n use_v 1_o the_o use_v be_v these_o first_o than_o this_o teach_v we_o answ_n that_o those_o be_v lawful_o baptize_v that_o have_v be_v baptize_v in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n and_o that_o the_o baptism_n we_o receive_v from_o they_o be_v lawful_a baptism_n but_o some_o except_a and_o say_v that_o they_o that_o be_v baptise_a in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v baptize_v into_o their_o faith_n i_o answer_v no_o but_o they_o be_v baptize_v into_o the_o faith_n of_o the_o trinity_n and_o this_o be_v the_o singular_a wisdom_n and_o mercy_n of_o god_n to_o keep_v they_o sound_v in_o that_o that_o be_v for_o the_o substance_n of_o baptism_n though_o otherwise_o they_o be_v general_o corrupt_a but_o you_o will_v say_v it_o be_v intend_v by_o they_o into_o their_o faith_n answ_n i_o answer_v first_o that_o their_o intent_n be_v so_o as_o be_v persuade_v their_o faith_n be_v the_o true_a christian_a faith_n and_o second_o i_o answer_v the_o minister_n intent_n make_v not_o the_o sacrament_n answerable_a to_o it_o but_o it_o be_v god_n work_n and_o he_o make_v it_o to_o a_o faithful_a receiver_n effectual_a to_o the_o use_n 2_o right_a use_n that_o he_o have_v ordain_v it_o unto_o ordination_n second_o it_o justify_v our_o ministry_n against_o the_o brownist_n and_o the_o papist_n
refuse_v to_o come_v no_o let_v we_o be_v thankful_a for_o it_o it_o be_v a_o precious_a jewel_n and_o let_v we_o take_v heed_n we_o do_v not_o relinquish_v our_o call_v let_v we_o not_o look_v back_o for_o no_o man_n that_o put_v his_o hand_n to_o the_o plough_n and_o look_v back_o be_v fit_a for_o the_o kingdom_n of_o god_n use_v 4_o four_o by_o this_o we_o may_v know_v whether_o we_o be_v of_o the_o church_n of_o god_n or_o no._n every_o one_o that_o live_v in_o the_o church_n pretend_v to_o be_v of_o the_o church_n but_o here_o be_v the_o trial_n be_v thou_o call_v yes_o why_o then_o thou_o be_v of_o the_o church_n in_o some_o sense_n so_o far_o as_o thou_o be_v call_v so_o far_o thou_o be_v of_o the_o church_n if_o thou_o have_v only_o a_o outward_a call_n thou_o be_v but_o a_o outward_a member_n but_o if_o thou_o have_v a_o inward_a and_o effectual_a call_n than_o thou_o be_v a_o true_a and_o live_a member_n of_o it_o but_o you_o will_v say_v how_o shall_v i_o know_v whether_o i_o have_v this_o effectual_a call_n or_o not_o i_o answer_v it_o be_v easy_a to_o know_v it_o do_v thou_o find_v god_n spirit_n work_v effectual_o in_o thou_o to_o cause_v thou_o to_o leave_v thy_o sin_n to_o stir_v thou_o up_o to_o repentance_n and_o to_o faith_n and_o to_o do_v good_a work_n as_o thou_o have_v a_o new_a name_n so_o have_v thou_o by_o this_o call_n a_o new_a heart_n and_o a_o new_a life_n and_o new_a motion_n and_o affection_n &_o new_a course_n if_o thou_o have_v than_o thy_o call_n be_v effectual_a else_o it_o be_v but_o a_o dream_n the_o sure_a mark_n of_o all_o be_v thy_o conscience_n do_v that_o check_n thou_o for_o every_o know_a sin_n and_o infirmity_n and_o do_v thou_o labour_v in_o truth_n to_o obey_v it_o and_o renounce_v and_o overcome_v that_o sin_n thy_o conscience_n check_v thou_o for_o this_o be_v the_o sure_a mark_n of_o a_o effectual_a call_v for_o when_o the_o spirit_n have_v thus_o quicken_v and_o purge_v thou_o and_o do_v instruct_v thou_o and_o deal_v effectual_o with_o thy_o conscience_n and_o frame_v thou_o to_o obedience_n to_o it_o here_o be_v a_o sure_a mark_n of_o a_o effectual_a call_n if_o we_o flee_v the_o corruption_n that_o be_v in_o the_o world_n through_o lust_n and_o if_o we_o give_v ourselves_o diligent_o to_o a_o course_n of_o grace_n and_o sanctification_n if_o we_o join_v with_o our_o virtue_n faith_n etc._n etc._n this_o make_v our_o call_n sure_a and_o our_o election_n too_o 2._o pet._n 1.5_o 9_o 10._o and_o if_o we_o do_v these_o thing_n we_o shall_v never_o fall_v use_v 5_o the_o last_o use_n be_v matter_n of_o reproof_n or_o confutation_n of_o such_o as_o deny_v we_o and_o the_o church_n wherein_o we_o live_v to_o be_v a_o true_a church_n we_o have_v a_o true_a call_n and_o that_o from_o god_n to_o sanctification_n by_o the_o word_n and_o sacrament_n and_o by_o the_o spirit_n therefore_o we_o be_v a_o true_a church_n this_o they_o can_v deny_v ainsworth_n and_o other_o among_o themselves_o confess_v that_o they_o have_v their_o call_v here_o yea_o their_o effectual_a call_v and_o they_o will_v not_o say_v but_o they_o be_v a_o true_a call_v therefore_o so_o be_v we_o and_o so_o our_o church_n a_o true_a church_n yea_o but_o say_v they_o this_o call_n be_v extraordinary_a i_o answer_v what_o be_v extraordinary_a in_o it_o the_o mean_n be_v ordinary_a as_o the_o word_n preach_v read_v and_o confer_v on_o the_o sacrament_n administer_v and_o prayer_n offer_v up_o to_o god_n it_o be_v extraordinary_a when_o we_o be_v call_v without_o mean_n or_o by_o rare_a and_o strange_a mean_n but_o the_o mean_n here_o be_v ordinary_a therefore_o the_o calling_n be_v so_o too_o beside_o many_o thousand_o in_o our_o church_n have_v a_o true_a and_o effectual_a call_v the_o mean_n be_v daily_o powerful_a through_o god_n mercy_n either_o to_o win_v or_o to_o confirm_v not_o a_o few_o but_o many_o thousand_o therefore_o the_o commonness_n of_o it_o prove_v it_o to_o be_v ordinary_a yea_o but_o say_v they_o it_o be_v so_o in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n too_o many_o be_v call_v there_o and_o yet_o that_o be_v no_o true_a church_n it_o be_v strange_a that_o they_o will_v blind_v themselves_o so_o wilful_o and_o not_o discern_v betwixt_o thing_n that_o so_o notorious_o differ_v for_o first_o in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n few_o or_o none_o be_v convert_v here_o in_o our_o church_n be_v many_o second_o they_o have_v only_o a_o general_n call_v to_o a_o confuse_a notice_n of_o god_n we_o to_o the_o particular_a and_o precise_a knowledge_n of_o every_o article_n and_o point_n of_o religion_n needful_a to_o salvation_n three_o they_o have_v not_o the_o mean_n the_o word_n true_o preach_v nor_o read_v in_o a_o know_a tongue_n we_o have_v therefore_o it_o be_v strange_a that_o they_o shall_v once_o open_v their_o mouth_n to_o make_v such_o a_o absurd_a comparison_n the_o second_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n now_o in_o the_o second_o place_n we_o be_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o title_n give_v to_o the_o church_n title_n there_o be_v no_o great_a difference_n betwixt_o the_o name_n and_o the_o title_n of_o a_o thing_n for_o sometime_o the_o name_n be_v call_v the_o title_n and_o the_o title_n the_o name_n yet_o as_o it_o be_v with_o person_n of_o great_a place_n and_o quality_n they_o have_v their_o name_n and_o their_o title_n too_o as_o paul_n a_o apostle_n of_o jesus_n christ_n etc._n etc._n paul_n there_o be_v his_o name_n a_o apostle_n etc._n etc._n there_o be_v his_o title_n and_o so_o it_o be_v general_o with_o all_o thing_n of_o any_o great_a note_n they_o have_v their_o name_n whereby_o they_o be_v ordinary_o call_v and_o their_o title_n whereby_o some_o extraordinary_a or_o special_a matter_n be_v attribute_v to_o they_o and_o affirm_v of_o they_o so_o in_o the_o matter_n in_o hand_n concern_v the_o saint_n or_o company_n of_o the_o faithful_a the_o name_n church_n do_v propound_v they_o bare_o or_o simple_o to_o our_o understanding_n the_o title_n raise_v we_o up_o to_o the_o consideration_n of_o some_o further_a matter_n in_o the_o nature_n and_o state_n of_o the_o church_n than_o the_o name_n do_v import_v and_o therefore_o have_v speak_v of_o the_o name_n now_o we_o be_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o title_n of_o the_o church_n there_o be_v many_o worthy_a and_o goodly_a title_n ascribe_v to_o the_o church_n as_o it_o be_v say_v psalm_n 87.3_o goodly_a and_o glorious_a thing_n be_v speak_v of_o thou_o oh_o city_n of_o god_n many_o as_o be_v much_o variety_n of_o matter_n to_o be_v consider_v in_o the_o estate_n of_o the_o church_n and_o glorious_a as_o every_o title_n commend_v the_o grace_n beauty_n and_o glory_n of_o the_o church_n after_o a_o special_a manner_n reason_n and_o the_o lord_n do_v adorn_v she_o with_o these_o many_o glorious_a title_n for_o many_o cause_n as_o first_o to_o give_v we_o a_o more_o full_a and_o perfect_a view_n of_o the_o whole_a doctrine_n concern_v the_o church_n no_o one_o title_n be_v able_a to_o express_v all_o the_o particular_n that_o concern_v the_o church_n therefore_o the_o lord_n use_v many_o that_o what_o be_v want_v in_o some_o may_v be_v supply_v by_o the_o rest_n second_o that_o he_o may_v express_v and_o set_v forth_o the_o greatness_n of_o his_o love_n to_o his_o church_n which_o be_v infinite_a and_o extend_v in_o many_o excellent_a kind_n require_v many_o and_o glorious_a title_n to_o express_v it_o by_o it_o be_v true_a that_o none_o indeed_o though_o never_o so_o many_o and_o glorious_a can_v express_v it_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o his_o love_n but_o these_o that_o we_o have_v do_v full_o express_v it_o according_a to_o the_o measure_n of_o our_o capacity_n so_o far_o as_o we_o be_v able_a and_o as_o it_o be_v fit_a for_o we_o to_o understand_v three_o because_o by_o these_o many_o glorious_a title_n give_v to_o the_o church_n the_o lord_n will_v enamour_v we_o with_o her_o love_n and_o allure_v we_o to_o her_o communion_n that_o we_o may_v the_o more_o willing_o and_o cheerful_o be_v associate_v and_o gather_v unto_o she_o and_o the_o more_o sweet_o and_o comfortable_o repose_v ourselves_o in_o her_o bosom_n when_o we_o hear_v so_o many_o and_o so_o glorious_a thing_n speak_v of_o she_o i_o can_v relate_v much_o less_o handle_v all_o the_o title_n affirm_v of_o the_o church_n only_o i_o will_v reduce_v they_o to_o certain_a head_n and_o cull_v forth_o the_o choice_n of_o they_o out_o of_o each_o testament_n sort_n they_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n first_o some_o be_v absolute_a that_o concern_v the_o church_n simple_o in_o itself_o second_o some_o be_v not_o so_o absolute_a but_o respective_a which_o concern_v the_o church_n as_o iâ—_n
have_v reference_n to_o something_o else_o else_o first_o some_o be_v absolute_a without_o reference_n to_o any_o thing_n else_o garden_n the_o first_o be_v in_o the_o former_a testament_n cant._n 4.12_o it_o be_v call_v a_o garden_n enclose_v a_o spring_n shut_v up_o a_o fountain_n seal_v up_o here_o two_o title_n be_v give_v to_o it_o first_o it_o be_v call_v a_o garden_n for_o as_o in_o a_o garden_n grow_v many_o fragrant_a and_o goodly_a flower_n pleasant_a to_o the_o eye_n and_o sweet_a and_o comfortable_a to_o the_o smell_n so_o in_o the_o church_n many_o goodly_a grace_n like_o fragrant_a flower_n do_v grow_v and_o flourish_v the_o word_n and_o the_o sacrament_n faith_n and_o obedience_n justification_n and_o sanctification_n etc._n etc._n these_o spiritual_a flower_n cast_v a_o wondrous_a please_a sight_n upon_o the_o eye_n and_o a_o sweet_a smell_n to_o the_o nostril_n of_o every_o spiritual_a man_n that_o be_v able_a to_o see_v into_o and_o discern_v they_o yea_o the_o lord_n himself_o make_v this_o garden_n as_o his_o walk_a place_n delight_v and_o solace_v his_o majesty_n with_o the_o sweet_a odour_n of_o the_o fruit_n of_o this_o garden_n that_o be_v the_o grace_n and_o beauty_n of_o this_o paradise_n fountain_n second_o it_o be_v call_v a_o spring_n or_o fountain_n first_o because_o as_o a_o spring_n have_v water_n in_o it_o so_o the_o church_n have_v water_n excellent_a water_n even_o the_o water_n of_o life_n this_o be_v it_o our_o saviour_n speak_v of_o joh._n 7.38_o 39_o he_o that_o believe_v in_o i_o out_o of_o his_o belly_n shall_v flow_v river_n of_o water_n of_o life_n this_o speak_v he_o of_o the_o spirit_n which_o they_o that_o believe_v in_o he_o shall_v receive_v these_o water_n be_v the_o spiritual_a gift_n and_o grace_n which_o god_n bestow_v upon_o his_o church_n second_o it_o be_v call_v a_o spring_n or_o a_o fountain_n because_o as_o a_o fountain_n have_v water_n so_o it_o have_v clear_a water_n so_o the_o water_n in_o the_o church_n the_o gift_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n wherewith_o it_o be_v adorn_v be_v clean_o and_o pure_a not_o stain_v with_o puddle_n and_o dirt_n of_o sin_n and_o error_n three_o as_o a_o spring_n or_o fountain_n have_v water_n in_o itself_o at_o the_o first_o hand_n and_o have_v it_o not_o derive_v to_o they_o by_o any_o channel_n or_o secondary_a mean_n so_o the_o gift_n and_o grace_n of_o the_o church_n they_o have_v they_o confer_v upon_o they_o immediate_o from_o christ_n himself_o who_o be_v the_o fountain_n of_o the_o garden_n as_o in_o that_o cant._n 4.15_o and_o there_o be_v one_o common_a adjunct_n affirm_v of_o each_o of_o these_o title_n a_o garden_n enclose_v a_o spring_n shut_v up_o or_o a_o fountain_n seal_v up_o and_o this_o be_v add_v to_o show_v the_o privateness_n or_o severalnesse_n of_o it_o in_o itself_o that_o it_o be_v hedge_v in_o or_o shut_v up_o this_o show_v first_o the_o special_a protection_n of_o god_n over_o his_o church_n or_o people_n he_o hedge_n and_o wall_n and_o enclose_v they_o in_o and_o seal_n and_o shut_v they_o up_o so_o that_o nothing_o can_v come_v at_o they_o to_o work_v their_o annoyance_n second_o this_o intend_v a_o separation_n betwixt_o they_o and_o the_o world_n first_o a_o separation_n of_o they_o from_o the_o world_n that_o they_o may_v not_o communicate_v with_o they_o in_o their_o corruption_n in_o their_o manner_n and_o fashion_n but_o that_o they_o may_v continue_v within_o the_o compass_n of_o their_o own_o society_n second_o a_o separation_n of_o the_o world_n from_o they_o that_o they_o can_v communicate_v in_o their_o pleasant_a fruit_n and_o pure_a water_n profane_a and_o graceless_a people_n they_o can_v have_v no_o part_n in_o the_o gift_n and_o grace_n of_o god_n spirit_n they_o be_v restrain_v only_o to_o the_o church_n and_o to_o the_o choose_a so_o much_o of_o that_o place_n out_o of_o the_o old_a testament_n the_o other_o place_n be_v in_o the_o new_a testament_n in_o the_o 1._o pet._n 2.9_o 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minister_v wrong_v first_o it_o have_v be_v much_o wrong_v for_o many_o hundred_o year_n and_o that_o by_o many_o first_o by_o those_o in_o the_o romish_a church_n second_o by_o some_o of_o our_o own_o church_n first_o way_n it_o have_v be_v wrong_v and_o corrupt_v exceed_o by_o those_o of_o the_o romish_a church_n and_o that_o in_o these_o respect_n first_o in_o that_o they_o false_o challenge_v it_o and_o appropriate_v it_o to_o themselves_o alone_o second_o in_o that_o they_o boast_v of_o it_o as_o their_o crown_n and_o glory_n three_o in_o that_o they_o put_v their_o confidence_n in_o it_o that_o because_o they_o have_v this_o name_n therefore_o they_o be_v undoubted_o the_o true_a church_n and_o in_o certain_a state_n of_o salvation_n first_o the_o word_n be_v wrong_v in_o that_o they_o of_o the_o romish_a church_n do_v false_o challenge_v and_o appropriate_v it_o to_o themselves_o as_o if_o their_o church_n be_v catholic_a and_o none_o else_o and_o as_o if_o their_o faith_n be_v 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in_o that_o case_n to_o be_v boast_v of_o but_o quiet_o and_o sober_o to_o be_v enjoy_v god_n best_a grace_n in_o we_o be_v not_o vain_o to_o be_v boast_v of_o much_o less_o any_o outward_a name_n which_o be_v but_o cast_v upon_o we_o lest_o of_o all_o such_o as_o we_o take_v upon_o ourselves_o without_o desert_n three_o they_o wrong_v it_o 3.5_o in_o that_o they_o put_v much_o confidence_n in_o this_o name_n that_o because_o they_o be_v so_o call_v therefore_o say_v bristol_n and_o the_o rhemist_n we_o be_v the_o undoubted_o true_a church_n &_o in_o certain_a state_n of_o salvation_n for_o this_o be_v one_o of_o the_o pillar_n of_o popery_n the_o very_a name_n of_o the_o church_n and_o catholic_a they_o be_v the_o two_o pillar_n that_o popery_n build_v upon_o but_o it_o be_v to_o be_v consider_v that_o the_o name_n make_v not_o the_o man_n to_o be_v such_o as_o he_o be_v call_v but_o on_o the_o contrary_a because_o a_o man_n be_v such_o a_o one_o as_o the_o name_n import_v therefore_o he_o be_v so_o call_v as_o for_o example_n a_o father_n or_o a_o master_n be_v not_o such_o a_o one_o because_o he_o be_v so_o call_v but_o because_o he_o be_v a_o father_n or_o a_o master_n therefore_o he_o be_v call_v so_o therefore_o we_o must_v first_o examine_v ourselves_o whether_o we_o be_v such_o as_o the_o name_n import_v and_o then_o we_o may_v have_v comfort_n in_o our_o state_n whether_o we_o be_v so_o name_v or_o not_o if_o the_o name_n be_v upon_o we_o without_o cause_n we_o be_v nothing_o the_o near_a to_o salvation_n if_o it_o be_v on_o we_o upon_o good_a cause_n than_o we_o may_v have_v comfort_n in_o our_o state_n not_o for_o the_o name_n but_o because_o we_o be_v such_o as_o the_o name_n signify_v so_o that_o the_o name_n be_v no_o way_n any_o matter_n of_o confidence_n to_o build_v our_o salvation_n on_o way_n in_o the_o second_o place_n it_o be_v somewhat_o wrong_v by_o some_o among_o we_o too_o not_o that_o we_o either_o mistake_v it_o as_o the_o papist_n do_v nor_o malign_v it_o as_o they_o say_v we_o do_v but_o occasional_o by_o their_o error_n on_o the_o one_o side_n we_o run_v into_o another_o on_o the_o otherside_n because_o they_o advance_v it_o too_o high_a we_o debase_v it_o too_o low_a first_o some_o labour_v to_o suppress_v the_o name_n quite_o as_o certain_a lutheran_n that_o have_v change_v catholic_a in_o the_o creed_n into_o christian_n second_o other_o scoff_v at_o it_o as_o a_o toy_n and_o a_o jest_n three_o other_o that_o in_o the_o heat_n of_o their_o spirit_n and_o pregnancy_n of_o their_o wit_n do_v deprave_v it_o and_o make_v a_o nickname_n of_o it_o cacolicke_v cartholike_a but_o these_o be_v distemper_v spirit_n not_o season_v with_o grace_n and_o modesty_n as_o it_o be_v to_o be_v wish_v four_o and_o last_o general_o all_o of_o we_o little_o regard_v it_o nor_o have_v it_o in_o that_o good_a request_n as_o it_o well_o deserve_v it_o be_v true_a that_o the_o name_n of_o christian_a be_v far_o more_o ancient_a and_o proper_a and_o more_o warrantable_a as_o we_o may_v see_v in_o act._n 11.26_o they_o of_o the_o church_n of_o antioch_n be_v first_o call_v christian_n yet_o let_v not_o this_o name_n be_v suppress_v for_o to_o be_v call_v catholic_n have_v be_v a_o matter_n of_o long_a continuance_n and_o understand_v it_o for_o the_o member_n of_o the_o catholic_a church_n it_o be_v a_o reverend_a and_o a_o honourable_a stile_n thus_o we_o see_v how_o this_o name_n have_v be_v wrong_v first_o by_o they_o of_o the_o romish_a church_n second_o by_o some_o among_o us._n now_o second_o we_o be_v to_o right_v the_o word_n of_o and_o restore_v it_o to_o the_o original_a sense_n that_o so_o we_o may_v frame_v we_o to_o a_o reverend_a and_o sober_a estimation_n of_o it_o and_o neither_o esteem_n of_o it_o too_o much_o nor_o too_o little_a and_o to_o this_o end_n first_o therefore_o we_o will_v consider_v of_o the_o antiquity_n of_o the_o word_n second_o we_o will_v show_v the_o right_a meaning_n of_o it_o and_o three_o the_o common_a receive_a use_n of_o it_o first_o consider_v the_o antiquity_n of_o it_o it_o this_o word_n be_v not_o find_v in_o any_o of_o the_o book_n of_o scripture_n only_o it_o be_v find_v in_o the_o preface_n of_o the_o epistle_n of_o james_n peter_n john_n and_o jude_n ibidem_fw-la there_o they_o be_v call_v catholic_a epistle_n which_o be_v a_o greek_a word_n and_o signify_v general_a which_o preface_v whether_o they_o be_v scripture_n or_o not_o be_v uncertain_a they_o may_v be_v so_o and_o they_o may_v not_o yet_o certain_a it_o be_v that_o the_o name_n be_v very_o ancient_a but_o come_v to_o the_o creed_n and_o there_o this_o word_n be_v plain_o find_v and_o that_o as_o a_o adjunct_n of_o the_o church_n i_o can_v say_v that_o it_o be_v the_o apostle_n own_o do_v but_o sure_o it_o be_v very_o near_o to_o the_o apostle_n time_n so_o likewise_o it_o be_v find_v in_o the_o nicene_n creed_n and_o also_o in_o athanasius_n creed_n oecumenius_n and_o there_o he_o apply_v it_o to_o the_o faith_n the_o faith_n profess_v by_o the_o catholic_a church_n be_v the_o catholic_a faith_n so_o we_o see_v that_o the_o word_n be_v very_o ancient_a second_o to_o right_v it_o we_o be_v to_o consider_v the_o right_a meaning_n of_o the_o word_n catholic_a which_o be_v general_a or_o universal_a for_o so_o the_o ancient_n expound_v the_o preface_n to_o the_o general_a epistle_n of_o peter_n and_o the_o general_a epistle_n of_o james_n as_o direct_v not_o to_o any_o particular_a nation_n or_o city_n as_o paul_n do_v his_o epistle_n to_o the_o roman_n but_o general_o and_o universal_o to_o all_o the_o faithful_a or_o to_o
salvation_n joint_o and_o particular_o and_o continual_o do_v we_o willing_o bring_v ourselves_o and_o our_o family_n to_o partake_v in_o the_o word_n sacrament_n and_o prayer_n the_o prophet_n david_n speak_v of_o the_o member_n of_o this_o communion_n say_v psal_n 110.3_o thy_o people_n shall_v come_v willieg_o at_o the_o time_n of_o assemble_v and_o do_v we_o profit_v by_o these_o mean_n have_v they_o the_o same_o effect_n in_o we_o as_o they_o have_v in_o god_n saint_n if_o they_o have_v than_o we_o be_v of_o this_o communion_n of_o saint_n else_o not_o second_o let_v we_o examine_v ourselves_o concern_v our_o gift_n have_v god_n distribute_v to_o thou_o any_o gift_n or_o grace_n whatsoever_o and_o be_v thou_o willing_a to_o employ_v it_o and_o communicate_v it_o to_o the_o common_a good_a of_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o saint_n as_o the_o apostle_n be_v rom._n 1.11_o that_o do_v long_o to_o be_v with_o the_o roman_n and_o why_o do_v he_o so_o long_o why_o because_o he_o have_v some_o spiritual_a gift_n to_o bestow_v among_o they_o if_o it_o be_v thus_o with_o thou_o than_o thou_o be_v a_o member_n of_o this_o communion_n this_o be_v that_o our_o saviour_n command_v peter_n luk._n 22.32_o when_o thou_o be_v convert_v strengthen_v thy_o brethren_n as_o if_o he_o shall_v say_v make_v other_o partaker_n of_o the_o same_o grace_n with_o thou_o three_o we_o must_v examine_v ourselves_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o want_n of_o our_o fellow_n member_n be_v we_o willing_a to_o relieve_v they_o in_o their_o want_n to_o supply_v they_o in_o their_o necessity_n according_a to_o our_o ability_n if_o we_o be_v than_o this_o be_v a_o token_n to_o we_o that_o we_o true_o practice_v this_o communion_n of_o saint_n this_o be_v it_o that_o the_o apostle_n commend_v as_o a_o thing_n well_o do_v that_o the_o philippian_n do_v communicate_v to_o his_o affliction_n phil._n 4.14_o and_o this_o also_o he_o command_v ro._n 12.13_o that_o they_o distribute_v to_o the_o necessity_n of_o the_o saint_n and_o that_o they_o give_v themselves_o to_o hospitality_n and_o heb._n 13.16_o to_o do_v good_a and_o to_o distribute_v forget_v not_o for_o with_o such_o sacrifice_n god_n be_v well_o please_v and_o this_o be_v the_o charge_n that_o the_o apostle_n will_v timothy_n to_o lay_v upon_o rich_a man_n that_o they_o be_v rich_a in_o good_a work_n ready_a to_o distribute_v and_o this_o he_o commend_v in_o they_o of_o macedonia_n that_o beyond_o their_o power_n they_o be_v willing_a and_o pray_v we_o with_o great_a instance_n say_v the_o apostle_n 2._o cor._n 8.3_o 4._o that_o we_o will_v receive_v the_o grace_n and_o fellowship_n of_o the_o minister_a which_o be_v towards_o the_o saint_n and_o rom._n 15.26_o 27._o and_o act._n 4._o man_n sell_v that_o they_o have_v and_o distribute_v to_o every_o one_o as_o they_o have_v need_v four_o we_o must_v examine_v ourselves_o in_o regard_n of_o our_o affection_n be_v we_o like_v mind_v to_o they_o do_v we_o suffer_v when_o they_o suffer_v have_v we_o a_o fellow-feeling_n of_o the_o affliction_n and_o misery_n of_o our_o fellow-member_n if_o we_o have_v then_o we_o be_v fellow-member_n with_o they_o 1._o cor._n 12.26_o if_o one_o member_n suffer_v all_o suffer_v with_o it_o this_o be_v a_o lively_a token_n of_o a_o living-member_n if_o they_o have_v a_o feel_n of_o the_o suffering_n of_o their_o fellow-member_n every_o living-member_n of_o the_o church_n have_v the_o bowel_n of_o compassion_n colos_n 3.12_o move_v with_o a_o lively_a feel_n of_o the_o misery_n of_o other_o else_o they_o be_v no_o live_n but_o rot_a and_o dead_a member_n five_o we_o must_v examine_v ourselves_o whether_o we_o pray_v for_o our_o fellow-member_n as_o for_o ourselves_o whether_o we_o pray_v for_o the_o good_a of_o god_n church_n as_o we_o be_v exhort_v psal_n 122.6_o pray_v for_o the_o peace_n of_o jerusalem_n six_o we_o must_v examine_v ourselves_o whether_o we_o exhort_v other_o comfort_v they_o provoke_v they_o and_o stir_v they_o up_o to_o love_n and_o to_o all_o good_a work_n as_o the_o apostle_n will_v we_o heb._n 3.13_o provoke_v one_o another_o daily_a and_o heb._n 10.24_o 25._o let_v we_o consider_v one_o another_o to_o provoke_v unto_o love_n and_o to_o good_a work_n not_o forsake_v the_o fellowship_n that_o be_v among_o ourselves_o if_o we_o do_v exhort_v one_o another_o thus_o this_o be_v a_o sign_n we_o be_v of_o this_o fellowship_n and_o a_o mean_n to_o continue_v we_o that_o we_o forsake_v not_o this_o fellowship_n seven_o we_o must_v examine_v ourselves_o whether_o we_o use_v our_o christian_a liberty_n christianly_o to_o the_o edification_n of_o our_o brethren_n and_o not_o to_o their_o destruction_n rom._n 12.13_o 15._o the_o last_o rule_n that_o we_o must_v examine_v ourselves_o by_o be_v this_o if_o we_o labour_v not_o for_o our_o own_o good_a only_a but_o for_o our_o brethren_n also_o if_o we_o seek_v not_o our_o own_o but_o every_o one_o another_o wealth_n 1._o cor._n 10.24_o if_o we_o look_v not_o every_o one_o on_o our_o own_o thing_n but_o every_o man_n also_o on_o the_o thing_n of_o other_o man_n philip._n 2.4_o if_o we_o labour_v to_o profit_v other_o as_o well_o as_o ourselves_o this_o be_v a_o true_a note_n that_o we_o be_v true_a and_o living-member_n of_o the_o church_n of_o god_n the_o four_o use_n here_o be_v matter_n of_o comfort_n to_o we_o that_o use_v 4_o be_v of_o the_o church_n not_o only_o that_o god_n have_v give_v we_o a_o communion_n of_o estate_n among_o his_o people_n but_o withal_o have_v enjoin_v we_o to_o practice_v all_o such_o duty_n as_o may_v make_v for_o the_o uphold_v thrive_v and_o continue_a in_o this_o state_n here_o then_o be_v our_o comfort_n be_v thou_o in_o want_n why_o god_n have_v give_v to_o other_o purposely_o for_o thy_o supply_n be_v thou_o in_o temptation_n or_o at_o the_o point_n of_o death_n happy_o then_o thou_o be_v not_o able_a to_o pray_v for_o thyself_o yet_o comfort_v thy_o soul_n thou_o be_v a_o member_n of_o the_o church_n and_o therefore_o thou_o be_v pray_v for_o of_o all_o the_o faithful_a and_o god_n will_v hear_v their_o prayer_n for_o thou_o last_o be_v thou_o deprive_v of_o god_n house_n by_o travel_n or_o sickness_n or_o persecution_n yet_o here_o be_v thy_o comfort_n thou_o be_v there_o in_o spirit_n and_o thy_o cause_n there_o in_o some_o kind_n be_v as_o effectual_o handle_v as_o if_o thou_o be_v there_o bodily_a present_n as_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1._o cor._n 5_o 4._o when_o you_o be_v gather_v together_o and_o my_o spirit_n etc._n etc._n no_o distance_n of_o place_n though_o it_o be_v as_o far_o as_o heaven_n from_o earth_n dissunder_v this_o communion_n nor_o debar_v we_o the_o benefit_n of_o it_o the_o spirit_n be_v every_o where_o so_o that_o the_o prayer_n of_o god_n church_n though_o i_o be_v never_o so_o far_o off_o be_v as_o effectual_a for_o i_o as_o if_o i_o be_v there_o myself_o so_o i_o be_v there_o in_o spirit_n use_v 5_o five_o this_o teach_v we_o of_o who_o we_o be_v to_o expect_v good_a and_o to_o who_o we_o be_v to_o do_v good_a thing_n first_o of_o who_o we_o be_v to_o expect_v good_a not_o from_o profane_a man_n but_o from_o godly_a man_n from_o the_o faithful_a therefore_o we_o shall_v strive_v to_o be_v in_o their_o company_n and_o desire_v their_o presence_n both_o to_o give_v and_o receive_v good_a the_o apostle_n rom._n 1.11_o 12._o desire_n to_o be_v among_o the_o roman_n why_o that_o he_o may_v do_v they_o good_a that_o be_v true_a he_o may_v do_v they_o good_a indeed_o but_o can_v they_o be_v but_o new_o convert_v do_v he_o that_o be_v so_o great_a a_o apostle_n any_o good_a yes_o that_o they_o may_v and_o therefore_o he_o desire_v to_o be_v with_o they_o that_o he_o may_v be_v comfort_v together_o with_o they_o through_o their_o mutual_a faith_n both_o he_o and_o they_o special_o we_o shall_v desire_v their_o prayer_n so_o do_v the_o apostle_n rom._n 15.30_o and_o heb._n 13.18_o pray_v for_o we_o say_v he_o have_v they_o need_v of_o our_o prayer_n then_o much_o more_o have_v we_o need_v of_o they_o yea_o the_o wicked_a themselves_o desire_v the_o prayer_n of_o the_o faithful_a exod._n 9.28_o pharaoh_n desire_v the_o prayer_n of_o moses_n and_o aaron_n to_o god_n for_o he_o they_o receive_v this_o benefit_n from_o the_o communion_n of_o the_o faithful_a though_o they_o give_v nothing_o to_o it_o that_o the_o faithful_a prey_n and_o be_v hear_v for_o they_o as_o job_n be_v for_o his_o friend_n job_n 42.8_o second_o this_o teach_v we_o also_o to_o who_o we_o be_v to_o do_v good_a namely_o to_o the_o faithful_a as_o the_o prophet_n david_n say_v psal_n 16.3_o my_o welldoing_a extend_v to_o the_o saint_n that_o be_v on_o earth_n and_o this_o be_v it_o
christian_a bear_v and_o yet_o join_v with_o the_o jewish_a church_n in_o their_o religion_n he_o be_v not_o of_o the_o christian_a but_o of_o the_o jewish_a church_n and_o so_o it_o be_v of_o all_o other_o so_o then_o the_o name_n of_o church_n and_o religion_n be_v in_o some_o sense_n yoke-fellowe_n all_o church_n receive_v denomination_n from_o the_o religion_n they_o profess_v now_o then_o religion_n be_v as_o the_o form_n of_o the_o church_n give_v it_o name_n and_o be_v therefore_o look_v what_o religion_n it_o be_v that_o the_o church_n profess_v and_o such_o be_v the_o church_n to_o be_v repute_v there_o be_v a_o true_a religion_n and_o every_o church_n embrace_v and_o profess_v the_o same_o be_v to_o be_v repute_v a_o true_a church_n as_o the_o reform_a church_n there_o be_v many_o false_a religion_n and_o every_o church_n profess_v such_o religion_n be_v false_a church_n as_o the_o church_n of_o the_o heathen_a that_o worship_n false_a god_n and_o so_o embrace_v false_a religion_n and_o so_o the_o church_n of_o the_o saracen_n that_o erect_v and_o set_v up_o mahomet_n against_o christ_n and_o of_o the_o jew_n that_o deny_v the_o come_n of_o the_o messiah_n in_o the_o flesh_n be_v false_a church_n but_o there_o be_v some_o church_n that_o embrace_v party_n religion_n in_o part_n true_a and_o in_o part_n false_a yea_o what_o church_n be_v so_o pure_a that_o be_v not_o taint_v with_o some_o error_n and_o what_o church_n be_v there_o so_o impure_a that_o profess_v not_o some_o notable_a heavenly_a truth_n we_o must_v therefore_o consider_v what_o truth_n and_o what_o error_n they_o hold_v and_o so_o the_o truth_n will_v be_v soon_o decide_v without_o christ_n there_o be_v no_o salvation_n and_o so_o no_o true_a church_n 1._o joh._n 5.12_o he_o that_o have_v the_o son_n have_v life_n and_o he_o that_o have_v not_o the_o son_n of_o god_n have_v not_o life_n if_o you_o ask_v i_o whether_o one_o and_o the_o same_o church_n may_v not_o be_v a_o true_a church_n in_o respect_n of_o some_o in_o it_o profess_v the_o truth_n or_o in_o respect_n of_o some_o fundamental_a truth_n profess_v in_o it_o and_o yet_o a_o false_a church_n in_o respect_n of_o some_o profess_v falsehood_n in_o it_o or_o in_o respect_n of_o some_o fundamental_a truth_n overthrow_v in_o it_o i_o answer_v sure_o it_o may_v till_o such_o time_n as_o the_o false_a church_n have_v get_v the_o upperhand_n and_o make_v law_n for_o her_o error_n and_o against_o the_o other_o truth_n with_o sentence_n of_o abandon_v all_o those_o out_o of_o their_o church_n which_o do_v hold_v the_o truth_n so_o it_o be_v with_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n before_o the_o council_n of_o trent_n and_o thus_o it_o be_v with_o the_o church_n of_o sardy_n revel_v 3.1_o 4._o she_o have_v a_o name_n to_o live_v but_o be_v dead_a and_o yet_o in_o the_o four_o verse_n the_o lord_n say_v he_o have_v a_o few_o name_n in_o sardy_a etc._n etc._n therefore_o take_v this_o for_o a_o rule_n whatsoever_o church_n embrace_v christ_n jesus_n god_n and_o man_n the_o only_a mean_n of_o salvation_n be_v a_o true_a church_n though_o taint_v with_o many_o error_n beside_o and_o on_o the_o contrary_a whatsoever_o church_n believe_v not_o this_o be_v a_o false_a church_n though_o it_o hold_v many_o other_o excellent_a truth_n beside_o so_o much_o of_o the_o division_n of_o the_o name_n of_o the_o church_n itself_o now_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o division_n of_o the_o thing_n itself_o that_o be_v of_o god_n church_n which_o be_v not_o so_o to_o be_v understand_v as_o if_o god_n have_v so_o many_o several_a kind_n of_o church_n for_o the_o church_n as_o i_o have_v show_v before_o be_v one_o and_o the_o same_o from_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o world_n to_o the_o end_n that_o church_n of_o god_n which_o be_v in_o the_o beginning_n and_o remain_v now_o and_o shall_v continue_v to_o the_o world_n end_n be_v but_o one_o and_o the_o same_o church_n therefore_o when_o we_o mention_v the_o division_n of_o the_o church_n itself_o we_o mean_v not_o that_o it_o be_v several_o divide_v into_o diverse_a and_o several_a kind_n but_o distinguish_v in_o itself_o in_o diverse_a and_o sundry_a respect_n and_o principal_o for_o these_o first_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o bound_n and_o limit_n distinguish_v or_o compass_v of_o it_o second_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o several_a portion_n belong_v to_o it_o in_o the_o several_a estate_n that_o it_o be_v ordain_v unto_o three_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o outward_a state_n of_o it_o to_o the_o world_n sometime_o know_v sometime_o unknown_a first_o it_o be_v distinguish_v in_o itself_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o bound_n and_o compass_n of_o it_o and_o so_o it_o be_v either_o universal_a or_o particular_a universal_a that_o be_v universal_a the_o whole_a company_n of_o god_n choose_v both_o in_o heaven_n a_o earth_n but_o this_o have_v no_o limit_n but_o be_v disperse_v far_o and_o wide_o over_o the_o face_n of_o the_o whole_a earth_n and_o reach_v to_o heaven_n itself_o but_o because_o i_o have_v speak_v of_o this_o before_o both_o in_o the_o adjunct_n catholic_a and_o also_o in_o handle_v the_o general_a nature_n of_o the_o church_n therefore_o i_o will_v trust_v your_o memory_n for_o that_o point_n and_o not_o speak_v more_o here_o of_o it_o in_o the_o next_o place_n a_o particular_a church_n that_o be_v particular_a every_o particular_a company_n of_o the_o faithful_a or_o at_o least_o of_o those_o that_o be_v call_v to_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o faith_n which_o be_v several_a by_o themselves_o of_o several_a time_n and_o place_n be_v but_o particular_a church_n but_o because_o we_o shall_v speak_v more_o proper_o of_o this_o when_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o visible_a church_n therefore_o we_o will_v respite_n it_o till_o then_o second_o it_o be_v distinguish_v in_o itself_o define_v in_o respect_n of_o the_o several_a portion_n that_o belong_v unto_o it_o in_o the_o several_a state_n that_o it_o be_v ordain_v to_o and_o they_o be_v two_o the_o first_o be_v on_o earth_n or_o in_o this_o life_n and_o that_o be_v a_o fight_v or_o warfare_n and_o the_o second_o be_v in_o heaven_n in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v crown_v and_o triumph_v and_o according_o the_o church_n be_v divide_v into_o the_o church_n militant_a and_o the_o church_n triumphant_a to_o begin_v with_o the_o first_o the_o church_n militant_a be_v the_o congregation_n of_o the_o faithful_a on_o earth_n that_o do_v continual_o exercise_v a_o spiritual_a warfare_n against_o sin_n and_o satan_n and_o all_o the_o adversary_n of_o god_n and_o of_o his_o religion_n mark_v the_o part_n of_o the_o definition_n i_o say_v it_o be_v a_o congregation_n of_o the_o faithful_a that_o do_v thus_o fight_v for_o though_o hypocrite_n and_o sometime_o those_o that_o do_v persecute_v the_o gospel_n do_v fight_v the_o lord_n battle_n and_o so_o in_o a_o general_a sense_n may_v be_v repute_v part_n of_o this_o militant_a church_n yet_o that_o be_v but_o colourable_o and_o outward_o for_o some_o sinister_a respect_n not_o in_o truth_n and_o singleness_n of_o heart_n nor_o in_o true_a hatred_n of_o sin_n nor_o in_o a_o true_a desire_n to_o obey_v god_n and_o to_o advance_v his_o kingdom_n and_o glory_n and_o therefore_o to_o speak_v proper_o none_o be_v true_a part_n of_o this_o church_n militant_a respect_n but_o the_o faithful_a only_o second_o i_o say_v it_o be_v a_o spiritual_a warfare_n and_o that_o in_o many_o respect_n first_o it_o be_v spiritual_a in_o respect_n of_o the_o end_n of_o it_o for_o though_o sometime_o the_o adversary_n of_o the_o faithful_a oppugn_v they_o in_o their_o body_n and_o outward_a state_n yet_o it_o be_v mere_o in_o a_o spiritual_a respect_n either_o direct_o or_o indirect_o to_o hurt_v their_o spiritual_a estate_n or_o life_n of_o grace_n &_o so_o likewise_o when_o the_o faithful_a defend_v their_o body_n or_o outward_a estate_n against_o their_o adversary_n when_o they_o maintain_v their_o reputation_n or_o their_o life_n it_o be_v not_o so_o much_o for_o the_o thing_n itself_o as_o to_o defend_v and_o maintain_v our_o spiritual_a estate_n second_o it_o be_v spiritual_a in_o respect_n of_o the_o weapon_n that_o be_v use_v in_o this_o fight_n for_o they_o be_v chief_o spiritual_a on_o both_o part_n the_o adversary_n weapon_n be_v temptation_n etc._n etc._n the_o faithful_a their_o weapon_n be_v the_o whole_a armour_n of_o god_n three_o it_o be_v spiritual_a in_o regard_n of_o the_o general_n of_o the_o field_n on_o both_o side_n which_o be_v spirit_n god_n good_a spirit_n on_o the_o side_n of_o the_o faithful_a and_o satan_n and_o spiritual_a wickedness_n on_o the_o wicked_n side_n the_o three_o thing_n in_o the_o note_n be_v this_o that_o this_o warfare_n must_v be_v exercise_v continual_o for_o the_o envious_a man_n
bellarmine_n tend_v direct_o hereto_o and_o they_o labour_v to_o prove_v it_o with_o all_o their_o power_n and_o it_o stand_v they_o upon_o for_o if_o this_o do_v not_o stand_v the_o whole_a form_n of_o their_o church_n fall_v to_o the_o ground_n for_o whereas_o they_o say_v the_o true_a church_n be_v always_o notorious_o visible_a and_o therefore_o their_o church_n be_v so_o be_v the_o true_a church_n we_o say_v and_o have_v prove_v that_o the_o true_a church_n of_o god_n be_v sometime_o bring_v into_o such_o straits_n that_o the_o outward_a face_n thereof_o do_v not_o at_o all_o or_o at_o least_o do_v hardly_o appear_v and_o therefore_o it_o will_v follow_v that_o if_o their_o church_n have_v and_o shall_v be_v always_o notorious_o visible_a then_o they_o be_v not_o the_o true_a church_n their_o exception_n be_v of_o small_a moment_n if_o they_o be_v well_o consider_v i_o will_v stand_v but_o upon_o two_o or_o three_o of_o the_o chief_a answer_v they_o allege_v out_o of_o the_o five_o of_o matthew_n and_o the_o fourteen_o verse_n that_o the_o church_n be_v the_o light_n of_o the_o world_n now_o the_o light_n be_v always_o see_v therefore_o the_o church_n be_v always_o see_v i_o answer_v this_o be_v speak_v personal_o to_o the_o disciple_n you_o be_v the_o light_n of_o the_o world_n and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v extend_v to_o the_o minister_n of_o the_o gospel_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o duty_n of_o holiness_n to_o be_v practise_v by_o they_o that_o they_o shall_v not_o walk_v offensive_o to_o the_o world_n but_o rather_o to_o provoke_v they_o to_o the_o practice_n of_o holiness_n by_o the_o light_n of_o their_o good_a example_n how_o do_v this_o serve_v then_o to_o prove_v the_o continual_a visiblenesse_n of_o the_o church_n beside_o i_o say_v that_o a_o light_n may_v be_v eclipse_v for_o a_o time_n and_o yet_o be_v a_o light_n still_o the_o moon_n be_v a_o light_n and_o yet_o not_o always_o visible_a for_o sometime_o it_o be_v eclipse_v and_o yet_o then_o it_o be_v as_o good_a a_o light_n as_o when_o it_o be_v in_o her_o full_a brightness_n and_o therefore_o if_o this_o be_v to_o be_v understand_v of_o the_o church_n it_o do_v not_o prove_v that_o it_o be_v always_o visible_a because_o it_o be_v a_o light_n further_n i_o say_v that_o by_o that_o reason_n their_o life_n for_o that_o be_v as_o well_o if_o not_o chief_o understand_v by_o the_o light_n as_o vers_n 16._o be_v also_o without_o error_n too_o as_o well_o as_o their_o doctrine_n and_o that_o always_o which_o be_v not_o so_o last_o if_o it_o do_v give_v light_a always_o yet_o it_o be_v but_o to_o those_o that_o be_v in_o the_o house_n verse_n 15._o that_o be_v to_o those_o that_o be_v member_n of_o the_o church_n and_o that_o we_o easy_o grant_v but_o what_o be_v this_o to_o prove_v the_o notorious_a visiblenesse_n of_o the_o church_n to_o the_o world_n 18.17_o second_o they_o allege_v the_o eighteen_o of_o matthew_n and_o the_o seventeen_o vers_fw-la where_o our_o saviour_n say_v tell_v the_o church_n and_o therefore_o there_o must_v be_v always_o a_o visible_a church_n mark_v say_v campian_n here_o be_v a_o remedy_n for_o a_o disease_n now_o the_o disease_n remain_v always_o and_o therefore_o the_o remedy_n must_v always_o remain_v i_o answer_v it_o be_v true_a it_o be_v a_o remedy_n for_o those_o that_o lie_v in_o such_o a_o state_n there_o speak_v of_o and_o in_o some_o sense_n it_o be_v always_o perform_v even_o when_o two_o or_o three_o be_v join_v together_o in_o the_o faith_n though_o there_o be_v no_o know_a visibility_n they_o may_v tell_v one_o another_o for_o it_o be_v not_o here_o mean_v that_o they_o shall_v appeal_v to_o rome_n 10.10_o their_o three_o exception_n be_v this_o but_o say_v they_o they_o that_o believe_v be_v they_o few_o or_o many_o must_v make_v profession_n of_o their_o faith_n else_o they_o can_v be_v save_v rom._n 10.10_o now_o if_o they_o must_v always_o make_v profession_n than_o they_o be_v always_o see_v and_o so_o the_o church_n be_v alwayy_n visible_a i_o answer_v it_o be_v true_a they_o must_v profess_v always_o and_o so_o they_o do_v except_o it_o be_v in_o time_n of_o their_o infirmity_n but_o must_v they_o do_v it_o to_o all_o the_o world_n no_o they_o may_v do_v it_o among_o themselves_o always_o though_o there_o be_v but_o two_o or_o three_o of_o they_o yea_o and_o when_o they_o be_v many_o they_o may_v do_v it_o to_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o world_n too_o if_o there_o be_v no_o certain_a danger_n in_o it_o yea_o though_o there_o be_v certain_a danger_n in_o it_o yet_o if_o they_o have_v a_o call_n to_o it_o they_o be_v resolute_a even_o to_o die_v for_o the_o profession_n of_o it_o and_o that_o be_v as_o much_o profession_n as_o be_v require_v and_o yet_o because_o their_o number_n be_v but_o few_o and_o that_o they_o live_v in_o certain_a place_n and_o be_v in_o this_o case_n for_o the_o most_o part_n obscure_v and_o simple_a man_n therefore_o it_o be_v not_o possible_a that_o any_o such_o general_a notice_n shall_v be_v take_v of_o they_o and_o those_o that_o do_v hear_v of_o they_o or_o see_v they_o be_v usual_o little_o move_v by_o their_o example_n at_o least_o they_o be_v seldom_o persuade_v that_o they_o be_v the_o true_a church_n and_o so_o join_v with_o they_o therefore_o there_o be_v no_o such_o perpetual_a notorious_a visiblenesse_n of_o the_o church_n as_o they_o will_v have_v we_o will_v return_v upon_o they_o with_o these_o two_o point_n and_o choke_v they_o with_o these_o two_o bone_n first_o we_o ask_v they_o where_o the_o church_n shall_v be_v when_o antichrist_n come_v for_o they_o themselves_o confess_v that_o in_o antichrists_n time_n there_o shall_v be_v a_o desolation_n of_o the_o church_n therefore_o by_o their_o own_o confession_n it_o may_v and_o shall_v be_v sometime_o invisible_a yea_o but_o say_v they_o we_o be_v the_o true_a church_n still_o though_o it_o be_v then_o obscure_v and_o we_o say_v then_o that_o antichrist_n be_v come_v and_o our_o church_n obscure_v therefore_o by_o their_o own_o reason_n our_o church_n be_v the_o true_a church_n the_o second_o be_v from_o their_o church_n which_o they_o have_v here_o among_o we_o they_o have_v a_o church_n here_o among_o we_o here_o be_v papist_n and_o mass_n archpriest_n and_o priest_n this_o themselves_o will_v not_o deny_v nay_o they_o boast_v of_o it_o sometime_o yet_o be_v their_o church_n visible_a among_o we_o they_o will_v not_o affirm_v it_o at_o least_o they_o will_v not_o say_v it_o be_v visible_a in_o their_o sense_n that_o be_v that_o the_o world_n may_v take_v notice_n of_o it_o neither_o be_v it_o ever_o countenance_v nor_o tolerate_v in_o our_o state_n so_o that_o in_o our_o sense_n and_o to_o we_o it_o be_v invisible_a and_o so_o may_v our_o church_n be_v to_o they_o the_o second_o use_n be_v for_o admonition_n to_o admonish_v we_o that_o use_v 2_o we_o shall_v not_o always_o expect_v a_o glorious_a estate_n of_o the_o church_n outward_o this_o be_v for_o earthly_a state_n and_o kingdom_n we_o must_v not_o dream_v of_o a_o temporal_a kingdom_n here_o for_o christ_n kingdom_n be_v spiritual_a not_o of_o this_o world_n the_o papist_n they_o say_v that_o it_o must_v be_v as_o glorious_a outward_o as_o any_o kingdom_n in_o the_o world_n but_o we_o must_v take_v heed_n that_o we_o be_v not_o carry_v away_o with_o show_n with_o the_o look_n of_o the_o whore_n for_o god_n kingdom_n come_v not_o with_o observation_n use_v 3_o three_o this_o may_v minister_v comfort_n to_o we_o and_o may_v stay_v we_o in_o the_o most_o desperate_a time_n that_o be_v when_o satan_n rage_v most_o when_o persecutor_n be_v most_o bloody_a and_o deadly_a when_o the_o prophet_n be_v slay_v god_n altar_n destroy_v the_o covenant_n forsake_v when_o we_o see_v havoc_n to_o be_v make_v of_o the_o church_n faith_n renounce_v when_o we_o see_v those_o that_o make_v great_a profession_n of_o religion_n to_o hide_v their_o head_n and_o like_a star_n to_o fall_v from_o heaven_n when_o we_o see_v the_o sun_n to_o be_v darken_v and_o the_o moon_n to_o be_v turn_v into_o blood_n when_o we_o see_v antichrist_n in_o his_o pride_n and_o pomp_n in_o the_o very_a temple_n of_o god_n himself_o when_o we_o see_v heretic_n sway_v the_o world_n after_o they_o schismatic_n cut_v and_o tear_v out_o the_o bowel_n of_o their_o mother_n the_o church_n nay_o even_o in_o the_o general_a apostasy_n and_o revolt_n from_o all_o grace_n and_o religion_n when_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o honesty_n nor_o conscience_n find_v among_o man_n yet_o be_v not_o dismay_v but_o rest_v thyself_o full_o content_v and_o satisfy_v with_o this_o truth_n that_o sure_o still_o god_n have_v his_o church_n in_o the_o world_n though_o there_o be_v no_o
neighbour_n church_n then_o they_o be_v no_o long_o to_o be_v take_v notice_n of_o as_o true_a visible_a church_n but_o on_o the_o other_o side_n if_o they_o be_v matter_n of_o small_a moment_n that_o do_v not_o overthrow_v the_o foundation_n than_o the_o hay_n and_o stubble_n shall_v burn_v 1._o cor._n 3.12_o 15._o but_o yet_o they_o shall_v remain_v still_o a_o true_a church_n second_o if_o they_o be_v great_a matter_n error_n that_o do_v overthrow_v the_o foundation_n yet_o if_o they_o be_v not_o public_o profess_v as_o the_o doctrine_n of_o that_o church_n yea_o though_o they_o be_v public_o profess_v yet_o if_o upon_o admonition_n of_o other_o neighbour_n church_n they_o do_v recant_v and_o reform_v their_o error_n than_o they_o be_v still_o to_o be_v account_v true_a visible_a church_n and_o it_o be_v a_o sin_n for_o any_o to_o forsake_v they_o be_v in_o they_o yea_o it_o be_v a_o sin_n not_o to_o join_v as_o a_o member_n to_o they_o live_v in_o they_o deu._n 12.5_o at_o least_o we_o be_v to_o join_v with_o they_o in_o consent_n and_o communion_n of_o profession_n the_o case_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o second_o and_o three_o chapter_n of_o the_o revelation_n make_v the_o former_a exception_n clear_a as_o you_o may_v see_v in_o your_o own_o read_n of_o they_o use_v 3_o the_o three_o use_n be_v this_o every_o man_n that_o have_v any_o touch_n of_o conscience_n or_o any_o grace_n in_o he_o be_v desirous_a to_o be_v a_o member_n of_o the_o true_a visible_a church_n for_o that_o be_v a_o good_a pledge_n and_o witness_v to_o their_o soul_n that_o they_o be_v member_n of_o christ_n jesus_n here_o than_o thou_o may_v learn_v to_o know_v whether_o thou_o be_v a_o member_n or_o no_o and_o so_o likewise_o how_o to_o become_v a_o member_n first_o therefore_o labour_v to_o find_v out_o to_o know_v understand_v and_o believe_v the_o save_a truth_n of_o god_n and_o for_o this_o end_n we_o must_v hear_v the_o word_n preach_v and_o confer_v of_o it_o and_o join_v with_o the_o godly_a and_o frequent_v public_a christian_a assembly_n and_o also_o we_o must_v pray_v to_o god_n for_o his_o spirit_n that_o he_o will_v be_v please_v to_o acquaint_v thou_o with_o his_o save_a truth_n and_o to_o open_v thy_o eye_n that_o thou_o may_v see_v the_o right_a way_n and_o that_o he_o will_v also_o lead_v thou_o therein_o second_o thou_o must_v labour_v as_o thou_o know_v it_o so_o likewise_o to_o profess_v it_o and_o make_v open_a show_n of_o it_o to_o the_o world_n be_v not_o ashamed_a of_o it_o it_o be_v a_o royal_a call_v if_o we_o be_v ashamed_a of_o it_o christ_n will_v be_v ashamed_a of_o we_o before_o his_o father_n and_o before_o his_o angls_n in_o heaven_n and_o as_o we_o must_v not_o be_v ashamed_a of_o it_o so_o we_o must_v not_o be_v afraid_a to_o profess_v it_o it_o be_v not_o a_o matter_n of_o shame_n or_o fear_v to_o be_v of_o god_n church_n but_o a_o matter_n of_o glory_n and_o comfort_n therefore_o be_v not_o afraid_a of_o reproach_n persecution_n temptation_n all_o outward_a misery_n which_o we_o be_v sure_a to_o endure_v if_o we_o be_v know_v to_o profess_v the_o save_a truth_n of_o christ_n christ_n jesus_n do_v bold_o oppose_v himself_o against_o the_o high_a priest_n and_o pilate_n and_o the_o jew_n the_o scribe_n and_o pharisy_n and_o the_o soldier_n yea_o he_o oppose_v himself_o to_o death_n itself_o and_o to_o all_o the_o power_n of_o darkness_n and_o to_o the_o terror_n of_o god_n himself_o for_o thou_o and_o will_v thou_o be_v afraid_a to_o oppose_v thyself_o to_o some_o few_o outward_a danger_n for_o he_o nay_o it_o be_v for_o ourselves_o in_o the_o end_n for_o we_o shall_v have_v the_o glory_n of_o it_o yet_o be_v wise_a and_o do_v not_o rash_o thrust_v thyself_o into_o any_o danger_n but_o if_o thou_o have_v just_a occasion_n and_o a_o call_v from_o god_n shun_v it_o not_o for_o fear_v of_o man_n let_v not_o thy_o false_a heart_n betray_v the_o truth_n of_o christ_n his_o cause_n but_o rely_v upon_o god_n power_n promise_n and_o protection_n stand_v to_o it_o resolute_o and_o with_o a_o good_a christian_a courage_n and_o say_v i_o be_o a_o professor_n of_o christ_n crucify_v and_o so_o i_o will_v continue_v by_o his_o assistance_n even_o unto_o the_o very_a death_n though_o i_o be_v crucify_v even_o as_o he_o be_v three_o we_o must_v see_v that_o our_o profession_n be_v not_o in_o hypocrisy_n for_o this_o be_v the_o cankerworm_n that_o eat_v out_o religion_n in_o the_o heart_n of_o many_o professor_n therefore_o profess_v the_o truth_n sincere_o and_o in_o singleness_n of_o heart_n as_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n who_o see_v and_o search_v the_o reins_n do_v it_o as_o the_o only_a cause_n whereby_o we_o may_v and_o must_v be_v save_v and_o whereby_o thou_o look_v for_o thy_o reward_n in_o mercy_n at_o god_n hand_n at_o the_o last_o day_n do_v it_o as_o in_o obedience_n to_o god_n to_o glorify_v his_o name_n and_o to_o advance_v his_o kingdom_n and_o to_o the_o confusion_n of_o satan_n and_o his_o complice_n four_o as_o we_o must_v do_v it_o without_o hypocrisy_n so_o we_o must_v see_v we_o practise_v it_o and_o that_o open_o for_o our_o public_a practice_n of_o it_o be_v our_o great_a and_o best_a part_n of_o our_o profession_n we_o must_v not_o be_v like_o those_o titus_n 1.16_o that_o in_o their_o word_n profess_v that_o they_o know_v god_n but_o by_o their_o work_n deny_v he_o that_o be_v their_o work_n stand_v up_o against_o they_o and_o tell_v they_o to_o their_o face_n that_o there_o be_v no_o such_o matter_n that_o which_o we_o profess_v with_o our_o lip_n we_o must_v practice_v with_o our_o life_n put_v the_o case_n that_o two_o man_n be_v at_o odds_n one_o man_n say_v one_o thing_n another_o man_n prove_v the_o contrary_a by_o plain_a and_o evident_a argument_n whether_o of_o these_o two_o be_v the_o best_a and_o great_a avoucher_n of_o the_o thing_n so_o it_o be_v in_o this_o he_o that_o profess_v in_o his_o word_n only_o the_o truth_n of_o god_n and_o another_o which_o do_v practice_v it_o in_o his_o work_n which_o be_v the_o best_a and_o great_a avoucher_n of_o god_n truth_n sure_o he_o that_o practise_v it_o in_o his_o work_n five_o as_o we_o must_v labour_v to_o do_v these_o thing_n ourselves_o so_o we_o must_v do_v the_o best_a we_o can_v to_o draw_v other_o to_o it_o according_a to_o the_o commandment_n of_o our_o saviour_n christ_n to_o peter_n luk._n 22.32_o when_o thou_o be_v convert_v strengthen_v thy_o brethren_n which_o when_o i_o think_v on_o it_o can_v but_o admonish_v i_o of_o my_o duty_n and_o so_o it_o do_v we_o all_o that_o we_o shall_v labour_v to_o draw_v other_o to_o that_o good_a which_o we_o ourselves_o be_v partaker_n of_o thus_o it_o be_v with_o the_o woman_n of_o samaria_n when_o she_o be_v convert_v she_o labour_v to_o draw_v all_o the_o city_n of_o samaria_n to_o christ_n john_n 4.28_o 29._o especial_o we_o shall_v labour_v with_o our_o own_o family_n that_o they_o may_v serve_v god_n as_o joshua_n do_v i_o and_o my_o house_n say_v he_o will_v serve_v the_o lord_n so_o shall_v we_o have_v true_a visible_a church_n within_o the_o wall_n of_o our_o own_o house_n howsoever_o it_o be_v in_o the_o land_n or_o country_n or_o parish_n where_o we_o dwell_v use_v 4_o last_o this_o shall_v teach_v we_o thankfulness_n for_o our_o state_n that_o the_o lord_n have_v vouchsafe_v so_o gracious_o to_o show_v himself_o to_o the_o people_n of_o this_o land_n for_o many_o year_n that_o the_o whole_a save_a truth_n of_o god_n shall_v be_v know_v and_o profess_v and_o that_o by_o public_a authority_n it_o be_v countenance_v among_o we_o church_n we_o confess_v there_o be_v many_o sin_n in_o our_o life_n defect_n in_o our_o state_n and_o we_o mourn_v for_o they_o and_o groan_n under_o they_o and_o pray_v with_o sigh_n and_o tear_n against_o they_o and_o we_o trust_v god_n in_o his_o good_a time_n will_v hear_v we_o and_o redress_v these_o corruption_n and_o abuse_n among_o we_o yet_o through_o god_n mercy_n we_o profess_v the_o whole_a save_a truth_n and_o therefore_o we_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n of_o god_n against_o all_o schismatic_n and_o papist_n and_o slanderer_n whatsoever_o every_o one_o may_v see_v and_o say_v that_o it_o be_v a_o miraculous_a and_o wonderful_a of_o god_n that_o still_o this_o profession_n be_v maintain_v be_v thankful_a for_o it_o and_o walk_v in_o obedience_n to_o it_o and_o honour_n god_n for_o it_o and_o use_v it_o well_o and_o pray_v and_o labour_n for_o the_o continuance_n of_o it_o to_o we_o and_o our_o posterity_n to_o all_o generation_n the_o blessing_n be_v so_o much_o the_o great_a and_o thankworthy_a blessing_n
if_o we_o consider_v the_o state_n of_o this_o land_n from_o the_o beginning_n before_o christ_n come_n what_o be_v we_o but_o gentile_n and_o so_o without_o christ_n and_o second_o even_o since_o christ_n come_n what_o be_v we_o but_o even_o pagan_n in_o the_o high_a degree_n like_o nimrods_n and_o giant_n most_o brutish_a and_o unreasonable_a and_o therefore_o it_o be_v a_o wonder_n that_o any_o of_o their_o seed_n shall_v be_v wrought_v upon_o and_o bring_v to_o grace_n three_o when_o we_o be_v convert_v by_o what_o mean_n be_v it_o but_o by_o the_o romish_a church_n which_o though_o it_o be_v more_o pure_a then_o than_o it_o be_v now_o yet_o it_o be_v in_o her_o decline_a day_n and_o they_o can_v teach_v no_o better_o than_o they_o have_v themselves_o and_o therefore_o that_o we_o have_v be_v gentile_n and_o pagan_n and_o afterward_o convert_v by_o the_o papist_n that_o we_o i_o say_v shall_v profess_v god_n save_v truth_n and_o so_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n this_o shall_v stir_v we_o up_o to_o the_o more_o thankfulness_n to_o god_n four_o england_n have_v be_v as_o true_a a_o slave_n to_o popery_n and_o the_o king_n of_o england_n as_o true_a slave_n to_o the_o pope_n as_o spain_n or_o any_o other_o kingdom_n in_o the_o world_n be_v to_o this_o day_n five_o consider_v when_o reformation_n begin_v king_n henry_n the_o eight_o and_o luther_n be_v at_o great_a variance_n the_o king_n oppose_v he_o and_o threaten_v that_o if_o the_o duke_n of_o saxony_n will_v not_o punish_v he_o he_o will_v fetch_v he_o thence_o by_o the_o ear_n six_o consider_v how_o all_o conspire_v together_o to_o keep_v out_o the_o true_a religion_n abbey_n and_o monastery_n fill_v the_o land_n that_o be_v build_v of_o purpose_n for_o the_o honour_n of_o the_o romish_a purple_a whore_n seven_o consider_v that_o king_n edward_n that_o first_o restore_v religion_n among_o we_o be_v but_o a_o child_n and_o yet_o out_o of_o the_o mouth_n of_o babe_n and_o suckling_n god_n ordain_v strength_n for_o the_o establish_n of_o his_o truth_n among_o us._n eight_o his_o life_n be_v but_o short_a what_o follow_v as_o bloody_a a_o persecution_n as_o ever_o be_v all_o be_v bend_v against_o the_o profession_n of_o this_o save_a faith_n and_o yet_o for_o all_o this_o that_o god_n shall_v preserve_v his_o church_n among_o we_o this_o be_v a_o great_a blessing_n and_o worthy_a of_o all_o thanks_o for_o the_o bloodshed_n than_o be_v so_o far_o from_o destroy_v the_o church_n as_o that_o it_o be_v a_o mean_n to_o increase_v it_o many_o by_o see_v the_o constancy_n of_o the_o martyr_n than_o be_v convert_v and_o many_o by_o read_v their_o story_n since_o have_v be_v confirm_v in_o the_o truth_n so_o that_o that_o which_o the_o devil_n intend_v for_o the_o destroy_n of_o god_n church_n be_v the_o mean_n of_o establish_v it_o among_o us._n nine_o come_v to_o queen_n elizabeth_n time_n she_o go_v through_o many_o trouble_n and_o be_v very_o hardly_o preserve_v yet_o at_o length_n she_o obtain_v she_o right_n and_o come_v to_o the_o crown_n and_o she_o establish_v god_n truth_n among_o we_o against_o all_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o instrument_n of_o satan_n yet_o she_o be_v but_o a_o weak_a woman_n much_o endanger_v yet_o still_o preserve_v and_o by_o her_o mean_n god_n continue_v his_o truth_n long_o among_o us._n ten_o come_v to_o our_o king_n james_n it_o be_v very_o strange_a that_o he_o shall_v come_v in_o in_o peace_n though_o it_o be_v his_o right_n it_o be_v the_o gospel_n that_o have_v prevail_v with_o we_o and_o subdue_v our_o affection_n else_o there_o be_v a_o heart-burn_n betwixt_o that_o nation_n and_o we_o we_o have_v be_v enemy_n there_o will_v have_v follow_v a_o bloody_a war_n or_o else_o some_o civil_a dissension_n which_o will_v have_v make_v a_o foul_a wrack_n of_o religion_n and_o a_o destruction_n of_o god_n church_n among_o us._n last_o if_o we_o consider_v how_o many_o favourite_n popery_n have_v have_v and_o that_o of_o man_n of_o state_n and_o authority_n which_o have_v labour_v under_o hand_n to_o bring_v in_o popery_n again_o and_o yet_o that_o god_n shall_v not_o withstand_v all_o his_o enemy_n continue_v his_o saving-truth_n among_o we_o this_o shall_v stir_v we_o up_o to_o great_a thankfulness_n we_o can_v consider_v of_o these_o thing_n but_o we_o must_v confess_v they_o to_o be_v the_o finger_n of_o god_n and_o therefore_o this_o shall_v stir_v we_o up_o to_o the_o more_o thankfulness_n to_o god_n that_o have_v thus_o bring_v in_o and_o continue_v his_o religion_n among_o we_o and_o so_o to_o continue_v we_o to_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n as_o also_o it_o shall_v stir_v we_o up_o to_o pray_v for_o the_o continuance_n of_o it_o and_o so_o much_o for_o this_o point_n the_o ten_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n now_o that_o we_o have_v speak_v in_o the_o first_o place_n concern_v the_o definition_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n we_o come_v in_o the_o second_o place_n to_o speak_v of_o the_o cause_n of_o it_o for_o that_o be_v the_o second_o point_n lay_v down_o to_o be_v speak_v to_o in_o the_o handle_n of_o the_o visible_a church_n it_o we_o must_v know_v the_o cause_n of_o it_o for_o until_o we_o know_v the_o cause_n of_o a_o thing_n we_o can_v have_v no_o perfect_a knowledge_n of_o that_o thing_n for_o than_o we_o know_v a_o thing_n right_o and_o in_o its_o kind_n when_o we_o be_v well_o acquaint_v with_o the_o cause_n thereof_o this_o point_n be_v the_o more_o careful_o to_o be_v look_v into_o because_o we_o be_v challenge_v and_o indict_v by_o many_o of_o our_o adversary_n especial_o those_o of_o the_o separation_n that_o our_o church_n have_v not_o her_o be_v from_o such_o cause_n as_o it_o shall_v and_o therefore_o that_o we_o be_v a_o false_a church_n now_o upon_o the_o discovery_n and_o view_n of_o these_o cause_n it_o will_v appear_v to_o any_o man_n that_o can_v and_o will_v ingenuous_o apply_v it_o that_o we_o have_v the_o right_a cause_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n and_o therefore_o that_o our_o church_n be_v a_o true_a church_n of_o god_n the_o cause_n of_o the_o be_v of_o a_o church_n be_v general_o of_o two_o sort_n the_o first_o sort_n be_v such_o sort_n as_o cause_v the_o church_n direct_o and_o of_o themselves_o purposely_o tend_v to_o that_o end_n the_o second_o sort_n be_v such_o as_o do_v not_o cause_v the_o church_n direct_o and_o of_o themselves_o but_o only_o as_o by_o the_o way_n be_v overruled_n by_o some_o other_o cause_n that_o make_v they_o helpful_a to_o the_o be_v of_o a_o church_n and_o that_o sometime_o beside_o sometime_o against_o their_o own_o bent_n and_o intendment_n we_o will_v speak_v of_o these_o last_o sort_n of_o cause_n first_o sort_n first_o god_n overrule_v some_o thing_n to_o make_v they_o helpful_a to_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n beside_o their_o own_o bent_n &_o intendment_n as_o when_o the_o thing_n itself_o be_v neither_o here_o nor_o there_o to_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n yet_o by_o accident_n it_o further_v it_o as_o for_o instance_n sometime_o a_o man_n ordinary_a business_n be_v a_o cause_n of_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n diverse_a as_o we_o see_v in_o the_o woman_n of_o samaria_n joh._n 4_o 7._o she_o come_v about_o her_o ordinary_a business_n to_o draw_v water_n at_o jacob_n well_o now_o this_o in_o itself_o can_v be_v no_o cause_n of_o the_o church_n yet_o this_o be_v so_o overruled_n by_o god_n that_o it_o be_v a_o cause_n of_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n in_o samaria_n for_o she_o hear_v christ_n and_o believe_v in_o he_o and_o run_v and_o tell_v it_o in_o the_o city_n and_o they_o come_v also_o and_o hear_v he_o and_o believe_v in_o he_o and_o so_o become_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n the_o second_o cause_n be_v matter_n of_o affliction_n and_o this_o be_v sometime_o so_o over_o rule_v by_o god_n that_o it_o cause_v man_n to_o be_v of_o the_o church_n and_o this_o be_v the_o case_n of_o the_o prodigal_a child_n luk._n 15.17_o he_o may_v have_v perish_v in_o his_o affliction_n yet_o god_n make_v this_o a_o because_o to_o make_v he_o to_o be_v of_o the_o church_n last_o the_o death_n of_o some_o great_a man_n that_o be_v sometime_o so_o overruled_n by_o god_n that_o it_o be_v the_o cause_n of_o the_o be_v of_o a_o church_n as_o the_o death_n of_o herod_n act._n 12.23.24_o what_o be_v the_o death_n of_o herod_n to_o the_o be_v of_o a_o church_n more_o than_o the_o death_n of_o a_o hog_n yet_o god_n so_o overruled_n it_o that_o beside_o it_o own_o intendment_n it_o be_v helpefull_a to_o the_o be_v of_o the_o church_n second_o some_o thing_n be_v overruled_n by_o god_n against_o their_o own_o bent_n and_o
hezekiah_n send_v forth_o messenger_n throughout_o all_o israel_n and_o judah_n with_o godly_a letter_n for_o the_o keep_n of_o the_o passeover_n and_o the_o wicked_a laugh_v they_o to_o scorn_v but_o the_o text_n note_v in_o the_o twelve_o verse_n that_o the_o hand_n of_o god_n be_v in_o judah_n so_o that_o he_o give_v they_o one_o heart_n to_o do_v the_o commandment_n of_o the_o king_n the_o king_n may_v have_v command_v long_o enough_o yet_o if_o god_n have_v not_o give_v the_o people_n a_o heart_n they_o will_v never_o have_v obey_v he_o so_o that_o all_o other_o mean_n be_v utter_o void_a yea_o nothing_o without_o god_n 1_o co._n 3.7_o neither_o be_v he_o that_o plant_v any_o thing_n nor_o he_o that_o water_v but_o god_n that_o give_v the_o increase_n now_o if_o god_n give_v we_o these_o outward_a instrumental_a cause_n of_o the_o be_v of_o his_o church_n he_o give_v we_o the_o inward_a much_o more_o as_o repentance_n and_o faith_n and_o principal_o the_o chief_a of_o all_o god_n 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in_o that_o respect_n first_o let_v such_o congregation_n as_o have_v taste_v god_n bounty_n in_o this_o kind_n ascribe_v all_o the_o honour_n and_o praise_n and_o glory_n of_o that_o their_o bless_a state_n to_o he_o alone_o and_o that_o which_o i_o say_v of_o whole_a congregation_n let_v every_o one_o in_o particular_a practice_n and_o that_o both_o for_o the_o congregation_n and_o special_o for_o himself_o we_o must_v not_o dote_v on_o the_o mean_n though_o they_o be_v singular_a help_n under_o god_n the_o minister_n gift_n nor_o any_o other_o thing_n the_o church_n have_v it_o must_v not_o be_v dote_v upon_o it_o be_v true_a that_o we_o must_v esteem_v high_o of_o they_o and_o labour_n for_o the_o good_a of_o they_o and_o acknowledge_v what_o benefit_n we_o have_v receive_v from_o they_o and_o be_v thankful_a to_o they_o yet_o still_o i_o say_v it_o be_v all_o the_o lord_n do_v and_o let_v he_o have_v all_o the_o glory_n of_o they_o and_o if_o ever_o there_o shall_v such_o a_o 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bring_v unto_o god_n do_v not_o receive_v such_o a_o precious_a grace_n of_o god_n in_o vain_a but_o embrace_v it_o take_v the_o opportunity_n of_o it_o now_o be_v the_o accept_a time_n now_o be_v the_o day_n of_o salvation_n now_o god_n stand_v at_o the_o door_n and_o knock_v now_o the_o table_n be_v prepare_v the_o victual_n be_v ready_a and_o the_o guest_n be_v call_v therefore_o let_v we_o now_o quicken_v up_o ourselves_o let_v we_o take_v hold_n on_o the_o promise_n of_o grace_n and_o let_v we_o receive_v the_o word_n not_o as_o the_o word_n of_o man_n but_o as_o it_o be_v indeed_o the_o word_n of_o the_o eternal_a god_n powerful_a to_o save_v we_o if_o we_o believe_v and_o obey_v it_o or_o else_o if_o we_o refuse_v and_o contemn_v it_o powerful_a to_o condemn_v we_o and_o to_o cast_v we_o headlong_o into_o hell_n use_v 2_o the_o second_o use_n be_v matter_n of_o comfort_n to_o we_o see_v god_n be_v all_o in_o all_o in_o constitute_v his_o church_n than_o it_o assure_v we_o of_o the_o welfare_n of_o the_o church_n it_o shall_v go_v well_o with_o the_o church_n although_o satan_n bend_v all_o his_o force_n against_o it_o though_o the_o wicked_a malign_a and_o persecute_v it_o god_n be_v for_o it_o who_o can_v be_v against_o it_o it_o be_v of_o god_n and_o therefore_o it_o shall_v stand_v in_o despite_n of_o satan_n and_o all_o his_o force_n it_o be_v god_n that_o plant_v his_o vine_n who_o can_v root_v it_o out_o he_o make_v a_o hedge_n about_o it_o who_o can_v break_v it_o down_o yea_o god_n be_v a_o wall_n of_o fire_n about_o his_o church_n therefore_o whosoever_o come_v near_o to_o hurt_v it_o shall_v be_v consume_v
answer_v we_o have_v not_o our_o call_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n but_o from_o other_o minister_n profess_v the_o same_o faith_n with_o we_o as_o they_o have_v answ_n this_o may_v be_v a_o reason_n against_o luther_n and_o other_o minister_n that_o have_v their_o call_n in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n object_n it_o can_v be_v none_o against_o us._n yea_o but_o say_v they_o answ_n it_o come_v through_o their_o hand_n at_o first_o i_o answer_v that_o be_v nothing_o to_o we_o many_o good_a thing_n may_v come_v through_o thief_n hand_n when_o the_o arrian_n heresy_n spread_v itself_o over_o the_o world_n many_o minister_n come_v through_o their_o hand_n and_o therefore_o if_o this_o be_v a_o good_a argument_n to_o prove_v we_o be_v not_o a_o true_a church_n than_o there_o shall_v be_v no_o true_a church_n since_o the_o apostle_n day_n but_o if_o we_o have_v have_v our_o call_v from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n i_o do_v not_o see_v but_o that_o those_o minister_n that_o be_v ordain_v by_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v warrantable_a and_o lawful_a but_o i_o be_o sure_o we_o now_o be_v lawful_a if_o ever_o there_o be_v any_o since_o the_o apostle_n death_n yea_o but_o say_v they_o you_o have_v no_o covenant_n make_v betwixt_o you_o and_o god_n object_n i_o answer_v yes_o we_o do_v make_v a_o covenant_n with_o god_n in_o baptism_n god_n yea_o but_o you_o be_v not_o gather_v by_o the_o word_n but_o compel_v by_o a_o proclamation_n in_o the_o begin_n of_o queen_n elizabeth_n reign_n i_o answer_v yes_o we_o be_v gather_v before_o in_o king_n henery_n the_o eight_o answ_n and_o king_n edward_n the_o six_o day_n so_o that_o this_o proclamation_n be_v but_o a_o restore_n of_o we_o to_o our_o former_a estate_n as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o day_n of_o hezekiah_n 2_o chron._n 30.5_o where_o the_o people_n be_v restore_v to_o religion_n by_o the_o king_n proclamation_n and_o this_o compulsion_n by_o the_o proclamation_n be_v but_o to_o the_o outward_a mean_n but_o now_o 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church_n yea_o many_o of_o themselves_o be_v convert_v here_o among_o we_o which_o be_v a_o manifest_a argument_n of_o our_o warrantable_a call_n in_o that_o we_o have_v experience_n of_o christ_n that_o speak_v in_o our_o minister_n not_o weak_a but_o mighty_a in_o we_o 1_o cor._n 13.3_o or_o three_o effectual_a they_o say_v it_o may_v be_v effectual_o sometime_o but_o it_o be_v not_o ordinary_o effectual_a i_o answer_v what_o be_v more_o ordinary_a for_o first_o we_o have_v many_o convert_v among_o we_o and_o second_o this_o be_v daily_o do_v and_o three_o by_o these_o mean_n that_o we_o have_v among_o we_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n and_o four_a this_o be_v as_o usual_a here_o as_o in_o any_o visible_a church_n yea_o i_o dare_v undertake_v that_o our_o church_n be_v as_o fruitful_a in_o gather_v people_n and_o beget_v child_n unto_o god_n as_o ever_o any_o church_n be_v since_o the_o apostle_n day_n they_o indeed_o have_v a_o extraordinary_a call_v and_o so_o a_o extraordinary_a success_n which_o we_o must_v not_o look_v for_o but_o we_o be_v ordinary_o effectual_a for_o it_o be_v wrought_v upon_o many_o and_o that_o day_n by_o day_n and_o also_o by_o the_o power_n of_o the_o mean_n which_o be_v among_o we_o and_o also_o as_o usual_o as_o in_o any_o church_n since_o the_o apostle_n time_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v needs_o be_v a_o true_a church_n therefore_o let_v none_o of_o we_o entertain_v any_o such_o thought_n into_o our_o head_n as_o to_o think_v we_o have_v not_o the_o cause_n and_o mean_n of_o a_o true_a church_n among_o we_o or_o that_o they_o be_v not_o effectual_a to_o our_o conversion_n and_o salvation_n or_o that_o they_o be_v not_o ordinary_o effectual_a but_o let_v we_o bless_v god_n for_o the_o mean_n and_o the_o success_n which_o daily_o they_o have_v among_o we_o lest_o for_o our_o unthankfulness_n god_n deprive_v we_o of_o they_o and_o turn_v from_o we_o as_o he_o do_v from_o the_o jew_n and_o take_v his_o church_n and_o presence_n from_o among_o us._n the_o eleven_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n it_o have_v acquaint_v you_o already_o with_o the_o definition_n as_o also_o with_o the_o cause_n of_o a_o true_a church_n it_o remain_v that_o we_o proceed_v in_o the_o three_o place_n to_o speak_v as_o we_o propound_v of_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n for_o whereas_o the_o visible_a church_n be_v compare_v to_o a_o body_n and_o every_o body_n consist_v of_o diverse_a part_n and_o member_n frame_v and_o join_v proportionable_o together_o if_o therefore_o we_o will_v exact_o know_v the_o body_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n we_o must_v be_v well_o instruct_v touch_v the_o part_n and_o member_n of_o the_o same_o for_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o member_n prove_v the_o presence_n of_o the_o body_n look_v where_o the_o member_n be_v there_o likewise_o be_v the_o body_n also_o and_o the_o state_n of_o the_o member_n well_o consider_v instruct_v we_o right_o to_o esteem_v of_o the_o state_n of_o the_o body_n for_o the_o body_n be_v to_o be_v account_v sound_n or_o unsound_a according_o as_o the_o member_n thereof_o be_v affect_v now_o when_o we_o speak_v of_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n we_o may_v as_o well_o understand_v the_o head_n as_o the_o other_o part_n for_o in_o a_o general_a sense_n the_o head_n be_v as_o well_o a_o member_n as_o the_o rest_n of_o the_o part_n of_o the_o body_n or_o else_o we_o may_v speak_v of_o all_o the_o other_o part_n beside_o the_o head_n for_o so_o in_o a_o more_o strict_a and_o particular_a sense_n the_o head_n and_o the_o member_n be_v oppose_v against_o each_o other_o as_o they_o be_v diverse_a from_o the_o head_n and_o the_o head_n from_o they_o now_o because_o we_o desire_v to_o carry_v the_o matter_n full_o before_o we_o as_o near_o as_o we_o can_v therefore_o we_o will_v speak_v of_o this_o body_n in_o the_o general_a sense_n as_o include_v both_o head_n and_o member_n too_o first_o of_o the_o head_n head_n for_o that_o be_v the_o chief_a and_o principal_a member_n be_v first_o and_o principal_o to_o be_v speak_v of_o special_o in_o this_o case_n the_o head_n be_v here_o infinite_o great_a and_o more_o excellent_a than_o all_o the_o body_n beside_o and_o therefore_o first_o of_o that_o that_o which_o we_o will_v speak_v of_o in_o this_o point_n thing_n we_o will_v contrive_v into_o these_o three_o head_n first_o that_o the_o visible_a church_n must_v have_v a_o head_n second_o that_o it_o must_v have_v one_o head_n three_o that_o this_o head_n be_v jesus_n christ_n and_o he_o alone_a first_o that_o the_o church_n be_v a_o body_n must_v have_v a_o head_n for_o so_o in_o the_o first_o place_n the_o course_n of_o nature_n require_v it_o for_o in_o the_o course_n of_o nature_n a_o headless_a body_n be_v a_o monstrous_a body_n imperfect_a without_o form_n fashion_n life_n or_o government_n second_o as_o the_o course_n of_o nature_n require_v it_o so_o the_o necessity_n of_o the_o church_n require_v it_o for_o the_o church_n must_v be_v endue_v with_o spiritual_a life_n therefore_o it_o must_v have_v a_o head_n to_o convey_v life_n into_o it_o three_o the_o wisdom_n of_o god_n require_v it_o for_o god_n be_v the_o god_n not_o of_o confusion_n but_o of_o order_n in_o all_o his_o work_n special_o in_o his_o special_a workmanship_n that_o be_v his_o church_n what_o a_o confuse_a heap_n of_o stone_n will_v a_o church_n be_v if_o it_o have_v not_o a_o head_n corner_n stone_n to_o hold_v all_o the_o other_o stone_n together_o every_o one_o in_o his_o due_a place_n and_o what_o a_o disorder_a assembly_n will_v the_o church_n be_v if_o the_o member_n be_v without_o a_o head_n to_o order_v it_o and_o to_o relieve_v it_o second_o as_o
the_o true_a church_n and_o christ_n and_o his_o apostle_n must_v be_v heretic_n last_o for_o unity_n and_o consent_n that_o be_v no_o note_n unless_o it_o be_v unity_n and_o consent_n in_o the_o faith_n and_o save_a truth_n of_o god_n so_o that_o still_o all_o their_o note_n run_v upon_o this_o main_a point_n of_o faith_n and_o save_a truth_n which_o be_v our_o note_n for_o how_o do_v the_o church_n of_o rome_n know_v herself_o to_o be_v a_o true_a church_n sure_o by_o the_o word_n whereby_o they_o prove_v that_o she_o be_v once_o a_o true_a church_n that_o be_v the_o ground_n of_o all_o so_o that_o their_o note_n of_o antiquity_n succession_n multitude_n and_o unity_n or_o consent_n come_v in_o but_o to_o second_v that_o prove_v by_o these_o that_o therefore_o she_o be_v so_o still_o because_o by_o the_o word_n it_o be_v prove_v first_o that_o she_o have_v be_v a_o true_a church_n and_o so_o that_o she_o can_v err_v do_v they_o not_o labour_v by_o all_o might_n and_o main_a to_o prove_v it_o by_o the_o word_n that_o so_o their_o church_n may_v be_v yield_v to_o be_v catholic_a so_o that_o still_o they_o justify_v their_o church_n by_o the_o word_n as_o well_o as_o they_o can_v as_o that_o be_v indeed_o the_o only_a witness_n to_o justify_v any_o church_n by_o also_o if_o a_o heresy_n arise_v how_o do_v they_o disprove_v it_o but_o by_o the_o word_n principal_o so_o that_o still_o the_o word_n by_o their_o own_o practice_n whatsoever_o for_o a_o shift_n and_o for_o contention-sake_n they_o profess_v be_v the_o best_a and_o true_a witness_n of_o a_o true_a or_o a_o false_a of_o a_o catholic_a or_o heretical_a church_n yea_o they_o themselves_o put_v these_o very_a thing_n into_o the_o definition_n of_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n that_o be_v 188._o the_o word_n and_o the_o sacrament_n and_o profession_n and_o that_o chief_o as_o bellarmine_n therefore_o by_o their_o own_o confession_n we_o that_o have_v these_o mark_n be_v more_o certain_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n than_o they_o that_o have_v any_o other_o mark_n whatsoever_o so_o much_o for_o the_o reproof_n of_o these_o adversary_n that_o except_v against_o this_o doctrine_n use_v 2_o the_o second_o use_n be_v for_o confirmation_n to_o we_o that_o our_o stand_n be_v good_a in_o this_o church_n because_o we_o have_v the_o true_a mark_n of_o a_o visible_a church_n i_o say_v not_o that_o we_o have_v a_o pure_a church_n free_a from_o all_o corruption_n we_o must_v pray_v against_o the_o corruption_n of_o it_o but_o i_o say_v we_o have_v a_o true_a church_n for_o we_o have_v the_o word_n as_o true_o and_o sincere_o preach_v in_o our_o church_n as_o in_o any_o church_n and_o so_o we_o have_v the_o sacrament_n right_o administer_v and_o if_o i_o shall_v grant_v that_o any_o thing_n be_v miscarry_v by_o the_o wear_n of_o a_o garment_n or_o such_o like_a thing_n yet_o it_o hurt_v not_o the_o thing_n itself_o and_o so_o for_o obedience_n it_o be_v true_a that_o many_o do_v not_o profess_v obedience_n but_o rather_o profaneness_n and_o yet_o some_o there_o be_v that_o do_v profess_v true_o and_o sincere_o therefore_o let_v we_o not_o doubt_v of_o our_o stand_n but_o that_o it_o be_v good_a and_o let_v we_o praise_v god_n for_o these_o good_a mean_n and_o labour_n to_o profit_v by_o they_o lest_o god_n take_v they_o from_o we_o and_o give_v they_o to_o other_o that_o shall_v bring_v forth_o better_a fruit_n than_o we_o have_v do_v and_o so_o much_o be_v speak_v of_o the_o note_n and_o mark_v whereby_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n be_v discern_v the_o fourteen_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n we_o have_v speak_v as_o you_o may_v remember_v concern_v the_o church_n visible_a first_o of_o the_o definition_n of_o it_o second_o of_o the_o cause_n of_o it_o three_o of_o the_o memher_n of_o it_o four_a of_o the_o note_n and_o mark_n of_o it_o now_o we_o be_v to_o speak_v in_o the_o five_o place_n according_a to_o the_o order_n set_v down_o of_o the_o government_n of_o it_o and_o it_o follow_v orderly_o government_n for_o when_o we_o have_v see_v what_o this_o church_n be_v and_o the_o cause_n whereby_o it_o be_v and_o the_o member_n whereof_o it_o consist_v and_o the_o note_n and_o mark_n whereby_o it_o be_v discern_v from_o all_o other_o company_n than_o it_o follow_v orderly_o to_o know_v in_o the_o next_o place_n what_o government_n this_o church_n have_v first_o whether_o it_o have_v any_o at_o all_o and_o second_o if_o it_o have_v any_o to_o know_v what_o government_n this_o be_v that_o be_v the_o point_n than_o we_o be_v to_o speak_v to_o namely_o 459._o church_n government_n a_o point_n in_o my_o judgement_n that_o in_o regard_n of_o itself_o need_v not_o to_o be_v so_o exact_o look_v into_o and_o precise_o stand_v upon_o now_o as_o heretofore_o but_o yet_o in_o regard_n of_o many_o unhappy_a difference_n and_o inconvenience_n that_o have_v rise_v about_o it_o and_o be_v occasion_v by_o it_o in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n therefore_o to_o satisfy_v the_o conscience_n of_o some_o that_o be_v weak_a and_o to_o stop_v the_o mouth_n of_o other_o that_o be_v clamorous_a humourous_a and_o perverse_a and_o to_o maintain_v peace_n and_o unity_n in_o the_o house_n of_o god_n and_o to_o justify_v the_o state_n of_o all_o reform_a church_n profess_v the_o save_a faith_n of_o jesus_n christ_n that_o howsoever_o they_o differ_v from_o one_o another_o in_o the_o matter_n of_o church-government_n as_o some_o have_v many_o fayling_n and_o sore_a blemish_n in_o their_o government_n yet_o all_o be_v true_a church_n of_o god_n i_o say_v in_o these_o respect_v i_o know_v not_o any_o one_o point_n of_o religion_n not_o fundamental_a so_o necessary_a to_o be_v thorough_o seek_v into_o and_o advise_o and_o due_o to_o be_v consider_v of_o therefore_o in_o this_o regard_n i_o purpose_v to_o speak_v of_o it_o as_o god_n shall_v enable_v i_o handle_v that_o which_o i_o purpose_v to_o speak_v concern_v this_o point_n i_o will_v reduce_v to_o these_o head_n first_o i_o will_v speak_v of_o the_o harm_n and_o evil_n that_o have_v be_v raise_v and_o that_o have_v happen_v by_o this_o question_n of_o church-government_n second_o i_o will_v show_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o church-government_n three_o i_o will_v show_v how_o needful_a it_o be_v in_o the_o church_n four_o whether_o there_o be_v a_o precise_a rule_n leave_v by_o the_o apostle_n for_o this_o government_n five_o if_o there_o be_v not_o than_o what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v in_o this_o case_n he_o that_o resolve_v i_o in_o these_o point_n resolve_v i_o of_o all_o that_o can_v be_v speak_v concern_v church-government_n church-government_n we_o will_v begin_v therefore_o with_o the_o first_o point_n the_o harm_n and_o evil_n that_o have_v be_v raise_v up_o in_o god_n church_n hereby_o infinite_a be_v the_o evil_n which_o this_o matter_n of_o church-government_n have_v occasional_o breed_v and_o bring_v forth_o in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n i_o say_v occasional_o not_o of_o itself_o for_o the_o thing_n in_o its_o own_o nature_n be_v holy_a and_o good_a and_o therefore_o natural_o can_v yield_v no_o such_o bad_a fruit_n but_o occasional_o as_o be_v abuse_v by_o the_o malice_n of_o satan_n and_o the_o corruption_n of_o man_n heart_n hence_o it_o be_v that_o it_o bring_v forth_o such_o bad_a effect_n the_o fault_n be_v partly_o in_o the_o governor_n and_o partly_o in_o the_o govern_v first_o the_o governor_n sometime_o when_o they_o be_v proud_a and_o haughty_a contemn_v their_o inferior_n strive_v with_o equal_n aspire_v to_o the_o high_a place_n as_o be_v evident_a in_o the_o papal_a government_n and_o some_o token_n of_o bad_a governor_n the_o scripture_n give_v we_o as_o covetous_a give_v to_o filthy_a lucre_n abuse_v their_o place_n and_o authority_n to_o their_o own_o private_a gain_n negligent_a and_o careless_a like_a gallio_n in_o the_o act_n make_v no_o conscience_n of_o the_o faithful_a execution_n of_o their_o office_n second_o there_o be_v fault_n in_o those_o that_o be_v govern_v some_o ambitious_o seek_v for_o high_a place_n than_o they_o be_v fit_a for_o some_o be_v envious_a malign_v and_o spite_v their_o superior_n some_o be_v sensual_a despise_v government_n some_o be_v ill-tongued_n speak_v evil_a of_o those_o in_o authority_n some_o be_v obstinate_a and_o rebellious_a resist_v their_o order_n and_o proceed_n and_o will_v not_o endure_v their_o neck_n under_o any_o yoke_n last_o some_o be_v humourous_a and_o peevish_a deny_v that_o power_n set_v over_o they_o to_o be_v lawful_a labour_v for_o innovation_n and_o change_n and_o new_a platform_n of_o government_n of_o their_o own_o devise_v contrary_a to_o that_o already_o establish_v these_o and_o the_o like_a advantage_n have_v the_o enemy_n from_o time_n to_o time_n wrought_v upon_o
thereby_o to_o disgrace_v church-government_n and_o to_o make_v it_o the_o great_a trouble-state_n in_o the_o christian_a world_n what_o be_v it_o that_o the_o disciple_n contend_v about_o in_o our_o saviour_n time_n luk_n 22.24_o be_v it_o not_o the_o matter_n of_o church-government_n who_o shall_v be_v the_o chief_a among_o they_o and_o so_o the_o ruler_n and_o governor_n of_o the_o rest_n by_o this_o occasion_n the_o devil_n make_v strife_n among_o the_o apostle_n and_o what_o breed_v those_o great_a broil_n and_o contention_n in_o the_o primitive_a church_n betwixt_o the_o eastern_a and_o the_o western_a bishop_n be_v it_o not_o church-government_n which_o shall_v be_v the_o high_a see_v and_o who_o shall_v be_v the_o high_a and_o chiâ—â—â—t_a bishop_n to_o go_v further_o what_o bring_v forth_o antichrist_n into_o the_o world_n and_o that_o advance_v the_o pope_n to_o that_o high_a pitch_n which_o he_o come_v to_o be_v it_o not_o church-government_n the_o pope_n audacious_o engross_a all_o sovereignty_n in_o the_o church_n to_o himself_o and_o many_o good_a bishop_n and_o church_n in_o their_o weakness_n yield_v too_o much_o to_o he_o in_o that_o kind_n by_o the_o perverseness_n of_o the_o govern_v in_o a_o word_n what_o dishonour_n have_v hereby_o be_v do_v to_o god_n what_o disgrace_n to_o religion_n what_o hindrance_n to_o the_o prosperous_a success_n of_o the_o gospel_n and_o of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o christ_n what_o furtherance_n and_o advantage_n to_o the_o kingdom_n of_o satan_n what_o heart-burn_n have_v it_o breed_v among_o some_o how_o have_v it_o alienate_v the_o heart_n of_o other_o from_o we_o and_o that_o in_o many_o that_o otherwise_o be_v inclinable_a towards_o we_o what_o tumult_n have_v it_o breed_v at_o home_n what_o clamour_n abroad_o what_o grief_n have_v it_o bring_v to_o our_o friend_n and_o well_o affect_v what_o rejoice_v to_o our_o enemy_n and_o profane_a person_n what_o distraction_n and_o doubt_n have_v it_o breed_v in_o weak_a and_o tender_a conscience_n what_o dishearten_v and_o discourage_v have_v it_o be_v how_o many_o excellent_a talent_n for_o god_n ministry_n have_v be_v hereby_o bury_v in_o the_o ground_n without_o profit_n and_o so_o consequent_o many_o congregation_n destitute_a of_o their_o faithful_a minister_n and_o of_o their_o heavenly_a food_n and_o leave_v as_o a_o prey_n to_o the_o raven_a wolf_n by_o this_o mean_n have_v they_o not_o by_o the_o providence_n and_o wisdom_n of_o our_o governor_n be_v otherwise_o provide_v for_o i_o dare_v undertake_v that_o in_o all_o likelihood_n have_v not_o the_o devil_n cast_v this_o bone_n among_o we_o and_o throw_v this_o business_n of_o church-government_n as_o a_o football_n before_o we_o for_o every_o one_o to_o run_v after_o and_o so_o to_o set_v we_o all_o together_o by_o the_o ear_n this_o church_n of_o england_n through_o god_n blessing_n have_v be_v this_o day_n the_o most_o famous_a and_o flourish_a church_n that_o ever_o be_v in_o the_o world_n whereas_o now_o this_o business_n this_o only_a business_n of_o church-government_n have_v occasional_o by_o the_o peevishness_n of_o some_o hatch_v nourish_v and_o bring_v forth_o much_o ignorance_n prophannesse_n uncharitableness_n contempt_n of_o holiness_n neglect_v of_o god_n ordinance_n looseness_n and_o licentiousness_n i_o grieve_v to_o think_v on_o these_o thing_n and_o i_o can_v have_v no_o pleasure_n to_o speak_v of_o they_o and_o we_o may_v be_v all_o ashamed_a of_o they_o before_o god_n and_o the_o world_n and_o it_o must_v be_v every_o one_o care_n and_o endeavour_v to_o be_v instant_a with_o god_n by_o prayer_n that_o in_o his_o good_a time_n he_o will_v be_v please_v to_o redress_v these_o foul_a evil_n yet_o here_o i_o have_v mention_v they_o to_o the_o end_n that_o we_o may_v be_v both_o whet_v on_o by_o these_o consideration_n to_o look_v the_o more_o careful_o into_o this_o business_n and_o also_o that_o we_o may_v be_v admonish_v to_o carry_v ourselves_o the_o more_o temperate_o and_o moderate_o towards_o it_o and_o so_o much_o of_o the_o first_o point_n namely_o of_o the_o harm_n and_o evil_n that_o have_v happen_v occasional_o by_o this_o matter_n of_o the_o church-government_n though_o in_o itself_o holy_a and_o good_a it_o the_o second_o point_n be_v what_o be_v mean_v by_o church-government_n yea_o see_v here_o two_o word_n church_n and_o government_n and_o each_o of_o these_o may_v carry_v three_o sense_n first_o for_o the_o word_n church_n we_o be_v not_o here_o to_o understand_v it_o of_o the_o catholic_a church_n for_o that_o be_v disperse_v over_o all_o place_n of_o the_o world_n can_v well_o be_v bring_v within_o the_o compass_n of_o the_o same_o law_n nor_o rule_v by_o the_o same_o earthly_a governor_n it_o be_v impossible_a for_o the_o reature_n to_o wield_v such_o a_o great_a charge_n the_o sole_a governor_n of_o the_o church_n in_o this_o sense_n be_v jesus_n christ_n the_o only_a head_n thereof_o and_o the_o only_a law_n it_o be_v to_o be_v govern_v by_o be_v the_o presence_n power_n and_o direction_n of_o the_o spirit_n but_o here_o we_o understand_v it_o of_o a_o particular_a visible_a church_n whether_o it_o be_v parochial_a national_n or_o provincial_a for_o these_o be_v confine_v and_o bound_v within_o their_o several_a place_n may_v and_o must_v have_v their_o several_a law_n and_o governor_n every_o one_o for_o and_o within_o itself_o of_o this_o church_n it_o be_v that_o we_o here_o speak_v of_o whether_o it_o be_v great_a or_o less_o now_o we_o come_v to_o the_o next_o word_n government_n which_o word_n in_o a_o general_a sense_n signify_v to_o maintain_v second_o in_o particular_a to_o govern_v first_o in_o general_a in_o respect_n of_o the_o state_n of_o nature_n as_o we_o be_v man_n so_o the_o lord_n govern_v that_o be_v maintain_v and_o preserve_v his_o church_n seat_v every_o particular_a church_n in_o the_o place_n where_o it_o be_v make_v a_o fence_n about_o it_o feed_v and_o clothe_v they_o supply_v their_o want_n afford_v they_o help_n and_o mean_n for_o their_o relief_n defend_v they_o from_o their_o enemy_n deliver_v they_o from_o danger_n cause_v they_o to_o thrive_v and_o prosper_v in_o outward_a thing_n and_o cover_v they_o with_o his_o favour_n as_o with_o a_o shield_n and_o this_o kind_n of_o government_n the_o lord_n extend_v over_o the_o whole_a world_n yea_o even_o to_o the_o wicked_a as_o well_o as_o to_o the_o faithful_a yet_o with_o this_o difference_n to_o the_o wicked_a in_o the_o common_a favour_n of_o his_o providence_n to_o the_o faithful_a in_o the_o special_a favour_n of_o his_o grace_n in_o christ_n for_o even_o in_o the_o very_a temporal_a blessing_n that_o the_o faithful_a have_v in_o this_o life_n they_o be_v they_o by_o grace_n and_o promise_v in_o christ_n and_o therefore_o to_o the_o wicked_a they_o perish_v in_o the_o enjoy_n of_o they_o they_o have_v no_o further_a benefit_n of_o they_o but_o outward_a and_o temporal_a to_o the_o faithful_a they_o be_v helpefull_a and_o serviceable_a in_o some_o degree_n to_o the_o work_n of_o their_o eternal_a salvation_n for_o so_o god_n intend_v they_o and_o so_o the_o faithful_a accept_v and_o use_v they_o this_o be_v for_o the_o general_a government_n of_o god_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o state_n of_o nature_n as_o we_o be_v man_n second_o there_o be_v a_o particular_a government_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o estate_n of_o grace_n as_o we_o be_v man_n profess_v the_o save_a faith_n of_o jesus_n christ_n and_o so_o the_o government_n be_v twofold_a inward_a and_o outward_a first_o inward_a and_o this_o be_v proper_a to_o the_o spirit_n of_o christ_n god_n only_o rule_v in_o the_o heart_n of_o his_o choose_a as_o a_o king_n by_o the_o power_n of_o his_o word_n and_o spirit_n convert_n they_o from_o the_o service_n of_o sin_n to_o the_o service_n of_o god_n cause_v they_o to_o believe_v god_n promise_n in_o christ_n and_o so_o justify_v we_o from_o our_o sin_n crucify_a the_o old_a man_n and_o quicken_a the_o new_a acquaint_v we_o with_o his_o will_n and_o frame_v we_o to_o obedience_n put_v good_a motion_n from_o time_n to_o time_n into_o our_o mind_n and_o stir_v we_o up_o and_o enable_v we_o to_o entertain_v they_o gracious_o and_o to_o give_v place_n unto_o they_o and_o so_o sanctify_v we_o and_o further_o he_o assure_v we_o of_o god_n love_n and_o favour_n and_o our_o election_n in_o christ_n and_o so_o comfort_v we_o further_o he_o increase_v these_o and_o other_o grace_n in_o we_o every_o day_n more_o and_o more_o so_o long_o as_o we_o be_v in_o this_o world_n till_o at_o length_n they_o be_v full_o perfect_v in_o we_o and_o we_o receive_v into_o his_o kingdom_n of_o glory_n in_o heaven_n and_o so_o he_o glorify_v us._n this_o this_o be_v the_o right_a kingdom_n of_o god_n and_o of_o christ_n whereby_o god_n reign_v in_o we_o as_o
whereby_o they_o be_v enable_v to_o do_v some_o thing_n which_o they_o can_v not_o do_v before_o as_o in_o the_o power_n and_o use_v of_o the_o key_n to_o bind_v and_o loose_v and_o some_o other_o thing_n they_o may_v do_v lawful_o now_o which_o they_o be_v able_a to_o do_v before_o but_o not_o lawful_o as_o to_o preach_v and_o to_o administer_v the_o sacrament_n etc._n etc._n these_o depend_v upon_o lawful_a ordination_n such_o a_o ordination_n we_o find_v act._n 13.2_o 3._o where_o paul_n and_o barnabas_n be_v separate_v to_o the_o work_n of_o the_o ministry_n but_o not_o assign_v to_o any_o one_o particular_a place_n and_o in_o the_o 1_o tim._n 4.4_o where_o the_o apostle_n say_v to_o timothy_n despise_v not_o the_o gift_n that_o be_v in_o thou_o which_o be_v give_v thou_o by_o prophecy_n and_o the_o lay_v on_o of_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o company_n of_o the_o presbytery_n where_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o his_o ordination_n before_o he_o come_v to_o be_v assign_v to_o a_o particular_a place_n for_o as_o yet_o he_o have_v no_o certain_a charge_n till_o he_o come_v to_o ephesus_n and_o the_o apostle_n speak_v as_o of_o a_o thing_n do_v before_o that_o be_v for_o ordination_n in_o the_o second_o place_n we_o come_v to_o the_o appointment_n of_o they_o to_o some_o particular_a place_n where_o they_o may_v exercise_v their_o gift_n and_o to_o perform_v the_o work_n of_o their_o ministry_n whereby_o there_o be_v a_o mutual_a reference_n betwixt_o the_o minister_n and_o those_o who_o he_o be_v set_v over_o he_o be_v their_o pastor_n and_o they_o be_v his_o flock_n and_o so_o the_o apostle_n leave_v titus_n in_o crete_n that_o he_o may_v ordain_v elder_n in_o every_o city_n tit._n 1.5_o that_o be_v that_o he_o may_v ordain_v they_o and_o appoint_v they_o in_o every_o city_n for_o both_o these_o usual_o do_v and_o shall_v go_v together_o that_o be_v ordination_n and_o appointment_n to_o some_o particular_a place_n special_o among_o we_o though_o in_o the_o apostle_n time_n there_o be_v minister_n at_o large_a but_o this_o be_v not_o good_a among_o we_o we_o have_v no_o such_o large_a commission_n as_o the_o apostle_n have_v but_o we_o must_v have_v reference_n to_o a_o certain_a people_n and_o to_o a_o certain_a place_n and_o so_o act._n 14.23_o they_o ordain_v elder_n by_o election_n in_o every_o church_n there_o they_o do_v ordain_v minister_n and_o appoint_v they_o to_o a_o certain_a place_n and_o sure_o whatsoever_o be_v right_o do_v in_o this_o kind_n the_o lord_n himself_o acknowledge_v for_o his_o own_o handy_a work_n act._n 20.28_o take_v heed_n to_o the_o flock_n over_o which_o the_o holy_a ghost_n have_v make_v you_o overseer_n etc._n etc._n i_o speak_v all_o this_o while_n of_o the_o outward_a call_n only_o for_o that_o be_v in_o the_o power_n of_o the_o church_n the_o inward_a be_v mere_o and_o immediate_o from_o god_n the_o church_n be_v to_o try_v and_o examine_v the_o inward_a too_o by_o the_o proof_n of_o their_o gift_n and_o by_o charge_v they_o in_o the_o sight_n of_o god_n to_o speak_v the_o truth_n herein_o whether_o they_o find_v that_o god_n spirit_n have_v make_v they_o willing_a and_o able_a for_o the_o ministry_n but_o to_o confer_v it_o on_o they_o they_o can_v so_o much_o for_o the_o second_o point_n election_n of_o officer_n do_v the_o three_o point_n be_v the_o duty_n of_o charity_n and_o mercy_n they_o be_v to_o be_v do_v in_o the_o church_n next_o to_o the_o duty_n of_o piety_n to_o god_n the_o duty_n of_o mercy_n and_o charity_n be_v most_o careful_o to_o be_v perform_v and_o to_o be_v provide_v for_o in_o the_o church_n of_o christ_n i_o speak_v not_o so_o much_o of_o spiritual_a duty_n of_o charity_n concern_v spiritual_a distress_n as_o to_o comfort_v the_o wound_a conscience_n to_o bear_v with_o the_o weak_a to_o have_v compassion_n on_o our_o brethren_n infirmity_n but_o chief_o of_o outward_a bodily_a charity_n which_o concern_v the_o outward_a state_n of_o our_o brethren_n as_o first_o the_o sick_a must_v be_v visit_v second_o the_o dead_a must_v be_v buâ—ied_v three_o the_o needy_a must_v be_v relieve_v four_a the_o minister_n must_v be_v maintain_v in_o these_o four_o consist_v all_o the_o duty_n of_o mercy_n and_o charity_n to_o be_v do_v in_o the_o church_n first_o the_o sick_a be_v to_o be_v visit_v the_o text_n be_v clear_a for_o this_o in_o jam._n 5.14_o if_o any_o man_n be_v sick_a let_v they_o call_v for_o the_o elder_n of_o the_o church_n etc._n etc._n and_o this_o must_v not_o be_v do_v for_o fashion_n sake_n after_o a_o civil_a manner_n but_o for_o conscience_n sake_n after_o a_o religious_a and_o christian_a manner_n we_o must_v pray_v with_o they_o and_o for_o they_o for_o their_o recovery_n and_o for_o a_o speedy_a and_o comfortable_a end_n we_o must_v offer_v our_o service_n to_o they_o for_o any_o good_a office_n in_o that_o necessity_n we_o must_v comfort_v and_o encourage_v they_o against_o the_o terror_n and_o pang_n of_o death_n we_o must_v stir_v they_o up_o to_o put_v their_o house_n especial_o their_o soul_n in_o order_n thus_o we_o must_v labour_v every_o way_n to_o fit_v they_o for_o the_o time_n of_o their_o dissolution_n thus_o we_o must_v visit_v the_o sick_a second_o the_o dead_a be_v to_o be_v bury_v this_o be_v commend_v for_o a_o good_a work_n of_o mercy_n by_o christ_n own_a word_n mark_n 14.6_o 8._o when_o the_o woman_n pour_v the_o box_n of_o ointment_n on_o his_o head_n some_o murmur_v at_o it_o but_o our_o saviour_n say_v she_o have_v wrought_v a_o good_a work_n on_o i_o for_o she_o be_v come_v aforehand_o to_o anoint_v my_o body_n to_o the_o burial_n so_o he_o approve_v burial_n for_o a_o good_a work_n and_o see_v that_o sepulcher_n and_o burial_n be_v monument_n of_o our_o resurrection_n for_o that_o be_v the_o first_o and_o true_a use_n of_o they_o among_o the_o faithful_a where_o shall_v this_o be_v practise_v more_o than_o in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n where_o the_o resurrection_n be_v most_o and_o best_o teach_v and_o believe_v three_o the_o needy_a be_v to_o be_v relieve_v the_o naked_a must_v be_v clothe_v the_o hungry_a must_v be_v feed_v etc._n etc._n and_o this_o duty_n consist_v of_o two_o branch_n collection_n and_o distribution_n first_o there_o must_v be_v collection_n so_o the_o apostle_n enjoin_v 1_o cor._n 16.1_o 2._o that_o every_o first_o day_n of_o the_o week_n every_o man_n must_v put_v aside_o something_o for_o the_o relief_n of_o the_o saint_n than_o it_o must_v be_v collect_v and_o gather_v and_o so_o much_o put_v into_o the_o treasury_n and_o that_o be_v the_o use_n of_o the_o treasury_n in_o mark_n 12.45_o to_o put_v in_o that_o which_o be_v collect_v second_o there_o must_v be_v distribution_n as_o rom._n 12.8_o he_o that_o distribute_v let_v he_o do_v it_o with_o simplicity_n and_o vers_fw-la 13._o distribute_v to_o the_o necessity_n of_o the_o saint_n heb._n 13.16_o to_o do_v good_a and_o to_o distribute_v forget_v not_o etc._n etc._n and_o this_o may_v be_v do_v either_o by_o their_o own_o hand_n or_o other_o and_o that_o not_o to_o their_o own_o church_n alone_o but_o to_o other_o too_o if_o they_o want_v and_o these_o abound_v rom._n 12.26_o so_o that_o that_o which_o be_v collect_v must_v not_o be_v keep_v but_o after_o collection_n there_o must_v be_v distribution_n and_o in_o these_o two_o office_n consist_v the_o relieve_n of_o the_o needy_a the_o four_o duty_n of_o mercy_n be_v this_o the_o minister_n must_v be_v manifest_v this_o be_v the_o apostle_n mean_v in_o the_o 1_o tim._n 5.17_o where_o he_o say_v that_o he_o that_o rule_v well_o be_v worthy_a of_o double_a honour_n special_o he_o that_o labour_v in_o the_o word_n and_o doctrine_n where_o at_o least_o double_a honour_n be_v take_v for_o the_o honour_n of_o maintenance_n and_o the_o text_n be_v clear_a for_o it_o by_o that_o which_o follow_v where_o he_o say_v thou_o shall_v not_o mussel_n the_o mouth_n of_o the_o ox_n that_o tread_v forth_o the_o corn_n and_o this_o must_v not_o be_v do_v with_o a_o spare_a hand_n but_o as_o the_o apostle_n command_v it_o in_o galat._n 6.6_o let_v he_o that_o be_v teach_v in_o the_o word_n make_v he_o that_o have_v teach_v he_o partaker_n of_o all_o his_o good_n let_v he_o think_v nothing_o too_o dear_a for_o he_o and_o this_o be_v not_o ground_v on_o the_o law_n of_o love_n only_o but_o even_o upon_o the_o law_n of_o reason_n too_o for_o so_o the_o apostle_n in_o the_o 1_o cor._n 9.11_o sheweth_z that_o in_o reason_n if_o they_o minister_v to_o we_o spiritual_a thing_n it_o be_v no_o great_a matter_n if_o they_o reap_v our_o carnal_a thing_n it_o be_v true_a that_o rather_o than_o the_o minister_n shall_v be_v burdensome_a to_o
the_o church_n he_o be_v to_o labour_v with_o his_o own_o hand_n to_o satisfy_v his_o necessity_n but_o yet_o when_o there_o be_v a_o competent_a state_n in_o the_o people_n they_o be_v to_o ease_v he_o of_o that_o labour_n and_o of_o their_o estate_n to_o relieve_v his_o want_n as_o the_o philippian_n do_v by_o the_o apostle_n paul_n phil._n 4.10_o 11._o where_o the_o apostle_n rejoice_v for_o the_o care_n which_o they_o have_v in_o minister_a to_o he_o and_o sure_o the_o people_n lose_v nothing_o by_o this_o for_o when_o the_o minister_n be_v thus_o provide_v for_o they_o give_v themselves_o whole_o to_o their_o calling_n without_o let_v to_o study_v for_o the_o good_a of_o the_o people_n whereas_o else_o they_o be_v drive_v to_o provide_v for_o themselves_o it_o will_v be_v with_o they_o as_o it_o be_v with_o the_o israelite_n under_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o cruel_a taskmaster_n in_o egypt_n they_o must_v be_v seek_v straw_n while_o they_o shall_v be_v make_v brick_n to_o build_v withal_o they_o must_v be_v seek_v after_o the_o pelf_n of_o this_o world_n while_o they_o shall_v be_v building_n god_n house_n and_o they_o that_o neglect_v this_o duty_n be_v empty_a of_o all_o religion_n both_o for_o piety_n to_o god_n who_o minister_n they_o be_v and_o for_o charity_n to_o themselves_o and_o their_o brethren_n because_o they_o do_v not_o strain_v themselves_o to_o relieve_v the_o want_n of_o such_o as_o by_o god_n ordinance_n they_o be_v most_o bind_v unto_o and_o which_o do_v spend_v themselves_o and_o their_o time_n for_o other_o good_a and_o salvation_n so_o much_o of_o the_o three_o point_n for_o duty_n and_o work_n of_o mercy_n and_o charity_n the_o four_o point_n be_v the_o censure_n of_o the_o church_n censure_n the_o proceed_n against_o offender_n for_o see_v in_o all_o church_n there_o be_v still_o some_o that_o walk_v inordinate_o some_o course_n of_o necessity_n must_v be_v take_v against_o they_o that_o the_o church_n may_v be_v disburden_v either_o of_o their_o person_n or_o of_o their_o sin_n and_o hence_o it_o be_v that_o our_o saviour_n himself_o take_v precise_a order_n for_o this_o matter_n matth._n 18.15_o etc._n etc._n and_o the_o apostle_n charge_v this_o duty_n on_o the_o thessalonian_n with_o great_a authority_n 2_o thess_n 3.6_o we_o warn_v you_o brethren_n in_o the_o name_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n that_o you_o withdraw_v yourselves_o from_o every_o brother_n that_o walk_v inordinate_o and_o he_o be_v grievous_o offend_v with_o the_o corinthian_n that_o they_o do_v not_o proceed_v according_o with_o all_o severity_n against_o the_o incestuous_a person_n 1_o cor._n 55._o and_o the_o reason_n for_o such_o proceed_n be_v very_o weighty_a this_o first_o no_o government_n i_o say_v not_o only_o can_v be_v good_a but_o can_v stand_v where_o malefactor_n be_v not_o punish_v much_o less_o can_v the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n where_o sin_n be_v special_o to_o be_v hate_v prevent_v and_o suppress_v second_o where_o know_a sin_n be_v not_o punish_v there_o the_o state_n and_o government_n be_v repute_v accessary_a to_o that_o sin_n now_o what_o a_o scandal_n be_v it_o to_o god_n religion_n and_o church_n to_o be_v account_v favourer_n or_o sparer_n of_o any_o sin_n which_o they_o must_v be_v if_o offender_n be_v not_o punish_v three_o offender_n must_v be_v punish_v else_o there_o be_v danger_n of_o infect_v the_o whole_a congregation_n so_o say_v the_o apostle_n 1_o cor._n 5.6_o a_o little_a leaven_n leaven_v the_o whole_a lâ—mpe_n therefore_o the_o old_a and_o sour_a leaven_n be_v to_o be_v purge_v forth_o four_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o offendor_n himself_o censure_n must_v be_v have_v in_o the_o church_n that_o so_o the_o flesh_n may_v be_v thereby_o destroy_v and_o his_o soul_n save_v and_o so_o god_n mercy_n glorify_v in_o the_o convert_n a_o penitent_a sinner_n by_o his_o save_a ordinance_n 1_o cor._n 5.5_o but_o if_o he_o continue_v obstinate_a his_o punishment_n here_o be_v but_o the_o begin_n of_o his_o torment_a state_n in_o hell_n and_o the_o decreee_v of_o god_n reprobation_n be_v begin_v to_o be_v execute_v upon_o he_o and_o so_o the_o lord_n be_v glorify_v in_o judgement_n in_o the_o midst_n of_o his_o church_n in_o the_o confusion_n of_o his_o enemy_n now_o these_o proceed_n consist_v in_o many_o particular_n for_o the_o church_n be_v merciful_a even_o as_o their_o heavenly_a father_n be_v merciful_a they_o delight_v not_o in_o the_o death_n of_o sinner_n but_o rather_o that_o they_o shall_v be_v convert_v and_o live_v and_o therefore_o they_o attempt_v all_o mean_n of_o cure_n first_o before_o they_o proceed_v in_o cut_v off_o this_o and_o yet_o they_o be_v just_a too_o as_o god_n their_o father_n be_v just_a and_o therefore_o when_o gracious_a and_o mild_a mean_n do_v not_o prevail_v they_o proceed_v to_o rough_a course_n first_o therefore_o there_o must_v be_v private_a admonition_n betwixt_o he_o and_o thou_o or_o two_o or_o three_o more_o so_o our_o saviour_n command_v matth._n 18.15_o 16._o second_o if_o he_o will_v not_o hear_v complaint_n must_v be_v make_v to_o the_o church_n as_o in_o vers_n 17._o which_o as_o i_o take_v it_o be_v that_o note_v out_o by_o letter_n which_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o in_o 2_o thes_n 2.14_o three_o consequent_o if_o he_o will_v not_o hear_v the_o church_n separate_v from_o he_o have_v no_o company_n with_o he_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v in_o that_o 2_o thes_n 3.14_o and_o this_o be_v it_o also_o which_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1_o cor._n 5.9_o i_o write_v unto_o you_o that_o you_o shall_v not_o company_n with_o fornicator_n this_o be_v a_o suspending_a of_o they_o for_o a_o time_n from_o the_o sacrament_n and_o from_o communion_n in_o holy_a thing_n till_o the_o church_n have_v trial_n whether_o thereby_o they_o will_v be_v bring_v to_o repentance_n four_o if_o this_o will_v not_o prevail_v what_o must_v be_v do_v then_o why_o if_o they_o can_v cure_v they_o must_v cut_v off_o he_o must_v be_v deliver_v up_o to_o satan_n indeed_o so_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1_o cor._n 5.5_o and_o 1_o tim._n 1.20_o and_o that_o which_o the_o church_n do_v in_o this_o case_n the_o lord_n ratify_v in_o heaven_n matth._n 18.18_o whosoever_o they_o bind_v on_o earth_n be_v bind_v in_o heaven_n yet_o so_o too_o that_o upon_o his_o repentance_n they_o can_v and_o must_v and_o do_v most_o willing_o loose_v they_o from_o those_o band_n of_o satan_n wherein_o they_o wrap_v he_o before_o this_o be_v a_o most_o serious_a and_o weighty_a duty_n to_o be_v perform_v in_o the_o church_n of_o god_n but_o how_o grievous_o it_o be_v both_o neglect_v and_o abuse_v it_o be_v a_o shame_n to_o speak_v of_o that_o any_o that_o profess_v themselves_o to_o be_v of_o the_o church_n of_o god_n and_o have_v power_n in_o their_o hand_n to_o execute_v these_o censure_n shall_v yet_o neglect_v they_o these_o be_v the_o only_a mean_n to_o reclaim_v or_o cast_v off_o the_o obstinate_a when_o imprisonment_n and_o all_o other_o way_n will_v not_o serve_v so_o also_o it_o be_v abuse_v by_o those_o upon_o who_o it_o be_v inflict_v they_o deride_v it_o and_o make_v but_o a_o jest_n of_o it_o as_o if_o they_o be_v never_o the_o further_o from_o heaven_n for_o all_o that_o and_o sure_o it_o may_v be_v they_o be_v not_o because_o they_o be_v never_o near_o it_o well_o whosoever_o they_o be_v that_o abuse_n it_o let_v they_o know_v that_o it_o be_v god_n own_o precious_a and_o holy_a ordinance_n and_o therefore_o not_o to_o be_v dally_v in_o nor_o base_o esteem_v yea_o it_o be_v god_n own_o work_n and_o do_v where_o it_o be_v lawful_o proceed_v in_o and_o it_o be_v ratify_v by_o he_o in_o heaven_n and_o where_o it_o be_v abuse_v god_n will_v be_v avenge_v on_o the_o abuser_n to_o the_o full_a it_o be_v true_a that_o the_o curse_v causeless_a as_o solomon_n speak_v be_v like_o the_o fly_n of_o a_o bird_n in_o the_o air_n it_o leave_v no_o impression_n behind_o it_o and_o in_o this_o case_n god_n deride_v it_o from_o heaven_n and_o it_o be_v their_o fearful_a sin_n that_o inflict_v it_o but_o when_o it_o be_v just_o suffer_v it_o be_v the_o heavy_a stroke_n that_o can_v light_v upon_o man_n in_o this_o life_n either_o from_o god_n or_o man_n the_o sword_n of_o the_o magistrate_n be_v nothing_o to_o this_o that_o only_o deprive_v we_o of_o temporal_a life_n this_o of_o eternal_a life_n a_o wound_a conscience_n which_o be_v a_o intolerable_a burden_n to_o they_o that_o have_v â—elâ—_n it_o be_v nothing_o to_o this_o for_o a_o man_n sometime_o in_o that_o case_n can_v pray_v for_o himself_o or_o if_o he_o can_v pray_v for_o himself_o yet_o he_o may_v and_o must_v and_o be_v pray_v for_o by_o the_o congregation_n these_o be_v neither_o in_o case_n
be_v in_o the_o one_o the_o approbation_n in_o the_o other_o the_o second_o thing_n wherein_o their_o office_n consist_v amiss_o be_v in_o overseeing_a and_o redress_v thing_n that_o be_v amiss_o for_o this_o purpose_n be_v titus_n leave_v in_o crete_n to_o redress_v thing_n amiss_o titus_n 1.5_o and_o that_o not_o in_o the_o people_n only_o but_o in_o the_o minister_n also_o 1_o tim._n 5.19_o 20._o against_o a_o elder_a receive_v none_o accusation_n but_o under_o two_o or_o three_o witness_n they_o that_o sin_n open_o rebuke_v open_o etc._n etc._n timothy_n be_v at_o ephesus_n as_o titus_n be_v at_o crete_n to_o redress_v thing_n amiss_o and_o there_o be_v many_o minister_n there_o and_o these_o must_v be_v reform_v too_o and_o therefore_o the_o apostle_n will_v have_v he_o in_o redress_v thing_n amiss_o among_o they_o to_o receive_v no_o accusation_n against_o they_o but_o under_o two_o or_o three_o witness_n so_o that_o there_o must_v be_v one_o above_o the_o rest_n for_o the_o performance_n of_o this_o duty_n the_o same_o reason_n may_v be_v proportionable_o apply_v for_o this_o as_o for_o the_o former_a for_o see_v some_o minister_n must_v be_v redress_v then_o there_o must_v be_v some_o that_o must_v have_v this_o power_n to_o do_v it_o and_o who_o be_v they_o but_o bishop_n that_o be_v in_o the_o chief_a place_n i_o do_v not_o ascribe_v to_o bishop_n hereby_o any_o absolute_a power_n over_o their_o brethren_n as_o to_o do_v what_o they_o list_v but_o a_o limit_a power_n to_o proceed_v with_o the_o approbation_n of_o their_o brethren_n neither_o say_v i_o that_o these_o be_v simple_o diocesan_n bishop_n as_o we_o be_v but_o sure_o they_o be_v such_o as_o have_v some_o compass_n of_o jurisdiction_n allot_v they_o wherein_o be_v many_o congregation_n at_o least_o many_o minister_n who_o these_o do_v oversee_v those_o of_o the_o presbytery_n have_v one_o that_o be_v chief_a among_o they_o and_o so_o be_v the_o confession_n of_o the_o reform_a church_n and_o master_n calvin_n himself_o confess_v as_o much_o that_o in_o the_o ancient_a church_n there_o be_v such_o superior_n and_o say_v further_a that_o their_o proceed_n be_v not_o contrary_a to_o the_o word_n yea_o and_o he_o show_v and_o approve_v the_o reason_n why_o such_o be_v choose_v and_o that_o be_v of_o purpose_n to_o prevent_v dissension_n which_o by_o equality_n will_v arise_v mistake_v i_o not_o as_o if_o i_o do_v mean_a to_o settle_v in_o bishop_n any_o princely_a authority_n or_o lordlike_a command_n neither_o he_o nor_o they_o nor_o i_o intend_v it_o but_o that_o at_o least_o there_o must_v be_v one_o superior_a and_o above_o the_o rest_n for_o order-sake_n for_o so_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v in_o all_o company_n and_o society_n whatsoever_o else_o it_o can_v stand_v there_o be_v many_o minister_n in_o ephesus_n act._n 20.28_o and_o so_o act._n 15.35_o we_o read_v of_o many_o that_o be_v in_o the_o church_n of_o antioch_n and_o some_o of_o they_o be_v name_v act._n 13.1_o now_o what_o disorder_n will_v there_o have_v be_v in_o these_o church_n if_o one_o have_v not_o be_v above_o the_o rest_n what_o danger_n of_o schism_n will_v there_o have_v be_v how_o can_v matter_n have_v be_v decide_v among_o they_o who_o shall_v there_o have_v be_v to_o have_v moderate_v their_o action_n the_o free_a state_n that_o ever_o be_v have_v one_o superior_a above_o the_o rest_n as_o venice_n have_v her_o duke_n rome_n have_v her_o consul_n etc._n etc._n yea_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o exercise_v this_o order_n among_o themselves_o some_o in_o one_o cause_o be_v moderator_n some_o in_o another_o nay_o i_o add_v further_o that_o they_o exercise_v power_n though_o not_o over_o themselves_o for_o they_o be_v all_o equal_a yet_o over_o other_o minister_n therefore_o the_o thing_n be_v not_o unlawful_a in_o itself_o if_o it_o be_v moderate_o and_o lawful_o use_v and_o the_o order_n which_o i_o plead_v for_o i_o will_v not_o have_v think_v a_o bare_a title_n but_o such_o as_o be_v arm_v with_o some_o kind_n of_o power_n too_o which_o be_v confer_v on_o they_o by_o they_o which_o choose_v they_o to_o such_o place_n but_o you_o will_v say_v all_o this_o be_v tolerable_a if_o it_o be_v but_o for_o one_o action_n or_o for_o one_o year_n i_o answer_v that_o sure_o the_o lawfulness_n be_v all_o one_o be_v it_o for_o a_o year_n or_o for_o a_o man_n life_n only_o there_o be_v less_o danger_n of_o abuse_v such_o a_o place_n if_o they_o be_v limit_v to_o a_o short_a time_n and_o so_o much_o of_o the_o first_o office_n namely_o bishop_n where_o you_o have_v hear_v first_o of_o their_o name_n and_o second_o of_o their_o office_n now_o we_o come_v in_o the_o second_o place_n to_o presbyter_n or_o elder_n presbyter_n for_o so_o the_o word_n presbyter_n in_o the_o original_a signify_v a_o elder_a and_o they_o be_v so_o call_v either_o as_o they_o be_v minister_n or_o as_o they_o be_v ancient_a in_o year_n or_o at_o least_o in_o carriage_n or_o because_o they_o be_v more_o ancient_a in_o grace_n and_o in_o beget_v other_o to_o the_o faith_n we_o speak_v here_o of_o such_o as_o labour_v in_o the_o word_n and_o doctrine_n for_o of_o such_o as_o be_v pretend_v to_o be_v govern_v elder_n we_o shall_v speak_v in_o the_o next_o place_n this_o name_n we_o find_v also_o to_o be_v general_a to_o all_o in_o the_o ministry_n from_o the_o high_a to_o the_o low_a yea_o even_o the_o apostle_n themselves_o be_v so_o call_v so_o peter_n call_v himself_o a_o elder_n 1_o pet._n 5.1_o yet_o by_o use_n for_o the_o most_o part_n both_o in_o scripture_n as_o act._n 15.4_o and_o the_o 14.23_o and_o in_o other_o writer_n it_o be_v restrain_v to_o those_o that_o be_v assign_v to_o teach_v in_o some_o particular_a congregation_n sometime_o many_o of_o they_o together_o sometime_o one_o by_o himself_o as_o time_n and_o occasion_n serve_v their_o office_n in_o regard_n of_o the_o main_a essential_a duty_n general_o be_v to_o feed_v and_o therefore_o they_o be_v call_v pastor_n ephes_n 4.11_o he_o give_v some_o to_o be_v apostle_n etc._n etc._n and_o some_o pastor_n etc._n etc._n and_o to_o this_o duty_n they_o be_v often_o exhort_v in_o scripture_n 1_o pet._n 5.1_o 2._o the_o elder_n which_o be_v among_o you_o i_o beseech_v feed_v the_o flock_n of_o god_n etc._n etc._n act._n 20.28_o take_v heed_n therefore_o unto_o yourselves_o and_o to_o all_o the_o flock_n whereof_o the_o holy_a ghost_n have_v make_v you_o overseer_n to_o feed_v the_o church_n of_o god_n etc._n etc._n and_o this_o feed_n consist_v chief_o in_o two_o thing_n that_o be_v first_o to_o teach_v second_o to_o rule_v and_o govern_v they_o must_v be_v acknowledge_v to_o have_v as_o absolute_a power_n and_o authority_n from_o god_n for_o both_o these_o duty_n within_o their_o charge_n as_o the_o bishop_n in_o they_o for_o every_o presbyter_n be_v a_o feeder_n that_o be_v both_o a_o teacher_n &_o a_o ruler_n within_o his_o charge_n it_o be_v true_a that_o presbyter_n have_v be_v most_o unjust_o scantle_v &_o abridge_v by_o canon_n and_o counsel_n of_o this_o part_n of_o their_o office_n that_o consist_v in_o rule_v and_o govern_v too_o much_o have_v be_v take_v from_o they_o that_o bishop_n may_v be_v advance_v the_o more_o particular_o to_o speak_v more_o particular_o of_o their_o office_n it_o consist_v in_o many_o particular_n first_o they_o be_v to_o teach_v the_o word_n that_o be_v both_o to_o expound_v it_o and_o to_o apply_v it_o and_o whatsoever_o particular_n of_o exhort_v reprove_v comfort_v etc._n etc._n be_v set_v down_o in_o scripture_n they_o be_v to_o be_v refer_v to_o this_o head_n they_o be_v all_o exercise_v by_o the_o apostle_n and_o evangelist_n and_o be_v so_o to_o be_v by_o every_o minister_n or_o elder_n within_o his_o charge_n that_o which_o be_v speak_v of_o paul_n to_o timothy_n 2_o tim._n 4.2_o be_v speak_v to_o all_o minister_n preach_v the_o word_n be_v instant_a in_o season_n and_o out_o of_o season_n improve_v rebuke_n exhort_v etc._n etc._n and_o there_o be_v reason_n for_o it_o for_o the_o word_n be_v commit_v to_o every_o pastor_n to_o be_v minister_v by_o they_o and_o that_o be_v profitable_a to_o teach_v to_o convince_v to_o correct_v as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o 2_o tim._n 3.16_o therefore_o there_o be_v power_n and_o charge_n in_o they_o to_o handle_v it_o every_o way_n for_o the_o edification_n of_o the_o church_n second_o they_o be_v to_o administer_v the_o sacrament_n for_o that_o also_o be_v charge_v upon_o the_o apostle_n mat._n 28.19_o be_v intend_v to_o all_o the_o ministry_n as_o well_o as_o the_o word_n and_o in_o the_o 1_o cor._n 10.18_o the_o cup_n of_o blessing_n which_o we_o bless_v etc._n etc._n there_o be_v the_o other_o sacrament_n and_o the_o apostle_n make_v it_o
officer_n must_v be_v guide_v in_o do_v these_o duty_n must_v have_v a_o good_a warrant_n the_o best_a and_o indeed_o the_o only_a true_a and_o sound_a warrant_n for_o they_o be_v to_o be_v fetch_v from_o the_o lord_n jesus_n out_o of_o his_o word_n for_o see_v he_o be_v the_o head_n and_o chief_a officer_n of_o his_o church_n therefore_o the_o rest_n be_v instrument_n and_o servant_n under_o he_o be_v to_o wait_v at_o his_o mouth_n for_o direction_n how_o to_o carry_v themselves_o in_o their_o place_n first_o therefore_o the_o word_n of_o god_n must_v be_v seek_v into_o careful_o and_o diligent_o second_o we_o must_v seek_v unto_o god_n by_o humble_a and_o fervent_a prayer_n for_o the_o assistance_n of_o his_o spirit_n both_o for_o the_o right_a understanding_n and_o also_o for_o willing_a conformablenesse_n and_o submission_n to_o the_o word_n for_o this_o be_v right_o consult_v and_o walk_v with_o god_n when_o we_o have_v take_v advice_n from_o his_o word_n for_o every_o business_n in_o hand_n and_o when_o we_o receive_v a_o comfortable_a answer_n from_o he_o in_o prayer_n for_o encouragement_n therein_o and_o do_v so_o proceed_v in_o it_o because_o god_n will_v have_v it_o so_o for_o as_o every_o creature_n so_o every_o business_n we_o go_v about_o be_v true_o sanctify_v unto_o we_o by_o the_o word_n and_o prayer_n that_o be_v when_o we_o look_v into_o the_o word_n for_o a_o warrant_n for_o it_o and_o when_o we_o go_v to_o god_n by_o prayer_n to_o direct_v we_o in_o it_o warrant_v here_o therefore_o in_o god_n word_n first_o we_o must_v have_v a_o warrant_n for_o the_o duty_n that_o it_o be_v necessary_a or_o at_o least_o lawful_a to_o be_v do_v second_o for_o the_o doer_n that_o he_o or_o they_o be_v authorise_v at_o least_o allow_v by_o god_n to_o deal_v in_o it_o three_o a_o warrant_n must_v be_v have_v hence_o for_o the_o carriage_n of_o the_o business_n that_o it_o be_v command_v or_o at_o least_o permit_v by_o the_o warrant_n of_o god_n word_n the_o matter_n we_o be_v now_o to_o insist_v on_o be_v the_o warrant_n for_o the_o caution_n condition_n and_o carriage_n of_o the_o business_n and_o this_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n first_o principal_a either_o a_o principal_a and_o direct_a warrant_n or_o second_o a_o inferior_a warrant_n of_o a_o low_a degree_n derive_v from_o it_o the_o principal_a and_o direct_a warrant_n be_v express_o mention_v in_o the_o word_n and_o that_o either_o by_o way_n of_o precept_n or_o example_n by_o way_n of_o precept_n and_o that_o be_v either_o particular_a or_o general_a each_o precise_o to_o be_v observe_v as_o be_v in_o the_o nature_n of_o a_o bind_v law_n example_n i_o mean_v only_o such_o as_o the_o word_n commend_v they_o be_v either_o ordinary_a or_o extraordinary_a extraordinary_a be_v such_o as_o be_v peculiar_a to_o certain_a time_n place_n and_o church_n such_o as_o be_v the_o election_n of_o mathias_n by_o lot_n act._n 1._o and_o these_o end_v where_o they_o begin_v and_o be_v not_o to_o be_v propound_v as_o pattern_n for_o imitation_n ordinary_a be_v such_o as_o be_v common_o practise_v as_o gather_v for_o the_o saint_n whereof_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1_o cor._n 16.1_o that_o as_o he_o have_v ordain_v in_o the_o church_n of_o galatia_n so_o he_o ordain_v among_o they_o also_o etc._n etc._n and_o these_o be_v to_o be_v observe_v by_o all_o where_o there_o be_v like_o occasion_n second_o the_o warrant_n from_o a_o inferior_a or_o low_a degree_n warrant_n as_o be_v derive_v from_o the_o principal_a these_o be_v young_a in_o year_n as_o not_o be_v in_o the_o apostle_n time_n but_o in_o some_o near_a age_n after_o and_o mean_a in_o authority_n as_o be_v ratify_v by_o man_n not_o so_o infallible_o guide_v by_o the_o spirit_n as_o the_o apostle_n be_v and_o these_o also_o be_v either_o precept_n or_o example_n first_o precept_n and_o they_o be_v common_o call_v tradition_n or_o constitution_n i_o mean_v not_o tradition_n in_o matter_n of_o faith_n for_o they_o be_v very_o dangerous_a but_o in_o matter_n of_o outward_a church_n government_n and_o these_o may_v more_o safe_o be_v deal_v withal_o second_o example_n or_o practice_n of_o the_o church_n and_o each_o of_o these_o be_v either_o general_o ratify_v by_o all_o or_o the_o most_o church_n or_o else_o but_o by_o some_o one_o or_o few_o church_n and_o each_o of_o these_o the_o most_o ancient_a and_o pure_a or_o latter_a and_o more_o corrupt_a now_o whatsoever_o be_v do_v in_o church-government_n must_v have_v ground_n from_o one_o or_o both_o these_o warrant_n if_o it_o be_v possible_a it_o must_v have_v warrant_n from_o the_o first_o that_o be_v the_o principal_a warrant_n therefore_o when_o any_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v do_v in_o this_o case_n look_v special_o into_o the_o principal_a warrant_n which_o be_v the_o word_n if_o so_o there_o be_v any_o particular_a precept_n for_o it_o then_o that_o must_v be_v do_v as_o the_o lord_n commandment_n without_o any_o further_o communicate_v with_o flesh_n and_o blood_n as_o the_o apostle_n say_v when_o he_o speak_v of_o matter_n of_o church-government_n 1_o cor._n 14.37_o but_o if_o the_o precept_n be_v general_a as_o that_o all_o thing_n must_v be_v do_v in_o order_n etc._n etc._n make_v use_n of_o they_o for_o such_o particular_n only_o as_o natural_o proceed_v from_o thence_o be_v inform_v by_o sound_a consequence_n in_o reason_n and_o religion_n if_o we_o have_v no_o precept_n in_o scripture_n than_o we_o must_v look_v to_o example_n and_o those_o that_o be_v ordinary_a which_o though_o they_o be_v not_o of_o that_o authority_n that_o precept_n be_v of_o because_o those_o be_v absolute_o to_o be_v embrace_v yet_o they_o be_v much_o to_o be_v regard_v and_o these_o we_o be_v to_o fashion_v ourselves_o unto_o always_o observe_v a_o due_a proportion_n of_o time_n place_n person_n occasion_n and_o such_o other_o necessary_a circumstance_n for_o to_o apply_v that_o to_o one_o church_n in_o one_o state_n and_o at_o one_o time_n which_o be_v in_o another_o church_n in_o another_o state_n and_o at_o another_o time_n be_v absurd_a well_o then_o if_o we_o be_v destitute_a of_o this_o principal_a warrant_n that_o we_o have_v neither_o precept_n nor_o example_n in_o god_n word_n then_o we_o must_v go_v to_o the_o inferior_a warrant_n we_o must_v see_v what_o precept_n and_o example_n be_v to_o be_v find_v in_o writer_n that_o have_v speak_v of_o church-government_n since_o the_o apostle_n time_n and_o of_o these_o we_o must_v see_v whether_o they_o be_v of_o the_o most_o ancient_a and_o pure_a church_n or_o of_o the_o latter_a and_o more_o corrupt_a if_o we_o have_v no_o precedent_n by_o constitution_n or_o practice_n but_o in_o the_o late_a and_o corrupt_a time_n i_o see_v not_o but_o that_o the_o church_n now_o be_v may_v as_o well_o devise_v particular_n of_o their_o own_o as_o follow_v they_o yea_o and_o better_o so_o long_o as_o they_o measure_v their_o particular_n fit_o and_o wise_o by_o those_o in_o the_o word_n but_o if_o we_o have_v any_o precedent_n in_o all_o or_o the_o most_o ancient_a and_o pure_a church_n for_o the_o most_o part_n it_o be_v safe_a enough_o to_o build_v on_o they_o so_o as_o they_o be_v not_o misapplyed_n nor_o mistake_v i_o speak_v still_o of_o matter_n of_o church-government_n not_o of_o faith_n but_o if_o there_o be_v many_o constitution_n and_o example_n in_o those_o church_n and_o some_o differ_v from_o other_o take_v the_o best_a that_o be_v that_o which_o be_v near_a to_o the_o word_n and_o have_v best_a precedent_n of_o pure_a church_n or_o of_o such_o as_o that_o their_o condition_n &_o state_n may_v best_o agree_v with_o we_o this_o point_n of_o inferior_a warrant_n some_o have_v go_v too_o far_o in_o esteem_v too_o high_o of_o it_o some_o have_v come_v too_o short_a esteem_v too_o base_o of_o it_o first_o some_o esteem_n too_o high_o of_o these_o impious_o equal_v they_o with_o the_o word_n whereas_o there_o be_v two_o main_a difference_n first_o because_o those_o in_o the_o word_n be_v certain_o true_a we_o know_v it_o be_v do_v by_o christ_n or_o his_o apostle_n second_o as_o we_o know_v they_o be_v do_v by_o they_o so_o we_o know_v that_o they_o be_v do_v by_o they_o as_o they_o be_v infallible_o guide_v by_o god_n himself_o so_o that_o they_o can_v not_o err_v but_o for_o the_o matter_n of_o inferior_a warrant_n first_o haply_o there_o be_v no_o such_o thing_n do_v at_o least_o in_o those_o time_n and_o by_o those_o person_n for_o history_n make_v mention_n of_o thing_n not_o true_a or_o second_o yet_o they_o may_v err_v for_o they_o be_v not_o infallible_o guide_v by_o god_n spirit_n other_o come_v too_o short_a esteem_v too_o base_o of_o they_o as_o if_o they_o be_v nothing_o worth_a they_o esteem_v
his_o instrument_n have_v a_o special_a delight_n in_o disturb_v this_o peace_n and_o spare_v no_o mean_n but_o seek_v all_o advantage_n for_o the_o sow_v of_o dissension_n in_o the_o church_n and_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n be_v too_o apprehensive_a of_o it_o else_o he_o can_v not_o do_v we_o that_o harm_n he_o do_v unless_o we_o be_v so_o apprehensive_a of_o dissension_n among_o ourselves_o now_o as_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n be_v endanger_v in_o many_o case_n endanger_v so_o especial_o in_o these_o first_o when_o man_n be_v addict_v to_o one_o minister_n before_o another_o one_o to_o paul_n another_o to_o cephas_n etc._n etc._n this_o come_v of_o a_o carnal_a mind_n as_o the_o apostle_n show_v 1_o cor._n 3._o and_o thus_o they_o wrong_v themselves_o and_o the_o minister_n too_o themselves_o in_o that_o they_o be_v hinder_v hereby_o from_o the_o good_a they_o may_v have_v and_o their_o minister_n because_o that_o they_o make_v contention_n betwixt_o they_o where_o otherwise_o none_o will_v be_v second_o this_o peace_n be_v endanger_v in_o the_o election_n of_o officer_n some_o breed_n and_o make_v faction_n for_o one_o against_o another_o as_o their_o affection_n lead_v they_o three_o it_o be_v endanger_v in_o decide_v controversy_n either_o of_o religion_n or_o state_n one_o will_v be_v cross_v and_o thwart_v another_o in_o the_o heat_n of_o contention_n and_o strife_n yea_o happy_o rend_v themselves_o from_o the_o church_n if_o it_o may_v not_o go_v as_o they_o will_v have_v it_o let_v god_n child_n be_v admonish_v to_o have_v no_o part_n in_o such_o contention_n but_o let_v they_o labour_v for_o the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n if_o they_o will_v have_v peace_n in_o themselves_o for_o we_o be_v call_v to_o peace_n to_o mind_n and_o to_o speak_v one_o thing_n if_o the_o good_a thing_n we_o seek_v for_o may_v quiet_o and_o peaceable_o be_v obtain_v it_o be_v well_o let_v god_n have_v the_o glory_n and_o ourselves_o may_v comfortable_o enjoy_v the_o benefit_n of_o they_o but_o if_o they_o can_v be_v have_v without_o break_v the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v they_o may_v have_v comfort_n for_o they_o have_v discharge_v their_o conscience_n in_o seek_v the_o best_a thing_n and_o let_v they_o bewaille_fw-fr the_o corruption_n of_o the_o time_n and_o keep_v themselves_o unspotted_a of_o those_o corruption_n and_o pray_v to_o god_n for_o redress_n thus_o be_v we_o to_o seek_v the_o peace_n of_o the_o church_n and_o not_o be_v any_o cause_n of_o dissension_n whereby_o it_o may_v be_v break_v the_o four_o rule_n to_o be_v observe_v in_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o carriage_n of_o church_n business_n be_v rule_n that_o whosoever_o have_v any_o right_n in_o the_o performance_n of_o any_o such_o duty_n be_v not_o contemn_v nor_o rsterain_v of_o their_o right_n but_o that_o they_o be_v call_v to_o the_o business_n and_o permit_v to_o speak_v and_o do_v free_o so_o far_o as_o the_o lord_n have_v put_v into_o their_o hand_n for_o then_o the_o lord_n be_v best_a please_v with_o a_o business_n when_o it_o be_v joint_o perform_v by_o everyone_n that_o be_v authorise_v by_o himself_o thereto_o the_o magistrate_n must_v not_o neglect_v the_o minister_n nor_o the_o minister_n must_v neglect_v the_o magistrate_n the_o pastor_n must_v not_o neglect_v the_o flock_n nor_o must_v the_o flock_n neglect_v the_o pastor_n but_o every_o man_n must_v have_v his_o due_a and_o do_v his_o duty_n look_v into_o act._n 15.23_o and_o see_v how_o the_o business_n be_v carry_v there_o the_o apostle_n break_v and_o the_o elder_n and_o the_o brethren_n have_v a_o hand_n in_o that_o business_n every_o man_n so_o far_o as_o concern_v he_o ofttime_n it_o come_v to_o pass_v that_o there_o be_v a_o diotrephes_n find_v in_o the_o church_n as_o in_o the_o three_o epistle_n of_o john_n that_o love_v to_o have_v the_o pre-eminence_n and_o to_o sway_v all_o with_o their_o own_o hand_n there_o this_o rule_n be_v break_v sometime_o in_o a_o church_n the_o censure_n of_o the_o church_n be_v wring_v out_o of_o the_o hand_n of_o the_o minister_n and_o pass_v by_o another_o authority_n only_o he_o may_v complain_v and_o publish_v what_o other_o have_v do_v himself_o can_v have_v no_o further_o hold_v in_o they_o here_o likewise_o this_o rule_n be_v break_v last_o many_o abuse_n their_o christian_a liberty_n to_o the_o offence_n of_o the_o weak_a and_o so_o this_o rule_n be_v break_v for_o the_o weak_a brother_n have_v his_o interest_n in_o my_o liberty_n as_o well_o as_o myself_o rule_n the_o five_o and_o last_o rule_n be_v that_o all_o thing_n in_o the_o outward_a government_n of_o the_o church_n must_v be_v so_o carry_v as_o best_o so_o far_o forth_o as_o may_v be_v fit_v the_o government_n of_o the_o civil_a state_n wherein_o we_o live_v i_o will_v not_o have_v any_o think_v that_o we_o will_v draw_v religion_n to_o the_o bent_n of_o the_o outward_a state_n but_o we_o speak_v of_o outward_a government_n in_o the_o church_n that_o we_o say_v must_v not_o cross_v the_o well_o establish_a government_n of_o the_o civil_a state_n to_o cause_v innovation_n and_o change_n and_o trouble_n and_o confusion_n special_o in_o a_o christian_a commonwealth_n it_o be_v never_o our_o saviour_n meaning_n that_o the_o outward_a carriage_n of_o religion_n shall_v overthrow_v the_o carriage_n of_o the_o temporal_a state_n but_o that_o caesar_n shall_v have_v as_o well_o that_o which_o be_v caesar_n as_o god_n that_o which_o be_v go_n i_o speak_v of_o a_o politic_a state_n already_o establish_v by_o lawful_a authority_n and_o confirm_v by_o wholesome_a law_n and_o maintain_v by_o the_o ancient_a use_n and_o custom_n of_o the_o place_n there_o religion_n come_v in_o afterward_o it_o must_v be_v frame_v for_o the_o outward_a carriage_n of_o it_o to_o the_o civil_a state_n except_o wherein_o religion_n be_v plain_o contradict_v our_o saviour_n no_o doubt_n be_v as_o careful_a of_o civil_a christian_a state_n as_o moses_n be_v of_o the_o jewish_a policy_n but_o there_o church-government_n be_v fit_v to_o their_o civil_a state_n and_o so_o must_v we_o but_o you_o will_v say_v that_o both_o civil_a state_n and_o their_o church-government_n be_v each_o of_o they_o direct_o and_o equal_o from_o god_n true_a and_o be_v not_o all_o the_o power_n that_o be_v ordain_v of_o god_n so_o the_o apostle_n say_v rom._n 13.1_o and_o therefore_o though_o the_o government_n of_o civil_a state_n be_v not_o now_o so_o immediate_o from_o god_n as_o the_o jew_n be_v yet_o it_o be_v from_o god_n too_o and_o therefore_o by_o proportion_n where_o the_o government_n of_o the_o civil_a state_n be_v ratify_v by_o use_n religion_n come_v in_o afterward_o in_o all_o equity_n and_o reason_n it_o be_v to_o be_v carry_v according_o for_o the_o outward_a passage_n of_o it_o when_o the_o apostle_n peter_n persuade_v the_o scatter_a jew_n to_o submit_v themselves_o to_o all_o manner_n ordinance_n of_o man_n for_o the_o lord_n sake_n 1_o pet._n 2.3_o it_o be_v a_o plain_a warning_n to_o they_o that_o nothing_o be_v do_v by_o they_o in_o their_o particular_a carriage_n much_o less_o in_o the_o outward_a government_n of_o the_o church_n which_o may_v be_v prejudicial_a to_o the_o government_n of_o the_o civil_a state_n they_o must_v not_o cross_v that_o unless_o that_o cross_a religion_n as_o i_o say_v before_o the_o want_n of_o the_o due_a observation_n of_o this_o rule_n have_v make_v many_o become_v anabaptist_n and_o despiser_n of_o government_n and_o in_o many_o place_n it_o have_v make_v religion_n fare_v the_o worse_o and_o the_o professor_n thereof_o to_o be_v traduce_v for_o rebellious_a troublesome_a and_o dangerous_a people_n enemy_n to_o the_o state_n so_o much_o for_o the_o manner_n of_o the_o carriage_n of_o church_n business_n now_o we_o come_v to_o the_o three_o and_o last_o general_a head_n they_o namely_o the_o end_n that_o must_v be_v aim_v at_o in_o do_v these_o duty_n that_o must_v be_v good_a too_o it_o must_v be_v do_v with_o a_o single_a end_n and_o a_o sincere_a affection_n and_o intention_n free_a from_o all_o sinister_a respect_n either_o to_o themselves_o or_o other_o there_o be_v two_o good_a end_n which_o we_o must_v aim_v at_o in_o all_o action_n concern_v church-government_n the_o first_o be_v the_o glory_n of_o god_n the_o second_o be_v the_o edification_n of_o our_o brethren_n first_o we_o must_v aim_v whole_o and_o only_o at_o god_n glory_n so_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1_o cor._n 10.31_o whatsoever_o you_o do_v let_v all_o be_v do_v to_o the_o glory_n of_o god_n for_o it_o be_v god_n business_n his_o gift_n and_o officer_n and_o ordinance_n of_o purpose_n appoint_v for_o his_o glory_n after_o a_o special_a manner_n and_o therefore_o this_o require_v a_o true_a zeal_n for_o the_o lord_n of_o
consequence_n of_o his_o deal_n towards_o his_o church_n for_o ever_o now_o god_n have_v many_o nation_n in_o the_o world_n beside_o israel_n and_o he_o deal_v merciful_o and_o gracious_o and_o bountiful_o with_o they_o all_o and_o give_v they_o food_n and_o raiment_n and_o health_n and_o life_n and_o all_o but_o so_o as_o with_o israel_n that_o be_v so_o merciful_o and_o so_o bountiful_o he_o deal_v not_o with_o any_o nation_n no_o he_o have_v not_o deal_v so_o with_o any_o nation_n under_o the_o sun_n as_o with_o they_o and_o as_o god_n deal_v with_o they_o so_o he_o deal_v with_o his_o church_n from_o time_n to_o time_n he_o vouchsafe_v they_o more_o excellent_a privilege_n than_o all_o the_o world_n beside_o and_o in_o the_o 1_o peter_n 2.9_o you_o be_v a_o peculiar_a people_n that_o be_v such_o a_o people_n as_o the_o lord_n have_v endue_v with_o many_o excellent_a privilege_n proper_a and_o peculiar_a to_o they_o alone_o and_o psal_n 83.3_o they_o be_v call_v god_n secret_a one_o what_o be_v that_o but_o private_a one_o and_o what_o be_v privilege_n but_o certain_a condition_n grant_v to_o some_o private_a state_n or_o person_n so_o then_o the_o church_n be_v god_n secret_a one_o as_o who_o shall_v say_v he_o grant_v they_o many_o excellent_a privilege_n which_o none_o other_o be_v partaker_n of_o and_o in_o exod._n 19.5_o the_o church_n be_v call_v god_n chief_a treasure_n it_o be_v true_a that_o all_o the_o earth_n be_v the_o lord_n and_o be_v all_o full_a of_o his_o treasure_n but_o his_o church_n be_v his_o chief_a treasure_n silver_n have_v her_o prerogative_n above_o all_o base_a mettle_n and_o gold_n his_o prerogative_n above_o silver_n but_o pearl_n and_o precious_a jewel_n be_v a_o chief_a treasury_n and_o have_v prerogative_n above_o all_o the_o rest_n sodom_n be_v a_o goodly_a city_n like_o eden_n and_o egypt_n be_v a_o fat_a and_o fruitful_a soil_n bâ—t_o they_o be_v nothing_o to_o canaan_n for_o that_o flow_v with_o milk_n and_o honey_n milk_n and_o honey_n be_v the_o best_a and_o sweet_a thing_n canaan_n flow_v with_o these_o that_o be_v have_v great_a abundance_n of_o they_o niniveb_n be_v a_o great_a and_o famous_a city_n babel_n be_v the_o glory_n and_o pride_n of_o kingdom_n isaiah_n 13.19_o but_o these_o be_v nothing_o to_o jerusalem_n that_o be_v the_o holy_a city_n the_o city_n of_o the_o great_a king_n the_o joy_n of_o the_o whole_a earth_n psal_n 48.1.2_o to_o go_v forward_o bashan_n be_v a_o high_a mountain_n but_o zion_n be_v far_o beyond_o that_o psal_n 68.15.16_o all_o these_o as_o they_o be_v true_a in_o the_o story_n so_o be_v they_o in_o the_o type_n all_o other_o place_n be_v inferior_a to_o god_n church_n the_o scripture_n forbear_v not_o the_o name_n of_o privilege_n in_o effect_n and_o apply_v it_o in_o this_o very_a case_n rom._n 3.1.2_o what_o be_v the_o preferment_n of_o the_o jew_n &_o c_o the_o lord_n question_n it_o there_o and_o answer_v it_o himself_o that_o none_o may_v doubt_v of_o it_o much_o every_o manner_n of_o way_n as_o who_o shall_v say_v they_o have_v privilege_n and_o preferment_n and_o they_o be_v not_o scant_v of_o they_o much_o that_o be_v many_o and_o great_a and_o that_o not_o in_o one_o kind_n but_o every_o way_n it_o be_v speak_v there_o only_o of_o the_o jew_n but_o by_o analogy_n of_o faith_n it_o may_v be_v apply_v to_o the_o whole_a church_n john_n 1.12_o to_o they_o that_o receive_v he_o to_o they_o he_o give_v power_n or_o prerogative_n to_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n here_o be_v a_o prerogative_n give_v and_o what_o be_v that_o to_o be_v the_o son_n of_o god_n this_o be_v a_o privilege_n of_o all_o privilege_n for_o he_o that_o have_v this_o privilege_n to_o be_v god_n child_n have_v with_o all_o free_a right_n and_o interest_n in_o all_o the_o blessing_n that_o can_v be_v afford_v to_o man_n such_o as_o the_o apostle_n speak_v of_o 1_o cor._n 2.9_o that_o the_o eye_n have_v not_o see_v nor_o the_o ear_n hear_v neither_o can_v it_o enter_v into_o man_n heart_n where_o the_o apostle_n speak_v not_o only_o of_o thing_n to_o be_v enjoy_v in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v but_o even_o of_o the_o privilege_n of_o god_n child_n even_o in_o this_o life_n and_o isaiah_n 64.4_o since_o the_o begin_n of_o the_o world_n they_o have_v not_o hear_v nor_o understand_v with_o the_o â—are_n neither_o have_v the_o eye_n see_v any_o other_o god_n beside_o thou_o which_o do_v so_o to_o he_o that_o wait_v for_o he_o god_n do_v so_o for_o none_o as_o he_o do_v for_o his_o child_n reason_n the_o reason_n why_o the_o visible_a church_n have_v such_o privilege_n be_v these_o first_o every_o company_n and_o every_o city_n have_v certain_a privilege_n of_o their_o own_o therefore_o the_o church_n the_o company_n of_o the_o faithful_a the_o city_n of_o the_o great_a king_n must_v have_v she_o much_o more_o second_o the_o special_a favour_n and_o love_n which_o god_n do_v bear_v to_o his_o church_n be_v such_o that_o he_o can_v do_v no_o less_o for_o they_o those_o who_o the_o king_n of_o the_o earth_n most_o favour_n on_o they_o they_o bestow_v the_o great_a privilege_n therefore_o who_o the_o king_n of_o king_n favour_n most_o of_o all_o that_o be_v the_o church_n he_o be_v to_o bestow_v on_o they_o great_a and_o better_a privilege_n than_o any_o king_n can_v give_v but_o god_n only_o or_o any_o subject_n can_v receive_v but_o god_n own_o darling_n three_o the_o church_n have_v many_o office_n to_o perform_v towards_o god_n in_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a duty_n as_o prayer_n and_o such_o like_a which_o they_o can_v possible_o perform_v unless_o they_o be_v by_o god_n own_o special_a privilege_n exempt_v from_o other_o employment_n and_o enable_v to_o these_o four_o their_o nearness_n to_o christ_n and_o their_o dependence_n on_o he_o require_v it_o they_o be_v his_o sheep_n and_o he_o be_v their_o shepherd_n and_o shall_v not_o he_o know_v they_o and_o so_o set_v his_o mark_n upon_o they_o and_o call_v they_o by_o name_n and_o lead_v they_o forth_o into_o green_a pasture_n etc._n etc._n shall_v not_o he_o guide_v and_o comfort_n and_o preserve_v and_o privilege_v they_o from_o such_o thing_n as_o other_o flock_n be_v subject_a unto_o yea_o their_o oneness_n with_o he_o require_v it_o he_o be_v the_o husband_n the_o church_n be_v his_o spouse_n they_o be_v one_o and_o shall_v not_o he_o give_v she_o a_o wedding_n ring_n his_o hand_n and_o his_o heart_n shall_v not_o he_o apparel_n and_o deck_v she_o and_o cherish_v she_o in_o his_o bosom_n and_o afford_v she_o his_o comfortable_a presence_n at_o bed_n and_o at_o board_n as_o we_o say_v and_o many_o other_o such_o privilege_n which_o none_o else_o can_v enjoy_v yea_o he_o be_v the_o head_n &_o the_o church_n be_v his_o body_n and_o shall_v not_o he_o enlive_v and_o quicken_v nourish_v direct_v defend_v and_o endue_v his_o body_n with_o all_o such_o privilege_n and_o grace_n as_o it_o be_v capable_a of_o so_o that_o their_o near_a dependence_n on_o christ_n and_o her_o oneness_n with_o he_o require_v that_o he_o bestow_v many_o excellent_a privilege_n on_o she_o which_o other_o may_v not_o enjoy_v five_o the_o merit_n of_o christ_n require_v it_o which_o be_v infinite_a in_o itself_o and_o whole_o impart_v to_o the_o church_n must_v needs_o purchase_v and_o procure_v from_o god_n many_o excellent_a privilege_n such_o as_o be_v fit_a for_o they_o six_o the_o church_n be_v separate_v from_o the_o communion_n state_n and_o condition_n of_o other_o in_o the_o world_n by_o their_o very_a call_v and_o be_v of_o the_o church_n therefore_o it_o be_v necessary_a that_o they_o shall_v have_v some_o notable_a privilege_n to_o be_v enjoy_v in_o that_o state_n in_o regard_n that_o they_o be_v deprive_v of_o such_o as_o be_v common_a to_o other_o seven_o and_o last_o many_o affliction_n be_v to_o be_v suffer_v and_o endure_v of_o the_o church_n not_o only_o in_o that_o state_n but_o even_o for_o it_o and_o therefore_o some_o excellent_a privilege_n be_v bestow_v upon_o they_o to_o comfort_v their_o heart_n and_o to_o make_v they_o a_o full_a amends_o for_o all_o the_o wrong_n cross_n and_o loss_n that_o thereby_o they_o undergo_v the_o use_n of_o the_o point_n be_v these_o use_v 1_o be_v it_o so_o that_o god_n have_v bestow_v so_o many_o excellent_a privilege_n upon_o the_o church_n then_o first_o this_o shall_v teach_v we_o to_o glorify_v god_n that_o do_v so_o merciful_o grace_v and_o glorify_v we_o and_o first_o in_o general_n we_o be_v to_o acknowledge_v with_o all_o thankfulness_n god_n special_a love_n and_o favour_n to_o his_o church_n that_o bestow_v such_o excellent_a privilege_n and_o royal_a prerogative_n upon_o it_o second_o in_o special_a we_o must_v acknowledge_v with_o
these_o privilege_n be_v sure_o humane_a they_o be_v more_o &_o great_a than_o can_v be_v speak_v or_o understand_v yet_o because_o though_o we_o do_v enjoy_v they_o they_o be_v not_o such_o a_o comfort_n to_o we_o except_o we_o know_v they_o therefore_o i_o will_v labour_v to_o give_v you_o some_o taste_n of_o they_o they_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n some_o be_v humane_a that_o be_v grant_v by_o man_n and_o some_o be_v divine_a grant_v by_o god_n himself_o first_o some_o be_v humane_a grant_v by_o man_n as_o by_o king_n and_o emperor_n counsel_n and_o state_n either_o politic_a or_o ecclesiastic_a yea_o sometime_o by_o heathenish_a state_n as_o well_o as_o christian_a for_o sometime_o god_n stir_v up_o heathen_a man_n to_o be_v beneficial_a to_o his_o church_n &_o these_o privilege_n be_v outward_a either_o of_o their_o person_n from_o war_n or_o of_o their_o good_n from_o tax_n or_o the_o place_n consecrat_fw-mi to_o religious_a use_n be_v free_v from_o arrest_n &_o such_o like_a hence_o come_v privilege_v place_n but_o these_o as_o they_o come_v from_o man_n so_o there_o be_v no_o such_o excellency_n nor_o comfort_n in_o they_o &_o they_o be_v intend_v only_o or_o chief_o to_o churchman_n as_o they_o call_v they_o that_o be_v the_o clergy_n but_o yet_o even_o in_o these_o thing_n let_v we_o observe_v god_n love_n to_o his_o church_n for_o as_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n that_o give_v israel_n favour_n in_o the_o sight_n of_o the_o egyptian_n that_o they_o give_v they_o their_o jewel_n etc._n etc._n exod._n 11.3_o sort_n so_o it_o be_v the_o lord_n that_o enlarge_v the_o heart_n of_o those_o prince_n &_o state_n to_o be_v beneficial_a to_o his_o church_n but_o the_o privilege_n we_o seek_v be_v much_o more_o material_a &_o excellent_a and_o be_v common_a to_o the_o whole_a church_n people_n as_o well_o as_o minister_n &_o these_o be_v divine_a privilege_n grant_v immediate_o by_o god_n himself_o and_o these_o be_v of_o diverse_a sort_n general_o they_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n the_o church_n of_o god_n be_v privilege_v partly_o in_o respect_n of_o other_o and_o partly_o in_o respect_n of_o themselves_o in_o respect_n of_o other_o they_o be_v privilege_v first_o in_o regard_n of_o their_o friend_n enemy_n who_o god_n bless_v for_o they_o and_o also_o in_o regard_n of_o their_o enemy_n who_o god_n curse_v for_o their_o sake_n as_o in_o gen._n 12.3_o i_o will_v bless_v they_o that_o bless_v thou_o and_o curse_v they_o that_o curse_v thou_o yea_o they_o be_v privilege_v in_o respect_n of_o the_o world_n itself_o who_o substance_n &_o standard_n they_o be_v isaiah_n 6.13_o it_o be_v make_v and_o be_v preserve_v continue_v alter_v and_o shall_v be_v destroy_v for_o their_o sake_n as_o it_o be_v a_o great_a privilege_n of_o the_o ark_n of_o god_n that_o where_o it_o enter_v and_o be_v well_o esteem_v and_o use_v as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o house_n of_o obed_n edom_n the_o place_n and_o person_n be_v bless_v by_o it_o &_o where_o it_o be_v not_o worthy_o esteem_v as_o among_o the_o philstine_o they_o be_v accurse_v by_o it_o so_o it_o be_v a_o great_a privilege_n to_o the_o church_n that_o they_o that_o be_v friend_n unto_o it_o be_v bless_v by_o it_o at_o least_o in_o outward_a thing_n and_o that_o they_o that_o be_v enemy_n to_o it_o privilege_n be_v curse_v and_o plague_v for_o it_o second_o they_o be_v privilege_v chief_o in_o respect_n of_o themselves_o whereby_o they_o fare_v the_o better_a in_o their_o own_o person_n and_o these_o privilege_n be_v of_o two_o sort_n some_o concern_v their_o outward_a and_o temporal_a estate_n other_o concern_v their_o inward_a and_o spiritual_a estate_n first_o some_o concern_v their_o outward_a and_o temporal_a estate_n as_o first_o protection_n and_o defence_n against_o adversary_n isaiah_n 4.5_o 6._o there_o the_o church_n be_v call_v the_o glory_n and_o there_o be_v a_o promise_n of_o universal_a protection_n to_o it_o so_o also_o defence_n from_o ordinary_a evil_n that_o befall_v other_o as_o psal_n 91._o and_o likewise_o they_o be_v privilege_v in_o regard_n of_o victory_n over_o their_o enemy_n as_o psal_n 149._o verse_n the_o last_o that_o they_o may_v execute_v upon_o they_o the_o judgement_n that_o be_v write_v this_o honour_n shall_v be_v to_o all_o his_o saint_n last_o of_o all_o the_o continuance_n of_o the_o very_a outward_a be_v of_o the_o church_n through_o all_o age_n to_o the_o world_n end_n be_v a_o privilege_n to_o it_o as_o in_o psal_n 46.5.6_o the_o prophet_n say_v god_n be_v in_o the_o midst_n of_o it_o therefore_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v move_v let_v the_o world_n do_v what_o it_o will_v yet_o it_o can_v deprive_v the_o church_n of_o the_o outward_a be_v of_o it_o it_o may_v wax_v and_o wane_n as_o the_o moon_n do_v yet_o as_o that_o have_v always_o a_o be_v so_o shall_v the_o church_n ever_o be_v these_o be_v temporal_a privilege_n the_o second_o sort_n be_v such_o member_n as_o concern_v our_o spiritual_a and_o eternal_a estate_n and_o they_o also_o be_v of_o two_o sort_n such_o as_o be_v common_a to_o all_o the_o member_n of_o the_o church_n hypocrite_n as_o well_o as_o true_a believer_n as_o the_o use_n and_o profession_n of_o the_o word_n sacrament_n prayer_n fast_v gift_n of_o the_o ministry_n profession_n of_o the_o gospel_n knowledge_n of_o god_n will_n and_o outward_a conformity_n and_o obedience_n thereto_o as_o also_o historical_a and_o temporary_a faith_n and_o some_o taste_n of_o heavenly_a thing_n heb._n 6.2_o and_o such_o other_o common_a gift_n of_o the_o spirit_n these_o in_o the_o godly_a tend_v to_o their_o eternal_a good_a but_o in_o the_o wicked_a and_o reprobate_a to_o their_o eternal_a condemnation_n second_o such_o as_o be_v proper_a to_o believer_n only_o kind_n as_o the_o spirit_n of_o adoption_n and_o such_o like_a and_o these_o be_v also_o of_o two_o sort_n first_o matter_n of_o present_a possession_n second_o matter_n of_o future_a certainty_n first_o matter_n of_o present_a possession_n and_o they_o consist_v of_o diverse_a kind_n first_o we_o be_v privilege_v in_o respect_n of_o god_n second_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o creature_n three_o in_o respect_n of_o god_n ordinary_a deal_n in_o the_o world_n four_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o work_n he_o do_v for_o we_o five_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o grace_n he_o work_v in_o we_o six_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o comfort_n he_o impart_v to_o we_o and_o last_o in_o regard_n of_o the_o liberty_n he_o give_v us._n first_o they_o be_v privilege_v in_o respect_n of_o god_n he_o be_v they_o and_o they_o be_v he_o god_n the_o father_n be_v their_o father_n master_n and_o preserver_n they_o be_v his_o child_n creature_n and_o charge_n jesus_n christ_n be_v their_o head_n they_o be_v his_o member_n he_o be_v their_o husband_n they_o be_v his_o spouse_n he_o be_v their_o saviour_n they_o be_v his_o redeem_a he_o be_v their_o advocate_n they_o be_v his_o client_n he_o he_o be_v their_o shepherd_n they_o be_v his_o sheep_n yea_o they_o in_o some_o sort_n be_v one_o with_o he_o and_o he_o with_o they_o so_o likewise_o the_o holy_a ghost_n he_o be_v their_o master_n they_o be_v his_o scholar_n he_o be_v their_o leader_n they_o be_v his_o follower_n he_o be_v their_o counsellor_n they_o be_v his_o client_n he_o be_v their_o sanctifier_n they_o be_v his_o temple_n he_o be_v their_o quickener_n they_o be_v his_o frame_n and_o workmanship_n to_o a_o new_a creature_n yea_o the_o whole_a bless_a trinity_n do_v most_o gracious_o concur_v by_o their_o personal_a action_n in_o every_o part_n of_o our_o salvation_n here_o be_v a_o singular_a privilege_n if_o we_o have_v no_o more_o but_o only_o this_o it_o be_v enough_o to_o stir_v we_o up_o to_o glorify_v god_n and_o to_o comfort_v we_o against_o all_o our_o present_a affliction_n how_o true_o then_o may_v we_o say_v with_o the_o prophet_n psal_n 144._o last_o bless_a be_v the_o people_n that_o be_v in_o such_o a_o case_n yea_o bless_a be_v the_o people_n who_o god_n be_v the_o lord_n second_o we_o be_v privilege_v in_o respect_n of_o the_o creature_n the_o holy_a angel_n be_v servant_n and_o attendant_n upon_o the_o church_n they_o be_v minister_a spirit_n send_v forth_o for_o their_o sake_n the_o saint_n in_o heaven_n acknowledge_v we_o to_o be_v member_n of_o their_o body_n the_o catholic_a church_n and_o do_v instant_o desire_v the_o full_a accomplishment_n of_o our_o salvation_n that_o they_o and_o we_o may_v be_v perfect_v together_o the_o saint_n on_o earth_n love_v we_o pray_v for_o we_o rejoice_v at_o our_o good_a sorrow_n at_o our_o harm_n the_o wicked_a of_o the_o world_n oftentimes_o reverence_n and_o admire_v we_o for_o our_o holiness_n and_o the_o good_a thing_n we_o have_v though_o otherwise_o we_o be_v most_o odious_a to_o they_o
angel_n and_o there_o we_o shall_v live_v continual_o praise_v and_o glorify_v god_n there_o we_o shall_v have_v fullness_n of_o joy_n and_o pleasure_n for_o evermore_o psal_n 16._o to_o conclude_v therefore_o let_v we_o not_o debase_v ourselves_o to_o sinful_a and_o vile_a and_o slavish_a course_n but_o let_v we_o labour_n to_o walk_v in_o some_o good_a measure_n answerable_a to_o such_o great_a and_o high_a privilege_n as_o these_o be_v the_o twenty_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n the_o last_o point_n we_o speak_v of_o be_v concern_v the_o privilege_n of_o the_o church_n not_o humane_a such_o as_o king_n and_o man_n endow_v the_o church_n withal_o but_o divine_a such_o as_o god_n endue_v the_o church_n withal_o and_o therein_o we_o handle_v two_o point_n first_o that_o there_o be_v such_o privilege_n belong_v to_o the_o church_n second_o what_o these_o privilege_n be_v there_o be_v something_o to_o be_v add_v to_o the_o last_o point_n namely_o what_o they_o be_v for_o there_o be_v two_o special_a privilege_n something_o questionable_a above_o the_o rest_n each_o of_o they_o subject_n to_o mistake_v and_o the_o mistake_n of_o they_o be_v and_o have_v be_v the_o cause_n of_o much_o error_n the_o first_o be_v concern_v the_o infallible_a guidance_n of_o the_o church_n by_o the_o spirit_n of_o truth_n on_o and_o thereupon_o arise_v this_o question_n whether_o the_o church_n may_v err_v or_o no_o the_o second_o privilege_n questionable_a be_v concern_v the_o necessity_n of_o be_v a_o member_n of_o the_o church_n if_o ever_o we_o will_v attain_v salvation_n and_o thereupon_o arise_v this_o question_n neither_o whether_o any_o can_v be_v save_v out_o of_o the_o church_n or_o no_o these_o be_v the_o two_o point_n which_o i_o purpose_v to_o handle_v at_o this_o time_n the_o first_o be_v concern_v the_o infallible_a guidance_n of_o the_o church_n by_o god_n spirit_n whereupon_o arise_v this_o question_n whether_o the_o church_n may_v err_v or_o no_o and_o because_o error_n be_v a_o general_a name_n affirm_v as_o well_o of_o matter_n of_o obedience_n as_o of_o knowledge_n of_o bad_a manner_n as_o well_o as_o of_o false_a doctrine_n therefore_o in_o plain_a and_o large_a term_n it_o shall_v be_v propound_v and_o handle_v thus_o whether_o the_o church_n may_v err_v either_o in_o manner_n or_o doctrine_n or_o in_o both_o or_o in_o neither_o to_o open_a the_o way_n to_o the_o disclose_v of_o the_o point_n we_o be_v to_o understand_v right_o these_o word_n church_n and_o error_n first_o concern_v the_o word_n church_n for_o whereas_o sometime_o it_o signify_v the_o whole_a company_n of_o believer_n live_v on_o earth_n sometime_o some_o one_o visible_a congregation_n profess_v the_o faith_n of_o christ_n the_o state_n of_o the_o question_n be_v not_o of_o both_o alike_o but_o we_o must_v understand_v it_o far_o otherwise_o of_o the_o one_o then_o of_o the_o other_o for_o whereas_o in_o the_o first_o sense_n it_o contain_v believer_n only_o and_o all_o 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say_v the_o day_n shall_v declare_v it_o because_o it_o shall_v be_v reveal_v by_o fire_n and_o the_o fire_n shall_v try_v every_o man_n work_n of_o what_o sort_n it_o be_v that_o be_v the_o day_n or_o light_n of_o god_n truth_n shall_v dispel_v this_o darkness_n and_o the_o fire_n of_o god_n spirit_n shall_v purify_v and_o purge_v away_o these_o error_n from_o they_o so_o that_o they_o must_v repent_v of_o these_o error_n but_o than_o you_o will_v say_v what_o difference_n be_v there_o betwixt_o those_o that_o err_v in_o the_o foundation_n and_o those_o that_o err_v in_o small_a matter_n for_o they_o that_o err_v in_o the_o foundation_n shall_v be_v save_v too_o matter_n upon_o their_o repentance_n it_o be_v true_a but_o yet_o there_o be_v great_a difference_n betwixt_o they_o for_o first_o they_o that_o err_v in_o the_o foundation_n be_v seldom_o and_o hardly_o reclaim_v not_o one_o among_o a_o hundred_o but_o they_o that_o err_v in_o small_a matter_n be_v usual_o and_o easy_o 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the_o 40._o vers_fw-la they_o beat_v they_o and_o command_v they_o again_o not_o to_o speak_v in_o the_o name_n of_o jesus_n what_o can_v the_o devil_n have_v do_v more_o against_o the_o gospel_n as_o thing_n than_o stand_v all_o these_o place_n both_o the_o former_a and_o these_o latter_a prove_v that_o they_o set_v themselves_o against_o their_o person_n and_o their_o profession_n both_o but_o the_o former_a be_v more_o direct_o against_o their_o person_n the_o latter_a more_o direct_o against_o their_o profession_n so_o we_o see_v the_o practice_n of_o our_o adversary_n against_o our_o person_n and_o against_o our_o profession_n yet_o here_o be_v the_o difference_n that_o they_o oppose_v against_o religion_n for_o itself_o but_o they_o oppose_v against_o our_o person_n for_o our_o religion_n second_o for_o the_o manner_n of_o their_o opposition_n opposition_n they_o do_v it_o sometime_o open_o sometime_o secret_o open_o so_o do_v saul_n act_n 9.1_o 2._o when_o he_o go_v with_o 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simplicity_n which_o be_v the_o proper_a note_n of_o christ_n sheep_n they_o will_v so_o cunning_o pretend_v it_o that_o you_o will_v take_v they_o for_o sheep_n of_o christ_n own_o fold_n and_o they_o can_v be_v discern_v to_o be_v raven_a wolf_n till_o they_o bewray_v it_o in_o their_o work_n and_o therefore_o our_o saviour_n say_v deal_n matth._n 7.15_o beware_v of_o false_a prophet_n which_o come_v to_o you_o in_o sheep_n clothing_n etc._n etc._n and_o when_o they_o fail_v this_o way_n than_o they_o will_v fall_v to_o more_o gross_a deal_n flatter_a we_o with_o fair_a promise_n as_o the_o devil_n deal_v with_o our_o saviour_n matth._n 4.9_o such_o and_o such_o thing_n will_v i_o give_v you_o if_o you_o will_v do_v thus_o and_o thus_o if_o this_o will_v not_o prevail_v they_o will_v labour_v to_o seduce_v we_o with_o lie_n and_o error_n as_o the_o serpent_n do_v eve_n gens_n 3.4_o 5._o or_o else_o they_o will_v labour_v to_o corrupt_v our_o sincere_a worship_n of_o god_n with_o invention_n and_o tradition_n of_o man_n as_o the_o pharisee_n do_v mat._n 15.3_o if_o they_o can_v prevail_v none_o of_o these_o way_n than_o they_o will_v raise_v up_o flander_n and_o false_a report_n against_o our_o person_n howsoever_o we_o carry_v ourselves_o as_o they_o do_v against_o christ_n and_o john_n baptist_n mat._n 11.18_o our_o saviour_n â—ame_n eat_v and_o drink_v and_o they_o say_v behold_v a_o drunkard_n and_o a_o glutton_n john_n baptist_n come_v neither_o eat_n nor_o drink_v and_o they_o say_v he_o have_v a_o devil_n so_o they_o raise_v up_o false_a report_n of_o our_o religion_n as_o they_o do_v in_o the_o apostle_n time_n rom._n 3.8_o some_o say_v that_o he_o teach_v that_o we_o may_v do_v evil_a that_o good_a may_v come_v thereof_o etc._n etc._n if_o this_o be_v not_o enough_o they_o will_v breathe_v out_o threaten_n against_o we_o as_o saul_n do_v against_o the_o church_n act_v 9.1_o if_o that_o serve_v not_o their_o turn_n they_o will_v procure_v law_n and_o decree_n against_o we_o as_o they_o do_v against_o daniel_n dan._n 6.7_o 8._o and_o letter_n of_o state_n as_o saul_n do_v act_v 2.9_o and_o their_o last_o and_o sore_a and_o common_a weapon_n of_o all_o be_v blow_n persecution_n banishment_n imprisonment_n and_o all_o the_o punishment_n they_o can_v devise_v as_o their_o hatred_n be_v deadly_a against_o we_o so_o they_o cease_v not_o to_o pursue_v we_o to_o the_o very_a death_n cruel_a bloodsucker_n they_o be_v for_o when_o they_o can_v suck_v religion_n out_o of_o our_o heart_n yet_o they_o will_v suck_v our_o life_n and_o our_o blood_n out_o of_o our_o body_n in_o a_o word_n there_o be_v no_o one_o thing_n in_o the_o world_n but_o the_o devil_n and_o his_o instrument_n catch_v at_o it_o and_o take_v hold_v of_o it_o as_o a_o weapon_n in_o their_o fury_n to_o hurt_v and_o strike_v at_o god_n child_n withal_o the_o reason_n of_o the_o point_n be_v these_o first_o the_o silliness_n reas_n 1_o and_o nakedness_n and_o weakness_n of_o 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lord_n will_v be_v altogether_o with_o we_o to_o save_v and_o defend_v we_o and_o altogether_o against_o our_o enemy_n to_o confound_v and_o destroy_v they_o the_o three_o and_o twenty_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n have_v propound_v nine_o several_a head_n to_o be_v speak_v to_o concern_v the_o visible_a church_n we_o have_v through_o god_n assistance_n speak_v of_o seven_o of_o they_o it_o remain_v therefore_o now_o that_o we_o come_v to_o the_o eight_o namely_o the_o power_n and_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n it_o a_o point_n which_o be_v name_v and_o point_v at_o before_o among_o the_o privilege_n of_o the_o church_n for_o sure_o the_o power_n that_o god_n have_v endue_v the_o church_n withal_o be_v none_o of_o her_o small_a privilege_n if_o it_o be_v not_o one_o of_o her_o great_a as_o the_o great_a privilege_n of_o a_o king_n be_v his_o kingly_a power_n and_o authority_n then_o we_o point_v at_o it_o but_o we_o respite_v the_o full_a handle_n of_o it_o to_o this_o place_n partly_o because_o in_o the_o beginning_n we_o propound_v it_o as_o one_o of_o the_o principal_a head_n in_o this_o question_n but_o especial_o because_o it_o be_v both_o large_a and_o weighty_a large_a and_o so_o require_v weighty_a and_o so_o deserve_v worthy_o to_o be_v handle_v in_o a_o several_a title_n by_o itself_o it_o have_v also_o some_o affinity_n &_o nearness_n with_o the_o five_o head_n namely_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n for_o many_o of_o the_o same_o thing_n that_o be_v incident_a to_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n be_v also_o incident_a to_o the_o authority_n of_o it_o and_o such_o thing_n we_o will_v only_o touch_v as_o we_o meet_v with_o they_o refer_v you_o for_o further_a knowledge_n of_o they_o to_o those_o place_n that_o already_o they_o have_v be_v handle_v in_o but_o there_o be_v something_n belong_v to_o the_o power_n of_o the_o church_n which_o can_v not_o so_o fit_o be_v reduce_v to_o the_o government_n of_o the_o church_n and_o these_o be_v the_o point_n which_o god_n willing_a here_o we_o will_v speak_v unto_o the_o power_n and_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n i_o call_v it_o power_n and_o authority_n for_o in_o effect_n they_o be_v both_o one_o it_o be_v true_a that_o they_o be_v sometime_o distinguish_v and_o then_o this_o be_v the_o difference_n power_n signify_v a_o ability_n to_o do_v a_o thing_n and_o authority_n a_o warrant_n from_o god_n to_o exercise_v that_o ability_n but_o here_o they_o signify_v one_o and_o the_o same_o thing_n and_o the_o reason_n be_v plain_a because_o the_o church_n of_o all_o other_o sort_n do_v absolute_o deny_v herself_o to_o have_v any_o power_n to_o do_v aught_o but_o that_o which_o she_o have_v authority_n and_o warrant_n from_o god_n to_o do_v unto_o the_o point_n that_o i_o will_v speak_v of_o concern_v this_o matter_n be_v these_o first_o that_o the_o church_n of_o god_n have_v power_n and_o authority_n belong_v to_o it_o second_o what_o manner_n of_o power_n and_o authority_n this_o be_v and_o three_o what_o it_o be_v that_o she_o have_v power_n in_o power_n first_o that_o there_o be_v power_n and_o authority_n belong_v to_o the_o church_n for_o howsoever_o she_o be_v weak_a in_o outward_a force_n and_o contemptible_a in_o the_o eye_n of_o the_o world_n and_o for_o the_o most_o part_n spurn_v out_o over-borne_v and_o tread_v under_o foot_n by_o the_o potentate_n of_o the_o earth_n and_o for_o the_o manage_v of_o any_o temporal_a administration_n or_o state_n able_a to_o do_v little_a and_o warrant_v to_o do_v less_o yet_o if_o she_o be_v take_v within_o she_o own_o element_n that_o be_v in_o church_n affair_n she_o be_v arm_v with_o much_o power_n and_o great_a authority_n every_o state_n and_o society_n have_v power_n and_o authority_n annex_v to_o it_o whereby_o it_o be_v uphold_v the_o church_n then_o be_v the_o worthy_a state_n and_o happy_a society_n that_o be_v have_v it_o reas_n 1_o much_o more_o for_o there_o be_v many_o office_n and_o duty_n of_o diverse_a kind_n and_o sort_n daily_a and_o necessary_o to_o be_v perform_v in_o the_o church_n weldoer_n must_v be_v encourage_v sin_n must_v be_v punish_v law_n must_v be_v execute_v order_n must_v be_v observe_v and_o obedience_n must_v be_v practise_v these_o and_o such_o like_a must_v be_v daily_o perform_v in_o the_o church_n now_o without_o power_n nothing_o can_v be_v do_v and_o without_o authority_n nothing_o must_v be_v do_v and_o therefore_o the_o church_n must_v have_v power_n and_o authority_n again_o the_o reas_n 2_o great_a and_o weighty_a work_n that_o be_v do_v in_o the_o world_n be_v do_v in_o the_o church_n the_o conscience_n command_v soul_n convert_v comfort_v and_o save_v god_n own_o life_n wrought_v into_o the_o heart_n of_o man_n christ_n and_o his_o kingdom_n of_o grace_n that_o be_v high_o advance_v satan_n kingdom_n and_o his_o power_n quail_v and_o subdue_v therefore_o the_o church_n must_v needs_o have_v great_a power_n to_o effect_v such_o great_a work_n last_o she_o must_v have_v this_o power_n reas_n 3_o and_o authority_n that_o she_o may_v be_v able_a to_o hold_v up_o her_o head_n against_o her_o adversary_n that_o do_v common_o and_o ordinary_o except_o against_o she_o say_v by_o what_o authority_n do_v you_o these_o thing_n as_o they_o do_v to_o our_o saviour_n matth._n 22.23_o and_o to_o moses_n exod._n 2.14_o who_o make_v thou_o a_o man_n of_o authority_n etc._n etc._n so_o that_o except_o she_o be_v furnish_v with_o sufficient_a authority_n there_o be_v no_o hope_n that_o they_o or_o their_o proceed_n shall_v find_v any_o acceptance_n the_o people_n be_v astonish_v at_o christ_n doctrine_n because_o he_o teach_v with_o authority_n and_o not_o as_o the_o scribe_n mat._n 7._o &_o mar._n 1.27_o he_o command_v even_o the_o foul_a spirit_n with_o authority_n and_o they_o obey_v he_o as_o who_o shall_v say_v if_o he_o have_v not_o command_v they_o with_o authority_n they_o will_v never_o have_v obey_v he_o they_o will_v know_v good_a cause_n why_o first_o this_o serve_v first_o to_o encourage_v the_o church_n to_o the_o do_v of_o use_n 1_o her_o duty_n in_o excecute_v god_n law_n and_o in_o advance_v his_o ordinance_n see_v she_o have_v power_n sufficient_a in_o she_o own_o hand_n to_o strengthen_v and_o countenance_v her_o preceeding_n and_o to_o make_v they_o effectual_a it_o will_v never_o grieve_v a_o man_n to_o bestow_v time_n and_o labour_n in_o good_a endeavour_n though_o with_o much_o danger_n and_o with_o many_o opdosition_n when_o he_o know_v beforehand_o that_o he_o have_v power_n and_o authority_n enough_o to_o be_v bear_v he_o out_o in_o it_o therefore_o this_o shall_v encourage_v the_o church_n in_o her_o duty_n herein_o and_o also_o this_o serve_v to_o reprove_v those_o that_o use_v 2_o light_o esteem_v of_o the_o church_n and_o of_o that_o which_o she_o do_v as_o if_o they_o be_v nothing_o worth_a but_o let_v such_o know_v that_o the_o church_n be_v a_o powerful_a worker_n and_o that_o that_o doctrine_n which_o she_o teach_v be_v a_o word_n of_o great_a power_n able_a to_o save_v or_o to_o destroy_v and_o the_o censure_n that_o she_o pass_v be_v censure_n of_o power_n able_a to_o kill_v or_o give_v life_n and_o whosoveuer_o withstand_v these_o shall_v find_v they_o matter_n of_o power_n to_o their_o destruction_n in_o hell_n if_o they_o be_v obstinate_a but_o whosoever_o obey_v they_o shall_v find_v power_n enough_o in_o they_o to_o bring_v they_o to_o god_n and_o to_o his_o kingdom_n so_o much_o for_o that_o first_o point_n assert_v the_o second_o point_n be_v what_o manner_n of_o power_n this_o be_v for_o this_o we_o must_v look_v well_o into_o lest_o mistake_v we_o go_v too_o far_o or_o come_v too_o short_a each_o be_v a_o dangerous_a error_n you_o shall_v understand_v therefore_o that_o this_o power_n be_v not_o humane_a but_o divine_a second_o not_o temporal_a but_o spiritual_a three_o that_o though_o it_o be_v spiritual_a yet_o it_o be_v bound_v and_o limit_v divine_a first_o it_o be_v not_o humane_a that_o be_v it_o be_v not_o of_o man_n though_o they_o be_v man_n that_o exercise_v it_o and_o howsoever_o where_o it_o be_v public_o practise_v it_o be_v usual_o and_o needful_o ratify_v at_o least_o permit_v by_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o temporal_a state_n yet_o it_o have_v not_o his_o power_n from_o man_n but_o it_o be_v divine_a and_o have_v his_o power_n direct_o from_o god_n himself_o the_o first_o beginning_n of_o this_o power_n be_v from_o he_o as_o we_o may_v see_v matth._n 10.1_o to_o 5._o where_o our_o saviour_n call_v his_o disciple_n and_o give_v they_o power_n to_o preach_v &_o to_o cast_v out_o devil_n and_o to_o heal_v the_o sick_a etc._n etc._n and_o the_o promise_n of_o more_o power_n be_v also_o from_o god_n as_o his_o
own_o free_a gift_n matth._n 16.19_o i_o will_v give_v unto_o thou_o the_o key_n of_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n and_o whatsoever_o thou_o shall_v bind_v on_o earth_n shall_v be_v bind_v in_o heaven_n and_o so_o the_o performance_n of_o more_o power_n be_v from_o he_o as_o derive_v from_o his_o own_o patent_n matth._n 28.18.19_o go_v teach_v all_o nation_n etc._n etc._n teach_v they_o to_o observe_v all_o thing_n and_o lo_o i_o be_o with_o you_o to_o the_o end_n of_o the_o world_n the_o church_n be_v furnish_v with_o power_n from_o christ_n even_o as_o he_o be_v from_o his_o father_n joh._n 20_o 21.22_o as_o my_o father_n send_v i_o even_o send_v i_o you_o etc._n etc._n and_o yet_o a_o more_o full_a increase_n of_o this_o power_n be_v from_o god_n too_o luke_n 24.49_o behold_v i_o send_v the_o promise_n of_o my_o father_n upon_o you_o but_o tarry_v you_o in_o the_o city_n of_o jerusalem_n until_o you_o be_v endue_v with_o power_n from_o on_o high_a and_o act_n 1.8_o you_o shall_v receive_v power_n after_o that_o the_o holy_a ghost_n be_v come_v upon_o you_o these_o place_n prove_v that_o the_o power_n which_o the_o church_n be_v endue_v withal_o be_v not_o humane_a but_o divine_a confer_v god_n himself_o and_o the_o reason_n be_v plain_a because_o all_o power_n be_v from_o reas_n 1_o god_n rom._n 13.1_o and_o there_o be_v no_o power_n but_o from_o above_o as_o our_o saviour_n tell_v pilate_n he_o can_v have_v no_o power_n except_o it_o be_v give_v he_o from_o above_o if_o all_o power_n even_o the_o power_n which_o the_o wicked_a have_v be_v from_o god_n much_o more_o be_v the_o power_n and_o authority_n which_o the_o church_n have_v from_o god_n too_o and_o that_o after_o a_o special_a manner_n so_o much_o the_o more_o immediate_o as_o the_o church_n be_v more_o near_o join_v to_o christ_n than_o any_o other_o state_n whatsoever_o and_o to_o much_o the_o more_o right_o as_o christ_n be_v more_o right_o a_o spiritual_a king_n than_o a_o temporal_a as_o joh._n 18._o my_o kingdom_n be_v not_o of_o this_o world_n &c_n &c_n and_o so_o much_o the_o more_o proper_o as_o christ_n be_v the_o head_n and_o ruler_n of_o the_o church_n more_o proper_o then_o of_o the_o commonwealth_n and_o so_o much_o the_o more_o effectual_o as_o the_o lord_n do_v more_o magnify_v himself_o in_o church_n cause_n then_o in_o cause_n of_o the_o state_n this_o teach_v first_o that_o if_o the_o power_n and_o authority_n use_v 1_o which_o the_o church_n have_v be_v from_o god_n than_o we_o have_v the_o more_o and_o great_a assurance_n that_o it_o shall_v stand_v fast_o for_o ever_o against_o all_o opposition_n of_o man_n or_o devil_n as_o gamaliel_n say_v act_v 5.38.39_o if_o it_o be_v of_o god_n you_o can_v destroy_v it_o if_o it_o be_v of_o god_n so_o direct_o it_o must_v needs_o stand_v most_o firm_o above_o all_o other_o power_n whatsoever_o second_o it_o teach_v the_o church_n that_o they_o be_v the_o use_n 2_o more_o wary_a and_o careful_a in_o execute_v this_o power_n that_o they_o abuse_v not_o god_n own_o power_n to_o the_o satisfy_n of_o their_o own_o humour_n and_o lust_n but_o that_o they_o use_v it_o to_o that_o end_n god_n have_v appoint_v it_o that_o be_v to_o his_o glory_n and_o the_o church_n good_a three_o see_v this_o power_n be_v so_o direct_o from_o god_n than_o this_o teach_v we_o that_o it_o must_v be_v the_o more_o dutiful_o obey_v and_o submit_v to_o of_o they_o that_o live_v under_o it_o else_o if_o we_o despise_v it_o we_o despise_v not_o man_n but_o god_n as_o it_o be_v luk._n 10.16_o he_o that_o despise_v you_o despise_v i_o etc._n etc._n but_o you_o will_v say_v quest_n be_v then_o the_o church_n to_o be_v obey_v in_o all_o thing_n must_v all_o her_o say_n be_v believe_v all_o her_o law_n obey_v and_o all_o her_o proceed_n yield_v to_o as_o if_o they_o be_v god_n own_o proceed_n and_o so_o bind_v the_o conscience_n i_o answer_v answ_n no_o for_o sometime_o she_o say_v false_a thing_n and_o do_v that_o which_o be_v direct_o evil_a and_o therein_o we_o be_v altogether_o free_a from_o her_o authority_n as_o that_o be_v usurp_v and_o not_o from_o god_n and_o as_o she_o therein_o betray_v some_o frailty_n and_o infirmity_n and_o not_o exercise_v this_o divine_a power_n false_a but_o you_o will_v say_v how_o shall_v i_o know_v when_o she_o speak_v true_a or_o false_a when_o she_o do_v right_a or_o wrong_n i_o answer_v the_o lord_n have_v give_v both_o she_o and_o we_o the_o word_n to_o rule_v and_o measure_n thing_n by_o this_o be_v the_o rule_n that_o she_o must_v go_v by_o in_o her_o proceed_n and_o this_o be_v the_o rule_n that_o we_o must_v measure_v her_o proceed_n by_o but_o sometime_o the_o church_n enjoin_v thing_n in_o themselves_o indifferent_a neither_o simple_o good_a nor_o bad_a neither_o simple_o command_v nor_o forbid_v in_o the_o word_n in_o this_o the_o church_n be_v to_o be_v yield_v to_o for_o order_v sake_n as_o she_o have_v therein_o a_o general_a power_n from_o god_n but_o yet_o the_o conscience_n be_v not_o subject_a to_o they_o because_o the_o particular_a choice_n and_o determination_n of_o these_o indifferent_a thing_n be_v from_o themselves_o &_o out_o of_o their_o own_o lawful_a liberty_n i_o note_v this_o the_o rather_o because_o some_o not_o only_o in_o the_o popish_a church_n but_o among_o we_o too_o stick_v not_o to_o affirm_v that_o the_o church_n constitution_n in_o this_o latter_a kind_n be_v of_o divine_a authority_n and_o to_o be_v account_v as_o the_o constitution_n of_o god_n himself_o but_o i_o have_v show_v you_o how_o you_o be_v to_o receive_v and_o to_o submit_v to_o they_o for_o order_n sake_n &_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o general_a power_n she_o have_v from_o god_n in_o these_o thing_n spiritual_a the_o second_o branch_n of_o this_o second_o point_n be_v that_o this_o power_n be_v not_o temporal_a but_o spiritual_a and_o therefore_o it_o be_v not_o so_o often_o call_v a_o sword_n to_o smite_v or_o a_o sceptre_n to_o sway_v as_o key_n to_o open_v and_o shut_v and_o what_o do_v it_o open_a and_o shut_v even_o the_o kingdom_n of_o heaven_n matth._n 16.19_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v a_o spiritual_a power_n the_o civil_a magistrate_n have_v to_o do_v about_o our_o body_n good_n and_o outward_a state_n the_o church_n have_v to_o do_v with_o the_o soul_n and_o conscience_n and_o the_o inward_a man_n temporal_a power_n and_o authority_n serve_v to_o maintain_v a_o temporal_a life_n begin_v and_o end_v here_o spiritual_a power_n and_o authority_n maintain_v a_o spiritual_a life_n begin_v here_o but_o perfect_v and_o finish_v hereafter_o in_o the_o life_n to_o come_v temporal_a power_n rule_v by_o the_o law_n of_o man_n spiritual_a power_n rule_v only_o by_o the_o law_n of_o god_n temporal_a power_n fight_v and_o defend_v itself_o by_o the_o material_a sword_n and_o worldly_a policy_n spiritual_a power_n renounce_v these_o and_o therefore_o christ_n say_v to_o peter_n mat._n 26.52_o put_v up_o thy_o sword_n into_o his_o place_n for_o all_o that_o take_v the_o sword_n shall_v perish_v by_o the_o sword_n christ_n will_v not_o be_v defend_v by_o the_o sword_n spiritual_a power_n betake_v itself_o to_o better_a weapon_n to_o spiritual_a and_o heavenly_a weapon_n 2_o cor._n 10.4_o 5._o the_o weapon_n of_o our_o warfare_n say_v the_o apostle_n be_v not_o carnal_a but_o spiritual_a mighty_a through_o god_n &c_n &c_n they_o be_v not_o carnal_a but_o spiritual_a not_o weak_a but_o mighty_a and_o that_o not_o of_o themselves_o nor_o through_o the_o power_n of_o he_o that_o use_v they_o but_o through_o god_n and_o what_o be_v these_o weapon_n they_o be_v the_o word_n and_o the_o spirit_n faith_n repentance_n prayer_n etc._n etc._n it_o be_v true_a that_o sometime_o both_o these_o power_n do_v concur_v together_o in_o the_o church_n that_o be_v when_o the_o magistrate_n be_v christian_a and_o sure_o than_o god_n work_n go_v happy_o forward_a and_o then_o this_o be_v a_o bless_a thing_n both_o for_o our_o soul_n and_o body_n too_o if_o we_o have_v grace_n so_o to_o use_v it_o but_o though_o they_o do_v sometime_o concur_v yet_o they_o be_v never_o confound_v though_o they_o be_v not_o divide_v yet_o they_o be_v distinguish_v they_o must_v each_o of_o they_o keep_v in_o it_o be_v own_o rank_n and_o manage_v their_o several_a charge_n by_o several_a administration_n the_o church_n be_v not_o to_o usurp_v on_o the_o temporal_a power_n for_o that_o be_v flat_o forbid_v matth._n 20.15_o 16._o the_o gentile_n reign_v over_o they_o but_o it_o shall_v not_o be_v so_o among_o you_o say_v our_o saviour_n to_o his_o disciple_n and_o 1_o pet._n 5.3_o be_v not_o lord_n over_o god_n heritage_n nor_o be_v the_o temporal_a power_n to_o usurp_v the_o
perfection_n and_o sufficiency_n of_o scripture_n for_o if_o the_o scripture_n contain_v all_o thing_n necessary_a to_o salvation_n than_o what_o have_v the_o church_n to_o do_v in_o such_o matter_n beside_o scripture_n the_o church_n and_o the_o scripture_n stand_v in_o opposition_n in_o this_o point_n for_o that_o sufficiency_n be_v grant_v to_o the_o scripture_n it_o disanull_v all_o such_o power_n challenge_v to_o the_o church_n and_o that_o power_n be_v grant_v to_o the_o church_n disanull_v that_o sufficiency_n of_o scripture_n but_o the_o scripture_n be_v sufficient_a as_o we_o will_v prove_v by_o these_o place_n follow_v john_n 20.31_o but_o these_o thing_n be_v write_v that_o you_o may_v believe_v that_o jesus_n be_v the_o christ_n the_o son_n of_o god_n and_o that_o in_o believe_v you_o may_v have_v life_n through_o his_o name_n all_o thing_n that_o christ_n speak_v and_o do_v be_v not_o write_v yet_o there_o be_v enough_o write_v for_o quantity_n and_o enough_o for_o power_n to_o cause_v we_o to_o believe_v and_o so_o to_o believe_v that_o we_o may_v have_v life_n through_o his_o name_n and_o therefore_o sufficient_a enough_o for_o all_o matter_n of_o salvation_n 2_o tim._n 3.16_o 17._o the_o whole_a scripture_n say_v the_o apostle_n be_v give_v by_o inspiration_n from_o god_n and_o be_v profitable_a to_o teach_v and_o to_o convince_v to_o correct_v and_o to_o instruct_v in_o righteousness_n that_o the_o man_n of_o god_n may_v be_v absolute_a be_v make_v perfect_a unto_o every_o good_a work_n here_o be_v reckon_v up_o such_o special_a work_n as_o be_v most_o effectual_a to_o teach_v both_o faith_n and_o obedience_n and_o these_o be_v ascribe_v to_o the_o scripture_n true_a say_v the_o papist_n they_o be_v ascribe_v to_o the_o scripture_n as_o be_v profitable_a to_o these_o but_o yet_o not_o sufficient_a yes_o it_o be_v sufficient_a too_o for_o it_o be_v so_o far_o profitable_a to_o every_o one_o of_o these_o that_o thereby_o the_o man_n of_o god_n be_v make_v perfect_a to_o all_o good_a work_n and_o be_v not_o this_o as_o much_o as_o if_o the_o apostle_n have_v say_v the_o scripture_n have_v be_v sufficient_a for_o every_o matter_n of_o salvation_n and_o that_o he_o mean_v so_o be_v plain_a in_o the_o 15._o verse_n thou_o have_v know_v the_o scripture_n of_o a_o child_n which_o be_v able_a to_o make_v thou_o wise_a unto_o salvation_n so_o much_o for_o the_o second_o sort_n of_o scripture_n scripture_n the_o three_o sort_n be_v such_o as_o absolute_o forbid_v any_o addition_n or_o detraction_n from_o scripture_n as_o in_o deut_n 4.2_o there_o be_v a_o absolute_a prohibition_n you_o shall_v put_v nothing_o unto_o the_o word_n of_o god_n which_o i_o commend_v you_o neither_o shall_v you_o take_v aught_o therefrom_o and_o pro._n 30.6_o put_v nothing_o unto_o his_o word_n lest_o he_o reprove_v thou_o and_o thou_o be_v find_v a_o liar_n revel_v 22.18_o 19_o if_o any_o man_n shall_v add_v unto_o these_o thing_n god_n shall_v add_v unto_o he_o the_o plague_n that_o be_v write_v in_o this_o book_n and_o if_o any_o man_n shall_v take_v away_o god_n shall_v take_v away_o his_o part_n out_o of_o the_o book_n of_o life_n etc._n etc._n now_o than_o if_o the_o church_n can_v decree_v any_o matter_n of_o salvation_n beside_o scripture_n and_o not_o add_v to_o scripture_n nor_o diminish_v from_o it_o than_o they_o may_v have_v some_o colour_n for_o it_o notwithstanding_o these_o prohibition_n but_o if_o that_o be_v impossible_a as_o it_o be_v than_o this_o be_v simple_o unlawful_a the_o apostle_n amplify_v this_o point_n by_o way_n of_o comparison_n galat._n 3.15_o if_o it_o be_v but_o a_o man_n testament_n no_o man_n will_v add_v to_o it_o much_o less_o to_o the_o testament_n of_o christ_n the_o last_o sort_n of_o scripture_n be_v those_o that_o condemn_v all_o doctrine_n so_o teach_v either_o without_o or_o beside_o scripture_n esa_n 29.13_o it_o be_v a_o sore_a complaint_n which_o the_o lord_n take_v up_o against_o the_o people_n there_o because_o the_o religion_n they_o look_v to_o be_v save_v by_o be_v teach_v by_o the_o precept_n of_o man_n and_o matth._n 15.9_o christ_n utter_o reject_v this_o worship_n as_o vain_a and_o hypocritical_a when_o they_o teach_v for_o doctrine_n man_n precept_n and_o 1_o tim._n 6.3_o 4._o scripture_n if_o any_o man_n teach_v otherwise_o and_o consent_v not_o to_o the_o wholesome_a doctrine_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n he_o be_v puff_v up_o and_o know_v nothing_o it_o be_v self-conceit_n and_o gross_a ignorance_n yea_o and_o not_o only_a when_o it_o come_v from_o a_o ordinary_a man_n but_o if_o it_o come_v from_o a_o apostle_n nay_o a_o angel_n if_o they_o shall_v teach_v any_o other_o gospel_n not_o only_o that_o be_v against_o this_o but_o beside_o this_o which_o i_o have_v teach_v you_o say_v the_o apostle_n hold_v he_o accurse_v galat._n 1.8_o 9_o so_o that_o if_o any_o either_o apostle_n or_o angel_n from_o heaven_n deliver_v or_o teach_v any_o other_o gospel_n that_o be_v any_o matter_n of_o substance_n in_o religion_n though_o it_o be_v but_o beside_o that_o which_o we_o have_v in_o the_o scripture_n they_o be_v accurse_v and_o so_o much_o for_o the_o proof_n of_o the_o point_n the_o reason_n be_v many_o and_o the_o first_o reason_n be_v draw_v reas_n 1_o from_o the_o nature_n of_o faith_n which_o carry_v always_o a_o just_a correspondency_n to_o the_o word_n of_o god_n rom._n 10.17_o faith_n come_v by_o hear_v and_o hear_v by_o the_o word_n of_o god_n faith_n come_v by_o hear_v of_o who_o saying_n man_n no_o but_o the_o word_n of_o god_n whatsoever_o god_n speak_v faith_n hear_v it_o and_o most_o willing_o and_o sweet_o believe_v and_o embrace_v it_o but_o what_o any_o else_o say_v whether_o it_o be_v man_n or_o church_n or_o angel_n as_o it_o be_v not_o powerful_a to_o beget_v save_v faith_n so_o also_o it_o be_v the_o nature_n of_o faith_n to_o refuse_v it_o or_o at_o least_o to_o suspect_v it_o because_o it_o be_v beside_o the_o word_n and_o god_n speak_v it_o not_o second_o the_o second_o reason_n be_v draw_v from_o the_o state_n reas_n 2_o of_o conscience_n which_o be_v this_o god_n have_v endue_v our_o conscience_n through_o his_o mercy_n and_o ordinance_n with_o that_o freedom_n and_o liberty_n that_o be_v in_o subjection_n to_o none_o but_o to_o god_n only_o and_o therefore_o whatsoever_o god_n command_v or_o forbid_v the_o conscience_n well_o rectify_v yield_v to_o it_o acknowledge_v the_o authority_n of_o the_o speaker_n to_o be_v a_o bind_a law_n which_o necessary_o must_v be_v obey_v but_o when_o a_o matter_n be_v impose_v by_o man_n only_o without_o or_o beside_o the_o prescript_n of_o god_n the_o conscience_n feel_v not_o the_o command_a power_n of_o god_n to_o oversway_v it_o and_o therefore_o may_v and_o must_v and_o do_v take_v the_o benefit_n of_o her_o liberty_n and_o this_o be_v it_o the_o apostle_n say_v 1_o corinth_n 3.23_o be_v not_o the_o servant_n of_o man_n the_o three_o reason_n be_v draw_v from_o the_o property_n of_o the_o reas_n 3_o thing_n themselves_o that_o be_v to_o be_v believe_v and_o they_o be_v matter_n necessary_a to_o salvation_n and_o therefore_o we_o must_v have_v such_o a_o sure_a ground_n and_o warrant_v for_o they_o as_o that_o we_o may_v be_v bold_a to_o hazard_v our_o salvation_n upon_o they_o now_o the_o church_n be_v itself_o subject_a to_o error_n where_o iâ—_n build_v not_o upon_o scripture_n be_v unable_a therefore_o to_o afford_v any_o such_o warrant_n therefore_o without_o and_o beside_o scripture_n the_o church_n have_v no_o power_n in_o such_o thing_n reas_n 4_o four_o that_o which_o the_o church_n do_v herein_o in_o ordane_v any_o thing_n in_o matter_n of_o salvation_n without_o or_o beside_o scripture_n she_o do_v enjoin_v it_o with_o condition_n of_o damnation_n to_o those_o that_o do_v not_o believe_v and_o obey_v it_o let_v they_o be_v accurse_v that_o do_v it_o not_o but_o damnation_n be_v not_o to_o be_v threaten_v by_o any_o but_o those_o that_o have_v power_n to_o inflict_v it_o but_o the_o church_n have_v no_o power_n of_o herself_o to_o inflict_v it_o and_o therefore_o it_o be_v ridiculous_a in_o she_o to_o threaten_v it_o the_o church_n indeed_o threaten_v it_o in_o excommunication_n but_o that_o be_v not_o of_o herself_o but_o under_o god_n and_o in_o his_o name_n who_o be_v also_o able_a to_o inflict_v it_o as_o he_o be_v to_o threaten_v it_o in_o his_o word_n but_o we_o speak_v here_o of_o matter_n beside_o scripture_n and_o therein_o the_o church_n have_v no_o power_n at_o all_o to_o inflict_v no_o not_o instrumental_o in_o the_o low_a degree_n therefore_o not_o to_o threaten_v damnation_n and_o so_o consequent_o not_o to_o decree_v any_o such_o thing_n reas_n 5_o the_o five_o reason_n be_v draw_v from_o a_o rule_n of_o
and_o this_o rule_n hold_v as_o well_o for_o the_o church_n now_o as_o then_o there_o be_v the_o same_o necessity_n there_o must_v also_o be_v the_o same_o power_n so_o the_o point_n be_v plain_a that_o every_o particular_a visible_a church_n have_v power_n from_o god_n to_o ordain_v certain_a outward_a rite_n etc._n etc._n the_o reason_n to_o prove_v this_o point_n be_v these_o first_o some_o reas_n 1_o ceremony_n be_v necessary_a in_o every_o church_n no_o religion_n can_v possible_o be_v carry_v without_o some_o outward_a rite_n and_o ceremony_n now_o who_o shall_v ordain_v these_o but_o themselves_o as_o best_o know_v their_o own_o state_n as_o in_o a_o private_a family_n who_o shall_v ordain_v order_n for_o it_o but_o those_o of_o the_o family_n second_o no_o right_n be_v universal_a to_o hold_v every_o reas_n 2_o where_o in_o all_o church_n no_o that_o be_v impossible_a because_o diverse_a church_n be_v of_o diverse_a state_n and_o therefore_o every_o church_n must_v have_v power_n to_o ordain_v ceremony_n for_o themselves_o three_o no_o ceremony_n be_v perpetual_a in_o one_o and_o the_o reas_n 3_o same_o church_n every_o church_n in_o time_n differ_v from_o itself_o by_o the_o change_n of_o occasion_n and_o state_n and_o then_o the_o ceremony_n which_o they_o have_v before_o be_v not_o fit_a for_o they_o now_o and_o therefore_o still_o they_o must_v have_v power_n to_o ordain_v as_o their_o state_n shall_v require_v last_o if_o a_o particular_a church_n have_v not_o power_n to_o ordain_v reas_n 4_o certain_a rite_n the_o church_n under_o the_o gospel_n be_v inferior_a to_o that_o under_o the_o law_n for_o that_o be_v provide_v for_o in_o this_o kind_n by_o the_o lord_n himself_o and_o that_o in_o particular_a but_o the_o church_n now_o be_v not_o so_o provide_v for_o of_o he_o if_o any_o say_v it_o be_v let_v they_o show_v where_o therefore_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v that_o he_o give_v the_o church_n now_o power_n to_o provide_v for_o themselves_o in_o this_o kind_n the_o use_n be_v these_o first_o this_o teach_v the_o church_n to_o use_v 1_o take_v the_o benefit_n of_o this_o authority_n that_o god_n have_v give_v they_o but_o you_o will_v say_v the_o church_n be_v ready_a enough_o to_o take_v their_o liberty_n herein_o and_o therefore_o they_o have_v need_v to_o be_v bound_v and_o bridle_v that_o they_o go_v not_o too_o far_o either_o for_o multitude_n unprofitablenesse_n superstiton_n or_o the_o like_a the_o limit_n and_o bound_n therefore_o that_o every_o church_n be_v to_o contain_v themselves_o within_o in_o ordain_v ceremony_n 2._o be_v these_o first_o they_o must_v do_v nothing_o that_o be_v opposite_a to_o god_n word_n second_o they_o must_v have_v no_o opinion_n of_o god_n worship_n place_v in_o they_o as_o the_o surplice_n and_o the_o cross_n if_o the_o church_n so_o enjoin_v they_o it_o make_v they_o unlawful_a if_o they_o have_v be_v abuse_v so_o heretofore_o by_o the_o papist_n that_o be_v not_o their_o sin_n now_o take_v away_o the_o abuse_n and_o the_o thing_n may_v still_o be_v impose_v and_o put_v in_o practice_n three_o we_o must_v have_v a_o eye_n to_o do_v all_o to_o god_n glory_n 1_o cor._n 10.31_o four_o they_o must_v be_v do_v without_o scandal_n or_o offence_n as_o much_o as_o possible_o may_v be_v the_o church_n must_v be_v wary_a herein_o for_o though_o all_o thing_n be_v lawful_a yet_o all_o thing_n be_v not_o expedient_a 1_o cor._n 10._o 23_o 32._o five_o all_o thing_n must_v be_v do_v to_o edification_n 1_o cor._n 14_o 26._o last_o all_o thing_n must_v be_v do_v decent_o and_o in_o order_n 1_o cor._n 14.40_o as_o in_o exod._n 28.40_o aaron_n son_n must_v have_v coat_n and_o girdle_n and_o bonnet_n make_v they_o for_o glory_n and_o beauty_n which_o be_v the_o end_n that_o the_o lord_n in_o the_o legal_a ceremony_n do_v aim_v at_o it_o must_v needs_o be_v our_o end_n also_o in_o the_o like_a case_n and_o thus_o the_o church_n may_v safe_o ordain_v ceremony_n 2._o the_o last_o use_n be_v to_o teach_v we_o that_o if_o we_o live_v in_o a_o church_n where_o such_o thing_n be_v ordain_v that_o be_v not_o simple_o unlawful_a we_o must_v take_v heed_n that_o we_o resist_v not_o this_o power_n or_o the_o thing_n thereby_o ordain_v bridle_v thyself_o from_o dislike_n special_o from_o refusal_n yet_o yield_v with_o some_o persuasion_n of_o conscience_n take_v such_o a_o course_n whereby_o thou_o may_v obey_v the_o magistrate_n and_o the_o church_n and_o yet_o not_o offend_v the_o weak_a herein_o be_v wisdom_n yet_o rather_o obey_v the_o magistrate_n though_o with_o offence_n for_o here_o disobedience_n be_v the_o great_a sin_n and_o so_o take_v away_o the_o sin_n of_o offend_v the_o weak_a and_o indeed_o in_o this_o case_n i_o give_v none_o offence_n because_o my_o hand_n be_v bind_v and_o i_o have_v no_o liberty_n to_o do_v otherwise_o but_o what_o if_o a_o man_n be_v not_o persuade_v of_o these_o thing_n what_o be_v then_o to_o be_v do_v must_v he_o separate_v from_o the_o church_n no_o first_o they_o must_v labour_v to_o be_v better_o inform_v second_o they_o must_v resolve_v to_o bear_v with_o a_o great_a deal_n rather_o than_o to_o make_v a_o rent_n in_o the_o church_n three_o suffer_v thyself_o to_o be_v overbear_v in_o thing_n indifferent_a by_o the_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n till_o thou_o be_v able_a to_o prove_v it_o simple_o unlawful_a or_o to_o show_v that_o there_o be_v great_a scandal_n in_o the_o use_n of_o it_o then_o in_o disobey_v the_o voice_n of_o the_o church_n and_o of_o the_o christian_a magistrate_n i_o know_v that_o it_o be_v sin_n to_o disobey_v the_o christian_a magistrate_n except_o i_o know_v that_o god_n command_v the_o contrary_a now_o in_o these_o indifferent_a thing_n i_o do_v but_o fear_v i_o do_v not_o know_v that_o god_n command_v the_o contrary_a to_o that_o which_o my_o conscience_n be_v doubtful_a of_o now_o shall_v i_o run_v into_o a_o know_a sin_n because_o i_o will_v avoid_v a_o sin_n only_o fear_v so_o much_o shall_v serve_v for_o this_o point_n and_o so_o we_o have_v finish_v the_o eyghth_n point_n concern_v the_o power_n and_o authority_n of_o the_o church_n the_o six_o and_o twenty_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n you_o may_v remember_v that_o 9_o point_n be_v propound_v to_o be_v speak_v to_o concern_v the_o church_n of_o whereof_o we_o have_v already_o handle_v 8._o of_o they_o and_o now_o we_o be_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o nine_o and_o that_o be_v the_o application_n of_o all_o that_o which_o have_v be_v speak_v to_o all_o visible_a church_n in_o christendom_n that_o i_o knnow_v of_o those_o congreagtion_n that_o profess_v not_o christianity_n we_o meddle_v not_o with_o the_o pagan_n that_o profess_v heathenish_a religion_n no_o christian_n the_o jew_n that_o profess_v the_o law_n and_o not_o the_o gospel_n the_o turk_n that_o profess_v that_o abominable_a idol_n mahomet_n and_o not_o the_o son_n of_o god_n jesus_n christ_n these_o we_o have_v here_o nothing_o to_o do_v with_o they_o be_v utter_o exclude_v from_o the_o outward_a name_n of_o a_o church_n as_o be_v assembly_n quite_o of_o another_o kind_n they_o have_v no_o christ_n not_o somuch_o as_o in_o outward_a profession_n and_o therefore_o be_v no_o church_n at_o all_o it_o be_v the_o christian_a assembly_n that_o be_v those_o that_o profess_v the_o faith_n of_o christ_n crucify_v that_o we_o be_v here_o to_o speak_v of_o you_o shall_v understand_v that_o the_o doctrine_n concern_v the_o church_n whereof_o i_o have_v speak_v have_v be_v so_o plain_o and_o full_o deliver_v that_o if_o it_o be_v right_o understand_v it_o will_v easy_o apply_v itself_o to_o all_o christian_a church_n in_o the_o censure_n of_o those_o that_o be_v religious_a &_o judicious_a but_o yet_o because_o diverse_a christian_a church_n be_v of_o diverse_a condition_n differ_v one_o from_o another_o as_o well_o in_o time_n as_o in_o place_n and_o because_o the_o chief_a reach_n of_o this_o whole_a discourse_n both_o in_o teacher_n &_o hearer_n be_v this_o to_o see_v how_o we_o may_v justify_v our_o stand_n in_o the_o present_a state_n of_o this_o church_n of_o england_n therefore_o for_o your_o better_a direction_n both_o to_o help_v your_o judgement_n concern_v other_o church_n and_o to_o settle_v your_o resolution_n church_n touch_v the_o goodness_n and_o soundness_n of_o this_o church_n that_o we_o live_v in_o i_o will_v endeavour_v god_n will_v to_o make_v application_n of_o that_o which_o have_v be_v speak_v as_o to_o all_o church_n in_o general_a so_o more_o particular_o to_o this_o church_n of_o we_o the_o general_a division_n of_o all_o church_n that_o either_o be_v or_o have_v be_v since_o our_o saviour_n time_n be_v twofold_a first_o according_a to_o their_o situation_n and_o so_o some_o be_v eastern_a and_o the_o
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which_o be_v general_o of_o two_o sort_n some_o acknowledge_v the_o pope_n their_o head_n as_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n itself_o and_o sundry_a other_o that_o hold_v communion_n with_o that_o church_n both_o in_o doctrine_n and_o in_o all_o or_o most_o of_o the_o corruption_n thereof_o other_o renounce_v his_o headship_n and_o refuse_v to_o communicate_v in_o the_o deformity_n corruption_n and_o abuse_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v therefore_o call_v the_o reform_a church_n i_o shall_v not_o need_v to_o speak_v of_o the_o former_a in_o every_o particular_a look_v what_o be_v say_v of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n itself_o the_o same_o may_v be_v apply_v to_o all_o the_o rest_n as_o be_v the_o mother_n so_o be_v the_o daughter_n ezech._n 16.44_o we_o will_v deliver_v her_o state_n in_o two_o observation_n first_o we_o will_v show_v what_o may_v be_v say_v in_o charity_n and_o yet_o in_o truth_n and_o sound_a judgement_n for_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n second_o what_o may_v be_v say_v in_o zeal_n and_o yet_o in_o truth_n too_o and_o find_v judgement_n against_o it_o for_o the_o first_o the_o observation_n be_v this_o church_n doctr._n 1_o that_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n even_o as_o now_o it_o stand_v may_v in_o some_o sense_n be_v just_o repute_v and_o acknowledge_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n consider_v right_o of_o the_o note_n first_o we_o do_v not_o absolute_o say_v it_o be_v a_o true_a church_n but_o for_o aught_o we_o see_v it_o may_v in_o some_o sense_n be_v judge_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n second_o we_o say_v not_o a_o sound_a church_n no_o that_o we_o flat_o deny_v as_o untrue_a but_o a_o true_a visible_a church_n as_o a_o man_n though_o he_o be_v wound_v faint_a and_o die_v yet_o so_o long_o as_o there_o be_v any_o spark_n of_o life_n in_o he_o he_o be_v a_o true_a live_a man_n not_o a_o false_a though_o he_o be_v a_o unsound_a and_o die_a man_n church_n three_o we_o make_v a_o difference_n betwixt_o the_o papacy_n or_o the_o popish_a faction_n and_o some_o better_a spirit_n in_o that_o church_n which_o no_o doubt_n have_v a_o right_a belief_n and_o walk_v with_o a_o right_a foot_n in_o the_o profession_n of_o the_o gospel_n than_o the_o faction_n do_v and_o these_o be_v mingle_v together_o with_o the_o rest_n the_o whole_a may_v be_v call_v a_o â—â—ue_a church_n for_o their_o sake_n as_o be_v in_o our_o saviors_n time_n the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n be_v a_o faction_n in_o the_o church_n pretend_v religion_n and_o the_o true_a worship_n of_o god_n and_o yet_o sway_v all_o against_o the_o truth_n and_o sincerity_n of_o it_o in_o their_o course_n marry_o simeon_n anna_n zachary_n and_o elizabeth_n and_o a_o few_o more_o with_o who_o our_o saviour_n join_v or_o rather_o they_o with_o he_o as_o live_v member_n of_o god_n church_n and_o shall_v not_o the_o whole_a be_v right_o acknowledge_v to_o be_v a_o true_a church_n because_o of_o they_o doubtless_o it_o may_v and_o so_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n may_v right_o 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corrupt_v too_o if_o either_o we_o respect_v to_o who_o they_o be_v make_v to_o saint_n and_o not_o to_o god_n alone_o or_o for_o who_o for_o the_o dead_a and_o not_o for_o the_o live_n only_o or_o how_o not_o with_o understanding_n for_o they_o be_v in_o a_o unknown_a tongue_n special_o their_o public_a prayer_n and_o so_o as_o good_a have_v no_o prayer_n at_o all_o i_o have_v enter_v a_o foul_a sink_n and_o i_o must_v needs_o confess_v that_o i_o can_v find_v no_o bottom_n yet_o if_o this_o be_v not_o enough_o add_v hereto_o these_o aggravate_v circumstance_n these_o thing_n which_o be_v somewhat_o in_o a_o more_o tolerable_a manner_n among_o they_o before_o be_v now_o much_o worse_o first_o by_o the_o council_n of_o trent_n for_o whereas_o before_o that_o council_n they_o be_v but_o private_a opinion_n of_o some_o man_n now_o they_o be_v the_o doctrine_n of_o the_o whole_a church_n and_o be_v obtrude_v on_o all_o professor_n as_o necessary_a to_o salvation_n and_o they_o condemn_v all_o that_o be_v not_o of_o their_o judgement_n yea_o there_o be_v now_o in_o they_o a_o deadly_a hatred_n against_o the_o contrary_a truth_n and_o the_o professor_n thereof_o and_o persecution_n by_o fire_n and_o sword_n second_o the_o jesuit_n the_o pope_n chief_a agent_n have_v and_o do_v use_v daily_o all_o cunning_a device_n and_o malicious_a practice_n to_o stretch_v these_o point_n to_o the_o further_a strain_n that_o so_o they_o may_v tyrannize_v in_o every_o man_n conscience_n and_o also_o to_o curse_v and_o to_o defy_v all_o nation_n and_o person_n that_o will_v not_o drink_v of_o this_o poisonous_a cup_n three_o it_o be_v too_o apparent_a that_o they_o do_v willing_o blind_v themselves_o and_o for_o gain_v favour_n fear_v ambition_n and_o the_o like_a they_o do_v persist_v in_o these_o course_n against_o their_o own_o conscience_n that_o condemn_v these_o thing_n in_o they_o for_o as_o it_o can_v be_v think_v that_o so_o many_o gross_a conceit_n shall_v be_v swallow_v 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let_v they_o or_o any_o for_o they_o show_v i_o their_o match_n in_o the_o world_n be_v they_o turk_n jew_n or_o pagan_n or_o any_o other_o state_n that_o be_v just_o chargeable_a with_o the_o defence_n and_o practice_n of_o so_o many_o villainy_n and_o then_o i_o will_v confess_v i_o have_v deal_v injurious_o with_o they_o but_o if_o they_o can_v show_v i_o none_o such_o let_v they_o confess_v that_o whereas_o many_o state_n and_o kingdom_n and_o church_n have_v do_v wicked_o yet_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n do_v surmount_v they_o all_o and_o let_v they_o veil_v bonnet_n and_o throw_v away_o their_o pride_n state_n malice_n wilfulness_n and_o their_o devilish_a practice_n and_o let_v they_o humble_v themselves_o and_o repent_v in_o sackcloth_n and_o ash_n that_o if_o it_o be_v possible_a their_o horrible_a evil_n may_v be_v forgive_v they_o i_o omit_v to_o speak_v of_o those_o exquisite_a cruelty_n practise_v upon_o the_o poor_a indian_n even_o by_o the_o jesuit_n themselves_o as_o well_o as_o by_o the_o spaniard_n oh_o miserable_a state_n what_o a_o bloody_a government_n and_o a_o bloody_a religion_n too_o whereby_o they_o have_v make_v the_o very_a name_n of_o christian_a religion_n to_o be_v abhor_v even_o among_o the_o heathen_a so_o much_o for_o the_o first_o branch_n of_o the_o observation_n that_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v exceed_o unsound_a and_o pollute_a with_o many_o foul_a error_n etc._n etc._n now_o let_v we_o come_v to_o the_o second_o branch_n of_o it_o doctrine_n which_o be_v the_o inference_n of_o the_o former_a that_o therefore_o it_o be_v not_o lawful_a nor_o safe_a to_o communicate_v with_o she_o it_o be_v true_a that_o there_o be_v no_o church_n but_o have_v some_o unsoundnesse_n in_o it_o either_o in_o doctrine_n or_o in_o manner_n or_o both_o as_o there_o be_v no_o body_n but_o have_v some_o infirmity_n and_o disease_n in_o it_o but_o this_o church_n of_o rome_n be_v so_o unsound_a that_o take_v it_o as_o it_o be_v this_o a_o day_n maintain_v by_o the_o popish_a faction_n and_o there_o be_v no_o communion_n to_o be_v have_v with_o they_o in_o their_o doctrine_n and_o manner_n without_o certain_a danger_n to_o their_o own_o soul_n we_o will_v proceed_v in_o the_o proof_n hereof_o soul_n according_a to_o the_o ground_n before_o mention_v their_o doctrine_n and_o their_o practice_n be_v both_o unsound_a and_o corrupt_a we_o may_v communicate_v with_o they_o in_o neither_o first_o god_n commandment_n show_v it_o for_o their_o doctrine_n be_v otherwise_o then_o that_o which_o paul_n teach_v as_o before_o be_v show_v they_o must_v be_v hold_v accurse_a gal._n 1.8_o 9_o and_o shall_v we_o communicate_v with_o such_o in_o matter_n of_o god_n and_o of_o salvation_n as_o we_o must_v hold_v accurse_v as_o enemy_n thereto_o and_o in_o the_o 1_o tim._n 6.3_o 5._o there_o be_v a_o express_a separation_n enjoin_v if_o any_o teach_v otherwise_o and_o consentâ—th_v not_o to_o the_o wholesome_a word_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n from_o such_o separate_a thyself_o second_o they_o be_v wilful_a in_o their_o error_n and_o therefore_o be_v to_o be_v shake_v â—ff_n titus_n 3.10.11_o reject_v he_o that_o be_v a_o heretic_n after_o once_o or_o twice_o admonition_n etc._n etc._n three_o their_o sin_n be_v idolatrous_a therefore_o they_o and_o it_o be_v to_o be_v flee_v from_o 1_o cor_fw-la 10.14_o sly_a from_o idolatry_n 1_o john_n 5.21_o keep_v yourselves_o from_o idol_n yea_o the_o place_n of_o their_o idolatrous_a worship_n be_v not_o to_o be_v resort_v to_o hosea_n 4.15_o though_o israel_n play_v the_o harlot_n yet_o let_v not_o judah_n sin_n come_v not_o you_o to_o gilgal_n neither_o go_v you_o up_o to_o bethaven_n etc._n etc._n nay_o those_o that_o be_v there_o must_v come_v forth_o from_o among_o they_o and_o touch_v none_o of_o their_o unclean_a thing_n isaiah_n 48.20_o and_o 52.11_o jer._n 51.8_o go_v you_o out_o of_o babel_n &c_n &c_n and_o that_o not_o only_o out_o of_o the_o literal_a babel_n in_o the_o deliverance_n but_o also_o out_o of_o the_o mystical_a babel_n the_o very_a subject_n now_o in_o hand_n and_o that_o with_o a_o fearful_a denunciation_n of_o judgement_n revel_v 18.4_o go_v out_o of_o she_o my_o people_n that_o you_o be_v not_o partaker_n of_o her_o sin_n â—â—_o that_o you_o receive_v not_o of_o her_o plague_n four_a the_o wickedn_n of_o their_o life_n be_v very_o great_a we_o be_v to_o withdraw_v ourselves_o from_o they_o 2_o thes_n 3.6_o which_o though_o it_o be_v not_o of_o itself_o sufficient_a to_o enforce_v a_o separation_n from_o 2_o whole_a church_n for_o there_o be_v more_o require_v to_o the_o forsake_v of_o a_o whole_a church_n then_o of_o some_o private_a man_n yet_o be_v add_v to_o the_o former_a it_o make_v our_o separation_n from_o they_o very_o warrantable_a second_o the_o practice_n of_o the_o faithful_a prove_v
consent_n prove_v not_o always_o a_o true_a church_n nor_o a_o true_a religion_n for_o then_o the_o jew_n shall_v be_v a_o true_a church_n and_o their_o religion_n true_a because_o they_o all_o consent_v to_o crucify_v christ_n and_o with_o one_o voice_n cry_v crucify_v he_o crucify_v he_o here_o be_v consent_n and_o yet_o in_o the_o bloody_a matter_n that_o ever_o be_v in_o the_o world_n and_o so_o on_o the_o contrary_a peter_n &_o paul_n and_o paul_n and_o barnabas_n shall_v be_v of_o a_o false_a church_n and_o a_o false_a religion_n because_o they_o dissent_v and_o contend_v sharp_o but_o this_o be_v nothing_o to_o overthrow_v the_o truth_n of_o their_o religion_n nor_o of_o the_o church_n they_o be_v member_n of_o yea_o we_o see_v oft_o time_n that_o the_o worst_a matter_n be_v carry_v with_o the_o great_a consent_n and_o the_o best_a with_o great_a dissension_n as_o it_o be_v in_o the_o body_n that_o be_v the_o sound_a body_n that_o strive_v most_o to_o expel_v hurtful_a humour_n so_o that_o be_v the_o sound_a church_n that_o be_v most_o exercise_v with_o bicker_n against_o the_o adversary_n of_o the_o truth_n and_o in_o the_o true_a church_n it_o be_v needful_a that_o there_o shall_v be_v dissension_n and_o heresy_n that_o those_o that_o be_v approve_v may_v be_v know_v 1_o cor._n 11.18_o 19_o so_o much_o be_v speak_v for_o the_o papist_n exception_n which_o they_o take_v against_o we_o for_o this_o dissension_n difference_n now_o second_o we_o be_v to_o show_v what_o use_n we_o be_v to_o make_v of_o these_o dissension_n and_o difference_n sure_o though_o we_o will_v not_o name_v they_o yet_o we_o may_v make_v many_o good_a use_n of_o they_o and_o first_o this_o shall_v stir_v up_o our_o bowel_n of_o compassion_n to_o mourn_v for_o the_o breach_n of_o jerusalem_n and_o to_o see_v the_o lord_n dishonour_v and_o his_o truth_n blaspheme_v and_o the_o church_n miserable_o distract_v by_o man_n infirmity_n frailty_n and_o dissension_n second_o this_o discover_v the_o devil_n malice_n that_o can_v not_o endure_v to_o see_v the_o work_n of_o god_n to_o go_v on_o prosperous_o forward_a but_o set_v even_o the_o builder_n themselves_o at_o variance_n to_o hinder_v they_o from_o building_n and_o from_o join_v together_o with_o one_o hand_n against_o the_o common_a adversary_n yea_o he_o carry_v they_o into_o such_o outrage_n of_o passion_n and_o speech_n that_o thereby_o their_o person_n and_o cause_n be_v much_o disgrace_v before_o the_o world_n so_o that_o if_o they_o be_v censure_v by_o his_o outrage_n they_o may_v seem_v rather_o to_o be_v of_o the_o devil_n then_o of_o god_n three_o here_o we_o may_v see_v the_o corruption_n and_o weakness_n if_o not_o wilfulness_n of_o man_n that_o rather_o than_o they_o will_v disclaim_v their_o error_n and_o put_v up_o disgraceful_a and_o opprobrious_a speech_n they_o pass_v not_o to_o set_v the_o whole_a church_n of_o god_n on_o fire_n four_o hence_o we_o learn_v the_o nature_n of_o truth_n that_o never_o come_v forth_o but_o encumber_v with_o many_o opposition_n both_o within_o and_o without_o and_o still_o mingle_v with_o some_o error_n and_o contention_n even_o in_o the_o chief_a professor_n themselves_o last_o hence_o we_o learn_v the_o power_n wisdom_n and_o goodness_n of_o god_n so_o that_o do_v restrain_v the_o rage_n of_o man_n and_o the_o malice_n of_o satan_n that_o howsoever_o we_o differ_v in_o some_o point_n yet_o we_o agree_v in_o the_o chief_a as_o in_o justification_n by_o faith_n alone_o and_o howsoever_o we_o differ_v among_o ourselves_o yet_o each_o of_o we_o agree_v against_o antichrist_n and_o popery_n with_o a_o common_a hand_n though_o not_o so_o thorough_o as_o otherwise_o we_o may_v do_v yet_o so_o as_o neither_o of_o we_o yield_v one_o jot_n to_o the_o papist_n though_o they_o expect_v long_o ere_o this_o to_o have_v devour_v both_o they_o and_o we_o as_o a_o prey_n or_o at_o least_o that_o they_o shall_v have_v sleep_v in_o a_o whole_a skin_n as_o we_o say_v work_v upon_o the_o advantage_n of_o our_o former_a dissension_n they_o the_o three_o point_n be_v what_o we_o be_v to_o esteem_v of_o these_o church_n notwithstanding_o these_o error_n and_o dissension_n surlev_n if_o we_o shall_v condemn_v they_o as_o false_a church_n we_o shall_v be_v very_o uncharitable_a and_o wicked_a for_o they_o have_v be_v the_o chief_a instrument_n under_o god_n of_o our_o call_n therefore_o far_o be_v it_o from_o we_o to_o deny_v they_o to_o be_v a_o true_a church_n beside_o we_o shall_v wrong_v they_o much_o for_o see_v they_o affirm_v direct_o the_o foundation_n and_o every_o part_n thereof_o there_o be_v no_o colour_n why_o we_o shall_v give_v such_o hard_a sentence_n against_o they_o therefore_o let_v we_o esteem_v they_o as_o brethren_n and_o acknowledge_v they_o to_o be_v god_n own_o church_n and_o let_v we_o commiserate_v their_o blindness_n and_o ignorance_n and_o let_v we_o bear_v with_o their_o infirmity_n and_o let_v we_o pass_v by_o the_o wrong_n they_o offer_v we_o and_o let_v we_o bless_v god_n for_o the_o good_a that_o be_v in_o they_o and_o let_v we_o entreat_v god_n to_o open_v their_o eye_n and_o to_o pacify_v their_o mind_n and_o to_o reconcile_v these_o unhappy_a difference_n that_o be_v betwixt_o we_o and_o to_o knit_v our_o heart_n together_o in_o the_o bond_n of_o peace_n that_o we_o may_v be_v all_o of_o one_o mind_n and_o judgement_n and_o speak_v one_o and_o the_o same_o thing_n and_o so_o much_o be_v speak_v concern_v the_o lutheran_n church_n church_n now_o we_o come_v to_o speak_v of_o our_o own_o church_n which_o have_v be_v the_o special_a reach_n and_o shall_v be_v the_o final_a conclusion_n of_o this_o whole_a discourse_n we_o be_v general_o acknowledge_v by_o most_o protestant_a church_n that_o we_o be_v as_o well_o reform_v in_o doctrine_n as_o any_o church_n it_o be_v god_n great_a mercy_n to_o we_o that_o we_o be_v so_o reform_v in_o the_o best_a and_o weighty_a thing_n and_o it_o be_v no_o small_a comfort_n to_o we_o that_o we_o have_v the_o approbation_n of_o other_o church_n confess_v for_o we_o that_o we_o be_v a_o true_a church_n of_o god_n sound_a in_o the_o faith_n so_o that_o if_o we_o do_v fail_v in_o discipline_n as_o they_o say_v yet_o the_o substance_n be_v sound_n the_o danger_n be_v the_o less_o discipline_n make_v only_o for_o the_o beauty_n of_o a_o church_n but_o yet_o neither_o doâ—h_n the_o presence_n of_o it_o make_v a_o true_a church_n nor_o the_o absence_n of_o it_o can_v mar_v the_o life_n &_o be_v of_o a_o true_a church_n therefore_o if_o we_o be_v not_o reform_v herein_o as_o we_o shall_v for_o some_o reformation_n we_o have_v many_o point_n and_o part_n of_o discipline_n be_v far_o better_o among_o we_o then_o in_o the_o popish_a church_n yet_o as_o long_o as_o our_o faith_n be_v sound_a the_o life_n and_o be_v of_o our_o church_n be_v sound_a and_o good_a i_o will_v deliver_v the_o point_n by_o way_n of_o observation_n doctr._n and_o that_o be_v this_o the_o church_n of_o england_n even_o as_o now_o it_o stand_v though_o it_o be_v guilty_a of_o many_o sayling_n and_o weakness_n yet_o notwithstanding_o it_o be_v a_o true_a and_o in_o good_a measure_n a_o sound_a visible_a church_n of_o god_n first_o i_o do_v acknowledge_v many_o fayling_n &_o weakness_n in_o our_o church_n that_o i_o may_v not_o be_v mistake_v as_o if_o i_o shall_v smooth_v up_o the_o state_n of_o our_o church_n as_o many_o do_v with_o all_o be_v well_o when_o some_o thing_n be_v amiss_o or_o justify_v every_o particular_a because_o we_o have_v many_o good_a thing_n among_o we_o no_o if_o there_o be_v any_o baal_n among_o we_o let_v he_o plead_v for_o himself_o i_o will_v not_o plead_v for_o he_o second_o i_o say_v that_o it_o be_v not_o only_o a_o true_a but_o in_o some_o good_a measure_n a_o sound_a visible_a church_n to_o distinguish_v it_o from_o other_o measure_n church_n special_o from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n which_o in_o some_o sense_n as_o we_o show_v be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n but_o very_o unsound_a but_o we_o be_v true_a &_o sound_a too_o &_o that_o in_o some_o good_a measure_n the_o want_n of_o which_o difference_n right_o observe_v reason_n have_v cause_v many_o uncharitable_a censure_n to_o pass_v from_o we_o against_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n &_o from_o the_o separatist_n against_o we_o three_o i_o speak_v of_o the_o church_n of_o england_n indefinite_o which_o seem_v strange_a in_o some_o ear_n that_o the_o whole_a company_n of_o professor_n in_o england_n shall_v be_v call_v one_o church_n and_o so_o make_v a_o national_a church_n which_o say_v they_o be_v mere_o a_o humane_a invention_n not_o warrantable_a by_o the_o word_n but_o to_o justify_v this_o speech_n against_o their_o exception_n take_v these_o
and_o worse_a course_n the_o four_o motive_n to_o persuade_v we_o to_o join_v in_o communion_n with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n and_o not_o to_o forsake_v she_o be_v this_o we_o ourselves_o here_o have_v our_o new_a birth_n even_o in_o this_o church_n and_o by_o this_o church_n and_o therefore_o we_o have_v great_a cause_n to_o be_v love_v and_o kind_o affect_v and_o to_o carry_v ourselves_o dutiful_o unto_o she_o as_o the_o child_n to_o the_o mother_n that_o bear_v he_o and_o if_o we_o do_v not_o rest_v within_o her_o communion_n but_o go_v from_o she_o how_o just_o may_v we_o fear_v to_o mislead_v and_o either_o relapse_n into_o former_a or_o run_v into_o new_a error_n five_o many_o of_o our_o adversary_n be_v here_o beget_v too_o the_o sound_a part_n of_o that_o faith_n which_o the_o best_a of_o our_o separtist_n have_v they_o learn_v and_o attain_a unto_o in_o our_o church_n therefore_o the_o great_a be_v their_o sin_n first_o to_o fly_v from_o we_o second_o to_o deny_v she_o to_o be_v their_o mother_n and_o three_o to_o pursue_v she_o with_o so_o many_o obloquy_n and_o repreache_n as_o if_o she_o be_v no_o church_n of_o god_n sixthly_a our_o church_n have_v be_v plant_v and_o seal_v up_o by_o the_o blood_n of_o many_o precious_a and_o glorious_a martyr_n which_o of_o we_o be_v not_o very_o persuade_v that_o bradford_n latimer_n &c_n &c_n be_v now_o member_n of_o the_o triumphant_a church_n in_o heaven_n then_o desire_v to_o be_v and_o to_o continue_v member_n of_o the_o same_o visible_a militant_a church_n on_o earth_n renounce_v communion_n with_o they_o here_o and_o renounce_v communion_n with_o they_o in_o heaven_n seven_o consider_v what_o a_o shelter_n our_o church_n have_v be_v to_o many_o afflict_a church_n french_a and_o dutch_a &c_n &c_n if_o they_o be_v god_n true_a church_n fly_v for_o succour_n to_o we_o and_o be_v safe_a under_o our_o shadow_n shall_v not_o we_o joyful_o and_o glad_o continue_v under_o it_o but_o fly_v away_o if_o persecution_n shall_v come_v we_o will_v be_v glad_a in_o our_o heart_n that_o we_o have_v such_o a_o shelter_n let_v we_o not_o be_v alienate_v from_o that_o good_a estate_n because_o we_o have_v it_o which_o if_o we_o want_v we_o will_v esteem_v most_o precious_a and_o undergo_v any_o labour_n to_o recover_v it_o eight_o consider_v the_o miraculous_a plant_n and_o preserve_v of_o our_o church_n for_o many_o year_n first_o plant_v by_o king_n edward_n a_o child_n then_o preserve_v in_o queen_n elizabeth_n time_n be_v but_o a_o woman_n against_o the_o whole_a rabble_n of_o god_n enemy_n pope_n and_o spaniard_n and_o satan_n himself_o and_o all_o his_o instrument_n this_o be_v no_o small_a token_n that_o god_n take_v notice_n of_o we_o as_o of_o his_o own_o church_n and_o therefore_o may_v be_v motive_n to_o we_o to_o communicate_v with_o she_o nine_o all_o other_o reform_a church_n acknowledge_v we_o to_o be_v a_o true_a church_n and_o rejoice_v for_o we_o yea_o even_o those_o that_o be_v most_o against_o we_o for_o discipline_n as_o beza_n yet_o pray_v for_o we_o and_o for_o the_o continuance_n of_o our_o state_n even_o as_o it_o be_v to_o many_o generation_n they_o be_v wise_a religious_a impartial_a yet_o they_o approve_v we_o me_n think_v it_o shall_v astonish_v the_o separatist_n that_o all_o be_v for_o we_o but_o they_o as_o if_o they_o be_v holy_a and_o wise_a than_o all_o other_o sure_o it_o shall_v much_o encourage_v we_o to_o keep_v our_o hold_n and_o to_o have_v they_o in_o great_a jealous_o because_o they_o have_v deceive_v themselves_o and_o will_v deceive_v us._n last_o who_o be_v they_o that_o condemn_v we_o none_o but_o papist_n and_o some_o hot_a turbulent_a spirit_n that_o have_v a_o great_a felicity_n in_o overthrow_v the_o society_n of_o other_o church_n and_o yet_o can_v thorough_o agree_v among_o themselves_o what_o be_v to_o be_v do_v in_o their_o own_o church_n so_o much_o for_o the_o first_o instruction_n respect_n second_o this_o teach_v we_o thankfulness_n to_o god_n and_o that_o in_o two_o kind_n first_o that_o god_n have_v be_v so_o favourable_a to_o this_o land_n as_o to_o enlighten_v the_o people_n thereof_o by_o the_o preach_n of_o the_o word_n and_o other_o mean_n of_o salvation_n so_o that_o now_o they_o be_v a_o true_a and_o a_o sound_a visible_a church_n heretofore_o they_o sit_v in_o darkness_n and_o in_o the_o shadow_n of_o death_n in_o heathenism_n popery_n &_o gross_a ignorance_n but_o bless_v be_v god_n a_o light_n a_o bless_a and_o glorious_a light_n even_o the_o light_n of_o the_o gospel_n of_o our_o lord_n jesus_n christ_n have_v shine_v on_o they_o and_o do_v shine_v on_o they_o so_o that_o they_o see_v their_o sin_n and_o the_o way_n of_o salvation_n how_o many_o nation_n be_v still_o overwhelm_v some_o with_o paganism_n some_o with_o judaism_n some_o with_o mahometisme_n and_o some_o with_o popery_n but_o our_o nation_n have_v the_o true_a religion_n and_o save_a faith_n and_o that_o not_o only_o profess_v but_o in_o some_o good_a measure_n practise_v too_o this_o be_v the_o lord_n do_v and_o therefore_o we_o shall_v be_v thankful_a to_o he_o for_o it_o second_o it_o teach_v every_o one_o of_o we_o in_o particular_a to_o be_v thankful_a to_o god_n that_o our_o birth_n and_o life_n have_v be_v respiâ—ed_v to_o these_o time_n of_o light_n if_o the_o lord_n shall_v have_v watch_v we_o a_o good_a time_n we_o can_v have_v have_v no_o better_a than_o this_o if_o we_o have_v be_v bear_v a_o hundred_o or_o two_o hundred_o year_n since_o what_o time_n of_o blindness_n have_v we_o be_v bear_v in_o but_o now_o â—hâ—_n we_o be_v bear_v and_o live_v in_o this_o great_a light_n that_o be_v in_o the_o bosom_n of_o a_o true_a and_o in_o a_o sound_n visible_a church_n except_o we_o will_v wilful_o neglect_v such_o mean_n of_o salvation_n we_o may_v be_v save_v and_o therefore_o while_o we_o have_v this_o light_n let_v we_o labour_n to_o walk_v in_o the_o light_n as_o child_n of_o the_o light_n and_o let_v we_o bring_v forth_o fruit_n worthy_a of_o this_o light_n let_v we_o live_v more_o gracious_o and_o holy_o than_o those_o that_o want_v this_o light_n that_o so_o it_o may_v appear_v to_o the_o world_n that_o there_o be_v a_o difference_n in_o man_n life_n as_o well_o as_o in_o their_o religion_n last_o use_n let_v we_o pray_v to_o god_n for_o the_o continuance_n of_o this_o light_n to_o ouâ—_n poor_a posterity_n that_o be_v yet_o unborn_a that_o they_o may_v be_v as_o well_o provide_v for_o herein_o as_o we_o be_v even_o to_o the_o world_n end_n and_o therefore_o it_o stand_v we_o in_o hand_n by_o prayer_n and_o tear_n to_o entreat_v god_n not_o only_o that_o the_o gospel_n may_v be_v in_o our_o day_n but_o that_o it_o may_v continue_v to_o our_o child_n and_o to_o our_o child_n child_n so_o long_o as_o the_o world_n endure_v and_o so_o much_o for_o the_o use_n of_o instruction_n reproof_n the_o other_o use_v for_o reproof_n though_o they_o have_v be_v handle_v heretofore_o by_o the_o way_n yet_o in_o the_o next_o lecture_n i_o will_v handle_v they_o purposely_o the_o nine_o and_o twenty_o lecture_n of_o the_o church_n in_o the_o last_o lecture_n we_o speak_v of_o the_o reform_a church_n and_o so_o at_o length_n we_o come_v to_o speak_v in_o particular_a of_o our_o own_o church_n the_o church_n of_o england_n and_o we_o deliver_v this_o observation_n concern_v the_o same_o namely_o that_o the_o church_n of_o england_n even_o as_o now_o it_o stand_v though_o it_o have_v many_o fail_n and_o weakness_n in_o it_o yet_o notwithstanding_o it_o be_v a_o true_a and_o a_o sound_a visible_a church_n i_o do_v explain_v this_o observation_n and_o make_v proof_n of_o it_o by_o sundry_a reason_n i_o have_v also_o enter_v into_o the_o use_n thereof_o which_o i_o show_v be_v of_o two_o sort_n the_o first_o for_o instruction_n the_o second_o for_o reproof_n we_o have_v handle_v the_o first_o sort_n and_o now_o we_o be_v to_o come_v to_o the_o second_o sort_n of_o use_n papist_n and_o they_o be_v of_o reproof_n and_o that_o of_o two_o sort_n of_o adversary_n the_o papist_n and_o the_o separatist_n for_o we_o be_v close_o beset_v and_o hardly_o assault_v on_o both_o side_n the_o papist_n on_o the_o one_o side_n exclaim_n that_o we_o be_v no_o church_n or_o a_o false_a one_o because_o we_o be_v separate_v from_o they_o and_o the_o separatist_n on_o the_o other_o side_n exclaim_v so_o too_o and_o therefore_o have_v separate_v from_o we_o and_o yet_o neither_o do_v the_o papist_n acknowledge_v the_o separatist_n to_o be_v a_o true_a church_n nor_o the_o separatist_n acknowledge_v the_o papist_n to_o be_v so_o manasseth_n against_o ephraim_n and_o ephraim_n against_o manasseth_n and_o both_o against_o judah_n
esa_n 9.21_o and_o so_o the_o papist_n be_v against_o the_o separatist_n and_o the_o separatist_n against_o the_o papist_n and_o both_o against_o our_o church_n of_o england_n each_o of_o they_o cry_v out_o with_o open_a mouth_n against_o the_o church_n of_o england_n and_o our_o stand_v therein_o and_o the_o papist_n think_v we_o can_v justify_v our_o self_n against_o their_o exception_n but_o that_o we_o must_v incline_v to_o the_o separatist_n and_o the_o separatist_n boast_v that_o we_o can_v acquit_v ourselves_o of_o their_o exception_n but_o that_o we_o must_v incline_v to_o popery_n here_o than_o be_v our_o present_a task_n how_o to_o deliver_v ourselves_o from_o both_o these_o adversary_n that_o we_o may_v fall_v foul_a on_o neither_o they_o do_v not_o assault_v we_o both_o in_o the_o same_o kind_n nor_o about_o one_o and_o the_o same_o thing_n each_o of_o they_o have_v their_o several_a quarrel_n and_o each_o do_v manage_v a_o several_a fight_n against_o we_o and_o therefore_o we_o must_v frame_v our_o several_a defence_n according_o against_o they_o the_o papist_n he_o strike_v main_o against_o our_o religion_n the_o very_a life_n of_o our_o church_n the_o separatist_n strike_v special_o at_o the_o state_n of_o our_o church_n the_o exception_n of_o the_o papist_n be_v the_o more_o dangerous_a but_o yet_o altogether_o unjust_a and_o untrue_a us._n that_o of_o the_o separatist_n may_v seem_v to_o have_v some_o more_o colour_n of_o truth_n in_o some_o point_n but_o be_v much_o less_o dangerous_a first_o we_o will_v begin_v with_o the_o papist_n as_o be_v the_o ancient_a enemy_n of_o the_o two_o and_o his_o quarrel_n the_o great_a and_o because_o he_o except_v against_o our_o religion_n we_o will_v balance_v their_o religion_n and_o we_o together_o and_o so_o put_v the_o matter_n to_o trial_n and_o join_v in_o this_o issue_n whether_o their_o religion_n be_v better_a than_o we_o or_o our_o religion_n better_o than_o they_o and_o because_o false_a balance_n be_v a_o abomination_n to_o the_o lord_n we_o will_v disclaim_v they_o carnal_a reason_n outward_a pomp_n plausible_a show_n and_o probability_n be_v deceitful_a weight_v not_o fit_a for_o this_o use_n let_v we_o bring_v they_o to_o the_o scale_n of_o the_o sanctuary_n and_o examine_v they_o by_o the_o equal_a and_o true_a weight_n of_o the_o lord_n himself_o that_o be_v by_o such_o spiritual_a and_o sound_a consideration_n as_o the_o holy_a thing_n of_o god_n be_v to_o be_v esteem_v and_o try_v by_o it_o be_v tedious_a if_o not_o infinite_a to_o reckon_v up_o all_o the_o difference_n betwixt_o they_o and_o we_o i_o will_v therefore_o cull_v out_o six_o or_o seven_o of_o the_o principal_a for_o instance_n and_o thereby_o you_o may_v judge_v of_o the_o rest_n and_o i_o will_v weigh_v they_o in_o four_o exceptionlesse_a balance_n and_o make_v it_o plain_a god_n willing_a in_o every_o one_o of_o these_o six_o or_o seven_o instance_n by_o every_o of_o these_o four_o balance_n that_o our_o religion_n will_v hold_v weight_n full_a weight_n down_o to_o the_o ground_n and_o that_o they_o be_v too_o light_a not_o worthy_a to_o be_v bring_v to_o the_o beam_n balance_n the_o four_o balance_n that_o we_o will_v weigh_v these_o instance_n in_o be_v first_o the_o balance_n of_o god_n glory_n second_o the_o balance_n of_o god_n word_n three_o the_o balance_n of_o true_a holiness_n four_o the_o balance_n of_o peace_n of_o conscience_n the_o instance_n of_o the_o difference_n betwixt_o they_o and_o we_o which_o we_o will_v weigh_v in_o these_o balance_n be_v these_o be_v the_o first_o be_v of_o the_o sufficiency_n of_o scripture_n and_o the_o absolute_a authority_n it_o have_v above_o the_o church_n and_o tradition_n the_o second_o be_v of_o god_n free_a grace_n against_o man_n freewill_n the_o three_o be_v of_o justification_n by_o faith_n alone_o against_o man_n of_o merit_n the_o four_o be_v of_o christ_n our_o only_a advocate_n against_o other_o intercessor_n the_o five_o be_v of_o the_o spiritual_a worship_n of_o god_n against_o image_n the_o six_o be_v of_o our_o communion_n against_o their_o mass_n the_o last_o instance_n be_v of_o our_o carriage_n of_o the_o mean_n of_o salvation_n in_o open_a sight_n and_o plain_a deal_n that_o all_o may_v look_v into_o they_o with_o their_o own_o eye_n against_o their_o carriage_n of_o all_o in_o a_o cloud_n and_o shadow_n and_o huckurmucker_n of_o these_o in_o order_n and_o first_o let_v we_o weigh_v these_o seven_o instance_n in_o the_o first_o balance_n and_o that_o be_v the_o balance_n of_o god_n glory_n for_o that_o be_v the_o best_a and_o true_a religion_n of_o god_n that_o tend_v most_o direct_o and_o entire_o to_o god_n glory_n all_o that_o we_o do_v must_v be_v frame_v and_o refer_v to_o god_n glory_n 1_o cor._n 10.31_o special_o our_o religion_n col._n 3.16.17_o and_o if_o man_n shall_v devise_v a_o religion_n for_o any_o god_n true_a or_o false_a they_o will_v resolve_v that_o that_o be_v the_o best_a religion_n whereby_o that_o god_n to_o who_o it_o be_v erect_v may_v be_v most_o glorify_v yea_o our_o very_a religion_n itself_o what_o be_v it_o but_o our_o worship_v of_o believe_v in_o call_v upon_o and_o obey_v god_n which_o be_v nothing_o else_o but_o our_o very_a glorify_v of_o god_n but_o the_o religion_n profess_v by_o the_o church_n of_o england_n do_v most_o direct_o and_o entire_o tend_v to_o god_n glory_n and_o the_o popish_a religion_n do_v not_o but_o contrary_o it_o tend_v to_o his_o dishonour_n and_o therefore_o our_o religion_n be_v the_o true_a religion_n of_o god_n they_o be_v not_o as_o we_o shall_v see_v in_o these_o instance_n the_o first_o be_v concern_v the_o sufficiency_n of_o scripture_n glory_n and_o the_o absolute_a authority_n thereof_o above_o the_o church_n and_o tradition_n put_v this_o into_o the_o balance_n of_o god_n glory_n and_o admit_v as_o we_o do_v that_o the_o scripture_n be_v sufficient_a in_o itself_o and_o have_v absolute_a authority_n above_o the_o church_n and_o tradition_n and_o see_v how_o god_n glory_n be_v thereby_o advance_a for_o thereby_o god_n be_v acknowledge_v to_o have_v provide_v most_o bountiful_o and_o sufficient_o for_o his_o church_n a_o perfect_a rule_n of_o faith_n and_o life_n that_o need_v no_o addition_n and_o thereby_o god_n shall_v rule_v by_o his_o own_o will_n and_o law_n and_o be_v worship_v by_o his_o own_o ordinance_n only_o all_o which_o be_v matter_n of_o god_n great_a honour_n but_o deny_v this_o as_o the_o papist_n do_v and_o prefer_v or_o equal_v the_o church_n with_o the_o scripture_n and_o mingle_v tradition_n with_o god_n word_n and_o all_o this_o glory_n shall_v be_v much_o eclipse_v the_o second_o instance_n be_v of_o god_n freegrace_n balance_n against_o man_n freewill_n admit_v that_o all_o the_o good_a we_o do_v or_o have_v proceed_v mere_o from_o the_o grace_n and_o spirit_n of_o god_n without_o any_o will_n or_o towardliness_n to_o good_a in_o ourselves_o and_o the_o lord_n be_v thereby_o right_o and_o true_o glorify_v if_o we_o have_v no_o sufficiency_n of_o ourselves_o no_o not_o to_o think_v well_o but_o that_o the_o will_n and_o the_o deed_n be_v both_o from_o god_n grace_n if_o we_o have_v nothing_o in_o abilty_a or_o desire_n or_o endeavour_n but_o as_o we_o be_v effectual_o move_v by_o the_o spirit_n than_o the_o whole_a glory_n of_o our_o work_n which_o be_v the_o great_a honour_n we_o can_v here_o do_v to_o god_n be_v whole_o ascribe_v unto_o god_n alone_o but_o deny_v this_o as_o the_o papist_n do_v and_o avouch_v that_o there_o be_v some_o freedom_n in_o our_o own_o will_n to_o good_a than_o god_n do_v the_o less_o for_o we_o and_o so_o do_v the_o less_o glorify_v himself_o on_o we_o extol_v man_n in_o this_o corrupt_a estate_n and_o dishonour_n god_n but_o dishonour_n man_n herein_o and_o extol_v god_n the_o three_o instance_n be_v of_o justification_n by_o faith_n alone_o against_o man_n merit_n balance_n if_o it_o be_v say_v as_o we_o say_v that_o we_o be_v justify_v by_o faith_n alone_o without_o man_n merit_n and_o we_o yield_v to_o christ_n jesus_n the_o glory_n and_o prerogative_n of_o our_o alone_a and_o all-sufficient_a saviour_n and_o we_o magnify_v his_o righteousness_n as_o be_v of_o that_o infinite_a worth_n and_o power_n in_o and_o by_o itself_o as_o to_o make_v we_o true_o and_o perfect_o righteous_a that_o believe_v it_o which_o as_o his_o proper_a due_n be_v direct_o assign_v of_o his_o father_n and_o just_o challenge_v by_o himself_o and_o worthy_o obtain_v by_o his_o do_n suffering_n and_o victory_n but_o say_v as_o the_o papist_n do_v that_o we_o do_v merit_v some_o favour_n with_o god_n by_o our_o own_o good_a work_n and_o then_o we_o detract_v from_o christ_n glory_n and_o make_v man_n compartner_n together_o with_o christ_n in_o this_o glorious_a work_n
they_o it_o be_v a_o foolish_a doctrine_n of_o the_o papist_n that_o ignorance_n be_v the_o mother_n of_o devotion_n it_o must_v needs_o be_v a_o blind_a and_o graceless_a devotion_n in_o thâ—t_a mind_n where_o knowledge_n have_v not_o first_o enlighten_v the_o understanding_n let_v we_o now_o come_v to_o the_o four_o and_o last_o balance_n conscience_n and_o therein_o try_v our_o religion_n and_o they_o in_o these_o seven_o instance_n and_o that_o be_v the_o balance_n of_o comfort_n of_o conscience_n that_o be_v the_o true_a religion_n that_o bring_v sound_a comfort_n of_o conscience_n for_o that_o be_v the_o right_a gospel_n that_o bring_v glad_a tiding_n of_o peace_n to_o the_o afflict_a soul_n and_o agree_v direct_o with_o christ_n spiritual_a office_n isaiah_n 61.1_o the_o spirit_n of_o the_o lord_n be_v upon_o i_o therefore_o have_v the_o lord_n anoint_v i_o he_o have_v send_v i_o to_o preach_v good_a tiding_n to_o the_o poor_a to_o bind_v up_o the_o break_a heart_a &c_n &c_n and_o matth._n 11.28_o but_o the_o religion_n of_o our_o church_n bring_v sound_a comfort_n to_o the_o conscience_n and_o the_o popish_a religion_n do_v not_o so_o but_o rather_o purposely_o afflict_v man_n conscience_n then_o comfort_v they_o terrify_v they_o with_o a_o slavish_a fear_n nourish_v the_o spirit_n of_o bondage_n and_o bring_v man_n back_o as_o it_o be_v to_o the_o law_n again_o therefore_o our_o religion_n be_v the_o true_a religion_n they_o be_v the_o false_a rule_n see_v this_o in_o the_o first_o instance_n weigh_v in_o this_o balance_n the_o sufficiency_n of_o the_o scripture_n set_v the_o conscience_n at_o rest_n as_o have_v all_o that_o be_v needful_a to_o be_v believe_v or_o do_v set_v plain_o before_o we_o in_o god_n book_n so_o that_o we_o need_v not_o wander_v after_o uncertainty_n and_o doubt_n but_o we_o may_v know_v what_o we_o must_v trust_v unto_o and_o the_o absolute_a command_n of_o scripture_n convince_v the_o conscience_n that_o it_o be_v well_o do_v and_o both_o together_o assure_v the_o conscience_n of_o he_o that_o endeavour_n true_o to_o frame_v himself_o thereunto_o that_o he_o be_v in_o the_o right_a way_n to_o heaven_n and_o in_o the_o certain_a state_n of_o grace_n and_o salvation_n second_o if_o all_o be_v of_o god_n free_a grace_n rule_n and_o not_o of_o man_n free_a will_n than_o we_o be_v singular_o comfort_v in_o that_o all_o our_o thought_n desire_n and_o work_n be_v not_o our_o own_o for_o than_o they_o will_v be_v loathsome_a to_o god_n who_o can_v bring_v a_o clean_a thing_n out_o of_o a_o unclean_a but_o they_o be_v god_n own_o do_n and_o they_o be_v the_o action_n of_o his_o own_o spirit_n and_o therefore_o can_v but_o be_v acceptable_a unto_o he_o three_o rule_n if_o justification_n be_v by_o faith_n alone_o without_o man_n merit_n than_o we_o have_v peace_n with_o god_n rom._n 5.1_o and_o then_o we_o have_v assurance_n of_o salvation_n be_v ground_v not_o on_o the_o sand_n of_o our_o own_o merit_n but_o on_o the_o immovable_a rock_n christ_n jesus_n and_o his_o righteousness_n and_o the_o favour_n of_o god_n and_o the_o free_a promise_n of_o mercy_n in_o he_o four_o if_o christ_n be_v our_o only_a advocate_n rule_n we_o have_v assurance_n to_o be_v hear_v john_n 16.23_o and_o 1_o john_n 5.14_o 15._o and_o rom._n 5.1_o 2._o for_o what_o can_v the_o lord_n deny_v his_o own_o son_n or_o we_o for_o his_o sake_n whereas_o if_o we_o have_v other_o advocat_n we_o know_v not_o whether_o they_o hear_v we_o yea_o of_o many_o we_o know_v not_o whether_o they_o be_v saint_n or_o no_o or_o if_o they_o do_v hear_v we_o yet_o we_o know_v not_o whether_o they_o will_v or_o can_v help_v we_o yea_o we_o have_v no_o sound_a warrant_n to_o pray_v to_o saint_n we_o know_v not_o whether_o the_o lord_n will_v be_v angry_a with_o we_o for_o such_o a_o unwarrantable_a course_n &_o so_o fare_v the_o worse_a for_o sodo_v among_o man_n rule_n five_o if_o we_o worship_v god_n in_o spirit_n and_o truth_n and_o not_o in_o image_n than_o we_o have_v assurance_n that_o we_o worship_v the_o true_a god_n and_o that_o after_o the_o true_a and_o right_a manner_n and_o this_o be_v the_o specifical_a difference_n of_o god_n religion_n from_o all_o other_o religion_n whatsoever_o whereas_o if_o we_o worship_v in_o or_o by_o a_o image_n we_o do_v still_o suspect_v whether_o we_o do_v well_o or_o no_o for_o even_o nature_n itself_o if_o it_o be_v well_o mark_v abhor_v that_o god_n shall_v be_v repute_v a_o material_a substance_n and_o therefore_o how_o can_v god_n be_v please_v rule_n that_o he_o shall_v be_v so_o resemble_v six_o if_o we_o celebrate_v the_o memorial_n of_o the_o lord_n death_n in_o our_o communion_n than_o the_o benefit_n of_o christ_n death_n be_v effectual_o settle_v to_o the_o believe_a soul_n by_o the_o presence_n of_o the_o spirit_n and_o the_o comfort_n and_o strength_n of_o the_o bread_n and_o the_o sweetness_n and_o comfort_n of_o the_o wine_n in_o our_o stomach_n work_v a_o answerable_a correspondency_n by_o the_o thing_n signify_v rule_n to_o the_o soul_n and_o put_v we_o in_o possession_n of_o it_o last_o if_o we_o have_v the_o mean_n of_o salvation_n plain_o deliver_v unto_o we_o that_o we_o may_v see_v into_o they_o with_o our_o own_o eye_n and_o not_o dark_o as_o they_o be_v among_o the_o papist_n than_o we_o know_v what_o we_o worship_v john_n 4._o we_o walk_v in_o the_o light_n whereas_o they_o poor_a soul_n go_v on_o in_o the_o dark_a not_o know_v whither_o they_o go_v so_o we_o see_v in_o all_o these_o four_o balance_n that_o their_o religion_n be_v too_o light_a and_o we_o be_v down_o weight_n and_o so_o we_o see_v that_o they_o be_v just_o reprove_v for_o censure_v our_o church_n to_o be_v a_o false_a church_n because_o we_o have_v a_o false_a religion_n whereas_o they_o be_v the_o false_a and_o we_o be_v the_o true_a religion_n second_o it_o be_v for_o reproof_n of_o the_o separatist_n signify_v they_o be_v very_o clamorous_a and_o bitter_a against_o we_o but_o i_o purpose_v god_n willing_a brief_o to_o answer_v the_o sum_n of_o all_o their_o exception_n and_o to_o let_v all_o their_o bitter_a clamour_n alone_o their_o first_o exception_n be_v against_o the_o constitution_n of_o our_o church_n they_o say_v it_o have_v a_o false_a constitution_n and_o therefore_o be_v a_o false_a church_n but_o this_o be_v a_o false_a consequence_n and_o can_v never_o be_v prove_v there_o be_v many_o frog_n and_o mouse_n and_o other_o creature_n generate_v of_o putrefaction_n and_o yet_o be_v true_a frog_n though_o they_o be_v not_o produce_v by_o natural_a generation_n and_o he_o that_o out_o of_o the_o very_a stone_n can_v raise_v up_o child_n unto_o abraham_n be_v able_a to_o gather_v a_o church_n otherwise_o then_o by_o that_o which_o they_o call_v a_o true_a constitution_n so_o that_o the_o consequence_n be_v false_a and_o the_o antecedent_n be_v false_a too_o for_o our_o constitution_n through_o god_n mercy_n be_v true_a and_o sound_a constitution_n signify_v sometime_o the_o state_n which_o a_o thing_n be_v frame_v unto_o as_o the_o natural_a constitution_n of_o the_o body_n that_o be_v the_o state_n condition_n or_o dispensation_n which_o by_o the_o rule_n of_o nature_n it_o be_v endue_v with_o sometime_o it_o signify_v the_o act_n whereby_o it_o be_v to_o be_v frame_v as_o the_o natural_a constitution_n of_o the_o body_n that_o be_v the_o act_n of_o nature_n whereby_o it_o be_v constitute_v each_o of_o these_o be_v in_o the_o church_n as_o be_v a_o body_n in_o a_o borrow_a sense_n and_o the_o constitution_n of_o we_o be_v true_a in_o the_o first_o sense_n we_o have_v the_o word_n sacrament_n ministry_n and_o government_n and_o people_n profess_v the_o true_a religion_n and_o obedience_n thereunto_o and_o therefore_o what_o need_v we_o to_o inquire_v into_o the_o act_n whereby_o we_o be_v so_o constitute_v as_o thereby_o to_o disprove_v the_o truth_n of_o our_o church_n as_o for_o example_n when_o i_o come_v into_o a_o strange_a place_n that_o have_v the_o name_n of_o a_o city_n and_o there_o i_o see_v people_n corporation_n civil_a assembly_n law_n and_o order_n and_o a_o general_a profession_n of_o obedience_n thereunto_o shall_v not_o i_o hold_v that_o a_o true_a city_n though_o i_o know_v not_o how_o it_o be_v found_v and_o gather_v but_o if_o it_o be_v necessary_a to_o be_v inquire_v into_o in_o the_o second_o sense_n the_o constitution_n of_o our_o church_n be_v true_a and_o good_a in_o that_o sense_n also_o man_n be_v true_o call_v and_o gather_v among_o we_o by_o the_o ministry_n of_o the_o word_n but_o say_v they_o they_o be_v not_o so_o gather_v at_o the_o first_o i_o answer_v first_o if_o they_o be_v not_o it_o be_v no_o prejudice_n to_o we_o we_o be_v so_o now_o
535._o vogel_n 751._o three_o of_o those_o which_o be_v in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n both_o together_o the_o matter_n of_o this_o reduce_v to_o six_o head_n all_o raise_v out_o of_o the_o article_n of_o the_o creed_n i_o believe_v the_o holy_a catholic_a church_n first_o head_n it_o be_v but_o one_o the_o church_n have_v a_o threefold_a oneness_n difference_n of_o circumstance_n do_v not_o cut_v off_o from_o the_o true_a church_n as_o first_o of_o state_n second_o of_o time_n three_o of_o person_n four_o of_o place_n five_o of_o ceremony_n six_o of_o judgement_n in_o point_n not_o absolute_o fundamental_a second_o head_n the_o church_n be_v holy_a john_n 3_o the_o three_o head_n it_o be_v catholic_a first_o how_o this_o word_n catholic_a have_v be_v wrong_v first_o by_o those_o in_o the_o romish_a church_n three_o way_n rhemist_n in_o act._n 11_o and_o bristol_n in_o his_o moâ—es_n and_o demand_n 2._o cor._n 3.5_o second_o it_o be_v wrong_v by_o some_o four_o way_n second_o the_o word_n catholic_a right_v in_o regard_n whereof_o three_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v consider_v of_o first_o the_o antiquity_n of_o it_o with_fw-mi fulke_n ibidem_fw-la morney_n de_fw-fr ecclesia_fw-la p._n 13._o 14._o etc._n etc._n 19_o ad_fw-la 25._o &_o 29._o vid._n rainold_n conclus_fw-la 650._o 671_o second_o the_o right_a meaning_n of_o it_o oecumenius_n oecumenius_n ipsa_fw-la est_fw-la ecclesia_fw-la catholica_fw-la unde_fw-la &_o 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d 〈◊〉_d graece_n appellatur_fw-la quae_fw-la per_fw-la totum_fw-la arbem_fw-la terrarum_fw-la diffunditur_fw-la aug._n epist_n 170._o ad_fw-la severinum_n rhemist_n in_o 1._o joh._n 2.6_o morney_n de_fw-fr ecclesia_fw-la 23._o three_o the_o common_a receive_a use_n of_o the_o word_n vniversalis_fw-la ecclesia_fw-la est_fw-la jerusalem_fw-la civitas_fw-la dei_fw-la vivi_fw-la quae_fw-la continet_fw-la ecclesiam_fw-la primitiarum_fw-la circumscriptâ—m_fw-la in_o coelis_fw-la isychius_n in_o levit._n lib_n 4._o cap._n 14_o catholica_fw-la veraciter_fw-la illa_fw-la est_fw-la quae_fw-la ab_fw-la omnibus_fw-la perfidis_fw-la &_o eorum_fw-la successoribus_fw-la &_o consortibus_fw-la sincera_fw-la pura_fw-la &_o immaculata_fw-la communione_fw-la divisa_fw-la est_fw-la gelasius_n ad_fw-la anast_n aug._n euseb_n hist_o eccl_n apply_v catholic_a both_o to_o the_o whole_a church_n through_o ehe_fw-ge world_n and_o to_o particular_a church_n too_o vid._n field_n lib._n 1._o p._n 16._o &_o 26._o &_o l._n 2._o 56._o three_o the_o observation_n from_o it_o sheldon_n quod_fw-la semper_fw-la quod_fw-la ubique_fw-la quod_fw-la ab_fw-la omnibus_fw-la vincent_n lib._n 3._o &_o 24._o object_n four_o point_n that_o the_o church_n be_v a_o communion_n of_o saint_n whereby_o two_o thing_n be_v affirm_v first_o that_o the_o church_n have_v a_o communion_n with_o or_o be_v join_v to_o christ_n which_o be_v the_o four_o quality_n first_o christ_n communion_n with_o we_o in_o two_o particular_n first_o in_o regard_n of_o ourselves_o in_o four_o respect_n second_o he_o communicate_v with_o we_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o thing_n that_o belong_v to_o we_o which_o consist_v in_o these_o thing_n second_o we_o communicate_v with_o he_o first_o in_o regard_n of_o himself_o he_o be_v we_o two_o way_n second_o we_o communicate_v with_o he_o in_o regard_n of_o all_o thâ—_n thing_n that_o be_v he_o as_o first_o what_o he_o have_v second_o what_o he_o do_v three_o what_o he_o suffer_v four_o what_o he_o have_v obtain_v by_o his_o do_n and_o suffering_n how_o these_o thing_n be_v to_o be_v understand_v this_o communication_n with_o christ_n in_o the_o thing_n that_o be_v he_o draw_v into_o two_o head_n first_o in_o some_o thing_n by_o merit_n second_o in_o other_o thing_n by_o power_n reason_n on_o god_n part_n first_o his_o election_n second_o his_o covenant_n three_o his_o free_a gift_n of_o christ_n to_o us._n four_o his_o love._n reason_n on_o christ_n part_n reason_n on_o our_o part_n first_o our_o faith_n second_o our_o covenant_n three_o by_o gift_n four_o our_o love_n five_o our_o necessity_n three_o mean_n of_o this_o communion_n first_o the_o spirit_n second_o the_o word_n three_o the_o sacrament_n a_o christian_n patent_n royal_a under_o the_o broad_a seal_n of_o heaven_n for_o his_o interest_n first_o in_o god_n second_o in_o the_o promise_n three_o in_o the_o office_n and_o benefit_n of_o christ._n four_o in_o full_a and_o final_a glorification_n a_o christian_n acquittance_n general_a against_o all_o plead_n of_o sin_n and_o every_o thing_n that_o be_v against_o us._n the_o second_o thing_n affirm_v concern_v the_o communion_n of_o saint_n and_o that_o be_v the_o communion_n which_o the_o saint_n have_v one_o with_o another_o and_o this_o be_v the_o five_o quality_n calvin_n instit_n lib._n 4._o cap._n 5_o 1._o 2._o morney_n de_fw-fr eccles_n pag._n 8._o christ_n the_o light_n of_o the_o world_n three_o thing_n concern_v this_o communion_n first_o what_o it_o be_v it_o be_v spiritual_a in_o how_o many_o sense_n it_o be_v spiritual_a two_o thing_n wherein_o this_o communion_n consist_v and_o that_o in_o two_o thing_n first_o a_o communion_n of_o state_n and_o that_o in_o diverse_a respect_n second_o this_o communion_n consist_v in_o a_o communion_n of_o practice_n and_o this_o be_v first_o general_n second_o it_o be_v particular_a and_o this_o diverse_a way_n first_o in_o regard_n of_o gift_n non_fw-la tollitur_fw-la gratiarum_fw-la diversitas_fw-la nec_fw-la convellitur_fw-la ordo_fw-la politicus_fw-la calu._n second_o in_o regard_n of_o their_o want_n and_o that_o diverse_a way_n three_o this_o communion_n of_o practice_n in_o particular_a be_v in_o respect_n of_o their_o do_n four_o in_o respect_n of_o their_o suffering_n five_o in_o respect_n of_o their_o affection_n six_o in_o respect_n of_o themselves_o and_o all_o they_o have_v three_o the_o extent_n of_o this_o communion_n caution_n herein_o to_o be_v observe_v this_o communion_n extend_v to_o the_o saint_n in_o heaven_n the_o reason_n be_v of_o five_o sort_n first_o in_o respect_n of_o god_n the_o second_o sort_n of_o reason_n in_o respect_n of_o christ_n the_o three_o reason_n in_o respect_n of_o the_o spirit_n four_o sort_n of_o reason_n be_v in_o regard_n of_o the_o faithful_a themselves_o in_o diverse_a respect_n fifrh_fw-mi sort_n of_o reason_n be_v in_o regard_n of_o our_o adversary_n thing_n to_o be_v do_v that_o we_o may_v maintain_v this_o communion_n trial_n whether_o we_o practise_v this_o communion_n teach_v two_o thing_n first_o know_v to_o god_n prove_v second_o to_o themselves_o three_o none_o but_o god_n and_o themselves_o know_v it_o the_o four_o general_a head_n in_o this_o question_n which_o be_v the_o division_n of_o the_o church_n which_o be_v partly_o of_o the_o name_n partly_o of_o the_o thing_n itself_o first_o of_o the_o name_n second_o of_o the_o thing_n itself_o three_o way_n how_o the_o church_n be_v distinguish_v into_o universal_a or_o particular_a second_o it_o be_v distinguish_v into_o the_o church_n militant_a and_o triumphant_a what_o the_o militant_a church_n be_v define_v this_o warfare_n be_v spiritual_a in_o three_o respect_n that_o the_o good_a angel_n be_v party_n of_o this_o church_n militant_a in_o some_o sense_n though_o noâ—_n part_n of_o it_o what_o the_o church_n triumphant_a be_v eight_o difference_n between_o the_o church_n triumphant_a and_o militant_a and_o in_o it_o five_o thing_n what_o to_o be_v consider_v of_o fâ—r_n the_o fit_v help_a and_o direct_v of_o we_o in_o this_o warfare_n a_o three_o division_n of_o the_o church_n into_o visible_a and_o invisible_a of_o the_o church_n invisible_a and_o of_o the_o invisibilitie_n of_o it_o in_o five_o sense_n the_o church_n signify_v the_o universal_a company_n of_o god_n choose_v in_o heaven_n and_o earth_n in_o this_o sense_n it_o be_v invisible_a actual_o and_o potential_o second_o the_o church_n signify_v the_o company_n of_o believer_n in_o earth_n be_v invisible_a simple_o or_o after_o a_o sort_n general_n advertisement_n concern_v the_o church_n invisible_a and_o visible_a difference_n between_o the_o universal_a invisible_a and_o the_o universal_a visible_a church_n vid._n zanch._n in_o hos_n 2.8.9_o p._n 51._o august_n in_o ps_n 10_o hierom._n cont_n lucif_n exception_n of_o papist_n out_o of_o the_o five_o of_o matthew_n for_o the_o visibilitie_n of_o the_o church_n answer_v the_o second_o exception_n out_o of_o mat._n 18.17_o the_o three_o exception_n out_o of_o rom._n 10.10_o nine_o thing_n considerable_a in_o a_o visible_a church_n first_o the_o definition_n of_o it_o vera_fw-la ecclesia_fw-la est_fw-la quae_fw-la profitetur_fw-la christi_fw-la fidem_fw-la bellar._n de_fw-fr ecclâ—s_fw-la milit_fw-la p._n 249._o first_o some_o church_n be_v either_o universal_a visible_a church_n or_o particular_a visible_a church_n first_o particular_a visible_a church_n be_v first_o national_n parochial_a or_o domestical_a jnstance_n first_o of_o a_o provincial_a church_n second_o of_o a_o parochial_a church_n three_o of_o a_o domestical_a church_n second_o they_o be_v either_o more_o or_o less_o visible_a three_o
to_o be_v divorce_v and_o cut_v off_o as_o a_o filthy_a strumpet_n the_o popish_a plea_n for_o image_n that_o they_o do_v not_o worship_v the_o image_n but_o god_n in_o and_o by_o the_o image_n answdr_v the_o heathen_a make_v image_n of_o the_o true_a god_n the_o resemble_v of_o the_o invisible_a god_n in_o any_o make_a image_n be_v flat_a idolatry_n the_o papist_n do_v worship_n the_o image_n the_o popish_a distinction_n give_v the_o lesser_a honour_n to_o the_o image_n the_o great_a to_o god_n answer_v papist_n give_v the_o great_a worship_n to_o the_o bread_n in_o the_o sacrament_n to_o the_o wooden_a cross_n to_o the_o image_n of_o god_n and_o christ_n the_o four_o head_n of_o the_o error_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n in_o doctrine_n viz._n concern_v justification_n the_o difference_n between_o the_o papist_n saying_n we_o be_v justify_v by_o grace_n and_o the_o apostle_n say_v so_o the_o second_o thing_n wherein_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n err_v viz._n in_o maâ—ter_n of_o practice_n and_o this_o be_v twofold_a first_o in_o the_o carriage_n of_o god_n worship_n and_o this_o be_v show_v first_o in_o the_o general_a god_n worship_n as_o it_o be_v carry_v by_o the_o popish_a faction_n be_v fit_a for_o man_n yea_o for_o a_o idol_n then_o for_o the_o true_a and_o everliving_a god_n first_o it_o be_v a_o caâ—â—all_a service_n â—ull_a of_o â—ites_n and_o ceremony_n and_o most_o agreeable_a to_o flesh_n and_o blood_n the_o papist_n give_v but_o the_o blood_n of_o the_o body_n for_o the_o sin_n of_o the_o soul_n natural_a man_n have_v rather_o be_v scourge_v then_o undertake_v the_o spiritual_a combat_n second_o they_o have_v a_o will-worship_n for_o the_o most_o part_n of_o their_o own_o devise_v three_o they_o have_v policy_n in_o their_o religion_n for_o the_o maintenance_n of_o their_o outward_a state_n second_o in_o the_o particular_a part_n of_o it_o first_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o word_n first_o it_o be_v obscure_v second_o little_a or_o seldom_o preach_v among_o the_o papist_n the_o people_n keep_v from_o the_o word_n among_o the_o papist_n second_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o sacrament_n first_o in_o respect_n of_o the_o number_n of_o they_o and_o so_o those_o that_o christ_n never_o ordain_v second_o in_o respect_n of_o those_o which_o christ_n do_v ordain_v they_o be_v full_a of_o abomination_n as_o first_o baptism_n second_o in_o the_o lord_n supper_n in_o the_o very_a soâ—_n and_o heaâ—â—_n three_o in_o respect_n of_o their_o discipline_n the_o papist_n have_v scarce_o any_o thing_n sound_a in_o their_o discipline_n four_o in_o respect_n of_o their_o prayer_n they_o be_v corrupt_v first_o in_o that_o they_o be_v make_v to_o saint_n and_o not_o to_o god_n alone_o second_o in_o that_o they_o be_v make_v in_o a_o unknown_a tongue_n thing_n be_v far_o worse_o now_o in_o the_o popish_a church_n in_o diverse_a respect_n the_o second_o thing_n wherein_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n err_v in_o matter_n of_o practice_n viz._n in_o matter_n of_o manner_n the_o corruption_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n in_o matter_n of_o manner_n be_v in_o a_o manner_n heathenish_a and_o such_o as_o they_o maintain_v to_o be_v lawful_a particular_a error_n of_o the_o papist_n maintain_v 1._o equivocation_n and_o mental_a reservation_n 2_o disobedience_n to_o superior_n 3._o treason_n and_o murder_n of_o king_n and_o prince_n no_o people_n or_o state_n in_o the_o world_n match_v the_o church_n of_o rome_n with_o the_o defence_n and_o practice_n of_o so_o many_o villainy_n as_o she_o do_v defend_v and_o practice_v cruelty_n exercise_v by_o the_o jesuit_n upon_o the_o indian_n the_o second_o branch_n of_o the_o doctrine_n no_o communion_n to_o be_v have_v with_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n without_o certain_a danger_n of_o our_o soul_n use_v of_o both_o branch_n together_o no_o reconciliation_n to_o be_v dream_v on_o betwixt_o papist_n and_o us._n they_o will_v not_o yield_v to_o we_o we_o must_v not_o yield_v to_o they_o our_o separation_n from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n justify_v no_o schism_n to_o separate_v from_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n except_o 1._o answ_n 1_o except_o 2._o answ_n what_o we_o be_v to_o think_v of_o such_o aâ—_n continule_n in_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n the_o second_o part_n of_o the_o distribution_n of_o the_o western_a church_n viz_o the_o reform_a church_n 1_o why_o they_o be_v call_v reform_a churchche_n first_o of_o the_o cause_n of_o reformation_n second_o of_o the_o manner_n of_o reformation_n and_o herein_o 5._o thing_n the_o reason_n why_o these_o church_n be_v call_v protestant_n church_n these_o reform_a church_n be_v more_o or_o less_o reform_v church_n account_v more_o reform_v church_n account_v less_o reform_v and_o therrein_a first_o of_o the_o lutheran_n church_n and_o herein_o of_o 3._o thing_n concern_v they_o first_o of_o their_o difference_n in_o opinion_n the_o second_o thing_n concern_v the_o lutheran_n church_n viz._n the_o tumulâ—s_n and_o unnatural_a contention_n raise_v betwixt_o we_o and_o they_o the_o lutheran_n more_o bitter_a against_o we_o then_o against_o the_o papist_n and_o herein_o first_o what_o exception_n the_o papist_n take_v against_o we_o for_o they_o answer_v diverse_o second_o what_o use_v we_o be_v to_o make_v of_o these_o difference_n the_o three_o thing_n concern_v the_o lutheran_n church_n be_v what_o we_o be_v to_o esteem_v of_o they_o the_o second_o sort_n of_o church_n account_v reform_v viz._n our_o own_o church_n the_o church_n of_o england_n if_o a_o true_a and_o sound_a church_n too_o in_o some_o good_a measure_n the_o whole_a company_n of_o professor_n in_o england_n make_v one_o national_a church_n and_o this_o speech_n justify_v by_o 3_o reason_n it_o be_v a_o true_a church_n reason_n to_o prove_v it_o to_o be_v a_o sound_a visible_a church_n in_o some_o good_a measure_n the_o separatist_n exception_n except_o 1â—_n answ_n except_o 2._o answ_n aynsw_n 11._o aynsw_n 25.26_o except_o 1_o answ_n except_o 2._o except_o 3._o ob_fw-la answ_n use_v 1._o for_o instruction_n diverse_o we_o may_v safe_o communicate_v &_o join_v with_o the_o church_n of_o england_n motive_n to_o move_v to_o join_v with_o our_o church_n 2_o thing_n teach_v in_o this_o use_n viz._n thankfulness_n in_o two_o respect_n three_o thing_n in_o this_o use_n second_o use_n of_o reproof_n wherein_o two_o sort_n of_o adversary_n be_v reprove_v 3._o the_o papist_n our_o church_n and_o religion_n be_v warrant_v against_o the_o papist_n by_o prove_v that_o our_o religion_n be_v better_a than_o the_o religion_n of_o the_o church_n of_o rome_n which_o be_v prove_v by_o the_o call_n out_o of_o six_o or_o seven_o of_o the_o principal_a difference_n between_o they_o and_o us._n weigh_v by_o four_o balance_n the_o point_n which_o be_v weigh_v and_o whereby_o the_o trial_n be_v make_v be_v 1._o weigh_v in_o the_o first_o balance_n viz._n god_n glory_n the_o second_o instance_n weigh_v by_o the_o first_o balance_n the_o three_o instance_n weigh_v by_o the_o first_o balance_n the_o four_o instance_n weigh_v by_o the_o same_o balance_n the_o five_o instance_n balance_v by_o the_o same_o rule_n the_o six_o instance_n try_v by_o the_o same_o rule_n the_o last_o instance_n try_v by_o the_o same_o rule_n the_o same_o thing_n try_v in_o the_o second_o balance_n viz._n god_n word_n the_o first_o instance_n try_v by_o the_o second_o rule_n the_o second_o instance_n try_v by_o the_o second_o rule_n the_o three_o instance_n try_v by_o the_o second_o rule_n the_o four_o instance_n try_v by_o the_o second_o â—ule_n the_o five_o instance_n try_v by_o the_o second_o rule_n the_o six_o instance_n try_v by_o second_o â—rule_v the_o seven_o instance_n try_v by_o the_o second_o rule_n the_o same_o thing_n try_v in_o the_o three_o balâ—_n the_o five_o instance_n try_v by_o the_o three_o rule_n the_o six_o instance_n try_v by_o the_o three_o rule_n the_o 7._o instance_n try_v by_o the_o three_o rule_n the_o same_o thing_n try_v by_o the_o four_o rule_n viz._n comfort_n of_o conscience_n the_o first_o instance_n try_v by_o the_o four_o rule_n the_o second_o instance_n try_v by_o the_o four_o rule_n the_o three_o instance_n try_v by_o the_o four_o rule_n the_o four_o instance_n try_v by_o the_o four_o rule_n the_o five_o instance_n try_v in_o the_o four_o rule_n the_o six_o instance_n try_v by_o the_o four_o rule_n the_o seven_o instance_n try_v by_o the_o four_o rule_n second_o this_o use_n be_v for_o reproof_n of_o separatist_n their_o exception_n brief_o answer_v 1._o except_o your_o church_n have_v a_o false_a constitution_n answ_n both_o consequence_n and_o antecedent_n be_v false_a what_o constitution_n signify_v the_o second_o exception_n that_o we_o have_v a_o false_a government_n and_o therefore_o a_o false_a church_n answ_n both_o consequence_n and_o antecedent_n be_v false_a the_o three_o exception_n against_o our_o service_n that_o we_o have_v a_o false_a service_n answ_n four_o against_o our_o stint_a prayer_n answer_v the_o five_o exception_n against_o our_o ministry_n that_o we_o have_v a_o false_a ministry_n answer_v the_o six_o exception_n that_o we_o have_v a_o false_a people_n answer_v
fall_v away_o final_o after_o true_a conversion_n what_o peace_n or_o quietness_n can_v they_o have_v to_o their_o conscience_n but_o still_o they_o will_v be_v fear_v and_o suspect_v and_o distaste_v their_o estate_n so_o much_o for_o the_o second_o note_n the_o three_o note_n of_o observation_n be_v this_o that_o no_o particular_a doct._n 3_o visible_a church_n since_o the_o apostle_n time_n but_o may_v err_v and_o that_o fundamental_o and_o obstinate_o and_o final_o and_o general_o and_o so_o cease_v to_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n i_o take_v my_o scantling_n since_o the_o apostle_n time_n because_o the_o church_n in_o their_o time_n have_v the_o apostle_n to_o be_v member_n of_o they_o who_o be_v infallible_o guide_v by_o the_o spirit_n can_v not_o possible_o so_o err_v and_o therefore_o the_o church_n in_o their_o time_n can_v not_o final_o nor_o general_o err_v but_o the_o point_n be_v undoubted_o true_a of_o all_o other_o particular_a church_n that_o they_o may_v err_v fundamental_o obstinate_o final_o and_o general_o and_o so_o cease_v to_o be_v true_a visible_a church_n example_n will_v clear_v it_o there_o be_v no_o church_n but_o have_v err_v in_o some_o kind_n both_o under_o the_o law_n and_o before_o the_o law_n yea_o and_o in_o paradise_n as_o also_o in_o christ_n time_n yea_o even_o the_o church_n whereof_o the_o apostle_n be_v member_n have_v their_o error_n but_o some_o church_n may_v err_v and_o other_o have_v err_v fundamental_o and_o final_o too_o take_v the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n for_o a_o example_n that_o once_o be_v a_o true_a church_n of_o god_n and_o call_v a_o golden_a candlestick_n and_o a_o pillar_n of_o truth_n 1_o tim._n 3._o yet_o it_o err_v in_o the_o apostle_n johns_n time_n yea_o it_o be_v now_o utter_o and_o fina_o fall_v away_o from_o christ_n to_o mahomet_n and_o be_v utter_o cut_v off_o from_o christ_n the_o foundation_n but_o it_o may_v be_v say_v that_o the_o church_n of_o ephesus_n may_v recover_v again_o and_o so_o her_o fall_n be_v not_o final_a i_o deny_v not_o but_o that_o it_o may_v be_v recover_v through_o god_n providence_n at_o the_o last_o yea_o but_o that_o be_v uncertain_a and_o therefore_o for_o aught_o we_o know_v her_o fall_n be_v as_o well_o final_a as_o fundamental_a and_o that_o which_o be_v her_o case_n may_v be_v the_o case_n of_o any_o other_o particular_a church_n and_o sure_o shall_v be_v if_o they_o walk_v in_o her_o step_n revelat._n 2.5_o the_o like_a we_o find_v in_o many_o other_o primitive_a church_n how_o many_o famous_a church_n be_v fall_v away_o that_o be_v true_a visible_a church_n in_o those_o time_n some_o to_o the_o arian_n heresy_n some_o to_o the_o donatist_n some_o to_o the_o novatian_n etc._n etc._n the_o lamentable_a estate_n of_o the_o jew_n god_n own_o people_n prove_v this_o point_n without_o exception_n they_o be_v utter_o cut_v off_o from_o the_o foundation_n christ_n error_n like_o a_o gangrene_n sometime_o overgrow_a all_o but_o some_o may_v say_v when_o may_v a_o church_n be_v say_v to_o err_v thus_o see_v though_o some_o may_v err_v yet_o happy_o not_o the_o rest_n i_o answer_v than_o a_o church_n may_v be_v say_v to_o err_v either_o when_o a_o error_n be_v embrace_v of_o all_o in_o general_a or_o special_o of_o those_o that_o be_v the_o pastor_n and_o guide_n and_o carry_v the_o chief_a face_n and_o port_n of_o the_o church_n with_o they_o which_o error_n if_o it_o be_v general_a in_o all_o or_o the_o chief_a article_n of_o faith_n and_o that_o after_o admonition_n they_o persist_v in_o it_o and_o condemn_v all_o other_o church_n that_o hold_v otherwise_o then_o be_v that_o church_n degenerate_a into_o a_o faction_n against_o the_o church_n and_o except_v some_o among_o they_o impugn_v their_o untruth_n and_o these_o in_o some_o answerable_a number_n or_o of_o some_o good_a place_n and_o quality_n in_o the_o church_n or_o in_o some_o know_a manner_n that_o notice_n may_v be_v public_o take_v of_o it_o such_o a_o church_n cease_v to_o we_o to_o be_v a_o true_a visible_a church_n but_o if_o there_o be_v such_o opposer_n in_o these_o untruth_n only_o and_o yet_o they_o hold_v with_o the_o faction_n in_o opinion_n in_o some_o other_o truth_n fundamental_a the_o church_n for_o their_o sake_n may_v be_v false_o repute_v by_o all_o that_o know_v that_o opposition_n a_o true_a visible_a church_n the_o reason_n of_o the_o point_n be_v these_o the_o same_o reason_n that_o prove_v that_o the_o militant_a church_n may_v err_v hold_v direct_o for_o proof_n of_o the_o first_o part_n of_o this_o observation_n that_o a_o particular_a church_n may_v err_v and_o often_o do_v err_v for_o if_o it_o be_v so_o in_o they_o be_v all_o certain_o choose_v much_o more_o in_o these_o be_v all_o call_v but_o few_o choose_v which_o also_o well_o consider_v will_v prove_v the_o latter_a part_n of_o this_o observation_n that_o be_v they_o may_v err_v fundamental_o and_o final_o too_o for_o in_o every_o particular_a visible_a church_n there_o be_v some_o few_o of_o god_n choose_v else_o it_o can_v be_v no_o true_a church_n now_o these_o few_o die_a still_o the_o truth_n and_o the_o church_n where_o god_n in_o his_o judgement_n forsake_v decay_v more_o and_o more_o lose_v one_o truth_n after_o another_o and_o one_o faithful_a person_n after_o another_o till_o at_o last_o few_o or_o none_o be_v leave_v not_o enough_o in_o number_n at_o least_o in_o port_n and_o place_n to_o bear_v the_o name_n of_o such_o a_o visible_a church_n second_o god_n tie_v himself_o and_o his_o grace_n and_o salvation_n to_o no_o one_o particular_a place_n and_o therefore_o he_o may_v take_v it_o from_o one_o particular_a church_n and_o give_v it_o to_o another_o that_o may_v bring_v forth_o better_a ffruit_n the_o first_o use_n be_v for_o instruction_n to_o all_o particular_a church_n to_o teach_v they_o to_o walk_v wary_o and_o careful_o examine_v themselves_o by_o the_o word_n whether_o their_o course_n be_v agreeable_a thereunto_o and_o pray_v for_o the_o spirit_n to_o enlighten_v they_o and_o let_v they_o take_v heed_n of_o the_o doctrine_n and_o invention_n of_o man_n if_o any_o error_n arise_v present_o let_v they_o oppose_v and_o suppress_v it_o if_o any_o doubt_n let_v they_o go_v unto_o the_o law_n and_o to_o the_o testimony_n if_o there_o be_v any_o difficulty_n let_v we_o pray_v for_o the_o spirit_n he_o be_v the_o best_a expounder_n and_o god_n have_v promise_v to_o give_v the_o spirit_n to_o they_o that_o ask_v he_o so_o though_o we_o may_v err_v yet_o we_o shall_v not_o err_v final_o and_o general_o let_v not_o any_o church_n presume_v of_o itself_o though_o it_o be_v never_o so_o pure_a for_o as_o good_a church_n as_o they_o have_v fall_v and_o they_o may_v yea_o and_o without_o great_a heed_n they_o be_v in_o as_o great_a danger_n of_o corruption_n and_o so_o proceed_v of_o a_o final_a fall_n and_o desolation_n neither_o let_v any_o man_n do_v at_o on_o the_o church_n be_v it_o never_o so_o glorious_a as_o if_o it_o be_v a_o infallible_a oracle_n and_o the_o ground_n of_o our_o faith_n and_o salvation_n rather_o search_v the_o scripture_n if_o the_o doctrine_n of_o a_o church_n be_v agreeable_a unto_o they_o embrace_v it_o and_o build_v on_o it_o not_o so_o much_o because_o of_o the_o church_n which_o may_v err_v and_o haply_o will_v deny_v that_o afterward_o which_o it_o once_o affirm_v but_o because_o of_o the_o scripture_n which_o be_v always_o constant_a to_o itself_o and_o unchangeable_a if_o the_o scribe_n and_o pharisee_n teach_v out_o of_o moses_n chair_n that_o which_o be_v moses_n doctrine_n believe_v they_o else_o believe_v they_o not_o the_o second_o use_n be_v for_o confutation_n of_o the_o papist_n that_o say_v their_o church_n can_v err_v for_o howsoever_o they_o propound_v it_o as_o for_o the_o church_n in_o general_a that_o that_o can_v err_v yet_o indeed_o they_o plead_v only_o for_o their_o own_o church_n for_o they_o say_v that_o other_o church_n may_v err_v but_o we_o say_v that_o their_o church_n may_v err_v and_o that_o fundamental_o and_o final_o too_o and_o sure_o it_o be_v not_o far_o from_o it_o yea_o the_o papist_n themselves_o in_o this_o confute_v themselves_o for_o first_o they_o confess_v themselves_o that_o they_o may_v err_v for_o so_o say_v some_o of_o they_o that_o they_o err_v by_o excommunication_n when_o they_o do_v it_o without_o sufficient_a cause_n other_o of_o themselves_o say_v that_o they_o err_v in_o canonise_a of_o saint_n when_o they_o canonize_v some_o for_o saint_n in_o heaven_n which_o be_v devil_n in_o hell_n second_o they_o confess_v that_o counsel_n may_v err_v too_o and_o three_o that_o their_o pope_n may_v err_v too_o and_o last_o that_o their_o people_n may_v err_v and_o therefore_o that_o the_o whole_a church_n